CHAPTER XVI.
OPERATIONS IN WEST FLORIDA, SOUTHERN ALABAMA, SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI, AND LOUISIANA.
September 1, 1861-May 12, 1862.
(New Orleans)
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UNION CORRESPONDENCE.

{p.665}

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, Pensacola, September 3, 1861.

Lieut. Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: The rebels have endeavored to occupy and remove the dry-dock, and, having notified General Bragg that I should consider his doing either as an act of hostility, I last night ordered it to be burned, which was done.

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

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

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ORDERS, No. 82.}

HDQRS., U. S. TROOPS AT KEY WEST FLA., September 6, 1861.

1. Within ten days from this date all male citizens of the Island of Key West who have taken the oath of allegiance will send their names to these headquarters to be registered.

2. Within thirty days from this date all the citizens of this island are required to take the oath of allegiance to the United States.

3. At the termination of sixty days all citizens of this island who {p.666} have failed and refused to take the oath of allegiance to the United States will be removed from Key West. This will also apply to their families and the families of those who have left the island to join the Confederate States.

WM. H. FRENCH, Brevet Major, U. S. Army, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, September 10, 1861.

Lieut. Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: Yesterday morning nine men, being the crew of one of the enemy’s guard boats, deserted to this post, bringing their boat and arms. They belonged to a rebel company of marines. I have closely questioned them and obtained valuable information.

The same morning two citizens arrived here. They have been contractors for supplying saw-mills with logs, and have staid in the country, vainly hoping to get the money due on their contract. They have been living the last eighteen weeks at or near Milton, 30 miles up the bay. They represent there being many Union men in this country, but the expression of Union sentiments to be dangerous. I shall send all North by the first opportunity.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

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NEW YORK, October 1, 1861.

Hon. SIMON CAMERON, Secretary of War:

SIR: At the recent cutting out and destruction of the Judah, at Pensacola, by boats from the Colorado, it is noticed that, although the boats were fired at and a considerable force rushed forward to beat them off, no gun was fired from Fort Pickens. It seems, too, that the fort could at any time have destroyed the Judah.

A large gang of mechanics are now reported finishing the steam-frigate Fulton for launching at Pensacola as a war vessel, within reach of the guns from the fort, or by the aid of those guns capable of being reached by our boats and seamen.

Colonel Brown refers to old orders to act at the fort strictly on the defensive. I beg to call your attention to this point, in order that you may see if there is not some oversight or miscarriage or change of circumstances requiring a correction of the apparent inconsistency of the Navy acting offensively and the fort defensively on the same ground and at the same time, so that they cannot unite in a common object. Whether Colonel Brown already has sufficient liberty by his orders to use his discretion, or whether he needs some prompting to insure cooperation with the naval officers-often a difficult thing between Army and Navy-or whether any other officer would be better at that place, we of course leave wholly to the Government. But we are here deeply interested that no effort of either Army or Navy be omitted to prevent privateers or steamships from being built or fitted out to prey upon our {p.667} commerce besides our general interest in success, and suppose such intimations as the present, based upon distinct information which may not be so open to you, are what you wish us to make.

In behalf of underwriters, yours, very respectfully,

CHAS. B. MOORE.

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[OCTOBER 6, 1861.-For General Butler’s order assuming command of the Department of New England, see Series III, Vol. I, p. 511.]

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FORT PICKENS, October 12, 1861.

Brigadier-General MEWS, Quartermaster-General:

MY DEAR GENERAL: The prediction contained in my letter to you of the 15th July* has been sooner fulfilled than I expected. If Barry’s battery had been here not one hundred of the enemy would have left the island alive on the morning of the 9th instant.

If the companies of Barry, Hunt, and Duane had not been with so little ceremony taken from me I should have had a much better account to render than I now have; and if I had sat down and grieved over what I considered great wrongs in being so inconsiderately weakened and done nothing, instead of exerting every nerve and taking responsibilities that few under existing circumstances would have taken in sending three Zouave companies away and replacing them by two regular companies, what would now be our condition? We would have been disgracefully whipped and this fort at this moment would be closely beleaguered by the rebels-all our batteries being lost-for I could not then have had the means of sending a man from the fort to sustain and support the batteries and to repel the invaders; and Billy Wilson’s Zouaves, I am sorry to say, disgracefully ran and took shelter under our batteries.

I do not say this, my dear general, in a spirit of self-laudation, but as re-expressing to the fullest extent the opinions and fears I so fully and freely expressed at the time and for which I was so much condemned.

I must also add that in the coming conflict, which the defense of the honor of our insulted flag imposes on me, if I had these companies of which I have been deprived, and especially the officers, I should probably be able to give a better account of my stewardship than I can now hope for; but my command is in good condition and good spirits.

We have a just and noble cause, and may humbly hope for the blessing of God, which I daily fervently invoke.

I am, my dear Meigs, yours,

HARVEY BROWN.

* See p. 438, Vol. I.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, October 12, 1861.

Lieut. Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

COLONEL: All my letters, all my suggestions, and all my requests, written and made since I have been in command of this post, having {p.668} met with so mortifying, and I must add such undeserved neglect, not once having received the slightest notice, that I now only write you at any time from a sense of duty. I do so now to report that this fort, with its appendant batteries, is now as ready for service as it probably will at any future time be, and that the enemy are still erecting batteries and arming them with guns of heavy caliber, so that the relative strength is constantly changing to our loss. If I had not been confined by positive orders to defensive operations, and which I have in vain tried to have rescinded, I would open my batteries on the enemy, believing that at this time true policy and the best interest of the service and of the country demand it.

I fired the dry-dock with the hope and expectation that the enemy would open on me, but he has not yet thought proper to do so. I can therefore only patiently wait the course of events, while the strength of my command is constantly and rapidly diminishing by disease and orders.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, October 14, 1861.

Brig. Gen. HARVEY BROWN, Fort Pickens, Pensacola, Fla.:

SIR: The General-in-Chief directs me to say that your several communications from the time of your assuming command of Fort Pickens have been duly read to him, and such as required such reference have been laid before the War Department.

Your operations have been approved and your zeal and energy appreciated.

The usual punctuality in acknowledging your letters has been unavoidably departed from because of the incessant pressure of matters which demanded immediate attention and left no time for anything else.

The circumstances which prevented offensive operations on your part changed with your ability to assume them, the cause of the prohibition having been evidently removed by the state of active and open war which now exists.

More regular troops as well as officers would have been gladly sent you if they were to be had, but the pressing need of regulars can hardly be appreciated except by the authorities, on whom urgent requisitions are made for them from all quarters. At some posts there is not one officer to a company. The General could not give you leave of absence when you asked it or since, because he had no one to relieve you to whom he could confide your responsible command.

The Commissary-General reports that a vessel left New York loaded with beef and ice in September, and one is now preparing with live cattle, stores, and vegetables. The subject of pay for your command has been brought to the attention of the Paymaster-General.

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

E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General.

{p.669}

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, October 15, 1861.

Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

COLONEL: I have to report to you that I sent the McClellan with dispatches to Flag-Officer McKean on the 9th instant, proposing a joint attack on the enemy, to which he readily acceded, and on the 11th he, with the Niagara and Colorado, arrived here. After consultation we agreed on a plan of attack, which was to have been carried into execution to-morrow morning at daybreak. At the request of the flag-officer I had lent him two Parrott rifled guns and the steamer to carry them to the Mississippi. She returned this morning, bringing the commodore a report of the unfortunate affair at the mouth of the Mississippi, which, as you will perceive by his letter (A), renders his immediate presence at the Southwest Pass necessary; and as I am thus deprived of his assistance, I have been compelled to listen to his suggestion to suspend operations until he can co-operate with me. I need not say with what feelings of disappointment I have been compelled now the third time to forego an attack on the enemy.

I intended to have sent the prisoners taken on the 9th to New York by the McClellan, but the captain represents that he cannot take them with safety to his vessel.

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

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

[Inclosure A.]

U. S. FLAG-SHIP NIAGARA, Off Fort Pickens, October 15, 1861.

Col. HARVEY BROWN, Commanding Department of Florida, Fort Pickens.

SIR: The information received by the McClellan is such as to make it indispensable that I should proceed immediately to the Mississippi. The Richmond is leaking badly, having three planks stove in below the water line by the ram. The Vincennes has thrown overboard all her guns but four. At one of the passes there is not a sufficient force to contend with that of the enemy. It is exceedingly mortifying and trying, but my duty seems plain. I ought to be there at this time. I would suggest that you defer your operations until I can assist you with a suitable naval force. The Colorado I will leave here. Lieutenant May will give you particulars,as I am much hurried.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. W. MCKEAN, Flag-Officer, Commanding Gulf Squadron.

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[OCTOBER 21, 1861.-For General Butler’s General Orders, No. 2, of this date, see Series III, Vol. I, p. 521.]

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, October 29, 1861.

Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: I herewith inclose you three letters which passed between General Bragg and myself. The two first were published by him in the {p.670} Pensacola Observer, with a very laudatory editorial notice of him, and one not so very much so of me in which I am accused, among other delinquencies, of being in cold blood a murderer of a sick enemy.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

[Inclosures.]

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, October 9, 1861.

General BRAXTON BRAGG, Commanding Troops near Pensacola.

SIR: I observe this morning for the first time a yellow flag hoisted over a large building directly in front of my batteries. I also understand that officers’ wives and children are in the adjoining buildings. I do not make war on the sick, women, or children. These buildings will necessarily be exposed to my fire should there be a bombardment, and, besides, they are subject under this flag to be used as a protection to any of your troops that may take shelter behind or before them. I therefore give you this notice, that the sick; the women, and the children may be removed, so that if fired on the responsibility may rest where it belongs.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

HDQRS. TROOPS C. S., NEAR PENSACOLA, FLA., October 10, 1861.

SIR: I received late last evening your communication of that date with profound astonishment. The building on which you had for the first time observed a yellow flag has been well known to you and all your command, as well as to the United States Navy, as the military hospital of this station, and you could not help knowing that it is now used for that purpose.

Dealing with one who had been an old brother soldier of high reputation, I had hoped that our intercourse and conduct in the hostile attitude in which we are placed would be marked by all the courtesies and amenities of civilized warfare; but it seems from your communication that you claim the right to violate a hospital flag because it may be abused. Admit this principle, and we revert to a state of barbarism. The sick, the women and the children, and prisoners must become the objects of vengeance; the white flag must be abolished; “booty and beauty,” “rape and rapine,” must follow in the track of a victorious commander. I decline your invitation to make these the objects of war. Your hospital flag has been and shall be respected. In the affair of Tuesday night your hospital with its inmates was in our possession for at least one hour, and as far as I can learn my orders to scrupulously respect both were rigidly enforced.

