Abraham Lincoln, June 16, 1858

Illinois Republican State Convention, Springfield, Illinois

Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Convention.

Title: Interior Sumter the day after Gen. Anderson left, April 1861
Creator(s): Osborn & Durbec, photographer
Date Created/Published: [Charleston, S.C.] : [Osborn & Durbec’s Southern Stereoscopic & Photographic Depot?] [1861]
Medium: 1 photograph : print on card mount ; sheet 8 x 17 cm (stereograph format)
Summary: Photograph shows a crew clearing away debris in front of the sally-port after the battle at Fort Sumter.
Reproduction Number: LC-DIG-stereo-1s03903 (digital file from original item, front) LC-DIG-stereo-2s03903 (digital file from original item, back)
Rights Advisory: No known restrictions on publication.
Call Number: LOT 14110-1, no. 24 (H) [P&P] LOT 15015-1, no. 24 (former call number)
Repository: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.print
Notes:

….Purchase; Robin Stanford; 2015; (DLC/PP-2015:022).
….Photographers identified and photo reproduced in Shadows of the Storm, Vol. 1, The Image of War 1861-1865, William C. Davis, ed. Garden City, New York: Doubleday & Co., Inc. 1981, p. 111.
….Title from item.
….Forms part of: The Robin G. Stanford Collection.
….Digitized 2015 Funding from Center for Civil War Photography.

Library of Congress image

Fort Sumter in the Charleston Harbor in Charleston, South Carolina, April 14, 1861, under the first Confederate national flag (the ‘Stars and Bars’)

U.S. National Archives image.

U. S. FRIGATE SABINE,
Off Pensacola, April 14, 1861.

Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington :

SIR: I have the honor to inform you that immediately on the receipt of your order by Lieutenant Worden, on the 12th instant, I prepared to re-enforce Fort Pickens. It was successfully performed, on the same night, by landing the troops under Captain Vogdes, and the marines of the squadron under Lieutenant [John C.] Cash. No opposition was made, nor do I believe the movement was known on shore until it was accomplished.

A strong party of officers and seamen were sent to assist in case of resistance, who afterwards returned to their ships. The marines remained in the fort, at the request of Captain Vogdes, a copy of which I inclose. The whole expedition was under the charge of Commander Charles H. Poor, assisted by Lieutenant [Albert N.] Smith, of the Brooklyn, Lieutenants [R. F. R.] Lewis and [L. H.] Newman, of the Sabine, and Lieutenant [G. E.] Belknap, of the St. Louis; and it is highly creditable to these officers that this service was performed without accident or disorder under unfavorable circumstances. The Brooklyn, Captain [W. S.] Walker, and the Wyandotte, Lieutenant Commanding [J. R. M.] Mullany, were very skillfully managed. They carried the landing party to the designated spot with accuracy in spite of the darkness of the night, and not having the light-house to guide them, the light having been extinguished early in the evening.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. A. ADAMS,
Captain, Senior Officer Present.

April 14th –Wrote all day for several journals.

Note: This particular diary entry–a document written in 1861–includes terms that are offensive to many today.   No attempt will be made to censor or edit 19th-century material to today’s standards.

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Sunday, April 14.–A night of disturbed sleep, owing to the ponderous thumping of the walking beam close to my head, the whizzing of steam, and the roaring of the steam-trumpet to warn vessels out of the way–mosquitoes, too, had a good deal to say to me in spite of my dirty gauze curtains. Soon after dawn the vessel ran alongside the jetty at Fortress Monroe, and I saw indistinctly the waterface of the work which is in some danger of being attacked, it is said, by the Virginians. There was no flag on the staff above the walls, and the place looked dreary and desolate. It has a fine bastioned profile, with moat and armed lunettes – the casemates were bricked up or occupied by glass windows, and all the guns I could make out were on the parapets. A few soldiers were lounging on the jetty, and after we had discharged a tipsy old officer, a few negroes, and some parcels, the steam-pipe brayed–it does not whistle–again, and we proceeded across the mouth of the channel and James’ River towards Elizabeth River, on which stand Portsmouth and Gosport.

