Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech
Special Collections and University Archives, University Libraries (0434) 560 Drillfield Drive Newman Library, Virginia Tech Blacksburg, Virginia 24061 Business Number: 540-231-6308 specref@vt.edu URL: http://spec.lib.vt.edu
Christopher Gwaltney, Student Assistant, and Laura Katz Smith, Manuscripts Curator
Repository
Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech
Identification
Ms.1992.003
Title
Robert Taylor Preston Papers 1849-1871 1861-1862
Quantity
0.2 Cubic Feet, 1 box; 1 oversize folder
Language
The materials in the collection are in English.
Abstract
The collection consists of 218 letters, military orders, notes, certificates of military appointments, and other items, collected
or created by Preston between 1849 and 1871, with the majority from the period between May 1861 and December 1862.
The copyright status of this collection is unknown. Copyright restrictions may apply. Contact Special Collections and University
Archives for assistance in determining the use of these materials.
Reproduction or digitization of materials for personal or research use can be requested using our reproduction/digitization
form: http://bit.ly/scuareproduction . Reproduction or digitization of materials for publication or exhibit use can be requested using our publication/exhibition
form: http://bit.ly/scuapublication . Please contact Special Collections and University Archives ( specref@vt.edu or 540-231-6308) if you need assistance with forms or to submit a completed form.
Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder],
Robert Taylor Preston Papers, Ms1992-003, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.
Source of Acquisition
The Robert Taylor Preston Papers were donated to Special Collections in July 1994.
Processing Information
The processing, arrangement, and description of the Robert Taylor Preston Papers commenced and was completed in April 1996.
Additional description was completed in October 2009.
Robert Taylor Preston was born at Smithfield Plantation in Blacksburg, Virginia, in 1809 to James Patton and Nancy Ann Taylor
Preston. He was a student at Hampden-Sydney College from 1825 to 1828. He qualified as a captain of the 75th Regiment of the
(Virginia?) Militia in 1830 and was commissioned as Justice of the Peace of Montgomery County in 1837. In 1833, Robert married
Mary Hart (1802-1882) and they had three children: Virginia Ann Emily (1834-1898), Benjamin Hart (1836-1851), and James Patton
(1838-1901). Robert Taylor Preston built his residence "Solitude" in the early 1830s.
At the start of the American Civil War, he was appointed a colonel of the volunteers in the Provisional Army of Virginia.
In July 1861, he was appointed a colonel of the 28th Virginia Infantry, Confederate States of America, where he served until
the infantry's reorganization in April 1862. Beginning in August 1864 he served as a lieutenant colonel and then a colonel
of the 4th Virginia Reserves, and surrendered with the troops of General J. E. Johnston in North Carolina in April 1865. In
1872, he sold the land to the state to establish the Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Virginia Tech) on the
condition he and his wife could live in the house until their deaths. Robert Taylor Preston died in 1880. Mary Preston died
in 1881.
The Robert Taylor Preston Papers consists of 218 letters, military orders, notes, certificates of military appointments, and
other items, collected or created by Preston between 1849 and 1871, with the majority from the period between May 1861 and
December 1862during the American Civil War. The materials include several military orders signed by such members of the Confederate
Army as Jubal Early, John B. Floyd, and George E. Pickett, as well as orders written by Preston himself. Also included is
a manuscript draft of a broadside written by Preston from Solitude on May 13, 1863, as a call to arms to the men of Roanoke
and Montgomery County to repel the Union Army which was in the immediate vicinity; and a pardon signed by President Andrew
Jackson on September 10, 1865, granting Preston amnesty for his offenses committed in the recent rebellion.
Appointment of Preston to rank of Captain in the 5th Militia of the Commonwealth, signed by William B. Giles, Governor,
November 3, 1829.
Appointment of Preston to rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Virginia Militia, signed by David Campbell, Governor,
May 26 1837.
Appointment to rank of Colonel in the Virginia Militia, signed by John M. Patton, Lieutenant Governor,
May 25, 1840.
