Confederate Major Michael Harman discusses recommendations for troop movements issued in January, 1862, just before he left Staunton.
Confederate Colonel George Hull reports to Colonel John Baldwin, commanding at Staunton, on a January, 1862, battle at Huntersville.
Confederate Captain H. M. Bell, Assistant Quartermaster at Staunton, reports to Adjutant General Samuel Cooper on January, 1862, Union advances in western Virginia. Bell says he has a wagon train ready with reinforcements, but that he is short of corn.
Confederate General William Loring reports to Adjutant General Samuel Cooper in January, 1862, on intelligence received from Staunton quartermaster Michael Harman.
Jedediah Hotchkiss writes a January, 1862, report while in Augusta County, on his participation as a Confederate topographical engineer in the July, 1861, campaign in West Virginia. Hotchkiss reports that after the retreat from Rich Mountain, Major Reger had his family sent to Staunton.
Confederate Secretary of War Judah P. Benjamin writes Captain H. M. Bell at Staunton in January, 1862, to give instructions on the trial of prisoners.
Confederate General Henry Wise writes Secretary of War Judah P. Benjamin asking him to send his regiments at Staunton east, to join him in operations along the coast in January, 1862.
T. N. Waul reports in detail on a January, 1862, examination of the Confederate Quartermaster, Commissary, and Medical Departments. Waul outlines problems and suggests solutions for clothing, feeding, and paying the army, and caring for sick and wounded soldiers. He discusses conditions in Staunton hospitals, including their good track record in healing the sick. Also of interest is Waul's tribute to the dedication and helpfulness of Confederate citizens, especially women.
Union General William S. Rosecrans outlines plans for operations in the Shenandoah Valley, including Staunton and Augusta County, in March, 1862.
Union General Robert Milroy outlines plans for possible movements in the Valley during March, 1862. He proposes moving on Staunton. He also reports that the militia draft in Pocahontas and Highland scared many citizens into hiding in the mountains.
D. D. Perkins reports to Union General Nathaniel P. Banks that Confederate General Thomas Jackson was seen retreating to Staunton with guns and supplies in March, 1862.
Thomas J. Jackson commanded Confederate forces in the Shenandoah Valley during the spring of 1862. In this March report he informs General Joseph E. Johnston of intelligence gathered in the Valley. He mentions Union plans to pursue him to Staunton, as well as the Union generals' conciliatory policy toward Valley civilians.
In early spring, 1862, Union forces prepared to move in the Shenandoah Valley. In this letter, Union General Robert H. Milroy reports to William S. Rosecrans on the situation, including the possibility of holding Staunton, Virginia.
Union Major R. Morris Copeland reports to Brigadier General James Shields on an engagement in the Valley during the early spring of 1862. Copeland speculates that in the wake of the battle, probably Kernstown, the Confederate forces retired to Staunton.
In this May, 1862, letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks informs General Williams of movements in the Valley. He speculates that Confederate forces retreated to Staunton.
In this March, 1862, letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports to General Williams on the disposition of Confederate forces in the Valley. He mentions Jackson's movement to Staunton and probable departure for Richmond.
In this March, 1862, letter, Union General in Chief and commander of the Army of the Potomac George B. McClellan, informs General Nathaniel P. Banks of future plans, possibly involving a movement to Staunton.
General Thomas J. Jackson, commanding Confederates in the Valley, reports to General Joseph E. Johnston in this March, 1862, letter. Jackson details Union troop movements, strengths, and plans. Jackson mentions deceiving Union generals into thinking he has planned a withdrawal to the important railroad town of Staunton to link up with Johnston in the East.
General Jacob Cox commanded Union forces in the Kanawha Valley in what is now West Virginia during the spring of 1862. In this March letter, he informs General John C. Fremont of the situation in his sector, including troop strengths and enemy positions. The importance of Staunton as a rail center becomes evident when Cox mentions the frequent fluctuation of Confederate strength at Jackson Station, linked by rail to Staunton, VA.
In April, 1862, General George B. McClellan's Army of the Potomac planned an advance on Richmond by way of the James River Peninsula. At the same time, Nathaniel Banks' Federals, stationed in the Valley, faced Jackson's troops. In this letter McClellan writes Banks regarding the plans and situation in the Valley. He suggests an advance on Staunton once railroad communications make it possible.
In early spring, 1862, General Edward Johnson commanded Confederate forces in the Shenandoah Valley. In this dispatch, Union General John C. Fremont tells General Robert Milroy of their position and possible future movements.
In this April, 1862, dispatch Union General John C. Fremont informs Nathaniel P. Banks of plans to concentrate on Staunton, VA.
In this April, 1862, letter, Union officer B. R. Durfee informs Adjutant-General Don Piatt of actions in Virginia. Durfee speculates that Confederate forces retreated toward Staunton, and also discusses an incident on the Wardensville Road, probably involving guerrillas.
In this dispatch, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports to Adjutant-General Lorenzo Thomas on the situation facing his Corps in the Valley. He mentions possible Confederate plans to concentrate around Staunton.
