1861 Letters

, VA -

Before entering upon a narration of the general military operations in the presence of the enemy, on the 21st of July, I propose I hope not unseasonably first, to recite certain events which belong to the strategy of the campaign

, SC - 1 January 1861

Be it known, to all concerned, that a state of things exists which makes it my duty to warn all public vessels of the United States or any vessel bearing aid and supplies to the garrison at Fort Sumter

Washington, DC - 6 January 1861

John Sherman letter to William Sherman... The very moment you feel uncomfortable in your position in Louisiana, come away.

Fort Sumter, SC - 6 January 1861

We are daily adding to the strength of our position by closing up embrasures which we shall not use, mounting guns, etc.

, MA - 7 January 1861

Major Anderson in leaving Fort Moultrie, which the President refused to strengthen, and saving his devoted band by removing to Fort Sumter, which is impregnable, sent a thrill through all the country

Fort Sumter, SC - 9 January 1861

Two of your batteries fired this morning on an unarmed vessel bearing the flag of my Government.

Fort Sumter, SC - 9 January 1861

under the circumstances I have deemed it proper to refer the whole matter to my Government

Washington, MD - 9 January 1861

I have received and accepted your resignation yesterday of the office of Secretary of the Interior.

War Department, MD - 10 January 1861

some two hundred and fifty instructed recruits had been ordered to proceed from Governor's Island to Fort Sumter on the Star of the West, for the purpose of strengthening the force under your command.

Charleston, SC - 11 January 1861

I have thought proper, under all the circumstances of the peculiar state of public affairs in the country at present, to appoint the Hon. A. G. Magrath...

Fort Sumter, SC - 11 January 1861

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your demand for the surrender of this fort to the authorities in South Carolina, and to say in reply that the demand is one with which I cannot comply.

Washington, MD - 13 January 1861

I need hardly say to you that a request for a conference on questions of defense had to me the force of a command

Alexandria, LA - 16 January 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...I am so much in the woods here that I can't keep up with the times at all.

War Department, MD - 16 January 1861

Your dispatch No. 17, covering your correspondence with the Governor of South Carolina, has been received from the hand of Lieutenant Talbot.

Alexandria, LA - 18 January 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...I regard the seizure by Governor Moore of the United States Arsenal as the worst act yet committed in the present revolution.

Washington, MD - 20 January 1861

I have often and sadly turned my thoughts to you during the troublous times through which we have been passing and now I come to the hard task of announcing to you that the hour is at hand which closes my connection with the United States

Washington, MD - 20 January 1861

You will not be surprised when I say to you that my quiet hours are mostly spent in thoughts of Charleston Harbor, and may therefore pardon the frequency of my letters.

Beverly, MA - 20 January 1861

So I hope that the demon of slavery, that " mystery of iniquity," will make his evil way evident, that we may return to no vile compact with sin.

Washington, MD - 29 January 1861

I have full confidence in the Secretary of War; and his acts, in the line of his duty, are my own acts

, MA - 4 February 1861

Lincoln's election is but an excuse for all this treason it is a plot of many years growth, and has its root in the intense greed of the South for undivided power "to rule or ruin" is their motto.

unknown - 8 February 1861

Lieutenant Hall and myself have had several free conferences ; and if he is permitted by the South Carolina authorities to re-enter Fort Sumter, Major Anderson will comprehend the plan for his relief.

Arlington, VA - 9 February 1861

Mary Custis Lee letter Mrs. William Henry Stiles...Has all love & pride in their Country died at the South?

New Orleans, LA - 10 February 1861

Although not in service, I wish it distinctly understood that my professional knowledge and experience are at the command of my native State, even unto death

New Orleans, LA - 12 February 1861

I have come to the conclusion that I ought not and cannot accept that Colonelcy of Engineers and Artillery in the State army

, MA - 12 February 1861

If the rebellion at the South had been checked, at the outset, by sufficient federal force off Charleston, I believe it would not have spread so far.

Andover, MA - 18 February 1861

I was quite indignant to hear yesterday of the very unjust and stupid attack upon you in the ----. Mr. Stowe has written to them a remonstrance which I hope they will allow to appear as he wrote it, and over his name.

Montgomery, AL - 19 February 1861

The brand- new Confederacy is making or remodeling its Constitution. Everybody wants Mr. Davis to be General-in-Chief or President.

Montgomery, AL - 19 February 1861

Brewster says Lincoln passed through Baltimore disguised, and at night, and that he did well, for just now Baltimore is dangerous ground.

, MA - 19 February 1861

...The President-elect is on his way, making speeches in a hearty Western manner...

Washington, MD - 22 February 1861

I found it impossible to prevent two or three companies of the Federal troops from joining in the procession to-day with the volunteers of the District, without giving serious offence to the tens of thousands of people who have assembled to witness t

War Department, MD - 23 February 1861

It is proper I should state distinctly that you hold Fort Sumter as you held Fort Moultrie, under the verbal orders communicated by Major Buell, subsequently modified by instructions addressed to you from this Department

Montgomery, AL - 25 February 1861

After church to-day, Captain Ingraham called. He left me so uncomfortable. He dared to express regrets that he had to leave the United States Navy.

