January 24, 1864 – Skirmish near Tazewell

JANUARY 24, 1864.-Skirmish at Tazewell, Tenn.

Reports of Brig. Gen. Theophilus T. Garrard, U. S. Army, commanding District of the Clinch.

CUMBERLAND GAP, January 24, 1864.

The enemy attacked Tazewell at 3 o’clock this morning. Col. Kise, commanding post Tazewell, telegraphs to me now at 6 a. m.: “The enemy is advancing in large force on the Big Springs and Bear Creek roads, coming from the Clinch.”

I have sent the Ninety-first Indiana Infantry to Powell’s bridge, and ordered Col. Kise to fall back on Powell’s bridge if he is satisfied of the enemy being in large force.

T. T. GARRARD, Brig.-Gen.

HDQRS. DISTRICT OF THE CLINCH, Cumberland Gap, Tenn., January 25, 1864.

GEN.: I have the honor to report that on the 24th instant, at 3 a. m., the enemy, 600 strong, attacked our forces at Tazewell. About 100 made a dash upon the town, but were repulsed.

All is quiet now, and from returning scouting [parties] I learn that there is no enemy nearer than within 2 1/2 miles of Jonesville, where a force was found, number not ascertained.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

T. T. GARRARD, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. District of the Clinch.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 127.