In this April, 1862, letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports to George B. McClellan on affairs in the Valley. He discusses Staunton as sight of a possible conversion of Confederate forces. Banks also reports that General Thomas J. Jackson has been sending stores and provisions in the direction of Staunton.
S. Bassett French reports to Robert E. Lee on Thomas J. Jackson's troop strengths. He says he learned in Staunton that 4,000 militia reinforced Jackson.
Robert E. Lee, acting as military advisor to Jefferson Davis in Richmond, forwards an armaments request to Josiah Gorgas, Confederate ordnance chief. General Hackson had requested in April, 1862, that pikes for unarmed men be sent to Staunton.
In April, 1862, Nathaniel P. Banks, commanding a Union force in the Shenandoah Valley, had engineer E. B. Hunt survey the terrain. Hunt reports on the prominent defensive positions in the Valley, and he recommends formation of bases to facilitate an advance on Staunton.
Union General William S. Rosecrans discusses plans for movement in late April, 1862. He suggests that Fremont's troops, based in western Virginia, clear the Shenandoah Valley and concentrate on Staunton.
In April, 1862, General Thomas J. Jackson commanded Confederate forces in the Shenandoah Valley. In this dispatch, he expresses his hope to General Richard Ewell that Union General Nathaniel P. Banks be prevented from advancing on Staunton, VA.
Both Nathaniel P. Banks and John C. Fremont commanded Union forces in western Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley during April, 1862. In this letter, Banks reports to George B. McClellan on Fremont's movements toward Staunton and the effects this had on Confederate Generals Thomas J. Jackson and Turner Ashby.
In this April, 1862, dispatch, Nathaniel P. Banks, commanding a Union force in the Shenandoah Valley, reports on the situation. He notes that Union General John C. Fremont's advance toward Staunton caused alarm.
Union general William S. Rosecrans reports to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton on plans in the Valley. He estimates the number of troops John C. Fremont will need for movements around Staunton.
In this April, 1862, letter to Confederate general Richard Ewell, General Thomas J. Jackson speculates that Union General Nathaniel P. Banks will advance on Staunton.
In April, 1862, Robert E. Lee served as military advisor to Jefferson Davis in Richmond and functioned as a chief of staff. In this dispatch, he coordinates the movements in the Valley of General Edward Johnson and General Thomas J. Jackson's men.
In this April, 1862, letter, Robert E. Lee, acting as military advisor to Jefferson Davis and functioning as a Chief of Staff, gives movement orders to Confederate General Henry Heth. Lee fears Union troops will occupy Staunton and suggests that, in that event, Heth use the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad for communications. Lee's fear illustrates the importance of Staunton as a center of railroad communication.
Union General William S. Rosecrans writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton about plans to coordinate April, 1862, movements in the Valley, including the Staunton area.
Confederate General Henry Heth, stationed in the Shenandoah Valley, writes an April, 1862, reply to Robert E. Lee, directing Confederate operations from Richmond. He outlines the situation in the Valley, and explains that loss of Staunton to the Union army would cut off his troop's source of subsistence. He also discusses the availability of corn from Staunton and elsewhere in the Valley.
Union General John C. Fremont forwards this report of Lieut. Colonel Downey to Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. It discusses a skirmish at Grass Lick West Virginia, and the pursuit of Confederates making their way to Staunton, Virginia.
General Thomas J. Jackson, commanding Confederate forces in the Shenandoah Valley, reports to Robert E. Lee, directing Confederate operations from Richmond. Jackson outlines the situation in late April, 1862, and discusses the possibility of Union armies capturing Staunton.
Robert E. Lee authorizes General Edward Johnson, commanding at Staunton, to detain persons passing through his lines, and arrest any carrying unauthorized letters. Lee designed his April, 1862, to prevent spying by the enemy.
In this late April, 1862, letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks writes to Secretary of War Stanton on the logistical situation in the Shenandoah Valley. He also reports the retreat of Confederate General Edward Johnson toward Staunton.
During the Spring of 1862 Union forces under Nathaniel P. Banks, Irvin McDowell, and John C. Fremont, advanced in the Shenandoah Valley in conjunction with George B. McClellan's drive on Richmond. In this letter, General Banks informs Secretary of War Stanton of his progress in advancing toward Staunton, VA.
Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports on April, 1862, advances in the Shenandoah Valley. He mentions bridges burned near Staunton.
Union General John C. Fremont reports on the progress of the April, 1862, offensive in the Shenandoah Valley. In this letter, he reports to Secretary of War Stanton on the collapse of Confederate militia, and the movement of sick on railroads from Staunton, Virginia.
During the Spring of 1862, three Union forces under Fremont, Banks, and McDowell advanced up the Shenandoah Valley. In this letter, Union General John C. Fremont coordinates April, 1862, operations with General Nathaniel P. Banks. He comments on the absence of Confederate troops from the Staunton area, and the movement of sick on railroad cars.
In this April, 1862, letter, Confederate Assistant Adjutant General W. H. Taylor suggests that General Henry Heth move his troops to Staunton to reinforce operations in the Shenandoah Valley.
