Sumter Provocation

[Battalion]

I never said Davis was right in what he did. I was just trying to balance out the Lincoln Lovefest. My point is that Lincoln provoked the firing and he knew what he was doing when he did it....

Absolutely.

Attempting to portray Lincoln as innocent is ridiculous.

 

[Dred]

Nobody on this thread ever said "North good, South bad". people that are in love with the south assume that any attack on there beloved land has to mean that they believe the north was pure as the new fallen snow. It just isn't so. And nobody here has ever claimed such.

 

[wilber6150]

I never said Davis was right in what he did. I was just trying to balance out the Lincoln Lovefest. My point is that Lincoln provoked the firing and he knew what he was doing when he did it. Firing on the fort was not a good idea. But fighting was inevitable by that point in my opinion and Lincoln and Davis probably both knew it. If you disagree that is fine but the constant North good, South bad attitude on this forum gets old from time to time.

OpnCoronet,
What history books? All of them?

I don't think that the North is all good and South all bad, but in this particular moment in history, the Confederacy made the choice to do what it knew would bring on war.. But, all we ever seem to hear is how Lincoln, who must have been evil personified, who thru his cunning trickery caused innocent peace loving Rebels manning the artillary surrounding the fort to fire tons of shot and shell at it.. That gets old also....
Exactly, what would the Confederates had to lose if they let the supply ships land, and maybe bring the few rienforcements that might have been destined for the fort. They had it surrounded by thousands of men and numerious batteries.. They could have easily taken it even after it was supplied, they could have waited but didn't, and thouands of acers of American soil was stained by honorable blood..
Was war inevitable without Sumter? A lot of Northerners didn't care if the seceded states had left, and I haven't seen anything showing President Lincoln was planning war to bring the states back.. Lincoln might have tried peaceful ways to bring the country together, as saving the Union seemed to be his overriding purpose. I believe he would have tried many non-military methods to bring pressure upon them.. But we will never know, the shots were fired ;the Northern people lost all sympathy they had for the South, and Lincoln had the path chosen for him..

 

[Freddy]

That Federal property was in a South that was no longer part of the Union. That Federal property was on foriegn soil as far as the Davis administration was concerned. As for oaths, Lincoln also took an oath to uphold the Constitution. He didn't.

I do not really care what Jeff Davis felt about Fort Sumter and other Federal property. However, in 1869 SCOTUS ruled in Texas v. White that the 11 Southern states never left the Union in 1860-1865. Therefore, all Federal property in the South remained Federal property throughout the war. That SCOTUS decision legally proves Lincoln was right and that Davis was wrong.

 

[wilber6150]

If you don't think Lincoln had war fever like everybody else you're sticking your head in the sand. Lincoln was smart enough to know that avoiding war was inevitable and he successfully made the South throw the first punch.

/QUOTE]

What evidence is there that the President was caught up in war fever? Was he gathering up a large army, was he starting a draft? Did he blockade the ports ?I might be mistaken but I have never come across anything showing a major Northern build up for war before Sumter.. The South on the other hand....If he was hell bent on having a war, he didn't really do anything to get the country prepared for it, man or material wise..

ps can't find any sand so I guess I snow bank will have to do

 

[samgrant]

I'm new to this thread, and admit I have not read all the previous posts.

I will not address the most recent post concerning Lincoln and/or Davis, because at the beginnings of things concerning Fort Sumter, neither Lincoln nor Davis had no idea about what was going on in Charleston and Charleston Harbor.

I ask, who did the "Provocation" which is the title of this thread?

The fact of the matter is that less than a hundred officers and soldiers at the garrison at Ft. Moultrie in November, 1860, were peacefully (probably bored half to death) minding their duties at that Federal outpost, minding their own business when at the election of Abraham Lincoln, all hell broke loose in the minds of many South Carolinians as well as those of many in the Lower South.

At Charleston and all over South Carolina militias were called to action, politicians ranted, newspapers goaded, S.C. must secede!

And secede it did, and in the process, encouraged all to more and more ways in which to demonstrate its independence.

The Garrison at Charleston Harbor became a convenient target for their outrage at the result of the Lawful Constitutional fair presidential election.

Threats were made to the commander and garrison of Fort Multrie. They increased as November turned to December.

Finally, Major Robert Anderson, hoping to avoid imminent attack, transfered his command to the more defensible Fort Sumter, another federal fort.

Anderson held his guns when the "Star of the West" flying an American flag attempting to approach the fort on Jan. 9, 1861 was fired on. Anderson held his guns when a cannonball shot from Morris Island on March 8, aimed directly at the gates of Sumter fell short (this turned out to be an accident, as was subsequently apologized for), but Anderson' forbearance under these circumstances is admirable.

So now, just who were the "provocateurs" at Fort Sumter?

-

 

[K Hale]

Porter Alexander's take on it is that it was none other than Major Robert Anderson, his aggressive move being the transfer of the garrison from Moultrie to Sumter:

Fort Sumter was of no earthly or conceivable use to any state of the Union except South Carolina, or indeed to any other power on earth except to one having the design to conquer S.C. by arms. Anderson attempted to justify himself by saying he occupied Ft. S. because he feared S.C. might either take it herself or might attack him in Fort Moultrie. That is merely equivalent to saying that he struck the first blow for fear the other fellow would strike it. Such a fear may often be a sufficient reason, but it is adding insult to injury not to frankly admit the fact that the first blow has been struck by the first hostile act of aggression. ... If any one act can be said to have made war inevitable it was Anderson's.

Normally I agree with what Alexander says, but that's a stretch, IMO.

 

[Baggage Handler #2]

Porter Alexander's take on it is that it was none other than Major Robert Anderson, his aggressive move being the transfer of the garrison from Moultrie to Sumter:



Normally I agree with what Alexander says, but that's a stretch, IMO.