Invitation to Miss Virginia T. Preston to the Grand Inauguration Ball of Zachary Taylor (U.S. President) and Millard Filmore
(Vice-President),
March 5, 1849.
box-folder 1 folder: 2 May 1861
Certificate by Governor John Letches regarding the commission to Colonel for Robert Preston,
May 5, 1861.
Special Requisition for ten Kettle Drums and two fifes for use in the 28th Regiment of the Virginia Volunteers to Major Gorgas,
Chief of Ordinance,
1861.
From: Head Quarters, Va. Forces, Special Order No. 45, Order assigning Robert Preston to duty at Lynchburg. By order of Major
General Lee,
May 11, 1861.
From: Lynchburg, Statement of assumption of command of the Virginia Volunteers mustered into service in Lynchburg. Col. R.C.W.
Radford will take charge of the companies of cavalry and Col. Robert T. Preston will take charge of the companies of infantry.
Signed: JA Early, Colonel Commanding,
May 17, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Va. Forces, Orders for organization of local companies under Preston. Signed: JA Early,
May 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Va. Forces, Order placing Lieutenant Col. R. S. Brinks under the command of Robert Preston. Signed: JA
Early,
May 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Va. Forces, Order No. 4, List of eight rules to be observed in camps and quarters of the Va. Volunteers.
Signed: JA Early, Colonel Commanding,
May 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Lee, Order appointing Sergeant Thomas Lewis to Sergeant Major. By order of Robert Preston,
May 19, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Lee, Order, Private Gillian M. Burwell is assigned to the position of secretary. By order of Robert
Preston,
May 19, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Lee, Order, Lt. Edmund Goods is appointed to captain of the Regiment. By order of Robert T. Preston,
May 19, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Virginia Volunteers, Lynchburg. Orders, Collection of the votes of all persons in the military service
of the State regarding the ratification or rejection of the Ordinance of Secession as well as the amendment to the Constitution
of Virginia upon the subject of Taxation. Signed: JA Early, Colonel Commanding,
May 20, 1861.
From: Camp Lee, Virginia Volunteers, Orders, All company officers of the regiment will take rank in several grades according
to the date when each company was mustered. Levels A - K,
May 20, 1861.
From: Camp Lee, Reminder to those applying to at the Head Quarters of the commandant, Regiment is reminded office hours are
strictly limited to times noted on order of the day. Signed: R. C. Allen,
May 23, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Va. Volunteers, Order No. 8, Instructions that Capt. Jordan's and Hughes' companies are no longer attached
to Col. Robert Preston's regiment and must move to Richmond by railroad. Capt. Kent's and Capt. Williams' companies will move
in place of the two listed above. Also included are instructions for Robert Preston to move troops to Manassas Junction. Miles
Baxton of Capt. Williams company is to be discharged from service and stricken from rolls. By order of JA Early, Col. Commanding,
May 25, 1861.
Order No. 10, Instructions for the camp to be ready to march out at 4 o'clock tomorrow morning. By order of Col. Robert T.
Preston,
May 26, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order: List of eighteen general orders to be followed.
Signed: Thomas Jordan,
May 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Special Order: List of men temporarily detailed on extra duty
in the Quarter Masters. Department. Includes Col. Preston and some of his regiment. By order of General Bonham, Signed: Thomas
Jordan,
May 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Orders: List of eighteen regulations observed in this
camp without variation until otherwise directed. By order of Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
May 28, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens. Order No 11: Instructions regarding men firing guns and pistols within the encampment. By order of Robert
T. Preston,
May 28, 1861.
From: Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Instructions for men. Signed: Sam. W. Melton,
May 28, 1861.
From: Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Instructions for Col. Preston to detail some of his men to 8 o'clock guard duty.
By order of Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Sam. W. Melton,
May 28, 1861.
From: Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order: Detailed instructions and expectations of companies during the
8 o'clock AM guard duty patrol. By order of Thomas Jordan,
May 28, 1861.