Our hospital and the two adjacent buildings occupied by medical officers will continue to be used for legitimate purposes. Nothing has been or will be done to attract your fire. If, under these circumstances, you should put your threat into execution, which would only be in accordance with the acts of some of your brother commanders of little experience in the customs of war, I shall take care that the facts shall {p.671} be made known, that it may receive, as it will deserve, the execration of the civilized world.

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

BRAXTON BRAGG, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, October 16, 1861.

Maj. Gen. BRAXTON BRAGG, Commanding Troops near Pensacola.

SIR: Your letter of the 10th instant was duly received, and I should deem it unworthy of an answer had you not thought proper to publish it to the world and to countenance an editorial in a Pensacola paper every way worthy of it.

You have knowingly and willfully misconstrued my letter, for the evident purpose of having your Christian answer published, so as to make capital with your deluded followers. You have, in the very face of my declaration that I did not make war on women, the children, and the sick, declined an invitation that I never made, and which you knew I never made, to make those the objects of war. You knew that in calling to your notice that these buildings would necessarily be exposed to my fire I was influenced by a desire to save the sick, women, and children from danger, for previously to writing the letter to which yours is an answer I mentioned to your inspector-general, who was here with a flag, my intention to do so, and then, on the spot where the batteries and buildings could be plainly seen, I pointed out that I could not fire from certain batteries of mine at some of yours without endangering your hospital, which is in a direct line with them (and this is perfectly obvious to your own sight). You therefore knew that I must either omit to fire on particular batteries of yours or it must necessarily be exposed to my fire, and yet your Christian philanthropy is such that you declare your intention of keeping your sick, your women, and your children in this dangerous situation. And for what motive but in the hope of fixing on me the stigma of firing on your hospital or killing women, children, and the sick? Your conduct shall not influence mine. I intend to prosecute this war as a Christian man who has an account to give to his Maker. I will do my duty as I construe it, regardless of your calumny and that of the wretch who edits the Pensacola Observer.

I have had three of your officers prisoners. They have notified you that they were treated as brother officers by mine. I have had some thirty of your privates prisoners. They have, with one solitary exception (and he said nothing), in writing to their friends, declared that they were well and kindly treated, and I have your sick in my hospital, and they have also reported that they receive the same attention as my own. I have released three of your medical officers without parole. I have collected and buried your dead with the same decency as my own. I have done much more. At your special request I have for two days employed my soldiers in disinterring and carting to the wharf your dead, so that their friends might have the satisfaction of knowing their bodies were cared for, and this has been done with the full knowledge of the entirely different treatment our prisoners and our dead have received and are receiving from your hands at Manassas and Richmond. And you, knowing all this, have malignantly and falsely accused me of inviting you to make war on the sick, women, and children.

I will hold no terms of courtesy with a man who so far forgets what is due to an honorable profession, and who so well knows, yet so little {p.672} practices, the principles of honorable warfare. I decline all further communications with you unless it be by verbal message and strictly on official subjects.

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

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

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Abstract from return of the Department Florida, Col. Harvey Brown., Fifth U. S. Artillery, commanding, for the month of October, 1861.

Troops.	Present for duty.		Aggregate present.	Memoranda.
	Officers.	Men.		Aggregate killed or missing in action.	Aggregate wounded in action.	Prisoners of war.		Pieces of field artillery.
						Officers.	Men.
Fort Pickens, Fla.	21	709	833	4	20	1	3
Camp Brown, Santa Rosa Island	12	243	370	10	9		18
Total in Pensacola Harbor	33	952	1,203	14	29	1	21
Fort Jefferson, Fla.	10	238	330
Fort Taylor, Fla.	9	190	273					4
	52	1,380	1,806	14	29	1	21	4

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ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Washington, November 1, 1861.

Brig. Gen. HARVEY BROWN, U. S. Forces, Commanding Department of Florida:

SIR: Your letter of the 12th ultimo has been received and referred to the Headquarters of the Army, and in reply I am directed to transmit to you the indorsement there made upon it. You will perceive that a letter was addressed to you on the 14th of October, two days subsequent to the date of yours, which has doubtless reached you by this time, and will contain the answer to your inquiries.

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

A. BAIRD, Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, October 28, 1861.

This letter having been handed me by the Adjutant-General, I respectfully report that Colonel Brown’s letters were all promptly communicated to the General-in-Chief as they were received. On the 14th of October a letter was addressed to Colonel Brown from this office which is believed to cover all the points in the correspondence, a copy of which was forwarded to the Adjutant-General at its date. Owing to the secrecy with which General Brown’s expedition was fitted out no copies of the instructions to him are found in this office. I was not informed on a single point touching the expedition, nor have I been able to gain any {p.673} information concerning Colonel Brown’s orders, &c., until furnished a day or two since with a rough copy in his possession by General Meigs.

E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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[NOVEMBER 9-19, 1862.-For Secretary of War to General Butler (November 9), in relation to transportation; General McClellan to Butler (November 15), calling for reports of strength and condition of command; Butler’s reply of November 18, and order suspending the embarkation of the expedition, see Series III, Vol. I, pp. 545, 552, 555, 559.]

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HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.’S OFFICE, Washington, December 20, 1861.

Col. HARVEY BROWN, U. S. A., Comdg. Department of Florida, Fort Pickens, Fla.:

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your highly important dispatches, as follows:

October 9 and 11, with inclosures, reporting the attack of the rebels and their disastrous repulse on the 9th October.

October 15, in relation to joint attack intended to be made by you with the naval force.

Three letters of November 25, and report, with inclosures, of December 2, in relation to the bombardment of the rebel forts and batteries around Pensacola by the fort and fleet of the United States on the 22d and 23d November.

Letter of December 3, remarking upon bravery and good conduct of officers and men of your command.

The brilliant and successful operations detailed in these dispatches have been read with lively satisfaction by the President, Secretary of War and General-in-Chief. The General will not forget to bring specially to notice the valuable services thus rendered by yourself, your officers, and your whole command, and to urge an appropriate recognition of them by the Government.

Your suggestions in relation to armament, &c., have already been brought to the attention of the Ordnance and also of the Navy Departments. The regiment sent to re-enforce you has doubtless arrived before this, and it is hoped that some if not all the absent officers of your regular companies have also joined by this time.

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

L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, December 27, 1861.

Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

GENERAL: Nothing of special import has occurred at this fort since the bombardment. The Seventy-fifth New York Volunteers, whose arrival I duly reported, are encamped and industriously engaged in drilling. The Sixth [N. Y.] Regiment, I am sorry to say, so far as the officers are concerned, is in a state of disorganization; criminations, recriminations, charges, and countercharges, between the officers, and {p.674} especially between the colonel and two or three espousing his side and the other officers of the regiment, became of such daily occurrence, that I had peremptorily to stop it, and to notify all concerned that I would entertain no more complaints until the result of those forwarded had been acted on at Washington. I ordered a court, which is now in session, for the trial of two of the captains and some privates, and since then charges against almost every officer of the regiment have been sent me.

I do not deem it expedient to exercise the authority vested in me by your letter of the 18th November, unless in marked cases, but must reiterate the opinion expressed in my letter of the 12th October, that the good of the service requires some stringent action in reference to the officers of this regiment.

And while on this subject I desire to call the especial attention of the Department to the fact that Colonel Wilson is the next to me in rank, and if I am rendered unserviceable the command will devolve on him, and this, serious under almost any circumstances, but remote and isolated as we are, might be of the most vital consequence, and I therefore think it my duty to call your attention to it.

Some more appropriate and efficient means of unloading vessels is a subject of serious consideration. The boats we have answered tolerably well the purpose in summer when the sea was smooth, but in the heavy surf which now almost constantly prevails they are nearly or quite useless. A receiving vessel and good surf-boats are almost of indispensable and immediate necessity.

I respectfully again submit that an officer of more rank than I have should be stationed here, and I beg leave to state that, while willing to devote my whole being to the service, I know that I cannot endure another summer in this enervating climate, and that my health and probably my life will be sacrificed by it. I have now spent upwards of fifteen years in Florida, and I require the bracing influences of a Northern climate. If, therefore, consistent with the good of the service, it will be gratifying to me to be relieved by one of the many efficient general officers now in service, and to be ordered to duty in the North.

The rebels have been for some six weeks busily engaged with a large force in putting up batteries on Oak Island, at Deer or Town Point, and are putting heavy (10-inch columbiads) guns in them, and since the bombardment they have erected a battery at the mouth of the Big Lagoon and put one or two heavy guns in it, and have, besides, greatly strengthened their existing batteries.

I have never doubted but that with three or four gunboats and 5,000 men the navy-yard at Pensacola could at any time until October have been taken, and I think the day after the bombardment, such was their panic, it might even with a smaller force have been successfully assailed, but since October they have so materially strengthened their works and erected so many batteries that I should consider an attack as hazardous without strong land and naval forces. We are now strong enough for defense (unless in case of bombardment, when we ought to have more artillery troops), and more will be useless unless a sufficient number is sent to act offensively; and this can only be done with the co-operation of gunboats of light draught of water.

I respectfully renew my application for Parrott’s rifle guns and for a large supply of ammunition for those I have. I would also report that there are two 10-inch seacoast mortars here, but no beds.

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

HARVEY BROWN, Colonel, Commanding.

{p.675}

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Abstract from return of the Department of Florida, Col. Harvey Brown, Fifth U. S. Artillery, commanding, for month of December, 1861.

Stations.	Troops.	Present for duty.		Aggregate present.
		Officers.	Men.
Santa Rosa Island:
Fort Pickens	Detachments 1st and 2d Artillery and 3d Infantry.	19	568	704
Camp Lincoln	6th New York Infantry	13	228	474
Camp Seward	75th New York Infantry	32	711	829
Fort Jefferson	Detachments 1st Artillery and 6th New York Infantry.	10	307	347
Fort Taylor	Detachments 1st Artillery, and 1st Infantry,	6	209	261
	Total	80	2,023	2,615

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SHIP ISLAND, Miss., January 3, 1862.

Maj. Gen. BENJAMIN F. BUTLER, Commanding New England Division, Boston, Mass.:

SIR: The last few days have been occupied with muster of the troops. As these troops are raw, much time and attention have been necessary to examine the rolls. To show how raw these troops are, I may state that three men have already been wounded in one month by the careless use of fire-arms.

