April 18, 1861, from S.S. Baltic off Sandy Hook, New York
Telegram from Maj. Robert Anderson to Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary, announcing his withdrawal from Fort Sumter, April 18, 1861 (National Archives Identifier: 594525); Records of the Adjutant General’s Office, 1780s-1917; Record Group 94; National Archives.
Transcription (edited for readability)
S.S.Baltic.off Sandy Hook Apr. eighteenth. ten thirty a.m. via New York. Hon.S.Cameron. Secy. War. Washn. Having defended Fort Sumter for thirty four hours until the quarters were entirely burned the main gates destroyed by fire.the gorge walls seriously injured. the magazine surrounded by flames and its door closed from the effects of heat. four barrells and three cartridges of powder only being available and no provisions remaining but pork. I accepted terms of evacuation offered By General Beauregard being on same offered by him on the eleventh inst. prior to the commencement of hostilities and marched out of the fort Sunday afternoon the fourteenth inst. with colors flying and drums beating. bringing away company and private property and saluting my flag with fifty guns. Robert Anderson. Major First Artillery. Commanding.