Yes, a stretch. To keep from stretching like that, I avoid picking my own mushrooms.

 

[K Hale]

Yeah, I... I can't call running away an act of aggression... I just can't. I kinda want to, but I can't.

And EPA is normally so sensible. Maybe he was smokin' something down there in Nicaragua.

 

[brass napoleon]

Yeah, I... I can't call running away an act of aggression... I just can't. I kinda want to, but I can't.

And EPA is normally so sensible. Maybe he was smokin' something down there in Nicaragua.

Interesting quote. Have to agree with you completely on that one. Whatever he was smoking, I could sure use some now. My driveway would shovel itself!

 

[OpnCoronet]

...And, as stated before, Davis had his own agenda completely different from that of Lincoln(some could say completely opposite). The status quo ante, suited Lincoln's agenda; a little blood to sprinkle in southern faces, was Davis'.




P.S. Does Savez have history books with different facts of the events concerning the firing on Ft. lSumter?

 

[M E Wolf]

Dear List Members;

Just wish to say that I am monitoring this thread. It started getting close to personal flaming of others here. I hope it never approaches that line again.

There have been many discussions as to whom started the American Civil War.

There have been documentations posted to show that the "Fire Eaters" and the secession movement started in the President J. Buchanan's Administration, to include the hostile take over of Federal Arsenals and theft of U.S. Government Property.

The election of President Lincoln just fanned the flames per se.

There has been posted documentation in previous threads about and on Ft. Sumter, that documented that the Fort was denied its mail, the mail was opened and a federal offense when the Postal Service was created--as to fall under "unreasonable search and seizures" as it was a Government agency and Franklin wished no person to be subjected to their mail being tampered with. So, that is another provocation by the civilian government itching to take over Ft. Sumter, headed by Beauregard.

I find it a well planned attack and overthrow of a Federal Fort - Fort Sumter. As it took place between the exchange of Presidential power between Buchanan and Lincoln. Congress was in recess--a point in time when government is in 2/3rd strength and if the US Surpreme Court was on the same vacation schedule, the Government would have been at 1/3rd strength -- that is the Executive Branch. So, being a state of emergency -- and one must remember travel was still by water, by horse or by foot --Congress could not have fully formed in time to respond. Therefore, it rested on Lincoln. Lincoln declared it a 'rebellion' and treated it as such. When Congress collected being called back, it was then treated as a "War."

The changing of a sitting Government is a rebellion. To begin it, a sequential series of events had to take place and trigger the right responses. As Jefferson Davis was at one time "Secretary of War," he knew exactly wich sequential series of acts initiated the act of War.

Did both sides have flaws -- Yes they did. Nobody is perfect.

Will there always be differences of opinions here on CWT -- yes there will be. But, let us all (in a general sense) have a peaceful and educational discussion no matter how passionate.

Respectfully submitted for consideration,
M. E. Wolf
Portions in this color is written in the capacity of a Moderator

 

[Scribe]

...And, as stated before, Davis had his own agenda completely different from that of Lincoln(some could say completely opposite). The status quo ante, suited Lincoln's agenda; a little blood to sprinkle in southern faces, was Davis'.

Davis was following the advice he was getting from such men as Congressman Roger Pryor of Virginia who told a crowd in Charleston, S.C., on April 10, 1861, "I will tell you gentlemen, what will put her [Virginia] in the Southern Confederation in less than an hour by Shrewsbury clock -- strike a blow! The very moment that blood is shed, old Virginia will make common cause with her sisters of the South."

 

[OpnCoronet]

In Fact, because the status quo, fit Lincoln's agenda, while, attacking Ft. Sumter fit Davis', therefore, the attack was the responsibility of the csa and its chief executive9 whose agenda most benefited from such an attack).

 

