Today in History:

224 Series I Volume XXXII-II Serial 58 - Forrest's Expedition Part II

Page 224 KY., SW. VA., TENN., MISS., ALA., AND N. GA. Chapter XLIV.

PULASKI, TENN., January 26, 1864.

Colonel MIZNER, Columbia:

We are still holding Athens, and with troops now there I think we will succeed. The first report form there was party wrong. The trains only left. The troops stopped and were still fighting when last heard from. All my mounted men went to Florence and Colbert Reserve to attack Johnson. I except them to fall upon the rear of the force that crossed at Brown's ferry. A small detachment of the Ninth still hold Athens, but now are are-enforced by Kemper's pioneer corps and the bridge-builders near there. I can hold all my points, but have nothing to follow up with unless troops at Florence get after them.

G. M. DODGE,

Brigadier-General.

PULASKI, TENN., January 26, 1864.

Colonel MIZNER, Columbia:

The enemy have taken Athens and are coming this way-four regiments and battery. All my mounted force is at Florence. Watch to the west close.

G. M. DODGE,

Brigadier-General.

PULASKI, TENN., January 26, 1864.

Major General L. H. ROUSSEAU, Nashville:

The enemy crossed the river last night; attacked Athens this morning and were defeated,da nd are now trying to get back.

The troops at Athens had mostly gone to Florence to attack Johnson's force, and Colonel Hannon, with 600 rebels and two pieces of artillery, took advantage of it, but got badly pricked up.

G. M. DODGE,

Brigadier-General.


HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, Pulaski, Tenn., January 26, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICERS OF DETACHMENTS, Wales' Station and Nance's Mills:

It is reported that the enemy have crossed the Tennessee River in considerable force,a nd have taken Athens. Be on the alert. Strengthen your position as much as possible, and communicate to these headquarters if anything occurs.

By order of T. W. Sweeny, brigadier-general, commanding:

JAMES DAVIDSON,
Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Pulaski, Tenn. January 26, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER DETACHMENT,

Richland:

The enemy have crossed the river and taken Athens. Have every man on the alert, the bridges closely guarded, and the greatest part


Page 224 KY., SW. VA., TENN., MISS., ALA., AND N. GA. Chapter XLIV.