HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA,
Fort Pickens, April 22, 1861.

Lieut. Col. E. D. KEYES,
…..Secretary to the General-in-Chief, Washington, D.C.:

COLONEL: I wrote you on the 19th, detailing my proceedings to that time. Having sent my dispatches by a sailing vessel, I herewith inclose duplicates.

Since my last the weather has been generally favorable, and we have been busily employed in putting the fort in a condition of defense, and in landing provisions and other stores. I have made quite as good progress as I could have expected. The steamship Atlantic will be discharged to-day, when I shall send her to New York. The Illinois arrived yesterday, and landed Brooks’ and Allen’s companies, Second Artillery, and a detachment of recruits, so that I have now at this post nine full companies; aggregate about eight hundred and sixty men. I have also sent to Key West for the two infantry companies there. My present command is more than sufficient to repel any assault that may be made on the fort, but the holding the western portion of this island and preventing the rebels making a lodgment on it is of vital importance, and to do so effectually a larger force than I now have is required. If the assistance of the ships could always be insured, my present force might perhaps suffice, but they are constantly liable to be blown off, and may be so for several days, of which an enterprising and numerous enemy might and probably would avail himself. The presence of a large force here also prevents the secessionists from weakening their force, and thus prevents diversion to other places where their presence would be more unwelcome. I propose, as soon as I can put the fort in a defensive state, to throw up field works. No. 1, about one and a half miles from the fort, to be garrisoned by Barry’s battery and two foot companies; No. 2, about the same distance in advance, to be defended by two or three foot companies, leaving five or six for the garrison of the fort. I shall then strongly urge on Captain Adams, commanding the naval forces, the necessity of keeping his ships, or at least two of them, so close to the shore as to be able to rake the island. I have already so requested, and it has been in part complied with, but great reluctance is felt in placing sailing ships so near the shore. It gives me pleasure to state that I have received from the Navy very valuable assistance, which has been cheerfully and cordially rendered. [continue reading…]

MONTGOMERY, April 22, 1861.

Gov. J. W. ELLIS, Raleigh, N. C.

SIR : Your patriotic response to the requisition of the President of the United States for troops to coerce the Confederate States justifies the belief that your people are prepared to unite with us in repelling the common enemy of the South.

Virginia needs our aid. I therefore request you to furnish one regiment of infantry without delay to rendezvous at Richmond, Va. It must consist of ten companies, of not less than sixty-four men each.

L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War.

April 22nd.– Early a few mornings since, I called on Gov. Wise, and informed him that Lincoln had called out 70,000 men. He opened his eyes very widely and said, emphatically, “I don’t believe it.” The greatest statesmen of the South have no conception of the real purposes of the men now in power in the United States. They cannot be made to believe that the Government at Washington are going to wage war immediately. But when I placed the President’s proclamation in his hand, he read it with deep emotion, and uttered a fierce “Hah!” Nevertheless, when I told him that these 70,000 were designed to be merely the videttes and outposts of an army of 700,000, he was quite incredulous. He had not witnessed the Wide-Awake gatherings the preceding fall, as I had done, and listened to the pledges they made to subjugate the South, free the negroes, and hang Gov. Wise. I next told him they would blockade our ports, and endeavor to cut off our supplies. To this he uttered a most positive negative. He said it would be contrary to the laws of nations, as had been decided often in the Courts of Admiralty, and would be moreover a violation of the Constitution. Of course I admitted all this; but maintained that such was the intention of the Washington Cabinet. Laws and Courts and Constitutions would not be impediments in the way of Yankees resolved upon our subjugation. Presuming upon their superior numbers, and under the pretext of saving the Union and annihilating slavery, they would invade us like the army-worm, which enters the green fields in countless numbers. The real object was to enjoy our soil and climate by means of confiscation. He poohed me into silence with an indignant frown. He had no idea that the Yankees would dare to enter upon such enterprises in the face of an enlightened world. But I know them better. And it will be found that they will learn how to fight, and will not be afraid to fight.

22 April.

       Virginia has seceded and all the border States seem to be coming in: the movements of the U.S. Government have been very suicidal every act tells in a way to benefit us. There has been a riot in Philadelphia in which the Black Republican spirit was fully exhibited, all the accounts tend to shewing a determination at the North to sustain the Government and so there is at the South;—I believe this will give peace.