Just as I was dressing, the door opened, and a all, neatly dressed negress came in and asked me for my ticket. She told me she was ticket-collector for the boat, and that she was a slave. The latter intelligence was given without any reluctance or hesitation. On my way to the upper deck I observed the bar was crowded by gentlemen engaged in consuming, or waiting for, cocktails or mint-juleps. The latter, however, could not be had just now in such perfection as usual, owing to the inferior condition of the mint. In the matter of drinks, how hospitable the Americans are! [continue reading…]

Abby Howland Woolsey to Eliza Woolsey Howland.

PENSACOLA, April 14, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER:

Captain Adams, commanding the fleet, writes on 13th, just received. Subsequently to the date of your last letter, as you are probably aware,   re-enforcements have been placed in Fort Pickens, in obedience to orders from the United States Government. Lieutenant Worden must have given these orders in violation of his word. Captain Adams executed them in violation of our agreement.

BRAXTON BRAGG.

—–

PENSACOLA, April 14, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:

Lieutenant Worden assured me he only had a verbal message of pacific nature. The re-enforcement of Pickens was preceded by signal guns from there. What caused it I cannot ascertain. Worden’s message may have had no connection with the move. He was in Pensacola when the move was made. Five thousand men here now, and two thousand more coming. Subsistence, forage, and transportation should be hurried. You can now spare the supplies from Sumter, which is ours.

BRAXTON BRAGG,

Brigadier-General.

—–

HEADQUARTERS TROOPS CONFEDERATE STATES,
Near Pensacola, Fla., April 14, 1861.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL C. S. ARMY,
Montgomery:

SIR: It is a matter of impossibility for me to keep you advised of the arrival of troops. They come under such various orders, and fail so often to report at all, that they are [here] for days sometimes before I hear of them. As near as I can ascertain this morning, by a visit of a staff officer to each camp, the inclosed statement of my present strength is very nearly accurate. I am obliged to receive them by order, and let the muster rolls be made afterwards.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

BRAXTON BRAGG,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

CHARLESTON, April 14, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER:

I have possession of Sumter. Anderson and garrison on Isabel going in morning. None killed; two wounded. Quarters in ruins. Interior of fort damaged. Armament still effective against entrance to channel.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

—–

CHARLESTON, April 14, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER:

Fleet still outside. Can spare no guns yet, but hope to do so soon.

T. BEAUREGARD.

SUNDAY 14

A fine cool day. Went to church in the morning with all the children, wife staid at home and went in the afternoon. The excitement in the City increases all the time now the war has begun. But the reports from Charleston are mostly “bogus.” Maj Anderson has probably not surrendered, but there is fighting there. I left Willards about 1/2 past 10 this evening, never saw a more excited crowd. It is said that Martial law will be proclaimed tomorrow morning, and that the Prest has made requisition upon the States for 75,000 men or Volunteers to defend the Government. Think of sending my family out of the City immediately.

---

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.

The following letter, written from Charleston to the New York Times, gives a very fair account of the surrender of Fort Sumter and my father’s connection with the affair. A Southern newspaper says:

HON. LOUIS T. WIGFALL.

“The gallantry, chivalry, and heroism of this distinguished son of the South is even applauded by those from whom we least expected a word of commendation. The following is an extract of a letter written from Charleston to the New York Times, to which we invite the especial attention of our readers, both on account of its fairness, as well as of its correct representation of the interview which came off between Senator Wigfall and Major Anderson:

” ‘Mr. Wigfall’s exploit was as gallant and chivalrous as any deed of modern times.—Stationed on Morris Island, where he had been on foot or in the saddle since the commencement of the attack, he no sooner saw the second barracks in flames and the flag staff shot away, than he resolved to make his way to the Fort and persuade Major Anderson to desist from a resistance manifestly so unavailing.

