PENSACOLA, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
Re-enforcements thrown into Fort Pickens last night by small boats from the outside. The movement could not even be seen from our side, but was discovered by a small reconnoitering boat.
BRAXTON BRAGG,
Brigadier General.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S.C., April 13, 1861.
SIR: In obedience to orders from the commanding general, Beauregard, we left the wharf at 11.15 a.m., and proceeded in an open boat to deliver communications to Brigadier-General Simons, commanding on Morris Island, and passing under the batteries of Fort Johnson landed in the rear of Major Stevens’ battery. Our orders were specifically to ask information as to the condition of the batteries on the island, and any other facts necessary to be communicated from Brigadier-General Simons to the commanding general, and also to establish military communications by land from Morris Island to the city of Charleston. We were moreover instructed to learn the condition of Fort Sumter as far as practicable without unnecessary exposure, and if the bombardment and conflagration within had forced an evacuation by Major Anderson and his command.
At the period of passing Fort Sumter about 12 m. the firing from it had ceased, except occasional shots opposite Fort Moultrie, but was kept up with great precision and regularity by the batteries from Fort Johnson, Sullivan’s Island, and Morris Island. The conflagration of the officers’ quarters in the fortress appeared to be on the increase, and although the United States flag was still flying when we landed, there appeared no other evidence of the continuation of the contest.
After communicating with General Simons and establishing a land communication with the city, it was deemed advisable to send a flag to Fort Sumter and demand its evacuation, as at 1.10 p.m. precisely the United States flag had suddenly disappeared from its walls. While a white flag and the boat which bore us over was being made ready to take us, Colonel Wigfall, who had been detailed for special duties on Morris Island, thinking that no time was to be lost lest the garrison be destroyed, and accompanied by Private Young, of the Palmetto Guard, and two oarsmen, hastily entered a small skiff and pulled towards the fort with a white flag in his hand. Its size was too small to be distinctly seen by our batteries, and in consequence the discharge of neither shot or shell was discontinued by them, except those on Morris Island. His approach, therefore, to Sumter was one of imminent danger. We saw him after landing disappear into the fort through an embrasure. After the lapse of a short period of time he reappeared upon the pavement at the base of the fortification and re-embarked, directing his course to where we stood, at Major Stevens’s battery. Meantime the flag that had been erected after the flag-staff was cut away was taken down and a white flag run up in its stead. Before reaching the shore on his return Colonel Wigfall gave evidence that Major Anderson had consented to evacuate, which was soon after confirmed. He was received upon the beach by the troops, who for a moment rushed out to meet him, with strong evidences of admiration. We then took Colonel Wigfall with us in our boat, and returned to the city to report to the general commanding.
Brigadier-General Simons had no specific intelligence to communicate to the general commanding beyond the events narrated; but we take pride and pleasure in reporting the spirit, promptness, and energy which characterized the portion of his command inspected by us.
All of which is respectfully submitted for the information of the general commanding.
JAMES CHESNUT, Jr.,
Aide-de-Camp.
A. R. CHISOLM,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-Camp.
JOHN L. MANNING,
Aide-de-Camp.
Maj. D. R. JONES,
Adjutant-General Provisional Forces.
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War;
Officers’ quarters in Sumter burning. Part of roof supposed to have fallen in. Sumter firing at long intervals. Ours regular and effective. Six vessels outside in signals with Sumter.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
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CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson has hauled down the United States flag on Sumter and run up white flag. Fort has been burning for several hours from effect of shells. Two explosions have been produced by shells. He has ceased firing some time, and fire of all the batteries has been continuous till now–3 o’clock. Aides have been sent by Beauregard to Sumter.
R. B. RHETT, JR.
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CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 1861—2 p.m.
President JEFF. DAVIS, Montgomery, Ala.:
Quarters in Sumter all burned down. White flag up. Have sent a boat to receive surrender. But half an hour before had sent a boat to stop our firing and offer assistance.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
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CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 1861.
Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Present:
DEAR GOVERNOR: I have sent Major Jones, Captain Hartstene, and Colonels Miles and Pryor to Major Anderson to tell him that I offer him the same terms that I did on the 11th, and that a vessel or steamer would be sent to him in the morning to take him to the steamer outside, and that he must be responsible in the mean time for the fort; otherwise, I would put four companies of artillery in there to-night. I also told Captain Hartstene to go out to the fleet and tell them that the fort was now ours, but under the safe-keeping of Major Anderson, and that no attack could be made upon it by them.
In the morning I will order two of Colonel Ripley’s companies and two of De Saussure’s to take possession of Fort Sumter.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
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CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Fort Sumter has unconditionally surrendered to the Confederate States, represented by General Beauregard, Colonel Wigfall, his aide, receiving the surrender. The same terms just offered will be granted. Engines are about to go down to put out the fire. Fight expected on Morris Island to-night.
R. B. RHETT, JR.
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CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson surrenders to the Confederate Government unconditionally, but I have granted him the same terms as on the 11th instant: “All proper facilities will be afforded for removal of yourself and command, together with company arms and property and all private property, to any post in the United States you may elect.”
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
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HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
April 13, 1861—6 p.m.
General BEAUREGARD, Commanding.
