Capt William C Talley's Official Report

Report of September 21, 1862

[author biography]

HDQRS. FIRST REGT., PENNSYLVANIA RESERVE CORPS,
Camp near Sharpsburg, September 21, 1862.

CAPTAIN:Late on the afternoon of the 16th the regiment moved with the division into a forest near ------, and while crossing a field to take position a heavy fire of musketry was opened upon us by the enemy, lasting until the darkness prevented us from seeing them. We succeeded in driving them from the woods, threw out four companies as skirmishers, who kept up a desultory fire all night. On the morning of the 17th, as soon as day dawned, the fire of the enemy was renewed. The skirmishers, however, held their position until relieved by some troops from Tower's brigade, when the regiment was withdrawn in good order. The list of killed and wounded has already been forwarded, to which reference is respectfully made.* Six prisoners were taken, 1 commissioned officer and 5 men, and sent to the rear. The conduct of both officers and men was highly commendable.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. COOPER TALLEY,
Captain of Company F, Commanding.

* See Vol. XIX, Part I, p. 190.

Source: OR1