” ‘Despite the remonstrances of those around him, he embarked in a skiff, and with three Negro oarsmen and a coxswain, pulled over to the Fort. He was scarce a hundred yards from shore when they hailed to him to return, “The Stars and Stripes were again flying.”—He literally turned a deaf ear to this call, and pushed on, [continue reading…]

14th [April]

       Lewis went down yesterday afternoon and returned today by an express train, he brings us news that Fort Sumpter is given up, after a gallant defence, when Major Anderson evacuated it, he requested to be allowed to salute his Flag, and Gen. Boregard said, that he had defended his command so bravely that he should be permitted to do so. He wrote to his wife a letter which was sent to Gen. B. to forward, he had to open it,—and it was said to contain these words, among others, “My Government have shamefully abandoned me” and I shall now fight and die like a man”.

       There were none killed on either side, the Fort has been destroyed inside,—Officer’s quarters burnt.—

       The men looked thin & smoked up with the shells which were most of them sent by Stephen’s Battery; Fort Moultry was uninjured, 5 men wounded in the evacuated Fort.—

       How thankful we are, not however as much so as we ought to be;

       Yesterday after Church I stopped to see Papa, this I always do on Sunday and these visits are very pleasant to me. He loves us all in his way & gives me some oysters which he buys from Mr La Roche’s man who brings them for sale to the Church, —and I hear family news. During this excitement and anxiety I do not think Charlotte has been very kind in her manners, she I have no doubt felt, but on such occasions people ought to express themselves to be understood, I find her an excellent, well principled woman, with a disagreeable temper, & no manners: but in this world we must be thankful for the good we find in those who belong to us, and not judge them too harshly.—Charlotte has on many occasions been kind to us all, and I thank her. Mr Grimball remained in Town until tomorrow.—Mrs Butler writes to Papa that the Overseer came to her & said he had a letter from Mr Pierce Butler saying he must send a boat to take his to W. Simon’s & send Eleck. She ordered him not to send the boat and that Eleck was waiting on her. She said she was there, in charge of the property, & would continue so, has written to Judge Law to confirm her action she says her case is a very hard one, and she deplores it. Richard seems to be very ill, spits blood, & coughs, and she writes very wofully of him, & says she certainly will not leave him in Georgia, he has an Overseer, and leaves things to him. Charles also has an Overseer, and being engaged in fixing guns in Fort Pulasky, and expecting to be in a steamer in coast guard all summer will be able to visit his Plantation, & see about his affairs, I don’t think Richard & Charles get on very nicely,—& I am sure it must be Richard’s fault, for Charles is a very kind, good tempered man, and Richard has always been very self willed & passionate.—

       Harry during the transaction of our business together wrote me a very nice letter, he expresses a kind interest in my boys and I love him for it; and he hopes still for a Reconstruction. That may be hoped for but can never, never, be.

       There have been too many bitter feelings between the two sections and it seems to me it would have been just as reasonable for us to be rearranged as British provinces soon after the Revolution broke out, as for us to go back to a Government with our taunting, Fanatic, Northern brothers.—

April 14.–The Isabel went over the bar and placed the whole command on board the steamer Baltic, which started for New York.

April 14, 1861

• During the formal surrender of Fort Sumter Private Daniel Hough dies when the cannon he was loading (for the Union’s 100-gun salute to the U.S. flag) discharges prematurely. He is the first man to die in the Civil War. A second man is mortally wounded.
• Major Anderson and his men left Fort Sumter and sailed for New York.¹

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

Fort Pickens on Santa Rosa Island, near Pensacola, Florida

Harper’s Pictorial History of the Civil War by Alfred H. Guernsey and Henry W. Alden; copyrighted 1866 by Harper and Brothers; 1894 by Alfred H. Guernsey and Henry W. Alden; 1894 by McDonnell Bros; pub. The Puritan Press Co.; Chicago, Illinois

MONTGOMERY, April 13, 1861.

General BRAGG Pensacola:

When you arrested Lieutenant Worden what instructions, if any, did he show you? Did he communicate to you that he had verbal instructions, and, if so, what were they? He is here under arrest, and it is important for you to reply fully.

