Map used by Heintzelman to report actions at Williamsburg - Library of Congress, Geography and Map Division
Click Map for Detail - I've added a flag to help identify Hooker's positions on the map
[Note two different inks are used to report the positions of the various commands
The difference in ink appears to relate to time, lighter ink 10 am, and darker ink 4 pm]

     "Upon the evacuation of Yorktown, Hooker's Division marched in pursuit; but for want of orders from the headquarters of the army, necessary to give precedence, its march was cut off by other divisions, under senior officers, crossing the road, and, after waiting many hours it was forced to make a long detour. It was nearly midnight when the Twenty-sixth reached the bivouac in front of the redoubts near Williamsburg.
     The division moved at early dawn on the 5th of May, and the engagement commenced at 7 o'clock, a.m. Colonel Small was ordered by General Hooker to occupy the Yorktown and Williamsburg turnpike, and open communication with Sumner's Corps. The road was found clear of the enemy, who had, however, skirmishers in a line of rifle-pits in front of Fort Magruder. Colonel Small deployed five companies as skirmishers, and drove the enemy back into the fort, but was himself severely wounded and carried from the field. The command devolved upon Major Berry, and the regiment remained in the road at the edge of the slashing, about eight hundred yards from the fort, until 4 o'clock, p.m., when it was relieved by fresh troops, and a complete victory was achieved. The loss in the Twenty-sixth in this engagement was eight killed, twenty-three wounded, and three taken prisoners - a loss but slight compared to that of the remainder of the division, owing to its position on the extreme right, while the main attack of the enemy was on the left. It afterwards appeared that General Hooker had sent orders to move the regiment to the left, which had never reached the officer in command.
     The division remained at Williamsburg about two weeks after the battle, the Twenty-sixth being detailed to take charge of rebel prisoners and to do provost guard duty in the town…."⁷

Col. Small - USAMHI

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 12. -- Report of Col. William F. Small, Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry.

HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOLS.,
First Brig., Hooker's Div., Williamsburg, Va., May 5, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report that in accordance with orders from General Hooker, commanding division, I took up a position on the extreme right of our lines, fronting the enemy's works at this place, with a view of forming a junction with the left of General Sumner's forces. Not being able to form this junction my regiment occupied a position in front of the woods beyond the main road passing in front of the enemy's batteries. The right wing of the regiment was advanced as skirmishers, under the command of Maj. C. M. Berry, and immediately engaged the enemy's sharpshooters, and did good execution upon his gunners.

Observing a number of the enemy coming out from their works, apparently with a view of outflanking us, I proceeded to the right of the regiment and extended it still farther in that direction for the purpose of meeting them. While engaged in this movement I received a severe wound in the right leg--a rifle-ball passing through it--and was obliged to relinquish the command to Major Berry.

It affords me great pleasure to state that the officers and men of the regiment behaved with great steadiness and gallantry, and exhibited an alacrity and precision in the performance of every movement required of them alike creditable to their patriotism and courage.

I am under particular obligations to Adjt. P. P. G. Hall (who has recently recovered from a long and severe illness) for his able assistance during the engagement.

Major Berry, to whom I am also under obligations for prompt, efficient, and intelligent support, will report the further operations of the regiment, and will also furnish a list of casualties.

Very truly, yours,

WILLIAM F. SMALL,
Colonel, Commanding Regiment.

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 13. -- Report of Maj. Casper M. Berry, Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry.

HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOLS.,
First Brig., Hooker's Div., Williamsburg, Va., May 5, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding, after Colonel Small was wounded I remained with my command in front of the enemy's works until I was ordered by General Hooker's aide to fall back on the reserve, the aide's horse being shot down while in the act of transmitting to me the order. The enemy pressing the skirmishers, I then threw out my left wing to the right of the road in the woods, for the purpose of checking any movement to outflank the First Massachusetts Volunteers' skirmishers, which were in front of us, and there remained until about 5 o'clock, until re-enforcements came up. I was then ordered by the general commanding the re-enforcements to withdraw the regiment from the front, to hold it in the rear of his command in the woods, where we remained in line of battle. I then received an order from General Sumner to take position on the left of his line, and remained in that position until dark and encamped near the same place for the night.

It affords me great pleasure to state that the officers and men of my command behaved with great steadiness and exhibited a great alacrity and precision in the execution of my commands alike creditable to their patriotism and courage. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

C. M. BERRY,
Major, Commanding Regiment

Col. Cowdin

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 9. -- Report of Col. Robert Cowdin, First Massachusetts Infantry.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST MASSACHUSETTS INFANTRY,
First Brig., Hooker's Div., near Williamsburg, Va., May 7, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the engagement of my command on May 5, 1862:

We left the camp of previous night at 5 a.m., and proceeded to a point about 2 miles distant on the Williamsburg road, arriving in sight of the enemy at about 6 o'clock. My command consisted of 3 field, 1 staff, and 22 line officers, and 682 men. The regiment was by order drawn up in a lot of dense fallen timber to the left of the road in front of the woods and facing the enemy's earthworks. Here we received orders to move forward as skirmishers. Here we received a heavy fire of artillery and musketry from the left in front. The regiment was then ordered forward by companies to front of our artillery as skirmishers to pick off the enemy's cannoneers, where they remained nearly five hours, doing such service as to effectually silence the four guns of the enemy on our front. Here we lay under a severe cross-fire from a battery of the enemy placed in a redoubt at our left and front. During this time we were exposed to and annoyed by the enemy's sharpshooters in rifle pits on our front. At this time our ammunition was nearly expended, and we sent to the rear for a supply. We were soon relieved by the Seventy-second New York Volunteers, Second Brigade, Hooker's division, and ordered back to our old position, where we were ordered to remain as a reserve. In a short time we were again ordered forward, partially without ammunition, to support the Seventy-second New York Volunteers, as well as the Third Brigade, which was now engaging the enemy in the woods on our left, the Eleventh Massachusetts being in line some 30 paces in our rear. Between 2 and 3 p.m. the Third Brigade and Seventy-second New York Volunteers fell back, being heavily pressed by the enemy, who had received large re-enforcements. We were now ordered to fall back to the road, the Eleventh Massachusetts receiving the same order from one of the brigade staff officers (acting assistant adjutant-general). In falling back we received a very heavy fire from the enemy, losing a number of men. We were then ordered by the general to form on the south side of and facing the road, and prepared to resist cavalry, which was expected down the road. Other troops now rushed through our ranks from our rear. We were then ordered to the other side of the road, being still under a very heavy fire, and shortly after re-enforcements under General Kearny arrived. We were then ordered to cross the road again on the left of a brigade of Kearny's division, and advanced 800 yards into the woods. Meanwhile, the enemy being repulsed and fresh troops arriving, we were ordered back near the road, and there remained until by order of the brigadier-general commanding we encamped in woods half a mile back at 8 p.m.

During the entire day the rain fell almost in torrents. In my opinion the officers and men of my command acted with the utmost coolness and courage, exposed as they were nearly a whole day to a galling fire of artillery and infantry on our front and left. I submit a report of the casualties.(*)

I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ROBERT COWDIN,
Colonel, Commanding First Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers.