, MA - 25 February 1861

Mr. Lincoln has reached Washington safely, and we hope soon to feel his firm hand on the helm.

Montgomery, AL - 28 February 1861

In the drawing-room a literary lady began a violent attack upon this mischief-making South Carolina.

Montgomery, AL - 1 March 1861

In controlling the military operations in the harbor of Charleston, the President directs me to say that everything will be done that may be due to the honor and rights of South Carolina.

Montgomery, AL - 1 March 1861

You will proceed without delay to Charleston, and report to Governor Pickens for military duty in that State.

Montgomery, AL - 1 March 1861

Dined to-day with Mr. Hill from Georgia, and his wife.

Washington - 3 March 1861

Winfield Scott letter to WILLIAM H. SEWARD

Montgomery, AL - 3 March 1861

Everybody in fine spirits in my world. They have one and all spoken in the Congress to their own perfect satisfaction.

Montgomery, AL - 4 March 1861

I have seen a negro woman sold on the block at auction. She overtopped the crowd.

Montgomery, AL - 5 March 1861

The people, the natives, I mean, are astounded that I calmly affirm, in all truth and candor, that if there were awful things in society in Washington, I did not see or hear of them.

Beverly, MA - 5 March 1861

Yesterday was the inauguration: we have a President, a country : and we are "the Union" still, and shall so remain, our President thinks.

, MA - 7 March 1861

The fourth was a most interesting day to us, so full of anxious fear lest anything should happen to mar the Inauguration...

Montgomery, AL - 8 March 1861

Judge Campbell, of the United States Supreme Court, has resigned. Lord! how he must have hated to do it. How other men who are resigning high positions must hate to do it.

Fort Sumter, SC - 9 March 1861

I have the honor to report that we can see the South Carolinians engaged this morning strengthening and extending considerably what we supposed to have been intended for a mortar battery at Fort Johnson.

Montgomery, AL - 10 March 1861

Then Mr. Browne came in with his fine English accent, so pleasant to the ear. He tells us that Washington society is not reconciled to the Yankee regime.

Montgomery, AL - 11 March 1861

The latest news is counted good news; that is, the last man who left Washington tells us that Seward is in the ascendency. He is thought to be the friend of peace.

Rome, ITA - 14 March 1861

Here in Rome there are fewer English than usual, and more empty houses. There is a new story every morning, and nobody to cut off the head of the Scheherazade.

Washington, MD - 19 March 1861

I request that you will have the goodness to proceed to Charleston, S. C., and obtain permission, if necessary, to visit Fort Sumter

Charleston, SC - 26 March 1861

Dueling was rife in Camden. William M. Shannon challenged Leitner.

Austin, TX - 29 March 1861

I have received intelligence that you have received, or will soon receive, orders to concentrate United States troops under your command at Indianola, in this State

Montgomery, AL - 2 April 1861

This government has at no time placed any reliance on assurances by the government at Washington, in respect to the evacuation of Fort Sumter, or entertained any confidence in the disposition of the latter to make any concession

Charleston, SC - 2 April 1861

Doctor Gibbes says the Convention is in a snarl. It was called as a Secession Convention.

Charleston, SC - 3 April 1861

Met the lovely Lucy Holcombe, now Mrs. Governor Pickens, last night at Isaac Hayne's.

Washington, MD - 4 April 1861

On the information of Captain Fox he had supposed you could hold out till the 15th instant without any great inconvenience; and had prepared an expedition to relieve you before that period.

Fort Sumter, SC - 4 April 1861

I have the honor to send herewith a report of the circumstances attending a firing yesterday afternoon by the batteries on Morris Island at a schooner bearing our flag

Beverly, MA - 4 April 1861

Fire-crackers, torpedoes, pistols, and bell-ringing, are enough to make one sick of one's country, if this is the only way of showing one's patriotism.

Fort Sumter, SC - 5 April 1861

After thirty odd years of service I do not wish it to be said that I have treasonably abandoned a post and turned over to unauthorized persons public property intrusted to my charge.

Washington, MD - 6 April 1861

It having been decided to succor Fort Sumter, you have been selected for this important duty.

Charleston, SC - 6 April 1861

Beauregard is a demigod here to most of the natives, but there are always seers who see and say. They give you to understand that Whiting has all the brains now in use for our defense.

Fort Sumter, SC - 8 April 1861

I have the honor to report that the resumption of A staff-officer of the Governor was sent to the postmaster on the 9th of April demanding their delivery to him.

Charleston, SC - 8 April 1861

Went to see Miss Pinckney, one of the last of the old-world Pinckneys. She inquired particularly about a portrait of her father, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney

Fort Sumter, SC - 11 April 1861

I have tho honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication, demanding the evacuation of this Fort

Montgomery, AL - 11 April 1861

Do not desire needlessly to bombard Fort Sumter.