The transport-ships George Green and Bullion arrived on the 31st ultimo. The former landed 138 horses, 6 of which are private property, in good condition. Twelve died on board, and 1 has died since coming ashore. The captain of the George Green (Fairbanks) stopped at Key West, when it is thought there was no necessity for it.

Captain Clouét, of the French steamer Milan, came into the harbor recently, and is receiving facilities to go to New Orleans, being detained at this present moment by a fog, which appears to continue day and night. He informed me that the French have some twenty vessels of war in the Gulf. I should feel more at ease if we had our Sawyer guns mounted, for we need them to insure respect, if for nothing else.

JANUARY 7, 1862.

From some cause or other the captain of the Milan went to New Orleans in one of his own ship’s boats. I should have been very glad to supply him with the small steam-tug belonging to the Quartermaster’s Department, which has been sent us from Pensacola by Colonel Brown, but I understood from the flag-officer that he intended to send the Water Witch gunboat on this service, and hence gave the subject no further attention until I incidentally learned that the captain had gone. Should I see him again, I shall express to him my regret at not having the pleasure of giving him a passage by one of our vessels.

I had designed making use of the occasion to gain some knowledge as to the defenses of the Rigolets, with a view to ascertain whether our long-range rifle guns might reach them from the sound. I have suggested to the flag-officer to make use of the Lewis, the captured light-draught {p.676} high-pressure steamer, for making reconnaissances. She went over to Biloxi the other day, and from all I can learn I should judge that a great deal of property lies exposed to us on the northern shore of the sound. If so, the condition of affairs presents the curious spectacle of a rebel army lying in wait to seize upon Washington, staking everything upon the hazard of seizing upon our capital and its capital influences with the unrelenting determination of accomplishing our ruin, while at the same time they leave their rear comparatively unprotected, and their property exposed in a way that appeals rather to mercy and pity than to the ordinary visitations of war. I may possibly be mistaken in this view of things. The waters of the opposite coast are very shallow, and may be regarded as unnavigable for all our vessels except the Lewis, which for various reasons has not been in condition for reconnoitering till within the last week or fortnight. I shall endeavor to extend our knowledge of this region of country by all the means in my power, which, however, are exceedingly limited. It might become desirable to transfer our camp to the northern shore, and especially if the rebellion should continue through the summer. The glare and heat of the sand of which the island is composed would probably be intolerable during that season. The depot, however, must be here, whatever direction the forces may take.

So convenient thus far have we found the harbor, admitting easily of large vessels of war, that, taken together with the modern tendency of building large vessels, I think that it must become of more importance than New Orleans. By means of railroads terminating on the other shore, and large vessels, like the Constitution, I think that it would be cheaper to dispatch a cargo of rice or cotton from this point than it would be from the mouth of the Mississippi. The question is whether we ought not to adopt a plan from the very beginning with regard to this point and begin its execution at once; for under any circumstances, holding in view even a temporary independence of the South, the possession of the island would be valuable to us. The opposite shore is comparatively healthy, and by means of long wharves and light-draught steamers vessels could be expeditiously laden at this point in almost any weather that we have had since being here. It would be economy in the long run to have a plan to follow. The plan should be well matured, covering at least a period of thirty years, and be left with the head of the Engineer Corps for preservation and execution.

JANUARY 8, 1862.

I am informed that the mail will leave to-day for the North.

It may be well to state that the Schenkl shot that have been supplied to the battery appear to be too large in their paper envelopes, these envelopes or cylinders fitting too close for a foul piece. The only means that I have of reducing them is to pass them through a hot ring.

Just previous to my leaving Newport News I applied for two officers, viz, Lieutenant Tyler, of the Second Vermont, and Lieutenant Holbrook, of the Fourth Vermont, as staff officers. I have heard nothing from them since, but I trust that the application has been favorably entertained and the officers authorized to report to me for duty. Without either a staff or the usual blank forms to do business by, my duties are rendered more difficult than they need be.

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

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

{p.677}

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WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 24, 1862.

Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General:

Ordered, That the general commanding report without delay his opinion whether the expedition proposed by General B. F. Butler shall be prosecuted, abandoned, or modified, and in what manner.

By order of the Secretary of War:

P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary.

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ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Washington, January 25, 1862.

To the Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR:

SIR: In compliance with your instructions of yesterday, I have the honor to report in reference to the expedition of Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler, U. S. volunteers, as follows:

It appears that on the 10th of September a general authority was given in the following terms:

This authority was extended, and an object for the expedition indicated by an order from the Secretary dated two days after, as follows:

The object of General Butler’s expedition, as given in these last-quoted orders, seems to have been soon after abandoned, and the general seems to have contemplated an attack on Mobile.

Again, on the 2d of December, he submitted a plan for invading the coast of Texas, and he appears to have had in view an ultimate attempt to capture New Orleans.* On the 2d of December he reports that a part of his expedition sailed in the steamer Constitution from Portland for Ship Island on the 23d of November, touching at Fort Monroe the 27th of November, to take on board Brig. Gen. J. W. Phelps, U. S. Volunteers, who at the request of General Butler** I was detached from Fort Monroe to command this detachment, consisting of nine companies Ninth Connecticut and the Twenty-sixth Massachusetts Infantry Regiments {p.678} and the Fifth Massachusetts Light Battery, in all about 1,900 men. General Phelps’ command landed and occupied Ship Is and on the 5th to the 7th of December, and has since been fortifying itself there; a very proper measure, as it enables the Government to hold a very important point, interrupting a part of the communications of the rebels. General Phelps’ command is the only part of General Butler’s expedition that has so far gone to the Gulf coast.

The great points from which important operations are to be conducted are, first, the Department of the Potomac, in front of which is posted and strongly intrenched the largest and best-armed body of the insurgents guarding the approach to Richmond; second, the Department of the Ohio, opposed to the next great body of the rebels in Kentucky; third, the Department of the Missouri, the army in which, besides the clearing of the State of Missouri, has for a prime object the control of the Mississippi River and operations against New Orleans. Next to these the Department of Kansas is to furnish a heavy column, to move in co-operation with that in Missouri. There are other separate operations, designed to draw off and distract the enemy along the seacoast. These are, Sherman’s expedition, which has already occupied Port Royal, S. C., and which is to attack Charleston or Savannah or both; second, Burnside’s, which, having entered Albemarle Sound, will be directed against North Carolina or Southern Virginia; third, the occupancy of Fort Jefferson, on the Tortugas, of Fort Taylor, Key West, and of Fort Pickens, Pensacola, together with demonstrations against the Florida coast. These outside operations are deemed to be the only ones that ought to be undertaken at this tune in support of the main plan. It would be only a wise and necessary measure to hold in reserve the troops raised, but not yet assigned, to corps d’armée, ready to support and re-enforce in any quarter where they may be required, and which can only be determined by circumstances in the course of active operations. Thus they should not be withdrawn to raise General Butler’s expedition to the number (not less than 30,000 men, and it is believed 50,000) which would be required to insure success against New Orleans in a blow to be struck from the Gulf. It is assumed that New Orleans, being the vital point on the Gulf should be the object, rather than Mobile or the coast of Texas. Under all these circumstances it is clear to my mind that what is known as “General Butler’s expedition” ought to be suspended. The part of it now at Ship Island is well placed, and is quite adequate, with the co-operation of the Navy, to hold that important position. The remaining troops of this expedition now at Fort Monroe cannot at present be better disposed of than by adding them to the command of Major-General Wool at that post. They will there have ample opportunity for discipline and instruction, and can be readily transferred thence to another point whenever required. The supplies intended for them under the supposition they were to go to Ship Island will serve them as well at Fort Monroe.

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding U. S. Army.

* See Series III, Vol. I, p. 580.

** Of November 13. See Series HI, Vol. I, p. 548.

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[JANUARY 25, 1862.-For Governor Andrew’s communication to the Secretary of War in relation to complications growing out of the organization of the Butler expedition, &c., see D. Andrew to Stanton, January 27, 1862, Series III, Vol. II.]

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SHIP ISLAND, Miss., January 29, 1862.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: There is not much of importance to communicate from my command.

The period of maximum cold has passed; warm weather is approaching, and some provision must be made for it in any plan of operations that may be adopted for this region of country. The climate is so damp that our tents mildew speedily and threaten a rapid decay.

One of the regiments here, the Ninth Connecticut, is very much in want of clothing of all kinds. Instead of coats, blouses are the best for this climate.

At the hazard of frequent repetition I must again refer to the subject of blanks. Another muster day will soon be at hand, and if we are not soon supplied with blanks it will be difficult, if not impossible, to make out the rolls. Matters of this kind are of great importance to the discipline and accountability of the troops.

By the Milton we received a small engine, which is now at work unloading that ship. Temporary store-houses have been constructed, and a bake-house will soon go into operation. The 9-inch shell gun on navy carriages is being put up to the number of ten, but I am in hopes that Sawyer’s rifled 24-pounder and 8 or 10 inch columbiads will be sent to replace them. I would take this occasion to state, as my opinion, that if the 42-pounder were bored for Sawyer’s 24-pounder it would be the best heavy ordnance that we have, either for land or sea service.

Several of the men of the regiments and battery are considered unfit for service, and I have concluded to send them back to New England, with a view to their discharge. Three officers have tendered their resignations, which I shall forward to your office for acceptance, at the same time allowing them to return with the men to Lowell, Mass., where they will be directed to await action on their resignations from your office.

Some arrangement seems called for with a view to the regular transmission of intelligence between the posts of the Gulf station and the North. We have been here nearly two months, and have yet received no communication from any military source and but very few letters or papers of any kind.

Intelligence from Washington occasionally reaches us through the rebels and the Navy. We are thus informed that the Constitution has landed her troops at Old Point.

Our field of view and our sphere of action are both limited here, but from general appearances I should suppose it well to be provided against the contingency of collision with some foreign power-at least to the extent of having an unobstructed channel of communication open for the receipt of intelligence and supplies.

It might be well, perhaps, to fortify this point more strongly than I have proposed, even against immediate contingencies.

I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General Volunteers.

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SHIP ISLAND, Miss., February 3, 1862.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: I write on the occasion of the gunboat Massachusetts being about to sail for the North.

{p.680}

Some definite plan should be adopted with reference to this point. Few of the officers of the Government are aware, perhaps, of the character of the island on which we are situated, or what it is to be and glaring white sand during the heats of summer. If troops remain here they must have wooden structures for shelter, and even then they will need some protection for the eyes, I think. I would beg to be informed, at as early a moment as may suit your convenience, whether there are any particular designs or not with respect to this point, or at least what direction I shall give to requisitions for carrying out such designs as I may entertain of my own. As it is, we are threatened with a shortness of provisions, having but about three weeks’ of some articles on hand.