From: Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Letter to Robert T. Preston regarding his commission. Signed: Sam. W. Melton,
May 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order instructing Col. Preston to detail his men for general
guard duty. By order of Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
May 29, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria. Request that Preston amend the Regiment Report. Signed: W. C. Morgan,
May 30, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Announcement that Major Bount is Provost Marshall. By order of
Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
May 30, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order instructing Col. Preston to detail his men for general
guard duty. By order of Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
May 30, 1861.
From: Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order No. 12: Announcement of inspection. By order of Col. Robert T. Preston,
May 31, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Col. Preston will detail one intelligent private to act as orderly
until further orders. By order of Thomas Jordan,
May 31, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Special Order: An accurate Report must be made as to the exact
strength of each regiment. By order of Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
May 31, 1861.
box-folder 1 folder: 3 June 1-7, 1861
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order: Announcement that Hon. William Smith of Virginia,
of this department has become a volunteer. By order of General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 1, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order: There will be firing exercises with the artillery
tomorrow. By order of General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 1, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order instructing Col. Preston to detail his men for general
guard duty. By order of Brig. General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 1, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Col. Preston will detail at once and daily thereafter a work
party to report to Major Thomas H. Williams on for work in the trenches. By order of General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 1, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 1: Instructions that all members of the command
will help entrench camp for defense against all assaults. By order of General Bonham, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 1, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order: In accordance with Special Order No. 149 of the
Head Quarters of Virginia Forces, Richmond assigning me to the command of the Alexandria line. I have relieved Brig. General.
M. L. Bonham of said command. Signed: G. T. Beauregard, Brig. General. Commanding,
June 2, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order No. 35: Col. Preston will detail from his command a party
to serve as General Guard for the day. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 2, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order No. 34: Orders for Col. Preston's men to escort a supply
train to Fairfax station. Signed: Thomas Jordan. 1861, June 2: From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens.
Order No. 33: Inquiry into cartridge and bayonet scabbard requisitions. Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 2, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Order No. 36: Notification of command switch to General Beauregard
from General Bonham. Signed: Brig. General. M. Bonham,
June 2, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 5: Major Thomas Rhett assigned to duty as Acting
Inspector General. By order of Genl. Beauregard, Signed: Fergason,
June 3, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 3: Annulling of the Provost Marshall position.
By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 3, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade, Centreville. Letter of request of a regiment inspection report. Signed: Col. Phillip Geobocke,
June 3, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens, Quarter Masters Office. Order No. 37: Col. Preston will furnish a detail of six men for two days to aid
the Quarter Masters Dept. in necessary labor. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 3, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 7: Orders of changes in the command of various
companies. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 4, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens. Order No. 42: Orders to detail for Guard duty. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 5, 1861.
From: Quarter Masters Office. Request for two carpenters equipped with tools to report to the Quarter Masters office. Signed:
John Gilme,
June 5, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Orders 42-45: Orders concerning the Post Master and Postal concerns
as well as officer of the day. Signed: Col. Preston,
June 6, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Two soldiers, private Thomas Wood, and private McCormick are
to be discharged for disability. By order of General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 6, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Order No. 4: Order for the transfer of Capt. Shipord to Col. Preston's command. By Order
of Col. Terrett,
June 7, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Order to detail eight men to report to the Quarter Master's Department. By order of Col.
Terrett,
June 7, 1861.
box-folder 1 folder: 4 June 8-15, 1861
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 2: Contains reassignment of two companies, Craig Mountain Boys and Patty
Lagne Rifles. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J Rhett,
June 8, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens, Department of Alexandria. Order: Promotion of Lieut. Henry Allen to instructor. By order of Col. R. T.
Preston,
June 8, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 1: Redirection of the Regimental Manning Reports. By order of Col. Terrett,
Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 8, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens, Department of Alexandria. Order: Order assigning Craig Mountain Boys to Company K. By order of Col. R.