L. P. WALKER.

Harper’s Pictorial History of the Civil War by Alfred H. Guernsey and Henry W. Alden; copyrighted 1866 by Harper and Brothers; 1894 by Alfred H. Guernsey and Henry W. Alden; 1894 by McDonnell Bros; pub. The Puritan Press Co.; Chicago, Illinois

U. S. STEAMER CRUSADER,
Off Key West, April 13, 1861.

Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD,
Secretary of State, Washington:

DEAR SIR: We arrived here and anchored some three miles below the fort to prevent communication. Going to the fort in a boat Colonel Brown sent notes to Judge Marvin; to Colonel Patterson, the newly appointed Navy agent; to Mr. Howe, the new collector; and to Mr. Tiler, the late Navy agent. Mr. Clapp, whose commission as marshal we brought with us, we found at the fort. To these gentlemen the general policy of the Government in regard to the fort and island of Key West was explained, and the assurance of support from their Government was received with great satisfaction. I found that Colonel Patterson has lately made himself quite conspicuous by his Union sentiments, and their open avowal. The best feeling prevails between the gentlemen now appointed and the officers of the garrison, and I have no doubt that all will work harmoniously together.

The anxiety to which Judge Marvin has been subjected has preyed upon his spirits and he looks depressed, but he is ready to do his duty and stand to his post, at least until the Government is ready to relieve him. His presence for a time, and his influence are, I think, of much importance in [continue reading…]

Appeared in Harper’s Pictorial History of the Civil War

Hand-tinted off-print

Special handed-tinted off-prints were often sold separately from newspapers and other documents. Numerous originals held today by public institutions and in private collections.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA,
Key West, April 13, 1861.

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

COLONEL: We arrived at this place this afternoon. Captain Meigs and I have had an interview with Judge Marvin which has been entirely satisfactory. He, though anxious to leave the place, will remain, having now the assurance of support from the military authority. I have found great industry, intelligence, and enterprise in putting forward the works at the fort, and consider it quite secure against any force that can at this time be brought against it. Brevet Major French, the commanding officer, has been untiring in his labors, assisted ably by Captain Hunt, of the Engineers, and the officers of the garrison. He and all his officers are, I am happy to say, entirely devoted to the Union and the country, under any and all contingencies. I have issued General Orders in relation to the posts, copies of which will be forwarded by the first opportunity. Finding here some 10-inch mortars, I have taken three of them with the necessary ammunition, and also, there being here two 6-pounder field batteries, I have directed one of them to be put on board the Atlantic.

We sail this evening for Fort Jefferson, where we go to get a flat, some boats, and other indispensable articles.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HARVEY BROWN,
Colonel, Commanding.

—–

GENERAL ORDERS

NO. 1.

In obedience to the instructions of the General-in-Chief, approved by the President of the United States, creating the Department of Florida, and assigning it to the undersigned, he hereby assumes the command of the same.

The department comprises the State of Florida and the contiguous islands in the Gulf.

The headquarters of the department will hereafter be announced. The following-named officers compose the staff of the department, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly:

Bvt. Capt. G. L. Hartsuff, assistant adjutant-general. Capt. R. Ingalls, assistant quartermaster.

Capt. H. F. Clarke, assistant commissary of subsistence.

Dr. John Campbell, assistant surgeon. Capt. M. C. Meigs, chief engineer.

First Lieut. G. T. Balch, ordnance officer.

HARVEY BROWN,
Brevet Colonel, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA,
April 13, 1861.

Bvt. Maj. W. H.,
Commanding Fort Taylor, Key West:

SIR: You will use the forces of your command, if need be, for the protection of the officers and citizens of the United States on this island in the discharge of their public duties, and the pursuit of their legitimate private occupations. You will not permit on the island any person to exercise any office or authority inconsistent with the laws and Constitution of the United States, and will, if necessary, prevent any such exercise by force of arms. If unhappily rebellion or insurrection should actually exist at any time, you will then publish a proclamation, with which you will be furnished, suspending the writ of habeas corpus, and will immediately remove from the island all dangerous or suspected persons. You will before publishing this proclamation take the advice of the United States judge and attorney on its necessity and expediency (its legality has been determined by higher authority), and receive with deference their opinion, giving them that consideration and weight to which their patriotism and legal knowledge entitle them. In exercising the authority here vested in you the greatest conciliation and forbearance must be observed, that while the duty be rigidly performed it may always be done in a spirit of conciliation and kindness.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HARVEY BROWN,
Colonel, Commanding.

CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War;

Officers’ quarters in Sumter burning. Part of roof supposed to have fallen in. Sumter firing at long intervals. Ours regular and effective. Six vessels outside in signals with Sumter.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

—–

CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER:

Anderson has hauled down the United States flag on Sumter and run up white flag. Fort has been burning for several hours from effect of shells. Two explosions have been produced by shells. He has ceased firing some time, and fire of all the batteries has been continuous till now–3 o’clock. Aides have been sent by Beauregard to Sumter.

R. B. RHETT, JR.

—–

CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 1861—2 p.m.

President JEFF. DAVIS, Montgomery, Ala.:

Quarters in Sumter all burned down. White flag up. Have sent a boat to receive surrender. But half an hour before had sent a boat to stop our firing and offer assistance.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

—–

CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 1861.

Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Present:

DEAR GOVERNOR: I have sent Major Jones, Captain Hartstene, and Colonels Miles and Pryor to Major Anderson to tell him that I offer him the same terms that I did on the 11th, and that a vessel or steamer would be sent to him in the morning to take him to the steamer outside, and that he must be responsible in the mean time for the fort; otherwise, I would put four companies of artillery in there to-night. I also told Captain Hartstene to go out to the fleet and tell them that the fort was now ours, but under the safe-keeping of Major Anderson, and that no attack could be made upon it by them.

In the morning I will order two of Colonel Ripley’s companies and two of De Saussure’s to take possession of Fort Sumter.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

—–

CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER:

Fort Sumter has unconditionally surrendered to the Confederate States, represented by General Beauregard, Colonel Wigfall, his aide, receiving the surrender. The same terms just offered will be granted. Engines are about to go down to put out the fire. Fight expected on Morris Island to-night.

R. B. RHETT, JR.

—–

CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER:

Anderson surrenders to the Confederate Government unconditionally, but I have granted him the same terms as on the 11th instant: “All proper facilities will be afforded for removal of yourself and command, together with company arms and property and all private property, to any post in the United States you may elect.”

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

—–

HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
April 13, 1861—6 p.m.

General BEAUREGARD, Commanding.

GENERAL: Brigadier-General Simons directs me to say that a boat from the fleet, bearing a white flag, and commanded by a lieutenant of the U.S. Navy, has just communicated with him. He first inquired if Major Anderson had surrendered, to which (as informed by Colonel Wigfall, aide-de-camp) he was answered “Yes; unconditionally.” Second, if he could communicate with Fort Moultrie, to which he was answered “No.” (He evidently supposed the commanding general was at Moultrie, as he afterwards said.) Third, he asked if he could be permitted to come in, under a flag of truce, and take Major Anderson off. If not, whether he could come in with a merchantman and do the same. If not, that whether he could come in with his boats for the purpose. To these inquiries General Simons replied that transportation could be furnished for Major Anderson to the fleet, but that the commanding general was at hand, and could be communicated with at once, with the understanding that no hostile demonstration should be made during the night by the fleet. The lieutenant was informed that you would be furnished with his questions, and he might return for answers to-morrow morning, under a flag of truce. The lieutenant gave his personal guarantee that no hostilities would be attempted, and said he would return in the morning to hear your reply. He informed Major Whiting that their mission was not hostile, but one of peace.

Very respectfully,

W. H. C. WHITING,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

—–

CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:

We take possession of Fort Sumter to-morrow morning. I allow him the privilege of saluting his flag. No one killed on our side.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

—–

MONTGOMERY, April 13, 1861.

General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:

Accept my congratulations. You have won your spurs. How many guns can you spare for Pensacola?

L. P. WALKER.

—–

HDQRS. FIRST BATTALION, THIRTY-THIRD REGIMENT,
SOUTH CAROLINA MILITIA,
April 13, 1861.