One of my instructions was to place the island in a state of defense, but I have not the means of rendering it as strong as I should desire. To this end there would be necessary a better class of guns and carriages, with a large supply of bricks and mortar, pintles, traverse-circles, materials for a magazine, &c. The magazine ought to be of peculiar structure, perhaps made of iron, and strong enough when buried in sand to resist 11-inch shells. It should exclude the air as much as possible, for the climate is very damp. It would be good economy to have a general plan, embracing a long period of time, and have everything done in accordance with it.

As I understand the policy of the Government with regard to this region it was to establish new sites for commercial centers in the place of New Orleans and Mobile, which were founded without any reference to cotton shipping and large vessels. As a war measure this could be done by the same means that would secure the most effective military operations, or, at all events, military points could be found, I think, which would threaten the trade of those two cities, and would have a great influence upon the security of slave property.

We now have 24 of the enemy’s negroes, which we employ in lightering vessels at an unfixed rate of pay. They appear to be intelligent, and far more dignified and manly than many of their masters, whom they look upon with mingled feelings of pity and contempt as well as dread. Some of them crossed the sound to us, a distance of 10 or 11 miles. One of them came a night in a thunder gust, finding that more friendly than the sympathies of his master. One of the mulattoes came originally from North Carolina, another from Virginia. They are aware of their alliance with the white race, and of the ties which have been snapped in their leaving home. They are ripe for manumission, and any measure to avert it may put off, but cannot long prevent, a revolution-a revolution of that kind where men are restored to their original rights.

In case that wooden structures should be put up upon the island for the two regiments and one battery now here, we should need some more lumber than we have on hand.

To take possession of a point on the main-land and hold it we should need more troops, I think, than we now have, since the conspirators might possibly be able to direct a large force against us. We should also need some siege and garrison artillery and the shallow-draught boats I have alluded to in former communications.

In conclusion, permit me to call your attention to the main point of this letter, which is the necessity of some channel through which my wants in the due form of requisitions and the intentions of the Government can be made known. Clothing, and probably provisions, will be needed as soon as they can be got here.

I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW ENGLAND, Boston, February 6, 1862.

Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the United States, Washington, D. C.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to report the following matters existing at Ship Island, as reported by Brigadier-General Phelps, which will bear upon the necessities of our expedition, and which may be of interest to the Commanding General.

General Phelps reports that seventeen 9-inch guns upon navy carriages arrived at Ship Island from the Tortugas on the 18th of January, from which he has taken enough for the fortifications.

He further reports that the health of the troops is good, and that the intercourse through the sound between Mobile and New Orleans has been stopped.

I would desire respectfully to inquire when the Seventeenth Massachusetts Regiment, the Fifth New York Regiment, and Nims’ battery will be at Fortress Monroe ready for embarkation.

The steamer Constitution can be ready to take these troops, with good fortune, in ten days from to-day, if this meets the approbation of the Commanding General. All other transportation has been and will be provided for.

I have the honor further to report that the Fourteenth Maine Regiment sailed on Saturday, and that the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine Regiments will sail within seven days from this date. The Twelfth Connecticut Regiment is expected to sail on board the steamer Fulton this week, and the Western Bay State Regiment upon the steamer Mississippi also within a week.

I take the liberty to urge the subject of the Maine cavalry. The regiment expects to be disbanded and there are now applications for a court-martial upon some of the officers. The keeping up of the regiment is attended with large expense, and it is very desirable, if the horses are to be turned over to me, that they should be shipped as soon as possible, that they arrive out in season for training and use. These circumstances make it desirable that such orders as may be considered necessary should be given at the earliest possible moment.

Very respectfully,

BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW ENGLAND, Boston, February 6, 1862.

To the ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY:

GENERAL: In compliance with the order from the War Department of the 24th day of January, 1862, that General Butler report without delay-

General Butler has the honor to make the following report, which he prepared himself to do immediately upon his return to New England as soon as the necessary documents could be copied:

1st. There are now at Ship Island, in Mississippi Sound, the Twenty-sixth {p.682} Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers and nine companies of the Ninth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers together with the First Battery of light artillery of the New England Division (Fourth Massachusetts), armed with two 6-pounder rifled guns and four 12-pounder howitzers; in the aggregate about 2,000 men, all under the immediate command of Brigadier-General Phelps, whose various reports have been from time to time as received forwarded to the Department, to which reference is requested for particular information in regard to the condition of that portion of General Butler’s command.

There are now en route for Ship Island, on board the Constitution, the Twelfth Regiment Maine Volunteers and nine companies of the Eastern Bay State Regiment, with three companies of mounted men; say 2,200 men in the aggregate.

There are embarked on board ship in Boston Harbor, ready to sail, the Fourteenth Regiment of Maine Volunteers and the Third Battery of light artillery, New England Division (Second Vermont), armed with six 6-pounder Sawyer guns, the Second Battery of said division (First Maine), armed with six 12-pounder rifled guns, and the Fourth Battery of said division, armed with two 6-pounder rifled and four 6-pounder smooth-bore guns, with the tenth company of the Eastern Bay State Regiment; say 1,500 men.

There are in Massachusetts the Western Bay State Regiment at Pittsfield, now ready to start at a moment’s notice, waiting only for the paymaster, and the Eighth New Hampshire, now at Fort Independence, waiting for transportation, which will be ready immediately; say 1,900 men, to be 2,000 by the time of sailing.

In Connecticut the Twelfth Connecticut Volunteers at Hartford is full, and only awaits the paymaster to be ready to move as soon as necessary.

In Vermont the Eighth Vermont Volunteer Regiment is full at Brattleborough and ready to be mustered in and to march immediately, and the Seventh Vermont Regiment Volunteers will be ready as soon as transportation is obtained for them. By the last reports they contained about 1,800 men, and will be full by the time of sailing.

There are in the State of Maine, in various conditions of readiness, the Thirteenth Regiment Maine Volunteers, the Fifteenth Regiment Maine Volunteers, and five batteries of light artillery, to wit, the Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Maine Batteries, which will be hurried to completion and ready for embarkation within ten days; in all about 2,500 men.

For an exact statement of the numbers and condition of the troops now in New England reference is made to the report marked A, forwarded herewith,* containing a summary of the latest reports from all in New England except from the Seventh and Eighth Vermont Regiments and the Second and Sixth Maine Batteries.

A résumé of these troops shows-

At Ship Island: Twenty-sixth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers; Ninth Connecticut Volunteers (nine companies); First Battery N. E. D. (Fourth Massachusetts).

En route per Constitution: Twelfth Regiment Maine Volunteers; Eastern Bay State Regiment (nine companies); three companies mounted men.

On board ship in Boston Harbor: Fourteenth Regiment Maine Volunteers; Third Battery N. E. D. (Second Vermont); Second Battery N. E. D. (First Maine) Fourth Battery N. E. D.; tenth company of Eastern Bay State Regiment.

{p.683}

At their camps ready: Twelfth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, at Hartford; Seventh and Eighth Regiments Vermont Volunteers, at Brattleborough; Eighth Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers, at Fort Independence; Fifteenth Regiment Maine Volunteers, at Augusta.

To be ready: Thirteenth Regiment Maine Volunteers, at Augusta; Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Batteries Maine Volunteers, at Augusta.

The aggregate of infantry and artillery now in New England, 8,500; on Constitution, 2,200; at Ship Island, 2,000; total, 12,700; eleven regiments infantry, three companies mounted men, and nine batteries of artillery. These troops as they are moved are fully armed and equipped for service.

2d. Quartermaster’s department.-The amount of expenditures made in the quartermaster’s department to the 1st of February, 1862, is $497,633.25, the details of which are fully set out in Schedule B,** forwarded herewith. (The original bills, with the accounts of the quartermaster, will be forwarded to Washington immediately.) The liabilities incurred in that department are, so far as they can be ascertained on that date, $422,911.52, as per Schedule C,** forwarded herewith.

Ordnance department.-The expenditures in this department to February 1, 1862, are $178,774.90, as per Schedule D,** herewith forwarded. For liabilities incurred, $39,730.87, as per Schedule E.**

Adjutant general’s department.-The expenditures in this department to February 1, 1862, are $14,895.92, as per Schedule F** and Captain Goodhue’s statement. These expenditures were for recruiting expenses, transportation of recruits, and rations of the several regiments. No liabilities.

Commissary department.-The expenditures in this department have been $191,897.51, as per Schedule G.** No liabilities.

Medical department.-The expenditures in this department have been $2,190.72. No liabilities.

To resume, the expenditures in all the departments to February 1, 1862, are:

Quartermaster’s	$497,633 25
Ordnance	178,774 90
Adjutant general’s	14,895 92
Commissary	191,897 51
Medical	2,190 72
		$885,392 30
Liabilities incurred:
Quartermaster’s	422,911 52
Ordnance	39,730 87
The others none
		462,642 39
Total cost to February 1		1,348,034 69

It will be observed that a very large proportion of all these expenditures should not be put to the account of the expedition, but are for the raising, arming, and equipping of some 6,000 men.

3d. The probable expenditure necessary to place the expedition at its contemplated destination must now substantially be the expenses of transportation and transport ships. The troops being now all armed uniformed, and equipped, it will, of course, cost no more to feed and pay them in one place than in another, and the others may be fairly put {p.684} at $30 per man as the maximum, but apart of this expenditure for transportation has already been incurred.

Respectfully submitted.

BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding.

* Omitted in view of the résumé following.

** See résumé following.

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OFFICE CHIEF ENGINEER ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, February 7, 1862.

Col. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: I do not know how General Butler proposes to operate. The memorandum I drew up was made for the use of Mr. Fox, and without consultation with others. It proposed to attack New Orleans and obtain command of the Mississippi River by a combined naval and land [force], operating through the months of the river, and making the capture of Forts Jackson and Saint Philip an essential feature of the plan.

I believe that any other way of approaching New Orleans is to run great risk and half do the work, and, under the most favorable issue, to protract the period of complete triumph of our arms in the Mississippi Valley. Take these works, and New Orleans falls, and our gunboats appear at once before Vicksburg, Natchez, and Memphis, and the rebel defense both ways (our armies and flotilla in the Upper Mississippi cooperating) is completely annihilated. The approaches to New Orleans by Lakes Borgne and Pontchartrain are very intricate; require the expeditionary force to be put in boats or barges and towed for 15 or 20 miles; then to attack works not easily taken; then to encounter the hazards of a defile through narrow bayous and over narrow causeways &c.

