A Line of Fires: The Fiery Destruction of October 1862
Updated: Sep 22
Fairview - October 22, 1862
Jno W Garrett Esq.
President
Sir,
Reports from the line of our road are of the most discouraging character. I have no doubt that the recommendations of Gov. Letcher are being fully carried out.
On Saturday last eight thousand men arrived in Martinsburg. They immediately commenced to destroy our road. The ties were taken up and set fire to and
the iron thrown on the burning piles.
On Monday the line of our road could be distinctly traced (from this point) from Opequon to Paxtons Cut by a continuous line of fires.
It is reported that Edwards & Remans family were notified to leave the company houses previous to their being destroyed.
I am not easily alarmed by rumors but I fear sir that our entire tracks, bridges, buildings and all our property between Opequon (perhaps Duffields) and Back Creek will be destroyed. I will add more from Hancock.
Hancock, 12 AM We will leave here at 2 PM. A train went as far as Cherry Run yesterday. I have not learned particulars. P.M. cannot allow me longer time and
must close. Train has not yet arrived. Will write from Cumb. (Cumberland, Md.)
Very respectfully your obedient servant,
W.C. Quincy AMR
Selected entries from Confederate Capt. Wingfield's diary:
October 18, 1862. Leave Camp and march to Martinsburg. Camp some two miles above the town.
October 19, 1862. Move up towards Hedgesville and turn to B. & O. R.R. Our Brigade ordered to tear up the track. Our Regiment out on picket.
October 20, 1862. Leave picket post and cook up day's rations. Move to old camp near Martinsburg.
October 21, 1862. We were ordered to tear up railroad between Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry. Spent the night some two miles below Martinsburg. I take command of the Regt.
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