Index
NNR 72.001 Mexican ministers
resign, disorder, confusion
72.001 church party in Mexico openly preaching rebellion, resisting
act levying on church property
NNR 72.007 letters from Santa Fe describing operations in New Mexico
NNR 72.016 Gen. Winfield Scott leaves
Brazos for Tampico
NNR 72.016 American troops near Veracruz
NNR 72.016 American transport ships at Brazos
NNR 72.016 account of the prisoners taken by the Mexicans
NNR 72.016 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna moves from San Luis, speculations as to his object
NNR 72.016 Col. Lewis Gustavus DeRussy reaches Tampico with the shipwrecked Louisiana regiment
NNR 72.016 text of the three-million bill to enable the president to conclude a peace with Mexico
NNR 72.019 general orders on organization of the troops raised for service in Mexico
NNR 72.019 notice of award of brevets
NNR 72.020 movements of troops from Fort Snelling to Mexico
NNR 72.020-72.021 Gen. William
Orlando Butler returns to New Orleans, his remarks on the war
NNR 72.020-72.021 report that Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
had ordered the evacuation of Veracruz
NNR 72.020 trials for loss of the Boston and Truxton
NNR 72.021 Gen. Zachary
Taylor's headquarters advances to Agua Nueva and Gen. John Ellis Wool
to Buena Vista
NNR
72.021 reports of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's approach
NNR 72.021 capture of Capt. Heady and seventeen Kentucky volunteers
and Maj. Solon Borland's and John Pollard Gaines' detachments
NNR 72.021 anxiety at Tampico over reports of a battle supposed to have been fought near Monterey
NNR 72.021 expectation of
the administration of a speedy peace with Mexico
NNR 72.021 letter from
Mexico City about the levy on church property, the Mexican sense of grievance
and desire for a durable peace
NNR 72.021-72.022 description of Lobos Island
NNR 72.022 report of Col. Alexander William Doniphan's taking of El Paso
NNR 72.022 revolution at Santa Fe foiled
NNR 72.022 accounts of Gen. Antonio Lopez de
Santa Anna, his activities at San Luis Potosi
NNR 72.022 Mexican troops at Veracruz and San Juan de Ulloa,
Mexican preparations for the defense of Veracruz
NNR 72.022 Mexican law for seizing church property a dead
letter
NNR 72.022 disorganization among the Mexican ministers and
Congress
NNR 72.022 rumor in Cuba of Gen. Minon's victory
NNR 72.022 reaction in Mexico to the advance of the Americans
NNR 72.022 ships running the blockade at Veracruz, ships captured
NNR 72.022 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's reaction to
a plan for making him dictator
NNR 72.022 reports of the Mexican forces at San Luis Potosi
NNR 72.022 Gen. Gabriel Valencia said to be planning an attack
on Tampico
NNR 72.032 preparations for attacking Veracruz, delay, ships to be employed
NNR 72.032 "Irish Legion" of deserters from the United States to the Mexicans
NNR 72.033-72.034 adventure of Capt. Dan D. Henrie
NNR 72.035 account of the mounted riflemen at Jefferson Barracks
NNR 72.035 Gen. Winfield Scott
reaches Tampico from the Rio Grande, proceeds to Lobos
NNR 72.035 the squadron off Veracruz, discussion of place to debarkation for troops
NNR 72.035 Gen. David Emanuel Twiggs' division embarked from Tampico for Lobos Island
NNR 72.035-72.036 preparations
at Tampico for the descent on Veracruz
NNR
72.036 Mexican preparations for the defense of Veracruz
NNR
72.036 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's force on leaving San Luis
to encounter Gen. Zachary Taylor's Army, he reaches Matehala, account
of his march and destitution, his financiering dictatorship
NNR 72.036 Alejandro Jose Atocha reaches
Veracruz with dispatches proposing peace, returns to Washington
NNR 72.037 Mexican preparations for defense of Veracruz, consideration of its defenses
NNR 72.037 reception of Senor Alejandro Jose Atocha, return, reports respecting him, his dispatches
NNR 72.037 Gov. Charles Bent killed,
state of affairs at New Mexico
NNR 72.037, 72.038 Lt. James William Abert's letter about
his return from Santa Fe
NNR 72.037 Col. Alexander William Doniphan defeats the Mexicans
at Bracito
NNR 72.037 Mexican financial difficulties because of resistance to the law confiscating church property
NNR 72.037-72.038 march of Mormon battalion toward California
NNR 72.038 account of the Santa Fe insurrection
NNR 72.048 Gen. William
Jenkins Worth's division embarks from Brazos
NNR 72.048 reports arrive that Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna was
moving on Monterey in large force, and that Gen. Zachary Taylor was
falling back
NNR 72.048 Gen. Jose Urrea's movements in same direction
NNR 72.048 Gen. Carrabajal's cordon of posts round Matamoros, &c.
NNR 72.048 reports of the advance of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
reach the Rio Grande
NNR 72.048 train between Camargo and Monterey believed cut off
NNR 72.048 last two companies of Massachusetts volunteers leave Boston
NNR 72.048 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's code of laws for New Mexico
NNR 72.048 recruits embarking from New York for Tampico
NNR 72.049 Gen. Winfield Scott's general order No. 20 respecting atrocities
NNR 72.057-72.058 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's proclamation before quitting San Luis
NNR 72.058-72.059 comments on the series of demonstrations toward peace undertaken by the executive
NNR 72.059 collection of troops
and transports at Lobos Island for the demonstration on Veracruz
NNR 72.059 howitzers sent to Veracruz
NNR 72.059 Mexican reports of a severe battle
and that Gen. Zachary Taylor was retiring, great anxiety, all communications
with Monterey cut off
NNR 72.059 Mississippi regiment relieves the Indiana regiment
NNR 72.059 Col. Samuel Ryan Curtis' requisition for 50,000 volunteers, reply of the governor of Louisiana
NNR 72.059 great doubts as to movements of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna amongst our commanders
NNR 72.059-72.060 editorial remarks on the campaign
NNR 72.060 latest official accounts from Gen. Zachary Taylor
NNR 72.061-72.062 memoranda of Dr. Jarvis, alarming rumors respecting Gen. Zachary Taylor's Army, excitement on the Rio Grande
NNR 72.062 remarks of the London Times on the war
NNR 72.064 posture of the fleets
and armies
NNR 72.064 anxiety to ascertain the result of the combat between
Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and Zachary Taylor, various rumors
NNR 72.064, 72.065 Gen. Jose Mariano de Salas commences revolution in the capital
NNR 72.065 letter on the demoralization of forces under Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
NNR 72.065 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny reaches California, attacks Los Angeles
NNR 72.066 appointment of staff officers by Gen. Winfield Scott
NNR 72.066 circular on re-enlistment of volunteers whose terms have expired in Mexico
NNR 72.066-067 account of the loss of the Somers
NNR 72.067 offer of premium for an essay on the war with Mexico
NNR 72.068 Gen. Zachary Taylor's dispatches on the Battle of Buena Vista
NNR 72.068 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna summons Gen. Zachary Taylor to surrender
NNR 72.068 losses of the Kentucky volunteer regiment at Buena Vista
NNR 72.068-72.069 dispatch from Com. David Conner on the investment of Veracruz
NNR 72.069 landing of the Army at Veracruz
NNR 72.069 news of the victory at Buena Vista
NNR 72.069 operations on the route from Camargo
NNR 72.069 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's letter announcing
victory of Buena Vista (or Angostura)
NNR 72.069-72.070 American officers killed and wounded at Buena Vista
NNR 72.070 details of the victory at Buena Vista
NNR 72.070 Col. George Washington Morgan attacked
NNR 72.070-72.071 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's letter to governor of San Luis on the victory at Buena Vista
NNR 72.071 letter about a march from Camargo to Monterey
NNR 72.071 Lt. C.H. Kribben's account of the Battle of Bracito
NNR 72.071-72.072 article from El Republicano about the war with the United States
NNR 72.072 further details about
the victory at Buena Vista
NNR 72.072 publication in Mexico City of the American proposal for peace
NNR 72.072 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna retired from Agua Nueva
toward Parras, Gen. Zachary Taylor still at Buena Vista
NNR 72.072 route of dispatches from Buena Vista to New Orleans
NNR 72.072 Mexican preparations to oppose the American attack at Veracruz
NNR 72.072 Gen. Zachary Taylor expected to open communications from Monterey to Camargo
NNR 72.072 Gen. Jose Urrea retreating before Col. Samuel Ryan Curtis
NNR 72.072 adventures of Col. Alphonse Dupera of Louisiana as a spy
NNR 72.072-72.073 details of the insurrection in New Mexico
NNR 72.080 editorial remarks on the victory of Buena Vista
NNR 72.080 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's official report of the Battle of Buena Vista[see also, 72.117-119]
NNR 72.081 bombardment and surrender of Veracruz and of the castle, officers killed and wounded
NNR 72.081 Col. Alexander
William Doniphan occupies El Paso
NNR 72.081 New Mexico insurrectionists defeated, severely punished by
