From the Jacksonville (Ala.) Republican |
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July 30, 1864 |
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Damage to the Montgomery & West Point Railroad |
Since the raiders left the Montgomery &
West Point Railroad, the amount of damage to it has been ascertained. We
learn that it is not materially injured until at a point commencing 2
1/2 miles above Notasulga and thence to Opelika. One mile on the branch
road to Columbus from Opelika and a mile from Opelika towards West Point
were destroyed. The track was damaged but not so badly but that ninety
per cent of it can be used again. It was the flat bar that was placed in
a condition not to admit of use again, and unfortunately this kind of
iron was on that part of the track which received the special attention
of the raiders. |
Unless the people of this section will
come forward and lend assistance to the company or the Government steps
in and assists, the company may not be able to repair the damage and put
the road in working order before the 1st September. The importance of
this railroad in a military point of view, it seems would direct the
attention, energies and resources of the Government to the complete
repair at the earliest practicable day. Doubtless the authorities at
Richmond will take hold of this matter as soon as advised, and place all
the force necessary at once upon the road. Doubtless too, the people
here and along the line of the road will imitate the example of Maj. J.
L. Calhoun, whose letter we published yesterday tendering four hands,
and a wagon and team with rations to the company. Its speedy repair is a
public and military necessity, and we hope to se it completed by the
first week of next month. |
The depots and Government property at
Loachapoka, Auburn and Opelika were destroyed a well as Camp Watts near
Notasulga. The long and important bridge at Chehaw was saved by the
troops who were sent up the road at 2 A. M. Monday, and who had the
engagements with the enemy. |
Montgomery Advertiser |
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