Washington, DC - 12 April 1861

John Sherman letter to William Sherman... The military excitement here is intense.

Fort Sumter, SC - 12 April 1861

to state in reply that, cordially uniting with you in the desire to avoid the useless effusion of blood, I will, if provided with the proper and necessary means of transportation, evacuate Fort Sumter

Charleston, SC - 12 April 1861

Anderson will not capitulate. Yesterday's was the merriest, maddest dinner we have had yet. Men were audaciously wise and witty.

Montgomery, AL - 13 April 1861

Thanks for your achievement and for your courtesy to the garrison of Sumter.

Charleston, SC - 13 April 1861

Nobody has been hurt after all. How gay we were last night. Reaction after the dread of all the slaughter we thought those dreadful cannon were making.

Washington, DC - 14 April 1861

John Sherman letter to William Sherman... The war has really commenced. You will have full details of the fall of Sumter.

Beverly, MA - 14 April 1861

This day broke upon our country in gloom ; for the sounds of war came up to us from the South, war between brethren ; civil war ; well may "all faces gather blackness."

Charleston, SC - 15 April 1861

I did not know that one could live such days of excitement. Some one called : "Come out ! There is a crowd coming."

Steamship Baltic, NJ - 18 April 1861

I accepted terms of evacuation, offered by General Beauregard, being the same offered by him on the 11th instant, prior to the commencement of hostilities, and marched out of the fort

, MA - 19 April 1861

After every attempt at conciliation had failed, the South has taken his awful responsibility, and the spirit of rebellion is fast seizing the Border States, so long apparently loyal

Arlington, VA - 20 April 1861

robert lee writes his resignation letter to general winfield scott

Arlington, VA - 20 April 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to brother, Captain Sydney Smith Lee, of the United States Navy, April 20, 1861

Washington, MD - 20 April 1861

I am directed by the President of the United States to communicate to you...

Camden, SC - 20 April 1861

And so we took Fort Sumter

Galena, MO - 21 April 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse april 04th, 1861

Beverly, MA - 21 April 1861

The conflict is deepening ; but thanks to God, there is no wavering, no division, now, at the North!

St. Louis, MO - 22 April 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...At a moment like this the country expects every man to do his duty.

Camden, SC - 22 April 1861

Years afterward the house in which he had taken that disastrous sleep was pulled down. In the wall, behind the wainscot, was found his pile of money.

Camden, SC - 23 April 1861

There are certain subjects pure-minded ladies never touch upon, even in their thoughts. It does not do to be so hard and cruel.

St. Louis, MO - 25 April 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...Virginia's secession influences some six millions of people.

Richmond, VA - 26 April 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I am very anxious about you

Charleston, SC - 27 April 1861

I have the honor to transmit to the department my detailed report of the operations during the bombardment of Fort Sumter

Charleston, SC - 27 April 1861

I have the honor to submit the following detailed report of the bombardment and surrender of Fort Sumter, and the incidents connected therewith.

Montgomery, AL - 27 April 1861

General Robert E. Lee, son of Light Horse Harry Lee, has been made General-in-Chief of Virginia. With such men to the fore, we have hope.

Springfield, MO - 29 April 1861

ulysses grant to sister mary april 29th, 1861

, MA - 29 April 1861

I am trying to read Motley and find it most interesting, but with history acting before our eyes it is hard to read anything but newspapers.

Washington, MD - 1 May 1861

I sincerely regret that the failure of the late attempt to provision Fort Sumter should be the source of any annoyance to you. The practicability of your plan was not, in fact, brought to a test.

Springfield, MO - 2 May 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse may 02nd, 1861

Richmond, VA - 2 May 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary with regretful explaination that she can not join him

Camp Yates, Near Springfield, MO - 6 May 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse may 6th, 1861

Richmond, VA - 8 May 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I grieve at the necessity that drives you from your home

St. Louis, MO - 8 May 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to S. CAMERON, Secretary of War...I hold myself now, as always, prepared to serve my country in the capacity for which I was trained.

Philadelphia, PA - 8 May 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to brother Benjamin Gratz... It was indeed a severe and unexpected bereavement that took my much loved friend and companion from me

Montgomery, AL - 9 May 1861

Sumter ,Anderson has been offered a Kentucky regiment. Can they raise a regiment in Kentucky against us ? In Kentucky, our sister State?

Richmond, VA - 11 May 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...retire further from the scene of war

St. Louis, MO - 11 May 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...I was a witness of the firing on the people by the United States Militia at Camp Jackson yesterday.

Montgomery, AL - 13 May 1861

Saw for the first time the demoralization produced by hopes of freedom. My mother's butler (whom I taught to read, sitting on his knife-board) contrived to keep from speaking to us.

