Ss. P. Heintzelman to E. M. Sranton, May 5, 1864

(Received 6.30 p. m.) Hon. E. M. Sranton, Secretary of War: The extensive machine and carpenter shops of Piedmont have been burned. The engine and cars of the east-bound mail train and two tonnage trains have also been destroyed. Five other engines damaged. We have ordered a large force of our company’s workmen to clear the wrecks. At 3p. m. the road was sloaned east of Piedmont. The heat of the fire at the wreck of the trains at Bloomington has been too intense to permit much work, but during the night we expect to have the entire road again clear and trains running regularly. General Kelley has taken command and moved up to Piedmont from Cumberland with some force. If Governor Brough’s movements are prompt further disaster may be avoided. The force of the enemy was small, and their success resulted from the entire exposure of so extensive and important a point as Piedmont. J. W. GARRETT, President. WaAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Washington, D. C., May 5, 1864. Major-General SIGEL, Four regiments Ohio militia have been ordered to Charleston, three to New Creek, and three to Harper’s Ferry. Answer to your indorsement of the 1st instant asking for additional troops. E. K. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. CoLumBus, May 5, 1864.

COMMANDING GENERAL DEPARTMENT OF WEST Virginia: