July 11th. Called up early this morning. Orders to march. Left Back Creek. After a slow march of about seven miles we came to Martinsburg. We call this our home town, having served in this section of the Shenandoah Valley for two years. Marched through the town, meeting a few old friends. Camped on the south side, near the Winchester Pike. The enemy left town early this morning. Our knapsacks, with extra clothing, left here when we began our march up the valley in May, were taken by the rebs, so we lost our clothing that we expected to find here on our return. On picket. Strict orders for tonight, as the enemy is reported a short distance south. Keep a sharp lookout.
Civil War Diary of Charles H. Lynch.
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