TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 27 (Part II) 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, 1889 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 1 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL IRECOIRIDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPARED, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF TIlE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY The late Lieut. Col. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Third U. S. Artillery, PURSUANT To ACTS OF CONGRESS. SERIES IVOLUME XXVIIIN THREE PARTS. PART LIREPORTS. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OI?FIC~. 1889 Page 2 ~4 V / C N- ft t27. Page 3 CHAPTER XXXIX. OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGiNIA, MARYLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, AND DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST. June 3August 3, 1863. PART II. The Gettysburg Campaign, etc.* SUMMARY OF TI1II3~ PRINCIPAL EVENTS~ June 3-Aug. 1, 1863.The Gettysburg Campaign. 4, 1863.Skirmish on the Lawyers road, near Fairfax Court-House, Va. Skirmish at Frying Pan, Va. 4 5, 1863.Expedition from Yorktown to Walkerton and Ayletts, Va. 5- 7, 1863.Reconnaissance through Gates County, N. C., and down the Chowan River. 6, 1863.Skirmish near Berryville, Va. 7 8, 1863.Expedition from Gainesville, Va. 8, 1863.Scout from Suffolk, Va., to South Mills, N. C. 9, 1863.The Departments of the Monongahela and the Susquehanna con- stituted. 10, 1863.Capture of the steamer Maple Leaf off Cape Henry, Va. 10, 1863.Skirmish at Seneca Mills, Md. Maj. Gen. W. T. H. Brooks, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of the Monongahela. Maj. Gen. Darius N. Couch, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of the Susquehanna. Skirmish at Diascund Bridge, Va. Skirmish near Suffolk, Va. (3) * Part II embraces the reports from the Middle Department, the Departments of the Susquehanna and West Virginia, and the Army of Northern Virginia, rela- ting to the Gettysburg Campaign, and all reports relating to the other operations covered by the Summary of Principal Events Page 4 4 N. C., VA,, W. VA., MD., PA.~ t~TC. ECHAP. XXxiX~ June 1113, 1863.Expedition from Brightwood, D. C., via Seneca Mills and Pooles~ yule, Md., to Leesburg, Aldie, and Chantilly, Va. 1218, 1863.Expedition from Suffolk to the Blackwater, Va. 14, 1863.Skirmish at Nine-Mile Ordinary, Va. 1718, l863.Scout from Rocky Run to Dover and Core Creek, N. C. 18, 1863.Scout on the Peninsula, Va. 1819, 1863.Scout from Camp Piatt, on the Big and Little Coal Rivers, W. Va. 20, 1863.Skirmish at Diascund Bridge, Va. 2328, 1863.Expedition from Yorktown to the South Anna Bridge, Va., and skirmish. 24, 1863.The Department of West Virginia constituted. 26, 1863.Skirmish on Loup Creek, W. Va. 2627, 1863.Descent on Portland Harbor, Me. 28, 1863.Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of West Virginia. Reconnaissance from Plymouth to Nichols Mills, N. C. 29July 4, 1863.Confederate expedition to Beverly, W. Va. July 1, 1863.Maj. Gen. Daniel H. Hill, C. S. Army, assigned temporarily to command of troops in the Department of Richmond. 1 7, 1863.Expeditions from White House to South Anna River and Bot- toms Bridge, Va. 3, 1863.Suffolk, Va., evacuated by the Union forces.* 3 7. 1863.Raid on the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad, N. C. 4,1863.Skirmish at Fayetteville, W. Va. 5 7, 1863.Expedition from Plymouth to Gardners Bridge and Williams- ton, N. C. 8, 1863.Maj. Gen. Andrew A. Humphreys, U. S. Army, announcect as Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac. 9, 1863.Explosion at Fort Lyon, Va. 1863.Expedition from Richmond to Mathias Point, Va. 1316, 1863.Reconnaissance from Newport Barracks to Cedar Point and White Oak River, N. C. Draft riots in New York City, Troy, and Boston. 1325, 1863.Expedition from Fayetteville, W. Va., to Wytheville, Va. 14, 1863.Maj. Gen. William H. C. Whiting, C. S. Army, assigned to com~ mand of the Department of North Carolina. 15, 1863.The Departments of North Carolina and of Virginia consolidated. 1720, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Swift Creek Village, N. C., and skirmish. 18, 1863.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina. Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of the East. i8-24, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Tarborough and Rocky Mount, N. C. 20, 1863.Brig. Gen. George W. Getty, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Seventh Army Corps, Department of Virginia and Nortb Carolina. 21, 1863.Brig. Gen. John D. Imboden, C. S. Army, assigned to command of the Valley District, Va. 25, 1863.Expedition to Gloucester Court-House, Va. 2527, 1863.Scout to Goose Creek, Va. *For orders, & c., in relation to, see Series I, Vol. XVIII, pp. 711, 712, 717, 718 Page 5 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 5 July 2531, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Winton, and skirmish at Potecasi Creek, N. C. 2~-Aug. 3, 1863.Expedition from Portsmouth, Va., to Jackson, N. C., and skirmish July 28. 2629, 1863.Expedition from Plymouth to Fosters Mills, N. C., and skirmish (27th). 28, 1863.Skirmish at Fayetteville, W. Va. 28Aug. 3, 1863.Mosbys operations about Fairfax Court-House, and skirmish near Aldie, Va. 29, 1863.Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Eighteenth Army Corps, Department of Virginia and North Carolina. 31, 1863.Skirmish at Morris Mills, W. Va. Aug. 1, 1863.The Fourth and Seventh Army. Corps discontinued. 1 8, 1863.Expedition from Warrenton Junction into the country between Bull Run and Blue Ridge Mountains, Va. 2, 1863.Skirmish at Newtown, V~. JUNE 3-AUGUST 1, 1863.The Gettysburg Campaign. SUMMAHY OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. June 3, 1863.Skirmish near Fayetteville, Va. 513, 1863.Skirmishes at Franklins Crossing (or Deep Run), on the Rappa- hannock, Va. 9,1863.Engagements at Brandy Station (or Fleetwood) and Beverly Ford, Va. Skirmish at Stevensburg, Va. 12, 1863.Skirmishes at Newtown, Cedarville, and Middletown, Va. 13, 1863.Skirmish at White Post, Va. Skirmish at Berryville, Va. Skirmish at Opequon Creek, near Winchester, Va. Skirmish at Bunker Hill, W. Va. 1315 1863 Engagement at Winchester, Va. 14 1863 Skirmish at Berryville, Va. Skirmish at Martinsburg, W. Va. 1.5, 1863 Skirmish near Williamsport, Md. 17 1863 Skirmishes at Catoctin Creek and Point of Rocks, Md. Skirmish at Thoroughfare Gap, Va. Action at Aldie, Va. 1718, 1863.Skirmishes at and near Middleburg, Va. 18, 1863.Skirmish near Aldie, Va. 19, 1863.Action at Middleburg, Va. 20, 1863.Skirmish at Middletown, Md. 21, 1863.Skirmish near Gainesville, Va. Skirmish at Frederick, Md. Engagement at Upperville, Va. 2125, 1863.Skirmishes at and about Thoroughfare Gap and Hay Market, Va. 22, 1863.Skirmish near Dover, Va. Skirmish at Greencastle, Pa. Skirmish near Aldie, Va. 24, 1863.Skirmish at Sharpsb.urg, Md. 25, 1863.Skirmish near McConnellsburg, Pa. 26, 1863.Skirmish near Gettysburg, Pa. 27, 1863.Skirmish near Fairfax Court-House, Va Page 6 6 N. C.~ VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. June 28, 1863.Maj. Gen. George G. Meade relieves Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker in command of the Army of the Potomac. Skirmish between Offutts Cross-Roads and Seneca, Md. Skirmish near Rockyille, Md. Skirmish at Fountain Dale, Pa. Skirmish at Wrightsville, Pa. 2829, 1863.Skirmish near Oyster Point, Pa. Affair on the Little River Turnpike, Va 29, 1863.Skirmish at McConnellsburg, Pa. Affairs at Lisbon and Poplar Springs, Mci. Skirmish at Westminster, Md. Skirmish at Muddy Branch, Md. 30, 1863.Skirmish at Sporting Hill, near Harrisburg, Pa. Skirmish at Fairfield, Pa. Skirmish at Westminster, Md. Action at Hanover, Pa. Evacuation of Maryland Heights, Md. July 1, 1863.Skirmish at Carlisle, Pa. 13, 1863.Battle of Gettysburg, Pa. 2, 1863.Skirmish near Chambersbnrg, Pa. Skirmish at Hunterstown, Pa. 3, 1863.Action at Fairfield, Pa. 4, 1863.Action at Monterey Gap, Pa. Skirmish at Fairfield Gap, Pa. Skirmish near Emmitsburg, Md. 5, 1863.Skirmish at Smithsburg, Md. Skirmish near Green Oak, Pa. Skirmish near Mercersburg, Pa. Skirmish near Fairfield, Pa. Skirmish near Greencastle, Pa. Skirmish at Cunninghams Cross-Roads, Pa. Skirmish at Stevens Furnace (or Caledonia Iron Works), Pa. 6, 1863.Action at Hagerstown, Md. Action at Williamsport, Md. 7, 1863.Skirmish at Downsville, Md. Skirmish at Harpers Ferry, W. Va. Reoccupation of Maryland Heights, Md. Skirmish at Fnnkstown, Md. 8, 1863.Action at Boonsborough, Md. Skirmish near Williamsport, Md. 9,1863.Skirmish at Benevola (or Beaver Creek), Md. 10, 1863.Skirmish at Old Antietam Forge, near Leitersburg, Md. Skirmish near Clear Spring, Md. 1013~ 1863.Skirmishes at and near Hagerstown, Md. Skirmishes at Jones Cross-Roads, near Wllhiamsport, Md. Skirmishes at and near Funkstown, Md. 1114, 1863.Reconnaissance to, and skirmish (12th) at, Ashbys Gap, Va, 14, 1863.Skirmish near Williamsport, Md. Skirmish near Harpers Ferry, W. Va. Action at Falling Waters, Md. 15, 1863.Skirmish at Halitown, W. Va. Skirmish at Shepherdstown, W. Va. 16, 1863.Skirmish at Shanghai, W. Va, Action atShepherdstown W. Va Page 7 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. July 17, 1863.Skirmish near North Mountain Station, W. Va. Skirmish at Snickers Gap, Va. 18-19, 1863.Skirmishes at and near Hedgesville and Martinsburg, W. V& 20, 1863.Skirmish near Berrys Ferry, Va. Skirmish at Ashbys Gap, Va. 2122, 1863.Skirmishes at Manassas Gap, Va. Skirmishes at Chester Gap, Va. 23, 1863.Action at Wajiping Heights, Manassas Gap, Va. Skirmish near Gaines Cross-Roads, Va. Skirmish near Snickers Gap, Va. Skirmish near Chester Gap, Va. 24, 1863.Skirmish at Battle Mountain, near Newbys Cross-Roads, Va. 25, 1863.Skirmish at Barbees Cross-Roads, Va. 31Aug. 1, 1863.Skirmishes at Kellys Ford, Va. Aug. 1, 1863.Action at Brandy Station, Va. JUNE 3-AUGUST 1, 1863.The Gettysburg Campaign. iREPORTSContinvied. THE MIDDLE DEPARTMENT.* No. 379.Col. William F. Raynolds, Additional Aide-de-Camp, U. S. Army, Chief Engineer Eighth Army Corps, of operations June 1527. No. 380.Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Eighth Army Corps, etc., of operations June 1526. No. 381.Col. Benjamin F. Smith, One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, of attack upon Martinsburg. No. 382.Col. Edward C. James, One hundred and sixth New York Infantry, of operations June 1315. No. 383.Maj~ Gen. Robert H. Milroy, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations June 115. No. 384.Return of Casualties in the Union forces at Winchester, June 1315. No. 385.Capt. Frederick A. Palmer, Eighteenth Connecticut Infantry, Aide-de- Camp, of operations June 1215. No. 386.Brig. Gen. Washington L. Elliott, U. S. Army, commanding First Bri- gade, Second Division, of operations June 1315. No. 387.Col. J. Warren Keifer, One hundred and tenth Ohio Infantry, of opera- tions June 1315. No. 388.Col. James Washburn, One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Infantry, of operations June 1315. No. 389.Col. William H. Ball, One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Infantry, of operations June 1315. No. 390.Maj. Darius Titus, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations June 1315. No. 391.Maj. Michael Kerwin, Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations June 1315. No. 392.Lieut. Jonathan B. Hanson, First Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, of operations June 10-15. No. 393.Lieut. Edmund D. Spooner, Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, of operations June 1315. No. 394.Capt. John Carlin, Battery D, First West Virginia Light Artillery, of operations June 1315. * See also Major-General Schencks correspondence and orders, Part il Page 8 8 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. No. 395.Maj. Henry Peale, Eighteenth Connecticut Infantry, Second Brigade, of operations June 1315. No. 396.Maj. Noah G. Ruhi, Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations June 13-15. No. 397.Col. John B. Klunk, Twelfth West Virginia Infantry, of operations June 1215. No. 398.Maj. Alonzo W. Adams, First New York Cavalry, Third Brigade, of operations June 1215. No. 399.Capt. Frederic W. Alexander, Baltimore Battery, Maryland Light Artil- lery, of operations June 1315. No. 400.Record of a Court of Inquiry, convened to investigate the evacuation of Winchester and Martinsburg. No. 401.Maj. Napoleon B. Knight, First Delaware Cavalry, of operations ~3une 2729. No. 402.Capt. George D. Summers, Second Maryland Potomac Home Brigade, of operations June 14July 5. No. 403.Brig. Gen. Henry M. Naglee, U. S. Army, of skirmish near Harpers - Ferry, W. Va. No. 404.Capt. Erastus Blakeslee, First Connecticut Cavalry, of skirmish near Harpers Ferry, W. Va. No. 405.Brig. Gen. William W. Averell, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Sepa- rate Brigade, of operations May 22July 28. DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. No. 406.Maj. Gen. Darius N. Couch, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Susquehanna, of operations June 11July 5. No. 407.Brig. Gen. William F. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, of operations June 26July 15. No. 408.Maj. Gen. Charles W. Sandford, commandin~ First Division, New York State National Guard, of operations June 16-July 16, including the Draft Riots in New York City. No. 409.Brig. Gen. Charles Yates, commanding Second Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 18July 18. No. 410.Brig. Gen. William Hall, commanding Third Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 15July 18. No. 411.Brig. Gen. John Ewen, commanding Fourth Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 18July 18. No. 412.Brig. Gen. Philip S. Crooke, commanding Fifth Brigade, Second Division, New York State National Guard, of operations June 15July 19. No. 413.Brig. Gen. Jesse C. Smith, commanding Eleventh Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 16July 19. No. 414.Col. Marshall Lefferts, Seventh Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 16July 18, including the Draft Riots. No. 415.Col. William F. Berens, Sixty-fifth Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 17July 30, including the Draft Riots. No. 41~.Col. Chauncey Abbott, Sixty-seventh Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 16July . No. 417.Col. David S. Forbes, Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 25July 31. No. 418.Col. Watson A. Fox, Seventy-fourth Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 19August 3, including the Draft Riots. No. 419.Col. Jacob G. Frick, Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania Militia, of operations June 24-30 Page 9 cIL4P. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 9 No. 420.Maj. Gen. Robert H. Milroy, U. S. Army, of skirmish at McConnellsburg, Pa. No. 421.Col. Lewis B. Pierce, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of skirmish near Greencastle, Pa. DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA. No. 422.Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army, commanding Department of West Virginia, of operations July 820. No. 423.Medals of Honor for battle of Gettysburg. ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA. No. 424.Organization of the Army of Northern Virginia at the battle of Gettys- burg, July 1-3. No. 425.Abstract from Returns of the Army of Northern Virginia for July 20 and 31, 1863. No. 426.General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern ~ Virginia. No. 427.Surg. Lafayette Guild, C. S. Army, Medical Director, with Return of Casualties in the Army of Northern Virginia. K No. 428.Brig. Gen. William N. Pendleton, C. S. Army, Chief of Artillery. ~ No. 429.Lieut. Col. Briscoe G. Baldwin, C. S. Army, Chief of Ordnance, of artil- lery captured and lost during the Pennsylvania Campaign. No. 430.Lieut. Gen. James Longstreet, C. S. Army, commanding First Army Corps. No. 431.Surg. F. W. Patterson, of medical officers and wounded of McLaws division left at Gettysburg. No. 432.Brig. Gen. J. B. Kershaw, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, McLaws division. No. 433.Maj. R. C. Maffett, Third South Carolina Infantry. No. 434.Col. James D. Nance, Third South Carolina Infantry. No. 435Col. H. C. Cabell, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 436.Capt. E. S. McCarthy, First Richmond Howitzers. No. 437.Capt. B. C. Manly, Company A, First North Carolina Artillery. No. 435.Lieut. W. J. Furlong, Pulaski (Georgia) Artillery. No. 439.Lieut. Ro. M. Anderson, First Richmond Howitzers, commanding Pulaski Artillery, of operations July 1011. No. 440.Lieut. C. W. Motes, Troup (Georgia) Artillery. No. 441.Maj. Charles S. Peyton, Nineteenth Virginia Infantry, commanding Gar- netts brigade, Picketts division. No. 442.-Maj. James Dedring, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 443.Lieut. Col. L. H. Scruggs, Fourth Alabama Infantry. No. 444.Colt William C. Oates, Fifteenth Alabama Infantry. No. 445.Col. William F. Perry, Forty-fourth Alabama Infantry. No. 446.Maj. James M. Campbell, Forty-seventh Alabama Infantry, July 2-4. No. 447.Col. James L. Sheffield, Forty-eighth Alabama Infantry. No. 445.Col. W. W. White, Seventh Georgia Infantry, commanding Andersons brigade, including action at Funkstown. No. 449.Capt. George Hillyer, Ninth Georgia Infantry. No. 450.Maj. H. D. McDaniel, Eleventh Georgia Infantry. No. 451.Maj. B. H. Gee, Fifty-ninth Georgia Infantry. No. 452.Brig. Gen. J. B. Robertson, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 453.Col. Van H. Manning, Third Arkansas Infantry. No. 454.Lieut. Col. P. A. Work, First Texas Infantry. No. 455.Maj. John P. Bane, Fc~urth Texas Infantry Page 10 10 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX~ No. 456.Lieut. Col. K. Bryan, Fifth Texas Infantry. No. 457.Maj. J. C. Rogers, Fifth Texas Infantry. No. 458.B rig. Gen. Henry L. Benning, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 459.Lieut. Col. William S. Shepherd, Second Georgia Infantry. No. 460.Col. D. M. Du Bose, Fifteenth Georgia Infantry. No. 461.Col. Wesley C. Hodges, Seventeenth Georgia Infantry. No. 462.Col. J. D. Waddell, Twentieth Georgia Infantry. No. 463.Maj. iVI. W. Henry, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 464.Col. E. Porter Alexander, C. S. Army, commanding battalion Reserve Artillery. No. 465.Capt. Osmond B. Taylor, Virginia Battery. No. 466.Maj. B. F. Eshleman, Washington (Louisiana) Artillery. No. 467.Lieut. Gen. Richard S. Ewell, C. S. Army, commanding Second Army Corps. No. 468.Col. J. Thompson Brown, First Virginia Artillery, Chief of Artillery. No. 469.Lieut. John M. Gregory, jr., C. S. Army, Chief of Ordnance, of gun~ engaged and ammunition expended at Gettysburg. No. 470.Maj. G~en. Jubal A. Early, C. S. Army, commanding division. No. 471.Return of Casualties in Earlys division. No. 472.Brig. Gen. Harry T. Hays, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 473.Col. Archibald C. Godwin, Fifty-seventh North Carolina Infantry, com manding Hokes brigade. No. 474.Maj. Samuel McD. Tate, Sixth North Carolina Infantry. No. 475.Col. Kenneth M. Murchison, Fifty-fourth North Carolina Infantry, of action at Williamsport. No. 476.Col. John S. Hoffman, Thirty-first Virginia Infantry, commanding Smiths brigade. No. 477.Brig. Gen. J. B. Gordon, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 478.Lieut. Col. H. P. Jones, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 479.Capt. C. A. Green, Louisiana Guard Artillery. No. 480.Capt. W. A. Tanner, Courtney (Virginia) Artillery. No. 48l.lvlaj. Gen. Edward Johnson, C. S. Army, commanding division. No. 482.Brig. Gen. George H. Steuart, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 483.Col. J. lvi. Williams, Second Louisiana Infantry, commanding Nicholip brigade. No. 484.Capt. E. D. Willett, First Louisiana Infantry, of engagement at Win chester. No. 485.Maj. Thomas N. Powell, Tenth Louisiana Infantry, of engagement at Winchester. No. 486.Lieut. Col. D. Zable, Fourteenth Louisiana Infantry, of engagement at Winchester. No. 487.Maj. A. Brady, Fifteenth Louisiana Infantry, of engagement at Win. chester. No. 488.Brig. Gen. James A. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 489.Col. J. Q. A. Nadenbousch, Second Virginia Infantry. No. 490.Maj. William Terry, Fourth Virginia Infantry. No. 491.Maj. James W. Newton, Fifth Virginia Infantry, of engagement at Win~ chester. No. 492.Col. J. H. S. Funk, Fifth Virginia Infantry. No. 493.Lieut. Col. Daniel M. Shriver, Twenty-seventh Virginia Infantry. .~ No. 494.Capt. J. B. Golladay, Thirty-third Virginia Infantry. I, No. 495.Brig. Gen. J. lvi. Jones, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. ~No. 496.Lieut. Col. R. H. Dungan, Forty-eighth Virginia Infantry, commanding regiment and Jones brigade Page 11 C~p. XXXIX.] TILE GE1TYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 11 No. 497.Col. Bradley T. Johnson, C. S. Army, commanding Jones brigade. No. 498.Capt. W. P. Moseley, Twenty-first Virginia Infantry. No. 499.Lieut. Col. J. A. Robinson, Twenty-fifth Virginia Infantry, of operations June 13-15. No. 500.Col. John C. Higginbotham, Twenty-fifth Virginia Infantry. No. 501.Capt. Jesse M. Richardson, Forty-second Virginia Infantry. No. 502.Capt. T. R. Buckner, Forty-fourth Virginia Infantry. No. 503.Lieut. Col. L. H. N. Salyer, Fiftieth Virginia Infantry. No. 504.Maj. J. W. Latimer, C. S. Artillery, commanding Andrews Artillery Battalion~ of engagement at Winchester. No. 505.Lieut. Col. R. Snowden Andrews, C. S. Artillery, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 506.Maj. Gen. R. E. Rodes, C. S. Army, commanding division. No. 507.Brig. Gen. Junius Daniel, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 508.Col. E. C. Brabble, Thirty-second North Carolina Infantry. No. 509.Lieut. Col. W. G. Lewis, Forty-third North Carolina Infantry. No. 510.Capt. J. A. Hopkins, Forty-fifth North Carolina Infantry. No. 511.Col. William A. Owens, Fifty-third North Carolina Infantry. No. 512.Capt. Van Brown, Second North Carolina Battalion. No. 513.Brig. Gen. Alfred Iverson, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 514.Brig. Gen. George Doles, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 515.Maj. W. H. Willis, Fourth Georgia Infantry. No. 516.Col. John T. Mercer, Twenty-first Georgia Infantry. No. 517.Maj. W. H. Peebles, Forty-fourth Georgia Infantry. No. 518.Brig. Gen. S. D. Ramseur, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 519.Capt. Orren Williams, Second North Carolina Infantry. No 520.Col. Bryan Grimes, Fourth North Carolina Infantry. No. 521.Maj. J. H.. Lambeth, Fourteenth North Carolina Infantry. No. 522.Maj. W. W. Sillers, Thirtieth North Carolina Infantry. No. 523.Col. E. A. ONeal, Twenty-sixth Alabama Infantry, commanding Rodes brigade. No. 524.Lieut. Col. C. Forsyth, Third Alabama Infantry, of operations June 422. No. 525.Col. C. A. Battle, Third Alabama Infantry, of operations June 22July 9. No. 526.Col. J. M. Hall, Fifth Alabama Infantry. No. 527.Maj. Eugene Blackford, Fifth Alabama Infantry. No. 528.Capt. M. L. Bowie, Sixth Alabama Infantry. No. 529.Col. S. B. Pickens, Twelfth Alabama Infantry. No. 530.Lieut. Col. John C. Goodgame, Twelfth Alabama Infantry, commanding Twenty-sixth Alabama Infantry. No. 531.Lieut. Col. Thomas H. Carter, C. S. Artillery, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 532.Capt. Willis J. Dance, First Virginia Artillery, commanding battalion Reserve Artillery. No. 533.Lieut. Col. William Nelson, C. S. Artillery, commanding battalion Re- serve Artillery. No. 534.Licut. Gen. Ambrose P. Hill, C. S. Army, commanding Third Army Corps. No. 535.Col. R. Lindsay Walker, C. S. Army, Chief of Artillery. No. 536.Maj. Gen. Richard H. Anderson, C. S. Army, commanding division. No. 537.Brig. Gen. Cadmus M. Wilcox, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 538.Brig. Gen. William Mahone, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 539.Brig. Gen. A. R. Wright, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 540.Capt. C. H. Aridrews, Third Georgia Infantry, commaliding Wrighte brigade, of action at Nanassas Gap Page 12 12 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX, No. 541.Col. Edward J. Walker, Third Georgia Infantry. No. 542.Capt. B.C. McCurry, Twenty-second Georgia Infantry. No. 543.Capt. M. li. Hall, Forty-Qighth Georgia Infantry. No. 544.Capt. Charles J. Moffett, Second Georgia Battalion. No. 545.Col. David Lang, Eighth Florida Infantry, commanding Perrys brigade. No. 546.Brig. Gen. Carnot Posey, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 547.Col. N. H. Harris, Nineteenth Mississippi Infantry. No. 548.Maj. John Lane, Sumter (Georgia) Artillery, commanding Artillery Bat- talion. No. 549.Maj. Gen. Henry Heth, C. S. Army, commanding division. No. 550.Maj. J. Jones, Twenty-sixth North Carolina Infantry, commanding Petti- grews brigade. No. 551.Capt. J. J. Young, Quartermaster Twenty-sixth North Carolina Infantry. No. 552.Lieut. Col. S. G. Shepard, Seventh Tennessee Infantry, of operations of Archers brigade. No. 553.Brig. Gen. Joseph R. Davis, C. S. Army, commanding brigade and Heths division. No. 554.Lieut. Col. John J. Garnett, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 555.Maj. Charles Richardson, C. S. Army, commanding Garnetts battalion. No. 556.Maj. Joseph A. Engelhard, Assistant Adjutant-General, C. S. Army, of operations of Penders division. No. 557.Col. Abner Perrin, Fourteenth South Carolina Infantry, commanding McGowans brigade. No. 558.Brig. Gen. James H. Lane, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 559.Brig. Gen. Edward L. Thomas, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 560.Brig. Gen. A. M. Scales, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 561.Col. William L. J. Lowrance, Thirty-fourth North Carolina Infantry, com- manding Scales brigade. No. 562.Maj. William T. Poague, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery Battalion. No. 563.Maj. D. G. McIntosh, C. S. Artillery, commanding Reserve Artillery Battahon. No. 564.Capt. E. B. Brunson, C. S. Artillery, commanding Reserve Artillery Bat- talion. 0 No. S65.Maj. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry, Army of Northern Virginia. No. 566.Capt. John E. Cooke, Chief Ordnance Officer, Cavalry Division, of arms, etc., captured in engagement at Brandy Station. No. 567.Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, with con- gratulatory orders. No. 5~8.Col. L. S. Baker, First North Carolina Cavalry, of engagement at Brandy Station. No. 569.Col. John L. Black, First South Carolina Cavalry, of engagement at Brandy Station. No. 570.Maj. T. J. Lipscomb, Second South Carolina Cavalry, of engagement at Brandy Station. No. 571.Col. P. M. B. Young, Cobbs Legion (cavalry), of engagement at Brandy Station. No. 572.Lieut. Col. J. F. Waring, Jeff. Davis Legion, of engagement at Brandy Station. No. 573.Brig. Gen. B. H. Robertson, C. S. Army, commaiiiding brigade, of en- gagement at Brandy Station. No. 574.Col. Thomas T. Munford, Second Virginia Cavalry, commanding Fitz. Lees brigade, of engagement at Brandy Station and action at Aldie. No. 575.Maj. Cary Breckinridge, Second Virginia Cavalry, of action at Aldie. No. 576.Col. Thomas H. Owen, Third Virginia Cavalry, of action at Aldie Page 13 cIa& ~. xxxixvl 13 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. No. 577.Col. Williams C. Wickham, Fourth Virginia Cavalry, of engagement at Brandy Station and action at Aldie. t~o. 578.Capt. W~ Th Newton, Fourth Virginia Cavalry, of action at Aldie. No. 579.Col. Thomas L. Rosser, Fifth Virginia Cavalry, of action at Aldie. No. 580.Brig. Gen. W. E. Jones, C. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 581.Maj. C. E. Flournoy, Sixth Virginia Cavalry. No. 582.Lieut. Col. Thomas Marshall, Seventh Virginia Cavalry. No. 583.Col. L. L. Lomax, Eleventh Virginia Cavalry. No. 584.Col. A. W. Harman, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, of engagement a~ Brandy Station. No. 585.Lieut. Col. T. B. Massie, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry. - No. 586.Lieut. Col. E. V. White, Thirty-fifth Virginia Battalion, of engagement at Brandy Station (June 9) and expedition into Maryland (June 17). No. 587.Col. John R. Chambliss, jr., commanding brigade, of engagement at Brandy Station. No. 588.Maj. R. F. Beckham, C. S. Army, commanding Horse Artillery, of en- gagement at Brandy Station. No. 589.The Confederate Roll of Honor. No. 379. Report of Cot. William, F. Raynolds, Additional Aide-de-Camp, U. S. Army, Chief Engineer Eighth Army Corps, of operations June 1527. OFFICE CHIEF ENGINEER EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Mid., August 11, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report: On June 15, at 5 p. in., I received your verbal order, through Cap- tain Thruston, aide-de-camp, to repair at once to Harpers Ferry, tn compliance with a request of Brig. Gen. D. Tyler. At 5.30 oclock I was at the depot ready to start, and at 11 p. m. I arrived at Harpers Ferry. Finding that General Tyler had that evening moved his quarters to Maryland Heights, I at once reported my arrival by letter. On the morning of the .16th, I reported to General Tyler in person, and received his verbal order to take charge of the defenses. I was not unprepared for the duty assigned to me, having previously in my capacity of chief engineer of the Eighth Army Corps accompanied General Barnard in a careful examination of the ground, and had received from General Barnard a memorandum of his opinions in regard to the defenses, and had also, in addition, repeatedly made further examinations of the ground during my inspection of the works that were in progress. I therefore at once set about carrying out previously well-digested plans for the defense of the point. In order the better to explain what was done, a short description of the local- ity, with an account of the defenses previously constructed, becomes necessary. About 2 miles above the mouth of the Shenandoah, the Potomac suddenly changes its course from south to east. In the bend thus formed, stands a knoll, rising about 300 feet above the river. The summit of this knoll was occupied by a redoubt called Fort Duncan, and intended only for infantry. About 250 yards south of Fort Dun- can was a battery of six 30-pounder Parrott guns, facing to the south and flanking perfectly the west face of Bolivar Heights. It was, however, of no use to oppose an attack from the north. Marylan Page 14 14 Th C., VA., W. VA., MP., PA., I~TC. [cHAP. XXXIX. Heights proper is a mountain range, 1,100 feet high, running nearly north and south, and ending in an almost perpendicular cliff oppo- site the mouth of the Shenandoah. About 1 mile from the Potomac, and at the highest point of the mountain, a double line of rifle-pits had been thrown across the crest of the ridge, extending well down on the west slope, the eastern slope at this point being very steep for about 100 feet vertically. Between these rifle-pits and on the crest a structure of dry masonry known as the stone fort had been built, 100 by 40 feet, with two square bastions, the wall being from 4~- to 7 feet in thickness. Using the northern rifle-pit as a parapet, seven light guns, principally howitzers, had been p laced in position, raking the crest of the mountain to the northward. This was the only prepara- tion that had been made to resist an attack from that side. Year the southern end of Maryland Heights, and 300 feet below the high- est point, was a well-constructed battery, mounting six 30-pounder Parrott guns and two 24-pounder guns. This battery, known as the 30-pounder battery, commanded perfectly the summit of Loudoun Heights opposite, as well as Bolivar Heights. On the western slope of Maryland Heights, about half way to the summit and near the river, was the naval battery, consisting of two 100-pounders and two 50-pounder Dahlgren guns and two 24-pounder guns. This battery also commanded Bolivar Heights and imperfectly the railroad bridge and the river front of Harpers Ferry. The timber on the crest of Maryland Heights had been cut from a point about 800 yards north of the stone fort to the 30-pounder battery, and on the west slope of the mountain from the stoiie fort south nearly to the Potomac. It will be observed that all the defenses, with the exception of the battery on the crest of Maryland Heights, had been made with a view of an attack from the south or across the Potomac, while the river itself at most seasons of the year afforded an almost impassable bar~ rier, thus making it evident that the most feasible point of attack was from the north. The problem, therefore, to be solved was to change the defenses so as to make them effective against an attack from that direction and at the same time not to weaken the defense from the south. The work of strengthening Fort Duncan and removing the guns from the battery south of it and mounting them in the fort, so as to be used either to the north or south, was in a good state of progress June 16. This was the only change that had been made in the de- fense up to that time. From the stone fort to Fort Duncan there is a well-defined crest, separating the water flowing into the Potomac above the bend at Fort Duncan from that flowing into it below. This crest it was determined to make the line of defense. It offers the ad- vantage of affording no shelter for an enemy to enable him to turn the line, and compels a direct attack in front. As soon as the men could be gotten to work after my arrival, I commenced throwingup a field-work for six guns about the middle of this line of defense. Two other works were also commenced, one on the left near Fort Duncan, and the second on the right at the foot of Maryland Heights. These works were so located as perfectly to command the gullies leading up from the river and to give a cross-fire over the whole line. About half way up Maryland Heights and above the right field-work is a plateau which affords a good position for flanking the west slope of the Heights, and also for enfilading a ravine that extends in front of the line of defense. A 50-pounder Dahlgren gun was taken from the naval battery and put in position to effect ~otli these objects. It ca Page 15 CHAP. XXXIXI ~?HE GETTYSBUT~G OAMPAIG~. also be turned and used against Bolivar Heights, if required. A line of stone breastworks or rifle-pits (made by filling a crib-work of logs with stone) has been built along the northern edge of this plateau, which, in connection with the rifle-pits extending down from the summit, renders the west slope of the mountain safe against almost every attack. That portion of the north rifle-pits near the stone fort, which is on the summit of the mountain (a distance of about 100 yards), is being raised and strengthened, so as to form a strong para~ pet 9 or 10 feet in height, and the guns mounted in embrasure instead of barbette. One of the 30-pounder Parrott guns from the 30-pounder battery has been mounted here. Temporary banquettes have been placed in the stone fort, so as to use it as a citadel, from which to drive out the enemy even should he get possession of the battery. The eastern face of Maryland Heights is very steep and difficult of ascent at every point of the crest from the stone fort to the 30-pounder - battery that affords the least facility for the approach of an enemy. Stone breastworks or rifle-pits have been constructed, and seven light field guns have been distributed along the crest, at points from which they have a raking fire on the mountain side. About 600 yards to the south of the stone fort, on a narrow point in the crest, a platform has been erected, and a 100-pounder Dahlgren gun from.the naval battery mounted. This gun has a field of fire of 360 degrees. It can be used with effect against an enemy ascending either slope of the mountain in Pleasant Valley, on Loudoun or Bolivar Heights, or in Fort Dun- can, and a single shot from it would render the stone fort untenable. It is the key to the position, and is rendered safe by the support itre- ~ceives from the battery at the stone fort, the almost inaccessible slopes of Maryland Heights on the east and the gnus distributed along the crest, and the rifle-pits which have been built to prevent an enemy ascending them. Fort Duncan is on the left of our line of defense. This work has been strengthened and the guns from the battery south of it placed in it. There should be nine additional guns in this work to give it a full armament to resist an attack from all sides. The embrasures and the platforms have been erected, so that the guns now in the work can be used as occasion may require. The guns from Fort Duucau, in connection with the 50-pounder on the spur and the batteries already mentioned, give a double cross-fire in front of our line of de- fense. On a spur to the north of Fort Duncan a light work has been thrown up for two guns to enfilade the canal and tow-path to the north, and to prevent an enemy turning the left flank of our hue. The whole of the line of defense from the work at the foot of Mary- land Heights to Fort Duncan has been occupied with a line of rifle- pits, and it is believed that if the works are completed, fully armed and manned, and the men do their duty, they will be able to resist almost any assault that may be made against them. Although a great deal of timber had been cut down on Maryland Heights, yet a much larger amount remained that gave cover for an euemy. All the axes that could be procured, some 600, were set to work cutting down all timber within 1,500 yards of our hue of de- feuse, or on the eastern slope of Maryland Heights. In order to supply the place of the guns taken from the naval bat- tery, I proposed to throw up a battery on the river bluff just west of the Sharpsburg road. This work was beiug laid out on June 27. If completed and armed, it will perfectly command the railroad bridge- across the Potomac, the poutoou bridge above the dam, the whol Page 16 10 [CHAP. XXXIX. plain on which the village of Bolivar stands, and the right bank of the Potomac from the month of the Shenandoah to where the Balti- more and Ohio Railroad leaves the river. General Tyler was relieved by General French Jnne 27. On the 28th, General French ordered the work on the defenses tc~ be snspended for the day. With his consent, I took advantage of this delay to visit Baltimore, expecting to return in the next train. On my arrival in Baltimore, I was ordered by yon to remain and take charge of the defenses of this city; consequently I have no official knowledge of anything that has been done at Harpers Ferry since that date. The amonnt of labor performed from Jnne 16 to 27, inclusive, while General Tyler was in command, was immense, considering the diffi~- culties under which we labored. The supply of intrenching imple. ments was wholly inadequate to the emergency. They could only be procnred from Baltimore, and railroad communication was irregular and for a time interrupted. The greater part of the command had just made forced marches from Winchester and Martinsbnrg, and they were worn out and unfit for work. The post was in a constant; state of alarm, and daily under arms in line of battle, expecting an attack. Notwithstanding these hinderances, the works were suffi~ ciently advanced to have made a good defense. As they progressed the spirits of the men revived, and, instead of gloom and despon~ dency, hope and confidence prevailed, and I believe I am within tho truth when I say that on June 27 the post would have resisted the attack of an army five times stronger thaii would have captured i1~ on the 16th. All that could be done by the general commanding, a~ well as all the other officers, was done to hasten the completion of the works. But I feel that it would be unjust for me to close this report without expressing my obligation to Major Rolfe, Fourteenth [First] Massachusetts Artillery, who superintended the removal of the heavy guns .to the points named, and to Capt. William Penn Gaskill, vol. unteer engineers, and the officers of his company, for their able and efficient efforts to second me in my arduous labors. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant W. F. RAYNOLDS~ Colonel, and Chief Engineer. General R. C. SCHENCK, Commanding Eighth Army Corps. No. 380. Reports of Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler, U. S. Army, coinmandin5 First Division, Eighth Army Corps, & c., of operations June 1526. HEADQUARTERS, 3iiaryland Heights, June 25, 1863. SIR: Constant occupation since my arrival here on the morning ol the 15th instant has heretofore prevented my reporting officially on the affair at Martinsburg, which took place on the 14th instant. I left Baltimore by special train at 12 oclock on the night of June 13, to relieve Colonel [B. F.] Smith in the command of the Third Brigade, whose headquarters were at Martinsburg, W. Va.; and, stopping a short time to confer with Brigadier-General Kelley, in command at Harpers Ferry, I reached Martinsburg about 8 oclock on the morning of the 14th, and found that Colonel Smith had jus Page 17 C~u. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 1/1 received notice of the approach of the enemy, and was on the point of ~oing out with parts of two regiments of infantry, a battery of arti lery, and one company of cavalry, in all about 1,200 men, to meet hint, and notifying Colonel Smith of my order, informed him that under the circumstances I would not assume command, but would be on the field for advice, if necessary. Colonel Smith formed his line of battle between 9 and 10 oclock at about 1 mile from Martinsburg, across the Winchester pike. At this time his pickets were engaged about half a mile to the front, and, as soon as his line was formed, he sent forward some skirmishers to support his pickets, and a desultory firing continued for one hour or more when the enemy showed an increased force within artillery range, and a few shells sufficed to drive him back over the ridge and out of sight. About this time (11 oclock), information was received that the enemy had captured a portion of General Milroys forces at Bunker Hill, 6 to 8 miles on the Winchester pike, and having been at Winchester only two days before, and knowing General Mllroys position, the information induced the belief that Milroy had been attacked by a strong force at Winchester, and that the attack on Bunker Hill was intended to, and in fact ~1id, cut off his retreat on Martinsburg; and, acting on this opinion, I at once ordered the bag- gage train belonging to Smiths brigade (ascertaining that all the stores had been previously sent off by railroad) to move at once toward Williamsport, and make its way into Pennsylvania, which was accomplished, and the train saved. About 12 oclock I notified Colonel Smith that we should have to retreat, but to hold on until the safety of the baggage was secured, and we would then move to Williamsport, and thence to Harpers Ferry. Between 11 and 12 oclock, Colonel Smith, with my appro- bation, withdrew the command from the Winchester pike to the heights near Martinsbnrg on which the cemetery is located, covering a connection with the Williamsport and Shepherdstown roads, both of which branch-off in the rear of the cemetery. Here Colonel Smith held his command in hand, his skirmishersboth cavalry and in- fantrybeing from time to time in contact with the enemy, until about 1 oclock, when the following communication was received: HEADQUARTERS, Camp near Martinsburg, June 14, 1868. The Commanding Officer U. S. Forces near Martinsburg: SIR: I herewith demand the surrender of Martinsburg. Should you refuse, you are respectfully requested to notify the inhabitants of the place toTemove forthwith to a place of safety. Small-arms only will be used for one hour upon the town after your reception of this note. After that, I shall feel at liberty to shell the town, if I see proper. Should you refuse to give the necessary notification to the inhabitants, I shall be compelled to hold your command responsible. Very truly, yours, A. G. JENKINS, Brigadier-General, & c. P. S.An immediate reply is necessary. To the communication, Colonel Smith replied as follows: HEADQUARTERS U. S. FoRcEs, Martinsburg, W. Va., June 14, 1863. A. G. JENKINS, Brigadier-General, & c.: GENERAL: Martinsburg will not be surrendered. You may commence shelling ~s soon as you choose. I will, however, inform the inhabitants of your threats. Very respectfully, yours, B. F. SMITH, Colonel, commanding U~ S. Force~, 2 B BvOL XXVII, PT I Page 18 18 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ca& p. XXXIX. About this time a messenger arrived from Milroy, notifying, me that he had been attacked by Ewell, Imboden, and Jacksons corps on the 13th, and had been able to hold his position up toil oclock on the night of the 13th. This information, con p led with the fact of the capture of Bunker Hill, satisfied me that General Milroy had been defeated, and his retreat by way of Martinsburg cut o~,and that the only object in holding on was to cover the wagon train, which had moved toward Williamsport. Up to this time I had been counting on assistance from the railroad, if deemed necessary to move the troops to Harpers Ferry, but, on applying to the agent at the station, was surprised to find that every car and engine had been sent away from the depot, and that there were neither cars nor engines in either direction that could be made available in the exigency. They had all been removed out of reach. From 3.30 oclock until sunset the skirmishing in front had con~. tinued at intervals, the enemy gradually massing his increasing forces in our front and on our right flank, showing a disposition about 5 oclock to turn our right and occupy Martinsburg. These different movements were kept in check by our artillery, in the absence of any artillery on the part of the enemy, until just at sunset, when a severe fire from a couple of batteries was opened on us at convenient range, which was most gallantly replied to by Maulsbys battery, and at one time so effectually as almost to silence the rebel guns. At the open~ ing of the enemys battery, a battalion of the One hundred and sixth New York, Colonel James, which was supporting Maulsbys battery, was thrown into momentary confusion, and fell back, but was im- mediately rallied by its officers, and resumed its position in support of the battery. It had now become apparent that the enemy was in force on oui front with at least a brigade of infantry and a superior force of artil- lery and cavalry, and were threatening our right, and that the mo- ment for retreat had come; and, in fact, that while I was engaged in stimulating Maulsbys battery and giving some assistance to Colonel James in rallying his regiment, Colonel Smith, with the One hun- dred and twenty-sixth Ohio, had already, without any notice to me, left the field, and I discovered the One hundred and sixth New York were purposing to follow, but apparently in doubt which way to move. On leaving Maulsbys battery, I ordered him to throw in a few shots as rapidly as possible, then limber up, and follow the move- ments of the infantry; and seeing the One hundred and sixth New York halting, I ordered it forward, intending to move out on the Williamsport road, supposing the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio had taken that direction. Moving forward a couple of hundred yards, and before reaching the crossing of the Shepherdstown road, I saw that the enemys cavalry had occupied Martinsburg, and cut us off from our retreat on Williamsport; and seeing nothing of Colonel Smiths regiment, I concluded to take the Shepherdstown road, and directed Colonel James to move his regiment in that direction. At the time the rebel artillery opened fire, one section of Maulsbys battery was posted some 300 paces to the rear of the other two sec- tions, and its fire directed against some rebel cavalry and infantry marching against our right. One gun of this section had been dis- mounted, and the other, with the two caissons, had been limbered up and fell in in rear of the One hundred and sixth New York, an~ moved off in that regiment. The other two sections, by some mis- take not yet explained, moved off in a gallop up the road tQwar Page 19 CHAP. XXXIX.) 19 THE GETTYSBURG cAMPAIGN. Williamsport, and when I came to the rear in search of them they had passed so far forward as to render it impossible to regain the column on the Shepherdstown road. Captain Manisby, whose gal- lantry on the field could hardly have been exceeded, will be able to explain his movements and the reasons for them and the manner in which he retreated into Pennsylvania with a part of his battery. The movement of the One hundred and sixth New York on the Shepherdstown road was followed by the cavalry, and the column, after moving a couple of miles, closed up on the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio, with Colonel Smith in command, and continued to march steadily until it reached the ford, 14~ miles below Shep- herdstown, about 1 a. m. the 15th instant, where it crossed the river without molestation from the enemy, and arrived at Harpers Ferry about 7 a. m. of the same day. As the enemy was in force in our front at the time the retreat com- menced, and was continually moving his troops forward from Win- chester, it is probable the night march contributed mainly to the saving of the command; and it is but due to the troops to say that this march, without rest or water, was conducted with perfect order, without straggling and without complaint. The brigadier-general commanding cannot close this report without special notice of First Lieutenant Wyckoff, First New York Cav- alry, who conducted the head of the column, and by his knowledge of the country and his coolness did more than any other man in the column to assure the safety of the command. I herewith submit, and without comment, copies of the reports made by Colonels Smith and James as to their participation in the affair of the 14th at Martinsburg. With great respect, your obedient servant, DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General, & e. Lient. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff, Eighth Army Gorps. HEADQUARTERS, Baltimore, Md., July 1, 1863. SIR: The operations of the forces under my command from June 15 until I was relieved from the command at Maryland Heights by Major-General French, on June 26, seem to require at my hands an official report, and I avail myself of the earliest p6ssible opportunity to make it. I arrived at Harpers Ferry about 6 oclock on the morning of June 15, with the troops which retreated from Martinsburg (having been in the saddle from 10 a. m. of the day before), and about 10 a. m. was notified by telegraphic orders from Major-General Schenck, com- manding Eighth Army Corps, to relieve Brigadier-General Kelley in the command of the troops in and around Harpers Ferry, and before 12 oclock Brigadier-General Kelley (who had been for some time in command) left with his entire staff for Baltimore, taking all the papers, not leaving even a report of the forces belonging to the com- mand. About noon, fugitives from Milroys command began to arrive, with information that Ewell was in pursuit, and that there was a fair pros Page 20 20 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. pect that Harpers Ferry would be attacked. As a personal inspec- tion would best post me up as to the condition of things, I began on the Harpers Ferry side, and found Kenlys brigadeconsisting of two regiments of infantry and one light battery; in all, 900 nienposted on Bolivar Heights. I also found that all the military subsistence, ammunition, & c., were exposed on the Virginia side, in Harpers Ferry. I found, on the Maryland side, Brigadier-General Morris bri- gade, consisting of parts of two artillery and one infantry regiment, one light battery, and Coles cavalry, in all 2,200 men, thus making the entire force in and around Harpers Ferry 3,100 men, irrespective of the disorganized forces which came in from Martinsburg and Win- chester on Jnne 15 and 16, amounting to 3,300 men. On June 17,~ I was re-enforced by two regiments of infantry (1,700 men) from the Relay House, and on the 25th by Jewetts brigade, consisting of three small regiments and one light battery, in all 1,700 men, from Hookers army. My inspection satisfied me that the en- tire force should, as soon as possible, be removed to the Maryland side, and not a moment was to be lost in removing all the mili- tary supplies, hospitals, & c., from the Virginia side, placing them under the protection of Maryland Heights; and to effect this object every team was put into requisition and used exclusively for this purpose until the morning of the 17th, when the quartermaster, com- missary, and ordnance officers reported all the stores safe on the Maryland side. So long as stragglers were coming in from Milroys defeat, and the stores and supplies were on the Virginia side, it ap- peared to me injudicious to remove Kenlys brigade, although it was exposed to be cut off by the enemy; but the moment these two ob- jects were measurably attained (on the evening of the 16th), I ordered General Kenly, with his two regiments and light battery, and the two regiments which arrived from the Relay House, to take post on Maryland Heights, and at the same time gave orders that the pon- toon bridge across the Potomac near Bolivar Heights should be so disposed of as to render it practicable at any moment to swing it in on the Maryland side, and at the same time to render the railroad bridge at the Ferry impassable. These dispositions effectually re- lieved me from mny care on the Virginia side, and left the entire force applicable to the Maryland shore, which presented the only points from which the ford and crossing of the Potomac at Harpers Ferry could be protected and maintained. My personal examination on the 15th had satisfied me that the de- fel4ses on the Maryland side had been sadly neglected, and were not in a condition to respond to the expectations of the Government, and that a couple of good regiments approaching the heights by way of Pleasant Valley and striking the ridge 2~ miles from the howitzer battery, so called, near the stone fort (the main defense of Maryland Heights), could, by a sudden and determined attack, carry the bat- tery, and consequently control the entire position. At this time the entire force on Maryland Heights was composed of six companies Fourteenth [First] Massachusetts Artillery, 486 men, aggregate, man- ning the guns, and two companies of the Sixth New York Artillery, 130 men, acting as infantry. These forces were divided between the howitzer ba~ttery, looking down the ridge toward Pleasant Valley, and the naval battery, so called, which looked toward Loudoun Heights, and with its guns covered Harpers Ferry and partially Bolivar Heights. At tb.is time. June 15, the timber in front of the stone fort ~nd th Page 21 OIIAP. XXXIX.] THI~ GETTYSBIYRG CAMPAIGX. 21 howitzer battery had been oniy partially felled, and an enemy would in almost any direction have been covered to within ~00 or 400 yards of the guns, and no rifle-pits or breastworks for infantry supports had been constrncted. On the plateau under Maryland Heights, and situated immediately on the river bank, Fort Duncan, although not completed, had some eight guns mounted, and manned by the Sixth New York Artillery, and was intended to cover Bolivar Heights, on the Virginia shore, and also the approach to Maryland Heights from an enemy descending by the river bank of the Potomac on the Mary- land side. The distance from Fort Duncan across the plateau to the base of Maryland Heights is about three-quarters of a mile, over a nearly level plain, and this interval was covered by Morris brigade, without intrenchments or rifle-pits. The foregoing is a somewhat imperfect description of the defenses of Harpers Ferry on June 15 and the troops appurtenant to them. The position of the defenses satisfied me that more engineering skill was required, and that there was much work to be done, and I im- mediately telegraphed for Colonel Raynolds, U. S. Engineers, who arrived on the 16th instant, and immediately commenced reorganiz- ing and completing the defenses connected with the Maryland side of the Potomac, and his report is herewith submitted, with correct statements of work done, & c. It was evident, from the large body of the enemys force in the vicinity (Lees entire army having passed the Potomac at the Shep- herdstown Ford, within 10 miles of Maryland Heights, between June: 17 and 25), that the attack would, if possible, be in force and a sur- prise, and, to prevent the latter, a picket, consisting of 200 infantry,, a dozen cavalry, with a signal officer in attendance, was sent some 3 miles in advance of the fortifications, and to a point where the Pleas- ant Valley road leads on to the ridge, to give notice by night or day of any advance by that most exposed route, and a similar picket was sent to the John Brown school-house, about 3 miles from Fort Duncan, to give notice of any advance by way of the Antietam, the officers. of the signal station af Maryland Heights keeping a close watch of the enemys movements by day in the Loudoun Valley and toward Martinsburg, Shepherdstown, and Williamsport. At the time these precautions were taken, all the spare cavalry was used in scouting from Harpers Ferry to Point of Rocks and toward Shep- herdstown, Sharpsburg, and Boonsborough, and by all these means accurate information was from day to day obtained as to the enemys movements, and this information, as will subsequently appear, was promptly communicated to the proper military authorities. I add hereunto a journal of the comniand, kept from June 15 to 26, inclusive, as the most convenient and succinct mode of presenting to view the military operations between these dates. June 15.Arrived at Harpers Ferry at 7 a. m. At 10 oclock re- ceived telegraphic orders from Major-General Scheuck to relieve Brigadier-General Kelley from command. Genera] Kelley left at 12 oclock, with his entire staff, without leav- ing behind a single record of the command. On inspecting the Harpers Ferry side, found General Kenlys bri- gade, of two small Maryland regiments and one light battery, in camp on Bolivar Heights; found, also, all the subsistence, hospital stores, ammunition, & c., on the Harpers Ferry side, and gave imme- diate orders to the quartermaster to collect every team, and keep his entire force employed night and day until the entire supplies shoul Page 22 22 tOHAP. xXxiX. be transported across the Potomac and placed under command of the guns on Maryland Heights. About 12 oclock, Generals Milroy and Elliott, and Colonel McRey- nolds, with a number of officers and men, arrived from the Win- chester battle-field, and parties continued to come in during time day. All the forces from Martinsburg and Winchester were ordered to cross to the Maryland side and bivouac under the guns of Fort Duncan. June 16.Milroys forces having all probably arrived, and the transportation of supplies across the Potomac having been mainly accomplished, Kenlys brigade was ordered to cross the river, and take post on Maryland Heights. Orders issued brigading the entire com- mand into three brigades of infantry and one of cavalry; the last was done in consequence of the cavalry being made up of detachments from five regimeijts, although the entire force will be less than 1,000. The infantry brigades were assigned to Brigadier-Generals Kenly, Elliott, and Morris, and the cavalry to Colonel MeReynolds, First New York Cavalry. Made an inspection of Fort Duncan; found the work incomplete; embrasures and magazines unfinished and comparatively useless. Inspected the works on Maryland Heights, and was much disappointed in them. They are imperfectly con- structed, and, to my mind, in part injudiciously located, and will re- quire entire remodeling, which I fear there is no time to make. Tele- graphed to department headquarters, asking that Col. W. F. Raynolds, U. S. Engineers, be ordered to report to me at once, and received answer that he would be up in next train. General Milroys com- mand, about 1,500 men, turned over to me by Brigadier-General Elliott, in obedience to orders from department headquarters. The entire force to-day in and around Harpers Ferry, including 1,500 of Milroys men, amounted to 4,680 men, and I have so reported to Gemi- eral Schenck and to Washington. General Kenlys pickets about 1 oclock reported the enemy in force at Halltown, 2~ miles to the front. Captain Vernon, with his company of Maryland cavalry at Charlestown, at 10 a. m. was summoned to surrender by Major-Gen- eral Rodes, rebel army, and Captain Vernon reports Rodes iii force within 8 miles of Bolivar Heights. Ordered troops under arms at 2.30 oclock to-morrow morning, to be prepared for an attack. General officers were notified what each would be expected to do in case of an attack. June 17.Officers with instruments from signal corps reported, and were ordered to prepare a station on Maryland Heights, and to report all changes and movements of rebel troops discovered in the Valley. Ordered a picket guard of 200 men, with a signal officer, to take post 3 miles to the front, on the Maryland Heights ridge, at a point where the Pleasant Valley road leads on to the ridge, to prevent a surprise from that direction. Ordered a picket of 100 infantry and 20 cavalry in advance of the John Brown School-House, half way between Antietam and Fort Duncan. Detail for engineer duty, im- proving fortifications, throwing up earthworks, constructing rifle- p its, & c., 1,500 men. These men report to Col. W. F. Raynolds, U. S. Engineers, who has charge of the entire works. Two regiments arrived from the Relay House, and were assigned to Kenlys brigade. Rumors during the day of an advance on Harpers Ferry by way of Halltown, but without foundation. Rodes scouts came into Hall- town, but no force appeared in that direction. Captain Means had a skirmish with Mosbys or Whites cavalry near Point of Rocks Page 23 TH1~ GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 17, 18639.45 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel PrATT, Chief of Staff: My force at night are all on Maryland Heights. During the day I hold Harpers Ferry with my forces. I dont believe there are 250 rebels in any place short of Williamsport; there, I am satisfied, they have 7,000 or s;ooo infantry and artillery, while the cavalry is running into Pennsylvania. We use Sandy Hook only be- cause the operator thinks it more safe than Harpers Ferry DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. Troops ordered under arms at 3 oclock to-morrow morning. June 18.Received telegrams from Major-General Hooker, which were answered by the following: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 17, 1863. (Received War Department, June 175 p. in.). Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: The only rebel force of any amount that I am satisfied of was at Williamsport at 6 oclock last evening. I think, allowing for exaggerations, there might be 7,000 or 8,000 men of all arms at Williamsport. The impression made on my mind is that their infantry and artillery are holding on in Maryland, while the cavalry and light batteries are pushed into Pennsylvania. This is merely my opinion. I wish I could back it up by facts, but I cant. Audacity is the capital on which the rebels win, and I hope by and by to see this game lose. This heading off is a losing game, in my opinion. The only way is to follow, and take the consequences. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 18, 1863. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: The names of Ewells division commanders, as given by General Elliott, are as follows: E. Johnson, Rodes, Early, Walker, and A. P. Hill. One of the prisoners told General Elliott that Longstreet was going into West Virginia. This is the only information we have of Longstreet. Generals Jones, Imboden, and Jenkins, a~ I telegraphed you, had joined Ewell. Jenkins signed the summons to surrender at Martinsburg. At Charlestown, Rodes signed a paper demanding the surrender of a company of cavalry, and sent it by a flag. The company got off. At Martins- burg, the attack was made by one six-gun battery and by infantry and cavalry. The attack on the train at Point of Rocks was made by Whites cavalry, say 150 men. White crossed over near the Catoctin, and recrossed after a skirmish with Means company of our cavalry. White is now somewhere in Loudoun. I am try- ing to get at him. My cavalry has gone to Point of Rocks to-day in all the force I could send forward. I have no reports of it as yet. If there is an object, I might venture to send a brigade of infantry to guard Nolands Ford, but I cannot afford to risk it. There is at this moment, as far as I can ascertain, no considerable rebel force threatening this position. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. Engineer detail to-day 1,500 men, and all the troops were engaged in throwing up breastworks, constructing rifle-pits, and in the im- mediate forts. Found great deficiency in intrenching tools, axes, & c.; telegraphed to the quartermaster at Baltimore for them; bor- rowed all I could from the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad; ordered more provisions on to the Maryland Heights, and directed the means to obtain water there to be attended to and increased. Not satisfied with the outer infantry pickets, and ordered a dozen cavalry to each picket. Troops were ordered nuder arms at 3 a. m. to-morrow Page 24 24 N. C., VA., W. VA., MI)., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXI~ June 19.Deserters brought in from Sharpsburg, and from theji examination tekgraphed as follows, viz: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 19, 1863. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Three intelligent men deserted the Eleventh Tennessee Regiment* last night at Sharpsburg. They report the force there about 8,000 of Ewells corps, which crossed the Rappahannock about 25,000 strong. The men last flight were ordered to pre- p are three days rations, to move this morning, as they were told, on Washington, Lyttarper s Ferry or Frederick. One of the men is very intelligent, tired of th~ war, and wants to get home. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. The entire force engaged in strengthening the defenses, whic~ have assumed an improved form. Colonel Raynolds is industriou~i as well as skillful, and if we are let alone for a few days, we can hole I the position against Lees army. Weather bad for any benefit fron the signal corps, but when it clears off we can from the statiol I cover the country from Martinsburg to Williamsport pretty well, and all the country about Shepherdstown Ford perfectly. From in. formation gleaned from the country people and our scouts, no forc~ exceeding 8,000 to 10,000 men had crossed the Potomac. Marylan I Heights is now good against this force. Lient. Col. W. T. Luslc, formerly aide-de-camp to Major-General Stevens, having heard that I was at Maryland Heights and without any staff, left New York On the 14th instant, and arrived at Maryland Heights at 6 p. m. on the 19th instant, having walked from Point of Rocks, and offered hi services as a volunteer aide-dc-camp, or for any other post, where h could render any service. The arrival of Lieutenant-Colonel Lus) was very opportune, as he had experience as a staff officer, havin~ been at Port Royal and in Virginia on the staff of Major-Genera I Stevens up to that officers death, and will enable me to relieve Ca~ - tam Woodhull, whom I borrowed from Major-General Schenck~ staff, and whom the general has telegraphed to return to him as soo~ as possible. I shall recommend Lieutenant-Colonel Lusk for th ~ appointment of assistant adjutant-general, which, in the expectatio: of active service, he is willing to accept until the campaign I ~ finished, and from necessity shall put him on duty accordingly. June 20.In answer to Major-General Hookers telegram, inquii. ing as to the stren0 th, & c., of the position, I telegraphed as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 20, 18637 p. m. Major-General HOOKER, Gommanding Army of the Potomac: We have our defenses improved and still at work on them. A careful examin:~ tion of our position to-day leads me to expect to hold out until I can be relievee I. We can inflict heavy losses on any force which may attack us, and we can holdtl e place against a very much larger force than we suppose to be in our vicinity. L all events, I shall hold it to the last extremity. The rains which are falling mu:et raisethe river, and may make the occupation of the place of more importance t~ the rebels than it would be under other circumstances. The rains interfere mor ~ with his movements than they do with our work. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. At 10 a. m. I telegraphed Major-General Hooker as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 20, 186310 a. m. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: I have information from a reliable scout, whom I sent to examine the enemy b~ tween this place and Hagerstown, that Ewell is at or near Williamsport, with hi .~ * This regiment was in Tennessee at this time Page 25 CRAP. XXXIX.3 TH]~ GETTYSBITRO- (JAMPAIGTh main force; that Rodes, with Johnson and Jones, is about Sharpsburg, with not ex- ceeding 8,000 men; that Imboden has been out into Pennsylvania, stealing horses and plundering. My opinion is that Ewells whole force, which has passed beyond Winchester, does not exceed 30,000 men, and I think that of this force but, say, 12,000 men are about and beyond Williamsport. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. The entire command engaged, under direction of Colonel Ray- nolds, in improving the defenses, and making satisfactory progress. Are greatly in want of cavalry, to obtain information from Loudoun Valley and the Shepherdstown region. June 21.Up to this date there has been no evidence obtained here from scouts, prisoners, or deserters that any heavy body of rebels has passed the Potomac, and, from the best sources of information, I doubt if over 8,000 or 10,000 men have passed beyond Sharpsburg, and these are foraging in Pennsylvania. In answer to a telegram from Major-General Hooker, as to the time I could hold Maryland Heights, I telegraphed as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 20, 1863. (Received War Department June 208.30 a. in.) Major-General BUTTERFIELD: If attacked by 30,000 men, I can possibly hold out for, say, three days. I shall hold out as long as I can. I am satisfied that Rodes and Johnson, of Ewells corps, with, say, 8,000 men, are on this side of the Potomac. I was expecting an attack last night, and have been under arms since 3 oclock, but none has been made. I begin to think we are not to be attacked. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. About sunset, one of our scouting parties returned from the neigh- borhood of Sharpsburg, and gave the first positive information that a large rebel force was moving on Hagerstown and in the direction of Pennsylvania. At 10 p. mu. telegraphed General Hooker as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 21, 186310 p. m. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Lieut. F. G. Martindale, of the First New York Cavalry, left the mountain be- tween Sharpsburg and Shepherdstown Ford, at the burned mill, at ~ p. in., where he said he could see into the camps clear and sure. He says troops were passing the ford toward Sharpsburg, and he estimates the entire force at and about Sharps- burg at 20,000. He says he saw regiments lying in the open field, without any attempt at concealment. He saw only one battery sure, but he thinks he saw be- tween three hundred and four hundred wagons, and also saw wagons coming into Sharpsburg at a slow gait, as if heavily loaded, from the direction of Boonsborough and Hagerstown. Saw one regiment of infantry go out on the Boonsborough road, and it did not return during the six or seven hours he was examining the troops, & c. Lieutenant Martindale saw little cavalry in proportion to the infantry. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. The entire command to-day occupied in throwing up intrenchments and sinking rifle-pits. June 22.Telegraphed Major-General Hooker at 2 oclock as fol- lows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 22, 18632 p. in. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: The rebel forces in and around Sbarpsburg are exclusively employed collecting plunder in Pennsylvania and Maryland. A large train ha~ just passed the Shepherds Page 26 ~. C., vA.~ W. VA., Mm, PA., ETC. ECHAP. XX~Tk. town Ford into Virginia, and also a large drove of beeves. This plunder is guarded from Shepherdstown by infantry, which, after a short absence, returns. A thou- sand good cavalry would destroy this plundering, and deprive the rebels of any advantage in that respect. Captain [George D. J Summers went into Frederick about 5 p. m. yesterday, and drove out about 30 rebels, who returned in less than thirty minutes with from 200 to 300 cavalry, and drove Summers out. Jam inclined to think Lieutenant Martindale underestimated the enemy by from 7,000 to 10,000 men. I hope to have reliable information this afternoon. DAN. TYLE1~, Brigadier-General. Ocenpied the entire day in inspecting the troops and fortifica- tions; and, having become satisfied I conid hold the place, telegraphed Major-General Hooker as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Major-General HOOKER, Maryland Heights, June 22, 1863. Commanding Army of the Potomac: I have just made an inspection of the troops and fortifications. I expect to hold Maryland Heights against any force that will be brought against it. If I had from 500 to 750 good cavalry in addition to my present force, I could greatly annoy the enemy, who is now collecting supplies in the region about Sharpsburg, but my cav- alry is insufficient to interfere with his plundering. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTOMAc, June 22, 1863. General TYLER: I believe all your telegrams have been,received. I am rejoiced to hear of your ability to hold your position. Communicate first evidence of the enemy to march infantry north of the Potoniac. I will take his guerrilla cavalry in hand shrtly. Forward all news of position, movements, & c., fully, as convenient. JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General. At 5 oclock, having received important information from Captain Daniels, signal officer, whom I had sent on the old Antietam battle- gronnd with an escort and with his best instrnments, I telegraphed as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Major-General HOOKER, Maryland Heights, June 22, 18635 p. m. Gommanding Army of the Potomac: The signal officer, Captain Daniels, took one of his large glasses, and approached within 4 miles of Sharpsburg, and reports as follows: The enemy has been crossing to the Maryland side all day, and are yet bringing over artillery and baggage wagons. Lieutenant Martindale says that many of the camps are gone that were here yesterday. We counted two hundred wagons on the road moving toward Boonshorough. We are going out toward Rohrersville east across the mountain to make observations there. I think there are now 30,000 or 40,000 troops in and around Sharpsburg. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. The above being corroborated by Lientenant New, First New York Cavalry, I telegraphed as follows abont 6 p. in.: HEADQUARTERS, Major-General HOOKER, Maryland Heights, June 22, 18636 p. m. Commanding Army of the Potomac: Lieutenant New, of the First New York Cavalry, has just returned from the look- out. Says he could see the ford at Shepherdstown and all the troops about Sharps- burg. He reports a cavalry and artillery column as passing the ford from 7.30 a. m. to 12 noon. The artillery consisted of two batteries. A portion of them passed through Sharpsburg, in the direction of Boonsborough. I have two officers out no Page 27 (ThAP. XXXIXI THE GETTYSBITRG CAMPAIGTh and near Sharpsburg, and with better means of observation, and the moment they return I will communicate. The company of engineers is at Monocacy still. Is this as you wish? Lieutenant New did not see any infantry moving north DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. Having experienced great difficulty in obtaining any assistance from the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company, I telegraphed the following: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 22, 186310 p. m. Lieut. Col. DOEN PIATT, Chief of Staff, Baltimore, Md.: Will you see Superintendent Smith, and ascertain whether we are to have any use of his railroad? I gave such orders this morning as I thought necessary to secure us the howitzers and axes, and Mr. Smith countermands them, and telegraphs for more orders. If the Government will take possession of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, it may derive some advantage from it. As matters now stand, we take all the care that ia taken of this road, and they attend mainly to the local business. Mr. Smith seems determined to take no risk for the road, and that if any engines or cars are captured the Government is to be responsible. Is that so? This morning I di- rected the howitzers and axes to be sent forward by an old engine which they had at Harpers Ferry, not worth $1,000. We want the howitzers, & c., fresh beef, and medical stores. Other subsistence we dont want in any large quantities, as we have fifteen days rations now on the Heights, and a greater amount is not required. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. In view of the increased rebel force in the vicinity, I called a meet- ing of the commanders of brigades at 8 p. in., and gave definite orders to each in case of an attack, and ordered the troops under arms at 3 a. m. to-morrow morning. June 23.It is apparent that the enemy is moving in force into Pennsylvania, and at 10 a. m. telegraphed Major-General Hooker the following: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 23, 186310 a. m. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: The troops that were at ~harpsburg yesterday have all leftthe infantry and ar- villery for Hagerstown and the cavalry for Frederick. General Earlys division, thirty-four pieces of artillery and about 15,000 infantry, passed on yesterday to re- enforce Rode~ at Hagerstown. The signal officer just reports tha.t the atmosphere is clear, and that he can see a line of troops 10 or 12 miles long moving from the direction of Berryville toward Shepherdstown Ford. It looks as if Lees movement is toward Hagerstown and in Pennsylvania. General Ewell, I am sure, paseed through Sharpsbur~ yesterday in an ambulance. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. Having some doubt as to the condition of the telegraph line be- tween Washington and Baltimore, I telegraphed Major-General Hal- ~eck as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 23, 18035 p. in. Major-General HALLECK: Commander-in-Chief: I telegraphed Major-General Hooker thismorning that all the forces about Sharps- burg had moved toward Ilagerstown, excepting some cavalry, which were moving toward Frederick. I have no telegrams thuis morning, and I fear the line is tam- pered with. Let me know if my telegrams have been received. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General Page 28 28 t~. C., \tA., W. VA., MD., PA., IETO. [CHAP. XXXfl~. At midnight, having obtained, as I conceived, important informa~ tion, I telegraphed Major-General Halleck as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 24, 18632 a. m. Major-General HALLECK, Commander-in-Chief: Have just captured some cavalry near Centreville, or Keedysville, as it is called here, and one of General Lees couriers, who left him at Berryville last evening at 6 oclock, with orders for General Ewell, who is at Hagerstown. He says he de- livered the orders to another courier, who took them to Ewell. He says Longstreets corps is with Lee, at Berryville. this side of Winchester. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. June 24.Ordered a cavalry scont to be sent at 3 a. m. toward Sharpsbnrg, to observe the rebel movements toward Hagerstown and Boonsborongh. The weather to-day is clear, and at 9.30 oclock re- ceived the following from the signal station: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 24, 18639.30 a. m. Major-General HALLEcK, Commander-in-Chief: The following is just received from the signal station: The wagon train that was near Shepherdstown last night is now crossing the river near Sharpsburg. A large train, extending as far as I can see on the Berry- ville road, is passing through Charlestown toward Shepherdstown. I see artillery with it. I am satisfied that this is Longstreets corps, and that it is following Ewell. I am also satisfied that General Lee was at Berryville yesterday afternoon at 4 oclock. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. At 2 oclock, I telegraphed Major-General Halleck as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 24, 18632 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, Cominander-in-Chief: A careful examination of ~ men, 1 of them a courier from General Lee to General Ewell, captured last night, seems to establish clearly as follows: 1. That Ewells entire corps had passed forward toward Hagerstown. 2. That Lee was at Berryville on Monday at noon, with Longstreets corps, follow- ing the march of Ewells corps. 3. That Hills corps is at Fredericksburg. Lee left Fredericksburg June 6, and reached Longstreets corps, at Berryville, the 18th, and was there when the courier left on Monday, 22d. Longstreets corps is represented to have 30,000 men and thirty guns, two or three drawn by 10 horses. Lee passed from Fredericksburg by Culpeper (where he remained five days), by Aldie through Ashbys Gap, and thence to Berryville, 8 miles. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. At 8 p. m. telegraphed Major-General Schenck as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 24, 18638 p. m. Major-General ScRENcK, Commanding Eighth Army Corps: We have captured some officers and men to-day. The rebels are moving on Hagerstown in large force. Ewells and Longstreets corps have passed the ford at Shepherdstown, and taken the route by Boonsborough to Hagerstown. Ewell has passed beyond Hagerstown, toward Chambersburg. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General Page 29 ~~iHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGIN. 29 Mr. Benjamin Brown, an infinential man from ilagerstown, whom I know, came in this p. in., and reports as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 24, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, Commander-in-Chief: Mr. Benjamin Brown tells me he left Hagerstown at 8 oclock this a. m. He says: Jenkins came into Hagerstown on the 15th, at 4 p. in., with about 2,000 mounted men, and on the same day Ewells men, about 12,000 and sixteen pieces of artillery, arrived in Williamsport. Jenkins went down the Valley, and returned on Saturday evening to Hagerstown with about 1,000 head of cattle and as many horses. On Monday, the 22d, Jenkins and Ewell both started down the Valley toward Chambers- burg. On Tuesday (yesterday), Johnsons division, about 22,000 men, arrived at Hagerstown, and passed on to join Ewell. On Sunday, I saw General Ewell go into the Catholic church. He is a one-legged man. Johnson has forty-three pieces of artillery. I passed six regiments at Sharpsburg as I came down. They marched toward Boonsborough. The men told me they were a part of Longstreets corps, which was coming on. I consider the reports reliable. I telegraph Mr. Browns words. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. Not having received any answer to the flag I sent yesterday, and knowing that General Lee was at Berryville, I dispatched the fol- lowing: HEADQUARTERS, Harpers Ferry, W. Va., June 24, 1863. General R. E. LEE, Commanding Confederate Forces near Berryville, Va.: SIR: In accordance with the rights and usages of war, two flags of truce have been sent into your lines, requesting information as to the killed and wounded at Win- chester, and in both cases answers were promised, but have not been received. Ascertaining from what I consider reliable authority that you are at Berryville or vicinity, I address you, and request the names of such killed and wounded officers as can be ascertained, and to know whether we can be permitted in any way to contribute to the necessities of our officers and men prisoners in your hands. Your obedient servant, DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. The officer retnrned with the information that the answer might be expected at 10 a. m. to-morrow at Bolivar Heights, which, for reasons, I declined. Telegraphed Major-General Halleck as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 24, 186310 a. m. Major-General HALLEcK, Commander-in-Chief: Longstreets corps, which camped last night between Berryville and Charlestown, ~s to-day in motion, and before 6 oclock this morning commenced crossing by the ford I mile below Shepherdstown to Sharpsburg. I have reports from two reliable parties that at least 15,000 men have crossed the ford this morning, mainly artillery and infantry. The troops all halted at Sharpsburg, and the wagons at 10 a. m. are crossing. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. The defenses which for the last three days have been vigoronsly pnshed are now in a condition to hold the place against any force that will be bronght against it; bnt it is now almost sure that Gen- eral Lee is not inclined to attack Maryland Heights, and this opinio Page 30 30 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. is somewhat strengthened by the information drawn from the pris- oners taken yesterday that Maryland Heights will be taken by Gen- eral Lee on his return without any fighting. This plan may suc- ceed, if the rebels can capture Washington and Baltimore and hold Pennsylvania; not otherwise. June 25.As it was apparent from signal stations and also from prisoners captured that the enemy was moving toward Pennsylvania, a sharp lookout was kept, and during the day the following telegrams were sent; HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 25, 186311 a. m. Major-General HALLECK, Commander-in-Chief: Two intelligent sergeants from the Ninth Alabama Regiment have just come in. They say they belong to A. P. Hills corps, and that it is all on the Maryland side of the Potomac. They say Longstreets corps is between Berryville and Charles- town, coIning on. The officers and men captuied yesterday and these deserters will be sent to Baltimore to-day. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 25, 1863. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: A citizen reports that the rebel troops at I3oonsborough are moving from there toward Emmitsburg. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 25, 18632 p. m. Major-General HOOKER, 61ommanding~ Ar-my of the Potomac: I am satisfied Ewell is at or beyond Hagerstown. A. P. Hills corps is between Sharpsburg and Boonsborough, and Longstreets corps is between Berryville and Shepherdstown. Three or four regiments have crossed at Shepherdstown Ford to-day. Two sergeants, deserters from A. P. Hill, report him last night at Sharps- burg. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. hEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 25, 18632 p. m. Licut. Col. DONN PrATT, Chief of Staff: Our 24-pounder howitzers all in position, but we require eight more to perfect our defenses. If possible, induce General Ripley to order them at once, with 160rounds of assorted ammunition per gun. If we are taken, it will be for want of these howitzers; mark that. Will you send me map of Harpers Ferry, which Colonel Raynolds says you have in the adjutant-generals office? DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS, Major-General HOOKER, Mdryland Heights, June 25 18634 p. in. Commanding Army of the Potomac: That portion of the rebels passing by Boonsborough are evidently taking the route by Emmitsburg into Pennsylvania. A. P. Hills corps passed Sharpsburg this a. in., direct for Hagerstown. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General Page 31 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 31 HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 25, 18635 p. m. SECRETARY OF WAR: Have made three attempts to communicate with the enemy as to the wounded, & c., at Winchester. They received the flags and letters, and fixed times for replying, but they failed to reply. The last time fixed was 5 p. m. yesterday, and they met us with the information that no reply had been received, and proposed when re- ceived to send it in to Bolivar Heights. This I declined. My letter was addressed to General Lee, at Berryville, where I knew he was on the 23d instant. I can hold Harpers Ferry. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. To-day the howitzers received from the Washington Arsenal were placed in position, and I consider the defenses so far completed that, with the force now here, Maryland Heights should be held against Lees army. A few more 24-pounder howitzers would add to the defenses, and should be furnished at an early day. Jewetts brigade, from Heintzelmans corps, arrived to-day, 1,700 strong, with one light battery, two or three squadrons of cavalry, making the effective force for duty at 6 p. m. about 10,500 men. The arrival of Jewetts brigade increased the garrison to the maximum required for a good defense of the Maryland Heights and the protec- tion of the ford and bridge over the Potomac at Harpers Ferry. Ten thousand effective men will thoroughly cover the bank of the Poto- mac, the ground between Fort Duncan and Maryland Heights, and thoroughly and effectively garrison the Heights, so as to put it be- yond the power of 20,000 men to carry the Heights by assault. In the defense of the Maryland side, three light batteries are at this time appropriated, and will always be indispensable in case of an invest- ment or attack. June 26.With a clear atmosphere, we have this morning a cap- ital view from the signal station of the whole country from Charles- town to Sharpsburg, and it is clear to my mind that the entire force of Lees army has passed on toward Pennsylvania, and that the force discernible in the Valley is merely enough to guard the Shep- herdstown Ford and the line of communication from Winchester to Sharpsburg; and, under this impression, I telegraphed Major-General Hooker as follows: HEADQUARTERS, Maryland Heights, June 26, 18633 p. in. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Army of the Potomac: The signal officer reports, with the best possible view, two small camps only on Virginia side, near Shepherdstown, with heavy cavalry pickets extending to Hall- town; a large camp to the right of Sharpsburg (guard to the ford), with sixty wall- tents pitched. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. I add to this Col. W. F. Raynolds (U. S. Engineers) report of the engineering operations on the Maryland side of the Potomac from June 16 to 26, and will only say that, within the short period that Col. W. F. Raynolds was employed, the modifications and changes on the work were carried on with great skill and energy, and were so far completed on June 26 that I telegraphed to the Secretary, I can hold Maryland Heights Page 32 32 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [cHAP. XXXIX. The following letter was forwarded to Colonel Piatt, chief of staff: HEADQUARTERS, Lieutenant-Colonel DoNN PIATT, Maryland Heights, June 26, 1863. Chief of Staff: SIR: With all our telegraphing you cannot be fully posted up as to our doings here, and, as the niails I think are safe, I shall write you fully up to this time. I will not attempt a description of the state in which I found matters here on assuming command. I am thankful I was not attacked then, and am fully indifferent as to whether I am attacked now. Colonel Raynolds has been very busily engaged, and has, by various constructions, added very considerably to the defenses of the place. He is still at work, and in a few days the outline and essential parts of the fortifica- tions will be so far finished as to be defensible, and they will be improved and com- pleted by constant application of all the labor that can be employed on them. Since Colonel Raynolds arrived, the position of many of the guns has been shifted, and at this moment I believe all the artillery is posted in the best possible manner. As to the condition of the troops, it has considerably improved during the week and is fast improving. The men enter with spirit into the labor of throwing up the fortifica- tions, and I see a growing confidence among officers and men that the works can be held against any force that will be probably brought against us. The men from Milroys command are brigaded with Smiths men from Martins- burg, and are under the command of Brigadier-General Elliott, a competent officer, who is getting the brigade into good fighting trim. In quartermasters supplies we are short, the quartermaster having sent every- thing to Baltimore. We want tents, camp equipage, clothing, & c., which are fur- nished by that department, and must have them. As to commissary stores, we are, as I think, well enough off, having fifteen days rations, and I deem this amount enough to keep here, for the reason that we have no store-house to receive them, and if we can hold out fifteen days I know we can and shall be relieved, and I do not suppose the road between here and Baltimore can be so held that we cannot use it if absolutely necessary. I note what you say as to the want of troops in Pennsylvania; still, my impression is that the best place to reorganize Milroys command is here, even if you transfer ~o Pennsylvania a certain part of our garrison to replace them. I would willingly give one for two as fast as they came here. I do not think at this moment I would be gainer by the exchange, but I think the service would be greatly benefited by Lhe more speedy reorganization of Milroys men, bringing the men of the different regiments of that command at once together. My telegrams have kept you posted as to the movements in my front. I am satisfied by this time that the Govern- ment is convinced that this is a movement of the bulk of Lees army, with Lee in command, into Maryland and Pennsylvania. I am satisfied Ewell, Longstreet, and A. P. Hill, all Lees corps commanders, are now between Charlestown, Va., and llarrisburg, Pa., and I think all those on this side of the Potomac. Colonel Jewetts brigade, 1,700 strong, reported this morning. He belongs to fleintzelmans corps, and is ordered here by Hooker. With it, I have force enough, and will hold myself responsible for this position. Colonel Jewett had orders to report to me. I do not understand General Hookers object, but probably shall Ihrough Major-General French. With great respect, your obedient servant, DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. Major-General French arrived, and issned the following orders: GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TROOPS No. 14. ~ Harpers Ferry, W. Va., June 26, 1863. By virtue of Special Orders, No. 171, headquarters Army of Potomac, June 24, 1863, the undersigned assumes command of the troops at Harpers Ferry. WM. H. FRENCH, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQtTARTERS TROOPS No. 12. ~ Harpers Ferry, W. Va., June 26, 1863. Brigadier-General Tyler is relieved from duty with this command, and will re- port to Major-General Schenck for duty. ]3y command of Major-General French: H. Y. RUSSELL, Lieutenant, and Aide-de-Cam2 Page 33 CH~x~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG OAMPATG~W. 33 The foregoing contains a full report of the operations at Harpers Ferry to the time I was relieved of the command by Major-General French. With great respect, your obedient servant, DAN. TYLER, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. Lient. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff, Eighth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS DELAWARE DEPARTMENT, Wilmington, Del., An gust 18, 1863. Sin: On the 9th instant I addressed you, through my assistant ad- jutant-general, in answer to your telegram of the same date, sug- gesting that information as to the evacuation of Martinsbnrg could be obtained from the headquarters of the Middle Department, Bal- timore. There are certain omissions connected with the affair at Martinsburg in my official report which I wish to place before you, to be communicated, with the papers referred to in the letter of the 9th instant, to the court of inquiry of which you are the judge- advocate. Special Orders, No. 159, June 13, was put in my hands at 10 p. m. on the day it was issued, and at 12 oclock, by a special train, I left for Harpers Ferry. Arrived at Harpers Ferry at 5 oclock, and, after consulting Brigadier-General Kelley, as directed by the order, who assured me that he knew from his scouts that not a man except- ing Imbodens, Jones, and Jacksons corps were in the Valley (Ewells entire corps were then at Winchester), I proceeded to Martinsbnrg, arriving there at 8 a. in., and found Colonel Smiths pickets already engaged with the enemy. Immediately on arriving, I telegraphed Colonel Piatt, chief of staff, as follows: MARTJNSBURG, June 14, 18638 a. in. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff, Baltimore: If there is not a great scare here, the enemy is advancing on Martinsburg in con- siderable force, and is not over 3 miles distant. Parts of two regiments and one battery are our whole force, and as soon as we know the truth I shall decide what we shall do, and in the meantime we are preparing for alternatives, and hope to choose the best. DAN. TYLER, Briqadier-General. At 10 oclock, the following telegram was sent to Colonel Piatt: MARTJNsBURc4, W. VA., June 14, 186310 a. m. Colonel PIATT, A Chief of Staff: scout has just arrived with a dispatch from Milroy, whose headquarters he left at 11 oclock last night. Milroy reports Ewells entire corps in and around Win- chester, June 13, 15,000 to 18,000 strong, with Jones and Imbodens force~ that they fought yesterday with success; quite a loss on both sides. Milroy advises Smith, at Martinsburg, to be on his guard, as he apprehends a raid on Martinsburg and Har- pers Ferry. DAN. TYLER, 3 R RVQL xxvii, PT I Page 34 34 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. ~CHAP. XXXIX. About this time, Colonel Smiths quartermaster, in charge at Mar~ tinsburg, came on to the field, and inquired of me where Colonel Smith cQuld be found, as he wished to know what disposition should be made of the wagon train, stating that all the Government prop- erty, excepting a small quantity of forage, had been sent by cars to Harpers Ferry, and that the teams were harnessed and ready to move. As Colonel Smith was not at hand, and conceiving that no time should be lost, I ordered the quartermaster to take charge of the teams, and to move as rapidly as possible toward Williamsport, and, unless he had orders to the contrary, to move from Williams- port to Pennsylvania. It will be seen by my report of Jnne 2~ that, from the time of my arrival at Martinsburg, I had looked upon a retreat as inevitable, and that the only question was when and where to make it. Before 12 oclock I notified Colonel Smith that a retreat was in- evitable, and early in the afternoon it was agreed between Colonel Smith and myself that at all events the troops would retreat on Williamsport at sundown, if not forced to do so before. The attack in the morning demonstrated that the rebel forces had passed Winchester, and the information received that they had cap- tured Bunker Hill made it probable that they were in force snificient to whip the force at Martinsburg, and that they were only awaiting artillery, as it was evident from 10 a. m. until near sunset that it was our artillery, in the absence of any guns on the part of the rebels, which kept them in check. Milroys dispatch, stating that lie had been attacked on the 13th by Ewells force, of from Th,000 to 18,000 men, and Imbodens and Jones forces, always estimated at froni 6,000 to 8,000, making a total of over 20,000 men, convinced me, having only left Winchester on the even- ing of June 11, that General Milroy would be defeated on Sunday, the 14th instant, as it was apparent from Milroys dispatch that the attack was made by one of the most efficient army corps of Lees army, and the inference was fair that this corps was not alone in the Valley. The following copy of a telegram to Major-General Schenck will show the opinion I entertained of General Milroys position: MARTIN5BURG, W. VA., June 11, 1863. Major-General SciiENcK, Commanding Middle Department: Left Winchester at 2 oclock this p. m. Milroy deserves credit for his fortifica- tions, & c. It will take all Lees cavalry and light artillery to whip him out. If threatened with nothing more, I think he can keep his position. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. From 12 oclock until sunset the question was the p roper time to commence the retreat. If the retreat had commenced immediately after the departure of the baggage train toward Wilhiamsport, the train might have confused the retreating column, and it was clear, if it could be done, that the best plan was to arrest the rebel cavalry at IMlartinsburg, and give the train time to secure its passage into Pennsylvania. This was done, and the train escaped. The next thing (as it was impossible with the small force at Mar- tinsburg to move forward to Birnker Hill, as suggested in Orders, No. I 59), was to hold on at Martinsburg until the last moment, in orde Page 35 CHAP. XXXIX. I THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 35 to cover any men who might escape in that direction from Win. chester, and for that object, and for the security of the Martinsburg baggage train, I proposed, if possible, to hold Martinsburg until sun- down, by which time I supposed the baggage train would be safe, and the troops escaping in the way of Martinsburg would have ar- rived. The result was, the baggage train did escape, and not a man of Milroys defeated army attempted to escape by way of Martins- burg, the rebels having completely cut off bis retreat in that direc- tion. To cover the chance of an opportunity to assist Milroy, the holding on to Martinsburg until near sunset was manifestly im- portant, and at the same time offered a chance for the Martinsburg force to escape. To have held on later (say until next morning), would have done no good, and would have insured the capture of the entire Martinsburg command. Is was evident the enemy was in force, and had commenced a serious attack, and there was nothing in the character or condition of Colonel Smiths command to au- thorize the least hope that the attack could be repulsed, and there was every reason to believe that under the circumstances the good of the service required these troops, if possible, for the garrison at Harpers Ferry. The loss of four pieces of Maulsbys battery re- quires more explanation than I am able to give, as I have as yet no report from Captain Maulsby. Captain Maulsby, by his conduct at Martiusburg, showed that he was a gallant soldier, and there can be no doubt but that he can satisfactorily explain his conduct in con- nection with the loss of his guns. Maulsbys battery, after 6 p. m. of the 14th instant, was divided, one section, under the command of a lieutenant, facing to the west, covering some rebel infantry aiid cavalry that were moving in that direction on Martinsburg. The other two sections, commanded by Captain Maulsby, were facing south, covering the rebel forces that were passing either to amuse or attack the forces posted on the hill near the cemetery. The detached section was 150 yards to the rear of the section under the immediate command of Captain Maulsby, and the lieutenant in command was alone responsible for the section. Just before sunset the rebels for the first time showed that they had artillery in position, as they opened fire from six or eight guns with good range. The first shot passed over Captain Maulsbys four guns, and plunged into the detached section, killing and wounding some horses, and producing a bad effect in the infantry supports, a battalion of the One hundred and sixth New York Volunteers, which fell back in disorder. For the next twenty minutes I exerted my- self personally in rallying the infantry and in stimulating Maulsbys two sections to serve the guns as steadily and rapidly as possible, to cover th~ retreat, for which it was evident the time had come. Not finding Colonel Smith on the field, I then ordered Captain Manisby to throw a half dozen shots from each of his guns as rapidly as pos- sible, and then to limber up and follow the infantry. On riding to the rear, I found one piece of the detached section limbered up and the other rolled down the hill, upset, and the limber missing, and that Colonel Smith, with his regiment, had left the field, while the One hundred and sixth New York Volunteers were standing in line, ap- parently awaiting orders. It was evident that something should be done at once, and, being unable to find Colonel Smith, I ordered the One hundred and sixth New York to move to the rear, and rode for- ward myself to ascertain what had become of Colonel Smith and the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio, and, finding neither, I sent Page 36 30 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. ~HAP. XXflX. staff officer, Captain Woodhull, to the Williamsport road, who re- turned without any information as to Colonel Smith or his regiment, but with the information that the rebels had entered Martinsburg, and were already on or near the Williamsport road. During the absence of Captain Woodhull, I had been looking un- successfully for Colonel Smith and his regiment on the Shepherds- town road, and, riding back, met the One hundred and sixth New York near the point where that road turns off from the Williams- port road, and seeing that the Williamsport road was already in possession Qf the rebels, and nothing heard from Colonel Smith, the only course left was to take the Shepherdstown road, and risk the direct march to Harpers Ferry. After marching nearly a mile, Col- onel Smith with his regiment was found on the same road. Being a stranger and entirely unacquainted with the roads, and the guides, whom Colonel Smith had notified me were on the field, having dis- appeared, I had to assure myself by personal inquiry as to the differ- ent roads, and it was not until the column was halted and reformed after overtaking Colonel Smiths regiment that I ascertained that Maulsbys battery was not in the column. Seeing artillery moving with the rear of the column, I had supposed the entire battery was present. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, DANIEL TYLER, Brigadier-General. Capt. R. N. SCOTT, Judge-Advocate. ADDENDA. HEADQUARTERS DELAWARE DEPARTMENT, Wilmington, Del., September 10, 1863. Lient. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff, Eighth Army Corps, Baltimore, lIlid.: COLONEL: Some time since I forwarded to the headquarters Mid- dle Department my report of the operations in and around Harpers Ferry, from the 15th to the 26th day of June, 1863, and, in justice to myself, in reference to a certain investigation recently made by the War Department, I ask that the report may be sent to the headquar- ters of the army or to the Secretary of War, with such remarks as the major-general commanding may think p roper. * I feel it due the service to s~t forth in this report the facts con- nected with the administration of affairs previous to my arrival there, and to state that the condition of things on the Maryland shore and on Maryland Heights was such that a sudden attack with a small force on the 14th June would have successfully carried the works. So far as I could learn, the troops were doing nothing to strengthen the defenses, and although Brigadier-General Kelley received notice on the 14th of June that he might be attc~cked, and that Ewell had already attacked Milroy, and that McReynolds had evacuated Berry- ville, and that Martinsburg was attacked, still, not a move was made at Harpers Ferry; all the subsistence, forage, ammunition, hospitals and hospital stores, and other similar supplies were left or exposed. on the Virginia side, and, had the enemy advanced in any force, their capture was inevitable. * Reference is to original of report of July 1, a copy of which (printed on ~Pb l9~) was submitted to the court of inquiry Page 37 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMRiIGN. 37 I feel obliged, in justice, to report that when Brigadier-General Kelley received orders to tnrn over the command to me, he merely reported the order to me, and left immediately with his whole staff by the first train of Cars, and that I Could not find a single record or report of the command, and the only means I had of ascertaining snbsistence, ammunition, supplies, forage, & c., was by taking in- ventories of the same. I deem it my dnty to report these matters to department headquarters, as I feel that Brigadier-General Kelleys neglect dnring a somewhat long command at Harpers Ferry to put the place in a condition for defense, and to have availed himself of the means in his hands for that purpose, was inexcusable, and might have brought disgrace on the service and inflicted a great injury on the campaign of 1863; and I am compelled to this course from the fact that for more than a week after I relieved Brigadier-General Kelley I felt that this disgrace and injnry would be put to my charge, owing mainly to General Kelleys neglect of duty. With great respect, your obedient servant, DAN. TYLER, Brigadier- General. No. 381. Report of Cot. Benjamin F. Smith, One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, of attack upon Mar- tinsburg. MARYLAND HEIGHTS, June 27, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor-to make the following report of the attack on Martinsburg, W. Va., on the 14th instant: The United States troops at Martinsburg consisted of eight com- panies of the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio Volunteers, Lient. Col. William H. Harlan commanding; eight companies of the One hundred and sixth New York Volunteers, Col. E. C. James com- manding; Maulsbys Independent West Virginia Battery; one com- any of cavalry, of the First Battalion Potomac Home Brigade, Maryland Volunteers, Captain Firey commanding; a small detach- ment from the First New York Cavalry, and a few of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. It was expected some days before that an attack would be made on the place, and I had received orders to make preparations accord- ingly. All the stores at the depot were loaded on the cars, amid sent to Baltimore and Harpers Ferry, in anticipation of an attack by an overwhelming force. Brigadier-General Tyler, with his staff, con- sisting of Capt. Max Woodhull and Lieut. E. L. Tyler, had been directed by Major-General Scheuck, commanding Eighth Army Corps, to proceed to Martinsburg, and make sure that proper dis- positions would be made according to circumustances. About 8 a. m. Sunday, June 14, my vedettes were driven in, and reported the enemy advancing by the Winchester turnpike in force. I immediately ordered the whole of my command to move in that direction, and take a position behind the stone fences between the Winchester and Charlestown roads, throwing out skirmishers and scouts in all directions, endeavoring to find out the strength and posi- tion of the enemy. My orders were to fall back on Harpers Ferry, if attacked by a superior force, either by the William~port or by th Page 38 38 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, TA., T~TC. [CHAP. XXXIX. direct road. Finding that my position was one that conid be easily cnt off from these roads, with the approbation of General Tyler, I changed my position to the high gronnd near the cemetery and nearer the roads. My object was to gain time, so that I conld get my bri- gade train well oii the road to Williamsport. This I sncceeded in doing by throwing an occasional shell and keeping my skirmishers well ont to engage the enemy. Abont noon, I received the following commnnication from General A. G. Jenkins, commanding rebel troops, viz: HEADQUARTERS, & C., Camp near Martinsburg, June 14, 1863. The Commanding Officer U. S. Forces near Martinsburg: SIR: I herewith demand the surrender of Martinsburg. Should you refuse, you are respectfully requested to notify the inhabitants of the place to remove forthwith to a place of safety. Small-arms only will be used for one hour upon the town after your reception of this note. After that, I shall feel at liberty to shell the town, if I see proper. Should you refuse to give the necessary notification to the inhabitants, I shall be compelled to hold your command responsible. Very respectfully, yours, A. G. JENKINS, Brigadier-General, & e. P. SAn immediate reply is necessary. To this commnnication I replied as follows, having first snbmitted it for the approval of General Tyler: HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Martinsburg, Va., June 14, 1863. A. G. JENKINS, Brigadier-General, & c.: GENERAL : Martinsburg will not be surrendered. You may commence shelling as soon as you choose. I will, however, inform the women and children of your threat. Very respectfully, yours, B. F. SMITH, C~olonel, Commanding U. S. Forces. Immediately after their demand, I notified the inhabitants, and they left the town in large nnmbers. Jenkins did not open his mnsketry and artillery, as he threatened, but was held in check until near sun- set, when I had received notification that all my wagons had crossed the ferry at Williainsport, and I was prepared to fall back. Just as I had given orders to the pickets and skirmishers to fall back slowly and cautiouSly, the enemy opened upon me from three different points, their batteries having during the day obtained my range. I had ten minutes before given the order to limber up and get nnder arms, pre- paratory to falling back to the ferry, when the enemy opened with snch a concentrated fire it cannot be wondered at that the men were thrown into temporary confnsion. However, I brought the men off in good order, and was not followed by the enemy on the Shepherds- town road, which I took with the main portion of the command, crossing the Potomac at Shepherdstown Ford, and following the tow- path of the canal to Maryland Heights, where I arrived safely, and reported to General B. F. Kelley, commanding. One section of Maulsbys battery, commanded by Lient. John S. S. Herr, went with the main body of the command on the Shepherds- town road, bnt one of his pieces overturning in a gnlly was lost, the wheel being broken. The limber was brought away. The. other two sections of the battery, nnder Capt. Thomas A. Maulsby, with Lieu- tenants Graham and Means, took the Williamsport road, and, afte Page 39 CIIAP. XXXIX.] 39 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. some resistance, the gulls were captured by the enemy, and Captain Manisby wounded in the leg, but escaped with his Qfficers and most of his men and horses. The detachment of the First New York Cavalry, Lieutenants Mar- tindale and Jesse F. Wyckoff, and Captain Fireys company (B), First Battalion Potomac Home Brigade, Maryland Volunteer Cav- alry, and a small number of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, rendered valuable and important service, especially when the rebel cavalry charged through the town in large numbers, our small force of cavalry contending for every inch of ground. Company I, One hundred andtwenty-sixth Ohio Volunteers, Capt. Henry C. Yontz, stationed at the block-house at Opequon Creek, was captured by the enemy, with the exception of 2 officers and 13 men. Captain Yontz, having endeavored to escape with his company by the Williamsport road, was surrounded by the enemy. The 3 medical officers of the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio Volunteers fell into the hands of the enemy, with a few medical stores, a small quail- tity of ammunition, and a few arms. No quartermasters or com- missary stores were lost. A small pile of forage was burned as we were leaving. About 200 men of the whole command are missing, but are sup- posed mostly to be stragglers, as they are constantly coming in. The number of killed and wounded is not known, but is very small. The rebels suffered more than ourselves; 7 killed, if have heard of, and quite a number wounded. On my arrival at the Shepherdstown Ford (1 had gone ahead with a small escort to examine the ford), a volley was fired upon us from the opposite bank. This turned out to be from our own pickets, who had mistaken us for the enemy, the night being very dark. No one hurt, fortunately. The forced march to Maryland Heights from Martinsburg was long and fatiguing, but we congratulate ourselves that we held in check a whole day a vastly superior force of the enemy, leaving him an empty tdwn, as far as supplies were concerned, when he expected to find a depot stored with everything he desired. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. SMITH, Cot. 126th Ohio Vol. Inf., Comdg 3d Brig., 1st Div., 8th Corps. Brig. Gen. DANIEL TYLER, Baltimore, ]lilid No. 382. Report of Gol. Edward C. James, One hundred and sixth New York Infantry, of operations June 13-15. MARYLAND HEIGHTS, MD., June 26, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the move~ ments of the One hundred and sixth New York Volunteers, from the time of their leaving North Mountain, Va., on the 13th instant, until their arrival at Maryland Heights, June 15: At noon on Saturday, June 13, 1 received orders by telegraph from Col. B. F. Smith, One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio Volunteers, commanding Third Brigade, First Division, Eighth Army Corps, t Page 40 40 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. which my regiment was attached, to fall back with my command from North Mountain, Va., where I was then stationed, to Martins- burg, Va. I immediately complied with this order, breaking up my camp, and shipping by cars to Harpers Ferry what property I was unable to place upon my train of ten wagons. At 4 p. m. ]I left North Mountain, leaving behind a hospital, with some 11 sick men, who could not be moved, in charge of First Asst. Surg. F. H. Pettit. We reached Martinsburg about 7.30 p. in., hav- ing marched 9 miles, and reported to Colonel Smith. My command bivouacked Saturday night on the Stewart farm, north of the Village and a few rods from the railroad. About 10 a. m. Sunday, I received orders to move out on the Winchester road, where our pickets were already engaged with the enemys advance. Upon arriving there, I took up a position on the right of the road, throwing forward two companies as skirmishers who soon became engaged, but without loss. I remained with my command in this position without material change until nearly 2 p. in., when I was ordered to recall my skirmishers and move to Union Hill, on the east side of the town. This change of position was accomplished by the entire command without difficulty. Soon after taking my position, I wa~ informed by Colonel Smith that we would retreat to Harpers Ferry at nightfall, via Williamsport, and ordered to follow the One hundred and twenty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteers in the column of retreat. Meanwhile the left wing of my regiment, under command of Lieu- tenant-Colonel Embick, was detached and placed in position behind four guns of Maulsbys battery, a short distance in advance of the main force. We remained in this position until sunset, occasionally shelling the enemy when they appeared within range, and our skir- mishers keeping up a desultory fire. As the sun went down, I received orders to prepare to retreat, and to recall the left wing of my regiment. While they were moving to rejoin us, and the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio was leaving the field, the enemy opened upon us a terrific fire of shot, shell, and grape. The Ohio regiment immediately left the field. I dispatched my adjutant to Colonel Smith, to know if we should follow. He re- turned with the reply, Yes, when I immediately moved down the hill by a flank march. My regiment staggered for a moment under the storm of missiles, rallied again in an instant, and marched steadily from the field, fortunately without the loss of a man. We drew up in line of battle as soon as we were out of range, when Brigadier- General Tyler, who at this moment assumed command, ordered us to move rapidly out upon the Shepherdstown road toward Harpers Ferry. When 2 miles out, we overtook the One hundred and twenty- sixth Ohio Regiment. By rapid marching we reached Shepherds- town at midnight, forded the river, and on the 15th instant arrived at Harpers Ferry. My loss at Martinsburg in prisoners is 1 officer (Second Lieut. W. A. Merry, Company A, who was calling in the outposts at the time of retreat) and about 20 men, most of whom were sick or crippled and unable to keep up. Two ambulances were abandoned by their drivers, who took off the horses, and one wagon, overloaded with ammunition, was [upset] in fording Tuscarora Creek, and left be- hind. The regimental wagon train sent early in the day toward Williams- port, Md., arrived safely in Harrisburg, Pa Page 41 41 Cia~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. In this movement but eight companies of my regiment were en- gaged, the remainder being paroled prisoners at Annapolis, Md., since April last. Ii have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD C. JAMES, Colonel. Lieutenant-Colonel LusK, Assistant A~jutant-General. No. 383. Report of Maj. Gen. Robert H. ]Ililroy, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations June 115. BALTIMORE, MD., June 30, 1863. COLONEL: I have been compelled by the exigencies of public duties connected with my late command to defer until the present time a report of the recent operations abont Winchester. Having no re- ports from brigade commanders, and not even an opportunity of conferring with them, I am still unable to give a detailed report. A sense of duty to myself and to the officers and soldiers whom I had the honor to command requires that I should submit some general statements. I occupied Winchester with my command on December 25 last, and continued in the occupancy up to Monday morning, the 15th instant, when, for reasons which will appear in the sequel of this report, I was compelled to evacuate it. When I first occupied Winchester, the Valley of the Shenandoah from Staunton to Strasburg was occupied by the rebel General Jones, with a force variously estimated at from 5,000 to 6,000 men, and con- stituted principally of cavalry. Imboden at the same time occupied the Cacapon Valley with a force composed of infantry, cavalry, and artillery, estimated at 1,500 men. These were the only forces by which I was in danger of being assailed, unless by a force from Lees army, which, it was supposed, would be prevented from hos- tile demonstrations in my direction by the Army of the Potomac. The object of holding Winchester was to observe and hold in check the rebel forces in the Valley, and to secure the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad against depredations. Late in March, in pursuance of an order issued upon my own sug- gestion, I stationed the Third Brigade of my division, consisting of the Sixth Regiment Maryland Volunteer Infantry, Sixty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, First Regiment New York Cavalry, and the Baltimore Battery, at Berryville, Colonel McReynolds, of the First New York Cavalry, commanding. My instructions to Colonel McReynolds were to keep open our commu- nication with Harpers Ferry and to watch the passes of the Blue Ridge (Snickers and Ashbys Gaps) and the fords of the Shenandoah River known as Snickers and Berrys. To this end he was to cause to be diligently scouted the country between him and those localities and as far south as Millwood. I was expressly instructed to under- take no offensive operations in force. Acting in accordance with these instructions, I kept my forces well in hand in the vicinities of Berryville and Winchester, excepting that during the expedition o Page 42 42 ThC., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX~ General Jones into West Virginia by order from your headquarters, I sent portions of them into that State. Dnring my occupancy of Winchester, I almost continually kept ont heavy cavalry scouts on the Front Royal road as far as Front Royal, and on the Strasbnrg road as far as Strasbnrg. My cavalry frequently droVe the enemys pickets as far up the Valley as Woodstock, and I held almost nndis- pnted possession of the Valley as far as Strasburg until abont June 1. By means of these cavalry expeditions, and information furnished me by Union citizens, I kept myself continnally posted as to the rebel forces in the Valley under Jones and Imboden, and was at no time deceived as to their numbers or movements. About June 1 the enemy became bolder, and small detachments of his cavalry were met as far down the Valley as Middletown. On Friday, June 12, for the purpose of ascertaining whether there had been any accumulation of rebel forces in my front, I sent out two strong reconnoitering parties, one on the Strasburg and the other on the Front Royal road. The one on the Strasburg road con- sisted of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Thir- teenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and one section of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, under command of Colonel Schall, of the Eighty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer infantry. This reconnaissance was conducted with energy, in pursuance of instruc- tions, and its results were in every way satisfactory. The expedition proceeded up the Valley, the cavalry in advance, but within support- ing distance of the infantry and artillery, until it had arrived within 2 miles of Middletown, at which place a messenger from Major Ker- win, who was in command of the cavalry, announced to Colonel Schall that a superior force of cavalry of the enemy had been dis- covered in line of battle immediately north of Middletown. The in- fantry and artillery were immediately concealed, the former in a dense grove to the right of the road and within 100 yards of the same, and the latter behind a ridge. Our cavalry retired, skirmish- ing with that of the enemy until he was drawn within reach of the fire of the infantry. Upon the first fire of our infantry the enemy retreated precipitately, followed by our cavalry, which pursued be- yond Middletown. In this affair the enemy lost ~0 (as has since been ascertained) in killed and wounded, and we took 37 prisoners. Colonel Schall remained on the ground for an hour, during which time his cavalry scoured the country in every direction, but could detect no traces of an accumulation of rebel forces. The prisoners taken all belonged to the Maryland Battalion and Fourteenth Virginia Cavalry, troops which had been in the Valley and on picket duty during the whole period of my occupancy of Winchester. Besides, separate examinations of the prisoners dis- closed that there was no accumulation of forces there. Colonel Schall made his report to me about 7 oclock in the evening, and it relieved me from all apprehensions of an attack from the Strasburg road. It is now known that no portion of Lees army approached Winchester from ~that direction. The reconnaissance on the Front Royal road was abortive. The expedition consisted of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, about 400 strong, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Moss. It returned to Winchester about 3 oclock in the afternoon on Friday. Its com- manding officer reported that at Cedarville, a place about 12 miles from Winchester, he had encountered a large force of the enemy Page 43 CHAP. XXXIX.] 