Union General Nathaniel Banks reports to Secretary of War Stanton on the progress of April, 1862, operations in the Valley. He claims the Confederates to be in full retreat, Johnson's troops having just passed through Staunton.
Prior to General Thomas J. Jackson's May, 1862, offensive in the Shenandoah Valley, Federal troops in the area enjoyed quite times. In this April letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton on the progress of operations in the Valley. He remarks on the absence of opposition, and speculates that forces under Fremont should be sufficient to take and hold Staunton.
In April, 1862, before Stonewall Jackson's May offensive, their was little action in the Shenandoah Valley. In this letter, Union General J. J. Abercrombie reports to Nathaniel P. Banks, commanding near Staunton.
In late April, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson prepared to launch his Shenandoah Valley campaign. In this letter to Robert E. Lee, commanding all Confederate forces from Richmond, Jackson outlines his plans.
Alexander H. H. Stuart writes Confederate Secretary of War George Randolph in April, 1862, to stress the importance of protecting the Shenandoah Valley as a base of supply for Confederate armies. Stuart discusses Augusta county's crop production, and estimates stores and yields. He also mentions important industries in Staunton. Stuart also informs Randolph that many Augusta County farmers wonder just how much to plant, if their crop will only be captured by the enemy.
In late April, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson positioned his forces to assume the offensive. In this letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports to Secretary of War Stanton on Jackson's movements, and the location of Johnson's Confederate troops outside Staunton.
Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson's early May, 1862, Valley offensive took Federals by surprise. In this late April letter, Union General John C. Fremont reports to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton of scouting near Staunton, Virginia, and the apparent retreat of Confederate forces in the area. He also discusses an engagement between foragers and guerrillas at Bull Pasture.
In late April and early May, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson feigned a withdrawal from the Shenandoah Valley, only to launch a surprise offensive, beginning at McDowell, Virginia. In this letter, Union General Robert Milroy stationed at McDowell reports to his commanding officer, General John C. Fremont, on the apparent Confederate preparations to move east. He discusses a scouting party sent to Staunton that discovered Confederate General Johnson stripping the countryside of militia, stores, and forage and sending it out of the Valley. He also discusses some guerrilla actions.
In early May, 1862, Confederate Thomas J. Jackson prepared to launch an offensive in the Shenandoah Valley. Robert E. Lee, then acting as commander in chief of Confederate forces, orders General Richard Ewell to cover Jackson's advance on Staunton.
In this letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks warns John C. Fremont of Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson's movements toward Staunton in the Shenandoah Valley in preparation for his May, 1862, offensive.
In early May, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson launched his famous offensive in the Shenandoah Valley after feigning a retreat from the area. This letter, from Union General Nathaniel P. Banks, reports on Jackson's return to the Valley, with Staunton a possible destination.
General Thomas J. Jackson writes Confederate Adjutant General W. H. Taylor from headquarters in Staunton, Virginia, in May, 1862. He discusses the organization of Colonel Turner Ashby's cavalry.
Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson writes from Staunton to General Richard Ewell on various aspects of the May, 1862, Valley campaign.
During the first week of May, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson prepared a surprise attack on Union troops at McDowell, Virginia. In this letter, Union General Robert Milroy, commanding at McDowell, reports on Jackson's movements and speculates as to his intent. He promises to report from Staunton to commanding officer, General John C. Fremont, within 48 hours.
Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson writes from Staunton to Richard Ewell on May, 1862, movements in the Shenandoah Valley.
Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson writes from Staunton to General Richard Ewell on aspects of the May, 1862, Valley campaign.
In May 1862, General Joseph E. Johnston commanded the Confederate army facing McClellan on the Peninsula. Robert E. Lee functioned as military advisor to Jefferson Davis in Richmond. In this letter, Lee informs Johnston of the disposition of Confederate forces and notes that Jackson, stationed in Staunton, sought to link up with General Edward Johnson's men and attack Federal troops under General Robert Milroy at McDowell.
In the first week of May, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson gathered troops at Staunton, Virginia, from which to launch an offensive in the Shenandoah Valley. In this dispatch, Lee, directing Confederate forces from Richmond, writes Jackson at Staunton on his concentration of troops.
Paroled Confederate prisoner F. M. Imboden writes from Staunton in May, 1862, to General Henry Wise. Imboden asks Wise to arrange a prisoner exchange so Imboden can return to service.
John D. Imboden, engaged in raising a regiment of partisan rangers in May, 1862, writes from Staunton to President Jefferson Davis to plead for the exchange of his brother, a paroled prisoner.
General Thomas J. Jackson sends a telegram through Staunton, VA, announcing victory over Federals under John C. Fremont at McDowell, Virginia.
On May 8, 1862, Confederate troops under General Thomas J. Jackson attacked and defeated Union forces under Robert Milroy at McDowell. In this letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks, possibly unaware of these developments, reports to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton on Jackson's movements. He speculates Jackson might be headed south to Staunton.
In this May, 1862, letter, General Nathaniel P. Banks discusses movements in the Valley and his orders to fall back on Strasburg. He expresses his desire to take a stand at Staunton, instead.
Robert E. Lee writes General Joseph E. Johnston in May, 1862, with news from Staunton of Jackson's victory at McDowell.