T. Preston,
June 8, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens, Department of Alexandria. Request issued by Col. Preston for cartridge caps. To Col. S. Jones, Chief of
Ordinance. Signed: Col. R. T. Preston,
June 9, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Order to send men to assist Col. Moore. By order of Sam. Britchell,
June 10, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Order for General Guard duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Sam. Britchell,
June 10, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 4: Issuance of additional drills for commissioned and non commissioned
officers. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 10, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Order for men to be detailed for General Guard duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed:
Sam. Britchell,
June 11, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Request for the dates of commission of two men in Col. Preston's
Company. Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 11, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 3: Order for all regiments to be ready at a moments notice. Signed: Thomas
Jordan,
June 11, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 4: An orderly sergeant from each regiment will report for guard duty.
By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 11, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Col. Preston, Strange, Moore & Garland will relieve their pickets. By order of Col. Terrett,
signed Samuel P. Mitchell,
June 12, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Manassas Junction. General Order No. 10: Orders regarding the Army regulations
concerning ambulances and shipping wagons. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 12, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp at Manassas Junction. General Order No. 12: Orders regarding the large
number of applications for leave of Absence. Commanders are expected to approve no applications hereafter. By order of General
Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 12, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order: All fatigue duty on the trenches are hereby stopped. By order of Col. Terrett,
Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 12, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston, Detail troops from your regiment to Whittington Railroad Depot. By order
of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 12, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens, General Order No. 5: Acting Inspector General will commence his inspection tomorrow at
8 o'clock AM. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 12, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Manassas Junction. General Order No. 14: Authorization of weapons target practice
between 11 and 12 noon daily, under supervision of an officer, By order of General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 13, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Detail from your men a group to report at Eight and one half AM for General
Guard duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: by Davis Mitchell,
June 13, 1861.
From: Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. Regimental Order: No officer in command of a company will grant leave to more
than five privates to be absent at one time. By order of Col. Preston,
June 13, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Detail W. C. Porter of the Guard. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Davis Mitchell,
June 14, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Col. Preston will Detail one Captain, two Corporals, and twenty men to report to Capt.
Mitchell tomorrow at eight and one half AM for General Guard duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Davis Mitchell,
June 14, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 16: The General is disturbed by the careless
discharge of firearms which slaughter men, therefore, No firing will be allowed except between the hours of 11AM and 12PM.
It is the duty of commanding officers to observe and punish all. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 14, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 6: Colonels will see that their regiments be furnished with the colors
of the Confederate States. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 14, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No.7: The following detail will report at 6 o'clock tomorrow morning to Capt.
Harris, One form Col. Strange's and one from Col. Preston's command. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 14, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Detail 45 men to report at three o'clock PM. By order of Col. Terrett,
Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 14, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Your regiment will not be inspected tomorrow. Signed: Thomas Rhett,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Detail a Blacksmith from Capt. Wingfield's company to report to Major
Cabell. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Davis Mitchell,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Detail one sergeant two corporals and twenty men to report to Capt. Mitchell
at eight and one half AM for General Guard duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: by Davis Mitchell,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Detail three men to report to Doctor Fisher at the Meazles hospital for
fatigue duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 8: The three following named officers will comprise a Board of Survey
to meet in Col. Preston's regiment to examine and report on spoiled beef. Capt. Adam Clement, Lieut. W. S. Goggin Jr., Lieut.
M. J. Kemper. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 15, 1861.
From: Committee of Survey. Report: The examination of the beef found it to be entirely unfit for use, being very much fly
brown. The company did right to refuse it. Signed: A. Clement, Wm. S. Goggin Jr., M. J. Kemper,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. The Colonel approves of the proceedings of the Board of Survey (regarding food spoilage)
and orders that the beef be thrown away and other issued in it's place. Signed: Thomas Rhett,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Manassas Junction. Special Order No. 36: By authority from Head Quarters of
the Virginia Forces, execute the following transfers involving Wm. D. Robertson, Charles F. Myers, E. Bausbery, and Hugh M.