43 THE GETTYSBURG eAMFAIGN. composed of cavalry, infantry, and artillery. lit did not appear, however, that he had placed himself in a position to ascertain the nnmber or character of the force which he had enconntered, or ex- ercised the nsnal and necessary efforts to obtain that essential in- formation. Officers of his command and reliable sconts who were present gave contradictory reports. This report was discredited by myself and by General Elliott, my second in command. There was nothing in the report which indi- cated the presence of General Lees army. It was snpposed that the force on the Front Royal road conld not be other than the enemy which we had faced dnring the occnpancy of Winchester, or that the anticipated cavalry raid of General Stnart was in progress, against either or both of which combined I conld have held my posi- tion. I deemed it impossible that Lees army, with its immense artillery and baggage trains, conld have escaped from the Army of the Potomac, and crossed the Blne Ridge throngh Ashbys, Chester, and Thornton Gaps in concentric colnrnns. The movement mnst have occnpied five or six days, and notice of its being in progress conld have been conveyed to me from General Hookers headqnar- ters in five minntes, for telegraphic commnnication still existed be- tween Baltimore and Winchester. On Friday night I donbled my pickets and kept ont strong patrols of cavalry on the leading roads, and I also sent a messenger to Colo- nel McReynolds, at Berryville, notifying him that the enemy was reported to be in considerable force on the Front Royal road. I in- strncted him to keep a strong party of observation in the direction of Millwood; to place his command in readiness to move at a mo- ments warning; if attacked by a snperior force, to fall back upon{ Winchester by the ronte which he might deem most practicable, and~ that if his command shonld be needed at Winchester, he wonld be notified by fonr discharges from the large gnns at the main fort at Winchester. The whole forces nnder my command at this time were: First Brigade, Brig. Gen. W. L. Elliott commandingOne hnn- dred and tenth Regiment Ohio Volnnteer Infantry, Colonel Keifer; One hnndred and sixteenth Regiment Ohio Volnnteer Infantry, Col- onel Washbnrn; One hnndred and twenty-second Regiment Ohio Volnnteer Infantry, Colonel Ball; One hnndred and twenty-third Regiment Ohio Yolnnteer Infantry, Colonel Wilson; Thirteenth Reg- iment Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Galligher; Twelfth Regimeiit Pennsylvania Cavalry, Lientenant-Colonel Moss, and Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, Lientenant Randolph. The Second Brigade, Colonel Ely, Eighteenth Connecticnt, com- mandingThe Eighty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Schall; Twelfth Regiment West Virginia Volun- teer Infantry, Colonel Klnnk; Eighteenth Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Nichols; Fifth Regiment Maryland Volunteer Infantry, Captain Holton; Battery D, First West Virginia Artillery, Captain Carlin; Company K, First West Virginia Cavalry, Lientenant Dawson, and Companies D and E, Third West Virginia Cavalry, Captain White. The heavy gnns of the main f~rtificationscOn5i5ting of four 20- ponnder Parrotts and two 24-ponnder howitzers-were served by a company of the Fonrteenth [First] Massachnsetts Heavy Artillery, commanded by Captain Martins. The command numbered, accord- ing to Friday mornings return, 6,900 effective men Page 44 44 ThC., VA., W~ VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. On Saturday morning, at a few minutes before 8 oclock, my cav- alry patrols on the Front Royal road reported that the enemy was a pproaching in force. Deeming it advisable that under the circum \ stances the whole command should be united at Winchester, I gave Colonel McReynolds the concerted signal above stated. I imme- diately sent forward on the Front Royal and Strasburg roads forces to observe and report the forces and movements of the enemy. That on the Front Royal road consisted of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cav- alry, Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Eighteenth Connecticut Infantry, Fifth Maryland Infantry, and one section of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, Colonel Ely commanding. A little over a mile from Winchester this force encountered a battery of the enemys artillery, located in a wood at the right of the Front Royal road. After a short artillery skirmish, Colonel Ely retired his com- mand to near the junction of the Front Royal and Strasburg roads, immediately south of and adjoining Winchester. The enemy did not pursue in force. Occasionally during the day small detachments of rebel cavalry approached from that direction, but were driven off by our infantry pickets, which were well protected, and directed to re- main at their posts and act as skirmishers. The force on the Stras- burg road consisted of the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, the Twelfth West Virginia Infantry, Thir- teenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and Carlins battery, Brigadier-General Elliott commanding. A little to the west and adjoining Winchester is a high ridge, which extends from the town south for over a mile to Mill Creek, which is known as Apple-Pie Ridge. Around the southern termiuns of this ridge the creek and a mill-race wind across the Strasburg road, and from thence in a northerly direction across the Front Royal road, and north of that road to Hollingsworth Mills, where the race termi- nates and the creek takes an abrupt easterly course. The whole length of the race is about 2 miles. The creek and race combined afford a strong protection against cavalry, and for that reason and the additional one that stone fences and other covers abound in its vicinity, they had been adopted as a portion of my infantry picket line. The force above designated, excepting two sections of Carlins bat- tery, stationed on the southern extremity of the ridge above described, proceeded up the Strasburg road to within a short distance of Kerns- town, where it remained, encountering no enemy, excepting occasional parties of skirmishers, until about 2 p. in., when Brigadier-General Elliott, through Lieutenant [William] Alexander, of his staff, re- ported to me at the place where the two sections of Carlins battery were stationed that he could find no enemy in his front, but that there were indications that he was massing his forces on our left, in the vicinity of the Front Royal road. I then directed General Elliott to retire his force on the Strasburg road back to the creek and race above described, so as to put it in a position to support Colonel Ely on the Front Royal road or the forces in the forts as the exigency might require. While this order was being execut~d, and when General Elliotts command had arrived within 600 yards of the creek and race, a considerable force of the enemys infantry in two lines of battle displayed itself to our right, with the apparent inten- tion to flank and cut off our retiring troops. I estimated the force of the enemy then in sight at 2,000. Th~ two sections of Carlins battery on the ridge as above state Page 45 CHAP. XXXIX] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPALG~. 45 commanded the position of the enemy, and immediately opened on him with sufficient effect to throw him into confusicin, when the One hundred and tenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Keifer, and One hundred and twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Wilson, charged upon him and drove him back in disorder with considerable loss. Simultaneously the Twelfth West Virginia Infantry, Colonel Klunk, engaged a large body of the en- emy s skirmishers in a woods south of the ridge and on the opposite side of the creek and race, and, after holding them in Check some two hours, being outflanked and greatly outnumbered, retired. Our whole force, which had been advanced on the Strasburg road, retired behind the creek and race above described. That creek and race then constituted the line of our forces in front of the town, and was held by Colonel Ely, with a portion of his brigade, on the Front Royal road, and by General Elliott, with a portion of his brigade, on the Strasburg road. The remainder of my forces were in the forts immediately north of the town. Immediately after our forces had retired from the Strasburg road to the Winchester side of the creek and race, the enemy advanced his skirmishers, and brisk skirmishing ensued until dark. About 5 oclock the enemy advanced and took possession of a picket post, surrounded by a stone wall on the south, east, and west, and which commanded the Strasburg road, from which they were dislodged by two companies of the Twelfth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry. In this affair, which occurred about 6 oclock in the evening, we captured a prisoner, from whom I learned that he belonged to Hays Louisiana brigade, which was a part of Ewells corps, the whole of which, and part of Longstreets, was in our immediate vicinity. A deserter who came in shortly afterward confirmed his statement. This was the first intimation that I received that Lees army had quietly retired before the lines of the Army of the Potomac, and per- formed a five or 5iX days march. Telegraphic communication with my headquarters continued until 12 m. on Saturday. The Blue Ridge screened the operations of Lees army from me. I had always relied with implicit confidence upon receiving timely notice by telegraph of its advance in my direction. On Saturday, under cover of the night, I withdrew my forces on the Strasburg and Front Royal roads in front of Winchester to the southern suburbs of the town, under orders to retire to the forts north of the town at 2 oclock in the morning. Colonel McReynolds arrived with his command between 9 and 10 1~ p. in., and was assigned to the star fort, immediately north of the main fortification. At this time it was evident that at least two corps of Lees army, numbering not less than 50,000 men, and abundantly supplied with artillery, were in my immediate vicinity, and that my retreat by the Martinsburg and Berryville roads was cut off. I still hoped that there had been some corresponding action of the Army of the Potomac, and that if I could sustain myself for twenty-four hours I would be relieved. Early on Sunday morning detachments of cavalry were sent out on the Berryville and Martinsburg roads, but were driven back by the enemys skirmishers and sharpshooters. From 7 oclock on Sunday morning until 4 oclock in the afternoon, detachments of the Eighteenth Connecticut, Fifth Maryland, and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, under the direc Page 46 46 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ciw. XXXIX. tion of Colonel Ely, continually skirmished with the enemy in front of the forts and east of the town, between the Front Royal and Mar- tinsburg roads. During this skirmishing the rebels took possession of a large brick dwelling, surrounded by dense shrubbery, on the Berryville road, about half a mile from Winchester. Our skirmishers attacked and carried the house, killing 1 officer and ~ men and cap- turing 11 prisoners. At one time during the day the rebels in considerable numbers appeared in the town, but were driven out by the Eighteenth Con- necticut and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry. On Sunday morning General Elliott, with a portion of his brigade, Carlins battery, and the Twelfth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, took position on the ridge above described, about a quarter of a mile south of the Romney road. He had frequent and sometimes severe skirmishing. The enemy did not, however, at any time appear be- fore him in force. In consequence of the overwhelming masses of the enemy about me, I kept my forces during the day well in hand and in immediate connection with the forts. As early as Saturday evening, after I learned of the presence of Lees army in force, I made up my mind to act on the defensive, economize my forces, wait until the enemy had massed himself for the final attack, and then, unless relieved, force my way through what might appear to be the weakest portion of his lines. My belief was superinduced by the maneuvers of the enemy on Saturday and by the ground that the real attack would come from the Romney road. Early on Sunday morning, I ordered Captain Morgan, of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, with a detachment of two companies of that regiment, to proceed out the Pughtown road as far as Pughtown, if practicable; thence across to the Romney road, and by that road back to the forts. I instructed him to carefully observe the disposition and forces of the enemy, if any, in that direction. That officer returned with his command to the forts about 2p. in., and reported that he had made the round indicated witimout meeting or detecting any traces of an enemy in that direction. Immediately west of and parallel with the ridge on which the main fortification is constructed, and about 2,QOO yards distant therefrom, is another range, known as Flint Ridge, on which there was in process of construction a line of earthworks, which commanded the Pughtown and Romney roads and all the ap~ proaches from the west. These works were occupied on Sunday by the One hundred and tenth and part of the One hundred and smx~ teenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, under Colonel Keifer. The report of Captain Morgan relieved me from all apprehension of an immediate attack in that direction, and induced me to turn mny attention to the approach~es in other directions. I am still at a loss to know how Captain Morgan could have made the tour which he reported without seeing or encountering the enemy, for within two hours after he made his retort the enemy opened upon me from the west with at least four full batteries, some of his guns of the longest range, under cover of which fire he precipitated a column of in- fantry, at least 10,000 strong, upon the outwork held by Colonel Keifer, which, after a stubborn resistance, he carried. This outwork was commanded by the guns of the main and star forts, which were immediately brought to bear upon the enemy, driving him from the position, and affording a protection to Colonel Keifers command Page 47 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 47 under which it retreated, with small loss, to the main fort. The guns at the fort, and the Baltimore battery, Captain Alexander, at the star fort, and Carlins battery, immediately south of the main fort, engaged the guns of the enemy, and an artillery contest ensued, which was maintained with energy on both s4es until 8 oclock in the evening. During its progress, I massed my troops in the main and star forts and in the rifle-pits in front of them. To my regret, the enemy made no effort to take my position by assault. About 9 oclock in the evening, I convened a council of war, con- sisting of Brigadier-General Elliott, commanding First Brigade, Colonel Ely, commanding Second Brigade, and Colonel McReynolds, commanding Third Brigade. Before stating the result of this coun- cil, it is proper that I should state the circumstances by which we were surrounded. It was certain that Lee had eluded the Army of the Potomac, and was at liberty to use his whole force against us without hinderance from any source. Our position at Winchester, although affording facilities for defense which would enable an in- ferior to maintaiU itself against a superior number for a limited time, conld not be successfully defended by the limited means at my com- mand against such an army as surrounded me. Six principal roads, known in the army as the Romney, Pughtown, Martinsburg, Berry- yule, Front Royal, and Strasburg roads, lead into the town. The names of these roads indicate their course. They are all intersected and connected by cross-roads in close proximity to the town. Cavalry and artillery can approach the town and the forts from every direction. We had but one days ration left, and our artillery ammunition was almost entirely exhausted. On Monday morning the enemy could have brought one hundred guns to bear on us, to which we could have made no reply. Precedents which have occurred during this rebellion and in other countries would have justified a capitnlation; but I thought,and my comrades in council thought, that we owed our lives to the Government rather than make such a degrading con- cession to rebels in arms against its authority. The propositions concluded upon in that council were, that in consequence of the en- tire exhaustion of our artillery ammnnition, it was impossible to hold the post against the overwhelming forces of the enemy, and that a further prolongation of the defense could only result in sacrificing the lives of our soldiers without any practical benefit to the country; that we owed it to the honor of the Federal arms to make an effor.t to force our way through the lines of the beleaguering foe~ that the artillery and wagons should be abandoned, and the division, brigade, and regimental quartermasters instructed to bring away all public horses, and that the brigades, in the order of their numbers, should march from the forts at 1 oclock in the morning, carrying with them their arms and the usual supply of ammunition. The Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry ~was attached to the Third Brigade. The forts were evacuated at the time designated, and im- mediately thereafter the cannon spiked and the ammunition which could not be carried by the soldiers thrown into the cisterns of the forts. The column proceeded through a ravine, avoiding the town of Winchester, about 1 mile, until it struck the Martinsbnrg road. It then proceeded up the Martinsburg road to where a road leads from it to Summit Station, about 4~- miles from Winchester, when I received a message from General Elliott that he was attacked by the enemys skirmishers. I had heard the firing, and was riding forward. The enemy was on elevated ground in a woods east of the road an Page 48 48 N.C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [ChAP. XXXIX. a field east of and adjoining the woods. This occnrred between 3 and 4 oclock in the morning. General Elliott immediately filed the One hnndred and twenty-third, One hnndred and tenth, and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Regiments to the left, and formed them in line of battle west of and in front of the woods in which the enemy was posted. He then advanced the One hundred and tenth Ohio, Colonel Keifer, into the woods, to feel the enemy. This regi- ment soon became actively engaged, and was immediately supported by the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, which promptly took its position on the right of the One hundred and tenth. It soon became evident that the enemy was present in considerable force, with at least two batteries of artillery. It was evident, how- ever, that a retreat could not be effected excepting under cover of a heavy contest with him. The One hundred and tenth and One hun- dred and twenty-second Ohio maintained the contest for over an hour, occasionally falling back, but in the main driving the enemy. They captured one of the enemys caissons, and silenced two of his guns by killing his gunners and his artillery horses. Although imme- diately under the guns of the enemy, they preserved their lines, and kept up an incessant, heavy, and murderous fire of musketry, under the effect of which the enemys right flank fell into disorder and re- coiled. During this contest, Colonel Keifer especially distinguished him- self by the display of the qualities of a brave soldier and a judicious and skillful officer. About the time the contest commenced on my left, by my orders the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania. Infantry, Colonel Schall, advanced against the enemys left, but was soon driven back. I then supported the Eighty-seventh by the Eighteenth Connecticut, and the two regi- ments, under Colonel Ely, again advanced into the woods, but were again driven back. I then supported Colonel Ely with the One hun- dred and twenty-third Ohio, and again advanced the line, but it was repulsed with inconsiderable loss, the range ~ the enemys guns being so elevated as to render his artillery inefficient. At this time a signal gun fired at Winchester announced the ap- proach of the enemy in my rear. Colonel Elys command was again rallied, and formed in line of battle west of the Martinsburg road, and that officer again directed to engage the enemy. At this time the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiments were still main- taining their fire on the left with unabating energy. I then gave instructions that my forces unengaged and trains should retreat nuder cover of the contest, taking the Martinsburg road for a short distance, and then turning to the right. I instructed my staff officers, excepting Captain Baird, who was engaged with the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, on my left, to diligently convey these instructions. They were con- veyed to Colonel Washburn, commanding the One hundred and six- teenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Colonel Klunk, commanding the Twelfth West Virginia Infantry; Major Adams, commanding First New York Cavalry, and Major Titus, commanding Twelfth Penn- sylvania Cavalry. These forces immediately marched, but, instead of taking the route indicated, took a road which leads to the left, through Bath, in Morgan County. They were followed by consid- erable bodies of the Eighteenth Connecticut and Eighty-seventh Pennsylv~ni~, ~nd some stragglers from the One hundred and twenty Page 49 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 49 third, One hundred and tenth, and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Colonel Ely was instructed to fall back and retreat as soon as the troops had passed his rear. Major LJohn L.] McGee and Captain Palmer, of my staff, who were at different times dispatched to Colonel McReynolds with his instructions, each separately reported that they could not find that officer or any por- tion of his command, excepting Major Adams, with the First New York Cavalry. It was supposed that during the battle he had re- treated to the right of the Martinsburg road. About the time that I had given the directions above indicated, my horse was shot under me. Some time intervened before I could be remounted. When remounted, I went in the direction of the One hundred and tenth and the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, and met them falling back by the Martinsburg road. The retreat was now in full progressthe two columns by differ- ent routesand it was impossible to unite them. I proceeded with the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Regiments, and fragments of other regiments which followed after them. This portion of the command, by way of Smithfield, arrived at Harpers Ferry late in the afternoon of Monday. I was not pur- sued. The column that proceeded in the direction of Bath crossed the Potomac at Hancock, and subsequently massed at Bloody Run, 2,700 strong. Having no report from Colonel McReynolds, I am unable to state the operations of his brigade on Monday morning. That officer ar- rived at Harpers Ferry about 12 m. on Monday, unaccompanied by any considerable portion of his command. The Sixth Maryland In- fantry, attached to his brigade, arrived at that place Monday even- ing, almost intact. His other infantry regiment, the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania, was principally captured. I have learned that while Colonel Ely was endeavoring to retreat, in pursuance to directions, he was surrounded, and compelled to sur- render, with the greater portion of the command which he led in the last charge. The force which we encountered on Monday morning in our front was Johnsons division, of Ewells corps, from 8,000 to 10,000 strong. The whole number of my division which have reported at Harpers Ferry and Bloody Run and other places exceeds 5,000. The strag- glers scattered through the country are perhaps 1,000. My loss in killed and wounded cannot be large. It is not my object at this time to bestow praise or cast censure, but I feel it to be my duty to say that during the late operations ~near Winchester generally the officers and men under my command con- ducted themselves with distinguished gallantry and deserve well of their country. If they could be again united (as they should be) under their appropriate brigade and regimental organizations, they would be formidable on any field. It is proper that I should here refer again to the instructions under which I occupied Winchester. They were not materially changed from those above given until Thursday, June 11, 12 oclock at night, when I received from Colonel Piatt, at Harpers Ferry, the following telegram: In accordance with orders from Halleck, received from headquarters at Baltimore to day, you will immediately take steps to remove your command from Winchester to Harpers Ferry. You will, without delay, call in Colonel McReynolds and such other outposts not necessary for bservation at the front. $end back your heavy 4 I~ RVOL XXVIII PT I Page 50 50 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. C~. XXXIX. guns, surplus ammunition, and subsistence, retaining only such force and arms as will constitute what General Halleck designates as a lookout, which can readily and without inconvenience fall back to Harpers Ferry. DONN PJATT Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. I immediately telegraphed to Major-General Schenck as follows: I have the place well protected, and am well prepared to hold it, as General Tyler and Colonel Piatt will inform you, and I can and would hold it, if permitted to do so, against any force the rebels can afford to bring against me, and I exceedingly regret the prospect of having to give it up. It will Le cruel to abandon the loyal people in this country to the rebel fiends again. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. Early on Friday morning, June 12, I received this telegram: BALTIMORE, MD., June 12, 18631 a. m. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILRoY: Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, as I learn by copy of dispatch sent me, which he for- warded to you from Harpers Ferry, misunderstood me, and somewhat exceeded his instructions. You will make all the required preparations for withdrawing, but hold your position in the meantime. Be ready for movement, but await further orders. I doubt the propriety of calling in McReynolds brigade at once. If you should fall back to Harpers Ferry, he will be in part on the way and covering your flank; but use your discretion as to any order to him. Below I give you a copy of the telegram of the General-in-Chief. Nothing heard since. Give me constant information. ROBT. C. SCHENCK Major-General, Commanding. [Copy of General Hallecks telegram.] [WASHINGTON, June 11, 186312 p. in.] Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no importance other than as a lookout. The Winchester troqps, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. [The troops at Martinsburg should also be ready to fall back on Harpers Ferry.] No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. ~. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. Late on Friday evening I received a dispatch from General Schenck, which is lost, bnt which was in substance as follows: A dispatch just received from Colonel Donn Piatt says: I read Hallecks last dispatch by the light of his of April 30, and considered it a positive order to fall back to Harpers Ferry, and I so ordered Milroy. I have been on the ground, and gave it advisedly. Milroy cannot move from his present position in presence of the en- emy. . He has not transportation enough to move in face of the enemy, and has not cavalry he can rely upon to scout beyond Strasburg. What are your facilities for transportation? This telegram I immediately answered as follows: I can at any time, if not cut off from Martinsburg, have sufficient transportation to take all public stores from here in six hours. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. Late on Friday night, June 12, perhaps about 10 oclock, I sent Major-General Schenck this dispatch, to wit: The Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry had a slight skirmish with a rebel cavalry force of about 500, 12 miles from here, on the Front Royal road, this afternoon. The Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, with one section of artillery, had a splendid little skirmish with some 400 rebel cavalr Page 51 CHAP. XXXIX4 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 51 this side of Middletown at the same time. The Thirteenth skirmished with the rebels a short time, and drew them into an ambuscade of the Eighty-seventh and artillery. Eight of the rebels were killed and a number wounded, and 37, including a captain and 2 lieutenants, were taken prisoners. No casualties on our side. The enemy is probably approaching in some force. Please state specifically whether I am to abandon this place or not. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. To this communication no reply was received. [See note attached.] It is clear that I received no order to evacuate Winchester, except- ing that of Colonel Piatt, which was annulled by the telegram of Major-General Schenck on Friday, the 12th. The telegram above copied of the General-in-Chief was before me, but that is advisory in its tone, and I in common with General Scheuck did not construe it as amounting to an order, or as indicating that immediate compliance was intended. I rather construed it as indicating the course which should be pursued upon an emergency yet to happen. This telegram, although sent as late as Thursday, the 11th, must have been written in the absence of all knowledge of the impending emergency; otherwise language calculated to hasten my action would have been used. The language contained in my telegram expressive of my confidence in my ability to hold Winchester was used with reference to any con- tingency which would probably happen. I did not mean that I could hold it against such an army as that which I knew to be at the dis- posal of General Lee, and it was no part of my duty to watch the movements of that army, My limited cavalry force did not enable me to scout beyond the Blue Ridge. That army was faced, however, by the Army of the Potomac, be- tween the headquarters of which and my own, by way of Washing- ton, a continuous line of telegraphic communication existed. I be- lieved that Lee could not move his large army, with its immense artillery and baggage trains, and perform a six days march in my direction, unless I received timely notice of the important fact. The immense cavalry force at the disposal of General Hooker strength- ened this confidence. Therefore, on Friday, when I perceived indi- cations of the approach of the enemy in some force on the Front Royal road, I felt confident that it was composed of the forces which I had faced, or that the expected cavalry expedition of General Stuart was in progress. Acting upon this belief, I regarded it as my duty to remain at my post at Winchester. Lees army, in parallel columns, once across the passes of the Blue Ridge, from the direction of Front Royal, it was impossible for me to retreat upon either Martinsburg or Harpers Ferry without en- countering it. I could not at any time after Friday have retreated without encountering it, and I had no knowledge of its presence, as above stated, until late Saturday, when I learned it from pris- oners. After all, it may well be doubted whether the three days delay, and the loss which my presence at Winchester occasioned the rebel army, were not worth to the country the sacrifice which they cost it. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, R. H. MILROY, Major-GertereL Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT Chief of Staff, Eighth Army Uorps Page 52 52 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [cHAP. XXXIX. [NOTE. My telegraph operator at Winchester had just com- menced receiving a cipher dispatch on Saturday, the 13th, when the wire was cut between that and Martinsburg by the rebels, and noth- ing could be made of what was received. I have since learned from General Schenck that that dispatch was an order to me to fall back immediately to Harpers Ferry. R. H. MJLROY, ]Ilajor- General.] [Telegram referred to in General Milroys report.] WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 30, 186311 a. m. Major-General SCHENOK, Baltimore, lJiIid.: If you want more troops in the west and at Harpers Ferry, why do you leave so large a force at Winchester? As I have often repeated to you verbally and in writing, that is no place to fight a battle. It is merely an outpost, which should not be exposed to an attack in force. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. [Indorsement.] HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTII ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, July 8, 1863. Respectfully forwarded to the General-in-Chief, in obedience to instructions from the War Department. When Major-General Milroy was relieved at Bloody Run, and sent by Major-General Couch to report here on the 27th June ultimo, I placed him in arrest. Eight days having elapsed without charges being sent to be served on him, his arrest expired by limitation of law on the 5th instant, since which he has made his report. He was deprived of all command at Harpers Ferry immediately, in pursuance of the order of the General-in-Chief on the 15th of June ultimo. If it be not the purpose of the Secretary of War or the General- in-Chief to take further measures in General Milroys case, I re- spectfully request that he be ordered back to the command of those of his troops which were assembled at Bloody Run, and which are now operating, I believe, somewhere in the rear of the rebel army. I really do not think that anybody else can so efficiently bring to- gether and manage those fragments of his division, and have them ready for reuniting with the other scattered parts of brigades, regi- ments, and companies when the present immediate movements against the enemy are over. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, ]liliajor-General Page 53 THE GEITYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 53 No. 384. Return of Casualties in the Union forces at Winchester, Va., June 1315, 1863. [Compiled from nominal list of casualties, returns, & c.] Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. a a a Command. U~ a ~ a ~3 a 1., I) ;., a ;.~ a +~ a +~ a +~ a a .5 0 .~ 0 ~ . a if~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 r~i EIGHTH ARMY CORPS. SECOND DIVISION. Maj. Gen. ROBERT H. MILRoY. First Brigade. Brig. Gen. WASHINGTON L. ELLIOTT. 1st Massachusetts Artillery, Company I 110th Ohio 116th Ohio 122d Ohio 123d Ohio 12th Pennsylvania Cavalry 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry 5th U.. S. Artillery, Battery L Total First Brigade Secoad Brigade. Col. WILLIAM G. ELY. 18th Connecticut 5th Maryland 87th Pennsylvania 1st West Virginia Cavalry, Company K 3d West Virginia Cavalry, Companies D and E.. 1st West Virginia Light Artillery, Battery D .... 12t~h West Virginia Total Second Brigade Third Brigade. Col. ANDREW T. McREYNOLD5. Alexanders (Maryland) battery 6th Maryland 1st New York Cavalry 67th Pennsylvania Total Third Brigade Total Second Division 7 7 21 4 1 1 4 3 50 28 24 58 12 1 I 5 8 14 21 4 3 1 39 205 133 366 445 152 244 76 2 46 7 177 57 1,660 1,949 1 17 4 42 21 513 598 5 27 288 320 1 3 21 9 78 112 1 1 10 12 1 71 72 3 80 83 3 188 233 4 24 5 107 62 1,228 1,430 S 34 39 1 6 3 164 174 I 3 56 60 1 16 38 22 714 791 1 18 52 25 968 1,064 7 88 12 336 144 3,856 4,443 OFFIcERS KILLED.CaPtS. Edward L. Porter, Eighteenth Connecticut; Frederick H. Arckenoe, One hundred and sixteenth Ohio; Charles J. Gibeaut, One hundred and twenty-second Ohio; Lynford Troch, Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania; Wells S. Farrah, Eighty.seventh Pennsylvania; Lients. Thomas XV. Bradley and John T. Ben Gough, Twelfth West Virginia. No. 385. Report of Capt. Frederick A. Palmer, Eighteenth Connecticut Infantry, Aide-de-Camp, of operations June 12-15. , 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, on June 12, scouting parties reported at headquarters Second Division, Eighth Army 43 265 178 413 549 172 248 8 Page 54 54 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. RIHAP. XXXIX. Corps, the advance of a considerable force of rebel cavalry on the Strasburg road. A force consisting of the Eighty-seventh Pennsyl- vania and the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry was dispatched to discover their whereabouts and numbers. Our force advanced down the Strasburg road until they came upon the rebel advance. The infantry formed an ambuscade; the cavalry charged on the enemy and then retreated, attempting to entice them into the ambush, but did not succeed until the third attempt, when the ruse was success- ful, and 35 prisoners were taken, 10 killed and wounded, and 15 horses captured. Our force then returned to Winchester, reporting that there was no rebel force nearer than Strasburg, and that not large. The next morning information was received at headquarters that the rebels were advancing on the Front Royal and Strasburg roads, but that their force was insufficient to cause us to evacuate or occa- sion any alarm. Brigadier-General Elliott, commanding First Bri- gade, was ordered with his command to the Strasburg road. Col. William G. Ely, Eighteenth Connecticut Volunteers, commanding Second Brigade, was sent to the Front Royal road, and both were in- structed to dispose their forces so as to command both roads. Al- most immediately upon our forces getting position, severe skirmish- ing ensued upon both roads. On the Front Royal road they opened on us from a battery concealed in the woods. Colonel Ely ordered the section of artillery under his command to engage the rebel bat- tery, which it did, until a shell exploded in one of his caissons, dis- abling the piece and 3 men. He then withdrew without further loss to the road intersecting at right angles both the Front Royal and Strasburg roads, where he took position, and fired with such precis- ion and rapidity that he completely silenced the enemys guns. No infantry force was visible on the Front Royal road. General Elliott was attacked at the same time with nearly the same force, and maintained his ground until it was deemed expedient to withdraw and plant his batteries on Milltown Heights, a position that fully commanded both roads. Our infantry forces, under Cob onel Keifer, were all this time.engaging the enemy on the Strasburg road, and succeeded in driving them back nearly to Kernstown (4 miles), but they proved too strong, and compelled him to fall back, flanking him three times, but his men fought the ground so obsti- nately, and his two pieces of artillery were so well handled, that their attempt to surround and take him proved abortive. They continued advancing, however, and when within reach of our guns on Milltown Heights, showed two long lines of battle, composed of a force of not less than 5,000 men, which all supposed comprised their entire force. Our batteries opened on them, the infantry forces at the same time charging, and in less than fifteen minutes their entire lines were broken and their whole body retiring in the direst confusion. General Milroy superintended the placing and firing of the guns, and personally directed all the details of the fight. The rebels re- tired into the woods; our forces had successfully engaged them at all points; they everywhere had been repulsed, and we were fully con- vinced that the worst was over, and that their attack upon Winches- ter had proved a disastrous failure. That night, to guard against surprise, it was deemed best to with- draw the battery from Milltown Heights, as we did not have a suffi- cient force of infantry to support it in case of a general attack during the night. Our lines were all drawn iuward close to the outskirts of the town; strong outposts were established, and the utmost vigilanc Page 55 CHAP. XXXIX.] 55 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. and watchfulness enjoined upon us. Colonel Ely, with two regi~ ments and one section of artillery, was ordered to move out on the Berryville road, to co-operate with and support Colonel McReynolds, who had sent word that he was attacked and falling back on us. It rained very heavily during the night, and no engagement ensued. About one or two hours after midnight, $unday morning, General Milroy ordered the removal of headquarters from the city to the main fortification. As soon as it was light, the most vigorous preparations, both off en- sive and defensive, were made, and forces placed in the most advan- tageous positions, and from daylight throughout the entire day we looked for the approach of the enemy in force; but, save skirmish- ing in and about the town, and the occasional appearance of small squads of cavalry on the Front Royal road, no enemy was visible. All day, under a burning sun, did General Milroy keep his posi- tion in the lookout, and with a glass anxiously scan the snrrounding country for signs of the enemy, but none were manifested, and it be- came generally the settled belief that they had passed on up the Valley to Harp ers Ferry, leaving us to be attended to upon their re- turn, which idea was confirmed by the heavy firing heard in that direction. Wherever a body of the enemy did appear our guns were instantly turned on them, but not a single artillery response could be obtained, and we could not account for their mysterious silence, save by the theory that they had taken their guns with them and had only left sufficient force to engage us at skirmishing and long range. But about 4 p. m. they suddenly commenced an attack; without a moments warning opened on us and the outer works, in which were placed a light battery and one regiment, with sixteen pieces of artillery, which the dense woods and undergrowth on the surrounding hills enabled them to bring forward into position with- out being discovered, and at the same time rapidly pushing up an infantry force of iiot less than 8,000 or 10,000 men. The guns in the fort were instantly turned on them. The battery in the outer works commenced a brisk firing. Two regiments were ordered rapidly up to support them, but all of no avail; they charged in overwhelming numbers, and ~took the battery and work, driving our forces at the point of the bayonet down the lull toward the fort. Our infantry forces were at once stationed in the rifle-pits that sur- rounded the fort, and every precaution that prudence and human ingenuity could invent used to add to the strength and safety of the position. The artillery continued to exchange shots until it was too dark to distinguish the enemy, excepting by the flash of his guns. Soon after dusk, reliable information was brought in that the rebels were advancing betweeui the Romney and Pughtown roads with a force equally as large as the one we had first engaged, and supported by three full batteries, which would make their entire force not less than 20,000 or 30,000 men, and the aggregate of their artillery 30 pieces and upward. With this unexpected information so suddenly obtained, and the certainty that this vastly superior force would in the morning attack us, together with the fact that the firing had nearly exhausted our ammunition, and that the supply would not be sufficient for a pro- longed defense, General Milroy called a council of war, in which it was unanimously decided to evacuate, and, if possible, cut our way through and reach Harpers Ferry with the main body Page 56 58 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. ~CHAP. XXXIX. Accordingly, the order was given to have everything in readiness to move at 1 a. in., but not until after 2 oclock did the advance, com- manded by General Elliott, file out of the works. The guns were effectually spiked, as many of the wagons disabled as the time would allow, and in a little more than an hour the rear, commanded by Colonel McReynolds, who had joined with his force, was off the heights and in the plain below. The column moved out through a ravine on to the Martinsburg road in perfect order, although all were fully conscious that, if the enemy received intimation of our evacuation, they would shell us, which, in the darkness, would render our retreat disastrous in the extreme; but as we moved no wagons, not even an ambulance, the noise did not attract their attention. The whole body moved on as rapidly and noiselessly as possible without interruption until about 4 miles out of Winchester, when General Elliot reported an attack upon his advance by rebel out- posts, who retired upon his approach. General Milroy immediately galloped to the right, and found the rebels strongly posted in the woods on the brow of an eminence that commanded the road, and supported by a battery. The regiments on the right were ordered into line and to charge on the enemy, which they did, so that the left and center might file past in the rear. General Milroy fearlessly exposed himself and led the attack in person. When near enough to render it effective, they opened on us with the most destructive fire, both from their infantry and artillery. Our lines were unable to stand the galling discharge, but broke and fell back in confusion, when they were again formed, called upon to rally and follow their general, and led to the charge the second time. At the same moment an aide was dispatched to the left, to bring up the command of Colonel McReynolds, and hurl it on their flank simultaneously with the advance of our columns on their center, but his force was not in sight, having moved round our rear thr6ugh the woods and passed on. Our men succeeded in driving the rebels back from their pieces, and just as the caissons were in our possession an entire division rose up suddenly in front of us, and advanced, delivering their fire, and at the same time another battery was seen rapidly approaching down the hill, which induced the general to give the order to fall back, which we did, and formed in the road as well as the shattered condition of our forces would allow, advancing up the road to- ward Martinsburg, halting occasionally for stragglers to come up. The rebels did not pursue us at all, and we proceeded up the road nearly a mile, when, turning to the right, we struck for the Charles- town pike. We passed through Smithfield, and there learned that the rebels were in foi~ce at Bunker Hill, some 15,000 strong. We. passed rap- idly on without halting, passing around Charlestown, leaving it to our right. We moved on, making no stops, and reached Harpers Ferry about 2 p. m. June 15, having fought two battles and marched nearly 40 miles inside of twenty-four hours. Very respectfully, FRED. A. PALMER, Lieut. Col. DoNN PJATT, Captain, and Aide-de-Camp. Chief of Staff Page 57 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. No. 386. Report of Brig. Gen. Washington L. Elliott, U. S. Army, com- manding First Brigade, Second Division, Eighth Army Corps, of operations June 1315. MARYLAND HEIGHTs, June 16, 1863. MAJOR: I have the honor to report the operations of my command during the 13th and 14th instant, and on the 15th, in the retreat from Winchester, Va On the 13th, my brigade was constituted as follows: One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Col. J. W. Keifer; One hun- dred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Col. James Washburn; One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Col. Will- iam H. Ball; One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Volunteer In- fantry, Col. William T. Wilson; Battery D, First West Virginia Volunteer Artillery, Capt. John Carlin; Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, First Lient. W. F. Randolph. Temporarily attached: Twelfth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, Lient. Col. J. L. Moss commanding; Thirteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, Major Kerwin commanding; Battery I, Fourteenth [First] Massachusetts Artillery, Captain Martins, and pioneer corps of the division. A reconnaissance was ordered on the morning of the 13th, section of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, Lieutenant Spooner command- ing, to report to Colonel Ely, Eighteenth Connecticut Volunteers, on Front Royal road; Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, One hun- dred and twenty-third Ohio, and section of Carlins battery on the Strasburg road; Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry and One hundred and tenth Ohio on the Cedar Creek road. On the 13th, Battery D, First West Virginia Volunteer Artillery, was assigned temporarily, by Field Orders, No. 1, headquarters Sec- ond Division, Eighth Army Corps, to the Second Brigade. The enemy was soon discovered approaching by the Front Royal and Strasburg roads. I received orders from the general command- ing to go out on the latter road, take command of all the troops, and feel the enemy. Formed line of battle, Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry on my left flank, with vedettqs to the front; One hundred and twenty-third Ohio on the left and One hundred and tenth Ohio on the right of the Strasburg road, with section of Carlins battery in the rear of the One hundred and tenth. The Twelfth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Klunk, of the Second Brigade, reported to me, and was assigned a position on the right of the One hundred and tenth Ohio. The enemy moving from the Front Royal road on my left, the general commanding ordered the withdrawal of my force to creek at Union Mills, and afterward ordered the One hun- dred and tenth Ohio, with section of Carlins battery, to advance on the Strasburg road, supported by the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio and Twelfth West Virginia, the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cav- alry on the Cedar Creek road. The enemy was met at Kernstown by the One hundred and tenth Ohio and section of Carlins battery. After a spirited attack of a few minutes, fell back in good order, contesting the ground with the enemy. The enemy, continuing to advance in double line of battle, received a very destructive fire from two sections of Carlins battery posted on the heights between Union Mills and Winchester. His line was broken, when he attempted by the left flank to get position under shelter of woods, when the One hundred and twenty-thir Page 58 58 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [C~. XXXIX. Ohio made a charge on his broken column, not surpassed by vet- erans, Carlins battery continuing its destructive fire upon him. The line of the creek was held until dark, then withdrawn nearer to the town, by the order of the general commanding, with subsequent orders to withdraw to the fortifications at 2 a. m. on the 14th. On the morning of the 14th, the One hundred and tenth Ohio was ordered to support Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, posted with a company of the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Captain Arckenoe, in an outwork near Pughtown road, ~nd about 1,500 yards distant from the main fortifications. Upon receipt of orders, I proceeded with the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio to south of the Romney road, and, with the Twelfth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, from Second Brigade, remained during the day, Carlins battery and Alexanders Baltimore battery occupying posi- tions by battery or section on the hills in rear of the infantry. Re- peated efforts were made to dislodge sharpshooters thrown in advance of a large infantry force occupying the position held by Carlins battery the afternoon of the 13th. The One hundred and twenty- third Ohio was ordered to relieve the One hundred and twenty-sec- ond Ohio about Sp. m. This had been done but a few minutes when the batteries of the enemy opened upon Battery L. I was soon after ordered to withdraw to the fortifications. The Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry was ordered to scout between the Pughtown and Martins- burg roads. Soon after reaching the fortifications, Battery L was captured by the enemy; its support fell back to the fortifications. This battery was well served, and handsomely supported by a single regiment against five or seven regiments (the latter number of stand of colors being carried by the enemy) and two batteries of much heavier caliber. About 1 a. m. on the 15th, it was ordered that the fortifications should be evacuated, artillery spiked, wagons and baggage abandoned, and that the troops with arms and team horses should march to Har- pers Ferry. My brigade was ordered in advance, excepting that the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry should join the Third Brigade, Colonel McReynolds commanding, and that the artillery should not be spiked until the troops had marched out. About 2 a. m. on the 15th, my brigade marched in the following order: Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, One hundred and tenth Ohio, One hundred and twenty-second Ohio. The One hundred and sixteenth Ohio did not take the position assigned it in the column, losing the road in the dark, and falling in the rear with the Second Brigade. Proceeding about 4 Thiles, and at the junction of the Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry road, I found the enemy, General Rodes division, as I learned from a prisoner taken, ready to dispute my advance. I at once formed line of battle in the following order: One hundred and tenth Ohio, One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, sending my assistant adjutant-general, Captain [J. Elliott] Jacobs, to report the facts to the general commanding. I ordered an attack, hoping that I might drive the enemy back and continue my march by the left flank until the troops in rear could be brought up to support my line. This was partially successful. The One hundred and tenth Ohio drove the enemy from the caissons of a battery, but had not sufficient support to hold them against his overpowering numbers. The One hundred dnd twenty-third Ohio was detached from my line by the orders o Page 59 CliP. XXXIX.] THE GETTY5BtrR~ OAMPAIGK the general commanding, an aide-de-camp, Captain [Zebulon] Baird, giving the order to the regiment direct. Since then I have seen noth- ing of the regiment.. The Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, as soon as fired upon, left my column without orders. I have heard that the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio and detachments from other regi- ments marched into Pennsylvania. The records of the command having been abandoned, and the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio, excepting 1 commissioned officer and 29 enlisted men; the One hun- dred and twenty-third Ohio; the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry; Carlins battery, excepting 1 lieutenant and 5 enlisted men; Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, excepting 1 lieutenant and 2 men, not having joined, a complete list of killed, wounded, and missing can- not be furnished. The conduct of the troops was as good as could be expected against the overwhelming numbers of the enemy. When Battery L was captured, nearly every horse was killed or wounded. Prisoners were taken from several divisions of Ewells corps of veteran troops. The officers of my staff rendered me every assistance. First Lieu- tenant Shaw, One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, aide- de-camp, had his horse shot under him. First Lieut. F. A. Nims, First New York Cavalry, was probably captured. Annexed is the strength of my brigade present, and herewith I inclose reports of regimental commanders and Lieutenant Spooner, of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. Maj. JOHN 0. CRAVENS, A. A. G., 2d Div., 8th Army Corps. [Inclosure.] Strength present of First Brigade, Second Division, Eighth Army Corps. Enlisted Command. Officers. men. 3 General staff 110th Ohio 19 304 116th Ohio 1 29 122d Ohio 15 365 123d Ohio Total 38 698 1 5 Battery D, First West Virginia Artillery 12th Pennsylvania Cavalry 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry 20 301 Brigade total ~ 1, ~ Aggregate 1,063 W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigciclier.Geflerc4 of Volvnvteers, Co mandi g. [Indorsement.] BALTIMORE, MD., June 16, 1863. Respectfully submitted with the following remarks: I did not give the order for the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio to be detached from General Elliott on the battle-field Monday, June 15, and Captain Baird informs me that he received no such order from me; that he gave no such order to Colonel Wilson or any other officer of that regiment. R. H. MILROY Page 60 60 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. No. 387. Rcport~ of Col. J. Warren Keifer, One hundred and tenth Ohio Infantry, of operations June 13-15. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., June 16, 1863. CAPTAIN: In compliance with an order from Brig. Gen. W. L. Elliott, I have to report the following operations of my command on Jnne 13, 14, and 15: On the morning of the 13th instant, I was ordered with my regi- ment to march npon the Cedar Creek road. Arriving at Union Mills, on the Strasbnrg road, it was ascertained that the enemy was in force npon the Strasbnrg road, at or near Kernstown. Abont 10 a. in., nnder the direction of General Elliott, I marched my regiment to the right of the Strasbnrg road, accompanied by one section of Carlins battery, commanded by Lientenant Theaker. The infantry did not become engaged, and were withdrawn to the month of Cedar Creek road abont 1 p. m. At 2 p. m. I received an order to take my regiment, the Twelfth Pennsylvania Volnnteer Cavalry, commanded by Lientenant-Col- onel Moss, and a section of Carlins battery, commanded by Lien- tenant Theaker, and make a reconnaissance. I moved at once up the Strasbnrg road, forming my infantry npon the right and center, artillery in the center, and cavalry npon the left. The infantry npon the right was commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Foster, and in the center by Major Binkley. After proceeding abont 1 mile, the infantry and cavalry skirmishers became closely engaged with the enemys advance. The enemy were driven back to a woods upon the left. I immediately withdrew the cavalry skirmishers, who were beginning to snffer severely from the enemys sharpshooters, and placed my artillery in position, and shelled the woods, where the enemy were concealed in large force. After a few moments brisk firing, the enemy fell back to the woods on the left of Kernstown. I advanced with my entire force nnder a heavy infantry fire to within a quarter of a mile of the town and opened npon the enemy with canister, prodncing a telling effect. At the same time the infantry npon my right became closely engaged. In ten minutes the enemy retreated beyond the town, having suffered severely. My flankers from the right reported the enemy were turning my right flank with at least one brigade of infantry. I withdrew the command in per- fect order, keeping my skirmishers well to the front, embracing every opportunity the ground offered to halt, and, with artillery, ponr a heavy fire into the enemys ranks. At Union Mills, after a spirited engagement, the enemy were repnlsed with heavy loss. General Elliott having come np witb re-enforcements, I brought off all my killed and wonnded. Lieutenant Theaker deserves great credit for the skill exhibited in handling his gnns while nnder my command. Excepting some skirmishing with the enemys sharpshooters, this ended the operations of my command on the 13th. Being relieved by the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry, I withdrew my regiment to its camp on the heights of Winchester about 10 p. m. On the 14th instant, I was ordered by General Elliott to occnpy the earthworks between the Pnghtown and the Romney roads, which was an isolated earthwork of slight strength about three-fonrths of a mile from the nxain fort, and fully commanded by Round Mountai Page 61 CHAP. XXXIX.) 61 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. to the west. The works were also occupied by one company of the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Captain Arckenoe; also Company L, Fifth Regular Battery, com~ manded by Lieutenant Randolph. We were unmolested until a out 5 p. in., when the enemy got at least sixteen pieces of heavy artillery into position on Round Mount- ain to the west, and opened a heavy cannonading upon us. Battery L replied until about 50 artillery horses were killed and the cais- sons and limber carriages were blown up or knocked to pieces. Two guns only could be kept in position to await the approach of the assaulting party of the enemy. About 6 p. m. the enemy came up behind a ridge with at least five regiments of infantry [see indorsement], in deep columns of attack. The advance regiment carried the United States colors. The enemy were able to come up to within 100 yards of the works. The infan- try and artillery opened fire upon him with fearful effect, mowing down his advance regiment almost to a man. My sharpshooters shot down the officers on horseback. We checked the enemys column for a few moments only, and with terrible loss he effected an entrance into the works near the center of my regiment, my men fighting him until he outnumbered us inside the works. The trenches and breast- works were of such a character as to afford no obstruction to the entrance of the enemy. I withdrew my command, under cover of the guns at the main works, with the loss of 40 killed, wounded, and captured of my own regiment; the number of killed and wounded was very small. The guns of the battery were lost. I would do injustice to Lieutenant Randolph and his officers if I did not make favorable mention of their conduct. Lieutenant Ran- dolph had three horses shot under him while in the works. From the commanding position and the superiority of the enemys guns in number and weight, it was impossible to effectually reply to them. The enemys loss in these attacks did not fall short of 400 men killed and wounded, and may exceed that largely. Lieutenant Paris Homey, of the One hundred and tenth Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry, was captured or killed while fighting the enemy at the works. Captain Arckenoe, One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was killed while nobly urging on his men, his face to the foe. My regiment was under a heavy artillery fire in the outworks to the main fort until after dark, with little or no loss. At 2 a. m. on the 15th instant, after abandoning all the sick and wounded and all the baggage, under orders from the commanding general, was marched out from the main works, numbering 19 officers and less than 400 men, with the understanding that the entire com- mand was to cut through the enemys lines to Harpers Ferry. Company D, of my regiment, commanded by Captain McElwain, was detached from the regiment on Saturday night; also Lieutenants Weakley and Gross, with 60 men of my regiment, were sent on picket duty on the morning of the 13th. I have learned nothing definite of their fate since, but have strong hopes that most, if not all, escaped on the 15th instant. Lieutenants Cron and Miller were left, sick. Lieutenant Cron fought bravely with his men on the 13th and 14th. Asst. Surg. R. R. McCandliss and Chaplain James Harvey, of my regiment, were ordered to renm~dn behind with the sick and woi.w~ded Page 62 62 i& ~., VA., w. VA., ~ ETC. 0aAP. xxxix. After marching about 4 miles from Winchester, on the Martins- burg road, firing commenced on our front and right. My regiment was formed in line of battle by General Elliott, skirmishers were thrown forward, and the line advanced a short distance to the northward. My regiment was on the left of the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and on the extreme right. By direction of General Elliott, I moved my command by the left flank to the north- ward, on a line parallel to the Martinsbnrg road, until my left was 5 miles from Winchester. The enemy opened fire upon the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry with artillery and infantryfrom a woods immediately on the east side of the Mar- tinsburg road. I formed my line facing the east, where the enemy was discovered in my front in the woods and behind stone walls. Prisoners afterward captured claimed to belong to the notorious Stonewall Brigade, now commanded by General [James A.] Walker. With the consent of General Elliott, I charged with my regiment upon the enemy, outflanked him on his right, and driving him through the woods upon his artillery, occupying the woods upon the east of the road, opening a destructi ye fire into the enemys ranks, throwing him into confusion, and killing large numbers. We also silenced two of the enemys guns (12-pounders) immediately in our front, capturing one of his caissons. In a few minutes the roads were cleared in our front. Not being supported on my right, the enemy soon appeared in large numbers in that direction, with two pieces of heavy artillery. I withdrew my regiment a short distance, changed direction to the right, and again advanced on the enemy. The One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry came up to my support on my right, and in twenty minutes we once more cleared the woods in our front, shooting down the gunners and horses of the enemys artillery, and bringing off some of the enemys horses. We were only deterred from taking possession of the enemys guns by a large body of the enemy again appearing on our right. Without waiting the fire of the enemy, I or dered both regiments withdrawn, which was done in good order, to the west of the Martinsburg road. The enemy soon occupied the woods in superior force. Again I ordered a charge, which was nobly responded to by both officers and men. After a severe conflict, in which the two lines were engaged in places as near as 20 feet, pouring a murderous fire into each others breasts, the enemy gave way. Our line then advanced to the enemys artillery, shooting a.nd driving his gunners from their pieces, and completely silencing them. My whoje line was then withdrawn by my order from the woods, and, nuder the direction of the general commanding, marched to Harpers Ferry, arriving at that place at 2 p. in., marching a dis- tance of over 35 miles, and fighting nearly two hours on the way. I brought with me 18 officers and 305 men. Capt. E. A. Shepherd fell from weakness and exhaustion; possibly wounded while cheering on his men; was carried from the field, but was afterward captured. Judging from the dead and wounded of the enemy I saw upon the field, from the relative positions occupied, and the steady, close fire of my men, I estimate the enemys loss at 300 men immediately in my front on the morning of the 15th instant. My own loss on the 15th in killed and wounded was about 70; few of the number were killed, and many slightly wounded. During the series of engagements of the three days, my officers and men performed valiant service. It is no less a pleasure than a dut Page 63 CHAP. XXXIX.J THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 63 to commend them all for skill, coolness, and bravery. I think proper to make special mention of the fact that each officer remained with his own command, doing his duty, and urging on his men by his ex- ample. To this fact I attribute my success in keeping my men to- gether. I cannot close this report without making special mention of Lieut. Col. W. N. Foster and Maj. 0. H. Binkley. They were not only fearless of danger, but showed superior skill in each separate en- gagement. They were always where danger was greatest and their duty called them. Adjt. J. B. Van Eaton was present always in the thickest of the fight, gallantly discharging his duty. It would be but simple justice to say the same of Captains Smith, Moore, Spangler, Ullery, Snod- grass, and Brown, and Lieutenants Hathaway, Rush, Cannon, Shel- lenberger, McKnight, Moon, and Boyer; also, Orderly Sergeant [George W.] Fraub. The latter commanded a detachment of Com- pany K through each engagement. Captain Snodgrass received two wounds, but did not leave the field. Knowing the risk of being censured for making special mention of officers and men where all behaved so nobly, I cannot refrain from calling attention to my sharpshooters. Armed with the Henry rifle, in each engagement they fired almost continuous streams into the enemys ranks, creating great loss of life. They also, under my own eyes, shot down a number of the enemys officers. My total number of killed, wounded, and missing in action and left behind in camp and hospital is 315, including 2 commissioned staff officers and 4 line officers. This estimate does not include Com- pany D or its officers. Lieutenants Weakley and Gross, Assistant Surgeon Owen and Quartermaster Stark are supposed to have been captured on the 15th instant. Captain McElwain and his company distinguished themselves by the splendid manner in which they engaged the enemys sharp- shooters and drove them from the woods on the eve of the 13th. Lieutenants Weakley, Gross, and Trimble fought bravely with their men on the 13th and 14th. The vastly superior force of the enemy, and the many other dis- couraging circumstances under which the enemy were engaged; fhe splendid manner in which my command confronted the enemy, and the energy and skill which were exhibited in getting the greater por- tion of the effective strength of the regiment through the strong lines of the enemy, furnish high proofs of the soldierly character and efficiency of the troops. Hoping you will pardon the length of this necessarily unsatis- factory and incomplete report, I - c~main, very truly, captain, your most obedient and humble servant, J. WARREN KEIFER, Got., Gomdg. One hundred and tenth Ohio Vol. Infantry. Capt. J. E. JACOBS, Assistant Adjutant-General. [Indorsement.] BALTIMORE, MD., July 6, 1863. Respectfully submitted with the following remarks: Other officers told me that they counted 17 stand of rebel colors in the rebel column that stormed the outworks. R. H. MILROY, Major.~Gemeral Page 64 64 N. 0., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Cm. XXXIX. CAMP AT BRANDY STATION, December 22, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following supplemental report of the operations of the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer In- fantry on June 13, 14, and P5: The official report to which this is a supplement, dated June 16, 1863, was written from the best data that could then be procured. The movements of the regiment are accurately stated in the original report. The losses in killed and wounded have since been ascertained to be light in a remarkable degree compared with the losses of the enemy. Information of a reliable character received from citizens of Win- chester, Va.; also from published accounts of the enemy, and from admissions made by officers and soldiers captured from him who were engaged in the contest of the three days at and near Winches- ter, make it safe to estimate his loss in the assault upon our works on the evening of June 14 at 100 killed and 400 wounded. Some reports fix the loss at over 200 killed, besides a large number wounded. The loss of the enemy in the attack made by the regiment on the morning of June 15, exceeded 200 killed and a proportionate number wounded. The total loss of the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry in the operations of the three days, not including the captured, was 4 enlisted men killed and 1 officer and 50 enlisted men wounded. The great disparity in losses is owing to the fact that on the 14th the regi- ment was protected by earthworks, while the enemy exposed himself to a heavy fire of infantry and artillery while charging in column; also on the morning of the 15th, the enemy was attacked, surprised, and, for a considerable time, by the rapid firing of the men, kept in disorder. It is also partly attributable to the further fact that when the enemy succeeded in forming to repel the attack, my troops were each time withdrawn before receivin~ his fire, and a new direction taken, which enabled me to attack the enemy upon his flank and rear, thereby compelling him to fnll back, suffering each time heavy loss. The artillery attempted to be used by the enemy on the 15th was not effective, and was soon silenced by the well-directed infantry fire poured upon it. It is worthy of note that the proportion of killed to the wounded in the regiment was little more than 7 per cent. Lieutenant Cron, reported captured, escaped with Captain McEl- wains company into Pennsylvania. Lieutenant Weakley with 60 men was left upon picket, in conse- quence of his whereabouts not being known to me, and a false report that he was with the wagon train. The lieutenant, with most of his men, were left at their post on picket, and alone engaged the enemy at Winchester on the morning of the 15th. After a most gallant resistance, they surrendered. The total number captured was S officers and 243 enlisted men, including the sick and 38 of the wounded. A part of the sick and wounded were recaptured in July following. One officer and 12 en- listed men, slightly wounded, escaped with the regiment. Asst. Surg. Thomas C. Owen was captured on the field June 15, hut escaped from the enemy at Martinsburg in July following. A list of the captured officers, and killed and wounded officers and enlisted men, is hereto appended. * II am, very respectfully, your obedient and humble servant, J. WARREN KEIFER, __________________________ Colonel, Go mmctnding. *~p2~Qdied ~ ~ statement, p. Page 65 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 65 No. 388. Report of Col. James Washburn, One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Infantry, of operations June 13-15. BLOODY RUN, PA., June 28, 186:3. MAJOR: In compliance with your order, requiriug a report of the part taken by my command in the late battle at, and retreat from, Winchester, II have to say that on Saturday, the 13th instant, three companies of my command having been previously detachedtwo at Bunker Hill, under command of Maj. W. T. Morris, one (Company C) in the outer works west of the main fort, and one company on picket in the star fort and on the Pughtown roadthe balance of my command was detailed to work on the fortifications, which duty they performed until noon, when they returned to camp. Immedi- ately upon arriving at camp, three companies were ordered to re- enforce Company C, of my command, theii stationed in the outer works west of the main fort. The three companies were sent as or- dered, under command of Lient. Col. Thomas F. Wildes. The three remaining companies were left in camp until 11 p. in., when I was ordered to proceed with my command to relieve the One hundred and twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, then Irnlding the Strasburg road. My command having been so reduced by de- tachments and details, I applied to the general commanding our bri- gade to ascertain whether I should take my three companies (all I had that were not on duty) to relieve an entire regiment, when I was ordered to relieve the three companies in the outer works, and then proceed forthwith to relieve the One hundred and twenty-third, as before ordered. After the necessary delay in relieving the three companies, and getting rations, I moved my command on the Pugh- town road, in the direction of town. When arriving in front of the building occupied as headquarters First Brigade, J was ordered by a staff officer of the general commanding division to return with my command to camp, and from there to station it in the works west of the star fort, where I remained until the attack on the outer works. During the forenoon, I was re-enforced by the fragments of the two companies (A and I) that returned from Bunker Hill, under command of Major Morris, nearly one-half of each company having been either killed, wounded, or captured in the fight the evening pre- vious. Shortly after the attack on the outer works, where Company C, of my command, was still stationed, I received an order to go to the support of the battery that was stationed in the aforesaid works. I accordingly moved my command, preceded by the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania, toward the works, but previous to this time the enemy had carried the works and captured the battery. I still moved on with my command, and at the same time directed my adjutant to go as speedily as possible to the main fort, and ascertain from the gen- eral whether it was the order to attempt to retake the works and battery, or to fall back. My adjutant soon returned with the order to fall back. This order came just before I had got in range of the enemys guns. My comniand retreated in good order, under a ter- rible fire of shot and shell, into the main fort, without the loss of a man. Company C, which was stationed in the outer works at the time they were carried by the enemy, suffered severely, losiug its captain and several men killed, besides wounded or taken prisoners. 5 u RYOL xxvii, PT I Page 66 66 N~ C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. LCii~. XXXII. The remnant of the company left fell back into the star fort, and at the time of the evacuation and retreat was with the Fifth Maryland Regiment. I have since learned unofficially that the first lieutenant and 25 men were at Harpers Ferry. The balance of the company that is left (some 20 men) are with the regiment. My command re- mained in the main fort until the evacuation was ordered, when I took position in the column, the third regiment from the rear. At the time of the attack on Monday morning, my command, together with the Twelfth West Virginia Infantry, formed a line of battle on the left of the pike, nearly opposite to the woods where the engagement commenced. Here we remained under fire for some minutes, when I was ordered to file left, and form a line of battle, and attack the enemy in the rear of the woods on the left of the pike, which I did by marching up the lane that lies to the left of the pike and runs at right angles with it. Having proceeded up this lane some distance, I filed to the right, and marched in toward the rear of the woods, as ordered. When nearing the woods, I received an order from a staff officer to fall back to the lane and make my retreat the best way possible, as the firing had nearly ceased, and to attack the enemy at that time and place would effect no good. After returning to the lane, I met a scout of the generals, who said he was acquainted with the country, and would pilot me through the mountains to the river. After a long and fatiguing march of nearly 40 miles, at dark we bivouacked at a point about 4 miles east of Bath. The First New York and a part of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cav- alry were with us until afternoon, when they left us, and went directly through to Hancock the same night. At an early hour on Tuesday morning, I took up the line of march for the river (Potomac), which we crossed at Sir Johns Run at 10 a. in., and arrived at Hancock at 2 p. m. same day. Here (at Hancock) I found the Twelfth West Virginia, part of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania, and detached companies, stragglers from every infantry regiment in the division, together with the First New York, Twelfth Pennsylvania, and Colonel Galligher, of the Thir- teenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who assumed command of all the forces then at Hancock. Here I remained until 10 oclock same night, and it being rumored that the enemy was advancing upon Hancock, and also receiving intelligence that a train would be in readiness on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, at Little Orleans Station, to transport the infantry to Cumberland, the whole command, by order of Colonel Galligher, moved up the pike toward Cumberland. We moved during the night some 18 or 20 miles up the pike, and in the morning left the pike to the right, and took a cross-road for the Little Orleans Station. This point we reached about noon, but, greatly to the disappointment of the men, who were nearly worn out, we found no train in waiting for us. During the afternoon, while waiting for a train, I received a dis- patch from Colonel Galligherthe cavalry having kept the pike toward Cumberland instead of following us to the stationthat the enemy occupied Cumberland, and were coming down the canal and railroad in the direction of the station. I accordingly retraced my steps toward the pike, and bivouacked for the night about 1~ miles from the station. At 3 oclock the next morning, we started again toward the pike, and reached it soon after sunrise. After reaching the pike, we marche Page 67 Ciur. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 67 up the pike about 4 miles, and then took a road over the mountains, leaving the pike to the left, and moved toward Chaneyville, which point we reached the same evening. Here we bivouacked for the night, and the next day (Friday, .19th instant) we reached this place (Bloody Run), and reported to General Milroy in person, who arrived here from Hopewell about the same time. I cannot speak too highly of the good order and discipline dis- played by both officers and men during the whole affair. Especially would I commend the cheerfulness and patience with which the men endured the march of five days, averaging nearly 30 miles per day, and with scarcely one ration of food during the whole march. Neither can I forbear speaking of the brave defense of Bunker Hill by the force under Major Morris, whereby the train of the Third Brigade was saved. The forces under command of the major at Bunker Hill were one company of the First New York Cavalry, two companies of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania, and two companies (A and I) of my command. They met an overwhelming force of the enemy in open field. They were driven back, losing nearly one-half their men in killed, wounded, and prisoners. It was here that Captain Cochran, of Company I, received a severe wound in the right arm and was taken prisoner. After being repulsed in the open field, they fell back to the churches, which they were occupying for quarters. These, being pierced with port-holes by knocking out now and then a brick, served as a defense from the fire of the enemy, while the port-holes could be used with telling effect upon the enemy. Here they fought from Sp. m. of Saturday until dark, when the rebels sent in a flag of truce demanding the surrender of the com- mand, to which the major replied, We are not doing that kind of business. Here they staid until 2 oclock the next morning, when they evacu- ated their position, and fell back upon the forces at Winchester, making good their retreat. This report, somewhat lengthy and perhaps too much in detail, is respectfully submitted. JAMES WASHBURN, Col., Comdg. One hundred and sixteenth Regt. Ohio Vol. Inf. Maj. JOHN 0. CRAvENS, A. A. G. Second Division, Eighth Army (Jorps. No. 389. Report of Cot. William H. Ball, One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Infantry, of operations June 13-15. HDQRS. 122D OHIO VOL. INFANTRY, June 18, 1863. SIR: In obedience to orders received yesterday evening, I beg leave n~ost respectfully to report that my regiment was held in reserve on Saturday, the 13th instant, at camp near Winchester, Va. On Sunday morning, the 14th, the regiment occupied a position south of Romney road and near the camp of the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, with Companies A, D, and E thrown forward as skirmishers, under Lieutenant-Colonel Granger. The skirmishers occupied the crest of the hill till noon, with frequent firing between them and the skirmishers of the enemy. At noon, Companies I an Page 68 8$ N. C., VA., W. VA~, MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. K and a portion of 113 relieved A and D, and occupied the same posi- tion. About 1 p. m. Cornpanies F and H (see Note 1), under order of General Miiroy, movedto the south part of the town of Winchester, to prevent the occupation of that part of the town by the skirmishers of the enemy. These companies were sharply engaged with the enemys skirmishers, and were occasionally fired on froni private houses. About 6 p. in., by order of General Milroy (see Note 2), the regi- ment and the skirmishers (I, K, and a part of B) advanced. Lieu- tenant-Colonel Granger, with his skirmishers, advanced rapidly upon a rifle-pit and stone wall occupied by the enemy, and, when within 20 paces of it, engaged what appeared to be a battalion, fired three rounds, and retired in good order to the crest of the hill, and held that position until relieved by the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, when the entire regiment returned to the fortifications. In this affair, Lieutenant Scott, of Company B, received a flesh wound in the right thigh; 1 man was killed, 8 wounded, 12 missing. Lieutenant-Colonel Granger, Captains Gary and Ross, Lieutenants Black, Scott, and Armstrong, and the men, displayed a high degree of courage and coolness. The regiment was then posted in the principal fortification, to de- fend it against an assault, and remained there until the retreat to Harpers Ferry was commenced, Monday morning, the 16th. When 4 miles out on the Martinsburg road, the enemys pickets having fired, a line of battle was formed. I was ordered to form on the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. When completing the formation, I was ordered to form in rear of the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Just as that formation was being made, I was ordered to follow the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which had been moved off the field some time be- fore and was out of sight. The regiments being so separated, I did not engage the enemy as soon as the One hundred and tenth. I formed on the right of the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and the two regiments advanced within the skirt of the woods and engaged the enemy, who occupied the woods with infantry and artil- lery. After a sharp action, the line was advanced at least 100 yards and to within 20 paces of the enemys artillery, where a terrible fire was maintained for fifteen or twenty minutes by both parties. The artillery was driven back over 100 yards, and for a time silenced by the fire of our rifles. By order of Colonel Keifer, the two regiments then retreated beyond the range of the enemys infantry, reformed, and again advanced within the woods (see Note 3), and, after a sharp engagement, retreated, by order of Colonel Keifer, the enemy then moving on our flank. We then continued the retreat to Harpers Ferry under command of General Milroy (see Note 4). In these attacks my regiment lost: Killed, 1 officer (Captain Gibeaut) and 6 men; wounded, 16 men; missing in action, 5 officers and 230 men; captured in hospital and on individual detached duty, 9 officers and 124 men. The conduct of my officers and men was most commendable. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. BALL, Colonel, Gorndg. 122d Ohio Vol. Infantry. Capt. J. ]~. JACOBS, Assistant A~jntant-Genero1 Page 69 CHAP. XXXIXI 1~Ht ~ETT~SflURG CAMPAIGN. 69 [Indorsement.] HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND Div., EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, June 27, 1863. Respectfully forwarded with the following remarks: Note 1.The order was given by me. Note 2.Major-General Milroy came on the field and gave the order in person. Note 3.The order to advance was given by me. Note 4.Major-General Milroy rode at the head of my brigade to Harpers Ferry. I was with the brigade also. W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Comdg. No. 390. Report of ]lIaj. Darius Titus, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations June 1315. BLOODY RUN, BEDFORD COUNTY, PA., June 29, 1863. SIR: Most respectfully I submit the following report of the doings and part taken by the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry in the late engagement at Winchester, Va.: Friday, June 12, the regiment was ordered out on the Front Royal road, to proceed to the river. According to order, they proceeded to within about 3 miles of the river, where they found a large rebel force, consisting of cavalry, infantry, and artillery. After skirmish- ing with them awhile, and ascertaining their strength, the regiment fell back to Winchester. Two men wounded. On arriving at Winchester, we were again ordered to go out on the Strasburg road, to re-enforce the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Did not proceed far before the regiment met them returning with some prisoners. Both regiments returned to camp. At about 7 p. m. the regiment, by order from General Milroy, left camp on scout for Strasburg, or to~go as far as Middletown. We pro- ceeded to Middletown and beyond. Saw no rebels, and returned to camp about 2 a. m. Saturday morning, about 7 oclock, by general order, we took the advance on the Strasburg road to Union Mills (I think is the name), about 4 or 5 miles from town. We found some infantry there. We proceeded on the Strasburg road about 3 miles farther. Remained an hour or so; then fell back to the force which had collected and was in line of battle near the mill. We were placed on the extreme right of the line. About noon, action commenced on the Front Royal road. Our regiment took the advance on the Strasburg road near the mill; sent out skirmishers. Found the rebels in large force in woods to the left of the Strasburg road. After some skirmishing, and the woods shelled by our artillery, the rebels fell back, and changed their posi- tion to the right of the road. During the skirmishing, we lost 1 man killed and 2 wounded. The fight soon became quite general on the right of the road, but our infantry and artillery sustained their ground, and drove them back until dark, when the regiment was ordered back near to Winchester; there remained in line with the Thirteenth during a heavy thunder-storm until about 12 oclock, when we were ordered to camp, which was located on the Martins Page 70 70 Y.C., VA., W.VA., MD., PA., ETC. tCHAP. XXXIX. burg road about 1 mile from town, and to remove everything out of camp, excepting tents, to the west side of the fortification, and for the regiment to locate on the Pughtown road, about 1 mile west of the main fortification. On the morning of Sunday, we placed pickets on the rise of ground on the extreme north and west of the fortification, and sent out scout of two companies on the Pughtown road, and also to cross over to the Strasburg road. They returned about 1 or 2 oclock; reported no rebels in that direction. During the day the woods were shelled from our fortification in every direction, a small force of rebels appearing on the Front Royal road until about 5 oclock, when the rebels came up in the rear in large force; took possession of the hill west and north of our fortifi- cation. Commenced throwing the shells in every direction. We moved along the Pughtown road to the front or south of our fortifi- cation. Remained there until ordered to leave. About 3 a. m. of Monday [15th], we were placed as the advance guard. After proceeding about 4 miles out of town on the Martins7 burg road, our advance guard was stopped bj~ rebel pickets. We sent re-enforcements. Drove the pickets into t e woods, when firing commenced on our advance guard from both sides of the road, which was returned with great spirit and determination, not only by our advance guard, but the right of the regiment, which had advanced to their relief or to sustain them. In this position we remained about fifteen or twenty minutes before the infantry came up. When they came, they flanked the rebels right and left; opened the most deadly and terrific fire I ever witnessed. Our regiment retired in good order a few rods until the rebels opened up their cannon, throwing their shell among us, so that we were compelled to leave. Our regi- ment (the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry) left in good order, losing 3 killed and a number wounded and missing. We proceeded to Bath and to Hancock; then to Bedford, and here. Respectfully, your obedient servant, DARIUS TITUS, Major Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Maj. JOHN 0. CRAVENS, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 391. Report of .lifaj. .Zilichael Kerwin, Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations June 1315. NEAR MARYLAND HEIGHTS, MD., June 18, 1863. CAPTAIN: On Saturday, June 13, about 3 a. in., the regiment was ordered under arms, and at 8.30 a. m. moved out on the Strasburg road. After marching about 1~- miles in the direction of Strasburg, the regiment was ordered on the left flank, about half a mile from the road. The regiment began to skirmish with the enemy about 10 a. in., which resulted in the wounding of 1 horse in the breast. We held our position until the enemy began to shell us, when the regi- ment changed position to the right of the Strasburg road, west and in front of the mill on the Strasburg road. As the rebels advanced in force, we gradually retreated to the mill, with 1 man and 2 horses wounded by pieces of shell Page 71 ~7i Cn& p. XXXIXJ TIrE OETTYSI3LTTRG CAMPAIGTh At or near 5p. m. we changed position, and formed near the burial ground west of the town. At or near 11 p. m. we changed our position, and, in compliance with orders, formed on the right of the Pughtown road, west of the fortification. We remained in that position until daylight of June 14. At or near 4 a. m. we formed under cover of a hill at a distance of some 400 yards north of our latter position, in order to feed and graze our horses. Remained in that position until 4 p. in., when Company I was thrown out as flankers on the left, and Company F relieved Company H as supporters of the regular battery. We then changed position toward the Pughtown road. At or near 5 p. in., being very much exposed to artillery fire of the enemy, we retired, in compliance with orders, toward the Mar- tinsburg road, east of the fortification. At or near retreat, we crossed the Martinsburg road, and formed to charge upon a body of rebel cavalry which was coming toward us in the direction of Martins- burg. The enemy fell back and on the left of the Martinsburg road. At dark, we retired on the right and near earthworks or fort close to Martinsburg road, forming in line, and awaiting orders, and re- mained in that position until 2.30 a. in., June 15. At the hour last mentioned, we moved on the Martinsburg road toward Martinsburg, covering the infantry, while the First New York Cavalry was still in our rear. At or near 4 a. m. the enemy opened fire among us with shell, when we changed position on the right, in front of the guns of the enemy, passing them to form on their left, in order to charge them in their rear, the enemy shelling us all the time. At one fire, Company A, composed ~f 62 men, lost every man excepting 9, including 2 commissioned officers. Seeing no other cavalry on the field, we with- drew toward Charlestown, arriving at Harpers Ferry at or near 12 in., with 301 men and 20 officers, being a loss of 322 men and 12 officers. I am, very respectfully, yours, & c., M. KERWIN, Major, Comdg. Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Capt. J. E. JACOBS, A. A. G., First Brig., Second Div., Eighth Army Corps. [Indorsement.) BALTIMORE, MD., July 16, 1863. Respectfully submitted with the following remark: The Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry was not ordered by me to proceed within reach of the enemys batteries, the fire of which is said to have proved so fatal to them. R. H. MJLROY, Major-General. No. 392. Report of Lieut. Jonathan B. Hanson, First Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, of operations June 1015. MARYLAND HEIGHTS, MD., June 23, 1863. SIR: Company I, Fourteenth [First] Regiment Massachusetts Vol- unteer Heavy Artillery, Capt. William F. Martins commanding Page 72 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [CRAP. XXXIX. left the 30-pounder battery on Maryland Heights for Winchester, via Martinsburg, Wednesday, June 10, pursuant to orders from de- partment headquarters. The journey was by rail as far as Martins- burg, where the company encamped the same night. Thursday, the 11th, it marched from Martinsburg to Winchester, a distance of 22 miles, the road passing through Darkesyille and Bunker Hill. Arriving at Winchester Thursday evening, and reporting to Major- General Milroy, the company was assigned to garrison the principal fortification there, known as the flag fort, Captain Martins being under the orders of Capt. W. Angelo Powell, engineer-in-chief. The armament consisted of four 20-pounder Parrott rifled cannon and two 24-pounder brass howitzers, of which Company I at once took charge. Friday, June 12, Captain Martins was ordered to report to Briga- dier-General Elliott. Saturday, June 13, early in the morning, the enemy appeared be- tween the Front Royal road and the Strasburg road, and an engage- ment took place between them and our forces, lasting the greater part of the day. A part of the time the enemy was in sight of the fort, distant about 5,000 yards, and some 70 shell were fired at them from the fort, with the effect, according to Captain Powells statement, of dismounting two of the enemys pieces and throwing his infantry into disorder. During Saturday night, the 13th instant, General Milroy disposed his main force around and in the fortifications, and at daybreak of Sunday, June 14, took up his headquarters in the flag fort. During Sunday, the enemy gradually encircled the.town and forti- fications, skirniishing going on all the time. Company I took a more active part in the engagement than before, shelling the enemy in his rifle-pits and other places of concealment all day. In the afternoon, Lieutenant Hanson, with two detachments, in charge of a 24-pounder howitzer, took part in a skirmish and recon- naissance in the open plain below the fort, the party, which also in- cluded a regiment of infantry and a squadron of cavalry, being under the command of Colonel Ely, of the Eighteenth Regiment Connecti- cut Volunteers. The result of this reconnaissance was the killing of 1 rebel captain, wounding several, and capturing 11 prisoners. About 5 p. m. on the 14th, the enemy, having gainedthe rear of General Milroy, opened his batteries upon the fortifications, and a heavy cannonading, which lasted two hours and a half, followed. The enemy made an assault upon the flag fort, which was repelled. At 1 a. m. Monday, June 15, General Milroy ordered a retreat. By his order, Company I remained last in the fort, to spike the guns after the others had left. This was successfully done. All the com- pany property and all the knapsacks and baggage were necessarily abandoned, and are supposed to have fallen into the hands of the en- emy. Company I marched in the rear of the column directly behind the Sixth Maryland Regiment. About 4 miles froni~ Winchester we were attacked by a strong force of the enemy. General Milroy, with the head of the column, pushed his way through. Company I, with the Sixth Maryland Regiment, found themselves cut off from the rest, but nuder the able direction of the field officers of the Sixth Maryland made their way to Harpers Ferry by a very severe march, avoiding the towns of Berryville, Smithfield, and Charlestown, and taking country roads and striking through the woods until the Page 73 tilE OETTY513UIW~- CAMPAI& ~. CHAP. XXXIX.1 came to the Shenandoah, 10 miles above the Ferry. In this march Capt. William F. Martins and 44 enlisted men fell behind, and have not since been heard from. In Sundays fight, Private James F. Hodgdon was very serionsly wounded by the premature di~charge of a cannon, and left in the hospital at Winchester. In the fight at daybreak, Monday, Jnne 15, Private Timothy Shee- han was wounded by a piece of shell in the forehead. Private James Drysdale is reported to have been wonnded by a musket-ball at the same time. Very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, J. B. HANSON, First LieuL, Comdg. Company I, 14th Mass. Heavy Artillery. Adjutant-General THOMAS. No. 393. Report of Lieut. Edmund D. Spooner, Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, of operations June 1315. MARYLAND HEIGHTs, June 26, 1863. CAPTAIN: In compliance with an order from Brigadier-General Elliott, I have the honor to report the following operations of my bat- tery on June 13, 14, and 15, as the commanding officer of the battery was taken prisoner and I being the only officer present: On the morning of the 13th, Lieutenant Randolph received orders to proceed out the Strasburg road with one section of the battery, leaving the remaining two sections of the battery under my com- mand at camp near Winchester, Va. About 10 oclock the same morning, I received orders from Gen- eral Elliott to join Lieutenant Randolph with the remainder of the battery on the Strasburg road. After arriving at Union Mills, on the Strasburg road, General Elliott ordered me to take command of one section, and report to Colonel Ely, Eighteenth Connecticut Vol- unteers, on the Front Royal road. After having reported to Colonel Ely, and observing that our pickets had been driven in on the Front Royal road about 2 miles from town, Colonel Ely ordered me to take position on the right of the Front Royal road and about 1 mile from town, and shell the woods where the enemy was supposed to be, and, after engaging the enemys cavalry and sharpshooters for about half an hour, a battery of 12-pounder Napoleon guns opened upon me from the right, under cover of woods and at a distance of not more than 400 yards. I then directed my attention to the enemys guns, but the terrible fire I received from the enemy compelled me to re- tire, but not until I had succeeded in exploding one of the enemys caissons. During said engagement, my men acted with great cool- ness and bravery. After having retired about half way on the Front Royal road lea in to the town, a random shell from the enemys guns struck one of my limbers, exploding it, and killing 3 cannoneers. I then took position just at the outskirts of the town, under cover of an old orchard, and engaged the enemy at long range. I was then joined by Lieutenant Randolph with the two remaining sections, where we remained during the remainder of the day Page 74 74 X. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAp. XXXII. About 10 oclock on Saturday night, orders were received from Gen- eral Milroy to fall back with my command to the camp of my bat- tery, just north of the town, and await further orders, but during said time to get everything in readiness to move at a moments warn- ing. About 12 oclock the same night, I received orders to proceed to the fortifications. After having arrived at the fortifications, General Milroy ordered Lieutenant Randolph to proceed with his battery to the outworks south of the Pughtown road and take position there, supported by the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Keifer commanding. We remained unmolested there until about S p. in., when the enemy succeeded in getting at least sixteen pieces of artillery in position on Round Mountain, to the west of the outwork~, and opened a terrible fire upon us. My battery replied vigorously until I had some 50 or 60 horses killed and 1 caisson and 1 limber blown up. About 6 p. m. the enemy came up behind the hill to our front with five regiments of infantry, in deep column of attack. I then opened upon them with canister, and did great execution, but so overwhelm- ing was their force that it did not appear to have a p article of effect. They stormed the works, and not until the enemy~ad planted their colors upon the works did my men leave their guns. I succeeded in bringing 18 men off with me alithe rest being either killed, cap- tured, or wounded. Lieutenant Randolph had 3 horses shot under him. After having reported to General Milroy with what few men I had with me, I then took charge of one of the siege guns in the fort with my detachment of men, and engaged the enemy for over an hour, until my men, so exhausted they could not work the guns any longer, were relieved by a detachment of the Fourteenth [First] Massachu- setts Heavy Artillery. I remained in the fortifications with my men until about 2 a. m. 15th instant, when orders were received to fail back to Harpers Ferry. Having marched about 4 miles from Win- chester on the Martinsburg road, we were fired upon by the enemy. I then gave orders to my men to follow the infantry, they being all unarmed and on foot with the exception of some few who had sabers. Two men have reported so far at Harpers Ferry, they being all that I have heard of as making their way through. Trusting that you will excuse the irregularity of this report, I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. SPOONER Second Lieutenant Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery. Capt. J. E. JAcOBS, A. A. U., First Brig., Second Div., Eighth Army Corps. No. 394. Report of Capt. John Carlin, Battery D, First JVest Virginia Light Artillery, of operations June 1315. WASHINGTON, D. C., July 24, 1863. I certify that I am in command of Battery D, First West Virginia Light Artillery, composed of six 3-inch rifled guns, and have bee Page 75 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 75 under the command of Major-General Milroy since October, 1862. Was with his command at thebattle of Winchester on Jnne 13 and 14; had at the commencement of the engagement abont 300 rounds of ammnnition per gun; fired dnring the two days fighting about 265 rounds of ammunition per gun of different kinds. I had left in the chests when the action ceased on Sunday night about 35 rounds per gun. I was ordered by Major-General Milroy, through Brigadier- General Elliott, on Monday morning, about 2 oclock, to spike my guns, destroy what ammunition was on hand, cut up the harness, and take nothing away but the saddles and bridles, and the horses, with the men mounted on them, which order I complied with. Had I been allowed to do so, I could have taken my guns and equipment out when the order was given to evacuate, and, in my opinion, could have rendered good service in covering the retreat and engaging the battery of the enemy that made the attack upon General Milroys forces on the Martinsburg road, 4 miles from Winchester, Va., on the morning of June 15. JOHN CARLIN, Captain, Comdg. Company D, First W. Va. Light Art. No. 395. Report of M4 Henry Peale, Eighteenth Connecticut Infantry, Second Brigade, of operations June 1315. MARTINSBURG, W. VA., November 10, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to present the following report of the part taken by the.Eighteenth Connecticut Infantry in the battle of Win- chester, Va., June 13, 14, and 15: The regiment arrived at Winchester on May 25 from Baltimore, Md., at which post the majority of the command had, since its de- parture from Connecticut, been stationed, and was immediately as- signed to the right of the Second Brigade, Milroys division, of which brigade Col. William G. Ely, Eighteenth Connecticut Volunteers, assumed command. From that date until the commencement of the action the history of the regiment may be embraced in the two wordsreconnaissance and picket. Winchester, being an exposed point, with few advan- tages of defense, and open to sudden attacks, a large force was re- quired for such purposes, and the regiment had little rest. During the latter portion of this period, rumors were rife of the irruption of a large rebel force into the Shenandoah Valley, but fre- quent reconnaissance failed to discover any forces other than those long known to have been in the Valley, consisting of small detach- ments of all arms, under such leaders as Imboden, Jones, and Jenkins, and as those were far inferior in numbers to the command at Win- chester. they excited little or no apprehension. Matters were in this condition when, on the morning of June 13, about daybreak, a large rebel force suddenly appeared from the south on the Front Royal road. Their advance guard rapidly drove in the Federal pickets. The regiment was at this time encamped on the east of this road, abGut 1 mile south of Winchester. On the alarm being given, it was immediately by a flank movement formed on th Page 76 76 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., 1~TC. tCHAP. XXXIX. west of the road, in a field, and two companies (A and B) were de- ployed as skirmishers to contest the rebel advance. The enemy at once took possession of a woody eminence, some distance in front, and proceeded to establish a battery on its summit. Slight skirmishing then ensued, and the enemy shortly after fired one or two shots, which, however, fell short of the regiment. After this,. matters remained nearly quiet until about 3p. in., the enemy apparently being engaged in bringing up re-enforcements and making his dispositions for a more general attack. At that hour the companies of .skirmishers fell back upon the regi- ment, which retired slowly to the outskirts of the city, where it formed to the support of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, which had been advanceif to our assistance. Battery L immediately opened upon the rebel battery, which responded briskly, their shells flying over the regiment, which lay behind a wall immediately in rear of the Federal guns. The large guns of the main fort, situated a half mile to the northwest of Winchester, also joined in the contest, and the united firing proving too much for the rebels, their battery was silenced and withdrawn. Shortly after, information having been received that the enemy had occupied Berryville, some 10 miles northeast of Winchester, and were advancing from that place, the regiment was withdrawn from the Front Royal road, and thrown into the rifle-pits commanding the approaches from Berryville. It remained here without the occurrence of anything important until 1 a. m. of the 14th, when it was ordered to the defenses imme- diately in shelter of the main fort, where it rested until daylight. It then proceeded to the southern portion of the city, to the defense of some quartermasters and commissary property which was in process of removal, and which was rendered insecure by the somewhat de- fenseless condition of the city in that quarter. Some of the com- panies skirmished for a short time with small parties of rebels who had penetrated the outskirts of the place, but the whole command was again ordered to the defenses on the northwest, commanding the Berryville road, in which direction the lines of the enemy could now be discovered. Severe firing shortly ensued, which lasted for several hours. The rebels took possession of a large house within rifle dis- tance of the regiment, and annoyed it severely, delivering their fire whenever a head showed itself above the rifle-pits. It was resolved to dislodge them, and a 24-pounder brass howitzer was procured from the fort and turned upon the building. The gun was served by Cap- tain [Isaiah B.] McDonald, of the commissary department. After the firing of several shots, some of which penetrated it, a portion of the regiment, Companies F and H, under Captain Bowen, of the latter company, charged, and captured 8 prisoners, the rest making their escape. In this affair, Private Charles Baldwin, Company F, while attempt- ing to capture 2 rebels, was killed, and First Sergt. William Car- ruthers, Company II, severely wounded. Lieutenant-Colonel Nichols being sick, the regiment was this day commanded by Major Peale. We were kept in the rifle-pits until about 4 oclock in the afternoon, when the place was attacked from an unexpected quarter, and the command, in obedience to orders, immediately fell back to the work~ northeast of and immediately in shelter of the main fortifications. The silence of the enemy during the previous night and early part o Page 77 CUAP. XXXIX.] TIlE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. the day was now explained. He had prolonged his line on the right to a point north of the B erry~ille road, while the left extended across the Front Royal, Strasburg, and Romney roads to a point west of the city and directly in rear of the main fort. He had with great labor cut a road through the dense woods a considerable distance west of the city, and forced several batteries to a position directly in front of the main fort, which was now invested from that side. The first evi- dence of their approach from that quarter was in the shape of a solid shot, which flew over the fort and fell in the town beyond. The city now being three-fourths invested, all forces were withdrawn from the outer defenses and concentrated within the earthworks of the main fortifications, with the exception of a portion of the First Brigade, which had since the beginning of the action been stationed with a battery on a ridge directly in line of the enemys approach. The rebels having made disposition of their batteries, some cannonading ensued at the end of which they made a furious assault upon the ridge, capturing the battery, which, however, had been rendered un- serviceable, and driving the support back in confusion, though not without desperate resistance on the part of the latter. The whole division was now concentrated within the main fortifi- cations. Nothing further of importance occurred for several hours, the enemy being, as was afterward known, at this time engaged in bringing artillery through the road previously cut through the woods, with a view of commencing with the daylight a bombardment which should put an end to all further resistance and necessitate immediate capitu4lation. At 1 a. m. on the 15th, the order was given for the silent evacua- tion of Winchester. The night was intensely dark, but the column moved with order on the road leading to Martinsburg, the Eighteenth Connecticut forming the advance of the Second Brigade. The com- mand had proceeded about 4~ miles, when the head of the First Brigade suddenly encountered the right of the enemy, posted in strong force in a piece of woods skirting the right of the road. The rebels threw forward with great rapidity a sufficient force to com- mand the whole of the First Brigade and a large portion of the Sec- ond. One or more volleys were delivered by them and returned, but, owing to the extreme darkness of the morning, had little or no effect. At this time the First Brigade charged, and having partially driven back the force immediately in its front, the larger portion passed on, and continued its flight to Harpers Ferry. The remainder of the First Brigade, together with the Second, fell back in a field to the left of the road, and reformed their partially disordered ranks. Two successive charges were then made, but were repulsed without the occurrence, however, of much loss to the Eighteenth, the loss being more severe on the left of the brigade. The brigade, after the second charge, became considerably disorganized, and some of the regiments scattered, so as to render it impossible to bring them into line again. The Eighteenth was reformed with considerable diffi- culty, and charged the third time alone, but was immediately re- pulsed, with a loss of some 30 killed and wounded. In this charge, Captain (formerly Adjutant) Porter was killed, and Captains Bates and Bowen severely wonnded. Captain Warner and Lieutenant Merwin had received slight wounds in the second charge. These men then scattered in all directions, but, meeting the enemy at nearly all points, were forced to turn back, and a large number were captured Page 78 78 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [cHAP. XXXIX. Company D alone escaped intact. Having been detailed as pro- vost-guard of Winchester, it left that place with the Third Brigade, in charge of some prisoners. That brigade did not participate in the action. On being made aware of an attack, it was marched to the rear by its commanding officer, and made its way across the country to Pennsylvania. After the escape of the First Brigade, the rebels had rapidly pro- longed their line to the right, with a view of cutting off the retreat of the remainder of the force to Harpers Ferry, and at the termina- tion of the third charge it was seven-eighths encircled. Escapi~ under these circumstances was a difficult matter. Colonel Ely and Lieutenant-Colonel Nichols, being dismounted, were captured. Major Peale was well mounted, and, having called together some 30 of the advanced men, made his escape with them to Harpers Ferry by a circuitous route, his horse heing wounded in the attempt. Some 200 escaped in the direction of Hancock, Md., and a number, having forced their way through the lines of the enemy, straggled off in other directions, and afterward turned up in hospitals in Baltimore and elsewhere. * * * * * * * I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY PEALE, Major, Commanding Eighteenth Connecticut Volunteers. Brig. Gen. HORACE J. MORSE, Adjutant-General State of Connecticut, Hartford, Coun. No. 396. Report of Maj. Noah G. Ruhi, Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania In fantry, of operations June 1315. BLOODY RUN; PA., June 28, 1863. SiR: I have the honor to report the following as the doings of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry in regard to the defense of Winchester, Va.: Saturday, June 13, at 9 a. in., the Eighty-seventh, by order of Colonel Ely, moved forward from camp, and took position behind a stone wall on the south side of the Front Royal road, and near a sec- tion of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, which was engaged shelling the rebels in the woods. The regiment was in position but a short time when the rebels opened a terrible fire with grape and canister upon us from a battery posted about 400 yards in our front. By order of Colonel Ely, the regiment fell back to the town, and took position to support Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, which had taken position on an eminence on the south side of the town, between the Front Royal and Stiasburg roads. We remained in position there until 6 p. in., when the regiment was ordered to the mill on the Stras- burg road, where the regiment encountered a body of rebel infantry, which, after some skirmishing, fled in confusion, closely pursued by the Eighty-seventh. The regiment continued a brisk skirmish with the rebels until the darkness of night hid the rebels from view. By order, the regiment marched back, and took their position as a sup- port to Battery L Page 79 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. ~i79 At 2 a. in., June 14, the regiment, by order, marched to the fort, and took position in the rifle-pit. At 9 a. m. the regiment marched into Winchester, and commenced a brisk skirmish with the rebels in Market, Main, and Braddock streets. The regiment succeeded in driving the rebels from the streets, and kept up a brisk skirmish with the rebels around the south side of the town until 3 p. in., when the regiment was relieved by the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers. The regiment re- turned to the fort. At 5 p. in., by order, the regiment marched toward the star fort to take position, but while on the march was again ordered to the support of Battery L, in position on the outer fort. Before the regi- ment could reach the battery, the rebels charged upon the battery, and drove out the infantry support and captured the battery. The Eighty-seventh was then ordered back to the fort, where it was placed in position in the rifle-pits surrounding the main fort. At 2 a. in., June 15, the regiment was ordered to march in retreat toward Martinsburg with the division. When about 4 miles from Winchester, on the Martinsburg road, the head of the colnum was attacked by rebel skirmishers. The Eighty-seventh was formed into line of battle, and ordered to charge upon the enemy. They moved forward at double-quick to a woods on the east side of the road, where they found the rebels in force. The regiment opened fire upon the rebels, when a terrible fire was kept up by the rebels with infantry and artillery upon our ranks. After firing several volleys, the Eighty- seventh fell back and formed line again, and advanced into the woods and poured several more volleys into the rebel ranks. The regiment again fell back and formed line a third time, and moved forward into the woods. In this charge Colonel Schall, commanding the Eighty- seventh, had his horse shot under him by rebel fire. The regiment, after firing several volleys, a portion of it fell back, and con- tinued their retreat until they arrived at Hancock, Md., June 16, at 2 p.m. Part of the regiment, under Colonel Schall, retreated to Harpers Ferry. During the fight of the 13th and 14th, the regiment lost 1 man killed and 18 wounded In the fight on the morning of the 15th, I am unable to give any account of the losses, in consequence of the regiment being broken up into several detachments, and so far distant as not to have an official report from either detachment. Hoping this will prove satisfactory, correct, and true, I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, NOAH G. RUHL, Uorndg. Detachment Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry. Maj. JOHN 0. CRAvENS, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 397. Report of Col. John B. Kiunk, Twelfth West Virginia Infantry, of operations June 1215. BLOODY RUN, PA., June 28, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report as follows the part taken by my regiment in the late engagement Page 80 80 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. During the week preceding Friday, the 12th instant, the force at Winchester was kept unusually on the alert. Each night the picket line was strengthened, artillery, with infantry support, placed in ad- vantageous positions, and scouts were kept out all the time, com- panies being sent in every direction. On the night of the 13th, our regiment was commanded to strike tents and load all camp equipage into wagons. This occupied from 1 a. m. to 3 a. m. of Saturday morning, and the regiment was then drawn up in line of battle. At 8 a. m. orders came to repitch our tents. No sooner was this done than they were again ordered to be struck and loaded. About 12 m. the regiment was ordered out the Strasburg road to support General Elliott. Cannonading was going on at our left on the Front Royal road between the opposing artillery. After some changes of position, at 3p. m. the Twelfth occupied a woods on the right of the road going down the Valley toward Strasburg, just be- yond the Union Mills. It was rather an elevated piece of ground, with cleared field beyond and then another wooded hill. From these woods the rebels debouched in very fine style, in perfect line, skirmishers in front. Our artillery near the mill shelled them, but with little effect. They soon drove back our cavalry skirniishers, and engaged the skirmishers of our regiment. The enemy soon doubled his line of skirmishers, and the action became quite warm. We continued to hold the woods for some two hours. During this fight we lost Second Lient. Thomas W. Bradley, Com- pany I, killed, shot through the heart, and also 6 men killed, 16 wounded; no prisoners. Being flanked on our own unprotected right flank by a force of infantry and cavalry, upon their opening fire we retreated in per- fect order to the mill-race, our skirmishers following us in. Here we found the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio on the side next the mill, and the One hundred and tenth Ohio marching along the race toward the west. Night coming on, we were ordered to town, and remained in a driving rain at the south end of Winchester till 2 a. m. Sunday. We were marched to the fortifications and remained there till ~i a in.; then crossed to the hills on the opposite side of the Romney road, advancing to the stone wall. At the summit we encoun- tered the enemy. Just here an order was passed along our line to fall back, from whom originating is not known. It was partially obeyed. The greater part of the regiment left the wall by squads, reluctantly, and formed a line at some distance back, leaving a considerable number skirmishing at the wall. During the day, sections of the Baltimore battery and Carlins advanced and fired over our skir- mishers into the woods beyond. Skirmishing continued at the stone wall during the day. In the afternoon, as three companies of our regiment were sup- porting a section of the Baltimore battery, Second Lieut. Ben Gough, Company F, was shot by a rebel sharpshooter at not less than 900 yards distance. The lieutenant died in the Taylor Hotel hospital at lOp. m. Sunday night. At 4 p. m. Sunday an advance was ordered. Two Ohio regiments were on our left, and our advance was to be governed by theirs. We moved up in line to the stone waU, our skirmishers jumping over and advancing on the enemy. Here Lieut. James H. Durham, Company E, while leading on the party, w~ wounded by a rifle-shot in the arm and right hand, whil Page 81 CHAP. XXXIX.] 81. THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. urging them on by example and voice. The two regiments on our left not advancing, but retiring, our men stopped behind the stone wall, and our skirmishers came back to the same shelter. The Ohioans still retiring toward the fort, and our regiment being unable to rise from behind the wall without encountering a heavy fire from a stone wall parallel and 150 yards distant, left the wall as best and quickly as we could, without regard to the order of our going, and with some loss, but immediately reformed. On filing out into the Romney road, the enemy opened a battery from the summit we had just left, and the fierce cannonade of Sunday evening began and continued till dark. Our loss during Sunday is not known, though all were brought off the field, dead and wounded. Many of our men being on de- tached service and picket, and not being relieved in time to join their own regiment, joined in the fight with other regiments. They receive this credit by testimony of officers of those regiments. Being the last off the field, we marched from the Romney road to the main fort, and were assigned a rifle-pit on its right front. At dark the rebel artillery ceased firing. At 1 a. m. Monday the retreat began, the Twelfth being near the rear of the column, sonie 4 miles from Winchester, on the Martins- burg road. The fight of Monday began before daybreak. Upon arriving at the place of action, I halted, and brought my regiment to a front, awaiting orders. Soon the mounted men on the team horses and some of the cavalry stampeded through our line, and threw it into confusion for a little time. Many of my men were dashed against the fences, and some guns mashed up by the terrified horses. Order being restored, an aide-de-camp rode up and ordered us to file left, preceded by the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infan- try. Following that regiment, and receiving no more orders, I went on till the firing ceased. Finding our forces scattered, and left to our own resources by the defeat, I retreated through the mountains on the left, through Hancock, to our present location, repulsing a vari- ously estimated force of rebel cavalry soon after the close of Mon- days fight on the Martinsburg road. Of the conduct of the men during the retreat too much cannot be said in commendation. During the three days fight they had only a few crackers issued, and along the mountains but little could be obtained for so many. They averaged 30 miles per day and night for five days thus, and still in the main were easily controlled, and discipline never failed. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN B. KLUNK, Colonel Twelfth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry. Maj. JOHN 0. CRAVENS, A. A. G., Second Division, Eighth Army Corps. No. 398. Report of Maj. Alonzo W. Adams, First New York Gavatry, Third Brigade, of operations June 1215. BLOODY RUN, PA., June 26, 1863. MAJOR: In obedience to special orders from headquarters, of this date, I have the honor to report in detail the operations and action 6 R RVOI. xxvii, PT i Page 82 82 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. X.XXIX. of my command during the late defense and evacuation of Winches- ter, Va. On the 12th instant it was ascertained that a considerable force of the enemy was approaching Winchester from different points, but it was believed by all the officers of the division with whom I was con- versant that this demonstration was a mere feint to cover an im- portant raid into Maryland, with a view to the destruction of the Bal- timore and Ohio Railroad. At this time I was on detached service as a member of a military board of examination, then in session at Winchester. At my own request, I was, by order of Major-General Milroy, relieved from duty with the military board, and ordered to proceed at once to Berryville, and resume command of my regiment. General Milroy at the same time communicated through me an order to Col. A. T. McReynolds, commanding Third Brigade of this divis- ion, to hold his ppsition as long as he could, and, if compelled by a superior force, to fall back in good order by the nearest route, and ~Join him (General Milroy) at Winchester at the earliest moment possible. General Milroy also directed me to tell Colonel MclReynolds that he wanted the First New York Cavalry sent at once to Winches- ter, by way of Millwood, with directions to reconnoiter the country between these points, and b ing him (General Milroy) accurate in- formation as to the strength and probable intention and position of the enemy, at the earliest moment possible. Colonel McReynolds assigned me to the command of my regiment, and ordered me to remain at Berryville until further orders, and stated that he had other orders from General Milroy, previously received through Colonel Staunton, of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, and that he had already issued his order of march in case of his retreat, which would be strictly adhered to. On the following morning, 13th instant, at about 9 oclock, the enemy was reported by our scouts advancing in force from the direc- tion of Millwood, their infantry and artillery on the main road and their cavalry by circuitous routes, evidently with intent to attack our flanks and rear. By order of Colonel MeReynolds, I dispatched Com- pany K, Captain Bailey, to reconnoiter the by-roads leading from Mill- wood to Winchester, and intersecting the main road from Berryville to Winchester, near the Opequon Creek, with a view to ascertaining the strength, position, and purposes of the enemy. In executing this order, Captain Bailey reached, by rapid marches through woods and fields, the turnpike in rear of the enemy and about 2 miles from Millwood. At this point he captured a private of the Sixteenth Virginia Cavalry, from whom he learned that our forces had retreated from Berryville. He returned by an indirect route, crossing the Winchester pike about 3 miles from Berryville, and rejoined the bri- gade on the Charlestown and Winchester road about 4 p. in., closely pursued by the enemys cavalry, which made at this point a vigorous attack upon my rear, but they were as vigorously met and repulsed. In the order of retreat, the First New York Cavalry, together with a section of artillery commanded by Lieut. H. K Alexander (Balti- more battery), covered the rear of our retreating forces. With the vigorous support of Lieutenant Alexander, who served these two guns most gallantly and with terrible effect upon the advancing col- umns of the enemy, I succeeded in turning the advance of the ene- mys forces from the direction chosen for attack, thus gaining at least one hours time. which was very important to our forces, then falling back in good order, via Smithfield and Bunker Hill. Findin Page 83 CHAP. XXXIX.] 