WEST VIRGINIA
ADJUTANT GENERALS' PAPERS

Union Regiments
1861-1865
Ar382

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3rd West Virginia Cavalry
(Field and Staff, Companies A - M, Unassigned, Miscellaneous)
Box 4, Folder 3

Transcription

Gov F. H. Pierpoint
Wheeling Va

Gov
I this morning met Lieut Wilson of Capt Reeves Co. As Capt R. has resigned I came here to see the Lieut and learn from him the condition of things

I understand that Col Anasansel and some of the other officers of the 1st Va Cavalry who I find have without any cause for doing so done all that they could to depreciate the 3rd Va Reg & ignoring the fact of its existence, have recommended some outsider as Capt of the Company. Now Gov grant me one request, if they of the 1st Va have friends who they want in the service let them take them to themselves and not palm them of upon us for I wish to have good officers in my Regt.

Aside from all that, it is much better for the service, produces much more general satisfaction to let promotions come in the regular way

There are of course exceptions to all general rules but there should be strong reasons for deviating from the rules lain down. Make the 1st Lieut Captain the 2d Lieut 1st and the Orderly Sergeant 2d Lieut

At the present case there is no reason in the world for deviating from the rule Lieut Wilson is a very good man will make a good officer and is the man who the men of the Co want. I have known the Lieut for some time. he was adjutant of a Battalian of which I had command at Paw Paw. and I have always found him a man who could be trusted, prompt, and temperate.

He (the 1st Lieut) recommends in strong terms the 2d Lieut and also the Orderly Sergeant which I think is all that is necessary as he expect to be commander of the company He would not recommend a man unless he knew him competent to the discharge of his duties

I hope you will not make any appointments in the 3rd Va on recommendation of officers of the 1st without first consulting me.

If you please commission this officer to Co (B) this Va Cavalry as theire commissions now read 1st Va

Gov. Lieut Cehols? who arrived here last evening saz it was his understanding from you before leaving Wheeling that you designed filling up the Regt to a Maximum Regt. If such is your intention please let me learn at the earliest moment as I am confident that I could raise it in a very short time. I was at Gams Cross road in Warren County when I received your last letter and was sorry that I could not comply with your request with regard to the Co at the Point of Rock but I wrote to Adjt Powell at Cumberland ordering him to go down at once and do what he could for them. If you allow me to recruit a Regt I was talking to a gentleman here this morning who says he think that some men could be raised in the neighborhood of Alexandria.

Anything you may have for me asect? to Sigels Division

I have the honor to be
Most Respectfully
Verry Obt servant
J Lowry McGee
Major 3rd Va Cavalry

Reverse side-

J. H. Wilson
Capt also 1sr & 2d Lt
3rd Regt Va Cavy

Commission as directed or requester
F.H.Pierpont

Maj 3rd Va Cavy
Warrenton Va
July 28 /62

Headquarters Milroys Division
Winchester Va Jan 8th 1963
Brig. Genl. H. J. Samuels

Genl
-eurd? of the 2d is just received and below I give the information desires or as near as I myself am advised

Co. "A" Capt E. F. Conger. 1st Lieut W. W. Barrett. 2d Lieut Benj. __ Smith
Co. "B" Capt Joseph Wilson. Lieuts I do not know never having had a report from the Co.
Co. "C" Capt. S. B. Conger. 1st Lieut J.E. Hoffman 2d Lieut John E. Bowers
Co. "D" Capt. J. R. Utt 1st Lieut G.W McVicker. 2d Lieut Magile Clark
Co. "E" Capt White 1st Lieut __ Artis 2d Lieut Martin
Co. "F" Capt. Lot Bowen Lieuts name not reported
Co. "G" The Co at Point of Rocks you have the names of the officers in your office they were appointed while I was in Wheeling I have forgotten their names
Co. "H" Capt Whitney. has never reported

All the above Companies are in the field, scattered over the "sacred soil" from Clarksburgh to Falmouth

I sent a requisition to washing to a friend of mine there to coud through for Carbines and I have just been notified by the Chief of Ordinance that they are ordered to be sent from the New York Arsinal. I also applied for a Howitzer which the Sect. of War says he will furnish provided I recruit sufficient men to mount it without a Commissioned officer. which I hope to do

I have sent the Rects to Capt Utt for approval
Respectfully
J. Lowry McGee
Maj. & Chief of Cavalry
Milroys Division
Brig. Genl. H. J. Samuels
Adjt. Genl. Va
Wheeling Va.

Reverse side- List of officers
3rd Regt Va Cavalry

P.S. Cant you send us a Paymaster
The boys are terribly short of Green Backs
McGee

Headquarters Milroys Division
Winchester Va Jan 17 1863

Gov F. H. Pierpoint
I have received from the New York Arsinal 400 Carbines. Having no use for more than enough to suppy one Co. here I have directed the remainder 310 to be sent to you. The other Companies can make requisition in you for what they want You will please forward me receipt for the same

I have just received a letter from a Mr Geo. A. Sexton of Buckhamon Va. who has been recruiting a Cavalry Co. in that vicinity and says that he is ready to organise as soon as vested with the proper authority. Mr. Sexton is a resident of Upshur Co. has been a scout for Gens. Rosecrans, Reynolds and Milroy and is very highly recommended and a responsible man and it is thought would make a good officer. Gen Milroy requested I should address you on the subject and desire that you commission him to recruit a Co. which would be all the authority he would need to organise

I have the honor to be Most Respectfully
Your Obt. Servant
J. Lowry McGee
Maj 3 Va Cavalry

Reverse side-

Geo A Sexton?
2d Lieut to recruit
for 3rd Regt Cavalry

Comand Jany 21st /63.

