HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FREDERICKSBURG,
Fredericksburg, Va., May 30 [?], 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report that two small steamers of the enemy attacked the Aquia Creek Railroad battery last evening about sunset, and fired some fourteen shot and shell. Our battery returned the fire with twelve shot and shell. The contest terminated about 9 o’clock when the enemy departed. One man was slightly wounded in the hand by the fragments of a shell. I prepared to cover our front which my whole force, comprising the Tennessee Regiment and a battalion of volunteers, assembled at Camp Merces, and proceeded, with some seven hundred men, to the point attack, having attacked, having view sending back the train for the remaining five hundred. The conflict having terminated before we reached the scene of action, I returned with the forces above specified, reaching this town about 5 a. m. The spirit and conduct of the troops have been admirable in connection with this little affair. Much agitation prevails along the Potomac coast from apprehension that the enemy will land, in large and small numbers, to devastate and plunder. I respectfully recommend that guns of heavy caliber be furnished (say 12s, 18s, and 32s), for use at various points on the coast for surprising and harassing the enemy.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DANIEL RUGGLES,
Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.
Colonel R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces.
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies. Series I, Vol. II. With additions and corrections. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1902.
Spirit of '61 