In this May 10, 1862, letter, Union General Robert Schenck reports on the movements of Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson in the Valley. He mentions a scouting party sent to Staunton, and the reports they brought back of Jackson's and Johnson's combined force, augmented by troops arriving by train in Staunton.
On May 8, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson launched his Valley campaign by attacking and defeating troops under Robert Milroy at McDowell. In the aftermath, Milroy scrambled to discover Jackson's next movements. In this letter to his commanding general, John C. Fremont, Milroy reports on intelligence gathered by his scouts, including the movement of troops on trains in the Staunton area.
On May 8, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson attacked and defeated a portion of General John C. Fremont's command under Robert Milroy at McDowell. In this letter, Fremont informs Secretary of War Stanton of Jackson's subsequent movements. He reports on intelligence gathered by scouts concerning the arrival in Staunton of more Confederate troops by train.
In this May, 1862, letter, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks reports to Secretary of War Stanton on movements in the Valley after the battle of McDowell. He notes the union of Jackson and Johnson's Confederate forces at Staunton.
This May 1862 letter informs General Joseph E. Johnston of the supply situation facing his Confederate army outside Richmond. It discusses available supplies from Staunton and the Valley.
In this May, 1862, letter, Union General John C. Fremont informs General Jacob Cox of movements in the Valley, including the arrival of Confederate troops in Staunton by train.
During May, 1862, General Thomas J. Jackson and General Richard Ewell commanded Confederate forces in the Shenandoah Valley. In this letter, Jackson attempts to coordinate movements with Ewell in the aftermath of victory at McDowell. He mentions a possible advance on Staunton by Union General Nathaniel P. Banks.
Confederate Military Secretary A. L. Long writes General Richard Ewell. He mentions General Thomas J. Jackson's May 15, 1862, return to Staunton, VA.
Confederate General Henry Heth reports on the battle of Giles Court House. He alludes to the importance of Staunton, Virginia, as a supply base and railroad depot.
After Thomas J. Jackson's May 8, 1862, victory over Union forces under John C. Fremont, Stonewall Jackson prepared to turn and attack Nathaniel P. Banks Federals. In this dispatch, Jackson orders General Richard Ewell to prepare his men to march. Jackson orders him to send any excess cooking and entrenching tools to the supply base of Staunton, VA.
In this letter, E. J. Allen reports to Union General John C. Fremont on operations near Callaghan's. He discusses engagements with bushwhackers, the raising of militia, and Union sentiment in Greenbriar County. He mentions his opponent's efforts to get reinforcements by telegraphing Jackson at Staunton.
This letter from Union General John C. Fremont to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton describes May, 1862, action in Greenbriar County. Fremont reports that Col. Crook's troops captured Confederate dispatches asking that Jackson send reinforcements from Staunton.
Union Secretary of War Edwin Stanton writes General Irvin McDowell in May, 1862, to report news gathered from newspaper dispatches purported to come by way of Staunton.
May, 1862, Confederate Orders providing guidelines for army recruiting in Virginia. The orders establish a recruiting post at Staunton, VA.
In late May, 1862, Lincoln ordered Shields division back into the Valley to help deal with Stonewall Jackson. By early June, Shields and Fremont's forces engaged in chasing Jackson southward. In this letter, Shields reports to General McDowell on his movements. He mentions burned bridges in the Valley and a possible advance on Staunton or Charlottesville with the intent of destroying the railroad.
In June, 1862, Union General Shield's division chased Confederates under Thomas J. Jackson up the Valley. In this dispatch, Shields orders one of his brigade commanders, Col. Carroll, to cut off Jackson's escape at Staunton. He also orders him to destroy railroad equipment.
In the Shenandoah Valley during May and June, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson won a series of victories over three Union forces under John C. Fremont, Irvin McDowell, and Nathaniel P. Banks. In this June letter, President Jefferson Davis writes to congratulate Jackson on his victories. He also mentions sending reinforcements gathered by the general commanding at Staunton. Also of interest is Davis's reference to the threat the Northern armies pose to Southern homes and political rights.
In this June 1862 letter, General Lee, now commanding the Confederate army defending Richmond, informs Secretary of War Randolph of General Thomas J. Jackson's plans to attack Federal troops in the Shenandoah Valley. Lee discusses reinforcements for Jackson. He also reports that he urged Major Harman, commanding in Staunton, to raise troops from the community to send to Jackson's aid.
In this dispatch, Ed Schriver updates General James Shields on the supply situation facing his division pursuing Jackson southward. He wonders how Shields will reach Staunton despite impassable roads beyond Columbia Bridge. He also details foraging procedures.
After Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson's string of victories in May, 1862, Federal armies in the Valley attempted to converge against him. In this June dispatch, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks informs Irvin McDowell of the situation, and mentions expected military support for Jackson from Confederates in Staunton.
Robert E. Lee took command of Confederate forces defending Richmond on June 1, 1862. In this letter to Secretary of War George Randolph, Lee discusses sending reinforcements to Jackson in the Shenandoah Valley. Lee also mentions his orders that Major Harman, commanding at Staunton, gather all available troops, raise the community in that vicinity, and march to Jackson's aid.
