April 22, 1863, Montgomery Weekly Advertiser
The New York Tribune, of the 8th, gives a flourishing account of a great “bread riot in Richmond,” for the particulars of which it is indebted to Col. Stewart, of the 22d Indiana Regiment, an U. S. Officer, just released by the Confederates. Col. S. says he witnessed the riot from his prison window. The rioters were composed of 3,000 women, who were armed. They broke upon the government and private stores, and took bread, clothing and whatever else they wanted. The militia were ordered out to check the riot, but failed to go. Jeff Davis and other high officials made speeches to the infuriated women, and told them they should have what they wanted, when they became calm.