Col. Sterling Price
NNR 72.081 Lt. Talbot's daring feat at Santa Barbara
NNR 72.082 history and description of San Juan De Ulloa castle
NNR 72.082 concentration of troops at Pittsburgh for New Orleans and Mexico
NNR 72.082 notice of Pennsylvania volunteers first in the field
NNR 72.082 "fixing responsibility"
NNR 72.082 Gen. Zachary Taylor's general orders after the Battle of Buena Vista
NNR 72.083 compliment of the Washington Union to Gen. Zachary Taylor's general orders after Buena Vista
NNR 72.083 coolness and bravery
of the Mississippi and Illinois volunteers at Buena Vista, faltering of the Indiana regiment
NNR 72.083 Gen. John Ellis Wool's greeting to Gen. Zachary Taylor
after the victory at Buena Vista, his comments on the battle
NNR 72.083 description of the fortifications of San Juan de Ulloa
NNR 72.083 Mexican accounts of Buena Vista, proclamation of the victory by the governor of San Luis Potosi
NNR 72.084 general orders issued by Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna after Buena Vista
NNR 72.084-72.086 various accounts of the Battle of Buena Vista
NNR 72.086 guerrilla warfare on our part
NNR 72.086-72.088 account of the surrender of Monclova
NNR 72.089 guerrilla warfare on our part
NNR 72.090 Union's statement of forces under Gen. Zachary Taylor
NNR 72.093-72.095 correspondence involved in levying a tariff on Mexican ports
NNR 72.096 naval operations in the Gulf, loss of horses
NNR 72.096 Gen. Winfield Scott's official report of landing and investing Veracruz, correspondence relative to foreigners in the city
NNR 72.098 historical account of San Juan de Ulloa
NNR 72.098-72.099 notice of troop movements
NNR 72.099-72.100 Col. Joseph K.F. Mansfield's account of the Battle of Buena Vista
NNR 72.100 the siege of Veracruz, operations after surrender, forces employed in the siege
NNR 72.100, 72.102 Col. Alexander William Doniphan takes Chihuahua
NNR 72.100 Gen. Zachary Taylor's movement to re-open communication, pursues Gen. Jose Urrea
NNR 72.100 movements at Camargo
NNR 72.100 fighting between factions in Mexico City
NNR 72.100 rising of Indians of New Mexico against the Americans
NNR 72.100 triumphal entry of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna into San Luis Potosi
NNR 72.100-72.101 Gen. Winfield Scott's orders on occupying Veracruz
NNR 72.101-72.102 Col. Stephen Ormsby's official report of the Battle of Monterey
NNR 72.102 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's return to San Luis
NNR 72.102 letter of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna to Valentin Gomez Farias, announcing that he should march to the capital to quiet contending factions
NNR 72.102 Col. William Selby Harney's fight near Veracruz
NNR 72.107-72.110 official report of the capitulation and surrender of Veracruz and of the Castle of San Juan de Ulloa
NNR 72.109 order of Com. Matthew Calbraith Perry terminating intercourse with Veracruz
NNR 72.110-72.111 orders and correspondence relating to naval operations off Veracruz
NNR 72.111 vessels lost near Veracruz in two northers
NNR 72.112 Gen. Zachary Taylor's pursuit of Gen. Jose Urrea unavailing, he returns to Saltillo, impression that he will advance to San Luis
NNR 72.112 lack of Mexican troops on route to Mexico City
NNR 72.112 Gen. John Anthony Quitman's brigade marches on Alvarado, Navy vessels sail for Alvarado
NNR 72.112 Army movements towards the capital
NNR 72.112 Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna arrives at Mexico City, assumes executive duties, his cabinet, orders troops to Veracruz
NNR 72.113 "Have we conquered a peace?"
NNR 72.113 comments on the assignment of the eighteen million loan
NNR 72.114 regiment of Massachusetts volunteers at Matamoros
NNR 72.114 Alvarado surrenders to Lt. Charles G. Hunter, Com. Matthew Calbraith Perry's official report
NNR 72.114-72.115 forces under Com. Robert Field Stockton and Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny attack Gen. Jose Maria Flores, two engagements, Flores retreats and surrenders to Col. John Charles Fremont
NNR 72.115-72.117 Gen. Zachary Taylor's official report on the battle of Buena Vista [INCOMPLETE]
NNR 72.119-72.121 nineteen days hard campaign and fighting between Santa Fe and Taos
NNR 72.121-72.122 Col. Sterling Price's official report on the revolution in New Mexico
NNR 72.122-72.123 diary of the siege of Veracruz
NNR 72.128, 72.135-72.136 Gen. Zachary Taylor's letter to Gen. E.G.W. Butler on Gen. William Orlando Butler, the presidency, Buena Vista, &c.
NNR 72.128 illuminations in honor of victories
NNR 72.128 killed and wounded in New Mexico
NNR 72.128 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's winter march, encounters with Andros Pico, reaches San Diego
NNR 72.001 March 6, 1847 Mexican ministers resign, disorder, confusion and Church party in Mexico openly preaching rebellion; resisting act levying on church property
MEXICO. A letter dated U.S. squadron off Anton Lizardo Feb. 2, 1847, represents the condition of affairs at the Mexican capital as in the last degree of disorder. The members of the cabinet one after another are compelled by difficulties to resign from their stations. Only one it is said was officiating--and his resignation is subsequently announced though appointed but the week before. Gomes Farias, the vice president, was exerting his authority manfully, but against odds which he cannot long maintain. The church party openly preaches rebellion, and has everywhere so stoutly resisted the act of congress levying upon their property, that the law is totally inoperative. All other means resorted in for raising money to carry on the war which has proved abortive. [MLL]
NNR 72.007, March 6, 1847 ARMY OF THE NORTH
Intelligence has at length reached us from Santa Fe, from which all our readers are by this time anxious for information. We give them at full, as we find them in the St. Louis Republican, from their correspondents.
From these accounts, we infer that the battle which took place at El Paso, of which we gave a brief account in our last, derived from the city of Mexico, must have been fought by Capt. Cook, who is here reported to have been left in a council of his officers deliberating whether to make the attack. He was in advance of both Colonels Donaphan and Price. The former was left at Tome, on the Rio del Norte, encamped with the traders and waiting for reinforcements and quartermaster's supplies. Col. Price was still at Santa Fe. [AMA]
NNR 72.016, March 6, 1847 WAR WITH MEXICO
FROM OUR ARMY--The schr. Harmonious, Walker brings Brazos, dates to New Orleans to the 18th of Feb., and the steamer Cora., to the 19 th .
General Scott sailed on the 13 th ; General Worth was still diligently occupied whenever weather permitted, in shipping and forwarding troops, munitions, and supplies towards Lobos. The prevalence of Northers had retarded operation. For a number of days it was impossible for the transports to communicate with the shore.
A different account states, that General Scott was at Brazos on the 17 th , employed in forwarding the embarkation for Lobos, and he sailed on the 18th .
The American forces in the vicinity of Vera Cruz at our last dates, numbered about 7000.
The transport ship American 650 tons which left New York, on the 17th of January, loaded partly with surf boats, reached Brazos, on the 6 th of Feb. About 30 transport vessels were lying off Brazos bar on the 17th , and as many more within the bar, loading and embarking troops with all activity. [AMA]
NNR 72.016, March 6, 1847 THE CAPTURED AMERICANS
Minon's own report of the exploit, sets down the number of Americans taken at 82, besides one Mexican, Galeano, used as spy and guide by the American detachment, and who, notwithstanding the remonstrance of Major Gaines, was immediately put to the sword.
Another list of the captured, includes the names of Captain Albert Pike, of the Arkansas, and Capt. William Heady, of Kentucky. The latter, with seventeen men was taken two days after the capture of Major Borland's party, by a party of Rancheros. The parties captured consist of fifty Arkansas troops, and two parties of Kentuckians, one twenty five, the other eighteen. Their camp was surrounded at night, after a march of forty miles. Report says, that Cassius M. Clay, wished to break the ranks, but the others refused to join him. The Mexicans numbered from 1500 to 2000, according to the same accounts. Others say not over 500. DAN HENRIE, well known as a Mier prisoner, and who acted as interpreter to the Arkansas troops, having had some experience of a Mexican prison, concluded it about sale to try virtue of Major Gaines' horse dashing past the Mexican guard, escaped their fire, and--was off to parts unknown.
The rest of the prisoners arrived at San Luis on the 26 th
--and were received with ever demonstration of Mexican triumph. [AMA]
NNR 72.016 March 6, 1847 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna moves from San Luis, speculations at to his object
A DEMONSTRATION BY SANTA ANNA--The Mexican army is in motion and from San Luis Potesi--Our officers are divided in opinion as the their real destination.