Union General James Shield's division pursued Stonewall Jackson's Confederates up the Shenandoah Valley in June, 1862. In this letter, Shields reports to Chief of Staff for the Department of the Rappahannock, Edmund Schriver. He describes the obstacles facing his army including the weather and lack of supply. He reports on efforts to meet these problems including bridge building and wheat milling in Luray. Shields also describes Jackson's retreat in the Staunton area, including Confederate desertions and lack of supply.
During the late spring and early summer of 1862, General Thomas J. Jackson won a series of important victories over Union troops in the Shenandoah Valley. In this June letter, Robert E. Lee informs Confederate Secretary of War Randolph of a telegram from Staunton announcing yet another victory, probably at Cross Keys.
In this letter, Union General Irvin McDowell reports to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton on the situation in the Valley. He mentions a Confederate telegram from Staunton to Richmond requesting reinforcements.
On June 8, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson attacked and defeated Shield's division that had been pursuing him up the Valley. In the wake of this defeat, Union General Carl Schurz sent a confidential dispatch to president Abraham Lincoln analyzing Federal problems in the Shenandoah Valley. He discusses the poor state of Union supply, as well as the lack of engineers and miners appropriate for mountain fighting. He also recommends the destruction of Jackson's army as more useful for capturing Staunton and cutting its railroads than the pursuit of guerilla warfare in the mountains.
By the second year of the war, Confederate manpower shortages became acute. The following Confederate orders, issued in June, 1862, by R. L. Dabney, Jackson's adjutant, instruct Col. Johnson to encamp near Staunton to recruit men for the army and round up stragglers.
In this letter, John C. Fremont, commanding Union forces in western Virginia in June, 1862, requests reinforcements from President Lincoln. He proposes to take Staunton, VA, and gain control of railroads in the Valley. He also refers to the importance of the wheat crop in the Valley, and the advantage the Confederates derive from the friendly populace.
In mid-June, 1862, Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson's Valley campaign drew to a close. In this dispatch to Cavalry Colonel Thomas Munford, Jackson issues orders, and inquires if certain arms had been sent to Staunton.
Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson congratulates Cavalry Colonel Thomas Munford on a June,1862, victory in the Shenandoah Valley. Jackson orders Munford to send prisoners and captured supplies to Staunton. He arranges a meeting in the same place. Jackson also discusses how to deal with citizens driving cattle through Confederate lines.
W. H. C. Whiting writes from Staunton to Secretary of War Randolph in June, 1862, to ask if he can put to death Union soldiers captured liberating slaves.
In this June, 1862, dispatch Union division commander Franz Sigel reports to Secretary of War Stanton on the alignment of forces in the Shenandoah Valley. He also debriefs two prisoners who had been through Staunton and observed the arrival of Confederate troops in the area.
Confederate Colonel John Imboden writes Secretary of War George Randolph in June, 1862, concerning the organization of a regiment of partisan rangers in Staunton Virginia. Imboden reports that the citizens of Augusta County gave him $2,500 for the purpose, and that he is securing arms for his men in Staunton. Imboden asks for more arms and money, and outlines his plans for raids into West Virginia to encourage and arm Confederate supporters in the area.
E. J. Allen forwards General Andrew Porter a June, 1862, debriefing of an escaped prisoner of war. The prisoner gave information concerning Confederate troop movements in the Staunton area.
Operations in the Shenandoah Valley proved difficult for Federal commanders early in the war. In July, 1862, in the wake of Stonewall Jackson's victories over the combined forces of McDowell, Banks, and Fremont, Lincoln reorganized the army. John Pope received command of the Union Army of Virginia, which included troops stationed in the Valley area. In this letter, he informs General McClellan of his plans, including sending troops to establish communications with Staunton, Virginia.
In this July, 1862, letter, Union General John Pope, now commanding the Army of Virginia with authority over the Shenandoah Valley, questions General Cox on troop strength in the Kanawha Valley, and plans to march on Staunton, VA.
Col. William S. H. Baylor commanded the Fifth Virginia Infantry in the Army of Northern Virginia. Col. Baylor details his unit's successful charge upon the enemy position.
General Robert E. Lee writes President Jefferson Davis to discuss the July, 1862, strategic situation. Lee speculates on Union plans in the Shenandoah Valley that might involve the capture of the Virginia Central Railroad at Staunton. He also remarks on the impact of rumors on civilian morale.
In late July 1862, George B. McClellan commanded the Army of the Potomac on the James River Peninsula, and John Pope controlled Federal forces in the Valley. In this letter, McClellan advises Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton to warn Pope that recent enemy troop movements could be destined for Staunton.
In this July, 1862, letter, George D. Ruggles, General Pope's Chief of Staff, informs Union General Franz Sigel of Confederate movements toward Staunton along the Virginia Central Railroad. Ruggles orders Sigel to send out scouts in the Staunton area.
Union General John Pope announces to General Franz Sigel a possible concentration of Confederate troops in Staunton or Charlottesville in July, 1862.