83 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. that the enemy by a flank movement were endeavoring to get in my rear, I ordered Lieutenant Alexander to fall back with his gnns to the main column, II covering the rear of the forces with my cavalry. From Berryville nothing of importance occurred until we reached a point abont 2 miles from the Opequon Creek, when the advance of the rebel cavalry, 2,000 strong, made their appearance half a mile distant and on my left flank. I had previonsly sent the First Bat- talion of my regiment, Major Quinn, as a guard to the brigade wagon train on a different route from that taken by our forces. On arriving at a point near the Opequon Creek, a messenger from my rear guard came up, and informed me that~ the rebel cavalry were upon us. I wheeled my little command, only about 200 strong, and immediately made ready for attack or defense. I had the fences thrown down along the right flank of my command, and formed the squadrons in a field on my right. I had barely time to make the proper disposition of my troops when, with a fiendish yell, a battalion of rebel cavalry, about 350 strong, under Major [James W.] Sweeney, dashed down upon me under full charge, with the greatest confidence in their power to gobble up~ my little command, as I have since learned by an intelligent I)risoner taken by us in that engagement. When the rebels approached within easy carbine distance, I opened upon them, emptying many of their saddles, and, for the moment, con- fused and checked their charge upon us. Taking advantage of the momentary confusion of the enemy, I placed myself in front of the first squadron, and ordered the charge, but, for some reason yet un- explained, Capt. Lambert J. Simons, who commanded the squadron, did not obey the command in time to make the charge effective. Lieut. Frank Passegger, Company L, also disobeyed my order, and I hereby report these two officers for disobedience of orders in front of the enemy. Owing to the momentary confusion occasioned by the criminal hesitation of the two officers named, I was compelled to fall back to the opposite side of the Opequon, where I reformed my com- niand, concealed from the enemy by a short turn in the road. Taking courage from this movement, and thinking they had me on the skedaddle, the enemy charged over the stream with great impetuosity, screaming and howling like demons. As the head of their column appeared around the bend in the road, I again ordered the charge, which was promptly obeyed, upon which a hand-to-hand conflict of the most desperate character ensued, which resulted in my favor, the enemy having been driven across the stream with a loss of 20 killed and more than twice that number wounded. This last charge was handsomely supported by Captain Alexander, Balti- more battery, who, having heard of the fight on the opposite bank of the river, hastened back with one of the guns, placed it in position at the side of the pike, about 150 yards from the Opequon Creek, and opened a terrific fire of canister shot upon the rebel column, carrying death and confusion to their ranks. Our loss was 1 corporal and 1 private killed, and not more than 9 or 10 wounded, mostly saber cuts upon the head and arms. At this moment of my victory over the enemy, Maj. Timothy Quinn, of my regiment, who had been sent with the First Battalion to protect the wagon train, made his appearance on the ground, ac- companied by Lieut. Erwin C. Watkins, Company K, claiming to have been sent back by Colonel McReynolds to assist me, if required. I told Major Quinn that the fight was all over, and that the enemy were defeated and driven back Page 84 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [ClAP. XXXIX. After surveying the ground, and conversing with one or two of the senior officers who were inimical to me, and finding that some of my men and many of the rebels had fallen, Major Quinn, evincing un- mistakable signs of jealousy and envy, remarked that it was the opinion of most of the officers that I had sacrificed my men by risk- ing a battle at that place; that they were dissatisfied, and wanted him to take command, and that I should have fallen back upon the main column and upon batteries for protection, & c. I told him that I would permit no such remarks in presence of the officers and men; that it was well calculated to excite mutiny with officers and men. Whereupon Major Quinn, without authority, sent forward Lieut. Erwin C. Watkins to represent to Colonel McReynolds that I had sacrificed a large number of men unnecessarily by giving battle to the enemy at the wrong place, and the said Lieutenant Watkins actually returned with instructions from Colonel McReynolds, as he stated, to place me in arrest for fighting, and Major Quinn in command of the regiment. I did not, however, recognize this irregular mode of arrest until I was informed by the acting assistant adjutant-general of the brigade that I was in arrest, and assured by him that justice would be done me when Colonel McReynolds fairly understood the matter. I was, however, left in arrest until the command arrived at Winchester, when I was relieved by order of the commanding general and restored to my command. I would here call the especial attention of the commanding general to the ungentlemanly and mu- tinous conduct of Major Quinn and Lieutenant Watkins, neither of whom were in the fight, but, coming upon the field at the moment of my triumph over the enemy, through envy and jealousy on the part of Major Quinn, and malice with Lieutenant Watkins, endeavored by word and act to produce discontent, insubordination, and mutiny with officers and men. On Sunday, the 14th instant, it was ascertained that the enemy were approaching with a formidable force, and with serious intent upon the capture of Winchester, greatly to my surprise, which was shared in by all the officers with whom I was brought in contact. Detachments of my regiment were sent out by General Milroy to reconnoiter the road on our center and left, in the direction of Stras- burg and Millwood, or Berrys Ferry, and later in the day I was ordered with my regiment to the south side of the city, where it was reported that the enemys cavalry were approaching, with instruc- tions to skirmish with them, and, if possible, hold the city until the remainder of the forage, provisions, and baggage belonging to the division could be removed. The order was successfully executed, and, at 3 p. m. of that day, nothing of value belonging to the United States Government remained at Winchester. I was then ordered back with my command to the position we occupied in the morning, immediately on the south side of the star fort, commanded by Colo- nel McReynolds. At about ~5 p. m. a rebel battery opened upon the fort on our extreme right, which was vigorously responded to by Lieutenant Randolphs battery, which occupied the fort with a strong infantry support. At 6 oclock this fort was stormed and occupied by an overwhelm- ing force of rebel infantry. Half an hour later the rebels had their guns in position upon this fort. They commenced to throw heavy shot and shell into the main fort, occupied by General Milroy, and the star fort, [occupied] by Colonel McReynolds, which was returne Page 85 CITAP. XXXIX.1 THE GE~1TYS13URG CAMPAIGN. 85 with interest by both. By the accurate firing of Captain Alexanders Baltimore battery from the star fort, the enemys guns were soon dismounted and their infantry driven out. As my regiment occupied a position in line not 50 yards from the star fort, and within range of the enemys guns, many of their shells exploded directly over the heads of officers and men of my regiment, who apparently paid as little attention to them as if they had been harmless missiles. The coolness of officers and men under this heavy fire was truly admirable. About 8 p. m. an attempt was made to storm the main fort, occu- pied by General Milroy, but the storming party was promptly met and repulsed, General Milroy commanding in person. It was now Quite dark, and the firing ceased on all sides. About 1 a. m. on Monday, 15th, I was informed by Colonel Mc- Reynolds that it was determined by a council of war to evacuate the forts and fall back on Harpers Ferry, ~ taking nothing that goes on wheels, and that to my regiment was assigned the post of honor that of bringing up and protecting the rear of our forces. At 2 oclock, the main body of the division having reached the Winchester and Martinsburg turnpike, I marched with a strong rear guard in inverse order, expecting an attack in rear by the rebel cav- alry, and never for one moment anticipating trouble in front. The wily enemy, however, by a rapid flank movement, had succeeded in throwing a heavy force of artillery and infantry in our front, at a point about 4 miles from Winchester, on the Martinsburg road, and opened a terrific fire upon our retreating forces. Being in the rear at this juncture of affairsI was at least a half mile from the scene of action, the shell passing over and beyond us in the direction of Martinsburg; th~ incessant roll of musketry, of the sharp and rapid fire of artillery, and the exciting intelligence passing down to the rear through the various commands with the rapidity of thought, all of which caused me to feel that the services of my regiment might be needed in front, not in the rear, and being left for some time without orders from our brigade commander, who was, as I was left to suppose, in front with the infantry of his commandI assumed the responsi- bility of moving up my regiment quickly to the front, where the most sanguinary conflict was raging between the contending forces. The Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, Colonel Schall, the Eight- eenth Connecticut, Colonel Ely, and the One hundred and tenth Ohio, Colonel Keifer, were at this moment charging upon a rebel battery, strongly supported by infantry, and right gallantly did they accom- plisli the work, Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy leading the charge in per- son, accompanied by two members of his staff. I charged down the lines to the front, but just before reaching the position of the enemys guns, I came in contact with a perfect barricade of telegraph wire wound together and stretched from tree to tree across roads and through woods and fields, so as to completely obstruct the farther progress of cavalry in this direction. I formed my command in line of battle about 100 yards to the left of the road, man open field, and awaited orders. At this moment the enemy, with a superior force, which had been concealed in the woods, dashed upon our victorious infantry, driving them back after a des- perate struggle, and, retaking their guns, turned them upon us with terrible effect. And here I assert, without the slightest fear of con- tradiction, that, with not more than a half dozen exceptions, the officers and men of the First New York Cavalry, in forming thre Page 86 86 C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA.2 ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. several lines of battle on the field, came into position under this de- structive fire of the enemys artillery with as much apparent coolness as if on dress parade. In obedience to orders direct from Major-General Milroy, through Major McGee, chief of staff, and, accompanied by that gallant officer, I fell back to the left, guarding the rear of the One hundred and six- teenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Washburn; the Eighteenth Connecticut Volunteers, Colonel Ely; a part of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania, Colonel Staunton, and the Eighty-seventh Pennsyl- vania Infantry, Colonel Schall, or what was left of these gallant regi- ments after their desperate but successful charge upon the enemys artillery and infantry, together with small detachments from other commands. My loss in this engagement was very small, not exceeding 30 in killed, wounded, and missing. This is in part owing to the fact that I had no opportunity to make a direct charge upon the enemy, and partly because my command did not scatter, the officers and men having kept well together and in good order. We marched for Hancock, Md., reaching that place at 10 p. m. the same day in good order and in excellent spirits, nothing abated in our attachment to the glorious cause nor in our determination to uphold the Government and restore the Union at all hazards. Nor is our confidence in the skill and dauntless courage of our late commander at all shaken on account of the temporary disaster at Winchester, which might have occurred to any other commander nnder heaven with greatly superior numbers against him, directed by a wily foe, who had more than once sncceeded in deceiving and evading the highest and most skillful commanders of our army. We who have best known Maj. Gen. II. H. Milroy, and have learned by association to respect his private virtues as a man and his skill and great devo- tion to his country as a soldier, will love and appreciate him. not the less because he is a terror to and is maligned and traduced by rebels and rebel sympathizers. With great respect, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, A. W. ADAMS, Major, Commanding Regiment. Maj. JOHN 0. CRAVENS, A. A. G., U. S. Forces, Bloody Run, Pa. No. 399. Report of Capt. Frederic W. Alexander, Baltimore Battery, Mary land Light Artillery, of operations June 1315. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 23, 1863. GENERAL: At your desire, I have the honor to report the follow- ing facts connected with the loss of my battery: On Saturday, June 13, Col. A. T. McReynolds, commanding Third Brigade, Second Division, Eighth Army Corps, ordered me to march to Winchester from Berryville, Va., with the rest of his command. One section of the battery, with two squadrons of the First New York Cavalry, formed the rear guard. I remained in person with them two hours after the main body had retired on the road to Harpers Ferry, and Thence to the left by Summit Point to Winchester. We shelled the enemy whenever they appeared, and they thought we were i Page 87 t~nAP. XXXIX.] TIlE G-ET~TySBIrPG CAMPAIGN. force, and began to envelop us gradually on both flanks. We moved off quietly just in time, and followed the main body. Their advance caught us at the Opequon Creek, 8 miles from Winchester, but, with the help of a portion of the Sixth Maryland Regiment and the First New York Cavalry, we repnlsed them so that we saw no more of them. We reached Winchester at 11 p. in.; we were placed in the star fort, a small octangular earthwork about 200 feet in diameter, and flattened toward the east and west, standing northward of the main fort Early the next morning one section was ordered to the northern extremity of the elevated ground upon which the fort was built. About 12 m. a second section was ordered to report to General Elliott, commanding First Brigade, for duty. At 6 p. m. the rebel batteries suddenly opened, and a strong attack was made on the hills southwest of Winchester, where Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, was captured, and Battery D, First West Vir- ginia Artillery, withdrew to the main fort, and the two sections of my battery to the star fort. A heavy fire from three batteries, which we saw taking position on the second range of hills west and northwest of Winchester, opened upon the two forts. After a short time they directed their fire entirely upon us. Fortunately, knowing the range, from 1,500 to 1,700 yards, we were enabled to fire with accuracy, and drove them from their position three times, dismounting at least two guns and blowing up at one time a hiniber and then a caisson. Not one shot was fired without using the pendulum hausse, and the exact elevation given, the officers and myself frequently sighting the guns. As it became dark, their fire ceased, and we fired the last two shots. Two sections having been engaged nearly all that day and one the day before at Berryville and on the route, and a constant fire being necessary to prevent them from taking a position and holding it, so as to get exact range by trying five or six shots, our amniunition (1,200 rounds the day before, 200 rounds per gun) was reduced to 28 rounds per gun168 rounds. At 9.30 p. m. I received notice from Colonel Mdlleynolds, com- manding Third Brigade, that the star fort was expected to be attacked in the next half hour. The Sixth Maryland Regiment was placed in- side, the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Regiment in the rifle-trenches inclosing the work, and all arrangements madegnus loaded with canisterand we awaited the attack confidently. At 1 a. in. Monday, June 15, I received an order from Colonel Mc- Reynolds, commanding brigade, to spike my guns, mount the men on the horses, and prepare to retire with the utmost silence with the rest of the command of General Milroy. Not liking this much, I requested, as commandant of artillery, to be permitted to go to Gen- eral Milroy and ask permission to take my battery with me. Colonel McReynolds consented, and 1 went to the main fort. I could not find General Milroy, but was referred to his adjutant-general, Major Cra- vens, who represented him, who declared that the order was most peremptory, and must be obeyed strictly, and that nothing on wheels or that could by any possibility make a noise could be permitted to go, summing up that the great object of this movement was the most perfect silence and secrecy, and that the other guns were all spike d. I immediately returned, spiked the guns, disabled the car- riages, destroyed the ammunition, and removed and destroyed the traces and trace-chains, which would rattle. I then formed the men by twos, and marched out with the rest of the troops Page 88 88 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., IETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. At the fifth mile-stone from Winchester on the Martinsburg road, the column of which we were the rear, excepting the First New York Cavalry (the Third Brigade formed the rear), was attacked in front by the rebels with infantry and artillery. As my men were totally unarmed, and many riding the off saddles without stirrups, I thought the best plan was to make a dash through the woods on the right and left of the rebel line, and join at Harpers Ferry. Forty went to the right with Lieutenant Evans, of the battery, and myself, and reached Harpers Ferry. I turned over, by order of the commanding gen- eral there, to the quartermaster 33 horses and equipments, nearly complete. The balance had given out on the road, and were forced to be left. About 40 men went to the left with Lieutenant Alexander, of the battery, and were forced to cross the Potomac as high up as Sir Johns Run. Most of their horses gave out at Sir Johns Run. The remainder of the battery who escaped broke through in small detachments, and those who have come in report their horses as having given out, and having been left with (of course) the harness, & c., which was on them. Whether I could have brought off my guns safely is a question which, of course, I cannot determine, though I think it is doubtful now. I had to obey the orders of my commanding general, and certainly cannot be blamed for so doing. Had the issue rested with myself, I should, of course, have prepared to bring the guns off at all hazards, as I could not be worse off than losing them, and might save them. How far that course would have influenced the safety of the remainder of the command, was a question for the commanding general (who must regard the welfare of the whole) to determine. I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant, F. W. ALEXANDER, Captain Baltimore Battery, Light Artillery. General W. F. BARRY, Inspector of Artillery. No. 400. Record of a Court of Inquiry convened to investigate the evacua- tion of Winchester and 3iliartinsburg. PROCEEDINGS OF A COURT OF INQUIRY, CONVENED BY VIRTUE OF THE FOLLOWING ORDER: SPECIAL ORDERS, ~~AR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.s OFFICE, No. 346. Washington, August 4, 1863. * * * * * * * VIII. By direction of the President of the United States, a court of inquiry is hereby appointed to meet at Washington on the 7th day of August, 1863, or as soon thereafter as practicable, to investigate the facts and circumstan~es connected with the recent evacuation of Winchester by the command of Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy, U. S. Vol- unteers, and the evacuation of Martinsburg by the command of Brig. Gen. D. Tyler, U. S. Volunteers. The court will report whether the orders of the General-in-Chief in regard to the evacuation of Winchester were complied with; and, if not, by whom they were disobeyed. It will also report whether the retreat of the command was properly conducted, and the public prop Page 89 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 89 erty suitably cared for; and, if not, what officer or officers were in fault. The court will also report whether the retreat from Martinsburg was properly conducted, and the public property suitably cared for; and, if not, what officer or officers were in fault. Detail for the court: Maj. Gen. E. A. Hitchcock, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. J. J. Aber- crombie, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. R. N. Scott, judge-advocate. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. FIRST DAY. AUGUST 7, 1& 6312 m. The court met pursuant to above order. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. No suitable rooms having been provided for the court, they ad- journed to meet at 11 a. m. August 8, 1863. SECOND DAY. AUGUST 8, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. IVlIaj. Gen. R. H. Milroy, U. S. Volunteers, did not arrive until 12.30 p. m. On his arrival in court, the special order convening the court was read to him, and he was asked if he had any objections to any member named therein, to which he replied in the negative. General Milroy then asked permission to employ counsel, and for delay, in order that he might be better prepared for the investigation. Both requests were granted, and the court adjourned to meet at 11 a. in. Monday, August 10, 18u3. THIRD DAY. WASHINGTON, August 10, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Maj. Gen. E. A. Hitchcock, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. R. N. Scott, judge-ad- vocate. Major-General Milroy having desired further delay in order to complete his preparations, the court adjourned to meet at 11 a. in. August 11, 1863. FOURTH DAY. WASHINGTON, August 11, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. R. N. Scott, judge-advocate. The court waited until 12 in. for Maj. Gen. E. A. Hitchcock, who did not arrive, and adjourned to meet at 11 a. in. August 12, 1863. FIFTH DAY. WASHINGTON, August 12, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. R. N. Scott, judge-advocate. The judge-advocate informed the court that he had just learned Page 90 90 N. (, VA.,. W. V.., MD., PA., 110. [cnAP. XXXIX. on application to the Adjutant-Generals Office, that Major-General Hitchcock had been relieved from duty on the court, and that Brig. Gen. G. A. De Russy, U. S. Volunteers, had been detailed as a mem ber of the court in his place; but the judge-advocate had not received a copy of the order Immediately on receipt of this information, the judge-advocate, by order of the court, telegraphed to Brigadier-General De Russy, al the Arlington House, informing him where the court was sittink and at what hour. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. August 13, 1863. SIXTH DAY. AUGUST 13, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. R. N. Scott, judge-advocate. At 11.30 a. in. the judge-advocate received and submitted to thc court the following ordc r, viz: SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 354. Washington, August 10, 1863. * * * * * * * XVI. Maj. Gen. E. A. Hitchcock, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby re lieved from duty as a member of the court of inquiry instituted by Special Orders, No. 346, August 4, 1863, from this office, and Brig. Gen. G. A. De Hussy, U. S. Volunteers, is detailed as a member oi said board in his place. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. Brigadier-General Dc Russy not having reported at 12 in., the court adjourned to meet at ii a. m. August 14, 1863. SEVENTH DAY. WASHINGTON, August 14, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. G. A. De Hussy, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. H. N. Scott, judge-advocate. Brigadier-General De Hussy informed the court that he did not re ceive the order detailing him as a member of the court until 1 p. m. Au0ust 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. H. Milroy, U. S. Volunteers, and his counsel, Mr. John Jolliffe, being present, the special orders (Nos. 346 and 354), appointing the court, were read to him, and General Milroy was asked if he had any objection to any member named therein. In reply, he read the following communication to the court, viz Brig. Gen. J. J. ABERcROMBIE, Brig. Gen. W. F. BARRY, and Brin. Gen. G. A. DE Russy. ~1omposing the Gonunissiort under Special Orders, No. 346: GENTLER ~N: I ask leave to advise you that I have this day applied to the Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, to modify the order of reference in this case Page 91 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 91 and also to appoint one or more major-generals to examine this case, and ask the court to defer further proceedings until this application shall have been acted upon. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. AUGUST 14, 1863. P. S. The War Department has the above-mentioned application under ad- visement, and I have good reason to believe that I will have an answer to-morrow morning. The court was then cleared and closed, and, after matnre delibera- tion, determined to grant the request of Major-General Milroy. He was then called into court, and informed that his request was granted. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. in. August 15, 1863. EIGHTH DAY. WASHINGTON, August 15, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. After mature deliberation, the court decided as follows, viz: The court as at present constituted, and in view of the order by which it is assembled, and under which it is to act, does not consider that Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy, or any other officer, is entitled to the right of challenge, and that it should, therefore, be sworn, and at once proceed to business. Major-General Miiroy, U. S. Volunteers, was called into court, notified of this decision, and informed that he would be called upon as the first witness, and would be allowed to be present during the ex- amination of other witnesses. The court was then duly sworn by the judge-advocate, and the judge-advocate by the presiding officer, in the presence of Major- General Milroy. General Milroy then submitted a protest, which was read to the court, and was by it ordered to be attached to the record. (See Ap- pendix A.) The court then proceeded to the investigation of the facts and circumstances connected with the recent evacuation of Winchester by the command of Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy, U. S. Volunteers. The judge-advocate offered in evidence the following telegrams from the General-in-Chief to Maj. Gen. Robert C. Scheuck, U. S. Volunteers, concerning the evacuation of Winchester, Va., viz: One of January 5, March 16, April 30, May 2, 8, and 29, June 8 and 11, and two of June 15, 1863. These telegrams were read to the court and filed in evidence. (See Appendix B.) The judge-advocate also read to the court and filed in evidence the official report of recent operations about Winchester, made by Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy to Maj. Gei~. R. C. Schenck, U. S. Volunteers. (See Appendix C.) The judge-advocate then asked and received authority from the court to employ a phonographic reporter to assist him in recording testimony. He also asked that the court would adjourn for that purpose until Monday next. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. Monday, August 17, 1863 Page 92 92 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ca& v. XXXIX. NINTH DAY. AUGUST 17, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The proceedings of the previous meetings were read and approved. Mr. U. B. Ward was duly sworn by the judge-advocate as phonog- rapher of the court. Maj. Gen. R. II. MILROY, U. S. Volunteers, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, says that his official report is a general statement of the facts concerning the evacuation of Winchester, but he would give a more detailed statement upon being questioned by the court. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. How long before the enemy made their attack upon you was it known to you that an attack was to be made? Answer. It was on Friday, the 12th. The rebels, under Jones, Jenkins, and Im- boden, had been in the Valley of the Shenandoah all the winter and spring above me. I had frequent skirmishes with them with my cavalry and infantry scouts, and they were around between Winchester and Strasburg, which were alternately occupied by each army. It was common ground. I frequently drove them beyond Woodstock, but I was not allowed to advance beyond WincHester. The enemy, about the 1st of June, became bolder in his advances, and frequently came down and operated between Winchester, Middletown, and Strasburg. On the 12th of June, I sent out a reconnaissance on the Winchester and Front Royal road. I ex- pected a raid there by Stuarts rebel cavalry. I looked for it daily, and kept my infantry and cavalry well in hand, scoured the country, and kept a lookout for spies. On the Front Royal road I sent out a regiment of infantry, one of cavalry, and a section of artillery. I sent only a regiment of cavalry, because I did not ex- pect an advance on that road, and did not dream that any forces would approach me except what were in the Shenandoah Valley. I supposed General Hooker would keep General Lee employed while I looked after the enemys forces in the Valley. On the Strasburg road I had a very severe skirmish, in which the enemy lost 60 in killed and wounded and 37 prisoners. These prisoners belonged to forces of Im- boden and Jones. I questioned them. They said they had received no re-enforce- ments. On the Front Royal road, near Cedarville, my forces met a strong force of the enemy. I cannot account for them unless they were Stuarts cavalry. Dark- ness came on, and there could nothing more be done. I came to the conclusion that Stuarts cavalry was in my vicinity. On the next day I again sent out strong forces on both roads, to see what was going on and to feel the enemy. A fight was maintained all day with the enemy in strong force. I had no idea of being at- tacked. I thought there was no intention to drive us out of the Valley, but merely to occupy our attention. In the evening we captured some prisoners, and learned from them that Ewells corps, 85,000 strong, was in the Valley. Shortly after, a deserter came in, confirming the same story. This was on Saturday, the 18th, in the evening. I then felt certain that Lee was coming through that way. I felt my position to be critical, but, after consultation with my officers, that we would be relieved; that Hooker would follow Lee, or that forces would be sent in some direc- tion to my relief. The wires between me and Martinsburg were cut about noon on Saturday. The fight commenced on the 12th, about 12 miles from the town. My advance was 12 miles from the town. On Monday, the batteries of the rebels were in range of my large guns. On the 13th, the fight commenced about 8 oclock in the morning, and continued until dusk. I might have cut my way out on Satur- day night. I was surrounded then on all sides, but I thought we niight be relieved on Sunday, and that it could be no worse to hold on all day Sunday, and then cut my way out. On Saturday night I withdrew my forces to the fortifications on the heights near Winchester, and on Sunday morning a fight ensued. The enemy threw out skirmishers on the south and east of me, in the direction of Front Royal, Strasburg, and Berryville. On Sunday, they made a vigorous attack, coming from the west. They brought up very suddenly a battery, and opened on us with some thirty or forty guns, and captured one battery and some battery wagons. My troops fell back to the main fort. We opened on them, and drove them out. I knew of the attack of the 12thon the evening of the 12th. On the evening of the 13th, I kne Page 93 Ca& i. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 93 we were fighting something more than we had fought during the winter and spring; I knew that I was attacked by a superior force, but I did not think it was Lees army. Question. When was the attack made in force? Answer. The main attack was on Sunday evening, the 14th. We had been fight- ing two days before that, on the outside of the town, but they did not attack in force until Sunday evening, near 6 oclock. Qnestion. What disposition of troops was made for the defense of Winchester? Answer. I had the heights near Winchester; I had earthworks. My main forti- fications would contain 3,000 or 3,500 men. I had a number of small forts on that range of hills, and about 1,000 yards farther on I had another range, not entirely finished, but capable of affording a good shelter for troops when attacked. I sup- posed that with my fortifications I was able to stand some two or three times my own forces. By the COURT: Q nestion. What was the known or supposed strength of the en- emy, and what was that of the Federal troops? Answer. In addition to what is stated in my report, I have learned from citizens of Winchester, prisoners who were captured, and men of my own command who were paroled by the enemy, that they were from 40,000 to 50,000 strong, and had eighty pieces of artillery ranged on my worksnone put their number at less than 40,000; Ewells corps, and the forces of Jones and Imboden. Longstreets corps was between them and Front Royal, in supporting distance. I had 6,900 effective men; my total force was about 9,000 men. Question. What orders were given in relation to Government property in event of a retreat? Answer. My orders were not to permit any more than five days stores there at any one time. I received orders from General Schenck to send off surplus stores, and be ready to fall back at the first intimation. In accordance thereto, I sent off my surplus stores; over one hundred wagons reached Harrisburg. Question. What precautions were taken to secure the public property? Answer. Those I have named. I had everything loaded upon wagons, ready to bring away, but, not dreaming of being surrounded by such a heavy force, and sup- posing I would receive orders, I supposed I could take my trains back to Harpers Ferry. I merely waited orders to move, when I found myself surrounded by such a mass of the enemy. On Sunday night, when I found the enemy around me, I called a council of war, and it was determined to cut our way out. At that time my artillery ammunition was nearly exhausted and my provisions nearly so. On Sunday night we felt that if we moved a wheel or made the least noise the enemy would fall upon us in overwhelming numbers. They had our range, and we knew that our safety was in moving out quietly, leaving our wagons and artillery in their hands. We spiked the artillery and crippled the carriages by cutting the wheels. They could not have been destroyed by fire without giving the enemy our position. Question. In what order did the troops retire, or were there any instructions given as to how the retreat should be conducted? Answer. There were. The advance was led by General Elliott. The troops were directed to keep up in regular marching order by fours, with one cavalry regiment in advance, as we apprehended a force in front, but more on the rear and flank. I placed two cavalry regiments in the rear. As we had expected to encounter a force, I had ordered a vigorous and rapid attack, so as to break through suddenly. This pro,ramme was carried out to some extent. Our artillery and wagon horses were brought off. We did not leave a horse behind fit for service. There were about 1,000 Government horses mounted by teamsters, contrabands, and sick soldiers on the flank. The first attack came from the front, 4~ miles from the town. Question. Were you present at the commencement of the main attack, and were you on the ground during its continuance? Answer. I was. Everything was done under my own eye Page 94 94 N. C., VA., W. VA., Mi~., PA., IETC. [Ciw. XXXIX. Question. What position did you occupy during the retreat? Answer. After I got everything under way, I galloped toward the head of the column to see how things were being disposed of in the front. It was dark. I was getting up pretty well to the front when the attack commenced. General Elliott filed off his brigade to the left. I filed off to the right, in order to form a line of battle. I got to the rear of Elliotts brigade about the time the last regiment was leaving the road. I charged with the men I had into the woods, and, while they were fighting, brought a regiment, the Eighteenth Connecticut, to their support. We fought them about an hour there. Question. How many pieces of artillery were abandoned? Answer. Twenty-four pieces (three field batteries, four 20-pounder Parrotts, and two 24-pounder howitzers) in all. Question. Was the retreat of your command from Winchester made in good order? Answer. As good as possible. We did not throw out markers or dress our lines. We halted repeatedly to bring up stragglers. We had a rear ~uard, but there was some straggling in spite of all we could do. I paid more attention to the rear and flank. A large portion of the troops did not come through under me. Among these were the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio and Txvelfth Virginia Infantry, and two regiments of cavalry and a large number of stragglers. The shelling of the enemy frightened the horses, and caused confusion, and these men got off too far to the left, and took the road to Hancock. About 3,000 went through on this road. Some of my staff came in by Haficock. Capt. Z. Baird, Captain Palmer, Lieutenant McCracken, Major Cravens, and Captain McDonald, were with me. My quarter- master went through with the horses toward Hancock, and my chief engineer. Question. In your opinion, were any officers at fault for the strab - gling that occurred in the retreat? Answer. I blamed Colonel McReynolds some. I never received a report from him. My staff officers were unable to find him. I never could account for his brigade becoming scattered. Those with me acted very well. They obeyed my orders. Question. When first attacked, how many pieces of artillery had you; how much ammunition for artillery and for small-arms; how many days provisions for men and forage for animals, and what means had you for procuring water? Answer. About 300 rounds per gun of artillery ammunition, and from 200 to 300 rounds per man of small ammunition. I had, when the fight commenced, less than five days provisions and five days forage. There was a stream along the base of a hill, a good well near the main fort, and cisterns in each fort inaccessible to the enemys fire. We had a covered way to pass to the water. The well was just op- posite the main fort. Question. How much ammunition for artillery and for small- arms remained on hand when the evacuation was ordered? Answer. There was an average of 25 or 30 rounds per gun of artillery ammuni- tion left when the firing ceased on Sunday night, and an average of 100 rounds per man of small ammunition. Question. What was the number of your killed and wounded at the time the evacuation was ordered? Answer. I have had no official reports. I suppose 200 would cover the killed and wounded. Our loss in all the fighting, in killed and wounded, would be covered by 500. Question. Were they abandoned or brought off? Answer. All abandoned, but left in the hospitals with the surgeons, except on Monday morning, when we had to leave them on the field, a superior force of the enemy having driven us from the field Page 95 CHIP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 95 By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Do you know of any of your wounded being abandoned who could have ridden off? Answer. I do not. By the COURT: Question. Who gave the order for the evacuation; how was it given, and how distributed among your command? Answer. We held a council of war at about 11 oclock with the brigade coin- manders. I gave the brigade commanders verbal instructions personally. There were no other orders issued. We were without lights. Question. Who gave the order for the abandonment of the artil- lery? Did any of the artillery commar~ ders ask to be permitted to bring off their guns? Answer. The whole arrangement was agreed upon in council ot war, and the instructions given by me to the brigade commanders. Colonel McReynolds wanted to bring away a section of Captain Alexanders battery. I told him it would jeopardize the safety of the whole command if he undertook to do so. I think I afterward gave him permission to do so, but told him of the great risk. It was not tried. Question. Did you order the artillery harness to be destroyed or abandoned? Answer. I ordered it to be destroyed, if it could be, without fire. Question. What iiiduced you to abandon your stores? Had you reason to believe that the enemy occupied the roads leading to Mar- tinsburg or Charlestown; and was the railroad between Winchester and Harpers Ferry in running order? Were you short of animals and wagons? Answer. That is answered in my report. Because we were surrounded on all sides, and if we moved a wagon, it would create an alarm. The railroad had been destroyed last summer. We had plenty of animals and wagons. Question. How long were you moving from Winchester to Harpers Ferry with your troops? Answer. About eleven hours. Question. Did all your troops get in by that time? Answer. No; some did not get in so soon. The Sixth Maryland came in about 4 oclock. Question. Did you order the wagons and wagon harness to be destroyed? Answer. I ordered them to be injured as much as possible witboi t firing them. Question. Had you been informed that Stuart was apparently intending to make a raid in your direction? If so, by whom were you so informed? Answer. I received that information from a citizen and from scouts and spies. Such rumors prevailed from the 1st of June. I received no information of time kind from the General-in-Chief or General Schenck. Question. Did you receive any telegrams from the General-in~ Chief to General Scheuck? Answer. I received one from General Sche~ ck, of the date of 11th of June. (Dis- patch from General-in-Chief to General Scheuck, of June 11, 1863, shown ~itness.) This is the one. Question. Since you wrote your report, have you learned anything Page 96 96 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA.~ ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. more than what you have there stated in relation to the reconnais- sance ordered by yon to be made to Pughtown by Captain Morgan, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry? Answer. I have been told that he did not go out of sight of the pickets. Lieu- tenant Spooner and Major Adams were two officers who told me so. I had ordered him to make a reconnaissance of the enemy on his flank. He did not start until near noon. Major Adams was with the cavalry in that direction. I have been told by others, but have forgotten who. Captain Morgan had a squadron with him. Question. What reasons had you for expecting information of Lees army direct from the general commanding the Army of the Potomac? Answer. General Halleck was the General-in Chief of all the armies, and I sup- posed he would not leave my force exposed to Lees army without giving me informa- tion. I did not expect information from General Hooker directly, but from Gen- erals Halleck and Schenck. I had no communication with him, excepting through Generals Halleck and Schenck. General Schenck has the original of the dispatch of the 12th of June. Question. Did you receive any telegrams, other than those you have mentioned in your report, from General Halleck, through Gen- eral Schenck? Answer. I had correspondence with General Schenck, who informed me that General Halleck did not consider Winchester an important position. He said nothing about dispatches from General Halleck, but that the General-in-Chief did not deem it of importance; indeed, that he had called it a post in the air,~ a place not to be held against a superior force. The above evidence was read over to General Milroy, and he re- Ceived permission to add the following to his evidence: I learned from the prisoners I had taken that the enemys force that I met on my retreat from Winchester consisted of Alleghany Johnsons and Rodes divisions (a part of Rodes), about 12,000 strong. I was engaged with them about an hour. They were a portion of the forces I have previously estimated at from 40,000 to 60,000 strong. I consider that if the enemy had known of my retreat an hour after the evacuation of Winchester, the result would have been more disastrous, as they would have overtaken and attacked us in overwhelming force. After Friday at noon I would have been able to have reached the Martinsburg road, but not after the same hour on Saturday, without encountering the enemy. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What was the number of your missing during your retreat from Winchester? Answer. About 2,000. By the COURT: Question. If you brought away all the horses, why was not the harness of the artillery and baggage wagons brought off? Answer. Because some of the teamsters took their harness off and left it. Some of the teamsters and some of the horses were captured during the confusion and scattering caused by the enemys fire. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Did you order any of the harness to be brought off? Answer. I directed the quartermaster to that effect. I think I directed him to bring it away, if he could do so without making a noise or encumbering the march. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. August 18, 1863 Page 97 C~& i. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 97 TENTH DAY. AUGUST 18, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjottrnment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. Major-General Milroy made the following additional statement: I wish to call the attention of the court to the telegram from General Halleck to General Schenck, bearing date March 16, 1863. (Reads the telegram.) I wish to state that I never commanded near Harpers Ferryno nearer to Har- pers Ferry than 20 miles. General Kelley was in command of Harpers Ferry. I commanded the forces at Winchester. I had one brigade at Centerville. This tele- gram shows ill-feeling toward me. Another telegram, of May 2, from General Halleck to General Schenck. (Reads the telegram.) I never in my life stampeded. I am not one of the stampeding kind. I dont know why that kind of language is put in. Another of May 8, from the General-in-Chief to General Schenck, is before this court. In explanation of this one, I wish to state how matters stood. I always kept myself informed of the position and movements of the enemy in my front, and always knew of them within three days after they were formed. It was my duty to watch Imboden, Jones, and Jenkins. About this time, May 8, Hooker crossed the Rappa- hannock to attack Lee. At the same time, or a few days before, the rebel General Jones went on a raid into West Virginia, and took with him all his available cavalry. His force was mostly cavalry. He had infantry at Harrisonburg and one company at Strasburg. I learned that this force had all left the Valley, and that Jones had left at Harrisonburg all his stores, broken-down horses, & c. I thought it would be a good chance to bring away or destroy what I could. I sent General Elliott out there. He was up there, between Harrisonburg and Strasburg, at New Market. Just then General ~chenck sent me a telegram withdrawing General Elliott from the Valley, and my courier overtook him and delivered the order to him at New Market. If permitted to go on, he could have captured all of Jones stores, a large number of wagons, guns, and winter stores. I was well informed of what was there. It was not utter madness. General Elliott had 15 miles to go. There was a body of infantry and dismounted cavalry there, under a rebel colonel, numbering 600 or 700 men. General Elliott had some 3,000 men. Their pickets retired before his advance. I call attention to another telegram, of June 14, 1863, from the General-in-Chief to General Schenck. (Reads telegram.) I never received orders to withdraw from there. If I had left there without fighting, I would have disobeyed General Schencks posi- tive orders. If I had withdrawn without demonstrating the fact that I could not stay there, it would have been disobedience of my orders. I checked the advance of Lees army three days. That was certainly doing something for the country. If they had been allowed to go on, they would have had three days longer for pillage and robbery in Pennsylvania, and probably ten times as much property as I lost would have been destroyed in that time. I call attention also to telegram of June 15, from the General-in-Chief and General Schenck. I do not see its relevancy to this case. Do not give General Milroy the command at Harpers Ferry. We have had enough of that sort of military genius. This inquiry is in relation to the evacuation of Winchester. Has this telegram any relevancy to the case? Why is it introduced here? The judge-advocate remarked that those were a series of tele- grams from January 5 to the evacuation of Winchester, indicating the orders of the General-in-Chief communicated to General Schenck, and, in his opinion, General Milroy had nothing to do with them; that the court should judge of the evidence. General Milroy resumed: I will explain why I did not use the railroad from Winchester to Harpers Ferry. When I first arrived at Winchester, I wrote to General Kelley, commanding the forces, and stated the importance of repairing that road. Afterward I urged upon General Schenck its importance, to enable us to hold Winchester. I sent an agent to Maj. Gen. R. C. Schenck, U. S. Volunteers, to impress the importance of the re- pair of this road upon him. I represented that I could repair it with my troops, without cost to Government, excepting a little iron and rolling-stock, and in twenty 7 R RvoL xxvII, PT I Page 98 98 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CEAP. XXXIX. days time. I was there six months. If this had been done, and we wished to ad- vafice from Winchester, we had a base of supplies. But it was not repairedonly to Halltown, 3 miles from Harpers Ferry. That road would have been a great benefit to us. By the COURT: Question. What were the geographical limits of your command while stationed at Winchester? Answer. They were never defined by any order. I simply had command of my troops there, and was directed to scour the country in advance for miles east, west, and south. Bunker Hill, half way between Harpers Ferry and Winchester, was in my command part of the time. General Kelley commanded there before I did. My forces occupied Berryville, about half way between Harpers Ferry and Win- chester. That was the direct road from Harpers Ferry. The pike from Harpers Ferry runs through Berryville. Question. Upon assuming command of the troops at Winchester, did you receive any written or verbal instructions for your guid- ance? Answer. No, I did not; only at different times by detached telegrams what to do in special cases. The way I came to get to Winchester was this: I was stationed at Petersburg and Moorefield about the 22d or 23d of December. I sent a brigade over to Strasburg, under General Cluseret. He went over there, and had a skirmish, and captured a few prisoners and some stores, but not enough to pay him for the trip. He came down to Winchester to see what was there. When he got there, General Kelley, with whose division I was acting, heard of his being there, and sent orders for him to remain where he was, and I was orderedto get the balance of my command there. My general orders were to act on the defensive, and to go no farther up the Valley than Winchester. These orders I received from General Kelley when he was in command, and afterward from General Schenck. Brig. Gen. W. L. ELLIOTT, U. S. Volunteers, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. State to the court what command you held under Major- General Milroy, and the facts and the circumstances connected with the recent evacuation of Winchester. Answer. I commanded the First Brigade, Second Division, Eighth Army Corps, composed of the One hundred and tenth, One hundred and sixteenth, One hundred and twenty-second, One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Infantry, the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and Carlins (Virginia) bat- tery. This battery was temporarily detached from my brigade on the 13th of June, and Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery. temporarily assigned to me on the same day. The fi. st notice of the enemy appearing in force that I had was between 9 and lOon the morning of Saturday, the 13th. Two reconnaissances had been ordered from my brigadeone on the Strasburg road, commanded by Colonel Wilson, of the One hundred and twenty-third, and the other by Colonel Keifer, of the One hundred and tenth Ohio, on the Cedar Creek road. About 10 oclock I was ordered by Gen- eral Milroy to take command of both roads. About 12 oclock that day, skirmishing commenced between my pickets and those of the enemy, which, by 3 or 4 oclock in the afternoon, became pretty warm, and continued so until dark, or sundown. From prisoners taken, I learned that it was Johnsons division of Ewells corps with whom I had been engaged. After dark, my forces were ordered by General Milroy to draw nearer to the town, and at 2 oclock that night we repaired to the fortifica- tions, by his orders. On the morning of Sunday, the 14th, a little after sunrise, I was ordered in a southerly direction from the fortifications, and about three-fourths of a mile distant, to take command ~f the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio and the Twelfth Virginia Infantry, with Carlins battery of the Second Brigade. We took position there, and held it until between 5 and 6 oclock. We were then re-enforced by the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, or rather it was ordered there to relieve the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, which had been out all day. About an hour before sundown, I was ordered by General Milroy to return to the fortifications, the enemy having opened on us from the west and south of the town, in the direction of the Romney and Pughtown roads. I remained in the fortifications with my troops. During that night, between the hours of 10 and 12, a council of wa Page 99 CHAP. XXXIX.] 99 e THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. was held, composed of brigade commanders, and orders were issued for the evacu- ation, which commenced between 1 and 2 oclock on the morning of the 15th. I am not positive as to the hours; I did not look at my watch, as it was too dark to see the time. In the evacuation of the place, my brigade was desi~,nated to go in ad- vance. The order of march that I designated put the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cav- alry in advance, and next the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, One hundred and tenth Ohio Infantry, and the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio being in the rear. Owing to the darkness of the night, as I supposed, the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio did not take its place in column, but got on the wrong road. About 3 miles from Winchester, and before daylight on the 15th, the cavalry of my command encountered the pickets of the enemy, and were fired upon. I immediately formed line of battle across the road, and sent word to General Milroy by my adjutant-general that I was doing so. While forming this line of battle, I could hear the enemy bringing artillery and moving troops on my right. I changed my dispositions, and, instead of forming it across, I formed it parallel with the road, intending to fight my way through them. I bad my cartridge- boxes filled with ammunition40 rounds. I made two attacks upon the enemy, and advanced, after I was attacked by them .in superior numbers, and continued to move by the flank. Whilst the fight was going on, the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cav- alry seemed to have moved off to the westward, and I saw nothing of it. The One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, which I expected to find on the right of my line, was not in position there. I was told by an aide-de-camp that General Milroy had detached it. Finding that my ammunition was nearly exhausted, I continued to march in the direction of Martinsburg for about a mile, and then left the pike on my left for the direction of Harpers Ferry, passing between the Smithfield and Martinsburg roads and through the town of Smithfield, leaving the town of Charles- town on my right, reaching Harpers Ferry between 2 and 3 oclock in the day. I had between 900 and 1,000 men at Harpers Ferry of my brigade. The One hundred and sixteenth Ohio, and the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio almost entirely, were not with me, nor was the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Question. What were the dispositions made for the defense of Winchester? Answer. I can only answer so far as a knowledge of the disposition of my own troops goes. Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, was posted in an outwork between the Pughtown and Romney roads. The One hundred and twenty-second Ohio In- fantry I had with me during that day, or a part of it. The One hundred and twenty-third [Ohio] Infantry were on the west side of the town, in the main work. A portion of the cavalry was near me on my flank, toward the west. The exact disposition of the balance I do not know. It was detached, but I dont know to what point. Question. Could or could not General lVIIilroy have retreated to greater advantage on the 12th, 13th, or 14th of June than he did on the 16th of Julie, 1863 ? Your opinion is simply asked. Answer. I think he might have retreated on the 12th without considerable loss. I think he might have done so on the evening of Saturday, the 13th. Question. What orders were given to you .by General Milroy in reference to the artillery and stores ? Answer. Orders were given to disable the artillery and abandon the wagons, and to take away the team horses. Question. In your opinion, was the retreat front Winchester prop- erly conducted or not; was there any straggling during the retreat? Answer. There was considerable straggling, which I attributed to long marches, the excessive heat of the day, and being pursued by an overwhelming force. ~ nestion. In your opinion, are any officers to blame for the strag- gling that occurred? Answer. I think not. Question. In your opinion, could or could not all or a portion of the artillery have been drawn off at the time of the retreat ? Answer. I think it coulduot. My reason for saying so is that the roads were heavy. We had a hard rain a few days before, after which the roads becam Page 100 100 X. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [Czw.. XXXIX. blocked up with wagons, the team horses having been taken away. It was with great difficulty that a column of infantry could get through. It would have been impossible to have taken artillery through. The road was a pike road, but was much cut up. The wagons were left in the road after the teamsters had taken the horses from them. Question. If proper precautions had been taken, could or could not the artillery, or a portion of the artillery, have been withdrawn with as little noise as is made by cavalry and infantry in night marches? Answer. I do not think it could have been taken out of the forts without being discovered by the enemy. Question. On Friday, the 12th of June, could or could not the heavy artillery have been sent from the forts at Winchester to Har- pers Ferry? Answer. I think it could. Question. What was the force that attacked General Milroy on the 13th of June, 1863 ? Answer. Of that I can only give an opinion. On the Strasburg road, I was sat- isfied there was a division. On the Front Royal road, I had not the means of judg- ing, but supposed it to be a division, or part of a division. This was on Saturday, the 13th. From the portion of the body I saw on the Strasburg road, and from prisoners taken, I was satisfied it was Johnsons division of Ewells corps, and from 3,000 to 5,000 strong. They advanced in two very heavy lines of battle. Question. How much ammunition for small-arms was left by your brigade when yo.u left Winchester? Answer. I am not able to answer. I had standing orders which required every man to have 100 rounds for each arni. I presume 30 or 40 rounds had been ex- pended on Saturday, and 40 rounds taken in the boxes on the retreat. How much more than that I am unable to say. Question. Did you abandon any ammunition when you left Win- chester? Answer. That I cannot positively answer. The ammunition that was not in the boxes of the men was in the hands of the ordnance officer of the post. I drew ordnance and issued it, but I cannot say whether my brigade had any more than was in the boxes of the men. Question. .What was your loss in killed, wounded, and missing (including prisoners), in the Winchester affair? Answer. Without reference to the official reports, I could not state positivelya large number of those reported missing have returned. By the COURT: Question. Did you receive instructions from any one how the re- treat should be conducted, before or after the order in which the brigades should move was made known? If so, what were they? Answer. The only instruction I received was the reply of General Milroy to me, after I had sent my adjutant-general to him, to know what disposition to make of my troops, which expressed his approbation of what I had already done. Question. Did General Milroy give you any further orders duming the course of the retreat? Did you see him? Where was he, and what was he doing? Answer. While this portion of my brigade was engaged with the enemy, I went to General Milroy, and told him what I thought he should do, which was to make a sufficient resistance there to enable us to get by the enemy, as we had but little ammunition and few men. General Milroy rode with me during the greater por- tion of the retreat, until we had gotten within 3 miles of Harpers Ferry. The dis- tance he rode with me was 26 or 28 miles Page 101 t~r. XXXIX.1 THE GETTYSBFRG CAMPAIGN. 101 Question. You speak of your brigade oniy. Was there concert of action between it and other brigades of the Winchester garrison? Answer. I did not see anything of any other troops excepting one regiment of the Second Brigade, the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, on marching from Winchester. It was engaged with the enemy at the same time that I was. I could judge from the firing that I heard that the other portion of the division was engaged. Question. What questions were submitted to the council of war assembled by General Milroy on Sunday night? Answer. One was the question as to what was to be done. I believe there was but one opinion, and that was to retreat from there, if we could. The other was what route was to be taken. Another was what was to be done with the artillery and other property. We could all see the situation. Question. In your opinion, would or would not the artillery have been of material benefit to you on the retreat, all the circumstances being considered? Answer. The general opinion of the council was, that the property should be abandoned. We could not burn or destroy it without exposing our movements. The question of moving it was not mentioned. We were entirely surrounded. I was astonished that we were able to get off with what we did. At the time we left, the sacrifice of the Government property was a necessity. I was surprised that the enemy did not close upon us sooner than they did, during that night. Question. What is your opinion as to the number of the enemys forces? Answer. I think it was between 20,000 and 30,000. Question. Do you know or not if the troops were kept at Win- chester longer than they should have been after the first intimation of the advance of an overwhelming force of the enemy upon that place? Answer. I can only answer that by stating what I should have done if I had been in command. I should have left Winchester on the evening of Saturday, the 13th; but this would have been in disregard of an order that General Milroy showed me from General Schenck to him. (The order produced, read, and verified of June 12, shown in General Milroys report.) That is the order that General Mil- roy showed me from General Schenck, countermanding a previous order from Colonel Piatt. General Milroy showed me the order from Colonel Piatt on Friday, and on the next day, Saturday, the order of General Scheuck revoking it. Orders bad been given to the quartermaster to pack up the wagon trains. These orders were given by General Milroy in my hearing. Question. When you were first attacked, who did you suppose the attack came from? Answer. I supposed it was from cavalry. We had heard, both from scouts and citizens, that we might prepare for an extensive raid to be made by Stuarts cav- alry, and General Scheuck sent a dispatch to General Milroy stating he might ex- pect a cavalry raid from General Stuart. I supposed the attack was of this kind, until I captured prisoners from Johnsons division of Ewells corps. This was on Saturday evening. Question. Did you or not see any other telegrams from General Scheuck to General Milroy than the ones you allude to, on the sub- ject of the abandonment of Winchester? Answer. I did not. Question. When General Milroy showed you the telegram from General Schenck on Saturday morning, did he ask your opinion or advice; and, if so, what advice did you give relative to the retreat? Answer. General Milroy read me a dispatch. I dont think be asked my opinion, but I gave it to him. It was that he should get General Schenek to give him a posi- tive order to evacuate, and that he would not be justified in leaving at that time without such an order, as it would be throwing the entire responsibility upon him (General Milroy) Page 102 102 N. C., VA., W VA., M1~., PA., ETC. CHAP. XXXIX.] Question. When you say that the retreat might have been made on the night of Saturday, do you mean without cutting yom T~y through the enemys lines ? Answer. I think it could. I donTh know how the enemy was posted there. The telegraph wires were cut on Saturday evening, as General Milroy told me. This was some ten or twelve hours afterward. Question. Did you concur in General Milroys opinion that it would be better to hold out through the day on Sunday, with the hope o~ being relieved? Answer. My opinion was not asked. I did not give an opinion until called upon in council. Question. Could the artillery or other harness have been taken off in the retreat without running greater risk than you were willing to run? Answer. I think it could have been, but whether it was worth taking off, I do not know. Question. Did you, in your opinion, observe any want of capacity, diligence, courage, or other qualifications for a general in General Milroy, before or upon the retreat from Winchester? Answer. I saw no want of courage on the part of General Milroy. In fact, I thought he was too rash sometimes. I thought he put his forces too far from their supports. I saw nothing that would cause me to question his bravery. Question. What was the plan of retreat agreed upon by the bri- gade commanders in council on Sunday night, and was that plan ordered to be followed by General Milroy? Answer. It was agreed upon that we should retreat, and the order of march on the retreat was designated by General Milroy. This plan was carried out by my brigade. I cannot speak of the others. Question. Why was it deemed at the time of the council, on Sun- day night, impracticable to maintain a longer defense of Winchester? Answer. It was agreed upon that we could not hold that place against the con- centrated fire of the enemy. Our provisions were exhausted. I do not think the enemy would W ye stormed the place. Question. Did General Milroy make application for instructions from General Scheuck, upon your suggestions? Answer. I think Ge~ eral i\Iilroy did act upon my suggestions. Question. What do you mean when you state that General Milroy placed his forces too far from their supports during and previous to the attack? Answer. I thought the regular battery s too far out, with too small a force to support it. The result was that the guns were all captured and were not recovered. This was about sundown. Another battery (Captain Alexanders) shelled the enemy afterward, and made it warm for them. (See the explanations made, by General Elliott on the twelfth day.) The court then adjourned to meet at 12 m. August 19, 1868. ELEVENTH DAY. WASHINGTON, August 19, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the niembers and the judge-advocate. The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved Page 103 Cn& r. XXXIX.] 103 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. Capt. F. W. ALEXANDER, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, says: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What position did you hold under Major-General Milroy at Winchester during the fight at, and evacuation of, that place, on or about the 1st of June, 1863? Answer. I was attached to the Third Brigade, Second Division, Eighth Army Corps. I was commanding the Baltimore battery of light artillery, six guns. Question. State the part taken by your battery in that affair. Answer. On the morning of June 13, about 9 oclock, there were two sections of my battery went with Colonel McReynolds, commanding Third Brigade, and the third section remained for two hours in Berryville. I remained with them myself, and we shelled the enemy whenever we saw them coming from the south on the Mill- wood road. When I saw that they were getting on the right and left flank, we marched on the road to Harpers Ferry a few minutes before they came into Berry- ville. We then proceeded about 3 miles on the road to Harpers Ferry, and turned to the left on a little side road. They pursued us with cavalry, and caught us at Opequon Creek. A detachment of the Sixth Maryland and First New York Cavalry were with us as we caught up with the end of the column. We repulsed them, and marched to Winchester. We reached Winchester at lip. in., and were placed in the fort known as the star fort, north of the main fort. Early on Sunday morning, one of the sections of the battery. was ordered to the northern end of the hill on which the star fort was built. At 12 m. another section was ordered to report to General Elliott. That section went on the hills toward the Front Royal road. On Sunday evening, or just after we had finished feeding the horses, the enemy seemed to open on us from the western range of hills. I had just left the section, and was preparing to send another one to relieve it, when it returned to the star fort, and the other section came in shortly afterward. From about 6.30 to 8.30 oclock we were actively engaged with, I think, about seventeen guns of the enemy I counted seventeenthere may not have been seventeen; they may have shifted their guns from one position to another. They fired four guns at one time. Some- times, from the shape of the fort, an irregular eight-sided one, I could not fire more than four guns at a time. At about 9.30 oclock I received notification from Colonel MeReynolds that the fort would be attacked. The Sixth Maryland was placed in- side the fort, and the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania was outside in the trenches. We waited there very quietly, but the enemy did not come. At 1 a. m. 15th June, I received orders from Colonel McReynolds to spike the guns, mount the men on the horses, and move off as silently as possible. As I thought everything had been going on well until that time, and we were all right, and not wishing to lose my battery, I asked permission of Colonel McReynolds to see Gen- eral Milroy, and get an order to take it with me. Colonel McReynolds consented, and I went over to the main fort, but could not find General Milroy. I saw his ad- jutant-general, Major Cravens. He told me that the order I had received from Colonel MeReynolds was imperative; that nothing that would make a noise could go, and that the great object of the move was perfect silence and secrecy. I then asked to be allowed to take a section. He refused, saying I might as well take a battery as a section. I then returned. Before I gave Colonel McReyiiolds any account of what had taken place, he said, I will take the responsibility; you can take a battery with you. But when I told him what Major Cravens had told me, he said the order must be obeyed. I mounted the men on the horses, leaving those equipments that would rattle; saw the guns of my battery spiked, took oil the cap-squares and linch-pins, and threw them into the water-tank. I then formed the men by twos, and marched them out of the fort. We were the last in the col- umn of retreat, excepting the First New York Cavalry and a number of teamsters. About 4 or 5 miles from Winchester, my attention was called to heavy firing n front. I found that a battery was in position on the right-hand side of the road leading from Martinsburg to Winchester, and an officer rode up and said that Mu- roy was cutting his way through. I do not know who the officer was; he was rid- ing rapidly. The Sixth Maryland and the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania filed to the right. A body of teamsters rushed among my men at this time, and threw them into confusion, and then went to the right and left of the road, which I thought the best thing they could do under the circumstances. I would have preferred that my men should have gone off in regular order, but it was impossible with 400 or 500 teamsters mixed among them. I rode to the rear, to send any of my men who remained to the front, telling them to go to the right and make for Harpers Ferry Page 104 104 NT.C., VA., W.VA., MIX, PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. I then looked down the road toward Winchester, and saw i~ all clear, and a body of cavalry in the woods. Colonel McReynolds sent an orderly off to the cavalry, or- dering them to try and flank the batteries on the extreme right, and I galloped up to join them. I had waited a quarter of an hour to see if my men would come up. I proceeded with about 13 men, with Lieutenant Stevenson, First New York Cav- alry. We were shelled by the enemy, and sheltered ourselves under the slope of a hill. Afterward we crossed the country, and went through Charlestown to Har- pers Ferry, joining Colonel MoReynolds when we got to Charlestown. I reached Harpers Ferry about 1 oclock, and found that 40 of my men and Lieutenant Evans had come in. I turned in 33 horses. Sonic of the horses were left on the road. The remainder of the battery went to the left-hand side, and went up to Pennsylvania. What property they took was turned over to various quar- termasters and left at different houses. Receipts for some of the horses were taken after they got into Pennsylvania; the men told me so. They are all in the army now; at least, I presumed so. I had 135 men; I have now 82. Every man of my command has been properly accounted for. My losses were 1 killed, 3 wounded, and 50 missing. These casualties, excepting the missing, were all previous to the evacuation. We killed or wounded 20 of the enemy there at one discharge. We let them get up within about 55 feet before we opened. Question. Was tliere much confusion and straggling on the re- treat? Answer. I cant say about that; everything went on quietly. There was none in the infantry or cavalry. There was among the teamsters, who dashed in among my men. Question. In your opinion, could you have brought off your guns; would you have attempted it, if you had been allowed? Answer. I would have attempted it, though the chances Were against me. I had only 28 rounds of ammunition per gun. I had before the evacuation 128 rounds, or 28 rounds of ammunition to the gun, two-thirds of which was canister, the balance percussion shells. It was left in the fort. I gave an order to my lieutenant for its destruction. I was at the end of the column. The enemys cavalry were only a quarter of an hour behind me. Question. Could you or not have brought off your battery with as little noise as is made by infantry or cavalry in night marches? Answer. That depends very much on the road, sir. You take cavalry on the grass; I had to take the road, and the rattle of the chains and the rumble of the wheels would have made a noise on the road. I might have wrapped blankets around the wheels if I had had time; it would have taken an hour. In answer to the question, under the circumstances, I answer no. Question. Could you have rendered any service with your guns in the retreat? Answer. I think I could. The rebel gunners shot miserably. They fired at a line of men at a distance of 800 yards without material damage. Question. In your opinion, could or could not the heavy guns have been sent from Winchester to Harpers Ferry on the 12th, 13th, or 14th of Jung, 1863? Answer. In my opinion, they could on the first two days. I dont know anything about the last day. I think it doubtful then. By the COURT: Question. Was the condition of the roads such as to prevent the passage of artillery when you abandoned your battery at Winches- ter? Answer. No; the roads were very good. There were no other obstructions but those the enemy made. Question. What was the distance the enemy appeared to be from you at the time you received the order to abandon your battery? Answer. They were on the range of hills to the northwest and south. They seemed to be all around us, in a semicircle. I have no doubt they knew we were going. They had spies all around; still, they had not time toccatch up with us Page 105 CHAl. XXXXXI TIlE ~E11~YSBUT~G CAMPATG~. 105 Question. Did y~u observe any officers or body of troops behave in a cowardly manner at any time during the retreat from Winchester? Answer. I did not. Question. Suppose your position had been in the column of retreat anywhere else than toward its rear, do you think you could have brought off your battery in safety? Answer. The chances were just about even in the case. Question. Would it not have been as well to have attempted to save the artillery as to have abandoned it to the enemy? Answer. That is a question for the commander to determine; he looks after the safety of the troops. Question. How much ammunition had you when the fight com- menced? Answer. Twelve hundred rounds. I had 300 rounds of reserve ammunition, which was turned over at Harrisonburg by my quartermaster-sergeant. Question. Did you see anything in the conduct of Major-General Milroy, during the retreat or prior thereto, which indicated any want of judgment, prudence, or courage? Answer. No. Capt. JOHN CARLIN, Battery D, First Virginia Artillery, a witness calle dby the court and duly sworn, says: By the JUDGE-ADvOCATE: Question. Were you in command of your battery at Winchester during the recent fight at, and the evacuation of, that place by Gen- eral Milroys command? Answer. Yes. Question. State the part taken by your battery in that affair. Answer. On the morning of the 13th of June, about 8 oclock, I received orders from one of General Milroys aides to detach a section, with one days rations for the men and forage for the horses. They were immediately furnished. About an hour afterward, I received another order from one of his aides to hold the remainder of my battery in readiness for an immediate movement. In a short time afterward, on the same day, Captain Hunter brought me an order to report to General Milroy. I reported to him at his headquarters, and was ordered by him to take two pieces and report to Colonel Ely, who was then engaged near the Front Royal road. I proceeded in the direction that he wassomething like half a mile from the limits of the town. I found Colonel Ely with his command retiring from before the enemy. I reported to him that I had been sent to aid him. He ordered me back to take position in the outskirts of Winchester, and to engage a battery that was near the Front Royal road, some 1,500 yards distant. Engaged that battery for about half an hour. In the meantime my other two guns had been ordered out, and took position on the range of hills southwest of Winchester. I received an order from one of General Elliotts aides to proceed with the two guns I had on the out- skirts of Winchester to the range of hills where the two guns had been placed pre- viously. From there I engaged the same batterythat I had been firing at previously. The first section of my battery that had been ordered out was about 1 mile from the last position I occupied. They were closely engaged at one time with a portion of the rebel troops, and were about to be flanked by the right. This brought~a large body of rebel infantry in view of the four guns I had on the range of hills. The enemy was in a dense wood adjacent, and marched forward through an open field some three-quarters of a mile distant. I withheld the fire of my guns until they were within about 800 yards, when I opened on them with the four pieces. That col- umn succeeded in getting some of the men to the stone wall adjacent. Immedi- ately another column was formed in the same dense woods adjacent, and marched in the same direction. Having the range of the ground, I opened fire upon them at 1,200 yards distance. The fire was so destructive, and kept up with such energy, tha Page 106 106 IN~. C., VA., W. VA., MIX, PA., ETC. tOHAP XXXIX. they were prevented from gaining a position. By a flank movement, they succeeded in getting under cover of the woods that opened on our right. The first column that succeeded in reaching the stone wall was engaged by the first section that had gone forward in the morning. Being behind stone walls, they were unable to drive them from there. My battery was all on the range of hills, and was engaged at inter- vals in various positions on the same range during the remainder of the day of Saturday. At nightfall, I was ordered by General Elliott to place a section of two pieces at the end of the leading streets entering Winchester on the south side. Two of these streets are those leading to Strasburg and Front Royal. Remained there until 12 oclock at night, when I was ordered to take them to the camp, to supply rations to the men and forage to the horses. On Sunday morning, the 14th, before daylight, I had my ammunition-chests all replenished with ammunition, and was ordered on to the field again about 7 in the morning. My battery was detached at intervals during the day until 3 p. in., when I was ordered to the south range of the hills, to dislodge some sharpshooters, and prevent the enemy from erecting a battery on the extreme south point of the range, which it was supposed they were doing. I was a~, am ordered by General Milroy, in person, to take foQr guns to a range of hills some half a mile distant, which order was complied With. We had been in position only about- half an hour, when two or three batteries of the rebels were opened upon our main work, at about a mile distant, west of us. The position I was occupying at the time was a very exposed one, and the support at some dis- tance from me. I deemed it prudent to withdraw my pieces, which fact was reported to General Elliott immediately. General Elliott ordered me to proceed to the main fort, and report to General Milroy in person with my battery. After reaching the main fort, and reporting to General Mi]roy, I was ordered by him to take position about 300 yards south of the main fort. After bringing my guns to bear upon the rebel batteries on the west, the rebel battery on the extreme south of the range of hills opened on the main fort. In the meantime the batteries upon the west side opened on my ow~n. I was unable to keep up the fire from my bat- tery from the time I got in position, about 5 p. in., until dark. After the firing had ceased on Sunday night, I immediately took my battery to the main fort, and was ordered by General Elliott to put it in position there. The men were ordered to stay by their guns, and not to leave them under any circumstances. Our am- munition was all overhauled, and everything prepared for a siege, if necessary. About 1 oclock I was told by General Elliott that it was in contemplation to evacuate, but that the order would be given wheii the time arrived. Some fifteen or twenty minutes afterward, one of his aides came and told me that the order to evacuate was given, and told me to spike my guns, destroy my ammunition, and render everything unserviceable that I could. In conversation with him, I told him that I disliked very much to leave my guns, but, if it was imperative, I could com- ply with the order. He also ordered, in connection, that I mount my men on the horses, and take nothing with me, but go as light as possible. When the troops commenced moving out of the fort, I moved my men in column immediately be- hind the infantry. We proceeded to the Martinsburg road, and on it some 4 miles from Winchester, when we were attacked by a battery of the rebels, with heavy supports of infantry. I was unable to keep my men in column, from the fact that the teamsters and followers of the division became so much panic-stricken. My men being unari ed, I was unable to take any part in the action of Monday morn- ing, but endeavored to look after my men as much as I could. A major of 9avalry ordered the greater portion of my men to the rear, to enable their cavalry to charge upon the battery, which resulted in the capture of 84 of my men and horses. Question. How nmch ammunition had you when the order to re- treat was given, and what kind was it? Answer. I had about 35 rounds per gun, principally canister. Question. Was your harness abandoned~ brought off, or destroyed? Answer. It was cut up. Questiou. Could you have brought off your harness? By whose orders did you leave it? Answer. I might have brought it on the horses, but whether I could have gotten it away altogether I am unable to say. I left it by General Elliotts orders. I re- ceived some instructions from Major Cravens similar to those General Elliott gave me in the orderto go as light as possible. The reason they gave me for not taking the harness was the rattling of the chains. They wanted to get away as quietly as possible Page 107 CaA~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBTJRG CAMPAIGN. 1O~ Question. Could you have brought off your guns; would you have made the attempt had no orders been given to the contrary? Answer. So far as the condition of the guns and horses, I could have brought them away, but whether it would have been justifiable, I cannot say. I could have taken them off, but whether I could have got them axvay entirely is a question. My opinion is, I could have engaged the enemy with effect if I had retained them, but I am also of the opinion that it would have brought on a general engagement in the open field. I would have made the attempt. Up to that time I was not aware of the numbers against us, and did not know it until some time afterward. The close proximity of the enemy to our rear when the battery engaged us on the right~-hand side of the road, confirms me in my opinion that I could not have succeeded in getting my battery away from there. Question. Could you have brought off your battery with as little noise as is made by cavalry and infantry.in night marches? Answer. Mt on that road. The road had been traveled a great deal during the winter. It is a stone pike, very much cut up by the wagons, and very rough. The rattling of carriages can be heard in the Valley at night-time for 2 miles. Question. In your opinion, could or could not the heavy guns have been sent from Winchester on the 11th, 12th, 13th, or 14th of June, 1863, to Harpers Ferry? Answer. I think not later than the 12th. I think they could have been on the 12th. Question. Do you know anything about the loss of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery? Answer. They were occupying. a work 1,500 yards west of the main fort, and were in view of my position at the time they were charged upon and taken. I could not say what support of infantry or cavalry they had. Question. In your opinion, was that battery properly posted when it was captured? Answer. I thought it was an important position they were occupying. If prop- erly supported, it was a safe position. I could not see its supports from my position. By the COURT: Question. In your opinion, would or would not field artiliery have been of use to the command of Major-General Milroy during the retreat from Winchester? Answer. I did not know the country from the Martinsburg road to Harpers Ferry on that side, but on the other side, in the direction of Bath, artillery could not have been taken. Through the road that crosses North Mountain horses drawing wagons could not have passed. Question. In your opinion, ought not the field batteries to have been brought off, or attempted to be brought off? Answer. I thought we ought to have made the attempt to have gotten them off at the time. I have since partially changed my opinion. My reason for it is that if they had been captured on the field, the enemy would have gotten what ammuni- tion we had, or harness, horses, and the guns unspiked. Question. How did the troops retire; in good order or otherwise? Answer. All in good order, with the exception of quartermasters men and the camp followers. Question. Do you know whether the enemy was aware of the move- ment immediately after your retreat, or whether the precautions taken were successful in concealinc, it, and preventing pursuit? Answer. I think they could not have been aware of our movement immediately~ for it must have been 2 oclock when we left the fortifications, and it was 4 in the morning when the attack was made. It took us two hours to form and march Page 108 108 ThC., VA., W. VA., 1~tD., PA., ETC. [OFIAP. XXXIX. miles. It could not have been more than 300 yards from where the attack was made that some of my men were captured before they could get out of the way. My men went back in the direction of Winchester. The enemy may have been on the right or left of the road. There was cavalry between me and the enemy, but I did not see anything of them. Since Sunday evening, the 14th of June, my cas- ualties have been 4 men wounded, 4 horses killed, 5 horses disabled, and two wheels of caissons broken down. Court adjourned until the 20th of June, 1863, at 11 a. m. TWELFTH DAY. WASHINGTON, August 20, 1863. The Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. Brig. Gen. W. L. Elliott, U. S. Volunteers, was called.into court, and his testimony read over to him. He then made the following explanation of some of his answers: I have stated that if I had been in command I would have retreated on the even- ing of the 13th. General Milroy had asked for orders, but the wires being cut, and he not receiving any, I would have taken the responsibility and retreated. After I became satisfied that it was not a cavalry attack, I thought we should have re- treated. I was satisfied that we could not hold Winchester a ainst a superior force of infantry and artillery. It was also known to us that the enemy had attacked Berrvville in some force on our right flank, and would cut off our retreat or our supplies. In rererence to Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, I will add, I did not con- sider that the earthwork that it was placed. in was strong enough, nor that the road from it was sufficiently good to have withdrawn the guns in case of necessity. I thought the support too small for the distance at which the battery was placed fro n the main force. In reference to General Milroys capacity, I thought that on thi~3, as on other occasions, he sent troops too far from the support of his main body. I thought that he undertook to do more than the number of his troops and his posi- tion required of him. He is a zealous and enetgetic officer. That is all I have to add. Capt. F. W. Alexander, Baltimore battery, was called into court, and his testimony read to him and corrected. Capt. John Carlin, Battery D, First Virginia Artillery, was called into court, and his testimony read to him and corrected. Col. A. T. MCREYNOLDS, First New York Cavalry, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, says: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What command had you under General Milroy during his recent battle at, and evacuation of, Winchester? Answe ~. I was in command of the Third Brigade, Second Division, Eighth Army Corps. Ge~ieral Milroy was my division commander. Question. State what you know in reference to those affairs? When did you know or believe that the enemy were advancing toward Wi ~chester in force? Answer. I was at Berryville with the Third Brigade, which comprised the Sixth Maryland, Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, and the Pirst New York Cavalry, and Alexanders (B. ltimore) battery. I had sent out scouts in different directions on the Friday precedin~, the battle at Winchester. On Friday evening, my scouts had been out in the vicinity of Front Royal. The officer in command of them sent a messenger back to me to say that the rebels were advancing, and asked for instruc- tions. I sent him word to hold his ground as well as he could. Another party I had sent out in another direction, White Post, 9 miles from Berryville, under Captain [Frederick] Hendrich. He sent word that the rebels were advancing in force. Some two regiments of infantry and a small party of cavalry constituted their advance. He saw no artillery. He asked me for instructions, and I told him to remain in their vicinity during the night, falling back slowly to Berryville, skirmishing. Bot Page 109 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 109 parties came in pretty early on Saturday morning, and brought another report that the rebels were coming in strong force, and were within 4 miles of us. When I heard that, I got my train in readiness to move, and ordered it to Bunker Hill, under a small guard (one companj of infantry and one of cavalry), to remain there until further orders. I immediately ordered an advance of my force to Summit Point. I had previously received orders from General Milroy that, on hearing four signal guns from the direction of Winchester, I was to move there immediately to his support. The direct road from Berryville to Winchester is 10 miles, but, finding that the rebels were flanking me in great force, and gaining that road, I took a cir- cuitous road, the road leading toward Harpers Ferry, and then struck the road for Summit Point, a distance of 22 or 23 miles to Winchester. As I was about to state before, the portions of the command designated as the advance and center in my order of march, were already sent forward. I remained behind with four com- panies of the Sixth Maryland Infantry, a section of Alexanders battery, and 150 of the First New York Cavalry. I placed the infantry across the road, and threw out the cavalry as skirmishers. We shelled the enemy vigorously, in order to give my advance column more time, and I detained their advance three-quarters of an hour, perhaps more. With my command I moved to Summit Point. Before reaching that place, my intention was to go by Smithfield and Bunker Hill, but I found I could save 7 miles by this other route. The rebels had been following us up on the way from Berryville, but did not attempt to attack until the rear of my column ,was crossing the Opequon. The moment I heard of the attack, I halted the column in a very advanta~,eous position. I sent my advanced cavalry back to sustain my rear guard. The affair lasted but for a moment, and the enemy were repulsed very handsomely. That was the only trouble we had. The enemy continued to follow us up until we reached the Martinsburg pike, some 4 miles from Winchester. I saw nothing of them afterward. I reached Winchester with my command about 9 oclock Saturday evening, and I immediately went to the headquarters of General Milroy and reported, and asked what disposition to make of my command. Some time after, I received an order stating that Winchester was to be evacuated, and the troops removed into the fortifications. I received instructions to march my command into the star fort, and did so. I occupied the fort during the balance of the night and during the fight on Sunday, until we evacuated on Monday morning. My orders to go to Winchester were im- perative, and left me no discretion. They were in writing, and were delivered to me by Captain Powell, of the Engineers. They impressed the importance of moving when I heard the signal guns. I kept up two of Captain Alexanders men all night to listen for them. As scon as I heard the signal guns, the column moved, with the exception of a small body which I kept back as a mere decoy. There was skirmish- ing going on nearly the whole of Sunday. I was in the fort, and could see some of the movements, but not with accuracy enough to state the results. In the after- noon, Lieutenant-Colonel MeKellip, who had command of a part of my command, called my attention to some battle-flags on the right, in the neighborhood of the Martinsburg road. There were some fourteen of them, forming a sort of a semi- circle. They seemed to cover the Martinsburg road. I requested the colonel to go to the large fort, and tell General Milroy what we had ~meen. The fighting had not then commenced. The colonel returned a few moments afterward. The rebels opened fire in the meantime, which resulted in the capture of one of our batteries and the driving back of their supports. The rebels then turned their attention to the principal fort, of which General Milroy had the command. Captain Alexander opened on them with his battery, -and his guns were served so accurately that they had to turn their attention to that fort for two hours. Darkness came upon us, and the firing ceased. About 12.30 oclock on Sunday night, I received an order from General Milroy to attend a council of war, to be held in the fort, immediately. I went over as soon as I could leave. I there met General Elliott, Colonel Ely, and General Milroy. A consultation was held, and a determination to evacuate was the result. There were no others present at the consultation. It seemed to be a conceded point that there was no alternative but to retreat or surrender, and no thought of surrender was entertained. General Milroy said his ammunition was nearly exhausted. We had only enough to fight two or three hours in the morning. I said my own was nearly exhausted; I had about 25 rounds per gun. It was stated, too, that our rations were nearly ex- hausted. These circumstances, and the fact that the rebels had secured command- ing positions during the evening, left no other alternative but to retire. The next question was as to the route. My opinion was asked first, perhaps for the reason that I have been scoutin; in that country for several months. I recommended that we should retire by the Be~ryville mo~J. through Snickers Gap. I made the remark that on this road we would mec~ some o2position, perhaps three or four rebe Page 110 110 VA., W. N. C., VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Cnii~. mix. regiments, that we could sweep before us. This was not deemed a feasible road. I next suggested the dirt road, moving between Berryvile and the Opequon, and via Charlestown; and, thirdly, the road that General White took in his retreat from Winchester. The latter road to Harpers Ferry was adopted. General Milroy di- rected the order of march, assigning General Elliott to the advance, Colonel Ely to the center, and my brigade to the rear. The order was to spike all the guns, un- hitch all the horses, leaving the wagons and taking the horses. The Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry was assigned to my brigade. I immediately returned to the fort after the council adjourned. I went over to the star fort, and told Colonel Staun- ton and Colonel Horn what the order was. They seemed determinately opposed to moving in that direction without artillery, as the enemy would attack in force with both infantry and artillery. I sympathized with them very much. After a few moments conversation with them, I concluded I would go over to see General Mil- roy, and ask permission to take my battery, Captain Alexanders. It was then 2. oclock in the morning. I told the general the result of my interview with the two colonels of infantry. He said the order had been issued, and the guns of the other brigades spiked. He seemed a little put out at my making the request. I then asked to be allowed to take a section. He replied that I might as well take a bat- tery as a section, and that the object was to move without giving alarm. I returned to the fort, and found Colonels Staunton and Horn in the same determined mood in their objections to the movement. I said, Well, gentlemen, if you see fit to remain here and surrender your regiments, you can do so. I supposed they would be cut to pieces. I told them I would take the responsibility, and would cut my way through with the cavalry. Colonel Staunton said, No; Colonel Horn rather favored it. Finally, the infantry moved with the column in the direction indicated in the order. While we were conversing, Captain Alexander came up, and I said to him, Captain, take out your guns; I will assume the responsibility. I thought we could get the gnus across the fields. We were so situated that by a straight line we could strike the Martinsburg road, and get our guns off without making much noise. Captain Alexander said, Colonel, I have been over to General Milroys headquar- ters since you were there ; I saw Major Cravens, and I asked him if it was not possi- ble to take my guns, when he replied that the orders were imperative. I then said, Very well, sir, spike your guns. He did so, and we moved out. I took my place in the column of retreat. We had not moved more than 2i miles when the report that General Elliott had been fired upon reached us. General Milroy was passing toward the front, and said to me, Move promptly. I gave the order for my command to move at double-quick, which was done. We moved thus until we came to a position where I could see the enemy. There was a large open field skirted by dense woods. In those woods there seemed to be a large force of rebel infantry, and at the edge of the woods a battery of six guns. That battery was playing furiously. I supposed they were inflicting great loss upon us. I ordered the two regiments of infantry in a flanking position to the battery, while I moved with the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, for the purpose of charging. I thought it was a pretty opportunity for a charge. The infantry moved in a column on my left, making a straight line on the flank of the battery. I put the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry imm~diately in motion, and moved along some distance from the stone wall with them, intending to get in the enemys rear and attack the enemy simultaneously with the infantry. I came up with the major of the regiment. I told him the battery was mowing down our infantry, and we must charge the bat- tery. As I made this remark, we had gotten up to a little lane. The head of the column dashed up the hill to the right. Captain.Alexander was there, and my ad- jutant, and Lieutenant Spooner. I was astonished at the movement of the cavalry. The First New York Cavalry had been drawn up in line on the left of the Martins- burg pike, waiting orders. I immediately went over, perhaps half a mile, to bring them up. I could not find them. There was nothing between me and the enemy but the two regiments of infantry. I determined to make the best disposition I could of the infantry. I went over there, but found they had retired, too. I saw a few men, but no organized body, moving toward the right. I could not join the main body because the rebels were between me and them. I made my way the best I could in the direction of the Opequon, to strike the Charlestown road. The rebel cavalry were after me before I reached the Charlestown road. I met quite a body of infantry, unorganized; they had ammunition. I told them to prepare them- selves, and they could defend themselves, if attacked by cavalry. I made for Sum- mit Point. I met there a man who professed to be loyal, who told me that the force that drove me out of Berryville had twelve pieces of artillery and 12,000 or 15,000 infantry. He placed Johnson and Rodes with them. He said they passed through on Sunday, and went in the same direction I did, toward Winchester. I then moved to Charlestown, and from thence, halting a few moments at Halltown for refresh Page 111 CHAP. XXXIX.I THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 111 ments, to Harpers Ferry, where I reported to General Tyler, whom I found in com- mand. Generals Milroy and Elliott had halted some 4 miles back, I supposed for refreshments. My trains had been sent to Bunker Hill. I heard that the force that followed me sent a party after my train, but met a warm reception at Bunker Hill from a force under Major Morris. During the fighting, my son, Lieut. B. F. Mc- Reynolds, acting brigade commissary, and Lieutenant EWifliarn H.] Boyd [jr.], act- ing brigade quartermaster, go43 the train away and brought it to Martinsburg. It was there during the fight there, and was again brought off safely to Williams- port, Md.; thence to Hagerstown, Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and back to me at Frederick City. I lost nothing of consequence, and it was an extraordi- nary march for a train. Question. Who was to blame, in your opinion, for the insecurity of ammunition and provisions at Winchester? Answer. Somebody, certainly. I do not know who was responsible. Question. In your opinion, could or could not General Milroy have retreated to better advantage on the 12th, 13th, or 14th, than he did on the 15th of June, 1863? Answer. The retreat would have been more successful at any time up to Sunday morning, the 14th. We might have moved earlier. I dont think we could have retreated to better advantage after Sunday noon. Question. Could or could not the armament of the forts have been sent from Winchester to Harpers Ferry on the 12th, 13th, or 14th of June, 1863? Answer. I am not able to answer that satisfactorily to myself. With a heavy column they might have been; with a small force they might have been captured. I could have sent heavy guns on Friday or Saturday from Berryville, where I was at that time, to Harpers Ferry. I think they could have been brought away on the 13th, or any previous day, that is, with a proper escort. Question. In your opinion, could or could not General Milroy have brought all or a portion of his artillery away on his retreat? Answer. My impression was, when I made the application to General Milroy, that my battery could have been gotten off. It is questionable whether the others could, because they had to pass on a rocky road, and would have given notice to the enemy in our immediate front of their movement. My impression is, that I could have reached the Martinsburg pike with my battery without giving notice to the enemy. There were two of my teams which ran away a few moments before toward that road, creating a tremendous racket, which did not attract the attention of the rebels. I was looking for an attack every moment afterward. Another difficulty why the other batteries could not have been moved is, that theywould have found wagons in the road, which, in my proposed route, I would have avoided. By the COURT: Question. Do you think that the command of Major-General Miiroy could ha#e retreated successfully, with its artillery and bag- gage trains, by the way of Berryville, and thence to Harpers Ferry? Answer. I think they could not have retreated with their baggage trains, but I think they could have moved off the infantry and artillery, and secured a safe posi- tion on the road 5 miles from Winchester, where the pike crosses the Opequon. This is a very strong position naturally. Another position of strength was the work near Berryville, a distance of about 5 miles, and another at Snickers Gap. At either of these three points they could have successfully held their own; that is, with ammunition. From Snickers Gap it is 20 miles to Harpers Ferry. Question. Were any wagons allowed to accompany the retreat of the troops from Winchester? Answer. No, sir; it was expressly forbidden. The orders were that nothing on wheels should go. Question. What was the order of retreat; and when was it mad Page 112 112 x.c., VA., w. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. known to General Milroys command? Was it conducted according to the order; and was it an orderly retreat? Answer. The order of retreat was to put the brigades in numerical orderElliott in the advance, Ely in the center, and I in the rear. It must have been 2 oclock in~ the morning when the retreat was ordered. There was some little disorder in my brigade, caused by the wagon horses getting in among the infantry. I saw no dis- order in advance of me, nor any other disorder in my own brigade, and that I have mentioned was corrected immediately. So far as the movements in the vicinity of the point of attack during the retreat are concerned, they could not be considered orderly. The retreat from that point wouA be impossible to describe. The men broke and scattered in every direction. They went to the left and right of the road, and even, I have heard, back toward Winchester. The last persons on that field were myself and two orderlies. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Was Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, properly posted and properly supported at the time it was captured? Answer. I think it had a good position. It was in front of me. It was supported by what I supposed to be a regiment of infantr . I was not familiar with the troops at Winchester, only getting there the night ~efore. I noticed its repulse by the rebels, and its handsome recovery. There was a tremendous pressure upon it. Nearly all their horses were killed or disabled. It held an important position. There were many important positions around Winchester, but we had not force sufficient to command them. There were points that ought to have been covered if we had a sufficient force for the purpose. By the COURT: Question. In your opinion, was or wa~ not the retreat conducted properly, and the public property suitably cared for? Answer. I have already answered as to the retreat. As to the quartermasters and commissary stores and property, I have no knowledge. I know the wagon train was left in the road, on the outskfrts of the town, the horses having been unhitched. As to the guns, I suppose they were spiked. The ammunition in my fort I ordered to be destroyed, and was informed that it was. I think that, under the circum- stances, there was a suitable disposition of the public property, excepting that I should have taken my battery and all the ammunition that I could have carried away. Question. Do you know what instructions Major-General Milroy had with reference to the holding or evacuation of Winchester? Answer. There was something said about that in the council of war. I think General Milroy remarked that his power was discretional, but I am not positive. I saw a dispatch from General Halleck, which spoke in very light terms of holding Winchester. I think there were conflicting dispatches received from General Schencks headquarters. I think that I recollect of a dispatch from Colonel Piatt to General Milroy, which was afterward countermanded by General Schenck. I paid very little attention, however, to these matters. Question. What was the object, as generally uiiderstood in the command, of the position at Winchester? Answer. It was generally understood to be a running command. It was viewed generally as a position to run from, if attacked by a heavy force with artillery; one not to be held obstinately. I have heard General Milroy speak of his dissatisfaction in not being allowed to make advances when he thought it advisable, and that he was merely to run at the approach of a superior force of the enemy. Question. Was there not a large force of the enemy posted in the direction of the Berryville road during the attack on Sun a after- noon? Answer. From my observation, I conclude there was not. I must be mistaken. Qilestion. If you had moved your battery off to the turnpike road, could you, after the conflict, have taken it to Harpers Ferry? Answer. I think so. I think we could have whipped any force I saw. I used this very expression to Captain Alexander at that time. The enemys fire was very inaccurate. Our infantry drove their infantry several times Page 113 CHAP. XXXIX.I TIII3~ GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 113 Question. What was th~ force of the enemy in the attack on Mon~ day morning? Answer. My estimate of their forces was lower than others; it was 6,000 or 7,000. There may have been 10,000. Question. What was the loss by casualties in your brigade on the morning of the 15th of June, 1863? Answer. I have received no report from any officer commanding any portion of my brigade. I have since had no official relations with my brigade, having been brigaded with the cavalry at Harpers Ferry. Some 44 out of 600 or 700 of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, and, I think, over 300 out of 500 or 600 of the Sixth Maryland Infantry, reported at Harpers Ferry. The great bulk of missing men are at Camp Parole, near Annapolis. I found the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry in quarters at Harpers Ferry when I reached there. Question. Did the enemy follow from Winchester on your retreat? Answer. Not that I know of. I saw no movement from the direction of Win- chester. Question. Where did you leave the First New York Cavalry, and what orders did you give last? Answer. The First New York Cavalry brought up the extreme rear. I placed them there, having no confidence in them. I directed my adjutant to form them on the left of the pike, out of range of the enemys shells. The Thirteenth Penn- sylvania Cavalry was formed on the right of the road, in advance of the First New York, one being at the head and the other in the rear of my brigade. I understood that Major-General Milroy gave lhem some instructions. Major Adams informed me of this. The court then adjourned, to meet at 11 a. m. August 21, 1863. THIRTEENTH DAY. AUGUST 20, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterdayby Colonel McReynolds, of the First New York Cavalry, was read over to him, and corrected, and his examination was continued as follows: By the COURT: Question. What other troops of General Milroys command besides your own brigade did you see at the place where you were attacked, while retreating from Winchester? Answer. During the attack, I could not distinguish ~what troops, because I was not sufficiently near. I could not distinguish one regiment from another, except in my own brigade. I was on their flank, I should think, 80 rods distant, and the light was not very clear. It was very early in the morning. I could not at any time distinguish the movements of one regiment from another from the distance at which I was. I brought up the rear. Question. Was it Major-General Milroys order that you should be where you were, and that your brigade should be separated from the rest of the command, as you have stated? Answer. I received no orders whatever from General Milroy touching my movements. I made such dispositions of my command as I supposed then, and still suppose, were the best. Question. Who appeared to you to be in command of the troops at that time; that is, who was directing their operations? Answer. My impression was that it was General Elliott who was principally in the fight. That Was my impression, and, from necessity, Gene~a1 Milroy did not 8 i~ wvoi~ ~xvir, ~T Page 114 114 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. get up until the fighting had been going on for some time. General Milroy assumed command after reaching the point where General Elliott was engaged with the enemy. Question. Did you see Major-General Milroy, or did you receive any instructions from him, or by his authority, during any portion of the time you were retreating? If so, when and where was it, and what orders were they? Answer. The only orders that I received from General Milroy, or from any other person, either directly or indirectly, was simply the verbal one from General Milroy in person when he was passing me: Hurry up your brigade; they are fighting in front. From that time nntil I s~ w General Milroy at Harpers Ferry, on the same day, I had no communication with him whatever. Question. You say in your testimony that while you were being pursued by the rebel cavalry you overtook ~ quite a 1)ody of infantry unorganized. To what command did this infantry belong? Answer. I really cannot answer that question. They were of different regiments. The force was smallnot more than ~30 or AG, or, perhaps, 50 men, of General Mu- roys command. I could not tell what regiments they belonged to. I simply asked them if they had ammunition. They said they had. I told them to be prepared, as they might meet rebel cavalry, and they could whip them, and hot to allow themselves to be frightened by them. Question. What regiments did you pass or sight on the way from Winchester to Harpers Ferry, and did they appear to be re- treating in good order and under the command of their officers.? Answer. I found on the way some of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania, but a small number, and they appeared to be marching in no regular order. I saw quite a body of the Sixth Maryland moving with their colonel in the usual order that troops move on a fatigue march. That was the only considerable body that I saw. Question. Who do you think should be held responsible for the disorderly retreat of your brigade? Answer. I suppose the commanding officer is held responsible. Question. Do you mean to say that you were deserted by a portion of your command, the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, for instance? Answer. I mean to say, and do say this, that they left me under the circum- stances I have stated, and that the First New York Cavalry left the ground under the circumstances I have stated, and without my knowledge. Question. Do you think any officer is responsible for the disorders of the retreat? Answer. Well, I thought it very strange that I received no orders from General Milroy during the progress of the fighting, as orders should have been sent to me. Some parties were delinquent. I should have received orders, because my move- ments were plain. I had a column of infantry moving in an open field, and a col- umn of cavalry moving, which diverted the rebel guns to my line. My answer to the question would be, I am not ahie to state what particular officer is responsible. Question. Were you called on for an official report of your pro- ceedings in this retreat? If so, when? Why did you not make such a report? Answer. I had learned that General Milroy had been placed in arrest, and was in Baltimore. After this, my command was scattered, and entirely removed from me. For example, a part of them were in~Loudoun and Pennsylvania, and did not return to my command for some time. I had no opportunity to get reports of offi- cers commanding regiments, for the reasons I have stated, and because I was next day assigned to the command of a cavalry brigade at Harpers Ferryentirely new men to me. I remained at Harpers Ferry until it was evacuated. I then moved with General French to Frederick, and remained there until General Meade returned from the battle of Gettysburg. He relieved me, on the applio~tion of General Pleas- o~ten, and ordered me to report to that officer for duty, which I did. I theu r Page 115 CHAP. XXXIX;] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 115 ceived orders to proceed to Pennsylvania, assume command of the First New York and Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and march them to the Army of the Potomac. I found the cavalry were in the command of General Couch. I communicated my orders to him, and he requested me to remain there until he communicated with General Meade. General Meade directed me to march all of Milroys division that were in the Department of the Susquehanna to the Army of the Potomac. I reached. Hagerstown the morning after Lees army had crossed the Potomac; so several weeks elapsed before I came in contact with my old command. I could not get the data on which to make a report. I received a telegram, purporting to come from General Milroy, requesting me to make a report, or something of that nature. At that time itwould have been impossible to make a report, coupled with the fact that he was in arrest. I think that I received this telegram before I assumed com- mand of that division. The court then adjourned to meet at Ii a. m. A~zigust 22, 1863. FOURTEENTH DAY. AUGUST 22, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given by Col. A. T. McReynolds, First New York Cavalry, on yesterday and the day previous, was read over to him and corrected. Colonel MclReynolds examination continued. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. If you had not received orders to fall back toWinches- ter from Berryville, would you have retreated from there direct to Harpers Ferry? Could you have made good your retreat with your battery and train from Berryville to Harpers Ferry ? Answer. I should have gone to Harpers Ferry. That route was much more feasi- ble than the one I took. It was 2 or 3 miles shorter, with a pike all the way. By the COURT: Question. If you had gone from Berryville direct to Harpers Ferry, would it not have hazarded the safety of all the rest of General Milroys command? Answer. My command constituted about one-fourth of General Milroys com- mand, and to that extent I suppose that it would. During the fight at Winchester on Sunday afternoon, I think that the main fort would have been stormed if the star fort had not been occupied. My guns kept tbe enemy in check. On the re- treat, my troops, by creating a diversion, aided in the escape of the rest. Question. If, at the time you were ordered from Berryville to Winchester, you had marched from Berryville to Harpers Ferry, and at the same time the balance of Major-General Milroys com- mand had marched from Winchester to Harpers Ferry, what would have been the result? Would the whole command, with its artillery and baggage trains, have been saved? Answer. Undoubtedly it might; I have no question about it; not only that, they might have captured a small force that moved on Martinsburg; this last, though, is problematical. What I mean is this: On Saturday there was no rebel force be- tween Harpers Ferry and Winchester, nor between Martinsburg and Winchester, that was strong enough to oppose General Milroys entire force, if he had marched on Saturday morning. Question. From what source do you get your information about the force of the enemy on the Martinsburg road on Saturday? Answer. One source is that my train move(l with a small guard to Bunker Hill without any interruption; another is that I had direct communication from my train at Bunker Hill by a single courier when I arrived at the Martinsburg pike, about Page 116 116 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. miles from Winchester. Again, I moved my command from the junction to Win- chester without discovering any rebels on that side of the town. Still another evi- dence is, that my train moved from Bunker Hill to Martinsburg without meeting any rebels on the route, with the exception that at Bunker Hill a small force had been attacked by the rebels, and the rebels repulsed, showing that the attacking force must have been smalla few hundred. I mean. Capt. M. L. liE MOTTE, assistant quartermaster of volunteers, a witness calkd by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What was your position on General Milroys staff at Winchester? Answer. I was acting division quartermaster all the time that Winchester was occupied by General Milroys command. Question. In your opinion, was or was not the public property suitably cared for in the evacuation of that place? Answer. It was. Question. What was done with the wagons, horses, forage, & c., under your directions as quartermaster for the division? Answer. I had on.my own returns 159 four-horse teams; General Elliotts brigade had 118 four-horse teams; Colonel Elys had 35, and Colonel McReynolds 42. Of these teams, Colonel McReynolds escaped entire. Out of the 159 that I had, 114 es- caped from Winchester, 9 of which were afterward destroyed between Martinsburg and Harrisburg, as I am informed by agent. This was done by some drunken cavalry- men, and not from necessity. Forty-five of my wagons were left standing near the forts at Winchester, and all of General Elliotts and Colonel Elys were left in the same place. The division lost in all 198 wagons out of 354. This statement may vary a very few wagons from the actual number, as my papers were all lost. On Thursday evening prior to the evacuation, General Milroy ordered me to make such disposition of the trains as would enable us to move in the shortest possible time, and ordered me to have as little stores on hand as possible. I accordingly sent all my own wa~,ons except 45 to Martinsburg, loaded with stores, retaining only about enough camp and garrison equipage to equip about 50 men. These are all the stores that I had left, and these were broken into and partly taken by our own men. My grain was nearly consumed before our departure. The horses were unhitched from the wagons about 11 oclock Sunday night. On the morning of the evacuation, I had under my command about 800 horses. They were ridden by convalescents, detailed men, sut- lers clerks, and other unarme I attach~s. The harness was on the horses when we started. At the time of the attack on the Martinsburg road, on the morning of the 15th of June, my party were in column of fours, and I attempted to withdraw them to the left side of the road, in the timber. This movement was about half completed, when I presume the enemy saw it, and thought we were cavalry, and turned their artillery upon us fiercely. The horses now became frantic, and their riders, having the ordinary wagon bridles, and generally being without saddles, could not control them. They consequently took toward the left, toward Berkeley Springs instead of toward Harpers Ferry, as they were ordered. I tried to rally them in a wheat-field, about one-quarter of a mile from the road, but it was impossible. Near the close of the engagement, I started myself in the same direction, and at Berkeley Springs succeeded in getting together a little over 800 of my party. While we were en route from Berkeley Springs to New Creek, about 200 of these men, becoming frightened at the numerous reports of the enemy in every direction, turned off in the direction of Pennsylvania. The harness was almost a total loss; it was thrown away or lost on the road. I did not succeed in gathering all that passed out that road. I heard of many having gone too fast to be overtaken. From the best information that I can get, about 150 out of the 800 horses were captured on the field that morning. Lieut. Will- iam Alexander, First New York Cavalry, acting assistant quartermaster of General Elliotts brigade, had three or four times as much camp and garrison equipage on hand as I had. It was left at Winchester. I gave him the same instructions that General Milroy gave me. Afterward, when I asked him why he did not send his stores away on Thursday, he told me that the most of his wagons had been sent to Mar- tinsburg for grain, and had not returned, and they did not return until Friday morning. The stores belonging to Colonel McReynolds brigade were save& I think Lieutenant Alexander might have sent off his stores, with a proper guard, o Page 117 THE GETTYSBU1~G CAMPAIGN. Friday, the 12th of June. Aside froni the ordinary equipments of camp life, these are all the stores that I know of. Eighty-eight horses, aside from the 800 team horses, and in addition to the 114 teams sent to Martinsburg, were also taken to Harrisburg. They were on my returns also. Question. Could or could not all or a portion of the public prop- erty left at Winchester, have been brought off in the retreat? Answer. The stores and wagons could not, nor could the artillery. I do not think that any more could have been taken than was taken. At 11 oclock on Sun- day night, when I had unhitched the horses, I withdrew them from the green on to the pike road, and at the time this was being done I saw signal lights in three dif- ferent directions. Afterward the troops all came out of the forts, and passed out on the pike about half a mile. I saw nothing further until a few minutes after I started my horses; then I again saw signal lights. I thought at the time that the moving of my horses attracted the enemys attention. By the COURT: Question. When did your supply train leave Winchester? Answer. Thursday night, the 11th of June. A part of it was already at Martins- burg, and the rest left at 11 oclock Thursday night. Question. Why was this train sent off with stores? Answer. General Milroy told me about 5 or 6 oclock on Thursday evening to ar- range matters as though I expected to evacuate very soon. He told me that he had a dispatch from General Schenck, asking him how long it would take him to get ready to move everything, and he wanted me to determine the time. I told him I could be ready to move everything from Winchester in six hours. I sent an agent immediately to Martinsburg, with instructions to keep the teams hitched up to the empty wagons, and to keep an employ~, or to remain himself at the telegraph office continually. He reported that these orders were obeyed. I could have had all my wagons at Winchester ready to load in six hours. Question. By whose order were the wagons left at Wi~nchester? Answer. By order of Major-General Milroy. Question. Could not the artillery have been sent away safely on Thursday night, when you sent off the large portion of your wagons, or even on Friday, when you say Lieutenant Alexander might have sent away his wagons? Answer. It could, sir; and I think it could on Friday. Question. As one of the staff of Major-General Milroy, did or did not you know what were Major-General Milroys instructions with regard to the defense or abandonment of Winchester? Answer. I think I knew generally. I knew that he received a telegram from Colonel Piatt. I did not know whether or not it was a positive order to evacuate. It was received previous to Thursday, the 11th, I think. I think that the general intended to evacuate, unless further orders came to the contrary. Afterward, I heard in the generals office (cant say it was from him personally), that he had orders from General Schenck, until further orders, to hold Winchester. Question. While you were on the retreat, did you receive any orders from General Milroy; if so, what were they? Answer. I did receive orders on the retreat. About a mile and a half from the place of the engagement, the general, in person, ordered me to keep my horses well together, and near the cavalry, and well to the front, I think. He gave me as a reason for that order that I might be ready to break through when an opportunity offered. This was before the fight commenced. He also ordered me to stay at the front of my column. Question. Do you believe the disposition made of the public property to have been the best that could have been made un dier the circumstances? Answer. I do, si Page 118 118 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Col. JOHN W. SCHALL, U. S. Volunteers, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What position did you hold in General Milroys com- mand at Winchester during the fight at and evacuation of, that place in June last? Answer. I am colonel of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. I commanded that regiment, in the Second Brigade, which was commanded by Colonel Ely, Eighteenth Connecticut. Question. State what you know of the battle at, and retreat from, that place. Answer. The organization of this brigade was made on the morning of the 13th of June, 1863; that is, I was then ordered to report to Colonel Ely as my brigade commander. About the same time, our pickets were being engaged with the enemy. Soon after this, I received an order to take my regiment on the Front Royal road, and support a section of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, under command of Lieu- tenant Spooner. I was stationed on the right of the artillery, and, about the time I got my regiment into position, the artillery fell back, and joined the rest of the bat- tery. Colonel Ely ordered me to fall back, and I fell back, in support of the battery. Afterward my regiment was ordered on to the ridge, known, I think, as Apple Pie Ridge, where we remained about an hour. Again I was ordered back, to support Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, in the same position where I had left it. I re- mained there an hour or an hour and a half, and was again ordered to report with my command to Major-General Milroy, on Apple Pie Ridge. He directed me to proceed out on the Strasburg road, and to drive away the enemys skirmishers, who were in possession of the mill, and to hold that place until further orders. Those instructions were carried out. About dark, I received orders to return to my original position, in support of the battery, and in the evening I received orders to fall back, at 2 oclock in the morning, to the fortifications. About 8 oclock next morning, I was ordered with my regiment to the town of Winchester, to drive out the enemys ~kirmishers, who had entered the town on the southwest side. I was engaged during the day until 4 p. in., when the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry relieved me. I again returned to the hill known as the fortifications, and an hour later received an order to remove to the star fort. I think it was in- tended to change position in camp. On my moving in the direction of the fort, Battery L was opened upon by the enemys artillery; it was stationed in the forti- cations north of the main fort. I was ordered to the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Infantry, which was stationed in the direction of the battery and a little to the right. I afterward received orders to move forward in support of Battery L, hut, xvhen the order reached me, that battery was already captured, and its support (the One hundred and tenth Ohio) was falling back. I was then ordered back to the main fort. About dark on the 14th, my command was stationed in the rifle- pits on the east of the main fort. I held these pits until about 1 oclock next morn- ing, when I received orders from Major Cravens, assistant adjutant-general, to the effect that I should prepare my command to evacuate, and lie directed me to get crackers for my men, if I needed them. I immediately notified my company com- manders of this order, and, during my absence with them, an order to march came; it was r& eived by my lieutenant-colonel, I think. I think it was a verbal order from my brigade commander, placing my regiment on the right of the brigade, with orders to move at once. We proceeded down the Martinsburg pike about 4 miles, when I had intimation that there had been some firing in front, and, as we were marching on, I received orders from my brigade commander, I think, to form my regiment in line. General Milroy was close by. I immediately brought my men into line, and immediately a~terward had orders, I think from General Milroy direct, to change front to the right. During this movement, I noticed several regi- ments of the First Brigade to my left. I was ordered to advance in the direction I held after changing front, and I noticed a regiment on my left advancing at the same time. It was still quite dark, and I could just see them. I should have stated before that one company of my regiment was detached as skirmishers about the time we were forming line, and that while we were forming line some cavalry or wae,on horses separated the left company of my regiment by running in between them; afterward they joined. I had orders to advance in the direction of the woods, and had gone but a fe.w steps when skirmishing commenced. I advanced within a short distance of the woods, and during this time the enemy opened upon us wit Page 119 CHAP. XXXIX.j T1I~ GtTTY~SflU1iG CAMPAIGN. 