Commision to recruit

Headquarters Milroys Division
Winchester Va Jan 20 1863

Mr. L. A. Hagens

Dear Sir
By some unavoidable axcident I have lost my Commission, the absence of which at this time is a rather serious matter for the reason that I am notified from Washington that I cannot be paid untill duplicate Muster in Rolls has been sent in and as I have not been mustered in it will be necessary for me to have a commission before I can be mustered

I would be very much obliged to you if you will send me a duplicate of my commission dated March 25th 1862. Be kind enough to attend to it at once as I shall have to go to Baltimore to be mustered and I want to have the thing all right before the Paymaster comes which it is hoped will be soon.

All is quiet here no enemy within thirty miles of us
Respectfully
J.L.M.

Reverse side-

J.L.McGee
Winchester
Jan 20 /63
Answered 22nd

Duplicate sent
Jan 22d 1863

Winchester Va May 2d 1863

Dear Coyler?
I hear there is to be a Col. Appointed for the 3rd Regiment Virginia Cavalry and experience has taught me that it is Very Necessary to Make good and wise Selections to fill Such appointments and belonging as I do to the Virginia Service I feel exceedingly ausious that none but brave and efficient Officers Should be Trusted with the Command of a Virginia Regiment and knowing as there allways is Many applications Made by Men for Such positions who are not worthy of the Slightest Consideration and as our very excellent and worthy Gov,, has to apuint Some what upon the recommendations of others I beg leave to call his attention to Major J.L. McGee 3rd Regt VA Cavalry and now Chief of Major Genl Milroys Staff who is being urged by his many friends to Make application for the appointment I have Knowen Major McGee for Some time and have no hesitation is Saying that I regard him as one of the best officers in the Virginia Service and one that I have the utmost Confidence in and would be very glad to see him as the head of that Regiment. I ask that you lay his Claim before the Govr,, asking his Favorable Consideration hoping he May see cause to Commission him Colonel of that Regiment

Your Truly
I H Duval

Col H ? Crothers
Wellsburg. Va

Reverse side-

Col I. H. Duval
Winchester Va
May 2d /63

Recommends J Lowry
McGee for Col of 3rd Regt Va,, Cavy.

Headquarters 2d Division 8th A C
Winchester Va May 29th 1863

His Excellency
Gov. F. H. Pierpont

Governor
With the interest I naturally feel that my other officers should be prompt efficient and energetic men. I would most earnestly recommend to you favorable notice Mr. Samuel Muller a temperate moral and intelligent gentleman eminently qualified to fill a post of honor in our army

He is a private of Collins Battery and for the past eight months has been on detached duty at these Hd.Qrs. rendering the most perfect satisfaction. I have been accuainted with Mr Muller the greater part of this time and have always found him not only prompt in the discharge of any duty assigned to him but fully competent

He has voluntarily accompanied me on several expeditions and has invariably when opportunity offered displayed a noble courage and gallantry

---I am sorry to say too rarely met with in our service

In addition to the claims which the men in the field undoubtedly have over there remaining at home Mr Mullers many excellent qualities demand that he should have a better position than the one he now holds. I would only add that in the Cavalry arm of the service I am shure from what I have seen of him that if he had a position to command he would be credit to the service

If there is anything you can do for him to better his condition you will confer a lasting favor on myself and his many friends

I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your Most Obt. Servant
J Lowry McGee
Maj 3 Va Cav
ADG

Reverse side-

J Lowry McGee
Winchester Va
May 29th /63
3 Cav.

Wheeling West Va.
July 18th 1863

Gov
The 3rd Va Cavalry Regt being without a Quartermaster an officer of vital importance as well for the efficiency as the comfort of the Regt. I would most heartily and earnestly recommend for that position Mr Goldie Q.M. Clerk to Capt Fitch

Mr Goldie entered the service as a private at the first outbreak of the rebellion and has been in the service ever since. I have known him for several years and have always found him honest industrious faithful and efficient. I think him in every way qualified for the position I ask for him and have no doubt he would prove a valuable acquisition to the Regt.

Hoping his application may meet with favorable notice.
I have the honor to be
Most Respectfully
Your Obt Servant
J Lowry McGee
Maj. Comdg. 3.Va Cav.

His Excellency
Gov A.J. Boreman
Wheeling Va.

Reverse side-

Lt. Col J. L. McGee
Wheeling W. Va.
July 18th /63

The State of West Virginia
ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE
Wheeling July 18 1863

Gov.
A vacancy having been occasioned by the death of Capt. J.R. Utt Co. "D" 3rd Va Cav. I take pleasure in recommending to your favorable notice First Lieut W. McVicker for appointment as Capt of said Co. Second Lieut McGill Clark for 1st Lieut and Joseph Robins Sergent Co "D" for 2d Lieut

I have the honor to be
Your Obt Servant
JLowry McGee
Maj. Comdg.
Gov A I Boreman
Wheeling Va

Reverse side-

Lt. W. McVickers
et al

Commission
A.J. Boreman
? July 1863

Washington D.C.
Aug 20th 1863

General
I have just seen the Gov. from who I learn a letter sent by the Adgt. Genl some two week since had not come to hand. The letter was to you in answer to the one I brought here to the Secty and it asked from you a full report as far as you knew of the number and condition of the companies now in the 3rd Cavalry.

