Letter
Robert Patterson to E.D. Townsend, July 17, 1861
CHARLESTOWN, V. A.
CHARLESTOWN, V. A., July 17, 1861.
Col. E. D. TowNsEND, U. 8S. Army:
The term of service of the Pennsylvania troops (eighteen regiments} expires within seven days, commencing to-morrow. Can rely on none of them renewing service. I must be at once provided with efficient
–three years’ men or withdraw to Harper’s Ferry. Shall I reoccupy permanently Harper’s Ferry or withdraw entirely? I wrote yesterday on this subject, and now wish to be informed of the intention of the General-in-Chief. My march to-day was without opposition or incident of importance. The country has been drained of men. This place has been a depot of supplies for force at Winchester, and the presence of the army is not welcomed.
very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. PATTERSON,
Major-General, Commanding.
(Repeated July 18.)
JULY 17, 1861—9.30 p. m.
Major-General, Commanding.
(Repeated July 18.)
JULY 17, 1861—9.30 p. m.
Major-General PATTERSON, U. S. Forces, Harper's Ferry:
~ TI have nothing official from you since Sunday [14th], but am glad to
Lest through Philadelphia papers, that you have advanced. Do not et the enemy amuse and delay you with a small force in front whilst
* Not iound.
~ TI have nothing official from you since Sunday [14th], but am glad to
Lest through Philadelphia papers, that you have advanced. Do not et the enemy amuse and delay you with a small force in front whilst
* Not iound.
Editor's Notes
From: Operations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, 1861. Location: CHARLESTOWN, V. A.. Summary: Major-General Patterson urgently requests guidance on whether to permanently reoccupy or withdraw from Harper's Ferry as Pennsylvania troops' enlistments near expiration without expected renewals.
Topics
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 2
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