December 25, 1864 – Skirmish near White’s Station and capture of Federal patrol
DECEMBER 25, 1864.-Skirmish near White’s Station, Tenn.
Report of Col. John W. Noble, third Iowa Cavalry.
COL. NOBLE’S HDQRS., December 25, 1864.
My patrol of thirty men went out about White’s Station this morning. There, to the number of about 100, the advance guard drove in the picket, and were captured. A party of our flankers were also taken in.
After skirmishing some time with the rebel force, the officer and the balance of the patrol came to camp. Loss, 17 men, 1 wounded, and horses, &c. Rebel loss unknown, if any.
Have 150 men out to redeem the officer, if possible. I don’t think [he is] to blame. The result is that of being outnumbered and outwitted, without being surprised. The rebels were seen, but not supposed to number as many as they proved.
NOBLE, Colonel.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 45, pt. I, p. 875.