Laughlin. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 15, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 9: The Colonels will see that transfers are made. By order of Col. Terrett,
Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 15, 1861.
box-folder 1 folder: 5 June 16-22, 1861
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. A party of your men, yesterday, fired their weapons at an embankment.
Several of the balls hit the hospital. Use stringent measures in putting a stop to this neglect of orders. Signed: Thomas
Rhett,
June 16, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Department of Alexandria, Camp at Manassas Junction. General Order No. 17: All officers of the Quarter
Master's department, prepare to advance at short notice. All troops will be furnished with ten days rations and forty rounds
of ammunition. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 16, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens. Detail for fatigue duty. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 16, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 8: All unattached regiments see that the requirements of General Order
No. 17 be completed. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 16, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 7: The Commander directs that General Order No. 12 of Head Quarters,
Department of Alexandria be published at evening parade. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 16, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Detail for tomorrow. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Davis Mitchell,
June 16, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 12: Detail a party to inspect the guard pickets on the Orange and Alexandria
Railroad. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Special Order No. 13: Strict orders will be given to the general guard to prevent the sale
of ardent spirits in camp. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Directions for transfers. Signed: Thomas Rhett,
June 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 9: The Colonel commanding regrets that it has been found necessary to
reiterate General Order No. 16 of Head Quarters, Dept. of Alexandria. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. To: Col. Preston. Transfers to be places into effect tomorrow. Signed: Thomas Rhett,
June 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Dept. of Alexandria, Camp at Manassas Junction. General Order No. 19: Transfer and Dispositions of Companies.
By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 18, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Detail for tomorrow. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 19, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. General Order No. 10: General Order No. 19 of Head Quarters, Dept. of Alexandria will be
carried into effect today. By order of Col. Terrett, Signed: Thomas J. Rhett,
June 20, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac, Manassas Junction. General Order No. 20: Organization of the First Corps. of Army
of the Potomac. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 21, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade. Marching Instructions with respect to Special Order No. 20: By Order of Phillip Cocke,
June 21, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Pickens. Marching Instructions. Signed: Phillip Cocke,
June 21, 1861.
box-folder 1 folder: 6 June 23-30, 1861
From: Head Quarters, Army of Potomac. Manassas Junction. General Order No. 25: Ordered changes in leave application process.
By order of Col. Cocke,
June 23, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advanced Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax Co. Ho. Special Order No. 18: Report forthwith to the Head
Quarters, Army of the Potomac Requisitions for ammunition needs for service in the face of the Enemy. By order of Genl. Bonham,
June 23, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade To: Col. Preston. Make requisitions for ammunition. By order of Col. Cocke,
June 24, 1861.
From: Head Quarters of the VA. Forces, Richmond. Personal Order No. 29: Information regarding the first periodical muster
for payment of the Virginia Volunteers. By order of General Lee, Signed: Col. Cocke,
June 24, 1861.
From: Camp Cocke, Head Quarters The 28th Regiment, 5th Brigade will report forthwith for supplies. By order of Col. Preston,
June 24, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Army of Potomac. Manassas Junction. Memo to Brig. General Beauregard, Application for Transfer. Signed:
Major C. Allen,
June 24, 1861.
From: Camp Cocke. Regimental Order: It is Important that the regiment be at all times held in readiness for movement. Signed:
Col. Preston,
June 25, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade. In order to carry out Order No. 17, we are imposing limits on personal baggage herein defined.
By order of Col. Cocke. Also enclosed, on same paper: General Order No. 17: All officers of the Quarter Master's department,
Prepare to advance at short notice. All troops will be furnished with ten days rations and forty rounds of ammunition. By
order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
From: Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac. Special Order: B.F. Terry, T.S. Tubbock and D. Conner of the Texas Rangers are acting
as scouts. Supply them due provisions. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
From: Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac. All feasible measures should be taken to secure an efficient equipment and outfit
in all respects. Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 25, 1861.
From: Camp Cocke, Regimental Order: Reading of Rules and Articles for the government of the Army of Virginia. Signed: Col.
Preston,
June 25, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac. Manassas Junction. Special Requisitions shall be made only by the commanders of
each regiment. Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 25, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade. To: Col. Preston. Concerning the movement of surplus baggage to be stored at Orange. Signed:
John B. Cocke,
June 26, 1861.
From: Camp Cocke, Army of the Potomac. To: Col. Cocke. Request for instructions for loading picket and camp guard. Signed:
Col. Preston,
June 26, 1861.
From: Camp Cocke, Army of the Potomac. Regimental Order: Reduce our baggage to within limits stated. Signed: Col. Preston,
June 27, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac. General Order: Surgeon Thomas H. Williams appointed Medical Director of the Army
of the Potomac. By order of Brig. General Beauregard, Signed: Thomas Jordan,
June 27, 1861.
From Camp Cocke, Army of the Potomac. Regimental Order: John A. Cobb transfer to Hospital duty. Signed: Col. Preston,
June 27, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade. General Order: Order of documentation of the sick of the Company by the surgeon and report
to company commander. Signed: Col. Cocke,
June 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advanced Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. Order: Every commander is to procure a Confederate
Flag. By order of Brig. Genl. Bonham, Signed: Geo. N. Lay,
June 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. General Order No. 7 The parole and countersign will
go into effect at twilight and continue for twenty-four hours. Also, instructions for dealing with approaching parties and
security. By order of Brig. Genl. Bonham, Signed: Geo. N. Lay,
June 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 5th Brigade. General Order: Carry into effect Order No. 29 from Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac regarding
mustering. Signed: Phillip Cocke,
June 29, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. Regimental Quarter Master will not suffer the animals
to be used for private purposes. Leaves of absence will not be granted to Teamsters. By order of Brig. Genl. Bonham, Signed:
Geo. N. Lay,
June 29, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. Regarding Guard Duty, sentinels must challenge so
as to be heard distinctly two or three times repeatedly before cocking their weapon. By order of Brig. Genl. Bonham, Signed:
Geo. N. Lay,
June 29, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac, Manassas Junction. General Order No. 29: Concerning the mustering of troops tomorrow.
By order of Genl. Beauregard Signed: Sam. Jones,
June 29, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. Monthly Returns tomorrow. By order of Brig. Genl.
Bonham, Signed: Geo. N. Lay,
June 29, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. Order to remove obstructions of turnpikes at Centreville
and Old Braddock Road. Signed: Geo. N. Lay,
June 30, 1861.
From: Camp Cocke, Army of the Potomac. Request for supply report. Signed: Col. Preston,
June 30, 1861.
box-folder 1 folder: 7 July-December 1861
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Army of the Potomac, Fairfax C.H. To: Col. Preston. Call on the Brig. General tomorrow
after breakfast. Signed: Geo. Lay,
July 1, 1861.
Requisition for Ordnance and Ordnance Stores for the use of the 28th Regiment of the Va. Volunteers. Signed: P. Breckenridge,
September 20. 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Falls Church. To: Col. Preston. Report to Genl. Longstreet immediately upon your arrival,
September 25, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces, Camp at Masons Hill, Regarding troop movement. By order of Col. Preston,
September 26, 1861.
From: Masons Hill. Col. Preston's response to criticism of misinterpreted orders. Signed: Col. Preston,
September 26, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces. To: Col. Preston. Request for troop movement,
September 27, 1861.
From: Fairfax Co. Virginia. To: Col. Preston. Inquiry on the probable state of Masons Hill. Signed: M. Mason,
September 28, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Advances Forces. To: Col. Preston. Apology for wrongly placing blame. Signed: James Longstreet,
October 2, 1861
From: Richmond. To: Col. Preston. Regarding Transfers,
October 3, 1861.
From: Head Quarters 28th Regiment Va. Volunteers, Camp near Centreville. The regiment under my command is the one selected
form the 5th Brigade to report to construct a portion of the Advanced Guard. Signed: Col. Preston,
October 17, 1861.
To: Col. R. T. Preston. Signed: GDJ,
October 18, 1861.
