FREDERICKSBURG, VA., June 1, 1861.
SIR: The report has arrived this moment that five of the enemy’s steamers, with two transport ships, one of which is of considerable size had appeared off Aquia Creek battery, with the evident intention of attacking it. When the train left (11 a. m.) soon after, heavy firing was heard from that point. I am in want of at least one thousand well-disciplined volunteers as soon as it is possible to send them. Twenty thousand musket-rifle caps are absolutely necessary for the use of troops with percussion arms. I go to the battery at once. Communicate with Major Barton, acting assistant adjutant general, to this office.
DANIEL RUGGLES,
Colonel, Provisional Army.
Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FREDERICKSBURG,
Fredericksburg, Va., June 1, 1861.
SIR; The enemy attacked the naval battery at Aquia Creek yesterday about 10 a. m. The enemy had three war steamers and some small transports, not containing, however, many troops. They had some long boats or launches; but, so far as observed, amide no preparation for landing. The fire on both sides was skillfully directed, and continued up to about 1 p. m., when the steamers hauled off, and, it is supposed, in a partially disabled condition. I took all the available forces, comprising the four companies of infantry and one of cavalry, from this vicinity, and Colonel Bate’s Tennessee (Walker) Legion with me, reaching the Potomac soon after the firing ceased. The conduct of the troops in the batteries-that of Captain Walker, with his 6-pounder rifle-guns, having been brought early into the action-is represented as having been admirable, including the covering and protecting force on the field. I have transferred the Tennessee (Walker) Legion to Brooke’s Station, where I have re-established Camp Jackson. From that point lateral movements may be easily made to cross the coasts, and forward movements to cover the batteries, with great facility.
The ladies are now making tents, cartridges, and belts, and I hope so to have our forces sheltered and better equipped. I left Aquia Creek late last evening, and return there this morning.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DANIEL RUGGLES,
Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.
Col. 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 