Santa Anna's address to his "companions in arms" dated San Luis Potesi, January 27th, says: "The operations of the enemy demand that we should move precipitately upon his principal line, and we go to execute it. The independence, the honor, and the destiny of the nation depend at this moment on your decisions. Soldiers! The entire world observes us, and will expect our sets to be as heroic as they as necessary. Privations of all kinds surround us in consequence of the neglect shown towards us, for more than a month, by those who should provide your pay and provisions. But when has misery debilitated your spirits or weakened your enthusiasm! The Mexican soldier is well known for his frugality and patience under suffering--never wanting magazines for marches across the deserts, and always counting upon the resources of the enemy to provide for his wants. To-day we shall undertake to march over a desert country without succor or provisions. But be assured that we will immediately provided from those of the enemy, and with them you will be sufficiently remembered. My friends we go to open the campaign. What days of glory await us! What flattering future for our country! How satisfactorily when we contemplate that we have saved its independence! How the world will admire us! And when in the bosoms of our families we shall relate the risks and fatigues which we have endured, the combats with and triumphs over a daring and presumptuous enemy, and hereafter, when telling our children that we have saved out country a second time, the jubilee will be complete, and the sacrifices will appear to us to be nothing. Soldiers! Harry forth in the defense of your country. The cause we sustain is a holy one; never have we struggled more for justice, because we fight for honor and religion of our wives and children! What sacrifice, then, can be too great for objects so dear? Let our motto be, "CONQUER OR DIE!" Let us answer before the great Eternal that we will not want an instant in purging our soil of the stranger who has dared to profess it with his presence. No treaty, nothing which may not be heroic and proud."
ANTONIO LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA
--------------------
HEADQUARTERS, SAN LUIS POTESI, Jan. 27th, 1847
Some believe that Santa Anna has issued this as a feint, and that his real object is to move to the defense of Santa Cruz. Others think his design is on the dictatorship and settle affairs at the city of Mexico.
It is certain however, that on the 27th of January, there marched out of San Luis towards Fanque de in Vaea, (the place where the Minon captured the American detachment,) three bodies of infantry, a brigade of cavalry, and another of artillery, having with them 24 pounders, three 18 pounders, four 16 pounders, and four lighter pieces, and that two days after another division would march in the same direction.
These movements are corroborated by a letter from Tampico, dated the 9th of February, published in the La Patria, Spanish paper at New Orleans, which on authority of a letter from San Luis says, "16,000 of the most brilliant troops are marching for the road between Saltillo and Monterey."
A letter from Tula, Feb. 3 says, "On the 1st Feb. Gen. Parodi" with the 12th regiment of the line, styled the 'faithful soldiers of San Luis' 1,500 strong and the battalion of 'the national guards of Jalico' with three pieces of artillery, were marching in the direction of Monterey by the road of Maetherala. The sierre is fortified at every point by the battalions of Puebla, Guarda Costa de Tampico, the company of veterans, and three companies of cavalry. In the village, Col. Jose Antonio del Castillo is stationed with a respectable force to defend that point. Gen. Urrea, with 1,500 men of the 1st regiment of cavalry, 'Primero Republicano' must have already arrived at Victoria de Temaulipas."
The foregoing renders it highly probable that Gen. Taylor will once more be in the hottest of the fray, and have the war to manage. The last accounts stated that he was getting "ready" and Santa Anna will find him to be a "rough" customer.
Gen. Wool apprized Gen. Taylor, towards the end of January, that he anticipated an attack at Saltillo. In consequence, Gen. Taylor left Monterey on the 1st of February, with his staff for Saltillo. He took with him Bragg's battery and Thomas's battery, the 1st Mississippi rifles, and May's squadron of dragoons. Capt. Thomas F. Marshall was to leave Monterey for Saltillo with Gen. Taylor.--The American forces at Saltillo would be between 5,000-6,000 men. In addition to the two batteries named above, the batteries of Capt. Washington and Captain Webster were at Saltillo, and at last accounts the troops were throwing up formidable fortifications.
The number of troops left at Monterey does not exceed 500 men, but the citadel or "Black Fort" is field by them, and there is no route by which the Mexicans can approach the city with artillery, save by Saltillo. Without artillery any attempt upon Monterey would be futile. The troops at Monterey consist of principally Ohio and Indiana volunteers, all under the command of Col. Rogers. Captain Arnold, of the 2nd dragoon, has also been ordered to Monterey from the mouth of the Rio Grande.
Our own notion is that Santa Anna knows better than to attack our army in post. Our line of operations is so widely dispersed that he can annoy them exceedingly by interrupting communications and supplies, and cutting off detachments. The approach of Urrea towards Metamoros is rather startling. [MLL]
NNR 72.016, March 6, 1847 THE BATTLE AT EL PASO
The N.O. Picayune of the 25 th ult. says: "We have conversed with an intelligent Spanish gentleman who left Durango on the 15 th January--Senor Benito Velez, a nephew, we learn, of Peter Harmony, of New York. Senor Velez confirms all that we have said of the action near El Paso on the 25 thof December. The loss of the Mexicans in that affair was about 180 men. No news had reached Durango of the fall of Chihuahua when our informant left there. On the 10 th of January, General Heredia left Durango for Chihuahua at the head of 700 men, of whom 160 were cavalry. He took with him 1,500 muskets and two pieces of artillery. When he reached Cuencame, in the north part of the state of Durango, he heard the news of the action near El Paso; and, leaving there his infantry, he pushed on to Chihuahua with his cavalry, with the view to assume the command of the government forces there. The cavalry of Cuiltz, which was in the action of the 25 thof December, and which protected, as far as possible, the retreat of the Mexicans upon El Paso, and afterwards Carizal, has dwindled down to a handful by desertions which took place at the different rancheros on the route.
The Mexican papers contain violent denunciations of their countrymen for permitting a handful of Missourians to capture El Paso, the key to Chihuahua. One paper speaking of the Mexicans, says--"they ran like the devil," and of the principal commander--"he ran forty leagues before he stopped."
COL. DE RUSSY AND THE LOUISANA REGIMENT. Our last left this gallant officer and his command, wrecked upon Mexican coast, in the transport ship Ondiake, in eminent peril. We rejoice to announce his arrival at Tampico, on the 4 th Feb:, with the whole corpse except seven men, who, unable to make the forced march which was necessary, had to be left, as they could be carried no further on litters. One of the seven overtook the detachment before they reached Tampico.
Col. de Russy, the morning he landed from the wreck, was visited
by the Mexicans who proferred assistance. In the afternoon a flag from
Gen. Cos summoned to an immediate surrender to the 1,800 Mexicans he
pretend to have under him. He had but 980 men. Col. de R. obtained until
9 o'clock next morning to deliberate. At night fall fires were lighted,
everything that would encumber was left, the detachment started for Tampico,
and made 35 miles the first 24 hours, without meeting with an armed Mexican.
The whole of them were exceedingly exhausted when they reached Tampico.
[AMA]
NNR 72.016 March 6, 1847 Col. DeRussy reaches Tampico with the shipwrecked Louisiana regiment
COL. DE RUSSY AND THE LOUISIANA REGIMENT--Our last left this gallant officer and his command wrecked upon the Mexican coast, in the transport ship Ondiake, in eminent peril. We rejoice to announce his arrival at Tampico, on the 4th of Feb., where the whole corps except seven men, who, unable to make the forced march which was necessary, had to be left, as they could be carried no further on litters. One of the seven overtook the detachment before they reached Tampico.
Col. DeRussy, the morning he landed from the wreck, was visited by Mexicans who proffered assistance. In the afternoon a flag from Gen. Cos summoned to an immediate surrender to the 1,800 Mexicans he pretend to have under him. He had but 980 men. Col. De R. obtained until 9 o'clock next morning to deliberate. At night fall fires were lighted, everything that would encumber was left, the detachment started for Tampico, and made 35 miles the first 24 hours, without meeting with an armed Mexican. The whole of them were exceedingly exhausted when they reached Tampico. [MLL]
NNR 72.016 March 6, 1847 Three million dollar bill
THREE MILLION DOLLAR BILL
AS ACT appropriating three million dollars to enable the president to conclude a treaty of peace and limits with Mexico.
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the United States of America in congress assembled. That whereas a state of war now exists between the United States and the Republic of Mexico, which it is desirable should be speedily terminated upon the terms just and honorable to both nations; and whereas assurances have heretofore been given to the government of Mexico that it was the desire of their president to settle all questions between the two countries; and whereas the President may be able to conclude a treaty of peace with the Republic of Mexico prior to the next session of congress, it means for that object are at his disposal; and whereas, in the adjustment of so many complicated questions as now exist between the two countries, it may possibly happen that an expenditure or money will be called for by the stipulations of any treaty which may be entered on to; therefore the sum of three million dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, to enable the president to sign a treaty of peace, limits, and boundaries with the Republic of Mexico, to be used by him in the event that said treaty , when signed by the authorized agents of the two governments, and duty ratified by Mexico, shall call for the expenditure of the same, or any part thereof, full and accurate accounts for which expenditure shall be by him transmitted to congress at as early a day as practical.
JOHN W. DAVIS
Speaker of the House of Representatives
George M. Dallas,
Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate
Approved, March 3, 1847
JAMES K. POLK
[MLL]
NNR 72.019 March 13, 1847 General orders on the organization of the troops raised for service in Mexico
ARMY JOURNAL
[GENERAL ORDER No. 8]
War Dept., Adjt. General office
Washington, March 4, 1847
1. The regiment authorized to be raised under the "approved February 11th, 1847" will be recruited, armed and equipped for active duty in the field without delay; and the several officers appointed in each will report for orders and recruiting instructions to their respective colonels, who will establish their recruiting headquarters at some central position and report to the adjutant general. Colonels are charged with superintending the recruiting of their respective regiments; and will assign the lieutenant colonel and majors to such sub-recruiting districts as may be found expedient. When two or more companies and raised and sent to any depots, or ordered to the seat of war, a field officer should be assigned to the command.
