C. F. Smith to The ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, October 31, 1861
Paducah, Ky., October 31, 1861.
SIR:
Learning that a body of rebel cavalry were stationed at Saratoga, a small village about 4 miles from Eddyville, on the Cumberland River, and were harassing the loyal inhabitants, I detached on the steamer Lake Erie three companies of the Ninth Illinois Regiment (some 300 men), under command of Major Phillips, of the same regiment, to capture or destroy them. The U. S. gunboat Conestoga, Lieut. S. L. Phelps commanding, accompanied the detachment and rendered efficient assistance. The party landed a few miles below Eddyville, and after a toilsome march of some 12 miles, the ground being broken and rugged, made a partial surprise of the enemy, about 160 in number, who were in line and dismounted. Major Phillips advanced upon them at a double-quick step, and after firing a volley charged with the bayonet, when the enemy broke and fled. The result was the killing of some 7 of the rebels, including their captain (Wilcox), and wounding others as they made off, besides killing a number of valuable horses. Three of our party were severely though not dangerously wounded.
Major Phillips reports the capture of 20-odd prisoners, 30 horses, 8 mules, 2 wagons, with harness, saddles, bridles, &o., 30 muskets, several
rifles and shot-guns. $ The expedition seems to have been conducted with good judgment,
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spirit, and energy, and will no doubt have a good effect on the other . side of the Cumberland.
I inclose copies of the reports of Major Phillips and Lieutenant Phelps, commanding the Conestoga.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
The ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,
No. 2.
Report of Maj. J. J. Phillips, Ninth Illinois Infantry.
Paducah, Ky., October 27, 1861. :