GENERAL: Brigadier-General Simons directs me to say that a boat from the fleet, bearing a white flag, and commanded by a lieutenant of the U.S. Navy, has just communicated with him. He first inquired if Major Anderson had surrendered, to which (as informed by Colonel Wigfall, aide-de-camp) he was answered “Yes; unconditionally.” Second, if he could communicate with Fort Moultrie, to which he was answered “No.” (He evidently supposed the commanding general was at Moultrie, as he afterwards said.) Third, he asked if he could be permitted to come in, under a flag of truce, and take Major Anderson off. If not, whether he could come in with a merchantman and do the same. If not, that whether he could come in with his boats for the purpose. To these inquiries General Simons replied that transportation could be furnished for Major Anderson to the fleet, but that the commanding general was at hand, and could be communicated with at once, with the understanding that no hostile demonstration should be made during the night by the fleet. The lieutenant was informed that you would be furnished with his questions, and he might return for answers to-morrow morning, under a flag of truce. The lieutenant gave his personal guarantee that no hostilities would be attempted, and said he would return in the morning to hear your reply. He informed Major Whiting that their mission was not hostile, but one of peace.
Very respectfully,
W. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
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CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
We take possession of Fort Sumter to-morrow morning. I allow him the privilege of saluting his flag. No one killed on our side.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
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MONTGOMERY, April 13, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Accept my congratulations. You have won your spurs. How many guns can you spare for Pensacola?
L. P. WALKER.
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HDQRS. FIRST BATTALION, THIRTY-THIRD REGIMENT,
SOUTH CAROLINA MILITIA,
April 13, 1861.
General D. F. JAMISON, Secretary of War:
SIR: Owing to the absence of Col. Charles Allston, jr., and being called on by the detachments stationed below this point to complete the chain of coast guard to the North Carolina line, in view of the emergency of the case (war having actually begun), I have taken upon myself to order out one hundred and forty-six men and twelve commissioned officers as follows: From Captain Daggett’s company, Waccamaw Light Artillery, twenty-six men and two officers, stationed as coast guard, from the redoubt at North Island to Murray’s Inlet; distance, twenty-five miles. From Captain Ward’s company, Watchesaw Riflemen, twenty men and two officers, stationed at the redoubt at Murray’s Inlet. From Captain Gillespie’s company, Carolina Greys, forty men and three officers, stationed as coast guard, from Murray’s Inlet to the redoubt at Little River, North Carolina line; distance, forty miles. From Captain Litchfield’s company, All Saints’ Riflemen, thirty men and three officers, stationed at the redoubt at Little River. I have also, by request, ordered a detachment of thirty men and two officers from Captain Johnson’s company, to take post at the redoubt at the entrance of Santee River, that post being unoccupied. Have also taken possession of thirty muskets for said detachment from a quantity here in store. Also, a quantity of army stores.
I have detailed Captain Daggett as bearer of this report, who will furnish any further information you may require as to the defense at this point.
All of which is respectfully submitted; and, hoping it may meet your approbation, I am, very respectfully, yours,
W. C. WHITE,
Major, Commanding.
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HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, S. I. AND M. P.,
Fort Moultrie, S.C., April 13, 1861.
Maj. D. R. JONES, Adjutant-General:
MAJOR: I have the honor to report that we have had only two personal casualties in the force under my command, both very slight, and are privates in Company A (Sullivan and Miller). The effect of the enemy’s fire upon this fort has been pretty effectually to demolish the quarters and to injure the hot-shot furnace to a certain extent. The effects of the Sumter, enfilade, Dahlgren, floating, and mortar batteries, has been to keep the enemy from his barbette guns. The direct fire has been quite accurate for the distance, several shots having passed through the arches of the second line of casemates, two or three into his lower embrasures, and many grazing the crest of his parapet and penetrating the roof of his quarters. Still, our direct fire is only annoying, and I have directed it to be economized, to look out and keep the men as fresh as possible for the channel fight, which, it is to be presumed, is impending. I note what has been said respecting the hot-shot furnace, and shall endeavor to attend to it, although it has three shot-holes in it, which has already rendered one bar inefficient. I have directed Captain Hamilton, and the floating battery especially, to be economical with their ammunition, and have to request that the latter be supplied with one hundred rounds of shell and one hundred cartridges, with appurtenances, by boat this evening from the city. All our 9-inch and 8-inch shells are defective, and Captain Hamilton has filled several with rice to use them as solid shot. It would be well to have the floating battery supplied also, if possible, with 42 and 32 pounder ammunition, as it will be especially effective in keeping out re-enforcements.
I also have to suggest that Captain Martin be supplied with one hundred and fifty shell and ammunition, with authority to practice as much as he pleases until he gets his shell in. All the mortar practice is wild, owing to the range and the effect of the wind. As I am sorely pressed for time, I have respectfully to request that such requisitions as are approved may be ordered from headquarters.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. S. RIPLEY,
Lieutenant-Colonel Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.–One of the rear transoms of Captain Hallonquist’s mortars, being made of pine, is split. I shall endeavor to have it repaired. The merlons stand very well, except the vertical palmetto logs, which collapse under our own fire. One 42-pounder shot entered the embrasure, but, being stuffed with a cotton bale, had no further effect than to take a splinter off a carriage. The new 8-inch columbiad carriages will not stand much.
Very respectfully,
R. S. RIPLEY.
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CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 1861.
