1862 May 6 West Point, Va.

[from the diary of Samuel Johnson, 1st Massachusetts Independent Light Battery]

                      May 6th

At seven. A. M. got under weigh again.
Arrived at. West Point at four P. M.
Here the Gun Boats rounded into
position to cover our landing.  a
company of rebel cavalry being seen on
the shore they opened on them – but
a few well directed shots, caused the
Johnnies to retreat to the woods in a hurry.
In these woods.  there are some 10,000 rebs
commanded by Gen’l Longstreet of Va. and
Whitting of Mass.  at six P. M. the div.
commenced to disembark.  Skirmishing
briskly all night long.  several were killed
and wounded on both sides.  the day has
been cool and unpleasant.  We expect
a break down. in the morning.

[transcribed by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 8493