With regard to the OP, another aspect to the Raleigh question has to do with Sherman's true intent in the Carolina's Campaign. If I understand correctly, his plan was to push north through North Carolina and join with Grant's forces to bring down Lee. It could be that a feint toward Raleigh was planned, but I think Sherman intended to bypass Raleigh originally. Once Richmond had fallen, Lee had capitulated, Johnston had withdrawn, and Raleigh had been surrendered, there was no need to bypass it and head to Virginia. Federal troops camped all around the city, especially toward to south (where I grew up), and Sherman held a big review in Raleigh before heading north.
Roy B.