Col. Blaisdell
National Archives

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 10. -- Report of Col. William Blaisdell, Eleventh Massachusetts Infantry.

HDQRS. ELEVENTH Regt. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS.
First Brig., Hooker's Div., Camp near Williamsburg, Va.

SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by this regiment in the engagement before Williamsburg on the 5th instant: I arrived with -he regiment in front of the enemy at fifteen minutes before five in the morning, and was ordered by General Grover to advance and deploy to the right of the Second New Hampshire Regiment as skirmishers. As soon as I became unmasked my right company engaged with the enemy's skirmishers and reserve. A couple of well-directed volleys from Company E, Captain Bigelow, sent the enemy back in double-quick. On moving farther to the right, unmasking the whole regiment, I found a large force of the enemy's skirmishers, and immediately ordered Companies E, Captain Bigelow, and I, Lieutenant Robertson commanding, to deploy as skirmishers and engage the enemy at once, which was promptly and gallantly executed, the men advancing to within 300 yards of the enemy's works, driving all before them, and holding that position until 9.30 o'clock, when I withdrew my men, having received an order from General Hooker to penetrate the woods to the right and rear to ascertain if there was any enemy between us and General Sumner, and, if so, to wipe them out. I obeyed this order, and returned to my old position: after communicating with General Hancock, and reported that there was no enemy in that direction.

At this time I saw the enemy's cavalry threatening our artillery stationed on my left and rear. I fixed bayonets and put the regiment in position to repel any attack, and sent Adjutant Currier to General Grover, informing him of the re-enforcements of the enemy passing from his left and center to his right.

At about 3.30 o'clock I was ordered by General Hooker's assistant adjutant-general to march the regiment back to the left of the road and support the New Jersey brigade, which I obeyed as soon as feasible and on arriving on the ground I became immediately engaged with the enemy, who was endeavoring to turn our left flank, continuing to hold them in check until I was ordered to retire across the road in order that fresh troops might occupy our place. Up to this time my regiment was well in hand, maintaining their organization complete, with scarcely any stragglers, obeying the orders given with promptness and alacrity, doing their duty nobly after so hard a march and exposure to the severe rain.

While the regiment was engaged on the left of the road, at not more than 50 yards, a rebel officer displayed a white flag, crying out, "Don't fire on your friends, when I ordered Cease firing," and Private Michael Doherty, of Company A, stepped forward to get the flag, and when near it the officer said to his men, "Now give it them." The men obeyed, firing and severely wounding Private Doherty, who immediately returned the fire, shooting the officer through the heart, thus rewarding him for his mean treachery.

I would here state that I was most ably and gallantly sustained throughout the day by my field and staff officers. Lieutenant-Colonel Tileston was sick, but still did not leave his post till the action closed; Major Tripp and Adjutant Currier did their duty faithfully and nobly; Quartermaster Coy acted in a manner deserving of great praise, forcing his way to the front over almost insurmountable obstacles with ammunition for the First Brigade; Surgeon Foye performed his duties in a faithful and skillful manner, dressing more than 150 wounds with his own hands. I cannot injustice particularize the line officers where every one (with two exceptions) behaved so admirably. I must, however, mention Captain McDonald, who, though suffering intense pain from a severely-scalded foot, nevertheless led his company through the entire day in the most gallant manner.

In conclusion, I will state that the officers and men of the regiment behaved bravely and coolly, obeying every order to the letter promptly, and if there was any fault in the conduct of the regiment it lies entirely with myself, and not with the men, and it is my intention at the first opportunity to mention several cases of privates in the regiment whose gallant conduct in action deserves particular commendation.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. BLAISDELL,
Colonel, Commanding Regiment.

Col. Marston
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-USZ62-96278]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 11. -- Report of Col. Gilman Marston, Second New Hampshire Infantry.

SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Second Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers in the battle of Williamsburg on the 5th instant. We arrived before the strong works which the enemy had erected in front of Williamsburg and within range of his guns about 5.30 a.m., preceded by the First Massachusetts Volunteers, and followed by the Eleventh Massachusetts Volunteers and Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Company E, Captain Drown, and Company B, Lieutenant Boyden (Captain Colby, of Company B, being seriously ill at Camp Winfield Scott), were immediately deployed as skirmishers in the fallen timber on the left of the road by which we advanced. The remaining companies (seven) formed in line of battle in the wood and on the right of the road, the left resting thereon. About 7.15 a.m. I was ordered by General Hooker to advance the line through the fallen timber about 250 yards to the margin thereof and there shelter the men from the enemy's fire as much as possible, and be prepared to support the batteries under Major Wainwright, which were about to be placed in position in front of us, We remained in that position for more than six hours, constantly under fire of the enemy's batteries, and the rain all the while falling in torrents. I am sure no veteran soldiers could have endured the discomforts and the dangers of those six long hours with more courage and cheerfulness than did the officers and men of the Second Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteers. Companies E and B, who had been deployed as skirmishers in the morning, quickly chased the skirmishers of the enemy from the fallen timber, and then from the rifle pits, and finally into their fortifications. They then directed their attention to the cannoneers of the enemy, and so unerring was their aim that the fire of the batteries was very much enfeebled, and sometimes completely silenced. Captain Snow, Company F, who had been on detached service at Cheeseman's Creek, arrived about 1 o'clock p.m., having marched all night to join his regiment. For several hours the fire of musketry had be en very heavy in the wood some half a mile or more on the left of the road, and in advance of the position I occupied in the fallen timber. Sometimes the fire seemed to advance and again to recede, and we were doubtful how the day was going in that part of the field. About 3 o'clock p.m. the fire of the enemy suddenly increased on the left, and, apparently advancing indicated that the left was about to be turned.

As it was impossible to change front in the fallen timber where we lay and preserve any formation whatever, I got the regiment out of the brush and moved across the road by the left flank, to aid in driving the enemy back, where our troops seemed to be very hardly pressed. The regiment had become very much broken in making its way through the almost impenetrable thickets in which we had lain for so many hours. Other regiments were in the same condition, but every man that had a musket to fire went into the fight with whatever regiment or company he happened to fall in with, and so continued until night put an end to the contest. Captain Drown had collected a company composed of his own men and those of other regiments, and bravely led them on to a body of the enemy, firing his revolver and cheering on his men, when the rebel barbarian in command exhibited a white flag, and cried out to him, "Don't fire, don't fire; we are friends," at the same time directing his men to trail their arms. Captain Drown, believing they were about to surrender, directed his men not to fire, whereupon the whole body of the enemy suddenly fired upon him, killing him instantly, and also several of his men. There was no braver man in the service of the country than Captain Drown, no truer patriot, no citizen more conscientious and upright. There were 4 field and staff officers, 26 company officers, and 740 noncommissioned officers and privates present in the engagement belonging to the Second Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers, of whom 16 were killed, 66 wounded, and 23 missing.(*)

In concluding this hasty report I take leave to say that the officers and men of my regiment, notwithstanding all the fatigues and privations to which they had been subjected, were throughout the day of battle not only uncomplaining but cheerful, and apparently anxious for nothing but the opportunity to do their country in the day of battle all the service in their power.

