Posted inUS Civil War

February 9, 1863 – Cavalry Expedition to Middleburg and Aldie

Fairfax Court-House, Va, Saturday, Feb. 7, 1863.

A detachment from Companies H and F of the 5th New-York Cavalry, under Capt. Penfield, yesterday made a raid to Middleburg, and at Aldie captured eight of the 1st Virginia (Rebel) Cavalry and the Postmaster at Little Washington. They were on their way to a ball given to them by the citizens of that place, and were fully armed and equipped. Among them were, it is supposed, some officers, but they refuse to disclose their rank. Most of those captured belonged to Capt. Monley’s party, who have been attacking our pickets along the picket lines. They were excellently mounted, and their horses were also captured.

Posted inMaritime & Naval History US Civil War

February 5, 1863 – The Oreto At Sea

Correspondence of the N. O. Delta.

OFF MOBILE, Jan. 16, 1803.

There was great commotion among the blockading fleet off this harbor last evening. The rebel steamer Oreto, which has been lying in Mobile Bay for some months, succeeded in escaping to sea in presence of seven blockading vessels. The R. R. Cuyler, one of our fastest steamers, immediately gave chase and was gaining on her when the two disappeared in the distance. The Cuyler was firing at her continually during the chase from her long range guns, and as she was gaining rapidly, great hopes are entertained that she will bring the audacious Rebel to. The Oreto is commanded by Maffit, formerly of the United States Navy.

Posted inUS Civil War

February 3, 1863 – Civilians Defend Deserters

Special Dispatch to the Chicago Tribune.

Indianapolis, Feb. 2, 1863.

On Friday last a small squad of soldiers were sent to a village named Waverly, in an adjoining county, to arrest some deserters. Upon their arrival there they were fired upon by some of the citizens, and informed that the deserters would be protected, and under no circumstances would they be surrendered.