[M E Wolf]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME 1 [S# 1] CHAPTER I.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.,(*)--#1
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Charleston, December 28, 1860.
Hon. D. F. JAMISON, President of the Convention :
SIR: As the Convention sent for me yesterday, to be informed upon important business, I take the occasion to say that, under my order, Castle Pinckney was taken last evening, and the United States flag hauled down and the Palmetto banner run up in its place. And I also ordered a detachment from an artillery regiment to occupy Sullivan's Island; and if it could be done without any immediate danger from mines, or too great loss of life, to take Fort Moultrie and to run up the Palmetto flag, and put the guns in immediate preparation for defense. I have now full possession of those two forts. I considered the evacuation of Fort Moultrie, under all the circumstances, a direct violation of the distinct understanding between the authorities of the Government at Washington and those who were authorized to act on the part of the State, and bringing on a state of war.
I therefore thought it due to the safety of the State that I should take the steps I have. I hope there is no immediate danger of further aggression for the present.
Respectfully,
F. W. PICKENS.
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[WASHINGTON], January 2, 1861.
Hon. M. L. BONHAM, Charleston, S.C.:
Holt succeeds Floyd. It means war. Cut off supplies from Anderson and take Sumter soon as possible.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, January 4, 1861.
A. N. KIMBALL, Jackson, Miss.:
No troops have been sent to Charleston nor will be while I am a member of the Cabinet.
J. THOMPSON.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[JANUARY 26, 1861.] Saturday--8 o'clock a.m.
Hon. JOHN ROBERTSON,
Commissioner from Virginia, Charleston:
President's reply: "Brooklyn not for South Carolina. On errand of mercy and relief."
JOHN TYLER.
-----
WASHINGTON, Tuesday morning, January 8, 1861.
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS,
Governor of South Carolina, Charleston, S.C.:
The Star of the West sailed from New York on Sunday with Government troops and provisions. It is said her destination is Charleston. If so, she may be hourly expected off the harbor of Charleston.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
----
[FEBRUARY 2, 1861.]
Governor PICKENS, Charleston, S.C.:
Communication made to President last evening. It elaborates the matter contained in instructions, and incloses the original demand. Cabinet meets to-day. I shall leave on Monday evening.
The president, I think, will refer everything to Congress, and make his reply in his message. Letter from Barron received. Ingraham's resignation will go in to-day.
I. W. HAYNE.
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FEBRUARY 7, 1861.
Judge J. ROBERTSON, Montgomery, Ala.:
Hayne has returned. Prevent, if possible, collision. It is of great importance to results here.
J. TYLER.
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[FEBRUARY 7, 1861.]
Governor PICKENS, Charleston, S.C.:
Can my voice reach you? If so, do not attack Fort Sumter. You know my sincerity. The Virginia delegation here earnestly unite.
JOHN TYLER.
-----
[WASHINGTON], Saturday, February 9, 1861.
Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Charleston, S.C.:
The President says the letter to Colonel Hayne was designed to be both respectful and kind; that he read it, so considered it, and if it seemed otherwise he deeply regrets it.
The President desired me to say this to you. He complained much of Colonel Hayne's last letter', as Mr. Holt in his letter had no unkind intention, but the contrary. He manifested great solicitude on this point.
Will you give me an assurance that no attack will be made on Fort Sumter by South Carolina, provided the President will give a like assurance and pledge that no re-enforcement shall be furnished or attempted by the Government here?
JOHN TYLER.
* * * * * *
FEBRUARY 12, 1861. No. 5.--A RESOLUTION in relation to the occupation of the forts and arsenals, &c.
Resolved by the Congress of the Confederate States of America, That this Government takes under its charge the questions and difficulties now existing between the several States of this Confederacy and the Government of the United States of America, relating to the occupation of forts, arsenals, navy-yards, and other public establishments; and that the President of the Congress be directed to communicate this resolution to the several States of this Confederacy, through the respective governors thereof.
Adopted February 12, 1861.
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February 13, 1861.
Hon. HOWELL COBB,
President of the Provisional Congress:
SIR: I had the honor last night to acknowledge the receipt of your telegram, in which you informed me that the Provisional Congress had taken charge of the "questions and difficulties" now existing between the several States of the Confederacy and the Government of the United States.(*) In the reply made to you by telegraph I stated that I would communicate with you by letter, and added to it the expression of the urgent conviction of the authorities of the State as to the period in which the reduction of Fort Sumter should be complete. And, in the first place, let me offer you my warm congratulations upon the success which has attended you in the organization of the Provisional Government. May it be equal to the emergency of every occasion which can arise, and be to each State in this new confederation the efficient guardian of those rights, which, ignored or usurped under the former confederation, has united these States in the bonds of a new political compact.

In taking charge of the "questions and difficulties" which relate to Fort Sumter, it will be necessary for the Congress to apprehend rightly their present position. The force of circumstances devolved upon this State an obligation to provide the measures necessary for its defense. It has been obliged to act under the guidance of its own counsels, but has never forgotten the interest of its sister States in every measure which it was about to provide for its own safety. And I beg to assure you that, in all which it may at any time do, a regard for the welfare and wishes of its sister States in the new confederation will exercise a marked influence upon the conduct of this State.

The "questions and difficulties" of Fort Sumter can scarcely be fully appreciated, unless by those who have been familiar with its progress from the commencement of its history to the present moment. If it shall appear otherwise, it has, nevertheless, been the constant, anxious desire of this State to obtain the possession of a fort which, held by the United States, affected its dignity and safety without a collision, which would involve the loss of life. To secure this end every form of negotiation which could be adopted, in consistency with the dignity of the State, or had the promise or seeming of success, has been honestly attempted. To all of these attempts there has been but one result: A refusal in all cases, positive and unqualified, varied only as to the reasons which were set forth for its justification? has followed each demand. And now the conviction is presented to the State, derived from the most calm and deliberate consideration of the whole matter, that in this persistent refusal of the President of the United States is involved a denial of the rightful independence of the State of South Carolina.

The questions and difficulties, therefore, of Fort Sumter, comprehend now, as you will perceive, considerations which are political as well as military; and it would scarcely be considered that an undue estimate was made of the former if they were said to be as important as the latter. The establishment of them, moreover, is of the utmost consequence to every State which has united with this State in the bonds of a new confederation. The State has held its right to the possession of Fort Sumter to be the direct and necessary consequence of its right, as a sovereign State, to have the control of a military post within its limits, which post, during the period of the political connection of the State with the other States, was held by the United States for the protection of South Carolina because South Carolina was a part of the United States, and being so, upon the United States was devolved the obligation to provide that defense for this State. With the termination of the political connection between South Carolina and the United States the obligation of the United States to defend that State ceased, unless that State itself was the property of the United States. If the State was an independent power the rightful control within its limits of a military post, which involved its dignity and affected its safety, was and is recognized by the plainest rules of public law. The denial, therefore, of the right of the State to have possession of the fort was, in fact, a denial of its independence. Nor has there been even a colorable pretext for a consistency of that possession by the United States with the independence of the State, since the President authorized the distinct avowal that it was held as a military post. The sole use of it as a military post is in the control (called by the President the protection) it gives to the United States of the harbor of Charleston. The assertion, then, as you will perceive, of the rightful independence of the State carries necessarily with it the right to reduce Fort Sumter into its own possession, which is held, as it is, by a hostile power, for an unfriendly purpose. It is a hostile power when it asserts a right to exercise a dominion over the State, which that State refuses to recognize as consistent with its own dignity and safety; and its purpose cannot be otherwise than unfriendly when it can only be to enable the United States to commit to its military subordinates a power to refuse "to permit any vessels to pass within range of the guns" which are within its walls. It has, therefore, been considered at once proper and necessary for this State to take possession of that fort as soon as the measures necessary for the accomplishment of that result can be completed, and it is now expected that within a short time all the arrangements will be perfected necessary for its certain and speedy reduction. With the completion of these preparations and the assurance they afford of success, it has ever been the purpose of the authorities of this State to take this fort into the possession of the State. The right to do so has been considered the right of the State, and the resources of the State have been considered equal to the exercise of that right.