I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,

GILMAN MARSTON.

Brig. Gen. Grover
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-DIG-cwpb-06596]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 8. -- Report of Brig. Gen. Cuvier Grover, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, HOOKER'S DIVISION,
Camp near Williamsburg, Va., May 7, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 4th instant, pursuant to orders received, my brigade made an advance from the camp before Yorktown on the Williamsburg road, and encamped about 3 miles from that town at 11 o'clock p.m. At daybreak on the morning of the 5th we again moved forward, and at about 6 a.m. came in view of the line of works before Williamsburg. At this time a few rebel horsemen were moving from the direction of their main work towards a position on our right, but upon discovering our advance the cavalry returned, and a line of skirmishers extending took up a position covering our whole front at a distance perhaps of about 250 yards. I then, pursuant to orders from the general commanding the division to place my brigade in position, threw forward a portion of the left wing of the First Massachusetts Volunteers, Colonel Cowdin, by company, on the left of the road, holding the remainder of the regiment in reserve on the left, while two companies of the Second New Hampshire Volunteers, Colonel Marston, were ordered forward upon the right to nearly the edge of the timber, while the remaining companies remained formed in line in the rear. This was the position occupied when the engagement commenced on both sides, but the enemy's skirmishers were soon driven in, and he opened a heavy fire with shot and shell upon our position from a strong work mounting four guns in our front and at a distance of about 800 yards. Shortly afterward the remaining portion of this regiment (seven companies) were ordered into position, also on the right, within supporting distance of a battery, which was thrown out to an advanced position upon the road. From the position thus occupied the Second New Hampshire and the portion of the First Massachusetts not only repelled the enemy's skirmishers, but drove his sharp shooters from his advanced rifle pits and silenced his heavy guns upon the works in front.

At about 8 o'clock a.m. I received information that the enemy were about to attempt to turn our left flank, and also that he had two light batteries and heavy forces of infantry in front of our left. The remaining portion of the First Massachusetts was then extended as skirmishers from our advanced position on our left in a line nearly parallel with the road, the left resting in the heavy timber, and advanced slowly over the fallen timber toward the left and forward. The Eleventh Massachusetts (Colonel Blaisdell) and subsequently the Twenty-sixth :Pennsylvania (Colonel Small) were deployed in the same manner upon the right, with a view, by direction of the general commanding the division, of making a connection with General Sumner's forces, who were supposed to be within supporting distance to the right. In these positions, with my whole forces closely engaged and pressing forward, the fight was severe and unceasing, and our position without support until about 11 o'clock, when General Patterson's brigade made a timely arrival to meet a heavy force which was moving upon us through the timber on our left, evidently with a view to turn our flank and cut off communication with the rear.

Soon after the arrival of this re-enforcement I received a report from the First Massachusetts Regiment that the most of the regiment was out of ammunition, and by direction of the general commanding the division I ordered a man to the rear to procure more, and receiving a fresh regiment (the Seventy-second New York, Lieutenant-Colonel Moses) as a relief, I withdrew the First Massachusetts from the extreme left and placed it along the front as a connection between the Seventy second New York, which now took the advance position, supporting the right of General Patterson's position and the road, a position which was not at this time heavily pressed. For some hours now our whole position had been under a hot fire from a field battery placed behind a front of timber far to the left, and much of our loss had been caused by this fire, and soon after the arrival of the Seventy-second New York I received information that General Hooker desired me either to silence or take the battery above referred to, whereupon I went forward and communicated with Lieutenant-Colonel Moses, who pushed his command boldly forward in that direction until he received a cutting fire both from the front and flank, and was unable to advance farther without being entirely cut off from support or retreat unless General Patterson's brigade should dislodge the heavy force in his front.

As there was an open plain in the rear of the battery and its position was covered by a point of timber occupied by the rebels I considered any effective action at this time against it as impossible, and therefore returned to the position of my own brigade. I had hardly returned when I perceived that the rebels were gradually bearing down our forces on the left, and soon afterward, notwithstanding the gallant support of the Seventieth New York (Colonel Dwight), were overpowered and forced to retire. In so doing they were closely followed up by the enemy until he had obtained a position in rear of the left of that regiment. I then withdrew that regiment entirely from that position to support our retreating forces at the point of the woods, and just in time to unmask the position of the enemy and expose him to a most severe fire of canister from a part of a field battery thrown forward for the purpose of checking the rebel advance; and I think, from my own observation, this battery contributed more toward sustaining our position than anything else that could have been brought to bear in that part of the field.

It was now about 5 o'clock p.m., and we were, notwithstanding re-enforcements received, losing ground and being slowly driven in, when information was received that General Kearny's division was within ten minutes of us. The exciting cheers which were then given and the striking up of national airs by a band just in rear enabled the officers with one accord to urge on any and every man, without regard to company or regiment, into one heterogeneous and well-formed line, which held our front till the arrival of General Kearny's division. I should have mentioned before that the Eleventh Massachusetts (Colonel Blaisdell) was about 2 o'clock withdrawn from the right and sent to the support of General Patterson on the left, but the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania (now commanded by Major Berry, Colonel Small having retired, being wounded early in the action) remained at or near its first position all day and all night. My other regiments, after the arrival of such re-enforcements as would admit of their being withdrawn to the rear, were encamped about 11/2 miles to the rear.

Thus ended a day most severe upon a body of men jaded by hard labor, want of sleep, and a long march at its commencement, and who had been under an unceasing fire and exposed to a driving rain-storm for thirteen hours. The command, nevertheless, endured everything, and behaved handsomely during the whole engagement.

For special mention of many who made themselves conspicuous I would respectfully refer to the accompanying reports of the regimental commanders. I wish to say, however, that I was very much assisted during the whole day by Lieutenant Hibbert, acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieutenant Hubbard, aide-de-camp, who were present with me when circumstances made it practicable and at other times carrying orders, during the whole battle. For the list of killed, wounded, and missing of my command I would also refer to previous reports.(*)

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

C. GROVER,
Brigadier-general, Commanding Brigade.

Brig. Gen Hooker
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [Reproduction Number: LC-USZ62-111519]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 6. -- Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph Hooker, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division.

HEADQUARTERS HOOKER'S DIVISION,
Third Army Corps, Williamsburg, Va., May 10, 1862.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that under the instructions received through the headquarters Third Army Corps, dated May 4, to support Stoneman and aid him in cutting off the retreat of the enemy, my division marched from its camp before Yorktown about noon that day. We marched toward Williamsburg. After advancing 5 or 6 miles on this road I learned that Brigadier-General Stoneman had fallen upon the rear of the enemy's retreating column, and was then awaiting the arrival of an infantry force to attack him. This was 5 or 6 miles in advance of me, and immediately I left my command and galloped to the front in order to see what disposition it would be necessary to make of my force on its arrival. While here I was informed that Brigadier-General Smith's division had filed into the road in advance of my command, and that in consequence my division would be compelled to halt until after Smith's had passed. I immediately returned to the head of my column, where I found my division halted, and as Smith's was extended, it was between three and four hours in passing. As soon as this was ascertained, and feeling that Stoneman would require no additional support, I applied to Brigadier-General Heintzelman, the senior officer charged with the advance on the Yorktown road, for authority to throw my command on to the Hampton road, which intersected that on which Brigadier-General Stoneman had halted at the identical point his enemy occupied. The angle formed by the two roads is a little less than a right angle. Obtaining this permission the head of my division left the Brick Church about dark, and it pressed forward, in order, if practicable, to come up with the enemy before morning. This, however, I soon found would be impossible, for the roads were frightful, the night intensely dark and rainy, and many of my men exhausted from loss of sleep and from labor the night before in the trenches. The troops were halted in the middle of the road between 10 and 11 o'clock p.m., resolved to stop until daylight, when we started again, and came in sight of the enemy's works before Williamsburg about 5.30 o'clock in the morning.

