Freedmen's Bureau Records: W. Storer How to Orlando
Brown, August 7, 1865
Summary:
How proposes to convert an engine seized from the Confederate government into use
with a saw mill to provide employment and lumber in the region.
Bureau R. F. & A.
L.
HdQrs Sixth District Va
Col. O. Brown
Asst. Comr. Richmond, Va.
Augt 7t 1865
Staunton
Colonel
I have the honor to state that there is at this place a portable steam engine of about (10) ten horse power that belonged to the so called Confederate Govt. I am of opinion that it can be put in working order for less than ($100.00) one hundred dollars, and learning that there is at Fort Monroe and Portsmouth a Saw Mill not in use, together with parts of Machinery that would reduce the cost to almost fifty dollars. I propose to set a Saw Mill in operation as by so doing, Lumber that will certainly be needed can be furnished, and employment given to freedmen who will require it. Will you please give the order necessary for the transfer of the Saw Mill &c to me
I am, Colonel
Very Respectfully
W. Storer How, Capt
& AQM
Supt 6th
Dist
Va