Assuming the attack by the Mississippi adopted, I thought 10,000 men to be more than would be required for the capture of those works, in which I depended mainly upon a coup d’instant of the Navy, that it would be enough for the immediate capture (aided by the fleet) of New Orleans, and therefore that it would not be best to encumber the expedition with a larger mass of transports than that number of troops required, but that 20,000 men should be available in all, the balance being left, say, at Ship Island, to be brought up immediately or as soon as necessary. I thought a dozen siege 24-pounders enough; even this perhaps is excessive; for if the works fall at all they will fall at once, or they will be reduced more slowly by naval bombardment and cutting off of provisions and supplies. I should think the forces estimated in the “Memoranda of changes in General Butler’s suggestions”* to come pretty near the mark, and that the cavalry, artillery, troops, and light batteries were sufficient. I look upon this expedition as one of immense importance. Its failure would be a terrible blow; its success would bring us almost to the close of the war. Hence I recommended in my memorandum that the Chief Engineer United States Army should be consulted on account of his thorough knowledge of the works and his great experience in such matters.

I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier-General, and Chief Engineer.

* See pp. 687, 688.

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OFFICE OF CHIEF ENGINEER ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, February 7, 1862.

Col. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: I would add to what I addressed you this morning that I deem it very important that an Engineer officer thoroughly acquainted with the fortifications about New Orleans, and who has traveled through the intricate routes of approach, should accompany the expedition. There is (besides myself and General Totten) one such, viz, Lieutenant Weitzel. McFarland has some little acquaintance, not at all approaching to Weitzel’s. Palfrey knows nothing of the works nor the country.

Yours, respectfully, &c.,

J. G. BARNARD, Chief Engineer.

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FEBRUARY 7, 1862.

General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN:

MY DEAR GENERAL: I would be glad if you would find time to look over attentively the plan I submitted for taking Forts Jackson and Saint Philip. I do not care that that particular mode of operation be adopted, if any other as good or better offers, but what I do wish is, that the matter shall be carefully concerted and prepared for, with a full sense of the important consequences likely to ensue. Engrossed as I have been with local duties, I have not comprehended their consequences nor how attainable they were. To attack Port Royal or Charleston or Savannah successfully is to attain, indeed, a great moral effect, but to capture Forts Jackson and Saint Philip and take New Orleans is to conquer the whole Mississippi Valley, and I may add the whole Gulf coast. All would speedily fall. I would not, therefore, have this expedition fail or produce a mere half-way result.

I would add that besides myself there is one other Engineer officer, Lieutenant Weitzel, thoroughly acquainted with these works, and a most capital officer he is, too. McFarland was there a short time; he is much too inexperienced. I think some one ought to go. Beauregard has told them that New Orleans is safe from the Mississippi. I should confess to a personal gratification (besides my general interest in the matter) in seeing this region, so associated with Chase and Beauregard, recaptured. I believe that in three months we may have the rebellion by the throat.

Yours, respectfully, &c.

J. G. BARNARD, Chief Engineer.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW ENGLAND, Boston, February 7, 1862.

Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commander-in-Chief U. S. Army:

GENERAL: In reply to telegram from Lieutenant-Colonel Colburn I have the honor to state that the heavy artillery required by me (in addition to four Sawyer rifled guns, 5 and 8 inch, &c., which are being prepared here) is simply as follows:

1. Four 8-inch siege howitzers and carriages, now at Fort Jefferson, the shells for them at Fortress Monroe.

2. One battery of six 20-pounder Parrott guns, with carriages, ammunition, &c., complete.

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The first were promised some time since by General Ripley. The Parrott guns will be required immediately, and could be shipped from New York, Baltimore, or Washington.

With First and Second [Vermont], First Maine, and Fourth and Sixth Massachusetts Batteries, all of which are recruits, if there can be given to us Nims’ battery at Baltimore (understood to be a well-drilled corps), these six batteries might be sufficient of field artillery for my expedition. There remain five batteries in Maine which (when mounted from dismounted cavalry regiment there) might be sent to Fortress Monroe.

The above estimate for heavy artillery provides nothing for the fort at Ship Island, which it is understood will be furnished from Tortugas by navy guns there.

It will be seen, then, that we require but one more complete field battery (six guns-12-pounder howitzers preferred) to be furnished by the Ordnance Department, as I now have guns for five, if I include Nims’, which I would be glad to have done within ten days.

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

BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW ENGLAND, Boston, February 12, 1862.

The Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR:

SIR: I have the honor to report that as fast as possible the troops and supplies are being dispatched to the Gulf.

The Eighth New Hampshire embarks to-morrow. The transportation for the remainder is in such progress that I hope to get all but two regiments off next week.

I propose to have 3,000 men sail on Tuesday next; one of the steamers to take me up at Fortress Monroe, where we are to get some ordnance stores. By taking the rail I can gain time enough to meet the ship there, and visit Washington for my final instructions, if you think that desirable.

In this connection I desire to call attention to the fact, but not complainingly, that I have as yet received no written instructions or information in regard to the details of the expedition, a memorandum of which I gave to the Commanding General, to which he was kind enough to signify his approval except as to the number of light batteries. I presume, in the press of more important matters, these details may have been overlooked. Fearing, however, that the memorandum may be mislaid, and, in order to refer to it, a duplicate is sent herewith.

I desire to be informed as to the disposition of the Seventeenth Massachusetts and Fifth New York and Nims’ battery, which were to be detached from Major-General Dix’s division at Baltimore and sent to Fortress Monroe. When will they be at the fortress and what are their numbers, so that I may prepare transportation for man and horse? Very early knowledge is needed upon this topic. Also a detail of signal officers for the service. I should like six at least, and could take them up at Fortress Monroe.

The preparation immediately of two light-draught steamers is an imperative necessity.

I have to thank the Commanding General and Ordnance Department for the battery of Parrott guns so promptly ordered.

I must again call attention to the Maine Cavalry Regiment-if I am to {p.687} have the horses; if not, I must purchase others for battery and transportation purposes. I would most strongly advise the dismounting of that regiment, both in an economical and military point of view. I send this report directly to the Secretary of War because I hear of the absence of the Commanding General across the Potomac.

Most truly and respectfully, your obedient servant,

BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

FEBRUARY 17, 1862.

The within letter is referred to the General Commanding, and his immediate attention requested to General Butler’s expedition, and to the instructions to be given to him, if he is to command the expedition.

By order of the Secretary of War:

P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War.

Memorandum.

It is suggested that a military geographical department be created, to be called the Department of the Gulf, coast west of Fort Pickens and so much of the adjoining States as may be occupied by the United States troops; headquarters wherever the commanding general may be.

That for the purpose of carrying on military operations there the following corps be put under the command of Major-General Butler, viz:

1.	12th Connecticut Volunteers	900
2.	13th Connecticut Volunteers	900
3.	7th Vermont Volunteers	900
4.	8th Vermont Volunteers	900
5.	8th New Hampshire Volunteers	900
6.	13th Maine Volunteers	900
7.	14th Maine Volunteers	900
8.	15th Maine Volunteers	900
9.	12th Maine Volunteers (en route to Ship Island)	900
10.	26th Massachusetts Volunteers (at Ship Island)	900
11.	Eastern Bay State Regiment Volunteers (en route to Ship Island)	900
12.	Western Bay State Regiment Volunteers	900
13.	9th Connecticut Volunteers (Battalion) Ship Island	600
14.	5th New York Volunteers (at Baltimore)	900
15.	17th Massachusetts Volunteers (at Baltimore)	900
		13,200
CAVALRY.
Three companies of mounted men (en route to Ship Island)		275
LIGHT ARTILLERY.
1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th, and 6th Maine Batteries Volunteers (145 men each)		870
4th Massachusetts Battery Volunteers (at Ship Island)		145
1st and 2d Vermont Batteries Volunteers (145 men each)		290
Everett’s Massachusetts battery volunteers		145
Nims’ Massachusetts Battery Volunteers (at Baltimore)		145
Capt. P. A. Davis’ company (unattached, at Fortress Monroe)		100
		15,170

That so much of the supplies of siege artillery now in depot at Fort Jefferson as may be needed by him be put at General Butler’s direction, together with that suggested in General Butler’s report of December 2, 1861.

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That this force, with proper supplies, be transported with the greatest possible rapidity to Ship Island and the adjacent islands, there to be made ready for such movements as may be directed in concert with the naval forces in the Gulf. It is desirable that the First Maine Cavalry and a squadron of Connecticut cavalry be dismounted, the men being given the option either to be transferred to the regular dragoons or to enlist in any other arm of the service, either volunteers or regulars, or be discharged, the officers mustered out of service, and the horses taken either to mount the artillery or for the transport service.

It is desired that Capt. N. A. M. Dudley, Tenth infantry, have leave of absence, for the purpose of taking command of the Western Bay State Regiment.

It is desired that Major Wallen, of the Seventh infantry, have leave of absence, to take command of the Eastern Bay State Regiment. Also that the Signal Officer of the Army be permitted to detail a suitable force for signal service. That Lieutenant Palfrey, of the Engineers, be directed to report to the general commanding the Department of the Gulf.

It is desirable that a Treasury draft for $10,000, or $5,000 minimum, be passed in favor of the commanding general, on account of army contingencies, and charged to him as secret-service money. This money is designed to pay spies and purchase intelligence, without which the best schemes fail. So small a sum is asked for because there will be frequent means of communication with the War Department. It is absolutely essential.

It is desirable that at least two steamers, small size and of the lightest possible draught that can be got down to the Gulf, be chartered or purchased, for the purpose of towing barges and surf-boats into the bayous and creeks. The Navy have no such light-draught boats. It would be better to charter, with privilege of purchase during the charter. This would throw the risk of the sea voyage on the owners.

Respectfully submitted,

BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General Volunteers.

Memoranda of changes in General Butler’s suggestions.

Confine limits of proposed department to scene of projected operations.

Strike out Fifth New York and Seventeenth Massachusetts, and substitute two regiments to be determined hereafter Add at least four Western regiments, making-

Minimum force of infantry	16,800
Cavalry, three companies	275
Two companies of artillery (to serve heavy guns)	290
Four light batteries	580
	17,945

General Butler to furnish specific list of heavy ordnance and ordnance stores required.

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SHIP ISLAND, MISS., February 13, 1862.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: At length the Constitution arrived yesterday, with two regiments of infantry and a squadron of cavalry. The season is already pretty {p.689} well advanced, and I had begun to doubt whether there was any definite plan to the movement in this quarter, or, if there was, whether it had not been abandoned. A plan ought rather to precede operations than follow them. What I am to do with four regiments, with such means as I possess, is more than I can conjecture.