Before emerging from the forest the column was halted, while I rode to the front to find what could be learned of the position of the enemy. The first work that presented itself was Fort Magruder, and this was standing at the junction of the Yorktown and Hampton roads, and on each side of it was a cordon of redoubts, extending as far as could be seen. Subsequently I found their number to be thirteen, and extending entirely across the Peninsula, the right and left of them resting on the waters of the York and James Rivers. Approaching them from the south they are concealed by heavy forest until the observer is within less than a mile of their locality. Where the forest trees had been standing nearer than this distance the trees had been felled, in order that the occupants of the redoubts might have timely notice of the approach of an enemy and early strike him with artillery. The trees had been felled in this manner on both sides of the road on which we had advanced for a breadth of almost half a mile, and the same was the case on the Yorktown road. Between the edge of the felled timber and the fort was a belt of clear arable land 600 or 700 yards in width. This was dotted all over with rifle pits. In connection with the redoubts themselves I may be permitted to state that I found them standing near the eastern and southern verge of a slightly-elevated plain, the slopes of which were furrowed with winding ravines, with an almost boundless, gently-undulating plain reaching across the Peninsula,- and extending to the north and west as far as the eye could reach. The landscape is picturesque, and not a little heightened by the large trees and venerable spires of Williamsburg, 2 miles distant. Fort Magruder appears to be the largest of the redoubts, its crest measuring nearly half a mile, with substantial parapets, ditches, magazines, &c. This was located to command the Yorktown and Hampton roads, and the redoubts in its vicinity to command the ravines which the guns of Fort Magruder could not sweep.

Being in pursuit of a retreating army, I deemed it my duty to lose no time in making the disposition of my forces to attack, regardless of their number and position, except to accomplish the result with the least possible sacrifice of life. By so doing my division, if it did not capture the army before me, would at least hold them, in order that some others might. Besides, I knew of the presence of more than 30,000 troops not 2 miles distant from me, and that within 12 miles---four hours' march--was the bulk of the Army of the Potomac. My own position was tenable for double that length of time against three times my number.

At 7.30 o'clock Brigadier-General Grover was directed to commence the attack by sending the First Massachusetts Regiment as skirmishers into the felled timber to the left of the road on which they were standing, the Second New Hampshire to the right, both with directions to skirmish up to the edge of the felled timber, and there, under cover, to turn their attention to the occupants of the rifle pits and the enemy's sharpshooters and gunners in Fort Magruder. The Eleventh Massachusetts and the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Regiments were then directed to form on the right of the Second New Hampshire, and to advance as skirmishers until they had reached the Yorktown road, and when that was gained to have word sent me.

Under my chief of artillery, Web's battery was thrown forward in advance of the felled timber and brought into action in a cleared field on the right of the road and distant from Fort Magruder about 700 yards. No sooner had it emerged from the forest on its way to its position than four guns from Fort, Magruder opened on it, and after it was still farther up the road they received the fire from two additional guns from a redoubt on the left. However, it was pushed on, and before it was brought into action two officers and two privates had been shot down, and before a single piece of the battery had been discharged its cannoneers had been driven from it despite the skill and activity of my sharpshooters in picking off the rebel gunners. Volunteers were now called for by my gallant chief of artillery, Major Wainwright, to man the battery now in position, when the officers and men of Osborn's battery sprang forward, and in the time I am writing had those pieces well at work. Captain Bramhall's battery was now brought into action under that excellent officer on the right of Webber's, and before 9 o'clock every gun in Fort Magruder was silenced and all the troops in sight on the plain dispersed.

Between my sharpshooters and the two batteries the enemy's guns in this fort were not heard from again until late in the afternoon. One of the regiments of Brigadier-General Patterson's brigade, the Fifth New Jersey, was charged with the especial care of these batteries, and was posted a little to the rear of them. The remaining regiments of Patterson's brigade, under their intrepid commander, were sent to the left of the road from where they were standing, in anticipation of an attack from that quarter. Heavy forest trees cover this ground and conceal from view the enemy's earthworks about a mile distant. The forest itself has a depth of about three-fourths of that distance. It was through this that Patterson led the Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth New Jersey Regiments. Bodies of the enemy's infantry were seen drifting in that direction, and the increased musketry fire proved that many others were flocking thither whom we could not see. Prior to this moment Brigadier-General Emory had reached my position with a light battery and a body of cavalry, which were promptly placed at my disposal by that experienced and gifted soldier; but as I had no duty on which I could employ those arms of service, and as I was confined for room in the exercise of my own command, I requested that he would dispatch a party to reconnoiter and observe the movements of the rebels to the rear of my left. This was executed to my satisfaction.

It was now reported to me that the skirmishers to the right had reached the Yorktown road, when word was sent to Colonel Blaisdell to proceed with the Eleventh Massachusetts and Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Regiments cautiously down that road to destroy any rebel force he might find, and break down any barrier the enemy might have thrown up to check the advance of our forces in that direction, and when this was executed to report the fact to the senior officer with the troops there, and on his return to send me word of the result of his mission. This was done, and word sent me through Adjutant Currier, of the Eleventh Regiment.

Up to this moment there had been a brisk musketry fire kept up on every part of the field, but its swelling volumes in the direction of Patterson satisfied me from the beginning of the engagement that the enemy had accumulated a heavy force in his front. Grover had already anticipated it, and had moved the main portion of the First Massachusetts Regiment to receive it, while, first, the Seventy-second New York Regiment of Taylor's brigade, and soon after the Seventieth New York Regiment of the same brigade, were ordered to strengthen Paterson.

Colonel Averell, of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry, had with great kindness and gallantry tendered me his services and executed for me with great promptness several important services; while Lieutenant McAlester, of the Engineers, volunteered to make a reconnaissance of such of the enemy's works as were hidden from view, preparatory to carrying them by assault should a suitable opportunity present itself for that object. For this service I am under many obligations to that accomplished officer.

From the earliest moment of the attack it was an object of deep solicitude to establish a connection with the troops in my immediate neighborhood on the Yorktown road, and as that had been accomplished, and as I saw no signs of their advance, at 11.20 a.m. I addressed the subjoined note to the assistant adjutant-general Third Corps, under the impression that his chief was still there. It is as follows:

I have had a hard contest all the morning, but do not despair of success. My men are hard at work, but a good deal exhausted. It is reported to me that my communication with you by the Yorktown road is clear of the enemy. Batteries, cavalry, and infantry can take post by the side of mine to whip the enemy.

