President Lincoln Visits Admiral Dahlgren

March 6, 1864

Former Virginia Congressman John Pendleton writes President Lincoln: “I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of my things by “Adams Express” on yesterday. It was by my fault, or rather by my mistake, that they did not come a fortnight ago, or more–

I take occasion to thank you profoundly for the friendship and kindness, but above all, for the confidence in my honour and the consideration for my misfortunes, which you have exhibited.

What further horrors are reserved for this afflicted Country — nothing can occur, to efface from my memory, a just appreciation of the promptitude, with which you have recognized the obligations of an ancient friendship, and the liberality, with which you responded to its appeal.

I have another request to make of your — Viz — that you will telegraph General Meade,3 requesting him to appoint a board of three or more officers of rank, in the Army, ( one is enough for me) to meet at the earliest moment, convenient, at my house; and assess the damages on my premises — made for the use, or by the abuse of the Union Armies on the same — from August, 1863, to the present time — that is, during General Meade’s occupation.

My object is, to record such evidence, of the actual facts, as may be accurately made, in the presence, and before the departure of the actors in the scenes — and upon their evidence and such other, as I may submit, on my own oath and exhibits — reserving the question, of whether I am entitled to any compensation at all, to be decided hereafter — and without any remaining questions, as to the facts.

You will allow me, Sir, to say, that I would not have troubled you with this application, but for the fact, that I have so repeatedly and for so long a time, been trifled with, about such a just compliance with the Law — as I understand it, (not by General Meade, but by others) that I have despaired of having anything done, in reasonable time; except by the superior Authority of the Commander in Chief — and because I wish him to understand promptly, and before I make my application, whether you regard such a step, as proper and legal.

I expect to call on General Meade tomorrow or the next day, which I cannot say, as I am entirely dependent upon him or his Chief of Staff, for any means of travel, at the present time. My horses have all been carried off and my carriages rendered unfit for use.

When the Assessment is made, if at all, I will enclose you an exact Copy

Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton accompanies President Lincoln to the Navy Yard to tell Admiral John  Dahlgren that his son has survived raid on Richmond.  The news proves to be optimistic and wrong.  Ulric Dahlgren had been killed on March 2.

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