Recent rains have so flooded part of the island that two regiments cannot well be maneuvered upon it in line without marching through water.

The troops which have just arrived have apparently suffered from the long continuance of their voyage since its first commencement. Two of their number have been carried to their graves to-day and another is reported as at the point of death. The mail which was to have been brought by the Constitution, but which was put on board the Pensacola, has not yet arrived, so that I am still without any military intelligence from the headquarters since our departure from the North.

I have to acknowledge the receipt of some blanks, but am sorry to find that they contain no company muster rolls nor quartermaster’s returns. Another muster is close at hand, and I have no blanks for the occasion. There seems to be a want of system in furnishing blanks, which I cannot comprehend.

There are now in position upon the island twelve guns, viz, ten 9-inch guns on navy carriages and two 12-pounder rifled brass pieces, besides several smaller guns for a field battery. I have found it difficult to get enough cartridge-bags for the 9-inch guns, and am accordingly without a sufficient number of rounds for those guns.

I shall endeavor to improve the drill of the command as much as possible, as one sure advantage that may be derived from our condition. In other respects six shallow-draught boats, with a heavy armament of Sawyer guns, might enable us to move, and perhaps to effect something. We might, perhaps, be called upon by the people of New Orleans to assist them against the conspirators, though I have seen no evidence of such a spirit yet. Two of their boats have been reconnoitering us to-day, and with the usual timidity which they have displayed on every occasion that we have observed them. They are doubtless aware of the arrival of the Constitution, and came to see what she had brought. Our boats usually make towards them, and they run, occasionally firing a few ineffectual rounds.

I am mistaken in saying that I have received no military intelligence from the North. I have received one item, which is the refusal of certain staff officers for whom I applied several months since. As Captain Butler learns that his nomination as commissary has been rejected by the Senate, and expects soon to retire, I shall have to supply his place with such persons as I can find. I say persons, because he has been doing the duty of quartermaster as well as commissary, and the duties henceforward will be quite enough for two-quite enough for officers of the rank of captain, which I cannot appoint. I must choose lieutenants, and on comparatively short acquaintance. Had I been allowed my own choice, a particular object with me would have been to shut out as far as possible speculations upon public calamities, which I shall still endeavor to do as far as I am able.

As a summary of our military position I would state that the island is no place for so large a force as is here collected (upwards of 3,500 men), and that to take up any other position among the exceedingly shallow waters of this coast peculiar means beyond which we possess are necessary. Some of the wharves on the other side, I am told, are nearly a mile in length, with but 7 feet of water at the end. No landing {p.690} could be effected on these against opposition without shallow-draught gunboats, to lie nearer shore on the flanks of the landing force. Such, I am told-for I have had no suitable boat to reconnoiter-is the case at Mississippi City, Biloxi, and Pascagoula. I have thought that the Rigolets would be a good point to attack, but my knowledge of that region is limited.

In fine, there does not appear to me to be any adaptation of means to any particular end in this quarter of the country. Many of the vessels are of an inferior class, and their armament generally behind the improvements of the times. With suitable vessels Mobile Harbor might be entered, it seems to me, and Fort Morgan taken in reverse.

I shall send by this opportunity estimates for clothing for the troops here, to include the entire year, and must also suggest that one good clerk would probably keep the army supplied with all the blanks that they would require.

A tug (the Reamy) was sent to this station in the month of December by Colonel Brown from Fort Pickens. I kept her until recently, when, as there was not much for her to do and as there appeared to be no prospect of more troops arriving, I sent her back to Fort Pickens, with instructions, if not wanted there, to go to Key West, and if not wanted there, to bring us a mail. She is too small for any considerable gun, carries none, and is deep-draught for her size. We used her part of the time in towing down rafts of logs from the upper end of the island for fire-wood. The pay of the crew is a considerable item of expense.

I must refer again to the necessity of greater powers than are possessed by any one at the Gulf stations. We may have some cases for general court-martial, and such as would render it convenient to have the Tortugas as a place of confinement.

Some cases of discharge and leaves of absence occur which are beyond any powers possessed in this region that I am aware of. I have felt compelled to transcend mine in the case of Surgeon Hooker, of the Twenty-sixth Massachusetts Volunteers, whom I have allowed permission to go home on sick leave.

I will endeavor to make the most of this expedition for the service, for it would be sad to see the energies and generous impulses of the people wasted in such movements. It would be better, perhaps, not to use them at all than to use them without a well-defined object. It is a quarter of the country that needs the attention of the Government, though it is a difficult region to operate in, as the British movement against New Orleans will prove. There is an iron English steamship in harbor, laden with cotton, which was taken by the Navy near the mouth of the Rio Grande. From what I hear, an ingenious question may arise as to whether she was at the time of capture in American or Mexican waters. The flag-officer is not here. If I had control in the case I would keep her until the occasion for making an issue out of her capture should be passed, for if we cannot settle our own affairs without the interference of foreign powers, we have lost not only self-government, but also our independence.

Oat of some 40 mechanics who have been employed on the island I have decided to send home some 17 or more. Should their services be needed, their places can be supplied by soldiers.

I would suggest again that prompt communication between this region and the seat of Government is necessary, in order to derive the full value from what the Government has already done here.

I have written more at length than I proposed, indulging in words for want of action.

{p.691}

FEBRUARY 15, 1862.

A norther interferes with the coaling of the Constitution, so that she will not get off as early as I wish. She is a rather expensive transport unless there is constant and pressing employment for her. As several vessels laden with coal have arrived here recently from Philadelphia, I have thought it better for her to coal here than to stop at the Havana.

The flag-ship Niagara has arrived at her station to-day, but the mail of the Pensacola has not yet reached us.

In referring again to the subject of staff officers, I would express my regret that those whom I selected were not allowed to report to me. They were but two, whom, as aides-de-camp, I would have employed as adjutant-general and quartermaster or commissary. In their stead it is not unreasonable that I should request the services of one quartermaster, one commissary, and one adjutant-general. To have such agents, however, selected for an officer instead of by him is so contrary to the nature of the case, that I would prefer that my original request might be reconsidered. It will be readily perceived that at a station like this the services of a quartermaster are needed.

I need not say, perhaps, that a person of questionable loyalty would be worse than useless-a mere hinderance in the way of business that he should advance.

I shall send together with this communication some estimates for clothing, &c., among which are requisitions for medicines, made out by the surgeons of regiments. There is no brigade surgeon present, and the battery and a squadron of cavalry, numbering some 260 men, have no medical attendance of their own.

FEBRUARY 17, 1862.

The Constitution is still delayed by an extraordinary storm of rain and fog from the southwest. At a late moment I have received from among her freight a box of blanks, including muster rolls, which will be all that I shall need for the present.

I have concluded to allow Lieutenant Salla, of the Fourth Battery Massachusetts Volunteers, to go to Boston, such services as he can render not being particularly required here. His name was not borne on the original muster roll of the battery and he shows no commission. I do not see the necessity of such irregular appointments.

The Constitution I hope will get to sea to-day.

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

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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WASHINGTON, February 15, 1862.

General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN:

DEAR GENERAL: Touching our conversation yesterday, I make a few remarks suggested by further thought. As to New Orleans, my estimate was made before I had seen any proposition from any quarter as to land or naval forces. For the former I think (using that number there) 20,000 is an ample number, and I would not hesitate to go with 15,000, if it was difficult to supply the greater number. Horse artillery and cavalry in very small proportions only. One thing I would suggest as to the naval preparations, prompted by the fact that Goldsborough sends word he has consumed his ammunition and cannot make another operation {p.692} until he gets more. The bombardment of Fort Jackson will doubtless consume pretty much of the stock on board ships, and, when taken, the mortar vessels can do no more in the river, and a large part of the fleet can be spared. It should go at once to Mobile and bombard Fort Morgan. That work is much like Fort Jackson internally and stands alone. Fort Gaines (Dauphin Island) is over 3 miles off. (If we had gunboats drawing not over 9 feet I cannot see what would prevent their entering Mobile Bay now and occupying it.)

For this bombardment a large surplus of shells and ships’ ammunition should be collected at Ship Island. Forts Jackson and Morgan taken, whether the mortar fleet should go to Pensacola (a place of no importance, unless it be to release our fleet from blockade there), or to Charleston, or Pulaski (if that has not fallen), would depend on the situation at the time.

Now as to Savannah: If the city is so thoroughly fortified as to require a siege, it is not worth sieging. I did not know but Fort Jackson might be intended by Sherman, but that is a very insignificant work, and ought to be taken with a dash, combined with a gunboat operation, or let alone. We have the river above Pulaski, and have cut off all its communications. I don’t see why the gunboats cannot ascend to Savannah; but if they cannot, or can only do it at the expense of a siege, there’s no sufficient object. Looking at Fort Pulaski, I find it is a work of interior area about equal to Fort Jackson (Mississippi), with one casemate and one barbette tier. In the gorge are quarters; in front, a demi-lune. There is very little fire up in the faces of the demi-lune (not more than ten or twelve barbette guns could be put in each) being too oblique to act in positions where I have masked “gunboats,” and if the rebels attempt to mount any on the gorge, a battery on its prolongation would enfilade it. The nearest point of Tybee Island is about a mile; here batteries of heavy rifled cannon would operate principally on the walls (and 24-pounder siege guns be good for nothing) and mortars behind. I think fifteen mortars (13-inch), with a few batteries of heavy guns and the cooperation of the fleet, would soon reduce Pulaski; and I think it quite likely the heavy ships of the fleet could, with the help of their land batteries, cross the southern (Tybee Island) channel and co-operate. One thing is certain, the work would soon use up all its ammunition and would become a helpless recipient of our shot and shells, under the play of which it must surrender.

The capture of Pulaski is the capture of everything valuable-the port, the river, the city of Savannah; and I think the taking of such works is calculated to exert a powerful influence on public opinion abroad.

Woodbury has discussed the siege of Charleston, or rather the capture of the works (Sumter and Moultrie). It is a difficult undertaking, would require some preparation, and at least two iron-clad vessels, supposing Pulaski taken and Burnside to have taken Fort Macon (and perhaps Caswell).

I was just about to write that I did not approve of Burnside’s march to Goldsborough as accomplishing nothing permanent, and running a risk for that nothing, while at Beaufort and Wilmington he could effect decisive results, but the news from Fort Donelson has come in, and we can march anywhere, I take it. This knocks all present calculations in the head, and we must try to do something off-hand, or the Army of the Potomac will find the war finished without its aid. Seems to me we ought not to lose a moment in seizing Norfolk, and then we can operate {p.693} by the James, York, and Rappahannock, and be in Richmond in two weeks.