Brig. Gen. JAMES SIMONS, Morris Island, S.C.:
MY DEAR GENERAL: The accumulation of troops on Morris Island requires that another general officer should be sent to the southern end of that island. General Bonham has consented to go there in command, until we can divide the forces into two brigades, when he will assume command of the whole as major-general, to act under my orders. In the mean time, should circumstances bring your commands together, he will necessarily assume the command; otherwise to attend only to his half (about) of the island, and you to yours, but to mutually assist and support each other, in case of need, and in the defense of our country and sacred cause.
Major Whiting will remain acting inspector-general of the whole island. He will communicate (as well as yourself) all the information in his possession to General Bonham. I will endeavor to be with you as soon as practicable, or whenever required.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
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HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S.C., April 13, 1861.
Brig. Gen. R. G. M. DUNOVANT,
Commanding Sullivan’s Island, S.C.:
GENERAL: Major Anderson will evacuate Fort Sumter to-morrow morning, when he will be sent to one of the United States vessels outside of the harbor. He will be allowed the privilege of saluting his flag on lowering it.
You will please direct that the ranking officers of Engineers and Artillery on the island accompany the detachment of one company already ordered out, as part of a garrison to Fort Sumter, who will make a report of the exact present condition of the fort and of its defenses.
You will also direct Capt. George S. James to hold his company at Fort Johnson in readiness to move for the same purpose, as soon as orders to this effect are extended to him.
I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
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HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 13, 1861.
General JAMES SIMONS,
Morris Island, S. C.:
GENERAL: Major Anderson will evacuate Fort Sumter to-morrow morning, when he will be sent to one of the United States vessels outside of the harbor. He will be allowed the privilege of saluting his flag on lowering it.
You will please direct that the ranking officers of Engineers and Artillery on the island accompany the detachment of one company, already ordered out as a part of a garrison to Fort Sumter, who will make a report of the exact present condition of the fort and its defenses.
I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
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FORT MOULTRIE, S.C.,
April 13, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S.C.:
GENERAL: Fort Sumter has been set on fire, and as it is very important (with the vessels outside threatening to enter) to have all experience, I have determined to remain and avoid or prevent a re enforcement. I do not think that there are more than three vessels off. Colonel Ripley and myself will endeavor to prevent an entry here to-night. I will, as you said, make myself useful; more so, probably, than I could at any other point. I shall go out in a row-boat during the night, with signals arranged, and reconnoiter the entrance and give timely notice of any boats approaching. I think the fire-hulk inside of Sumter had better not be lighted, as it will probably dim our vision.
I have just made out the vessels off. They are the Pawnee, Harriet Lane, Nashville, Atlantic, and a merchant schooner. They cannot enter in their vessels. With a good lookout (for a lookout stationed here, and a boat off in the channel, together with their fire-hulks, which are still floating in a line around Fort Sumter), I think you need have no fear of an entrance here. They are all here, and in fine spirits. Ripley is a most valuable officer–cool: collected, and energetic. He keeps all in spirits and up to their work. I have all the batteries on this island, and give the best directions, as I think may be useful, particularly in regard to looking out for and firing at boats or shipping. The guns are all intact, and in fine working order.
Respectfully,
H. J. HARTSTENE.
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HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
April 13, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
MY DEAR GENERAL: We require one thousand or twelve hundred men to re-enforce this position. Nothing should be left to chance. None have yet arrived, and this command will be worn out. The troops have been under arms all night. Six of the hostile ships are in the positions they occupied at dark last night. The two nearest are the Lane and the Pawnee. With these vessels so close to us, I cannot relax my vigilance without such a force as would render a coup de main impossible. The men behaved very well and kept well on the alert. I visited the whole line last night (after midnight) and found everything quiet; but you are aware that this cannot last over such a long line of defenses, with an uncertainty as to the point of attack. Opinions differ as to whether anything got into Sumter last night. There may or may not. The night was dark, and occasionally stormy, and a heavy sea running. If anything did, it could not have been very extensive. Perhaps they desire to lay off, and send in one boat at a time or once a night. This is the most feasible plan, and that which I most fear. If it is in your power I beg you to come here for myself personally. I am nearly broken down for want of rest. The gentlemen you sent are very efficient. Quartermaster Hatch should send down tents for the general and his staff. We are without accommodations, and are temporarily in the hospital, which we may at any time be compelled to leave.
Very truly, yours,
W. H. C. WHITING.
[Indorsement.]
I hardly think the additional one thousand men could act on that island, and he ought to order the men to sleep in daylight and enforce it.
F. W. P.
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GENERAL ORDERS, NO. 3.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
ADJ’T AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE,
Montgomery, Ala., April 13, 1861.
In honor of the occasion, officially announced, that the United States colors have been hauled down at Fort Sumter and replaced by the white flag, a salute of fifteen guns will be fired in front of the Department this day at two o’clock.
By command of the Secretary of War:
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA,
April 13, 1861.
