Major-general Benj. F. Butler's Reports on May 25, 1964 - Black history during the Civil War

Major-general Benj. F. Butler's Reports on May 25, 1864

HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD
May 25, 1864--7.30 a.m. (Received 5 p.m.)

Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, lately promoted, made, with cavalry, infantry, and artillery, an attack upon my post at Wilson's Wharf, north side of James River, below Fort Powhatan, garrisoned by two regiments, all negro troops, Brigadier-General Wild commanding, and was handsomely repulsed. Before the attack Lee sent a flag, stating he had force enough to take the place, demanded its surrender, and in that case the garrison should be turned over to the authorities at Richmond as prisoners of war, but if this proposition was rejected he would not be answerable for consequences when he took the place. General Wild replied, "We will try that." Re-enforcements were at once sent, but fight was over before their arrival. Loss not yet reported. Dispatch relating to Lee being over South Anna received. Will be ready to move on the instant.

BENJ. F. BUTLER,

Major-general, Commanding.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.

GENERAL BUTLER'S HEADQUARTERS,
May 25, 1864--11 a.m. (Received 9 p.m.)

General Fitzhugh Lee abandoned his attack on our post on Wilson's Wharf during the night, having completely failed. He lost 20 killed, whom he left on the ground in our hands. Among these is reported Major Breckinridge, of the Second Virginia Cavalry. He removed his wounded. We took 19 prisoners from him. Our own loss is 1 man killed, 20 wounded, and 2 missing. The defense was commanded by Brigadier-General Wild in person, commanding a force of 1,800 men, all of whom were negroes.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,

BENJ. F. BUTLER,

Major-General, Commanding.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.

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