| War Department |
| Engineer Bureau |
|
Richmond Va Oct 18th 1862
|
| |
| Capt Geo E. Walker |
| Provisional Engineers |
|
Charleston S. C.
|
| |
| Capt, |
| Herewith I transmit extract from special
orders No 243 Adjt & Inspt. office current series, directing you
to examine and report upon the defences of the Alabama River, especially
in the vicinity of Mobile. It is desired that your examinations and
report should embrace all the work designed to defend the Harbor of
Mobile and other approaches to that city. |
| You will give special attention to the
floating defences which have been constructed in whole or in part,
whether for use in the Harbor or River; also to the obstructions in
the channels. |
| You will inspect and report the condition
of all batteries whether finished or under construction -- the number
& character of guns proposed for their armaments; the guns on hand
& the additions required; the condition of the platforms on which
the guns are mounted; the extent of bomb proof shelter provided; the
state of the magazines as to dryness and power to resist shot; the
thickness of parapets and other points essential to efficiency. |
| You will, for the performance of the duty
now assigned to you proceed at once to Mobile and forward your report
to this Bureau at the earliest day possible. |
| I am Sir, |
| Very Respectfully |
| Your Obdt Servt |
| J. F. Gilmer |
| Col & Chief of Bureau |