2. The established recruiting regulations will be strictly observed by all officers, and the required returns, muster, and descriptive rolls, reports, &c. will be regularly made and transmitted through the proper officer to the adjutant general and other chiefs of staff, in strict conformity with the rules of service and the blanks with which they have been furnished. The attention of recruiting officers is specially directed to the prompt rendition of the recruiting accounts, and the abstract of contingent expenses, required for the second auditor, and the colonel as superintendent, which must be forwarded within three days after the expiration of each month or semi-monthly when called for. See paragraphs 50, 51, and &c. revised recruiting regulations, 1847.
3. As soon as eighty men shall be enlisted by a captain and two subalterns, they will be inspected, mustered, armed, and equipped as a company, and be considered ready to take the field. The final assignment of the subalterns, and the permanent designation of companies by the letters of the alphabet, will be made by the colonel at the proper time. See paragraph 43 "General Regulations for the Army."
4. The attention of recruiting officers and commanders of posts is directed to paragraph 73 of General regulations. Recruits must be drilled in the school of the soldier, as far as practical, from the moment of enlistment, even when there may be no arms at the rendezvous, until sent to join their companies or regiments.
5. The officers of the new regiment (infantry and dragoons) will furnish themselves with the prescribed infantry tactics (See Scott's system). Cavalry tactics will not be furnished until the regiment is supplied with horses, until which time the dragoon officers and men will be well drilled as foot soldiers.
6. The officers appointed, and the ten companies to be recruited in the States of Maine, 4; New Hampshire, 2; Vermont, 1; Rhode Island; 1; and Connecticut, 2; will constitute the "ninth regiment of infantry" to be commanded by Colonel---; headquarters established for the present at Boston. Fort Constitution and Fort Adams, RI will be used as recruiting depots for the regiment and the concentration of companies, preparatory to their immediate embarkation for the rest of the war.
7. The officers appointed, and the ten companies of infantry to be recruited in New York, 7; and New Jersey, 3; will constitute "the tenth regiment of infantry," under Colonel Robert E. Temple; headquarters at New York. Fort Hamilton and Lafayette will be the receiving depots for this regiment.
8. The officers appointed, and the ten companies of infantry to be recruited in Pennsylvania, 6; Delaware, 1; and Virginia, 3; will constitute "the eleventh regiment of infantry" Under Col. Albert C. Ramsey; headquarters at Baltimore. The companies to be raised in the interior of Pennsylvania for the regiment will proceed to Point Isabel, under their respective captains, via the Ohio River, and embark at Pittsburgh or Wheeling, as may be most convenient; and those recruited in Philadelphia and Delaware will rendezvous at Fort Mill, preparatory to immediate embarkation for the same point; the companies raised in eastern Virginia will be sent to New Orleans, and then to Point Isabel, with the least practicable delay, where the regiment will be concentrated.
9. The officers appointed, and the ten companies of infantry to be recruited in North Carolina, 2; S. Carolina, 2; Texas, 2; Arkansas, 2; and Missouri, 2; will constitute the "twelfth regiment of infantry" under Colonel Louis D. Wilson; headquarters at New Orleans. The companies will be raised in North and South Carolina will rendezvous at Fort Moultrie, SC, preparatory to their immediate departure for Point Isabel; and the companies to be recruited in Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri will proceed, as soon as organized, under their respective captains, via New Orleans, to Point Isabel.
10. The officers appointed, and the ten companies of infantry to be raised in Virginia, 1; Georgia, 4; Alabama, 4; and Florida, 1; will constitute the "thirteenth regiment of infantry" under Colonel Robert M. Echols; headquarters at New Orleans.
11. The officers appointed and the ten companies of infantry to be raised in Louisiana, 5; Tennessee, 4; and Illinois, 1; will constitute the "fourteenth regiment of infantry" under Colonel Wm. Trousdale; headquarters at New Orleans.
12. The officers appointed, and the ten companies of infantry to be raised in Ohio, 5; Michigan, 3; Iowa, 1; and Wisconsin, 1; will constitute the "fifteenth regiment of infantry" under Colonel George W. Morgan; headquarters at Cincinnati.
13. The officers appointed, and the ten companies of infantry to be raised in Kentucky, 4; Indiana, 4; and Illinois, 2; will constitute the "sixteenth regiment of infantry" under Colonel J.W. Tibbatis; headquarters at Newport, KY.
14. As soon as any company to be recruited for the 13th, 14th, 15th, or 16th regiments shall be raised and organized; it will proceed without further delay to Point Isabel, under the captain, by the most expedient route, unless otherwise ordered, where these regiments will be concentrated.
15. The officers appointed and the ten companies of infantry raised in Pennsylvania, 2; Maryland, 3; Virginia, 2; Miss., 1; Georgia, 1; and Kentucky 1; will constitute the "regiment of volunteers" under Colonel T.P. Andrews; headquarters for the present at Washington, D.C. The companies recruited in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia will be concentrated at Fort Monroe, preparatory to their immediate embarkation for the seat of war; and those to be raised in Mississippi, Georgia, and Kentucky will proceed direct to Mexico, under their respective captains, as soon as organized.
16. "The third regiment of dragoons" is to be raised in the following states: Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Kentucky, and Indiana--in each company, Colonel Edward G. W. Butler; headquarters at New Orleans. As soon as raised and organized, the companies will proceed direct, under their respective captains, without loss of time to Point Isabel.
17. The foregoing arrangement of regiments and assignment of companies are made for the present with a view to expedite the recruiting service--subject hereafter to such revisions and modifications as the good of the service may require.
18. The president expects that the new regiments will be raised and brought into the field in the shortest practicable time. The public interest require that the recruiting service be pushed with the greatest vigor by every officer employed in it; and, at the same time, the strictest economy is enjoined in all expenditures and arrangements, &c. Efforts must not be limited to one rendezvous or neighborhood, but auxiliary stations, within a convenient range, should be temporarily established by the same officer, according to the facilities of intercourse and the chances of success, &c.
BY order,
[MLL]
NNR 72.019 March 13, 1847 Notice of awards of brevets
Brevets--The Washington Union says--"We understand that many brevets were conferred by the president, by and with the advice and consent of the senate, the last evening of the session, and that the official general order for publishing the name is n the course of preparation. We shall take pleasure in laying before our readers as soon as we can obtain a copy of it. We announced the other day that the brevet of Major General had been conferred on Brigadier General Worth for 'gallant and notorious conduct' at the Battle of Monterey; and in anticipation of the official inst. we now mention the names of Col. Percifer F. Smith, of the regiment of mounted riflemen, to be brigadier general by the brevet, and Lieut. Colonel Henry Wilson, of the first regiment of the infantry, to be colonel by brevet, for their gallant and meritorious conduct in the capture of Monterey. Lieut. Col. John Garland, of the 4th regiment of infantry, to be colonel by brevet, and Captain Thomas Childe, of the 3rdregiment of artillery, and lieut. col. by brevet, to be colonel by brevet, for their gallant and meritorious conduct in the battle of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma," &c., &c. [MLL]
NNR 72.020 March 13, 1847 Movement of troops from Fort Snelling to Mexico
The company of the United State infantry, spoken of a few weeks ago as having been ordered from Fort Snelling to Mexico, arrived yesterday on the steamer Tioga, which took them on board at Bridgeport, they having performed the rest of the journey on foot. They left Fort Snelling fifty- five in number on the 19th of January. On the way down, four were discharged, and on of the privates, whose name was Richard Monohan, fell overboard from the steamer Tioga yesterday, and was drowned. The men suffered a great deal from the cold on the journey and several of them had their hands, feet, and ears frozen. The officers in command are Captain Plummer, and Lieut. Granger and Donham. [MLL]
NNR 72.020-72.021 March 13, 1847 General William Orlando Butler returns to New Orleans, his remarks on the war and report that General Santa Anna had ordered the evacuation of Vera Cruz
A letter dated at New Orleans, March 1, 1847, to the editors of National Intelligence say--General Butler arrived here yesterday. Among the leading items of the news is the reported evacuation of Vera Cruz, by order of Santa Anna. As regards the city, I should think this very probable, as the garrison could not defend it against Gen. Scott, and the troops of which that garrison is composed will be of more service with Santa Anna, particularly if he contemplates an attack on Gen. Scott, as it is probable he does.
Gentlemen who have conversed with Gen. Butler says he freely expresses his opinion as to the proper, indeed, the only mode of conducting the war, and which coincides with the views of Mr. Calhoun--to take and fortify by posting a line of territory, and wither capture of blockade their ports without any attempt to penetrate the interior. The line to be taken, he thinks should be the one, (whatever it may be), which the government intends to insist on as permanent boundaries between the two countries, and he says 15,000 men would be sufficient to hold and protect it from the Gulf to the Pacific.