This found General Heintzelman absent; but it was returned opened, and on the envelope indorsed, "Opened and read," by the senior officer on that field. A cavalryman took over the note, and returned with it by the Yorktown road after an absence of twenty minutes.

To return. It was now after 1 o'clock, and the battle had swollen into one of gigantic proportions. The left had been re-enforced with the Seventy-third and Seventy-fourth New York Regiments--the only remaining ones of my reserve--under Colonel Taylor, and all were engaged; yet its fortunes would ebb and flow, despite the most determined courage and valor of my devoted officers and men. Three times the enemy approached within 80 yards of the road, which was the center of my operations, and as often were they thrown back with violence and slaughter. Every time his advance was made with fresh troops, and each succeeding one seemed to be in greater force and determination.

The Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment and the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania were ordered to the left. The support of the batteries and the Second New Hampshire Regiment were withdrawn from their advanced position in front to take post where they could look after the front and left at the same time. The orders to the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Regiment did not reach it, and it remained on the right.

At this juncture word was received from Colonel Taylor that the regiments of his command longest engaged were falling short of ammunition, and when he was informed that the supply train was not yet up a portion of his command presented an obstinate front to the advance of the enemy with no other cartridges than were gathered from the boxes of the fallen.

Again the enemy were re-enforced by the arrival of Longstreet's division. His troops had passed through Williamsburg on their retreat from Yorktown and were recalled to strengthen the rebel forces before Williamsburg. No sooner had they joined than it was known that they were again moving to drive in our left. After a violent and protracted struggle they were again repulsed with great loss. Simultaneous with this movement an attempt was made to drive in our front and seize the batteries by the troops from Fort Magruder, aided by re-enforcements from the redoubts on the left. The withdrawal of the supports invited this attack, and it was at this time that four of our guns were captured. They could have been saved, but only at the risk of losing the day. Whatever of dishonor, if any, is attached to their loss belongs to the brigadier-general commanding the division, and not to his chief of artillery or to the officers or men serving with the batteries, for truer men never stepped upon the field of battle.

While this was going on in front Captain Smith, by a skillful disposition of his battery, held complete command of the road, which subsequently, by a few well-directed shots, was turned to good account.

The foregoing furnishes a faithful narrative of the disposition of my command throughout this eventful day. Between 4 and 5 o'clock Brigadier-general Kearny, with all his characteristic gallantry, arrived on the ground at the head of his division, and after having secured their positions my division was withdrawn from the contest and held as a reserve until dark, when the battle ended, after a prolonged and severe conflict against three times my number, directed by the most accomplished general of the rebel army, Maj. Gen. J. E. Johnston, assisted by Generals Longstreet, Pryor, Gholson, and Pickett, with commands selected from the best troops in their army.

The lists of the killed and wounded attest the character of the contest. The killed of the enemy must have been double my own. Of the wounded we cannot estimate. Eight hundred were left in hospitals at Williamsburg, and others were distributed among the private houses of this city, while all the available tenements in the vicinity of the field of battle are filled with them. Three hundred prisoners were taken.

I have omitted to mention the arrival early in the afternoon of Brigadier-General Heintzelman, commanding the Third Army Corps, with his staff, and to express my very grateful acknowledgments for the encouragement inspired by his presence and for the aid and support he gave me by his counsel and conduct.

As soon as darkness concealed their movements the rebels retreated in a state of utter demoralization, leaving behind artillery, wagons, &c.

History will not be believed when it is told that the noble officers and men of my division were permitted to carry on this unequal struggle from morning Until night unaided in the presence of more than 30,000 of their comrades with arms in their hands; nevertheless it is true. If we failed to capture the rebel army on the plains of Williamsburg it surely will not be ascribed to the want of conduct and courage in my command.

The field was marked by an unusual number of instances of conspicuous courage and daring, which I shall seek an early opportunity to bring to the notice of the commander of the Third Corps.

At this time I can speak but in general terms of the regiments and batteries engaged in the battle of Williamsburg. Their list of the killed and wounded from among their number will forever determine the extent of their participation in this hard-fought and dearly-contested field. Their constancy and courage are deserving all praise. My profound and grateful acknowledgments are rendered to them.

I am under great obligations to the officers of my staff for eminent serves, and especially to Capt. Joseph Dickinson, my assistant adjutant-general, and my aides-de-camp, Lieuts. William H. Lawrence and Joseph Abbott, who were with me throughout the day.

JOSEPH HOOKER,
Brigadier-general.

HDQRS. HOOKER'S DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS,
Camp near White Oak Swamp, Va., May 27, 1862.

CAPTAIN: My attention has been called to that part of Brigadier-General Kearny's official report of the battle of Williamsburg which states, "and enabled Major Wainwright, of Hooker's division, to collect his artillerists and reopen fire from several pieces," and I give it my positive and emphatic denial. This statement admits of no application to any battery of mine except Smith's, and I deny that any men of his were driven from their pieces, or that the fire from his battery was suspended from the proximity or fire of the enemy's skirmishers at any time during that day. I request that this statement may be forwarded, in order that it may be placed on record with my official report of the battle on the 5th instant.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant.

JOSEPH HOOKER,
Brigadier-general, Commanding Division.

Brig. Gen. Heintzelman
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [Reproduction Number: LC-DIG-cwpb-04857 DLC]

O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XI/1 [S# 12]
MAY 5, 1862.--Battle of Williamsburg, Va.
No. 4. -- Report of Brig. Gen. Samuel P. Heintzelman, U. S. Army, commanding Third Corps.

HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS, ALLEN'S FARM,
May 5, 1862--9 p.m.

GENERAL: This morning about 9 a.m. the enemy attacked General Hooker, with the evident intention of overwhelming him before he could be re-enforced. He gallantly sustained himself I was with General Sumner farther to the right. He sent out and made some reconnaissances to the right, with the object of turning the left flank of the enemy. About 11 a.m. he learned that it was practicable, but still was waiting for provisions for some of the troops. I left at about 11 a.m. and reached General Hooker's division about 1.30 p.m. I found him hard pressed, but had already sent several messengers to hurry up General Kearny's division. The rebels in the morning got re-enforcements, and the battle raged with various advances and retreats. It was after 2 p.m. when the first re-enforcements reached us. But a few moments before our troops were driven back, some in a panic.

After great exertions this was partially checked, and the opportune arrival of General Berry's brigade saved our artillery and drove the enemy back. Gradually the other brigades arrived, and the enemy were driven back to their original position. Every effort they made was repulsed, and at dark we still held our original position. The enemy occupy a strongly intrenched position with some field guns. It is so situated that we have to bring forward our field guns within short range to oppose their guns within their intrenchments. Thus situated we have been able to make but little use of our artillery.

I am unable to give even an approximate estimate of our loss, but it is quite large. It cannot, I think, be less than 500 killed and wounded. General Hooker's division has suffered so severely that it will not be very reliable for to-morrow. I will try and hold the position, but it is necessary that I be strongly re-enforced.(*) I have applied to General Sumner for aid, which I hope to get before day to-morrow.