Richmond, VA - 16 May 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary telling of the Episcopal Convention of the Diocese of Virginia

Chambersburg, PA - 17 May 1861

cressler describes the enthusiasm in chambersburg surrounding the presence of three pennsylvania regiments.

Montgomery, AL - 19 May 1861

Mrs. Fitzpatrick says Mr. Davis is too gloomy for her. He says we must prepare for a long war and unmerciful reverses at first, because they are readier for war and so much stronger numerically.

St. Louis, MO - 20 May 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...The greatest difficulty in the problem now before the country is not to conquer but so conquer as to impress upon the real men of the South a respect for their conquerors.

Montgomery, AL - 20 May 1861

LunchecLajJ Mrs. Davis's; everything nice to eat, and I was ravenous.

Chambersburg, PA - 21 May 1861

cressler reports on governor curtin's visit to chambersburg and says he is preparing for the confederate troops rumored to be headed toward the city. he also predicts victory for the union forces.

St. Louis, MO - 22 May 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...I received your despatch last evening stating I would be appointed Colonel of one of the new 3 Battalion Regiments

St. Louis, MO - 24 May 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...You all overrate my powers and abilities and may place me in a position above my merits

Richmond, VA - 25 May 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I sympathise deeply in your feelings at leaving your dear home

Charleston, SC - 25 May 1861

Mr. Barnwell has excellent reasons for keeping cotton at home, but I forget what they are. Generally, people take what he says, also Mr. Hunter's wisdom, as unanswerable.

Manassas, VA - 28 May 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I am very much occupied in examining matters

Galena, MO - 30 May 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse may 30th, 1861

Washington, DC - 30 May 1861

John Sherman letter to William Sherman... It is probable that no movements will be made into the cotton States before winter.

Alexandria, VA - 3 June 1861

I arrived here on the 1st at 2 P. M., and immediately examined the site of this encampment and the plans of its proposed defences.

Charleston, SC - 6 June 1861

Charleston people are thin-skinned. They shrink from Russell's touches. I find his criticisms mild. He has a light touch.

Philadelphia, PA - 7 June 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to brother Benjamin Gratz... May God watch over the Union- and help those who labor for its preservation

Pittsburgh, TN - 8 June 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...if he tenders me a brigade, I will do my best, or if a colonelcy ditto.

Richmond, VA - 9 June 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I have just returned from a visit to the batteries and troops...

Manassas Junction, VA - 9 June 1861

On assuming the command here, I found Dr. Gastin, South Carolina Volunteers, acting as medical director, and I have continued him in that position, as I believe him to be fully competent to fulfil its duties

Chambersburg, PA - 10 June 1861

civil war era letter to henry bitner from alex cressler, june 10th 1861

Camp Pickens, VA - 12 June 1861

The enemy seem to be taking the offensive towards Harper's Ferry, and a few days hence may find General J. E. Johnston in such a critical condition as to render it impossible to relieve him.

Charleston, SC - 12 June 1861

The war is making us all tenderly sentimental. No casualties yet, no real mourning, nobody hurt. So it is all parade, fife, and fine feathers. Posing we are en grande tenue.

Richmond, VA - 13 June 1861

Your information may be more accurate than we possess, in relation to the purposes of the enemy, and I will briefly reply to you on the hypothesis which forms the basis of your suggestions.

Manassas Junction, VA - 16 June 1861

Can I be informed why it is that none of my communications to the War Department through the Adjutant-General's Department are answered. They are not even acknowledged.

Charleston, SC - 19 June 1861

n England Mr. Gregory and Mr. Lyndsey rise to say a good word for us. Heaven reward them

Washington, DC - 20 June 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...At last the order is out and I am Colonel 13 Infantry.

Manassas Junction, VA - 24 June 1861

I regret much the change you have been compelled to make in your arrangements, but I can well appreciate them, although I do not believe in the hostile advance of General Patterson

Charleston, SC - 24 June 1861

Last night I was awakened by loud talking and candles flashing, tramping of feet, growls dying away in the distance, loud calls from point to point in the yard.

Richmond, VA - 27 June 1861

Two quiet, unobtrusive Yankee school-teachers were on the train. I had spoken to them, and they had told me all about themselves.

Richmond, VA - 29 June 1861

Poor Mr. Lamar has been brought from his camp paralysis or some sort of shock. Every woman in the house is ready to rush into the Florence Nightingale business.

Richmond, VA - 4 July 1861

Russell abuses us in his letters. People here care a great deal for what Russell says, because he represents the London Times, and the Times reflects the sentiment of the English people.

Fauquier White Sulphur Springs, VA - 6 July 1861

The cars were jammed with soldiers to the muzzle. They were very polite and considerate, and we had an agreeable journey, in spite of heat, dust, and crowd.

Fauquier White Sulphur Springs, VA - 7 July 1861

An antique female, with every hair curled and frizzed, said to be a Yankee spy, sits opposite us.

Philadelphia, PA - 8 July 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to Ann Boswell Gratz... It is very long My Dear Ann, since we have written to each other...