Whatever may be the mode in which the Congress will take charge of these "questions and difficulties," I trust that it is considered that in the solution of them you will regard the position which the State of South Carolina now occupies in relation to them. That position is marked by these propositions: That the right to have possession of the fort is a right incident to the independence (she) the State has asserted; that, to obtain possession of the fort, she has exhausted all modes which, consistently with her dignity, can be devised for a peaceful settlement; that the failure of such attempts has remitted her to the necessity of employing force to obtain that which should have been yielded from considerations of justice and right, and that as soon as her preparations are completed the reduction of that fort should be accomplished.

In the absence of any explanation or direction connected with the telegram received from you, I have assumed that the policy and measures which have been adopted by this State, and which are in prosecution, will be recognized as proper. In the consideration of the question of Fort Sumter, I have not been insensible of those matters which are in their nature consequential, and have, I trust, weighed, with all the care which befits the grave responsibilities of the case, the various circumstances which determine the time when this attack should be made. With the best lights which I could procure in guiding or assisting me, I am perfectly satisfied that the welfare of the new confederation and the necessities of the State require that Fort Sumter should be reduced before the close of the present administration at Washington. If an attack is delayed until after the inauguration of the incoming President of the United States, the troops now gathered in the capital may then be employed in attempting that which, previous to that time, they could not be spared to do. They dare not leave Washington now and do that which then will be a measure too inviting to be resisted.

Mr. Lincoln cannot do more for this State than Mr. Buchanan has done. Mr. Lincoln will not concede what Mr. Buchanan has refused. Mr. Buchanan has placed his refusal upon grounds which determine his reply to six States, as completely as to the same demand if made by a single State.

continued






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[M E Wolf]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME 1 [S# 1] CHAPTER I.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.,(*)--#1 - continued:

If peace can be secured, it will be by the prompt use of the occasion, when the forces of the United States are withheld from our harbor. If war can be averted, it will be by making the capture of Fort Sumter a fact accomplished during the continuance of the present administration, and leaving to the incoming administration the question of an open declaration of war. Such a declaration, separated, as it will be, from any present act of hostilities during Mr. Lincoln's administration, may become to him a matter requiring consideration. That consideration will not be expected of him, if the attack on the fort is made during his administration, and becomes, therefore, as to him, an act of present hostility. Mr. Buchanan cannot resist, because he has not the power. Mr. Lincoln may not attack, because the cause of the quarrel will have been, or may be, considered by him as past.

Upon this line of policy I have acted, and upon the adherence to it may be found, I think, the most rational expectation of seeing that fort, which is even now a source of danger to the State, restored to the possession of the State without those consequences which I should most deeply deplore. Should such consequences, nevertheless, follow from an adherence to this policy, however much I would regret the occurrence, I should feel a perfect assurance that, in happening under such circumstances, they demonstrated conclusively that, under the evil passions which blind and mislead those who govern the United States, no human power could have averted the attempted overthrow of these States; and that, in the exhibition of an ability by the States of the new confederation to maintain their rights, there could be found satisfaction in the reflection that their sufferings at this time might purchase for them quiet and happiness in time to come.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
F. W. PICKENS,
Governor of South Carolina.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As one can see -- long before President Lincoln took office; the talk of attacking Fort Sumter was already in the works on President Buchanan's Administration.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[FEBRUARY 18(?), 1861.]
Governor PICKENS, Charleston, S.C.:
Kingman, known as "Ion," who corresponds with the Baltimore Sun, and is considered reliable in his letter of yesterday, says he has seen and read a letter from a former member of Congress from South Carolina, which assures him that Fort Sumter will be taken on or before the 4th of March, "without reference to what the Montgomery government may advise or order on the subject."This startles the President. Will you quiet him by your reply?
The State commissioners will adjourn during the week. No result yet.
JOHN TYLER.
-------------------------------------------------------------
CONGRESS, February 22, 1861.
Mr. Bartow, from the Committee on Military Affairs, reported the following resolution, which was adopted, viz:
Resolved, That the President of the Confederate States be requested to communicate, in such manner as he may deem expedient, to the governors of South Carolina and Florida the resolution of Congress concerning Forts Sumter and Pickens.
[Copy of the resolution above referred to.]
RESOLUTION in relation to the occupation of Forts Sumter and Pickens.
Resolved by the Confederate States of America in Congress assembled, That it is the sense of this Congress that immediate steps should be taken to obtain possession of Forts Sumter and Pickens, by the authority of this Government, either by negotiations or force, as early as practicable, and that the President is hereby authorized to make all necessary military preparations for carrying this resolution into effect.(*)
Passed February 15, 1861.
-----

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, S.C., February 27, 1861.
The PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES, &c.,
Montgomery, Ala :
DEAR SIR: I received yours dated the 22d instant by Colonel Lucas, inclosing the resolution of Congress expressly taking charge of the military operations in the harbor of Charleston.(+) I have the fullest confidence that you and Congress will do everything that may be due to the honor and the rights of South Carolina.

Of course we feel that our honor and safety require that Fort Sumter should be in our possession at the very earliest moment possible. We have had great difficulties to contend with. By the extraordinary movement of the United States garrison from Fort Moultrie we were suddenly and unexpectedly precipitated into a situation which created the most hostile feelings, and were at the outset involved in the most scientific and expensive branches of modern warfare, where the most exact military knowledge and experience were required.