We have various reports as to the force of the enemy. I inclose a note I received from Colonel Averell, and also a statement he has made from statements received from prisoners. I think, however, that they intend here to make a determined stand. General Jos. E. Johnston the prisoners report in command of the troops in our front. I think it of the utmost importance that I should be strongly re-enforced at the earliest moment. General Emory, with his cavalry, a battery of horse artillery, and three regiments of infantry in the afternoon made an effort to turn the enemy's right flank, but the ground was found impracticable. We have taken 30 or more prisoners. I hope General Porter's division will be pressed forward immediately to re-enforce me.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. P. HEINTZELMAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Third Corps.

Our men are out of provisions to-night, and the roads are almost impracticable.

S. P. H.

[Inclosure No. 1.]

Col. Averel - 3rd PA Cavalry
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-B8172-1655]

SIR: I have taken several prisoners in feeling about the enemy's right. Have ascertained by careful examination the following facts, viz: Longstreet commands on the enemy's right, with Hill, Withers, Wilcox, and Hunton. He left Williamsburg with his division, consisting of three brigades, this morning at 9 o'clock. They were stampeded there last night and spiked some of their guns. Joe Johnston is commanding. They do not think of retreating from this position, so they say. They left Yorktown because they thought a good run was better than a bad stand. They have all the latest newspaper news, and confirm the taking of New Orleans, &c. They say Burnside has leftNorth Carolina.

WM. W. AVERELL,
Colonel Cavalry

They report a strong force at Williamsburg.

WM. W. A.

[Inclosure No. 2.]

AT ALLEN'S FARM, May 5, 1862---8 p.m.

GENERAL: Some 30 prisoners have fallen into the hands of my cavalry to-day while it was engaged in feeling about the enemy's right; among them a very intelligent gentleman (Mr. Allen), adjutant of the Twenty-eighth Virginia, who conversed with me freely. From all the information I can gather I think I can state the following as very nearly the truth: Johnston is commanding the enemy's forces. He left Williamsburg at 8 o'clock this morning, intending to attack us before our re-enforcements could come up. Longstreet's division is opposite our left. He is jolly to-day in good spirits. J.E.B. Stuart commanded the cavalry which General Cooke attacked yesterday, and leaving his brigade this morning he stood on the road and cheered the rebel regiments on. Three more regiments left Williamsburg at 5 p.m. to-day at a double-quick to re-enforce their line here, which shows that there was a pressure somewhere. The most intelligent of them say that they have over 50,000 men here, and they express the belief that they cannot be whipped. They know nothing of any other movements of ours. They think our force in front is 120,000. They have suffered considerably today.

From the fact that most of these prisoners have strayed from their regiments with the intention of reaching Williamsburg, and have fallen inadvertently into my hands, I believe that there is a communication from our left directly to rear of the enemy's right which could be made by, say, five of our most reliable regiments, followed by two or three batteries with axmen and two regiments of cavalry. I don't think the party that undertook to turn their right took the right direction or started early enough. I was not with it, but believe they struck into the woods too soon. We must be ready to-morrow morning early, I think.

Respectfully, yours,

WM. W. AVERELL.

[Addenda.]

HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS,
ALLEN'S FARM, May 5, 1862--9.30 p.m.

GENERAL: We have been hard pressed by the enemy all day, and nothing but the opportune arrival of General Kearny's division saved us from the loss of some of our artillery and defeat. Cannot you cut a road in front of the enemy's intrenchments by which I can be re-en-forced before daylight in the morning,. as I fear they will make another effort to drive us back? It will require at least a division for me to hold the position against the force the enemy has to bring against me. General Hooker's division suffered so severely that I do not expect to receive much aid from it. By cutting this road the troops can readily join me without having to make the large circuit by Cheesecake Church. Cannot you also attack him at daylight on his left and in your front? I fear greatly that unless he is strongly pressed I will not be able to maintain my position. May I rely upon your aid to sustain me? Our loss has been heavy, some 500 killed and wounded.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. P. HEINTZELMAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Third Corps.

P. S.--General Jos. E. Johnston is in command in my front, and has been re-enforced this morning and again late in the afternoon. They evidently felt hard pressed when our re-enforcements arrived. They attacked General Hooker at about 8 a.m., intending to overwhelm him before he could receive re-enforcements. The rebel force is variously estimated by the prisoners we have taken as high as 50,000 men. They have intrenchments, and they are so situated we cannot make much use of our artillery. May I beg you to send me at least a division before daylight?

HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS,
Williamsburg, Va., May 7, 1862.

GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of the engagement of Generals Hooker's and Kearny's divisions of my corps with the enemy at their intrenchments in front of Williamsburg on the 5th of May, with so much of what previously occurred as is necessary for the understanding of the operations:

On Saturday evening, May 3, the enemy in Yorktown kept up a fire of shot and shell on our lines till after midnight. At the first appearance of daylight Sunday morning I heard what I took to be a heavy skirmish in the direction of Yorktown and saw a bright light. I ordered an ascension with the balloon, and Professor Lowe reported to me that the light was a burning building or a vessel near the wharf off Yorktown. Subsequently I learned that the firing was caused by the explosion of small-arm cartridges and shells from a rebel magazine in the direction of Yorktown. I then got a telegram from General F. J. Porter that it was believed the enemy were abandoning Yorktown. I immediately went up in the balloon with Professor Lowe. We could not distinguish any guns or men in or around the fortifications of Yorktown and the smoke of their camps was very much diminished. In a few minutes we saw to our right a line of skirmishers advance steadily, supported by a regiment of infantry, toward the rebel works and enter them. I immediately descended, and gave orders to the divisions of Generals Kearny and Hooker to prepare to march; also to Colonel Averell's Third Pennsylvania Cavalry. At 10 a.m. I went to general headquarters, and received orders for General F. J. Porter's division to occupy Yorktown; that the reserve cavalry and four batteries of horse artillery, under General Stoneman, would advance toward Williamsburg, and for me to support it with Hooker's division. Soon after I received orders for General Kearny's division to prepare to march.

One thousand men of General Hooker's division were on duty in the trenches, and were detained for some time by the general on duty there. Another regiment, the Seventy-first New York, was still at Cheeseman's Landing. This delayed the march of the division till near 1 p.m. My headquarters accompanied this division.

Before I reached the Half-way House, where I was directed to leave a force to watch the road from Lee's Mill, I heard firing in front, and received a note from General Stoneman that he had met the enemy intrenched about 2˝ miles from Williamsburg, and wanted infantry to aid in carrying their works. At the Half-way House, 7 miles from Yorktown, I found the head of General Hooker's column detained by General Smith's division, which had reached that point before him, and was advancing to the support of General Stoneman. I pushed forward, and a mile from the front met General Hooker returning. He stated that General Sumner was in advance, and that the road was filled with troops. He suggested to march his division to the left from Cheesecake Church, about a half a mile in rear of us, into the road leading from Lee's Mill to Williamsburg, and attack the enemy farther to the left.