General D. F. JAMISON, Secretary of War:

SIR: Owing to the absence of Col. Charles Allston, jr., and being called on by the detachments stationed below this point to complete the chain of coast guard to the North Carolina line, in view of the emergency of the case (war having actually begun), I have taken upon myself to order out one hundred and forty-six men and twelve commissioned officers as follows: From Captain Daggett’s company, Waccamaw Light Artillery, twenty-six men and two officers, stationed as coast guard, from the redoubt at North Island to Murray’s Inlet; distance, twenty-five miles. From Captain Ward’s company, Watchesaw Riflemen, twenty men and two officers, stationed at the redoubt at Murray’s Inlet. From Captain Gillespie’s company, Carolina Greys, forty men and three officers, stationed as coast guard, from Murray’s Inlet to the redoubt at Little River, North Carolina line; distance, forty miles. From Captain Litchfield’s company, All Saints’ Riflemen, thirty men and three officers, stationed at the redoubt at Little River. I have also, by request, ordered a detachment of thirty men and two officers from Captain Johnson’s company, to take post at the redoubt at the entrance of Santee River, that post being unoccupied. Have also taken possession of thirty muskets for said detachment from a quantity here in store. Also, a quantity of army stores.

I have detailed Captain Daggett as bearer of this report, who will furnish any further information you may require as to the defense at this point.

All of which is respectfully submitted; and, hoping it may meet your approbation, I am, very respectfully, yours,

W. C. WHITE,

Major, Commanding.

—–

HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, S. I. AND M. P.,
Fort Moultrie, S.C., April 13, 1861.

Maj. D. R. JONES, Adjutant-General:

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that we have had only two personal casualties in the force under my command, both very slight, and are privates in Company A (Sullivan and Miller). The effect of the enemy’s fire upon this fort has been pretty effectually to demolish the quarters and to injure the hot-shot furnace to a certain extent. The effects of the Sumter, enfilade, Dahlgren, floating, and mortar batteries, has been to keep the enemy from his barbette guns. The direct fire has been quite accurate for the distance, several shots having passed through the arches of the second line of casemates, two or three into his lower embrasures, and many grazing the crest of his parapet and penetrating the roof of his quarters. Still, our direct fire is only annoying, and I have directed it to be economized, to look out and keep the men as fresh as possible for the channel fight, which, it is to be presumed, is impending. I note what has been said respecting the hot-shot furnace, and shall endeavor to attend to it, although it has three shot-holes in it, which has already rendered one bar inefficient. I have directed Captain Hamilton, and the floating battery especially, to be economical with their ammunition, and have to request that the latter be supplied with one hundred rounds of shell and one hundred cartridges, with appurtenances, by boat this evening from the city. All our 9-inch and 8-inch shells are defective, and Captain Hamilton has filled several with rice to use them as solid shot. It would be well to have the floating battery supplied also, if possible, with 42 and 32 pounder ammunition, as it will be especially effective in keeping out re-enforcements.

I also have to suggest that Captain Martin be supplied with one hundred and fifty shell and ammunition, with authority to practice as much as he pleases until he gets his shell in. All the mortar practice is wild, owing to the range and the effect of the wind. As I am sorely pressed for time, I have respectfully to request that such requisitions as are approved may be ordered from headquarters.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. S. RIPLEY,

Lieutenant-Colonel Artillery, Commanding.

P. S.–One of the rear transoms of Captain Hallonquist’s mortars, being made of pine, is split. I shall endeavor to have it repaired. The merlons stand very well, except the vertical palmetto logs, which collapse under our own fire. One 42-pounder shot entered the embrasure, but, being stuffed with a cotton bale, had no further effect than to take a splinter off a carriage. The new 8-inch columbiad carriages will not stand much.

Very respectfully,

R. S. RIPLEY.

—–

CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 1861.

Brig. Gen. JAMES SIMONS, Morris Island, S.C.:

MY DEAR GENERAL: The accumulation of troops on Morris Island requires that another general officer should be sent to the southern end of that island. General Bonham has consented to go there in command, until we can divide the forces into two brigades, when he will assume command of the whole as major-general, to act under my orders. In the mean time, should circumstances bring your commands together, he will necessarily assume the command; otherwise to attend only to his half (about) of the island, and you to yours, but to mutually assist and support each other, in case of need, and in the defense of our country and sacred cause.

