GDG- July 4 - Sarah M. Broadhead

[Ginny Gage]

July 4‹

 

This morning, about 6 o¹clock, I heard a great noise in the street, and
going to the door I saw a Rebel officer on horseback hallooing to some
soldiers on foot, to ³Hurry up, the Yankees have possession of the town and
all would be captured.²  I looked up street and saw our men in the public
square, and it was a joyful sight, for I knew we were now safe.  Soon after,
the Rebels sent in a flag of truce, but what was communicated we did not
know, and, in consequence, the people were more scared than ever, the report
spreading that it was to give notice to remove the women and children before
shelling the town.  As soon as the flag of truce had gone, our sharpshooters
were pushed out to this side of town, and were all around us.  We were
between two fires, and were kept close prisoners all day, not daring either
to go out, or even look out of the windows, on account of the bullets fired
at every moving object.  The people of other parts of the town could go
where they pleased. It has been a dreadfully long day. We know, however,
that the Rebels are retreating, and that our army has been victorious.  I
was anxious to help care for the wounded, but the day is ended and all is
quiet, and for the first time in a week I shall go to bed, feeling safe.

 
Ginny Gage