21 July 1864: “on my arrival here I found about 30 Reb scouts who left in a Hurry – on our approach.”

Item Description:  Letter dated 21 July 1864 written by William H. Powell to Brigadier General William W. Averell.  William H. Powell served as a colonel in the 2nd West Virginia Cavalry Regiment. He commanded a brigade of cavalry as part of General David Hunter’s campaign through the Shenandoah Valley in pursuit of Confederate general Jubal Early.  This letter gives an account of Confederate movements during the pursuit of General Early.21July1864Item Citation:  Letter dated 21 July 1864, in the William H. Powell Letters #5419-z, Southern Historical Collection, The Wilson Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Item Transcription:

Stephenburg W. Va. July 21/64
7:30 P.M.

Dear Genl

I have just arrived and sent out all the parties on the different roads as per your instructions. The balance are with me here. on my arrival here I found about 30 Reb scouts who left in a Hurry – on our approach. I can learn nothing definite as to the real force of the Enemy – I have I have heard that Genl Early’s main force has retreated towards Front Royal and that the force you trashed so effectually yesterday have gone to Strausburg. I will have something more definite on the return of the parties now out. I will keep wide awake tonight. You can rest easy. Will keep you advised during the night –

My command including artillery are out of Rations

Your Obdt serv

W.H. Powell
Col cvry Brig

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