I would most respectfully request that you forward to me such a report which I shall take great pleasure in laying before the Adjt. Genl. with such remarks as may be necessary in regard to matters of history connected with the Regt of which you may now be aware

Reverse-

My labours so far have been almost in vain I have however got them to look after the Regt. and they have found a record of (8) eight companies but that is all so far. Please send the report immediately by Direct care of Genl. Milroy.
I have the honor to be General

Your obt servant
J. Lowry McGee
Lt. Col 3rd Va Cavy
Brig.Genl. F.P.Pierpoint
Adjt. Genl. West Va

Lt. Col J. Lowry McGee
Washington D.C.
Aug.20th/63

Asks that the report
Of 3rd Va. Cavy be sent

Court Room
Washington D.C.
Sept 1st 1863

General
There must or should be on file at your office the Muster in Roll of Maj J. L. McGee 3. Va, Cav. you will oblige me very much by sending a certified copy of the same as there is none on file either at the Adjt. Genls or Paymaster Genls office and it is important to me to have it

Enclosed I send you the return you desired it is filled as far as I know you will probably be able to supply some others. In regard to recommendations to fill vacancies you have I believe my views on that subject but for fear I have not left them in writing I will very respectfully suggest that when the right phe be found and there are vacancies. I would recommend for Majors. Capt S.B. Conger Capt Lot Bowen and Adjt B. Powell to be commissioned in the order they are named. For Surgeon Capt Thos Morton now Asst. Surgeon of the Regt. for Asst. Surgeon I have no reccommendation to make. For Q.M. and C.S. you have my recommendation for Goldie and Miller.

Please send the report asked for some days ago.

Reverse side-

I have the honor to be Genl
Your Most Obt. Servant
J. Lowry McGee
Lt. Col. 3 W.V.C.

Brig. Genl
F.P. Pierpoint
Adjt. Genl. W. Va.

Washington D.C.
Sept 1st 1863

Washington D.C.
Sept 2d 1863

General
I neglected to suggest in my letter of yesterday, that in case you did not have a copy of my muster in roll you send me a duplicate of my commission as Maj., it was dated March 25th, 1862

It is rather a bad case that with a Lt Col. Commission I cannot evan draw the pay of a Maj. Please attend to this matter at once and oblige
J Lowry McGee

Reverse side-

Lt Col J Lowry McGee

Washington D.C.
Sept 2d /63

Want a copy of Muster In Roll
Anrs and sent

Brig genl
F.P. Pierpoint
Adjt. Gen. W. Va.

Washington D.C.
Sept 10 1863
Gov.
This will introduce to you Dr. Morton Asst. Surgeon 3rd Va. Cav. whom I have already recommended to you for promotion in the Regt. The Dr. has now been with a detachment of the Regt. for about one year. He is just from the Army of the Potomac and may be able to enlighten you on the condition of that part of the Regt

Hurry up Genl. Pierpoint with a report of the Regt. so that we can all get to our places and make a strike all together for the name and fame of the nation but for West Va. in particular.

I have the honor to be Gov.
Your Most Obt. Servant
J.Lowry McGee
Lt. Col. 3.Va.Cav.
Gov. A I Boreman
Wheeling Va.

Reverse side-

Recommendation of
Dr. Morton
3rd Va Cavalry
Asst. Surgeon for
Promotion to Surgeon

Morton
Washington D.C.
Sept. 1863

Recommends Dr Morton Asst
Surg. 3rd Cavy.

Washington D.C.
Sept 26 1863

Gov.
I have now been in Washington two months. I came here at your request on business in which you should be as much interested as myself

During my stay here I have written to Yourself and the Adjt. Genl. Of the State five letters all upon the same business, to which I have never received the faintest excuse for noncompliance with the requests therein contained. Capt Conger complains to me that a man two years his junior has been promoted over him. Is this true?

My personal pride might prompt me to keep quiet and let this matter rest with you but I will never allow personal feeling to influence me when the interest of the service may suffer therely

Hoping that is some good reason for the dogged silence of department of State I have the honor to be
Your Most Obt. Servant
J.Lowry McGee
Lieut Col. 3. Va. Cav.
Gov. A I Boreman
Wheeling W.Va.

Reverse side-

Washington D.C.
Sept 26th /63

Col J. L. McGee

Answered

/Letterhead/
COLEMAN'S EUTAW HOUSE
Baltimore, July 4th 1863

His Exallency
Gov. W. Va.

Dear Sir
Having learned that that the 3rd Va. Cav. is about full & that you will soon commission a Col. for that Regt. permit me to recommend to your most favorable consideration Maj. Lowry McGee of that Regt. The Maj. Has been in service since the beginning of the War. Was for a length of time Capt. Of Co. A. in the 1st Va. Cav. & has for the last eight months been a member of my staff as Chief of Cavalry of my Division. I have seen him several times times in battle & know him to been energetic prudent brave & cool around danger. He possesses the strictest integrity & exallent moral character & is temperate in his habits & well fitted to command His experience & qualifications serve him every way suitable for the command of his Regt. & his gellant conduct & devotion to the cause give him high claim to the promotion. And I sincerely hope it may be your pleasure to give it to him.