I felt this, and therefore telegraphed you to come by Charleston on your way to Mississippi, in order to consult on military matters, &c. I again sent to the governor of Georgia for General Twiggs, and then sent to you for a military engineer, as I desired the highest military approbation. Before taking the last step I earnestly wished the best military counsels.

Major Whiting is here, and thinks our energies have been too much directed to attacking Fort Sumter, and not enough to the defenses of the harbor, so as to prevent re-enforcements, &c. You will see him, and, of course, now we will await your orders and the directions of Congress, as we feel that our cause is common, and that it is due to our common government that we should do nothing to involve all the States united in a permanent war by any separate act of ours, unless it shall be necessary in self-defense or to prevent re-enforcements; but in the mean time I will go on with the same activity as ever in preparing our defenses and our men for any event that may arise.

We would desire to be informed if when thoroughly prepared to take the fort shall we do so, or shall we await your order; and shall we demand the surrender, or will that demand be made by you?

An answer to this by telegram is desired.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. W. PICKENS.
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WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 1, 1861.
GOV. F. W. PICKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
Your letter to President received. This Government assumes the control of military operations at Charleston, and will make demand of the fort when fully advised. An officer goes to-night to take charge.
L. P. WALKER.
Secretary of War.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Up to this point, it had been a South Carolina rebellion and independent. But with this send from CSA Secretary of War -- L. P. Walker; it now becomes a total Confederate States of American rebellion. Regardless, it is a rebellion against the United States Government, et.al.
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WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 1, 1861.
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS, Governor, &c.:
SIR: Your letter of the 27th ultimo addressed to the President has been referred by him to this Department for reply.

In controlling the military operations in the harbor of Charleston the President directs me to say that everything will be done that may be due to the honor and rights of South Carolina.

The President shares the feeling expressed by you that Fort Sumter should be in our possession at the earliest moment possible. But this feeling, natural and just as it is admitted to be, must yield to the necessity of the case. Thorough preparation must be made before an attack is attempted, for the first blow must be successful, both for its moral and physical consequences, or otherwise the result might be disastrous to your State in the loss of many of those whom we can least afford to spare. A failure would demoralize our people and injuriously affect us in the opinion of the world as reckless and precipitate.

Entertaining these opinions, the President directs me to say that he is engaged assiduously in pressing forward measures to effect results in which all are interested. Under the fourth section of an act of Congress to raise Provisional Forces for the Confederate States of America, and for other purposes, a copy of which I have the honor to inclose in another communication of this date, the President has appointed Peter G. T. Beauregard brigadier-general to command the Provisional Forces of this Government in the harbor of Charleston. General Beauregard will be accompanied by an adjutant, whose duty it will be to receive into the Provisional Army, with their officers, under the provisions of the act aforesaid, the forces of your State now in Charleston.

General Beauregard has the entire confidence of the President and of this Department, and I beg to commend him as possessing every soldierly quality.
I have the honor to be, with high regard, your obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War.
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Now we have the intent to organized armed forces against the US Government.
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HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA
Charleston, S.C., March 9, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I inclose you herewith the report of Col. M. Gregg, First Regiment South Carolina Volunteers, commanding on Morris Island, at the entrance of this harbor, reporting the circumstances connected with the accidental shooting of a loaded gun towards Fort Sumter on the 8th instant. From the inquiries thus far made, it would appear to have been entirely accidental; but I have ordered a thorough investigation of the affair to be made at once, and in order to prevent the recurrence of an event which might be attended with such disastrous consequences, I have ordered that hereafter no gun should be practiced with without first ascertaining whether it be loaded or not.
The channel batteries are progressing regularly, and the other works are being corrected and consolidated.Nothing new otherwise.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
[Inclosure. 1]
HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
March 8, 1861.
To the CHIEF OF STAFF OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL BEAUREGARD:
SIR: I am informed by Major Stevens that a shot was accidentally fired from the iron battery this morning, which struck Fort Sumter. Major Stevens was practicing with blank cartridges, and does not know how a shot got in. He does not suspect that it was put in by any man intentionally. Major Stevens is about to go with a flag to Fort Sumter to explain the accident.

I have to request that General Beauregard will forward this note for the information of the commander-in-chief.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
MAXCY GREGG,
Colonel First Regiment South Carolina Volunteers,
Commanding on Morris Island.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to Colonel Maxcy Gregg's report - the 'accidental round' did hit Fort Sumter. Didn't fall short. Short or not, it could be construde as intimidation, threat and or prelude to an attack.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, March 11, 1861.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS,
Montgomery, Ala.:
It is believed here in Black Republican circles that Anderson will be ordered to vacate Fort Sumter in five days. An informal conclusion to this effect was arrived at Saturday night in Cabinet. Anderson telegraphed, it is said, that he had no fuel and but fifteen days' provisions.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
continued

 

[brass napoleon]

Thanks, M. E. Wolf. I think that says it all. All I can add is WOW. :jawdrop:

 

[M E Wolf]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME 1 [S# 1] CHAPTER I.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.,(*)--#2
CHARLESTON, April 8, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
Authorized messenger from Lincoln just informed Governor Pickens and myself that provisions would be sent to Sumter peaceably, otherwise by force.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----
MONTGOMERY, April 8, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Under no circumstances are you to allow provisions to be sent to Fort Sumter.
L. P. WALKER.
-----
CHARLESTON, April 8, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson's provisions stopped yesterday. No answer from him. Am calling out balance of contingent troops.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
April 8, 1861.
[General BEAUREGARD :]
DEAR GENERAL: I inclose the within copy of Major Anderson's note.(*) Please say to the Secretary of War that we thought detaching an officer from the garrison was weakening its efficiency and not taking much from the consumption of food. Tell him that you as well as myself saw the «19 RR» foolish firing, and both regretted it, and that you immediately issued orders as to the future firing, &c., and that the captain in charge of the watch-vessel) the Petrel, was discharged for his neglect of duty, &c.
In great haste, but most sincerely,
F. W. PICKENS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The second firing on Fort Sumter by the CSA watch vessel - Petrel --twice now!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 8, 1861.
"I am directed by the President of the United States to notify you to expect an attempt will be made to supply Fort Sumter with provisions only, and that if such attempt be not resisted no effort to throw in men, arms, or ammunition will be made without further notice, or in case of an attack upon the fort."