       Arthur was sent up from Morris’s Island to the City to get over an attack of Dysentary . Mr Grimball went down to see after him.—

       Every where there are commotions great and small, in Charleston. Taking Fort Sumpter, up here. Mr Elliott said he would hear the children their chatecism and Harry although he has been learning his for 6 years did not know it so said Mrs Barnwell of her two, Richard & Ella, she said she felt as if she would be humiliated, I told Mr Elliott of Harry’s deficiancy. So last Sunday the children went up, after a most charming sermon addressed to the parents, and said their chatecism very well, H. had learnt his all the week, & Mr Elliott gave them some books which they either are to read & keep, or return.—Mr Elliott is to preach 2 more Sundays, is to recieve 3 hundred dollars, for the 3 Month,—and will come back next winter.—Mr Dixson the Presbyterian Minister has resigned, from ill health,—and gone away.—

       Yesterday Mrs Wayne came late & spent the evening. She took tea, & went away at 1/2 eleven, she gave the history of her Mitchel. She was married at the age of 16 to a young man named Hardenbrook, he had a large fortune, settled it seems on his children. They were divorced, and she took her maiden name, the children are given to the father’s Mother & she is allowed to see them. 2 little boys, 1, 4, the other 7. Mr Hardenbrook this lady says is a very abandoned man. I do not think her manners impress favorably. —Mrs Wayne gave a very amusing account of her ox, & little blue cart getting Mrs Rosalie Mitchel’s heavy baggage to the cars, the ox several times took to the woods & swamp. This animal is large and harnessed with blinds, an old horse fixing. Mr Lewis has hired Russell Middleton’s house on South bay for the summer, this Mrs L. does not like the place, is rather too public. She is shy, & not always attentive to her appearance. I am glad of her being there for I like her.—The Governess they had early in the winter was a very mischief making woman, she wrote notes to Mr Lewis, noticing Annie’s treatment of Julia, her step daughter, trying to excite him against her.—Spoke in a most disorganizing way to the servants.—

       The last visit we paid to Mr Barnwell, Ann spoke in great disgust of Miss Juliet Elliott’s malicious style of remark, she said several things calculated to excite them against Charlotte & Heyward. Ann, & her Mother said this did not have that effect, but disgusted them with Juliet.—Poor old woman, a bitter, spiteful temper is a fearful companion.—

Lincoln’s Reply to a Baltimore Committee

You, gentlemen, come here to me and ask for peace on any terms, and yet have no word of condemnation for those who are making war on us. You express great horror of bloodshed, and yet would not lay a straw in the way of those who are organizing in Virginia and elsewhere to capture this city. The rebels attack Fort Sumter, and your citizens attack troops sent to the defense of the Government, and the lives and property in Washington, and yet you would have me break my oath and surrender the Government without a blow. There is no Washington in that—no Jackson in that—no manhood nor honor in that. I have no desire to invade the South; but I must have troops to defend this Capital. Geographically it lies surrounded by the soil of Maryland; and mathematically the necessity exists that they should come over her territory. Our men are not moles, and can’t dig under the earth; they are not birds, and can’t fly through the air. There is no way but to march across, and that they must do. But in doing this there is no need of collision. Keep your rowdies in Baltimore, and there will be no bloodshed. Go home and tell your people that if they will not attack us, we will not attack them; but if they do attack us, we will return it, and that severely.

April 22, 1861

The News.

There was no direct communication yesterday with the federal capital or Baltimore. There is no doubt of the perfect safety of Washington, and it is not probable that anything of a serious nature transpired in Baltimore yesterday. The communication is understood to be suspended by the desire of the government, in order to prevent its plans of war from falling into the hands of its opponents. It was rumored in Washington on Saturday that the President, in consequence of certain States refusing to furnish their quota of the force called for, would call for additional troops from the States which have proved faithful to the constitution and laws of the country.

We publish today details of the sanguinary fight that took place in Baltimore last Friday between its citizens and the Massachusetts and Pennsylvania troops that were marching to the relief of Washington city; also a report of the mass meeting subsequently held at Monument square, with the speeches of the Mayor and Governor, an account of the burning of the railroad bridges, &c. The burning of the bridges and the cutting of the telegraph wires were done by order of Governor Hicks, and under the protection of a strong military force.

The Seventy-first, Twelfth and Sixth regiments of New York State militia, with full ranks and fully officered, left New York yesterday for Annapolis, in the steamers R. R. Cuyler and Baltic. The regiments were obliged to leave numbers of recruits behind. They numbered; together, more than two thousand five hundred men. Their departure was the occasion of a grand ovation.