Very Respectfully
Yours ?
V A Milroy
Maj Gnl

Reverse side-

Baltimore MD
July 1864

Maj Lowry McGee to be
Col. in 3rd Cavalry

Morgantown W. Va.
July 23rd 1864

Brig. Genl. F. P. Pierpoint

Genl,
Yours of the 19th is just received for which and many other marks of kindness shown me you have my sincere thanks

As to the whether or not it contained, I will only state without troubleing you with reasons, that as I understand in case I should resign Maj. Conger will receive the promotion I most respectfully decline the proffered honor. Confidently hoping that the State and the county will both be better served in the person of Maj Conger then they would be by myself

I have the honor to be Gen
Your most obliged & obt. Servant
JL McGee

Brig. Genl.
F.P.Pierpoint
Adjt. Genl. W.Va.

Reverse side-

Morgantown
July23/64

J. L. McGee

Declining an
appointment

Morgantown W.Va.
Aug 11th 1864

Genl.
Todays paper just received announces the death of Maj. Conger. I desire Genl. if this report be true, and I suppose there is no doubt of it, to recall my resignation of the position of Lieut. Col. the place which was intended for him

I suppose the commission had not been issued and if it had the place will now be vacant again

My principal object in refusing to be mustered was to give to Maj Conger that whom ther was none gallant and deserving the position he was so well qualified to hold and honor

Genl. Please give me the benefit of your influence in this matter, which should you do I have no fear of failure. I do not think it worth while to add to my application the recommendations of friends as the Gov. and yourself already know as much of my qualifications and of what my claims are as they could tell

Please let me hear from you soon and if my petition is granted please send me a new commission as the one I have was issued on paper before you got the State seal which it wants. Please notify me also if you know whether Col. Strother has been mustered as Col or not and if so where I shall report as I desire to get into active service as soon as possible

I have the honor to be
Your most Obt. Servant
J L McGee

Reverse side-

Morgantown WVa
Aug 11th/64

J. L McGee

Recalling of Resignation

Brig. Genl.
F.P. Pierpoint
Adjt. Genl. W.Va.

Grafton W.Va.
Aug 23rd 1864

Brig. Genl.
F. P. Pierpoint

Genl.
I waited around the hotel about two hours for you the evening before I left and then not seeing you I thought I could wake you up the next morning but the next morning the fact that you had left was announced and then I recalled wat you had said to me about moveing.

I had not anything very important to say to you but still it is a pleasure you know to a man of taste to contemplate such a manly face as yours

I failed to overtake Col Strother and if I had done so probably could not have held out to him any stronger inducement to get himself mustered than you or the Gov. have already done. The Gov. told me in the evening that Strother would be down in a day or two and it may be at that time some arrangement can be made to get him mustered

Gnrl I have been petitioned by the friend of Capt McVicker 3rd W.Va. Cav. to recommend to you in his Excellency Capt G.W. McVicker for Maj. I do not want to advance his claims to the deferrment of others who may be more deserving He is an honest man industrious brave and willing a pretty good fellow generally and very ambitious. While recommending I would also put in a good word for Capt White who is a very deserving man and has been in Richmond since last June. Let one hear from you Answer as before JL McGee

P.S.
Genl. I would again endeavor & impress upon you amid the fact that I am very anxious to join the Regt. in the field and I have the assurance of some of the officers that I would be gladly welcomed, do what you can for me and try to hurry up the organization of the Regt.
McGee

Reverse side-

Grafton Aug 23/64

J. L. McGee

Recommending for promotion
G. W. McVicker

Cumberland Md
October 4th 1864

Brig Genl.
F.P. Pierpoint

Genl.
Your favor of the (27th ?) reached me at Martinsburg on my return from Hagerstown where I had been in search of a Mustering officer. After fruitless efforts at Martinsburg and Hagerstown I was obliged to return here and succeeded this day in being mustered in. Is it not singular that men will plunge around with such insane fury to get an oportunity to make targets of themselves. But Genl. I have ascertained that if Means Battalion is of minimum strength and I can get Commissioned I can be mustered as Col. Frothingham the Chief Commissioned of Musters for this department is an old friend of mine and seems as though he would be willing to aid me & promotion. Please do what you can to get a report from Means and send me a copy if he has 140 or 150 men. I think I can be mustered or a Col. can be mustered for the Regt. They were with the Regt. and formed a part of it in Hunters raid and as their services were considered indispensable to the safety of a certain locality the were detached. I still consider and until further order will consider them a part of the Regt. And I feel quite confident that if I was commissioned I could succeed in being mustered indeed Col. Frothingham told me he would have mustered Strother if he had have applied but that he had not since last spring when it did not appear that there were twelve Cos.

Genl do what you can for us and let me hear from you soon. I shall join the Regt at once and will keep you posted as to my whereabouts and the condition of the Regt.

Address me Care of Maj. Morton
Martinsburg

As there is just about the number of men required to muster a Col. it is important that you should act pretty promptly in the matter as we get our recruits now and the Regt. is being reduced though not very rapidly by deaths. Could we not get some of the drafted men?