Gen. Butler justly says that, admitting we advance into the country with every success that could be expected, and even captured the city of Mexico, it would not have any material effect on the enemy, nor place us any nearer to peace than we are now, and we should never command any more territory than what we actually covered with our bayonets, and would be constantly surrounded by a hostile population, and the Mexicans would have nothing to do but avoid fighting, and let out armies waste away, as it rapidly would do, by fatigue, sickness, and constant guerrilla war.
He seems to think it is probable that Santa Anna has removed with his whole force to Vera Cruz, and with a view of giving Gen. Scott a grand fight; though he says it would be impolite for him to do so under any circumstances, but that his plans should be to let our army advance into the interior without taking a general battle, but merely to harass them, and cut off stranglers or detachments. Any serious repulse to an advancing army would be fatal to them under the circumstances.
The administration have got themselves and the country into a most acquired predicament as to this war, so blindly and rashly undertaken; for, as recently observed in the senate, we have the wolf by the tail, and it is equally dangerous to hold on or let go. There is no doubt to the fact that, sooner or later, we will have to come to the point of holding on to what we have, and the prevailing opinion in the army is, that we should give up the idea of penetrating into the country. The views and intentions, however, of the administration are different; they are actually at this moment calculating on an advance of Gen. Taylor from Saltillo, and their measures will hastily result in some serious misfortune, that will rouse the indignation of the whole country.
All the officers from Mexico speak in high terms of the Mexican cavalry, and admit that they are fully equal to our mounted volunteers, man for man, and greatly out number forces of that description.
I do not believe we shall have any decisive intelligence from Vera Cruz till the close of this month; as the issue of Gen. Worth's troops will not leave the Brazos before the 6th or 8thof this month, and the whole force cannot be collected at Lobos and Tampico before the 15th, and if they were as said that they may, it would be at least the 10th before they reached Vera Cruz.
Those who pretend to know the best, say that the castle can only be taken by bombardment, and that if the garrison is properly supplied, it will be very difficult to take it at all, and at any rate will require a long time to do so.
It is difficult from the conflicting opinions to form any correct ideas on the subject, but I shall not be surprised if it should be an easy conquest. [MLL]
NNR 72.020 March 13, 1847 Trials for the loss of Boston and Truxton
COURT MARTIAL. Commander Pearson, tried at Norfolk for the loss of the sloop of war BOSTON, has been found guilty and sentenced to one year's suspension.
Past midshipman Rolando, acting as master of the Boston, was also tried and acquitted of any blame for the loss of the ship.
Commander Carpenter, tried by the same court for the loss of the brig of war Truxton, was found guilty, and cashiered, but recommended to the mercy of the president, who has modified the sentence to one year's suspension. [MLL]
NNR 72.021 March 13, 1847 General Taylor's headquarters advances to Agua Nueva and Gen. Wool to Buena Vista
FROM THE ARMY--Letters have just been received in this city from the camps of Generals Taylor and Wool. The headquarters of the latter were at Buena Vista on the 29th of January and of the former at Agua Nueva, eighteen miles south of Saltillo, on the 7th of February.
The letters from General Wool's camps state that since the 27th of January they had the usual nightly alarms of the approach of the enemy, and that there reports had all come from Saltillo. The enemy was said undoubtedly at Incarnacion, and perhaps small parties had been within twelve leagues of Saltillo. It was also reported that a considerable number of rancheros had embodied themselves and were not far off, lying in wait for any small reconnoitering parties that may come their way. The report had reached the camp (on the night of the 28th) that a party, consisting of Captain Heady and seventeen, Kentucky volunteers, were captured on the 27th by a party of rancheros, under the following circumstances: Capt. H. as sent out on a reconnoitering party by Lt. Col. Field. When about ten or fifteen miles away from their station they stopped at a rancho, and asked for liquor to drink. It was immediately furnished, and in abundance. The men became intoxicated, and in that condition left the rancho. They were afterwards captured, and, as reported, without resistance or a gun being fired.
There was no idea entertained at the date of writing this letter that the town of Saltillo, or the troops at Buena Vista were to be attacked. It was supposed that some decisive measures would be taken to check the reconnoitering parties of the enemy.
These letters give further accounts of the capture of Major Borland. It appears that an alarm of being given at the approach of the Mexicans upon Saltillo, Gen. Wool sent Major B. with fifty men to make a reconnaissance on the San Luis Potesi road, and, if practicable, to go as far as Incarnacion, about fifty-five miles from Saltillo, for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the enemy had advanced to that place, and to report the result of that observations. He left on the 18th instant, and arrived at the Incarnacion the next morning but found no troops there; they having left the morning before. Instead of returning as ordered, the major took the liberty of halting and sent an express to Col. Yell for reinforcement. Col. Yell, on receiving the major's application sent a request to Gen. Wool for permission to go with his whole regiment to join the major and to go on as far as Salado. The application was sent by General Wool to Major General Butler, who refused it, but sent Gen. Wool word by the bearer that he would see the general in a few moments. Shortly after Gen. Wool sent the refusal to Col. Yell. An interview then took place between the two generals. Then Gen. Wool proposed an immediate recall of Major Borland. Gen. Butler said it was necessary to send the order, as he was immediately going to see Col. Yell, and, if necessary, he would give the order.
It appears that Major Borland was joined by Major Gaines and Capt. Clay's companies, about thirty to thirty-five strong, who were ordered by General Butler to make a reconnaissance in the same direction. They decided at once to continue their reconnaissance as far as Salado; the result of which was a surprise and capture of the whole party of about five hundred Mexican cavalry, commanded by General Minion. It was reported that they were surprised early in the morning, whilst asleep, with no pickets or sentinels, to guard against the surprise. Colonel Yell was afterwards sent with part of his regiment on the Potesi road, to ascertain the truth of the report, with instructions to be cautious; but, on preceding to the Incarnacion he found no troops; yet he received information of the approach of General Minion, with 3,000 cavalry, on which he retired to camp. Every precaution was subsequently taken to have an active reconnaissance on the roads by which the enemy could approach. As these unfortunate occurrences had been the result of vigilance and disobedience of orders, it is hoped that they may prove a lesson to our troops.
General Taylor had changed his headquarters from Monterey to Agua Nueva, eighteen miles south of Saltillo, where he arrived on the 5th instant, bringing forward in the first instance, Lieut. Col. May's squadron of dragoons, two batteries, (Sherman's and Bragg's) and the regiment of Mississippi riflemen. He was subsequently joined by the Kentucky and Indiana regiments, and other troops were expected from Saltillo. It seemed to be understood that Gen. Taylor was determined to hold both Saltillo and Agua Nueva in its front. It was supposed that the scarcity of water and supplies for a long distance in front would compel the enemy either to risk an engagement in the field or to hold himself aloof from our troops. No intelligence has been received from the interior more recent or authentic than has been hitherto communicated. But the impression is that three was no considerable force in front, nor was it supposed to be likely that any serious demonstration would be made in that direction. The population of Saltillo was fast returning to the city, and it was hoped that, under the judicious management of Major Warren, a discreet officer of the Illinois volunteers, who commands in the worn, the people may remain quietly in their houses.
Lots have been received in Washington of the men belonging to the Kentucky mounted volunteers who had been captured at Incarnacion, amounting to thirty-five, and also those of the Arkansas regiment captured at the same place, amounting also to thirty-five. [MLL]
NNR 72.021 March 13, 1847 Anxiety at Tampico over reports of a battle supposed to have been fought near Monterey
From Tampico, by way of New Orleans, we have dates to the 17th of February. Much anxiety was awakened there to have the truth or falsity of an account brought in by three Mexicans from Victoria, of a sanguinary battle having been fought at or near Monterey between Santa Anna and Gen. Taylor. They stated that General Taylor had fallen back from Saltillo, to Monterey, that Santa Anna had ventured to attack them, a long conflict ensued--loss of life on both sides exceeded any of the engagements--that Santa Anna finally gave way, having suffered so severely in killed and wounded--amongst the latter was Gen. Arista.
Our advice from Gen. Taylor is later than the period on which the battle was said to have been fought. They make no mention of the affair. It is quite possible the Mexicans were sent to Tampico with a view of creating a diversion.
Of real movements made Santa Anna and his army from San Luis de Potosi, we are as yet entirely without satisfactory accounts, and shall be very curious to know what was the object of his move. [MLL]
NNR 72.021, March 13, 1847
UNTITLED ARTICLE; EXPECTATION OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF A SPEEDY PEACE WITH
MEXICO
NNR 72.021
letter from Mexico City about the levy on church property, the Mexican
sense of grievance and desire for a durable peace
The Baltimore American of the 10 th says--It is intimated by letters from Washington that president and other officials there entertain the confident expectation of a speedy peace with Mexico. This belief is an approaching pacification is said to be founded on the use that is to made of the three millions entrusted by special appropriation to the president. Having no confidence, for our own part, in the pacific disposition of the Mexican people; none in Santa Anna's power, if he has the will, to expect such overtures as we are prepared to make; and therefore none, not the slightest, in the speedy conclusion of the war, we mention these rumors from Washington as indicating, we fear, rather the wishes than the convictions of reasonable and well informed men.