From: Warrington Va. To: Col. Preston. Inquiry into the state of Mason's Hill. Signed: M. Mason,
November 4, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, Centreville. To Col. Preston. Presentation of State colors by Governor. Signed: J. E. Johnston,
November 4, 1861.
From: Head Quarters, 28th Regiment Va. Volunteers. Special Requisition. Signed: Col. Preston,
Novembeer 9, 1861.
From: Near Centreville. Certificate granting Col. Preston a medical leave of absence. Signed: Saml. A. McConkey,
November 23, 1861.
From: Camp Pickens To Col. Preston. Personnel transfer. Signed: H. Wells,
November 24, 1861.
From; Camp, 28th Regiment Va. Volunteers, near Centreville. Col. Preston wished and is recommended an extension of leave for
30 days. Signed: Saml. A. McConkey,
December 19, 1861.
From; Head Quarters, 28th Regiment Va. Volunteers, Centreville. To: Col. Preston. State of the 28th Va. Vol. Signed: Henry
Johnston,
December 26 ,1861.
To: Col. Preston. Inquiry for the best time to send 13 wagons to take the 28th Regiment to Mitchell's Farm,
xx 21, 1861.
box-folder 1 folder: 8 January-March 1862
From: Winchester. News of the death of James Frances Preston. Signed: J. F. Kent,
February 5, 1862.
From: Mount Joy. Request for continued leave of absence. Signed: Wm. T. Patton,
February 22, 1862.
From: Bedford Va. Personal Orders. Signed: A. S. Minter,
March 1, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, Centreville. General Order No. 7: A board of medical officers will assemble to examine applicants for
discharge,
March 3, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, 28th Regiment of the VA. Volunteers. Personnel Report. Signed: Col. Preston,
March 4, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, 28th Regiment of the VA. Volunteers. Announcement of upcoming squad drill. Signed: Col. Preston,
March 4, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, 2nd Division, Army of the Potomac. Orders for the movement of baggage to the rear by way of railroad,
March 5, 1862.
Medical leave certificate. Signed: O. W. Hearn,
March 7, 1862.
From: Lauderdale. To: Col. Preston. Concerning medical leave. Signed: J. A. Johnston,
March 10, 1862.
To: Col. Preston. Regarding the destruction of whiskey distilleries and employing Negro men in the Army. Signed: F. E. Willis,
March 18, 1862.
List of absence of Co. B 28th Regiment of the VA. Volunteers,
March 19, 1862.
To: Col. R. T. Preston. Regarding sickness and failure to report. Signed: J. A. Johnston,
March 21, 1862.
To: Col. R. T. Preston. Signed: William Watts,
January 23, 1862.
To: Col. R. T. Preston. Signed: William Watts,
February 19, 1862.
To: Col. R. T. Preston. Signed: W. B. Preston,
March 4, 1862.
To: Col. R. T. Preston. Signed W. B. Preston,
March 9, 1862.
box-folder 1 folder: 9 April-May 1862
From: Head Quarters, 28th Regiment of the VA. Volunteers. All officers are ordered to arrest any soldier guilty of firing
his musket against orders. Signed: Col. Preston,
April 22, 1862.
From: Richmond To: Col. Preston. Signed: Charles B. Ball,
April 29, 1862.
To: Col. Preston. Regarding Extension of sick leave,
April 28, 1862.
Memo regarding the appointment of H. Lewis to Sergeant Major of the 28th Regiment of Virginia Volunteers,
April 28, 1862.
News clipping: A letter from the Confederate states of America War Department. Official letter relative to the conscription
act. Sign Geo. W. Randolph, Secretary of War,
From: Lynchburg To: Col. Preston. Regarding need of money. Signed: F. B. Deanefor,
April 30, 1862.
From: Executive Department To: Col. Preston. Authorization for Col. Preston to form a Volunteer regiment. Signed: John Lechen,
May 3, 1862.
