Rumors are frequent respecting military movements in western Virginia. Sometimes it is said that Lee is advancing upon Rosecrans with a superior force and that Virginia secessionists are bold and active. Again it is stated that Rosecrans had surrounded Lee who escaped by a night retreat through the wilderness, leaving artillery and baggage. Fighting is expected soon. Our men occupy Cheat mountain pass. It is feared that Rosecrans has not men enough and that his force is too much scattered. He is believed to be an able general. His only "foughten field" was that of Rich Mountain in which he earned laurels for himself and those under his command. He keeps his own counsels, no one knows what his plans are. The Confederates say they intend to go into winter quarters in Southern Ohio where there is plenty to subsist their troops and forage for their horses. This we trust by the blessing of God, Rosecrans will be able to prevent. We don't want the traitors here.
Peggy's comments:
It is said that Rosecrans was responsible for the Union victories at Rich Mountain and Corrick's Ford in July but that General McClellan claimed credit for them. When the Union soldiers were defeated at the first battle at Bull Run, General McClellan was summoned to Washington to meet with Lincoln. It was at this time that Gen. William Rosecrans was given the western Virginia command. Here's a
map of western Virginia from the Rich Mountain Battlefield Foundation. Marietta, Ohio is across the river from Parkersburg.
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