It is only necessary to place ourselves for a moment in the position of the Mexicans, and then allow them what we claim for ourselves, the possession of the feelings, sympathies and sentiments of men, to understand the exasperated hostility with which they must be aroused and stimulated to resist to the death the powerful invaders of their country. We cannot expect people to smile upon us when we have just provoked them by blows. To conciliate and to fight the same party, at one and the same time, would be to render all efforts both at fighting and at conciliation abortive. Hence the inconclusive results of Mr. Polk's management of our difficulty with Mexico. And the infatuation which possessed him when he plunged into the war, and which has marked his course in the prosecution of it, seems to accompany him still. He is not full of the project of the three million bill money--a ridiculous scheme which must end in disgrace.
The administration, we believe, has never yet perceived the really serious nature of this Mexican war. In so far as it relates to political interests, in the way of placing vast patronage in the president's hands and furnishing profitable contracts for the reward of the meritorious or for the encouragement of the wavering, it has probably been appreciated to the full. But there are other points of view in which some, not partizans, may be disposed to regard it.
We find in the New York Journal of Commerce some extracts from a letter dated "City of Mexico, January 28, 1847," apparently written by a Mexican of intelligence.
"You will discover our sense of injury to be great by the prompt punishment received by those of our citizens who have by force attempted to resist the will of the Junta in the matter of the law relating to church property. There is, then, as before remarked, but small expectation that the two nations will be able to come to terms at present, notwithstanding the storm that appears to be gathering for the subjugation of the city of Vera Cruz. The force loan upon, or seizure as some call it, of the church party, in defense of the nation, you will understand, is not carried out to impair the usefulness of the church itself. The property in question is promulgated to be the gift of individuals of the nation: it is considered national property, under God in the custody of the church, for use in just such an emergency as, at this time, threatens the independence of the country. As the agent of heaven for good to us, to whom can we turn more properly in the hour of necessity than to our church?
These are but a few appeals uttered in defense of the law. The exigency of the case impels the carrying out of a measure, which, under different circumstances, there would be few among us disposed to sanction. Some call the law a sacrilege; others say, if it is, the United States are the actors of it, by forcing upon us the necessary of performing it. The fault, then, lies at the door of our sister republic. Does it or does it not? The many generous sentiments discovered in many of the presses and in the speeches of some of the members of congress of the United States, I will here take occasion to observe, engage our attention. They are a relief to us under the circumstances; but the relief of mere language in a few, has little of satisfaction in it, so long as the nation itself is opposed to us. We are not so blinded by our conviction that we are right, as to be incapable of comprehending the instrumentality that prevents its satisfactory acknowledgement on the part of the United States.
We believe it nevertheless the duty of an elevated patriotism: that we should enforce something like an admission of the wrong done us, not for the benefit of our own republic merely, but for the less selfish motive that the peace that must be eventually arrived at, may be founded upon durable basis. Should Vera Cruz be taken, our nation will not be conquered. If even a march be successfully forced to our capital city, we shall still not be conquered; our enemy will be in a state of siege in our very midst. What is to happen under these circumstances, it is impossible to know. We shall, however, do our best to protect the interests involved. A single reverse will place the army of our enemy in a critical position. That desirable object affected, it may then be necessary and proper to offer the alternative we hesitate to yield on compulsion. The honor of our nationality demands of us the tremendous sacrifices under which we suffer. If we err in prizing the dignity of that, it will be an error for which posterity will not condemn us." [AMA]
NNR 72.021 March 13, 1847 Description of Lobos Island
THE ISLAND OF LOBOS--The island of Lobos having become a place of some interest for many of our citizens as the place of rendezvous of that portion of our army which is detained for the attack on Vera Cruz, we extract the following brief account of it from the correspondence of the Philadelphia North American:
Island of Lobos, Gulf of Mexico
-February 7, 1847
"This letter is written upon the most delightful tropical island ever trodden by adventurers from any climb.
"The island of Lobos is a lovely little spot, formed entirely of coral, about two miles in circumference, twelve miles from the Mexican shore, about 60 miles from Tampico, and some 130 miles from Vera Cruz. It is covered (or was before we landed) with a variety of trees and shrubs, the highest of the former about twenty-five feet high, and there are so thickly covered with vines that one can hardly get through them. There is hardly a tree or shrub, or plant growing there that I have ever before seen. Banyan trees spreading over large spaces of gourds, their limbs forming props as they pierce into the earth and take root, while the tops thickly thatched with evergreen vines, form most beautiful arches. Lemon, lime, fig, palm, cane, and a hundred other species of wood are growing with all the freshness and beauty of the Indies. There is plenty of water to be had by digging four to six feet. It is brackish and sweet, but we are getting used to it, and like it nearly as well as ship water. Fish and sea fowl we have is profusion. With there we have delightful air, that fourteen hours of the twenty-four make the place delightfully pleasant.
"It will be difficult, I imagine, to convince you, who will read this scrawl besides great coal fires, that we are literally roasting during a portion of the day. The sun is so hot that our faces and arms are blistered if exposed but a few minutes. Tuesday, by Fahrenheit, in the shade, I scored 92 degrees. The universal remark among the volunteers is, 'if this is winter, what will summer be?'
"General Scott is daily expected here, and we shall soon he joined by seven thousand troops from Tampico, &c. There are six companies of Louisiana and South Carolina troops already here. They arrived on the 3rd instant. They were all in fine health, and are encamped besides us." [MLL]
NNR 72.022 March 13, 1847 Report of Colonel Alexander Doniphan's taking of El Paso
ARMY OF THE NORTH
The St. Louis Republican has accounts from Santa Fe to the 14th of January. At that time but little further was known of the movements of Colonel Doniphan. Some Mexicans, who were in the battle of Brazito, reported that Colonel Doniphan entered El Paso on the 28th of December, and took possession without resistance--the military force which he met on the 25thand defeated having scattered to the mountains.
The attempt to produce a revolution in Santa Fe was to have been made on Christmas night. It was a time when great numbers of Mexicans were expected to congregate in Santa Fe for the purpose of attending the ceremonies of the Catholic Church. A very large number were in attendance from all sections of the country; and no doubt by preconcert. A priest from El Paso, habited as greaser, was present and took an active part in all the preliminary arrangements. But the whole plot was disclosed to the Americans by Mexican women, and the authorities were able to secure a good many of the leaders. [MLL]
NNR 72.022, March 13, 1847 ARMY OF THE NORTH; REVOLUTION AT SANTA FE FOILED
The St. Louis Republican has accounts from Santa Fe to the 14 th of January. At that time but little further was known of the movements of Colonel Doniphan. Some Mexicans, who were in the battle of Brazito, reported that Colonel Doniphan entered El Paso on the 28 th of December, and took possession without resistance--the military force which he met on the 25 thand defeated having scattered to the mountains.
The attempt to produce a revolution in Santa Fe was to have been made on Christmas night. It was a time, when a great number of Mexicans were expected to congregate in Santa Fe for the purpose of attending the ceremonies of the Catholic church. A very large number were in attendance from all sections of the country; and no doubt by preconcert. A priest from El Paso, habited as a greaser, was present and took an active part in all the preliminary arrangements. But the whole plot was disclosed to the Americans by the Mexican women, and the authorities were able to secure a good many of the leaders. [AMA]
NNR 72.022, March 13, 1847 MEXICO--DEFERRED ARTICLE, Santa Anna, Vera Cruz
The British Steamer arrived at Havana from Vera Cruz furnish dates from thence to the 1st --and city of Mexico to the 29 th of January. We give brief extracts:
The rumor of the assassination of Santa Anna turns out to be unfounded; so also of his active opposition to the seizure of church property. At last accounts he was still at San Luis Potosi. Vera Cruz papers of the 28 th ult., announce that letters from San Luis speak of his immediate departure for Tula. Letters from the city of Mexico are to the same effect, and represent, that he would move at the head of the main body of his forces. His whole strength does not exceed 23,000 men of all arms--represented to be in a deplorable situation for want of means, destitute of clothing and provisions; one regiment had actually left for the city of Mexico.
Santa Anna employs his time in gambling and cock fighting and writing menacing and energetic representations to congress for money. He quite recently won $34,000 at monte from his own officers, very many of whom are very young men. The latest accounts we have seen from San Luis say that he would move upon Tula the morning of the 27 th ult. This is stated in a letter dated the 26th .
Gen. La Vega has been appointed commandant general of Vera Cruz.
Private accounts, from responsible sources, set down the number of troops in the city of Vera Cruz at 3400--some say 3000. The garrison of San Juan de Ulua does not exceed 100 troops. Some accounts represent that there are two months provisions in the castle, but we have a letter from a gentleman who has access to the most respectable sources of information, but whom we need not name, in which he assures us that there is not a barrel of salted provisions in the castle, are dependent upon the back country for their daily supplies of food. So far as the troops in the city are concerned, this has long been the case.
The congress of the state of Vera Cruz had issued a manifest calling on the people at all hazards to resist the invasion of the Americans. During the month of January the approaches to Vera Cruz on the road to the interior were strengthened by a battery of heavy guns.
The law authorising the seizure of fifteen millions of property belonging to the church promises to be a dead letter. The property consists almost wholly of real estate in different cities of the republic. Even if the law of congress be enforced, it is said that no one will advance money upon the property so seized much less purchase it. The whole body of the clergy had protested against the seizure as sacrilegious and they were supported by large portions of lower classes of the people. Santa Anna gave in his adhesion to the measure with great reluctance.