The meeting of the citizens of New York in Union Square on Saturday last, was one of the greatest demonstrations of popular feeling the world has ever seen. It was characterized by great unanimity of feeling, and, amidst a crowd of half a million of human beings, but one thought, one idea, seemed to pervade the huge mass, and that was a determination to sustain the government by every means, at all cost and hazard. The resolutions passed, and the speeches pronounced, all breathed the same spirit: and the city of New York, rising as if it were one man on the occasion, determined that the federal government should be sustained and maintained, no matter what the amount of men, material or money should be necessary. [continue reading…]

–Several delegations of citizens of Maryland waited upon President Lincoln, to endeavor to procure some countermand of the order for troops to march to Washington. One delegation of thirty, from five “Young Men’s Christian Associations” of Baltimore, had a prolonged interview, but made no impression upon him.–N. Y. Times, April 25.

–Gov. Hicks presented to the President a communication again urging the withdrawal of troops from Maryland, a cessation of hostilities, and a reference of the national dispute to the arbitrament of Lord Lyons. To this the Secretary of State replied, that the troops were only called out to suppress insurrection, and must come through Maryland, as that was the route chosen for them by the Commander-in-Chief, and that our troubles could not be “referred to any foreign arbitrament.”–(Doc. 84.)

–A meeting was held in Clarksburg, Harrison county, Virginia. Resolutions were adopted censuring severely the course pursued by Governor Letcher and the Eastern Virginians. Eleven delegates were appointed to meet delegates from other northwestern counties, to meet at Wheeling, May 13th, to determine what course should be pursued in the present emergency. Reports thus far received speak encouragingly of the Union sentiment in Western Virginia.–National Intelligencer, April 29.

–The Twenty-fifth Regiment of New York Militia arrived at New York from Albany. The regiment numbers over five hundred men, and is commanded ‘by Colonel M. K. Bryan.–N. Y. Tribune, April 23.

–A meeting was held at Palace Garden, in New York, for the purpose of organizing a “Home Guard” of men over 45 years. The following Committee was appointed to carry out the objects of the meeting: Major A. M. Bininger, Col. Charles B. Tappen, Col. Burr Wakeman, Samuel Hotaling, Esq., and Judge Edmonds. Upwards of 300 names were enrolled.–N. Y. Tribune, April 25.

–The Baltimore American of this day contains a recapitulation of the killed and wounded during the riot that occurred at Baltimore on the 19th April.–(Doc. 85.)

–An embargo upon “provisions of any kind,” and upon steamboats, was declared by the Mayor and Police Board of Baltimore.–(Doc. 86.)

–The Charleston Mercury of to-day, in an article headed “President Lincoln a Usurper,” concludes that he will “deplore the `higher-law’ depravity which has governed his counsels. Seeking the sword, in spite of all moral or constitutional restraints and obligations, he may perish by the sword. He sleeps already with soldiers at his gate, and the grand reception-room of the White House is converted into quarters for troops from Kansas–border ruffians of Abolitiondom.”

–At Lexington, Ky., between two and three hundred Union men assembled, raised the Stars and Stripes, and expressed their determination to adhere to them to the last. Speeches were made by Messrs. Field, Crittenden, Codey, and others. The most unbounded enthusiasm prevailed, and the speakers were greeted with great applause.–Phila. Inquirer.

–A large and enthusiastic meeting of the residents of Chestnut Hill, Pa., and its vicinity, was held to “counsel together in the present alarming condition of the country, and take some steps to protect it from the assaults of traitors.”–Idem.

–Robt. E. Lee, late of the United States Army, was nominated by the Governor and unanimously confirmed by the Convention as “Commander of the military and naval forces Virginia.”–National Intelligencer, April 27.

–The Charleston Mercury of this day says that “the officers of the army and navy of the Confederate States, and captains sailing under letters of marque, will greatly oblige the proprietors of that paper by furnishing sketches and incidents of the expected conflict between our gallant soldiers and their enemies.

“When supplied exclusively, a liberal compensation will be allowed.”

–The United States Arsenal at Fayetteville, North Carolina, surrendered to the State authorities. It contains a large number of arms.

–Governor Ellis of North Carolina, called for 30,000 volunteers additional to the regular militia, and all the organized corps are under orders to be in readiness at a moment’s notice. –Boston Transcript, April 29.

–Information was received by Gov. Curtin that Lieut. Jennifer, late of the United States Army, stationed at Carlisle Barracks, Pa., had fled from that place. Gov. Curtin, by aid of the telegraph facilities in his possession, succeeded in having him arrested at Hanover, in York County, Pa. It is said that Jennifer has been communicating information to the rebels as to the exact condition of things at Carlisle, and of the movements of Gov. Curtin’s troops.–N. Y. Times, April 23.