“God and Liberty.”

I congratulate you with all my heart.

J. G. BARNARD.

P. S.-The occupation of Tennessee, as you indicated yesterday, seems to me judicious. Nashville (supplied by the Cumberland), Memphis (by the Mississippi), Florence (by the Tennessee, which great artery gives us control of the whole State), and the subordinate points-Grand Junction, Chattanooga, Knoxville, &c.-give us a grand citadel in the very heart of Secessia, from which we control all the railroads, and are able to march at will anywhere through Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina, while from the seaports (soon to be ours) we hold all their external communications and routes inward. Can we not subjugate them? I have always maintained that we could, but hope the sober second thought of a cruelly deceived people will render subjugation unnecessary.

J. G. BARNARD, Chief Engineer.

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SHIP ISLAND, MISS., February 21, 1862.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: The steamer Saxon arrived to-day with provisions and will return to-morrow; a dispatch which I wish might be imitated by other vessels, but their charters are generally too much in favor of the ship, her loss, as I understand it, being at the risk of the Government, while there is not much extraordinary risk in sailing to and from a port like this. The want of a regular transmission of intelligence between this port and the North is so great and the failure in the receipt of letters long due is so marked, that I must be excused in referring to this point again as one of particular importance. A regular packet, it appears to me, ought to ply once a fortnight, say, between Old Point and the Gulf stations, and the public be informed of the arrangement. The mail service needs regulating in this quarter, as a means of regulating and invigorating other branches of the service. They are not pushed with sufficient vigor to prevent those collateral issues and perhaps speculating projects, in which direct purposes become lost and dissipated.

Owing to recent rains the island is so flooded that I should find it difficult to encamp more troops upon it. If more arrive soon those now here should be sent over to the main-land, but I have not suitable means for that object. Light-draught gunboats, heavily armed, of which I have often spoken, are necessary. Lieutenant Palfrey, of the Engineers, has arrived to-day, and he will require considerable room for his workmen and material. What from store-houses, troops, stores, and pools of water I am already too much encumbered for any suitable freedom of movement. I have thus far had the services of only one staff officer, viz, Capt. A. J. Butler, commissary and acting quartermaster. The Government will perhaps find it to its advantage to send two officers to perform those duties, Captain Butler soon expecting to leave. I would also like to have the services of an experienced adjutant-general.

Some difficulty is experienced for the want of a tariff of prices of clothing, and I would be greatly obliged for one.

{p.694}

To-morrow being the birthday of Washington, I propose to celebrate the occasion with a national salute of thirty-four guns, a parade of the troops, national airs, &c. Recent favorable news from the valley of the Mississippi, brought from New Orleans by a captured steamer, gives us particular satisfaction, and awakens new hopes of the speedy downfall of the conspirators.

I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 6.}

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA, Fort Pickens, February 22, 1862.

In compliance with the instructions of the General-in-Chief of the Army, dated Headquarters of the Army, Adjutant-General’s Office, Washington, January 29, 1862 (directing Col. Harvey Brown to turnover the command of the Department of Florida to Brig. Gen. Lewis G. Arnold, U. S. Volunteers), the undersigned assumes command of the department.

...

L. G. ARNOLD, Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers.

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HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, February 23, 1862.

Maj. Gen. BENJAMIN F. BUTLER, U. S. Volunteers:

GENERAL: You are assigned to the command of the land forces destined to co-operate with the Navy in the attack upon New Orleans. You will use every means to keep your destination a profound secret, even from your staff officers, with the exception of your chief of staff, and Lieutenant Weitzel, of the Engineers. The force at your disposal will consist of the first thirteen regiments named in your memorandum handed to me in person, the Twenty-first Indiana, Fourth Wisconsin, and Sixth Michigan (old and good regiments from Baltimore). The Twenty-First Indiana, Fourth Wisconsin, and Sixth Michigan will await your orders at Fort Monroe. Two companies of the Twenty-first Indiana are well drilled at heavy artillery. The cavalry force already en route for Ship Island will be sufficient for your purposes. After full consultation with officers well acquainted with the country in which it is proposed to operate, I have arrived at the conclusion that two light batteries, fully equipped, and one without horses, will be all that are necessary. This will make your force 14,400 infantry, 275 cavalry, 580 artillery-total, 15,255 men. The commanding general of the Department of Key West is authorized to loan you temporarily two regiments. Fort Pickens can probably gave you another, which will bring your force to nearly 18,000.

The object of your expedition is one of vital importance-the capture of New Orleans. The route selected is up the Mississippi River, and the first obstacle to be encountered (perhaps the only one) is in the resistance offered by Forts Saint Philip and Jackson. It is expected that the Navy can reduce these works. In that case you will, after their capture, leave a sufficient garrison in them to render them perfectly {p.695} secure; and it is recommended that on the upward passage a few heavy guns and some troops be left at the Pilot Station (at the forks of the river), to cover a retreat in the event of a disaster. The troops and guns will of course be removed as soon as the forts are captured. Should the Navy fail to reduce the works, you will land your forces and siege train, and endeavor to breach the works, silence their guns, and carry them by assault.

The next resistance will be near the English Bend, where there are some earthen batteries. Here it may be necessary for you to land your troops to co-operate with the naval attack, although it is more than probable that the Navy, unassisted, can accomplish the result. If these works are taken, the city of New Orleans necessarily falls. In that event it will probably be best to occupy Algiers with the mass of your troops; also the eastern bank of the river above the city. It may be necessary to place some troops in the city to preserve order; but if there appears sufficient Union sentiment to control the city, it may be best, for purposes of discipline, to keep your men out of the city.

After obtaining possession of New Orleans it will be necessary to reduce all the works guarding its approaches from the east, and particularly to gain the Manchac Pass. Baton Rouge, Berwick Bay, and Fort Livingston will next claim your attention. A feint on Galveston may facilitate the objects we have in view. I need not call your attention to the necessity of gaining possession of all the rolling stock you can on the different railways and of obtaining control of the roads themselves. The occupation of Baton Rouge by a combined naval and land force should be accomplished as soon as possible after you have gained New Orleans. Then endeavor to open your communication with the northern column by the Mississippi, always bearing in mind the necessity of occupying Jackson, Miss., as soon as you can safely do so, either after or before you have effected the junction. Allow nothing to divert you from obtaining full possession of all the approaches to New Orleans. When that object is accomplished to its fullest extent it will be necessary to make a combined attack on Mobile, in order to gain possession of the harbor and works, as well as to control the railway terminus at the city. In regard to this I will send more detailed instructions as the operations of the northern column develop themselves. I may briefly state that the general objects of the expedition are, first, the reduction of New Orleans and all its approaches; then Mobile and its defenses; then Pensacola, Galveston, &c.

It is probable that by the time New Orleans is reduced it will be in the power of the Government to re-enforce the land forces sufficiently to accomplish all these objects. In the mean time you will please give all the assistance in your power to the Army and Navy commanders in your vicinity, never losing sight of the fact that the great object to be achieved is the capture and firm retention of New Orleans.

I am, very respectfully,

GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding in Chief.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 20.}

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, A. G. O., Washington, February 23, 1862.

I. A new military department, to be called the Department of the Gulf, is hereby constituted. It will comprise all the coast of the Gull of Mexico west of Pensacola Harbor and so much of the Gulf States as {p.696} may be occupied by the forces under Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler, U. S. Volunteers. The headquarters for the present will be movable, wherever the general commanding may be.

By command of Major-General McClellan:

L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General.

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SHIP ISLAND, Miss., March 9, 1862.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: The Fourteenth Maine, six companies of the Thirteenth Maine and the Twelfth Connecticut arrived yesterday. Other vessels are in sight to-day, and probably with troops. The ship Idaho, containing the men of several batteries, has run aground, and we are trying to get her off. The force now here is made up as follows, viz: The Twenty-sixth Massachusetts, the Eastern Bay State Regiment, the Ninth and Twelfth Connecticut, the Twelfth and Fourteenth Maine, and six companies of the Thirteenth; Read’s Second Massachusetts Cavalry (three companies), and Manning’s battery, besides the troops on the Idaho, not yet landed; in all, some 6,500 men. It is rather late in the season to assemble so large a body of raw troops on such a spot as this, and it appears to me desirable that suitable transportation for its transference to some other point should be furnished as soon as possible. The British forces in their attack on New Orleans left here, if I am not mistaken, before the month of January.

Some days since a party from this command went over to Biloxi and examined the ground there. It is out of the way and not desirable for a military station. Another party went over yesterday to a paint nearer Mississippi City. The wharf there is some 3,000 feet or more in length, of a light structure, and has been partly broken up. The reconnoitering party (about 100 men) went but a short distance from the wharf and were fired upon from artillery. Returning to their boat (the steam gunboat Calhoun, taken from the enemy) the enemy’s shots were replied to by three rounds from the boat. The number of troops there is probably not very considerable; the location would be better for a camp than this is. There ere 9 feet of water at the end of the wharf. I wished to send back there to-day to make a further examination but both of our steam lighters are broken down and the Calhoun is employed in getting off the Idaho.

It is useless for a force to attempt to do anything here without suitable transportation, and we need it now, if for nothing more than to procure room for the troops. It appears to me that the enemy at this moment ought to be kept in a state of alarm throughout this entire approach by the Rigolets and Lake Borgne to New Orleans, but it is seldom that a gunboat goes far in that direction. The superficies of that part of the island which is occupied by the troops is about one-half of a square mile, and at times nearly one-half of that, if not quite, is under water. Limits so narrow render the desired military instruction impracticable, and yet without that instruction we should be subject to external influences, as of the weather, the season, political demonstration, military necessity, &c., rather than be free to make our movements from inherent force. We should be in the dangerous condition of submitting to controlling influences ourselves, as all military bodies ought to do. To be the slave instead of the master of circumstances is not to promise much for any kind of measures, and least of all for military measures.

{p.697}

A step that is taken from impulsion cannot be otherwise than a stumbling one.

Had these troops arrived two months ago we might have gained some confidence and coherence by this time. No effort, however, shall be spared to render them effective. New Orleans appears to me to be a proper point to strike at. It is the center of the conspiracy. The perversity of Charleston, the pride of Richmond, and the honesty of the people along the Alleghanies have alike been made subordinate to the combinations of the conspirators there. New Orleans, the seat of the conspiracy, must have less respect for their work than any other quarter of the country. A few gunboats can reach the city from above by the river, even if we could not from this point. I can form no plan, for I have no means of executing one.

MARCH 11, 1862.