Manassas Junction, VA - 8 July 1861

My dear Colonel I believe we are about to be attacked by the enemy, who has been increasing his forces rapidly in the last few days.

Fauquier White Sulphur Springs, VA - 9 July 1861

Our battle summer. May it be our first and our last, so called. After all we have not had any of the horrors of war. Could there have been a gayer, or pleasanter, life than we led in Charleston.

Manassas Junction, VA - 11 July 1861

I have the honor to transmit herewith the Field Return of the army under my command, from which you will perceive the effective force at my disposition is as follows

Fauquier White Sulphur Springs, VA - 11 July 1861

The one who is under a cloud,, shadowed as a Yankee spy, has confirmed our worst suspicions. She exhibited unholy joy, as she reported seven hundred sick soldiers in the hospital at Culpeper

Richmond, VA - 12 July 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I am very anxious to get into the field

East Quincy, MO - 13 July 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse july 13th, 1861

Manassas Junction, VA - 13 July 1861

I write in haste. What a pity we cannot carry into effect the following plan of operations

Richmond, VA - 13 July 1861

Mr. Chesnut doubtless had too many spies to receive from Washington, galloping in with the exact numbers of the enemy done up in their back hair.

Richmond, VA - 14 July 1861

Mr. Chesnut remained closeted with the President and General Lee all the afternoon. The news does not seem pleasant.

Chambersburg, PA - 15 July 1861

civil war era letter to henry bitner from alex cressler, july 15th 1861

Camp Opposite Georgetown, VA - 16 July 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...to-morrow early we attack the enemy at or near Fairfax C.H., Germantown and Centerville

Richmond, VA - 16 July 1861

As far as I can make out, Beauregard sent Mr. Chesnut to the President to gain permission for the forces of Joe Johnston and Beauregard to join, and, united, to push the enemy, if possible, over the Potomac.

Manassas, VA - 17 July 1861

The enemy has assailed my outposts in heavy force.

Richmond, VA - 17 July 1861

We are making all efforts to reinforce you. Cannot send to day, but afterwards they will go regularly

Richmond, VA - 19 July 1861

Beauregard telegraphed yesterday (they say, to General Johnston), " Come down and help us, or we shall be crushed by numbers.

Richmond, VA - 20 July 1861

You are a General in the Confederate Army, possessed of the power attached to that rank.

Richmond, VA - 21 July 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...That indeed was a glorious victory

Richmond, VA - 21 July 1861

Night has closed upon a hard fought field -- Our forces have won a glorious victory The Enemy was routed & fled precipatately abandoning a very large amount of arms munitions Knapsacks and Baggige

Manassas Junction, VA - 21 July 1861

General, You will hold yourself in readiness to take the offensive on Centreville at a moment's notice

Manassas, VA - 21 July 1861

you are appointed to be ' General ' in the army of the Confederate States of America

Richmond, VA - 23 July 1861

Mrs. Davis came in so softly that I did not know she was here until she leaned over me and said : A great battle has been fought. Joe Johnston led the right wing, and Beauregard the left wing

Richmond, VA - 24 July 1861

I cannot express the joy I feel, at the beautiful victory of the 21st.

Centreville, VA - 24 July 1861

I had already selected Major Rhett for the position in question, who had entered upon its duties, and can admit the power of no officer of the Army to annul my order on the subject

Richmond, VA - 24 July 1861

They brought me a Yankee soldier's portfolio from the battle-field. The letters had been franked by Senator Harlan. One might shed tears over some of the letters.

Richmond, VA - 27 July 1861

Mrs. Davis's drawing-room last night was brilliant, and she was in great force. Outside a mob called for the President.

Manassas, VA - 29 July 1861

I will remark here, that we have been out of subsistence for several days, some of my regiments not having had anything to eat for more than twenty-four hours.

Manassas, VA - 29 July 1861

I had the honor to write to you on the 24th instant on the subject of my rank compared with that of other officers of the Confederate Army.

Chambersburg, PA - 30 July 1861

cressler urges bitner to take care of his health. he also comments on the "inhumanity" of the southern people and declares that the north must fight on regardless of any military setbacks.

, VA - 1 August 1861

We are anxiously looking for official reports of the battle of Manassas, and have present need to know what supplies and wagons were captured.

Richmond, VA - 1 August 1861

The President, with his aides, dashed by. My husband was riding with him. The President presented the flag to the Texans.

Beverly, MA - 1 August 1861

Yesterday I visited the residence of the late Hon. Daniel Webster, at Marshfield.

Beverly, MA - 2 August 1861

I visited Plymouth, placed my foot on the memorable " Plymouth Rock," of the Pilgrims

Mexico, MO - 3 August 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse august 3rd, 1861

Richmond, VA - 3 August 1861

Now the Yankees so far are as little trained as we are ; raw troops are they as yet. Suppose France takes the other side and we have to meet disciplined and armed men

Huntersville, WV - 4 August 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I reached here yesterday...