–The N. Y. City Common Council passed an ordinance appropriating $1,000,000 for outfit and equipment and for the families of volunteers.

–Several hundred uniforms made for the Southern army were seized at 4 Dey street, N. Y. City.–Idem.

–Gen. Thomas Jones, under instructions received from Governor Rector, seized at Napoleon, Arkansas, a large quantity of Government military supplies, consisting of one hundred and forty thousand ball cartridges, one hundred Maynard rifles, two hundred cavalry saddles, and five hundred sabres.–Memphis Argus, April 25.

–A. H. Stephens, Vice-President of the Southern Confederacy, arrived at Richmond, Va. In the evening he was serenaded, and made a speech, in which he said, that if the Federal Administration made war upon Maryland, the whole South would rally to her aid.–(Doc. 87.)

–A meeting of the Bench and Bar of the city of New York, in view of the present crisis in the history of the country, was held at the Superior Court room, in that city. The judges and ex-judges of the different benches were present, and nearly every law firm in the city had its representative. Judge Daniel P. Ingraham presided; speeches were made, and patriotic resolutions were adopted.–(Doc. 88.)

–In the evening a large meeting of the citizens of Westchester, N. Y., was held in Morrisania.–N. Y. Tribune, April 23.

–Father Rafina, priest of the Montrose Avenue Catholic church, Williamsburg, N. Y., with his own hands raised the American flag upon the top of his church. The ceremony was witnessed by at least two thousand people, who greeted the glorious emblem with cheer after cheer as it waved majestically over the sacred edifice. The reverend father addressed the assemblage in a few appropriate remarks, which were received with marked enthusiasm.–Idem.

–Union meetings were held at Geneva and Adams, N. Y. At Geneva, speeches were made by Judge Folger and others, and a large sum of money was subscribed and guaranteed for the families of the volunteers. At Adams the utmost enthusiasm prevailed.–Albany Journal, April 24.

–The New York Seventh Regiment arrived at Annapolis, Md., and were joined there by the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment, with Gen. Butler in command.

An attack upon the School-ship Constitution was anticipated in Annapolis, and she was drawn out of the harbor.–N. Y.  Times, April 25.

–Secretary Cameron, in an official letter, conveyed the thanks of the Federal Government to Major Anderson for his conduct at Fort Sumter, as follows

War Department,
Washington, April 22, 1861.

Major Robert Anderson, late Commanding Officer of Fort Sumpter:
My Dear Sir: I am directed by the President of the United States to communicate to you, and through you to the officers and men under your command at Forts Moultrie and Sumter, the approbation of the Government of your and their judicious and gallant conduct there; and to tender to you and them the thanks of the Government for the same.

I am, very respectfully,
………..Simon Cameron,
……………Secretary of War.

–National Intelligencer, April 24.

April 22, 1861

• The Clarksburg (present-day West Virginia) Convention calls for an anti-secessionist convention to be held in May 1861
• Maryland Governor Thomas Holliday Hicks calls a session of the Maryland legislature to consider secession
• Robert E. Lee accepts command of Virginia forces

A Chronological History of the Civil War in America¹

• U. S. Arsenal at Napoleon, Ark., seized by the rebels.
• New York city appropriated $1,000,000 to equip volunteers, and $500,000 for their families.

1. A Chronological History of the Civil War in America by Richard Swainson Fisher, New York, Johnson and Ward, 1863

April 30.–Rev. Henry M. Field, editor of the New York Evangelist, and his little French wife are here visiting. She is a wonderful woman. She has written a book and paints beautiful pictures and was teacher of art in Cooper Institute, New York. He is Grandmother’s nephew and he brought her a picture of himself and his five brothers, taken for Grandmother, because she is the only aunt they have in the world. The rest are all dead. The men in the picture are Jonathan and Matthew and David Dudley and Stephen J. and Cyrus W. and Henry M. They are all very nice looking and Grandmother thinks a great deal of the picture.

Columbiad guns of the Confederate water battery at Warrington, Fla. (entrance to Pensacola Bay), February 1861. Photographed by W. 0. Edwards or J. D. Edwards of New Orleans, La. 77-HL-99-1. National Archives Identifier: 519437

www.archives.gov/files/research/military/civil-war/photos/

Civil War Portraits—Leaders, Influencers, and the Incidentally Important #005

Virginia Governor John Letcher

John Letcher was an American lawyer, journalist, and politician. He served as a Representative in the United States Congress, was the 34th Governor of Virginia during the American Civil War, and later served in the Virginia General Assembly. He was also active on the Board of Visitors of Virginia Military Institute. Wikipedia