The several batteries which have arrived (four in all) have but a very few pieces of artillery among them, no harness, and hardly enough horses for one battery. With a volunteer force like this both artillery and engineering are likely to be necessary, and for the latter purpose we have a wholly inadequate supply of intrenching tools. The Navy seem to be making some preparations to ascend the river towards New Orleans, and if they expect to be backed by a land force in that direction, as they doubtless will, such tools will be indispensable. The forwardness of the season, the rawness of the troops, and the absence of means to render them efficient are calculated to fill one with concern. The fleet of mortar boats have been arriving to-day and will probably soon proceed to their destination. A party of machinists have also arrived, with a building and machinery for establishing a machine-shop, which numerous breakages in our gunboats render necessary. The materials for Lieutenant Palfrey’s work on the fort are also beginning to arrive.

I am sorry to state that the Idaho is not yet got off, notwithstanding all the favoring efforts of steam-tugging, lightening, and extraordinarily high tides. She has thrown over a part of her cargo, chiefly provisions, of which our supply is not very considerable. There is something so remarkable in her running aground and in her conduct since, that I have appointed a board of survey of officers of rank to examine into it. A small lantern is kept burning in the light-house during the night, which may be announced, if thought necessary. The enemy’s gunboats have not made their appearance for some time.

I have omitted no opportunity to write to you when I have thought that my communications might contain matters of interest. I have received no communications in return. Paymasters Watson and Locke have been engaged paying the troops for some time. They have probably met with some difficulties in deciding upon several cases, hut they have presented others which might have been settled at the seat of Government before setting out on their tour. By and with my decision they are paying the men from the date of enrollment, and are including the 28th day of February, which I doubt not will be satisfactory to the Department. Other, troops here cannot be paid at this time, but I am in hopes that funds will be sent as soon after the next muster as practicable.

The Eastern Bay State Regiment has been brought together with some degree of irregularity, and it contains a certain number of men who are not physically qualified for the proper performance of their duty. They should be discharged from the service, but I have neither time nor authority to attend to it. I shall in the mean time make such {p.698} use of them as will render their services available. I have appointed Lieut. Charles S. Palmer, Ninth Connecticut Volunteers, acting assistant quartermaster, and Adjutant Hail, of the same regiment, aide-decamp and acting assistant adjutant-general.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant.

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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SHIP ISLAND, Miss., March 12, 1862.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: Since closing my letter this morning the Idaho has got off by her own efforts; how much of her cargo will prove a loss I have not yet ascertained. The steamer Constitution arrived this afternoon, with three regiments on board, under the command of General Williams. A rumor is current here that since the evacuation of Columbus the rebels are falling back upon New Orleans, with a view to its defense, and that troops have been called away from Pensacola for that purpose. If so, and we could get possession of the mouth of Red River and of a point in the line of communication between the city and Texas, the rebel forces would probably be reduced to great straits for the want of provisions.

The inconvenience attending a variety of calibers in our fire-arms is beginning to be felt. We have some of the caliber of .58 and others of the caliber of .54; for the latter caliber there should be a greater number of rounds than we have on hand here.

I regret that the elements of an organized expedition do not appear to be as far advanced as they should be. The Government party in this region must be assured of a strong, firm power to back them before they will decide in our favor; and it appears to me to be time to set our civil courts in operation, for they are the only power that can strike the traitors with wholesome dread. If the law does not assert its dignity amidst the arms that are raised for its defense, it will never do so. All our victories will prove useless unless the law is vindicated. Rebellions will occur as often as whirlwinds of a summer’s day if defeats at arms are the only penalties to be incurred thereby. One execution at the right time and place would do more towards checking the rebellion than would whole holocausts upon the field of battle. The law has been disparaged and emasculated for many years, and if it does not arise in its majesty and wield the sword before war lays it down, it will never wield it under our present form of government. A victorious popular party would be prone to forget the wholesome severities of the law in the congratulations of success when their arms were once laid down.

I would be permitted to state once more that I have received no communication from headquarters covering the period of our stay here-going on four months-and only two of official character from the seat of Government. They are from the Light-House Board. So far as this silence may imply confidence in me I shall strive to merit, but it would not be out of place to let an officer have some knowledge of what he is to do or else the means of deciding for himself.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. PHELPS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

{p.699}

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ON BOARD STEAMER MISSISSIPPI, Off Hilton Head, S. C., March 12, 1862.

Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commander-in-Chief U. S. Army:

GENERAL: I have the honor to report the causes of my detention at this port, which will be fully set forth in the extracts from the itinerary herewith inclosed.

It will be seen that after a series of most unparalleled marine disasters I am at last ready for sea, and shall sail as soon as the weather permits.

I inclose also a copy of an order of arrest of the master of the steamer, by whose faults and mismanagement our misfortunes have been caused. A competent master and coast pilot have been detailed from the naval squadron to command the ship on the rest of the voyage.

I desire to express my deep sense of obligation both to General Sherman and officers of his command for every aid in our distressed condition. Thanks are especially due to Commander Boutelle, assistant, U. S. Coast Survey, for the very efficient assistance given by the steamer Bibb, under his command, and the untiring personal exertions in giving his services and those of his officers, at my request, to get this ship in a condition for sea, and also in acting as pilot to get her off a shoal on which she had grounded in our attempt to get to sea.

A board of survey of competent naval officers have pronounced the ship fit for sea, and I have no further fear of her, under a competent commander. No serious casualty has occurred and all these dangers. We have lost two men from diseases contracted prior to their enlistment The health of the command is good.

Of the conduct of nearly every officer and man during these perils, more trying and disheartening than the perils of any battle could be, I cannot speak too highly.

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

BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Seminary, March 22, 1862.

Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant-General.

By command of Major-General McClellan:

S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Inclosure No. 1.]

-Itinerary kept by Joe. M. Bell, major and aide-de-camp, at the order of Major-General Butler, U. S. Army.-

On the morning of the 25th February the steamer Mississippi, having on board Major-General Butler, with his staff, and the Thirty-first Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, under Col. O. P. Gooding, and four companies of the Thirteenth Regiment Maine Volunteers, under Col. Neal Dow, left Hampton Roads, with fair weather and every prospect of a pleasant voyage, for Ship Island, with intent to stop at Hatteras Inlet, to take on board Brig. Gen. Thomas Williams, assigned to General Butler, and at Key West. The run through the night was very pleasant, the motion of the ship being scarcely perceptible, the vessel making from 8 to 10 miles per hour.

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The morning of the 26th broke beautiful, with a smooth sea. The vessel ran very easily, and under the regulations established by General Butler the troops had got into regular and comfortable position. The weather warm. In the afternoon it began to grow lowering and symptoms of bad weather; the vessel was making for Hatteras Inlet. When about 8 miles from the inlet the weather became such as to make it imprudent to attempt to proceed farther in that direction, and the vessel was put to sea; the sea and wind steadily increased during the night, with the wind from southwest, to a gale, the vessel behaving admirably.

On the morning of the 27th, at about 1 o’clock a.m., the wind shifted instantly to the northeast, blowing a hurricane. The head of the ship was brought to the wind, during which maneuver she shipped several seas, which brought into the cabin through the sky-light some water and some into the engine-room. The vessel behaved admirably, there being no perceptible strain or labor, though she rolled considerably, yet not so much as might have been expected.

The ship’s crew being found insufficient to work the ship, a gang of sailors from Colonel Dow’s command was detailed to aid, and rendered the most valuable assistance. The gale continued very severe through the morning until towards 10 o’clock it began to abate, and at about 11 o’clock the vessel’s head was put to the southward. At 12 the sun was out and the captain took an observation, reporting to General Butler the position of the vessel to be 50 miles east of Hatteras. Vessel bowled along merrily, the sea and wind constantly subsiding, until evening, when no perceptible motion was apparent to the vessel. During the night everything quiet.

The morning of the 28th, at reveille, was dull and looked like rain, but before 7 o’clock it became bright and clear.

The vessel off Cape Fear after breakfast, and about 8.30 o’clock it was said she was aground.

Cape Fear light-house had been in sight for an hour or more and a buoy had been observed for some time. The vessel was moving about for some fifteen minutes, now backing, now going forward slowly, constantly striking, not very severely, the lead going. The captain ordered the anchor thrown over, and it was dropped on port bow. There was no wind or sea; boats were sent out to sound a passage off; under General Butler’s direction buoys were prepared; the vessel was sounded all around and from certain points her bow and various points on either side and from the stern; in all directions soundings were made and buoys set. The sailors and soldiers of the command were all put to use and worked cheerfully.

At about 11 o’clock a sail was seen from the southwest; the ensign was set, Union down, and a signal gun fired. The vessel hoisted American colors, but sent no boat and did not appear to be approaching. It was supposed her colors might be a ruse; a boat was sent off to her; she proved to be the U. S. steamer Mount Vernon, Commander Glisson. He promised all assistance and sent a boat to sound, and proceeded to work up to the Mississippi. He came up to within a quarter of a mile, and attempted to haul the head round with a hawser, without success.

Under General Butler’s direction various plans for the immediate lightening of the ship had been put in progress, to be resorted to as a last necessity.

The troops began to be transferred to the Mount Vernon, Colonel Dow’s command being first sent forward. The tide in the mean time was rising to become full at about 8.30 o’clock p.m. The propeller was set to work at full speed, all the troops were moved rapidly from stern {p.701} to stem and back again, and at about 7 o’clock she moved from her position and passed slowly ahead. At this time about 200 troops had been and were in the process of being transferred to the Mount Vernon. The Mount Vernon got under weigh and ran along with the vessel for a mile or more, when she passed ahead to lead the way to an anchorage. The Mississippi cast anchor to allow her boats to come up with the soldiers and then weighed and followed the Mount Vernon. It had been known that she leaked badly, and it was found that the water filled the lower hold and fore hold, and that it was fast coming in.

Details of soldiers were set to work bailing, and such pumps as could be worked were set going, with no apparent effect upon the leak. It was supposed that she had forced a hole in herself upon the anchor. All that could work were incessantly occupied with the leak. At about 10 o’clock anchored in Cape Fear River, below Fort Caswell; passed the night, which was clear and beautiful, in quiet.

In the morning of March 1 a survey was held upon the vessel, at the order of General Butler, by Colonel Dow, H. L. Sturgis, acting master of the Mount Vernon, who had been left on board of the Mississippi by Commander Glisson, and Captain Conant, of the Thirty-first Regiment. They reported in favor of proceeding under convoy to Port Royal. A quilted sail was placed under her bow; all hands arranged for bailing and pumping, and the captain of the M