Official Records - 1st Alabama Cavalry, USV

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Glenda McWhirter Todd. She passed away on September 3, 2017 surrounded by her family. She was a historian, genealogist, and author who prided herself on being a descendant of Andrew Ferrier McWhirter of the 1st Alabama Cavalry, USV. Her work over the past two decades and her dedication to the 1st Alabama Cavalry has created a legacy that will last for years to come.

Her life's work has touched thousands of people through the years, and I am glad that I had the pleasure to work with her as long as I did. My hope is that her work will live on for years to come to educate and inspire a new generation.

Series 1, vol 31, Part 1 (Knoxville and Lookout Mountain)

Page 29-30

HEADQUARTERS CANE CREEK,

Ten Miles West of Tuscumbia, October 30, 1863-7.30 a.m.

COLONEL: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general, that my command attacked the enemy at daylight yesterday morning, and after a brisk skirmish I discovered that the enemy were in force at their camp near Cherokee Station. Their tents were standing, and my scouts could see no movement indicating breaking up of their camp. My scout report (and I consider it perfectly reliable) that about a division of the enemy have crossed at Eastport,and last evening their advance was within a few miles of Florence. Two steamers and flat-boats were at Eastport crossing troops. There is but little doubt now that a column of the enemy will march north of the Tennessee, via Florence and Huntsville. I am in doubt whether the entire force will go by that route; will inform you as soon as reliable information is received. The force in my front is probably covering the crossing. Some of my scouts still report the enemy working on the railroad east of Bear Creek, and the cars have crossed the Bear Creek Bridge.

Brigadier-General Ferguson attacked and routed the Tory Alabama Regiment, and thoroughly scattered it over the country, capturing two pieces of artillery, some 40 prisoners, a number of horses, small-arms, &c.* Brigadier-General Roddey is still on the flank and rear of the enemy between this point and Big Bear Creek. I am becoming short of ammunition; have sent for a supply at Okolona. My command is not in a condition to remain long from Mississippi, having left prepared only for a two weeks' scout against the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, when their destination was changed in this direction. They are much in need of clothing, shoes, &c. I will, however, remain as long as I can be of service, or until I receive orders from General Johnston. If I am to remain in this department, I should be informed as early as practicable, though I am of opinion that a large cavalry force will not be needed in this valley very long.

I am, colonel, yours, respectfully,

STEPHEN D. LEE,

Major-General.

Lieutenant Colonel GEORGE WILLIAM BRENT,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of Tennessee.