Bvt. Maj. W. H.,
Commanding Fort Taylor, Key West:
SIR: You will use the forces of your command, if need be, for the protection of the officers and citizens of the United States on this island in the discharge of their public duties, and the pursuit of their legitimate private occupations. You will not permit on the island any person to exercise any office or authority inconsistent with the laws and Constitution of the United States, and will, if necessary, prevent any such exercise by force of arms. If unhappily rebellion or insurrection should actually exist at any time, you will then publish a proclamation, with which you will be furnished, suspending the writ of habeas corpus, and will immediately remove from the island all dangerous or suspected persons. You will before publishing this proclamation take the advice of the United States judge and attorney on its necessity and expediency (its legality has been determined by higher authority), and receive with deference their opinion, giving them that consideration and weight to which their patriotism and legal knowledge entitle them. In exercising the authority here vested in you the greatest conciliation and forbearance must be observed, that while the duty be rigidly performed it may always be done in a spirit of conciliation and kindness.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HARVEY BROWN,
Colonel, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA,
Key West, April 13, 1861.
Lieut. Col. E. D. KEYES,
Secretary to the General-in-Chief, Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: We arrived at this place this afternoon. Captain Meigs and I have had an interview with Judge Marvin which has been entirely satisfactory. He, though anxious to leave the place, will remain, having now the assurance of support from the military authority. I have found great industry, intelligence, and enterprise in putting forward the works at the fort, and consider it quite secure against any force that can at this time be brought against it. Brevet Major French, the commanding officer, has been untiring in his labors, assisted ably by Captain Hunt, of the Engineers, and the officers of the garrison. He and all his officers are, I am happy to say, entirely devoted to the Union and the country, under any and all contingencies. I have issued General Orders in relation to the posts, copies of which will be forwarded by the first opportunity. Finding here some 10-inch mortars, I have taken three of them with the necessary ammunition, and also, there being here two 6-pounder field batteries, I have directed one of them to be put on board the Atlantic.
We sail this evening for Fort Jefferson, where we go to get a flat, some boats, and other indispensable articles.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HARVEY BROWN,
Colonel, Commanding.
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GENERAL ORDERS
NO. 1.
In obedience to the instructions of the General-in-Chief, approved by the President of the United States, creating the Department of Florida, and assigning it to the undersigned, he hereby assumes the command of the same.
The department comprises the State of Florida and the contiguous islands in the Gulf.
The headquarters of the department will hereafter be announced. The following-named officers compose the staff of the department, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly:
Bvt. Capt. G. L. Hartsuff, assistant adjutant-general. Capt. R. Ingalls, assistant quartermaster.
Capt. H. F. Clarke, assistant commissary of subsistence.
Dr. John Campbell, assistant surgeon. Capt. M. C. Meigs, chief engineer.
First Lieut. G. T. Balch, ordnance officer.
HARVEY BROWN,
Brevet Colonel, Commanding.
U. S. STEAMER CRUSADER,
Off Key West, April 13, 1861.
Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD,
Secretary of State, Washington:
DEAR SIR: We arrived here and anchored some three miles below the fort to prevent communication. Going to the fort in a boat Colonel Brown sent notes to Judge Marvin; to Colonel Patterson, the newly appointed Navy agent; to Mr. Howe, the new collector; and to Mr. Tiler, the late Navy agent. Mr. Clapp, whose commission as marshal we brought with us, we found at the fort. To these gentlemen the general policy of the Government in regard to the fort and island of Key West was explained, and the assurance of support from their Government was received with great satisfaction. I found that Colonel Patterson has lately made himself quite conspicuous by his Union sentiments, and their open avowal. The best feeling prevails between the gentlemen now appointed and the officers of the garrison, and I have no doubt that all will work harmoniously together.
The anxiety to which Judge Marvin has been subjected has preyed upon his spirits and he looks depressed, but he is ready to do his duty and stand to his post, at least until the Government is ready to relieve him. His presence for a time, and his influence are, I think, of much importance in eradicating the treasonable spirit which has lately had full and free sway here. He will be able as now supported, I think, to accomplish it without recourse to any harsh measures.
The officers here assure us that the reports spread through the newspapers of the demoralization of our troops in Texas are untrue. The troops are well disciplined, loyal, and ready to serve their country. At one time, when the administration then in power seemed to be allowing things to take their own course, and the Government seemed to be falling to pieces, the officers and men might have been inclined to look around for some refuge, but the first act of vigor satisfied them that they yet have a Government, and to it they will be true.
We yet have some 10-inch mortars which will be of use; some artillery for the land fronts, and a few other things which were needed to increase our strength.
The Brooklyn is supposed to have reached Pensacola about the 1st or 2d, and there is little doubt that as she carried the orders to the troops to land, they landed immediately upon her arrival.
Captain Craven, U. S. Navy, of the Crusader, informs me that Captain Adams had told off marines and sailors enough, in addition to Captain Vogdes’ company, to make the landing party five hundred strong; so that apparently it will be left for us only to strengthen the garrison, supply it with ammunition, artillery, and stores, and to put it in position to stand a long siege. This occupation of this stronghold, within one hundred miles of Montgomery, must have a great effect upon the rebellion.
As an instance of the spirit of the soldiers, Captain Brannan was directed to detail seven of his men to fill vacancies in the command on the Atlantic, and telling them that he wanted seven men for the purpose, and that, as they were to go where there would certainly be fighting, he would prefer volunteers, the whole company stepped forward.
The administration will find I trust elsewhere that as here Union men enough will appear as soon as supported and protected by their Government they can speak with safety and effect.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. C. MEIGS,
Captain of Engineers.