Union General Franz Sigel reports to George Ruggles on the July, 1862, situation in the Valley. He mentions sending spies to the Charlottesville and Staunton areas.
Union General John Wool reports to Secretary of War Stanton on the approach of enemy troops from Staunton in this late July, 1862, dispatch.
Union General John Pope reports to Chief of Staff Henry Halleck on his August, 1862, instructions to General Jacob Cox commanding forces in the Kanawha Valley. Pope ordered Cox to move on Staunton, VA.
Union Chief of Staff Henry Halleck replies to John Pope's August, 1862, plans for Jacob Cox's troops. He suggests a safer route of movement than that by Staunton, VA.
C. W. D. Smiley reports to General Franz Sigel on an August, 1862, scouting expedition. He reports finding no troops in Staunton or Charlottesville. He also discusses an engagement with guerrillas.
Major H.J. Williams commanded the Fifth Virginia Infantry. He reports that the unit fought all day and pursued the enemy until after dark.
By August, 1862, actions in the Shenandoah Valley had quieted. In this letter, Confederate Provost Marshall, W. Skeer, writes to the Secretary of War concerning replacement of a burned bridge on the Cow Pasture River. Loss of the bridge disrupted all rail traffic on the Virginia Central west of Staunton.
Confederate Colonel Michael Harman, commanding at Staunton, writes Secretary of War Randolph in September, 1862, concerning the enrollment of a paroled prisoner of war.
In September, 1862, Robert E. Lee planned an invasion of Maryland. In this letter, he informs Jefferson Davis of his plans. Lee suggests sending some supplies through Staunton, VA.
Colonel Michael G. Harman, Confederate commander and quartermaster at Staunton, VA, discusses supplies captured at Winchester in September, 1862.
September, 1862, Confederate Special orders sending the First South Carolina Cavalry to Northern Virginia via Staunton.
Lee's aid de camp, Walter Taylor, writes General Gustavus Smith in late September, 1862, as the Maryland campaign drew to a close. He discusses removal of sick and wounded from the front. Taylor instructs Smith to use Staunton and the Valley as the primary line of communication with Lee's army. He also suggests moving supplies from Culpeper Court-House to Staunton.
Confederate General John Imboden reports to Thomas J. Jackson on September, 1862, operations in western Virginia. Imboden reports capturing bandit Captain Bond, some of his gang, and other horse thieves and sending them to Staunton.
Confederate General G. W. Smith writes in September, 1862, to General Henry Wise to report on a telegraph received from Staunton discussing a battle in the Shenandoah Valley.
Robert E. Lee writes to Thomas J. Jackson in October, 1862, after the Maryland campaign. He discusses the supply situation, including wagons hauling arms and stores to Staunton.
Robert E. Lee retreated to Virginia after the battle of Sharpsburg, Maryland, in mid-September, 1862. In this October letter to Jefferson Davis, Lee discusses his efforts to move sick, wounded, and stores captured at Harper's Ferry to Staunton. Also of interest are Lee's suggestions for army promotions, and his opinion of the Emancipation Proclamation.
These October, 1862, orders approved by Robert E. Lee, and issued by Robert Chilton, concern reorganization of Confederate Artillery. Among other things, guns are ordered to Staunton, VA.
Union Commander in Chief Henry Halleck reports to George B. McClellan on various aspects of operations in October, 1862. He mentions scouts reporting movement of Confederate baggage and artillery to Staunton.
In October, 1862, George B. McClellan planned an advance into Virginia by the Army of the Potomac. In this letter he tells General in Chief Henry Halleck that Confederates at Winchester are receiving reinforcements through Staunton.
Robert E. Lee informs Secretary of War Randolph in October, 1862, that the sick and wounded from battles at Manassas and Sharpsburg have been sent to Staunton. He describes the nature and number of the afflicted.
Confederate artillery colonel Stephen Lee writes to General William Pendleton in October, 1862. He discusses orders to move crippled guns, ammunition, and horses to Staunton to be turned over to the quartermaster.
In October, 1862, in the aftermath of Antietam and Second Manassas, the Confederates had many sick and wounded to bring to hospitals in Virginia. In this letter, Lafayette Guild, Medical Director of the Army of Northern Virginia writes to Confederate Surgeon General Dr. Samuel Moore concerning the problem. Guild reports moving wounded from Winchester to Staunton.
Union general and railroad specialist Herman Haupt reports to George B. McClellan on the October, 1862, rebuilding of the Harper's Ferry bridge. He also mentions Confederate plans to complete rail connections between Staunton and Mount Jackson or Winchester using rails pulled from the Orange and Alexandria.
Union General Franz Sigel reports to General Samuel Heintzelman on Confederates camped at Culpeper in October, 1862. According to Sigel's source, Staunton served then as a base of supply for the Confederate army.
Confederate Colonel Armistead Long writes General Gustavus Smith in October, 1862. He discusses orders concerning the artillery. He also directs Smith to inquire in Staunton about guns available for the Richmond defense, since many were stockpiled in that place.
General Robert E. Lee instructs General George Steaurt at Winchester to continue sending the seriously sick and wounded to Staunton in this October, 1862, letter.