119 artillery that was stationed only a short distance in our front, apparently 100 yards. While engaged with the enemy, another regiment of our brigade was brought in my rear, who also opened fire right through us almost, which brought confusion in the ranks of my regiment, and it fell back. It was either the Eighteenth Connecti- cut or the Fifth Maryland Infantry; I think the former. General Milroy appeared in front of that regiment, and ordered them to cease firing, telling them that they were firing on their own men. It was still dark when this occurred. We again formed, and advanced with other regiments to the woods, but soon fell back under the heavy fire to a ravine about 150 yards from the woods. I afterward received orders to advance into the woods with two regiments on my right. I think they were the Eighteenth Connecticut and One hundred and twenty-third Ohio. My regiment went about 40 yards into the woods. My horse was killed. The regiment immediately halted, and kept up a skirmishing fire for twenty or thirty minutes. I saw that I was being flanked on my Left, and gave orders to fall back; this was done amid some confusion. The enemy followed us closely in large numbers to the edge of the woods. My command became scattered, some going to the right and some to the left. I will here state that I had no orders as to our destination, and could give no instructions to my officers as to our course. I have since been informed that our brigade commanders had orders, and had special instructions to communicate them to the regimental commanders, that our destination was Harpers Ferry. With about 130 of my men, I reached Harpers Ferry. My lieutenant-col- onel and major went by the left, and, I am informed, reached Hancock. They had 280 of my men. My regiment is still divided. Some 240 were captured, and one hundred and odd are still missing. The court then adjourned to meet at 12 m. Monday, August 24, 1863. FIFTEENTH DAY. AUGUST 24, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Colonel Schall was read over to him, corrected, and his examination resumed. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Do you consider that the retreat from Winchester to Harpers Ferry was properly conducted, and that the public property was suitably cared for? Answer. I think it was, under the circumstances. Question. Did you observe any want of coolness, capacity, or cour- age in any officer during the retreat or during the fighting at and near Winchester? Answer. I did not. Question. Was your regiment short of ammunition at any time during the fighting, before and in the retreat? Answer. It was not, excepting that I expended a large part of my ammunition on the morning of the 15th, and had no chance to replenish. When I started, the men had an average of 60 rounds. Question. Did sufficient time intervene from the first intimation of the enemys approach to the tjme of their attack to have removed the artillery to some place of safety? Answer. I think there was. Question. In your opinion, could or could not General Milroys command have retreated in good order on the 11th, 12th, 13th, or 14th of June, carrying off all or a portion of its artillery and stores? Answer. They could have done so, in my opinion, on the 11th, 12th, and until 3 p. in- 13th, I think Page 120 120 N. c., VA., W. VA., MI)., PA., ETC. [(WRAP. XXXIX. Question. In your opinion, who is to blame, or is any one, for the loss of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery? Answer. I do not know of any one. I was not familiar with the general orders existing. Question. Do you not know positively what one of our regiments fired upon your men during the retreat? Have you ever made any investigation or report of that affair? Answer. I do not know positively. I was under the impression that it was the Eighteenth Connecticut. I have not reported the fact officially. I have never made any investigation. Question. When was Colonel Ely, of. the Eighteenth Connecticut (your brigade commander), captured? Answer. I cannot say. I last saw him when making the second charge, on the 15th; this was after my regiment was fired into by the other regiment. Question. On your way to Harpers Ferry, what troops did you see of General Milroys command? Were they marching in good order, under control of their officers, or otherwise? Answer. I reached the larger portion of the One hundred and sixteenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio. They were formed by fours, and were marching in tolerable order. The men were very much fatigued. and there were many strag- glers. There were detachments of other regiments, all forming one command. I am not positive, but I think that many regiments were mixed up; that is, that men of different regiments were together. The One hundred and tenth and One hun- dred and twenty-second Ohio may have been separate. There were officers with them. By the COURT: Question. Were the orders which were given for the retreat fully carried out? If not, who was to blame; and why, in your opinion, were said orders not carried out? Answer. Yes, sir; th~y were as far as could be, so far as I know. I had no orders as to the order of retreat excepting that putting me on the right of the brigade Question. How do you reconcile your statements that a crowd of mounted teamsters broke through the ranks of the troops, and that your regiment was scattered and made its way in detachments to places many miles apart, with your subsequent statement that the retreat was orderly and well conducted? Answer. In the first place, where I state that one company of my regiment was separated by horses, I afterward stated that they again joined me. I would state that, as far as my command was concerned, it was much scattered; the One hun- dred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio had some time to form, they having left the woods about the time we entered it the last time, but I do not mean to say that the retreat was as orderly and as well conducted as this last ques- tion implies, but I presume it was as well as could be under the circumstances. Question. Could the command of General Milroy have retreated on Saturday, before Colonel McReynolds command came into Win- chester, without hazarding the destruction or loss by capture of that command? Answer. I think not, from what I learned afterward. I was not familiar with the force around. Question. On what day, and on what hour of the day, were the signal guns fired for Colonel McReynolds to march to Winchester? Answer. Some time on Saturday morning; I do not remember the hour, nor did I know at the time that they were signal guns Page 121 CUAP. XXXIXI 121 THE G]~TTYSflTJRd CAMPAIGN. Question. After Colonel MeReynolds and his command reached Winchester, were they in a condition to march immediately to Har- pers Ferry or Martinsburg without previous refreshment and rest; and, if so, how long would it have taken them to be sufficiently rested and replenished to make the march in question? Answer. I am not able to answer that, as I am not familiar with their retreat from Berryville. Question. What was the condition of your own command on Mon- day morning; was it fresh and active, or was it fatigued? Answer. It was very much used up. It had been in the field three days, scout- ing and fighting, and the men had very little rest during that time. Question. Could the artillery have been removed in safety from Winchester after Saturday, the 13th, at noon? Answer. I have stated that it might up to Saturday, at 3 o~clock. Question. Could the command of General Milroy have retreated from Winchester after Sunday, the 14th, at daylight in the morning, without encountering a large force of the enemy? Answer. No, sir. I presume we would have met a force equal or superior to our own. Question. Could more public property of any kind have been saved by a retreat on Sunday morning than by the retreat on Monday morn- ing? If yes, state why you think so. Answer. I am unable to answer that. It might have been, and might not. Question. Did the skirmishing at and about Winchester on Sunday aid you in the subsequent retreat? If so, how? Answer. I presume it did, by detaining the enemy, and requiring him to maneuver around, as he would not otherwise have done. Question. Was or not the attack of the enemy on your regiment so overwhelming as to make it necessary for it to divide and to re- treat by different roads? Answer. Yes, sir. If I had had a horse, I could have rallied more of my men. Having been dismounted, I was unable to do so. Question. Did the troops under the command of Colonel McRey- nolds appear on the field of battle at any time on Monday morning? Answer. I did not see any of them. I had not much opportunity of seeing any- thing any distance away from the regiment. Question. Would it not have been safe, in your opinion, for Colonel McReynolds command to retreat directly to Harpers Ferry from Berryville the morning of the 13th June last? Answer. I am unable to answer that, as I am not familiar with the force that attacked him, and with other troops that passed between him and Harpers Ferry. Question. In the event of the retreat of General Milroys command, would the occupation of. Berryville by McReynolds command have assisted that retreat? Answer. I think it would. Lieut. M. POORE, Fifth Yirginia Infantry, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What was your position on General Milroys staff dur- ing the recent battle at, and evacuation of, Winchester? Answer. I was acting as ordnance officer to his division Page 122 122 N.C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. tOHA~P. XXXtX. Question. How much ammunition for artillery and for small-arms was on hand at Winchester when the retreat was ordered? Answer. The ammunition for the field batteries was in the hands of their com- manders, and I cannot answer for iL At the time the attack was made, I had about 160 rounds of assorted ammunition per gun for the guns i~ position in the forts, and something over 300,000 rounds of small-arms ammunition. When the retreat was ordered, the percussion shells were exhausted, and the fuse shells nearly so, as were also the case shot. I suppose about 20 rounds per gun were left altogether. Captain Martin had charge of the howitzers, and I understood from him that their ammu- nition was nearly exhausted also. I estimate that there was also something over 200,000 rounds of small-arms ammunition left on hand. Question. Was any of this ammunition abandoned; if so, how much, and by whose orders was it done? Answer. It was all abandoned. Captain Martins notified me that our forces were rereating, and that we must get away as soon as possible. I think that heremarked to me that the guns and wagons were being abandoned. Further than that I re- ceived no orders. Our forces had gone, and I could do nothing but go, too. This ammunition was left in the magazine, and was not destroyed. Question. Was as much small ammunition carried off by our troops as was needed on their retreat, or as much as they could carry? Answer. I am not able to say how much they did carry away. I furnished each regiment with all that they asked for. Question. Do you know anything of the reconnaissance made by Captain Morgan, of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, on Sunday, June 14, 1863? Answer. I do not. Question. On your way to Harpers Ferry from Winchester, what troops did you see of General Milroys command? Were they march- ing in good order, and under the control of their officers? Answer. Previous to the engagement, I saw the whole command. I passed along from the rear nearly to the head of the column. They were marching in good order, and under the control of their officers. When the engagement commenced, I was on the ri,,,ht-hand side of the Martinsburg pike, about 1,000 yards from the head of the column. Immediately in my rear were the team horses, mounted principally by unarmed riders. When the fight commenced, these horses were thrown into confusion, and they rushed across the road to the left. My horse being somewhat frightened, rushed across to the left of the road also. There were a number of in- fantrymen scattered from their commands, moving also in that direction. As I had no orders, I tbought it best to attempt to gather them up, and, for half an hour or so, I was engaged in collecting them, and forcing them to join the ranks of some regiment. After this, I saw a body of men to the left of the road, perhaps amount- ing to two companies. They belonged to the Fifth Maryland Regiment. I halted them, and went back to find General Milroy, for orders. He ordered them to be brought back and formed in line of battle. I brought them back to where the line had been formed, and just as we got there, the order had been given to move for- ward. I saw the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, the One hundred and tenth, One hundred and twenty-second, and One hundred and twenty-third Ohio Regiments advancing in good order. Those are the only troops that I saw after the engagement or in it. By the COURT: Question. Do you know whether the guns of position were spiked or otherwise disabled? Answer. I did not see them spiked; I understood that they were. I do not know whether they were otherwise disabled or not. Question. What amount of ammunition were you ordered to keep on hand at Winchester? Answer. Two hundred rounds per gun for artillery, and 140 rounds per man of small-arms ammunition Page 123 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 123 Question. W~ s there any supply of reserve ammunition; and, if so, where was it kept? Answer. I had none. About one or two weeks previous, a requisition had been made, but none had been received. Question. Do you know what were Major-General Milroys in- structions, written or oral, with regard to the holding or evacuation of Winchester? Answer. I do not. The object of our being there was generally understood to be the protection of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and that we were to abandon the place if attacked by a superior force. Question. Did you accompany Major-General Milroy, after the fight on Monday morning, on the retreat to Harpers Ferry? Answer. I did. Question. At what time on Monday morning did you leave the scene of the fight; what road did you take, and who else was with you? Answer. I left a little after sunrise. I took the Martinsburg pike for about 2 or 3 miles; then we took a road to the right, leading about in the direction of Charles- town; then we left this road, turning to the left, and striking in the direction of Harpers Ferry, and meeting the pike from Harpers Ferry to Charlestown about 4 miles from Harpers Ferry. I can only give the general direction of our course. General Milroy, Major Cravens, assistant adjutant-general; Captain Palmer, Lieu- tenant McCracken, General Elliott, and his adjutant-general, Lieutenant Shaw, and Colonel Keifer. with a portion of his regiment; Colonel Ball, with his regiment; Lieutenant Dawson, with a portion of his company (K), First Virginia Cavalry; Captain McDonald, commissary of subsistence; Captain Baird, aide-de-camp, and detachments of other regiments. Question. Did you cut your way through the enemy on Monday, or .did you turn their position, and thus escape? Answer. We rather turned their position. Question. Did you or not ever hear Major-General Milroy express dissatisfaction at having been instructed to abandonWinchester? If so, when did he so express himself? Answer. I have heard him express some dissatisfaction two or three months previous to the evacuation. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. Tuesday, August 25, 1863. SIXTEENTH DAY. AUGUST 25, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Colonel Schall and Lieutenant Poore was read over to those officers and corrected. The judge-advocate then informed the court that no witnesses were in waiting, but that Lieut. Col. Donn Piatt and Maj. J. 0. Cravens had been notified to attend. Major Crayons and Captain Powell were then sent for. At 12.30 oclock no witnesses having arrived, the court adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. August 26, 1863. SEVENTEENTH DAY. AUGUST 26, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. Lieut. Col. Donn Piatt, assistant inspector-general, Eighth Army Corps, a witness called by the court, was called upon for an explan Page 124 124 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. tion of his absence on yesterday. He stated to the court that his duties required his being in Baltimore, and that he had started from there in order to attend, as required, but that the train had been un- usually delayed. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, U. S. Volunteers, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What was your position on Major-General Scheucks staff at the time Winchester was evacuated by General Milroys com- mand? Answer. I was his chief of staff. Question. What orders or instructions were received by General Schenck from the General-in-Chief, in reference to holding or evac- uating Winchester? Answer. I was in Delaware with the general, I think, on the 7th or 8th of June, when, in anticipation of a raid by General Stuart, he ordered me to go to Win- chester, and make an inspection of that place, and to report to him as to the actual condition of General Milroy and his forces there, and also to report to him what had better be done under the circumstances. At Baltimore I telegraphed to General Schenck, asking what places the General-in-Chief had designated as the better ones for the concentration of troops in case the raid came on. General Schenck answered me that the General-in-Chief had not designated any points, and I then telegraphed to Major-General Halleck, in General Schencks name, the following telegram, viz: BALTIMORE, MD., June 9, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Does your knowledge of rebel movements enable you to suggest the better pQints on the railroad to concentrate? I have at Point of Rocks and Frederick ~,400 men; at Harpers Ferry, 6,300; at Winchester, 6,900; at Martinsburg, 3,000; at Romney, 2,300; at New Creek, 2,400. Troops at Winchester can fall back now to Harpers Ferry; in face of enemy, to Martinsburg. Force at Romney can fall back to Green Spring. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. I would say, in explanation of this telegram, that the troops enumerated there are not correctly stated. I had been but a short time in the department, and gathered that representation from the returns at headquarters. Subsequently I found that this force was greatly exaggerated at each one of those points. I received no an- swer to this telegram before I left Baltimore. I proceeded, on the night of the 9th June, if I recollect right, by way of Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg, to Winchester, where I arrived, I think, on the 10th June. After looking at the works, and making a hurried inspection of the troops, I returned to Martinsburg. At Martinsburg, or just before entering that place, I was overtaken by an express from General Milroy, sending me the following telegram, viz: Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, BALTIMORE, June 11, 186312.40 p. m. Martinsburg: The following just received from Washington: Harpers Ferry is the impor- tant place; Winchester is of no importance other than as a lookout. The Winches- ter troops, except enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. The troops at Martinsburg should also be ready to fall back to Harpers Ferry. No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. Colonel Piatt will take steps for preparing to carry out carefully and judiciously these instructions of the General-in-Chief. The troops at Romney will also have to be considered in any arrangement for such falling back and concentration. Be ready, but wait for further orders. ROBT. C. SCHENCK Major-General, Commanding Page 125 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 125 I had not at Martinsburg the cipher, and telegraphed, or rather wrote the follow- bag telegram, to General Milroy at Winchester, viz: MAIITINsBURG, June 11, 1863. Major-General MILEGY, Winchester, Va.: The telegram received. It must be considered an order, and obeyed accordingly Take immediate steps. You understand this. I write at length by orderly. DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. I immediately sent Mr. Woodhull to Harpers Ferry, where he could procure a cipher, with the following telegram to Major-General Milroy, viz: MARTINSBURG, June 11, 1863. Major-General MILnoY: In accordance with orders from Halleck, received from headquarters at Balti- more to-day, you will immediately take steps to remove your command from Win- chester to Harpers Ferry. You will without delay call in Colonel McReynolds and such other outposts not necessary for observation at the front. Send bacK your heavy guns, surplus ammunition, and subsistence, retaining only such force and arms as will constitute what General Halleck designates as a lookout, which can readily and without inconvenience fall back to Harpers Ferry before a superior force. DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. After giving the necessary orders, as I considered them, at Martinsburg, to cor- respond with this one given to General Milroy, I proceeded to New Creek, for the purpose of looking after the troops at Romney. At New Creek, I received the following telegram from General Schenck, viz: BALTIMORE, June 12, 1863. Lieut. Col. DoNN PIATT, Chief of Staff, New Creek, Va.: Copy of your dispatch to General Milroy just received from Captain Woodhull, You have somewhat exceeded my instructions. I directed steps to be taken for preparinc, to carry out instructions of the General-in-Chief, and added: Be ready, but wait for further orders. II will communicate directly with Milroy. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. I received it on 12th June. The following is the telegram referred to as having been sent direct to General Milroy. I never saw it until my return to Baltimore, viz: BALTIMORE, June 12, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Winchester, Va.: Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, as I learn by copy of dispatch sent me, which he f or- warded to you from Harpers Ferry, misunderstood me, and somewhat exceeded his instructions. You will make all the required preparations for withdrawing, but hold your position in the meantime. Be ready for movement, but await further orders. I doubt the propriety of calling in McReynolds brigade at once. If you should fall back to Harpers Ferry, he will be in part on tIme way, and covering your flank. But use your discretion as to any order to him. Below I give you a copy of the telegram of the General-in-Chief. Nothing heard since. Give me constant informatio~:. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, 1ommanding. [Copy of General flallecks telegram.] Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no importance other than as a lookout. The Winchester troops, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. ~. HALLECK, General-in-Ghief Page 126 126 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA.~ ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. After my return to headquarters at Baltimore, General Schenek attempted to tele- graph to General Milroy to fall back, but failed, the wires having been cut between Martinsburg and Winchester. I think this was on the 13th, about noon. These are all the orders that I remember of now. I think that there were two advisory tele- grams, very much like the one here given from the General-in-Chief to General Scheuck, that were received previous to my coming to the department. They are in substance the same as this. Question. Were any other orders than those you have quoted given to General Milroy by General Schenek in reference to his position at Winchester? Answer. None others that I recollect. I may say, indeed, none others. Question. Have you the means of knowing how the retreat from Winchester was conducted; whether or not the public property was suitably cared for, and how many of, and in what condition, General Milroys command arrived at Harpers Ferry? Answer. None other than what is shown in the reports and telegrams. I was in Baltimore at that time, and know nothing of my own personal knowledge about it. By the COURT: Question. Did General Schenck know that General Milroys com- mand was in any special danger on or before Saturday, the 13th of June, 1863? If so, at what time dPI he know it, and what action did he take upon the subject? Answer. General Schenck was influenced, as I learned afterward, in his action in reference to my orders, by advices that he received from Brigadier-General Kelley, from Colonel McReynolds, and other officers stationed in or near the Valley, who represented to him that there were no rebels in the Valley other than the forces under Jones and Imboden, and these were represented as moving back up the Valley, leaving no force whatever threatening Winchester. He had a very high opinion of General Kelleys knowledge of the country and sources of information, and General Kelley had represented to him, as he had to me on my return from New Creek, that we were, to use his own words, afflicted with a big scare. On the 12th of June, 1863, General Schenck telegraphed as follows to the General- in-Chief, viz: BALTIMoRE, MD., June 12, 1863. Major-General HALLEcK, General-in-Chief: Have you any knowledge or belief that there is any rebel infantry in the Valley or north of the Rappahannock, on this side of the Blue Ridge? There seems to me to be yet only parties of cavalry. Kelleys scouts could find no enemy in Loudoun to-day, having gone as far up as Hillsborough. VROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. To this he received, June 13, 1863, the following telegram, viz: WAR DEPARTMENT, June 13, 186311 a. m. Major-General ScHENcK: Our cavalry scouts will probably be in to-day with more reliable information from the Valley. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. On June 14, the following telegram was received from Major-General Halleck: WAR DEPARTMENT, June 14, 186310.30 a. m. Major-General ScHENcK: It is reported that Longstreets and Ewells corps have passed through Culpeper to Sperryville, toward the Valley. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief Page 127 Ciw. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 127 On the 13th, General Schenck received the following dispatch from General Kelley: HARPERS FERRY, June 13, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel CHESEBROUGH: A messenger just from Charlestown reports that the enemy attacked Colonel McReynolds at Berryville this morning, and was repulsed, but that McReynolds sub- sequently fell back, by way of Smithfield, on Winchester, and that, shortly after he left, the rebel cavalry dashed in and burned the stores. If this is reliable, it would seem as if it was not a movement in force, as they in that case would need all the stores they could get. Have you any information from Heintzelman or Stahel of the approach of the rebels? B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. As General Kelley was a Virginian by birth, and lived nearly all his life in that~ country, and was very extensively acquainted with the inhabitants, and was well up in the roads, fords, and passes, his opinion had great weight, as it was backed up by the represented constant efforts reported by scouts and spies as to the move- ments of the enemy in reference to the Stuart raid. The first intimation that Gen- eral Schenck had of the approach of the rebels in force came from Lees army at Winchester. Question. When at Winchester, on the 10th of June, did you exam- ine the works and preparations for defense made by Major-General Milroy? If so, what was your opinion of them and of their capacity against a superior force? Answer. I thought the works were too extended for General Milroys force against a superior force made up of cavalry and light artillery. I thought, of course, that he could hold his own, and I so expressed myself. But against a force such as Stonewall Jackson used to take down that Valley, I thought the works would be of small use, and would not justify his remaining. Question. What did you find to be the condition and disposition of General Milroys forces with reference to any anticipated attack? Answer. They were in good condition and spirits as far as I could see in my short visit there. The officers under General Milroy expressed themselves confident of success in case they were attackedthat is, by a cavalry force in this raid, that was anticipated. At a meeting of the officers at headquarters (I dont remember the naipes of any one excepting General Elliott and Colonel Ely), they all expressed themselves hopeful and satisfied that they could hold their own there. Question. Can you make any explanation of the difference between yourself and Major-General Schenck in construing General Hallecks telegram of the 11th of June? Answer. There was no difference between General Scheuck and myself, in refer- ence to our construction of that telegram. I saw fit to use it as an order for an im- mediate evacuation, for the following easons: I had been upon the ground, and satisfied myself that, if the raid did come off, General Milroy ought not to be at Winchester. The forces at Martinsburg I found demoralized, through the bad cot duct of its colonel, Smith, One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio, so that the stores there and the force itself could have easily been captured. I observed that General Hallecks telegram was subsequent to the fight at Beverly Ford, which had been represented through the press as a victory on our part and a defeat of the Stuart raid, and I thought the tone of it indicated that it was not a victory, and that the raid might still be anticipated at any moment. It will be observed in my first telegram to General Milroy, that I say: This, from General Halleck, must be con- sidered an order, and executed accordingly. General Schenck, on the other hand, having found General Milroy at Winchester when he took comiliand of the depart- ment, and having been in continual consultation with the General-in-Chief as to his manner of treating that post, took this telegram, as be had the others, as instructing him to remove General Milroy back to Harpers Ferry when satisfied that he was in danger. I will say here that General Schenck had proposed to the General-in-Chief to protect the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad by a line of posts running from the Potomac, through Leesburg, Snickers Gap, Winchester, and Romney, to New Creek, and to take the troops in a great measure away from the line of the railway. Tha Page 128 128 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX gave rise to these telegrams, and, in General Scheneks estimation, and in my own, there was nothing in the last telegram that indicated an order for an immediate evacuation more than the others. Question. What, in your judgment, was the effect of the defense made at Winchester in checking and delaying the enemy, and making known his strength before his advance into Maryland and Pennsylvania? Answer. The court is a better judge of that than I am. If the War Department and the General-in-Chief had no other information of the movements of Lee than is indicated in the two telegrams received in Baltimore, the check that the rebels received at Winchester must have been of importance to us. Question. How long did it take you to send a dispatch from Balti.. more to General Milroy and to get his answer? Answer. Winchester was connected with our office by telegraph through Har- pers Ferry and Martinsburg. When the lines were in working order, our communi- cations were, as is usual, with the telegraph. We had excellent operators always at their posts. I do not recollect an instance where there was any delay in getting an order through. Question. Did or did not General Schencks order to General Mil- roy (to remain at Winchester until further orders), deprive him en- tirely of all discretionary authority to retire, without reference to the force that might attack him? Answer. It certainly did. He had no discretion, but to remain there until fur- ther orders. Question. Do you know whether Major-General Schenck com- municated to Major-General Milroy the numerous orders he had re- ceived from the General-in-Chief in relation to the absolute necessity of abandoning Winchester and falling back on Harpers Ferry? Answer. He certainly did transmit them, but not in the shape of orders. He sent them altogether by telegraph, I think. I can answer more fully to-morrow, after reference to the records at our headquarters in Baltimore. Question. What is the date of General M ilroys last telegram to General Schenck from Winchester? Answer. I believe the following is the last, viz: HARPERS FERRY, June 13, 186311 a. m. Major-General SCHENOK: Have received the following dispatch from General Thlroy. Am very sorry you interfered with me. DONN PIATT Chief of Staff Colonel PIATT, Chief of Staff: A small detachment of First New York encountered a body of rebel cavalry at White Post, supposed to be the advance of force met by Twelfth Pennsylvania on Front Royal road. Two of First New York wounded and 1 missing. One rebel killed and some wounded. A large rebel wagon train, with strong cavalry force, was discovered on Cedar Creek or Back road this morning. Have sent out heavy scout- ing parties on Cedar Creek, Front Royal, and Strasburg roads, well supported. Have not yet heard from Berryville. Am perfectly certain of my ability to hold this place. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. Colonel PJATT, Chief of Staff: Enemy have appeared in considerable force on Cedar Creek, Strasburg~ and Front Royal roads, and s1~irmishin~ ~oin~ on. Nothing but cavalry appears yet. Let them come. R. 4. MILROY Page 129 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 129 I will examine further, and see if this is the last. The last communication from %I~eneral Milroy was on the 13th June, 1863. By the COURT: Question. Did General Scheuck, after his telegram to General Mil- roy, directing him to remain at Winchester until further orders, ever 8end those orders? If so, when and how were they sent; and what were they? Answer. On the 13th of June, or some time subsequent to the 13th, the interrup- tion of communication was discovered on his trying to send General Milroy an order to fall back immediately. General Schenck became satisfied that General Milroy was seriously threatened by a superior force, and he also received from me, by letter, I think, my reasons for urging the evacuation of Winchester. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Have you submitted to the court all telegrams or copies of telegrams from and to Generals Halleck, Scheuck, Milroy, and Kelley, that are in your possession, and that have any reference to the holding or evacuation of Winchester? Answer. I now submit all that I have. But one has been lost, I think, and that is the one alluded to in General Milroys report as lost. I do not recognize that as my telegram, as quoted by him. If my memory serves me right, I gave my reasons more at length than is there stated, and I could not have said, and I considered it a positive order to fall back to Harpers Ferry, and I so ordered Milroy. (See Ap- pendix D.) Maj. J. 0. CRAVENS, assistant adjutant-general, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Were you Major-General Milroys adjutant-general during the recent tight at, and evacuation of, Winchester by his command? Answer. I was. Question. What orders or instructions, written or verbal, had General Milroy in reference to his position at Winchester? Answer. As I remember, the only orders he had were from General Schenck. The date of those orders I cannot give. Some time in the early part of June, about the 12th, he received an order from General Schenck to hold himself in readi- ness to evacuate Winchester, but to await further orders. That was received on the same day that it was dated. A copy of an order from General Halleck to General Scheuck was sent at the same time, but I did not consider it an order to General Milroy. I considered it as instructions to General Schenck, which he forwarded for General Milroys information. There was another received from Colonel Piatt that I saw on Friday morning; it is the one quoted in General Milroys report. There were no other orders than these that I now remember of. Question. Had you reason to believe, or did you know, whether or not he was expected to hold Winchester as long as he could, or whether he was expected to fall back to Harpers Ferry on the approach of the enemy in force? Answer. I believe that he was expected to hold Winchester until further orders. Question. What orders were issued in reference to the order of retreat; and how were they distributed to the command? Answer. I think it was some time between 12 and 1 oclock at night, of June 14, that the council of war concluded to evacuate Winchester, and fall back to Harpers Ferry. General Milroy then directed me to issue orders to have the command fill their haversacks with subsistence, replenish their ammunition, and be in readiness to evacuate at 2 a. m. on the 15th. As a part of that order, he instructed me to 9 R RVOL XXVII, PT I Page 130 130 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. have the artillery horses taken from their carriages, the team horses from their wagons, and to have them mounted by the artillerymen, teamsters. and such infan- try as could not march, and ordered them to go out with the cavalry. At the same time, he ordered that~ the guns should be spiked after all the troops had passed out except the company in charge of them, and be left in the fort. These were verbal orders, and I delivered all of them myself, I think, to the commanding officersto General Elliott and Colonel Ely. I did not deliver them to Colonel McRey- nolds, but I think Major McGee, aide-dc-camp, delivered them to him. Members of General Milroys staff were busy from that hour assisting me in getting the troops ready for the retreat. My recollection of the order of retreat was that the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry should go in advance on the Martinsburg road until they reached the road leading to Summit Station; that there they should take the Summit~ Station road to Harpers Ferry, via Charlestown. The next in order was: First Brigade, under General Elliott; Second Brigade, under Colonel Ely, Eighteenth Connecticut in the rear; the Third Brigade, under Colonel McReynolds, of First New York Cavalry. I think the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry and First New York formed the rear guard. At 2 oclock the troops commenced marching out in the order designated. Question. Was or was not the retreat properly conducted? Answer. Really, I am unable to make any criticism; it was not a success in aU particulars, because we lost in strength one entire brigade, Colonel McReynolds, which was lost to us on the retreatthat day, I mean. While on the retreat, some 3 miles from Winchester, General Milroy stopped on the roadside with his staff, say- ing that he would ~emain there until the troops passed him, as that was now the place of danger. He had been there but a few moments, when we heard a few shots in advance. He then rode rapidly to the front with his staff. Passing Colonel Mc- Reynolds, the general remarked to him in person, Move up rapidly with your command, colonel. We then passed on to the front, and when we arrived there he discovered what we supposed to be the enemys pickets, on the right of the Mar- tinsburg road. It was not yet daylight. I noticed a column of cavalry moving down to the right of the road, parallel with the enemys picket line. At the same time I observed two regiments of infantry moving off to the left of the Martinsburg road. They were part of our troops. General Milroy ordered that those two regi- ments of infantry be brought back to the Martinsburg road, at the same time order- ing two companies of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry to be deployed as skirmishers, and for the balance of the regiment to act as their support. I observed some confusion among our tioops in the rear; they were running, and firing some random shots among themselves. It was not yet daylight, and the regiments were so broken up at that place, that I could not distinguish them. They had been thrown into confusion by the artillery and team horses, which were unmanageable, owing to their riders being generally without saddles and bridles. I have learned since that they were the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio and Twelfth Virginia Infantry; the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio belonged to the First Brigade and the Twelfth Virginia to the Second. We succeeded in restoring order among their men, and I then returned to the general, and found a portion of our forces engaged with the enemy. Just at that time, I think, the Eighteenth Connecticut, One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania were formed in line of battle on the left of the Martinsburg road. These regiments were ordered by the general to charge the enemy, in support of our troops who were engaged. They did so were repulsed twice, I believe; but one of the regiments, the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, gained a position; the others recoiled. They rallied again imme- diately, and were sent back the third time; at that time we succeeded in driving the enemys right flank. At that time, I discovered a portion of our own troops on our right flank falling back from the timber where they were engaged. The troops on our left, having gained a passage, were passing out the Martinsburg road. I did not see the general at that time. Just before that I saw him dismounted. It was very soon after the third charge had been made. I rode back, of my own accord, to the troops on our right, whom I found in command of Colonel Ely and Colonel Wilson. I ordered them to march by the left flank, following a ravine running parallel with the Martinsburg road until they came to its head, and then to follo the retreating column. I left them then, and rode rapidly to the troops who were already moving off in retreat, where I found the general, and told him what I had done. He remarked that he had sent a like order to them. Those two regiments, the Eighteenth Connecticut and the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, were cutoff, and a large portion captured. I think that must have been the result of a very tardy movement, as they were not far from the rest of the column. From there to Har- pers Ferry we met no enemy, and had no further casualties. The Third Brigade di Page 131 Ca& r. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 131 not come into action on the morning ~f the 15th. It did not come up at all. One regiment of it, the Sixth Maryland, I believe, got through almost entire to Harpers Ferry. The Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania was lost, I think. The First New York and Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry got through with small loss; they went through by the way of Bath. The Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry went through to the right to Harpers Ferry. I remember General Mifroy ordered Captain Palmer, aide- de-camp, while we were engaged with the enemy, to hurry up Colonel McReynolds. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m: August 27, 1863. EIGHTEENTH DAY. AUGUST 27, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt was read over to him and corrected. The judge-advocate then informed the court that he had examined the telegrams handed him by Colonel Piatt, and had selected all that applied to the case in hearing that were not already before the court. (See Appendix D.) The examination of Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt was continued. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: 9 uestion. Was General Milroy under the command of Major-Gen- era Schenck at or about the time of the evacuation of Winchester? Answer. General Milroys forces formed part of the Eighth Army Corps, under command of Major-General Schenck. In conclusion, Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt stated as follows: After an examination of the records at Baltimore, I find that I was in error yes- terday in saying that General Schenck sent those orders to General Milroy by tele- graph. There is no record of their being sent at all, excepting those quoted in my testimony, and that was not sent to General Milroy; it was sent to me at Winchester after I left, and was communicated by the operator to General Milroy, who sent it after me by express. The evidence given by Major Cravens on yesterday was read ovei to him, corrected, and his examination continued. By the JUDGE-ADvoCATE: Question. During the retreat, were the brigades and regiments kept united and in good order, under control of their respective com~ manders? Answer. All of that portion that passed the enemy and formed part of our col- umn were kept in tolerably good order until we had passed beyond Charlestown, and would, I think, have been serviceable at any moment. After we passed Charles~ town, they became weary, and straggled, but not enough to seriously endanger tha command. I have reference to those who went through with the general himself. I know nothing about the balance. Question. In what condition did General Milroys command arrive at Harpers Ferry? Answer. I did not see the troops enter Harpers Ferry. Near Loudoun Heights, General Milroy ordered General Elliott to remain there and organize the troops, and bring them into Harpers Ferry in good order. Question. During the fighting at or near Winchester, and during the retreat, did you observe any want of coolness, judgment, or bravery in any officer of General Milroys command? Answer. I think not Page 132 132 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Question. In your opinion, could ~r could not General Milroys command have retreated in good order with its artillery and trains on the 11th, 12th, 13th, or 14th of June, 1863? Answer. I think he could have gone out on the 11th or 12th; not at any time after that. Question. Is any officer to blame, in your opinion, for the loss of Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery; if so, who? Answer. From what I could observe of the position they were occupying at the time, the manner in which the guns were served, and the manner in which they were supported by the infantry, I think the loss was unavoidable. I would not hold any officer responsible for that battery. By the COURT: Question. What was the number of killed, wounded, and missing in General Milroys command at Winchester from the time of the first attack by the enemy up to the time the place was evacuated? Answer. I have never seen an official report. My recollection is that there were 0 killed, wounded, and missing. Question. What was the number of killed, wounded, prisoners, and unaccounted for during the retreat? Answer. Something near 4,000 at the time we got to Harpers Ferry. We col- lected in Pennsylvania 2,700. That was the strength of the command on my last official report to General Couch; that was my report of June 25, I believe. This was part of that force that was lost to us on the retreat, and did not include that ~portion who came through under General Milroys immediate command. Question. What measures were taken during the retreat to secure, as far as practicable, the safety of the column, and to guard against ~ surprise or sudden attack upon the main body of the command while en route for Harpers Ferry? Did the order of the command- ing general require vedettes and flankers to be thrown out during the retreat? Answer. There were no flankers ; nothing but an advance and rear guard, to my knowledge. There were no orders that I know of as to the formation to be made in case of attack. Question. Was Major-General Milroy under the command of Major-General Schenck, and entirely subject to his orders at the time Winchester was attacked, and for the three weeks previous to the attack? Answer. Yes, sir. Question. Were the roads over which the troops retreated practi- cable for field guns? Answer. Up to the point of attack on the morning of the 15th, and 2 miles be- yond, the roads were practicable for artillery and trains. From that point on we could not have moved our artillery, because we left all roads, and went through the iields and timber, to avoid an anticipated flank movement by the enemy. Qnestion. If you had had field batteries with you on the retreat, would they have been of service in keeping the enemy at bay, or otherwise facilitating the retreat? Answer. If we could have had the batteries at the point of attack, they would have been of great service to us; but I do not think we could have taken them there on account of the close proximity of the enemy to the forts when we evacuated. The moving of the artillery would have brought the enemy down upon us at once. I do not think their pickets were more than 200 yards from our rifle-pits. The ground about the forts and the roads was stony, particularly from the star fort to the Martinsburg road. I think the artillery would have made a great deal of noise if we had attempted to move it Page 133 CHAP. XXXIXJ THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 133 Question. Was any order given as to destroying the stores, wagons, & c., left at Winchester? Answer. No order, to my knowledge. There was nothing of any consequence to destroy; we had been on half rations for two days. I mean that we had half rations of bread, of meat; we had full rations of everything else. Question. Did any of the field-battery commanders appeal to you to be permitted to take away their guns? Answer. No, sir; I have no recollection whatever of any artillery officer asking permission to take away his guns, or stating that he was able to do it. Captain Carlin regretted leaving his battery very much, but he did not express a belief that he could take it out, or ask permission to do so. It is my belief that I did not se~ Captain Alexander at any time after the evacuation was determined on. Question. On Sunday, before the retreat, did you observe any force of the enemy on the Berryville road? Was there any fighting in that direction, and at what time? Answer. I did notice the enemy on the Berryville road on Sunday, and we com- menced skirmishing with them at about 10 a. in.; that skirmishing continued until dark. It became so warm during the day that we sent two regiments and One how- itzer there. I only saw their line of skirmishers. Toward night the warmest por- tion of our skirmishing on that side of the town was on the Berryville road. Question. Was Battery L supported by the force usual and proper for a battery not threatened with immediate attack? What notice was there of the enemys advance in that direction at the time the battery was taken? Answer. I think the battery was properly supported with infantry, considering its proximity to the main force. The first notice we had of the enemy being there was the opening of his batteries on that position. A cavalry reconnaissance had returned two hours previous, under Lieutenant-Colonel Moss, who reported no enemy between the Pughtown and Romney roads. Question. To what officer did you give the command to stop the troops going off on the left, as you have stated? Answer. I gave it to Captain Baird, aide-de-camp. Question. Would not the retreat have been entirely successful, in your judgment, if the Third Brigade had obeyed orders and come up promptly? Answer. It would. Question. If there had been wagons and artillery with the troops, would you not in all probability have taken the road instead of pass- ing over fields and through woods, and could not the column have marched in much better order and with greatei~ security to all, and, if there had been artillery, could not the troops liave passed then by the road? Answer. It is my belief that if we had had wagons and artillery, we would have been engaged with the enemy before getting out of the town, and that the artillery and wagons would have been abandoned there. If we had been permitted by the enemy to have marched on the road, we could have moved with greater facilitie and in better order on the road than by the route we took. Had artillery been at our service at the time of the engagement, I believe we could have forced our way by the road. The only rebel battery that I saw on the retreat was one posted on the Summit Point road, I think. There may have been more than one battery posted there, but that is all the artillery I saw. Question. If by possibility you could have taken artillery from. Winchester, had you ammunition enough to have made the artillery essentially serviceable along your whole route from Winchester to Harpers Ferry? Answer. Our supply was very slim, but what we had was of a kind that would have been very serviceable Page 134 134 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Cau~. XXXIX. Question. When General Milroys force was first attacked at Win- chester, what was your own opinion, and, as far as you know, the general opinion of officers at headquarters, of your power to repel the assailants, and at what time and by what cause was that opinion changed? Answer. When we first learned that the enemy was in front, it was my impres- sion, and, I think, it was the impression of all the officers at headquarters, that it was nothing but the Valley defenses, under Jones, Jenkins, and Imboden, and that we could repel them with ease. We learned from a prisoner and a deserter on the evening of June 13, that Lees army had crossed into the Valley by way of Front Royal, and that Longstreets and Ewells corps were then surrounding us, and that it was with their forces we had been fighting that day. Question. What, in your judgment, was the number of the attacking force at Winchester, and the number of the force you encountered north of Winchester? Answer. From information derived from deserters and prisoners, the enemy op- posing us at Winchester was 40,000 or 50,000 strong; on the morning of the 15th, from 7,000 to 10,000 strong. They also represented that the enemy had on the morn- ing of the 15th from ei~,ht to twelve pieces of artillery. Question. Where, in your judgment, was the force you met north of Winchester on the day before you met them, and by what route had they probably got to the point at which you met them? Answer. It is my belief that that was the force we had skirmished with on the Berryville road the day before. I think they must have marched there over the country. Question. State whether or not, in your opinion, the skirmishing on Saturday and Sunday enabled you the better to retreat on Mon- day. Did it tend to open the route by which you retreated and to keep it open? Answer. I think it did enable us to retreat with more facility on Monday, and that it kept open the avenue of retreat. If we had not kept them engaged, they could have closed around us. That was their intention. Question. Whose duty is it to obtain information of the strength, disposition, advance, or retreat of an opposing force? Answer. The commanding officer of the forces against which they are operating Question. Did or not the commanding general give stringent orders to his cavalry scouts to observe closely the movements of the enemy? If so, were these instructions fully carried out by them? If not, what officer commanding these scouts failed in his duty? Answer. The general was in the habit of sending Gilt cavalry scouts almost every day from Berryville over into Loudoun, and to all ~he fords and ferries of the Shen- andoah River and that vicinity; cavalry scouts also from Winchester and Stras- burg and Front Royal, and sometimes within 2 or 3 miles of Woodstock. Our cavalry was kept actively engaged scouting and making reconnaissances; they did as much of that kind of service as their horses could stand. The generals orders and instructions were very stringent. The First New York Cavalry was very efficient, and, I believe, on every occasion executed their orders. The Twelfth and Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry were not so efficient, nor do I believe that they carried out their orders in a great many instances as they should and might have done. I think Lieutenant-Colonel Moss, of the Twelfth Pennsylvania, failed in his duty in one or two instances; one, I remember particularly, was once when he was ordered to make a reconnaissance at Cedarville (on the 12th June, I think). In that instance, the colonel reported that some 10 miles from Winchester the enemy was in some considerable force with infantry and artillery; that they had a full battery of artil- lery, and that twelve shots were fired at him from their artillery. A number of his subordinate officers and the scouts who were with him represented that there was not any artillery at all, and but about 1,500 infantry Page 135 CHAP. XXXIX.I THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 13~i Question. After it became known that there were movements of the enemy in your viciiiiity rather more active than usual, were any orders issued for more frequent or bolder reconnaissances? If so, what were they, and by whom issued? Answer. After we learned that the enemy was becoming bolder, and really threat- ening us, the cavalry was kept ont on the principal roads all the time, and some infantry and artillery were thrown out to operate with them and act as their re- serve. I believe that every precantion was taken for the safety of the command to prevent surprise and obtain information. Question. What was the strength of the reconnoitering party sent out from Winchester in the direction of Pughtown and Romney on Sunday morning, 14th instant; who gave the order for it, and what was it ordered to do? Answer. At 9 a. m. General Mi]roy ordered me to have the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry sent out on that reconnaissance; that command was, I think, 400 strong. I immediately delivered that order to Brigadier-General Elliott. I cannot say of my own knowledge that the reconnaissance was made at all. The order, as delivered to General Elliott, was for them to sconr the conntry between Pughtown and Romney roads, and learn what they could of the enemy. Question. If you had encountered the force you met on Monday within 1 or 2 miles of Winchester, could you have escaped? Answer. I think not; because we were so near the enemys main force that they could have fallen upon us before we could have been disengaged from the others. Question. Could you have escaped at all from Winchester without observing the utmost silence and the greatest caution? Could you have done so by any other route? Answer. To the first part of the question, I answer that I do not think we could. At the time of evacuating our position, I believe the Martinsburg road to be the only safe avenue of retreat. It was my opinion that all the other roads were held by the enemy. Question. What is the latest time at which you think the command of Major-General Milroy could have retreated with its artillery and train? Answer. I think that Friday night, the 12th of June, would have been the very latest. Colonel McReynolds came in on Saturday night from Berryville, but I do not think that General Milroys command could have retreated at that time without drawing on them the enemy, who were lying in the direction of Strasburg and Front Royal. The telegrams submitted by Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, and offered in evidence by the judge-advocate, were then read to the court and attached to the record. (See Appendix D.) The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. August 28, 1863. NINETEENTH DAY. AUGUST 28, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Major Cravens was read over to him and corrected. Capt. Z. BAIRD, aide-de-camp, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Were you on the staff of Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy during the retreat from Winchester, in June last? Answer. I was. I was on his staff during the occupancy of that place, and his officer of outposts Page 136 136 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. LCEAP. XXXIX. Question. What orders were delivered by you during the retreat from Winchester? Answer. The evacuation of Winchester was ordered about 10 oclock Sunday night. General Milroy communicated the order to me. He informed me that the artillery was to be abandoned, and also the wagons; that the brigade, regimental, and division quartermasters were to be instructed to carry off the public horses, if possible, and the ammunition that could not be carried by the men was to be thrown into the cisterns of the forts, or otherwise destroyed, as far as practicable, and that the brigades, in the order of their numbers, should march as soon as prac- ticable out of the forts. He directed me to busy myself in carrying out those dis- positions, and also other staff officers who were present. Captain Fe Motte, the division quartermaster, was present at the time. I devoted my time to Colonel Elys brigade, for the reason that his brigade was newly formed, and he had no reg- ular staff officers. I communicated the order for the evacuation to Lieutenant- Colonel Stanley [Schall], Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania, and Colonel Klunk, Twelfth Virginia, admonishing them at the time that the evacuation was to be conducted silently. The men were at the time asleep in the trenches and rifle-pits. They were waked up by notifying their captains. The forces moved from the forts, I think, about 2 oclock Monday morning. Avoiding the town of Winchester, they struck the Martinsburg road about a mile from the main fort, and proceeded north, on the Martinsburg road, a distance of four miles and a half from Winchester, when the advanced guard was fired upon by the pickets of the enemy. The enemy was in a woods to the right of the Martinsburg road and in a field to the right of that woods, and consisted, as I have since learned, of Johnsons division of Ewells corps, from 8,000 to 10,000 strong, with two batteries. When I first heard the firing upon our advanced guard, I was riding with Colonel Ely at the head of his brigade. I immediately rode forward toward the front, and met Major Cravens, of General Milroys staff. He directed me to ride forward, and order two regiments (the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio), which had filed to the left some distance back to the Martinsburg road, and place them in line of battle there, fronting the woods in which the enemy appeared to be. I immediately pro- ceeded to execute this order. When I arrived at the front of the column, I was about delivering the order to Colonel Keifer, of the One hundred and tenth Ohio, when I saw General Elliott, whom I supposed was with General Milroy. I apolo- gized to General Elliott for beginning to give this order to his colonels when he was present. General Elliott then explained to me~ that he had filed those regi- ments to the left with reference to forming his line of battle. The propriety of this disposition was manifest at the time, and the emergency being great, without returning for fresh orders, as General Milroys aide, I approved of it. General Elli- ott then ordered Colonel Keifer, with the One hundred and tenth Ohio, to proceed into the woods. The order was promptly obeyed. As soon as the regiment reached the woods, a severe firing of musketry occurred. General Elliott remarked to me that the enemy must be there in force, and that the One hundred and tenth should be immediately supported by the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio. I volun- teered to deliver the order to Colonel Ball, of the One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, and to guide him to the woods, so as to place him on the right flank of the One hundred and tenth Ohio, and to avoid shooting our own men by mistake. The One hundred and twenty-second Ohio arrived on the right flank of the One hundred and tenth in tolerably good order, and immediately commenced firing. Both regiments then advanced, and drove the enemy out of the woods. There were indications of a surprise to the enemy by the suddenness of their attack. They took one of their caissons, or passed it. We could look into their camp and see that their artillery horses were ungovernable. We were so close that we could hear the orders given by their officers in endeavoring to restore order. The fire of the enemy, though rapid, went over us, both of small-arms and artillery. As we progressed, we saw evidences from the wounded and slain of the enemy that our fire had been efficient. After this contest had lasted perhaps an hour, Colonel Keifer requested me to return to the rear and learn what dispositions were going on on the right to sustain Colonel Ball and himself. I complied with his order. When I arrived at the rear, I noticed the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, the Eighteenth Connecticut, and the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio advancing on the right, in line of battle, under the immediate command of Colonel Ely, of the Eighteenth Connecticut. General Milroy was also present, but dismounted, his horse being, as I supposed, disabled. He was engaged in changing horses. Without reporting to General Milroy, as I now recollect, I re- turned with all possible expedition to Colonel Keifer, to notify him of the support which he was about to have on the right. I supposed at the time that from the effect of the fire of the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty Page 137 Ci~r. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 137~ second Ohio, that when Colonel Ely with his force attacked on the right we wou1d~ route them. I met, however, the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio falling back. The officers were so busy in preserving order that I could not communicate with them during the retreat. After we had fallen back to the Martinsburg road, I saw Generals Milroy and Elliott. I was informed by the former that the retreat was again in progress. I received but one further order that morning. There were a large number of fugitives and stragglers in rear of the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, who were wandering around without having any common direction or course. Some of nearly every regiment of the First and Second Brigades were represented. I was ordered to re- turn, and endeavor to get these fugitives to fall in rear of the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio. I complied with the order as far as I could. There were not more stragglers than usually occur in such a fierce contest, and the perfect knowledge the men had of the large force in our rear contributed to the fright of the soldiers. Of course they knew the danger that surrounded them. Question. Do you cousider the retreat properly conducted; if not, who was in fault? Answer. I have never received a military education, and do not profess to be a competent judge. I believe that the course pursued in abandoning the artillery and wagons was demanded by the exigency of the occasion. I further believe that we could not have escaped the enemy on Monday morning, except under cover of a contest. What orders were given while that contest was going on, I am ignorant of, except those given to myself, as herein stated. There was a fault somewhere, un- doubtedly, in the retreat. The disposition of the Third Brigade, under Colonel Mc- Reynolds, which was in the rear, cannot be accounted for except upon the hypothesis that some officer was to blame. The commander of that brigade became separated from it, and the regiments became separated from each other, and this, too, without being in the battle. For these reasons, I think there was a fault somewhere in re- lation to that brigade. Being engaged in the advance with the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio, I am unable to state to what officer the blame attaches. After the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty- second Ohio left the field of battle, on Monday morning, I saw nothing in the mode of retreat to condemn. It was conducted by General Milroy and General Elliott in person. The dispersion of Colonel Elys command, and the surrender of a portion of it, may be accounted for by the severity of the contest in which they were en- gaged. As my testimony already shows, I did not witness it. The One hundred and sixteenth Ohio did not march with its brigade from the forts, nor did it at any time get with its brigade. By whose fault, I do not know. The night was very dark, which, favoring us in some respects, did not in others. I have no doubt that we eluded the enemy that was in our rear, estimated to be 20,000 strong, with at h~ast thirty guns, which could not have been done had we taken our artillery and wagons. The enemys sentinels were perhaps not 200 yards from the main fort. Question. During the fighting at Winchester and during the re- treat, did you observe any want of coolness, judgment, or courage~ in any officer, or any want of discipline in any regiment of General Milroys command? Answer. So far as my observation extended, the officers and men behaved witL rather more than ordinary merit. All orders which I delivered or gave were promptly obeyed. I have heard of instances of delinquency, but have no personaL knowledge of them. By the COURT: Question. Did Major-General Milroy send or give any orders to the Third Brigade during the retreat? If so, to whom were they given, and were they obeyed? Answer. I have no personal knowledge of what orders were sent to the Third Brigade. Question. Was or was not the First Brigade and also the Second Brigade dispersed in various directions, and did or did not these brigades arrive at the Potomac at points many miles apart, and at places other than that designated by Major-General Milroy? Answer. Yes; the intention was to retreat to Harpers Ferry. The order was generally understood by all the officers that we were retreating on Harpers Ferry Page 138 138 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CIIAP. XXXIX. Some of the troopsthe One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohioretreated to Harpers Ferry, and were followed by a fragment of the Eighty- seventh Pennsylvania, some of the Eighteenth Connecticut, and stragglers from other regiments. The One hundred and sixteenth Ohio and Twelfth Virginia re- treated through Bath, in Morgan County. They were also followed by portions of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania and by stragglers from other regiments. The Sixth Maryland must have retreated to our right in a different direction. It belonged to the Third Brigade. The Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania, belonging to the Third Bri- gade, was generally captured, but under what circumstances I am unable to say. I do not think that the loss in the Third Brigade was larger than in others. I think that the loss in killed, wounded, and missing was about equal among the brigades. Question. How large a portion of Major-General Milroys com- mand was with him on the retreat after the attack on the morning of Monday, Thth instant? Answer. The whole number that marched with us that day in that direction, after the contest Monday morning, must have been 1,200, of which from 000 to 800 arrived at Harpers Ferry with General Milroy and General Elliott. The remainder came in during the evening and next morning. After the men felt out of danger, they would straggle and lie down. The march was a very severe one. Question. What was the number of killed, wounded, an~l missing in Major-General Miiroys command from the time of the first attack to the time of the evacuation, and what was the number during the Tetreat? Answer. I am unable to answer, except in general terms. lTn to the time of the evacuation, our loss was very slight. So far as I observed, on Monday morning our loss in killed and wounded was very slight. Question. Did you see Colonel McReynolds at any time during the contest of Monday morning? ]if so, what was he doing? Answer. I did not; I was not in a position to have seen him. Question. Did you see any part of the Third Brigade during the contest? If so, please state the particulars. Answer. No; I did not, for the same reason given in my last answer. I only came to the rear once after entering the wood with the Ohio regiment, when I saw the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania, Eighteenth Connecticut, and One hundred and twenty-third Ohio marching into the woods on our right, under the immediate com- inand of Colonel Ely. I saw no other troops at that time. Question. Would or would not the presence of the brigade in the battle have contributed to the success of the retreat and the safety of the forces? Answer. Judging from the effect of the attack of the One hundred and tenth and One hundred and twenty-second Ohio on the enemys right, I am inclined to the opinion that had it been supported by the whole force at the proper time, the enemy would have been driven from his guns, and a retreat in better order secured, though I do not think we could have carried away any trophies of the victory, for the reason that the enemy was so heavy in our rear, and would have been upon us. Questioli. During the fight on Monday, did you give any order to the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio, belonging to the First Brigade? Answer. I have no recollection of giving any order to that regiment, or seeing any of its officers. Question. How near was the enemy to the town of Winchester, on the east and south and west sides of the place, at the time you began to retreat on Monday morning? Answer. On Saturday night they approached Winchester from the Strasburg road within a mile and a half. We had no force in that direction on Sunday that I know of. General Elliott, within a quarter of a mile, and west of the forts, skirmished with th Page 139 CIa& p. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 13~ enemy during Sunday until the final attack was made on an outwork north and west of the main fort, held by Colonel Keifers regiment and Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artil- lery, which the enemy captured. During Sunday the enemy approached on the Ber- ryville road, and between it and the Front Royal road, within a few hundred yards of the town. Colonel Ely, with the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania, Eighteenth Con- necticut, a~ d Fifth Maryland, skirmished with them during that day until the final attack. When that attack was made, all our troops went into the forts and rifle-pits. On Monday morning, when the retreat commenced, the enemys forces north of us, between Pughtown and Romney roads, must have been within a very short distance. After the final attack made by the enemy on Sunday, I cannot say how near the enemy approached east, west, and south of us. Question. What had prevented the north side of the town of Win- chester from being occupied by the enemy at the time you began to retreat? Answer. It was commanded by our guns in the forts. That road (the Martins- burg) was more completely commanded than any other. Question. How great a space did the main fort and the star fort protect on the north side of Winchester; and how much, if any, on other parts of the town? Answer. They protected to the full extent of the range of their guns. Question. At what time, and under what circumstances, did you first learn what forces of the enemy were before you? Answer. I was directed by General Milroy to take two companies of the T~velfth Virginia Infantry, and drive the enemy from one of our picket posts. In executing that order, I captured a prisoner. After a close examination, I learned from him that he belonged to Hays (Louisiana) brigade, which was a portion of Ewells corps, and that the whole of Ewells corps was present and operating against us. This was between 5 and 6 oclock on the evening of the 13th. I immediately reported the prisoner, with his information, to Generals Milroy and Elliott. Question. Could you have retreated safely upon Harpers Ferry on Friday? Answer. I think we could have retreated on Friday morning with all of our per- sonnel and mat e~riel. In the afternoon, I considered it doubtful, on account of the approach of the enemy to Cedarville at 2 p. m. My opinion, however, is that we could have retreated at any time on Friday. The following question was then submitted for the consideration of the court, viz Could you have done so on Saturday? If no, why not; judging from all the information you now have upon that subject? The court was then cleared, and, after mature deliberation, direct that the following rule of action be recorded, viz: Questions and an- swers with regard to propriety of the defense of, and retreat from, Winchester, with regard to the time of its commencement, and the manner in which it was conducted, will be restricted to, and gov- erned by, the information presented by the parties at the time, and not by what has been ascertained since. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. August 29, 1863. TWENTIETH DAY. AUGUST 29, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The judge-advocate then submitted the following protest that he liad received from Major-General Milroy, viz: Major-General Milroy protests against the decision of the court excluding all testimony of facts actually existing at the time of th Page 140 140 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [Ciw.. XXXIX. attack on Winchester and the evacuation thereof, but not then known to the officers whose conduct is under examination. It is true an officers justification for his acts may be fairly made to rest on the information he has, though that may be false, yet an officer may equally be justified if he disregard false information and act wisely with reference to facts actually unknown to him. He may be re- sponsible for giving credence to false information, when by an exer- cise of sound judgment he might reasonably know better. In every point of view, it would be manifestly unjust to exclude evidence of the actual truth of any military situation, even when investigating acts done in ignorance of the true state of things existing at the time. R. H. MILROY, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers. The court was then cleared, and, after mature deliberation, decide& as follows The court permits the protest of Major-General Milroy to appear upon its record, with the simple statement on its part that its ruling was not intended to, and does not, exclude all testimony of facts. actually existing at the time of the attack on Winchester. It wa~ intended to exclude all opinions of witnesses with regard to those occurrences which are based upon facts unknown at the time, but since ascertained or believed to have existed. The testimony given yesterday by Capt. Z. Baird, aide-de-camp,. was read over to him, corrected, and his examination continued. By the COURT: Question. After you had learned that Ewells corps was present,. in your opinion, could your retreat have been made at a better time than when it was made? If so, at what time, and for what reason ~ Answer. I think the retreat should have commenced earlier on Monday morning than it did. I should have commenced by 12 oclock Sunday night. The First Bri- gade did not get in marching order until the evacuation commenced, and I sup- posed, from all I observed, that the delay was unavoidable. Sunday night I believe to have been the most opportune time to retreat after we learned of the presence Qf Ewells corps. At that time (Sunday night), the enemy had massed himself north- west of us, between the Pughtown and Romney roads. On Saturday, and until Sunday afternoon, he was in force on the Berryville and Martinsburg roads, skir- mishing with our forces, and therefore we could not have retreated on Saturday or Sunday without encountering him. The result proved that the time selected was th~ better one, for we eluded the enemy, stole a two hours march on him, and left him in our rear. Had we selected any other route than the one we happened to select, we would have succeeded in retreating to Harpers Ferry unmolested. At that time the route we took appeared as likely a one as any other, but Johnsons division happened to be in that place, and we happened to run against it. Question. Was any officer blamable for the loss of Battery L~ Fifth U. S. Artillery? If so, who, and why? Answer. I think there was an officer blamable for the exposure of that battery. On Sunday morning, Captain Morgan was sent out with a detachment of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry to reconnoiter between the Pughtown and Romney roads. He reported about 2 p. m. that he had reconnoitered between those roads, going as far as Pughtown, and then across to Romney road and back, and that he had seen no traces of the enemy. I cannot see how he could have made that town and not have discovered the enemy, for the enemy was evidently at that time in forc& in that direction, with infantry and artillery. In the absence of this report from Captain Morgan, I should have regarded the battery as being imprudently exposed; but, giving credit to that report, I should think otherwise. Had we known of th Page 141 ~AP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 141 presence of the enemy in that direction, we could have made such dispositions of our forces as to have secured his repulse, and, from the nature of the ground, have concealed those dispositions from the enemy. My impression is that I heard Cap- tain Morgan make his report, but of this I am not certain. General Milroy com- municated to me that there was no enemy in that direction, and stated, as the reason, the report of Captain Morgan. Question. What was the distance you marched on the 15th of June, 1863? In what time did you make it, and what was its effect upon the officers and men? Answer. I think we marched from 32 to 36 miles. We arrived at Harpers Ferry between 2 and 3 p. m. The march told very visibly on the men, and they were very much worn out. Generals Milroy and Elliott were very much exhausted. Question. Was there any thought of the evacuation of Winchester, so far as you heard or know, at any time before you took the pris- oner you have mentioned, on Saturday afternoon? If so, from whom did you hear it? Answer. I know that the evacuation of Winchester was contemplated. I was present at a conversation between Generals Milroy and Elliott, which occurred on Friday preceding the evacuation, in which both generals concurred in the opinion that it would be improper to evacuate under the then existing orders. Question. Was the command of General Milroy so hard pressed by the enemy as to render it necessary that different portions of it should take different roads, and retire through fields and woods re- gardless of roads? Answer. The enemy was strong in our rear, and its close proximity to us, and a consciousness of that among the officers and soldiers, contributed to cause the dis- persion of the troops. But it would have been better for the command had it been kept together. The enemy could not have pursued us successfully, except with cav- alry, against which the command could have protected itself had it kept together. The march that we made through the fields and off the roads, I thought at the time judicious, and I think it was adopted at the suggestion of General Elliott. Question. Was this mode of retreating known to the commanding general? If so, were any measures taken to correct it? Answer. It could not have been otherwise than known to the commanding gen- eral, but the knowledge came to him probably at a time when it was too late to correct it. After the troops had started on the road toward Bath, I would have regarded it as inexpedient to have changed their course, for the reason that the tim it would have consumed would have endangered the safety of those troops. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. To your knowledge, at that time did or did not the enemy follow you from Winchester? Answer. I have no knowledge of his following us. By the COURT: Question. Do you know what was the pressure of the enemj1 on the Second and Third Brigades, or what circumstances caused t em to scatter and march by different routes? Answer. I know of no pressure on the Twelfth Virginia Regiment. It was not engaged. Why it was not brought into action I do not know. The Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania and Eighteenth Connecticut, which went into action under the im- mediate command of Colonel Ely, I understand, were surrendered by that officer, or attempted to be, together with the One hundred and twenty-third Ohio. Por- tions of those regiments, however, made their way out, and in that way became dispersed. The One hundred and twenty-third Ohio was nearly all surrendered or captured. I know nothing about the operations of the Third Brigade that day, of my own knowledge Page 142 142 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. LCHAP. XXXIX. Lieut. Col. A. W. ADAMS, First New York Cavalry, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADvOCATE: Question. Were you in command of the First New York Cavalry during the retreat from Winchester, in June last? Answer. I was. Question. What orders or instructions did you receive when tho retreat was determined upon, and who gave them? Answer. I received orders from Colonel McReynolds, I think, about 12 oclock Sun- day night, that I was assigned to command the rear of the retreating forces. The orders, he stated to me, were that we should get to Harpers Ferry, if possible. He informed me that we might expect an attack in our rear, and said that I was selected in the council of war for that position. My recollection of the order was that we were to go by Bunker Hill, but in that I may be mistaken. At all events, I was t& follow the column. I asked him if he had any specific orders to give me in case of an attack. He said he had not; that I must be governed by circumstances, and use my discretion. Question. Give an account of the part taken by your own regiment in the retreat from Winchester, stating what route you took, how many men you lost, & c. Answer. When the rear of the column had reached a point some 3 miles from Winchester, I heard firing of artillery and musketry in front. The column waa immediately halted in front of me. Soon after this, the enemys shells passed over us, and some exploded immediately over us. I saw infantry belonging, I believe; t~ Colonel McReynolds brigade, forming on the right of the road diagonally in front of me. I waited for some time, ten or fifteen minutes, under this fire without re- ceiving orders from Colonel McReynolds, though I sent an orderly to report to him. for orders. The orderly returned, saying he could not find Colonel Mckeynolds. The enemy were getting a raking fire on my men, and I thought it was imprudent to remain there in column. Not receiving any orders, and having heard from some officer, I dont know who, who inquired for Colonel McReynolds, saying that hia brigade was ordered to the front, I moved my regiment forward at a trot until we reached a point from a quarter to a half mile in advance of my former position on the road, and, as I believe, within 500 yards of the enemy, where I found an open field. to the left of the road, and where I formed a line of battle, and waited for orders. The enemy got my range again, and I changed my position some 50 or 100 yards te the left. I formed three several lines of battle, changing front as they seemed to change, in order to prevent their getting a raking fi;e on my flank. I should have said that, after forming my first line of battle, I sent out another messenger to ask my brigade commander for orders. This messenger never returned, nor did I get any orders from Colonel McReynolds. Immediately after I had formed the third line of battle, Major McGee, chief of General Milroys staff, rode np to me, and, I think, his first question was, Where is Colonel MeReynolds? My impression is, though I am not quite clear on that subject, that he said that he had been looking for him some time, to give him orders. I replied that I, too, had sent messengers to find him and get orders, and not being able to get any, I asked him for orders. He ordered me to follow in the rear, and protect the rear of the One hundred and six- teenth Ohio and Twelfth Virginia Infantry, who were near me in line of battle. I did so. We went in the direction of Hancock, Md., reaching that place about iG o clock at night, I think. I think Colonel Washburn commanded in our column. I marched immediately in rear of the infantry until we reached a point some 2G miles from Hancock, where it was reported thit the enemy had cut off our retreat, and held the fords opposite Hancock and other places along the line in that neigh- borhood. Colonel Washburn sent me in advance to ascertain the facts, with direc- tions to reach Hancock that night, if possible, and to communicate the fact as soon as possible to him, stating that he would stay at that point all night; the infantry was very much exhausted, and could not have gone farther that evening. There was also a part of the Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry with us. With my regi- ment, in obedience to Colonel Washburns orders, I proceeded to Hancock, and when we reached a point some 12 or 15 miles from Hancock, we overtook a part of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, from 200 to 300, under command of Major Titus. They were halted in the road. I sent for Major Titus, and asked him what the diffi- culty was, and what he was doing there. He said that he had information, that h Page 143 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 143~ deemed reliable, that the enemy were in front of us, at Bath, not more than 4 or ~ miles from us. He expressed his intention to take his regiment off the road, and go through the mountains, and to reach Hancock by a d~tour. I informed him that I was the ranking officer, and assumed command over him and his regiment. He submitted to my command, and, after hearing his story, I considered it so unrea- sonable that I determined to go on. We saw no enemy at Bath, nor at any other place on the way to Hancock. After we arrived at Hancock, Colonel Galligher, of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania, who was there without a command, being ranking officer, assumed command of all the forces, and that night we started for Cumber- land, Md. When we arrived at Flint Stone, we ascertained that Imboden had taken possession of Cumberland, and we were ordered by Colonel Galligher through to Bedford, Pa., where we arrived some time next day. I had 5 or 6 wounded, none~ killed, and from 20 to 30 or more missing. Some of the missing were captured. They were mostly dismounted men. Question. During the retreat, did you observe any want of courage, judgment, or coolness in any officer of General Milroys command ~ Answer. No, sir; not personally. Question. After the retreat commenced did you receive any orders, directly or indirectly, from Colonel McReynolds? Answer. I did not, to my recollection. Question. Do you know anything of a reconnaissance being made by Captain Morgan, of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, on Sun- day, June 14, 1863? Answer. I have no personal knowledge of it. By the COURT: Question. Are you positive that Colonel Mdlleynolds told you,. before the retreat commenced, that the retreating garrison should fall back on Harpers Ferry? Answer. I am positive that he mentioned Harpers Ferry as the point we should reach, if possible. Question. Judging from what you saw of the retreat from Win- chester, is it your opinion that it was orderly and well conducted? Answer. My opinion is that it was well conducted, with the exception of the Third Brigade. I thought that I ought to have received orders of some kind from my brigade commander on the field, especially as I was under fire at different times more than an hour. Question. Do you consider that the most practicable route was se- lected for the command to retreat by? If other roads than the one adopted would, in your opinion, have been better, which were they ~ Answer. My opinion is that it was the only one that could have been taken with any degree of safety to the command. On Sunday, I was scouting on the south part of the town, and saw the enemy on the Berryville road in considerable force. Question. Were you in a position that would enable you to judge of the movement of all the troops during the retreat? Answer. No, sir; not accurately. Question. As far as the position of the enemys forces is concerned is it your opinion that the troops at Winchester, and the Third Bri- gade at Berryville, could have fallen back to Harpers Ferry when the latter was ordered into Winchester? Answer. My opinion was that the Third Brigade could not have retreated tc~ Harpers Ferry without a fight, and I think the troops could not have marched from Winchester at that time without suffering great loss. My impression was that it was safer, after Saturday morning, when the enemy was on three sides of us, to wait until he massed his troops, and then to cut our way out on the weakest side; that if we had attempted to retreat at any time on Saturday morning, when th~ enemy was on the move, we would have been cut to pieces Page 144 144 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ca& p. XXXIX. Question. Could the Third Brigade have retreated safely to Mar- tinsburg on Saturday? Answer. They might, with a fight, and perhaps with very small loss. Question. What would have prevented your going from Martins.. burg to Harpers Ferry at that time? Answer. I cannot answer. I do not know anything of the condition of the laces named, or the road between them at that time. Question. Was not a train of wagons sent from the command at Berryville on Saturday morning to Bunker Hill, and did not that wagon train get safely across the Potomac? Answer. It did, with a severe fight at Bunker Hill. Question. What was the strength of the escort of that train? Answer. I sent four companies, probably not over 120 men, to guard that train. I believe there was infantry with it also. I am not certain about the infantry. Question. Why could not the Third Brigade have retreated at that time by that route? Answer. It could have done so as safely as by the route we took. Question. If you had remained at Berryville till Saturday night, what, in your judgment, would have been the result of your doing so? Answer. We would have all been captured. Question. If General Milroy had retreated from Winchester on Saturday, and after you had started from Berryville, what effect would such retreat at such a time have probably had upon the bri- gade commanded by Colonel McReynolds? Answer. In my judgment, we would have inevitably been cut off; it would have relieved theenemy at Winchester, and they would have cut off our retreat. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. on Monday, August 31, 1863. TWENTY-FIRST DAY. AUGUST 31, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Lieutenant-Colonel Adams was read over to him, corrected, and his examination coi~tinued, as fol- lows: By the COURT: Question. When you were ordered by Major McGee to follow the infantry off the field, as stated by you, what other instructions were given; and why did not the column make its way to Harpers Ferry instead of Hancock? Answer. Major McGee stated to me that we were to pass a mile or two around the woods; to reach the Martinsburg road, if possible, and march to Harpers Ferry. This is my recollection of it, and that he said he would give this order to the in- fantry. I saw rebels crossing the road from right to left in considerable force, just as we commenced the retreat from the field, and either Colonel Klunk or Colonel Washburn explained to me afterward that the rebels were in possession of the fields between us and the Martinsburg road, and that it would be impossible for us to reach Harpers Ferry without being cut off Page 145 cHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 145 nestion. When you moved your regiment up the road to form in me of battle, as you have stated, was the movement visible to the rest of the brigade? Answer. It must have been so, for I passed within a few feet of their several lines as I passed to the front. I know that some of the cavalry of the brigade saw us. Question. When it was made known to you that you were to com- mand the rear guard in the retreat, did you desire to have the field battery carried out with you? If not, why? Please state anything you know on that subject. Answer. As to my desires, I can say that I was there to obey orders, and that it was none of my business to entertain or express any desires in relation to the manner of the retreat. In giving me instructions, Colonel McReynolds stated that I should permit nothing to go on wheels. I recollect asking him why his artillery was not taken, and he said it was decided in the council of war that neither the artillery nor anything else on wheels should go, and explained that, if the artillery or wagons were taken, the enemy would be down upon us, for the roads and fields were very rocky, and anything on wheels must make a noise. He repeated this several times. Question. If your brigade had gone into the battle at the proper time, do you or not think the whole retreating force might have passed by safely on the Martinsburg road? Answer. My opinion is, that if the Third Brigade had gone into the engagement at the proper time, we would have driven the enemy, and gotten off with small loss. The whole of that brigade was standing there in line of battle, too far to the rear to do any good whilst the fight was going on in front. Question. Who is responsible, in y our opinion, for the failure of the Third Brigade to take part in the engagement the morning of the 15th of June, 1863? Answer. My opinion is that the brigade commander was in fault, from the in- formation I had at the time. A portion of that information was derived from the statement made to me on the field by Captain Palmer and Major McGee. Question. Do you think the failure of the Third Brigade to ren- der, as you think it ought, assistance to the rest of the command, caused the loss of more life, prisoners, or public property than would otherwise have occurred? Answer. Certainly, I do. Question. Please explain in what manner the assistance of the Third Brigade would have caused such results? Answer. Tif we had driven the enemy back, and occupied the ground, we could have passed through in comparative safety, in my opinion. If the Third Brigade had come up, I think we would have saved more artillery and wagon horses than we did. Question. Judging from the facts as they appeared to you on Sat- urday morning, at and about the time of your retreat from Berry- ville, would it have been a judicious movement to have retreated upon Harpers Ferry? If not, why not? Answer. We could have gone to Harpers Ferry, but not without encountering considerable force of the enemy. Question. When it was understood that Colonel McReynolds was not to be found, did the next officer in rank iu the brigade give any orders that the emergency rendered necessary? If he did not, who did assume the direction of affairs and give orders? Answer. I received no orders from any one excepting General Milroy2 throtigh hi~ chief of staff. As to the rest of the question, I d~ not know. 10 I~ I~YQI.d ~XYII, PT I Page 146 146 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Question. Without regard to any knowledge of the strength of the enemy at the time you were about retreating from Berryville, did you see a sufficient force of them to induce you to believe the direct road to Harpers Ferry would not have been comparatively a safe one to retreat upon? Answer. I saw the dust rising from an apparently very heavy column in the di- rection of Millwood whilst skirmishing in the enemys advance. I did not with my own eyes see a sufficient force of them. Question. From any information you received from scouts or others, what were the movements of the enemy near Berryville on Saturday morning? Answer. My opinion of the intention of the enemy, from what I saw and what information I could get, was that they were endeavoting by a flank movement to cut off our retreat to harpers Ferry, Winchester, and Martinsburg. Lient. E. D. SPOONER, Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Were you with Battery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, when it was captured at Winchester? Answer. Yes, sir. Question. State how and when your guns were captured. Answer. On the morning of June 14, Lieutenant Randolph, who commanded the battery, received orders from General Milroy to proceed with his battery to the earthworks west of the main fort and south of Pughtown road, and there to take position, supported by the One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteers, and one corn- pany of the One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteers, Colonel Keifer command- ingabout 500 men. I think we femained unmolested there until about 5 p. in., when the enemy opened upon us west of the earthworks with sixteen pieces of ar- tillery, as I supposed then. My battery replied immediately, and was under fire about an hour and a half, the battery being so d,isabled in ten minutes after they opened upon us that it would have been impossible to have taken it away. We lost, I suppose, 60 horses, killed and wounded, one caisson and two limbers, blown up by shells from the enemy. About 6.80 p. m. the enemys infantry charged on us. I counted seven battle-flags, in deep column of attack, and not until the enemy had planted his colors on the breastworks did I receive orders to fall back. I received these orders from Lieutenant Randolph, who commanded the battery. I succeeded in getting away with 18 men, and, after arriving at the fortification, I received orders from General Elliott to relieve a detachment of the Fourteenth Massachu- setts Artillery that was working the siege guns. Lieutenant Randolph was injured so that he could not walk, and was carried into the town. Question. In your opinion, was your battery properly posted and supported? Answer. The position was not a very good one. Only a portion of the timber in front of the work was cut away, and the enemy could come very near without being seen. The timber in some places was only 50 yards off. It would have been almost impossible to have withdrawn the guns in a hurry, on account of the hill, which was very steep, and, to get out on the Pughtown road, we would have to pass through a little lane, and ravines were in the way, so that we could not cross with artillery off the road. The work had been commenced a few days before, and was incomplete. If our support had been larger. it would have been better, but we had all that could be spared. What men we had did all they could. Men never fought better than those men did. They did not fall back until ordered to do so by Colonel Keifer. This earthwork was about 1,500 yards from the main forts. By the COURT: Question. During the hour and a half that you were under the fire of the overwhelming force you have mentioned, did you receive any orders from any person? If so, from whom, and what were th& orders? L Answer. I received no orders during the engagement until ordered to fall baok Page 147 CHAP. XXXIX.] 14Z THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. Question. Was the position of your battery and was the attack upon that position, in plain view of the main body of the Winchester command? Answer. Yes, sir. Question. Was your battery so far in advance of the principal de- fenses of Winchester as to make the position of it an unnecessarily exposed one? Answer. No, sir. Question. During the engagement, were any representations made by Lieutenant Randolph or yourself with regard to the severity of the attack upon you, the losses you were sustaining, or the difficulty of maintaining your position? Answer. I dont know of my own knowledge. Question. What do you know about a reconnaissance made or or- dered, or claimed to have been made, by Captain Morgan, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, on Sunday morning, June 14, 1863? Answer. I dont know of any reconnaissance made by Captain Morgan. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. To your knowledge, were or were not all or a portion of Colonel McReynolds brigade engaged in the fight on Monday morning, the 15th of June? Answer. I was with Colonel McReynolds during that morning. The Sixty-sev- enth Pennsylvania, Sixth Maryland Infantry, and the First New York Cavalry, or a part of it, were engaged. Question. Did you observe any want of coolness, capacity, or bravery on the part of any officer during the fighting at and near Winchester, and in the retreat? Answer. No, sir. hy the COURT: Question. How was Colonel McReynolds engaged while the fight was going on, the morning of the 15th of June? Answer. He was giving instructions to his brigade, and not only to his own brigade, but to a portion of General Elliotts, the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, that was drawn up in line of battle to the right of the Martinsburg road. He went to its commanding officer, Major Kerwin, and told him that he wished his regi- ment to take a battery, and that it was to be a desperate charge. He also gave him instructions how to do it. After he had done so, he turned around to give some instructions to one of his orderlies. I am pretty sure he intended to accom- pany this regiment in the charge, but before he turned around they started off, and, instead of obeying their orders, they went through without stopping to Har pers Ferry. - Question. In your opinion, was the retreat from Winchester or- derly, and was the public property of all description properly cared for? Answer. It was orderly until we were fired upon on Monday morning. After that ~he portion that I saw (the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry) was not orderly. I went through with that regiment. The property was cared for the best that could be done at that time. Question. Do you think it was practicable to have brought away from Winchester the field guns, or any portion of them? Answer. I do not think it was practicable, because they would have made so much noise as to have attracted the enemys attention Page 148 148 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. question. If you had had field guns with you, would they have facilitated the retreat, in driving the enemy off, keeping him at bay, or otherwise? Answer. Yes, sir. By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Was there any disorder in the retreat other than in the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry? Answer. I didnot see any other. By the COURT: Question. How did the infantry conduct themselves in tlie engage- ment on Monday morning? Answer. As far as I observed, they conducted themselves very well. Question. When you saw the First New York Cavalry charging up the road, was Colonel McReynolds with you, and did he see the movement? Answer. Colonel McReynolds was not with me at that time; I joined him after- ward. I do not know whether he saw them or not. Capt. F. A. PALMER, Eighteenth Connecticut, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, answers: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Were you a member of General Milroys staff during the recent attack on Winchester and the retreat from that place? Answer. I was. Question. During the retreat from Winchester, did you carry any orders or instructions to Colonel McReynolds, commanding Third Brigade of General Milroys division? If so, what were they? Answer. I carried qrders from General Milroy for Colonel MeReynolds during the engagement on Monday morning, but was unable to find him. These orders were for him to hasten up as soon as possible, as it would not do for us to contend any longer. The idea was that we could not hold the enemy any longer in check for his brigade to come up. At the same time, there was an inquiry embodied in the order as to why he did not come up, as previously ordered by General Milroy in person. By the COURT: Question. Did you see any portion of Colonel McReynolds brigade when you went to carry to him the orders of General Milroy? Answer. I saw a detachment of the First New York Cavalry, commanded by Major Adams. I cannot state the number. I inquired of Major Adams where Colonel McReynolds could be found. He replied that he did not know; that he had sent two orderlies to find him, but had not succeeded. I proceeded down the road to- ward Winchester to find Colonel McReynolds, until I came to a road that turns to the east, down which I had a view of at least half a mile, and where I had a view of the surrounding country, but I did not see Colonel McReynolds or any portion of his brigade. As I looked toward Winchester, I saw advancing from that place, I suppose, two sections of artillery, and at the same time I heard what I supposed was a signal gun fired from the direction of Winchester, and I hurried back to General Milroy, and reported to him that I was unable to find Colonel McReynolds. Question. Did you hear any expressions of impatience about the delay of Colonel McReynolds to come up with his brigade, as ordered by General Milroy? If so, what were they, and wb crc? Answer. When I told General Milroy that I could not find Colonel McReynolds, ~nd that th. enemy was coming up with artillery, he said, I must not attempt t Page 149 CHAP. XXXIX:] THE GETTYSBUJ2~G CAMPAIGN. 149 fight any longer, and wonder why Colonel MeReynolds disobeyed my orders and did not come up. We all thought we were fighting at that time simply to give Colonel McReynolds brigade time to come up or pass by. Question. Did you inform General Milroy that re-enforcements to the enemy were coming np? If so, what orders did he give upon the receipt of your information? Answer. I informed him that re-enforcements were coming up. He replied, We must retreat; and cautioned his men to fall back in good order, and not like damned cowards. We did retreat immediately, in good order, until we reached the Martinsburg road. There were only three regiments under the generals imme- diate command. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. September 1, 1863. TWENTY-SECOND DAY. SEPTEMBER 1, 1863. The cowrt met pursuant to above order. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Major Adams and Lieutenant Spooner was read over to them, and corrected. The testimony given yesterday by Capt. F. A. Palmer was read over to him, and corrected, and his examination continued. By the COURT: Question. Could any more public property have been saved at Winchester than was saved; if so, by what measure? Could any better route for retreat have been chosen than the one you took? Could the retreat have been made at a better time than it was made; if so, at what time could it have been conducted in a better manner than it was conducted; if so, in what manner? Answer. With reference to the public property, I answer no. As to the route, I am sure, from what I have learned since, that we could not have come out by any other. At the time I thought that to be the only course we could pursue. As to the time of retreat, I do not know or think that it could have been made at a better time. We moved out as soon as arrangements were completed after the council of war. As to the manner, I can say that the retreat was conducted in the most per- fect manner, the column in good order, until the advance was fired upon. In my opinion, the retreat would have been successful, and exactly as General Milroy de- signed, if Colonel MeReynolds had obeyed orders, kept the Martinsburg road, and followed the head of the column, instead of turning to the right, which was a direct violation of orders. I think nearly the entire loss of our men was caused by his dis- obedience of orders. As the advance was fired upon when the general and staff were near the middle of the column, the general, having heard the firing in the advance, started to move forward. Some member of the staff remarked, There is Colonel McReynolds ; some one else said it was not him. The general directed me to ascer- tain if it was. I found that it was him, and so reported to the general. He replied, He ought not to be here, and started toward him. On reaching him, the general said to him, in my presence, You ought to be at the head of your brigade; come right on up the road; advance as soon and as fast as possible, or words to that effect. The colonel said, I will see, or attend to that, or something of that na- ture. The general then galloped forward, and in about five minutes was engaging the enemy. The engagement lasted nearly an hour, during which time no informa- tion was received from Colonel McReynolds by General Milroy, excepting what was brought by a member of the generals staff, who reported him separated from his command, and half a mile from the Martinsburg road. Question. Could not the retreat have been made on the 12th or 13th much better, and with more safety to the command and public prop- erty than when it was made? Answer. I think it might. Question. Were the orders of Major-General Milroy for the retreat implicitly obeyed by th~ commanders of th~ First and S~ond Br Page 150 150 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [CH~. XXXIX. gades, and did those brigades retreat by the route and in the manner designated by him? Answer. So far as my knowledge of the orders go, they did comply with them. Question. Were the orders to the Third Brigade for the retreat different from those to the First and Second Brigades? Answer. No, sir; not that I am aware of. Question. When it was observed that the Third Brigade was not doing what it had been directed to do, what orders did Major-Gen- eral Milroy give or send to it? Answer. The first order that I know of his sending to the Third Brigade was that sent by me, which I could not deliver, because I could not find Colonel McReynolds. I dont know that there were any other orders sent to the Third Brigade. Question. When the command of Major-General Milroy evacuated Winchester, what persons, besides citizens of the place, wer~ left there? Answer. That I could not tell; my knowledge is not sufficient. I knew that no hospital patients were taken with us. Question. Do you know of any general order having been given for the government of the whole of General Milroys command, on its retreat from Winchester to Harpers Ferry? Answer. No; I cant say that I know of any orders other than those I have stated. Lient. Col. W. A. MCKELLIP, Sixth Maryland Infantry, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, says: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What regiment do you belong to? Were you present with your regiment during the retreat from Winchester? Answer. I belong to the Sixth Maryland Infantry. I was present. Question. To your knowledge, were any regiments of the Third Brigade engaged in the tight on Monday morning, JQne 15, 1863? Answer. No, sir; they were not. They were under fire from two guns placed on the right side of the Martinsburg road, about 600 yards in front of us. We were in rear of the division in marching out of the forts. The brigade con- sisted of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry and my own regiment, and the First New York Cavalry. We filed off the Martinsburg road about 3 miles from Winchester. At that time we were up with the rest of the column. Colonel Mc- Reynolds was with the brigade at that time. I heard and repeated the order to file right, and the men were cautioned to keep closed, and step off promptly. We moved, then, to a stone wall, that was running from the road, and facing toward the battery that was firing on us. In forming line of battle there, the men had closed up too much, and there was a little confusion; that is, it was necessary to take ground to the left. While in the act of dressing the left wing of the regiment, the command was given, By the right flank, march! We moved on, then, in quick time, and in perfect order, until we reached the Winchester railroad, and there a battery opened on us. We moved to the railroad and halted, the battery in the meantime playing on us. From there we passed through the tunnel or arch, and down by a ravine, that protected us from the enemys battery. When we got to the house that stands on the left-hand side, a great many of the regiment in ad- vance of us went into the yard and buildings, and when my regiment came up I posted myself at the gate, and gave orders that none of our men should go inside, and none were allowed to go in. From that point the regiment in advance of us (the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania) ceased to be an organized regiment. In front of that house we filed right some 200 yards into a field. The colonel went in front of the regiment, and gave the command, By the left flank, guide center. We moved up the crest of that hill in line of battle. There we found the enemy in posi- tion, with artillery, and too strong for us to cope with. We passed away by the right flank, and fell back almost in a direct line toward the main fort at Winches Page 151 CIUP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPATG~. 151 ter, to a point where there was a heavily wooded ridge. At the time we left the crest of the hill, the colonel, major, and myself considered that our case was a hope- less one, as far as getting away from that battle-field in good order was concerned, left, as we were, by ourselves. We did come off, though, as a regiment, with every company organized, and with every commissioned officer that went to Winchester, save one. Then we passed up this heavily wooded ridge, where we found a great many men from other regiments of our division, the great majority of them belong- ing to the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania. I asked them to what regiments they be- longed, and where they were going, and where their officers were. To all of which they answered they did not know (except as to their regiments). I think there were several hundred of these men. I ordered them to fall into column with us, and they generally rallied into my regiment. Company I, Fourteenth Massachusetts Artil- lery (Captain Martins), had joined us, and had officers with it; they behaved well, and marched through in good order. From that point we crossed the Opequon, at the burned factory, and then took the road to Harpers Ferry. We flanked Charlestown, leaving it on the left, and represented ourselves from there on as the advance guard of Hookers army, and inquired for Berryville, instead of Harpers Ferry. Our regiment arrived at Harper~s Ferry at 8 or 9 oclock that night. By the COURT: Question. Who gave the order which caused the infantry of your brigade to file to the right off the Martinsburg road? Answer. I cannot answer positively. Question. When the disorganization of the Sixty-seventh Penn- sylvania became apparent to you, (lid you see any of the officers attempting to restore order and reform the regiment? Answer. The disorganization of their regiment seemed to be caused by the great thirst of the men, who were seeking water. I did not; I was otherwise engaged. Question. What persons other than citizens of Winchester were left there by the division of Major-General Milroy when it evacu- ated that place? Answer. I do not know. Question. At what time and place did you last see Colonel Mc- Reynolds on the morning of the retreat? Answer. The last time I saw him was after we crossed the Opequon, when he with several others came up, and passed near our regiment. This was about 7 oclock in the morning, I think, and after the fighting that morning was over. Question. Did Colonel MclReynolds stop to give any orders, or was any communication had with him by any officer of your regiment? State what occurred. Answer. There was no communication, excepting that I think he was hailed by us. There was nothing else occurred. Je was riding rapidly up the Harpers Ferry road. Question. When and where did you last see him on or near the battle-field? Answer. I have a distinct recollection of seeing him when we filed out of the Martinsburg road, and afterward my impression is that he was in the rear of the brigade. I do not know how far; in the direction of a chimney; this was while my regiment was behind the stone wall. Lieut. Col. Doun Piatt, U. S. Volunteers, chief of General Scheucks staff, appeared before the court with the following message from Maj. Gen. R. C. Scheuck, U. S. Volunteers: Mr. PRESIDENT: I am instructed by Major-General Scheuck to inform the court that, although he received a summons to appear as a witness some days since, being prevented by an accident from at- tending promptly in response, he never received a copy of th~ orde Page 152 152 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. convening the court until last night. He was surprised to find, on reading the order, that he is a party whose conduct is to be investP gated, and, under the circumstances, proposes, without disrespect to the court, to occupy the time between t ~is and noon to-morrow in preparing for the extraordinary position in which he is placed. To this message the court returned the following reply: COURT OF INQUIRY, Washington, September 1, 18631.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. R. C. SCHENCK, U. S. Volunteers: SIR: I am directed by the court of inquiry to inform you that you have been duly summoned before them as a witness; that they are now waiting to receive your testimony, and that your presence is required without delay. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBERT N. SCOTT, Captain Fourth U. S. Infantry, Judge-Advocate. At 2. 30p. m. no response had been received from General Schenck, (who was in the city), and the court adjourned, for want of witnesses, to meet at 11 a. m. September 2, 186~. TWENTY-THIRD DAY. SEPTEMBER 2, 1863. Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Lieutenant-Colonel McKellip was read over to him, corrected, and he made the following explana- tion: In addition to the loss of 1 commissioned officer, as stated, I will add, that our chaplain and assistant surgeon were captured. In reference to the disorganization of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania Regiment, I mean to say, that they had dwindled down very much, for the reason I afterward stated. In explanation of the loss in our regiment, I wish to state that it was owing to the march on Saturday from Berryville, which was very severe; we marched that day some 30 miles. The loss of sleep on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, and the hard march of Monday, completely exhausted my men, and those who fell out of the ranks from exhaustion were picked up by rebel cavalry, and that was our principal loss in the retreat, and amounted to some 130 men, including our loss at the Opequon. Capt. W. A. POWELL, First Yirginia Cavalry, a witness called by the court, being duly sworn, says: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What was your position on General Milroys staff dur- ing the recent attack on, and retreat from, Winchester? Answer. Chief engineer. Question. What do you know of the reconnaissance made by Ca?~ tam Morgan, of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, on Sunday, 14th of June, 1863? Answer. I saw Captain Morgan go out on the Pughtown road on Sunday morn- ing, between 9 and 10 oclock. Some time after noon, I saw him come back on the Roinney road. He came into the main fort, and reported to General Mllroy that he had made a reconnaissance, and there was no enemy out there, and no indica- tions of the enemy. When Captain Morgan was returning, I saw him before he got to our pickets, and I saw that he had no fianker~ out. This is all I know about Captain Morgan Page 153 CHAP XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 153 By the CounT: Question. Please state the condition of the work occupied by Bat- tery L, Fifth U. S. Artillery, when it was taken. Answer. The work occupied by that battery was not completed; two traverses were to be put up, and also a flank to one of the lunettes. rihe woods in front of this outwork were being felled on Saturday up to the time that the enemy made the attack. It was my intention to clear the country in front of all the batteries of all the timber, at least 1,500 yards ia advance. This had been done to all the batteries and outworks excepting where Battery L was, and I had to stop work there on Saturday on account of the general needing the men. If this timber had been cut down, the rebels would not have secured their position in front of that battery. Question. Could the retreat have been made on th~ Berryville road? What do you know of the forces of the enemy on that road? Answer. On Saturday afternoon, between 5 and 6 oclock, I saw the rebels in large force crossing fron the Sinsinsa road to the Berryville road, and across that to a strip of woods that extended up to ~Redbud Creek. They seemed to have established their lines there from the Sinsinsa and Berryville roads to the Miliwood road. Previous to this, and during the afternoon, I saw small parties of the enemy going in the same direction, who did not seem to return. Those forces I believe to have been Longstreets, and I do not believe that we could have retreated by that road. Question. When was the field work commenced in which Battery L was posted? Answer. Some time in May, 1863. I think it was some few days after the middle of the month. Question. If this field work was deemed of importance to the de- fense of Winchester, why was it not commenced sooner? Answer. Because we had not sufficient men to make the necessary details. The judge-advocate then informed the court that the next witness lie wished to call was Major-General Schenck, but that he was not in attendance. The court directed the judge-advocate to address the following to General Schenck: COURT OF INQUIRY RooMs, No. 212 F STREET, September 2, 186312.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. R. C. SCHENOK, U. S. Volunteers, Willards Hotel: SIR: I am directed by the court of inquiry to ask whether you are prevented from attending to-day, and to inform you that they are waiting to receive your testimony. I am, sir, very respectfull~, your obedient servant, ROBERT N. SCOTT, Captain Fourth U. S. Infantry, Judge-Advocate. Immediately after the above was dispatched, the following was received: WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, September 2, 1863. Brig. Gen. W. F. BARRY, U. S. Volunteers, President of Court of Inquiry, Washington, D. C.: SIR: The Secretary of War desires that you release Major-General Schenck from attendance before the court of which you are presl- dent, as soon as practicable. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 154 154 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. In compliance with this communication, General Scheuck was re- leased from attendance as a witness. Lieut. Col. J. LOWRY MCGEE, Third Virginia Cavalry, a witness called by the conrt, beiAg duly sworn, says: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. What was your position on General Milroys staff dur- ing the recent attack on, and retreat from, Winchester ? Answer. I was acting as inspector-general of his division. Question. What orders or instructions, if any, did you deliver to Colonel McReynolds, commanding officer of the Third Brigade, after the retreat was determined on, and before it commenced? Answer. I did not give him any orders or instructions. Question. During the retreat, what orders or instructions, if any, did you carry or attempt to carry to Colonel McReynolds? Answer. I was ordered by General Milroy to go to the rear, and order Colonel McReynolds and all other troops to pass to the left of where the engagement was going on, and I was ordered to hasten them by. I passed to the rear some three- fourths of a mile, and saw stragglers along the road, of whom I inquired for Col- onel McReynolds. I heard nothing of him until I got to a run across the road, about three-quarters of a mile from the battle-ground, where I learned that some troops had filed to the west of the road. I started in that direction, probably half a mile from the Martinsburg road. I came to the First New York Cavalry. I found Major Adams, and inquired if he knew anything of Colonel McReynolds. He replied that he had been hunting him for the last half hour, and could get no tidings of him. He said he had sent two orderlies, one of whom had returned, and the other had not. He asked me then if I had any orders. He was then just in rear of the One hun- dred and sixteenth Ohio, and I ordered him to follow that regiment. I then passed on tothe One hundred and sixteenth Ohio; saw Colonel Washburn, and gave him the direction heshould march in, and told him that if he should become separated from the command, our object was to go to Charlestown, and that he should take that direction. I told him that the First New York Cavalry would be under his com- mand. I could not find Colonel McReynolds at all. I inquired of the commanding officers of four regiments, one of which belonged to his command, and none of them could tell me where he was, or had seen him since the fight commenced. I only found one regiment of his brigade, and that was the First New York Cavalry. By the COURT: Question. Do you know personally of any orders having been sent by others from General Milroy to Colonel McReynolds? If so, please state what they were. Answer. The general gave instructions to some three other staff officers in my presence to go to Colonel McReynolds and other troops who might be in the rear, and instruct them to hurry past; that he was only fighting there to allow them to pass. I heard him tell Lieutenant McCracken to go and see if he could find Colonel McReynolds. I do not think he gave him any orders to carry to him. This was early in the engagement. When we first heard the firing, I was with the general, at about the center of the Second Brigade, where we saw Colonel McReynolds, who was not with his own command. The general asked him where his command was, or how it was, or something of that kind. He replied, I think, that it was all right. The general said, You ought to be with your brigade. This conversa- tion may have occurred just before the firing commenced. Just before we left Col- onel McReynolds, the firing had commenced, and General Milroy said, Hurry up your brigade, colonel. Colonel McReynolds then started to the rear, and we started to the front, and I saw nothing more of him until we got to Harpers Ferry. Question. How long was the fight maintained for the purpose of allowing Colonel McReynolds forces to come up and pass by? Answer. I dont know how much longer. I should think, though, at least thirty minutes; about as long again as it would have lasted otherwise Page 155 CHAP. XXXIX.) THE GErrYSBURG CAMPAIGTh 155 Question. Did you report the result of your inquiries for Colonel MeReynolds to a or- eneral Milroy? If so, what was done after you made your report? Answer. Before I returned from my search after Colonel MeReynolds, an orderly came to me from the general, stating they (meaning our force) had given up the fight, and were retreating. He told me that I should direct the troops to go still farther to the west of the road, and join him as rapidly as possible. I went with the troops then until I came in sight of the First Brigade; Colonel Klunk was the senior officer there then, and I left him in command of the whole. We could see the First Brigade very distinctly then, probably three-quarters of a mile distant, and I or- dered Colonel Klunk to join it as rapidly as possible. I told him I would join the general at once, and ask him to wait for him. I immediately reported to the gen- eral that I had been unable to find Colonel McReynolds, and reported the facts of my search. I reported the four regiments that I had found in good condition, and told the general that they were very near, and we had better halt until they came up. The general called General Elliott, Colonel Keifer, and several other officers about him, gave them the substance of my report, and suggested that they halt there. They were unanimous, I believe, in opposition to that suggestion. The general consented, and moved on. Question. How far in the rear of the main body of the troops was Colonel MeReynolds brigade when the firing alluded to commenced; and was his brigade in good order, or together, and was it in the position the commanding general designed it should be at that time? Answer. They were at the regular interval from the Second Brigade; to the best of my knowledge, the brigade was where General Milroy designed they should be, and they were marching in good order. Question. What persons other than resident citizens ot Winchester were left behind there when the place was evacuated? Answer. Some sutlers, wounded men. surgeons, and hospital attendants, and some officers wives. Question. Was it, in your opinion, necessary and proper that these persons should be left at Winchester? Answer. It was my opinion that it was necessary to leave the sick and wounded, and the surgeons and attendants. It was very proper, I thought, for the officers to leave their wives, under the circumstances. Question. If General Milroy had halted his command, as lie pro- posed, in order to wait for the other column, it would probably have brought on another battle? Answer. I dont think it would. The court was then closed for deliberation, pending which, the fol- lowing iote was received (at 2 p. in.), viz: WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, September 2, 1863. General BARRY: SIR: The intention of the Secretarys order of this morning, in regard to General Scheuck, was not properly conveyed in my note of this~ morning. It was that General Scheuck should be released from attendance on the court to-day; he will be present to-morrow. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, K D. TOWNSEND, As~i~taut Adjutant-General. Th~ ,ourt then adjournQd to meet at 11 a. m. September 3, 1863 Page 156 156 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [OnAP. XXXIX. TWENTY-FOURTH DAY. SEPTEMBER 3, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Captain Powell was read over to him, and corrected. The president of the court then submitted the following order, which he had received since adjournment of yesterday: SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 394. ~ Washington, September 2, 1863. * * * * * * * VI. Paragraph VIII, of Special Orders, No. 346, from this Depart- ment, appointing a conrt of inquiry to investigate the facts and cir- cumstances connected with the evacnation of Winchester, is amended as follows: Instead of the following words, The court will report whether the orders of the General-in-Chief in regard to the evacuation of Winchester were complied with; and, if not, by whom they were disobeyed. It will also report whether the retreat of the command was properly conducted, and the public property suitably cared for; and, if not, what officer or officers were in fault, the following will be substituted: The court will inqnire into, and report, the facts and circumstances in regard to the evacuation of Winchester. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. Maj. Gen. R. C. Scheuck was again summoned to appear as a wit- ness before the court, the summons being delivered through Lient. Col. Donn Piatt, his chief of staff, who was present on his behalf. Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt replied to this summons as follows, viz: Mr. PRESIDENT: General Scheuck, relieved from attendance as a witness yesterday, returned from Baltimore this morning, proposing to offer himself as a witness, if the court wish yet to examine him, if, in so doing, he forfeits no right to appear as a party interested in the investigation, proposing as he does to summon certain witnesses and have them examined. General Schenck, if the court determines to examine him as a witness, asks two hours to examine the tele- grams and orders connected with this investigation. The court was then closed for deliberation, and, being opened, Col. Doun Piatt was directed by the court to inform General Scheuck that the court would adjourn until 11 a. m. to-morrow, to give him the time asked for, and to inform him that at that hour they would await his presence before them as a witness. Appendices E and F were read to the court by the judge-advocate, and filed in evidence. The court then adjourned to meet at 11 a. m. September 4, 1863. TWENTY-FIFTH DAY. SEPTEMBER 4, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members Page 157 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 15Z Maj. Gen. R. C. Schenck, U. S. Volunteers, was called as a wit- ness by the court. Before being sworn, he submitted the following request, viz: The modification which has been made of the order convening and instructing this court, a copy of which has been furnished me by the judge-advocate, requires that the court shall inquire into, and report the facts and circumstances in regard to the evacuation of Winchester, thus, having only to return to the President, for his consideration, the testimony taken. As Winchester, and the troops there stationed under Major- General Milroy, were, at the time of the evacuation, within my department and command, I am necessarily one of the parties espe- cially concerned in so broad and comprehensive an investigation. I therefore respectfully request, and ask the court now to de- cide, that besides testifying myself, I shall be permitted, as my right, to have such other witnesses as I may indicate summoned and exam- ined, and especially Maj. Gen. H. W. Halleck, General-in-Chief of the Army, and Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker, and that I have the right also to cross-examine any of the witnesses. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers. The court was then closed for deliberation on this communication, and, on being again opened, the following answer was made to Gen- eral Schenck: The court will summon such witnesses as it may deem necessary, but it cannot say, at this time, what witnesses will be required. While all question of right~ is denied, the court sees no objec- tion to granting Major-General Schenck the same privileges that were accorded to Major-General Milroy. The decision of the court in reference to General Milroy, as re- corded on page 7 of these proceedings, was read to General Schenck by the judge-advocate. Maj. Gen. R. C. SCHENCK, U. S. Volunteers, was then duly sworn, and answered as follows, viz: By the JUDGE-ADVOCATE: Question. Were the troops at Winchester under your command at the time that place was evacuated, in June last? Answer. They were within my command. Question. How long had those troops been under your command? Answer. Since the 22d of December, 1862. Question. What orders or instructions did you receive from the General-in-Chief in reference to the holding or evacuation of Win- chester? Answer. The question of occupying Winchester with any considerable force had been frequently a subject of conversation between the General-in-Chief and myself, and we differed somewhat in opinion in regard to such occupation, He appeared to think that nothing but a small force for picket duty, or as an outpost, should be kept at Winchester. I was of opinion that any such small force, in so advanced a position, would always be liable to be cut off, even by such rebel force, or a detach- ment from it, as we knew to be always in the Shenandoah Valley. One of the prin- cipal duties assigned to me was the protection of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, not only within the limits of my department proper, but all the way to the Ohio River. My policy was not to permit the railroad to lie along or to constitute the front, toward the enemy, of the country to be guarded, but to keep it in the rear of a strip of country in advance of it, in direction of the enemy. Thus I would cover a~md se~mre my means for the transfer and concentration of troops, and for the t~an Page 158 158 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CH~. XXXIX. portation of supplies, which I could not do if this line of communication and trans- portation were in advance on my front and at all times liable to be cut by the enemy. I did not believe that any number of pickets stationed immediately on and scattered along the road itself would insure its protection, and especially against cavalry raids, which we had most and constantly to apprehend. I had no cavalry force in number or condition equal to that mounted force with which the enemy were threatening us, otherwise I might have relied in some greater degree on that resource. These views I consider especially applicable to that portion of the Baltimore and Ohio Rail- road most approachable from the Shenandoah Valley, and the valleys of Lost River, Cacapon, Patterson Creek, and New Creek beyond, and that part of Loudoun County immediately east of the Blue Ridge. On this account, I always advised, and, so far as my command was concerned, preferred to cover that large bend of the railroad toward the north by a line of occupation to be held with some considerable force, extending along what may be regarded as the chord of that semicircle. For this purpose, I thought there should not only be, as there has constantly been, a pretty strong force kept at New Creek, but that Romney and Winchester should be occu- pied, and that as strong a force as General Heintzelman could afford should be kept at Leesburg. These points, and especially Winchester, were the keys to the ap- proaches north. General Halleck frequently repeated his suggestions and advice, in conformity with his own views, that Winchester should be occupied only as an advanced outpost, but I adhered, and, as I still think, rightly, to my own idea, and that the more in the case of Winchester, because there being no railroad commu- nication left with that position, it was not within easy supporting distance in case of any such raids as we had reason to apprehend, and any small force kept there would, therefore, I thought, be inevitably lost. These views of mine, however, were held and expressed with reference to the known and probable force of the enemy kept continuously in the Valley, and had not any reference to the movement of any large and overwhelming force of the enemy, such as Le& s army, or any considerable portion of it. In this connection, I refer to telegrams from General Jialleck to my- self, dated 5th of January, 30th of April, and 8th of May, 1863. General Halleck, in view of this difference of opinion between us, which was always pleasantly dis- cussed, did not, as I understood him, and as the communications will show, ever peremptorily order or insist upon the abandonment of Winchester. On the 8th of June, 1863, General Halleck sent me a telegram, recommending me, on account of an apprehended raid of cavalry massing by the enemy at Culpeper, to mass and con- centrate my troops along the railroad, exposing no large force in advance. When that telegram arrived in Baltimore, I was absent from my headquarters, in the State of Delaware, within my department. On the 9th of June, Lieut. Col. Donn Piatt, my chief of staff, telegraphed me at Dover, informing me of this communication from General Halleck, and asking what points f~r concentration General Halleck had suggested to me. I immediately replied to Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt on that same day (the 9th), stating, among other things, that General Halleck had never in- dicated points of concentration, and directing him to ask General Halleck if he had points to suggest, informing him also that I would return to Baltimore by 4 oclock in the morning. I did so return to Baltimore the morning of the 10th of June. I found that Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt had sent a telegram in my name, as directed on the 9th, asking General Halleck if his knowledge of rebel movements enabled him to suggest the better points on the railroad to concentrate, and informing him of the number of my troops respectively at Harpers Ferry, Frederick, Win- chester, Martinsburg, Romney, and New Creek, and stating that the troops at Winchester could fall back to Harpers Ferry or Martinsburg. To this dispatch no reply was received from General Halleck until the 11th of June, when I received his telegram, dated at noon of that day, advising that the Winchester troops, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. These are all the communications, I believe, that I ever received from General Hal- leck in regard to the abandonment of Winchester, in whole or in part, and they were, as will be seen, not in the form of orders, but suggestions, rather. The tele- grams attached hereto being referred to, will make my answer to this question con- nected and complete. [Telegrams.] WASHINGTON, January 5, 1863. General ScHENcK, Balttmore: No attempt should be made to hold Winchester against a large force of the enemy, but use it simply as an outpost, as advised in our conversation a day or two ago. Isolated posts and columns are too liable to be cut off. * * * * * * * H. W. HALLECK GeneraZ-i14-Chief Page 159 Ca& ~. XXXIX.) THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 159 WASHINGTON, D. C., April 80, 1868. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: If you want more troops in the ~vest, and at Harpers Ferry, why do you leave so large a force at Winchester? As I have often repeated to you verbally and in writing, that is no place to fight a battle. It is merely an outpost, which should not be exposed to an attack in force. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, May 8,1863. Major-General ScHENcK, Baltimore: * * * * * * You will maintain only a small force at Winchester, as an outpost, and employ the remainder of Milroys troops for the protection of the railroad and operations against the enemy in Western Virginia. * * * * * * * H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 8, 1863. Major-General ScHENcK, Baltimore: The indications are that the enemy is massing about 12,000 cavalry and artillery in Culpeper County for a raid. Deserters say the men have been given to under- stand that it is to be a long and desperate one. I can only repeat the recommendation, so often made to you, to mass your troops more in convenient places for rapid and concerted operations, holding rail- road bridges only with small detachments, in block-houses, and exposing no lar~ge force in advanced positions, where they are liable to be cut off. We probably shall not know the direction or intention of this raid till it is actually in motion. Hence the necessity of keeping your forces well in hand for a sudden movement. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Ghief. BALTIMORE, June 9, 1863. Major-General ScHENcK, Dover, Del.: Halleck telegraphs: Expose no large force in advanced positions, where it is liable to be cut off. I understand this refers to Winchester, and we have other telegrams to the same effect. What points for concentration does Halleck suggest as the proper ones? As Stuarts forcci is mounted, and ours infantry, the query is important. Does lie mean that we should occupy Martinsburg, Harpers Ferry, and Point of Rocks? DONN PIATT, Lieutenant4Jolonel, and Chief of Staff. DOVER, DEL., June 9, 1863. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff: Halleck has never indicated points of concentration. Maryland Heights, of course, is one; any other Inust be somewhat determined by circumstances. Confer with Kelley and Milroy. Be slow about leaving Winchester, but not too slow. Fred- erick City may become very important if any crossing be attempted east of Harpers Ferry. I will be home by 4 to-morrow morning. Ask Halleck if he has any points to suggest. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General. BALTIMORE, MD., June 9, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Does your knoxvledge of rebel movements enable you to suggest the better points on the railroad to concentrate Page 160 160 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. I have at Point of Rocks and Frederick, 3,400 men; at Harpers Ferry, 6,300; at Winchester, 6,900; at Martinsburg, 3,000; at Romney, 2,300; at New Creek, 2,400. Troops at Winchester can fall back now to Harpers Ferry, in face of enemy, [or] to Martinsburg. Force at Romney can fall back to Green Spring ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 11, 186312 m. Major-General SCHENcK: Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no importance other than as a lookout. The Winchester troops, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. The troops at Martinsburg should also be ready to fall back to Harpers Ferry. No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. Question. What orders or instructions did you communicate to Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy in reference to holding or evacuating Win- chester? Answer. On the night of the 9th of June, I sent Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, my chief of staff, and also Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler, to visit Harpers Ferry, Winchester, Romney, Martinsburg, and other points within the commands of Major-General Milroy, who was at Winchester, and of General Kelley, whose division was sta- tioned on the railroad, with instructions to ascertain and report the exact condition of things, and directing my chief of staff to act in some degree at his discretion, according as the necessities might seem to be, and to keep me constantly informed. On the next day I received from Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt the following dispatch: WINcHEsTER, June 10, 1863. Major-General SCHENcK: Matters look well here, excepting the cavalry. You can say to the General-in- Chief that we are ready for the rebels, should they come. Had we not better go on to Romney? Do you need Woodhull? He is leaving. DONN PJATT, Lieutenant-Co onel, and Chief of Staff. I would here state that I had directed this officer to proceed immediately to Win- chester, as he did, without any delay at Harpers Ferry or Martinsburg, Winchester being the chief point of interest. On the .9th, I had received the following tele- grams from Brig. Gen. B. F. Kelley, viz: HARPERS FERRY, June 9,1863. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff: I have no news from the Valley later than I reported, and that was that Jones. had left the Valley, going toward Culpeper, and that Jenkins was in command above Strasburg. I will send the artillery company to Milroy, as directed. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. HARPERS FERRY, June 9, 1863. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff: A cavalry scout sent yesterday to Snickers Gap has just returned by way of Wood Grove and Hillsborough, in Loudoun County. Saw no enemy. Learned that a detachment of the First New York Cavalry lad a skirmish with Mosby at Salem yesterday, capturing 14 men and 17 horses, including Mosbys private saddle-horse. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. These telegrams from General Kelley to Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt were received by me after the latter ha4 left on the 9th to go to Winchester, On the 1Ot~, I hu Page 161 C~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 161 again a report from Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, after he had returned to Harpers Ferry, by telegraph, as follows: HARPERS FERRY, June 10, 186311 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel CHESEBROUGH, As.sistant Adjutant-General: All quiet. Dont believe in raid, but are getting ready for it. Any dispatches, send them here. Go to Winchester this afternoon. DONN PJATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. And on that same day, I received the following telegram from the Secretary of War: WAR DEPARTMENT, June 10, 186311 a. m. Major-General ScHENOK: A sharp cavalry engagement between our forces, under Pleasonton, and the rebel forces took place yesterday at Beverly Ford, the details of which have not reached the Department. Pleasonton telegraphs that Stuart designed to have com- menced a raid to-day into Maryland, but thinks he has been too much crippled to do so soon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. On the 11th, Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt having returned to Winchester, I received from him the following telegram: WINCHESTER, June 11, 186312 m. Major-General SCHENOK: Just in from inspection of fortifications and troops. All looks fine. Can whip anything the rebels can fetch here. Answer at Martinsburg. DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. I should state here that Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt was then, and is yet by assign- ment, the assistant inspector-general of the Eighth Army Corps. I received after- ward on the same day from Brig. Gen. D. Tyler, from Martinsburg, the following telegram: MARTINsBuRG, June 11, 1863. Major-General SCHENOK: Left Winchester at 2 p. m. of this p. m. Milroy deserves credit for his fortifi- cations; it will take all of Lees cavalry and light artillery to whip him out. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-6~eneral. On that day also, I received the following telegram from Major-General Milroy: WINcHEsTER, June 11, 1863. Major-General ScHENcK: I have the place well fortified, and am well prepared to hold it, as General Tyler and Colonel Piatt will inform you, and I can and would hold it, if permitted to do so, against any force the rebels can afford to bring against me, and I exceedingly regret the prospect of having to give it up, and it will be cruel to abandon the loyal people that are in this county to the rebel fiends again. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. It was on the 11th that General Hallecks communication, referred to last in my answer to the former question, was received. In relation to the partial withdrawal of the troops from Winchester, I immediately telegraphed that dispatch with in- structions to Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, as follows: BALTIMoRE, June 11, 186312.40 p. m. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, Martinsburg: The following just received from Washington: Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no importance other 11 ~ UVOL XXVII, PT I Page 162 162 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. than as a lookout. The Winchester troops, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. The troops at Martinsburg should be ready to fall back to Harpers Ferry. No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. W. HALLECK, General-inChief. Colonel Piatt will take steps for preparing to carry out carefully and judiciously these instructions of the General-in-Chief. The troops at Roinney will also have to be considered in any arrangement for such falling back and concentration. Be ready, but wait for further orders. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. In consequence of these instructions, Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt appears to have sent an order to General Milroy, which I presume is embodied in his testimony, and hence, in the night between the 11th and 12th, or some time in the morning of the 12th, I received from General Milroy the following telegram: WINCHESTER, June 11, 186812 p. m. Major-General SCHENCK: Have just received an order from Colonel Piatt to immediately take steps to move my command to Harpers Ferry, leaving only a sufficient force for a lookout. I have sufficient force to hold the place safely, but if any portion is withdrawn the balance will be captured in forty-eighthours. All should go or none. Please desig- nate what portion of my forces must be left here for the enemy. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. On the 12th, I sent the following dispatch to Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt: BALTIMORE, June 12, 1863. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, New Greek, 17a.: Copy of your dispatch to General Milroy just received from Captain Woodhull. You have soinewhat exceeded my instructions. I directed steps to be taken for pre- paring to carry out instructions of the General-in-Chief, and added, Be ready, but wait for further orders. I will communicate directly with Milroy. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. Early on the same morning, and at the same time that I sent the last-cited dis- patch to Colonel Piatt, I sent the following instructions directly to General Milroy l)y telegraph: BALTIMORE, June 12, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Winchester, Va.: Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt has, I learn by copy of dispatch sent me, which he forwarded to you from Harpers Ferry, misunderstood me, and somewhat exceeded his instructions. You will make all the required preparations for withdrawing, but hold your position in the meantime. Be ready for movement, but wait for further orders. I doubt the propriety of calling in McReynolds brigade at once. If you should fall back to Harpers Ferry, he will be in part on the way and covering your flank; but use your discretion as to any orders to him. Below I give you a copy of a telegram of the General-in-Chief. Nothing heard since. Give me constant in- formation. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. [Copy of General Hallecks telegram.] Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no importance other than as a lookout. The Winchester troops, excepting enougb to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief Page 163 CHAP. XXXIX. THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 163 On the same morning, I sent a telegram, which I cannot now find on my files to refer to, asking General Milroy as to his means of transportation for getting away from Winchester. To this, on the same day, I received the following reply: WINCHESTER, June 12, 1563. Major-General SCHENcK: Telegram received. I can at any time, if not cut off from Martinsburg, have sufficient transportation to take all public stores away from here in six hours. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. I received that day also, from Brigadier-General Kelley, at Harpers Ferry, the following telegrams: HARPERS FERRY, June 12, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel CHESEBROUGH: All quiet this morning. Scouts returned from Hillsborough last night; heard nothing of the enemy. Sent out other scout in Loudoun County this morning. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. HARPERS FERRY, June 12, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel CHESEBROUGH: My cavalry scout just returned from Loudoun County; went as far as Hills- borough; neither saw nor heard of any rebels. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. I had also the following from General Milroy: WINCHESTER, June 12, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK: The Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry had a slight skirmish with a rebd cavalry force, about 500, 12 miles from here, on road to Front Royal, this afternoon. The Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, with one section of artillery, had a splendid little skirmish with some 400 rebel cavalry this side of Middletown at the same time. The Thirteenth skirmished with the rebels a short time, and drew them into an ambuscade of the Eighty-seventh and artillery. Eight of the rebels were killed, a number wounded, and 37, including a captain and 2 lieutenants, taken prisoners. No casualties on our side. The enemy are probably approaching in some force. I am entirely ready for them. I can hold this place. Please state specifically wbether I am to abandon it or not. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. This was the condition of affairs and the state of my information on the 12th of June. I had received nothing from General Halleck on that day, and nothinglater than his dispatch, dated at noon on the day before, although I had addressed to him on the 12th the following inquiry by telegraph: BALTIMORE, June 12, 1863. Major-General HALLEcK, General-in-Chief: Have you any knowledge or belief that there is any rebel infantry in the Yal ley or north of the Rappahannock, on this side of the Blue Ridge? There seems to me to be yet only parties of cavalry. ~Kelleys scouts could find no enemy in Loudoun to-day, having gone as far up as Hillsborough. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. On the 13th, I received the following from Colonel Piatt: hARPERS FERRY, Jine 13, 186311 a. m. Major-Generil SCHENcK: Ijave received the following dispatches from General Milroy. Am sorry that~ you interfered with me. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff Page 164 164 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Colonel PIATT, Chief of Staff: A small detachment of First New York encountered a body of rebel cavalry at White Post, supposed to be the advance of force met by Twelfth Pennsylvania on Front Royal road. Two of First New York wounded, and 1 missing. One rebel killed and some wounded. A large rebel wagon train, with strong cavalry force, was dis- covered on Cedar Creek or Back road this morning. Have sent out heavy scouting parties on Cedar Creek, Front Royal, and Strasburg roads, well supported. Have not yet heard from Berryville. Am perfectly certain of my ability to hold this place. R. H. MJLROY, Major-General. Colonel PLATT, Chief of Staff: Enemy have appeared in considerable force on Cedar Creek, Strasburg, and Front Royal roads, and skirmishing going on. Nothing but cavalry appears yet. Let them come. R. H. MILPOY, Major-General. The Court then adjourned to meet at 12 m. September 5, 1863. TWENTY-SIXTH DAY. SEPTEMBER 5, 1863. The Court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Major-General Scheuck was read over to him, corrected, and his examination resumed, as follows: On the 13th of June, I received from General Halleck a dispatch, dated 11 a. in., in reply to my inquiry of the day before, whether he had reliable information of rebel infantry being in the Valley. That dispatch is as follows: WAR DEPARTMENT, June 13, 186311 a. m. Major-General SCHENcK: Our cavalry scouts will probably be in to-day with more reliable information from the Valley. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. I received also, later in that day, the following telegrams, viz: WINCHESTER, June 13, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK: Considerable skirmishing with artillery all forenoon. McReynolds was attacked at Berryville this morning; repulsed the enemy, but is falling back on this place, via Smithfield. It is reported that Stuart is crossing the run at Berrys or Snickers Ferry. I fear the attack is only a feint to cover the great raid. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. HARPERs FERRY, June 13, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel CHESEBROIJGH: A messenger just from Charlestown reports that the enemy attacked Colonel McReynolds at Berryville this morning, and was repulsed, but that McReynolds subsequently fell back, by way of Smithfield, toward Winchester, and that shortly after he left, the rebel cavalry dashed in and burned the stores. If this is reliable, it would seem as if it was not ~ movement in force, as they in that case would need all the stores they could get. Have you any information from Heintzelinan or Stahel of the approach of the rebels? B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General Page 165 CHAP. XXXIX.P THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 165 I sent to Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt the followin dispatch: BALTIMORE, June 13, 1863. Lieut. Col. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff, Harpers Ferry: Instruct General Milroy to use great caution, risking nothing unnecessarily, and to be prepared for falling back in good order if over-matched. I rely on your hav- ing support afforded him, as far as i~iay be practicable. In the meantime, go on with your concentration of forces. Keep me advised of whAt is needed. What movement has been made from Romney? ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. I sent also to General Milroy these two dispatches: BALTIMORE, June 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Winchester, Va.: It is some hours since I have heard from you. Is there any new movement or demonstration by the rebels? ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, June 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Winchester, Va.: Of what rebel regiments were the prisoners you took yesterday? Can you hear of rebel infantry in the Valley? ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, Commanding. My reason for asking General Milroy to what regiments the prisoners he had taken belonged must be obvious. We knew that the rebel G. neral Jones, some- thing like a fortnight before, had left the Valley to join General Lee in front of Fredericksburg, or bad gone in that direction, and also that all the infantry oC the First Maryland Line and other rebel infantry that were in the Valley had gone to Lee. We knew just what regiments of cavalry the enemy had been long keeping in the Shenandoah Valley, and which Milroy, with his force, had been accustomed to encounter and drive when they approached or, threatened Winchester. General Milroy answered this telegram that evening at 9 oclock, by courier to Martinsburg, but his answer was not received at headquarters until noon of the 14th. WINcHEsTER, June 13, 18639 p. m. (Via Martinsburg, June 1411 a. in.) Major-General SCHENOK: Have been skirmishing; occasionally pretty severe. One battle, in which the enemy were repulsed and his lines broken and scattered by two of the Ohio and one Virginia regiment, assisted by the artiilery. We captured some prisoners of a Louis- iana brigade, who say they belong to Ewells, recently Jacksons old corps, and .that this corps is all in front us; also Jenkins and Imboden. McReynolds will soon be here. He had a fight with the rebels, and repulsed them before leaving Berry- ville. He is closely pursued and hard pressed by a heavy body of cavalry. I can hold this place five days if you can relieve me in that time. They will surround, but cant take, my fortifications. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. That evening, I also received this telegram from General Kelley: HARPERS FERRY, June 13, 1863. My scouts to Loudoun County returned. Went as far as Hillsborough; saw no enemy. The rebel citizens in that neighborhood report that General Lee is on his way to drive General Milroy out of WinchesteT. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General Page 166 i~36 X. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. This last tele,ram from General Kelley contains the first intelligence or report of any kind that I had indicating that Lee or any considerable portion of his force, or any infantry at all, had left the front of Fredericksburg or from east of the Blue Ridge, to advance upon Winchester or into the Valley. I immediately telegraphed Milroya telegram which I distinctly recollect, hut which, from its not reaching him, seems not to have been preserved or placed on file hy the operator; at least I cannot find it. By that telegram I directed him to fall hack, fighting, if necessary, and to keep the road to Harpers Ferry, if possible, instead of moving to Martinsburg. My idea had always heen that if a concentration was made upon the railroad, it must he on Maryland Heights, and I supposed thiit General Halleck, when speaking so frequently of Harpers Ferry, meant Maryland Heights. This telegram, I under- stood, never reached General Milroy, the wires being cut about that time between him and the railroad. It was in cipher, like others, and I have understood was only partly received when the interruption took place. This completes, I helieve, the history of the 13th of June. On the 14th of June, I received the following dispatches, the first being from my aide-de-camp, Captain Woodhull, whom I had sent with General Tyler, and who was at that time serving as General Tylers assistant adjutant-general: MARTINSBURG, June 14, 186310.50 a. m. Major-General SCHENOK: A scout has just arrived here from Milroy; left Winchester 11 last night; reports Ewell~s cavalry corps in and around Winchester, from 15,000 to 18,000 strong. Jones and Imbodens forces unknown; also fought yesterday with success, but quite a loss on both sides. Milroy advises Smith to be on guard; he apprehends a raid on Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry. MAX WOODHULL, Assistant Adjutant-General. MARTINSBURG, June 14, 186311 a. m. Major-General SCHENCK: General Milroy reports that he was attacked yesterday by General Ewell with from 15,000 to 18,000 men; that he sustained himself. Notifies us to look out for Harpers Ferry and Martinshurg. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. MARTINSBURG, June 14, 1863. Major-General SCHENOK: Captain Boyd has just brought from Winchester the following dispatch to you: WINcHEsTER, June 13, 186310 p. m. Force at Bunker Hill arrived this morning at 6 oclock. I was sharply engaged with the enemy on last evening; prospect of a general engagement, but will hold this place in spite of fate. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General. I sent the following dispatch to General Tyler, who was then at Martinsburg, from whence communication might be held with GenerafMiiroy by courier. HDQRs. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, June 14, 1863. Brigadier-General TYLER, Martinsburg, Va.: I repeat, everything must go to Maryland Heights that is possible. Endeavor to communicate this, and urgently, again to Milroy. The enemy appears to have gone by Winchester to the westward, if he is appearing at Martinsburg. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General,. Commanding.~ This telegram I sent in the apprehension that MiLroy might not have received m Page 167 CHAP. XXXIX4 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 16~T order to conduct his retreat in the direction of Harpers Ferry. A telegram was also sent at noon on that day to General Tyler, as follows: BALTIMORE, June 14, 186312 m. Brigadier-General TYLER, Martinsburg: The general commanding thinks it better that your command should fall back to Harpers Ferry, and, if possible, offer relief to Milroy by the Harpers Ferry and Winchester road. Communicate this by cipher to Milroy. By order of Major-General Schenck: DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. On the 14th, about noon, I received also from General Halleck the following: WAR DEPARTMENT, Jane 14, 186310.30 a. m. Major-General ScHENcK: It is reported that Longstreets and Ewells corps have passed through Cul- peper to Sperryville, toward the Valley. H. W. HALLECK, General~in-Chief. This appeared to be a further answer to the inquiry which I had made to the General-in-Chief on the 12th, and contained the first and only hint or intimation I had from him that any of Lees force had gone in the direction of the Valley. Later in the day. I think, I had the two following telegrams from General Halleck and from the President: WAR DEPARTMENT, June 14, 1863. Major-General ScHENcK: If you have not executed my orders to concentrate your forces at Harpers Ferry, you will do so immediately. Troops, stores, & c., at New Creek, Grafton, & c., should be carried west the moment danger approaches. Unless there is a more prompt obedience of orders, there must be a change of commanders. See t6 this imme- diately. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 14, 1863. Major-General ScIIENOK: Get General Milroy from Winchester to Harpers Ferry, if possible. He will be gobbled upif he remains, if he is not already past salvation. A. LINCOLN, President United States. By the COURT: Question. In the dispatch from the General-in-Chief, dated June 14, 1863, that officer states: If you have not executed my orders to concentrate your forces at Harpers Ferry, you will do so immedi- ately. To what orders does the General-in-Chief refer? He also states in the same telegram, Unless there is a more prompt obedience of orders, there must be a change of commanders. To what com- mander or commanders does the general refer; to any at Winchester or elsewhere? Answer. I suppose to his telegram of the 11th of June, as that is the only com- munication from him in which he refers to Harpers Ferry or any other place as a point of concentration in case Winchester should be abandoned. But I do not ad- mit that that telegram contains an order, but only advises a partial evacuation of Winchester, leaving enough troops there still to serve as an outpost. I do not know to what commander or commanders General Halleck meant to refer as deserving to be changed, but suppose either General Milroy or myself. or both of us. I re- member looking at this sentence when it was received with some such query pass- ing through my mind, but I did not think that it required my attention. I was doing allI could, and suppose that General Halleck, as is often tbe case with all of us, was a little excited by the news he had heard Page 168 168 K. CX, VA., W. VA., MI)., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. A report of the present condition of General Milroys division, compiled by Capt. F. A. Palmer, aide-de-camp, was shown to General Schenck (see Appendix G), and he replied: This was made by my authority, and I believe it to be correct. After this was made, it was found that a still greater number, by, I think, some 200 or 300, could be accounted for; and this, without counting teamsters and other retainers of the camp who escaped with the teams to Harrisburg or went to other points. By the COURT: Question. If General Milroy had promptly obeyed your order to him of the 13th day of June, 1863, to leave part of his forces at Win- chester and withdraw the residue, what, in your opinion, would have been the result of his doing so upon the part left at Winchester ? Answer. I never instructed General Milroy in my peremptory order of the 18th, or at any other time, to abandon Winchester with a portion of his forces, leaving a part behind. General Schenck was then asked by the court whether he wished to make any further statements or explanations in reference to the facts and circumstances connected with the evacuation of Winchester. General Scheuck replied as follows, viz: I would never at any time, even with only Jones and Imbodens forces in the Valley, have recalled a part of the division at Winchester, leaving a small force; and still less, when a part of Lees army, or the whole of it in force, came down upon the place as they did, to invest it. I would at any time have evacuated Win- chester altogether or not at all. Indeed, if I had been free in good time to con- centrate all my forces, excepting a guard to be left upon the railroad, in view of an approach in great force, I would have concentrated at Winchester, where I believe I could have held Lees army in front or outside of the fortifications until Hooker could come up, the main difficulty with Milroy in that connection having been the impossibility, with his division, of manning the whole of the works, which had been repaired and very considerably extended and multiplied since the occupation of the place before he was stationed there. By the COURT: Question. Do you know of any instance in which General Milroy disobeyed by neglect or otherwise any order from you relating to the evacuation of Winch ester? Answer. No. The court then adjourned to meet at 12 m. Monday, September 7, 1863. TWENTY-SEVENTH DAY. SEPTEMBER 7, 1863. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, all the members and the judge-advocate. The testimony given yesterday by Major-General Scheuck was read over to him and corrected. General Schenck then asked and received permission to have the following telegram appear upon the records of the court, viz: WARRENTON JUNCTION, June 12, 18637 p. m. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: A colored boy captured on the 9th states that Ewells corps passed through Cul- peper on Monday last, on their way to the Valley, and that part of Longstreets had gone also. A second negro just across the river confirms this statement. I send a reconnaissance to find out the truth. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, etc Page 169 CHiP. XXXIX.~ THE GETTYSBTTR& CAMPAIGIN~. 169 All the testimony having been received that was deem~(l necessary by the court, the investigation of the facts and circumstances in re- gard to the evacuation of Winchester was closed. WILLIAM F. BARRY, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, President. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Captain Fourth U. S. Infantry, ~Jud ge-Advocate. APPENDIX A. Brig. Gen. W. F. BARRY, Brig; Gen. J. J. ABERcROMBIE, and Brig. Gen. G. A. DE Russv, Detailed for the Court of Inquiry under Special Orders, No. 346, for the purposes in said order named: The undersigned, for the purpose of protecting all his rights, priv- ileges, and interests, doth hereby respectfully protest that he should not in his reputation, fame, or person be in any manner whatever injured or affected by the findings of the present court of inquiry, because he says: That all the officers who compose said court are brigadier-generals, while he is a major-general; and while he cannot but admit that the officers who compose this court are in all respects personally his peers, yet officially they are not so, and he asks that this, his protest, may be made part of the record. R. H. MJLROY, ]Ilajor- General. AUGUST 15, [1863.] APPENDIX B. WASHINGTON, January 5, 1863. General SCHENOK, Baltimore: No attempt should be made to hold Winchester against a large force of the enemy, but use it simply as an outpost, as advised in our conversation a day or two ago. Isolated posts and columns are too liable to be cut off. * * * * * * * H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 16, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: All troops in Western Virginia will be ordered to your command. The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company represent that their road about Harpers Ferry is unsafe under General Milroy; can you not put a more competent officer in his place? I must again call your attention to the importance of constructing block-houses for the defense of railroad bridges. H. W. HALLECK General-in-Chief Page 170 170 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. WASHINGTON, D. C., April 30, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: If YOU want more troops in the west and at Harpers Ferry, why do you leave so large a force at Winchester? As I have often repeated to you verbally and in writing, that is no place to fight a battle. It is merely an outpo~st, which should not be exposed to an attack in force. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., May 2, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: * * * * * * There is every probability against any force of the enemy in front of Milroy; he must be on another stampede. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., May 8, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: I have jnst learned that Elliotts cavalry has been sent to Wood- stock and Edinbnrg. They are of no possible use there, excepting to be captured. You will maintain only a small force at Winchester, as an outpost, and employ the remainder of Milroys troops for the pro- tection of the railroad and operations against the enemy in V[estern Virginia. For Milroy to attempt operations tip the Shenandoah at the present time is utter madness. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., May 29, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: There are reasons why your forces at Harpers Ferry, in the Shen- andoah Valley, and Western Virginia should be on the alert, and prepared for an attack. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., Jnne 8, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: The indications are that the enemy is massin0 about 12,000 cav- alry and artillery in Culpeper County, for a raid. Deserters say the men have been given to understand that it is to be a long and desperate one. I can only repeat the recommendation .so often made to you, to mass your troops more in convenient places for rapid and concerted operations, holding railroad bridges only, with small detachments in block-houses, and exposing no large force in advanced positions, where they are liable to be cut off. We probably shall not kno Page 171 CHAP. XXXLXII THE GETTYSBU1~G CAMPAIGN. 171 the direction or intention of this raid till it is actually in motion; hence the necessity of keeping your forces well in hand for a sudden movement. H. V~T. HALLECK, (Jei~eral-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 11, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no im- portance, other than as a lookout. The Winchester troops, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. The troops at Martinsburg should also be ready to fall back on Harpers Ferry. No large amount of supplies should be left in any exposed position. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 14, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: I have so repeatedly urged you to withdraw your main forces from Winchester, and so recently (the 11th) directed it, that I cannot un- derstand how Milroy could hav& been left there to be invested. I repeat, you must concentrate on Harpers Ferry, not on Winchester or Martinsburg. If General Mikoy does not obey your orders, re- move him from command. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief WASHINGTON, D. C., June 15, 1863. Major-General SCHENOK, Baltimore: Dont fail to put every man not required as vedettes into Harpers Ferry defenses; there must be no delay in this. Detached forces will all be wiped out. Your engineer officer should be at Harpers Ferry, to assist in directing defenses; another will be sent you in a few days. Should the place be besieged, it will soon be relieved. H. W. HALLECK General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 15, 1863. Major-General SCHENOK, Baltimore: Dont give General Milroy any command at Harpers Ferry; we have had enough of that sort of military genius. If you have not already done so, send all your small posts and available troops there; that place must be held. H. W. HALLECK General-in-Chief. APPENDIX C. (For Milroys report, see pp. 4152. Page 172 172 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. ronAp. xxxix. APPENDIX I). Telegrams submitted to the court by Lieut. Col. Donn Piatt, as- sistant inspector-general, Eighth Army Corps. N. B.The telegrams quoted in full by General Schenck in his testimony have been withdrawn from this appendix, and returned for file to General Schencks headquarters. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Captain Fourth U. S. Infantry, Judge-Advocate. IIDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore, AId., June 9, 1863. Dover, Del.: Halleck telegraphs: Expose no large force in advanced positions, where it is liable to be cut off. I understand this refers to Winchester, and we have other tele- grams to the same effect. What points for concentration does Hal- leck suggest as the proper ones? As Stuarts force is mounted, and ours infantry, the query is important. Does he mean that we should occupy Martinsburg, Harpers Ferry, and Point of Rocks? DONN PTATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-General AVERELL, Baltimore, Md., June 9, 1863. Weston, Va.: Letter received; answer by mail to-day. Scammon telegraphs: From knowledge of force in my front, my opinion is that no part of my force can he sent to Summerville. Stuart is said to be collecting over 10,000 mounted men at Cul- peper, for a raid. Jt can scarcely be for your region, but it is well to be on the alert. No more infantry can be spared for the present. DONN PJATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., June 11, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief, Washington, D. C.: The following dispatch just received from Milroy: WINCHESTER, JuHe 88.30 p. in. Jenkins is still above Strasburg, but the greater part of the rebel cavalry have left the Valley to join Stuart at Culpeper. I learn from various sourees that Lee ha Page 173 CHAP. XXXIX~ THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 173. mounted the whole of Hoods infantry division. Their cavalry force at Culpeper is probably more than twice 12,000. I would advise that the militia of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Ohio be at once called out, as there is doubtless a mighty raid on foot. A number of foreigners just from Richmond speak of a great movement of troops through Richmond from the south. ROBT. C. SCHIENOK, Major- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, Jnne 13, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK: Received the following at noon to-day: Colonel PIATT: Enemy approaching in strong force. Infantry and artillery on Strasburg pike. Elliott pitching into them. Any extra star very much in the way; ought to be there myself. Will get them, if Elliott falls back. R. H. MILROY, Major-General. DONN PIATT, Lientenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, June 13, 1863. Brigadier-General KELLEY, Harpers Ferry, Va.: Call in Colonel Smiths command immediately, so that it can march to the relief of Milroy on the arrival of General Tyler, who will be in Harpers Ferry on midnight train. See him on train. DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Jnne 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Winchester, Va.: It is some honrs since I have heard from yon. Is there any new movement or demonstration by the rebels? ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRs. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., June 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Winchester, Ira: Of what rebel regiments were the prisoners yon took yesterday? Can you hear of rebel infantry in the Valle~r? ROWL. C. SCHEYCK, Major-General, Commanding Page 174 174 N. C., VA., W. VAX, MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. HARPERS FERRY, June 13, 1863il p. m. Lient. Col. Do~ PIATT: I explained to you in my last telegram why I did not order the Fifteenth Virginia to Martinsburg. Shall I now do so? The telegraph line ceased to work to Winchester at about 9 oclock, so Colonel Smith reports. All quiet in this neighborhood yet. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. (We have not worked with Winchester since about 9 oclock. OPERATOR.) HEADQUARTERS, Baltimore, June 14, 1863. Brigadier-General KELLEY, Harpers Ferry: Tyler informs the general commanding that at nightfall he will fall back to Williamsport, and from thence to Harpers Ferry. It is important Milroy should know this. Send trasty scout with it in cipher, if possible. By order: DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff. MARTINSBURG, June 14, 18(333 p. m. Major-General SCHENCK and President LINCOLN: General Milroy is in a tight place. If he gets out, it will be by good luck and hard fighting. Not a straggler from his army is yet in; it is neck or nothing. We are besieged here; have had a little skirmish. I imagine our rebel friends are waiting for grub and artillery. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, June 14, 1863. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States, Washington, D. C.: I am doing all I can to get Milroy back toward Harpers Ferry on the railroad. He sent down a conner in the night to say that, if he could not fall back, he could sustain himself, and hold his position five days, but I have no force to support him. The rebels appear to have pushed on beyond him rapidly and impetuously, and are re- ported approaching Martinsburg. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, Commanding. U. S. MILITARY TELEGRAPH HEADQUARTERS, 12 p. m. Lieutenant-Colonel PIATT: Harpers Ferry reports a slight cnrrent from Winchester battery, which proves the wire is not broken. It is probably on the ground. Cannot work to Winchester at present. Respectfully, & c., G. W. BALDWIN Page 175 Ciw~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 175 HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, 11/lid., June 14, 1863. Brigadier-General KELLEY, Harpers Ferry: The general commanding requests you to find some trusty scout to carry, if possible, information to General Milroy that Martinsburg is evacuated, and that he can expect no help from your quarter; that he must hold out to the last. Send in cipher, and take every precaution. DONN PJATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of St aft HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, liEd., Jane 14, 1863. Major-General MILROY, Winchester, Va.: Our forces have evacuated Ma~tinsburg, and fallen back to Harpers Ferry. We can give you no help. You must hold out to the last, and then use your own judgment as to cutting your way out. By order of Maj. Gen. R. C. Scheuck: DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. [P. S. ]General Kelley will send this through, if possible, by scout. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, June 14, 1863. Brigadier-General TYLER, Mlartinsburg, Va.: I repeat, everything must go to Maryland Heights that is possible. Endeavor to communicate this, and urgently, again to Milroy. T Lie enemy appears to have gone by Winchester to the westward, if he is appearing at Martinsburg. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, ]If~jor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, 11/lid., June 14, 1863. Major-General HALLECK: My orders to Milroy and Kelley have been to get everything pos- sible to Maryland Heights, but I have nothing from Milroy later than 11 last night, his telegraphic communication being intercepted. The enemy appears to have pushed on impetuously to the westward of him, approaching Martinsburg. General Tyler is there, directiug, with a view to get all to Harpers Ferry, but it is not yet known whether the reported approach to Mar- ti.nsburg is in force. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, lJiEajor- General, Commanding Page 176 176 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [ChAP. XXXIX. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, ]Iilid., June 14, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, Washington: My orders have been absolute in relation to concentration at Har- pers Ferry. I believe Milroy and Tyler are doing their best to com- ply with my commands. The orders in reference to concentration of troops west of Martinsburg, at Grafton, h~lve also gone out, and are being executed. Averell is also ordered to Grafton. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, June 15, 1863. Colonel PIATT: Your dispatch received, and sent by scout to Milroy. Nothing from the enemy in my front this morning. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, June 15, 186312.40 p. m. Major-General SCHENCK: Colonel McReynolds has just come from the front. He reports that Generals Milroy and Elliott are within an hours march of the city. He thinks that 2,000 will cover his loss. Not nearly so bad as I had feared. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., June 15, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief, Washington, D. C.: Nothing from Milroy since 11 oclock Saturday night. Is it not possible to have a cavalry movement in the front as a diversion in his favor? ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, June 15, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK: I am in with the greater part of my command. The fortifications at Winchester were invested by about 15,000 rebels and twenty pieces of artillery. They carried my outer works by storm, 6 oclock on Sun- day evening. I spiked all my guns Sunday night, and left with the whole of my command quietly at 1 oclock this moriilng, bringin Page 177 cILAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 177 all the horses of my artillery, and wagons, but was interrupted by an overwhelming force with artillery 4 miles this side of Winchester, on the Martinsburg road, and, after a desperate fight of two hours, I got through, but my force was greatly shattered and scattered. We were pursued by a large cavalry force, who picked up numbers of my weary boys. I cannot yet tell the amount of my loss, but I think it will not ex- ceed 2,000. What are your orders? R. H. MILROY, Major- General. [NoTE.For additional telegrams, see Part III, Correspondence, etc., under dates of June 3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, and 14.] APPENDIX E. * HEADQUARTERS MILROYS DIvISIoN, Winchester, March 1, 1863. Major-General SCHENOK: DEAR SIR: From information received through deserters, negroes, citizens, and scouts, I have every reason for believing tihat the rebel force in front of me has been very considerably re-enforced, and that an early attack is intended on this place, or rather on my forces stationed here, and that the attack has only been this long delayed on account of the very inclement weather of the last month. I therefore ask that I may be allowed, without delay, at least two more regiments of infantry, one more of cavalry, and one more battery, and that I may be allowed to assume the offensive. My cavalry force should be increased for the reason that, from the best information I can get, the rebel cavalry force in my front is about five times as great as my own at present is. I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, R. H. MILROY, Brigadier- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., March 4, 1863. Respectfully forwarded to the General-in-Chief. It is impossible for me to give to General Milroy the re-enforce- ments he asks, for the simple and conclusive reason that I have not the troops. I will add that it seems to be the general opinion of secessionists in Baltimore that Milroy is to be soon attacked. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. SECOND DIvISION, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Winchester, Va., Jane 12, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. C. SCHENCK: DEAR SIR: Having received some orders looking to the evacuation of this place and falling back upon Harpers Ferry, I hope you will * See also reports of Capts. John Carlin and F. W. Alexander, orginally parts of this appendix. 12 R RVOL XXVII, PT I Page 178 178 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. pardon me for making a few snggestions, in addition to those of Gen- eral Elliott, whiCh I rnClO5e, on the importance of holding this point: First. This place is the key to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Let this point be abandoned, and our forces withdrawn to Harpers Ferry, and no force that it would be practicable for our Government to place at Harpers Ferry, and at points along the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad west of that place, would or could secure it against raids from the effemy occupying this place as a base. That railroad never has been nor never can be kept from destruction while this place is occupied by the rebels. Secondly. The fortifications on the hill near this place are now so perfect, and all approaches to them so well protected by outworks, that I can hold them against five times our number. Thirdly. The Union men and women of this and adjoining counties have been so often disappointed and abandoned to the demons of treason, that they had become very timid and doubtful, but our six months occupation here has begun to give them confidence in, and many of them have come out and taken a decided stand for, the Union, and in both town and country the Union sentiment has recently been rapidly improving. Men and women are coming in daily in large numbers and voluntarily taking the oath of allegiance, and I am told that the leading influential secessionists of this place, in private counsel among themselves, have determined, upon the first serious reverse to their cause in Virginia, to come out boldly and take the stump for reconstruction. Fourthly. There is a large amount of wheat in this and the sur- rounding counties, of the last two years crops, still unthreshed, which the rebs would get, if we abandoned the country to them. I am, therefore, decidedly of opinion that every dictate of interest, policy, humanity, patriotism, and bravery requires that we should not yield a foot of this country up to the traitors again. With much respect, I am, general, truly, yours, & c., R. H. MILROY, Major- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CoRPS, Baltimore, llilid., June 14, 1863. Respectfully forwarded to the General-in-Chief. The original not received until this morning, but in the meantime your orders to abandon Winchester and fall back to Harpers Ferry have been made still more peremptory. ROBT. . C. SCHENCK, Major- General. [Illclosure.] HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND DIv., EIGHTH ARMY C~RPS, Winchester, Va., June 12, 1863. Maj. Gen. R. H. MIEROY, U. S. Vols., Corn dg. Second Dir., Eighth A. C., Winchester, Va.: GENERAL: By request, I respectfully submit my views in regard to the occupation of this place by the United States forces. With the force under your command, including that at Berryville, the fortifications commanding the town, and outworks, can be held against two or three times its niunber Page 179 CHAP. XXXIX.} THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 179 The loyal sentiment of the inhabitants of the place and vicinity is much stronger than I expected to find, and has increased dnring the past three months, because of the belief of loyal people that the country would be occupied by our troops, and that they would not again be subjected to the ravages of the rebel forces. From observation and information, I am satisfied that in this vicin- ity there is a large amount of wheat, the crop of two seasons, not yet threshed; this would afford subsistence to the rebels, should they occupy the country. I do not know the military necessity for an evacuation of the place, but would regret it very much, should there be occasion for it. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers. APPENDIX F. HARPERS FERRY, January 6, 1863. Colonel WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Baltimore: Major Russell has just returned from a scout as far as Winchester. Went yesterday by way of Charlestown and Berryville, returned via Bunker Hill and Smithfield. All quiet; neither saw nor heard of any rebels in his ro& ite. He brings me the same report contained in your dispatch, but says it is only rumor. There may be, and proba- bly is, a force in the upper part of the Valley, but I do not believe A. P. Hill is there. If you deem it best, I would suggest that the regiment and battery you have at Baltimore be sent to Milroy. Please give me orders in regard to holding or abandoning Win- chester in case we are threatened by a strong force. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MILRoYs DIvIsION, Winchester, Va., January 6. (Via Harpers Ferry.) Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: Information is received that A. P. Hill and Loring are approaching this place by way of Staunton and New Market in heavy force. I can hold this place, but need re-enforcements, especially cavalry. Could not a force be sent from Washington toward Luray and Port Republic, to cut them off? R. H. MILROY, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., Lieutenant-Colonel WHIPPLE, January 13, 1863. Assistant Adjutant-General, Baltimore: The following just received from General Milroy: JANUARY 12. General KELLEY: Have received information from two sources to-day that a large rebel force is ap- proaching this place, half to attack by Front Royal and Valley pike, the other to g Page 180 180 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. around by Berryville to cut me off from Martinsburg; their object being to get the stores from here, for which they are suffering. I have no cavafry for scouting, and am helpless. If I am to hold this place, my force should be doubled. Please order Washburn from Romney here with my artil- lery, and a cavalry force, to come up through Berryville. B. F. KELLEY, [Brigadier- General.] BALTIMORE, MD., March 14, 18631.30 p. m. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Following sent to Commanding officer, Harpers Ferry: You will immediately send forward two regiments of infantry to re-enforce Gen- eral Milroy at Winchester. By order of Brevet Brigadier-General Morrls: WM. H. CHESEBROUGH, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES UPPER POTOMAC, Harpers Ferry, Va., March 14, 1863. General HALLECK: I have reliable information from Union men this moment from Charlestown, that Hampton, Jones, and Imboden are with their forces at Strasbnrg; in all over 10,000 men, with ten or more field pieces. It is believed they are moving on Winchester B. S. ROBERTS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. (Copies to General Heintzelman and to General Schenck, com- manding department, Baltimore.) GENERAL SCHENCKS HEADQUARTERS, Baltimore, April 26, 186311.30 p. m. (Received April 27, 12.15 a. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: General Milroy sends the following: WINCHESTER, April 26, 1863. Major-General ScHENOK, Baltimore: I have just received a message from General Elliott at Lost Riv~r, 5 miles beyond Wardensville. He found the river too high to cross with his infantry and artillery. Sent on a regiment of cavalry toward Moorefield; says he cannot cross his infantry and artillery without bridging, and he has not tools to build a bridge. I think before he can cross, Jones will have escaped. What do you say to having Elliott go from Wardensville to Woodstock, then up the Valley to Harrisonburg, to head Jones off? I think it would be best to turn Leopold over to the civil authori- ties of Maryland. Shall I do so? P. H. MILROY, Major-General Page 181 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 181 Shall I direct this movement? I am inclined to consent to it. It is a bold, but I believe would be an effective and successful, moITe~ ment. General Elliott has four regiments of infantry, two of cav- alry, and one or two batteries. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, MD., June 11, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The following just received from Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, assist- ant inspector-general, whom I sent with General Tyler to Winchester: WINCHESTER, VA., June 11, 186312 m. Major-General ScHENcK: Just in from inspection of fortifications and iroops. All looks fine. Can whip anything the rebels can fetch here. DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff. Your instructions to-day in regard to withdrawing troops from Winchester and concentrating at Harpers Ferry have been received, and I have given directions to be ready and carry them out. ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General. BALTIMORE, MD., June 13, 1863. Colonel PIATT, Harpers Ferry: Instruct General Milroy to use great caution, risking nothing un- necessarily, and to be prepared for falling back in good order if over- matched. I rely on your having support afforded him as far as may be practicable. In the meantime, go on with your concentration of forces. Keep me advised of what is needed. What movement has been made from Roinney? ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. C., June 14, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: If you have not executed my orders to concentrate your forces at Harpers Ferry, you will do so immediately. Troops, stores, & c., at New Creek, Grafton, & c., should be carried west the moment danger approaches. Unless there is a more prompt obedience of orders, there must be a change in the commanders. See to this immediately. H. W. HALLECK, Geiwral-in- Chief Page 182 182 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. WINCHESTER, VA., [Jane] 13, 18638 p. m. Via Martinsburg, Va., June 1411 a. m. (Received June 1411.40 a. in.) Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore, Md.: Have been skirmishing, occasionally pretty severely. One battle, in which the enemy were repulsed, and his lines broken and scattered by two of the Ohio and one Virginia regiment, assisted by the artil- lery. We captured some prisoners of a Louisiana brigade, who say they belong to Ewells, recently Jacksons old corps, and that his corps is all in front of us; also Jenkins and Imboden. McReynolds will soon be here. He had a fight with the rebels, and repulsed them before leaving Berryville. He is closely pursued and hard pressed by a heavy body of cavalry. I can hold this place five days, if you can relieve me in that time. They will surround, but cant take, my fortifications R. H. MILROY, Major- General. APPENDIX G. BALTIMORE, August 18, 1863. DONN PIATT, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Chief of Staff: COLONEL: I have the honor, agreeably to instructions contained in Special Orders, No. 181, to submit the following as a report of the whereabouts of the forces lately commanded by Maj. Gen. Robert H. Milroy: Commanded by Col. A. T. MeReynolds, First New York Cavalry, July 25, 1863. 0 0 ~ Command. ~ a is Z Z H 0 ~ 12th virginia Infantry 593 31 624 111 116th Ohio Infantry 596 26 622 130 87th Pennsylvania infantry 270 10 280 138 123d Ohio Infantry 208 5 213 386 122d Ohio Infantry 181 10 191 70 18th connecticut Infantry 242 9 251 480 1st New York Cavalry 539 37 576 107 12th Pennsylvania Cavalry 418 30 448 143 1st and 3d virginia Cavalry 22 2 24 44 Total 3,069 160 3,229 1,609 4,838 ii a ci Command. S ~ 0 ci a Z 0 H 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Army of the Potomac, General Gregg 206 173 5th Maryland Infantry, in Baltimore 200 199 5th U. 5. Artillery, Relay House, Lieutenant Spooner 36 3d virginia Cavalry, Cumberland, Captain Mcvickar 50 1st virginia Light Artillery, Wheeling, va., Captain Carlin 56 1st virginia Cavalry, Army of the Potomac, Lieutenant Dawson 29 K:::::: Baltimore Battery, Captain Alexander 94 116th Ohio volunteer Infantry, one company, Baltimore, and stragglers 100 Total 771 372 1,14 Page 183 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 183 Commanded by Brigadier-General Elliott, Third Division, Third Corps, Army of the Potomac, August , 1863. 0 Command. I 5 o +~ S ~ S Z Z E~ 0 110th Ohio Infantry 395 24 419 95 122d Ohio Infantry 669 33 702 6th Maryland Infantry 433 36 469 68 87th Pennsylvania Infantry 219 15 234 67th Pennsylvania Infantry 105 12 117 621 Total 1,821 120 1,941 784 2,725 14th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, Camp Parole 38 Total Camp Parole, July 29, 1863 2,803 Total accounted for 8,744 Then on duty 5,903 The above report is drawn from the morning and tn-monthly re- ports of the several Commanders, and is as correCt and definite as the scattered condition of the forces will admit. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. A. PALMER, Captain, and Aide-de-Camp. ADDENDA. WASHINGTON, September 1, 1863. The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: SIR: I have been summoned to this city to appear as a witness before a court of inquiry convened under Special Orders, No. 346, current series, Adjutant-Generals Office. Until this morning, I had not seen nor did I know the terms of that order. I had only understood that, on the application of Major- General Milroy, forwarded through me as his corps commander, a court of inquiry had been ordered. But, coming here as a witness, I find myself answering to a call which would make me in fact a party defendant to the investigation which this court is conducting, and this without notice, without op- .portunity to object to the constitution of the court, and without a part in the testimony which has been given; and also when I have neither been accused, and so demanded a court of inquiry, nor has one been directed~~ by the President to inquire into my official conduct. Referring to instructions embodied in the order for this court, I find this language: The court will report whether the orders of the General-in-Chief, in regard to the evacuation of Winchester, were complied with; and, if not, by whom they were disobeyed. But the orders of the General-in-Chief were given only to and through me as the corps commander. I am, therefore, necessarily put upon my defense as at least one of the parties to this proceed- ing. In any investigation that ensues, there will be involved also, of necessity, the conduct and course of the General-in-Chief in relation to the matter in question; and yet, as I am distinctly advised, this court, in the findings and report and recorded opinions of which he i Page 184 184 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [C~p. XXXIX. so directly concerned, and all the members of which are inferior to me in grade, is entirely of his own selection, and the judge-advocate of it his own military secretary. I shrink from no legitimate inquiry into any official conduct of mine, as involved in the particular matter in question, or in any other performance of my duty; but I respectfully demand as a right that my reputation and conduct shall not be called in question, or decided upon by surprise or indirection. I ask, Mr. President, that you will order a court of inquiry, which shall be, as to me and my rights, regular in its institution and fair in the opportunities afforded me to meet anything which it may be pretended implicates me unfavorably in any action attending the evacuation of Winchester. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. C. SCHENCK, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers. [SEPTEMBER 7, 1863.] Major-General Schenck then proposed to the court that Major- General Hooker, being in the city, should be summoned as a witness, stating that he was informed that there could be proven, and he pro- posed to have proven, among other facts, by General Hooker this: That he, then being in command of the Army of the Potomac, did re- ceive a telegram from General Pleasonton, informing him that it was reported that two corps of Lees armyLongstreets and Ewellshad marched through Culpeper, by way of Sperryville, to the Shenandoah Valley, and that this telegram, like others, was received by military telegraph in the usual way through the War Department, where such telegraphic information was accustomed to be taken down as it passed, for the information of the Secretary of War and of the Gen- eral-in-Chief; and that this was on the 12th day of June, 1863. ROBT. C. SCHENCK. [Indorsement.] SEPTEMBER 7, 1863. The court will place upon its record the telegram alluded to (if any such was transmitted), for which purpose it will procure it from the files of the War Department or from those of the headquarters of the army. In either event, the court will feel bound to admit that this telegram came regularly through the usual channels, unless posi- tive information should accompany it amounting to proof that this one formed an exception in the ordinary transmission of such dis- patches. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Captain Fourth U. S. Infantry, Judge-Advocate. WARRENTON JUNCTION, June 12, 18637 p. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: A colored boy captured on the 9th states that Ewells corps passed through Culpeper on Monday last, on their way to the Valley, an Page 185 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 185 that part of Longstreets has gone also. A second negro just across the river confirms the statement. I send a reconnaissance to find out the truth. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY Coi~s, June 13, 18639 a. m. Major-General HOoKER: General Butterfields dispatch just received. The negroes say-Ewell took the road to Sperryville. They are all traveling the same way. I am pushing reconnaissance in that direction. Ask Ingalls if he got my dispatch about Mosby. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS, June 13, 1863. Major-General HOOKER: Mr. Smith reports this morning that Ewell left Culpeper last Sun- day morning, and Longstreet on Monday and Tuesday, for the Valley. Have parties over the river, and expect to know more to-day. Would it not be well for General Stahel to send out toward the Valley and see? A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. SEPTEMBER 7, 1863. Major-General Scheuck then asked to have Major-General Halleck, General-in-Chief, sumnioned as a witness, stating that he proposed to offer the testimony of General Halleck in connection with an article, which he produced to the court, published in the New York Times on or about the day on which the order was made for the convening of this court, and giving an account of the evacuation of Winchester, erroneous as to many of the facts stated, and reflecting on the conduct and character of Major-Generals Schenck and Milroy in that connection, and to prove by him that that article was written and sent for publication by some person employed or on dnty at the headquarters of the army, or was made up from data furnished from those headquarters. ROBT. C. SCHENCK. [Inclorsement.] SEPTEMBER 7, 1863. Respectfully returned to Major-General Scheuck. This communication refers to a matter with which the court has nothing to do. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Captain Fourth U. S. Infantry, Judge-Advocate Page 186 186 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAin XXXIX. REVIEW OF THE JUDGE-ADVOCATE-GENERAL OF THE RECORD OF THE COURT OF INQUIRY RELATIVE TO THE EVACUATION OF WIN- CHESTER BY THE COMMAND OF MAJ. GEN. R. H. MILROY. JUDGE-ADVOCATE-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., September 17, 1863. The record of the court of inquiry recently convened and ordered to inquire into and report the facts and circnmstances in regard to the evacuation of Winchester by the command of Maj. Gen. R. H. Milroy, U. S. Volunteers, has been fully reviewed by me, and I have the honor to present the following summary of facts, with the con- clusions deemed to be properly deduced therefrom: The facts naturally divide themselves and will be presented under the following heads: 1. The circumstances and character of the occupation of Win- chester before the attack. II. The orders given General Milroy in reference to the evacuation. III. The circumstances of the attack. IV. The evacuation (June 15). V. The retreat. I. The circumstances and character of the occupation of Win- chester before the attack. At the outset of the investigation, there is encountered the important and significant fact that, from a period long prior to the evacuation of Winchester by General Milroy, there had existed a decided difference of opinion between the General-in-Chief and Major-General Scheuck as to the purpose and proper manner of occupying this post. Gen- eral Scheuck, having the duty assigned him to protect the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, instead of stationing guards and pickets near or along the line, believed it better to establish strong garrisons in a cordon of posts considerably to the south of the road. Win- chester, especially, he considered the key to the approach to a con- siderable section of country traversed by the road, and here he deemed it proper to station a division of abQut 9,000 men, under General Milroy. On the other hand, the General-in-Chief was of the opinion that the troops should be concentrated at important points on or near the line, like Harpers Ferry, and that only a small force should be left at Winchester (and like points), as a lookout or outpost. Thus, we have a series of telegrams from General Halleck to Gen- eral Schenck from the date of January 5, 1863, down to the period of the attack upon Winchester, in all of which the former conveys hi~ views upon this subject in a decided manner and in similar ternis. On January 5, he says: No attempt should be made to hold Winchester against a large force of the enemy, but use it simply as an outpost, as advised in our conversation a few days ago. Isolated posts and columns are liable to be cut off. On April 30, he telegraphs: As I have often repeated verbally and in writing, that [Winchester] is no place to fight a battle. It is merely an outpost, which should not be exposed to an attack in force. On May 8, he telegraphs: You will maintain only a small force at Winchester as an outpost, and employ the remainder of Milroys troops for the protection of the railroad and for operations against tbe enemy in West Virginia Page 187 187 Ca& ~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPATGX. On June 8, after notifying General Scheuck of the threatened raid by Stuart, he says: I can only repeat the recommendation so often made to you, to mass your troops more in convenient places for rapid and concerted operations, exposing no large force in advanced positions~~where they are liable to be cut off. We shall not know the direction or intention of this raid until it is actually in motion;.hence the neces- sity for keeping your forces well in hand for a sudden movement. On June 11, he telegraphs: Harpers Ferry is the important place. Winchester is of no importance other than as a lookout. The Winchester troops, excepting enough to serve as an outpost, should be withdrawn to Harpers Ferry. On June 14, he telegraphs: I have so repeatedly urged you to withdraw your main forces from Winchester, and so recently (the 11th) directed it, that I cannot understand how Milroy could have been left there to be invested. I repeat, you mu~t concentrate on Harpers Ferry, not on Winchester. If General Milroy does not obey your orders, remove him from command. On June 14, he further telegraphs: If you have not executed my orders to concentrate at Harpers Ferry, you will do so immediately. Unless there is a more prompt obedience of orders, there must be a change in the commanders. See to this immediately. On June 15, the day of the evacuation of Winchester, he tele- graphs: Dont fail to put every man not required as vedettes into Tiarpers Ferry defenses. There must be no delay. Detached forces will all be wiped out. Of these telegrams, General Schenek states in his testimony that he regarded them as expressing suggestions and advice merely, and he says that, notwithstanding these suggestions, he adhered, and, as he still thinks, rightly, to his own idea, particularly as to Winches- ter, where, the post not being connected by railroad with Harpers Ferry, and not being within easy supporting distance, a small force would, he thought, be illevitably lost. He states that General Hal- leek never, as he (Schenck) understood him, peremptorily ordered or insisted upon the abandonment of Winchester. But upon exam- ination of these telegrams, it certainly would not appear that all of them were intended by the General-in-Chief as advisory or suggest- ive merely. That of May 8, beginning You will maintain only a small force at Winchester, & c., is certainly in the form of an order; and though in the telegram of June 8, he says, I can only repeat the recommendation so often made, & c., yet this term is rather used by him in connection with his views concerning the concentration of troops generally, and not in reference to the particular disposition of the forces at Winchester or any other post. The telegram of June 11 is quite positively expressed, and in that of the 14th it is referred to in terms as a direction, and the General-in-Chief expresses himself at a loss to understand why, after his previous directions and urgings, General Milroy should have been left at Winchester to be invested. The second telegram of this date is a positive order; alluded to former orders, and adds: Unless there is more prompt obedience of orders, there must be a change of com- manders. From this analysis, it would be inferred that these directions of the General-in-Chief, though sometimes not urged as forcibly as at others, were certainly intended, at least on and after June 11, to b Page 188 188 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. taken as military orders, and to be executed as such, and therefore the view of General Schenck, as expressed in his testimony, that the abandonment of Winchester was never ordered by General Hal- leck is an erroneous one. General Schenck further states in his tes- timony that his opposition to the opinion of e General-in-Chief that Winchester should be used merely as an advanced outpost, was ex- pressed only in view of the ordinary state of things, and of the usual force of the enemy in the Shenandoah Valley, and not in view of the movement of a large and overwhelming force, such as Lees army or any considerable portion of it. On the other hand, it may be noted that the instructions and directions of General Halleck conveyed a general and uniform rule of action, and are expressed apparently in special view of the possibility of a large and prepon- derating force of the enemy appearing in the Valley at any time. Row material a circumstance was this opposition on the part of General Schenck to the views of tbe Commander-in-Chief, as affect- ing the order given to General Milroy himself in regard to the evac- uation of Winchester, will now be made evident. II. The orders given General Milroy in reference to the evacuation. The first order received upon this subject by General Milroy was from Lieut. Col. Donn Piatt, General Schencks chief of staff, who had been dispatched by the general to Harpers Ferry to make cer- tain dispositions of troops. This order, which was by telegram from Harpers Ferry, and dated June 11, was received by General Milroy on the 11th, about midnight, and was expressed as follows: In accordance with orders from Halleck, received to-day, you will immediately take steps to remove your command from Winchester to Harpers Ferry. You will, without delay, call in Colonel McReynolds and such other outposts not necessary for observation at the front. Send back your heavy guns, surplus ammunition, and subsistence, retaining only such force and arms as will constitute what General Halleck designates as a lookout, which can readily and without inconvenience fall back to Harpers Ferry. In reply, General Milroy at once telegraphed, remonstrating against being obliged to abandon the post, and averring that he was well prepared to hold it, and could hold it against any force that the rebels could afford to bring against it. As will be presently seen, this telegram [Scheucks] was received by General Milroy before the attack of the enemy commenced, or before he was aware that Lees army or any force other than the troops under Jones, Imboden, & c. (the usual force of the enemy in the Valley), was in his front. Gem. eral iVlilroy, however, in view of this order, did commence to make the preparations indicated for evacuation, and it is shown that his chief quartermaster did send off to Harpers Ferry, on the 11th, one hundred and fourteen wagons loaded with quartermasters stores, which, for the most part, arrived in perfect safety. The other wagons and quartermasters stores were prepared for moving, when, early on Friday morning, a further order was received from General Schenck, which caused the preparations for evacuation to be discon- tinued. This important order, which was received early on the morning of the 12th, was as follows: BALTIMORE, MD., June 12, 18631 ~. m. Major-General MILROY: Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, as I learn by copy of dispatch sent me, which he for- warded to you from Harpers Ferry, misunderstood me, and somewhat exceeded his instructions. You will make all the required preparations for withdrawing, but hold your position in the meantime. B~ ready for movement, but await furthe Page 189 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGIW. 189 orders. I doubt the propriety of calling in McReynolds brigade at once. If you should fall back to Harpers Ferry, he will be in part on the way and covering your flank; but use your discretion as to any order to him. Below I give you a copy of the telegram of the General-in-Chief. Then follows the telegram of General Halleck of June 11, which has been above set forth. This order of General Schenck, conflicting with and in terms cor- recting the former order sent by Colonel Piatt, was viewed by Gen- eral Milroy as directly countermanding the former order, and im- posing upon him a renewed obligation to remain at his post. Under these circvimstances, as he says in his testimony, if he had withdrawn without fighting, without demonstrating that he could not safely stay, it would have been, in his opinion, a case of disobedience of orders. His second in command, Brigadier-General Elliott, commanding his First Brigade, agreed with him in this view, and advised him to wait for a positive order to evacuate, saying that he did not think him justified in leaving without such order. Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt himself says in his testimony that This order entirely deprived General Milroy of all discretionary authority to re- tire without reference to the force that might attack him; that he had no discre- tion but to remain there till further orders. This was, indeed, the construction given to the order by all the offi- cers of General Milroys command who were made acquainted with it. It was viewed as countermanding the former order, and render- ing the movements of the command dependent upon the further in- structions of General Scheuck. It is to be remarked that though the telegram of General Halleck, dated June 11, was annexed to the order of General Scheuck, it could hardly be held in such connection to convey a meaning inconsistent with the order. It would rather properly have been deemed to ex- press merely a suggestion of the Commander-in-Chief; whereas if it had stood alone, its purport would have been more nearly that of an order or direct instruction. This order of General Schenck was the last one that was received by General Milroy before the evacuation. On the night of the 12th, he telegraphed to General Schenck the particulars of a reconnaissance which he had sent out on that day, expres~ing the opinion that the enemy were approaching in some force, and asking it to be stated specifically whether he was to aban- don Winchester or not. To this communication no reply was received. On the 13th, the wires between Winchester and Martinsburg were cut by the enemy, and a positive order from General Scheuck, sent on the evening of that day, directing General Milroy to fall back upon Harpers Ferry at once, was never received by the latter. This peremptory oxder was dispatched by General Schenck on first receiv- ing the intelligence that it was Lees army that had attacked Win- chester. It is proper to remark in this place that in refraining until the last moment from ordering an evacuation of Winchester, General Scheuck was, no doubt, somewhat influenced by the strong representations that wore made to him by General Milroy himself of his ability to hold the place against a large forcerepresentations which were con- firmed iii part by Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt and by General Tyler. In a letter from General Milroy, of June 12, to General SGhenck, he sets forth at length the reasons for a continued occupation of the post; expressing somewhat the same view as that held by the latter general in his conflict with the General-in-Chief, before alluded to Page 190 190 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. and stating that he can hold the works against a force five times as great as his own. General Elliott, in an accompanying letter, co- incides generally with the views of General Milroy, and expresses the opinion that the forts can be held against a force two or three times the nnmber of Milroys command. General Milroy, both before and after the attack, repeatedly tele- graphed to General Schenck that he was able to hold the place, and fnlly confident of snstaining himself against a strennons attack, and even as late as on Jnne 14, when he had ascertained that it was a part of Lees army that was attacking him, be telegraphs that he can hold the place five days, if at the end of that time he can be relieved. On the same day he also telegraphs that he will hold it in spite of fate. This last assertion of General Milroy, made at a time when he innst have known that his provisions and ammnnition were nearly ex- hansted, shows that he had an overweening confidence in the strength of his position and his own ability to defend it. His general opinion, however, is confirmed by Colonel Piatt, and General Tyler, who, hav- ing been been sent by General Schenck to inspect the fortifications at Winchester, commnnicated to the latter on Jnne 11 their favor- able impressions as to the capacity of the works to hold ont against any attack that the enemy conld be expected to make npon the place; bnt in this commnnication these officers did not contemplate the possibility of an attack by Lees army. General Schenck is also represented by Colonel Piatt as having been considerably infinenced in his action in conntermanding the order commnnicated by the lat- ter by the statements of General Kelley, commanding at Harpers Ferry. General Kelley was a Virginian; had lived the greater part of his life in that part of the conntry, and was well acqnainted per- sonally, as well as throngh sconts, with the roads, passes, fords, & c., throngh that region. General Schenck had a high opinion of General Kelleys knowledge as to these particnlars, and when, there- fore, it was represented by the latter that there was no enemy in the Valley other than the usnal force of Jenkins, Jones, & c., he (Gen- eral Schenck) was further disinclined to give General Milroy the peremptory order for the evacuation, of which he could not himself see the immediate necessity. This last observation introdnces another significant feature in the history of the case, which is now to be noticedthe want of accn- rate knowledge of the movements of Lee, which continued np to the very time of the attack npon Winchestera circnmstance which may, to a considerable extent, acconnt for, and, if necessary, excnse the hesitation in sending positive and precise orders in regard to the evacuation of the post to General Milroy. III. The circumstances of the attack. Under this head will be considered first the intelligence of the ap- proach of the enemy, and, secondly, the attack itself. 1. The approach of the enemy. It is singular to observe np to how late a period the movements of Lee in advancing npon Winchester and down the Valley remained undiscovered by those in anthority. It appears that soon after June 1, intelligence had been received, and it was generally understood that the rebel General Stnart had collected a large force (abont 12,000) of cavalry in Cnlpeper Connty, for the pnrpose of makiig an extensive raid. In a telegram of May 29, General Halleck had warned General Schenck that his forces must be on the alert in anticipation of an attack, and, on June 8, he telegraphed to the latter general th Page 191 Ca& p. XXXIXI THE GETTYSBUJI~G CAMPAIGN. 191 particulars in reference to Stuarts force, & c. It was observed by General Milroy that~ after June 1, the enemy in his front were becom- ing bolder, and this was attributed to the fact that Stuart was assem- bling his cavalry in force, and that the raid was impending. In his telegrams to General Scheuck up to the evening of the 13th, espe- cially in those of the 12th and 13th, he reports the troops as having severe skirmishing with the enemy, whom he represents to be in force, but he conveys no intimation, no] had he been able to obtain any, that Lees army was advancing. On the contrary, he expresses the 6pinion that the attack on Winchester (which he supposed to be made by the usual Valley force, somewhat increased) is but a feint to cover the raid of Stuart. Nor does General Scheucks information from General Kelley, up to the evening of the 13th, suggest the ad- vance of Lee through the mountains, but, on the contrary, tends to allay any apprehension of such advance. On the 9th, the latter general telegraphs that his scouts have re- turned from Snickers Gap and saw no enemy. On the 12th, he telegraphs that his scouts are in, and have neither seen nor heard of an enemy. On the 13th, he telegraphs that he has learned that the force which occupied Berryville after McReynclds fell back to Winchester, burned the stores there, and he argues that the attack upon the town was not a movement in force. Meanwhile (on the 10th) the Secretary of War telegraphs to Gen- eral Scheuck that Pleasonton had sharply engaged Stuart at Beverly, and thinks the latter too much crippled to make his raid into Mary- land very soon. Me~ while, also (on the 12th), General Scheuck had telegraphed the Gen ~rJ-in-Chieg, inquiring if he had knowledge of any force of infantry ~est of the Blue Ridge, and expressing the opinion that the troops in the Valley were only cavalry parties. On the 13th, General Halleck replies that scouts will be in on that day with niore reliable information. It was on the evening of June 13, between 6 and 7 oclock, that it first became known to General Milroy that the force in his front, with which he had been skirmishing all day, was Ewells corps. This information was obtained from a prisoner belonging to a Louisiana regiment, and is immediately telegraphed to General Scheuck. It did not, however, reach him until the morning of the 14th. In the meantime (on the evening of the 13th), Kelley had telegraphed him that his (Kelleys) scouts had learned from citizens at Hillsborough that Lee was on his way to ~attack Winchester. This telegram con- veyed to General Scheuck, as he says, the first intimation which was given him that the force of General Lee or any infantry at all had left the front of Fredericksburg, or had come through from the east side of the Blue Ridge, the recent skirmishing which had been re- ported by Milroy and McReynolds having been described as with Cavalry only, aided by some artillery. Upon the receipt of this last information, General Scheuck immediately telegraphed to General Milrcy a positive order to evacuate Winchester and fall back to Harpers Ferry. This telegram, as we have seen, never reached General Milroy, the wires between Winchester and Martinsburg hav- ing lieen cut by the enemy. On the next day, also, General Scheuck instructed General Kelley to convey a similar direction to General Milroy by courier from Harpers Ferry, but this was attempted with- out success Page 192 192 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. On the 14th, General Schenek received further information of the enemy at Winchester from General Tyler, stationed at Martinsbnrg, and with whom General Milroy had communicated by a scout, who left Winchester late on the night of the 13th. This information confirmed the previous intelligence that Ewells corps, consisting of 15,000 to 18,000 men, was in Milroys front; that he had thus far sus- tained himself, and was confident that he could hold the place. After this no communication whatever was had with General Milroy until after his retreat. It was on the 14th, also, about noon, and after the above-mentioned dispatch had been received from General Milroy, that General Schenck received a telegram from the General-in-Chief, in final answer to his own of the 12th. This telegram, which is dated from the War De- partment at 10.30 a. in., is as follows: It is reported that Longstreets and Ewells corps have passed through Culpeper to Sperryville, toward the Valley. This, General Schenck testifies, was the first and only intimation received by him from General Halleck that any of Lees force had gone in the direction of the Valley. It would thus appear that it was not until after Lees army had engaged General Milroy at Winchester, and the latter had fully in- formed his commanding officer of the fact, that information was re- ceived at the War Department, not of Lees presence at Winchester, but of his reported advance from Culpeper. 2. The attack. The reconnoitering and scouting parties, sent out by General Milroy since June 1, had observed no unusual movement of the enemy until on the occasion of the reconnaissance of Friday, the 12th, which has been before adverted to. On the next day, the enemy was observed advancing in force and at the same time Berryville, where the Third Brigade, under Colonel McReynolds, was stationed, was also attacked. Colonel McReynolds, according to previous instructions, withdrew; skirmishing, and, by making a considerable d~~f our, effected a very successful march to Winchester, where he arrived at evening with very slight loss. Be- fore withdrawing, he sent off his wagon train with his stores, which eventually reached Harpers Ferry in safety. The entire force of General Milroy at Winchester now numbered about 9,000 men, of which about 7,000 were effective troops. The force of the enemy is variously estimated. In his telegram from Harpers Ferry, on the 15th, after the retreat, General Milroy states it as 15,000 to 20,000 men; but in his testimony he says that he has since learned from prisoners, deserters, and citizens of Winchester, that the force in his front included both Ewells and all or the greater part of Longstreets corps, numbering in all 40,000 to 50,000 men, with eighty pieces of artillery ranged upon his works. Major Cra- vens, of the staff, estimated the enemy at the same number, but Captain Baird, another staff officer, places it at 20,000, and Brigadier- General Elliott at 20,000 to 30,000. June 13 was passed in active skirmishing. In the evening, as be- fore mentioned, the precise character of the attacking force was first disclosed. Under the cover of night, General Milroy withdrew all his forces within the fortifications north of the town, with the ex- ception of those stationed in the outworks or rifle-pits at the front. On Sunday, it became more apparent that the enemy had su Page 193 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 193 rounded the post, and during the day our troops were engaged with them in constant skirmishing, especially in the direction of the Mar- tinsburg and Berryville roads. In the evening, the main attack was made from the direction of the Romney road. A large force was precipitated upon the rifle- pits, which were carried. The force which occupied them, however, was enabled to retire with but.slight loss, its retreat being covered by the guns of the forts. By night, the works were closely invested in front, the sentinels of the enemy being within about 200 yards of the main fort. About midnight, General Milroy called a council of war of the bri- gade commanders, and an evacuation was determined upon. IV. The evacuation. It was fully agreed in the council of war that it was necessary to evacuate the post. Our forces were surrounded; they had rations for but one day, and their artillery ammunition was nearly expended. The telegraph wires had been cut; all communication between them and Harpers Ferry was at an end, and there appeared no probability of their being relieved. The only question with the council of war was as to the proper road by which to retreat. All excepting Colonel McReynolds appear to have agreed that the Martinsburg road was to be preferred; and though there is some difference of opinion among the officers whose testinmony is contained in the record as to this point, yet the majority (including Captain Powell, the chief engineer of General Milroys staff, who may be deemed an expert) agree that the determination of the council was the most prudent. Colonel McReynolds would have taken the Berryville road, but this road, as well as the town of Berryville, had been occupied by the enemy in considerable force on the 13th, and it was likely that a larger body would have been encountered on this road than was actually met on the road selected for the retreat. The outposts of the enemy being so near the works, the evacuation was ordered to be made with as little noise as possible. Nothing on wheels was allowed to be taken. About two hundred wagons were left, and twenty-four guns in all were spiked and abandoned. About 200,000 rounds of small-arms ammunition was also abandoned, but the remaining artillery ammunition, about 20 rounds to a gun, was mostly destroyed. The artillery and team harness was also, as far as possible, destroyed. The amount of quartermasters stores left behind was but small. The sick, wounded, & c., remained with the surgeons in the hospital. About 2 oclock in the morning of the 15th, the evacuation com- mencej, the forces marching from the forts in the order of the bri- gades. Some 800 artillery and team horses, mounted by teamsters, non-combatants, and invalids, brought up the rear of the column. A question is raised in the testimony whether the light batteries, commanded by Captains Carlin and Akxander, could have been brought off with safety, but it is agreed by nearly all the witnesses that though the batteries would have been very useful in the retreat in the engagement of the 15th, yet their removal would have occa- sioned so much noise as probably to have attracted the attention of the enemy in front, and advised them of the movement, and, further, that the roughness of the road might have seriously delayed the artillery, and thus endangered the march of the column. Colonel McReynolds thinks he could have got off his battery (Alexanders) by the Berryville road, but, as has already been stated, this road was, 13 R RYOL xxvii, PT I Page 194 194 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [OZIAP. XXXIX. in the opinion of the 1arg~ majority of the witnesses, not a feasible one for the retreat. V. The retreat. The march from the forts was commenced and continued in good order until the head of the column arrived at a point about 4 miles from Winchester. Here were met the enemys pickets, and an en- gagement with a force (afterwa~rd ascertained to be Johnsons, and perhaps a part of Rodes division of Ewells corps) immediately com- menced. In the testimony, this force is variously estimated at from 6,000 to 12,000 men, with eight to twelve guns. The enemy was charged suddenly and successfully by two regiments of Elliotts (First) brigade, which, however, were in turn compelled to fall back. Then followed a confused contest for about an hour, when, by turn- ing or driving back the right of the enemys position, our forces were enabled to continue their retreat. They had, however, become much separated during the engagement, fought, as it was, before daylight. About 1,200 men reached Harpers Ferry with General Milroy in the afternoon or evening of the 15th, after a severe march of over 30 miles. A part of Colonel Elys command (the Second Brigade), being surrounded, were surrendered by that officer or were captured. A considerable portion of the troops broke off from the main body to the left, and came through by way of Hancock; a smaller portion by taking a road or roads to the right of the Martinsburg road. It is testified that during the retreat and the engagement the con- duct of General Milroys officers was generally good. Colonel Mc- Reynolds, however, is referred to by a number of witnesses as an ex- ception to this rule, and the opinion is quite generally expressed that had this officer brought up his brigade more promptly at the time of the action, the forces of General Milroy would have been much less shattered by this engagement. His brigade was not at all in the action, although for a time under artillery fire. General Milroy sent two of his aides to order Colonel McReynolds to the front, but neither of them could find him. The commanding officer of one of his regi- ments also testifies that he sent twice for the colonel, but was unable to find him, and that he received no orders whatever from him during the fight. The colonel appears to have been separated from his regi- ments, and his four regiments to have been separated from each other, and to have lost a considerable number by capture, and this, too, though taking no part in the engagement. It is, in fine, the gen- eral opinion of the witnesses that the retreat would have been much more successful if Colonel MeReynolds had obeyed orders, and come up promptly and gone into the engagement at the proper time, or even if he had kept his command together, so as to have re1~reated with the main body. Indeed, General Milroy sent an aide to the rear at the close of the fight to inform the colonel that he continued fight- ing only to allow him (McReynolds) to come up with his brigade and pass through on the road. On the other hand, the colonel, in his testimony, insists that two of his regiments (the First New York Cavalry and the Thirteenth Penn- sylvania Cavalry) deserted him; lett the ground without his knowl- edge; and his testimony is somewhat corroborated by that of Lieu- tenant Spooner. It is further alleged that the fact that the horses ridden in the rear by teamsters and others were, as well as their riders, struck with a panic by the first shelling of the enemy, and dashed in among the regiments of the Third Brigade, which preceded them in column, had something to do with the dispersion of the latter Page 195 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGY. 195 It is generally testified that General Milroy showed judgment and courage through this fight and during the retreat. The fact that his horse was disabled, and he was for some time dismounted, rendered it less practicable for him to keep his troops well in hand during the engagement. But it is natural, and perhaps almost inevitable, that a body of troops, making a forced retreat at night, and obliged to cut its way through a superior hostile force, should have been con- siderably dispersed and shattered. The entire loss on the retreat and during the attack, including the sick left behind and paroled, appears to have been rather less than 3,000. On the retreat about 150 horses were also captured. The principal witnesses who appeared before the court were inter- rogated in reference to a question which has not yet been consid- ered, to wit: Whether, if General Milroy had evacuated at an earlier day, he might not have effected his retreat in good order, taking with him all his artillery and stores. It is the general opinion of these witnesses, all of whom were in General Milroys command, that he might have so retreated either on the 12th or 13th. The majority of them, however, express the belief that the heavy artiilery could not have moved off safely later than the 12th. Colonel McReynolds thinks that he should have been ordered to retreat directly from Berryville to Harpers Ferry on Saturday, when he was ordered to join the main body at Winchester, and he believes that if at the same time General Milroy had moved from Winchester, the whole command, with its artillery and trains, could have been saved, the enemy not having then occupied the roads. Colonel Mc- Reynolds presents some good reasons for this view, though at the same time it is to be noted that, had such a plan been adopted, the Third Brigade, being separated from the main force, would have been in more danger of being cut off by a rapid niovement of the enemy. But the discussion of the question whether the retreat was not too long delayed is rendered much less important by the consideration that General Milroy was, during June 12, 13, and 14, under positive in- structions from his superior oflicer to await further orders before retreating. So, when Brigadier-General 1~Illiott says in his testimony that he should have left on the night of the 13th, he states at the same time that this would have been in direct disregard of existing orders. He adds, however, that as General Milroy had telegraphed for further orders; as the communication had been interrupted, so that he could not receive such orders; as since last communicating with his superior he had become aware that he was attacked by an unexpected and vastly superior force, and as he was not likely to be relieved, he (Elliott) thinks the general might properly have taken and should have taken the responsibility of retreating on the night of the 13th. Probably this would have been, under all the circum- stances, the wisest course. Such a course would, indeed, have been taken in disobedience of the letter of the order, but it was known to General Milroy that the last order or instruction which he had re- ceived from his commanding officer was not given in contemplation of the situation existing after the evening of the 13th, but of an entirely different and far less threatening danger. With this order, too, General Milroy had received General Hallecks instructions of the 11th, and these, iii connection with the peculiar circumstances of his new situation, would have justified him in retreating without waiting further orders. As it was, he wa~ at last obliged to retreat without them Page 196 196 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. A strategic view is, however, advanced in this connection by Gen- eral Milroy, which may, perhaps, have some weight. It is this: That by holding his post and continuing to resist the attack of the enemy until as late as Sunday night, he forced them to mass their troops at some point in his front, after which he could retreat more intelli- gently and safely. This view is concurred in by officers of his staff and by Lieutenant-Colonel Adams, of the First New York Cavalry; but it does not actually appear from the testimony that after the enemy had massed in the front, the detachments which occupied the roads to the north were any less in force than they had been on Satur- day or Saturday night. In this connection, but one other consideration remains to be noticed. It is suggested by General Milroy at the close of hi~ official report fhat the three days delay which the stand made by him at Winchester occasioned the enemy, may have bee~i fully worth to the country the sacrifice which it cost, and a similar view is taken by Lieutenant-Colonel Piatt, who, in answer to a question as to his opin- ion upon this very point, testifies that If the War Department and the General-in-Chief had no other information of the movements of Lee than is indicated in the two telegrams received in Baltimore [which have been quoted above], the check that the rebels received at Winchester must have been of importance to us. CONCLUSIONS. From the entire testimony as above detailed, the following conclu- sions are believed to be justly derived: 1. That the General-in-Chief, prior to the attack upon Winchester, had repeatedly instructed General Scheuck to maintain only a small force at that place, and to use it only as an outpost, concentrating his forces principally upon Harpers Ferry, and that General Scheuck had disregarded these instructions, viewing them as suggestions merely. 2. That it was owing to General Schenek that at the time of the attack and evacuation there were at Winchester any more troops, munitions, & c., than would ~have been sufficient for a mere outpost. 3. That up to the time of the evacuation, General Milroy was under orders from his commanding officer, General Scheuck, not to retreat at once, but to hold his post until further orders, which further or- ders had not been received up to the time of the evacuation, though telegraphed for by General Milroy. 4. That in giving this order, General Schenek was doubtless some- what influenced by the representations which General Milroy him- self had, in the most confident and extravagant terms, repeatedly made as to his ability to hold the post against a large force of the enemy. 5. That, further, the order of General Scheuck was issued without reference to or knowledge of the fact that the army of Lee was then approaching Winchester, but in contemplation merely of an attack by the usual Valley force of the enemy or by Stuarts cavalry. 6. That at the time of giving this order, General Schenek bad had from his superior officers no intelligencewhatever of the approach of Lee; that he received no such intelligence until it was too late for him to prevent the disaster at Winchester, and that, on the contrary, all the intelligence received by him, both from his superiors and in- feriors in rank, was of a nature to quiet any apprehension th~it h Page 197 OHAI~. XXXt~.J~ THE GETTYSBTJ1~G CAMPAVl~. 19~ might have felt as to the probability of an advance by Lee or any portion of his army upon Winchester. 7. That the evacuation of Winchester by General Milroy was as well ordered as could have been expected under all the circumstances, and that the loss of most of the public property, which was aban- doned, was inevitable. 