Summary:
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.
Gen. THOMAS J. JACKSON,
Cmdg. in the Valley of
Virginia:
RICHMOND, VA.,
June 4, 1862.
GEN.:
I return to you my congratulations for the brilliant campaign you have conducted against the enemy in the valley of Virginia. Were it practicable to send to you re-enforcements it should be done, and your past success shows how surely you would, with an adequate force, destroy the wicked designs of the invader of our homes and assailed of our political rights. From the Hon. Mr. Boteler I have learned something of your probable movements. At this distance it is not possible to obtain such exact information as would justify a conclusion, but I hope you will not find at Front Royal a force which you cannot overcome. The only aid which seemed to be in reach was such as could be collected at Staunton. The commanding office at that place has been directed to gather all he could and move down the valley to communicate with you. Such a movement may have an effect on the enemy beyond its real value. But it is on your skill and daring that reliance is to be places. The army under your command encourages us to hope for all which men can achieve.
Very respectfully and truly, yours,
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
Bibliographic Information : Letter Reproduced from The War of The Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series 1, Volume 12, Serial No. 18, Pages 905, Broadfoot Publishing Company, Wilmington, NC, 1997.