I have the honor to be
Your most obd. Servant
J.L. McGee

Reverse side-

Oct 4th 1864
J. L. McGee
Lt Col 3rd W Va Cav

In regards to his promotion

Head Qrs 3rd W.Va Cavalry
Camp near Front Royal
October 29th 1864
His Excellency
Gov A I Boreman

Gov
I have now been with the Regt. Nearly two weeks and am sorry to be obliged to acknowledge that many of the unfavorable report current in regard and to the Regt are only too true, but there is to me at least one redeeming fact viz that without a discenting voice I have been welcomed to the command and I am satisfied I should have the cooperation of all the officers in my efforts to restore order and enforce discipline

I have made dilligent inquiry in reference to those two refractory Co. of which you have heard so much and I have learned beyond all doubt in my own mind that there is but one and never has been but one. Capt Means applied to the Sect of War for a mustering officer to muster a Battalion for him. Genl. Kelley was ordered to send the officer desired, he did so, the officer proceeded to Berlin and found that there were but sixty recruits there and that they had been recruited conditionally and refused to be mustered and never were mustered. I desire as soon as possible to only that company to the Regt and to accomplish that purpose I desire your aid and influence. I wish you to write me as to an officer recently appointed to the Regt. and not supposed to be acquainted with its history stating the position of that company, that it has at several different times been ordered to the Regt and that it is still absent and requiring me to use every means in my power to bring it to the Regt where it of right belongs and is needed to complete the organisation. I desire such a letter as could be used or referred to the Sect of War if need be.

We are at present very much in need of a Q. M. and Commissary I have received an account from the AQM at Parkersburg for transportation furnished Lieut. representing himself as Commissary of the 3 and on his way to the Regt but as the transportation was furnished two months ago I conclude that the Lieut has been playing off.

I hope you will give the matter your immediate attention as a good Q.M. is indispensable to the comfort and efficiency of the Regt. I have once before recommended Saml. Miller of Carlens Battery as a suitable man for the position of Q.M. or Commissary and do not now know any one more suitable. he is now at Winchester clerk for Dr Shield Medical Purveyor of this Dept.

In reference to promotions in the Regt. I am not as yet prepared to give an opinion and would rather you would defer making any until I shall have had a better opertunity of judging of the merits of those desiring it.

The army here is comparabily quiet though the duty is very arduous as we are in the immediate vicinity of the enemy, and are obliged to forage on the country the details consequently are very heavy We were on a reconnoisance to Milford a day or two since where are found the enemy strongly fortified but do not engage him as the Genl. (Powell) thought his force insufficient The strength of the division is much reduced. The 3rd is the strongest Regt in the Div. and our present strength is less than three hundred.

If you have any oportunity to get an additional Co. for the Regt. I hope you will not fail to secure it as I am very confident we have but eleven.

I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
J L McGee
Lt.Col. 3rd WVa Cavy

Reverse side-

Oct 29th 1864

J.L. McGee
Lt Col 3rd Cav

General information
In regards to Regt.

Hd. Qrs. 3 West Va Cavalry
Camp Near Opequon Creek
Nov. 17th 1864
His Excellency
Gov. A, I. Boreman

Gov.
I wrote you some weeks since giving you at some lengths and with the limited means at my disposal as full an account of the wants of the Regt. as I could at that time. Possibly on account of the delays and necessary want of facilities in the transit of the Mail I have received no reply.

I have forwarded to Genl. Sheridan an application for the Co. reported at Berlin with strong endorsements from Brig. and Div. Commanders and hope soon to get a favorable report. Lieut Flesher reported on the 14 Nov. not mustered. A mustering officer will be appointed in a day or two and I presume there will be no trouble about his muster. I would again call your attention to the want of a Q.M. and request the immediate appointment of one.

We had quite a brilliant little cavalry fight on the 12th near Mirerah in which Maj. Witcher Capt. Anderson and Lieut B. C Smith particularly distinguished themselves.

Since my last Capt. D. B. Wolf. Co "R" has been dismissed the service for drunkenness and incapacity making a vacancy of Capt in that company, the Co. is without an officer both Lieuts. being absent. I desire that the vacancy be filled by the appointment of Lieut B.C.Smith and for the gallantry displayed in the action of the 12th. Lieut Smith is beside being a very gallant soldier an excellent officer and in every way well qualified to command. I would also recommend Capt. Anderson be be placed on your list of officers worthy of and deserving promotion

We are now very busily engaged constructing winter quarters but I do not think we will winter at this point Genl. Powell informed a day or two ago that he thought we would not be here more than two or three week.

By recent accessions from dismounted camp we now number three hundred and fifty six men present there are still a large number at dismounted camp and in hospital. Dr. Pinnell joined us on the 11th and sent in his resignation on the 14th The privations of the field at the front he think unsuited to his advanced years.

Hoping to hear from you soon

I have the honor to be
Your Most Obd Servt
J.L.McGee
Lt. Col. 3. W.Va.Cav.
P.S.
I should probably state that Co. "A" the company to which Lieut Smith belongs has two Lieut and is so much reduced as not to be entitled to more than one consequently his appointment leaves no vacancy McGee

Reverse side-

HdQers 3rd Cavalry
Nov 17th 1864
McGee J Lowry
Recommended promotion in his regt.