Title: John Letcher, Representative from Virginia, Thirty-fifth Congress, half-length portrait]
Creator(s): Vannerson, Julian, 1827-, photographer
Date Created/Published: [1859]
Medium: 1 photographic print : salted paper ; 19.7 x 14.3 cm.
Reproduction Number: LC-DIG-ppmsca-26673 (digital file from original item)
Rights Advisory: No known restrictions on publication.
Call Number: Illus. in JK1012.M35 1859 (Case X) [P&P]
Repository: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA
Notes:
…..Illus. in: McClees’ gallery of photographic portraits of the senators, representatives & delegates of the thirty-fifth Congress… Washington: McClees & Beck, [1859], page 134.
…..Each item includes subject’s original signature in ink.
…..Title devised by Library staff based on name provided in book’s index.

www.loc.gov/pictures/item/2010649173/

SUNDAY 21

This has been a pleasant but anxious day. We seem to be surrounded by enimies, and enimies in our midst. No troop have yet arrived since the Mass. Regt. How anxiously have we looked for the 7th Regt of NY today. I left the National tonight at 11 o’clock but could get no reliable information. We may be in the midst of bloodshed any hour, and I am looking for an outbreak or attack all the time. Famine stares us in the face unless the routes are kept open. Where are the expected troops?

The three diary manuscript volumes, Washington during the Civil War: The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865, are available online at The Library of   Congress.

April. —War declared with the South, and our Concord company went to Washington. A busy time getting them ready, and a sad day seeing them off; for in a little town like this we all seem like one family in times like these. At the station the scene was very dramatic, as the brave boys went away perhaps never, to come back again.

I’ve often longed to see a war, and now I have my wish. I long to be a man; but as I can’t fight, I will content myself with working for those who can.
Sewed a good deal getting May’s summer things in order, as she sent for me to make and mend and buy and send her outfit.

Stories simmered in my brain, demanding to be writ; but I let them simmer, knowing that the longer the divine afflatus was bottled up the better it would be.

John Brown’s daughters came to board, and upset my plans of rest and writing when the report and the sewing were done. I had my fit of woe up garret on the fat rag-bag, and then put my papers away, and fell to work at housekeeping. I think disappointment must be good for me, I get so much of it; and the constant thumping Fate gives me may be a mellowing process; so I shall be a ripe and sweet old pippin before I die.

April 21st.—In the afternoon I went with Mr. Porcher Miles to visit a small farm and plantation, some miles from the city, belonging to Mr. Crafts. Our arrival was unexpected, but the planter’s welcome was warm. Mrs. Crafts showed us round the place, of which the beauties were due to nature rather than to art, and so far the lady was the fitting mistress of the farm.

We wandered through tangled brakes and thick Indian-like jungle, filled with disagreeable insects, down to the edge of a small lagoon. The beach was perforated with small holes, in which Mrs. Crafts said little crabs, called “fiddlers” from their resemblance in petto to a performer on the fiddle make their abode; but neither them nor “spotted snakes” did we see. And so to dinner, for which our hostess made needless excuses. “I am afraid I shall have to ask you to eke out your dinner with potted meats, but I can answer for Mr. Crafts giving you a bottle of good old wine.” “And what better, madam,” quoth Mr. Miles, “what better can you offer a soldier? What do we expect but grape and canister?”

Mr. Miles, who was formerly member of the United States Congress, and who has now migrated to the Confederate States of America, rendered himself conspicuous a few years ago when a dreadful visitation of yellow fever came upon Norfolk and destroyed one-half of the inhabitants. At that terrible time, when all who could move were flying from the plague-stricken spot, Mr. Porcher Miles flew to it, visited the hospitals, tended the sick; and although a weakly, delicate man, gave an example of such energy and courage as materially tended to save those who were left. I never heard him say a word to indicate that he had been at Norfolk at all. [continue reading…]

(Sunday, April 21st)

I LEFT home at 7 A. M., satchel in hand, crossed the ferry, and soon arrived at the armory. It was already filled with men of the regiment receiving their arms and equipments. We were furnished with a Springfield musket, bayonet, cartridge-box, cap-pouch, haversack, and blanket. Our new uniform were not ready, and so the greater part of the regiment appeared in every-day clothes and hats. Every company had a few regularly equipped men, however, so that we had some little military appearance. The greatest difficulty was an absence of knapsacks, which necessitated carrying valises, a very awkward arrangement, giving us more the appearance of a lot of emigrants than a regiment of soldiers.

