Horatio G. Wright to Thomas W. Sherman, March 5, 1862

GENERAL:

I have the honor to inform you that the combined navy and army expedition is in possession of Fernandina and the military defenses on Amelia Island, and also of the batteries on the south end of Cumberland Island. f

Our occupation was a bloodless one, the rebels having evacuated on the first suspicion of our approach all the strong defenses on which they had lavished so much time and labor, removing, so far as time permitted, guns, stores, and troops. They, however, left behind no less than fourteen guns, all of large caliber.

The town is nearly deserted of inhabitants, many of whom left reluctantly, in obedience to the orders of the rebel authorities. ta

So far as I can gather from the conflicting statements of the citizens left behind, the rebel force here has exceeded 5,000 men. A detailed report will be submitted hereafter. .

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,