Hd.Qrs. 3rd West Va Cav
Camp Russell Va
Dec. 13th 1864

General
I am much obliged feel very much encourage at the promptness with which you complied with my request in regard to Miller & Smith I have learned since my last or at last the mustering officer has changed his decision and concluded to muster a Q.M. for the Regt. so that you need not comply with my last request in that particular.

Please send me with as little delay as possible a 2d Lieut Commission for 1st Sergeant Geo. W. Wilson for Co. B. the company has no officer there is in fact no officer with the Squadron I should have made the recommendation sooner but I am very carefull in examining the claims and qualifications of candidates for promotion

Your thanks for annual report and Regt. history are received and are nearly completed I think I will have them ready by the time the Col. returns. I should have had them before this but we have much duty to do the Paymaster has been here too. And it is a cold as it gets in this part of the county. A man froze to death in his tent last night and horses are freezing every night.

Enclosed I send you Commissions of G. Curry and J. W. Kneedler. accompanying each is a specimen of their penmanship and orthography and I assese you that especially in the case of Curry that his qualifications generally quite in keeping with the two specimens of military composition given over his signature. Comment is unnecessary I only give you them to show you the importance of having the opinion of some one interested in the good of the Regt. and the service before making appointments

I ask that these commissions be revoked neither of the men have been mustered any officer except on the application of the Regimental Commander and I cannot recommend the muster of such men

In the case of Kneedler as he states there is no vacancy. I have constituted myself a board of examiners for my Regt. and I find I have men who are little if at all better qualified than these men whose names I send you. I have taken steps to rid the service of all such men. There are a few men who though sadly deficient in evocation still make very good officers these of course I will retain. but I have several who have not a redeeming quality.

Genl. it is the style now for officers to have honorary rank, that is a regiment may not be entitled to a full compliment of officers. Yet the officers are commissioned enjoy the rank without the pay however. I think it would be but a deserving compliment to some of the officers of this Regt or at least to one viz Capt. White of Co. "B" who is senior Capt. of the Regt. and an excellent officer he has been a prisoner of war since June 1863 he should at least have a commission as Maj. Or, You might be able to induce the Gov. to commission me Col. White Lt.Col. and Anderson Maj. but I do not care so much for myself but I would like White and Anderson to be promoted. If I have not already exhausted your store of patience I will not further trespass. Hoping to hear from you again soon

I have the honor to be
Respectfully

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Your Obd Servt
JL McGee
Lt.Col. Cavalry Regt.
Brig. Genl
F. P. Pierpoint
AG W.Va.

H.Qrs. 3rd W.V. Cavalry
Dec. 13. 1864.

McGee J. Lowry
Lt Col Cavalry

Returns commissions of
Granville Curry and James W. Kneedlers

Hd.Qrs. 3rd W. Va. Cav.
Camp Russell Va
Dec 29th 1864

General
Enclosed I send you Regimental history and Roster of officers of the Regt. The history embraces the history of the Regt. as a Regt. from the organization of the first two Cos. There is however a separate history of various detachment before their joining the Regt. which is not embraced in the Regimental history proper but will be found in the Co. histories which when examined it will be found will swell the numbers of battles and skirmishes considerably.

I would have sent this sooner but Col. Alexander left us in considerable of hurry just on the eve of our departure for the Raid. and of course since that time I have had no oportunity to forward it.

I send also by this Mail seven Co. reports and histories the other (three?) having been sent by the Co. commanders Lieut Miller reported today and I have forwarded paper for his discharge and muster

We move tomorrow at 6 1/2 AM it is supposed to a permanent camp for the winter on the Berryville road Our raid was without adventure worthy of note, no casualties except a few broken bones from horses falling on the ice and a few frozen feet and fingers. but it was a pretty hard trip rather trying in physical endurance and horse flesh we advanced to within 1 1/2 miles of Gordonsville

With best wishes for your health and a happy New Year. I have the honor to be
Your Most Obd. Servt.
J.L. McGee
Lt. Col. Comdy.

Brig Genl
F.P. Pierpoint
A.G. W.Va.

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HdQrs 3rd WVa Cavalry
McGee J. L. Lt Col Comdg

Furnishes Memorandum
History of 3rd Cavalry W.Va

Hd. Qrs. 3rd W. Va. Cav.
Camp Averill Va.
Jan. 22. 1865

Genl.
I have been informed that Sergeant Frank Bevenstock Co "A" who is now in Wheeling for the purpose of being mustered out is willing to join the Regt. if he can be commissioned. He is I know a good soldier has been a good and efficient Sergeant and I feel confident would make an excellent officer. I have a place for him and need such a man. Please give him a commission as 2d Lieut. and oblige. I also desire com--as First Lieut for 2d Lieut Leesage.

I have been corresponding for some time with Bama Powell with the hope of inducing him to axcept a position in the Regt. he is the best Adgt. I have met in the service and should be so commissioned. Please do not have any appointment of Adjt. made until you hear from me again.

over

It was the desire of Maj. Conger expressed to me the last time I saw him that the Regt. should have a name aside from 3.Va. There are many advantages arising from such an arrangement and I had often thought of it myself before. We, at the time I spake of decided to name the Regt. "Eagle Guards" which name in respect to the memory of Maj. C-- I would respectfully request be emblazoned on the Banner which I have been assured would be granted the Regt. at this session of the Legislature. 3rd W.Va Eagle Guards

By giving this matter your attention you will greatly oblige.
Your friend
& Obt Servt
JL McGee
Lt. Col.
Brig. Genl.
F. P. Pierpoint
A. Genl. W.Va.