The above was communicated to us on the evening of April 8 by Robert S. Chew, esq., of the State Department in Washington, and Captain Talbot stated that it was from the President of the United States, as did Mr. Chew, and was delivered to him on the 6th instant at Washington, and this was read in their presence and admitted.
F. W. PICKENS.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----------------------------------------------------
MONTGOMERY, April 9, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Major Anderson's mails must be stopped. The fort must be completely isolated.
L. P. WALKER.
-------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 9, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
The mails have already been stopped.
G.T. BEAUREGARD.
----------------------------------------------------------
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Headquarters, April 9, 1861.
To the PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES:
MY DEAR SIR: I send by the bearer important dispatches to the Secretary of War, and beg to call your immediate attention to them. The bearer is Colonel Hayne an aide of mine, and will return immediately to me. If you have anything particular to General Beauregard or myself, you can trust it to him, and he will bring it back immediately. Since I inclosed the dispatch to the Secretary of War Major Anderson has written a polite note to General Beauregard, requesting that the letters taken from the mail might be returned, as he had been notified that his mails would be stopped entirely. The general returned for answer that the private letters had been sent to their destination, but the official letters were sent to the Confederate Government, because rumors, well established, indicated that Mr. Fox had violated his faith to me in visiting the fort, under the guarantee of Captain Hartstene, who went with him. The pledge was that he visited Major Anderson by authority, for pacific purposes entirely. You see that the present scheme for supplying the fort is Mr. Fox's. It is thought that the attempt will be made to-night, and we have doubled our steamboats on the harbor and bar.

Since I wrote to the War Department we have increased the forces on Morris Island to two thousand one hundred men, and ten companies of fine men arrive to-night, in the next train, of eight hundred men, and two more regiments arrive to-morrow. We hope to have about six thousand men there on the harbor batteries and posts. I trust we are ready, and if they come we will give them a cordial reception, such as will ring through this country, I think. I hope we are not mistaken; but, at any rate, we will try and do our duty.
With great esteem, yours, very truly,
F. W. PICKENS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It should be considered that Mr. Fox may or may not have had authorization by the US Government to tamper with the flow of things. However, in reading Governor Picken's correspondence, he does not tie Fox's actions to the US Government and or President Lincoln.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
The messenger speaks doubtless by authority. He gives the promised notice to Governor Pickens. Diplomacy has failed. The sword must now preserve our independence. Our gallant countrymen will do their duty.
MARTIN J. CRAWFORD.
-----
MONTGOMERY, April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
If you have no doubt of the authorized character of the agent who communicated to you the intention of the Washington Government to supply Fort Sumter by force you will at once demand its evacuation, and if this is refused proceed, in such manner as you may determine, to reduce it. Answer.
L. P. WALKER.
-------------------------------------------------------------
-----
CHARLESTON, April 10, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
The demand will be made to-morrow at 12 o'clock.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTGOMERY, April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Unless there are special reasons connected with your own condition, it is considered proper that you should make the demand at an earlier hour.
L. P. WALKER.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, S.C., April 10, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
The reasons are special for 12 o'clock.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME 1 [S# 1] CHAPTER I.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.,(*)--#3
HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S.C., April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I transmit herewith, for the information of the Department, a copy of my note of this morning to Major Anderson, commanding at Fort Sumter, demanding the surrender of that fort to the Confederate Government, together with a copy of his reply thereto.(*) As soon as his answer was received a telegraphic dispatch (a copy of which is inclosed) was sent to you, communicating its purport, and asking for your instructions. I regret to add here that the new levies at Morris Island are not in as complete a state of organization as I desire; but I hope, in the event of an attempt to land by the enemy, that I will be able to give you a satisfactory account of them.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
Major Anderson replies: "I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication demanding the evacuation of this fort, and to say in reply thereto that it is a demand with which I regret that my sense of honor and of my obligations to my Government prevent my compliance." He says verbally: "I will await the first shot, and if you do not batter us to pieces we will be starved out in a few days."Answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTGOMERY, April 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Do not desire needlessly to bombard Fort Sumter. If Major Anderson will state the time at which, as indicated by him, he will evacuate, and agree that in the mean time he will not use his guns against us unless ours should be employed against Fort Sumter, you are authorized thus to avoid the effusion of blood. If this or its equivalent be refused, reduce the fort as your judgment decides to be most practicable.
L. P. WALKER.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, S.C., April 11, 1861.
ROMAN, CRAWFORD, and FORSYTH,
Commissioners Confederate States, Washington, D.C.:
Evacuation of Fort Sumter will be demanded to-day. If refused, hostilities will commence to-night. Answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Ought not demand of Sumter be made also by Commissioners at Washington for its evacuation?
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----
MONTGOMERY, April 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
No. Yours is the only demand to be made.
L. P. WALKER.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
Demand sent at 2. Allowed until 6 to answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-------------------------------------------
MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
April 11, 1861--4 p.m.
[General BEAUREGARD:]
GENERAL: We are ready, perhaps, to open fire, but we are not ready to support it. For God's sake have this post inspected by yourself, or some one else competent, before you open fire. I am alone here, as you know, and heretofore have been exclusively occupied with the construction of batteries. De Saussure complains that he has not men enough to work his guns for any length of time, and Kershaw's force is "helter skelter," having just arrived. Cunningham's is but little better. Both are badly supplied with cartridges. A full and efficient staff is needed. There are no regulars here at all. I can say but little now. The general agrees with me in begging you to examine this position.
W. H. G. WHITING.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Charleston S. C., April 11, 1861.
Maj. W. H. C. WHITING,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Morris Island, S. C.:
MAJOR: Your letter and note of this day are just received. Things always appear worst at first sight when not perfect. We cannot delay now. I think you will have all day to-morrow to organize. I am, however, surprised that Lieutenant-Colonel De Saussure should not have men enough, when ten days ago I told him to call for any number he might require. General Simons must supply that deficiency; but I am of the opinion that two thousand Americans ought to beat, on favorable ground, twice that number of troops landing. Remember New Orleans.