8. That during the retreat the troops of General Milroy were not kept well in hand, but were very much dispersed, but that this was in great part owing to the sudden attack made upon them in the darkness of the night, and to their being obliged to force their way through a body of troops superior in numbers, and in some part also (in the opinion of the majority of the witnesses) to a want of active co-operation on the part of Colonel McReynolds, commanding Third Brigade, in the engagement with the enemy, and in the efforts used for securing a safe retreat. J. HOLT, Judge-Advocate- General. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. [Indorsement.] OCTOBER 27, 1863. In June last a division was substantially lost at and near Win- chester, Va. At the time, it was under General Milroy as immediate commander in the field, General Scheuck as department commander at Baltimore, and General Halleck as General-in-Chief at Washing- ton. General Milroy, as immediate commander, was put in arrest, and subsequently a court of inquiry examined chiefly with reference to disobedience of orders, and reported the evidence. The foregoing is a synoptical statement of the evidence, together with the Judge-Advocate-Generals conclusions. The disaster, when it came, was a surprise to all. It was very well known to Generals Scheuck and Milroy for some time before that General Halleck thought the division was in great danger of a surprise at Winchester; that it was of no service commensurate with the risk it incurred, and that it ought to be withdrawn; but, although he more than once advised its withdrawal, he never positively ordered it. General Schenck, on the contrary, believed the service of the force at Win- chester was worth the hazard, and so did not positively order its with- drawal until it was so late that the enemy cut the wire and prevented the order reaching General Milroy. General Milroy seems to have concurred with General Schenc~k in the opinion that the force should be kept at Winchester at least until the approach of danger, but he disobeyed no order upon the subject. Some question can be made whether some of General Hallecks dispatches to General Scheuck should not have been construed to be orders to withdraw the force, and obeyed accordingly; but no such question can be made against General lVIIilroy. In fact, the last order he received was to be prepared to withdraw, but not to actually with- draw until further order, which further order never reached him. Serious blame is not necessarily due to any serious disaster, and I cannot say that in this case any of the officers are deserving of serious blame. No court-martial is deemed necessary or proper in the case. A. LINCOLN Page 198 Th C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [CRAP. XXXIX. Review of the Judge-Advocate- General of the record of the court of inquiry relative to the evacuation of ]Jifartinsburg by the com- mand of Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler. JUDGE-ADVOCATE-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. C., September 17, 1863. The record of a court of inquiry lately convened to investigate the facts and circumstances connected with the evacuation of Martins- burg by the command of Brig. Gen. D. Tyler, U. S. Volunteers, having been submitted to me under your indorsement of the 12th instant, has been fully reviewed, and I have the honor to report the following summary of facts, with the conclusions derived therefrom: Up to June 13, the United States forces at Martinsburg, Va., had been for several months under the command of Col. B. F. Smith, whose detachment consisted of two regiments of infantry, eight com- panies each, one field battery, and rather more than a company of cavalry; in all, about 1,300 men. Martinsburg was not a fortified post. On the 13th, a written order was issued by Major-General Scheuck to Brigadier-General Tyler, by which he was required to assume com- mand of the troops at Martinsburg, for the purpose of using them to support and cover the retreat of Major-General Milroy from Win- chester to Harpers Ferry. Details of the service are left to the dis- cretion of General Tyler, but Bunker Hill is suggested as a suitable position at which to make a stand if the rebels be found in force be- tween his own troops and those of Milroy. General Tyler is required to keep constantly in communication meanwhile with General Milroy. Pursuant to this order, General Tyler proceeded from Baltimore, by way of Harpers Ferry, to Martinsburg, where he arrived about 8 oclock on the morning of the 14th, when he found Colonel Smith just taking out his troops to meet an advance of the enemy, who were already skirmishing with his pickets. In his official report, General Tyler says that he went to Martins- burg to relieve Colonel Smith in the command of the Third Bri- gade, but he states that, on arriving, he concluded not to assume the command. In his testimony he sets forth his reason for this course as follows: First. Because the command was not commensurate with his rank, and was not equal to the expectations which he had formed of it when leaving Harpers Ferry. Secondly. Because he was a perfect stranger to the command, and it would be more for the good of the service for Colonel Smith to fight the battle which was already begun. He nevertheless, as he says, notified Colonel Smith that he would give him any advice that he might require. However insufficient these reasons, especially the first, may be considered, there was re- ceived by General Tyler about noon intelligemice which rendered it necessary fnr him to take the command, at least for the special pur- pose of carrying out the instructions contained in the order of Gen- eral Scheuck. This was the intelligence that General Milroy had been attacked by Lees army in greatly superior force, and that Bunker Hill, situated between Martinsburg and Winchester, had been occupied by the enemy. It would have been useless, therefore, for General Tyler to have attempted with his small force to make a diversion in favor of General Milroy. Indeed, his orders from Gen- eral Scheuck had been predicated on the supposition that Milro Page 199 CHAP. XXXIXI THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 199 was attacked only by the usual Valley force of cavalry under Jen- kins, Imboden, or Jones. In the course of the day, however, a further communication was received from General Schenck to the effect that it was thought better by the latter that General Tylers command should fall back to Har- pers Ferry, and, if possible, afford relief to General Milroy from that point. General Tyler, however, still refrained from assuming com- mand of Colonel Smiths troops, and the latter says in his testimony that the general at no time exhibited to him his orders or explained the reason why he had visited Martinsburg, and that he (Smith) therefore supposed that he had come as an inspector. He adds that during the day he sometimes consulted or advised with the general. Genej~al Tyler, on the other hand, says that when he informed Col- onel Smith that he would not, under the circumstances, assume com- mand, he at the same time notified him (Smith) of his order. During the day, the enemy gradually massed his forces, but was held in check by Colonel Smiths troops, and especially by the guns of his battery, the enemy appearing to have as yet no artillery on the ground. About noon, General Jenkins, commanding the rebel force, summoned Colonel Smith to surrender, to which summons the latter refused to accede. Early in the morning, Colonel Smith had sent off his wagon train by the Williamsport road. He had received orders, addressed to himself personally by General Kelley, his division commander, from Harpers Ferry, to fall back by this road if pressed by a much supe- rior force. General Tyler, however, states that it w~s he who sent off the brigade train, and that he notified Colonel Smith to delay his retreat until the safety of the train was secured. Colonel Smith, on the other hand, says that General Tyler proposed to him to retreat early in the day, but that he (Smith) declined to do so, as he wished first to assure the escape of his wagons; that General Tyler there- upon said that he would leave the matter to Colonel Smiths judg- ment, at the same time declining to assume the responsibility of the ietreat. Still another instance, however, is mentioned in the testimony, in which General Tyler assumed to give an order or direction during the day. Lieutenant-Colonel Harlan, commanding the One hun- dred and twenty-sixth Ohio Volunteers, testifies that the general ordered him at one time to open fire upon his own skirmishers. He adds that he disobeyed this order for the reason that he had placed the skirmishers himself, and knew that they were his own men, al- though he could not make General Tyler believe it. Toward evening, the enemy suddenly opened upon Colonel Smiths troops with (as it is testified) about thirty guns. Under this severe and concentrated fire, they were at first thrown into some disorder, but appear to have been soon rallied by Colonel Smith and his offi- cers. The Williamsport road seeming to be occupied or commanded by the enemy, orders were rapidly communicated by Colonel Smith to retreat by the Shepherdstown road, these orders being given to the commanding officers of the two infantry regiments (One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio and One hundred and sixth New York), but not, as it would appear, to Captain Maulsby, commanding the bat- tery. Colonel Smith says that he sent his aides to direct the difXerent commanders to take the Shepherdstown route, but does not dis- tinctly recollect whether he sent particularly to Maulsby or not Page 200 200 X. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [cHAI~. xxxix. Colonel Smith himself conducted the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio off the field, ordering the One hundred and sixth New York to follow. The latter, after moving, was halted to reform its line, which had been broken by the artillery. At this moment, General Tyler came to the front, and assumed com- mand of this regiment and of the battery, which was also about to leave the ground. He says that he did so because he found the One hundred and sixth Regiment alone in the field, and apparently await- ing orders, and because Colonel Smith had left and could not be found; that he (Smith) had retreated without orders from him (Tyler), leaving at the moment of th~ attack without returning to look after the column. Upon thus assuming command, General Tyler states that he ordered Captain Manisby to throw half a dozen shots from each of the four of his guns, which he had directly under his com- mandthe remaining section being in another part of the fieldand then to limber up and follow the infantry. He then ascertained by personal observation that the Williamsport road was occupied by Jenkins, and rode back to the infantry, and ordered them to march off by the Shepherdstown route. On returning presently, as he says, to look after the artillery, he found that after firing, as directed, Cap- tain Maulsby had moved off rapidly by the Williamsport road. The two sections with Maulsby were soon after captured on this road by the enemys cavalry, but Captain Manlsby, with his officers and most of his men and horses, succeeded in escaping. Of the remaining sec- tion, one gun got off safely on the Shepherdstown road with the in- fantry; the other was disabled, and left on the field by the lieutenant commanding the section. An officer on duty with the two sections under Maulsby testifies that the guns might have been saved if the infantry supports had not moved off the field and left them. He says that these guns remained last on the field because they were de- tained there by General Tyler, who directed them to be used upon the advancing enemy, and then to limber up and get away, as the infantry had been gone some time. General Tyler, however, did not order or direct Captain Maulsby by which road to retreat, and the witness states that at the point where the guns were placed the officers could not see the troops moving by the Shepherdstown road. General Tyler accompanied the One hundred and sixth Regiment from the field, and, after marching about a mile, overtook Colonel Smith and the One hundred and twenty-sixth. The general states that he then reformed the column, and conducted the retreat to the river at Shepherdstown, where the troops crossed by the ford, and continued their march on the other side down to Harpers Ferry. Colonel Smith, however, in his official report makes no mention of General Tyler having anything to do with the conduct of the retreat. It appears that this march was made in good order and with very little straggling. The entire loss of the command during the day was 4 or 5 killed about a dozen wounded, and some 150 taken prisoners, being chiefly those who erred and took the Wilhiamsport.road. The amount of public property lost was small. The stores, of which Martinsburg was the depot, had been removed by railroad to Har- pers Ferry prior to June 14. Indeed, the principal and most unfor- tunate feature of the retreat was the loss of the two sections of Maulsbys battery. Captain Maulsby himself was severely wounded, and unable to attend the court as a witness, and no official report by him is filed with the proceedings Page 201 CHAD. XXXIX.] THE GETTySBLrI~G CAMPAIGN. 201 In their conclusion, the court find that the retreat was generally properly conducted, and the public property suitably cared for; that the four guns captured were improperly kept on the field after all the supports had left, and that the gun of the ren~aining section, which was disabled, was improperly abandoned on the field by Lieutenant Herr. Upon the whole testimony, it is believed that the following conclusions are properly arrived at: 1. That Colonel Smith handled his command skillfully during the day (June 14), but that he withdrew from the field too abruptly, and without giving the desirable attention, or communicating with cer- tainty, to a part of his command the final orders for the retreat. 2. That General Tyler was at fault in keeping the two sections of Maulsbys battery on the field (as is found by the court) after the in- fantry supports had retired, and in finally neglecting, after assuming command over the battery, to direct Captain Maulsby as to his line of retreat. 3. That Maulsbys four guns were lost principally because of this action and neglect on the part of General Tyler, and partly because of the neglect of Colonel Smith to convey a positive order to Maulsby as to the direction of the retreat. 4. That General Tyler would have more strictly complied with the instructions of his commanding officer if he had assumed command of the brigade upon his arrival at Martinsburg, in accordance with General Scheucks order of June 13, taken in connection with the communication from the latter of the 14th; that if General Tyler had so assumed command, it is probable that the errors which were com- mitted at the time of the attack by the enemy in force, in consequence of there being practically two commanding officers in the field, might have been avoided. Respectfully submitted. J. HOLT, Judge-Advocate-General. Hon. E. 1VL STANTON, Secretary of War. No. 401. Report of lIifaj. Napoleon B. Knight, First Delaware Cavalry, of operations June 2729. HDQRS. FIRsT BATTALION DELAWARE VOL. CAVALRY, Camp near Baltimore, 31d., June 30, 1863. GENERAL: In obedience to Special Orders, No. 172, headquarters Eighth Army Corps. I moved on Saturday evening [27th] with two companies of my command, numbering in all 95 men, on the Hooks- town road, in the direction of Westminster, and having encamped for the night at Reisterstown, we proceeded early next morning to Westminster, where we arrived about 11 oclock, and occupied the town. Having encamped on the outskirts of the town, on the road leading to Gettysburg, I immediately threw out pickets on all the roads leading into the town, at sufficient distances from my encamp- ment to allow ample time to be informed of the appearance of the enemy. Lieutenant Bowmans (One hundred and fiftieth New York Vol- unteers) scouts reported about 6 p. m. on the day of our arrival tha Page 202 202 ~. 0., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [cHAP. xxxix. there were no rebels at either Gettysburg or Hanover, which report was confirmed by citizens coming from those points, and information of which I forwarded to you immediately by special courier. About 9 oclock on the evening of the 28th instant, the picket on the Hampstead road came in, and reported the advance of the enemys cavalry. We were immediately in the saddle, and went out to meet them. While awaiting their ~approach, I was informed that they had taken the Manchester road, which enters the turnpike about 3 miles below Westminster, with a view to attack my rear and cut off re- treat. I at once fell back to that point, and awaited their approach. Pickets were sent out on all the roads to ascertain the exact where- abouts of the enemy, but failing to discover his presence, so reported to me. Supposing that the rebels had retired, I at once marched back and reoccupied the town, extending my pickets to a greater distance from the town on all the roads. On the following morning my pickets reported all quiet, and a great many of my horses having been rendered almost unfit for serv- ice by marching over the stony road without shoes, I ordered them to be shod that morning. About 3.30 oclock on the afternoon of the 29th (yesterday), informa- tion was brought in by a citizen (the picket having been captured) that the enemy were advancing in force on the Washington road. I immediately ordered all the serviceable horses to be mounted, amount- ing to about 70, and, advancing in column through the town, pro- ceeded to give him battle. I ordered Lieut. D. W. C. Clark, Company C, with an advance guard of 12 men, to feel the enemy and ascertain his position. The advance, having been driven in, reported a strong column of cavalry, a part of whom were armed with carbines, mov- ing toward us on the Washington road, while another column was marching to the upper end of the town, with a view to attack us in front and rear simu lta~Thously, and at the same time to cut off our retreat. Captain Corbit, commanding Company C, was ordered to charge the column on the Washington road, which he did in a gallant and masterly manner, driving the enemy with very considerable loss until his reserve arrived, and, re-enforcing the shattered column which Captain Corbit had so gallantly charged, turned again in overwhelm- ing numbers upon Corbit and his bold followers, and charged them so furiously that I ordered up Lieut. Caleb Churchman, of Company D, to his support, Lieutenant Churchman having been previously poste(l so as to watch the movements of the enemy at the upper end of the town. The enemy having been so heavily re-enforce~ drove the two companies slowly back to the main pike, the men of my com- mand fighting all the time with the greatest bravery and determina- tion, and contending hotly for every inch of ground; but finding that the column of the enemy was coming down upon us from the upper end of the town, I determined to fall back upon IReisterstown, and ordered Lieutenant Churchman, with his company, to protect and cover our retreat, which he did in splendid style, losing all b Qt 7 of his men, and falling himself into the hands of the enemy. I then fell back to Reisterstown, the enemy pursuing to within 2~ miles of that place. I there ordered the lieutenant of the First Connecticut Cavalry to hold them in check until I could rally my few remaining men on this side of the town, and ordered Lieutenant Reedy, Com- pany C, to push on, and turn back some 7 or 8 of the men, who were about a mile in advance. This he failed to do, but proceeded wit Page 203 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. the men directly to Baltimore. I came slowly on, accompanied by Adjutant Lobdell, Lieutenant Clark, and 2 men, about a mile this side of the town, and there halted, determined to return to and re- occupy Reisterstown. This I was proceeding to do, when a courier arrived, having an order from you directing me to return to Balti- more. This order I immediately carried out, sending Adjutant Lob- dell in advance to report to you the condition of affairs, and returned to our old camping ground at Stenarts Hill. My casualties and losses are (37 men killed, wounded, and missing, including 2 commissioned officersCapt. Charles Corbit and Lieut. Caleb Churchman; the former of whom fell while gallantly charg- ing the enemy, and is now a prisoner in their hands, and the latter was captured while covering the retreat of the main body. One wagon laden with hospital stores and camp and garrison equm- page, and also the regimental books and papers, fell into the hands of the enemy. I cannot close this report without calling your attention to the bravery and intrepidity of the officers and men of my command, whose efficiency and determination of purpose has saved us from utter annihilation. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. B. KNIGHT, Major, Commanding. Maj. Gen. R. C. SCHENOK, Commanding Middle Department, Baltimore, Md. No. 402. Report of Capt. George D. Summers, Second Maryland Potomac Home Brigade, of operations June 14July 5. HEADQUARTERS COMPANY F, Camp near Frederick, Md., Sunday, July 12, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to inclose to you monthly report for the month of June. You will see from the report that I had a skir- mish at Berryville on Snuday, the 14th day of June. My advance ran into a large body of cavalry near Berryville. I lost 1 man wounded and 2 captured, and was forced to fall back, after inflict- ing some punishment on the enemy. I fell back to Charlestown, and then to Halltown, contesting every inch of ground with the en- emy s skirmishers. From there, on June 16, I was ordered to fall back to Maryland Heights, which I did without further loss, being the last soldier in this command that left Dixie. On June 17, was ordered by General Tyler, in company with Captain Vernons company, to go to Point of Rocks, and hold the position. Before we got there, we were attacked by Whites battal- ion; we were overpowered and whipped. I regret to say I lost 1 brave man killed, 3 wounded, and 4 missing. On the 18th instant, 3 of my men who were sent with some of Captain Vernons were captured, after desperate resistance, at Fred- erick, Md Page 204 204 [CHAP. XXflX. I was then ordered to go to Berlin, Md., which town I occupied until June 30, when I was ordered to Maryland Heights again, and on the next day to this place. I have scouted all around since, and have done some good work. Two of my men (couriers) were captured near Gettysburg, on July 5, by Stuarts cavalry iii am now temporarify attached to Major Coles battalion, but should be pleased to be near youmy regiment, at least. I want to be in General Kelleys department. Will you please make effort to get me with you? I write to General Kelley to that effect to-day. All is quiet here. The victorious Army of the Potomac is in front of Lee, near Hagerstown, Md. I hope that Lee will stand to fight. If he does, I feel certain of victory for our arms. I am, colonel, with great respect, your most obedient servant, GLO. D. SUMMERS, Capt. Company F (Cavalry), Second Pegt. Maryland Vols. Col. H. BRUCE, G~omdg. Second Regt. P. II. B., Maryland Vols. No. 403. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry M. Na glee, U. S. Army, of skirmish near Harpers Ferry, W. Va. HEADQUARTERS, Harpers Ferry, W. Va., Jnly 16, 1863. SIR: I would respectfully report that on the afternoon of the 14th instant, after occupying the intrenchments near Harpers Ferry, and the pontoon bridge had been constructed, I ordered Major Farns- worth, of the First Connecticut Cavalry, with 50 of his men, to picket the roads loading from the Ferry, and to ascertain whether any of the rebel cavalry were upon these roads, within 2 or 3 miles of the intrenchments. Discovering some of the cavalry of the enemy some 4 miles from Harpers Ferry, an effort was made to cut off their pickets, amounting to some 15 or 20 men, which was successful; but in an effort to capture another picket, Major Farnsworth allowed his men to pursue so far as to find himself surrounded by the rebel reserve who succeeded in capturing Major Farnsworth, with 24 of his men, and liberating a portion of the prisoners he had taken. The affair resulted in the capture of Col. A. W. Harman (wounded), Twelfth Virginia Cavalry; Capt. M. J. Grandin, Thirty-third Vir- ginia Infantry; Lieut. Jackson Eastham, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, and 4 privates, and in wounding several of the enemy. We lost Maj. Charles Farnsworth and 24 men, made prisoners by the enemy. * Very respectfully, & c., HENRY M. NAGLEE, Brigadier-General, Commanding. General S. WILLIAMS, tdjutant-General, Army of the Potomac. * Nominal list omitted Page 205 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGX. 205 No. 404. Report of Capt. Erastus Blakeslee, First Connecticut Cavalry, of skirmish near Harpers Ferry, W. Va. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CONNECTICUT CAVALRY, Maryland Heights, July 18, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report as follows in regard to a skirmish in which the First Connecticut Cavalry were engaged, on the 14th instant: Major Farnsworth, myself, and 50 men crossed the Potomac, by order of General Naglee, to reconnoiter the enemys position beyond Bolivar Heights, and to ascertain their strength. About 2 miles from Harpers Ferry, the advance guard, 18 men, under myself, charged upon the pickets of the enemy, numbering about 30, and drove them in confusion back upon their reserve. Major Farnsworth coming up, now charged upon the whole reserve of the enemy, about 200 strong. The enemy also charged, and it became a fierce hand-to-hand fight, in which, owing to the disparity of our numbers, they repulsed us, rescued several prisoners whom we had previously taken, and, I am sorry to add, captured Major Farnsworth and 24 men. The majors horse was shot under him, and he fought most gallantly on foot with his saber until he was overpowered and taken prisoner. I took com- mand of the remainder of our men, and fell back, bringing with me 1 captain, 1 second lieutenant, and 2 privates, all of whom were cap- tured by the advance in their first charge upon the picket, in which we also shot several horses and wounded the colonel of the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, so that he was afterward found and brought in a prisoner. First Sergt. Allen F. Phillips, Company A, deserves especial men- tion for his courage and good conduct in the affair. I am, sir, most respectfully and truly, your obedient servant, E. BLAKESLEE, Commanding First Connecticut Cavalry. [General H. M. NAGLEE.] No. 405. Reports of Brig. Gen. William JY. Averell, U. S. Army, command- ing Fourth Separate Brigade, of operations May 22July 28, 1863. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH SEPARATE BRIGADE, Grafton, W. Va., June 21, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following brief report of the operations of the forces composing this brigade during the week ending to-day. On Sunday, 14th instant, at Beverly, 11 p. in., I received the inclosed telegram, marked A. It may be observed that although this dispatch mentions the point of concentration, yet it contains no order to commence the movement, but I inferred from the information given that an order was intended, abd therefore issued orders to the troops at Beverly, Buckhannon, Weston, and Bridgeport to hold themselves in readiness to move at an hours notice. I waited until the morning of the 15th for further in~truc- tions~ amid then started for Clarksburg Page 206 206 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [cH~. XXXD~ At Laurel Hill, 3.30 p. in., I received dispatch marked B, in- closed, from which it seemed that the entire abandonment of the country was expected, although no directions were given as to the disposal of the immense depots of stores at Clarksburg and Web- ster. I ordered everything but the cavalry pickets to the railroad~ arrived at Clarksburg at 3 a. in., 16th. The Third and Eighth Vir- ginia were at Bridgeport. Their ordnance stores had been unneces- sarily delayed. They were hurried forward, and issued during the 16th and 17th, days and nights. The horses which had been issued were not shod, and though timely requisitions for forges, tools, and materials had been made before the arrival of the horses, yet the in- completeness and insufficiency of the supplies retarded our opera- tions. Horses cannot travel over the rugged roads of this country without shoes, without breaking down very soon. When a regi- ment of infantry is transformed into cavalry in the space of forty- eight hours, by mounting the men upon green horses, a short march, however well conducted, occasions much wear and tear of material, and it would be a dangerous experiment to take such troops imme- diately into action. Unavailable as infantry, they are inefficient as cavalry. I hope to iender this transition state as short as possible. On the morning of the 16th, a telegram from Brigadier-General Kelley directed me to hold Beverly. Accordingly, the Tenth Vir- ginia and Ewings battery were sent back to that place. On the morning of the 17th, I arrived at Grafton with the Twenty-eighth Ohio, Second Virginia, and Keepers battery. The Twenty-eighth and the battery were sent forward to New Creek. I had communi- cated with Colonel Mulligan at New Creek, and requested him to cause reconnaissances to be made, & c. Ascertaining from his re- ply, which I inclose, * that there was no cause for immediate appre- hension, I hesitated about forwarding the Second Virginia immedi- ately, as the horses to mount it were here. I have had a staff officer twice at Wheeling to hurry forward the ordnance, which was so long coming. The unwillingness of the ordnance officer at that point to issue to me or to my ordnance officer in bulk, occasioned the delay. I have officers now at Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, striving to obtain what is most essential. Telegrams inclosed from Wheeling and Pittsburgh will make you aware of what is to be expected from those places. The orders received from your headquarters and from Brigadier- General Kelley are somewhat conflictiiig and indefinite. The first received undoubtedly contemplates a complete withdrawal of all troops from this section. The. orders from General Kelley direct the holding of Beverly and leaving of small guards. One of his orders on the 17th, t you will observe, sanctions the delay of the Second Virginia at this place. I still have some cavalry pickets, light, at Bnckhannon and Weston. Since the concentration of the troops, it is represented to me that guerrilla parties are making their appearance in different localities. Last~ night I received the inclosed telegram marked D [E], from Colonel Piatt, in reply to a report of the condition and position of my troops. I regret that Colonel Piatt should have entertained the idea expressed in the beginning of the dispatch, ant presuming that the report which I sent to him by tele- graph was too incomplete to form a just idea, I was induced to make this. * Inclosure C. Inclosure D Page 207 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 20Z No threatening force has, up to this time, approached within 100 miles of me, an~1 there has been a force of from 5,000 to 7,000 men nearer to the enemy by 80 miles than myself. I cannot, in considera- tion of all the facts above stated, conceive how I could have been expected to strike a handsome blow. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. Lieutenant-Colonel CHESEBROUGH, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure A.] BALTIMORE, June 14, 1863. Brigadier-General AvERELL, Buckhannon, Ewell, with Jacksons old division, from Lees army, is fighting us at Winchester, and trying to come down on the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Keeping a lookout for the passes through the mountains westward, you will make Grafton your point of concen- tration. The enemy is not likely to pass westward towar~f1 you throngh the Alleghanies. Let me know if you hear anything of the rebels in your direction. ROBT. C. SCHENOK, Major- General, Commanding. ADDENDA. JUNE 14, 186310.50 p. m. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: Your dispatch of 6 p. m. received. There is no force of the enemy on the Staunton road nearer than Buffalo Gap. There is a picket of about 500 in the vicinity of lluntersville; none threatening me any- where. Scouts in to-day; am on the alert. . Do you wish me to con- centrate at Grafton without further orders from you? WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier-General. JUNE 15, 1863. Major-General SCHENCK, Baltimore: It was impossible to make out clearly from your cipher dispatch of last night what your orders are. Grafton is mentioned as a point of concentration, but I wish to know if you expect me to concentrate there without further orders. Respectfully, WM. ~. AVERELL, Brigadier-General. [Inclosure 13.] HEADQUARTERS, Baltimore, June 15, 1863. Brigadier-General AVERELL, Beverly: Yes, concentrate at Grafton, as you are expected to move on to New Creek, where General Kelley is, who will take command. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff Page 208 208 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. ADDENDA. BALTIMORE, MD., June 15, 18637.30 a. m. General AVERELL, Buchhannon: Instead of remaining at Grafton as the point of concentration, you will push eastward, with all the means of re-enforcing you can com- mand, to New Creek. The enemy are believed to be this morning in Martinsbnrg, but we hold Harpers Ferry and Winchester. By order: DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff. (Same to Colonel Mulligan, or officer in command at Grafton.) [Inclosure C.] NEW CREEK, June 16, 18635.30 p. m. General AvERELL: No force at Cnmberland. It was ordered here yesterday by Gen- eral Kelley. I have a troop of cavalry seeking the information de- sired. Sconted the Springfield road all night without report of enemy. JAS. A. MULLIGAN, Colonel, Commanding. [Inclosure D.] NEW CREEK, June 17, 1863. (Received Grafton, 10.30 p. in.) General W. W. AVERELL: A snfficient gnard will be left to protect the stores at Clarksburg and Webster. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. NEW CREEK, June 17, 1863. (Received Grafton, June 17, p. in.) Brigadier-General AVERELL: When your cavalry is ready to move to New Creek, direct it to march on the Northwestern turnpike, and via Oakland and Altainont. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. NEW CREEK, June 17, 1863. (Received Grafton, June 1712 in.) General AVERELL: The first order was, your whole force be sent to New Creek, and report to me. At my earnest suggestion, the order was rescinded, as far as regards Beverly; you will, therefore, execute the order, leaving the necessary guard at Clarksburg and Webster to protect our stores. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General Page 209 OHAI~. XXXIX] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 209 [Inclosure E.] HEADQUARTERS, Baltimore, June 20, 186310 p. m. Brigadier-General AVERELL, Grafton, Va.: Sorry to receive your report. You have missed striking a hand- some blow that would have put heart in all of us. No blame, of course; I know your troubles. But hurry up your force, and get ready soon as possible. Call on Wheeling or on Cincinnati for material. DONN PIATT, Chief of Staff. HDQRS. FOURTH SEPARATE BRIG., EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Beverly, W. Va., September 1, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my brigade from the time I assumed command of it to this date: I arrived at Weston, W. Va., on May 22, and, pursuant to special orders from headquarters Middle Department, assumed command of this brigade on the ensuing day, relieving Brig. Gen. B. S. Roberts. The following troops and batteries composed the brigade, viz: The Twenty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Col. A. Moor; Second West Vir~inia Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Latham; Third West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Thompson; Eighth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Oley; Tenth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Colonel Harris; Fourteenth Pennsylvania Vol- unteer Cavalry, Colonel Schoonmaker; Company C, Sixteenth Illi- nois Cavalry, Captain Jaehne; Company A, First West Virginia Cavalry, Captain Hagan; Company C, Third West Virginia Cavalry, Captain Bowen; Third Independent Company Ohio Cavidry, Captain Smith; Battery B, First West Virginia Artillery (six guns), Captain Keeper, and Battery G, First West Virginia Artillery (four guns), Captain Ewing. Measures were at once taken to mount the Second, Third, and Eighth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, and to equip them par- tially as cavalry. The purchase of horses was ordered by the major- general commanding the Middle Department, and they were procured rapidly from Pittsburgh, Wheeling, Gallipolis, and from the counties in the vicinity of the railroad running from Grafton to Parkersburg. Modifications were made in arms and equipments to fit them for mounted service, and carbines and sabers were obtained from Wheel- ing for the Eighth West Virginia Volunteers. A camp of instruction was established at Bridgeport, near Clarks- burg, and, on June 6, the Third West Virginia was sent to it. On the 9th, the Eighth West Virginia was also sent. Horses were issued to those regiments, but the equipments did not come with the horses. While waiting for them, the officers received some instruc- tions in cavalry tactics. Equipments arrived on the 15th, with orders to move to New Creek, to re-enforce the command there, which was thought to be threatened by detachments advancing westward from the enemys main body, which was then proceeding to Maryland. The equipments were issued to the Third and Eighth, and, on the 17th, they proceeded to Grafton. The Twenty-eighth and Keepers 14 R RYOL XXVII, PT I Page 210 210 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. battery were forwarded by railroad to New Creek; the Second marched to Grafton, held in readiness to move; the Fourteenth Penn- sylvania and two additional independent companies recently joined were brought to Webster, while the Tenth West Virginia and Ewings battery, with two independent companies, remained at Beverly, with one independent company at Buckhannon and one at Weston. The necessity for my entire command at New Creek not being urgent, the movement o1~ the remainder was delayed, and equipments and horses were issued to the Second West Virginia. On July 1, the force at Beverly was threatened by a force of the enemy under Col. [W. L.] Jackson. I went with the Fourteenth Pennsylvania, Third and Eighth West Virginia, to the relief of Colonel Harris command. The enemy desisted from his threatened attack, and was pursued beyond Huttonsville. The Twenty-eighth and Keepers battery were recalled from New Creek to Philippi. I had just returned from my pursuit of Jackson to Beverly, when I received an order to proceed to Hancock, Md., with the mounted force of my command. The Twenty-eighth Ohio was ordered to Beverly, to join the Tenth West Virginia and one company of cavalry in holding that place, and at 2 a. m. on the 6th, I proceeded with the Third and Eighth West Virginia and Fourteenth Pennsylvania north- ward to the railroad. On the 7th, Keepers battery and the Eighth West Virginia were forwarded by railroad to Cumberland. Four independent compa- nies were sent on the 8th, and on the 9th, 10th, and 11th the Third West Virginia and Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry were forwarded with Ewings battery. On July 12, I set out from Cumberland with the Third and Eighth West Virginia, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and an independ- ent battalionwhich had been organized by putting four of the independent companies under Major Gibson, Fourteenth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry, and Keepers and Ewings batteriesand arrived at Fairview, 1)elow Hancock, at 10 a. m. the 13th; about 50 miles march. Advanced on the 14th to Williamsport, where it was ascertained that the rebel army had recrossed the river during the previous night. On the 15th, returned to Indian Springs, near Cherry Run, above Williamsport, Md. By your order, Keepers battery was sent back to Beverly. On the 16th and 17th, my command crossed the river, which was deep and swift, by means of three flat-boats and three skiffs. On the moining of the 18th, the battalion of Major Gibson was sent southward, to make a reconnaissance in the direction of Shanghai. Later in the day I moved with my command to Hedgesville. On the way there, Major Gibson was met returning with 14 prisoners and 3 wagons, captured from the enemy. On the 19th, marched toward Martinsburg with my command, with the exception of the Third West Virginia, which was left to cover the road to Winchester; drove the enemys pickets until they were re-enforced, about noon, when I received your orders to retire. The command was withdrawn to the junction of the road to Win- chester, the enemy following, and using his artillery without much effect. Ewings battery opened for the first time duringthe day, and the enemy retired. One captain, 1 lieutenant, and 6 men were wounded of my coin- mand. Five of the enemy were killed and a few prisoners were taken by u~ Page 211 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 211 Gibsons battalion was sent to Williamsport on the 20th, to open u p communication with force at that point. Information was received during the day of the advance of a division of the enemy to attack us, and your orders were received to retire to Cherry Run at 3 a. m. the ensuing morning, covering the withdrawal of your command. The order was successfully carried out, and the enemy, though in vastly superior force, was baffled ~in his attempts to molest us. We remained quiet on the 22d, but on the 23d sent the Eighth West Virginia to reconnoiter in the direction of Shanghai. On the 24th, having received intelligence that the enemy was in motion to the southward from Winchester, my command, pursuant to your order, marched again to Hedgesville, from which point, on the 25th, I sent the Third West Virginia to Martinsburg, and, on the 26th, Gibsons battalion to Winchester. About noon on the 28th, I set out with my command, and marched to Bunker Hill, via Martinsburg, and to Winchester on the 30th, froln which point patrols were sent to Strasburg and other points, from 15 to 20 miles. About 170 disabled officers and men, left behind by the enemy, were here paroled, to report to the nearest commander of United States troops upon their recovery. * * * * * * * * I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier-General of Volunteers.. Brig. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Commanding Department of West Virginia. No. 406. Report of M~j. Gen. Darius N. Gouch, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Susquehanna, of operations June 11July 5. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, Chambersburg, Pa., July 15, 1863. SIR: In obedience to instructions from the honorable Secretary of War, I left Washington June 11, for Harrisburg, in order to assume command of the newly organized Department of the Susquehanna. After an interview with His Excellency Governor Curtin and gentlemen of his council, an order was prepared and issued to the department, calling for a corps of troops for State defense. This was in accordance with instructions received from Mr. Stanton. The Governor also issued a proclamation to the people of the State in connection with my order. On the 15th, 800 of the enemys mounted force appeared at Chain- bersburg, 16 miles north of the Maryland line. They were closely watched by about 120 men of the First New York Cavalry, under Captain Boyd, who covered the wagon train of General Milroy on its retreat from Winchester, Va., toward Harrisburg, Pa. At this date there were not 250 organized men in the department for duty. The sick in the hospital at York were removed, as well as the United States stores at Carlisle. * Portion here omitted relates to Averells raid in West Virginia, August 531, 1863. ~ee Series I, Vol. X~J~I Page 212 212 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Lieutenant-Colonel Coppee, of Philadelphia, volunteered his serv- ices to the State, and was sent to Altoona tb arrange with the officers of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company for the defense of that point, the bridges crossing the Juniata, as well as the mountain passes, southerly toward Bedford, McConnellsburg, and London. Comparatively few troops offered for State defense. The President called for volunteers for six-months service, and Governor Curtin issued his proclamation for 50,000 men. This was on the 15th, and men in masses began to assemble at Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Huntingdon, Altoona, & c. The militia of Pennsylvania was not organized. Farmers in the threatened parts were directed to remove their stock. On the 17th, the only company of infantry, Captain McGowans, from York Hospital, was sent to Shippensburg. Rebel advance fell back on the 18th to Greencastle. Some 2,500 of General Milroys force, in retreating, via Hancock, arrived near Bedford Springs, where their commander joined them. They were a good deal de- moralized. Colonel Higgins re-enforced Milroy with 1,200 men, without blankets or camp equipage. Militia regiments from New York began to arrive. New Jersey sent one regiment for three days. Other companies from that State reported at Harrisburg. The Secretary of War placed the arsenals and clothing depots at my disposal; also gave me ample authority to receive, subsist, and arm whatever troops might be offered from the neighboring States. The New York militia were mustered into the United States service for thirty days. The Penns~4vanians generally declined to be mus- tered for six months. Finally, a portion consented to serve during the existence of the emergency. ~ The heights on the right bank of the Susquehanna, opposite to Harrisburg, were being fortified, in order to cover that city and the important bridges. Some of the patriotic citizens of that city volunteered to work in the trenches; others were paid. The col- ored population were not behind their white brethren in giving assistance. The Eighth and Seventy-first New York Militia went to Chambers- burg on the 19th. Rebel advance of infantry and artillery, 8,000 men, reported at Hagerstown. Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith joined after returning from Altoona and Bedford. He was placed in command of all the troops and defenses opposite Harrisburg. The works were being pushed under the chief engineer of the department, Capt. J. B. Wheeler, assisted by Maj. James Brady, First Pennsylvania Artillery; Captain Wilson, of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and other employ6s of that and the Northern Central road. Every effort was made to organize artillery an~ get it into posi- tion. Major [Granville 0.] Hailer, acting aide-de-camp, was sent to Gettysbnrg to take command. Capt. David McConaughy, of Gettysburg, in company with others, were sent out as scouts to gain information. Colonel Thomas, Twentieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, had the defense of the bridges of the Northern Central Railroad. On the evening of the 22d, the rebel cavalry advanced npon Chain- bersburg, followed by heavy masses of infantry and artillery. It was the head of their army, under General Lee. A part of Ewells corps advanced toward Carlisle, which place they occupied ox~ the ~7th ~ Page 213 Omu~. XXXI~] THE GETTYSBU1~G CAMPAIO 213 28th by 12,000 men, our forces, under Brigadier-General Knipe, fall- ing back to near Harrisburg. The remainder of Ewells corps, 8,000, crossed from Chambersburg to Gettysburg on the 26th; drove in our scouts with their supports, with a loss to us of 176 men missing and prisoners of the Twenty-sixth Emergency Regiment. From that place the enemy moved in the direction of York. The chief burgess and a deputation of citizens met this force 9 miles from the town, and formally surrendered. It was occupied by General Early on the 28th. A body of 2,500 of the rebels imme- diately pushed toward Columbia, drove in the troops at Wrightsville, under Colonel Frick, who retreated across the river and burned the bridge. Same day, their advance approached to within 3 miles of Harrisburg, engaging our pickets and reconnoitered the works. Colonel Thomas, Twentieth Regiment, in charge of bridges near York, retired toward the Susquehanna. The call of June 15 brought only seven full regiments. The Gov- ernor obtained the sanction of the President, and called out 60,000 militia for State service. These rendezvoused at Harrisburg, Read- ing, and Huntingdon. Up to this time, New York had sent nearly 6,000 men. Col. E. Franklin, a citizen of Lancaster, had been placed in com- mand of the fords and bridges on the Lower Susquehanna, to Cono- wingo, in Maryland, some of which were guarded by citizens partially armed with shot-guns. Five thousand men of the counties bordering on the Juniata filled the passes leading to their homes, and threw up military works. They were an army of bushwhackers, commanded by ex-officers. Brigadier-General Smith advanced to Carlisle July 1, with 3,000 men. During the night, Lees cavalry, 3,200 strong, surrounded the place, and, after demanding its surrender, shelled the town, retiring before the next morning in the direction of Gettysburg, where Gen- eral Lee was hastily concentrating, having been forced to this by the rapid movements of the Army of the Potomac, under General Meade. The battle of Gettysburg was fought on July 1, 2, and 3, when the rebels commenced falling back to Hagerstown. Brigadier-General Knipe joining Smith, the latter moved in the direction of Gettys- burg through the mountains,.via Pine Grove, in order to make a di- version in favor of Meade by attacking Lees flank and rear. This movement compelled the latter to keep a large force in line of battle near Cashtown. Smith was, ordered by General Meade to join him at Gettysburg. Subsequently it was countermanded, and he followed the retreating army of Lee, via Altodale, to the vicinity of Waynes- borough, where he effected a junction with one of Meades brigades, under Brigadier-General Neill. Smiths division was mostly com- posed of New York troops, including one brigade of Pennsylvania emergency men, under Colonel Brisbane, acting brigadier-general. I respectfully refer to the elaborate report of Brigadier-General Smith. Major-General Sigel was assigned to duty in this department, and took command of the rendezvous at Reading. Major-General Stahel was present as chief of cavalry. Major-General Dana, on duty at Philadelphia, reported to me at Chambersburg on the 11th, and was assigned to the command of the Second Division, composed of Pennsylvania militia, excepting two New York regiments, under the command of Brigadier-General Yates Page 214 214 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Colonels ~ea~rer and Miles, both of the Second Army Corps, dan. geronsly wounded at Chancellorsyille, commanded Camps Curtin and Huntingdon. Colonel Pierce, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who had succeeded Milroy, killed, wounded, and captured a company of rebel cavalry at McConnellsburg. On July 5, Captain Jones, First New York Cavalry, attacked Lees wagon train near Greencastle, and brought off 645 prisoners, 300 of whom were wounded, 90 wagons, and 1 piece of artillery. Had Colonel Pierce fully carried out my instructions, I e would have inflicted very heavy loss upon the rebels, in breaking up their trains. He sent in nearly 1,000 prisoners; General Smith about 300, with some wagons and horses. This officer joined his force with those of General Meade, the latter having under advisement tim breaking up of this division and distributing the regiments among the brigades of his army. This course was recommended to that officer and approved by General Smith. Lee, however, recrossed the Potomac before it was accomplished. Thus ended, disastrously to the enemy, their invasion of Maryland and Pennsylvania. I received from Governor Curtin and State officers every assistance. Among the latter, more prominently were Col. John A. Wright, aide- de-camp; Hon. William M. Meredith, attorney-general; Adjutant- General [A. L.] Russell, Commissary-General Irwin, General Cam- eron, Col. T. A. Scott, Judge Watts, Hon. Charles McAllister, Col- onel McClure, Judge [Francis M.] Kimmell, Colonel Stunibaugh, and J. N. Du Barry, together with a very great number of gentl& . men residing within the limits of the dep5tment, who lent their as- sistance in working for the common cause. The Governor of New York pushed forward his regiments with alacrity. They were generally armed and equipped ready for field service, and their arrival brought confidence. Among the patriotic associations in the country, the Union League, of Philadelphia, is not surpassed for its vigor and efficient labor. It alone placed several regiments in the field. The militia of Pennsylvania raised to resist the invasion was coin- posed of men from all classes and professions, and was a fine body of men. My thanks are due to the following-named gentlemen, who freely gave their services to the State, and served as volunteers on my staff; they were stationed in various sections of the department: Lient. Col. Henry Coppee, military secretary; Majors Wilson and Wayne MacVeagh; Capts. David McConaughy, W. A. H. Lewis, and A. Wright; and Cadets [Reuben W.] Petrikin, [William] Krause, and [Charles W.] Raymond, from West Point, extra aides-de-camp. New York sent nineteen regiments and one battery, commanded by the following brigadier-generals: Brigadier-Generals Hall, Yates, Ewen, Crooke, and Smith. Pennsylvania furnished eight regiments of emergency men, twenty- two regiments of three-months militia, five companies of artillery, one battalion of six-months infantry, two regiments and one battal- ion of six-months cavalry, and one battalion of three-months cavalry. The three-months men were generally organized between July 4 and 11 of the same month. New Jersey sent one battalion of infantry that remained until after the invasion. Number of prisoners reported, 1,341, of whom nearly 500 wer Page 215 CHAP. XXXIX.1 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 215 taken under arms, 400 wounded, and the remainder stragglers and deserters. This does not include quite a number who escaped through the mountains and went north, being aided in this by the citizens. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant D. N. COUCH, Major- General, Commanding. Col. J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant-General. ADDENDA.* Pennsylvania Volunteers and Militia called into service during the Gettysburg campaign. [The emergency militia and the six-months volunteers were mustered into the United States serv- ice, and the ninety-days militia into the State service. Under act of congress approved April 12, 1866, the State was reimbursed by the United States for money expended in payment of the latter troops.] Strength at muster-in. Date of Date of Organizations. Commanders. muster- muster- in. out. a us a 0 ~ H Independent Company Cavalry (Murray Troop). Independent Company Cavalry (First Philadelphia City Troop). Independent Company Cavalry (Luzerne Rangers). Independent Company Cavalry (Wissahickon Cavalry). Independent Company Cavalry (Continental Troop). Independent Company Cavalry (Curtin Horse Guards). Independent Battery Ihdependent Battery 20th Infantry 26th Infantry 27th Infantry 28th Infantry 29th Infantry 30th Infantry 31st Infantry 33d Infantry (Blue Reserves). - Independent Battalion Inf an- try. Independent Company Infan- try. Independent Company Inf an- try. Independent Company Infan- try. Total emergency militia. - First Battalion Cavalry Independent Company Cavalry. Independent Company Cavalry. Independent Company Cavalry (Dana Troop). Independent Battery Independent Battery t Independent Battery - Independent Battery (Second Keystone Battery). Independent Battery (Chester County Artillery). Capt. Frank A. Murray Capt. Samuel J. Randall Capt. Henry H. Brown Capt. Samuel W. Comly Capt. Alban H. Myers Capt. John W. Jones Capt. E. Spencer Miller Capt. Henry D. Landis Col. William B. Thomas Col. William W. Jennings Col. Jacob G. Frick Col. James Chamberlin Col. Joseph W. Hawley Col. William N. Monies Col. John Newkumet Col. William W. Taylor Lieut. Col. Robert Litzinger. ... Capt. John Spear Capt. William B. Mann Capt. James B. German Lieut. Col. Richard F. Moson... Capt. James M. Bell Capt. William B. Dick Capt. R. W. Hammeil Capt. Joseph M. Knap.... Capt. Benoni Frishmuth Capt. W. C. Ermentrout Capt. Edward Fitzki Capt. George H. Guss 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 44 38 37 39 39 38 37 36 17 3 3 3 12 3 3 3 5 4 5 5 4 88 73 81 77 83 72 99 105 927 705 770 678 722 680 679 618 384 93 98 72 269 99 69 101 116 100 144 138 117 91 75 84 80 86 75 102 108 971 743 807 717 761 718 716 614 401 96 101 75 ~,461 281 102 72 104 121 104 149 143 121 1863. June 18 June 18 June 19 June 19 June 20 June 24 June 19 June 27 June 17 June 22 June 22 June 24 June 28 June 25 June 30 ~ June 23~ 25 S June 17 June 17 June 18 July 13 June 30 July 9 July 2 June 27 June 26 July 3 J-.ily 6 July 1 1863. Aug. 11 July 30 Aug. 1 July 30 July 31 Aug. 12 July 25 July 30 Aug. 10 July 30 July 31 July 28 Aug. 1 July 29 Aug. 8 Aug. 4 Aug. 8 July 21 July 24 July 23 Aug. Aug. Oct. Sept. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. 21 9 5 16 16 1 26 24 24 * Compiled under the direction of the Adjutant-General, U. S. Army. tAttached to Thirty-secoRd Regiment Page 216 CAD CD CD ~ CDCD CD~CD CD. .-~CD. ~+ ~CD ~ CAl- ~ CD CDO~CD~DD ~ ~O CD~CDCD~CD CD CAl- CD CD CD .CA.CA+CAI ~ CD .~ CAD CACA~ ~ o ~ CA~ . CD Do ~ ~ ~ c~ ~ S~ ~ CD ~~.OOCAl- 0 ~ CD CA~ ~ CA~ CD.- ~ CD ~ Do ODD. ~ CD CD~ . . . CD!0TCD1V1VCACD1Oy CAD OTOl A ~ ~ c~c~ ~ CiD~l- CAl- ~ CAD ~ CA+~ CDCDCDCDCDCDCDO 0~00~0 ~CA-o 0~ ~ 0~0~0~00~0- DoDoDoDoDo ~ ~ ~ ~ CDCDCDCDCDCDCD~ 0000000 0 00 00000 0000 00000000 0 OOOOOOo H~HDHDHD CAl- CD.CD.0.CD.~CD.o. CD~CDCDDD DD~ ~ ~ ~ OCDOOOOOO 00 CA+CA+CA+CA+CA+CA+~l- ~. CA~ CAD D.DO ~ CA+~l-~CA~ ~CAl-CAl-~l- o C~ ~ ~ CA CA~ ~l-CA~ CA~ D~ D~ CA~ ~CAD~ OOOOOOCD CA 0Do0DoDoCD CD CD CD . CD ~ . CD 0. 0... ~D: ~ ~ 000000O~ ~ 0 0 o:::: o::: CAl- ~ ~ CD.: .. . 0 CD. CD~ : CAD . 0 . . 0000000 .. : o.~-~: ~ 0~ 0 ~D~DC~: ~ - 0000000: o::::: 0 ~ ~ CD ~: . . . . _ (~ C~ QOOOo C~C~OC~ c~oc~ ~0 0 00 00000 0000 00000000 000000 ~ 00~C0 CD 0-~ ~o-~o-~ ~ CD ~ ~ DCACAI~0~p~ 0 ~ ~ 0CD0CD CAD....CA ~ 1 0 ~CD 0 CA~ ~ CD ~0. ~ ~CDCDCD0D~ CDCD~CAl-~ ~ ~C o~ ~ ~~CA~DD ~CCD~Z . ~ CDCDCD ~CD~: CD ~o CA CDCD~~ DD~0~ : ~: ~ ~ CDV. ~: ~ 0~ DoO~0~ CD~CCD Di. CADCD . CDCAD 0. 00 :~:CD.~CD: ~: 00-: : :: CA~:o~.: :1 CD.. DDCA CD CD 0 0 0 0 CD 0 CD CD ODCDCDCACACD CD A CD CD DC K CDCDCDCDODCDCDCD CDCD-2CDCD- CACAC ~CA ~-.D CD KDCDCD-KCA CD-KDCDCDCDCD -~2 CD Officers. -CCCAsD CC A A : ODCC CDCDCDCDCDO CD CD CDCDCDCDOD CDCDCDCDCDDCDOD CD CDCDD- D-D CD CD CD0~DCDD...A CC CD C~ CD ~ 0 CCACD CDCDCDCDCD-2CD CD KCA-TD CDZDZCAKDCD CACCDCDCD CACD2DCDCDCD ~CD Men CDCCCDCD-CA-CD CD CD CA CD ~. . CDDODCDCDCDCDCD CAAC0CD0CD KD AKCA CD~CCCDCD CDCDCDCC ODAADCCDCD CDDCA CD0~CCCCC CD C-2 CD-CACC0~c CDi~CD CDCDCD0CDCD~-.CD CA CAl- CD1 CC DL.0 I~.CA A D.~ACD CD~ D~. D..CDCDD..DD..D ~ CDCD KCACDCDC.D-.2CD CA -KDCD CAC2D-KCA..qCA.0 CDCDCDCD QCD--ZD-ZDCDCD CDCD ~ CD CD CD0CDCACACACD CD KCA CD CDCDA..CDCC CA ~5 CD A CC CC CD CACCACCA-KD1CDD~CD ~CA.CCCCCDCD CDD~D CDCDCDCACCD ACACCACOD ZCACDCDCCAKD CDCAC CADDDD. CAD CA CA CD ~ CDACDDCDCDCDD.. CDCACKCACD-.2CACACD.-~ CD CDA -D5.0CDCD CDCDCACZCA ZDCCKCACD~.~~CD4D. C~ C~ ~ ~ ~ C~CA~C~C~ C~ C~C~ ~ ~ ~ 000000 0 0 ~ 0~~~4C~4 00000000 0000000 0 00 00000 0000 000oooo0-~ -0000 ODD ~ ~ CA~ ~ ~ CA.~CA~CA.D4CA.~ ~ ~CAD CAD. I CC~. D~D~CC -~~-~D-D D-~ CC ~CD III CD CD CDCCCDCDCDCDCDCD CD0CDCDCDACD CD ~A ACDCDCDCD CDCDCDCD AACDAAACDCD CAt A CD CC CC CC CDCDCD-i A O~CD CD0- 0- 0 CD CD. - CD A CD CC CC CC CC CD CD CDCD CD 0202 ~ ~ 0~ CA~ ~ CAl- CAD Cl- CD. CDCDCC CDA-CA 0202 02~AD~A DO CD -CA CD CD 402 CD 02~. 02~ ~-~ ~ CC~-~CC ~ CCCD CCCDCDCDDO 00000 000 D..D ~iC~CA~CA~CA ~ CD CC -CA CD -CA CD A OOCD OCCADCAl- CAl-CAl-CD -CD CACAO CD CD CA~ CA. 0 CD CD CD ~. ~. ()CCAD CA+ CA. CD ~CD CC CA~ CD CD A. CD CD C Page 217 CHAP. XXXIX.] TilE GETTYSBURG CAMJAW~X. ~1Ft GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA, No. 43. Harrisburg, June 15, 1863. I. To repel the threatened and imminent invasion of Pennsylvania by the enemies of the country, the President of the United States has this day issued his proclamation for 50,000 volunteers, to serve for a period of six months, if not sooner discharged, to be subsisted, equipped, and paid as promptly as are all other troops in the service. II. All organizations or compaiiies of men responding to this call will at once report by telegraph the place of their rendezvous, so that orders may be issued from the departmental headquarters of Major- General Couch, at this city, for transportation to Harrisburg or such other points as may be deemed expedient. III. Troops rendezvoused at Harrisburg will be mustered into the United States service at this point, and those ordered to rendezvous elsewhere will be mustered in at the places of their respective ren- dezvous by mustering officers detailed for that duty. By order of A. G. Curtin, Governor and Commander-in-Chief: A. L. RUSSELL, Adjutant- General, Pennsylvania. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA, No. 44. Harrisburg, June 26, 1863. In organizing the troops responding to the proclamation of the Governor, this day issued, calling for 60,000 men for the defense of the State, to be mustered into the service of the State for the period of ninety days, unless sooner discharged, it is ordered: I. .Camps of rendezvous will be established by the United States Government for districts comprising the adjacent counties at such points as may be indicated by the commandant of the Department of the Susquehanna and the Department of the Monongahela, in charge of which camps commanders and skillful surgeons will be appointed. II. Squads and companies will be received at the camps, and as rapidly as possible organized into companies of not less than 64 men, and into regiments of ten companies each, and mustered into the service of the State by officers appointed by the adjutant-general for this purpose. III. Officers will be electedcompany officers by the men and field officers by the company or line officers. IV. Transport~tion to the camp of rendezvous nearest their loca- tion will be lurnished by the United States Government on apl)lica- tion of any one actually having charge of a squad or company to the agent at the nearest railroad station. V. Troops responding to this call of the Governor will be clothed, subsisted, equipped, and supplied by the General Government after arriving at their rendezvous. VI. Annexed is the quota required from each county on the pres- ent call, after crediting those counties which had already responded under recent orders with the number of troops furnished and actually mustered into service: Adams 469 Berks 1, 738 Allegheny 3,600 Blair 550 Armstrong 720 Bradford 866 Beaver 600 Bucks 1, 147 Bedford 540 Butler 64 Page 218 N. 0., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. Cambria . Cameron Carbon Chester Centre Clarion Clinton Clearfield Columbia Crawford Cumberland Dauphin Delaware Erie Elk Fayette Franklin Fulton Forest Greene Huntingdon Indiana Jefferson Juniata Lancaster Lawrence Lebanon Lehigh 588 70 425 881 540 520 286 365 321 980 587 744 255 1,000 115 800 840 180 120 480 502 675 360 297 2,154 460 514 907 Luzerne 1,447 Lycoming 623 Mercer 740 McKean 180 Muffin 320 Monroe 840 Montgomery 1,201 Montour 175 Northamptin 911 Northumberland 472 Perry 460 Philadelphia 7,718 Pike 150 Potter 240 Schuylkill 1,312 Snyder 232 Somerset 540 Sullivan 80 Susquehanna 655 Tioga 554 Union 90 Venango 500 Warren 380 Washington 950 Wayne 640 Westmoreland 1,080 Wyoming 187 York 1,138 By order of A. G. Curtin, Governor and Commander-in-Chief: A. L. RUSSELL, Adjutant- General, Pennsylvania. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA, No. 75. Harrisburg, June 19, 1863. I. All officers in charge of men assembled at this point will report their commands, without delay, at the headqnarters of Col. James A. Beaver, commanding at Camp Curtin. II. Officers are required to remain with their commands, and all such as fail to comply with this special order will be reported to these headquarters by the commandant of camp, and not recognized as en- titled to commissions By order of A. G. Curtin, Governor and Commander-in-Chief: A. L. RUSSELL, Adjutant- General, Pennsylvania. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA, No. 76. Harrisburg, June 30, 1863. All persons residents of the city of Harrisburg or vicinity ur~at- tached to any military organization, to whom arms or ammunition, or either, have lately been issued from the Harrisburg State Ar- senal, or who are in possession of arms belonging to the State, will immediately attach themselves to a military organization, to report to these headquarters, or return the arms and other State property in their hands to the arsenal. By order of A. G. Curtin, Governor and Commander4n-Chief: A. L. RUSSELL, Adjutant-General, Pennsylvania. 218 [CHAD. XXXIX Page 219 CHAP. XXXIXI TIlE GEITYSI3URG CAMPAIGTh 219 SPECIAL ORDERS, HEAD QUARTERS PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA, No. 77. Harrisburg, July 18, 1863. The following companies, now at Huntingdon, mustered into the State service for the period of ninety days, will form a battalion, to be commanded by a lieutenant-colonel and a major, viz: Captain Mc- Keages company, Blair County; Captain Croziers company, Blair County; Captain Travis company, Blair County; Captain Swoopes company, Blair County; Captain Hammans company, Blair County; Captain Davidsons company, Blair County. The commanding offi- cer will detail an acting adjutant and an acting quartermaster from the line officers. By order of the Governor: A. L. RUSSELL, Adjutant- General, Pennsylvania. [Indorsement.] The aforegoing are true and correct copies of Special Orders, Nos. 75, 76, and 77, issued during the year A. D. 1863, as the same appear on file in this office. PRESLY N. GUTHRIE, Adjutant- General, Pennsylvania. New York Militia sent to Maryland and Pennsylvania between June 15 and July 3, 1863.~ a commanders. Location. ~ nI. 1863. 4th col. Daniel W. Teller New York city June 20 500 5th col. Louis Burger do June 19 828 6th col. Joel W. Mason do June 22 656 7th col. Marshall Lefferts do June 17 650 8th col. Joshua M. Yarian do June 18 371 11th col. Joachim Maidhof do June 18 762 12th col. William G. Ward do June 19 684 13th col. John B. Woodward Brooklyn June 20 496 17th Lieut. col. John P. Jenkins .1 White Plains July 3 400 18th col. James Ryder South East July 3 400 21st col. Joseph Wright Poughkeepsie June 27 600 22d col. Lloyd Aspinwall New York city June 19 568 23d col. William Everdell, jr Brooklyn June 18 626 28th col. Michael Bennett do June 20 484 37th coL charles Roome New York city June 19 693 47tht col. Jeremiah Y. Meserole Brooklyn June 26 400 52d col. Matthias W. cole do June 22 351 55th col. Eugene Le Gal New York city June 24 350 56th col. David M. Talmadge Brooklyn June 20 476 65th col. Jacob Krettner Buffalo June 19 555 67th col. chauncey Abbott East Hamburg June 23 400 68th col. David 5. Forbes Fredonia June 24 400 69th col. James Bagley New York city June 22 600 71st col. Benjamin L. Trafford do June 18 737 74th col. Watson A. Fox Buffalo June 19 504 84th col. Frederick A. conklleg New York city July 3 480 Total 13,971 * From Annual Report of the Adjutant-General, State of New York, who reports that, In connection with this militia force, detachments of volunteers scattered throughout the State, were organized, equipped, and ordered forthwith to Harris- burg, Pa. This force comprised 1,827 men. t Ordered to the Department of Washington, June 27 Page 220 220 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CRAP. XXXIX. No. 407. Report of Brig. Gen. William F. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, of operations June 26-July 15. HDQRS. FIRST DIvISIoN, DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, Greencastle, Pa., July 18, 1863. MAJOR: I have to report that, in obedience to orders from the gen- eral commanding, I assumed command of the troops south of the Susquehanna and in the vicinity of Harrisburg on Friday, June 26, and was busily engaged until Tuesday, 30th, in strengthening the defenses at Bridgeport, opposite the city of Harrisburg, and at Marys- ville, to protect the bridges of the Pennsylvania and Northern Central Railroads. On Sunday, a rebel cavalry force, with a section of artillery, came to our picket line near Oyster Point, and drove in our cavalry pickets, but did not succeed in moving the infantry pickets. On Monday, I sent the regular cavalry, under Lieutenant [Frank] Stanwood, on the Carlisle road, and he engaged and drove in the pickets of the enemy, but was obliged to retire nuder a fire of artil- lery which was opened on him. On Tuesday, learning that the rebel infantry had left Carlisle, the cavalry was ordered forward, and found the enemy at Sporting Hill. General Ewen, New York militia, in command of the Twenty-second and Thirty-seventh New York State Militia, went forward to support Lieutenant Stanwood, and a section of Landis battery, under the direction of Lieuteuant Muhlenberg, was immediately ordered up. The enemy was found in position, and attacked about 4 p. m. The artillery arrived on the ground about S p. in., and soon silenced the fire of the enemy. General Ewens command was ordered forward to occupy Carlisle, but did not march until the next morning. Captain Boyd, First New York Cavalry, with 120 men, was also ordered by the Trindle Spring road, via Churchtown, to Carlisle. He stopped at Church- town, and entered Carlisle on the morning of July 1. Colonel Brisbane, commanding the Pennsylvania Brigade, was ordered to move on Carlisle by the mud road at daylight, but, owing to a want of transportation, did not move until about 9 a. m. I visited the headquarters to receive instructions and make arrange- ments for supplies and transportation, and, recrossing the river, the remainder of the command, under Brigadier-General Knipe, U. S. Volunteers, was directed to march as far as practicable and encamp, and to move at an early hour in the morning. The Eleventh New York Artillery, nuder Colonel Forbes, refused to march under certain pleas, and the matter was referred to General Couch. This delayed my starting till 3.30 p. in., and finally, leaving orders with General Knipe to carry out the instructions with refer- ence to the refractory regiment, I left to join the advance. Hearing rumors on the road of a large cavalry force in the vicinity, I sent out scouts on the cross-roads, and pushed on, entering Carlisle at sunset. General Ewen had passed through the town on the Baltimore turn- pike about 1~- miles, and, while going on to examine his position,word came from my scouts that a large cavalry force of the enemy was in the immediate vicinity, on the York road, and, turning back, before Page 221 CHAP. XXXIX.] TIlE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 221 entered the village, their guns had opened on ~s. The road for several miles back of us was filled with stragglers from the brigades of Gen- eral Ewen and Colonel Brisbane, and the men with me were wearied with a long march, to which they were nnused. Under these circnmstances, I determined to content myself till morning with simply holding the town, but before I could get a line of skirmishers out, a summons was sent by General Fitzhngh Lee to snrrender the town, or send out the women and children. I sent an answer that the women and children would be notified to leave. In less than half an honr, another message was sent to the purport that, if not snrrendered, the town would be burned. The answer was re- turned that one answer had already been given. I then sent a vol- unteer aide, Mr. Ward, of Harrisburg, to communicate with General Knipe, and order him to march at 3 a. in., and to report to General Conch the position of affairs. In the meantime the enemy opened a battery on the town, to which, by my orders, our artillery did not reply, as I deemed the fire too inaccurate, and wished to save my ammnnition. About 11 oclock I sent another volunteer aide, Mr. James Dough- erty, to try and get to General Knipe with orders to move immedi- ately. Mr. Dou0herty was captured and his orderly wounded, and about 12 m. a third and last summons came to surrender, to which the reply was given that the message had been twice answered before. About 1 oclock the firing ceased, with the exception of Three guns about 3 a. in., soon after which reports came in that the enemy was moving off on a country road which came into the turnpike about 2~ miles from Carlisle, and by daylight there was nothing opposed to us. The casualties were 12 wounded, none fatally. Thursday [July 2] the entire command was put in near the bar- racks, which had been burned during the night, and on Friday a train of provisions came up to Carlisle. The supplies which we could draw from the citizens were extremely limited, though every disposition to aid us was manifested. General Knipes command having joined me on Friday, the whole command was put in motion at 6 a. m. on Saturday for Mount Holly, where we were detained for two hours by the arrival of about 2,000 prisoners, paroled on the battle-field, and sent under a flag of truce toward Carlisle. Wishing to prevent the enemy from getting infor- mation of our strength, I was forced to accept the prisoners, subject to the decision of the Government, and turn the rebel escort back. The Thirty-seventh New York Militia Regiment was left at Mount Holly to watch the Baltimore road, and the command moved toward Pine Grove. A most furious rain-storm set in, which raised the creeks, carried away bridges, and made the march toilsome in the extreme. The command of General Ewen was left at Lanrel Forge, to cover the entrance to the narrow valley, and also watch a road leading over the mountain to Bendersville. The remainder of the force was con- centrated at Pine Grove Furnace, the Eighth New York State Militia being ordered to hold the pass to Bendersville from Pine Grove. On Sunday, General Knipe was ordered with his commalid to hold the cross-roads from Mount Holly to Cashtown and Pine Grove to Bendersville, while General Ewen crossed the mountain to the Mount Holly and Cashtown road, holding the pass in his rear, and being within a mile of QenCral Knipes cotm aiid, Colonel Brisbane, wit Page 222 222 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. the Pennsylvania Brigade, was holding a by-road from Pine Grove to Cashtown. A cavalry scont, nnder Lientenant Stanwood, was sent np Monntain Creek Valley, in the direction of the pass from Cbambersbnrg to Gettysbnrg, throngh which it was snpposed the enemy wonld send his trains, if he were defeated. Lientenant Stan- wood drove in the pickets a conple of miles from the tnrnpike, bnt had not snfficient force to press on. Captain Boyd joined me at Pine Grove, having followed the rear guard of the enemy to Fayetteville, on the Gettysbnrg and Chambersbnrg road, captnring prisoners. He was directed to pass by Bendersville, in the direction of Cashtown, to try and ascertain the movements and position of the enemy. He fell in with them, and captnred eight wagons and prisoners. Dnr- ing the day a small provision train caine np, which was very accept- able, as it was impossible to snbsist the troops from the country. A scont from General Meade also came through, giving the information that the enemy was retiring; and, later in the day, Captain West, a volnnteer aide and assistant on the Coast Snrvey, retnrned, having snccessfnlly opened comiunnications with General Meade on Satur- day from Mount Holly. On Monday morning, I marched the brigade by three different roads, concentrating at Newmans Pass behind Cashtown. We were, however, too late to intercept the trains which had gone that route. Tnesday morning, I was proposing to enter the Cumberland Valley and follow down the monntains toward Boonsborongh, when an order came from General Meade to march to Gettysbnrg, which order was shortly after conntermanded, with permission to do as I had proposed. The command was then in arched to Altodale, and an officer sent to Chambersbnrg, to try and procure supplies, as my trains had failed to overtake me. A small supply being procured, the troops were marched on Wednesday to Waynesborough, where I found General Neill, with a brigade of infantry and one of cavalry, and eight pieces of artillery. Here I was forced to wait for my trains to come up, but sent a cavalry scout to communicate with General Meade, west of South Mountain. Thursday was spent in waiting for rations to come up, and for in- structions from General Meade. On Friday, I was ordered by him to occupy the enemy to the best advantage, and to be ready to join the Army of the Potomac or Gen- eral Couch, as circumstances might require. Colonel McIntosh was at once ordered with his brigade of cavalry and four guns to feel the enemy along the Antietam below Leitersburg, which he did in the most skillful manner, driving his cavalry pickets across the creek upon their infantry and artillery supports. The cavalry was sup- ported in this movement by two regiments of Pennsylvania militia, under Colonel Frick, at Riuggold and Smithsburg, and one regi- ment, Forty-third New York Volunteers, from General Neills com- mand, posted near Leitersburg. On Saturday, hearing that the rebels had ordered a miller on Marsh Run to grind wheat all night for them; Colonel Brisbane, with two regiments of Pennsylvania militia, was ordered, if possible, to in- tercept the wagons going for the flour, and destroy the grain if be could not bring it off. These regiments were supported by the Sixty- first Penhsylvania Volunteers, of General Neills command. From 2 prisoners captured at the mill, we learned that the enemy had fallen back to Hagerstown. Colonel ~ri~banes Comrn~nd was left at Waynesborou~h, wit Page 223 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GEITYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 223 orders to march at daylight, and the rest of the troops were moved to Leitersburg, excepting the command of Colonel Frick, which was ordered from Ringgold to Chewsville. During the night an order came for General Neill to join the Army of the Potomac at once, and, as no instructions were sent to me, I ordered Colonel Brisbane to remain at Waynesborough, to guard my communications, and moved with what force I had with me to Cave- town. After posting my troops there, I reported in person to General Meade, and recommended to him to divide my command among the old divisions of the Army of the Potomac before the anticipated battle. Under the supposition that this was to be done, I ordered Colonel Brisbane to Hagerstown, and moved with the rest of the coin- mand to the Boonsborough turnpike, near Beaver Creek. General Meade declined to distribute the militia, and I remained until Wed- nesday morning, when I received orders to send the New York State militia home, via Frederick, and the necessary orders were given. The Pennsylvania militia were concentrated at Hagerstown, under Colonel Brisbane, who was appointed military governor, with in- structions to watch the ford at Williamsport and Falling Waters. Before closing, I must call to the remembrance of the general com- manding the force that I moved without a quartermaster or commis- sary, without supply trains, some regiments even being without hav- ersacks, and with no adequate transportation of the cooking utensils of the men, and must pay the proper tribute to the general behavior of the troops during long marches, in rainy weather and without suffi- cient food. The rugged mountain roads left many of them bare- footed, but the greater portion of the command seemed animated by a desire to do all that was required in the service of their country. Colonel Brisbane deserves special mention for the manner in which he managed and led his command, and I earnestly recommend him to notice. Captain Boyd, First New York Cavalry, also did gallant service with his small force. I am much indebted to Capt. M. A. Reno, U. S. Cavalry, who acted as my chief of staff; to Lieutenant Muhlenberg, my chief of ar- tillery; to Lieut. Rufus King, Fourth U. S. Artillery, and to Lieuten- ant Johnson, U. S. Cavalry, for their services. To my own aides Lieutenants [Matthew] Berry and [Campbell] Tucker, and the fol- lowing gentlemen, who were volunteer aides: Colonel McCormick, Capts. P. C. F. West and Lamborn, Lieuts. Samuel Carey, F. Rogers, and Evans, and Mr. WardI am indebted for zealous and in- defatigable service. Dr. John Neill, medical director of the division, was particularly watchful and efficient in the discharge of his duties. Very respectfully, WM. F SMITH, Brigadier- General. ADDENDA. lUiemorandum of operations in Pennsylvania and Jifaryland, June 24July 15, 1863. Wednesday, June 24, 1863.From Altoona to Bloody Run, to in- spect the force of General Milroy. Left Bloody Run at 11 p. in., and arrived at Harrisburg on Thursday, June 25, at 1 p. m. Friday, 26th, Saturday, 27th, Sunday, 28th, Monday, 29th, Tues-. day, 3Oth.Were spent on the fortifications opposite Harrisburg Page 224 224 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. In addition to the three works on the hill, the engine-house of the Cumberland Valley Railroad was l)ierced for musketry, and the doors barricaded with cross-ties and sand-bags, with embrasures for two pieces commanding the railroad. The rock cut of the Northern Central Railroad under the fort was barricaded, rifle-pits constructed on the top of the cut and in several positions occupied by the troops down the river and in front of the small work on the hill. The narrow pass of the railroad (Northern Central) and the com- mon road at the end of the North Mountain, on the river, 1 mile be- low the end of the Pennsylvania Railroad bridge, was filled by a small work of rock, earth, and sand-bags. The position was naturally a a very strong one. General Yates with , a Marysville, to secure the Pennsylva- nia and Northern Central Railroad bridges from attack by way of Sterritts Gap or other passes in the North Mountain. A reconnaissance was made on the 30th by , under command of Colonel Brisbane, with one section of Landis battery, to Sporting Hill, 4 miles beyond Oyster Point, which resulted in a skirmish, in which we had 4 wounded. Wednesday, July 1.The brigades of General lEwen and Colonel Brisbane, with Landis battery, moved to Carlisle. General Knipes brigade left later, 1.30 p. in., and encamped at Silver Springs. The rear of General lEwens command reached Carlisle about dusk. Colonel Brisbane was already there. Half an hour later, General Fitzliugh Lee, with a force of 3,300 (?) cavalry and seven guns, ap- proached the town from the direction of Mechanicsburg, not know- ing that any of our forces occupied the place. Shots were exchanged with our pickets, and several shell were thrown over the town, find one or two up the Railroad street into the square. Landis battery, posted in the square, replied by three shots. A flag of truce then came in from Lee, demanding the surrender of the town or the removal of the women and children, to which General Smith made answer that the women and children would be removed. The shelling was resumed, 134 shots being fired by the en~emy. Several houses were damaged; men wounded and 1 horse killed. To a second flag of truce, the answer was returned that an answer had been already given to the same demand. Captain Dougherty, an aide of General Smith, was captured on the Harrisburg road as he was attempting to get out to communicate with General Knipe. He was immediately sent in with another flag, principally to give the impression that Lees force was very large, and could easily destroy the town. The enemy set fire to a board-yard near the gas-works, to the gas- works, and to the barracks, all of which were consumed. Mr. Ward, another aide, succeeded in getting through to General Knipe; his orderly was captured. Captain Doughertys orderly was shot. At 12 oclock the firing ceased, and was not resumed, excepting by the enemy firing three parting shots at 3 a. in., when they moved off toward Mount Holly. They had a heavy wagon train, which moved off at 1 a. m. Some of the citizens did good service in the skirmish line as volunteers. No citizens were injured by the shelling. Thursday, 2d. The troops were all moved out the burned barracks. Friday, July 3m-The troops remained at barracks all day, waitin Page 225 XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 225 for provisions, the supply trains having been prevented from arriving by the occupation of the road by the enemy on the 1st and 2d of July. The attempt to procure provisions from the citizens was only par- tially successful. Supplies arrived by railroad on the evening of the 3d. Saturday, July 4.The whole command, consisting of the brigade of Colonel Brisbane, Twenty-eighth and Thirtieth Pennsylvania, Gray Reserves Regiments, and Blue Reserves, 2,500 men; General Knipe, Eighth, Seventy-first, Fifty-sixth, and Twenty-third New York Regiments, men, and General Ewens brigade, Thirty- seventh, Twenty-second, and Eleventh New York Regiments, with Landis Philadelphia battery of six pieces, and Millers Philadelphia howitzer battery of four pieces, left Carlisle at 6 a. in., and moved by the Papertown road, 6~ miles to Mount Holly. There a detention of two hours was caused by the arrival of a flag of truce, escorting 2,000 paroled prisoners captured by the rebels at Gettysburg in the first days fight. They were received and sent to the rear. Among them was Captain Dougherty and a number of stragglers of New York regiments, who had been picked up on July 1, on the road coming into Carlisle. The Thirty-seventh New York Regiment, 400 strong, was left at Mount Holly, to watch the Carlisle and Baltimore turnpike. The re- mainder of the force was moved on 6~ miles to Laurel Forge, where General Ewens brigade was left to watch the road from Mount Holly to Pine Grove and that from Laurel Forge to Bendersville, over the mountain. The other brigades were moved on to Pine Grove Iron Works, 2j miles farther, the advance reaching that point at 6 p. m. Very heavy rain fell from 1 p. in., making the roads very difficult for the artillery and trains. On arriving at Pine Grove, the Eighth New York Regiment was sent out to hold the road to Bendersville, where it crosses the mount- ain south of Pine Grove. Sunday, July 5.The troops were moved from Pine Grove at 8 a. m. over the mountain, on the Bendersville road, General Knipes brig~x1e, with one section of artillery, being placed at the intersec- tion of this road with the road from Holly Springs to Shippensburg, and Colonel Brisbanes brigade on a wood road leading into the Ship- pensburg road. Ewens brigade moved from Laurel Forge in the morning, by a road across the mountain, to a point where the road from Holly Springs to Shippensburg is crossed by the road from Laurel Forge to Benders- ville. The Thirty-seventh New York was ordered to move to the fork of the road, 2 miles below Mount Holly, where the Gettysburg road comes into the Pine Grove road. Owing to the movements of the enemy, this regiment was afterward withdrawn, and rejoined the main body. ]Ifouclay, July 6.All the troops moved by different roads to New- mans Cut, on the turnpike between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, 4 miles east of Cashtown, where they were concentrated during the evening. Tuesday, July 7.Orders were received from General Meade to move the command to Gettysburg, but just as the troops were about starting, the order was changed, and the head of the column left New- mans Cut at 11 a. m. for Alto Furnace, where the whole force arrived, from 5 to / oclock. LicutemLut Stauwood, with 100 cavalry, ~ro~ed ~-~-VQb XXNII, P~ I Page 226 226 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. to the same point by the way of Caledonia Springs. A scout sent ont reported at 8.30 p. m. that the Twelfth Corps occupied Waynes- borough. Wednesday, July 8.Moved from Altodale at 11 a. in.; reached Waynesborough in the afternoon. Two regiments, nuder Colonel Frick, arrived after dark. The whole force was encamped in line of battle on the right (Colonel Brisbane) and left (New York troops) of the road to Hagerstown, a mile and a half out of Waynesbor- ough. The force at Waynesborough was found to be not the Twelfth Corps, but a small force of infantry, cavalry, and artillery, under General Milroy. Thursday, July 9.Was spent in Waynesborough. Two regi- ments of Colonel Fricks were sent to Riuggold, in Maryland. Friday, July 10.A reconnaissance by General Neills cavalry found the enemy in force on the right bank of the Antietam, below Leitersburg. An examination of the country from Franklin Cliff, Md., informed us that a large force of the enemy was encamped on high ground, 2~ miles from Hagerstown, on the Waynesborough road, and a smaller force ~n the Boonsborough road, near Hagerstown. No earthworks could be discovered, nor any earthworks on the ridge toward Williamsport. No movements were visible on the Williams- port road. The supply train arrived in the evening. The short marches and the delay at Waynesborough were caused by the want of provisions and the impossibility of bringing up the supply trains with sufticient celerity. Every effort was made to snppl y the com- mand with rations from the country people, but with little success, the rebels having cleaned out the region. Orders had been issued to the command to be in readiness to move, but a dispatch was received on the evening of the 10th, from General Meade, ordering that the comniands of General Milroy and General Smith should remain at Waynesborough, to occupy the enemy or to join General Meade or General Couch, as the movements of the enemy might permit or require. According to this dispatch, Gen- eral Meades right wing was to be on the Boonsborongh and Hagers- town turnpike, between Antietam and Beaver Creek, and his left at Bakersville, on the evening of the 10th. Saturday, July 11.Colonel Brisbane with the Gray Reserves and Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania, supported by the Sixty-first Pennsylva- nia Volunteers, of General Neills command, made a reconnaissance to Marsh Mill. within the enemys lines of the day before, about 4 miles from camp. He destroyed 24 barrels of flour which had been ground for the rebels, and all the grain ~(100 bushels) in the mill. The party veturned about dark. The whole command, excepting those troops engaged under Colonel Brisbane, moved at dusk to Leitersburg, and encamped there for the night. Sunday, July 12.The command (excepting Colonel Brisbanes) left Leitersbnrg at 6 a. in., and reached Cavetown at noon. Colonel Brisbane moved from Waynesborough. Colonel Frick moved to Chewsville. Monday, l3th.The force at Cavetown, under the temporary command of General Knipe for the march, moved to a point near Smoketown. The orders were to go to Benevola, where Beaver Creek crosses the Boonsborough and Hagerstown turnpike, but they were not understood. The Blue Reserves took part in a skirmish under General Kilpatrick, near Hagerstown, with a loss of 1 killed and ~ woinided Page 227 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 227 Tuesday, l4th.General Knipe moved to Benevola. Wednesday, l5th.All the New York troops had orders from Gen- eral Smith to move to Greencastle, but at the time of their starting, an order came from General Couch that they should go to Frederick, and they accordingly moved in that direction. All the Pennsylvania troops at Benevola moved at 9 a. in., to join Colonel Brisbane at Hagerstown, all to be under his command as military governor of Hagerstown. WM. F. SMITH, Brigadier- General. No. 408. Report of Ma~j. Gen. Charles W. Sandford, commanding First Division, New York State National Guard, of operations June 16July 16, including the Draft Riots in New York City. HDQRS. 1ST Div., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARDS, New York, December 30, 1863. GENERAL: During the present year, 1863, the First Division has performed a large amount of duty. In addition to the usual parades and drills, the reception of regiments returned from the war, and funeral honors to our noble sons who have fallen upon the battle- fields of our country, in defense of the Union, the division has been again called to the field, and upon its return has been engaged in the suppression of riots at home. On the 16th of June last, I received orders of that date from the Commander-in-Chief (a copy whereof is annexed), directing me to send as many regiments as possible to Harrisburg, to assist in repel- ling the invasion of Penilsylvania by the rebels. The destination of some of these regiments was changed, by re- quest of the War Department, to Baltimore. The following regiments of this division were sent forward by me, pursuant to these orders, viz: June 17.Seventh Regiment, 800 men, for Baltimore. June 18.Eighth Regiment, 350 men, for Harrisburg; Eleventh Regiment, 850 men, for Harrisburg; Seventy-first Regiment, 650 meii, for Harrisburg. June 19.Fifth Regiment, 900 men, for Harrisburg; Twelfth Regi- ment, 700 men, for Harrisburg; Twenty-second Regiment, 600 men, for Harrisburg; Thirty-seventh Regiment, 600 men, for Harrisburg. June 20.Fourth Regiment, 500 men, for Harrisburg. June 22.Sixth Regiment, 650 men, for Baltimore; Sixty-ninth Regiment, 700 men, for Baltimore. June 24.Fifty-fifth Regiment, 350 men, for Baltimore. July 3.Eighty-fourth Regiment, 400 men, for Baltimore. These regiments were divided into three brigades, and placed under the command of Brigadier-Generals Hall, Ewen, and Yates, whose reports of their operations during their absence I have the honor to inclose, and to which I respectfully refer. I have also the honor to inclose reports from the commandants of several of these regiments, which exhibit the details of their employ- ment and services during their absence. The readiness and alacrity with which these regiments departed to assist our sister State in the hour of danger, is evidenced by the fac Page 228 228 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [caAr. XXXIX. that most of our New York regiments arrived at Harrisburg before a single regiment reached there from Philadelphia, and were imme- diately sent forward to cover all the approaches to that city, and they effectually prevented the farther advance of the rebel army. During the absence of all these regiments of my division, on the 13th of July last, a riot of the most serious character occurred (in consequence of the commencement of the United States draft), which for three or four days was more disgraceful in its character and more serious in its consequence than any before known in our city, and which could not have lasted twelve hours if one-third of our regi- ments had been at home at its commencement. Upon the first alarm, upon the requisition of his honor the mayor, the whole of the division remaining in the city was ordered on duty, but the absence of over 8,000 men at the seat of war had left me with so small a force, that my means were entirely inadequate to the magnitude of the occasion. In this emergency, Major-General Wool, commanding the Depart- ment of the East, in a most liberal spirit, immediately proffered the aid of the United States detachments in the harbor, and directed them to report to me for duty. The following is a copy of his orders: SPECIAL ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York, July 13, 1863. All the troops called out for the protection of the city are placed under the com- mand of Major-General Sandford, whose orders they will implicitly obey. By command of Major-General Wool: C. T. CHRISTENSEN, Assistant Adjutant-Genera. With the remnant of the division, and the first of these re-enforce- ments from General Wool, detachments were sent to all parts of the city, and the rioters were everywhere beaten and dispersed. The north and west sides of the city were effectually cleared of rioters by detachments sent by me from the arsenal. In Broadway, Forty-second, Twenty-seventh, Twenty-eighth, Twenty-ninth, Thir- tieth, Thirty-first, and Thirty-second streets, Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth avenues, mobs were attacked, and in every instance de- feated or dispersed. No blank cartridges were issued to or used by any of the troops under my orders .Th e gas-works, in Eighteenth and Nineteenth streets, and also upon the East River, Webbs ship- yards, and the various manufactories threatened by the rioters, were fully protected, and numerous fires in buildings occupied by colored people and others obnoxious to the mob, were extinguished by the firemen after the rioters were dispersed. In these encounters, I regret to report that Major [Henry S.] Fearing, of my staff, was very seriously wounded while gallantly leading a charge upon the mob in Forty-second.str,eet, and 1 private soldier was killed, and 22 officers and men dangerously, and 53 slightly, wounded, at the storming of the barricades erected by the rioters in Twenty-ninth street, and in other conflicts which followed. The whole of the force remaining with me at the arsenal was kept on dnt~ day and night during the whole period, and twenty-six de- tachments, at different times, were sent out to disperse the rioters and protect private and public property. This division has always been so organized as to be ready upon any emergency to effectually suppress all riots or insurrections, and the citizens of New York know that they can safely repose under it Page 229 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE CTETTYSBLTRG CAMPAIGN. 229 protection. The absence of the thirteen regiments above mentioned, and of six regiments of the division which volunteered for the war, alone gave temporary success to the rioters. A.s soon as our regiments could be recalled, they returned to the city, and the rioters were then entirely dispersed; but most of the regiments were kept on duty during the residue of the month of July, and some of them until the middle of August. On the 17th of August last, I received requisitions from the mayor of the city and the police commissioners, in apprehension of a riot on the renewal of the draft, which was appointed to take place in this city on the 19th of August last, requesting me to call out the First Division to aid the civil authorities in preserving the peace and suppressing any tumult, riot, or insurrection during the draft. In pursuance of these requisitions, the whole division was called out, and stationed by regiments and detachments in various parts of~ the city, from the High Bridge to the Battery, and was kept on duty until the 5th of September, and a small detachment from each regi- ment until the 15th of September. In consequence of this precaution, the draft proceeded without any interruption or breach of the peace. A division parade took place on the 1st day of October last, by request of the common council of the city, for the purpose of uniting in the reception of Rear-Admiral Lesoffsky and his officers of the Russian fleet, upon their first visit to the harbor of New York. In consequence of the large amount of duty performed by the di- vision during the year, the usual division parade upon the 25th of November was omitted. The ordinary inspection parades of the several regiments and bri- gades took place as usual, of which returns have been heretofore transmitted to your office. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. W. SANDFORD, Major- General. Brig. Gen. JOHN T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant-General, State of New York. No. 409. Report of Brig. Gen. Charles Yates, commanding Second Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 18-July 18. HDQRS. 2D BRIG., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARDS, New York, September 30, 1863. GENERAL: Herewith I transmit the reports of the several com- mandants of regiments of this brigade, detailing the duties assigned to them while in the service of the United States in June and July last: On the 18th of June, I ordered Major Gardiner, of my staff, to re- pair immediately to Harrisburg, to attend to the several regiments on their arrival there. On the 20th of June, I arrived at Harrisburg with my staff, and reported immediately to Major-General Couch, pursuant to your orders. The Fifth, Twelfth, and Fourth Regiments arrived there at about the same time. The day following our arrival, the Fourth was placed on detached service at Camp Curtin and else- where, and was not under my command during any portion of the residue of the term of service Page 230 230 N. C.~ VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. The Sixth and Eighty-fourth Regiments were ordered to report at Baltimore, and the Seventy-first, assigned by yonr orders to my bri- gade, was, on its arrival at Harrisburg, also placed on detached serv- ice in another command. The reports of the commandants of the above-named regiments will show the fidelity with which they dis- charged the duties assigned to them. The staff organization of my brigade was as follows: Maj. Charles Trumbull White, assistant adjntant-general; Maj. Henry D. Gardi- ner, brigade quartermaster; Capt. Henry C. Landon, commissary; Capt. J. Hobart Herrick, ordnance officer; Capt. Reginald H. An- thou, aide. Captain Anthon, having been taken ill in consequence of severe exposure in the discharge of his duties, obtained leave of absence, and Capt. Benjamin S. Church, of the Twelfth Regiment, was assigned to his post during the residue of our term of service. On the 21st of June, I was directed to proceed with the Fifth and Twelfth Regiments, numbering together about 1,000 men, early the next day, to Marysville and Fenwick, at the junction of the Dauphin and Susquelianna Valleys, about 6 miles above Harrisburg, to guard two railroad bridges crossing the Susquelianna at that point. The Dauphin Valley runs parallel with the Cumberland Valley, being con- iiected with it by several mountain gaps, the farthest of which is Sterretts Gap, through which the road to Carlisle passes. The enemy being then advancing toward Harrisburg, it was sup- posed he might make a diversion to the left, pass down the Dauphin Valley, and cross the Susquehanna. Our position, therefore, assumed a very important character, and required very great diligence in checking a movement of that kind. On arriving at the Dauphin Valley, the only force we found there consisted of about 50 or 60 men of the Invalid Corps, stationed at block-houses near the bridges. We immediately commenced constructino~ such earthworks in front and flank as were deemed necessary, ann. selected a position to make a determined stand, the left flank of our contemplated line being pro- tected by an obstruction of felled woods, and the narrow pass along the Susquehanna being guarded by such force as could be spared for that purpose. Various detachments from time to time were sent with ax-men, to obstruct and guard the mountain gaps. During their service there they were exposed to almost incessant rains, having only their shelter tents to protect them from the inclemency of the weather. These detachments performed the duty assigned to them with alacrity and fidelity. During a portion of the term of service in the Dauphin Valley, we were very materially aided by the Thirteenth and Twenty- eighth New York National Guard, under the command of Brig. Gen. Philip S. Crooke, and three companies of the Twenty-eighth Penn- sylvania Militia, under the command of Major Jessup. General Crooke and Major Jessup, with their officers and men, diligently co- operated with me in the performance of the several duties assigned to them. On the 7th of July, we proceeded by rail, with the Fifth and Twelfth Regiments, to Carlisle; thence on the 8th and 9th, by march, byway of the turnpike, to Shippensburg. At this place, the Twen- tieth,Thirty-fifth, and Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Militia were attached to my brigade, then denominated the First Brigade of the Second Division of the Department of the Susquehanna, under the command of Major-General Dana, to whom I reported for duty. Under his orders, the brigade was marched to a point 1 mile beyond Chambers Page 231 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 2~1 burg, where it was further re-enforced by the Twenty-sixth Regi- ment Pennsylvania Militia and a battery of United States artillery. It then comprised the Fifth and Twelfth New York National Guard and the Twentieth, Twenty-sixth, Thirty-fifth, and Forty-fifth Penn- sylvania Militia, and Battery , [Fifth] U. S. Artillery, and num- bered nearly 4,300 officers, non-commissioned officers, and men. From Chambersburg our brigade and the other brigades of the Second Division were marched to Greencastle. The whole division comprised about 12,000 men. On the arrival of the division at Green- castle, we learned that General Lee had crossed the Potomac, with the whole rebel army. In consequence of this, and the near expiration of our term of service, I received orders to proceed the next day with the Fifth and Twelfth Regiments by march to Shippensburg, and thence by rail to New York, and report to Major-General Wool, com- manding the Department of the East. We arrived at New York on the evening and night of the 18th, and reported accordingly. The regiments did duty at New York until they were mustered out of service. The members of the brigade staff were unremitting in the discharge of the duties of their several departments, and performed them with very great regularity. To them as well as to Colon~l Burger, coin- manding the Fifth, and Colonel Ward, commanding the Twelfth, and their officers and men, and to the officers and men of the several commands attached to my brigade, my acknowledgments are due for the faithful discharge of the several duties assigned to them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. YATES, Brig. Gen., Comdg. 2d Brig., New York State National Guard. Maj. Gen. CHARLES W. SANDFORD, Commanding First Division, New York State Militia. No. 410. Feport of Brig. Cien. William Hall, commanding Third Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 15-July 18. , 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report to you the condition of the Third Brigade of the First Division, composed of the Seventh, Eighth, Thirty-seventh, and Fifty-fifth Regiments New York State National Guard. At the annual inspection held on the 9th, 12th, 14th, and 16th days of October last, 1,929 were reported as preseit, and 621 as absent, making a total of 2,550, which is a large increase in numbers over the last year. The particulars of said inspection are contained in the brigade majors report made heretofore to the adjutant-general, to which Your Excellency is respectfully referred. It may not be deemed inappropriate for me to refer somewhat par- ticularly to the services performed by this brigade in the months of June and July last, at a period when a loyal State was invaded by an armed foe, threatening to despoil its citizens, to destroy its towns and cities, and set at defiance the authorities of both the local and general governments. On the 15th day of June last, I received from you a telegraphic dispatch, as the commander-in-chief of the militia force of the State of New York, to proceed with my brigade, as speedily as possible Page 232 ~32 N. C., VA., W. VA., Ml)., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. to the defense of the city of Harrisburg, the capital of the State of Pennsylvania. By direction and orders of Major-General Sandford, the Seventy-first Regiment of the First Brigade was attached to my command, to participate in the expedition. These five regiments promptly responded to Your Excellencys orders. The Seventh, Eighth, Thirty-seventh, and Seventy-first Regi- ments left the city of New York on the 16th, 17th, and 18th days of June; the Fifty-fifth Regiment left on the 24th. I reached the place of destination on the morning of the 20th of June, and reported to General Couch, who had command of all the military concentrated at that point, acting under orders from the au- thorities at Washington. On the arrival of the Seventh and Fifty-fifth Regiments at the city of Philadelphia, they were met by orders from general headquarters, detaching them from my command. They were, by those orders, attached to the Third Army Corps of the Army of the Potomac. On my arrival at Harrisburg, I found that the Eighth and Seventy- first Regiments had been placed under the command of General Knipe, of the U. S. Volunteer service, and had been ordered to the front. I was placed immediately in command of all the regiments detailed to the fortifications at Bridgeport, on the opposite side of the Sus- quehanna River, or rather on the river opposite the city of Harris- burg. In this force was included the Eleventh, Twenty-second, and Thirty-seventh Regiments, one company of the Eighth Regiment, and two companies of the Fourth. Regiment of Artillery, all from the city of New York; also five regiments from the city of Brooklyn. The Eleventh and Twenty-second Regiments were commanded by Brigadier-General Ewen; those from Brooklyn were under the com- mand of Brigadier-Generals Crooke and Smith. My first order was to send out pickets to a distance of 5 miles, making a crescent form of 15 miles, to avoid a surprise by the enemy in our rear; this duty was assigned to the Thirty-seventh Regiment. On the 25th, I received an order to send two regiments to Marys- ville, about 8 miles up the river, to report to General Yates. I sent the Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth, of the Fifth Brigade. On the 26th, Brigadier-General Crooke, of that brigade, reported for duty. I directed him to report to General Yates, at Marysville, where his command had been sent. On the 28th, General Crooke returned with his brigade, and was quartered in the fort. On the 27th, the Thirty-seventh Regiment was directed to proceed to the front, under the command of Brig. Gen. W. F. ~Smith, of the U. S. Volunteers, with the Eleventh and Twenty- second Regiments, under the command of Brigadier-General Ewen. Brig. Gen. J. C. Smith, of Brooklyn, arrived with the Twenty-third, Fifty-second, and Fifty-sixth Regiments, reported, and was sent to the front, under the command of Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith. During our encampment, the Thirty-seventh, Thirteenth, Twenty- eighth, and several other regiments worked on the defenses in the two forts on the heights, one of which was called Fort Washington, the other named Fort Couch. On the 3d day of July, I received a verbal order from General Couch to proceed forthwith to the front with the Fifth Brigade. Accordingly, I directed Brigadier-General Crooke to order his brigade to be in readiness to leave immediately. We broke camp about 2 oclock in the morning, and took the cars for Carlisle, where we arrived at 7 a. m. While preparing to leave for Chambersburg, Page 233 CHAP. XXXIX.] 233 TILE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. received a telegram from General Couch to return and resume my former command. I left the brigade at Carlisle, under the command of Brigadier-General Crooke, who proceeded with it to Chambers- burg. On my return, I found in the forts five companies of New Jersey troops (a very fine body of men), two companies of the Fourth Regi- ment of Artillery, New York State National Guard, one company of the Eighth Regiment, under the command of Captain [Robert] Brown, New York Stat~ National Guard, and one company from Philadelphia. On the 11th day of July, the Sixty-fifth Regiment, of Buffalo, reached the forts en route for home. It was detained some days on account of the difficulty then existing to procure transportation. On the 14th, the startling intelligence reached me that the city of New York was in a state of insubordination. Knowing the small military force left to defend that city from internal foes, and believilig it im- portant that relief should be sent there at the eaf4iest possible mo- ment, I sought and obtained permission of General Couch to send this regiment there. It accordingly left my headquarters at daylight on the morning of the 15th, and arrived in the city of New York at about 4 oclock in the afternoon of the same day. The alarm pro- duced by continued unfavorable reports in reference to the insecurity of the lives and property of the citizens of the city of New York, induced General Couch to issue a general order directing the speedy return of all the New York and New Jersey regiments. This order was executed on the 18th, and the New York regiments reached the city the same evening. I cannot forbear expressing my obligations to Capt. B. Frishmuth, commandiixg an independent company in the city of Philadelphia, for permission to bring with my command from that city a battery of four guns of artillery, the private property of his company, be- lieving they might be of service in restoring municipal order in the metropolis. During my operations in Pennsylvania, I was greatly assisted by Colonel Pierson and Colonel Cone, both of the city of New York, who volunteered as members of my staff. Their experience and skill in military affairs deserve acknowledgments. I herewith have the honor to inclose the reports of the colonels of the Seventh, Eighth, Thirty-seventh, and Fifty-fifth Regiments, of their services during the expedition. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. HALL Gomdg. Third Brigade, New York State National Guard. His Excellency HORATIO SEYMOUR, Got. of the State of New York, and Commander-in-Chief. No. 411. Report of Brig. Gen. John Ewen, commanding Fourth Brigade, New York State National Guard, of operattons June 18-July 18. HDQRS. 4TH BRIG., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, New York, December 25, 1863. GENERAL: In accordance with your request, I have the honor to submit the following report of the short compaign of my comman Page 234 234 N.C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. in Pennsylvania and Maryland, in the service of the General Gov- ernment, in June and July last: The Eleventh and Twenty-second Regiments left this city for Har- risburg, via Philadelphia, on the 18th of June. I followed with niy staff on the evening of the 19th, by the express train, arriving at Harrisburg on the morning of the 20th, at which time the said regi- nients also arrived. The Sixty-ninth was to follow in the course of a couple of days, but, pursuant to subsequent orders from the Secre- tary of War and the adjutant-general of fhis State, this regiment was sent to Baltimore. Having reported to Major-General Couch, I selected, pursuant to his authority, camping ground for my command on the south side of the Susquehanna, opposite Harrisburg, on the York road, about three- fourths of a mile southeast of Bridgeport and Fort Washington, and issued orders to Colonels Maidhof and Aspinwall to move their regi- ments across the river preparatory to occupying the positions to be assigned them. June 20, employed a negro force which had been engaged on the earthworks of Fort Washington in excavating rifle-pits and in- trenchments in the vicinity of the camp, and caused my command to be supplied with 40 rounds of ball cartridge. June 22, was stunned by a shock received in consequence of a fall of my horse while in the camp of the Eleventh Regiment, and con- veyed to Harrisburg; was, by the advice of surgeons, restrained from attending to any business until the morning of the 24th. My command was this day mustered into the service of the United States. On the 25th, General Hall, who, as senior officer, had been placed in commahd of the division, returned to Harrisburg, sick. I imme- diately assumed the command, putting Colonel Maidhof in com- mand of my brigade. On the 26th, received orders that Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith, U. S. Volunteers, had been appointed to the command of the First Divis- ion of the Army of the Susquehanna. Had an interview with him at Harrisburg the same day, and was desired to continue in com- mand of the division until further orders. Continued the work at the rifle-pits and the earthworks of Fort Washington, the latter pro- ceeding under the supervision of Major Brady, U. S. Engineers, by a negro force, and by regiments quartered in the fort. On the 27th, ordered the Thirty-seventh National Guard, Colonel Roome, to move camp and join the two regiments of the Fourth Brigade, reporting to Colonel Maidhof. June 28, General W. F. Smith removed his headquarters to Bridge- port, near Fort Washington, and assumed the command of the divis- ion, I returning to the command of my brigade, directing Colonel Maidhof to report with his regiment to the commander of the divis- ion, for special duty. An attack from the enemy being momentarily anticipated, broke up camp pursuant to orders, moving the Twenty-second and Thirty- seventh Regiments behind the rifle-pits. Received into my command the Eleventh Artillery, New York Volunteers, Colonel Barnes, doing duty as infantry. Employed a detachment of this regiment in fell- ing the woods in front, and detachments of the Twenty-second and Thirty-seventh Regiments in completing the works of the rifle-pits, and men on picket duty. It was designed by the commanding general that my command should check the advance of the enemy by the York road, and, i Page 235 CHAP. XXXIX.] TIfl~ GETTYSBU1W~ CAMPAIGN. 235 liard pressed, retire to the fort, where a more effectual stand could be made. Desiring to avoid such a contingency, I solicited and ob- tained from him, June 29, a section of light battery, posting it on the turnpike, supported on each side by the Eleventh and Thirty- seventh Regiments in the trenches. The Twenty-second Regiment being held in re~erve, continued the detachments in clearing away the woods in front and completing the rifle-pits, those of the Thirty- seventh being engaged at the latter during the whole of the night of the 29th. On the morning of the 30th, pursuant to orders requiring the Twentysecond and Thirtyseventh Regiments to be in readiness, without rations, for a few hours service, marched these regiments to division headquarters, it being designed to cut off a body of cavalry, acting also as mounted infantry, with artillery, supposed to be posted a few miles from camp. After some delay, I was directed to proceed with these regiments on the turnpike, General W. F. Smith and staff accompanying. Having marched about 3 miles, and finding no trace of the enemy, the general took leave, directing me to return with.my command to camp. After proceeding about a mile on my return, I was overtaken by a small company of dragoons, the commandant of which informed me that he had been driven by the enemy, about 3 miles distant. I immediately countermarched, and went in pursuit, employing the dragoons as an advance guard; dispatching an aide to headquarters with intelligence of my information and movement. After proceeding a few miles to a place called Sportsmans [Sport- ing] Hill, had a skirmish with the enemy, who, concealed in a wood on the right of the road, about a quarter of a mile distant, fired a volley of musketry at my command at the moment of halting it. I immediately changed from forward, returning the fire with the Thirty-seventh Regiment, in the direction from which the shots had proceeded, and advanced that regiment about 30 yards into a wheat- field, which concealed it from the observation of the enemy, holding the Twenty-second in reserve. The enemy then ceased firing with small-arms, and commenced throwing shell from the woods, which passed over us. At this time a section of a battery, called Landis a tery, belonging to a company of gentlemen from Philadelphia, caine up, under command of Lieut. Rufus King, of the army, serv- ing on General W. F. Smiths staff. I immediately posted one piece in the road, and the other in rear of a dwelling to the right of the road, the side from which the enemys fire came. After a few rounds, the enemy ceased firing and fled. It being a cavalry force, we were unable to pursue. During this skirmish there were several discharges of artillery on our left, demonstrating the existence of a body of the enemy in that direction, not very far distant, and, expecting an immediate attack from that quarter, I changed front to rear with the Twenty-second Regiment, to be in readiness to meet and repel it. On the retreat of the force with which we had been contending, the firing from the other force ceased. The discharges of artillery on our left had evidently been designed as an intimidation to us, or a signal to the other force of the enemy to retire. The casualties in my command were a few officers and men of the Thirty-seventh slightly wounded. After remaining one hour on the field, and hearing no sound from the enemy, I proceeded to return to camp. On arriving at the inter Page 236 23f~ N~ C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. section of the two roads leading from Carlisle, called Oyster Point, about 3 miles from Fort Washington, I received orders from head- quarters directing me to follow up the enemy. It .was then dark. My command had had no food since breakfast, and was destitute of rations and blankets. A considerable portion had also been working in the trenches during the preceding night. I found it, therefore, impracticable to proceed until rations should be procured, for which requisition was immediately made; but, owing to the delay in pro- curing and preparing the same, it was daylight before a meal could be obtained; immediately after which I marched for Carlisle, both regiments manifesting dissatisfaction in consequence of being with- out knapsacks and haversacks, and the privations and fatigue which they had already undergone. The column advanced, with the Thirty-seventh Regiment on the right, preceded by a company of the Twenty-second Regiment, com- manded by Capt. Asa Bird Gardiner, as an advance guard, and by skirmishers also from that regiment. After proceeding about a mile beyond Sportsmans [Sporting] Hill, I learned from a farmer residing in the vicinity that the force on our left the preceding evening consisted of a body of about 3,500 cav- alry, with field pieces, and had occupied the road leading from Carlisle to Oyster Point, called the Mud road, and that it had retired; and on advancing about 2 miles farther, I learned from citizens returning in wagons from Carlisle, on their way to Harrisburg, that the force we had encountered the night before had passed rapidly through Carlisle about daylight, carrying with them a number of killed and wounded in ambulances. This information being soon after confirmed, the skirmishers were called in, enabling the column to proceed more rapidly. It arrived at Carlisle about 3 oclock in the afternoon, the march having been about 13 miles. The troops were refreshed at the small villages along the march by the inhabitants, who were kindly at their doors with offerings of food. About 6 p. m. there was a report that the enemy was returning to Carlisle. An aide was dispatched to hurry up re-enforcements which might be on the road, while I proceeded with my command about a mile south of the town, and occupied a position on the main road, on the brow of a hill overlooking a broad valley. Soon after, reports of artillery were heard in our rear, and the flash and smoke of the guns were visible along the hills north of Carlisle. Just then I received intelligence of the arrival, at Carlisle, of General W. F. Smith, and two regiments of Pennsylvania militia, under Colonel Brisbane, accompanied by directions for my immediate re- turn. On returning to Carlisle, the regiments were subdivided into de- tachments, to guard the several approaches to the town. The Penn- sylvania regiments were posted on the northerly portion, the Thirty- seventh Regiment, with one field piece, guarded the central portion, under the immediate command of General Smith, and the Twenty- second Regiment, with tho remaining field piece, the southerly por- tion of the town, under my immediate command, skirmishers being also thrown out. Before th~se dispositions were perfected, which was not until after dark, the enemy commenced shelling from his position opposite the east side of the town, doing, however, little damage, the shells mostl Page 237 237 CHAP. XXXIX.J THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. passing over. A few slight casualties occurred in the Thirty-seventh Regiment. Orders had been given by General Smith not to fire a gun unless it came to close quarters, which, in my judgment, was eminently judicious under the circumstances. We had but two light field pieces, and the enemy seven, and a much superior force. A flag of truce was sent in, demanding a surrender; our corn- mander, in reply, desiring the enemy to come in and take us, he was no doubt deterred from making the attempt, under an appre- hension that we were much stronger than we were. The shelling continued during the greater part of the night. The principal ar- senal buildings, situate about half a mile east from the town, were fired with torches and burned down, and, about an hour before day- light, the enemy retired. The force opposed to us was said to embody about 3,500 cavalry, with several pieces of artillery, under Fitzhugh Lee. I have but little doubt it was the same that saluted on my left the preceding evening, and had remained in my rear when I entered Carlisle, sev- eral stragglers of the Thirty-seventh Regiment having been made prisoners that afternoon and paroled; also Mr. Dougherty, of General Smiths staff, while on his way to Carlisle. He was subsequently paroled, and fell in with the division at Papertown, while on the march southward. We remained at Carlisle during the 2d and 3d of July, the Eleventh Regiment National Guard rejoining my command at the latter date, having arrived with the remaining corps of the division, consisting of three regiments New York State National Guard, of New York City, under command of Brigadier-General Knipe, three regiments, composing the Eleventh Brigade, New York State National Guard, of Brooklyn, commanded by Brig. Gen. Jesse C. Smith, and a sec- tion of Landis battery, the whole under the command of General Knipe. This column~ it appears by the annexed communication from Gen- eral Jesse C. Smith, left Fort Washington for Carlisle on the after- noon of the day my command marched from Oyster Point, July 1, arriving on the 3d. They heard heavy firing in the direction of of Carlisle before halting, and saw the light from the burning barracks at that place. The column halted about 9 oclock at night, General Knipe going forward to see if he could get communication with General W. F. Smith, then at Carlisle, about 13 miles distant, and did not return until after 2 oclock in the morning. At 3 oclock General Couch, pursuant to whose directions my command of two small regiments, comprising about 900 men and two field pieces, had been ordered to follow up the enemy the preceding night, without rations or blankets, and while deemed to be engaged with the enemy, sent peremptory orders for this command to return to Fort Wash- ington. It is but just, however, to General Couch to say that at the time of giving such orders it was too late for this force to render any assistance to the troops at Carlisle. Had it, however, gone forward promptly, and quietly entered the town during the bombardment, as it might unquestionably have done several hours before the retire- ment of the enemy, it could, as a separate disposable force, have been instrumental in surprising and effectively destroying or capturing the enemy, who could have been surprised and attacked on his left flank or rear from the south side of the town at any time before his retirement. Bein~ a cavalry force, heinm I in by a road, ~ singl Page 238 238 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. available regiment might have approached it very closely under cover of the darkness, and poured in upon it a very destructive fire. From the south side of the town, the sound of the wheels of the enemys artillery were distinctly heard on his retirement. July 4, my command, consisting of the Eleventh, Twenty-second, and Thirty-seventh Regiments National Guard, marched with the division from Carlisle, forming the rear guard. At Papertown, directed Colonel Roome to report with his regiment to General W. F. Smith for special duty in guarding roads in that vicinity. Reached Laurel Forge, in the mountains of Pennsylvania, on the evening of the 5th of July. July 6, about daylight, received an accession to my command by the arrival of the Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth Regiments, of the Fifth Brigade, New York State National Guard, of Brooklyn, under command of Brig. Gen. Philip S. Crooke, and on the evening of this day the Thirty-seventh Regiment rejoined my command. I proceeded with the two brigades, as the rear of the division, to New- mans Gap, Funkstown, and Waynesborough, in Pennsylvania. At the latter place, united with a brigade of the Army of the Potomac, in command of Brigadier-General Neill. July 11, the division resumed march, passing through Peters- burg, Cavetown, and Boonsborough, in Maryland, reaching the latter place the evening of the 14th. We had, before leaving Carlisle, heard of the movements of General Meade to cut off Lees army, and it was the expectation of the commander of our division to arrive in time to take part in the contemplated action; but, on arriving at Newmans Gap, we learned that the battle of Gettysburg had been fought two days previously. My command, during the march from Carlisle, suffered many pri- vations and hardships from lack of food and clothing and exposure to frequent rains, without tents or change of raiment, the men on several occasions having to ford streams to the waist, the baggage, as well as tents, having been left in camp near Fort Washington. I had no clothing myself, excepting a thin suit in which I left camp, expecting to return after a few hours absence. My baggage, as well as that of two of the regiments, had been sent for from Carlisle be- fore leaving that place, communication with Harrisburg by railroad having been re-established the preceding day; but they were stopped by a general officer, who said orders had been given that no baggage should go forward. July 15, news was received of the outbreak in the city of New York, growing out of the intended draft; and as the presence of the New York troops at home was urgent, and their term of duty had expired, their further services were dispensed with by the following complimentary orders from Generals Meade and Smith: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 190. July 15, 186~. The troops comprising the comniand of Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith are relieved from further service with the Army of the Potomac, and will be reported to Major~ General Couch for instructions. The major-general commanding thanks Brigadier-General Smith and his troops for their zeal and promptitude, which, amid no little privation, have marked their efforts to render this army all the assistance in their power, and especially commends the good conduct of the officers and men that participated in General Kilpatricks engagement with the enemy on the 13th instant. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, A.ss 8krnt Adjutant- Page 239 CHAP. XXXIXJ TILE GETTYSBUI~G CAMPAIGN. 239 SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIRST DIvISIoN, DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. . July 1~, 1863. Brig. Gen. John Ewen will take command of all the New York troops in this division, and proceed with them to Frederick, Md., at which point transportation xviii be furnished them to New York City. In parting with them, the general commanding Inust express his admiration of the courage and fortitude with which they have stood the trials and privations of their late marches. By order of BriH. Gen. W. F. Smith: PRESTON C. F. WEST, Assistant Adjutant-General. The Corps embraced in the foregoing division orders of General W. F. Smith are as follows: Thirteenth Regiment, Col. John B. Woodward; Twenty-eighth Regiment, Col. Michael Bennett, of the Fifth Brigade, New York State National Guard, of Brooklyn, commanded by Brig. Gen. P. S. Crooke. Twenty-third Reginient, Col. William Everdell, jr.; Fifty-sixth Regiment, Col. J. Q. Adams; Fifty-second Regiment, Col. M. W. Cole, composing the [Eleventhi Brigade, New York State National Guard, of Brooklyn, commanded by Brig. Gen. Jesse C. Smith. Eighth Regime~ t, Colonel Yarian; Thirty-seventh Regiment, Col. Charles Roome, of the Third Brigade, New York State National Guard. Seventy-first Regiment [Col. Benjamin L. Trafford], of the First Brigade, New York State National Guard. Eleventh Regiment, Col. J. Maidhof; Twenty-second Regiment, Col. Lloyd Aspinwall, of the Fourth Brigade, New York State Na- tional Guard, and a regiment from the western part of the State, whose designation I cannot now call to mind. II immediately proceeded with these troops to Frederick, to take the cars to New York, passing through Middietown and Frederick to the vicinity of the railway station, arriving after dark, having marched 25 miles, halting one hour on the way for food and rest. Telegraphed arrival of this force to the Commander-in-Chief at the earliest opportunity, and was desired by him to come immediately to the city. Having learned from the railway superintendent that a telegram had been received from Major-General Couch not to transport us nutil fnrther orders, next morning received a telegram from General Couch that he had orders to detain us for the present. Telegraphed him of the urgency of our presence in New York, and was in reply desired to report to Major-General Halleck, and obey his orders. Telegraphed General Halleck of the necessity of our inime- diate departure, and, on the 17th, received his authority to return to New York. We left by the cars in the afternoon, passing through Baltimore and Philadelphia, and arriving in New York on the morning of the 18th, where I reported to the Commander-in-Chief at the Saint Nicholas Hotel. The gentlemen composing my staff during this brief campaign were as follows: Lient. Col. J. Henderson Grant, Twenty-second Regimemit, acting assistant adjutant-general; Drs. H. W. B. Woodhull and D. B. Par- dee, surgeons; Capts. Henry S. Van Buren and Charles In. Kingsley~ aides-de-camp; Captain [William E. ~ Jackson, quartermaster; Cap Page 240 240 N. (IX, VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CRAP. XXXIX. tam [William H.] Farrar, Thirty-seventh Regiment, commissary; Lient. Walter Edwards, Twenty-secoi4l Regiment, ordnance officer. I am, general, respectfnlly, your obedient servant, JOHN EWEN, Brig. Gen., Comdg. 4th Brig., New York State National Guard. Maj. Gen. CHARLES W. SANDFORD, Commanding First Division, New York State Militia. No. 412. Report of Brig. Gen. Philip S. Crooke, commanding Fifth Bri- gade, Second Division, New York State National Guard, of operations June 15July 19. HDQRS. 5TH BRIG., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, Brooklyn, December 1, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the condition and service of the Fifth Brigade for the p resent year. The inspection returns show the nnmbers. The Fourteenth Regiment is, and has been since May, 1861, in the United States service, in the Army of the Potomac; has distingnished itself for conrage and endurance in many a hard-fought battle-field and many a wearisome march; its reputation is part of the history of the country, and all the battles of the Army of the Potomac record its bravery and good service. The regiment is now under Col. E. B. Fowler, who has been in command since 1861, and has proved himself worthy. The aggregate morning report of the 29th October, 1863, shows a total of 514 in the Brooklyn Fourteenth. A battalion of artillery has just been organized, under the com- mand of that experienced officer, Maj. Horace A. Sprague. The bat- talion is composed of good officers and men, and numbers about 200. It will prove a valuable corps. The force of the brigade available for service in this State in the month of June, 1863, consisted of the Thirteenth Regiment, Col. John B. Woodward, Twenty-eighth Regiment, Col. Michael Bennett, and the Seventieth Regiment, Col. William J. Cropsey; the first two doing duty as infantry, the Seventieth as cavalry and artillery. On the 15th June, 1863, at 10 p. in., orders were received by me from headquarters to assemble the .Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth Regiments for short service in Pennsylvania. At 9 a. m. next morning they were ready, and assembled at their armories. On the 20th, they left for Harrisburg. On the 22d, I received orders to join them and take command. I left here on the 24th; arrived at Harrisburg on the 25th; reported to Governor Curtin and Gen- eral D. N. Couch, U. S. Army, having command of all the forces. I was directed by General Couch to report to Brig. Gen. William Hall, at Fort Washington, opposite Harrisburg. On reporting to General Hall, I was informed that the Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth Regiments were at Marysville, about 10 miles north of Harrisburg, on the west bank of the Susquehanna River, and was ordered to report there to General Yates, in command of th~ post Page 241 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 241 At this time, the rebel forces were in Pennsylvania, and advancing up the Cumberland Valley to~yard Harrisburg, by way of Carlisle. The roads were filled with people, flocks, and herds, flying from the advance of the enemy, and the people of Harrisburg did not seem prepared or inclined to act on the defensive. The force then available for defense arid offense seemed only to be New York militia. On the 26th June, I reported to General Yates at Marysville, and took command of the Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth Regiments. My staff consisted of Maj. William H. Leaycraft, assistant adjutant- general; Capt. John L. Bergen, aide; Capt. James Mooney, brigade quartermaster; Dr. Thomas McAllister, brigade surgeon. Major Leaycraft, who was appointed by me on this duty, had seen service in the Army of the Potomac, in the Eighty-seventh Regi- ment of Volunteers, and to his knowledge, experience, and soldierly qualities myself and command are much indebted, while his genial and kindly nature endeared him to all who associated with him. Captain Bergen, Captain Mooney, and Dr. Thomas McAllister proved themselves to be all that could have been desired. I beg leave to state that for zeal, capability of endurance, and all other qualifications, mental and physical, they were equal to the service required of them, and they have my thanks for myself and the brigade. The post at Marysville was in a valley on the west bank of the Susquehanna, called Fishing Creek Valley, commanding two rail- road bridges and fords. The river here was about 1 mile wide. The placean important onewas surrounded on two sides by ranges of mountains, terminating at a gap near Carlisle. The garrison was three regiments of the Second Brigade, New York State National Guard, under General Yates, and the Thir- teenth and Twenty-eighth. The services of those regiments will be found in their regimental reports, annexed. The duties at Marysville were cohstant, laborious, and fatiguing. The rebel forces were at Carlisle, and on the south side of the mountain around us; we could hear the sound of cannon, and heard reports of skirmishing around Carlisle, and expected an attack. July 1, at 11 p. in., received orders to break camp and proceed by railroad to Harrisburg; obeyed orders; arrived at Harrisburg July 2, at sunrise; marched to Fort Washington, opposite; the former garrison marched out. In command of the fort, garrisoned by the Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth Regiments, one regiment of Pennsyl- vania militia, and several corps of New York artillery. The rebels had advanced within sight of Fort Washington, and constant skir- mishing had ensued between the advanced posts of both forces. We remained thus until July 3, lO oclock, when orders arrived to take the railroad to Carlisle that night, leaving everything except blank- ets, haversacks, and arms. Colonel Bennett, of the Twenty-eighth, and Major Leaycraft, had been ordere~ to inspect pickets that even- ing, which was dark and rainy. At 11 oclock Colonel Bennett was brought into the fort with his ankle badly broken; his horse had stumbled in the dark and fallen on him. With much sadness he was sent home. He is a good officer, a brave and kind-hearted man, and his absence left a great void in the brigade. The command was as- sumed by Lieutenant-Colonel [David A.] Bokee, who acquitted him- self well. Major [Adam] Schepper had previously beem~ taken very I~ RYOL XXVII, PT I Page 242 242 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ciw~ XXXIX. sick, and sent home; thus Lieutenant-Colonel Bokee was suddenly left the only field officer in the regiment. The Thirteenth also had but one field officer, Col. John B. Woodward. Both regiments were fortunate in their adjutantsthe Thirteenth, Lieutenant [William A.] McKee, the Twenty-eighth, Lieutenant Dean; and I am pleased to report now that Lieutenant McKee has been elected lieutenant- colonel of the Thirteenth, and Lieutenant-Colonel [David I.] Dean brigade inspector of the Fifth Brigade, both well-earned promotions. The quartermasters[Joseph B.] Leggett, of the Thirteenth, and h Samuel] Denel, of the Twenty-eighthhad each a most arduous and ifficult duty to perform, and did so zealously and ably, as far as was possible. Lieutenant Leggett has since been elected major of the Thirteenth. July 4, after midnight, the brigade left by railroad for Carlisle, 21 miles. The quartermaster and brigade surgeon were left to attend to their departments. As the snn arose, we arrived at Carlisle, and saw the ruins of the barracks and the railroad bridge outside, de- stroyed by the rebels. We were, under command of Brig. Gei~. William Hall, Third Brigade, New York State National Guard, marched into the main street of Carlisle, and rested in column; saw marks of shell on the buildings. General Hall here received a dis- patch from Harrisburg, ordering him to return to Fort Washington. He informed me I was left in command. I asked for orders; he had none to give. I telegraphed to General Couch, at Harrisburg, that II was there without orders, supplies, or horses. At 10 a. m. I re- ceived the answer by telegraph: HARRISBURG, July 4, 1863. An order was given to take rations last night. Do troops want me to tell them to breathe? Always have rations in your haversacks. You want no buggy; you are going in the mountains for a few days. Beef-cattle go forward. Now is the time to aid your country. Let trifles go; march. D. N. COUCH, Major-General. On the receipt of this paperas the only definite information seemed that we were bound for the mountains pI started on the turnpike leading to the mountains south of Carlisle, all the officers, as well as men, on foot, without anything except they carried it; not a wagon or pack-horse, or any knowledge of route or supplies, present or future. The result proved the dispatch in one respect; we wanted no buggy the roads in places were impassable for one. The dispatch was in fault as to the beef-cattle; they did not go forward~ fast enough to overtake us. We were left to our own resources in a country which had been overrun and exhausted by the rebel forces. About 2 miles south of Carlisle, we were overtaken by a heavy rain- storm, and we rested for three hours in a large barn and farm-house. Here we met a few stragglers from the battle of Gettysburgparoled Union soldiers and rebel desertersand from them heard of the great battle which was going on when they left. We then knew our route, and started anxiously. We met 3 of the Brooklyn Four- teenth, who had been taken prisoners and paroled in the battle. Their unexpected rencounter with their Brooklyn friends in the middle of Pennsylvania was startling and strange. We left them cheered and cheering. A little before sundown we arrived at Paperville, a village at the gorge of the mountains, with a stream of witer which had over Page 243 CHAP. XXXIX.] TIlE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 243 flowed our road. Here we had to ford about half a mile, in places waist-deep; the drummer boys aud drums were carried. We halted at Holly Springs after dark; the brigade bivouacked. Next day a muddy, hard, hungry march to Laurel Furnace July ~5.Came up with General John Ewens brigade (Fourth New York State National Guard), who took command. Here the horses of myself and staff reached us. We were marched up a mountain road to a pass looking down upon Gettysburg, about 12 miles off. Bivouacked there; obtained some bread from the inhabit- ants, who were very kind and considerate. July 6.Some wagons met us with supplies; obtained one days rations; marched on toward the south; bivouacked in the woods next morning. July 7.Arrived at Newmans Gap, on the turnpike from Gettys- burg to Chambersburg; met General W. F. Smith, U. S. Army, com- manding Army of the Susquehanna; saw traces of the battle of Get- tysburg in broken caissons, & c.; marched forward on the track of Lees arm.y; turned off the turnpike to the south; bivouacked at Funkstown; terrible rain-storm all night and until 10 a. m. July 8.But little to eat; marched on to Waynesborough, near the Maryland line, a considerable village, where we found the Sixth Army Corps of the Potomac bivouacked on the hills south of the village. July 9, 10, 11.Pleasant weather, and rations just before sun- down; orders to march; marched; forded Antietam Creek, the tim- bers of the bridge, burned by the rebels, yet smoking; 11 p~ in., bivouacked at Leitersburg, in a clover-field. July 12.Marched to Cavetown; tremendous storm of rain, thuii~- der and lightning; bivouacked there. July 13.Marched through Smoketown and Mount Pleasant to Boonsborougb, Md. There we met several members of the Fifth Brigade, now in the United States service; Colonel Brewster, J thc Excelsior Brigade, Capt. E. D. Taft, commanding battery, both of whom distingnished themselves at Gettysburg. Here we were in- rormed that Lees army had escaped over the Potomac, and we were 9rdered home; marched to Frederick, Md. The march was very ratiguing, and Christian Hemming, a private of the Twenty-eighth, died from exhaustion. July 15.Arrived at Frederick, and bivouacked south of the city remained there until July 17; passed by railroad to Baltimore. July 18.Arrived at Philadelphia. Jul~j 19.Arrived at New York. We were met on the wharf wik orders from the Commander-in-Chief to report for duty in Brooklyn, and remained on duty until September 6, in the protection of the peace and property of Kings County, in all of which the whole of my command acquitted themselves as good soldiers and citizens, and did good service. The Seventieth Regiment, remaining at home, were on duty guard- ing the State arsenal, at Brooklyn, and assisting in preserving the peace during July, until September 6, faithfully and zealously, and also are entitled to the same credit. Their colonel, William- J. Crop- sey, is an energetic and reliable officer, and the officers and men are of a most respectable class of citizens. It is a valuable corps for home service. The Thirteenth and Twenty-eighth Regiments had heen in the United States service, in 1861; the Thirteenth also, in 1862. Man Page 244 244 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. hundreds of their members had joined the United States volunteer service, and their uniforms were worn out in the service. Those regiments have done hard and faithful service, and are now reform- ing, with the prospect of much efficiency. All of which is respectfully submitted. PHILIP S. CROOKE, Brigadier-General, Fifth Brigade. ADJUTANT-GENERAL, STATE OF NEW YORK. No. 413. Report of Brig. Gen. Jesse C. Smith, commanding Eleventh Bri- gade, New York State National Guard, of operations June 16- July 19. HDQRS. 11TH BRIG., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, Brooklyn, December 28, 1863. COLONEL: On the morning of the 16th of June last, at about 90 clock, I received a telegraphic order from Governor Seymour, dated June 15, ordering all the regiments in my command to be ready to go to Philadelphia at once on short service. On the 18th, the Twenty- third Regiment, Col. William Everdell, jr., 518 strong; on the 19th, the Fifty-sixth Regiment, Lient. Col. J. Q. Adams, 409 strong, and on the 22d, the Fifty-second Regiment, Col. M.. W. Cole, with 325 men, left for Harrisburg, Pa. The promptness with which regiments responded to the call of the Commander-in-Chief was highly commendable. On the 22d of June, I received an order from Major-General [Harmanus B.] Duryea, commanding division, that the Twenty-third, Forty-seventh, Fifty- second, and Fifty-sixth Regiments, and such other regiments of the Second Division as should thereafter be designated for that purpose, were constituted a brigade under my command during the term of duty, in obedience to the orders of the Commander-in-Chief. On the afternoon of the 24th of June, I departed for Harrisburg, Pa., with Maj. Benjamin Haskell, assistant adjutant-general (chief of staff); Capt. John Berry, aide-de-camp; Capt Lebbeus Chapman, jr., bri- gade quartermaster; Capt. Zachariah Voorhies, assistant commissary of subsistence, on my staff. On the morning of the 25th of June, I reported to Major-General Couch, at Harrisburg, and afterward, on the same morning, crossed the Susquehanna River, and reported to Brigadier-General Hall, then in command of Fort Washington, a newly erected fort of earthworks on the high ground directly oppo- site Harrisburg. Three of my regiments, the Twenty-third, Fifty~ second, and the Fifty-sixth, were then located in and around the fort, having arrived there at different times from the 19th to the 23d of June. The Forty-seventh Regiment was ordered to Washington, D. C., and did duty in Virginia. On my arrival to take charge of the three regiments of my command, a great state of excitement existed at Harrisburg and through the Cumberland Valley, in consequence of the near approach of General Lees army, and of the daily reports that he was marching ou Hlarrjsburg, by way Qf Q~r1islQ~ ~itb. a~ large farce Page 245 CHAP. XXXIX.) THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 245 The Eighth and Seventy-first Regiments New York State National Guard, and one regiment of Pennsylvania militia, having been sent forward, under command of General Knipe, by the Cumberland Val- ley Railroad to Shippensburg, and having fallen back from point to point as they were driven in by the rebels, presented the appear- ance of an advance guard of a large force, delayed the rebels a week or more in their advance, and enabled many other regiments to ar- rive at Harrisburg, and to throw up quite formidable earthworks, to erect barricades across the roads through the mountain gaps, and to dig rifle-pits and make other defensive preparations. My hos- pital surgeon, Maj. E. Malone, joined me here, and his services were very valuable at the hospital established near the fort. The entire force was constantly employed night and day, as the regiments ar- rived, in erecting these earthworks, barricades, & c., and in picket duty, and were saved from an attack from. Lees army by the delay in its advance, occasioned by the militia force and demonstration, until the morning of the 30th of June. After having driven in our outer line of pickets, the rebels fell back under orders, as appears by General Lees report, to meet the Army of the Potomac at Gettys- burg. On the 1st of July, the Twenty-second and Thirty-seventh New York State National Guard, with two regiments of Pennsyl- vania militia and a battery of citizen artillery from Philadelphia, entered Carlisle, 18 miles from Harrisburg, down the Cumberland Valley, and were that night shelled by Stuarts cavalry, who burned the Carlisle barracks and other buildings. The militia stood their ground nobly, and the artillery is said to have done good service in the defense of the place. On the afternoon of the 1st of July, my three regiments, with the Eighth, Eleventh, and Seventy-first Regi- ments New York State National Guard, and Millers light battery, attached temporarily to the Eighth Regiment National Guard, marched out from the fort opposite Harrisburg on the road toward Carlisle, the whole under the command of General Knipe, and went into camp, or rather into a field 7 miles from the fort, at about 9 oclock in the evening. As we went into quarters, heavy cannonad- ing was heard in the direction of Carlisle, and the light of the burn- ing barracks was distinctly visible on the sky. This was an anxious night to our command, as the supposition was that Ewells corps of Lees army had returned to Carlisle, and attacked our militia there in force, and would capture them, and be down upon us the next morning. We had no intimation that on that day there had been a battle at Gettysburg. At 2 oclock the next morning, a staff officer came in from General Couch, with orders to get the baggage train back on the road to Harrisburg, and to have the men in readiness to march at a moments notice. At 3 a. m. another officer came from General Couch, with peremptory orders to march back at once to the fort. The retreat was then commenced, and continued for about 3 miles. We were then halted in the road, and remained there until near sun- down, when we bivouacked on the bank of a beautiful stream for the night, and the next day (July 3) marched to Carlisle, about 15 miles. The weather was very warm; the men marched with their knapsacks packed, their blankets rolled, their haversacks supplied with two days rations, and their cartridge-boxes with 40 rounds. They suffered greatly from this first march, and were compelled to leave their knapsacks and many other things that were afterward much needed Page 246 246 T~. 0., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. The next morning (July 4), our column, ha~iug beeu uuited to the brigades of Generals Ewen aud Crooke, aud a brigade of Peunsyl- vania militia, uuder command of Colonel Brisbane, with Landis battery of artillery from Philadelphia, which was now attached to our divisiou, in commaud of Geueral Knipein all about fifteen regimeuts of iufautry, oue battery, aud oue light battery of artil- lerymoved out ou the Mount Holly road, south from Carlisle, and away from all railroad commuuicatiou. About 12 oclock it com- menced to rain, and continued through the afternoon and night. The road led through the South Mountain, and was very narrow and muddy. The men marched through mud and water, oftentimes knee- deep. The Twenty-third Regiment, having had some of its men nearly drowned while fording a stream, had to stop for the night. The men of the other regiments struggled and straggled through~ but when we halted for the night, at 9 oclock, scarcely a corporals guard was present. The next morning (the 5th of July), without anything to eat, and without waiting for the command to come up, we were marched over the mountains about 5 miles, and encamped; here we gathered some bread and other eatables from the neighborhood. The next day (the 6th of July) was another rainy day, and night found us on the road from Gettysburg to Chambersburg, on which the day before the rebels had retreated, without rations, the men sleeping on the wet ground in an orchard; General Knipe and my- self arid our staffs without anything to eat excepting a little prepared coffee and a piece of bread. Captain Cipperly, additional aide-de- camp, at this time reported to me for duty. The following night, the men having encamped in a piece of wood, found themselves im- mersed in water in the morning. Our supplies, which were to have come forward, had gone by mistake to Gettysburg. My quarter- master was directed to gather up all loose horses and wagons, and was then sent to Shippensburg for supplies. These did not reach us until after we had arrived at Wayriesborough, on the 10th of July. We here (Waynesborough) connected with the Army of the Poto- mac, and had two or three days of rest. From this place, on the 12th and 13th, we marched to within 1 or 2 miles of Boonsborough, Md. Here we encamped again in the rain, and with scant rations. The next day we advanced on the National road toward Hagers- town, about 2 miles, and as we marched we heard the firing on the Potomac, as Kilpatrick engaged the rebels while crossing. A general engagement was expected, and our force stood in line of battle on the field where Kilpatrick had fought on the Friday preceding, in readiness, if called upon as a reserve force to the Army of the Poto- mac, then in front of us. In the afternoon, we were informed that General Lee had recrossed the Potomac River with his whole army~ The next morning we were dismissed by General W. F. Smith, and my command, including the Eighth and Seventy-first Regiments. with Generals Ewens and Crookes, were lace in command of General Ewen, and directed to march to Frederick, where we would embark for home. The march to Frederick, on the 15th of July, was 18 miles over the South Mountahi, and without rations. The men, supposing that Frederick was the termination of their days march, came into that town in good order; but when, after dark, the command was ordered by the commanding officer to march to the railroad junction, 3 or 4 miles farther, they became disheartened, and, having no rations served them since the day before, they su Page 247 CHA?. XXXIX.1 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 247 fered much from hunger and fatigue, and a~ they went into camp at 9 oclock at night, one man of the Twenty-eighth Regiment actually died from exhaustionan unnecessary hardship, because the troops were on the homeward march, and did not obtain transportation for the next twenty-four hours. The following night the troops were embarked, in a most severe rain-storm, on board of cars for Baltimore, Md., some of the men in open cars, exposed to the storm. The entire next day was spent in reaching Baltimore, and the whole of the night of the 17th and of the day of the 18th were spent in getting to Harrisburg, and many of the men in open cars, exposed to the rain and night air. On Sunday, the 19th of July, we came from Harrisburg, and arrived in New York in the afternoon. The command in fifteen days were marched over 100 miles, most of the time in the rain, without proper clothing or shoes for many of the men, with scarcely half the ordinary rations of soldiers, and those irregularly supplied. With little or no cover- ing at night, not even blankets or shelter tents, it is not to be won- dered at that many have suffered and that others have died from sickness contracted in this short campaign; and when the facts shall be fully collected and properly detailed, I am sure that the General Government will be satisfied that if little or no reliance can be placed upon the paid militia~~ (ride General Hallecks report), it has at least contributed something toward the safety of the capital of the State of Pennsylvania, and of the great railroads that cross the Susquehanna River at or near that place. The Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard, from Chautauqua County, were with us at the fort, and did yeomens service with axes in leveling a forest around the fort, and marched with us the entire route. There was also another column, consisting of Pennsylvania militia, under the command of General Dana, that went down the Cumberland Valley Railroad after it was recon- structed in part, and joined the Army of the Potomac near Hagers- town. The officers under my command having been required to make a report of their several regiments directly to the Commander-in-Chief, have, as I am informed, made such reports. The Fifty-second and Fifty-sixth having furnished to me copies, which have been printed, I annex. The Twenty-third and Forty-seventh Regiments have not made to me any reports. Too much praise cannot be given to the officers and men of the several regiments of my brigade for the promptness with which they responded to the call of the Commander-in-Chief, and for their endur- ance of fatigue in their duty, of throwing up embankments, felling forests, and marching through such an extent of country, so poorly as they were supplied with clothing, with camp equipments, and with rations. By the activity and energy of the different members of my staff, the several regiments in our column of march were much assisted, and their wants and sufferings greatly alleviated. Respectfully, yours, JESSE C. SMITH, Brig. Gem., Corndg. 11th Brig., New York State National Gnard. Col. W. I. STEELE, Division Inspector (Asst. Adjt. Gen.), Second Division Page 248 248 rOHAP, XXXIX. No. 414. Report of Qol. Marshall Lefferts, Seventh Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 16-July 18, including the Draft Riots. HEADQUARTERS NEW YORK NATIONAL GUARD, New York, October , 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that, on the moriling of the 16th June, I received the following telegram: Col. MARSHALL LEFFERTS, ALBANY, June 157.15 p. m. Seventh Regiment New York State National Guard: The Governor desires to know immediately how soon the Seventh Regiment can be in readiness to move to Philadelphia. Cannot the Seventh be the first regiment? J. B. STONEHOUSE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. As I was absent from the city, I did not receive this dispatch until the next morning at 10 oclock, when I answered as follows: NEW YORK, June 1610 a. m. J. B. STONEHOIJSE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Albany: Have just arrived in the city, and have your telegram. I presume I can move with my regiment this evening. In order to carry full complement of men, it is necessary that I should be able to state to them definitely the time they will be re- quired to be absent, and it will be difficult for them to remain any length of time, leaving on such short notice. Can they volunteer without being mustered into the service of the United States? M. LEFFERTS, Colonel, Commanding Seventh Regiment. To which I received the following answer: ALBANY, June 1510.55 a. m. Col. MARSHALL LEFFERTS: The Governoidirects that you proceed forthwith with your regiment, as full as possible, to Harrisburg, Pa., and report to Major-General Couch. They volunteer for a time not to exceed three months service; most likely not more than thirty days will be required. Requisition for transportation will be made upon Major Van Vliet, No. 6 State street and for subsistence upon Col. A. B Eaton, 7 State street. JOHN T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant-General. Upon receipt of this telegram, my order for assembling the officers and men was promulgated, and requisition made for transportation to be in readiness, and we should have taken our departure, but General Hall, who did not know of my orders to move immediately, went to the armory, and dismissed the men until the following morn- ing, of which I promptly advised you by telegraph. At an early hour on the morning of the 17th of June, we left the city, via Amboy, with a total of 583 men, but, in consequence of delays on the road, did not reach Philadelphia until late in the after- noon. At this point, I was requested to report to Colonel IRuff, U. S. Army, commanding at Philadelphia, who informed me that I should proceed to Baltimore, in conformity with the following order: HEADQUARTERS, Philadelphia, Pa., June 17, 1863. Commanding Officer Seventh Regiment New York State Militia: Sm: You will proceed without delay to Baltimore, Md. Report, on the arrival of your regiment, to Maj. Gen. Robert C. Schenck, U. S. Volunteers, commanding tha Page 249 CRAP. XXXIX I THE GMTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 249 military department. Transportation is provided for your regiment via the Phila- delphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad. By command of Major-General Halleck, General-in-Chief: C. F. PUFF, Lieutenant-Colonel Third Cavalry, U. S. Army, Comdg., Philadelphia. Although I had your order to proceed to Harrisburg, I could uot doubt you would desire me to go where there was the most need of my services, aud at once marched my regiment forward, sending you the following notification of this change: PHILADELPHIA, June 17, 1863Midnight. J. T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant-General: I have received orders from Major-General Halleck to proceed to Baltimore, and the regiment is now on the cars ready to proceed to that city. I presume this will receive the sanction of the Governor. M. LEFFERTS, Colonel, Commanding Seventh Regiment. Upon arrival at Baltimore, I reported to Major-General Schenck, and was Qrdered on duty in the city for that night and following day, when we were directed to relieve the One hundred and twenty- ninth Regiment New York State Volunteers, Colonel Porter, at Fort Federal Hill. We remained at this fort until the 5th of July, dur- ing which time we were actively engaged on outpost and other duty, being frequently reduced to 150 men in the fort. On the 5th of July, we were ordered to report to General Briggs, and proceed to Fred- erick, Md., in light marching order, leaving tents, knapsacks, and baggage behind. This order was received during the night, and al- though two of our outposts were distant 9 and 12 miles, respectively, they were called in, and the regiment moved from the fort at 8 a. in., in a drenching rain. At Monocacy Junction, we were detained some time awaiting the decision of, I believe, Major-General Meade, whether the troops then on the road should go to Harpers Ferry. Finally, we received orders to march to Frederick City (by orer), leaving two detachments for duty near that city. The regiment went into camp on the road to Harpers Ferry. We were here assigned to the Third Army Corps, Army of the Potomac. On the 8th of July, by the following order, I assumed command of Frederick, relieving General French, who was ordered to the command of the Third Army Corps: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS, No. 24. ~ Frederick City, July 8, 1863. * * * * * * * II. Colonel Lefferts, Seventh New York Regiment, is detailed on special duty in Frederick City. Colonel Lefferts will make such arrangements for guarding the depots, and for the police required for the city, as he may deem necessary. III. Maj. II. A. Cole, Maryland cavalry, will report to Colonel Lefferts for in- struction. IV. The battalion, Fourteenth [First] Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, under Major Rolfe, now on duty at Monocacy Junction, will be relieved by a detachment from the Seventh New York Regiment, after which Major Rolfe will report to these headquarters in person. By order: FRENCH, Major-General. As Monocacy Junction was made the grand depot for the Army of the Potomac, and a large portion of the army then moving throng Page 250 250 Y. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. ECHA? XXXIX Frederick to South Mountain-Hagerstownand pressing the rebel army to Williamsport, our duties were active, and, I trust, faith- fully performed. On July 14, I received the following order at 4 p. in.; called in the various detachments, and marched to Monocacy Junction: HEADQUARTERS, Frederick, July 14, 1863. Colonel LEFFERTS, Commanding Seventh Regiment New York State Militia: SIR: Major-General Halleck directs that the Seventh Regiment New York State Militia be sent to New York, by railroad, to report to Major-General Wool. You will please take immediate measures to carry out this order. ED. SCHRJVER, Inspector-General. I had been already notified by telegraph of tbe disgraceful riot in New York City, and, on the receipt of the foregoing order, made all haste in its execution. Detachments were called in, and, notwith- standing the roads were very heavy from a three-days storm, we reached Monocacy Junction in four and a half hours from the time I received the order at Frederick City. I had sent one of my staff to the Junction, to explain the necessity of the transportation being ready, but I regret to say we did not leave the Junction until 11.45 p. in., and from this hour until daylight of the 16th July we were on the road. Receiving from His Excellency the Governor an intimation that the rails would be taken up at or near Newark, and my regi- ment probably attacked, which circumstance might delay my arrival in New York City, and the pressing necessity for our presence, I succeeded, with the assistance of Col. E. S. Sanford, in arranging with the authorities to transport the regiment via Amboy. Landing at Canal street, I marched up Broadway to the headquarters of Major- General Wool, at the Saint Nicholas Hotel, and reported for duty. I was directed by the general to proceed to the regimental armory, and remain .in readiness for immediate service. At 10 a. m. I re- ported to His Excellency the G6vernor. I will mention here that in consequence of the order directing us to leave all baggage behind, upon our departure from Baltimore to join the Army of the Potomac, then moving upon Hagerstown, Md., my men were entirely destitute of extra clothing, and had not, at the time of their arrival in New York, changed their underclothing for a period of eleven days, dur- ing which time they bad also been without even the shelter of tents. At 3 p. m. of the same day, I received the following order: ORDER.] NEW YORK, July 16, 1863. Colonel Lefferts, of the Seventh Regiment, will proceed and take station with his regiment as follows: His headquarters, with one battalion, at the Eighteenth pre- cinct, and one battalion, under command of the senior field officer, at the Twenty- first precinct, the colonel commanding both. He is charged with suppressing all mobs and riots, and will sternly use all means he has in doing so. His district will extend from Seventh street to Sixty-fifth street, and he will make such further distribution of his regiment as he may think proper. He will continue in that district until he receives further orders, and will make frequent reports to these headquarters. By command of Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. Brown: JOHN B. FROTHJNGHAM, Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. Army, Aide-dc-Camp. Upon its receipt, I at once marched my command into the district indicated, making my headquarters at the police station, Thirty Page 251 CHAP. XXXIXI THE GE~[TYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 251 fifth street, two doors from Third avenue. Although we were fired upon, and during the march some shots returned, yet I know of no casualties. After dusk, my detachments of observation were continually annoyed by shots from the houses and other places of concealment. At 10 p. m. I directed a detachment of four com- panies under command of Lieutenant-Colonel [James] Price, and a battery of two pieces, under command of Captain [E. P.] Rogers, Company I, to pass through the district as low down as Fonrteenth street; this was promptly executed. I subjoin my report of the following morning: HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIRST PoLIcE PRECINCT, July 17, 1863. General HARvEY BROWN, Police Headquarters: Sin: I have the honor to report the district under my charge as quiet after 12 p. m. I Was obliged to use harsh measures during the evening, but hope we shall have no further trouble. In obedience to orders, a thorough patrol of the district between Thirty-fifth street and Fourteenth street, Third avenue and East River, was made last evening after 10 oclock. None of my men were injured. MARSHALL LEFFERTS, Colonel, Commanding Seventh Regiment. During the night of the 16th, I was informed of several deposi- tories of arms, in the custody of the mob, and accordingly, on the morning of the 17th, I proceeded with my whole force to Thirty- eighth street and Second avenue, and, by surrounding the blocks, the Louses were searched. This I continued from square to square, toward Fourteenth street, aided by an efficient platoon of police, under charge of Acting Captain . Soon 250 arms (many of them loaded and capped) were secured, and considerable clothing, which had been stolen from the store of Messrs. Brooks. At 2 p. m. of this day, I received orders from headquarters to return to the armory. On the afternoon of the 18th, I was obliged, by indisposi- tion, to give the command to Lieutenant-Colonel Price. From this period the regiment remained on duty, by detachments, until , but without anything material to note. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant MARSHALL LEFFERTS, Cot., Comdg. 7th Regt. New York State National Guard. Adjt. Gen. J. T. SPRAGUE. No. 415. Report of Cot. William F. Berens, Sixty-fifth Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 17July 30, including the Draft Riots. BUFFALO, N. Y., January 30, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit to you, according to orders from Major-General Randall, my report of the services of the Sixty- fifth Regiment New York National Guard, during the Pennsylvania campaign, 1863 Page 252 2~i2 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CliAp. XXXIX. According to the best of my knowledge, the Sixty-fifth Regiment of the New York National Gnard received orders to march to Har- risburg, in the State of Pennsylvania, on the 17th day of June, 1863, the occasion being the invasion of that State by the rebel General Lee. I was appointed lieutenant-colonel of the regiment on the 18th day of June, and reported on the same eYening to Col. Jacob Krettner, commander of the regiment. June 19, at 9 a. in., the regi- ment marched for Harrisbnrg, taking (at Buffalo) the cars of the Erie Railway Company. Upon our departure, the regiment contained 382 men. Arrived at Harrisburg on the 20th, in the afternoon, and was ordered to Camp Curtin. Drew [rations] and pitched tents. Quar- termaster R. Flack (Sixty-fifth New York National Guard) drew blankets for the men, which came handy, as a heavy rain-storm set in that night. Some of the tents blew down, and although the men generally were wet, they maintained good spirits. On the 21st of June, the weather broke fine with the morning. The regiment drew their arms, clothing, and camp and garrison equipage, and regular camp guards were established. During the day, Lieutenant [William C.] Zimmerman arrived from Buffalo with 25 additional men who belonged to the regiment. On the 22d day of June, Colonel Krettner was furloughed on account of sickness, and returned to Buffalo, whereupon I assumed command of the regiment. June 23, the artillery company belonging to this regiment, Capt. Philip buck, was attached to the Fourth Regiment New York Ar- tillery, and the day following sent to Fort Washington. The Sixty- fifth, after such detachment, and the Seventy-fourth Regiment New York National Guard, were then formed into a brigade, called the Thirty-first Brigade, New York National Guard, of which Col. Wat- son A. Fox, of the Seventy-fourth, took command. June 24, at 8p. in., the brigade received orders from General Couch to proceed to Mount Union and report to Colonel Hawley. At 9 a. m. the next day the brigade started from Camp Curtin, taking the cars of the Pennsylvania Central Railroad, and arrived at Mount Union at 10 p. m. the same day; reported to Colonel Hawley. My regiment encamped in a stone yard, near a large railroad bridge over the Juni- ata River. I detailed two companies, A and B, with instructions to guard the bridge, and sent out pickets to several important points. On the 26th, at 3 p. in., i received orders from Colonel Hawley to go out on picket duty at a place called Bells Mills, 9 miles distant, to guard a mountain pass leading to Black Log and Cumberland Valleys. Leaving Company A, Captain [Conrad] Seeber, and Company B, Capt. L. Krettner, at Mount Union, in company with the Seventy-fourth Regiment, I then proceeded with the rest of my command to Bells Mills, Huntingdon County, arriving there at about dark. I then pro- ceeded to establish pickets at different passes and points, extending 2 or 3 miles through the mountains and forests. A considerable por- tion of the night was consumed in this way. Upon my arrival at Bells Mills, 1 found the inhabitants in great excitement, if not alarm; they were on the point of deserting their homes, and many of them were busily engaged removing their stock and other property. Here our troops received valuable assistance from Mr. David Bell, the pro- prietor, I believe, of the mills. I was also indebted to him for valuable information concerning the roads and passes. By his activity and influence, the farmers and people of that section were gotten out, and assisted in obstructing the roads and passes by piling logs and fellin Page 253 C~p. XXXIX.I THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 253 trees. I continued on this duty with my men till the 5th day of July, when I received orders to report to Colonel Hawley. I returned to Mount Union, and encamped on the ground of the Seventy-fourth, which had left with Colonel Hawleys regiment for Chambersburg. The ensuing day (6th of July), mustered into the United States serv- ice for thirty days from June 19 ultimo, and I was appointed com- mander of the post, with Capt. Horace Thomas as post adjutant. On the 8th of July, I received orders from Colonel Hawley and Colonel Fox to send them 3,000 rations. I immediately impressed farmers teams sufficient for the purpose, and started the rations for- ward. On several different days while at Mount Union, rebel strag- glers came within our lines, and were dispatched under guard to headquarters. On the 11th day of July, 350 rebels were brought in by a part of an Ohio regiment; many of them were badly wounded. Our surgeons attended to them, and they were forwarded to head- quarters. At 11 p. m. orders came from General Couch to report with my command at Bridgeport, to General Hall, commanding at Fort Washington. At 7 a. m. next morning took the cars, arriving at Bridgeport at 5 p. in., and reported. I remained with my commana at Bridgeport, doing guard duty, till the 14th, at 7 p. in., when I was ordered by General Hall to proceed to the city of New York. By great activity and exertion, a train of cars was gotten together and provided for the next morning. At 4 a. in. July 15, I put my men on board the cars, leaving our camp and garrison equipage at Fort Washington, and arrived at the city of New York at about 5 p. m. Before leaving Fort Washington, a battery of four howitzers, belong- ing to the Eighth New York National Guard, was attached to my command. On arriving in New York, I immediately marched my command to headquarters, reporting in person to General Wool. On the way from the dock, a large mob gathered about, and attempted to get possession of two negroes who were serving as cooks with the artillery company of the Eighth New York National Guard. I protected them from harm by placing them amidst the battery, and protecting the same by a company thrown on either flank. Upon reporting to General Wool, I was ordered to take quarters at Centre Market, and to report to General Harvey Brown, which I did. Pursuant to orders from General Brown, the same evening I sent two companies to guard the treasury buildings, on Wall street, viz, Company E, Captain [Philip H.] Wagner, and Company H, Captain ~ Christian] Schaeffer; and two other companies, along with some nited States troops, to restore order in the vicinity of Union Square, viz, Company A, Captain Seeber, and Company D, Captain [Charles] Geyer. On the morning of the 16th of July, pursuant to orders which I had received from General Brown, at 7 oclock I set out with my companies not theretofore detailed as above set forth, and the how- itzers. Passed through to the Hotchkiss shell factory, on Twenty- fourth street, and left Company B, Capt. L. Krettner, and one of the howitzers, at that point. I then passed on with the remaining com- panies of my command and two of the howitzers for my next point of destination, Sewards shell factory, on Seventeenth street. While my men were passing down Seventeenth street, the mob gathered about in a threatening mariner, but no violence was committed. At Sewards shell factory, I stationed Company F, Lieutenant [Casper] Meyer Commanding, with one of the bowitzers. I tben passed on u Page 254 254 ~W. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Avenue A, with Company G, Captain [Casper] Retel, and a howitzer, toward Jacksons shell factory, on Twenty-eighth street, where I was to make my headquarters. On arriving at the corner of Avenue A and Twenty-second street, I was fired into by the mob. I wheeled my men into line to return the fire, and the mob skedaddled. I then passed on a block farther, to the corner of Twenty-third street, when the mob gathered in upon my company from both directions on Twenty-third street, and commenced at once to fire upon us. I re- turned the fire, and kept up the street, firing, until I arrived a Twenty-eighth street. Finding my small company of only 28 men, besides the men serving the howitzer, too small to disperse so large a mob as had collected, I dispatched Quartermaster Flack to head- quarters, on Mulberry street, for re-enforcements. The mob seemed to be very generally armed. I then fought my way through the mob to the factory. One of my men was wounded, and several of the crowd were killed and wounded by our fire. On arriving at the fac- tory,~we found the door closed. I forced the door, and took possession. The mob gathered heavily around the factory and fired upon us. We returned their fire, and afterward sallied out upon them and drove them up Twenty-eighth street, as far as the corner of First avenue, and dispersed them. At 2 p. m. Quartermaster R. Flack arrived with Companies A and D. At about 5 p. m. a priest came to me as a commissioner from the riotous populace, and urged me to quit the factory and return, stat- ing the people agreed that if I did so the factory should not be in- jured. He stated further that the crowd threatened that if we did not leave they would burn us out. He implored me to accept the proposal, saying that he feared the worst consequences; that the mob was about 4,000 strongaltogether too large for my weak force to resistand that he could not control or restrain them. I reported the offer made to me by the priest to General Brown. His answer was, to hold the place at all events, and to disperse the assemblage about me at the point of the bayonet, if necessary. Previous to the receipt of this response from General Brown, however, having re- fused the offered compromise, and the priest having retired beyond the reach of harm, and the crowd gathering heavily around the build- ing we occupied, I found it necessary to open fire upon them, which was kept up until our assailants were driven back behind the corners of the neighboring streets. The next morning I received orders from General E. R. S. Canby (General Brown having been relieved by him); notifying me that the large meeting taking place at the residence of Archbishop Hughes was held for the purpose of aiding in the restoration of law and order, and directing that care should be exercised not to molest per- sons passing to and fro, and to pay no attention to harsh words, only interfering when actual force or violence should occur. At 1 oclock at night I was relieved, by orders from headquarters, by the One hundred and fifty-second Regiment of New York Volun- teers. Saturday, July 18, about 2.30 a. in., I reported to General Canby, at his headquarters. Quartered my regiment in an empty house arid a part in a church near by for the renrainder of the night, After daybreak, I sent Companies A and B to the gas-works, near East River. On the 19th, I reported with my command to His Excellency Gov- ernor Seymour Page 255 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 255 On the 20th, by order of Governor Seymour, I started with my command for Buffalo, where trouble was apprehended, arriving at that city on Tuesday afternoon, the 21st of July. My regiment was quartered in the New York State arsenal in Buffalo, my men re- maining under arms and in the United States service till the 30th day of July, when the regiment was mustered out of the United States service. I cannot omit to praise the promptness of the New York Central Railroad Company in forwarding us comfortably and rapidly through to the city of Buffalo, and to acknowledge the kindness with which we were received by the common council and citizens of Buffalo upon our arrival. WILLIAM F. BERENS, Cot., Comdg. 65th Regt. New York State National Guard. No. 416. Report of Cot. Oh auncey Abbott, Sixty-seventh Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 16July . HDQR5. 67TH REGT. NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, East Hamburg, January 7, 1864. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQR5. 8TH Div., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, No. 2. [June , 1863.] In pursuance of Special Orders, No. 296, dated June 16, 1863, from the Com- mander-in-Chief, Col. Chauncey Abbott, Sixty-seventh Regiment, will order his regiment to prepare for immediate service. By order of Maj. Gen. Nelson Randall: RUFUS L. HOWARD, Division Inspector. The above special order was received on the evening of the 16th, and orders were immediately issued to the several commandants of companies belonging to the Sixty-seventh Regiment, to notify their several commands, and although the regiment is scattered over a large tract of country, comprising the south towns in Erie County and the whole of Wyoming County, through the prompt action of the officers and non-commissioned officers of the regiment, the whole command was immediately notified and in readiness for the emergency. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. 8TH Div., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, No. 6. ~ Buffalo, June 22, 1863. Col. CHAUNcEY ABBOTT, 67th Regiment New York State National Guard: You are hereby ordered to report to me, with your command, at Buffalo (corner of Exchange and Michigan streets), on Thursday, the 25th instant, at 3 oclock in the afternoon, and in readiness to proceed to New York. Transportation and sub- sistence will be furnished here on your arrival. The regiment will be supplied with uniforms and equipments by qnartermaster and commissary generals in the city of New York. Commissioned officers will appear in uniform, as far as possible. By order of Maj. Gen. Nelson Randall: RUFUS L. HOWARD, Division Inspector. The last order, which at once decided the destination of the Sixty- seventh Regiment, brought also with it relief to those composing said regiment, as suspense was worse than active duty under our peculiar circumstances, And now, truly may it be said of the Sixty Page 256 256 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CEAr. XXXIX. seventh, that active duty commenced, as it was necessary to issue or- ders and have each member notified and at Buffalo in two days from the receipt of the last order. When it is remembered that most of the members of the command are men of middle age, and with fami- lies and farms which must be left, and to a great extent neglected during their absence, they being for the most part engaged in agri- cultural pursuits, and their presence so much needed at home at this season of the year, too much praise cannot be awarded them for their prompt response to the call made by the Executive of the State for their services in the hour of danger. Notwithstanding all the diffi- culties to be overcome, the Sixty-seventh Regiment, 300 strong, was in Buffalo and left for Harrisburg, Pa., at the time appointed, a thing which had not occurred before during the rebellion, as was stated by the commanding general of the division. The Sixty-seventh Regiment New YorThState National Guard left Buffalo for Harrisburg, Pa., June 2~5, 1863, at 3 p. in., numbering 300, with three days rations, under the following officers: Chauncey Abbott, colonel commanding; Houghton S. Clough, lieutenant-colonel; George W. Gilman, major; Lucius H. Abbott, engineer; De Witt C. Welch, adjutant; George Abbott, surgeon; John McBeth, assistant surgeon; Orhn S. Washburn, quarter- master; James H. Beebe, quartermaster sergeant; Fayette Baker, sergeant-major; Charles F. Goodman, hospital steward; Marcus Field, commissary sergeant. Company A.Timothy G. Grannis, Horace Holmes, I. W. Gale. Company B.Braley K. Buxton, Marcus Schwirt, William H. Hall. Company C.William H. Candee, William H. Hammond, Jared Matteson. Company D.Myron Stilwell, Benjamin Baker, Isaac E. Webster. Company F.Lott Shaw, Stafford J. Godfrey. Company G.Myron L. Fargo, James Wilkin, Jackson N. Morris. Company H.Lysander Needham, James A. Cranston, Hosea S. Heath. Company iFrederick Thorpe, Ira H. Toms. Company K.De Witt C. Corbin, Delos D. Darrow, Wheeler C. Holmes, William R. Whitney. Company L.John P. Bartlett, Oliver G. Rowley. They proceeded to Elmira, where they were joined by the Sixty- eighth Regiment, under command of Col. David Forbes, and arrived at Harrisburg about 11 p. m. After reporting to the proper officers, we were ordered to march to Camp Curtin, about 2 miles distant, to take up our quarters for the night, without blankets, in tents that had been previously occupied, but deserted, with no other preparation for a cold, drenching rain which had been falling during the day. After much earnest solicitation and delay, we were allowed the hos- pitalities of the streets and depot, but were not allowed the cars to rest in, although it was a cattle train which we arrived on. Next morning (Saturday) we marched to Camp Curtin, where we pitched our tents, drew blankets and camp equipage from the Government, and tried to feel as much at home as we could under the circum- stances. At the time of our arrival at Harrisburg, all was excitement and consternation. Business, except so far as the army was concerned, was almost entirely closed, and although the enemy were said to be in the immediate vicinity, I did not see but one company of the citi- ~ens of Harrisburg orgauized and on duty for the defense of thei Page 257 CHAP. XXXIXJ THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 257 owii city, and that was a small company of Americans of African descent, drilling under some shade trees in front of the capitol. I [ow- ever, we had a good number of officers belonging to Pennsylvania, so we got along very well. Do not think that Harrisburg was left to become an easy prey to Lee and his rebel hosts, for on our arrival there we received a hearty greeting from many of our citizens sol- diers from the city and State of New York, whose patriotism and military skill reflected the highest honor upon the State from which they came. Our labors commenced with our first days occupation at Camp Curtin. At night, a detail of 25 men was made upon the regiment to go to Fort Washington, across the river, a distance of some 3 miles, to fell trees and otherwise obstruct the roads over which the enemy were expected to pass. When the call was made for vol- unteers, instead of 25 men, 75 went on that duty. The next evening (Sunday) the whole regiment was ordered over, and, nuder orders received from Brig. Gen. J. C. Smith, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, they were instructed to level to the ground every tree, and remove all obstacles in the range of the guns on the fortifications. During the long hours of that eventful night, the Sixty-seventh stood nobly to their work outside the defenses, while the attack was every moment expected. The fortunes of war in some way changed Lees designs upon Harrisburg, and thus we escaped the conflict which was gathering and seemed ready to burst upon us with all its fury. During the remaining period of our service, we remained at Camp Curtin, act- ing as guards and working parties, as large amounts of ordnance and commissary stores were being forwarded. Each day from 25 to 50 men were detailed from our regiment for such service. Every call and order was promptly met, and when we left we had the assurance of the best wishes of those in command at that post. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 39. July 23, 1863. The Sixty-seventh iRegiment New York State National Guard, Colonel Abbott commanding, will proceed without delay, by railroad, from Camp Curtin to Buffalo. N. Y., and be mustered out of the service of the United States. All Government property, including blankets received from the quartermasters, ordnance, and com- missary departments, excepting clothing, will be turned over to the chiefs of these departments at these headquarters. The men must be supplied with three days cooked rations. Lieut. Col. A. Thompson, chief quartermaster of this department, will furnish the necessary transportation. By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General. Immediately on the receipt of the above order, the Sixty-seventh Regiment left Harrisburg for Buffalo, where it arrived in safety after an absence of about thirty days. Although nearly every member of the regiment was sick during our short stay in camp, through the untiring efforts of the surgeons, no deaths occurred, and we were all permitted again to join our families. I have no words to express the kind feelings I entertain toward all those under my command for their kind efforts in enabling me to carry out faithfully and promptly every order that was made upon the regiment. CHAUNCEY ABBOTT, Colonel, Comrna~nding. 17 R RVOL XXVII PT I Page 258 258 N. C., Y~& ., W. V~& ., MD.~ PA., ETC. [O]~M. XXXIX No. 417. Report of Cot. David S. Forbes, Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 25-July 31. HDQRS. 68TH REGT. NEW YORK STATF NATIONAL GUARD, Fredonia, October 16, 1863. SIR: In pursuance of Special Orders received from Maj: Gen. Nel- son Randall, Eighth Division, National Gnard of the State of New York, and from His Excellency Governor Horatio Seymour, of which the following is a copy, Ii herewith respectfully inclose detailed re- port of the Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard services, while and during the campaign in Pennsylvania: [Special Order.] Col. D. S. FORBES, Gonidg. Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard: Sm: A letter from headquarters of the State National Guard has just been re- ceived, of which the following is a copy: GENERAL: As a matter of record, and as an act of justice to the militia of the State of New York, there should be on file in this department detailed reports of the services of each regiment during the recent campaign into Pennsylvania. His Excellency Governor Seymour desires that you give the necessary orders to the commanders of the regiments belonging to your division, to make, without de- lay, full reports of the services rendered by their respective regiments while on duty in Pennsylvania. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant-General. You will furnish me with the detailed report mentioned therein without delay. NELSON RANDALL, Major-General, Eighth Divtsion. On the 17th of June, 1863, I received the following Special Orders from Brig. Gen. Henry L. Lansing, commanding Thirty-first Bri- gade, Buffalo, Erie County: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, No. 296. ~ Adjutant-Generals Office, Albany, June 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. Nelson Randall, Eighth Division, National Guard of the State of New York, will detail from his command the Sixty-fifth, Seventy-fourth, Sixty-seventh, and Sixty-eighth Regiments, to take the field immediately for three months service. He will dispatch them by regiments, via Elmira, to Harrisburg, Pa., and report to Major-General Couch, commanding. Arms and camp equipage will be supplied in Harrisburg. General Randall will make the necessary requisitions upon Capt. Sheldon Sturgeon, U. S. Army, mustering and disbursing officer at Buffalo, for transportation direct to Harrisburg, and call upon him for the necessary subsistence. By order of the Commander-in-Chief: JOHN T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant-General. Accompanying the above was the following: SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. 8TH DIv., NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, No. 3. ~ Buffalo, June 17, 1863. In pursuance of the above Special Orders, No. 296, dated June 16, 1863, from the Commander-in-Chief, Col. D. S. Forbes, Sixty-eighth Regiment, will order his regi- ment to prepare for immediate service. By order of Maj. Gen. Nelson Randall: RUFUS L. HOWARD, Pivision Inspector Page 259 CK4P. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 25~ In pursuance of the above Special Orders, I immediately promul- gated the following Special Orders: SPECIAL REGIMENTAL ORDERS, HDQRS. 68TH REGT. NEW YORK STATE N. G., No. 2. Fredortia, Jane 17, 1863. In pursuance of Special Orders, No. 296, and Special Orders, No. 3, headquarters Eighth Division, Maj. Gen. Nelson Randall commanding, the officers, non-commis- sioners officers, musicians, and privates will forthwith report at these headquarters, Fredonia, for duty, for the purpose of proceeding to Harrisburg, Pa. Commandants of companies will immediately promulgate this order to their respective commands, and report to me forthwith the number of effective men in their companies, with muster-rolls made complete. Non-commissioned staff and musicians will report to Adjt. Francis L. Norton. Commissioned officers will appear uniformed and equipped, all others in citizens dress, as uniforms and equipments will be furnished in Harrisburg. Commandants will enlist for three months a~ll able-bodied men who desire to enter the service, thereby increasing the number of the regiment. Each soldier should be provided with two shirts, two pairs of drawers, two pairs of socks, one towel, comb, soap, and knapsack or satchel, which, with its contents, should be as light as possible. The citizens of Chautauqua County are requested to use every effort to add to the ranks of the Sixty-eighth Regiment under this order, thereby, as is believed, les- sening the number of men liable which are to be raised under the conscription act. By order of D. S. Forbes, colonel commanding Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard: FRANCIS L. NORTON, Adjutant. Copies of telegrams received from Major-General Randall, and replies thereto, previous to our departure. * * * * * * * * On Thursday, June 25, 1863, at 2 p. in., the regiment was formed, and immediately marched [from Fredonial to Dunkirk, a distance of 3 miles, where it arrived at 3.30 oclock, and by special train left Dunkirk, via Erie Railway, for Harrisburg, Pa., at 4 p. in.; arrived at Elmira, N. Y., at daybreak on the morning of the 26th June, 1863. Much credit is due to the Erie ~~~lway Company, and particularly S~iperintendent H. G. Brook and Dispatcher Thomas C. Thompson, for the interest manifested in furnishing the regiment with comfort- able and even splendid accommodations. Were detained .at Elmira about two hours, waiting for transportation to Harrisburg, where we arrived on Friday, the 26th instant, about 12 oclock at night; were obliged to lodge the men in the depot until morning. On Sat- urday morning, at 7 oclock, the regiment was marched to Camp Curtin, a distance of 1-~ miles; were shown the ground they were to occupy, and furnished tents by Captain -. The camp ground was very muddy, owing to the late heavy rains, but, notwithstand- ing, the men went to work with a will, and in a short time presented a respectable camp, which, from its regularity and soldierly appear- ance, elicited a very flattering notice from the officers in command of Camp Curtin At 3 p. m. of the 27th instant, orders were received from Colonel Beers, commanding officer of the camp, for a detail of 75 men from the regiment for chopping.duty. Colonel Forbes refused to furnish the detail, owing to his men not having had any rest for the last two nights, unless it was by special request and favor from General Conch. In about three-quarters of an hour an order was received from General Couch, saying it would be deemed a special favor. Colonel Forbes iminedi tely ordered the detail, which was promptly * Omitted, as of no present importance Page 260 260 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CIL4P. XXXZLX. and cheerfully responded to by the Various companies. Capt. J. M. Steadman, of Company A, was placed in command of the detail. Colonel Forbes then made requisition for blankets and axes. The detail left Camp Curtin about 5 p. in., marched over the river, and reported to Genera] Jesse C. Smith, who assigned them the place. The men slung their axes and chopped 12 acres that night, and re- turned to camp before sunrise the next morning without a scratch, and with the handsome compliment from General Smith that it was the most and best work done by the number of men he ever saw. On Sunday, the 28th, at 9 a. in., the companies were formed in their respective streets, and were mustered into the service of the United States for thirty days, from the 25th instant, by Captain [Richard I.] Dodge, U. S. Army, and immediately thereupon re- quisitions were made and filled for uniforms, camp and garrison equipage. On Monday, the 29th instant, requisition was made and filled for arms and ammunition, 40 rounds of ball cartridge to each man. On Tuesday, June 30, the following order was received: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNi, No. 20. ~ June 30, 1863. * * * * * * * II. The Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard, Col. D. S. Forbes commanding, will report at once to these headquarters, fully armed and equipped for field service. The men will carry three days rations in their haversacks, and 40 rounds of am- munition in cartridge-boxes. By command of Maj. Gen. D. N. Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General. The line was immediately formed, and reported forthwith to Gen- eral Couch, in obedience to above Special Orders, No. 20, when the following order was received: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, Harrisburg, June 30, 1863. Colonel FORBES, Sixty-eighth Volunteer National Guard: You will proceed with your regiment to Stinsons Ferry, near High Spire. Find out about the ford there, and others in the vicinity down the river. Keep your men in hand to resist any attempt at crossing. In no event must an enemy cross. Use the canal for rifle-pits. There will be no difficulty in your work. In connection with the cavalry, you will take command and patrol and watch well down the river, seizing all boats; allow no communication with the other side. Arrest all sus- picious persons, and, in general, watch, guard, and protect the people. Allow no marauding. I shall hold you responsible, and expect you to do all that men can do for the interest of the service. By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Major, and Assifstant Adjutant-General. The regiment left Harrisburg, pursuant to above orders, about 3 p. in.; marched to High Spire, a distance of 8 miles; formed a junctio with the cavalry company then patrolling the river, also a company of minute-men stationed at Middletown, 4 miles below; established my headquarters at High Spire, in a church; patrolled the left wing, and established sentinel posts along the river in connection with the cavalry; held the right wing in reserve at headquarters, and thereby had a connected line of sentinel posts 12 miles down the river fro Page 261 CHAP. XXXIX.1 THE GETTYSI3LRCr CAMPAIGTh 261 Harrisburg. Immediately after establishing the above connection, I ordered the water drawn from the canal. On Wednesday, July 1, relieved the left wing by sending the right to their relief, holding the left wing in reserve; took soundings of the different fords, and made a diagram of the river, its fords, islands, and accessible crossings; kept close watch upon all crossings; arrested all boats on the opposite side, and retained them at High Spire; al- lowed no person to cross the river without a pass. On Thursday, July 2, placed the left wing nuder drill until 4 p.m.; sent them to the relief of the right wing. On Friday, the 3d instant, at 12 oclock at night, a special message arrived, ordering the regiment to report at Harrisburg forthwith, which we did, whereupon the following order was received: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, July 4, 1863. Colonel FORBES, Comdg. Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that you proceed with your regiment by railroad to Carlisle, and from thence march to and report to Brigadier- General Smith, commanding division. You will see that your men are supplied with 40 rounds of ammunition, and rations. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General. Were detained at Harrisburg waiting for transportation until 4 p. ni. of Saturday, the 4th instant. Arrived at Carlisle at 11 oclock the same night. The bridge having been burned and track torn up, were obliged to camp in a meadow about a mile out of Carlisle. On Sunday, the 5th, forded the river. Received two days rations of Captain [Ambrose] Thompson, at Carlisle, which, however, could not be obtained until 10 oclock of that day. Made application for transportation to assist the command in the march. By order of Major [John B.] Burt, then acting as provost-marshal at Carlisle, who was instructed by General Smith to direct regiments where to report to him, the regiment was to march out on the Walnut Bottom road, but by direction of Major Burt the regiment took the Carlisle and Gettysburg pike; ordered to cross to the Walnut Bottom road about 5 miles out of town, which brought us at night near the stone tavern, about 5 miles out of Carlisle, where we camped, having traveled 10 miles to get there. This proved to be one of the hardest days marches the regiment endured during the whole service. From exposure to the rain the night previous, the intense heat of the sun, and the want of transportation, whereby they were obliged to carry everything, the men soon gave out, and the command was obliged to halt early. At Carlisle, Colonel Forbes detailed Quartermaster Mullett, Ser- geants [John C.] Lester, [John C.] Pritchard, and [A. L.] Barimore, to take charge of camp and garrison equipage, and send back to Har- risburg the extra baggage, which, for want of transportation, could not accompany the regiment; also, the medical stores were obliged to be left at Carlisle. In the performance of this duty, the quarter- master succeeded in getting an order from headquarters at Harris- burg for one wagon, to convey medical stores to the regiment. By order of Major Burt, we were to report to General Smith at Pine Grove Page 262 26~ N. C., VA., W. VA., i\TD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. Monday, the 6th, broke camp, and marched at 5 a. m. for Pine Grove. In the march over the niountains, we took the Walnut Bot- tom road, 1 mile beyond the stone tavern; then tnrned off to the left over the first range of the Sonth Mountain. Before arriving at South Monntain, we took 3 deserters from the rebels, who had been secreting themselves in the woods since the Gettysburg fight, and who were anxious to avail themselves of the old flag, having become heartily sick of their wicked cause, whom I sent on to Car- lisle, under guard that was returning with some 20 of the same description. By this means I did not lessen the number of my regi- ment, which, being small, could not well be spared. Arrived at Pine Grove, a distance of 9 miles, at 2 p. m. Here we learned that General Smith had left in the morning for Newmans Gap. Our rations that were drawn at Carlisle were now exhausted; suc- ceeded in getting two boxes of wet, damaged hard-tack from remnant of train that was just leaving for General Smiths division, which proved to be useless, and a little bacon, the charity of the invalids left behind from the preceding division. Halted at Pine Grove about one hour; then took up line of march for Newmans Gap. Bivouacked about dark on the mountain, at a cross-road called Quaker Valley. Here the boys succeeded in obtaining 2 small pigs and 4 sheep, which were soon dressed and distributed through the regiment, and which would have done much to alleviate the hunger of the boys~ had we had salt; but salt was out of the question, the rebels having, before us, taken all they could find. The meat was soon on sticks, roasting in the camp-fires. As usual, after which guard was mounted, and the men souglht repose. About 12 oclock it commenced raining, and rained very hard until morning. Tuesday, July 7, reveille at daybreak; morning reports were made at 5 a. in.; broke camp at 6 oclock, and marched, without breakfast,. on to Newmans Gap, where we expected certainly to overtake Gen- eral Smith and obtain supplies. During this days march we could obtain but little subsistence. A foraging party was sent forward under Lieutenant [Lucius R.] Lewis, of Company G, but could not obtain anything; they joined the regiment at 11 a. m. We lixred this day principally upon milk, and an occasional loaf of bread that the boys obtained at 6 shillings per loaf, and in most instances 60 cents for a canteen of milk, when it was to be found. Arrived just at dark, after a hard days march, having traveled about 27 miles through mud, with clothes and blankets wet and heavy; learned that General Smiths division had left four hours before that day. The regiment were so much fatigued from the heavy march and absence of necessary food, that they could not proceed farther that night. Obtained from stragglers left behind about 60 pounds of rusty, damaged pork, which we learned afterward had been thrown away; was all we had to eat this night. Bivouacked for the night upon same ground occupied by preceding division. On arriving at Newmans Gap, and seeing the situation of my regiment, I dispatched Lieutenant-Colonel Swift and Lieutenant [Andrew J.] Weeks, of Company-B, to go forward and contract subsistence for the morrow, at a settlement which I learned was 4 miles ahead. They returned about 10 oclock, bring- ing the joyous news that they had succeeded in contracting for 150 biscuits and 5 loaves of bread. Wednesday, July 8, broke camp at 9 a. in. It having rained very liard all night previous, and still raining in torrents, we were unable to leave earlier. The sick report this morning, from eating the ba Page 263 HAP. XXXIXI THE GE rY~BITRG ~1AMiPMGi. 263 pork the night before, disclosed so ue 30 Illen unfit for duty. How- ever, II impressed two teams, travelers, to bring forward the sick and exhausted, until we arrived at the settlement where subsistence was contracted. Marched at 9 a. in., it still raining very hard, the officers and men all wet through to the skin, on the pike to Greenwood. Arriving at the place where the bread was contracted, halted for refreshigents. The air1ount procured but partially satisfied the hunger of the regi- ment, and, after a rest of one hour, marched on toward Greenwood, arriving at Greenwood about 2.30 p. m. Here we found two Penn- sylvania regiments, just breaking camp, under orders to march forth- with and join General Smiths division at Franktown, distant south 8 miles. In consultation with the cclonels of these regiments, they advised me to march forward to a village 2 miles ahead, by the name of Fayetteville, where I could obtain plenty to eat, and that the in- habitants were very hospitable, and by doing so it would be but 2 miles farther to Funkstown. Arrived at Fayetteville at about 4p. in.; found the inhabitants as reported. Before arriving at Greenwood the raiu had ceased, and the sun came out very warm, which ren- dered the march to Fayetteville quite oppressive. Finding the regi- meut so much exhausted, we bivouacked for the night, and set our- selves about drying our wet blankets. The town soon presented the appearance of a country cloth-dressing establishment, our wet blank- ets completely covering the fences on both sides of the street through the entire village. Every possible courtesy was extended to us; we were taken to their houses, fed and cared for, and in most cases with- out compensation. We obtained one days rations, had a good rest, and left this pleasant village and its kind people, who will ever be remembered by the Sixty-eighth Regiment with feelings of deep .gratitude for their kindness and liberality. Thursday morning, July 9, we took up line of march for Funks- town, distant 9 miles. Before leaving, we took several deserters who had just arrived, whom I turned over to the deputy provost-marshal, who was to send them immediately on to Chanmbersburg. We got under march at 7 a. in.; arrived at Funkstown at 1 p. in.; halted for rest and refreshment; left at 2 p. in., and marched on Waynesbor- ough, distant 8 miles. Arrived at Waynesborough about dark, and where we came up with General William F. Smith. Six fuiles back I had sent forward Lieutenant-Colonel Swift to report that the Sixty- eighth Regiment would join his division this p. in., and to make the necessary arrangements when and where we were to bivouac, and to what brigade we woutd be attached. On arriving at Waynesborough, we were welcomed by the Forty-ninth New York regimental volun- teer band, and escorted to the camp ground, situated on a high hill, l~ miles out of town. General Smith had, by mistake, as he informed me afterward, bri- gaded us with the Pennsylvania regiments, then under.command of Colonel Brisbane, acting brigadier, which was changed the next day, and we were brigaded with the following regiments of New York State National Guard: the Eighth, Twenty-second, Fifty-sixth, Seventy-first, and the Sixty-eighth Regiments, then commanded by Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Knipe. Applications were imm~diately made to the commissary department for rations, and, to my surprise, I learned there were none on hand, and but a scanty supply in the hands of the different regiments constituting the division. We were obliged to make the best of what we had for the night Page 264 234 N. C., \rJ~~, W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. CHAP. XXXIX. Friday morning, July 10, I renewed my application on the coin- missary department for supplies; was informed that the Govern- ment train sent to Shippensburg had not returned, but when it did my regiment would be supplied. About 4 p. m. the train arrived, under charge of the brigade quartermaster, Captain [Lebbeus] Chap- man, of the New York State National Guard. I immediately ob- tained permission of him for four boxes of hard-tack. Saturday, July 11, 10 a. in., the following orders were received from Brigadier-General Knipes aide-de-camp: HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, Waynesborough, July 11, 1863. The brigadier-~eneral commanding calls the attention of the command to the certainty of an early engagement with the enemy, and it is strictly enjoined upon brigade, regimental, and company commanders to attend at once to the condition of the arms and ammunition of the men under them. No time is to be lost in putting the arms in perfect order, and seeing that the boxes are filled with cartridges. The rations on hand must be cooked and put in haversacks, so that no detention will ensue when the order to march is given, and also that the men may not suffer for food when it may be impossible for the supply trains to reach them. By order of Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith, commanding First Division: ALEXANDER FARNHAM. Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. Promulgated by order of Brigadier-General Knipe: ROBERT MUNCH, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. Also the following. * Preparations were immediately made to carry out the above orders. Rations were procured and cooked under the directions of Quarter- master John C. Mullett, and orders were received to form in line at 3 p. in. of the 11th instant. Here, at this time, we joined our bri- gade for the first time, having been separated, as before mentioned, during our stay at Waynesborough, and marched down the hill on to the road; halted for the other regiments in our brigade to come into line, where we had to wait one full hour before they came into line, a delay, I am happy to say, which the gallant Sixty-eighth Regiment never caused any officer or brigade while in the service, being always T)rompt. Preparations being completeQ orders were given, Battal- ion, right face; Torward march! and we were off for Dixie our march being on the direct road to Hagerstown from Waynesborough. Our march was with quick step for the first 4 miles. When we ar- rived at the Little Antietama river, from the heavy rains which had fallen, had become much swollen, and was very rough and rapid, the bridge over which had been destroyed by Lees army, on their retreat after the Gettysburg fight, only three days before, which we had to fordwe had now advanced some 2 miles across the line into Maryland. After fording and getting everything across, our march was slow and cautious, being in close proximity with the rebel pick- ets, and every moment expecting an engagement. Marching slowly, the night very dark, mud deep, we came to a halt in an open field about 10 oclock, where the division bivouacked for the remainder of the night, having sent out pickets and taken every precaution against a surprise. Before arriving where we bivouacked, my sick- ness became so severe that I was obliged to turn over my command to Lieutenant-Colonel Swift, and stopped, accompanied by Surgeon *Omitted, as unimportant Page 265 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBUIIG CAMPAIGN. 26~ Strong and lily servants. Tile iligilt was OllC of great bustle and movement, the different detached regiments, with their ileavy artil- lery, following np the retreating foe from the battle-field of Gettys- burg, together with the rumbling noise of the transportation train, made all confusion for the night. Sanday, July 12.Marched at 7 a. m. Our movement to-day was through fields, and was more of a reconnaissance than otherwise, watching closely all points, and making but slow advance. Biv- ouacked on a high hill, 3 miles this side and to the left of Hagers- town, a brisk and heavy cannonading goiIlg on all day. The New York troops were held at this point in reserve. The United States volunteer force before mentioned as having passed our division the previous nightsome marched direct for Hagerstown, while others marched to the left, on or toward Boonsborough. This night we en- countered one of the most terrific thvnder-storms ever known in this country. The Sixty-eighth Regiment during the march had the right of our brigade, and we bivouacked in column by regiments. Monday, July 13.Broke camp at 6 a. m. Marched toward Cave- town. To-day, as usual, our advance was slow and cautious, the men being kept well in hand for an emergency. My regiment to-day showed exhaustion, and were feeble from want of necessary food, being reminded of Starvation Gap, which we had so lately passed. Cannonading opened anew at Hagerstown this morning, amid was kept up briskly until 10 a. in., when it ceased altogether. The march to-day was through fields, by-roads, over hills, through valleys, stopping often to rest, but keeping a close watch on Lees pickets, who, as we advanced, slowly retired. Bivouacked for the night 4 miles this side of Boonsborough, and to the right, on a hill command- ing a good view of the surrounding country. Tuesday morning, Jaly 14.Orders were received from headquar- ters, at ail early hour, to have arms inspected, 40 rounds in cartridge- boxes, and be in readiness at a moments notice, as an engagement was momentarily expected. While all was bustle and preparation, I came up, having been absent from my command Saturday night, July 11, up to Monday, July 13, one day and two nights. Monday, I rode forward accompanied by the surgeon; had to be lifted into the saddle; remained in saddle until 3.30 p. in.; came up with the division while resting in a beautiful grove, 10 miles distant, and near Leitersburg; saw all was moving on properly; passed on ahead 1 mile; stopped at a private house, accompanied by the surgeon, where we remained until 5 oclock the next morning; reason, being too weak and feeble to take command. Tuesday morning, 5 a. in., I was helped into the saddle, and went up to the regiment, where I found them bivouacked upon an open hill in the direction of Boonsbor- ough. Here, on coming up to my regiment, I was cheered, and almost every conceivable expression of joy was manifested. Preparations having been completed, at 9 a. in. news was brought into camp that General Lees army was retreating, and our division was ordered to march forward and join General Meades corps darm~e OIl the center, by way of the Baltimore and Williamsport pike, and in the direction of Williamsport. Line was immediately formed, and we took up line of march at 9.15 a. m. General Knipe, who had been in command of our brigade up to this time, was relieved from dnty. Colonel Yarian, of the Eighth New York National Guard, was placed in command. Arriving at the pike, through the fields, we came in full view of the advance Page 266 2%36 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. portion of the Army of the Potomac. The road was one moving mass of soldiers, some marching to the right, others to the left and front, giving ns to understand that General Meade was preparing to follow up and attack General Lee before he had time to cross the Potomac; bnt, to onr disappointment, and, I may add, chagrin, after we had marched 5 miles from where we started this morning, we changed direction to the right, and, instead of being drawn up in line of battle, as we had anticipated, were marched into a wheat-field, and bivouacked for the afternoon and night, still hoping, and, I may add, praying, that General Meade would attack the rebel lines before morning, so that the New York National Guard might have an opportnnity of showing discipline, courage, and ability side by side with onr veteran brothers in arms, and to the Washington Govern- ment convincing proof that no better troops face the enemy than the New York State troops known as the National Guard. Wednesday morning, July 15.The day opened pleasant. The sun came out scorching hot, and we were all excitement as to what was to be done next, when in came a messenger from General Sniith, announcing General Lees army had crossed the Potomac, and that the emergency in Pennsylvania was over, and promulgating the fol- lowing special orders: HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, In the Field, ]Ilaryland, July 15, 1863. Colonel FORBES, Comdg. Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard: Brig. Gen. John Ewen will take command of all the New York troops in this division, and proceed with them to Frederick City, Md., at which point transporta- tion will be fnrnished them to New York City. In parting with them, the general commanding mnst express his admiration of the conrag~ and fortitnde with which they have stood the toils and privations of their late marches. By order of Brig. Gen. William F. Smith, commanding: PRESTON C. F. WEST, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. Wednesday, July 15.In accordance with the above orders, the division was immediately formed, and we took up line of march for Frederick City, distant 7 miles, at 8.30 a. m. Arriving at Boons- borough, I detailed Lieut. Julius J. Parker, of Company A, to proceed on our back track to Harrisburg, Pa., taking one four-mule team, wagon, tents, camp equipage, & c., and deliver them up to the first United States quartermasters post; then proceed to Harrisburg, col- lect all sick, stragglers, and baggage, and proceed to New York City without delay, orders for transportation having been procured from General Ewen to this effect. In marching on Frederick City, we took the Baltimore pike, through and over the ever-to-be-remembered battle-field of South Mountain, which still retains many landmarks to refresh the memory of that hard-fought and victorions battle under General George B. McClellan, and where remain, no doubt, rifle- pits, shattered trees, broken and useless ordnance, dead horses, mules, and the many mounds where lay our brave, dead soldiers; in fact, perfect desolation and ruin marks the battle-field. The march to-day was very severe, the weather being so excessively hot, the troops weak, and mauy sick, causing many to fall out from exhaustion, to remain by the way, and come up as best they could, many not arriving until next morning. Arrived at Frederick City just before dark; halted a few moments, then marched on toward M onocacy Junction, where we encamped in a grove, or rather ope Page 267 OnAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 2%37 woods, 3~ niiles beyond Frederick, and a half mile this side of the Junction. 1 cannot pass over this days fatigues and hardships with- out mention of the remarkable manner the sick soldiers of my regi- ment stood the march, having only the day before been reported unfit for duty. Much, no doubt, is attributable to the fact of their realiz- ing they were going home. Thursday, July 16.We were obliged to remain encamped all day for want of transportation. I here obtained permission of General Ewen to return by way of Harrisburg, and muster out there, instead of going to New York, General Ewen having telegraphed to New York from this point, and received answer that the city troops would furnish all the military necessary to maintain law and order, the riot having ceased. Here I issued orders to the regimental quartermaster to turn over to the Government post at Frederick City horses, horse equipments complete, all Government stores, excepting two days rations, transportation team, consisting of one four-mule team, wagon, and driver, which was immediately done and properly re- ceipted for. At 7 p. m. I received the following instruction from General Ewen: Colonel FORBES, Commanding Sixty-eighth Regiment: SIR: The New York City troops will leave the Junction for New York City first; your regiment will move last. By order of John Ewen, brigadier-general commanding. Friday morning, July 17.At 8 a. in., ieft Monocacy Junction for Baltimore; arrived at Baltimore about 5 p. in., or rather at the Har- risburg and Baltimore depot. Here again we were detained about three hours for transportation. At 8 p. m. left Baltimore for Har- risburg, arriving at Harrisburg at 7 a. m. Saturday morning, July 18.Reported to adjutant-general. Was instructed to proceed to Camp Curtin, and remain until the return of General Couch, who was expected that day. Marched to Camp Cur- tin, drew rations, and soon had tents pitched, and awaited further orders. Remained in camp until Monday, July 20, when Major- General Couch returned, when we received orders to return all arms, equipments, camp and garrison equipage to the proper departments, and be ready to leave at 8 a. m. July 21, by railroad, for Elmira, N. Y., there to be mustered out of the United States service. This order, I need not say, was received with great joy and satis- faction by the entire regiment, and all were in readiness at the ap- pointed time, with one days rations in haversacks. Tuesday, July 21.We marched to the cars, there to await trans- portation; we took cars at 10 a. in.;, moved over the river, where we were obliged to remain until 3 p. in., waiting for a Pennsylvania regiment to accompany us as far as Scranton. Wednesday morning, July 22.Arrived in Elmira at 8 a. in., the regiment having suffered very much with cold from the miserable open cattle cars in which we rode. I immediately reported to Captain [La Rhett L.] Livingston, mus- tering and disbursing officer at Elmira, where I received orders to march my regiment to Barracks No. 3, for breakfast, and in the after- noon to march over and occupy Buffalo Barracks No. 1 until mustered out. On taking possession of the latter, we found them in a miserable and filthy condition, but they were soon cleaned and made quite coin- fortable. When application was made to Captain Livingston fo Page 268 268 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA.. ETC. [ChAP. XXXIX. I)lank muster-out and pay rolls, also the natural question, when in all probability the time to be mustered out would occur, was informed as soon as the pay and muster-out rolls were completed; thought it might be by Friday or Saturday of that week. This information was communicated to the regiment. Friday and Saturday arrived; mus- ter-Qut rolls not completed; men coming down sick every day; all anxious to get home, together with instructions froni mustering offi- cer that the unifornis were to be deducted from the pay of each soldier, which last question was under controversy and not yet de- cided, all tended to create great uneasiness and dissatisfaction. Thur8day, July 23.I telegraphed Adjt. Gen. J. T. Sprague for instructions, at which date I received the following telegram: ALBANY, July 23, 1863. Colonel FORBES, Elmira: The muster-out and the payment of troops are entirely in the hands of the War Department; report your readiness there. It was understood that the uniforms were not to be paid for. J. T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant-General. The above telegram was shown Captain Livingston, when he re- plied he did not see how ~uch an arrangement could be made, but immediately telegraphed the Secretary of War, at Washington. An- swer was received on Monday, July 27, early in the morning, that Adjutant-General Sprague was correctthe uniforms were to be fur- nished free. The company rolls now had to be made out over again. This was good and cheering news to the regiment, but was not suffi- cient to produce a quieting of the waters. No paymaster had arrived, nor was the prospect very flattering that one would be forthcoming very soon; yet Captain Livingston had received notice from the Pay- master-General that Maj. C. W. Campbell, paymaster U. S. Army, was ordered to Elmira, to pay off the Sixty-eighth Regiment, and would be there during the week Thursday, July 30.3 p. in., rolls having been completed reviewed, and triplicate copies made, the regimeiit was drawn up in column by companies, and the Sixty-eighth Regiment was mustered out of the United States service by Captain Livingston and his assistants. Regiment was wheeled into line; dress parade was gone through with; orders communicated to the officers; parade dismissed. I im- mediately after telegraphed Major-General Randall, at Buffalo, if he had any further orders for the Sixty-eighth Regiment, and soon received the following telegram: BUFFALO, July 30, 1863. Col. D. S. FORBES, Elmira: No orders. I congratulate you on your success; your regiment is highly spoken of. NELSON RANDALL, Major-General, Eighth Division. To go back, before mustering out, I ordered Quartermaster Mullett to collect together all the blankets in the regiment, take account of them, and deliver them over to the military storekeeper, as instructed in orders from Major-General Couch before leaving Harrisburg. Finding the boys had become so much attached to them, and the probability of our having to remain in Elmira for a number of days yet, many being sick, and to sleep in the barracks without coverin Page 269 Oiw. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 269 would be unnecessarily cruel, I called upou Captain Livingston aud inouired if there was not some way to manage the matter so that the boys could retain their blankets. He inquired what condition they were iu. I told him they were iu as good conditiou as any blankets could be that had been slept in on the wet and muddy ground; some were probably torn, snapping them to get the water out when ordered to march; that they had been unavoidably roughly used in dirty coal and cattle cars to sleep in, and were undoubtedly very filthy, and thought the boys ought to keep them. Certain it was, that we did not know how long we would have to wait for a paymaster, if we were mustered out this day, and to deprive the boys of covering during the night was severe and cruel. Captain Livingston ordered the military storekeeper to make an examination of said blankets and report im- mediately. While the inspection was going on, I returned to my quarters, and informed Chaplain Norton of the conversation had with Cap- tain Livingston, and requestbd him to call over to Captain Living- stons quarters, or rather office, await the return of military store- keeper, and, if his views coincided with mine, to put in a word which might assist me in obtaining them. The storekeeper soon returned, and reported them very dirty, and stated they could only be issued by the Government for horse blankets, and said Colonel Forbes description of them was correct. Chaplain Norton then asked, as a special favor, that the regiment be allowed to keep the blankets. Whereupon Captain Livingston instructed Chaplain Norton to in- form Colonel Forbes that he could take possession of them and return them to his regiment. The chaplain, however, immediately repaired to the barracks, informed the boys he had succeeded in getting their blankets back, and had come to say to them they might go and take them, whereupon he was loudly cheered. I should not have given this blanket transaction one thought, nor mentioned it in this report, were it not for a false impression in circulation, going to show that I did not look well to the comfort and care of my regiment, which I think cannot justly be said. At 4 p. m. a telegram was received by Captain Livingston from U. S. Paymaster Campbell, stating he could not be at Elmira before the latter part of next week, to pay off the Sixty-eighth Regiment. This news caused the regiment to almost mutiny. At 5 oclock I called upon Captain Livingston, reported the disaffection going on in the regiment in consequence of being thus detained, having already been in Elmira nine days; that I had no arms to enforce discipline, and that trouble was brewing if transportation was not furnished, and asked to be paid off at Fredonia. This proposition was not en- tertained at first, but, on reflection, Captain Livingston concluded if transportation could be obtained, and I would give my guarantee that there should not be any charge to the Government for subsist- ence, he would furnish th~ order for transportation, and we might leave, and be paid off at Fredonia at such time as Paymaster Camp- bell should select, which I readily agreed to. I immediately called upon General Superintendent Minot, of the Erie Railway, who agreed to furnish cars and transportation to Dunkirk at any time I should say, and a special train at that. Having concluded the arrangement, the time selected was 3.40 a. m. I obtained order for transportation, sent Lieutenant-Colonel Swift to notify the regiment, and detailed him with Major [Wilfred W. I Barker to have the regiment at the depot at 2 a. in., in readiness to proceed to Dunkirk. Left Elmira a Page 270 270 N. C~, VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX.. 3.40 a. in., and arrived at Dunkirk at 10 a. m. of July 31, 1863, with every man, I am happy to say, that went away with the Sixty-eighth Regimenta miracle almost, when you take into consideration the time of the year and the hardships and privations the regiment passed through. The regiment was paid off August 10, 1863, at Fredonia, by Pay- master Campbell. Nor can I conclude this report without expressing the obligations I am placed under by my associate field, commissioned, and non-coin- missioned staff officers, together with the line officers, who, although new and inexperienced, discharged their duties with marked ability and the hardships of the campaign with courage and fortitude. It would also afford me great pleasure to particularize in the differ- ent companies several non-commissioned officers and privates, who, from their courage and good behavior, won my admiration, but time will not permit. Especial mention is, however, made of Quarter- master John C. Mullett, Surgeon [Thomas D.] Strong, and Chaplain [Samuel H.] Norton, for their valuable services rendered during the entire campaign. Permit me to hope the conduct of the Sixty-eighth Regiment New York State National Guard was such that, should another emergency require their assistance, they mny have gained the confidence of the Commander-in-Chief sufficiently to receive his first attention. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. S. FORBES, Col., Corndg. 68th Regt. New York State National Guard. His Excellency HORATIO SEYMOUR, Governor State of New York. No. 418. Report of Got. Watson A. Fox, Seventy-fourth Regiment New York State National Guard, of operations June 19August 3, including the Draft Riots. HDQRS. 74TH REGT. NEW YORK STATE NATIONAL GUARD, Buffalo, September 10, 1863. GENERAL: In compliance with your order of the 8th instant, issued in accordance with an order of His Excellency Governor Seymour, dated June 17, I have the honor to submit the following report con- cerning the part taken by the Seventy-fourth Regiment, under my command, in repelling the late rebel raid into Pennsylvania, in obe- dience to orders from general headquarters, dated Albany, June 16, 1863, and promulgated to me Thursday, June 18: In compliance with such orders, I immediately ordered my com- mand to assemble at the State arsenal at 7 oclock the following morn- ing, June 19, for the purpose of proceeding to Harrisburg, Pa., in accordance with your orders. The line was formed at 9 oclock, with seven companies, 374 officers and men, without arms or accouterments, in the midst of an immense assemblage of citizens. We took up our line of march, preceded by the Sixty-fifth Regiment~ Col. Jacob Krett- ner, for the New York and Erie Railroad, and, in company with that regiment, embarked oji the cars, and took our departure from Bu Page 271 Ciw~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. falo at 10 a. m. We took with us 1,500 cooked rations, issued by Capt. Sheldon Sturgeon, U. S. Army, mustering and disbursing officer. Prior to leaving Baffalo, I ordered my adjutant, James M. John- son, with Lieut. Elisha T. Smith, to remain, for the purpose of yro viding for the sending forward of Company R, cavalry, Capt. A ex- ander Sloan, who were ordered to remain until the day following, as oiily about half of his command had assembled, and Company I, Capt. George B. Knight, of Akron, who could not join us on so short notice, it being impossible to get orders to his command until after we had left; also for the purpose of making the necessary provision for sending to the regiment such members as were unable to leave with us, but would follow soon after. We arrived in Harrisburg on Saturday, 20th instant, at 4 p. m. I immediately reported to Major- General Couch, commanding the Department of the Susquehanna, and was ordered to Camp Curtin, distant about 2 miles, to report to Colonel Beaver, commanding the camp, where we arrived at 5 p. in.; reported; drew wall tents, and encamped. Sundcty, 2lst.Our quartermaster, Clark Dodge, drew two days rations, and the day was spent in cleaning up and gettiig our camp in order, it having rained heavily throughout the night, completely flooding the camp. Monday, 22d.I drew from U. S. Quartermasters Department uniforms for 4-50 men, together with camp equipage. and froni U. S. Ordnance Department 450 Springfield rifled muskets, in very bad order; not one musket in order, having been used by nine-months~ Pennsylvania Volunteers. The day was spent in issuing uniforms to the men aid packing up their cast-off clothing, which was re- turned to Buffalo. Company R, cavalry, Capt. Alexander Sloan, with 40 officers and men, arrived at 12 in., and were immediately quartered in camp. Major-General Couch informed me that it would not be possible for the Government to furnish horses for the company, and he would be under the necessity of ordering their re- turn. Upon acquainting Captain Sloan of the facts, he informed me that his company would be unwilling to return, and, if permitted to remain, would serve as infantry, whereupon I ordered necessary uniforms, arms, and accouterments to be issued to his command; and, upon consultation with Major-General Couch, he approved of my action, and paid a deserved compliment to Captain Sloan and his command, and desired them to remain. Tuesday, 23d.Company I, Capt. George B. Knight, with 41 offi- cers and men, arrived, and were quartered in camp. Clothing was immediately issued to the company. I also issued arms and accou- terments to my entire command. To-day and the day following were spent in cleaning up our muskets and accoutermeiits, and put- ting them in order. Camp Curtin was under the command of Col- onel Beaver, to whom we were under many obligations for his kind attention to all our wants, and the gentlemanly and soldierly treat- ment received at his hands. We are also indebted to Captain Ball, his gentlemanly assistant, for many favors received from him. There were 12,000 soldiers in camp, each commandant regulating his own camp, and establishing his own camp guard, without ref er- ence to any other regiment. Wednesday, 24th.His Excellency Governor Curtin, in company with Colonel Beaver, paid us a visit, and complimented me highly ~ipon the appearan~~ of my command, pronouncing onr Camp th Page 272 272 N. C., VA., XV. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ciw. XXXIX. cleanest, best laid out and regulated on the ground, and the regi- ment the best disciplined and best appearing of any among the troops in camp. I thanked His Excellency for the compliment paid us, and believe that I had just cause to feel proud of the appearance of my command. Thursday, 25th.Having been placed in command of the Thirty- first Brigade, comprising the Sixty-fifth and Seventy-fourth Regi- ments, Colonel Krettner, of the Sixty-fifth, having returned to Buffalo on account of sickness in his family, I received an order from Majoi~- General Couch to proceed the following day, at 9 a. ni., to Mount Union, Pa., there to report to Col. J. W. Hawley, Twenty-ninth Penn- sylvania, commanding the post. Friday, 26th.The brigade, under my command, left Harrisburg by the Pennsylvania Central Railroad at 2 p. in., and arrived at Mount Union, distant 86 miles from Harrisburg, at 7p. in., where I reported to Colonel Hawley, and encamped for the night. Saturday, June 27.J ordered five companies of the Sixty-fifth Regiment, under command of Lieut. Col. William F. Berens, com- manding the regiment, about 5 miles distant, to Bells Mills, near the Juniata River, there to establish his headquarters and picket the country in that region, and to protect the fords of the river. The remaining two companies of that regiment, Company A, Captain See- ber, and Company B, Capt. Louis Krettner, I sent to guard a bridge across the Blue Juniata, about 2 miles distant~ also the Pennsylvania Canal and locks to the village of Mapleton, about 4 miles distant. Three companies of the Seventy-fourth Regiment were, immediately on our arrival at Mount Union, sent out on picket at different points, distant from 2 to 4 miles, the remaining six companies held as a re- serve at Mount Union. This number ont during our stay, then re- lieved every two days until July 5. Mount Union is 86 miles from Harrisburg, on the Pennsylvania Central Railroad, which crosses the Blue Juniata River by a bridge costing over $1,000,000. The aque- dnct of the Pennsylvania Canal also crosses this river at the same point. These structures were threatened by the enemy. and their destruction would have cut off all communication betv~ cen Pittsburgh and Harrisburg; hence this place was held to be very important, an(l the utmost vigilance enjoined to guard it, and at the same time avoid surprise from the enemy, on the alert, and all about us. Mount Union was occupied by the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Militia, Col. J. W. Hawley, who was in command of the post, and one company ot cavalry, nuder the command of Captain [B. Mortimer] Morrow. Immediately on our arrival, five companies of the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania were ordered to Orbisonia, Pa., about 30 miles distant. Colonel Hawley had two brash 12-pounders sent to him by Major- General Couch, one of which was manned by picked men from my command, and placed in command of Private Edward M. Allen. an experienced artillerist and member of Company C. We were joined at Mount Union by our worthy chaplain, Rev. G. W. Heacock, D. D., and about 60 men sent to us by Adjutant [James M.i Johnson and Lient. Elisha T. Smith. It would be difficult to enumerate all the duties my regiment performed while at Mount Union; officers and men were constantly on duty. No regiment could have done more or better under the circumstances. A generous spirit of rivalry pervaded the regiment as to who should be most active in the per- formance of duty. July 2.At 7 p. in. Colonel Hawley received a telegram fro Page 273 CHAP. XXXIX.1 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGY. 2Z3 McConnellsbnrg, notifying him that an iron strncture known as Mill Creek railroad bridge was threatened by the enemy, and that its de- strnction was anticipated that night by 500 of Imbodens cavalry. This bridge crosses the Juniata River 6 miles from Mount Union. We had abont 400 men in camp, all told. On consultation with Colonel Hawley, it was determined that I should make the advance and defend the bridge with 150 men; wherenpon Company D, Capt. George M. Baker, and Company A, Lient. John C. Nagel, with 50 men each, were detailed for this dnty, and, nnder my command, left Mount Union at 9 p. m. I was accompanied in this expedition by Maj. Charles J. Wing and Snrg. Jacob Whittaker, of the Seventy- fonrth Regiment. Onr route was by the bridge guarded by Com- pany A, Sixty-fifth Regiment, and Major Wing was sent in advance, with orders to detach 25 men, under command of Lient. Henry Ru- dolph, from that company, to join us; also to go on to the village of Mapleton, and call in the pickets of Company B, Sixty-fifth Regi- ment, Capt. Louis Krettner, which company joined us at that place. I was joined at Mapleton and vicinity by 20 farmers, who volunteered their services as axmen. There were four roads or p asses leading over the mountains, through Bear Valley, to this bridge, and I de- cided to blockade these roads in the narrow passes in the mountains. Major Wing was sent with Captain Krettners company 1 mile north of Mapleton, with instructions to blockade and defend Mill Creek road. I then moved on about 2 miles farther, and posted Company D, Captain Baker, in Bear Valley Pass; about one-half mile south- east, I posted 25 men of Company A, under command of Lieutenant Nagel; in another pass, one-half mile distant from this point, and half a mile higher up the mountain, were posted 25 men of Company A, under command of Lient. William Bean. All of these points were the narrowest in the passes, barely sufficient for 4 horsemen to ride abreast, and easily defended. All the roads were blockaded by fell- ing trees across theni; trees were also cut nearly off at different points 500 yards in advance, and axmen stationed to fell them as soon as this enemy should pass, thus blockading them in. Men were also stationed on the upper side of the roads and on the sides of the mount- ain between the two points, prepared to meet them. It was impossi- ble for a horseman to ride up or down the mountain on either side of the roads. I held 20 men, under command of Lieut. Henry Ru- dolph, of the Sixty-fifth Regiment, at a convenient point as a reserve. These dispositions were concluded at 1 a. m. July 3.At 2 a. m. 500 of Imbodens rebel cavalry appeared near Bear Valley Pass, within 600 yards of the barricade, and immediately retreated, probably notified by their spies of the reception prepared for them. Having left Mount Union in great haste, we were unpro- vided with rations, but the farmers in the vicinity brought us suffi- cient in the morning. We remained there until 12 m. of the 3d, when we fell back to Mount Union, where we arrived at 2 p. in., the distance being 7 miles. Saturday, July 4.The regiment was this day mustered into the United States service by Lient. William F. Fulton, Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania, appointed by Major-General Couch for that purpose, for thirty days from June 19. Herewith I hand you a roster of my officers and muster-rolls of the several companies of my command. The day was duly cele- brated by the companies of the Seventy-fourth in camp, and by a dinner given by the officers, at which were present Qolonel Hawley 18 R R-VOL XXVII, PT I Page 274 274 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [O~w.. XXXIX. and his field and staff officers as invited guests. The utmost good cheer and good feeling prevailed throughout the day among officers and men. During our stay at Mount Union, we were constantly active, doing picket and provost-guard duty. Our pickets captured, at sundry times, 58 prisoners from Lees army, who were sent to Major-General Couch, at Harrisburg. Several reconnaissances were made by Col- onel Hawley and myself, and by myself and officers, with, of course, some degree of profit in gaining a knowledge and familiarity with the topography of the country in that vicinity. July 2.I received from the Buffalo Board of Trade $500, and from General Henry L. Lansing $100, generously donated and placed in my hands to be disbnrsed for the benefit of the brigade; but for this timely donation my command would have suffered greatly in its subsequent marches, Government not providing at all times ade- quate transportation and subsistence. July 3.My quartermaster, Clark Dodge, a valuable man in that department, was ordered by the chief quartermaster of the Depart- ment of the Susquehanna to report, with 5 competent men, at Har- risburg, for duty in that department. Five men were accordingly detailed, and he left with them on the 5th instant. Quartermaster- Sergeant S. Fred. Hartman performed the duties of quartermaster to my entire satisfaction until we were rejoined by Quartermaster Dodge, at Harrisburg, July 15. July 5.At 3 p. in., Colonel Hawley received a telegram from Major-General Couch, at Chambersburg, ordering three companies of the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania and the Seventy-fourth Regiment New York National Guard, to move immediately for Chambersburg, with three days cooked rations in our haversacks. At 6 p. in. we left Mount Union with three companies of the Twenty-ninth Penn- sylvania, under command of Col. J. W. Hawley, with one days rations, not being able to get any more, as the Government had no more rations at this place, and took the Shirley road for Chambers- burg. Our route led through Shirleysburg, Fannettsburg, Shade Gap, Burnt Cabins, to London, distant 52 miles from Mount Union, where we arrived July 7, at 6 p. in., and encamped. Colonel Haw- ley reported to Major-General Couch, by telegraph, at Chambers- burg. In the meantime, General Couch telegraphed Colonel Pierce, who was at London, in command of the remains of General Milroys division, instructing him to order us to Clear Spring, Md. When we arrived at London, we were entirely out of rations, and were only able to draw half a ration of hard-tack for three days. We left London July 8, at 4 p. in., and arrived at Mercersburg, 7 miles) at 7 p. in., where we encamped for the night. July 9.At 6 a. in. left Mercersburg, and arrived in Bear Val- ley, within 2 miles of. Clear Spring, at 2 p. in., where we encamped, distant from London 26 miles. When at London ~we were joined by Captain [Nathaniel] Paynes company of cavalry, of Milroys division. July 10.At 8 a. in., leaving the regiment, with the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania, in camp, Colonel Hawley and myself, with the ad- vance guard of cavalry, under command of Captain Payne, made a reconnaissance toward Clear Spring, ascertaining the position and strength of the enemy. At 10 a. m. I returned, and, with my com- mand and the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania, broke camp and moved forward. Arriving within half a mile of Clear Spring, Colone Page 275 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 2Z5 Hawley rode up and informed me that Captain Paynes cavalry were at this moment having a skirmish with 500 rebel cavalry Colonel Hawley took his command and made a ddour to the left, while I moved forward at donble-qnick with my command, leaving the baggage train and gnard in command of Major Wing. Arriving at the Boonsborongh road, where the skirmish was in progress, the enemy made a precipitate retreat. Three of Captain Paynes com- mand were severely wounded, one of whom died the following day. Four of the enemy were wounded, and a rebel majors horse was shot from under him. We encamped by a spring in the woods, 1 mile distant from the village and from the summit of the mountain called Fairview. On our arrival at Clear Spring, we were entirely out of rations, and were generously supplied by the citizens of the town, a portion of which was paid for by the colonel. We scertained that Lees army had just arrived at Williamsport. ~ miles distant, and (before the completion of the pontoon bridges) had commenced crossing the Potomac in boats, at the rate of three teams an hour. We also ascertained that Lees pontoons were built with old canal- boats and pieces of houses an~ lumber. The rebel General Imbo- den, and 10,000 cavalry, infantry, and artillery, were encamped within 2~ miles. From the summit of Fairview, Williamsport and a portion of the rebel forces were plainly discernible. I posted four companies of my command on picket, and kept that number out dur- ing our stay at the Spring, and the greatest vigilance was exercised to guard against a surprise, having been ordered here to hold and guard this pass (Boonsborough pike), Clear Spring, and Fairview, until the arrival of General Kelleys division, which took place dur- ing the night of the 11th July, and, early on the morning of the 12th, General Kelley posted a battery on the summit of Fairv~ew and below, near the village of Clear Spring, and coinmenced shelling Im- boden on the morning of the 12th. On the 12th, Capt. Hugh Swan captured a rebel major and captain, who were not three hours from Lees headquarters. They were sent under guard to Major-General Couch, at Chambersburg. Sunday morning, July 12.Colonel Hawley received a dispatch from Colonel Pierce, at London, ordering the Twenty-ninth Pennsyl- vania Regiment and my command to proceed immediately to London, as that division was to leave that morning to join General Kelleys division at Clear Spring. We left at 7 a. in., and arrived at Mercers- burg at 6 p. in., where we encamped for the night. At this place I detached Company G, Capt. Harry Kester, who remained at Mer- cersburg as provost guard. July 18.At 6 a. m. left Mercersburg, and, when about 1 mile dis- tant from this place, met Colonel Pierce, with Milroys division, on his way to Clear Spring; arrived at London at 10 a. in., and encamped. Colonel Hawley reported by telegraph to Major-General Couch at Chambersburg. Tuesday, July 14.At 5 p. in., while inspecting my command, Colonel Hawley received a telegram from Major-General Couch, or- dering me to report with my command to Major-General Wool, in New York City, with all possible dispatch. Major Wing was sent to Mercersburg, with orders to follow with Company G, Captain Kester, and join us as soon as possible. Government not being able to fur- nish transportation, Lieutenant-Colonel Seely, Surg. Jacob Whit- taker, and Quartermaster-Sergeant Hartman were left to hire teams ~nd bring on our camp equipage. Left London at 8 p. in., and ~ Page 276 276 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. rived at Chambersburg, 15 miles, at 2 a. m. July 15, whore we rested on a muddy sidewalk until 6 a. in., when we took up our line of march, and arrived at Shippensburg, 12 miles from Loudon, at 12 m. Left Shippensburg at 2 p. in., and arrived at Harrisburg at 5 p. m. same day, where we were joined by Lient. Clark Dodge, quartermaster, and his assistants, and Lieut. E. T. Smith, from Buffalo; changed cars at Harrisburg, taking the road via Reading, Allentown, and Easton, for New York City, where we arrived July 17, at 10 a. in.; marched up Broadway and to Centre Market, the armory of Eighth Regiment New York National Guard, where we arrived at 1 p. m. I immedi- ately reported to Major-General Wool, who ordered me to report to Brig. Gen. Harvey Brown, 300 Mulberry street, which I did at 2p. m. At 3 p. m. General Brown ordered the following disposition of my command: Company A, Lieut. John C. Nagel, and Company E, Capt. William Clingen, were ordered to Hotchkiss shell factory, Seven- teenth street; Company B, Capt. Theodore D. Barnum, at gas-works, Twenty-third street; Company C, Capt. John U. Wayland, and Com- pany R, Capt. Alexander Sloan, to Atlantic Dock, Brooklyn; Com- pany D, Capt. George M. Baker, to Fort Richmond; Company F, Capt. Hugh Sloan, to Forts Hamilton and Lafayette; Company I, Capt. George B. Knight, to Jersey City, to report to the mayor. Late in the evening of the 18th instant, Company G, Capt. Harry Kester, arrived, and was ordered to join Captain Knight, at Jersey City. Various dispositions were made of the several companies re- maining in the city during their stay, and active participation in the suppression of the rioters. They received high compliments from General Brown for their efficiency, good discipline, and faithful per- formance of all the duties assigned them. July 19.Company A, Lieut. John C. Nagel, and Company B, Capt. Theodore D. Barnum, were sent up the Hudson River, stop- ping at all places on the way, to Sing Sing, returning to New York City 21st instant, performing important duty at these several points in quelling riots. July 19.General Brown was relieved by General Canby, who, on the 21st instant, ordered me to proceed with my command to Buffalo. We left New York at 6 p. m. this day, on special train, via Hudson River road, arriving in Albany 22d instant, at 12 in., being detained by the washing away of a culvert on the road. At Albany we were generously furnished with refreshments sent to the depot by Messrs. Paige & Dawson. Left Albany at 3 p. in., and arrived at Buffalo at 10 a. in., July 23, when we met with a magnificent reception, the citizens turning out en rnas8e, crowding the streets to such an extent that it was with the utmost difficulty we were able to get through them. We were escorted to the State arsenal by the Union Conti- nentals, Lieut. Asher P. Nichols; Sixty-fifth Regiment New York State National Guard, Lient. Col. William F. Berens; Eagle Hose, No. 2; Neptune Hose, No. 5; Columbia Hose, No. 11; Lansing Zouaves, and Ellsworth Guard, escort preceded by Union Cornet Band, the Sev- enty-fourth by Millers Band and drum corps. At the State arsenal we were welcomed, on behalf of the city, by Alderman Charles E. Beck- with, mayor pro tempore, in a neat and appropriate speech, which was responded to by the colonel, after which, in the arsenal drill- room, we partook of a bountiful collation prepared and tendered by the ladies of Buffalo. We remained on duty at the State arsenal from this date until August 3, when we were mustered out by Capt. sheldon Sturgeon, First Infantry, U. S. Army, mustering and di Page 277 Ow.