About two hours after I joined every man had been furnished with all there was for him, and we were standing for the first time shoulder to shoulder in the ranks. The roll was called, and all present mustered into the state’s service. Immediately afterwards we marched downstairs into Bond Street, wheeled into column by platoons, and marched into and then down Broadway to Cortlandt Street, thence to pier 4, North River, where we embarked on board the steamship R. R. Cuyler. [continue reading…]

New Market, April 21,1861.

Reached here this morning in good health and in spirits as good as could he expected, considering the bloody prospect ahead and the sad hearts left at home. It is bad enough. I have no time to think of my business at home. My duties now for my State require every energy of mind and body which I can devote to them. Do just as you please. If you think proper stay in town and leave all matters and keys on the farm in charge of John Fitzgerald.

April 21st.– Received several letters to-day which had been delayed in their transmission, and were doubtless opened on the way. One was from my wife, informing me of the illness of Custis, my eldest son, and of the equivocal conduct of some of the neighbors. The Rev. Mr. D, son of the late  B_______p, raised the flag of the Union on his church.

The telegraphic wires are still in operation.

About this same date [April 21] a deputation of sympathizers [from Maryland] visited the President, and demanded a cessation of hostilities until the convening of Congress, accompanying the demand with the assertion that seventy-five thousand Marylanders would contest the passage of troops over their soil. Mr. Lincoln, in refusing to accede to the truce, quietly replied that he presumed there was room enough on her soil to bury seventy-five thousand men.

Williamson, David. Life and Public Services of Abraham Lincoln: Sixteenth President of the United States, and Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States .. Philadelphia: T.B. Peterson, 1864.

 Daily Times
(Leavenworth, KS)
April 21, 1861

Rumors were current here yesterday, that the Missourians were preparing for an attack on Fort Leavenworth. A letter was received by one of our citizens, from the Delaware Indian agent, which stated that companies were being formed in Parkville and Independence, for a hostile expedition against the Fort, and various other reports and speculations were circulated, which strengthened the impression that some scheme of the kind had been concocted.

Most of our people placed but little confidence in the rumors referred to; yet it was deemed prudent to use every precaution to guard against such an assault being made, either at the present time or in the future.—Accordingly, Mayor McDowell and others visited the Fort and tendered to Capt. Steele the services of one hundred men to assist in its defence. The Captain thought there was no ground for apprehension, and said the regular troops under his command could easily protect the post against a force of 5,000, and were fully prepared to do so. He, however, accepted the offer of the Mayor, and the one hundred men were stationed at the Fort last night. We are informed that Capt. Steele also gave the Mayor a large quantity of arms, to be used in the defence of the city.

A number of military companies were organized yesterday for home protection. Company A selected the following officers: Capt., J. C. Stone; 1st Lieutenant, A. M Clark; 2nd Lieutenant, Thos. Carney. Nearly 100 names were enrolled.

Company B, Home Guards, organized by electing I. G. Locey Captain; Messrs. Haller and Hughes, 1st and 2nd Lieutenants.

There was a French company organized, but we did not learn the names of the officers.

The Union and Shields Guards have increased their numbers. The former company have daily drills.

These movements show that our citizens are determined to be prepared for any emergency that may arise in the present excited state of the country. We believe that if it is thoroughly understood that we are heartily united in resistance to any invasion of our State, and ready to meet it at a moment’s warning, no trouble need be apprehended

April 21, 1861

Important Military Movements.

Our city is a military camp. The greatest enthusiasm prevails. We are full of brigade, regimental and company orders. But, owing to the length and importance of the proceedings of the overwhelming demonstration in Union square yesterday afternoon, we are compelled to defer the publication of them till tomorrow, when our gallant troops shall have our attention. We shall do our part in this great crisis.

Three to five thousand men will leave this city today for the South. The Sixth, Twelfth and Seventy-first regiments will take their departure at nine o’clock this morning. Several steamers—the Baltic, Marion, Columbia, Monticello, James Adger, Roanoke, Alabama, R.R. Cuyler and Chesapeake—have been chartered by the government. The first three sail this morning. The last three sailed yesterday.

Orders have also been received for the departure of the Eighth and Sixth-ninth regiments on Tuesday, and the Ninth on Wednesday. The Fire Department Zouaves organized last evening at Palace Garden and elected their various officers.

Troops are being rapidly organized all over the North, and in another week the government will have a force sufficient to repel any attack that may be made upon Washington. Obstructed railroads or blown up bridge may slightly delay, but not deter our troops. Advance! is the order.