Moreover, to-morrow you will have another regiment. I send you Captains Winder and Allston, and two of the best men as clerks from Winder's company. Call on Colonel Cunningham for one or more men from his regiment as clerks. Major Trapier has been ordered as chief engineer on Morris Island, to relieve you of that duty. Colonel Gregg has more ammunition than you can all require.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
P. S.--My duties are so important here I cannot leave at present, but will be with you when the fighting commences.
G. T. B.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, 8. C., April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit the inclosed copy of a correspondence with Major Anderson, in consequence of which [B]our fire was opened upon Fort Sumter at 4.30 o'clock this morning, as already communicated to you by telegraph.(*) The pilots reported to me last evening that a steamer, supposed to be the Harriet Lane, had appeared off the harbor. She approached slowly, and was lying off the main entrance, some ten or twelve miles, when the pilot came in.[/B]Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G.T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
--------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Heavy firing all day. Several guns dismounted in Sumter. Our batteries all safe. Nobody hurt. Four steamers off the bar. The sea pretty rough.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since seas were pretty rough, in Beauregard's words -- the Harriet Lane might not have been able to land provisions and or troops. Would be justified if seas were too rough.



----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

[M E Wolf]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME 1 [S# 1] CHAPTER I.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.,(*)--#2
CHARLESTON, April 8, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
Authorized messenger from Lincoln just informed Governor Pickens and myself that provisions would be sent to Sumter peaceably, otherwise by force.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----
MONTGOMERY, April 8, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Under no circumstances are you to allow provisions to be sent to Fort Sumter.
L. P. WALKER.
-----
CHARLESTON, April 8, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson's provisions stopped yesterday. No answer from him. Am calling out balance of contingent troops.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
April 8, 1861.
[General BEAUREGARD :]
DEAR GENERAL: I inclose the within copy of Major Anderson's note.(*) Please say to the Secretary of War that we thought detaching an officer from the garrison was weakening its efficiency and not taking much from the consumption of food. Tell him that you as well as myself saw the «19 RR» foolish firing, and both regretted it, and that you immediately issued orders as to the future firing, &c., and that the captain in charge of the watch-vessel) the Petrel, was discharged for his neglect of duty, &c.
In great haste, but most sincerely,
F. W. PICKENS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The second firing on Fort Sumter by the CSA watch vessel - Petrel --twice now!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 8, 1861.
"I am directed by the President of the United States to notify you to expect an attempt will be made to supply Fort Sumter with provisions only, and that if such attempt be not resisted no effort to throw in men, arms, or ammunition will be made without further notice, or in case of an attack upon the fort."

The above was communicated to us on the evening of April 8 by Robert S. Chew, esq., of the State Department in Washington, and Captain Talbot stated that it was from the President of the United States, as did Mr. Chew, and was delivered to him on the 6th instant at Washington, and this was read in their presence and admitted.
F. W. PICKENS.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----------------------------------------------------
MONTGOMERY, April 9, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Major Anderson's mails must be stopped. The fort must be completely isolated.
L. P. WALKER.
-------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 9, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
The mails have already been stopped.
G.T. BEAUREGARD.
----------------------------------------------------------
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Headquarters, April 9, 1861.
To the PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES:
MY DEAR SIR: I send by the bearer important dispatches to the Secretary of War, and beg to call your immediate attention to them. The bearer is Colonel Hayne an aide of mine, and will return immediately to me. If you have anything particular to General Beauregard or myself, you can trust it to him, and he will bring it back immediately. Since I inclosed the dispatch to the Secretary of War Major Anderson has written a polite note to General Beauregard, requesting that the letters taken from the mail might be returned, as he had been notified that his mails would be stopped entirely. The general returned for answer that the private letters had been sent to their destination, but the official letters were sent to the Confederate Government, because rumors, well established, indicated that Mr. Fox had violated his faith to me in visiting the fort, under the guarantee of Captain Hartstene, who went with him. The pledge was that he visited Major Anderson by authority, for pacific purposes entirely. You see that the present scheme for supplying the fort is Mr. Fox's. It is thought that the attempt will be made to-night, and we have doubled our steamboats on the harbor and bar.