~p. XXXIX.] TWE (i-VTTYSBUI~G CAMI~AIGX. 277 bursing officer. While being mustered out of the service of the United States, an order was placed in my hand from the mayor pro tempore, calling us into the service of the city, for the purpose of preserving the public peace during the impending draft. We en- tered at once upon this duty, and were relieved August 22. During our absence, and while in command of the brigade, the command of the regiment devolved upon Lieut. Col. Walter G. Seely. To this officer, as well as Maj. Charles J. Wing, and my staff and line officers, too much praise aiid credit cannot be accorded for their faithful attention to duty, and readiness to second me in every effort to render my command efficient and acceptable to my superiors. I cannot close this without a just and deserved tribute to the men, who, at an hours notice, left their homes and friends, business pur- suits and pleasures, and, throughout this campaign, were ever ready to perform any duty, however arduous, without a murmur or com- plaint. My regiment is made up for the most part of middle-aged and young men, engaged in active business pursuits, and the personal sacrifices made by them cannot be estimated, and are not appreciated by the community. I am happy to say they were cheerfully made from conviction of duty, and would as cheerfully be made again when occasion requires it, from the same patriotic conviction. I am proud of my regiment, and esteem it an honor to command such a body of soldiers, who, by their strict devotion to duty, have reflected so much credit upon themselves, their noble city, and the State which they so faithfully represent. For the purpose of encouraging this spirit, I beg to suggest that the State troops responding to the late order should be awarded some testimonial of appreciation of their patriot- ism and self-sacrificing spirit of devotion to the call of duty. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WATSON A. FOX, Gol., Uomdg. 74th Regt. New York National Guard. Maj. Gen. NELSON RANDALL, Comdg. Eighth Division, New York National Guard. No. 419. Report of Col. Jacob G. Frick, Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania 2diilitia, of operations June 2430. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF LANCASTER COUNTY, Columbia, Pa., July 1, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with Gen- eral Orders, No. 14, from the Department of the Susquehanna, Ileft Harrisburg on the morning of the 24th ultimo, and arrived here on the afternoon of the same day, and immediately sent four companies, in command of Lieutenant-Colonel Green, over the river. On the morning of the 25th ultimo, I sent four more companies to that officer, with instructions to take up a position near the York turnpike, about a half mile from Wrightsville. Hearing, on the afternoon of the 27th, that the enemy were in the vicinity of York, I ordered my two remaining companies to report to Lieutenant-Colonel Green, that we might be prepared to resist any sudden attempt by the enemy to get possession of the bridge at this point Page 278 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. tOHAP. XXXIX. Late in the evening of the same day, I crossed the river, assumed command, and disposed my force for defense. During the night, our force was increased by four companies from Columbia (three white and one colored), numbering about 175 men. Very early next morning, having obtained intrenching tools from citizens of Columbia and the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, my own men and the negro company (th e other three companies from Columbia having left for their homes) dug rifle-pits on either side of the turnpike. During the morning, a detachment of convalescent soldiers from York, and the Patapsco Guards, in all about 250 men, joined me, and they were posted on the left of the town, protecting the left flaRk of my position. They were placed under command of Lieutenant- Colonel Green. We were also joined by scattered fragments of the Twentieth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, under Lieu- tenant-Qolonel Sickles, during the morning, which I posted on the right of the town as a protection to the right flank. The work of intrenching was continued until the approach and attack of the enemy, about 5.30 p. in., and, while the work was in progress, I selected, with the assistance of Major Haller, aide-de- camp to the commanding general, the several points at which to post my limited number of men. The main body of the enemy, about 2,500 strong, composed of cav- alry, artillery, and infantry, took up their position about 6 p. m. on the turnpike in our immediate front, and within three-quarters of a mile of our rifle-pits. A force of cavalry and infantry moved down the railroad on our left and attacked our skirmishers, who, after re- plying to their fire for a sbort time, retired to the main body, which kept up a steady fire, and held the enemy in check until they received orders to retire to the bridge. The rebels succeeded in getting a battery in position on the elevated ground on our right and a section in our immediate front. These guns were used most vigorously against those of my command occupying the rifle-pits. In the meantime, they sent a column of infantry, under cover of a high hill on our right, within a few hundred yards of the river. None but their skirmishers approached within range of the guns of the men occupying the rifle-pits, and these being in a grain-field, and obscured from our view, excepting when they would rise to fire, it was difficult to do theni much harm or dislodge them. They depended exclusively upon their artillery to drive us from our position here. Having no artillery ourselves on that side of the river with which to reply, and after retaining our position for about one and a quarter hours, and discovering that our remaining longer would enable the enemy to reach the river on both of my flanks, which I was unable to prevent because of the small number of men under my command, and thus get possession of the bridge, cut off our retreat, and secure a crossing of the Susquehaulla, which I was instructed to prevent, I retired in good order, and crossed the bridge to the Lancaster side. Before the enemy had left York for the river here, I made, as I sup- posed, every necessary arrangement to blow up one span of the Co- lumbia Bridge. When they got within sight, the gentlemen charged with the execution of that work repaired promptly to the bridge, and commenced sawing off the arches and heavy timbers preparatory to blowing it up with powder, which they had arranged for that purpose. After an abundance of time was allowed, and after I supposed every man of my command was over the river, and when the enemy ha Page 279 Ca~m XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBL~RG CAMPAIGN. 279 entered the town with his artillery, and reached the barricade at the bridge-head, I gave the order to light the fuse. The explosion took place, but our object in blowing up the bridge failed. It i~~as then that I felt it to be my duty, in order to prevent the enemy from crossing the river and marching on to Harrisburg in the rear, de- stroying on his route railroads and bridges, to order the bridge to be set on fire. The bridge was completely destroyed, though a vigorous attempt was made to save a part by the soldiers I was materially assisted in my operations by Captain Strickler, who had charge of a small force of cavalry, acting as scouts. I feel indebted to him for much reliable information as to the movements and force of the enemy. Major [Charles C.] Haldeman, formerly of the Twenty-third Regi- ment Pennsylvania Volunteers, volunteered his services, and ren- dered me very efficient aid. Lieutenant-Colonel [David B.] Green, who had charge of the left flank of the position, with a force of 250 men, and Major [George L.] Fried, who took charge of the left wing of the Twenty-seventh Regi- ment Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, behaved with accustomed coolness and gallantry, and brought off their forces in most excellent order. Great praise is due to Captain [Joseph] Oliver, Company D, Twenty- seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, commanding a body of skir- mishers of about 70 men, for the skillfulness and boldness with which he handled his men. The officers and men of my command generally did their whole duty. Before closing this report, justice compels me to make mention of the excellent conduct of the company of negroes from Columbia. After working industriously in the rifle-pits all day, when the fight commenced they took their guns and stood up to their work bravely. They fell back only when ordered to do so. I herewith inclose a list of casualties. * The prisoners taken18 in numberwere all from the Twen- ti~th Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, including Lieutenant-Colonel [William H.] Sickles, of that regiment. From information received since the engagement, I feel convinced that if my orders had been promptly obeyed, no prisoners would have been taken. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JACOB G. FRICK, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. ROBERT LE Roy, Asst. A5~jt. Gen., Department of the Susquehanna. No. 420. Report of lila]. Gen. Robert H. liuulroy, U. S. Army, of skirmish at Me Connellsburg, Pa. BLOODY RUN, June 26, 1863. GENERAL: Major Adams, with detachment of First New York Cavalry, charged strong picket of enemy yesterday at McConnells * Nominal list, omitted, shows 9 enlisted men wounded Page 280 280 X. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. burg, and drove them into town, creating great commotion in a large force of the enemy, mostly infantryabout 2,000. Counted a train of twenty-four wagons, and three camps of Sibley and wall tents; section of artillery. Scouts on Hancock road ran in enemys pickets on Sidling Hill Creek, and observed camps. Citizens said there were eighteen coni- panies of infantry, and column of cavalry a mile long, 8 miles this side of Hancock. I would feel much better if I had necessary supplies and artillery. Why are the latter delayed? R. H. MJLROY, Major-General. Major-General COUCH. No. 421. Report of Col. Lewis B. Pierce, Twelfth Pennsylvanic~ Cavalry, of skirmish near Greencastle, Pa. MERcERSBURG, July 5, 1863. Before receipt of your dispatch of this date, I sent 200 select cav- alry of First New York and Twelfth Pennsylvania, in command of Captain Jones, First New York Cavalry, in the direction of Will- iamsport. He captured near Greencastle 100 wagons, 3 pieces of artillery, and 500 prisoners. The enemy attempted a rescue, but were repulsed. Enemy lost considerably. Our loss, 1 killed and 3 wounded. Will report fully to-morrow. Most of my infantry here. L. B. PIERCE, Colonel, Commanding. Major-General COUCH. No. 422. Reports of Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army, command ing Department of West Virginia, of operations July 820. HANCOCK, July 8, 186311 p. m. The telegraph line has been repaired along the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad west from this place, and is in working order. I sent to-day a company of cavalry (Captain Greenfield) to McCoys Ferry and Clear Spring, on a scouting expedition. He pursued and attacked a supply train of fifteen wagons within 4 miles of Williamsport, cap- tured 2 officers, 20 men guarding train, and 60 mules. Was forced to leave the wagons behind. Several of the enemy killed and wounded. Captain Greenfield had 3 men wounded and 3 horses killed. B. F. KELLEY, Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Brigadier-General. Assistant Adjutant-General Page 281 CHAP. XXXIXJ THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 281 CHERRY RUN, VA., July 17, 18637 p. m. After great labor, I have succeeded in crossing my troops. I had only two or three small flat-boats. The river is high and current very rapid, which renders the passage both difficult and dangerous, yet we have lost neither man nor horse. I sent a cavalry scout to North Mountain Station this morning. A short distance beyond the. station, on the Martinsburg road, they surprised a rebel cavalry com- pany and captured 17 prisoners, pursuing the balance to within 3 miles of Martinsburg. The prisoners represent that Hamptons bri- gade is in or near Martinsburg. Heavy firing was heard by us yes- terday in that direction. Will you please advise me where it was, if you have been informed? My advance occupies North Mountain Station. The telegraph wire repaired to-day, and in working order to that point. I will move forward with my whole force as soon as I can get my transportation across the river. I have had the canal repaired from Cumberland to Hancock, and we are getting our sup- plies as far east as the latter place by canal. The railroad company are progressing rapidly with the repairs of the road east of Cumber- land. I think the road will be open for trade and travel as far east as Martinsburg in ten days. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CHERRY RUN, VA., July 18, 1863. I have just returned from Hedgesville. My cavalry had a brisk skirmish this p. in. with enemy between Hedgesville and Martins- burg. Another detachment captured this a. in., on Back Creek, forage train of General Loads [Rodes?] command, which is encamped near Bunker Hill. Lee is reported there also. I have ordered General Averell to advance to-morrow as far as Martinsburg, and, if enemy is not found too strong; to drive him out. Will you please advise me if your information regarding Lees army is in accordance with mine, as I desire to be cautious with my small force? B.. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. The ADJUTANT-GENERAL. BACK CREEK, VA., July 20, 1863. General Averell advanced yesterday toward Martinsburg. A few miles this side of town he encountered pickets of Hamptons brigade, which occupies the town. In obedience to my orders not to bring on a general engagement, lest Ewell should come to Hamptons support, General Averell fell back slowly and cantiously, pursued by the enemy, until he reached infantry and artillery posted at Hedgesville, when he turned and drove him back, killing and wounding several men and horses and capturing about 20 prisoners. Our casualties were 6 men wounded. All quiet this morning. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. Brigadier-General CULLUM, Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C Page 282 282 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MI),, PA., ETC. ~CHAP. XXXIX. No. 423. Medals of Honor for battle of Gettysburg. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN. S OFFICE, No. 91. Washington, July 29, 1862. I. The following resolutions, acts, and extracts from acts of Con- gress are published for the information of all concerned: * * * * * * * 1.PUBLIC RESOLUTION. No. 43.A RESOLUTION to provide for the presentation of medals of honor to the enlisted men of the army and volunteer forces who have distinguished or may distinguish themselves in hattie during the present rehellion. Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States be, and he is hereby, authorized to cause two thousand medals of honor to be prepared, with suitable emblematic devices, and to direct that the same be presented, in the name of Congress, to such non-commissioned officers and privates as shall most distin guish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other soldierlike qualities, during the present insurrection. And that the sum of ten thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise ap- propriated, for the purpose of carrying this resolution into effect. Approved July 12, 1862. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant A ~ntant- General. BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG. Fourteenth Connecticut.Sergt. Maj. William B. links, capture of flag of Fourteenth Tennessee; Private Elijah W. Bacon, Company F, capture of flag of Sixteenth North Carolina; Corpi. Christopher Flynn, Company K, Capture of flag of Fifty-second North Carolina. One hundred and twenty-sixth New Yorlc.Capt. Morris Brown, jr., capture of flag; Private Jerry Wall, Company B, Capture of flag; Sergt. George H. Dore, Company D, capture of flag. Seventy-first Pennsylvania.Private John E. Clopp, Company F, capture of flag of Ninth Virginia. Seventh Wisconsin.Sergt. Jefferson Coates, Company H, gal- lantry in action. Sixth Wiscon.sin.Corpl. Francis A. Waller, Company I, capture of flag ot Twentleth Mlsslsslppl. Nineteenth assachnsetts. Corpl. Joseph H. De Costro, Company I, capture of flag of Nineteenth Virginia ; Sergt. Benjamin F. Falls, Company A, capture of flag; Sergt. Benjamin H. Jellison, Company C, capture of flag of Fifty-fonrthVirginia; Private John Robinson, Company I, capture of flag of Fifty-seventh Virginia. First Delaware.Private John B. Mayberry, Company F, capture of flag; Private Bernard McCarren, Company C, cal)ture of flag. Eighth Ohio.Sergt. John Miller, Company G, capture of two flags (Thirty fourth ~ orth C~ rolina and Thirty-eighth Virginia); Private James Richmond, Company F, capture of flag. Twentieth indtana Private Oliver P. Rood, Company B, capture of flag of Tw eutv fri st North Carolina. First Jiiin nesota Piivate Marshall Sherman, Company C, capture of flag of Fitti eiehth Virginia. First Peni~sytvan~a Rifies.Sergt. James B. Thompson, Company G, capture of lao of Fifteenth Georgia. Fifty-ninth Aew Yorlc.Sergt. James Wiley, Company B, capture of a flag of a G~org~a regiment Page 283 Cii~p. XXXIX1 TifF GETTYSBURG CAMPATcTN, 283 No. 424. Organization of the Army of Northern Virginia at the battle of Gettysburg, July 13. FIRST ARMY CORPS. Lieut. Gen. JAMES LONGsTREET. MLAWS DIVISION. Maj. Gen. LAFAYETTE McLAwS. Kershaws Brigade. Semmes Brigade.t Brig. Gen. J. B. KERSHAW. Brig. Gen. P. J. SEMMES. Col. GOODE BRYAN. 2d ~outh Carolina: Col. J. D. Kennedy. 10th Georgia, Col. John B. Weems. L~eut. Col. F. Gailiard. 50tl~ Ceorgia, Col. W. R. Manning. 3d South Carolina: 51st Georgia, Col. E. Ball. Maj. H. C. ~vLffett. 53d Georgia, Col. James P. Simms. Col. J. D. Nance. 7th South Carolina,Col. D.Wyatt Aiken. 8th South Carolina, Col. J. W. Hena- gan. 15th South Carolina: Col. W. D. De Saussure. Maj. William M. Gist. 3d Sou h Carolina Battalion, Lient. Col. W. G. Rice. Barlcscl ate B ige It. Woffords Brigade. Brig. Ge. Wit LI ~ B kRKSDALE. Brig. Gen. W. T. WOFFORD. Col. B. (1. HUMPURniS 13th Mississippi, C 1 1 W Carter. 16th Georgia, Col. Goode Bryan. 17th Mississippi: 18th Georgia, Lient. Col. S. Z. Ruff. Col. W. D Hold I 24th Georgia, Col. Robert McMillan. Lient. Col. Jo ii ~ iser. Cobbs (Georgia) Legion, Lient. Col. Lu- N~~18th Mississippi: ther J. Glenn. ( 1. T. M. Cii ulin Phillips (Georgia) Legion, Lient. Col. E. Lient. Col. \X H Lust. S. Barclay. 21st 12 Issippi, Col. B. G. Humphreys. Artillery. Col. H. C. CABELL. 1st North Carolina Artillery, Battery A, Capt. B. C. Manly. Pulaski (Georgia) rtiliery: Capt. J. C. Yr~ ser. 1st Richmond Howitzcis Capt. F. S. McCarthy. Troup (Georgia) A~ tillti~ ~4Japt. H. H Cathon ~ Lient. C. W Motes * The actual coaimanders a e indicaten us f r as practicable. ~ No reports on file for th: bvimde Bryan Wc a in command July 7, and was probably Setumes lint ediate sueces~or The commanders of the Tenth, Fifty- first, and Fifty-third eorgia are ~neu as reported for June 22 and July 31. Man- ning reported in command Ut Fftieth Georgia, June 22. No commander reported on return for July 31 Page 284 284 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. PICKETT S DIVISION. Maj. Gen. GEORGE E. PICKETT. Garnetts Brigade. Kempers Brigade. Brig. Gen. R. B. GARNETT. Brig. Gen. J. L. KEMPER. Maj. C. S. PEYTON. Col. JOSEPH MAYO, Jr. 8th Virginia, Col. Eppa Hunton. 1st Virginia: 18th Virginia, Lieut. CoL H. A. Carring- Col. Lewis B. Williams. ton. Lieut. Col. F. G. Skinner. 19th Virginia: 3d Virginia: Col. Henry Gantt. Col. Joseph Mayo, jr. Lieut. Col. John T. Ellis. Lieut. Col. A. D. Calicote. 28th Virginia: 7th Virginia: Col. R. C. Allen. Col. XV. T. Patton. Lieut. Col. William Watts. Lieut. Col. C. C. Flowerree. 56th Virginia: 11th Virginia, Maj. Kirkwood Otey, Col. W. D. Stuart. 24th Virginia, Col. William R. Terry. Lieut. Col. P. P. Slaughter. Armisteads Brigade. Brig. Gen. L. A. ARMISTEAD. Col. W. R. AYLETT. 9th Virginia, Maj. John C. Owens. 14th Virginia: Col. James G. Hodges. Lient, Col. William White. 38th Virginia: Col. E. C. Edmonds. Lient. Col. P. B. Whittle. 53d Virginia, Col. W. R. Aylett. 57th Virginia, Col. John Bowie Magruder. Artillery. Maj. JAMES DEARING. Fauquier (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. R. M. Stribling. Hampden ((Virginia) Artillery,Capt. W. H. Caskie. Richmond Fayette Artillery, Capt. M. C. Macon. Virginia Battery, Capt. Joseph G. Blount. HOODS DIVISION Maj. Gen. JOHN B. HooD. Brig. Gen. E. M. LAW. Laws Brigade. Brig. Gen. E. M. LAW. Col. JAMES L. SHEFFIELD. 4th Alabama,Lieut. Col. L. H. Scruggs. 3d Arkansas: 15th Alabama: Col. Van H. Manning. Col. William C. Oates. Lieut. Col. R. S. Taylor. Capt. B. A. Hill. 1st Texas, Lieut. Col. P. A. Work. 44Th Alabama, Col. William F. Perry. 4th Texas: 47th Alabama: Col. J. C. G. Key. Col. James W. Jackson. Maj. J. P. Bane. Lieut. Col. M. J. Bulger. 5th Texas: Maj. J. M. Campbell. Col. R. M. Powell. 48th Alabama: Lieut. Col. K. Bryan. Col. James L. Sheffiele Capt. T. J. Eubanks. Maj. J. C. Rogers. Robertsons Brigadc. Brig. Gen. J. B. ROBERTSON. tOHAP. XXXIX Page 285 CHAP. XXXIX.) THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. Andersons Brigade. Brig. Gen. GEORGE T. ANDERSON. Lieut. Col. WILLIAM LUFFMAN. 7th Georgia, Col. W. W. White. 8th Georgia, Col. John R. Towers. 9th Georgia: Lieut. Col. John C. Mounger. Maj. W. M. Jones. Capt. George Hillyer. 11th Georgia: Col. F. H. Little. Lieut. Col. William Luffman. Maj. Henry D. McDaniel. Capt. William H. Mitchell. 59th Georgia: Col. Jack Brown. Capt. M. G. Bass. 285 Bennings Brigade. Brig. Gen. HENRY L. BENNING. 2d Georgia: Lieut. Col. William T. Harris. Maj. W. S. Shepherd. 15th Georgia, Col. D. M. DuBose, 17th Georgia, Col. W. C. Hodges, 20th Georgia: Col. John A. Jones. Lieut. Col. J. D. Waddell. Artillery. Maj. M. W. HENRY. Branch (North Carolina) Artillery, Capt. A. C. Latham German (South Carolina) Artillery, Capt. William K. Bachman. Palmetto (South Carolina) Light Artillery, Capt. Hugh R. Garden. Rowan (North Carolina) Artillery, Capt. James Reilly. ARTILLERY RESERVE. Col. J. B. WALTON. Alexanders Battalion. Washington (Louisiana) Artillery. Col. E. P. ALEXANDER. Maj. B. F. ESHLEMAN. Ashland (Virginia) Artillery: First Company, Capt. C. W. Squires. - Capt. P. Woolfolk, jr. Second Company, Capt. J. B. Richardson. Lient. James Woolfolk. Third Company, Capt. M. B. Miller. Bedford (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. T. C. Fourth Company: Jordan. Capt. Joe Norcom. Brobks (South Carolina) Artillery, Lieut. Lieut. H. A. Battles. S. C. Gilbert. Madison (Louisiana) Light Artillery, Capt. George V. Moody. Virginia Battery, Capt. W. W. Parker. Virginia Battery, Capt. 0. B. Taylor. SECOND ARMY CORPS. Lieut. Gen. RIcHARD S. EWELL. Escort. Randolphs Company Virginia Cavalry, Capt. William F. Randolph. EARLY S DIVISION. Maj. Gen. JIJBAL A. EARLY. Smiths Brigade. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM SMITH. 81st Virginia, Col. John S. Hoffman. 49th Virginia, Lieut. Col. J. Catlett Gib- son. 52d Virginia, Lieut. Col. James H. Skin- ner. Hays Brigade. Brig. Gen. HARRY T. HAYS. 5th Louisiana: Maj. Alexander Hart. Capt. T. H. Biscoe. 6th Louisiana, Lieut. Col. Joseph Hanlon. 7th Louisiana, Col. D. B. Penn. 8th Louisiana: Col. T. D. Lewis. Lieut. Col. A. de Blanc. Maj. G. A. Lester. 9th Louisiana, Col. Leroy A. Stafford Page 286 N. C.~ VA., W. VA., 211)., PA., ETC. Gordons Brigade. Brig. Gen. J. B. GORDON. HokQs Brigade. Col. ISAAC E. AVERY. Col. A. C. GODWIN. 6th North Carolina, Maj. S. McD. Tate. 13th Georgia, Col. James M. Smith. 21st North Carolina, Col. V~T. W. Kirk- 26th Georgia, Col. E. N. Atkinson. land. 31st Georgia, Col. Clement A. Evans. 57th North Carolina, Col. A. C. Godwin. 38th Georgia, Capt. William L. McLeod. 60th Georgia, Capt. W. B. Jones. 61st Georgia, Col. John H. Lamar. Artillery. Lieut. Col. H. P. JONES. Charlottesville (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. James MeD. Carrington. Courtney (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. W. A. Tanner. Louisiana Guard Artillery, Capt. C. A. Green. Staunton (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. A. W. Garber. JOHNSON S DIVISION. Maj. Gen. EDWARD JOHNSON. Stenarts Brigade. Brig. Gen. GEORGE H. STEUART. 1st Maryland Battalion Infantry: Lient. Col. J. R. Herbert. Maj. W. W. Goldsborough. Capt. J. P. Crane. 1st North Carolina, Lieut. Col. H. A. Brown. 3d North Carolina, Maj. W. M. Parsley. 10th Virginia, Col. E. T. H. Warren. 23d Virginia, Lient. Col. S. T. Walton. 37th Virginia, Maj. H. C. Wood. Stoncwall Brigade. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. WALKER. 2d Virginia, Col. J. Q. A. Nadenbousch. 4th Virginia, Maj. William Terry. .5th Virginia, Col. J. H. S. Funk. 27th Virginia, Lient. Col. D. M. Shriver. 33d Virginia, Capt. J. B. Golladay. Nicholls Brigade.* Col. J. M. WILLIAMS. 1st Louisiana, Capt. E. D. Willett 2d Louisiana, Lient. Col. R. E. Burke. 10th Louisiana, Maj. T. N. Powell. 14th Louisiana. Lient. Col. David Zable. 15th Louisiana, Maj. Andrew Brady. Jones Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOHN M. JONES. Lient. Col. R. H. DUNGAN. 21st Virginia, Capt. W. P. Moseley. 25th Virginia: Col. J. C. Higginbotham. Lient. Col. J. A. Robinson. 4~d Viroinia: Lient. Col. R. W Withers. Capt. S. H. Sannders. 44th Virginia: Maj. N. Cobb. Capt. T. R. Buckner. 48th Virginia: Lieut. Col. R. H. Dungan. Maj. Oscar White. 50th Virginia, Lient. Col. L. II. N.Salyer. Artillery. Maj. J. W. LATIMER. Capt. C. I. RAINE. 1st Maryland Battery, Capt. William F. Dement. Allegliany (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. J. C. Carpenter. Chesapeake (Maryland) Artillery, Capt. William D. Brown. Lee (Virginia) Battery: Capt. C. I. Raine. Lieut. William W. Hardwicke. The regimental commanders are given as reported for June 14. 236 [Ciw~. XXXIX Page 287 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. RODES DIVISION. Maj. Gen. R. E. RODES. Daniels Brigade. Brig. Gen. JUNIUS DANIEL. 32d North Carolina, Col. E. C. Brabble. 43d North Carolina: Col. T: S. Kenan. Lieut. Col. MT G. Lewis. 45th North Carolina: Lieut. Col. S. H. Boyd. Maj. John R. Winston. Capt. A. H. Gallaway. 53d Capt. J. A. Hopkins. North Carolina, Col. MT. A. Owens. 2d North Carolina Battalion: Lieut. Col. H. L. Andrews. Capt. Van Brown. Doles Brigade. Brig. Gen. GEORGE DOLES. 4th Georgia: Lieut. Col. D. R. E. Wian. Maj. MT. H. Willis. 12th Georgia, Col. Edward Willis. 21st Georgia, Col.John T. Mercer. 44th Georgia: Col. S. P. Lumpkin. Maj. MT. H. Peebles. Iversons Brigade. Brig. Gen. ALFRED IVERSON. 5th North Carolina :* Capt. Speight B. West. Capt. Benjamin Robinson. 12th North Carolina, Lieut. Col. MT. S. Davis. 20th North Carolina : Lient. Col. Nelson Slough. Capt. Lewis T. Hicks. 23d North Carolina : Col. D. H. Christie. Capt. William H. Johnston. Rarnseurs Brigade. Brig. Gen. S. D. RAMSEUR. 2d North Carolina: Maj. D. W. Hurtt. Capt. James T. Scales. 4th North Carolina, Col. Bryan Grimes. 14th North Carolina: Col. R. Tyler Bennett. Maj. Joseph H. Lambeth. 30th North Carolina: Col. Francis M. Parker. Maj. MT. MT. Sillers. ONeals Brigade. Col. E. A. ONEAL. 3d Alabama, Col. C. A. Battle. 5th Alabama, Col. J. M. Hall. 6th Alabama: Col. J. N. Lightfoot. Capt. M. L. Boxvie. 12th Alabama, Col. S. B. Pickens. 26th Alabama, Eleut. Col. John C. Goodgame. Artillery. Lient. Col. THOMAS H. CARTER. Jeff. Davis (Alabama) Artillery, Capt. MT. J. Reese. King William (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. MT. P. Carter. Morris (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. R. C. M. Page. Orange (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. C. MT. Fry. * The four captains present (West, Robinson, James M. Taylor, Thomas N. Jordan), were reported as wounded July 1; Robinson and Taylor as having rejoined July 2, but it does not appear who commanded during Robinsons absence. t Lieutenant-Colonel Slough and Maj. John S. Brooks reported as wounded at 4 p. m. July 1. ~ Colonel Christie. J~ient. Col. R. D. Johnston, Mij. C. C. Blacknall, and the senior captain (Abner D. Peace), reported as wounded early in the fight, July 1, XXXIX.] 28 Page 288 N. C., VA., 1AT VA., MD., PA., ETC. ARTILLERY RESERVE. Col. J. THOMPSON BROWN. First Virginia Artillery. Capt. WILLIS J. DANCE. 2d Richmond (Virginia) Howitzers, Capt. David Watson. dd Richmond (Virginia) Howitzers, Capt. I B. H. Smith, jr. Powhatan (Virginia) Artillery, Lient. John M. Cunningham. Rockbridge (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. A. Graham. Salem (Virginia) Artillery, Lieut. C. B. Griffin. Nelsons Battalion. Lient. Col. WILLIAM NELSON. Amherst (Virginia) Artillery. Capt. T. J. Kirkpatrick. Fluvanna (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. J. L. Massie. Georgia Battery, Capt. John Milledge, jr. THIRD ARMY CORPS. Lieut. Gen. AMBROSE P. HILL. ANDERSONS DIVISION. Maj. Gen. R. H. ANDERSON. Wilcoxs Brigade. Brig. Gen. CADMUS M. WILCOX. 8th Alabama, Lieut. Col. Hilary A. Her bert. 9th Alabama, Capt. J. H. King. 10th Alabama: Col. William H. Forney. Lient. Col. James E. Shelley. 11th Alabama: Col. J. C. C. Sanders. Lient. Col. Geoige E. Tayloe. 14th Alabama: Col. L. Pinckard. Lieut. Col. James A. Broome. Mahones Brigade. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM MAHONE. 6th Virginia, Col. George T. Rogers. 12th Virginia, Col. D. A. Weisiger. 16th Virginia, Col. Joseph H. Haul. 41st Virginia, Col. William A. Parham. 61st Virginia, Col. V. D. Groner. Wrights Brigade. Brig. Geii. A. R. WRIGHT. Col. WILLIAM GIBSON. Brig. Gen. A. R. WRIGHT. 3d Georgia, Col. B. J. Walker. 22d Georgia: Col. Joseph Wasden. Capt. B. C. McCurry. 48th Georgia: Col. William Gibson. Capt. M. R. Hall. Col. William Gibson. 2d Georgia Battalion: Maj. George W. Ross. Capt. Charles J. Moffett. Perrys Brigade. Col. DAVID LANG. 2d Florida, Maj. W. R. Moore. 5th Florida, Capt. R. N. Gardner. 8th Florida, Col. David Lang. Poseys Brigade. Brig. Gen. CARNOT POSEY. 12th Mississippi, Col. W. H. Taylor. 16th Mississippi, Col. samuel B. Baker. 19th Mississippi, Col. N. H. Harris. 48th Mississippi, Col. Joseph M. Jayne. Artillery (Sumter Battalion). Maj. JOHN LANE. Company A, Capt. Hugh M. Ross. Company B, Capt. George 14. PattersorL. Company C, Capt. Johr T. Wingfield. 288 [CHAP. XXXIX Page 289 THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. HETHS DIVISION. Maj. Gen. HENRY HETH. Brig. Gen. J. J. PETTIGREW. First Brigade. Brig. Gen. J. J. PETTIGREW. Col. J. K. MARSHALL. 11th North Carolina, Cvi. Collett Leven- thorpe. 26th North Carolina: Col. Henry K. Burgwyn, jr. Capt. H. C. Aibright. 47th North Carolina, Col. G. H. Fan- bault. 52d North Carolina: Col. J. K. Marshall. Lieut. Col. Marcus A. Parks. Second Brigade. Col. J. M. BROCKENBROUGH. 40th Virginia: Capt. T. E. Betts. Capt. R. B. Davis. 47th Virginia, Col. Robert M. Mayo. 55th Virginia, Col. W. S. Christian. 22d Virginia Battalion, Maj. John S. Bowles. Third Brigade. Brig. Gen. JAMES J. AcHER. Col. B. D. FRY. Lient. Col. S. G. SHEPARD. 13th Alabama, Col. B. D. Fry. 5th Alabama Battalion, Maj. A. S. Van de Graaff. 1st Tennessee (Provisional Army), Maj. Felix G. Buchanan. 7th Tennessee, Lieut. Col. S. G. Shep- ard. 14th Tennessee, Capt. B. L. Phillips. Fourth Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOSEPH R. DAVIS. 2d Mississippi, Col. J. M. Stone. 11th Mississippi, Col. F. M. Green. 42d Mississippi, Col. H. R. Miller. 55th North Carolina, Col. J~. K. Connally. Artillery. Lieut. Col. JOHN J. GAnNETT. Donaldsonville (Louisiana) Artillery, Capt. V. Maurin. Huger (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Joseph D. Moore. Lewis (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. John W. Lewis. Norfolk Light Artillery Blues, Capt. C. R. Grandy. PENDER S DIVISION. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM D. PENDER. Brig. Gen. JAMES H. LANE. Maj. Gen. I. R. THIMBLE. Brig. Gen. JAMES H. LANE. First Brigade. Col. ABNER PERRIN. 1st South Carolina (Provisional Army), Maj. C. W. McCreary. 1st South Carolina Rifles, Capt.William M. Hadden. 12th South Carolina, Col. John L. Miller. 13th South Carolina, Lient. Col. B. T. Brockman. 14th South Carolina, Lient. Col. Joseph N. Brown. Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. JAMES H. T~ANE. Col. C. M. AVERY. Brig. Gen. JAMES H. LANE. Col. C. M. AVERY. 7th North Carolina: Capt. J. McLeod Turner. Capt. James G. Harris. 18th North Carolina, Col. John D. Barry. 28th North Carolina: Col. S. D. Lowe. Lieut. Col. W. H. A. Speer. 33d North Carolina, Col. C. M. Avery. 37th North Carolina, Col. W. N. Bar- bour, 19 I~ RVQL XXVII, PT II CHAP. XXXIX.1 28 Page 290 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. Third Brigade. Brig. Gen. EDWARD L. THOMAS. 14th Georgia. 35th Georgia. 45th Georgia. 49th Georgia, Col. S. T. Player. Fourth Brigade. Brig. Gen. A. M. SCALES. Lieut. Col. G. T. GORDON. Col. W. LEE J. LOWRANCE. 13th North Carolina: Col. J. H. Hyman. Lieut. Col. H. A. Rogers. 10th North Carolina, Capt. L.W. Stowe. 22d North Carolina, Col. James Conner. 34th North Carolina: Col. William Lee J. Lowrance. Lieut. Col. G. T. Gordon. 38th North Carolina: Col. W. J. Hoke. Lieut. Col. John Ashford. Artillery. Maj. WILLIAM T. POAGUE. Albemarle (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. James W. Wyatt. Charlotte (North Carolina) Artillery, Capt. Joseph Graham. Madison (Mississippi) Light Artillery, Capt. George Ward. Virginia Battery, Capt. J. V. Brooke. ARTILLERY RESERVE. Col. R. LINDSAY WALKER. McIntoshs Battalion. Maj. D. G. MCINTOSH. Danville (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. R. S. Rice. Hardaway (Alabama) Artillery, Capt. W. B. Hurt. 2d Rockbridge (Virginia) Artillery, Lieut. Samuel Wallace. Virginia Battery, Capt. M. Johnson. Pegrams Battalion. Maj. W. J. PEGRAM. Capt. E. B. BRUNSON. Crenshaw (Virginia) Battery. Fredericksburg (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. E. A. Marye. Letcher (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. T. A. Brander. Pee Dee (South Carolina Artillery, Lieut. William E. Zimmerman. Purcell (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Joseph McGraw. CAVALRY. STUARTS DIVISION. Maj. Gen. Hamptons Brigade. Brig. Gen. WADE HAMPTON. Col. L. S. BAKER. 1st North Carolina, Col. L. S. Baker. 1st South Carolina. 2d South Carolina. Cobbs (Georgia) Legion. Jeff. Davis Legion. Phillips (Georgia) Legion. Bobertsons Brigade. Brg. Gen. BEVERLY H. RoBERTSoN.* 4th North Carolina, Col. D. D. Ferebee. 5th North Carolina. J. E. B. STUART. Ritz. Lees Brigade. Brig. Gen. FITZ. LEE. 1st Maryland Battalion : Maj. Harry Gilmor. Maj. Ridgely Brown. 1st Virginia, Col. Jamcs H. Drake. 2d Virginia, Col. T. T. Munford. 3d Virginia, Col. Thomas H. Owen. 4th Virginia, Col. Williams C. Wickham. 5th Virginia, Col. T. L. Rosser. Jenkins Brigade. Brig. Gen. A. G. JENKINS. Col. M. J. FERGUSON. 14th Virginia. 10th Virginia. 17th Virginia. 34th Virginia Battalion, Lieut. Col. V. A. Witcher. 30th Virginia Battalion. Jacksons (Virginia) Battery, Capt. Thomas E. Jackson. * Commanded his own and W, B. Jones brigade. ~ Serving with Ewells corps. 290 [CHAP. XXXIX Page 291 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 291. Jones Brigade. W. H. F. Lees Brigade. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM E. JONES. Col. J. R. CHAMELISS, Jr. 6th Virginia, Maj. C. E. Flournoy. 2d North Carolina. 7th Virginia, Lieut. Col. Thomas Mar- 9th Virginia, Col. R. L. T. Beale. shall. 10th Virginia, Col. J. Lucius Davi8. 11th Virginia, Col. L. L. Lomax. 13th Virginia. Stuart Horse Artillery. Maj. R. F. BECKHAM. Breatheds (Virginia) Battery, Capt. James Breathed. Chews (Virginia) Battery, Capt. R~ P. Chew. Griffins (Maryland) Battery, Capt. W. H. Griffin. Harts (South Carolina) Battery, Capt. J. F. Hart. McGregors (Virginia) Battery, Capt. W. M. McGregor. Moormans (Virginia) Battery, Capt. M. N. Moorman. IMBODENS COMMAND. Brig.. Gen. J. D. IMBODEN. 18th Virginia Cavalry, Col. George W. Imboden. 62d Virginia Jnfantry,* Col. George H. Smith. Virginia Partisan Rangers, Capt. John H. McNeilL Virginia Battery, Capt. J. H. McClanahan. ARTILLERY.t Brig. Gen. W. N. PENDLETON. No. 425. Abstract from returns of the Army of Northern July 20 and 31, 18634 FIELD RETURN FOR JULY 20. Present for ~ ~ duty. ~ a a+~ i~o ~6 a Command. S S Sa a ~ a a a~ a ~ o ~ a ~ bi~ b~.. o ~ ~ -~ ~ General headquarters First Army Corps, Longstreet: Staff McLaws division Picketts division Hoods division Total Second Army Corps, Ewell: Staff Rodes division Earlys division Johu~ons division Total 1,387 16 16 16 16 11 11 13 It 454 4,150 5,641 12,301 5,463 348 3385 4,696 11,644 (*) 459 4,196 5,693 11,428 5,691 1,272 11,731 16,041 35,386 11,165 18 18 21 478 4,760 6,223 15,001 5,822 449 4,371 5,553 13,056 4,791 442 3,309 4,642 12,211 4,194 12,440 16,436 40,289 14,807 * Mounted ~ See the battalions attached to the army corps and Stuarts division. t Field returns for June 10, 20, and 30, and July 10, and the monthly retRrx~ for June, are not o~ii file, Virginia fo Page 292 ~LC., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CEAP. XXXIX. Abstract from returns of the Army of Northern Virginia, & e.Continued. Present for +~ n n a duty. ~ a ~ a0 Command. CS CS CSS a bi) W~ a aa a b~ bjj Third Army Corps, A. P. Hill: Staff 15 15 16 11 Andersons division 484 4, 20~ 5,820 13,069 5,508 Heths division 188 1, t53 2,388 (*) 2,509 Penders division 366 2,974 3,975 12,855 3,616 Total 1,053 8,930 12,198 25,940 11,644 Stuarts cavalry division * Artillery, Brigadier.General Pendleton: First Army Corps 93 1,691 1,967 2,900 1,325 Second Army Corps 93 1,359 1,651 2,660 1,528 Third Army Corps 88 1,539 1,869 2,724 (*) Total 274 4,589 5,487 8,284 2,853 Grand total 4,002 37,690 50,178 109,915 40,485 MONTHLY RETURN FOR JULY. a . Present for a -~ ~ a a ~ a ~ -~ duty. ~ a a a a a ~ a Command. +~ a aR a~ ~ aa -~ ~CS ~ ~. ~, ~sa a 17 a~ a ~ a u ~ a ~ bb 0 ~ *~ .,~ ~ General headquarters First Army Corps, Longstreet: Staff MeLaws division Picketts division Hoods division Total Second Army Corps, Ewell: Staff Rodes~ division Earlys division Johusoas division Total Third Army Corps, A. P. Hill: Staff Andersons division HetWs division Penders division Total Cavalry* Artillery: First Army Corps Second Army Corps Third Army Corps Total Grand total 17 17 17 17 10 10 12 13 484 4,633 4,633 5,999 12,246 12,690 344 3,316 3,316 4,591 11,444 9,490 504 4,874 4,874 6,386 11,899 12,478 1,342 12,823 12,823 16,986 35,601 34,671 18 18 20 20 471 4,767 4,767 6,207 14,945 15,673 458 4,223 4,223 5,477 13,025 13,063 480 3,379 3,379 4,650 12,502 12,845 1,427 12,369 12,369 16,352 40,492 41,601 16 16 17 15 506 4,588 4,588 6,159 12,946 13,617 260 3,039 3,039 3,957 8,248 12,277 416 3,580 3,580 4,267 11,964 13,593 1,198 11,207 11,207 14,399 33,175 39,502 96 1,724 1,724 1,996 2,873 2,927 83 95 1,448 1,448 1,704 2,392 2,580 84 86 1,564 1,564 1,832 2,727 2,610 62 277 4,736 4,736 5,532 7,992 8,117 229 4,261 41,135 41,135 53,286 117,277 123,908 229 * Not reported on original, 29 Page 293 e~aAr. ~xXIY~ filE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 293 No. 426. Reports ci General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern Virginia. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, June 7, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: I commenced to draw the army from the vicinity of Fredericksburg on Wednesday morning, June 3. McLaws divis- ion, of Longstreets corps, moved on that day. It was followed Thursday morning by Rodes division, and on Friday by Earlys and Johnsons, of Ewells corps. Hoods division of Longstreets corps, which had been previously advanced to the Rapidan, was directed, on the 3d instant, to move to Culpeper Court-House. On the afternoon of Friday, the 5th instant, the enemy made open prepa- rations to cross the Rappahannock at the old position at the mouth of Deep Run. After driving back our sharpshooters, under a fu- rious cannonade from their batteries,, by a force of skirmishers, they crossed a sniall body of troops, and occupied the bank of the river. It was so devoid of concealment, that I supposed the intention was to ascertain what forces occnpied the position at Fredericksburg, or to fix our attention upon that place while they should accomplish some other object. I thought it prudent to send that night to Gen- eral Ewell to halt his march until I could see what the next day would develop, and placed A. P. Hills corps in position to meet any attack that might be made the next morning. After watching the enemys operations Saturday, and being unable to dis~over more troops than could be attended to by A. P. Hill, and no advance having been made by them, I sent forward to General Ewell to re- sume his march, and left Fredericksburg myself in the evening. My conclusion was that the enemy had discovered the withdrawal of our troops from Fredericksburg, and wished to detain us until he could make corresponding changes. I have with me two divisions oi~ Longstreets corps and the three divisions of Ewells. I desire to bring up the remaining division of Longstreet (Picketts), and send you a dispatch this morniub, requesting that [J. R.] Cooke should be advanced to his place, and that [M.] Jenkins should be brought from the Blackwater to replace Cooke. If it is true, as reported by Gen- eral Elzey, that only 1,500 of the enemy remain in Suffolk, Ransoms brigade will be more than sufficient for that line. West Point being evacuated, and the force at Yorktown reduced, there is nothing to be apprehended from that quarter, and Cooke and Jenkins should be directed to follow me as soon as you think it safe for them to do so. As far as I can learn, the enemy appears to be extending up the Rappahannock from Fredericksburg. The whole line of the Rappa- hannock is guarded closely, every ford defended and closely picketed to Beverlys, above Rappahannock Bridge. His cavalry is massed along the line of the railway from Catletts to Bealeton, Stonemans headquarters being at Shumates, on Cedar Ruii (Fauquier). I think if I can create an apprehension for the safety of their right flank and the Potomac, more troops will be brought from their lines of operations in the south. But to gain any material advantage, I should, if possible, have a large force, as their army, by all accounts, is represented as very large. If it is true, as stated in the Northern papers, that General Hunters forces have been reduced by re- euforcements sent to the Gulf, it would be well for General Beaure Page 294 294 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [cHAP. XXXIX gard, with the force made available by this withdrawal, to be sent to re-enforce Johnston in the west, or be ordered to re-enforce this army. If these troops remain where they are, their services will be lost to the country, and they will become a prey to disease. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAvIS, President Confederate States. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, June 9, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: A letter from General A. P. Hill, dated 8 p. m. yesterday, reports no change in the attitude of affairs at Fredericks- burg. Two batteries of light artillery have crossed to the south side of the Rappahannock since my departure, and the enemy has con- structed a line of rifle-pits along the bank of the rivea~, extending from the mouth of Deep Run to Mansfield (Mr. Bernards house), which defends the ground they occupy. General Hill, to test the enemys strength in his front, made a demonstration yesterday after- noon at Moss Neck, which caused him to send hurriedly north of the Rappahannock four regiments from the south side. This causes me to believe that he has not more troops at that place than are visi- ble, though his main body may still be at or near Aquia. Scouts on the Potomac report a fleet of thirty-three scliooners, unloaded, pass- ing up the river on last Friday, and five steamers, towing empty canal-boats, passing down. I should, therefore, conclude that the schooners were not intended for the transportation of troops down the river. I see by the New York Herald that the Twelfth New York Cav- alry Regiment is on its way to New Berne, N. C., and that the trans- ports Pocahontas and S. L. Tilley would sail from New Berne for Boston on the 8th instant, with the Forty-fourth Massachusetts Regi- ment. The Heralds correspondent also states that had General Foster five or six more regiments of cavalry, and a few more bri- gades of infantry and artillery, he could starve out the rebel army in Virginia. I infer from this, and the statement that General Wild had arrived at New Berne to organize an African brigade, that Gen- eral Foster was not considered very strong. The plan stated iji th& letter (a copy of which was sent me by General A. P. Hill) for de- stroying this army, does not appear to me to be in process of imme- diate execution, inasmuch as it seems to be certain that the enemy has abandoned West Point, and diminished his force at Yorktown, Gloucester, and Suffolk. As the writer is supposed to be in com- munication with General Hooker, its object may have been to cause us to take [?] to save this army and the city of Richmond. This course does not now appear to me the most advantageous for us, but if you think differently, I will pursue it. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President Confederate States Page 295 Cii~. XXXIXI TIlE GI~TTYSBISRG CAMPAIGN. 295 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, June 15, 18637 a. m. Mr. PRESIDENT: On the 10th, I put Ewells corps in motion for the Valley. He reports, under date of the 13th, that, with Rodes division, he drove the enemy out of Berryville, and, with Earlys and John- sons, drove him within his intrenchments at Winchester, where, it seems, he is more strongly fortified than supposed. According to our understanding, I presume he has advanced toward the Potomac, leaving a division in front of Winchester. General A.. P. Hill re- ported yesterday that the Federal force in front of him withdrew from the south side of the Rappahannock on the night of the 13th, and by morning had nearly all disappeared, leaving strong pickets on the river. One division was seen going over the Stafford Hills, in the direction of Aquia, and he supposes the main body to have taken that route. Our scouts report a general movement of the enemy up the Rappahannock, but I have got no certain information on that point; I know a large force has been thrown toward War- renton. The uncertainty of the reports as to threatened expeditions of the enemy along the coast of North Carolina, and between the Rap- pahannock and James Rivers in Virginia, has caused delay in the movements of this army, and it may now be too late to accomplish all that was desired. I am still ignorant as to the extent of the ex- pedition said to be moving up the Peninsula, and hesitate to draw the whole of A. P. Hills corps to me. Two of Picketts brigades are at Hanover Junction and Richmond, so that I am quite weak. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President Confederate States. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, June 18. 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: The enemy has been thrown back from the line of the Rappaharinock, and is concentrating, as far as I can learn, in the vicinity of Centreville. The last reports from the scouts indi- cate that he is moving over toward the Upper Potomac, whether with a view of proceeding to Harpers Ferry, crossing the Potomac River into Maryland, or advancing through the mountains into th~ Valley, I cannot yet decide. Longstreets corps has meved east of the Blue Ridge, with the view of creating embarrassment as to our plans, while Ewell, having driven the enemy from Win- chester and Martinsburg, has seized upon the Potomac, so as to en- able General Hills corps to move up from Fredericksburg. In the meantime, General Stuart has held with his cavalry the approaches to the Blue Ridge, and has, in various conflicts with the enemys cavalry, punished them severely, having captured more than 400 prisoners, with their arms and horses, and several standards. I have received no official returns, but learn from General Ewells reports that he has captured in the Valley more than 4,000 prisoners, about 30 pieces of artillery, 250 wagons, 20 ambulances, 400 horses, a lot of ammunition, & c. General lVIIilroy, with a small body of or- ganized troops and some stragglers, escaped into Harpers Ferry Page 296 296 K. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Ciw. XXXIX. The whole number who escaped will not reach 1,000. Our loss small it is stated that it will not exceed 175 killed, wounded, and missing. Very respectfully, & c., R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency PRESIDENT DAVIs. CULPEPER COURT-HOUSE, June 18, 1863. GENERAL: On the afternoon of the 14th, General Rodes took pos- session of Marti.nsburg, capturing several pieces of artillery, more than 200 prisoners, and a supply of ammunition and grain. Our loss, 1 killed and 2 wounded. R. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. HEADQUARTERS, Near Millwood, Va., June 19, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: General Ewell, with two divisions, has advanced from the Potomac toward Pennsylvania. His third division is re- tained near Shepherdstown for the present, to guard his flank and rear. General Longstreets corps on the Ashbys and Snickers Gaps roads threatens the enemy, who is massed between him and Wash- ington. General Stuarts cavalry is operating in his front. I hope the first division of A. P. Hills corps will reach here to-day, so that Early may be relieved and follow Ewell. All attempts of the enemy to penetrate the mountains have been repulsed by Stuarts cavalry, who, yesterday, again drove him from Middleburg, and, by reports received last evening, the enemys inf& qtry have evacuated Aldie. Indications seem to be that his main body is proceeding toward the Potomac, whether upon Harpers Ferry or to cross the river east of it, is not yet known. The difficulty of procuring sup- plies retards and renders more uncertain our future movements. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President, & c., Richthond, Va. BERRYVILLE, June 20, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: I have the honor to report, for the information of Your Excellency, that General Imboden has destroyed the bridges on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, over Evarts Creek, near Curn- berland; the long bridge across the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, below Cumberland; the iron bridge across the North Branch of the Potomac, with the wooden trestle adjoining it; the double-span bridge across the month of Pattersons Creek; the Finks patent iron bridge across the month of the South Branch of the Potomac, three spans of 133* feet each, and the wooden bridge over Little Cacapon Page 297 Ciw~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSfl1TI~& cAMPAIG~. 29~7 All the depots, water-tanks, and engines between the Little Caca- pon and Cnmberland are also destroyed, with the block-honses at the month of the Sonth Branch and Pattersons Creek. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, abont 2 miles above Old Town, where the embankment is abont 40 feet high, has been cnt, and Gen- eral Imboden reports that when he left it the entire embankment, for abont 50 yards, had been swept away. A similar crevasse, with like resnlts, was also made in the canal, abont 4 miles below Old Town. Lientenant-Colonel White, of the cavalry, has also cnt the Balti- more and Ohio Railroad east of the Point of Rocks. General Milroy has abandoned the sonth side of the Potomac, occnpying Harpers Ferry with a picket, and holds the Maryland Heights with abont 8,000 men. General Ewells corps is north of the Potomac, occupying Sharps- bnrg, Boonsborough, and Hagerstown. His advance cavalry is at Chambersbnrg, Pa. The first division of General A. P. Hills corps will reach this vi- cinity to-day; the rest follow. General Longstreets corps, with Stnarts cavalry, still occupy the Blue Ridge, between the roads leading through Ashbys and Snick- ers Gaps, holding in check a large force of the enemy, consisting of cavalry, infantry, and artillery. The movement of the main body of the enemy is still toward the Potomac, bnt its real destination is not yet discovered. I have thought this a favorable time for General Sam. Jones to advance into Western Virginia, and have so informed him. Should he not be able to accomplish anything more, lie will fix the attention of the enemy in that region, and prevent re-enforcements being sent to othei points. If any of the brigades that I have left behind for the protection of Richmond can, in yonr opinion, be spared, I should like them to be sent to me. I am, with great respect, yonr obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, Richmond, Va. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, June 23, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: Reports of movements of the enemy east of the Blue Ridge canse me to believe that he is preparing to cross the Potomac. A pontoon bridge is said to be laid at Edwards Ferry, and his army corps that he has advanced to. Leesburg and the foot of the monntains, appear to be withdrawing. Their attempts to penetrate the mountains have been successfully repelled by General Stuart with the cavalry. General Stuart last~ night was within a few miles of Aldie, to which point the enemy had retired. General Ewells corps is in motion toward the Susquehanna. General A. P. Hills corps is moving toward the Potomac; his lead- ing division will reach Shepherdstown to-day. I have withdrawn Longstreet west of the Shenandoah, and, if nothing prevents, he will follo.w to-morrow. In addition to the supplies that we have been able to gather in Fauquier and Loudoun Counties, in the Shenandoah Valley, and west of the Alleghany, we have collected sufficient nort Page 298 ~9s VA., W.VA., MD., PA., ETC. tOnAP. XXXIX. of the Potomac for the support of Ewells corps to the 30th instant, and 1,700 barrels of flour are on hand in Maryland for the rest of the army. II hope we shall get enough for the subsistence of our men. Forage is very scarce, and we have mainly to rely on grass for the animals. From the reports I receive, I believe we shall obtain enough salt for our purposes while north of the Potomac for which we are paying 75 cents a bushel. The flour that we have purchased in Maryland costs $6.50 per barrel; beef, $5 per hundred, gross. We use Confederate money for all payments. I shall continue to pur- chase all the supplies that are furnished me while north of the .Po- tomac, impressing only when necessary. With great respect, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency President DAvis, Richmond. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Near Gettysburg, Pa., July 4, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: After the rear of the army had crossed the Po- tomac, the leading corps, under General Ewell, pushed on to Carlisle and York, passing through Chambersburg. The other two corps closed up at the latter place, and soon afterward intelligence was re- ceived that the army of General Hooker was advancing. Our whole force was directed to concentrate at Gettysburg, and the corps of Generals Ewell and A. P. Hill reached that place on the 1st July, the former advancing from Carlisle and the latter from Chambers- burg. The two leading divisions of these corps, upon reaching the vicinity of Gettysburg, found the enemy, and attacked him, driving him from the town, which was occupied by our troops. The enemys loss was heavy, including more than 4,000 prisoners. He took up a strong position in rear of the town, which he immediately began to fortify, and where his re-enforcements joined him. On the 2d July, Longstreets corps, with the exception of one divis- ion, having arrived, we attempted to dislodge the enemy, and, though we gained some ground, we ~ ere unable to get possession of his Dosition. The next day, the third division of General Longstreet having come up, a more extensive attack was made. The works on the enemys extreme right and left were taken, but his numbers were so great and his position so commanding, that our troops were com- pelled to relinquish their advantage and retire. It is believed that the enemy suffered severely in these operations, but our own loss has not been light. General Barksdale is killed. Generals Garnett and Armistead are missing, and it is feared that the former is killed and the latter wounded and a prisoner. Generals Pender and Trimble are wounded in the leg, General Hood in the arm, and General Heth slightly in the head. General Kemper, it is feared, is mortally wounded. Our losses embrace many other valuable officers and men. General Wade Hampton was severely wounded in a different ac- tion in which the cavalry was engaged yesterday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, His Excellency President DAVIS, Richmond. R. E. LEE, General Page 299 O~L& P. XXXIXI THE GETTYSBU1~G CAMPAIGN. 299 HAGERSTOWN, July 7, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: My letter of the 4th instant will have informed you of the unsuccessful issue of our final attack on the enemy in the rear of Gettysburg. Finding the position too strong to be carried, and, being much hindered in collecting necessary supplies for the army, by the numerous bodies of local and other troops which watched the passes, I determined to withdraw to the west side of the mount- ains. This has been safely accomplished with great labor, and the army is now iu the vicinity of this place. One of my reasons for moving in this direction, after crossing the mountains, was to protect our trains with the sick and wounded, which had been sent back to Williamsport, and which were threatened by the enemys cavalry. Our advance reached here yesterday afternoon in time to support our cavalry in repulsing an attempt of the enemy to reach our trains. Before leaving Gettysburg, such of the sick and wounded as could be removed were sent back to Williamsport, but the rains that have interfered so much with our general movements have so swollen the Potomac as to render it unfordable, and they are still on the north side. Arrangements are being made to ferry them across to-day. We captured at Gettysburg about 6,000 prisoners, besides the wounded that remained in our hands after the engagements of the 1st and 2d. Fifteen hundred of these prisoners and the wounded were paroled, but I suppose that under the late arrari gement s these paroles will not be regarded. The rest have been sent to Williamsport, where they will cross. We were obliged to leave a large number of our wounded who were unable to travel, and many arms that had been collected on the field at Gettysburg. In addition to the general officers killed or wounded, of whom I sent you a list in my former letter, I have to mention General Semmes, General G. T. Anderson, General Pettigrew, and General J. M. Jones, wounded; General Archer was made prisoner. General Heth is again in command. In sending back our trains in advance, that of General Ewell was cut by the enemys cavalry, and a number of wagons, said to be about 40, were captured. The enemys cavalry force, which attempted to reach our cavalry trains yesterday afternoon, was a large one. They came as far as Hagerstown, where they were attacked by General Stuart, and driven back rapidly toward Sharpsburg. Very respectfully, your oJc~edient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excoilency JEFFERSON DAvIS, President Confederate States. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Near Haqerstown, ilId., July 8, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: My letter of yesterday will have informed you of the position of this army. Though reduced in numbers by the hard- ships and battles through which it has passed since leaving the Rap- pahannock, its condition is good, and its confidence unimpaired. Upon crossing the Potomac into Maryland, I had calculated upon the river remaining ford able during the summer, so as to enable me to recross at my pleasure, but a series of storms, commencing the day after our entrance into Maryland, has placed the river beyon Page 300 ~OO N. 0., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. X)OQX~ fording stage, and the present storm will keep itso for at least a week. I shall, therefore, have to accept battle if the enemy offers it, whether I wish to or not, and as the result is in the hands of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe, and known to Him only, I deem it prudent to make every arrangement in our power to meet any emergency that may arise. From information gathered from the papers, I believe that the troops from North Carolina and the Coast of Virginia, under Generals Foster and Dix, have been ordered to the Potomac, and that recently additional re-enforcements have been sent from the coast of South Carolina to General Banks. If I ~m correct in my opinion, this will liberate most of the troops in those regions, and should Your Excellency have not already done so, I earnestly recommend that all that can be spared be concentrated on the Upper Rappahannock, nnder General Beauregard, with direc- tions to cross that river and make a demonstration upon Washington. This command will answer the double purpose of affording pro- tection to the capital at Richmond and relieving the pressure npon this army. I hope Your Excellency will understand that I am not in the least discouraged, or that my faith in the protection of an all-mercifnl Providence, or in the fortitude of this army, is at all shaken. But, though conscious that the enemy has been much shattered in the recent battle, I am aware that he can be easily re-enforced, while no addition can be made to our numbers. The measure, therefore, that I have recommended is altogether one of a prudential nature. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President, & c. P. 8.I see it stated in a letter from the special correspondent of the New York Times that a bearer of dispatches from Your Excel- lency to myself was captured at Hagerstown on the 2d July, and the dispatches are said to be of the greatest importance, and to have a great bearing on coming events. I have thought proper to men- tion this, that you may know whether it is so. HEADQUARTERS ARMX OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, July 10, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: Since my letter of the 8th instant, nothing of im- portance, in a military point of view, has transpired. The Potomac continues to be past fording, and, owing to the rapidity of the stream, and the limited facilities we have for crossing, the prisoners and wounded are not yet over. I hope they will be able to cross to-day. I have not received any definite intelligence of the movements or designs of the enemy. A scout reports that a column which fol- lowed us across the mountain has reached Waynesborough, Pa., a~nd other bodies are reported as moving by way of Frederick from Emmitsburg, as if approaching in this direction. If these reports be correct, it would appear to be the intention of the enemy to deliver battle, and we have no alternative but to ac- cept it if offered. The army is in good condition, and we have a good supply of ammunition. The supply of flour is affected by the high waters, which interfere with the working of the mills Page 301 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 301 With the blessing of Heaven, I trust that the courage and fortitude of the army will be found si~fficient to relieve us from the embarrass- ment caused by the unlooked-for natural difficulties of our situation, if not to secure more valuable and substantial results. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAvIs, President Confederate States. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, No. 76. Jidy 11, 1863. After long and trying marches, endured with the fortitude that has ever characterized the soldiers of the Army of Northern Virginia, you have penetrated the country of our enemies, and recalled to the defense o i~th eir own soil those who were engaged in the invasion of ours. You have fought a fierce and saugninary battle, ~XThich, if not at- tended with the success that has hitherto crowned your efforts, was marked by the same heroic spirit that has commanded the respect of your enemies, the gratitude of your country, and the admiration of mankind. Once more you are called upon to meet the army from which you have won on so many fields a name that will neVer die. Once more the eyes of your countrymen are turned upon you, and again do wives and sisters, fathers, mothers, and helpless children lean for defense on your strong arms and brave hearts. Let every soldier remember that on his courage and fidelity de- pends all that makes life worth havingthe freedom of his country, the honor of his people, and the security of his home. Let each heart grow strong in the remembrance of our glorious past, and in the thought of the inestimable blessings for which we contend, and, in- voking the assistance of that Divine Power which has so signally blessed our former efforts, let us go forth in confidence to secure the peace and safety of our country. Soldiers! your old enemy is before you! Win rom him honors worthy of your righteous causeworthy of your comrades dead on so many illustrious fields. R. E. LEE, General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, July 12, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: I have nothing of moment to add to what I have said in my letter of the 10th. So far, everything goes well. The army is in good condition, and occupies a strong position, covering the Potomac from Williamsport to Falling Waters. The enemy seems to be collecting his forces in the Valley of the Antietam, his main body stretching from Boonsborough to Sharpsburg. But for the power he possesses of. accumulating troops, I should be willing to await his attack, excepting that in our restricted limits the me~n~ Qf Qbtainin~ sub4st~iacQ are becoming precarious Page 302 302 T~. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. The river has now fallen to 4 feet, and a bridge, which is being constrncted, I hope will be passable by tv-morrow. Shonid the river continne to snbside, onr commnnication with the sonth bank will be open by to-morrow. Had the late unexpected rise not occnrred, there would have been no canse for anxiety, as it would have been in my power to recross the Potomac on my first reaching it withont moles- tation. Everything would have been accomplished that conld have been reasonably expectedthe Army of the Potomac wonld have been thrown north of that river, the forces invading the coasts of North Carolina and Virginia diminished, their plan of the present campaign broken np, and, before new arrangements could have been made for its resnmption, the snmmer would have been ended. I still trust that a kind Providence will canse all things to work together for our good. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAvIS, President Confederate States. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Bunker Hill, Va., July 16, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: I have received yonr letter of the 12th instant, and thank you for the kind terms in which you speak of the army, and for yonr consideration of myself. I inclose a copy of my letter bf the 7th instant, which failed to reach yon. The army is encamped around this place, where we shall rest to- day. The men are in good health and spirits, but want shoes and clothing badly. I have sent back to endeavor to procure a supply of both, and also horseshoes, for want of which nearly half our cavalry is unserviceable. As soon as these necessary articles are obtained, we shall be prepared to resume operations. I shall not need the pontoon train now, as the boats used at Falling Waters have been brought away, excepting the new ones constructed by us, which were too heavy and too large for transportation. I have accordingly ordered the train of which you speak to conic no farther. The attacks on the coast may have been caused by the information contained in the captured letter. I think that all these deinonstra- tions of the enemy are designed to retain troops from the field, and while he must be resisted, and a force kept at threatened points suffi- cient to secure them, we should endeavor to avoid being misled as to his numbers and real intentions, and thus enable him to accomplish his purpose. I do not know that I shall need any more troops here, and they had better be kept in front of Richmond, to secure it from attack and protect our railroads. I learn that the enemy has thrown a pontoon bridge over the Poto- mac at Harpers Ferry. Should he follow us in this direction, I shall lead him up the Valley, and endeavor to attack him as far from his base as possible. I share in Your Excellencys regret for the fall of Vicksburg. It will b~ necessary for us to endeavor to select some point on the Mi Page 303 Ca~. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG C5AMPAIGX. 303 sissippi, and fortify it strongly, so that it may be held by a small garrison, which could be supplied with ammunition and provisions, to enable it to stand a siege, thus leaving as many troops as possible free to operate against the enemy. I think that in this way a land attack against snch position as we may select can be prevented. I am, with great respect, Your Excellencys obedient servant, R. E. LEE,. General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAvIs, President Confederate States. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, July 17, 1863. GENERAL: General Fitz. Lee attacked the enemy last evening near Kearneysville, and drove them to within a mile of Shepherdstown, when night put an end to the contest. The enemy, nnder cover of darkness, retired, taking the Charlestown road, leaving many of their wounded in Shepherdstown and the vicinity, and their dead on the field. Their loss is reported very heavy. The enemys force is stated to have been Greggs division, General Gregg commanding in per- son. I regret to state that Col. James H. Drake, of the First Vir- ginia Cavalry, was mortally wounded in a charge of his regiment. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedieiit servant, R. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, July 21, 1863. GENERAL: Ihave seen in Northern papers what purported to be an official dispatch of General Meade, stating that lie had captured a brigade of infantry, two pieces of artillery, two caissons, and a large number of small-arms, as this army retired to the south bank of the Potomac, on the 13th and 14th instant. This dispatch has been copied into the Richmond papers, and, as its official character may cause it to be believed, I desire to state that it is incorrect. The enemy did not capture any organized body of men on that occasion, but only stragglers, and such as were left asleep on the road, exhausted by the fatigue and exposure of one of the most inclement nights I have ever known at this season of the year. It rained without ces- sation, rendering the road by which our troops marched to the bridge at Falling Waters very difficult to pass, and causing so much delay that the last of the troops did not cross the river at the bridge nntil 1 p. m. on the 14th. While the column was thus detained on the road, a number of men, worn down with fatigue, lay down in barns and by the way-side, and though officers were sent back to arouse them as-the troops moved on, the darkness and rain prevented them from finding all, and many were in this way left behind. Two guns were left in the road. The horses that drew them became exhausted, and the officers went forward to procure others. When they re- tnrned, tlt~ i-car of the column had passed the ~-uns so far that it w Page 304 304 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP XXXIX. deemed unsafe to send back for them, and they were thus lost. No arms, cannon, or prisoners were taken by the enemy in battle, but only such as were left behind under the circumstances I have de- scribed. The number of stragglers thus lost I am unable to state with accuracy, but it is greatly exaggerated in the dispatch referred to. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjt. and Insp. Gen., U. S. Army, Richmond, Va. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Unipeper Court-House, July 24, 1863. Mr. PRESIDENT: After the army recrossed the Potomac from Maryland, I had determined to move it into Loudoun, but the rains that had swelled the Potomac placed the Shenandoah 6 feet above ford- ing stage, and before arrangements could be made to use the pontoon bridge, so thoughtfully forwarded by you, the enemy crossed into Loudoun County, and occupied the passes of the Blue Ridge, through which I had intended to advance. The difficulty of ascertaining his plans, the delay that would have been occasioned by forcing a pas- sage in his front, and the ease with which he could have thrown him- self upon Richmond, induced me to move up to Chester Gap and take position at this place. General Longstreets corps reached here to-day, General A. P. Hills is expected to arrive within 10 miles, and General Ewells corps, which was to pass through Thorntons Gap, will probably be here day after to-morrow. My intention is, if practicable, to give the army a few days rest, and refresh our weary animals, which, having been obfiged to subsist chiefly on grass, are much reduced. I desire also to draw to me, as rapidly as possi- ble, all the convalescents and absentees, and to strengthen our ranks. We are in great need of horseshoes, having been able to procure none on our expedition, and our constant motion preventing their manutacture from iron that fell into our possession, more than half the cavalry is dismounted, and the artillery horses and wagon teams have suffered equally. I learn that the enemy is massing a large army between Centre- yule and Manassas Junction. A portion of General Meades army crossed the Potomac as low down as the Chain Bridge, and, I under- stand, embraces the commands of Generals Dix and Foster. Gen- eral Corcoran advanced on the road from Alexandria. Since cross- ing the mountain, I have learned that the Manassas Gap Railroad is in operation as high as Salem, and I hear that they are carrying up timber, with the view, probably, of extending it beyond. It would seem to have been the intention of the enemy to penetrate the Shen- andoah Valley above Winchester, for, in addition to these prepara- tions, I am informed that last evening he advanced three corps into Manassas Gap. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General, Hi~ lExcellency President DAvIS, Richmond, Va Page 305 CHAP. XXXIX.J TIlE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 305 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, July 31, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following outline of the recent operations of this army, for the information of the Department: The position occupied by the enemy opposite Fredericksburg being one in which he could not be attacked to advantage, it was deter- mined to draw him from it. The execution of this purpose embraced the relief of the Shenandoah Valley from the troops that had occu- pied the lower part of it during the winter and spring, and, if prac- ticable, the transfer of the scene of hostilities north of the Potomac. It was thought that the corresponding movements on the part of the enemy to which those contemplated by us would probably give rise, might offer a fair opportunity to strike a blow at the army then com- manded by General Hooker, and that in any event that army would be compelled to leave Virginia, and, possibly, to draw to its support troops designed to operate against other parts of the country. In this way it was supposed that the enemys plan of campaign for the summer would be broken up, and part of the season of active opera- tions be consumed in the formation of new combinations, and the preparations that they would require. In addition to these advan- tages, it was hoped that other valuable results might be attained by military success. Actuated by these and other important con- siderations that may hereafter be presented, the movement began on June 3. McLaws division, of Longstreets corps, left Fredericks- burg for Culpeper Court-House, and Hoods division, which was en- camped on the Rapidan, marched to the same place. They were fol- lowed on the 4th and 5th by Ewells corps, leaving that of A. P. Hill to occupy our lines at Fredericksburg. The march of these troops having been discovered by the enemy on the afternoon of the 5th, on the following day he crossed a force amounting to about one army corps to the south side of the Rappa- hannock, on a pontoon bridge laid down near the mouth of Deep Run. General Hill disposed his command to resist their advance, but as they seemed intended for the purpose of observation rather than at- tack, the movements in progress were not arrested. The forces of Longstreet and Ewell reached Culpeper Court-House by the 8th, at which point the cavalry, under General Stuart, was also concentrated. On the 9th, a large force of Federal cavalry, strongly supported by infantry, crossed the Rappahannock at Beverly and Kellys Fords, and attacked General Stuart. A severe engagement ensued, con- tinuing from early in the morning until late in the afternoon, when the enemy was forced to recross the river with heavy loss, leaving 400 prisoners, 3 pieces of artillery, and several colors in our hands. General Jenkins, with his cavalry brigade, had been ordered to advance to Winchester, to co-operate with the infantry in the pro- posed expedition into the lower Valley, and at the same time General Imboden was directed with his command to make a demonstration in the direction of Romney, in order to cover the movement against Winchester, and prevent the enemy at that place from being re-en- forced by the troops on the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Both of these officers were in position when General Ewell left Cul- peper Court-House on the 10th. Crossing the Shenandoah near Front Royal, he detached Rodes division to Berryville, with in- structions, after dislodging the force stationed there, to cut off the Communication between Winchester and the Petonia~x Witb. the I~ I~VQL XXVII, PT I Page 306 306 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. divisions of Early and [EdwarLll Johnson, General Ewell advanced directly upon Winchester, driving the enemy into his works around the town on the 18th. On the same day the troops at Berryville fell back before General IRodes, retreating to Winchester. On the 14th, General Early stormed the works at the latter place, and the whole army of General Milroy was captnred or dispersed. Most of those who attenipted to escape were intercepted and made prisoners by General Johnson. Their leader fled to Harpers Ferry with a small party of fugitives. General IRodes marched from Berryville to Martinsbnrg, entering the latter place on the 14th, where he took 700 prisoners, 5 pieces of artillery, and a considerable quantity of stores. These operations cleared the Valley of the enemy, those at Harpers Ferry withdraw- ing to Maryland Heights. More than 4,000 prisoners, 29 pieces of artillery, 270 wagons and ambulances, with 400 horses, were cap- tured, besides a large amount of military stores. Our loss was small. On the night that Ewell appeared at Winchester, the Federal troops in front of A. P. Hill at Fredericksburg recrossed the Rappa- hannock, and the next day disappeared behind the hills of Stafford. The whole army of General Hooker withdrew from the line of the Rappahannock, pursuing the roads near the Potomac, and 110 favor- able opportunity was offered for attack. It seemed to be the pur- pose of General Hooker to take a position which would enable him to cover the approaches to Washington City. With a view to draw him farther from his base, and at the same time to cover the march of A. P. Hill, who, in accordance with instructions, left Fredericks- burg for the Valley as soon as the enemy withdrew from his front, Longstreet moved from Culpeper Court-House on the 15th, and, ad.. vancing along the east side of the Blue Ridge, occnpied Ashbys and Snickers Gaps. His force had been augmented, while at Culpeper, by General Pickett, with three brigades of his division. The cavalry under General Stuart was thrown out in front of Longstreet, to watch the enemy, now reported to be moving into Loudoun. On the 17th, his cavalry encountered two brigades of ours under General Stuart, near Aldie, and was driven back with loss. The next day the engagement was renewed, the Federal cavalry being strongly supported by infantry, and General Stuart was, in turn, compelled to retire. The enemy advanced as far as Upperville, and theii fell back. In these engagements, General Stuart took about 400 prisoners and a considerable number of horses and arms. In the meantime, a part of General Ewells corps had entered Maryland, and the rest was about to follow. General Jenkins, with his cavalry, who accompanied General Ewell, penetrated Peunsyl- vania as far as Chambersburg. As these demonstrations did not have the effect of causing the Federal Army to leave Virginia, and as it did not seem disposed to advance upon the position held by Longstreet, the latter was withdrawn to the west side of the Shenan- doah, General Hill having already reached the Valley. General Stuart was left to guard the passes of the mountains and observe the movements of the enemy, whom he was instructed to harass and impede as much as possible, should he attempt to cross the Potomac. In that event, General Stuart was directed to move into Maryland, crossing the Potomac east or west of the Blue Ridge, as, in his judg- ment, should be best, and take position on the right of our column as it advanced. By the 24th, the progre~ of Ewell rendered it necessary that th Page 307 CHAP. XXXIX.] TIlE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 307 rest of the army should be within supporting distance, and Long- street and Hill marched to the Potomac. The former crossed at Williamsport and the latter at Shepherdstown. The colnmns re- nnited at Hagerstown, aud advanced thence into Pennsylvania, en- camping near Chambersbnrg on the 27th. No report had been received that the Federal Army had Crossed the Potomac, and the absence of the cavalry rendered it impossible to obtain accnrate information. In order, however, to retain it on the east side of the mountains, after it should enter Maryland, and thus leave open our communication with the Potomac through Ha- gerstown and Williamsport, General Ewell had been instructed to send a division eastward from Chambersburg to cross the South Mountain. Earlys division was detached for this purpose, and pro- ceeded as far east as York, while the remainder of the corps proceeded to Carlisle. General Imboden, in pursuance of the instructions previously re- ferred to, had been actively engaged on the left of General Ewell during the progress of the latter into Maryland. He had driven off the forces guarding the Baltimore and Ohio llailroad, destroying all the important bridges on that route from Cumberland to Martins- burg, and seriously damaged the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. He subsequently took position at Hancock, and, after the arrival of Longstreet and Hill at Chambersburg, was directed to march by way of McConuellsburg tQ that place. Preparations were now made to advance upon Harrisburg; but, on the night of the 28th, information was received from a scout that the Federal Army, having crossed the Potomac, was advancing north- ward, and that the head of the column had reached the South Mount- ain. As our communications with the Potomac were thus menaced, it was resolved to prevent his. farther progress in that direction by concentrating ourarmy on the east side of the mountains. Accord- ingly, Longstreet and Hill were directed to proceed from Chambers- burg to Gettysburg, to which point General Ewell was also instructed to march from Carlisle. General Stuart continued to follow the movements of the Federal Army south of the Potomac, after our own had entered Maryland, and, in his efforts to impede its progress, advanced as far eastward as Fairfax Court-House. Finding himself unable to delay the enemy materially, he crossed the river at Seneca, and marched through West- minster to Carlisle, where he arrived after General Ewell had left for Gettysburg. By the route he l)ursued, the Federal Army was inter- posed between his command and our main body, preventing any communication with him until his arrival at Carlisle. The march toward Gettysburg was conducted niore slowly than it would have been had the movements of the Federal Army been known. The leading division of Hill met the enemy in advance of Gettys- burg on the morning of July 1. Driving back these troops to within a short distance of the town, he there encountered a larger force, with which two of his divisions became engaged. Ewell, coming up with two of his divisions by the Heidlersburg road, joined in the engage- ment. The enemy was driven through Gettysburg with heavy loss, including about 5,000 prisoners and several pieces of artillery. He retired to a high range of hills south and east of the town. The at- tack was iiot pressed that afternoon, the enemys force being un- known, and it being considered advisable to await the arrival of the rest of our troops. Orders were sent back to hasten their march, and Page 308 308 N. C., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., ETC. [ChAP. XXXIX. in the meantime, every effort was made to ascertain the numbers and position of the enemy, and find the most favorable point of attack. It had not been intended to fight a general battle at such a distance from our base, unless attacked by the enemy, but, finding ourselves unexpectedly confronted by the Federal Army, it became a matter of difficulty to withdraw through the mountains with our large trains. At the same time, the country was unfavorable for collecting sup- plies while in the presence of the enemys main body, as he was en- abled to restrain our foraging parties by occupying the passes of the mountains with regular and local troops. A battle thus became, in a measure, unavoidable. Encouraged by the successful issue of the engagement of the first day, and in view of the valuable results that would ensue from the defeat of the army of General Meade, it was thought advisable to renew the attack. The remainder of Ewells and Hills corps having arrived, and two divisions of Long- streets, our preparations were made accordingly. During the after- noon, intelligence was received of the arrival of General Stuart at Carlisle, and he was ordered to march to Gettysburg and take posi- tion on our left. A full account of these engagements cannot be given until the reports of the several commanding officers shall have been received, and I shall only offer a general description. The preparations for attack were not completed until the afternoon of the 2d. The enemy held a high and commanding ridge, along which he had massed a large amount of artillery. General Ewell occupied the left of our line, General Hill the center, and General Longstreet the right. In front of General Longstreet the enemy held a position from which, if he could be driven, it was thought our ar- tillery could be used to advantage in assailing the more elevated ground beyond, and thus enable us to reach the crest of the ridge. That officer was directed to endeavor to carry this position, while General Ewell attacked directly the high ground on the enemys right, which had already been partially fortified. General Hill was instructed to threaten the center of the Federal line, in order to pre- vent re-enforcements being sent to either wing, and to avail himself of any opportunity that niiglit present itself to attack. After a severe struggle, Longstreet succeeded in getting possession of and holding the desired ground. Ewell also carried souTh of the strong positions which he assailed, and the result was such as to lead to the belief that he would ultimately be able to dislodge the enemy. The battle ceased at dark. These partial successes determined me to continue the assault next clay. Pickett, with three of his brigades, joined Longstreet the fol- lowing morning, and our batteries were moved forward to the posi- tions gained by him the day before. The general plaii of attack was unchanged, excepting that one division and two brigades of Hills corps were ordered to support Longstreet. Tile enemy, in the meantime, had strengthened his lines with earth- works. The morning was occupied in necessary preparations, and tim battle recommenced in the afternoon of the 3d, and raged with great violence until sunset. Our troops succeeded in entering the advaiiced works of the enemy, and getting possession of some of his batteries, but our artillery having nearly expended its ammunition, the attacking columns became exposed to the heavy fire of the numer- ous batteries near the summit of the ridge, and, after a most deter- mined and gallant struggle, were compelled to relinquish their ad- vantage, and fall back to their original positions with severe loss Page 309 cIHAP. XXXIX.l tHE GETT1~SBU7RG CAMPAIGN. 309 The conduct of the troops was all that I could desire or expect, and they deserve success so far as it can be deserved by heroic valor and fortitude. More may have been required of them than they were able to perform, but my admiration of their noble qualities and confidence in their ability to cope successfully with the enemy has suffered no abatement from the issue of this protracted and sanguinary conflict. Owing to the strength of the enemys position, and the reduction of our ammunition, a renewal of the engagement could not be hazarded, and the difficulty of procuring supplies rendered it impossible to con- tinue longer where we were. Such of the wounded as were in con- dition to be removed, and part of the arms collected on the field, were ordered to Williamsport. The army remained at Gettysburg during the 4th, and at night began to retire by the road to Fairfield, carrying with it about 4,000 prisoners. Nearly 2,000 had previously been paroled, but the en- emy s numerous wounded that had fallen into our hands after the first and second days engagements were left behind. Little progress was made that night, owing to a severe storm, which greatly embarrassed our movements. The rear of the column did not leave its position near Gettysburg until after daylight on the 5th. The march was continued during that day without interrup- tion from the enemy, excepting an unimportant demonstration upon our rear in the afternoon when near Fairfield, which was easily checked. Part of our train moved by the road through Fairfield, and the rest by way of Cashtown, guaided by General Imboden. In passing through the mountains in advance of the column, the great length of the trains exposed them to attack by the enemys cavalry, which captured a number of wagons and ambulances, but they suc- ceeded in reaching Williamsport without serious loss. They were attacked at that place on the uth by the enemys cav- alry, which was gallantly repulsed by General Imboden. The at- tacking force was subsequently encountered and driven off by General Stuart, and pursued for several miles in the direction of Boonsborough. The army, after an arduous march, rendered more difficult by the rains, reached Hagerstown on the afternoon of July 0 and morning of the 7th. The Potomac was found to be so much swollen by the rains that had fallen almost incessantly since our entrance into Maryland as to be unfordable. Our communications with time soutim side were thus interrupted, and it was difficult to procure either amumunition or sub- sistence, the latter difficulty being enhanced by the high waters im- peding the working of the neighboring mills. Tbe trains with the wounded and prisoners were compelled to await at Williamsport the subsiding of the river and the construction of boats, as the pontoon bridge left at Falling Waters had been partially destroyed. The enemy had not yet made his appearance, but as lie was in condition to obtain large re-enforcemeuts, and our situation, for the reasons above mentioned, was becoming daily more embarrassing, it was deemed advisable to recross the river. Part of the pontoon bridge was recovered and new boats built, so that by time i~tlm a good bridge was thrown over the river at Falling Waters. The enemy in force reached our front on the 12th. A position had been previoimsly selected to cover the Potomac from Williamsport to awaited d Falling Waters, and an attack was uring that amid the suc- ceeding day. This did not take place, though the t~ o arimiies were in close proximity, the enemy being occupied in fortifying his ow Page 310 LOJIAP. XXXIX. 310 N~.O., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., 110. lines. Our preparations being completed, and the river, though still deep, being pronounced fordable, the army commenced to withdraw to the south side on the night of the 13th. Ewells corps forded the river at Williamsport. Those of Longstreet and Hill crossed upon the bridge. Owing to the condition of the roads, the troops did not reach the bridge until after daylight on the 14th, and the crossing was not completed until 1 p. in., when the bridge was removed. The enemy offered no serious interruption, and the movement was at- tended with no loss of maft~riel excepting a few disabled wagons and two pieces of artillery, which the horses were unable to move throngh the deep mud. Before fresh horses could be sent back for them, the rear of the column had passed. During the slow and tedious niarch to the bridge, in the midst of a violent storm of rain, some of the men lay down by the way to rest. Officers sent back for them failed to find many in the obscurity of the night, and these, with some strag- glers, fell into the hands of the enemy. Brigadier-General Pettigrew was mortally wounded in an attack made by a small body of cavalry, which was unfortunately mistaken for our own, and permitted to enter our lines. He was brought to Bunker Hill, where he expired a few days afterward. He was a brave and accomplished officer and gentleman, and his loss will be deeply felt by the country and the army. The following day the army marched to Bunker Hill, in the vicin- ity of which it encamped for several days. The day after its arrival, a large force of the enemys cavalry, which had crossed the Potomac at Harpers Ferry, advanced toward Martinsburg. It was attacked by General Fitz. Lee, near Kearneysville, and defeated with heavy loss, leaving its dead and many of its wounded on the field. Owing to the swollen condition of the Shenandoah, the plan of operations which had been contemplated when we recrossed the Po- tomac could not be put into execution, and before the waters had sub- sided, the movements of the enemy induced me to cross the Blue Ridge and take position south of the Rappahannock, which was ac- cordingly done. As soon as the reports of the commanding officers shall be received, a more detailed account of these operations will be given, and occa- sion will then be taken to speak more particularly of the conspicu- ous gallantry and good conduct of both officers and men. It is not yet in my power to give a correct statement of our casual- ties, which were severe, including many brave men, and an un- usual proportion of distinguished and valuable officers. Among them I regret to mention the following general officers: Major-Gen- erals Hood, Pender, and Trimble severely, and Major-General Heth slightly wounded. General Pender has since died. This lamented officer had borne a distinguished part in every engagement of this army, and was wounded on several occasions while leading his command with con- spicuous gallantry and ability. The confidence and admiration in- spired by his courage and capacity as an officer were only equaled by the esteem and respect entertained by all with whom he was as- sociated for the noble qualities of his modest and unassuming char- acter. Brigadier-Generals Barksdale and [R. B.] Garnett were killed, and Brigadier-General Semmes mortally wounded, while leading their troops with the courage that always distinguished them. These brave officers and patriotic gentlemen fell in the faithful discharg Page 311 Ca~p. XXXIXI THE GETTYSBIJEG CAMPAIGTh 811 of duty, leaving the army to mourn their loss and emulate their noble examples. Brigadier-Generals Kemper, Armistead, Scales, G. T. Anderson, Hampton, J. M. Jones, and Jeiikins were also wounded. Brigadier-General Archer was taken prisoner. General Pettigrew, though wounded at Gettysbnrg, continued in command until he was mortally wonnded, near Falling Waters. The loss of the enemy is unknown, but from observation on the field, and his subsequent movements, it is supposed that he suffered severely. Respectfully submitted. R. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjntant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, No. 74. July 4, 1863. I. The army will vacate its position this evening. General A. P. Hills corps will commence the movement, withdrawing from its posi- tion after dark, and proceed on the Fairfield road to the pass in the mountains, which it will occupy, selecting the strongest ground for defense toward the east; General Longstreets corps will follow, and General Ewells corps bring up the rear. These two latter corps will proceed throngh and go into camp. General Longstreets corps will be charged with the e~cort of the prisoners, and will habitually occupy the center of the line of march. General Ewells and Gen- eral Hills corps will alternately take the front and rear on the march. II. The trains which accompany the army will habitually move between the leading and the rear corps, each under the charge of their respective chief quartermasters. Lieutenant-Colonel [James L.] Corley, cjiief quartermaster of the army, will regulate the order in which they shall move. Corps commanders will see that the officers remain with their trains, and that they move steadily and quietly, and that the animals are properly cared for. III. The artillery of each corps will move under the charge of their respective chiefs of artillery, the whole under the general superin- tendence of the commander of the artillery of the army. IV. General Stuart will designate a cavalry command, not exceed- ing two squadrons, to precede and follow the army in its line of march, the commander of the advance reporting to the commander of the leading corps, the commander of the rear to the commander of the rear corps. He will direct one or two brigades, as he may think proper, to proceed to Cashtown this afternoon, and hold that place until the rear of the army has passed Fairfield, and occupy the gorge in the mountains; after crossing which, to proceed in the direction of Greencastle, guarding the right and rear of the army on its march to Hagerstown and Wiiliamsport. General Stuart, with tIme rest of the cavalry, will this evening take the route to Emmitsburg, and proceed thence toward Cavetown and Boonsborongh, guarding the left and rear of the army. V. The commanding general earnestly exhorts each corps com- mander to see that every officer exerts the utmost vigilance, steadi- ness, and boldness during the whole march. R. E. LEE, General Page 312 312 Th C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHb~r. XXXIX. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, August 2, 1863. GENERAL: On the night of July 31, the enemy laid pontoon bridges at a point below Kellys Ford and at Rappahannock Station, and crossed the river with two or three divisions of cavalry and a large body of infantry. The cavalry, supported by three brigades of infantry, advanced toward Brandy Station, being retarded in their progress by Hamp- tons brigade of cavalry, under the command of Colonel Baker, of the First North Carolina Regiment, which fell back gradually before them to our line of infantry, about 2 miles this side of Brandy. Our infantry skirmishers were then advanced, and drove the enemy back a mile beyond the station. Hamptons brigade behaved with its usual gallantry, and was very skillfully handled by Colonel Baker. General Stuart was in the front with the brigade the whole day. Our loss was small, but among our wounded, I regret to say, are those brave officers, Colonel Baker, commanding the brigade, Col- onel Young, of Cobbs Legion, and Colonel Black, of the First South Carolina Cavalry. I am, & c., R. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjt. and Insp. Gen., C. S. Army, Richmond, Va. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, January 20, 1864. GENERAL: I forward to-day my report of the late campaign of this army in Maryland and Pennsylvania, together with those of the corps and pther commanders, as far as they have been received. General Longstreets list of casualties, and the reports of his sub- ordinate officers, shall be sent as soon as they can be obtained from him. I also forward the report of the medical director, and some other documents mentioned in the accompanying schedule. With refer- ence to the former, I would remark that it is necessarily imperfect, for reasons stated in my report. The actual casualties and the num- ber of missing can only be learned from the reports of the command- ing officers, and it should be borne in mind that they usually em- brace all the slightly wounded, even such as remain on duty, under the impression, commonly entertained, that the loss sustained is a measure of the service performed and the danger incurred. I also inclose a map of the routes of the army, and one of the lines at Hagerstown and Williamsport. That of the battle-field of Gettys- burg shall be forwarded as soon as completed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va Page 313 tHAP. XXXIX4 THE GETTYSEITEG CAMPAIGN. 313 [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, January , 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to snbmit a detailed report of the operations of this army from the time it left the vicinity of Fred- ericksbnrg, early in Jnne, to its occnpation of the line of the IRapidan, in Angnst. Upon the retreat of the Federal Army, commanded by Major- General Hooker, from Chancellorsville, it reoccnpied the gronnd north of the Rappahannock, opposite Fredericksbnrg, where it conid not be attacked excepting at a disadvantage. It was determined to draw it from this position, and, if practicable, to transfer the scene of hostilities beyond the Potomac. The execution of this pnrpose also embraced the expulsion of the force under General Milroy, which had infested the lower Shenandoah Valley dnring the preceding winter and spring. If nnable to attain the valnable results which might be expected to follow a decided advantage gained over the enemy in Maryland or Pennsylvania, it was hoped that we should at least so far distnrb his plan for the snmmer campaign as to prevent its execntion dnring the season of active operations. The commands of Longstreet and Ewell were pnt in motion, and encamped around Culpeper Court-House June 7. As soon as their march was discovered by the enemy, he threw a force across the Rappahannock, about 2 miles below Fredericksbnrg, apparently for the pnrpose of observation. Hills corps was left to watch these troops, with instructions to follow the movements of the army as soon as they should retire. The cavalry, nnder General Stuart, which had been concentrated near Culpeper Court-House, was attacked on Jnne 9 by a large force of Federal cavalry, supported by infantry, which crossed the Rap- pahannock at Beverly and Kellys Fords. After a severe engage- ment, which continued from early in the morning until late in the afternoon, the enemy was compelled to recross the river with heavy kiss, leaving about 500 prisoners, 3 pieces of artillery, and several colors in our hands. General Imboden and General Jenkins had been ordered to co- operate in the projected expedition into the Valley, General Imboden by moving toward Romney with his command, to prevent the troops guarding the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad from re-enforcing those at Winchester, while General Jenkins advanced directly toward the latter place with his cavalry brigade, supported by a battalion of infantry and a battery of the Maryland Line. General Ewell left Culpeper Court-House on June 10. He crossed the branches of the Shenandoah near Front Royal, and reached Cedar- ville on the 12th, where he was joined by General Jenkins. Detach- ing General Rodes with his division, and the greater part of Jen- kins brigade, to dislodge a force of the enemy stationed at Berry- ville, General Ewell, with the rest of his command, moved upon Winchester, Johnsons division advancing by the Front Royal road, Earlys by the Valley turnpike, which it entered at Newtown, where it was joined by the Maryland troops. BATTLE OF WINCHESTER. The enemy was driven in on both roads, and our troops halted in line of battle near the town on the evening of the 13th. The sa Page 314 314 ~. 0., VA., W. VA., MTh, PA., IETO. EOHAP. XXXIIX. day the force which had occupied Berryville retreated to Winchester on the approach of General Rodes. The following morning, General Ewell ordered General Early to carry an intrenched position north- west of Winchester, near the Pughtown road, which the latter officer, upon examining the ground, discovered would command the principal fortifications. To cover the niovement of General Early, General Johnson took position between the road to Millwood and that to Berryville, and advanced his skirmishers toward the town. General Early, leaving a portion of his command to engage the enemys attention, with the remainder gained a favorable position without being perceived, and, about 5 p. in., twenty pieces of artillery, under Lieut. Col. H. P. Jones, opened suddenly upon the intrenchments. The enemys guns were soon silenced. Hays brigade then advanced to the assault, and carried the works by storm, capturing six rifled pieces, two of which were tnrned upon and dispersed a column which was forming to re- take the position. The enemy immediately abandoned the works on the left of those taken by Hays, and retired into his main fortifica- tions, which General Early prepared to assail in the morning. The loss of the advanced works, however, rendered the others untenable, and the enemy retreated in the night, abandoning his sick and wounded, together with his artillery, wagons, and stores. Antici- pating such a movement, as soon as he heard of Earlys success, General Ewell directed General Johnson to occupy, with part of his command, a point on the Martinsburg road, about 2~ miles from Winchester, where he could either intercept the enemys retreat, or aid in an attack should further resistance be offered in the morning. General Johnson marched with Nicholls and part of Stenarts bri- gades, accompanied by Lieutenant-Colonel [R. S.] Andrews with a detachment of his artillery, the Stonewall Brigade being ordered to follow. Finding the road to the place indicated by General Ewell difficult of passage in the darkness, General Johnson pursued that leading by Jordan Springs to Stephensons Depot, where he took a favorable position on the Martinsburg road, about 5 miles from Winchester. Just as his line was formed, the retreating column, consisting of the main body of General 1\Iilroys army, arrived, and immediately attacked him. The enemy, though in superior force, consistiiig of both infantry and cavalry, was gallantly repnlsed, and, finding all efforts to cut his way unavailing, he sent strong flanking parties simultaneously to the right and left, still keeping up a heavy fire in front. The party on the right was driven back and pursued by the Stonewall Brigade, which opportunely arrived. That on the left was broken and dispersed by the Second and Tenth Louisiana Regiments, aided by the artillery, and in a short time ~iearly the whole infantry force, amounting to more than 2,300 men, with eleven stand of colors, surrendered, the cavalry alone escaping. General Milroy, with a small party of fugitives, fled to Harpers Ferry. The number of prisoners taken in this action exceeded the force en- gaged under General Johnson, who speaks in terms of well-de- served praise of the conduct of the officers and men of his com- mand. In the meantime, General Rodes marched from Berryville to Martinsburg, reaching the latter place in the afternoon of the 14th. The enemy made a show of resistance, but soon gave way, the cav- alry and artillery retreating toward Williamsport, the infantry toward Shepherdstown, under cover of night. The route taken b Page 315 CHAP. XXXIX.I THE GETTYSPAJTI~G CAMPAIGX. 315 the latter was not known until it was too late to follow; bnt the former were pnrsned so rapidly, Jenkins ti cops leading, that they were forced to abandon five of their six pieces of artillery. About 200 prisoners were taken, but the enemy desti oyed most of his stores. These operations resulted in the expul sion of the enemy from the Valley; the capture of 4,000 prisoneis, witn a corresponding number of small-arms; 28 pieces of superior a tillciy, including those taken by Generals Rodes and Hays; about 800 wugons and as maiiy horses, together with a considerable quantit oh o~ dnan ce, commissary, and quartermaste s stores. Our entire loss was 47 killed, 219 wonnded, and 8 missing. MARCH INTO PENNSYL ~ANJA. On the night of Ewells appearance at Winchester, the enemy in front of A. P. Hill, at Fredericksburg, recrossed the Rappahannock, and th e whole army of Geiieral Hooker withdrew from the north side of the river. In order to niislea(l him as to our intentions, and at the same time protect Hills corps in its march up the Rappahan- nock, Longstreet left Culpeper Court-House on the 15th, and, ad- vancino~ alono~ the eastern side of the Blue Ridge, occupied Ashbys and Siiick ~ Gaps. He had been joined, while at Culpeper, by General Pic~ett, with three brigades of his division. General Stuart. with three brigades of cavalry, moved on Longstreets right, and took position in front of the Gaps. Hamptons and [W. E.] Jones brigades remained along the Rappahannock and Hazel Rivers, in front of Culpeper Court-House, with instructions to follow the main body as soon as Hills corps had passed that poiiit. On the 17th, Fitz. Lees brigade, uiider Colonel Munford, which was on the road to Snickers Gap, was attacked near Aldie by the Federal cavalry. The attack w s repulsed with loss, and the bri- gade held its ground until ordered to fall back, its right being threat- ened by another body, coming from Hopewell toward Middleburg. The latter force was driven from Middleburg, and pursued toward Hopewell by Robertsons brig de, which arrived a out dark. Its retreat was intercepteO by \ . H. F. Lees brigade, under Colonel Chambliss, jr., and the greater part of a regiiueiit captured. During the three succeeding days there was much skirmishing9 General Stuart taking a position west of Middleburg, where lie awaited the rest of his commaiid. General Jones arrived on the 19th, aiid General Hampton in the afternoon of the following day, having repulsed, on his march, a cavalry force sent to reconnoiter in the direction of Warrenton. On the 21st, the enemy attacked with infantry and cavalry, and obliged General Stuart, after a brave resistance, to fall back to the gaps of the mouiitains. The enemy retired thi e next day, having advanced only a short distance beyond Uppervilie. In these engagements, the cavalry sustained a loss of 510 killed, wounded, and missing. Among them were several valuable officers, whose names are mentioned in General Stuarts report. One piece of artillery was disabled and left on the field. The enemys loss was heavy. About 400 prisoners were taken and several stand of colors. The Federal Army was apparently guarding the approaches to Washington, and manifested no disposition to assume the offensive. In the meantime, the progress of Ewell, who was already in Mary- land, with Jenkins cavalry advanced into Pennsylvania as far a Page 316 316 ~. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. LCHAP.XXXIX. Chainbersburg, rendered it necessary that the rest of the army should be within supporting distance, and Hill having reached the Valley, Longstreet was withdrawn to the west side of the Shenandoah, and the two corps encamped near Berryville. General Stuait was directed to hold the mountain passes with part of his command as long as the enemy remained south of the Potoi~ac, and, with the remainder, to cross into Maryland, and place himself on the right of General Ewell. Upon the suggestion of the former officer that he could damage the enemy and delay his passage of the river by getting in his rear, he was authorized to do so. and it was left to his discretion whether to enter Maryland east or west of the Blue Ridge; but he was instructed to lose no time in placing his command on the right of our column as soon as he should perceive the enemy moving northward. On the 22d, General Ewell marched into Pennsylvania with Rodes and Johnsons divisions, preceded by Jenkins cavalry, taking the road from Hagerstown, through Chambersburg, to Carlisle, where he arrived on the 27th. Earlys division, which had occupied Boons- borough, moved by a parallel road to Greenwood, amid, in pursuance of instructions previously given to General Ewell, niarched toward York. On the 24th, Longstreet and Hill were put in m6~*6n to follow Ewell, and, on the 27th, encamped near Chambersbnrg. General Imboden, under the orders before referred to, had been operating on Ewells left while the latter was a(ivanciug into Mary- land. He drove off the troops guarding the Baltimore and Ohio Rail- road, and destroyed all the important bridges on that route from Martinsburg to Cumberland besides inflicting serious damage upon the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. He was at Hancock when Long- street and Hill reached Chambersburg, and was directed to proceed to the latter place by way of McConnellsburg, collecting supplies for~ the army on hi~ route. The cavalry force at this time with the army, consisting of Jenkins brigade and [R V.] Whites battalion, was not greater than was re- quired to accompany the advance of General Ewell and General Early, with whom it performed valuable service, as appears from themr reports. It was expected that as SOOR as the Federal Army should cross the Potomac, General Stuart would give notice of its movements, and nothing having been heard from him since our en- trance into Maryland, it was inferred that the enemy had not yet left Virginia. Orders were, therefore, issued to move upon Harrisburg. The expeditjon of General Early to York was designed in part to prepare for this undertaking by breaking the railroad between Balti- more and Harrisburg, and seizing the bridge over the Susquehanna at Wrightsvilhe. General Early succeeded in the first object, destroy- ing a number of bridges above and below York, but on the approach of the troops sent by him to Wrightsvihle, a body of militia statione(l at that place fled across the river and burned the bridge in their re- treat. General Early then marched to rejoin his corps. The advance against Harrisburg was arrested by intelligence re- ceived from a scout on the night of the 28th, to the effect that the army of General Hooker had crossed the Potommiac~ and was approach- ing the South Mountain. In the absence of the cavalry, it was im- possible to ascertain his intemitions; but to deter him fm~om advancing farther west, and intercepting our communication with Virginia, it was determined to concentrate the army east of the mountains Page 317 CHAP. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 317 BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG. Hills corps was accordingly ordered to move toward Cashtown on the 29th, and Longstreet to follow the next day, leaving Picketts division at Chambersburg to guard the rear until relieved by Imboden. General Ewell was recalled from Carlisle, and directed to join the army at Cashtown or Gettysburg, as circumstances might require. The advance of the enemy to the latter place was unknown, and the weather being inclement, the march was conducted with a view to the comfort of the troops. Heths division reached Cashtown on the 29th, and the following morning Pettigrews brigade, sent by General Heth to procure supplies at Gettysburg, found it occupied by the enemy. Being ignorant of the extent of his force, General Pettigrew was unwilling to hazard an attack with his single brigade, and re- turned to Cashtown. General Hill arrived with Penders division in the evening, and the following morning (July 1) advanced with these two divisions, accom- panied by Pegrams and McIntoshs battalions of artillery, to ascer- tain the strength of the enemy, whose force was supposed to consist chiefly of cavalry. The leading division, under General Heth, found the enemys vedettes about 3 miles west of Gettysburg, and continued to advance until within a mile of the town, when two brigades were sent forward to reconnoiter. They drove in the advance of the enemy very gallantly, but subsequently encountered largely superior num- bers, and were compelled to retire with loss, Brigadier-General Archer, commanding one of the brigades, being taken prisoner. General Heth then prepared for action, aiid as soon as Pender arrived to sup- port him, was ordered by General Hill to advance. The artillery was placed in position, and the engagement opened with vigo~. General Heth pressed the enemy steadily back, breaking his first and second lines, and attacking his third with great resolution. About 2.30 p. m. the advance of Ewells corps, consisting of Rodes division, with Carters battalion of artillery, arrived by the Middletown road, and, forming on Heths left, nearly at right angles with his line, became warmly engaged with fresh numbers of the enemy. Heths troops, having suffered heavily in their protracted contest with a superior force, were relieved by Penders, and Early, coming up by the Heidlersburg road soon afterward, took position on the left of Rodes, when a general advance was made. The enemy gave way on all sides, and was driven through Gettys- burg with great loss. Major-General Reynolds, who was in com- mand, was killed. More than 5,000 prisoners, exclusive of a large number of wounded, three pieces of artillery, and several colors were captured. Among the prisoners were two brigadier-generals, one of whom was badly wounded. Our own loss was heavy, including a number of officers, among whom rere Major-General Heth, slightly, and Brigadier-General Scales, of Penders division, severely, wounded. The enemy retired to a range of hills south of Gettysburg, where he displayed a strong force of infantry and artillery. It was ascertained from the prisoners that we had been engaged with two corps of the army formerly commanded by General Hooker, and that the remainder of that army, under General Meade, was approaching Gettysburg. Without information as to its proximity, the strong position which the enemy had assumed could not be at- tacked without danger of exposing the four divisions present, already weakened and exhausted by a long and bloody struggle, t Page 318 318 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., P A., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. overwhelming numbers of fresh troops. General lEwell was, there- fore, instructed to carry the hill occupied by the enemy, if he found it practicable, but to avoid a general engagement until the arrival of the other divisions of the army, which were ordered to hasten for- ward. He decided to await Johnsons division, which had marched from Carlisle by the road west of the mountains to guard the trains of his corps, and consequently did not reach Gettysburg until a late hour. In the meantime the enemy occupied the point which General Ewell designed to seize, but in what force could not be ascertained, owing to the darkness. An intercepted dispatch showed that another corps had halted that afternoon 4 miles from Gettysburg. Under these circumstances, it was decided not to attack until the arrival of Longstreet, two of whose divisions (those of Hood and MeLaws) encamped about 4 miles in the rear during the night. Andei sons division of Hills corps came up after the engagement. It had not been intended to deliver a general battle so far from our base unless attacked, but coming unexpectedly upon the whole Fed- eral Army, to withdraw throngh the mountains with our extensive trains would have been difficult and dangerous. At the same time we were unable to await an attack, as the country was unfavorable for collecting supplies in the presence of the enemy, who could re- strain our foraging parties by holding the mountain passes with local and other troops. A battle had, therefore, become in a measure un- avoidable, and the success already gained gave hope of a favorable issue. The enemy occupied a strong position, with his right upon two com- manding elevations adjacent to each other, one southeast and the other, knowil as Cemetery Hill, immediately south of the town, which lay at its base. His line extended thence upon the high ground along the Emmitsburg road, with a steep ridge in rear, which was also oc- cupied. This ridge was difficult of ascent, particularly the two hills above mentioned as forming its northern extremity, and a third at the other end, on which the enemys left rested. Numerous stone and rail fences along the slope served to afford protection to his troops and impede our advance. In his front, the ground was undulating and generally open for about three-quarters of a mile. General Ewells corps constituted our left, Johnsons division being opposite the height adjoining Cemetery Hill, Earlys in the center, in front of the north face of the latter, and Rodes upon his right. Hills corps faced the west side of Cemetery Hill, and extended iiearly parallel to the Emmitsburg road, making an angle with Ewells. Penders division formed his left, Andersons his right, Heths, under Brigadier-General Pettigrew, being in reserve. His artillery, under Colonel [R. L.] Walker, was posted in eligible positions along his line. It was determined to make the principal attack upon the enemys left, and endeavor to gain a position from which it was thought that our artillery could be brought to bear with effect. Longstreet was directed to place the divisions of McLaws and Hood on the right of Hill, partially enveloping the enemys left, which he was to drive in. General Hill was ordered to threaten the enemys center, to pre- vent re-enforceinents being drawn to either wing, and co-operate with his right division in Longstreets attack. General Ewell was instructed to make a simultaneous demonstra Page 319 Ca4p. XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBUEG CAMPAIGN. 319 tion upon the enemys right, to be converted into a real attack should opportunity offer. About 4 p. m. Longstreets batteries opened, and soon afterward Hoods division, on the extreme right, moved to the attack. McLaws followed somewhat later, four of Andersons brigades, those of Wil- cox, Perry, [A. H.] Wright, and Posey supporting him on the left, in the order named. The enemy was soon driven from his position -on the Emmitsburg road to the cover of a ravine and a line of stone fences at the foot of the ridge in his rear. He was dislodged from these after a severe struggle, alid retired up the ridge, leaving a num- ber of his batteries in our possession. Wilcoxs and Wrights bri- gades advanced with great gallantry, breaking successive lines of the enemys infantry, and compelling him to abandon much of his artil- lery. Wilcox reached the foot and Wright gained the crest of the ridge itself, driving the enemy down the opposite side; but having become separated from McLaws and gone beyond the other two bri- gades of the division, they were attacked in front and on both flanks and compelled to retire, being unable to bring off any of the captured artillery. McLaws left also fell back, and, it being now nearly dark, General Longstreet determined to await the arrival of General Pickett. He disposed his command to hold the ground gained on the right, withdrawing his left to the first position from which the enemy had been driven. Four pieces of artillery, several hundred prisoners, and two regi- mental flags were taken. As soon as the engagement began on our right, General Johnson opened with his artillery, and about two hours later advanced up the hill next to Cemetery Hill with three brigades, the fourth being detained by a demonstration on his left. Soon afterward, General Early attacked Cemetery Hill w4h two bri- gades, supported by a third, the fourth having been previously. detached. The enemy had greatly increased by earthworks the strength of the positions assailed by Johnson and Early. The troops of the former moved steadily up the steep and rugged ascent, under a heavy fire, driving the enemy into his intrenchments, part of which was carried by Stenarts brigade, and a number of prisoners taken. The contest was continued to a late hour, but without further advantage. On Cemetery Hill, the attack by Earlys leading brigadesthose of Hays and Hoke, under Colonel [J. E.] Averywas made with vigor. Two lines of the enemys infantry were dislodged from the cover of some stone and board fences on the side of the ascent, and driven back into the works on the crest, into which our troops forced their way, and seized several pieces of artil- lery. A heavy force advanced against their right, which was without support, and they were compelled to retire, bringing with them about 100 prisoners and four stand of colors. General Ewell had directed General Rodes to attack in concert with Early, covering his right, and had requested Brigadier-General Lane, then commanding Penders division, to co-operate on the right of ilodes. When the time to attack arrived, General Rodes, not having his troops in posi- tion, was unprepared to co-operate with General Early, and before he could get in readiness the latter had been obliged to retire for want of the expected support on his right. General Lane was pre- pared to give the assistance required of him, and so informed General Rodes, but the latter deemneci it usele~ to advaneQ after the failure of J~arlys attacl~ Page 320 320 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [CHAP. XXXIX. In this engagement our loss in men and officers was large. Major- Generals Hood and Pender, Brigadier-Generals [J. M.] Jones, Semmes, G. T. Anderson, and Barksdale, and Colonel Avery, com- manding Hokes brigade, were wounded, the last two mortally. Generals Pender and Semmes died after their removal to Virginia. The result of this days operations indnced the belief that, with proper concert of action, and with the increased support that the positions gained on the right would enable the artillery to render the assaulting columns, we should ultimately succeed, and it was accordingly determined to continue tbe attack. The general plan was unchanged. Lougstreet, re-enforced by Picketts three brigades, which arrived near the battle-field during the afternoon of the 2(1, was ordered to attack the next morning, and Geu eral Ewell was di- rected to assail the eneuiys right at the same time. The latter; dur- ing the night, re-enforced General Johnson with two brigades from Rodes and one from Earlys division. General Longstreet s dispositions were not completed as early as was expected, but before notice could be sent to General Ewell. Geii- eral Johnson had already become engaged, and it wa~ too late to re- call him. The enemy attempted to recover the works taken the pre- ceding evening, but was repulsed, and General Johnson attacked in turn. After a gallant and prolonged struggle, in which the enemy was forced to abandon part of his intrenchments, General Johnson found himself una~ble to carry the strongly fortified crest of the hill. The projected attack on the enemys left not having been made, he was enabled to hold his right with a force largely superior to that of General Johnson, and finally to threaten his flank and rear, render- ing it necessary for him to retire to his original position about 1 p. m. General iLongstreet was delayed by a force occupying the high, rocky hills on the enemys extreme left, froni which his troops could be attacked in reverse as they advanced. His operations had b6en embarrassed the day previous by the same cause, and he now deemed it necessary to defend his flank and rear with the divisions of Hood and McLaws. He was, therefore, re-enforced by Heths division and two brigades of Penders, to the command of which Major-Gen- eral Trimble was assigned. General Hill was directed to hold his line with the rest of his command, afford General Longstreet further assistance, if required, and avail himself of any success that might be gained. A careful examination was made of the ground secured by Long- street, and his batteries placed in positions, which, it was believed, would enable them to silence those of the enemy. Hills artillery and part of Ewells was ordered to open simultaneously, and the as- saulting column to advance under cover of the combined fire of the three. The batteries were directed to be pushed forward as the, in- fantry progressed, protect their flanks, and support their .atta~ks closely. About i p. in., at a given signal, a heavy cannonade was opened, and continued for about two hours with marked effect upon the enemy. His batteries replied vigorously at first, but towayd the close their fire slackened perceptibly, and General Longstreet ordered forward the column of attack, consisting of Picketts and