A great mass meeting in support of the government, [continue reading…]

–The railroad between Philadelphia and Baltimore was taken possession of by the U. S. Government. Orders were given from the Navy Department at Washington to the officers of the various United States vessels, that all persons found sailing under Jefferson Davis’ letters of marque and reprisal be treated as pirates. That the contumacious be immediately hung from the yard-arms, and the crew and the more penitent officers be placed in irons to await their trial as ocean brigands.–Times, April 21.

–The people of Oswego and Rochester, N. Y., Toledo, Dayton, and Zanesville, Ohio, subscribed large sums of money for the support of the volunteers and their families; at the latter place, large property holders agreed to give rent free to volunteers during their absence.– Albany Journal.

Scott telegraphed to Senator Crittenden of Kentucky, as follows:

“I have not changed; have no thought of changing; always a Union man.”–(Doc. 78.)

–George William Brown, mayor of Baltimore, Md., had a consultation with the President of the United States, in reference to the passage of northern troops through Baltimore. On his return from Washington, the Mayor submitted to the people a statement as to his interview with the President.–(Doc. 79.)

–The Worcester third battalion of Rifles, arrived at New York. They are commanded by Major Charles Devens, and number 266 men, officered as follows: Company A, Worcester City Guard, Capt. A. B. R. Sprague; First Lieut., J. Pickett; Second Lieut., O. Moulton; Third Lieut., G. Egra.

Company C, Emmett Guard, Capt McConville; First Lieut., F. McCafferty; Second Lieut., M. O. Driscoll; Third Lieut., T. O’Niel; Fourth Lieut., – Melvin.–Times, April 22.

–A mass meeting of citizens, numbering many thousands, was held in Boston, Mass., this forenoon, and was addressed by Fletcher Webster, Charles L. Woodbury, and many distinguished citizens. The meeting was to raise a regiment for Fletcher Webster, and was completely successful. The most intense enthusiasm prevailed among the crowd. The meeting continued till nearly night. It was a remarkable expression of the entire voice of our people.–N. Y. Tribune, April 22.

–The First Regiment of Rhode Island Volunteers passed through New York, on their way to the South. Governor Sprague accompanies these troops, as commander in chief of the Rhode Island forces. His staff consists of Colonels Frieze, Goddard, Arnold, Capt. A. W. Chapin, Assistant Adjutant-General.–(Doc. 80.)

–The Sixth, Twelfth, and Seventy-first Regiments, New York State Militia, left New York for Washington this day, (Sunday.) The people were early astir, and by 10 o’clock every available spot where a human being could stand, was occupied, throughout the entire length of Broadway; and from near Canal-street to Grace Church, not only the sidewalks, but the whole of the street, was densely thronged. Every window, door, stoop, balcony, and house-top, were alive with human beings, of every age, sex, and condition, awaiting the marching of the Regiments, which it was known would depart during the day for the seat of Government, or other destination where their services might be required. It was some time after the bells had summoned the worshippers to their respective churches before the troops made their appearance. As they marched along, no language can do justice to the enthusiasm with which the assembled multitude greeted them. Cheers from ten thousand voices swelling in prolonged chorus, the waving of handkerchiefs by fair hands, the display of flags and streamers throughout the route of march, made the scene one of the most animated and exciting ever witnessed in the city.–Times, April 22.

–The United States branch mint at Charlotte, North Carolina, was seized by the State authorities. No resistance was offered. Colonel Bryce now holds it with a military force, under orders from Governor Ellis.–N. Y. Evening Post, April 29.

–Wendell Phillips delivered a discourse in Boston on the present rebellion. Some time ago he made a speech deprecating, in the most emphatic manner, any appeal to arms, as certain to result in the renewed and permanent triumph of slavery. The people of the North, he said, would not fight, and the first result of a military demonstration would be the complete surrender of the North, and the concession of everything that might be demanded at their hands.–(Doc. 81.)

–Andrew Johnson, U. S. Senator from Tennessee, passed through Lynchburg, Va., on his way from Washington to Tennessee. A large crowd assembled and groaned at him. They offered every indignity, and efforts were made to take him off the cars. Mr. Johnson was protected by the conductor and others. He denied sending a message asserting that Tennessee should furnish her quota of men.–Commercial Advertiser, April 26.

–The citizens of Baltimore were fearfully excited on account of a rumored descent upon them by Federal troops from Cockeysville, seventeen miles distant from the city; but at night the excitement subsided on receiving intelligence that the troops had been turned back to Harrisburg, Pa., by order of Gen. Scott.–N. Y. Tribune, April 26.

