NA, GWL 7/25/1863

Atlanta
July 25th 1863
 
To Hon James A Seddon Sety of War
Richmond, Va.
 
Dr Sir,
   As Railroad Stock and Tracks have become much dilapidated and run down owing to the impossibility to procure the necessary materials for repairing them, and as they are frequently subjected to Military interference by inexperienced Officers of Government, and as all Railroads are now in immanent danger of the Raids of the Enemy whose object it is to tear up the Tracks, burn the Bridges &c &c, we think it therefore highly important that the Government should appoint or Commission an officer of Railroad experience to exercise a controlling power to protect and aid Railroad officers in preventing any unnecessary Military interference with the Roads, Rolling Stock or Motive Power, also to use all Military force within reach to assist in making prompt repairs of all damages that may originate from the incursions of the Enemy.
   An officer of this description and character, with authority as above described could render much valuable service to the Roads in Georgia, and knowing as we do the great necessity for such an Officer we beg leave to urge its importance upon the consideration of the Government, and at the same time we most respectfully recommend for the position A. A. Genl G. W. Lee, now filling the office of Commander & Provost Marshall of this Post.
   Having had a strong acquaintance with Maj Lee, and knowing his capacity and experience in Railroad matters, we desire to secure his services in this capacity. He has had several years official experiences in the Georgia Roads, and is well qualified to discharge the duties of such a position Satisfactory to all concerned. He would understand that we do not desire Military Control or interference by inexperienced officials, but military aid to repair any and all damages (whenever such assistance should be deemed necessary) that may occur to the Railroad Bridges and Tracks from the Enemy raids.
   We learn that Maj Lee will accept the position and since there are doubtless many persons with sufficient qualification for discharging the duties of Commander of this Post, and but few whose experience and qualifications would suite them for this position as mentioned in the forgoing part of this Communication we earnestly hope that our suggestion and recommendation may meet your approval.
Very Respectfully
We are
Your obt Sts
John S. Rowland Supt. W&A RRoad {Western & Atlantic RR}
G. B. Walker M. T. {Master of Transportation} W&A RRoad
Jno P. King Pst of the Geo RRd and of the Atlanta & WPT RRd {Georgia RR and Atlanta & West Point RR}
Geo. G. Hull Supt. A. & W. Pt. R. R.
 
Prompt action in this matter is highly desirable & will be gratifying to all parties.
E. B. Walker MT W&A RRd
 
{On reverse side of the letter}
W. D. 1667
E. B. Walker & other RRd officers
Atlanta, Ga.
July 25/63
Misc
   Recommending the appt of an officer of Rail road experience to prevent unnecessary military interference with the Roads, Rolling stock &c &c and G. W. Lee recommended.
   The Secy of War
   The persons signing this paper manage the different roads that meet at Atlanta. The recommendation is entitled to great weight. 
Rcd. July 29/63 
Ansd July 31/63
 
   Such an Worely as is asked could not again think Company Major Lee almost: Constantly in Atlanta suttr the E?? in the Field -- es praintly Genl Bragg.
   A Rail R Superintendent of Govt Transportation already exists in Maj Sims who is believed to be active & efficient. Similar poss is to a?? ??? and confusion.
{The two paragraphs above are very hard to read, but the meaning of the second one is clear.}
JAS  Sy
July 30th '63

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