Richmond, VA - 4 August 1861

I think you are unjust to yourself in putting your failure to pursue the enemy to Washington to the account of short supplies of subsistence and transportation.

Manassas, VA - 5 August 1861

My surprise was as great as yours to find that you had not been informed of our want of transportation, which has so crippled us, together with the want of provisions, that we have been anchored here since the battle

Richmond, VA - 5 August 1861

They seem to feel that the war is over here, except the President and Mr. Barnwell ; above all that foreboding friend of mine, Captain Ingraham. He thinks it hardly begun.

Washington, MD - 8 August 1861

Information from various sources reaching me to-day, through spies, letters, and telegrams, confirms my impressions, derived from previous advices, that the enemy intend attacking our positions on the other side of the river

Richmond, VA - 8 August 1861

To-day I saw a sword captured at Manassas. The man who brought the sword, in the early part of the fray, was taken prisoner by the Yankees.

Camp At Valley Mountain, WV - 9 August 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...The mountains are beautiful

Washington, MD - 9 August 1861

Accordingly, I must beg the President, at the earliest moment, to allow me to be placed on the officers' retired list, and then quietly to lay myself up - probably forever

Manassas, VA - 10 August 1861

I regret exceedingly to hear that Colonel Miles read my letter of the 29th to Congress.

Richmond, VA - 10 August 1861

Some excitement has been created by your letter ; the Quartermaster and the Commissary General both feel that they have been unjustly arraigned.

Washington, MD - 10 August 1861

The letter addressed by me under date of the 8th instant to Lieutenant-General Scott, commanding the United States Army, was designed to be a plain and respectful expression of my views of the measures demanded for the safety of the Government

Amesbury, MA - 11 August 1861

At Amesbury, with two of the dearest friends my life is blessed with, dear quiet-loving Lizzie, and her poet brother.

Washington, MD - 12 August 1861

I deeply regret that, notwithstanding my respect for the opinions and wishes of the President, I can not withdraw the letter in question, for the following reasons

Washington, MD - 12 August 1861

I have to-day received additional information which convinces me that it is more than probable that the enemy will, within a very short time, attempt to throw a respectable force from the mouth of Acquia Creek into Maryland.

Richmond, VA - 13 August 1861

Jordan, Beauregard's aide, still writes to Mr. Chesnut that the mortality among the raw troops in that camp is fearful.

Richmond, VA - 14 August 1861

Last night there was a crowd of men to see us and they were so markedly critical. I made a futile effort to record their sayings, but sleep and heat overcame me.

Richmond, VA - 15 August 1861

The men rave over Mrs. Randolph's beauty; called her a magnificent specimen of the finest type of dark-eyed, rich, and glowing Southern woman-kind.

Richmond, VA - 16 August 1861

Mr. Barnwell says, Fame is an article usually home made ; you must create your own puffs or superintend their manufacture.

Richmond, VA - 17 August 1861

Captain Shannon, of the Kirkwood Rangers, called and stayed three hours.

Richmond, VA - 18 August 1861

Found it quite exciting to have a spy drinking his tea with us perhaps because I knew his profession. I did not like his face.

Fort Corcoran - 19 August 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...I have been here ever since you left, hardly taking off my clothes at night.

Philadelphia, PA - 23 August 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to Ann Boswell Gratz... I pray most fervently that Kentucky will not be involved in this dreadful strife...

Manassas, VA - 23 August 1861

I have the honor to enclose you herewith a copy of the statement of provisions, etc., remaining on hand at this point and available, on the 21st instant, for the army of the Potomac

Richmond, VA - 23 August 1861

A brother of Doctor Garnett has come fresh and straight from Cambridge, Mass., and says (or is said to have said, with all the difference there is between the two), that "recruiting up there is dead."

Richmond, VA - 24 August 1861

Mr. Lowndes said we have already reaped one good result from the war.

Manassas, VA - 25 August 1861

it is my place now to submit, in detail, the operations of that day

Richmond, VA - 25 August 1861

Mr. Barnwell says democracies lead to untruthfulness. To be always electioneering is to be always false; so both we and the Yankees are unreliable as regards our own exploits.

Richmond, VA - 26 August 1861

The Terror has full swing at the North now. All the papers favorable to us have been suppressed. How long would our mob stand a Yankee paper here?

Jefferson City, MO - 27 August 1861

ulysses grant writes to father Jesse, August 27th, 1861

Richmond, VA - 27 August 1861

The North is consolidated ; they move as one man, with no States, but an army organized by the central power.

Valley Mountain, WV - 29 August 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to daughters ...It rains here all the time, literally

Richmond, VA - 29 August 1861

Women who come before the public are in a bad box now. False hair is taken off and searched for papers. Bustles are " suspect." All manner of things, they say, come over the border under the huge hoops now worn; so they are ruthlessly torn off.