Since I wrote to the War Department we have increased the forces on Morris Island to two thousand one hundred men, and ten companies of fine men arrive to-night, in the next train, of eight hundred men, and two more regiments arrive to-morrow. We hope to have about six thousand men there on the harbor batteries and posts. I trust we are ready, and if they come we will give them a cordial reception, such as will ring through this country, I think. I hope we are not mistaken; but, at any rate, we will try and do our duty.
With great esteem, yours, very truly,
F. W. PICKENS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It should be considered that Mr. Fox may or may not have had authorization by the US Government to tamper with the flow of things. However, in reading Governor Picken's correspondence, he does not tie Fox's actions to the US Government and or President Lincoln.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
The messenger speaks doubtless by authority. He gives the promised notice to Governor Pickens. Diplomacy has failed. The sword must now preserve our independence. Our gallant countrymen will do their duty.
MARTIN J. CRAWFORD.
-----
MONTGOMERY, April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
If you have no doubt of the authorized character of the agent who communicated to you the intention of the Washington Government to supply Fort Sumter by force you will at once demand its evacuation, and if this is refused proceed, in such manner as you may determine, to reduce it. Answer.
L. P. WALKER.
-------------------------------------------------------------
-----
CHARLESTON, April 10, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
The demand will be made to-morrow at 12 o'clock.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTGOMERY, April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Unless there are special reasons connected with your own condition, it is considered proper that you should make the demand at an earlier hour.
L. P. WALKER.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, S.C., April 10, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
The reasons are special for 12 o'clock.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME 1 [S# 1] CHAPTER I.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.,(*)--#3
HDQRS. PROV. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S.C., April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I transmit herewith, for the information of the Department, a copy of my note of this morning to Major Anderson, commanding at Fort Sumter, demanding the surrender of that fort to the Confederate Government, together with a copy of his reply thereto.(*) As soon as his answer was received a telegraphic dispatch (a copy of which is inclosed) was sent to you, communicating its purport, and asking for your instructions. I regret to add here that the new levies at Morris Island are not in as complete a state of organization as I desire; but I hope, in the event of an attempt to land by the enemy, that I will be able to give you a satisfactory account of them.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
Major Anderson replies: "I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication demanding the evacuation of this fort, and to say in reply thereto that it is a demand with which I regret that my sense of honor and of my obligations to my Government prevent my compliance." He says verbally: "I will await the first shot, and if you do not batter us to pieces we will be starved out in a few days."Answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTGOMERY, April 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Do not desire needlessly to bombard Fort Sumter. If Major Anderson will state the time at which, as indicated by him, he will evacuate, and agree that in the mean time he will not use his guns against us unless ours should be employed against Fort Sumter, you are authorized thus to avoid the effusion of blood. If this or its equivalent be refused, reduce the fort as your judgment decides to be most practicable.
L. P. WALKER.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, S.C., April 11, 1861.
ROMAN, CRAWFORD, and FORSYTH,
Commissioners Confederate States, Washington, D.C.:
Evacuation of Fort Sumter will be demanded to-day. If refused, hostilities will commence to-night. Answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Ought not demand of Sumter be made also by Commissioners at Washington for its evacuation?
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-----
MONTGOMERY, April 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
No. Yours is the only demand to be made.
L. P. WALKER.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
Demand sent at 2. Allowed until 6 to answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-------------------------------------------
MORRIS ISLAND, S.C.,
April 11, 1861--4 p.m.
[General BEAUREGARD:]
GENERAL: We are ready, perhaps, to open fire, but we are not ready to support it. For God's sake have this post inspected by yourself, or some one else competent, before you open fire. I am alone here, as you know, and heretofore have been exclusively occupied with the construction of batteries. De Saussure complains that he has not men enough to work his guns for any length of time, and Kershaw's force is "helter skelter," having just arrived. Cunningham's is but little better. Both are badly supplied with cartridges. A full and efficient staff is needed. There are no regulars here at all. I can say but little now. The general agrees with me in begging you to examine this position.
W. H. G. WHITING.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Charleston S. C., April 11, 1861.
Maj. W. H. C. WHITING,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Morris Island, S. C.:
MAJOR: Your letter and note of this day are just received. Things always appear worst at first sight when not perfect. We cannot delay now. I think you will have all day to-morrow to organize. I am, however, surprised that Lieutenant-Colonel De Saussure should not have men enough, when ten days ago I told him to call for any number he might require. General Simons must supply that deficiency; but I am of the opinion that two thousand Americans ought to beat, on favorable ground, twice that number of troops landing. Remember New Orleans.

Moreover, to-morrow you will have another regiment. I send you Captains Winder and Allston, and two of the best men as clerks from Winder's company. Call on Colonel Cunningham for one or more men from his regiment as clerks. Major Trapier has been ordered as chief engineer on Morris Island, to relieve you of that duty. Colonel Gregg has more ammunition than you can all require.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
P. S.--My duties are so important here I cannot leave at present, but will be with you when the fighting commences.
G. T. B.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, 8. C., April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit the inclosed copy of a correspondence with Major Anderson, in consequence of which []our fire was opened upon Fort Sumter at 4.30 o'clock this morning, as already communicated to you by telegraph.(*) The pilots reported to me last evening that a steamer, supposed to be the Harriet Lane, had appeared off the harbor. She approached slowly, and was lying off the main entrance, some ten or twelve miles, when the pilot came in.[/B]Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G.T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
--------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Heavy firing all day. Several guns dismounted in Sumter. Our batteries all safe. Nobody hurt. Four steamers off the bar. The sea pretty rough.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since seas were pretty rough, in Beauregard's words -- the Harriet Lane might not have been able to land provisions and or troops. Would be justified if seas were too rough.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Fort Sumter has unconditionally surrendered to the Confederate States, represented by General Beauregard, Colonel Wigfall, his aide, receiving the surrender. The same terms just offered will be granted. Engines are about to go down to put out the fire. Fight expected on Morris Island to-night.
R. B. RHETT, JR.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson surrenders to the Confederate Government unconditionally, but I have granted him the same terms as on the 11th instant: "All proper facilities will be afforded for removal of yourself and command, together with company arms and property and all private property, to any post in the United States you may elect."
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am still of the opinion, based on these official reports -- that the conspiracy to take Fort Sumter began before President Lincoln took the oath of office as President of the United States. To pin it on Lincoln is, in my opinion lazy history. Lincoln was officially sworn in on March 4th, 1861.

 

[OpnCoronet]

'whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad'