Edwin V. Sumner to Charles S. Lovell, August 8, 1861

– San Francisco, August 8, 1861. Capt. CHARLES S. LOVELL, Sixth Infantry, U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Humboldt, Cal.: SIR: The buildings to be erected at Fort Seward will consist of quarters for one company, one medicai officer, the company officers actually present, laundresses’ quarters, hospital, guard-house, store- . house, and stable. The plans for these buildings, as well as a plan for the garrison, will be furnished in two or three days. In the meantime the work of getting out logs will be proceeded with immediately and energetically. The logs should be of the dimensions of 20, 22, 25, 31, and 34 feet, and besides an additional number as much greater in length as can be found and handled conveniently. The window sash, locks, hinges, and such other materials for the new buildings as can be conveniently transported will be taken from the buildings at Fort Humboldt. As soon as the buildings at the new post are somewhat advanced, orders will be given for the abandonment of Fort Humboldt. In the meantime the hospital and a small detachment, six or eight men, will be kept there. Of course the supplies at Humboldt are to be transferred to the new post.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,