MONTGOMERY, April 13, 1861.
General BRAGG Pensacola:
When you arrested Lieutenant Worden what instructions, if any, did he show you? Did he communicate to you that he had verbal instructions, and, if so, what were they? He is here under arrest, and it is important for you to reply fully.
L. P. WALKER.
April 12.–At 1 a.m. four aides of General Beauregard (Colonel Chesnut, Colonel Chisolm, Captain Lee, and Mr. Pryor, of Virginia) came with a second letter, stating that as Major Anderson had been understood to make the remark to the bearers of the first letter, in taking leave, that he would “await the first shot, and if not battered to pieces, would be starved out in a few days,” it was desired to know what importance might be attached to it. The reply of Major Anderson did not satisfy the aides, who were authorized in that case to give notice that the fire would open. Accordingly, on leaving at 3½ a.m. they gave notice that their batteries would open in one hour.
At 4½ a.m. a signal shell was thrown from the mortar battery on James Island; after which the fire soon became general from all the hostile batteries. These batteries were, as nearly as could be ascertained, armed as follows, viz.:
On Morris Island: Breaching battery No. 1, two 42-pounders; one 12-pounder Blakely rifled gun. Mortar battery (next to No. 7), four 10-inch mortars. Breaching battery No. 2 (iron-clad battery), three 8-inch columbiads. Mortar battery (next to No. 2), three 10-inch mortars.
On James Island: Battery at Fort Johnson, three 24-pounders (only one of them bearing on Fort Sumter). Mortar battery south of Fort Johnson, four 10-inch mortars.
On Sullivan’s Island: Iron-clad (floating) battery, four 42-pounders. Columbiad battery No. 1, one 9-inch Dahlgren gun. Columbiad battery No. 2, four 8-inch columbiads. Mortar battery west of Fort Moultrie, three 10-inch mortars. Mortar battery on parade, in rear of Fort Moultrie, two 10-inch mortars. Fort Moultrie, three 8-inch columbiads; two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers; five 32-pounders; four 24-pounders. At Mount Pleasant, one 10-inch mortar.
Total, firing on Fort Sumter, 30 guns, 17 mortars.
At 7 a.m. the guns of Fort Sumter replied, the first shot being fired from the battery at the right gorge angle, in charge of Captain Doubleday. All the officers and soldiers of Major Anderson’s command were divided into three reliefs, of two hours each, for the service of the guns, Lieutenants Snyder and Meade, of the Engineers, taking their turns with the other officers in the charge of batteries.
Of the forty-three workmen constituting the Engineer force in the fort nearly all volunteered to serve as cannoneers, or to carry shot and cartridge to the guns.
The armament of the fort was as follows, viz.:
Barbette tier: Right flank, one 10-inch columbiad, four 8-inch columbiads, four 42-pounders. Right face, none. Left face, three 8-inch seacoast howitzers, one 32-pounder. Left flank, one 10-inch columbiad, two 8-inch columbiads, two 42-pounders. Gorge, one 8-inch sea-coast howitzer, two 32 pounders six 24-pounders. Total in barbette, 27 guns.
Casemate tier: Right flank, one 42-pounder, four 32-pounders. Right face, three 42-pounders. Left face, ten 32-pounders. Left flank, five 32-pounders. Gorge, two 32-pounders. Total in casemate, 21 guns. Total available in both tiers, 48 guns.
Besides the above, there were arranged on the parade, to serve mortars, one 10-inch columbiad to throw shells into Charleston and four 8-inch columbiads to throw shells into the batteries on Cummings Point. The casemate guns were the only ones used. Of these, those that bore on Cummings Point were the 42-pounder in the pan-coupé of the right gorge angle, the 32-pounder next to it on the gorge, which, by cutting into the brick wall, had been made to traverse sufficiently, and the 32-pounder next the angle on the right flank, which, by cutting away the side of the embrasure, had been made to bear on a portion of the Point, although not on the breaching batteries.
The guns of the first tier, that bore on Fort Johnson, were four 32-pounders on the left flank. (Of these, one embrasure had been, by order, bricked up.)
The guns that bore on the three batteries on the west end of Sullivan’s Island were ten 32-pounders, situated on the left face, and one at the pan-coupé of the salient angle (four embrasures being bricked up).
The guns bearing on Fort Moultrie were two 42-pounders, situated on the right face, and one at the pan-coupé of the right shoulder angle.
The supply of cartridges, 700 in number, with which the engagement commenced, became so much reduced by the middle of the day, although the six needles in the fort were kept steadily employed, that the firing was forced to slacken, and to be confined to six guns–two firing towards Morris Island, two towards Fort Moultrie, and two towards the batteries on the west end of Sullivan’s Island.
At 1 o’clock two United States men-of-war were seen off the bar, and soon after a third appeared.
The fire of our batteries continued steadily until dark. The effect of the fire was not very good, owing to the insufficient caliber of the guns for the long range, and not much damage appeared to be done to any of the batteries, except those of Fort Moultrie, where our two pounders appeared to have silenced one gun for a time, to have injured the embrasures considerably, riddled the barracks and quarters, and torn three holes through their flag. The so-called floating battery was struck very frequently by our shot, one of them penetrating at the angle between the front and roof, entirely trough the iron covering and woodwork beneath, and wounding one man. The rest of the 32-pounder balls failed to penetrate the front or the roof, but were deflected from their surfaces, which were arranged at a suitable angle for this purpose. We could not strike below the water line on account of the sea wall behind which the battery had been grounded, and which was just high enough to allow their guns to fire over it, and to intercept all of our ricochet shots.
