| From the Augusta Constitutionalist |
| |
| December 23, 1864 |
| |
| Augusta & Milledgeville Railroad {the
Milledgeville RR} |
| |
| Messers. Editors, |
| The enclosed letter contains
suggestions which should be published in order to reach more rapidly
the ears of those who can act in the premises. The Augusta &
Milledgeville road is the most direct to Macon, whence pass the
supplies from South-western Georgia: and it is probable that it can be
constructed earlier than the necessary repairs could be made on the
Central Road from Millen to Macon, while it would be safer from Yankee
raids. |
| M. |
| |
| My Dear Sir, |
| Some knowledge of the wants of
the people of Virginia, and recent observation of the abundant
supplies in South-western Georgia and Alabama, have led me lately to
reflect closely upon the quickest and most practicable method of
restoring communication with those sections. The result of my
reflection, I am tempted by the possibility of being of service, to
submit for your consideration. |
| The line of communication I
propose is the Milledgeville Railroad. |
| The iron on this road is laid
from Warrenton to Mayfield. The road bed from Mayfield to
Milledgeville is graded -- except a small quantity of rock near
Culverton, in Hancock county. This rock, Capt. Geo. P. Hazelhurst,
(now in the Confederate service, and stationed at Columbus,) long
since informed me, will prove no obstacle, as it does not increase the
grade so much as to prevent running over it. |
| The distance from Mayfield to
Milledgeville is 36 miles. |
| The length of the Washington
Branch of the Georgia Railroad is 18 miles. |
| The length of the line of road
from Milledgeville to Eatonton {on the Central
(of Georgia) RR} is 21 miles. |
| Total, 39 miles. |
| These two portions of roads,
now comparatively useless, will furnish iron and superstructure; and
further, will facilitate progress by permitting track laying to
commence at both ends. |
| There would remain, then, the
single obstruction of bridging the Oconee at Milledgeville; and this
can be easily overcome by building crib piers, to serve until a more
permanent structure can be erected. |
| It strikes me that a force of
five hundred hands -- three hundred at Milledgeville, and two hundred
at the Mayfield end -- would complete the work in a very short time. |
| Very Truly Yours, |
| *** |