One of the clergy in the city of Mexico has been imprisoned for his factious opposition to the measure. At our last accounts the Mexican congress had before it a modification of the law, which would render it less burdensome, but without changing the principle.
Our letters say that all the late ministers have resigned. The ministers of foreign affairs and of finances have certainly done so. To add to the general disorganization, the Mexican congress is said to have determined to dissolve about the first of the present month.
A report was in circulation in Havana, derived from a letter of the very latest date from Vera Cruz that Gen. Minon had had an engagement with some American troops, near Victoria, and taken 800 of them prisoners. This transpired through the Mexican consul at Havana, and was totally discredited rumor was founded upon Minon's exploit near Saltillo. We find the prize seized by Minon noticed in the Indicator. That paper sets down the number of his prisoners at seventy, two of whom, it says, are field officers, and four company officers.
The Mexicans appear to be particularly well informed of the movements and positions of our troops. They give, from time to time, the forces at Tampico, Saltillo and Victoria and other places. Everywhere they see our arms advancing, and, to the consternation of all parties, sweeping all before them. This occasions much speculation in Mexico, as will be imagined, as to the final issue. Letters from Havana express the belief, founded upon information from high quarters in Mexico, that heir government will very soon enter into negotiations for peace, from total inability to subsist and protract the struggle. Still we read that one regiment of the Auxiliaries of San Luis had made formal proclamations that they would allow no treaty to be negotiated with the Americans, until the latter had entirely evacuated the country.
Several vessels have succeeded in running the blockade of Vera Cruz, a Sardinian brig and Spanish schooner were among the number. Officers write that with their present class of force it is impossible to prevent this. The Princess Marie, of Bordeaux has been seized by the squadron for irregularity in her papers, and it was thought would be sent to this port. The bark Felix, likewise of Bordeaux, has also been seized and sent into Anton Lizardo. We believe the sloop of war Albany made these captures. Conner has returned from Laguna to the station of the squadron.
A project has been started in Mazatlan of declaring Santa Anna dictator. This drew from him an immediate declaration that as he did not aspire to the presidency, he would use all his force to put down any movement in Sonora or any other state which would threaten to kindle political commotion. The latest dates from San Luis Potosi are to the 26 th ultimo. The army had not then moved, but the Vera Cruz Vindicator of the 21 st ult: thinks that it had done so subsequently, being enabled to do so by the funds raised by the state of San Luis.
Gen. Valencia is said by the same paper to mediate a descent upon Tampico. [AMA]
NNR 72.032 March 13, 1847 Preparations for attacking Veracruz, delay, ships to be employed
The attack on Vera Cruz.-According to Gen. Scott's project it is stadet, was to have commenced on the 20th of March, or at the earliest possible day thereafter. The New York Express states "that active preparations are making and nearly completed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, in the fitting out of two vessels, to be used as bomb ketches in the contemplated attack. They have been strengthened in every possible way by strong oaken knees, secured by bolts and screws, massive oaken frake work, and iron braces running through the vessel, secured upon the outer sides by broad iron plates. Each of the vessels is to carry, besides guns of smaller caliber, an immense gun upon deck (and a smaller one below) weighing about eight tons, and which will throw shot or shells of ten inches diameter a distance of of three and a half miles. It is calculated they will be at Vera Cruz ready for service by the 1st of April."
The U. States bomb ketches Etna and Stromboli, commanded by Captains G. J. Van Brunt and W.S. Walker are to sail from Boston for the gulf in a few days.
From this it would appear that the period of attack had been somewhat delayed. Gen. Scott left Brazos for the point of action about the 18th February.
The new sloop of war Germantown, lately launched at Philadelphia and since fitted out at Gosport, on the 10th instant was towed by the steamer Engineer to the anchorage, and will sail in a few days.-Whether for the gulf or for the Pacific, we are not confident. Commander Franklin Buchanan, lat superintendent of the naval school at Annapolis, commands her.
The following vessels the N. Y. Herald says, will compose the squadron that will attack Vera Cruz:-
| Line ship | Ohio, Capt. Stringham | 74 guns |
| Frigate | Potomac, Capt. Aulic | 44 " |
| Frigate | Raritan, Capt. Forrest | 44 " |
| Sloop of War | John Adams, Capt. McCluney | 20 " |
| Sloop of War | St. Mary's, Capt. Saunders | 20 " |
| Sloop of War | Albany, Capt. Breese | 20 " |
| Sloop of War | Decatur, Com. Pinokney | 16 " |
| Brig of War | Porpoise,, | 10 " |
| Brig of War | Perry,, | 10 " |
| Schr. of war | Bonita,, | 1 " |
| Schr. of war | Reefer,, | 1 " |
| Schr. of war | Petre, Lieut. Shaw | 1 " |
| Schr. of war | Tampico, Mid. Perry | 1 " |
| Schr. of war | Nonata, Mid. Smith | 1 " |
| Steamer | Mississippi, Com, Perry, paix. | 1 " |
| Steamer | Princeton, Capt. Engle | 9 " |
| Steamer | Spitfire, Capt. Tattnall | 3 " |
| Steamer | Vixen, Capt. Sands | 3 " |
| Steamer | McLean, Capt. Howard | 3 " |
| Steamer | Union, Capt. Rudd | 4 " |
| Steamer | Alleghany, Capt. Hunter | 10 " |
| Steamer | Hunter, Lieut. McLaughlin | 6 " |
| Steamer | Petrila,, | 6 " |
| Steamer | Scorpion, Com. Bigelow, 64 pr. | 1 " |
| Steamer | Scourge, Lieut. Hunter, 64 pr. | 1 " |
| Store ship | Relief,, | 6 " |
| Store ship | Supply, , | 2 " |
| Store ship | Fredonia,, | 2 " |
| Bomb ketch | Stromboli, Com.Walker, 85 pr. | 1 " |
| Bomb ketch | Aetna, Com. Van Brunt, 85 pr. | 1 " |
| Bomb ketch | Vesuvius,, 85 pr. | 2 " |
| Bomb ketch | Hecla,, 85 pr. | 1 " |
| Bomb ketch | Electra,, 85 pr. | 1 " |
| Sloop | Marmer,, | 1 " |
| Cutter | Forward, Capt Nones | 6 " |
| Total number of guns | 324 | |
[ANP]
NNR 72.032 March 13, 1847 "Irish Legion" of deserters from the United States to the Mexicans
DESERTERS FROM THE ARMY--As the bounty for enlisting is increased in amount, the number of attempts to obtain the bounty by abandoned characters, with a view awaiting the public, will increase in full proportion.
The adjunct general of the United States, has advertised rewards amounting in the aggregate to over $33,300 for arresting 1,011 deserters from the U.S. army.
The Irish Legion--El Republicano of Mexico has the following:
"We had the pleasure on Sunday last of seeing a company of Americans deserters, principally Irish, reviewed by his excellency the general in chief. They are perfectly armed and equipped, and are on the point of departure for Tula. This company have made a particular standard for themselves, on one side of which is seen the national cost of arms, with the motto, "Long live the republic of Mexico." On the other side is a figure of St. Patrick, their patron. There brave men who have abandoned one of the most unjust of causes for the purpose of defending the territory of their adopted country, will find in the Mexicans, a frank and loyal heart, open and hospitable; and besides, a just and ample recompense for their merited services. [MLL]
NNR 72.033 March 20, 1847 Adventure of Capt. Dan D. Henrie
ADVENTURES OF CAPT. DAN HENRIE
When the two accounting parties under Majors Borland and Gaines were captured by the Mexican forces under General Minion, on the 23rd of January, about sixty miles from Saltillo, there were taken with them a Texan, Capt. Dan Henrie, and a Mexican guide who had been compelled to act as such. Before the Americans surrendered, Gen. Minon pledged his honor that Captain Henrie should be treated as a prisoner of war, and should not be hurt, and that the Mexican guide should have a fair trial. Soon afterwards the Mexican guide was shot down, by order of the Mexican general--a circumstance which indicated clearly to the captain what his fate was to be. The subsequent occurrences connected with his escape were narrated by himself:
The whole party remained at Incarnacion that day. The next morning, the 24th, the prisoners were stated ender a guard of 200 men, for San Luis Potesi. Majors Gaines and Borland were permitted to retain their horses and arms; the rest of the prisoners were stript of both. Capts. Clay and Dainey among other commissioned officers, were furnished with mustang ponies; the remainder marched on foot.
The treatment of the Mexican guide induced Capt. Henrie to believe that he might share the same fate. He had no confidence whatever in the word of general Minon. During the day he remarked that officers talking to each other and looking at him. Manuel Sanchez that lives in Saltillo, and who also received from our officers many thousand dollars for corn, was with Gen. Minon. He recognized Henrie, and riding up to him said, "Well, sir, I suppose you will visit the city of Mexico a second time." "That is very doubtful," replied Henrie. In the afternoon the express came with a letter. Some acts of the officer who received it aroused Henrie's suspicions further, and turning short around where the officer was watching him. He believed they designed to murder him, and he determined to make his mistake if possible, and advised some of the prisoners of it.