The columbiad battery and Dahlgren battery near the floating battery did not appear to be much injured by the few shot that were fired at them. Only one or two shots were fired at Fort Johnson, and none at Castle Pinckney or the city.
Our fire towards Morris Island was mainly directed at the iron-clad battery, but the small caliber of our shot failed to penetrate the covering, when struck fairly. The aim was therefore, taken at the embrasures, which were struck at least twice, disabling the guns for a time. One or two shots were thrown at the reverse of batteries 3 and 4, scattering some groups of officers and men on the lookout, and cutting down a small flagstaff on one of the batteries. At one time during the day a revenue schooner which had been seized by the insurgents was observed lying at anchor between Sullivan’s Island and Mount Pleasant. Lieutenant Snyder, Corps of Engineers, who had charge at this time of the battery firing in this direction, directed two or three shots at her with such effect as to put one of them through the vessel and cause her to haul down her colors, the flag of the so-called Confederate States, to hoist her anchor and sails, and get out of range as soon as possible.
One or two shots were thrown at the hulks which had been anchored in the channel on a line between Cummings Point and Fort Moultrie, to be fired at night if our fleet should attempt to come in. As no person appeared on board, the fire was not continued in this direction.
The barracks caught fire three times during the day, from shells, apparently, but each time the flames, being in the first or second stories, were extinguished by a pump and application of the means at hand. Peter Hart, who was formerly a sergeant in Major Anderson’s company, and employed by me at the time as a carpenter, was very active and efficient in extinguishing the flames.
The effect of the enemy’s fire upon Fort Sumter during the day was very marked in respect to the vertical fire. This was so well directed and so well sustained, that from the seventeen mortars engaged in firing 10-inch shells, one-half of the shells came within or exploded above the parapet of the fort, and only about ten buried themselves in the soft earth of the parade without exploding. In consequence of this precision of vertical fire, Major Anderson decided not to man the upper tier of guns, as by doing so the loss of men, notwithstanding the traverses and bomb-proof shelters that I had constructed, must have been great. These guns were therefore only fired once or twice by some men who ventured upon the parapet for this purpose. In doing this they managed without much care, producing little or no effect upon the enemy, besides doing injury to the guns. At the third fire of the 10-inch columbiad at the right gorge angle, it was omitted to throw the friction wheels out of bearing and consequently in the recoil the gun ran entirely off its chassis, overturning itself and in its fall dismounting the 8-inch sea-coast howitzer next to it.
The direction of the enemy’s shells being from the northeast, north, southwest, and southeast, sought every part of the work, and the fuses being well graduated, exploded in most instances just within the line of parapet. To this kind of fire no return was made. The four 8-inch columbiads that I had planted in the parade to be used as mortars on Cummings Point were not used, neither was the 10-inch columbiad, arranged to fire shot and shells towards the city. The hot-shot furnaces were not used nor opened. The effect of the direct fire from the enemy’s guns was not so marked as the vertical. For several hours firing from the commencement a large proportion of their shot missed the fort. Subsequently it improved, and did considerable damage to the roof and upper story of the barracks and quarters, and to the tops of the chimneys on the gorge. The aim of the guns during the day, with the exception of batteries Nos. 1 and 2, on Cummings Point, appeared to be directed to dismount the guns of our barbette tier. Those from Fort Moultrie succeeded in dismounting an 8-inch columbiad, and in striking on its side and cracking a second 8-inch columbiad, both situated on the right flank. The roof of the barracks on this flank and the stair towers were much damaged by this fire.
The shots from the guns in the batteries on the west end of Sullivan’s Island did not produce any considerable direct effect, but many of them took the gorge in reverse in their fall, completely riddling the officers’ quarters, even down to the first story, so great was the angle of fall of many of the balls.
Three of the iron cisterns over the hallways were destroyed by shots during the day, and the quarters below deluged by their contents of water, aiding in preventing the extension of the fire. The shots from these batteries and from Fort Moultrie, aimed at the embrasures, failed to produce any effect. None of the shot came through, although one shell exploded in the mouth of one embrasure.
A part of the guns from Cummings Point essayed to dismount the barbette tier on the gorge, and the remainder to breach the gorge, or rather the pan-coupé at the right gorge angle. At this latter point, two columbiads and a Blakely rifled gun fired almost constantly. The effect of this fire on this day was to breach around the embrasure of the first tier at the pan-coupé to a depth of twenty inches, and to put one shot through the filling, consisting of brick and bluestone combined, with which the embrasure opening of the second tier had been filled. One shot was also put through the top of a loophole window on the second tier, another through the top of the main gate, and a third through the magazine ventilator at the right of the gorge, falling between the pier and the inner wooden ceiling.
Three of the embrasure cheek-irons that I had placed in the second tier loopholes, were knocked out of place. Several of the stones that had been placed in the first tier loopholes were struck, but owing to the lead run in around them to hold them in place none were broken.