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Hd Qrs 3rd W.Va.Cavalry
Jany. 22 1865

McGee J. Lowry
Lt Col Comdy

Recommends Frank Beverstock for promotion To 2d Lt.

H.Qrs. 3rd. West Va. Cav.
Camp Averill Va.
Jan. 30. 1865.

General
I have made application through the regular channels to the Sect of War for permission to fill my regt. by recruiting under the present call I feel very confident that under existing orders it will be granted and should it be I am desirous to have your cooperation in my efforts to fill the Regt. to maximum strength. I do not doubt of course that you will lend your influence and do all in your power to promote the interests of all the Regts. in the field, but I think that this regt deserves and should have the benefit of your especial care. Owing to a misunderstanding at your office in regard to those two Cos. in the R.R. the Regt has one less company than it otherwise would have had. It therefore has never been a full Regt. and desiring officers have been prevented promotion. The Regt. had seen as much if not more active service than any regt. now in the field from Va. and although its reputation on account of order & discipline, when I came to it in Oct. was rather unenviable. it may be a gratification for you to know that the Inspector Genl. of the Cav. Corps has pronounced that my "Regt is by far the best in the Div. the camp more uniform the men in better quarters, the horses better shelter than any in the Div." this is his language. The Brig. Inspector also in his monthly inspection report say that the Regt. stands first in the Brig. in the appearance of the men and condition of arms.—he made no inspection of horses or quarters. This is something. I have made it my constant study to have this the first Regt. not only in this Brig but in the Va service at least a Regt of which the State may always be proud. There is much very much to do yet but I feel able for the task and am determined to accomplish it. Could the Regt. be filled to even minimum strength so that we might have a full compliment of officers to renew their efforts to improve themselves and their commands,

I have the fraction of a Co. not yet consolidated that has no officer there would be a chance for two men to get commissions the company would of course be entitled to three but there is a Sargeant in the company whom I would like to have commissioned if it was made (?). There are (18) eighteen men in the Co.

In making recommendations should you make any I would be glad if you would ask to have me detailed on recruiting service as I believe I would be more interested in it than any one I could send and could probably do as much as any other.

I received commission for Lieut. Davis. Please forward the others at your earliest leisure as I am very greatly in need of officers. these are from sick in the Regt and I myself have been confined to my quarters for several days. There is nothing of any interest transpiring here now all is quiet. The weather is the coldest I have ever experienced in this part of the country

Please let me hear from you soon and especially on the subject of recruiting any suggestions would be gladly received
I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your Obdt Servt
JL McGee
Lt Col Comdg

Brig. Genl. F.P. Pierpoint
Adjt. Genl. West Va.

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H/ Qrs. 3rd W.V. Cavalry
January 30th 1865

McGee J. Lowry
Lt Col Comdg.

Regarding recruiting
For his Regiment

Hd. Qrs. 3 W.Va Cav
Camp Averill Va
Feb. 3rd. 1865

General
Permission has been granted the 3rd to recruit and I am allowed to send one officer and six men as agts. for the Regt. I shall recommend the best officer I have for the business and Sergeants who will make officers I have also applied for leave of absence for myself and will try to put the ball in motion at once. Please do all you can for me and if you know of any promising young men who want to recruit give them promises of promotion or of commissions if they succeed

I have sent advertisements to the "Register" and "Intelligencer" as well as the Clarksburg Buchannan and Morgantown papers. In the advertisement I have instructed recruiting parties to report to you as I did not know when the advertisement was written nor do I yet who I shall send. I have not in fact received the order but I know I shall for I saw it at Div. Hd.Qrs. but it has to come down through the regular channel of red tape and may be delayed a day or two, and untill the order is received officially I can make no detail.

I have not been able yet to hear anything of those Cos. on the R.R. and have about concluded that they are lost. But I think if we get a fair opportunity at recruiting their loss will really be a gain.

Send on a few more Commissions we need officers as much if not more than men

I am very busy please excuse hushe
I have the honor to be
Your Obt Servt
JL McGee
Lt. Col.
Brig. Genl.
F. P. Pierpoint
A.G. W.Va.

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Hd. Qrs. 3rd W.V. Cavalry
Feby 3. 1865

McGee J. Lowry
Lt Col. Comdg

Regarding recruiting
for his Regiment

Hd. Qrs. 3 W Va Cav
Camp Averill Va
Fe 11th 1865

Genl
I have the honor to request that you commission the following named men with the rank as designated.

Lieut Jno A Sexton to be Capt of Co. "J"
Sergeant Afred Boregard to be 2d Lieut Co. H
Lt A W Adam 2d Lieut to be 1st Lieut Co. H
Sergeant. W Geo. Wilson Co B to be 1st Lieut Co "B"

Resapectfull
Your Obt Servant
JL McGee
Lt.Col.
Brig. Genl
F. P. Pierpoint
A. G. W.Va.