By some accident, during the evening he found himself on Major Gaines' mare, one of the best blooded nags in Kentucky, and the Major's pistols still remaining in the holsters. The prisoners had become considerably scattered near sunset, and Capt. Henrie set himself busily to work to make them keep close together.
To do this he rode back, within ten miles of the rear of the line, when, discovering a small interval in the line of the Mexican guard, he suddenly put spurs into the mare and darted through the lines. The guard immediately wheeled in pursuit, but their ponies were no match for a Kentucky blood horse, and before a gun could be fairly leveled at him he had darted out of reach. He had three ranchos to pass. As he passed these he found that the Mexicans in pursuit gave the alarm to the rancheros, who followed him with fresh horses; still he outstripped them all. After passing the last rancho he had pulled up his mare, to rest her, when a single Mexican came up supposing him to be unharmed. He waited until he came within thirty steps, when cocking the pistol he fired the dueling pistol and the Mexican rolled off.
In a short time another came nearer; he likewise permitted him to approach still nearer, when he wheeled and shot him down. He loaded his pistol, and after going some distance another started up from behind some bushes near the road, and rode at him; he shot at him, with what success he could not tell, but was not pursued by that Mexican any farther When he came to Incarnacion he had found that the camp had been alarmed, as he supposes by some one who had passed him when he left the road. Diverging from this strait course, he crossed several roads and evaded a number of parties who were in pursuit. At length he came to a plain where there was no place to hide. The moon was shining, and he could see a large number of men in pursuit. Putting spurs to his now jaded mare, he made for a mountain valley, and following it to the east, he at length eluded his pursuers. He traveled up into the valley forty miles, as he supposed, hoping to find water for himself or for his famished mare, and the next morning after his escape the noble animal expired, more from the want of water than from fatigue.
Capt. Henrie now had to make it on foot. He wandered about all day, trying to find a path across the mountain. In the evening he found some water to quench his thirst. He then determined to retrace his steps down the valley, and did so, marching without food or water, frequently seeing parties of Mexicans, whom he had to avoid. On the 28th he killed a rat with a club, part of which he ate and put the balance in his pocket for another meal.
On the night of the 28thhe reached the road, and followed it until an hour after sunset, when he discovered a party of horsemen approaching. Not knowing whether they were friends or enemies, he concealed himself until they came near, when he discovered they were a picket guard of the Arkansas troops. He gave one shout and gave up--nature was exhausted. His nerves, which had been strung up to the highest degree of tension, became unstrung, and he was almost helpless. They put him on a horse and took him to Agua Nueva, where Capt. Pike commanded an outpost.
Capt. Pike informed me that when Henrie came in he was the most miserable looking being he ever saw. His shoes were worn out, his pantaloons cut in rags, his head was bare, and his hair and beard matted, his hands, feet, and legs were filled with thorns from the prickly pear, and his shin was parched and withered with privation, exposure, and exertion. He had tasted no water for four days, and seemed almost famished for want of it. The soldiers gathered round him, and all that was in their wallets was at his service as they had recently had a new outfit of clothing, Capt. H. was soon newly fitted out. After resting awhile, and getting some food he was able to ride to this place. He says that during the pursuit, there were more than one hundred shots fired at him, one of which passed through his hair. [MLL]
NNR 72.035 March 20, 1847 Account of the mounted riflemen at Jefferson Barracks
The regiment of Mounted Riflemen are thus described by a correspondent of the Buffalo Commercial Advertiser, writing from Jefferson Barracks, Mo. 24th, Nov. 1846.
There are now at this point about five hundred men of the regiment who were enlisted in the short space of four months. Of these, all of nine-tenths are Americans, enlisted in the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Very few were enlisted in the northern and eastern states. Two companies of the regiment were organized in September, and one is already serving in Mexico. These are commanded by Capts. Mason and Walker.
I will venture to say that a finer body of men were never enlisted in this country. They are strong, athletic fellows, who appear capable of enduring and hardships. A good proportion of them are over six feet in height, and not a few will go six foot four "in their stockings." They have been well as cavalry tactics, and should occasion require they can act as trailleurs, or light infantry.
Owing principally to the low stage of water in the river the arms and clothing for the regiment did not arrive until a few days since. This has been a serious impediment to us, as the order for us, as the order for us to repair to Point Isabel was issued from the Adjunct General's office six weeks since. Our squadron, composed of two companies commanded by Capt. Sanderson and Crittenden, leave tomorrow, and the other companies will leave as soon as horses can be procured by the quartermaster at St. Louis.
We are to be armed with the short rifle, and we hope the requisition which has also been made for sabers and pistols will be favored. In the absence of Col. Smith and Lieut. Col. Fremont, already in Mexico, the regiment is to be commanded by Major Burridge. [MLL]
NNR 72.035 March 20, 1847 General Scott reaches Tampico from the Rio Grande, proceeds to Lobos.
War With Mexico.
Major General Scott, and suite, embarked from the Rio Grande in the steamer Massachusetts, and reached Tampico on the evening of the 19th February. He met with "a thundering reception," of course. Landing next morning he proceeded to Gen. Patterson's head quarters, and received the attention due to a commanding officer and the welcome of his friends. He found about 9,000 men at Tampico, preparing to embark. Four brigades, under Genl's. Twiggs, Pillow, Shield. and Quitman, were to embark on the 20thand 21st.
The scene in and about Tampico, is stated to be stirring in the extreme. Reviews of troops, in regiments and brigades, were daily taking place; vessels were continually arriving with goods, merchandize, military stores, &c., the American population were all in intense excitement, regarding coming events. Every thing announced action, in its utmost intensity. All quiet, with regard to the enemy, in the interior.
On the 21st, Gen. Scott, and suite left Tampico, in the Mississippi for the island of Lobos, where about 2,500 men had already encamped on the 17th of February.
The squadron off Vera Cruz consisted of the Potomac, Raritan, John Adams, Albany, Princeton, and a fleet of small craft. Gen. Scott had been expected daily for some time. The ships and troops would rendezvous, it was said, at Anton de Lizardo, but the place of debarkation would not be finally settled on until the arrival of Gen. Scott-it would either be at Anton de Lizardo, 9 miles from Vera Cruz, or opposite Sacrificios-at either of which places it would be done under complete protection from the guns of the ships.
A letter from Mr. Lumsden, one of the editors of the Picayune, written at Tampico ont e 20th of February, says:
Gen. Twiggs' division is first under marching orders, and leaves to-day. All is bustle, and very soon we shall not have more troops here than are barely sufficient to take care of the town. I think my mind is pretty well made up to go and see the Vera Cruz fandango. I was unlucky enough to miss the sport at Monterey, and do not feel willing to be absent when the "ball" opens at Vera Cruz.
To give you some idea of what is expected to be done, I will show you a portion of what is going down in the way of munitions: First, there are some 100,000 rounds of heavy ammunition; rockets, shells and an enormous supply of all sorts of combustibles, with 40 mortars and columbiads-some of them ten inches calibre; from 10 to 20 24-pounders; 3 field batteries, consisting of six and twelve-pounders, and twelve and twenty-four pound howitzers. With all these go the sappers and miners and the pontoon train.
The United States schooner Tampico, acting master M. C. Perry, Jr., sails this morning for Lobos Island and Anton Lizardo, with despatches from Gen. Scott.
A postscript to this letter, dated February 23d, says:-
I have not much to add-in fact it is almost impossible to gather any thing here in the way of what is called army news-so secret is every thing kept. There is not a Mexican in this whole country who does not know that our troops are going to Vera Cruz, while in the United States, and even here, our own people are all in the dark. Santa Anna manages to keep himself well advised of our movements-I almost venture to say that he now knows as much of our plans and intentions, and of our strength and numbers in the field as any of those who are at headquarters, in Washington city. Despatches of the greatest moment are sent through the enemy's country, almost totally unguarded, and, like weak and straggling forages, and mules and wagons without good and strong escorts, they fall into the hands of our foes.
All the forces now here, except the Louisiana volunteers, the Baltimore battalion, and one company of artillery will be on the way to Vera Cruz in a short time. Those that I have named will be left here, under the command of Col. Gates, to garrison the city.
Every thing indicates a movement upon Vera Cruz, which place, so far from being abandoned by the Mexicans, appears to be making efforts for defence. Men, women and children are said to be labouring on the works for defence, making ditches, removing sand banks, &c. Additional troops have arrived, and it is stated that Santa Anna has advanced $75,000 of his personal estate for the immediate exigencies of the place.
Advices at New Orleans from the mouth of he Rio Grande are to the 27 th February. General Worth's division was embarking with all possible speed. [ANP]
NNR 72.036 March 20, 1847. Mexican preparations at Tampico for the defense of Veracruz
Propositions to Negotiate.-The New Orleans Picayune of the 10th says-
Senor D. Alejandro Jose Atocha, bearer of dispatches from the government of the United States to Mexico, supposed to contain another proposition of peace, was landed at Vera Cruz on the 9th ult., from the American squadron, and left for the capital the same evening in company with Lieut. Col. Adams, and in aid of Gen. Morales.
By the arrival of the U. States revenue cutter Forward, Captain Nones, a large mail was yesterday recei