Cape Girardeau, MO - 31 August 1861

ulysses grant writes to father Jesse, August 31st, 1861

Richmond, VA - 31 August 1861

Congress adjourns to-day. Jeff Davis ill. We go home on Monday if I am able to travel.

Valley Mountain, WV - 1 September 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I am very glad you are enabled to see so many of your friends

Richmond, VA - 1 September 1861

North Carolina writes for arms for her soldiers. Have we any to send ? No.

Richmond, VA - 2 September 1861

No discouragement now felt at the North. They take our forts and are satisfied for a while.

Manassas, VA - 4 September 1861

I am glad to hear of the probable success of my artillery raid. I hope the rockets (war) will also be forthcoming. I place much reliance upon them, for the purpose of running off the field McClellan's bipeds and quadrupeds.

Manassas, VA - 5 September 1861

Colonel Miles informs me that the flag committee voted down any change of our flag by a vote of four to one, he being alone in favor of it.

Amesbury, MA - 5 September 1861

The latest news is of the capture of the Hatteras Forts, a great gain for us, and a blight to privateering at the South

Washington, MD - 6 September 1861

I have the honor to suggest the following proposition, with the request that the necessary authority be at once given me to carry it out

Washington, MD - 8 September 1861

The force of all our arms within the immediate vicinity of Washington is nearly eighty-five thousand men. The effective portion of this force is more than sufficient to resist with certain success any attack on our works

Norton, MA - 8 September 1861

Why is it that I always miss thy visits? Why of all things should I have lost sight of thee at the mountains?

Valley Mountain, WV - 9 September 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I hope from the tone of your letter that you feel better

Cincinnati, OH - 9 September 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...I think it of vast importance and that Ohio, Indiana and Illinois must sooner or later arm every inhabitant

Camden, SC - 9 September 1861

The British are the most conceited nation in the world, the most self-sufficient, self-satisfied, and arrogant. But each individual man does not blow his own penny whistle ; they brag wholesale.

Manassas, VA - 10 September 1861

It was said that during the past summer I have been censured by the two persons in Richmond highest in military rank, for not having assumed command of this army, and that they complain of the inconvenience to the service which had been produced ther

Cairo, IL - 11 September 1861

ulysses grant writes to sister mary, September 11th, 1861

Mansfield, OH - 12 September 1861

John Sherman letter to William Sherman... Enlistments in this part of the State now go on rapidly.

Philadelphia, PA - 12 September 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to Ann Boswell Gratz... Dear dear Ann, what changes have taken place in our once happy country.

Manassas, VA - 12 September 1861

I will not affect to disguise the surprise and mortification produced in my mind by the action taken in this matter by the President and by Congress.

Fairfax Court House, VA - 13 September 1861

I have the honor to enclose you, herewith, copy of information just received from Washington, through a very good private channel, and which, no doubt, contains a great deal of truth mixed up with some exaggeration.

Richmond, VA - 13 September 1861

While you were in the Valley of Virginia, your army and that of General Beauregard were independent commands ; when you marched to Manassas, the forces joined and did duty together.

Richmond, VA - 14 September 1861

Its language is, as you say, unusual ; its arguments and statements utterly one-sided

Carson City, NV - 15 September 1861

sam clemens describes carson city nevada to his mother jane clemens

Paducah, KY - 16 September 1861

ulysses grant writes city of Paducah KY offering protection from confederate troops, September 16th, 1861

Valley Mountain, WV - 17 September 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ..I can not tell you my regret and mortification at the untoward events that caused the failure of the plan

Valley Mountain, WV - 17 September 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to Governor John Letcher, September 17, 1861

Camden, SC - 19 September 1861

It is a crowning misdemeanor for us to hold still in slavery those Africans whom they brought here from Africa, or sold to us when they found it did not pay to own them themselves.

Cairo, IL - 25 September 1861

ulysses grant writes to sister mary, September 25th, 1861

Camp On Sewell's Mountain, WV - 26 September 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...I have no doubt the yarn ones you mention will be very acceptable to the men here or elsewhere

Richmond, VA - 27 September 1861

The Yankees are burning everything they can reach, and God only knows what excesses they may commit on the defenseless, should they have the power.

Mansfield, OH - 28 September 1861

John Sherman letter to William Sherman... I am at last engaged in recruiting.

Cape Girardeau, MO - 31 September 1861

ulysses grant to father jesse august 31st, 1861

Washington, MD - 4 October 1861

To suppress irregularity, more conspicuous in Major-General McClellan than in any other officer, I publish the following facts:

Sewell's Mountain, WV - 7 October 1861

robert lee writes his wife mary ...at the time of their reception the enemy was threatening an attack.

Fairfax Court House, VA - 8 October 1861

I regret I have not time to write all I could say on the subject of the defences of New Orleans and Louisiana. I will, however, give you the main points.