As I could not now follow my instructions literally I approved of this suggestion, and directed him to push forward. I continued on to Adams' house, about 3 miles from Williamsburg, where I arrived about 5 p.m., and found there Generals Sumner, Smith, Stoneman, Hancock, and soon after Generals Keyes and Brooks arrived. General Cooke was on the left of the road with the cavalry. Here were parts of two corps and a part of the reserve all mixed up. How General Sumner got here and the other generals I do not know as my instructions directed me to "take control of the entire movement." General Hancock's brigade had just arrived; had stacked arms for a few moments to refresh themselves with rest and food. General Sumner determined to attack the works in front and carry them with the bayonet.

Before the arrangements were completed it became so dark that the troops got lost in the woods, and had to wait there until daylight. During the night it commenced raining. Not long before daylight a messenger from headquarters arrived with orders to General Sumner, but as the latter was not to be found they were delivered to me. Soon after General Sumner arrived, having been compelled to spend the night in the woods.

About 7 a.m. General Casey arrived, and reported his division halted in the road a short distance back. Generals Sumner, Keyes, and myself then held a consultation, and it was determined to make a reconnaissance from our extreme right. We were told by a countryman that he had passed that way the Friday before, when the direct road to Williamsburg was filled with the retreating rebel troops. The reconnaissance disclosed the fact that two earthworks in that direction, one of them unfinished, were abandoned, and that the left flank of the enemy could be turned.

It was now near 11 a.m., and it was still raining steadily. I left as soon as I was relieved from a conference of generals and took the road by Cheesecake Church into the road leading from Lee's Mill to Williamsburg. The distance was 6 miles, and the road so bad that I did not reach General Hooker before 1 p.m. I passed several deserted earthworks. This was evidently the main line of the retreat of the rebel forces. It was strewn with broken wagons and abandoned tools. Before I left General Sumner's headquarters a firing of artillery and musketry had been heard by me, and so continuous as to occasion me great anxiety. When I came up with General Hooker he informed me that he had attacked the enemy in front that morning at 7.30 o'clock, and that he was hard pressed, and in want of immediate re-enforcements; that he had written me a note and forwarded it by an orderly through the woods in close proximity to the rebel works, and that the distance across was not much over a mile, if so far. This note was dated 11.20 a.m., and was received by General Sumner after I left. The orderly was not gone over twenty minutes. Colonel Blaisdell, Eleventh Massachusetts, sent by General Hooker to open communication with our troops on his right, also reported to General Hancock that the road was open and the communication clear from General Hooker's right to the left of General Sumner. I immediately sent another note to General Sumner, stating to him the situation, and asking him for a re-enforcement, and to aid us also by a demonstration on the enemy's front and left flank. This note I sent by two orderlies through the woods by the short route. To this note I received no answer. No re-enforcements and no demonstrations were made.

I had the evening before sent an order to General Kearny to advance to Cheesecake Church and there await orders. General Sumner the next morning sent him an order to advance and support Hooker. I now sent him another, informing him of our pressing need and urging him to hurry up.

The enemy had in front of General Hooker's attack six earthworks, the largest of them (Fort Magruder) with a bastioned front. A portion of the ground in General Hooker's front was clear. The trees in front of this clear space were felled, to give cover to their sharpshooters and more range to their guns. They had rifle pits between their works and the felled trees. They also had field artillery in the rear of their rifle pits. The only space where we could plant a battery was exposed to a cross fire from the artillery in their works. The ground in advance of their works was a level, unobstructed plain for 600 yards, and then dense forest and thick undergrowth, through which you could scarcely see a man at the distance of 60 yards. The most of the battle was fought in this forest. The space in which our batteries could be used was so contracted that they were comparatively of little use.

The infantry supports being driven out of a point of woods to the left of the road the enemy possessed himself of it, and drove the men from the guns of Captain Webber's battery, and carried off three Parrott guns, one 12-pounder howitzer, and one caisson. Captain Bramhall's battery on the right of these was also abandoned, but the guns were so badly mired they could not be carried off by the enemy. General Emory, with Colonel Averell's Third Pennsylvania Cavalry, and Captain Benson's horse artillery., was a mile and a half in the rear, watching a road through a cleared space on our left, through which a road ran into Williamsburg. He and Colonel Averell were of the opinion that by this road we might make an attack and turn the enemy's right flank. As soon as our re-enforcements came up I sent Captain McKeever, my assistant adjutant-general, to conduct to him four regiments of infantry, two batteries of artillery belonging to General Kearny's division, with which and the cavalry and horse artillery I wished him to make the attack. General Hooker and his division gallantly sustained themselves against a much superior force from early in the morning until near 3 o'clock p.m., when the Third Brigade began to give way, having expended nearly all their ammunition. General Patterson, who was in command of this brigade, had joined but a few days before. By great exertions on his part and that of the officers most of the brigade was again rallied. The troops maintained their ground for some time with empty guns and not a cartridge in their boxes, relying upon their bayonets. I had sent messenger after messenger to General Kearny to hurry up his division. The road had now become a sea of mud from the passage of the troops of the enemy, then of our troops, and the ammunition wagons and artillery.

Our soldiers, weary and exhausted by the labors of the siege of Yorktown, had left Sunday morning as soon as those in the trenches the night before joined us. The long march through the rain and mud gave but little time for rest. Many straggled or came back with the constant stream of the wounded, who had to be helped to the rear. They were not always prompt to rejoin their regiments. The ram, the sight of the wounded, the re-enforcements still behind, all conspired to depress everybody. No efforts I could make would move them. I ordered the drums to beat, but the drums were wet, and did not give forth cheerful sounds. I saw some brass instruments. I ordered the musicians to play, but it was only part of a band. Lieutenant Johnson, of my staff, looked around and found some more. Putting them together, the band struck up a patriotic air. This inspired new life into all. The men collected and began to cheer. The strains were wafted through the old forest, and made themselves heard by our weary troops above the roar of the battle, and inspired them with fresh vigor to perform new deeds of valor.

At 2.30 p.m. by the most strenuous exertions (the men laying aside their knapsacks) General Kearny and General Berry with his brigade pushed through the obstructions on their way and arrived on the ground just as the enemy got to a battery of our artillery in the road, and repulsed him immediately. The officer in charge of the guns fired three shots, which aided in checking the enemy. The Fifth Michigan, Colonel Terry, charged upon the enemy with the bayonet, and drove them upon the rifle pits, killing 143 of them, 63 of whom were shot through the head. General Berry is entitled to great credit for the energy he displayed in passing the obstructions on the road and for the gallant manner in which he brought his brigade into action at the turning point of the battle.

An hour after General Berry arrived General Birney with his brigade came up, followed immediately by General Jameson with his. From a prisoner we learned that during the afternoon four rebel regiments arrived from Williamsburg at a double-quick, and at this time the most determined efforts were made to turn our left flank. Re-enforcements for the enemy, however, were arriving all day till 5 p.m. General Kearny had but five regiments engaged. Of the remainder four regiments were on the left flank, under General Emory, and three in reserve, under General Jameson. General Hooker had about 9,000 men, including the artillery, in the action. The Seventy-first New York Volunteers were left at Cheeseman's Landing, but have joined since the battle.

