Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to Philip S. Cocke re: early training of newly recruited Virginia regiments
High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.
A high-resolution version of this object is available for registered users. LOG IN
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01565 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Richmond Type: Letter signed Date: 1861/05/10 Pagination: 2 p. 25 x 20 cm Order a Copy
Signed three weeks after leaving the service of the U.S. Army.
Head Quarters Va. Forces,
Richmond May tend 1861.
Col. P. St. Geo Cocke
Vign vols
Culpeper Court House
Colonel:
It is very important that the volunteer troops be organized and instructed as rapidly as possible. I know you are doing all in your power towards that object. It is desired that you attach to the battalions or regiments as formed, as far as possible, the field officers who have been, or may be directed to report to you from the same region with the companies. Place them at such points as you think best with capable instruction, and press forward their instruction and equipment.
The regiments under Colonels Garland and Preston were designed for Manassas Junction. You are requested to send them there, and as companies and field officers are available, which might properly be assigned to them, to afford them to respective regiments.
That the troops may be prepared for field service. It is desirable that they [struck: may] be removed from the towns, and placed in camps, where their instruction may be uninterrupted & rigid discipline established. Officers and men will soon become familiar with the necessities of service, and make their preparations accordingly. It is impossible at this time to furnish tents, but unoccupied buildings might possibly be obtained, or temporary plank huts established. [2] I beg you will adopt the best place in your power to prepare the men for hard & effective service.
Very respectfully
your Obt. Servt
R. E. Lee
Maj. Genl. commanding
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.