Major Brooks' Journal of Siege Work, Morris Island, July to September 1863, page 5

TitleMajor Brooks' Journal of Siege Work, Morris Island, July to September 1863, page 5
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CollectionsThomas Benton Brooks Papers

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Transcription15; The General Commanding has decided to attempt the demolition of Fort Sumter from positions now held by his forces, the nearest of which is about two miles from the Fort. If this plan succeeds it is understood that the Navy will be able to occupy Charleston Harbor, thus investing Morris Island, and causing a speedy surrender of its earthworks, which from their favorable position, and through construction, have proved so formidable. As the first step in this plan I have been ordered to direct the establishment of a strong defensive line across Morris Island, at the most advanced practicable point, thus securing our lodgement on the island, and depots of supplies, and rendering the construction and operation of the necessary breaching batteries, comparatively safe from interruption by sorties. In verbal instructions my particular attention was called to the importance of a formidable material obstacle in front of the line; one that would go far to "keep the enemy out, even if the work was not defended". Accordingly, on the night of July 23rd this main defensive line and Second Parallel

LocationsMorris Island, Charleston County, South Carolina, United States(32.71573,-79.89037)

TopicsSouth Carolina--History
United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865
Armed Forces
Brooks, T. B. (Thomas Benton), 1836-1900

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RightsU.S. Government Work Learn More