Norton, MA - 13 October 1861

The great difference between the early Quakers and the Puritans seems to me to be that the former had larger ideas of truth, deeper and broader revelations, yet mixed with greater eccentricities, as might be expected.

unknown - 20 October 1861

An acquaintance with the history of the military establishment and organization of the late United States would have protected the Acting Secretary from this misapprehension

Centreville, VA - 22 October 1861

I have the honor to enclose you herewith, at the earliest moment practicable, a copy of the following papers relating to the strategic part of my report of the battle of Manassas

Norton, MA - 22 October 1861

I heard Charles Sumner on the Rebellion; my first sight and hearing of the great anti-slavery statesman.

Carson City, NV - 25 October 1861

sam clemens writes of mining and lumber interest to his sister pamela

Cairo, IL - 25 October 1861

ulysses grant writes to sister mary, October 25th, 1861

Richmond, VA - 25 October 1861

You were unquestionably wrong in the order to recruit a company for the Provisional Army. The Congress, with jealous care, reserved to men of such companies the power of selecting their own officers.

Louisville, KY - 26 October 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...the South is all arms and prepared and must have Kentucky

Philadelphia, PA - 30 October 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to Ann Boswell Gratz... I am joyful about Kentucky, and hope her loyal sons will so far outnumber the rebels that they will be afraid to shew their faces...

Richmond, VA - 30 October 1861

Yesterday my attention was called to various newspaper publications purporting to have been sent from Manassas, and to a synopsis of your report of the battle of the 21st of July past

Centreville, VA - 3 November 1861

My attention has just been called to an unfortunate controversy now going on, relative to the publication of the synopsis of my report of the battle of Manassas. None can regret more than I do this publication

Richmond, VA - 3 November 1861

Reports have been and are being widely circulated to the effect that I prevented General Beauregard from pursuing the enemy after the battle of Manassas

Richmond, VA - 5 November 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...Saturday evening I tried to get down to you

Washington, MD - 7 November 1861

In giving you instructions for your guidance, in command of the Department of the Ohio, I do not design to fetter you. I merely wish to express plainly the general ideas which occur to me in relation to the conduct of operations there.

Norton, MA - 7 November 1861

Fremont is removed! It seems too bad, for none could awaken enthusiasm as he did, everywhere.

Cairo, IL - 8 November 1861

ulysses grant writes to sister mary, Jesse November 8th, 1861

Richmond, VA - 10 November 1861

When I addressed you in relation to your complaint because of the letters written to you by Mr. Benjamin, Acting Secretary of War, it was hoped that you would see that you had misrepresented his expressions, and would be content.

Centreville, VA - 10 November 1861

In that report I have also said why no advance was made upon the enemy's capital for reasons as follows :

Washington, MD - 11 November 1861

In assigning you to the command of the Department of Missouri, it is probably unnecessary for me to state that I have intrusted to you a duty which requires the utmost tact and decision.

Washington, MD - 12 November 1861

The main point to which I desire to call your attention, is the necessity of enter ing Eastern Tennessee as soon as it can be done with reasonable chances of success

Philadelphia, PA - 14 November 1861

Rebecca Gratz letter to brother Benjamin Gratz... God grant there may be no need for military efforts- he is a brave soldier- but I am a very coward for those I love

Norton, MA - 14 November 1861

The best news for us since the war began has come within a day or two ; and it is confirmed. Beaufort, S. C., is taken by a federal fleet, and the secessionists are in real consternation.

Charleston, SC - 15 November 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to daughter Mildred...your letters always give me great pleasure

Savannah, GA - 18 November 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...You probably have seen the operations of the enemy's fleet

Louisville, KY - 21 November 1861

W.T. Sherman letter to brother John Sherman...all over Kentucky the people are allied by birth, interest, and preference to the South

Savannah, VA - 22 November 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to daughters ...The horse-chestnut you mention in the garden was planted by my mother

Coosawhatchie, SC - 24 November 1861

I recollect, however, that at the interview at which I was present Mr. Chesnut urged, on the part of General Beauregard, the importance of reinforcing the army of the Potomac to enable it to oppose the Federal forces

Cairo, IL - 27 November 1861

ulysses grant writes to father Jesse, November 27th, 1861

Cairo, IL - 28 November 1861

ulysses grant writes to father Jesse, November 28th, 1861

Coosawhatchie, SC - 2 December 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary ...am delighted to learn that you are all well and so many of you are together

Coosawhatchie, SC - 8 December 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to daughter Annie ...One of the miseries of war is that there is no Sabbath, and the current of work and strife has no cessation

Cairo, IL - 18 December 1861

ulysses grant writes to sister mary, December 18th, 1861

, SC - 22 December 1861

The Hon. R. W. Barnwell, the Hon. J. H. Adams and the Hon. James L. Orr have been appointed Commissioners by the Convention to proceed immediately to Washington to present the Ordinance of Secession

Coosawhatchie, SC - 25 December 1861

Robert E. Lee letter to wife Mary on Christmas Day. 1861

Norton, MA - 28 December 1861

Step-mother Country England ought to be called, for her treatment of us in our trouble.