I cannot find words to do justice to the gallantry of General Hooker's division. The smoke and rain were driven by the wind into the faces of our men. Even the elements were combined against us. Notwithstanding the disheartening circumstance that our troops knew we had three divisions idle on their right, within hearing of their musketry, they held the ground as long as they had any ammunition with a fearful loss of life against great odds, in a fortified position, until General Kearny's division made a march of 9 miles through rain and mud over a road obstructed by troops that were going to the right, where they were not wanted. I cannot find words to express my admiration of their gallantry. About 2.30 p.m. General Peck's brigade, sent by General Keyes, took up a position somewhere on General Hooker's right, and engaged the enemy. As his report was not made to me, I cannot say with what result. It no doubt helped to keep the enemy in check on that part of this line.

In General Grover's brigade most of the regiments did very well--the Second New Hampshire particularly so, and it suffered greatly. Colonel Marston, of the Second New Hampshire, states in his report that--

The rebel barbarian in command extended a white flag, and cried out to him (Captain Drown), "Don't fire, don't fire; we are friends!" at the same time directing his men to train their arms. Captain Drown, believing they were about to surrender, directed his men not to fire, whereupon the whole body of the enemy suddenly fired upon him, killing him instantly and also several of his men.

Another instance of cowardice and treachery is related in Colonel Blaisdell's report of the Eleventh Massachusetts as having occurred in front of his regiment:

While the regiment was engaged on the left of the road, at not more than 50 yards, a rebel officer displayed a white flag, crying out, "Don't fire on your friends." When I ordered, "Cease firing, and Private Michael Doherty, of Company A, stepped forward to get the flag, and when near it the officer said to his men, "Now, give it to them." The men obeyed, firing and severely wounding Private Doherty, who immediately returned the fire, shooting the officer through the heart, thus rewarding him for his mean treachery.

Some of our wounded men were bayoneted by the rebels, and a New Jersey captain was found bayoneted and his ears cut off. There are other cases.

In Colonel Taylor's brigade all the regiments behaved very well and suffered the heaviest loss; nearly as much as both the others together.

Colonel Dwight, Seventieth New York Volunteers, is particularly commended. He was badly wounded and taken prisoner, but left in the hospital in Williamsburg on parole. The Third Brigade, Brigadier General Patterson, suffered very severely; the Seventh and Eighth New Jersey Volunteers, however, had quite a number of stragglers, as well as the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania, in the First Brigade.

I beg leave to refer the commanding general to the regimental reports for the names of officers and men who particularly distinguished themselves. The artillery was not as much used as was desirable on account of the difficulties of the ground, but the batteries brought in position made good use of their opportunities. Three of our batteries were not engaged, as they could not be used. When the artillery of General Kearny's division arrived I sent Capt. J. Thompson, its chief, to examine the ground, and he reported that it could not be used to advantage, with the exception of two pieces, to hold the road in our front, and he placed them there. The effort to turn the enemy's right flank would have been made at an earlier hour of the day, but I had not the troops to spare until after General Kearny's division arrived on the field. It did not then succeed, as I was without guides or maps, although Colonel Averell had possession of the right work, No. 1, of the enemy, and occupied it with a company of cavalry from an early hour of the day.

Early in the night the enemy commenced his retreat. This intelligence unfortunately was not communicated to me until after sunrise. As soon as I learned it I ordered forward the cavalry and horse artillery in pursuit. Between 6 and 7 a.m. we took possession of Fort Magruder and the dependent works. The enemy then had two regiments of infantry and some cavalry in sight in front of Williamsburg. I sent forward a brigade of infantry and some artillery under General Jameson, but the enemy hastily retreated through the town. We found two field pieces this side and five siege pieces beyond, 2 miles out, the bad roads and pursuit compelled him to abandon. There were also abandoned wagons and a great number of small-arms. In Fort Magruder there was some ammunition left, and we got a silk flag, inscribed "Pickens Guard," and "Presented by the Ladies." In the town the enemy abandoned all their severely wounded without attendance or the least provision for their sustenance. Counting them, the prisoners captured during the battle and the first day of their retreat, we got about 1,000 men; among them one colonel and several other officers. Up to Saturday 800 rebels were buried by our troops.

The reconnaissance map made by Lieutenant McAlester, inclosed, shows the strength of the enemy's position, as well as the gallantry and good conduct of the troops that could force him to abandon such works.

General Jameson and Captain McKeever, of my staff, were the first officers in Williamsburg. The retreating enemy fired their magazine, filled with shells and other ammunition. General Hooker's division, when assigned to my corps, was stationed near Budd's Ferry, on the Potomac; did not join until after we sat down before Yorktown. The duties of the siege were so laborious I never had an opportunity to see a single regiment in line of battle. All the troops were entire strangers to me, except their gallant commander.

I also beg leave to call the attention of the commanding general particularly to General Hooker's report. I cannot close my report without commending anew Generals Kearny and Hooker and the members of their staffs for their unwearied exertions and conspicuous gallantry. The former lost two members of his staff killed. To the members of my staff, the chief of it, Capt. Chauncey McKeever, and Lieut. M.D. McAlester, of the Engineers, I am particularly indebted for their conspicuous good conduct and gallantry. Captain McKeever rendered good service on my staff at Bull Run. Lieutenant McAlester established a reputation in the preliminary operations for the siege of Yorktown. May I commend them both to your favorable consideration?

To the other officers of my staff, Capt. Isaac Moses, assistant adjutant-general; Lieut. L. Hunt, Thirty-eighth New York Volunteers; Lieut. G. E. Johnson, Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Lieut. Henry Norton, Sixty-third New York Volunteers, I am indebted for valuable service in communicating orders and in clearing the road for the advance of General Kearny's division. They were so actively employed that they were seldom at my side. Assist. Surg. John J. Milhau, medical department, the medical director of the corps, was most indefatigable in his attention to the wounded during the action and the following night. He performed many operations himself. He was very active in procuring and arranging transportation for them to Queen's Landing, at which point they were embarked for Fort Monroe. Captain McKelvy, the chief commissary of the corps, was also quite active, and has kept the troops well supplied with provisions.

I knew nothing of the handsome affair of General Hancock's until near midnight, when, as I was returning to my bivouac from writing a note to General McClellan, I met an officer of his staff, who informed me of the affair, and that the general had arrived at General Sumner's headquarters at 5 p.m. that day. After midnight I received directions not to renew the attack without further orders; that the general would send me re-enforcements, and was making arrangements for the operations of the next day.

Brig. Gen. Peck
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-DIG-cwpb-05950]

General Peck informs me that he found a regiment of General Grover's brigade coming back along the Williamsburg road, the officers of which reported the enemy driving in our front; that their ammunition was getting expended. This regiment remained inactive all the afternoon. This was the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania. Captain McKeever stopped a lieutenant and several men of this regiment who were retreating on the lefthand road.

Generals Jameson and Berry both sent scouts forward during the night to the immediate vicinity of the works in their front, and reported the enemy abandoning them. As soon as I knew this I pushed forward our skirmishers and occupied them. Soon after the commanding general arrived from beyond my right, and we rode forward into Williamsburg.

I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. P. HEINTZELMAN,
Brigadier-General.

Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division,[REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-USZ62-5340]

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