Major Whiting will remain acting inspector-general of the whole island. He will communicate (as well as yourself) all the information in his possession to General Bonham. I will endeavor to be with you as soon as practicable, or whenever required.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. T. BEAUREGARD,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

—–

HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S.C., April 13, 1861.

Brig. Gen. R. G. M. DUNOVANT,
Commanding Sullivan’s Island, S.C.:

GENERAL: Major Anderson will evacuate Fort Sumter to-morrow morning, when he will be sent to one of the United States vessels outside of the harbor. He will be allowed the privilege of saluting his flag on lowering it.

You will please direct that the ranking officers of Engineers and Artillery on the island accompany the detachment of one company already ordered out, as part of a garrison to Fort Sumter, who will make a report of the exact present condition of the fort and of its defenses.

You will also direct Capt. George S. James to hold his company at Fort Johnson in readiness to move for the same purpose, as soon as orders to this effect are extended to him.

I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. T. BEAUREGARD,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

—–

HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 13, 1861.

General JAMES SIMONS,
Morris Island, S. C.:

GENERAL: Major Anderson will evacuate Fort Sumter to-morrow morning, when he will be sent to one of the United States vessels outside of the harbor. He will be allowed the privilege of saluting his flag on lowering it.

You will please direct that the ranking officers of Engineers and Artillery on the island accompany the detachment of one company, already ordered out as a part of a garrison to Fort Sumter, who will make a report of the exact present condition of the fort and its defenses.

I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. T. BEAUREGARD,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

—–

FORT MOULTRIE, S.C.,
April 13, 1861.

General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S.C.:

GENERAL: Fort Sumter has been set on fire, and as it is very important (with the vessels outside threatening to enter) to have all experience, I have determined to remain and avoid or prevent a re enforcement. I do not think that there are more than three vessels off. Colonel Ripley and myself will endeavor to prevent an entry here to-night. I will, as you said, make myself useful; more so, probably, than I could at any other point. I shall go out in a row-boat during the night, with signals arranged, and reconnoiter the entrance and give timely notice of any boats approaching. I think the fire-hulk inside of Sumter had better not be lighted, as it will probably dim our vision.

I have just made out the vessels off. They are the Pawnee, Harriet Lane, Nashville, Atlantic, and a merchant schooner. They cannot enter in their vessels. With a good lookout (for a lookout stationed here, and a boat off in the channel, together with their fire-hulks, which are still floating in a line around Fort Sumter), I think you need have no fear of an entrance here. They are all here, and in fine spirits. Ripley is a most valuable officer–cool: collected, and energetic. He keeps all in spirits and up to their work. I have all the batteries on this island, and give the best directions, as I think may be useful, particularly in regard to looking out for and firing at boats or shipping. The guns are all intact, and in fine working order.

Respectfully,

H. J. HARTSTENE.

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HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
April 13, 1861.

General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:

MY DEAR GENERAL: We require one thousand or twelve hundred men to re-enforce this position. Nothing should be left to chance. None have yet arrived, and this command will be worn out. The troops have been under arms all night. Six of the hostile ships are in the positions they occupied at dark last night. The two nearest are the Lane and the Pawnee. With these vessels so close to us, I cannot relax my vigilance   without such a force as would render a coup de main impossible. The men behaved very well and kept well on the alert. I visited the whole line last night (after midnight) and found everything quiet; but you are aware that this cannot last over such a long line of defenses, with an uncertainty as to the point of attack. Opinions differ as to whether anything got into Sumter last night. There may or may not. The night was dark, and occasionally stormy, and a heavy sea running. If anything did, it could not have been very extensive. Perhaps they desire to lay off, and send in one boat at a time or once a night. This is the most feasible plan, and that which I most fear. If it is in your power I beg you to come here for myself personally. I am nearly broken down for want of rest. The gentlemen you sent are very efficient. Quartermaster Hatch should send down tents for the general and his staff. We are without accommodations, and are temporarily in the hospital, which we may at any time be compelled to leave.