–In nearly all the churches in New York–and probably in a majority of churches throughout the country–the sermons of to-day were mainly in reference to the war. Many congregations have made the day an occasion for patriotic contributions for the outfit of volunteers, or for the support of their families. In the Church of the Puritans in Brooklyn, (although Mr. Beecher, the pastor, was absent, and the services were conducted by Rev. H. D. Northrup of Brooklyn,) a letter was read from the Thirteenth Regiment N. Y. S. M., asking for uniforms for recruits–and the response was a collection of about $1,100 for that patriotic purpose. In the Broadway Tabernacle, the pastor, Rev. J. P. Thompson, D. D., preached a sermon in the evening on “God’s Time of Threshing.” The choir performed “The Marseillaise” to a hymn composed for the occasion by the pastor. A collection was taken for the Volunteers’ Home Fund amounting to $450–to which a member of the congregation afterwards added $100. Dr. Bethune’s sermon was from the text: “In the name of our God we will set up our banners.” In Dr. Bellows’ church the choir sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which was vigorously applauded by the whole house. At Grace church (Episcopal) Dr. Taylor began by saying, “The Star-Spangled Banner has been insulted.” The gallant Major Anderson and his wife attended service at Trinity. At Dr. McLane’s Presbyterian church, Williamsburg, “The Star-Spangled Banner” was sung. Dr. T. D. Wells (Old-School Presbyterian) preached from the words: “He that hath no sword, let him buy one.” Dr. Osgood’s text was: “Lift up a standard to the people.” Many of the churches–of all denominations–are sending some of their most active members to the field as volunteers.–Independent, April 25.

–The Fifth Regiment of Massachusetts Militia, Col. Lawrence, with the Boston Flying Artillery, Major Cook, left Boston for New York at 7 o’clock this morning. The Third Battalion of Rifles, Major Stevens, left Worcester last night for New York. Massachusetts has within six days responded to the President’s proclamation, with five full regiments of infantry, a battalion of rifles, and a splendid corps of flying artillery. The artillery take six brass 6-pounders, with horses fully equipped.–N. Y. Times, April 22.

–A meeting of Californians was held in New York to take measures for the formation of a California Regiment. The meeting was organized by the nomination of J. C. Birdseye as chairman, and speeches were made, and resolutions sustaining the Union and the Government were adopted.–(Doc. 82.)

–The Liverpool (Eng.) Times publishes a remarkable article on the political troubles in the United States.–(Doc. 88.)

–The burial of the American flag was publicly celebrated at Memphis, Tennessee.–N. Y. Express, April 29.

April 21, 1861

A Chronological History of the Civil War in America¹

• Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore Railroad taken possession of by the U. S. Government.
• War sermons preached in most of the Northern churches.

1. A Chronological History of the Civil War in America by Richard Swainson Fisher, New York, Johnson and Ward, 1863

Richmond Enquirer
April 20, 1861

The eighteenth of April, one thousand eight hundred and sixty one, will be noted as the most eventful day in Virginia history. On that day Virginia, through her sovereign Convention, dissolved the political bands by which she has been connected with the United States Government from its formation, seventy four years ago.

The announcement of the withdrawal of the glorious old State from the abolitionized Government of the once United States, will be celebrated with bonfires and illuminations by her true hearted sons from the Chesapeake to the Ohio, and from her Northern to her Southern borders. The friends of free Government throughout the world will give one thousand cheers for old Virginia, the mother of States and of Statesmen.

The Convention still sits with closed doors and the injunctions of secrecy have not been removed from its proceedings, except as to the simple fact announced above. Yesterday morning the flag of the Southern Confederacy with eight stars was displayed over the Capitol in which the Convention sits, and it still there. The understanding is that a straight-out Ordinance of Secession has been passed with but few dissenting voices. Its submission to the people will be a matter of form and not of contest.

Richmond Enquirer
April 20, 1861

Reported for the Richmond Telegraph.

(Special Dispatch to the Richmond Enquirer.)

NORFOLK, April 19—Col. Elzey and Dr. Jones, both from Maryland, and stationed at Old Point, sent in their resignations yesterday. Both of these gentlemen have served in the army with distinction for a number of years, and last in the Mexican war. Dr. Jones has been in the army for 24 years.

An interesting scene occurred when these officers who had resigned reached here with their families from the Navy Yard. Boats with their furniture crossed the Harbor with the officers and their wives and little ones before them.

Every officer in the Navy Yard, except McCauley, has resigned. The finest spirit prevails here. The best houses have been tendered for quarters, when necessary to concentrate troops here. A gallant set of navy officers are eager for duty. The Harbor is obstructed and war vessels can neither enter or depart.

The Baltimore Boat was searched today, by [continue reading…]