Union General in Chief Henry Halleck lays out October, 1862, plans. He discusses fortifying Harper's Ferry to serve as a base for advances on Staunton, Lynchburg, and Richmond.
Robert E. Lee writes John Imboden, commanding Confederate partisan rangers, concerning operations in western Virginia during October, 1862. Lee instructs Imboden to send to Staunton any cloth, leather, and stores collected.
General Robert E. Lee writes to H. M. Bell, quartermaster at Staunton, concerning October, 1862, production of clothing and leather goods in Staunton, VA, for the army.
Union General George B. McClellan sends portions of letters intercepted in October, 1862, to General in Chief Henry Halleck. One speaks of troops moving through Staunton to Winchester. Another calls Staunton the center of the Confederacy, and a rendezvous point for troops.
Confederate Adjutant General Robert Chilton writes to John Imboden concerning his October, 1862, efforts to procure cattle and horses in western Virginia. Chilton instructs Imboden to send to Staunton all the leather he can gather.
Robert E. Lee writes Col. John Imboden, commanding partisan rangers, concerning his actions in western Virginia during October, 1862. Lee approves Imboden's request for 400 suits from the quartermaster at Staunton.
Army of the Potomac cavalry commander Alfred Pleasonton reports to General Randolph Marcy on intelligence gathered in October, 1862. He discusses Confederate troop strengths, and 2,500 men at Winchester destined for Staunton with small-pox.
Army of the Potomac cavalry commander Alfred Pleasonton informs General Randolph Marcy of intelligence gathered by pickets in October, 1862. He reports that the Confederate army moved from Winchester to Staunton.
Robert E. Lee writes Thomas J. Jackson on November, 1862, actions in the Shenandoah Valley. He discusses sending a man to Staunton to procure blankets and shoes for the army. He also mentions a group of shoemakers Jackson sent to Staunton.
Confederate Colonel J. D. Shields reports to Adjutant General Samuel Cooper on enrolling conscripts in November, 1862. Shields discusses the availability of conscripts and mentions Colonel Michael G. Harman's command at Staunton.
In November, 1862, General Ambrose E. Burnside replaced George B. McClellan as commander of the Army of the Potomac. In this dispatch, he outlines plans for an attack on Fredericksburg. He discusses the need to avoid a Confederate retreat to Staunton.
During the Civil War, the Confederate government had to resort to price fixing and confiscation to ease the army's increasingly large supply problem. In this November, 1862, letter, General Robert E. Lee writes Secretary of War Randolph concerning procurement of wheat in the Shenandoah Valley. He discusses milling, price fixing, and the reportedly higher prices charged at Staunton.
During the Civil War, the Confederate government was forced to fix wheat prices to ensure abundant supply to the army. In this letter, Robert E. Lee replies to complaints of millers in Rockingham County that Confederate Commissary agents gave higher prices for wheat in Staunton than elsewhere in the Valley. Lee also discusses efforts to set a fair price in the Valley.
Thomas J. Jackson's Confederate troops occupied the Shenandoah Valley during November, 1862. In this dispatch, General Robert E. Lee discusses plans in the Valley, and informs Jackson that shoes and blankets from Staunton have been forwarded to his army.
Army of the Potomac commander Alfred Pleasonton reports to General Parke on the November, 1862, disposition of Thomas J. Jackson's troops. Pleasonton speculates that, if attacked, Jackson will retreat to Staunton.
In November, 1862, General Thomas J. Jackson's Confederates guarded the Shenandoah Valley against any possible advance by Federal forces. In this letter, Lee discusses Jackson's movements and supply situation, including blankets and shoes forwarded from Staunton.
Robert E. Lee writes to Secretary of War Randolph on November, 1862, Confederate positions in the Valley. He also discusses Union movements and his supply situation. he mentions shoes and blankets sent to Staunton for Jackson.
In November, 1862, while Army of the Potomac Commander Ambrose Burnside planned a movement on Fredericksburg, General Thomas J. Jackson's Confederates operated in the Shenandoah Valley. In this letter, Robert E. Lee writes Jackson concerning the strategic situation in the Valley and Virginia. He states that loss of the Valley and its supplies would be a severe blow. He also mentions a telegram from Staunton concerning Federal troop strengths in the area.
Union Assistant Adjutant General J. C. Kelton forwards to Army of the Potomac commander Ambrose Burnside a November, 1862, report from secret agent Charles Whitlock. He reports part of Jackson's army stationed at Staunton.
Robert E. Lee writes to Secretary of War Randolph in November, 1862. He discusses the army's lack of shoes and blankets. He discusses blankets and shoes received by Thomas J. Jackson from Staunton.
Robert E. Lee's Adjutant, Robert Chilton, issues General Orders to the army in November, 1862. The orders discuss suppression of gambling and supply speculation by soldiers. It also announces that provost guards will be stationed on trains to inspect soldier's passes. One of the affected routes will be the train running from Richmond to Staunton and back.
During the Civil War, Confederate armies often suffered shoe shortages. In this November, 1862, letter, Robert E. Lee writes Adjutant and Inspector General Cooper to discuss the detail of men from the army to work as shoemakers in Confederate cities. Lee mentions Staunton as one of the cities in need of shoemakers.
