Today in History:

955 Series I Volume XXIX-I Serial 48 - Bristoe, Mine Run Part I

Page 955 CHAP XLI. RAID ON VA. AND TENN. R. R., ETC.

[Inclosure Numbers 2]

Headquarters Camp Northwest,

December 11 - 8 p.m.

Colonel W. L. Jackson

DEAR COLONEL: The Yankees are at the Greenbrier Bridge. Some of the scouts were fired on at sundown this evening. I cannot tell you what the force is. I think there can be no mistake of their being there. If you can watch the Back Creek road it will be well, as they might come in a force in our rear. Colonel Thompson went to the Levels this morning. Have heard nothing from him.

Yours, in haste,

J. W. MARSHALL,

Captain, Commanding Detachment.

[Inclosure Numbers 3]

Huntersville,

December 12, 1863

Colonel Jackson:

DEAR COLONEL: I am just in receipt of your dispatch. I am just from the bridge. The enemy (numbering about 800 to 900, principally infantry, six companies of cavalry, and, I think, two pieces of artillery) left the bridge about 8 o'clock this morning. I blockaded pretty effectively last night and to-day. I sent about 65 men to Elk Rut to-day. Will be there on road by dark, with orders to blockade effectively and await the return of the enemy. I will be unable to get the men in line before the day after to-morrow, as they have pretty much all been on duty since yesterday morning, and I cannot get them word only by infantry. I was just on my way to Beaver Creek to blockade there, but will move what men I have toward Back Creek. Will encamp about our old camp to-night. I think they are going to Lewisburg, as they left no guard at the bridge, which they would have done, I think, if they had intended coming this road. Colonel Thompson or Captain Jarvis have not reported. I learned they got my dispatch last night.

Yours, respectfully,

J. W. MARSHALL,

Captain, Commanding Post.

[Inclosure Numbers 4]

Huntersville,

December 12, 1863 - 8 a.m.

Colonel Jackson:

DEAR COLONEL: I have started back what stores I could send. The enemy was encamped at Gay's last night. Lieutenant Simmons dispatches back to me he thinks from their camp fires there was not over a regiment though they had artillery and considerable train along. I have all my effective men; am going below Huntersville; have heard nothing from the Levels. I have blockaded, and will do the best I can for them if they come on. I blockaded between McLaughlin's and the bridge. I have but a few horsemen here. If you can send some it will be very well.

Respectfully,

J. W. MARSHALL,

Captain, Commanding.


Page 955 CHAP XLI. RAID ON VA. AND TENN. R. R., ETC.