My previous post recounts the events that led up to the Battle of Smithfield. The situation at dawn on February 1, 1864: Captain Lee and his men were trapped in Smithfield. They were positioned at the end of main street near Pagan Creek, hoping a gunboat would arrive soon to support them. Their hopes were… Continue reading Duel Down Main Street: The Battle of Smithfield (part 2)
Tag: 31st North Carolina
Duel Down Main Street: The Battle of Smithfield (part 1)
Smithfield, Virginia is in the southeastern part of the state across the James River from Newport News. The town is famous for its smoked hams, processed there since the late 1700’s. Smithfield was also the site of a small but sharp engagement fought on the town’s Main Street during the Civil War. The Battle of… Continue reading Duel Down Main Street: The Battle of Smithfield (part 1)
General Clingman’s Report to Governor Vance on Operations in Charleston
Transcript of report written by General Clingman for Governor Vance on August 4, 1863. The report appears to be a draft because of the numerous mark-throughs. [?] indicates an illegible word. Source: Clingman Papers, Folder 13, scans 3 to 15. Sullivans Island Aug 4 1863 Sir In accordance with your wishes I proceed to give… Continue reading General Clingman’s Report to Governor Vance on Operations in Charleston
The “Rations Row” of November 25, 1864
On the morning of November 25, 1864, the 31st North Carolina’s commissary sergeant drew rations for his regiment’s 295 men. Each man was allowed a pound of flour and 1/3 pound of meat per day. But this particular day, the meat “was in a very filthy condition being covered with dirt and ashes.” The regiment’s… Continue reading The “Rations Row” of November 25, 1864