Very truly, yours,

W. H. C. WHITING.

[Indorsement.]

I hardly think the additional one thousand men could act on that island, and he ought to order the men to sleep in daylight and enforce it.

F. W. P.

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GENERAL ORDERS, NO. 3.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
ADJ’T AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE,
Montgomery, Ala., April 13, 1861.

In honor of the occasion, officially announced, that the United States colors have been hauled down at Fort Sumter and replaced by the white flag, a salute of fifteen guns will be fired in front of the Department this day at two o’clock.

By command of the Secretary of War:

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

 

Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, April 30, 1861

• purl.clemson.edu/94BC25783562B74D4F96CF3D4B9BB0BE
• Medium: illustrations (layout features)
• Item Location: Fort Sumter NM/Charles Pinckney NHS Curatorial Storage Facility, located at Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
• Box: Box 3 of 3 FOSU 19th c Illustrations Frank Leslie Harper’s Weekly London Times etc Drawer 1.
• Held By Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park

Special handed-tinted off-prints were often sold separately from newspapers and other documents. Numerous originals held today by public institutions and in private collections.

HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S.C., April 13, 1861.

SIR: In obedience to orders from the commanding general, Beauregard, we left the wharf at 11.15 a.m., and proceeded in an open boat to deliver communications to Brigadier-General Simons, commanding on Morris Island, and passing under the batteries of Fort Johnson landed in the rear of Major Stevens’ battery. Our orders were specifically to ask information as to the condition of the batteries on the island, and any other facts necessary to be communicated from Brigadier-General Simons to the commanding general, and also to establish military communications by land from Morris Island to the city of Charleston. We were moreover instructed to learn the condition of Fort Sumter as far as practicable without unnecessary exposure, and if the bombardment and conflagration within had forced an evacuation by Major Anderson and his command.

At the period of passing Fort Sumter about 12 m. the firing from it had ceased, except occasional shots opposite Fort Moultrie, but was kept up with great precision and regularity by the batteries from Fort Johnson, Sullivan’s Island, and Morris Island. The conflagration of the officers’ quarters in the fortress appeared to be on the increase, and although the United States flag was still flying when we landed, there appeared no other evidence of the continuation of the contest.

After communicating with General Simons and establishing a land communication with the city, it was deemed advisable to send a flag to Fort Sumter and demand its evacuation, as at 1.10 p.m. precisely the United States flag had suddenly disappeared from its walls. While a white flag and the boat which bore us over was being made ready to take us, Colonel Wigfall, who had been detailed for special duties on Morris Island, thinking that no time was to be lost lest the garrison be destroyed, and accompanied by Private Young, of the Palmetto Guard, and two oarsmen, hastily entered a small skiff and pulled towards the fort with a white flag in his hand. Its size was too small to be distinctly seen by our batteries, and in consequence the discharge of neither shot or shell was discontinued by them, except those on Morris Island. His approach, therefore, to Sumter was one of imminent danger. We saw him after landing disappear into the fort through an embrasure. After the lapse of a short period of time he reappeared upon the pavement at the base of the fortification and re-embarked, directing his course to where we stood, at Major Stevens’s battery. Meantime the flag that had been erected after the flag-staff was cut away was taken down and a white flag run up in its stead. Before reaching the shore on his return Colonel Wigfall gave evidence that Major Anderson had consented to evacuate, which was soon after confirmed. He was received upon the beach by the troops, who for a moment rushed out to meet him, with strong evidences of admiration. We then took Colonel Wigfall with us in our boat, and returned to the city to report to the general commanding.

Brigadier-General Simons had no specific intelligence to communicate to the general commanding beyond the events narrated; but we take pride and pleasure in reporting the spirit, promptness, and energy which characterized the portion of his command inspected by us.

All of which is respectfully submitted for the information of the general commanding.

JAMES CHESNUT,   Jr.,

Aide-de-Camp.

A. R. CHISOLM,

Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-Camp.

JOHN L. MANNING,

Aide-de-Camp.

Maj. D. R. JONES,

Adjutant-General Provisional Forces.