The penetration of the 8-inch columbiad balls from Cummings Point was eleven inches at the first shot–and that of the twelve-pound bolt from the Blakely gun was the same, as ascertained by measurement. The latter, however, threw its shot with greater accuracy, and with less time of flight, than the former. The distance was about 1,250 yards.
The shot from Cummings Point that passed a little over the gorge took the left face in reverse, damaging the masonry of the parade wall, coping, &c., and splintering the chassis of one gun in barbette. As an instance of strength of masonry, I may mention that one 10-inch shell from Cummings Point fell upon the second tier casemate arch, which was not covered by concrete or flagging, and so good was the masonry of this 15-inch arch that the shell did not go through, although it bedded itself, and broke off from the soffit below a large fragment of brickwork.
The night was very stormy, with high wind and tide. I found out, however by personal inspection, that the exterior of the work was not damaged to any considerable extent, and that all the facilities for taking in supplies in case they arrived, were as complete as circumstances would admit. The enemy threw shells every ten or fifteen minutes during the night. The making of cartridge bags was continued by the men, under Lieutenant Meade’s directions, until 12 o’clock, when they were ordered to stop by Major Anderson. To obtain materials for the bags all the extra clothing of the companies was cut up, and all coarse paper and extra hospital sheets used.
MONTGOMERY, April 12, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
What was Major Anderson’s reply to the proposition contained in my dispatch of last night!
L. P. WALKER.
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CHARLESTON, S. C., April 12, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
He would not consent. I write to-day.
G T. BEAUREGARD
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HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, 8. C., April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit the inclosed copy of a correspondence with Major Anderson, in consequence of which our fire was opened upon Fort Sumter at 4.30 o’clock this morning, as already communicated to you by telegraph. The pilots reported to me last evening that a steamer, supposed to be the Harriet Lane, had appeared off the harbor. She approached slowly, and was lying off the main entrance, some ten or twelve miles, when the pilot came in.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G.T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
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CHARLESTON, April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Heavy firing all day. Several guns dismounted in Sumter. Our batteries all safe. Nobody hurt. Four steamers off the bar. The sea pretty rough.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
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HDQRS. FIRST REGIMENT SOUTH CAROLINA VOLS.,
April 12, 1861—12 noon
Maj. W. H. C. WHITING,
Acting Adjutant and Insp. Gen., Morris Island, S. C.:
MAJOR: It is reported from the lookout on the lighthouse that three steamers are in sight off the bar. One is supposed by the light-house keeper to be the Harriet Lane. This one is in sight from the hill at my camp, and appears different in its build and rig from a merchant steamer. A heavy gun was fired a short time since at sea, probably from this steamer.
I have the honor to be., very respectfully, your obedient servant,
MAXCY GREGG,
Colonel First Regiment South Carolina Volunteers.
P. S.–The steamer referred to is also reported to have approached the merchant steamer which was off the bar, and has now gone southward.
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APRIL 12, 1861–afternoon.
The Pawnee, Harriet Lane (certain), and the Baltic (conjectured, from my knowledge of her build) are at anchor close at the North Channel; Illinois (conjectured)at anchor at the main bar. The wind and sea strong from the southeast; heavy surf. Troops are posted for the night. As many more as you can send will be welcome, No casualties whatever. Troops in good spirits. With your re-enforcements send, if possible, crackers and dried beef, or other provisions, in their haver-sacks. Shells still fire badly, owing to fuses prematurely bursting. The ships may try to send boats in. Already guns are trained and ranged for night firing on the landing. It is doubtful if the ships will try it. They may. If they run past they will have to go to the city. Men fire deliberately.
By order of General Simons:
W. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
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FORT PALMETTO, STONO INLET, S.C., April 12, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD:
GENERAL: I have the honor to call your attention to the force at this point. From the accounts received from abroad, large military preparations seem to have been made against us. A vigorous diversion of their force may be made at this point, and as your attention is much occupied by the large preparations in Charleston Harbor, I take the liberty of bringing our force here to your notice, that you may increase it if the same is, in your opinion, expedient. We have been occupied all day strengthening our fortifications by the use of sand bags. With some laborers here, the main fortifications could be made much stronger against assault. The work is of such a character that it can only be done by those who are accustomed to this sort of labor.
I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
J. J. POPE,
JR., Captain of Light Artillery, Commander of the Post.
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CHARLESTON HOTEL, Charleston, S.C., April 12, 1861.
Brigadier General BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Provisional Forces, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: You were pleased to say, in your letter of yesterday, to Governor Pickens, in reference to my tender of services: “So soon as a sufficient force shall have been collected on Morris Island or elsewhere to form two brigades thereat, I shall be most happy to accept his [my] proffered services.” There being now on Morris Island the two regiments belonging to General Simons’ brigade, Colonel Gregg’s regiment of volunteers, and Colonel Kershaw’s regiment, also the whole or a part of Colonel Hagood’s regiment (both of my division), making as large or a larger number of my division proper than of General Simons’ command proper, I submit that the state of things contemplated in your letter has arisen, and respectfully ask to be assigned immediately to that command.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. L. BONHAM,
Major-General Division, South Carolina Volunteers.
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HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
April 12, 1861.
