September 11, 1862: George Eyster to John Riddle Warner

John Riddle Warner was the grandfather of the poet Marianne Moore and during the Civil War he lived in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. George Eyster was his brother-in-law and lived in Chambersburg. These letters are preserved as part of Marianne Moore’s family papers.

   Transcript:

Chambersburg September 11^th 1862

Post Office—12 o’clock, at night

Dear John,

We think ourselves now in actual danger. Our town is to-night under strict military surveillance. Judge Kinwell being the Provost Marshall. At least 500 men are under arms and posted on the various roads. An hour ago a dispatch was received from the government saying we had reliable intelligence that it was the intention of the rebels to enter Pennsylvania. Capt Ward telegraphs just now from Greencastle that he has the roads strongly picketed, but apprehends no attack before morning. The rebels are certainly at Hagerstown in very strong force. We have not yet decided what course to proceed with 10 families, but will have concert of action. We feel afraid to try the experiment of hasty [illeg.] to the humanity of traitors. 580 Cavalry will be up in a few hours. Most of the merchandise has been shipped to points away from town. Clegget Fitzhugh from Mount Alto was seen in Hagerstown today. We fear he may pilot their cavalry into our neighborhood by a circuitous route. Dob Sinan & Brimm led the advance into Hagerstown. They have torn up about two miles of the rail-road on the side of Hagerstown. I have been on Horseback all night.

If Mr. Weaver gets this please communicate contents to M. McPherson/if Mr. McPherson, to Mr. Weaver.

Yours

Geo Eyster

Citation: George Eyster, autograph letter signed to John Riddle Warner.  Chambersburg, Pa.; 11 September 1862. Moore VI:05:10