Army of the Potomac cavalry commander Alfred Pleasonton reports to Chief of Staff Randolph Marcy on October and November, 1862, actions of the cavalry division. He mentions that on November 17, a contraband saw D. H. Hill's Confederate corps tearing up railroad tracks and burning bridges on the way to Staunton, VA.
Robert E. Lee writes Secretary of War Randolph to update him on November, 1862, Union and Confederate movements. He mentions the retreat of a force that had been threatening Staunton.
Union cavalry commander Alfred Pleasonton reports to Lieut.-Colonel Dickinson on November, 1862, movements in the Shenandoah Valley. He reports Hill's division en route to Staunton.
Colonel John D. Imboden, commander of a group of Confederate partisan rangers, reports to General Thomas J. Jackson on a November, 1862, raid on St. George, West Virginia. Imboden comments on the movements of Union General Robert Milroy, including burning and pillaging in Highland County, and his plans to attack Staunton to destroy stores.
Robert E. Lee writes Thomas J. Jackson on Union and Confederate movements in November, 1862, in preparation for the Fredericksburg campaign. He mentions the situation around Staunton.
Union General Gustave Cluseret reports to Jacob Cox concerning November, 1862, plans for action in the Shenandoah Valley. Cluseret proposes forcing Thomas J. Jackson to move by threatening the important rail and supply center of Staunton, VA.
Union General Franz Sigel reports to Generals Heintzelman and Burnside regarding the November, 1862, situation in the Valley. He discusses interviewing a sick man who had passed through Staunton and saw no Confederate troops between that place and Winchester.
Union General Benjamin Franklin Kelley suggests plans for movements on Staunton in this November, 1862, letter to Adjutant General Bascom.
Union General Franz Sigel forwards a December, 1862, scouting report to General Burnside. The report, made by one Joseph Snyder, describes all manner of Confederate activity. He reports sick being sent to Staunton, gives a description of the industry, hospitals, and defenses of the town, and reports that it forms the only telegraph link between Winchester and Richmond. Snyder also reports on the farming and wheat production of Valley citizens.
Robert E. Lee writes in November, 1862, to Confederate Chief of Ordnance Josiah Gorgas concerning plans to upgrade the artillery. Lee mentions recalling guns he had sent to Staunton.
Robert E. Lee writes Secretary of War James Seddon regarding December, 1862, movements in the Shenandoah Valley. Lee reports on the withdrawal of Union troops that had been recently threatening Staunton.
In late November and early December, 1862, General Ambrose E. Burnside, commanding the Army of the Potomac, positioned his troops for an attack on Fredericksburg. In this letter, Robert E. Lee writes Jefferson Davis concerning these movements. Lee speculates on Burnside's plans and intentions. He also discusses sending Confederate troops to Staunton to operate against Federals in the Valley.
In early December, 1862, Ambrose E. Burnside, commanding the Army of the Potomac, planned to cross the Rappahannock River and attack Fredericksburg, Virginia. In this letter to General in Chief Henry Halleck he outlines his plans, including a possible supporting advance on Winchester and then Staunton.
Robert E. Lee refers to corn price regulation in Staunton during the winter of 1862-1863, in this December letter to Colonel John D. Imboden.
Benjamin Franklin Kelley informs General in Chief Henry Halleck of December, 1862, cavalry operations in the Shenandoah Valley. Franklin plans to threaten and harass the enemy from Winchester to Staunton.
Robert E. Lee writes to General Gustavus Smith on the Confederate military situation in early December, 1862. He suggests the withdrawal to Staunton of troops in western Virginia.
Col. Clement A. Evans commanded Lawton's brigade of the Army of Northern Virginia which included the Staunton Artillery. In this report, Evans compliments his men's bravery.
Confederate Adjutant and Inspector General Cooper writes John D. Imboden via Staunton on December, 1862, plans to reorganize Imboden's partisans as a regular force. Imboden is authorized to recruit in western Virginia.
Capt. J. W. Latimer was Acting Chief of Artillery of the Staunton Artillery which was in the Army of Northern Virginia. Latimer reports that the batteries' role was to cover the advance of the infantry.
Col. S. Crutchfield was Chief of Artillery in the Staunton Artillery of the Army of Northern Virginia. Crutchfield states the artillery's role was to check the enemy's advance, but he notes that the artillery suffered from defective ammunition.
Brig. Gen. Jubal A. Early commanded the division in the Army of Northern Virginia which included the Staunton Artillery. Early reports that although he did not witness the batteries in action, he heard that they did good service.
Staunton, Virginia, served as an important base of supply for the Confederate armies as evidenced by this 1862 letter in which Lee requests that baggage kept in Staunton be sent to the front. He also refers to Union oppression of the inhabitants of the Valley.
Robert E. Lee writes General Samuel Jones on Union General Robert Milroy's December, 1862, efforts to bring portions of the Valley under authority of the state of West Virginia. Lee, alarmed by these attempts to make citizens take an oath of allegiance to the U. S. government, orders a concentration of troops at Staunton to oppose Milroy.