NA, SWR 12/12/1861

Martinsburg
Decbr 12, 1861
 
Maj Genl Jackson
Comding Army Valley
 
   In answer to your order, I have to submit the following report of property still in Harper's Ferry (which would be useful to the service) and to practicability of its removal.
   Enclosed find Capt Sharp's (Qr Master's Dep'mt) report of property already removed comprising mat. sent to Richmond as well as that on store in Winchester.
   The Engine & Cars spoken of in the communication of Col Gorgas, and all the property likely to be useful in Richmond, that was in or about the Gov'mt Works, known as Hall's R. Factory, The Foundry at Shenandoah City and the Block House on London Heights have been removed.
   The property remaining consists in Rolling Mill & its attachments in the ruins of the Musket Factory on the Potomac.
   To remove this property would require a force of 100 men & as many horses for 2 or 3 days & the location is in full range of small arms & cannon situated upon the Maryland side of the Potomac. The knowledge of this fact has thus far prevented me from having said machinery removed.
   If my information is correct in regard to the time & number of men necessary to effect this object I am satisfied no attempt would entail great sacrifice of life, unless a sufficient force of troops was thrown across the Potomac to hold the Maryland Heights until the work was accomplished.
   Such a step I would not advise as it would ??ay and a general engagement upon unfavorable ground as Gen'l Banks is now in Frederick City, distant about 18 miles from H Ferry by turnpike, & about 22 by rail.
   I have appreciated the importance of securing property for the Government & have spared no pains in doing so, but in regard to that in the Musket factory, I did not consider myself justified in sacrificing the number of lives that would be necessary to accomplish under present circumstances.
Respectfully
Turner Ashby
LtCol Cavalry

Home