| Engineer Bureau |
| Richmond, May 20th, 1864 |
| |
| Capt. R. H. Fitzhugh |
| Eng Corps, Richmond Va |
| |
| Captain, |
| You will proceed without delay to the
following R. R. Bridges in succession & locate & construct
defensive works to protect them against the raids of the enemy.
Richmond & Danville R. R. Appomattox Bridge, Flat Creek Bridge,
Stanton River Bridge. South Side R. R. high bridge over the Appomattox
each of these bridges should be protected by an excellent work or
works capable of being defended by a garrison of from 300 to 1000
men, according to their importance. They should be of such profile as
to render an escalade difficult & to give confidence to the
defenders. You are authorized to call upon the resources now summoned
by Genl Kemper to aid in the construction either directly or by
furnishing negro hands as substitutes. A further appeal to the
citizens of the neighboring counties for aid should be made. Report
progress & call upon this Bureau for aid or instruction when
needed. |
| Lt. Gles?? Engr & Mr. Hewitt
Nordendroff will act as your assistants. |
| Very Resp'y |
| A. L. Rives |
| Col &c &c |
|