DEAR GENERAL: The display at Light-house Inlet, perhaps, is a feint, and if so, they intend to re-enforce, as you say, through Bull’s Bay and Sullivan’s Island Inlet; but I think there is danger at Stono, and of coming up in the rear of the city by the Long Bridge. The regiment, stationed at the race-course, is in good position, but they ought to have pickets out, so as to be in hearing of Stono, so as to report immediately to the colonel of the regiment if any attack is made. If they come through Sullivan’s Island Inlet or Creek, then Castle Pinckney might play her guns as they turn around to Sumter.
Respectfully,
F. W. PICKENS.
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HEADQUARTERS, April 12, 1861.
DEAR GENERAL: Plan of battle just determined on at Gregg’s quarters. Whiting, Huger, Gregg, Trapier, and Simons all agree that we greatly need infantry, to defend the batteries from assault. Four large steamers are plainly in view, and standing off the bar all day. Unanimous opinion that a landing will be attempted, and fears that some of the batteries will be taken, unless supported. Have made the best distribution of the troops we have, but need every man you can send. Should you not be here personally to direct! Such is the general opinion. I send this by order of Simons, who is at Gregg’s, and left me here to write, and send without delay.
Very respectfully,
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
P. S.–We have no glass here, and have to rely entirely upon the eye to examine steamers. Four plainly in sight, and another vessel out a short distance. Fight expected to-night.
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HDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., April 12, 1861.
Lieutenant-Colonel DE SAUSSURE, Morris Island, S. C.:
SIR: In order to economize our mortar ammunition, I desire that at or after 12 m. this day you should double the interval between the firing of the shells; that is, four minutes instead of two during the day, and twenty minutes instead of ten during the night. The action of your mortar batteries in that respect will guide the others elsewhere. Be careful, also, not to fire too fast at your other batteries, and to call in time for additional ammunition when required.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
—–
HDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S.C., April 12, 1861.
Maj. W. H. C. WHITING,
Assistant Adjutant-General, &c., Morris Island, S.C.:
MAJOR: Your note is received. Firing, I hope, will soon be better. To save ammunition of mortars, the time between each shell thrown should be doubled by day and by night–that is, four minutes instead of two for the first, and twenty minutes instead of ten for the last. I have written to Colonel De Saussure to that effect. This change should take place after 12 m. this day. The batteries elsewhere will follow those of Cummings Point. Great care should be taken at the other batteries (gun) not to fire too fast or uselessly, and timely calls for ammunition should be made. I have requested Colonel Wigfall to lend his assistance to General Simons as a volunteer aid. Be careful to strengthen the force protecting the batteries on south end of Morris Island, for if a landing is made it will be done there, probably. How would it do to send General Bonham to command from about the lighthouse down to Light-house Inlet? I am trying to dispatch to that locality as many new arrivals as possible. They will do very well for those hills.
Yours, truly,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS STEAMSHIP ATLANTIC,
Off Key West, April 12, 1861.
Lieut. Col. E. D. KEYES,
Secretary to General-in-Chief, Washington, D.C.:
COLONEL: In obedience to the special instructions of the General-in-Chief, I proceeded to New York on the 2d, and arrived there on the morning of the 3d instant, and was engaged until Saturday, the 6th, in preparing for this expedition. On the afternoon of that day Barry’s battery (Company A, Second Artillery), Hunt’s company (M, Second Artillery), Duane’s company of Sappers and Miners, and Companies C and E (Johns’ and Clitz’s), Third Infantry, and twenty Engineer carpenters were embarked on board the steamship Atlantic, Captain Gray. We hauled out in the stream at dark, but continued to take in cargo through the night, and on Sunday morning at 3½ weighed anchor and went to sea. On Tuesday and Wednesday we had a heavy gale, dead ahead, the horses of the battery suffering very much from the heavy sea, the wet, and the cold, and were preserved only by the substantial excellence of our ship and the vigilant care of the officers. Only two died during the gale, and the rest are doing well. My command are all healthy and in good spirits.
I have directed Lieutenant Balch, ordnance officer, to make on the proper offices requisitions for various articles which were not to be procured at our departure. I respectfully urge that they be sent immediately.
I ordered the purchase of two 6-pounder rifled guns, which are said to be at Fort Columbus, and that a 42-pounder rifled gun, also at that post, be sent, with all the necessary implements and projectiles, by the first vessel. I have also directed Lieutenant Balch to make a special estimate of guns for Fort Jefferson, which may be of vital importance, and which should be furnished without delay.
I would respectfully and earnestly urge that six 42-pounder rifled guns, with implements complete, and one thousand rounds of ammunition to each gun, as specified in the requisition of Lieutenant Balch, be immediately prepared and sent by steamer to Fort Pickens. Their value will be inestimable. With them we shall be able to act, if need be, with great efficiency against Fort McRee, Barrancas, and the navy-yard, and place our opponents from an offensive to a defensive position. I earnestly solicit the approbation of the General-in-Chief on this subject, and that the guns may be prepared and sent by steam without a moment’s delay. James’ apparatus for rifling guns is at Fort Columbus, and the guns, if diligence be exercised, may be prepared for shipment in a week.
We go into Key West for two or three hours on important duty enjoined by the General-in-Chief, and from thence to Fort Jefferson for some indispensable articles, where we shall be delayed only a short time, and shall then proceed to our destination.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HARVEY BROWN,
Colonel, Commanding.
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