Reverse side-

H.Qrs. 3rd W.Va. Cavalry

McGee J. Lowry
Lt Col. Comdg

Recommending promotion in 3d Cavalry

The State of West Virginia
Quartermaster General's Office
Wheeling, March 9 1865

Genl
Please Commission James Devoir First Lieut 3 W. Va Cav. He having presented (32) thirty two recruits for said Regt. By so doing you will oblige
Your & C?
J.L. McGee
Lt Col 3 Cav
Brig Genl
F P Pierpoint
A. G. W.Va.

Reverse side-

Wheeling March 9 65

McGee J. Lowry
Lt. Col. 3 W.V. Cavalry

Recommends James
Devoir for 1st Lieut in
3rd Cavalry he having
Recruited 32 men

Recommends promotion in 3rd Cavalry

The State of West Virginia
Quartermaster General's Office
Wheeling, March 10 1865

Genl.
I have the honor to request that you Commission Mr. W. P. Hubbard Private 3 W. Va Cav. As 2d Lieut of said Regt.

Respectfully
J. L.McGee
LtCol

Brig Genl
F P Pierpoint
A. G. W.Va.

Reverse side-

3 Cav.
J L McGee
Mr. W.P.Hubbard

The State of West Virginia
Quartermaster General's Office
Wheeling, March 15 1865

Genl
Mr. L. S. Jenkins having presented twenty three accepted Recruits for the 3rd W. Va. Cav. I request that he be commissioned 2d Lieut in same Regt.

I have the honor to be
Your Obt Servt
JL McGee
LtCol
Brig. Genl.
F. P. Pierpoint
A. G. W. Va.

Reverse side-

Lt. Col. JL McGee

The State of West Virginia
Quartermaster General's Office
Wheeling, March 30 1865

General
Mr T M Goff having presented (23) twenty three accepted recruits for the 3rd W. Va. Cav. I have the honor to request that he be commissioned 2d Liet
Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
J.L.McGee
Lt. Col.
Brig Genl.
F P Pierpoint
A G W.Va.

Reverse side-

Wheeling March 30 1865

McGee J. L.
Col 3rd W.V. Cavalry

Recommends Thos M
Goff for 2d Lieut. I 3rd
W.V. Cavy. Having presented
23 accepted recruits

The State of West Virginia,
Adjutant General's Office,
Wheeling, April 20th 1865

Genl
I have the honor to recommend that the following named officers and enlisted men be promoted as follows

Capt. White Co "B" to be Lieut. Col.
Capt J R Hurst Co "M" to be Major
Lieut Hevner Co. "M" to be Capt. Co. M.
Lieut Adams Co. "H" to be Capt. Co "A" IFO
Lieut Francis J. Leesage Co "G" to be Capt Co "F" IFO
Lieut Joseph Robins Co "B" to be Capt Co "L" IFO
Sergeant J. C. Swentzel to be 2d Lieut Co "E"
Sergeant E. L. Clazhon to be 2d Lieut Co "B"
Sergeant X B. See to be 2d Lieut Co "M" Vice Hevner

Other appointments will be necessary in the Regt. but I will make no more reccommendations untill I return to the Regt. as there may be men who have distinguished themselves in the last campaign who will have earned promotion

I know that an effort has been made for the promotion of J.S. Witcher but knowing the man as I do and having the good of the service at heart as well a desiring above all thing to do justly I cannot conscientiously recommend him for promotion. I care you may think proper to commission him on your own responsibility I would recommend that Capt. White be made Maj.

I have the honor to be
Genl.
Your Obt Servt
J.L. McGee
Lt Col
Brig. Genl.
F.P. Pierpoint
Adjt. Genl.
W.Va.

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Wheeling April 20 65

McGee J. L.
Col. 3rd W.V. Cav.

Recommends promotions in the Regiment

Dismounted Camp
April 22d 1865
General
Mon Ami

Do not have the commissions issued as I recommended until I hear from you. You know what I mean until you hear from me.

There are about 600 men here all the 2 Lieuts have been mustered except Nox and Hanoker they will be mustered in a day or two They refused to muster me

Look for a letter from me from Big? Point. I leave this evening. Take all the love you want my love to Brown
Yours McGee

Reverse side-

Dismount Camp
April 22. 1865

McGee J. L.
Col 3rd W.V. Cavalry

Request that the com-
issions recommended by
him be not issued until
he is heard from again

HdQrs 3. W. Va Cav.
Federal Hill
Near Washington D.C.
May 17 1865

Genl.
I have the honor to request that you forward as soon as possible the commissions as recommended by me before I left Wheeling. Also a commission for Dr. Titus as Surgeon. He has been acting Surgeon of the Regt for the last three months and has given perfect satisfaction and it is the desire I believe of every officer of the Regt. that he receive the appointment.

Capt. White has returned to the Regt. in good health and very glad to be with us again.

The prospects for muster out seem to be favorable as yet nothing certain is known in regard to it.
Please send the commissions as soon as you can conveniently as some of the officers are fearful they will be mustered out before they get them.

I have the honor to be
Genl. Your Obt Servt
JL McGee
Col.
Big. Genl.
F.P. Pierpoint
A.G.West Va

Reverse side-

Hd. Qrs. 3rd W.V. Cavalry
May 17, 1865

McGee J. L.
Col Comdg

Recommends promotion
Of Dr. Titus

3rd WV Cavalry