From Richmond. Information Regarding the formation of a regiment as a guerrilla band and reports on Norfolk, Williamsburg
and Harrisonburg. Signed: W. Younger,
May 6, 1862.
To: John S. Peck. Intercept the Yankees at Pearisburg. Signed: Wilson Lively,
May 8, 1862.
From: Head Quarters. Signed: General H. Heath,
May 13, 1862.
From Union. To: Col. Preston. Regarding movement of cattle to Blacksburg. Advise women and children to stay at home. Information
on the position of the Yankees at Lunenburg. Signed: A. T. Caperton,
May 15, 1862.
Telegraph of the Southern Telegraph Companies, Recorded at Christiansburg from Lynchburg: To: Col. Preston. Guns can be transferred
from the Hospital provided orders are given from Richmond. Signed: F. B. Deane Jr.,
From: Head Quarters 2nd Division. Testimony to Col. Preston's Honorable character as a soldier. In response to his request
to rejoin the Army. Signed: James Longstreet,
May 19, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, 3rd Brigade 2nd Corps, Camp near Laurel Church, Henrico Co. VA. Report that Col. Preston was not re-elected
for duty. Signed: G. E. Pickett,
May 19, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, 3rd Brigade. Condolences to Col. Preston for not being reinstated in a position of service. Signed: George
S. Pickett,
May 19, 1862.
Order No. 28: Act to organize bands of Rangers. Signed: A. L. Long,
May 26, 1862.
From: Dublin Depot. Authorization for Col. Preston to Raise a Regiment of Rangers. Signed: Lyle Alanke,
May 27, 1862.
From: Head Quarters. To: Secretary of War. Request that Col. Preston be returned to service. Signed: J. A. Johnston,
May 28, 1862.
From: Cave Spring Va. To: Col. Preston. Request for transfer to Col. Preston's Regiment. Signed: H. Stevens,
May 28, 1862.
box-folder 1 folder: 10 June-December 1862
From: Adjutant General's Office, Richmond, Va. Regarding General Order No. 1 of Major General John B. Floyd. Signed: Wm. H.
Richardson, A.G.,
June 4, 1862.
From: Head Quarters, Virginia State Line, Wytheville. Col. Preston and Col. Hammet are authorized to raise and organize men
from the Counties of Montgomery, Roanoke, Botetourt, Craig, Monroe and Giles. Signed: John B. Floyd,
June 11, 1862.
From: Richmond. Information regarding troops on the Chickahominy river (Mc Clellen and Lee), Battle of May 31, and the physical
condition of General Johnston. Signed: B. R. Johnston.,
June 13, 1862.
From: Bedford, Va. To: Col. Preston Regarding raising of a regiment for the State. Signed: P. Huddleston,
June 14, 1862.
From: Adjutant General's Office of Virginia, Richmond. To: Col. Preston. Authorization to raise a regiment of infantry. Signed:
Wm, H. Richardson,
From: Lynchburg. To: Col. Preston. Regarding change of employment. Signed: F. B. Deanefor,
June 19, 1862.
From: Head Quarters Va. State Line, Wytheville. Special Order: Col. Preston is authorized to grant transportation of troops
to Wytheville for service in the State Line. Signed: William E. Peters,
June 29, 1862.
From: Adjutant General's Office. Call for the formation of Militias to unite in effort to repel the Enemy. Signed: Wm. H.
Richardson, Adjt. Genl. of Va.,
From: Head Quarters Va. State Line, Wytheville, Va. To: Col. Preston. Regarding the militia service. Signed: John B. Floyd,
August 4, 1862.
From: Wytheville. Col. R.T. Preston and Col. James P. Hammet are authorized to raise a regiment of Volunteers for service.
Signed: John B. Floyd, June 10, 1862 &
August 11, 1862.
From: Head Quarters Va. State Line, Wytheville, Va. To; Col. Preston. Bring everyone foreword to the depot at Wytheville.
Signed: John B. Floyd,
August 11, 1862.
From: Head Quarters Va. State Line, Wytheville, Va. General Order No. 5: Regarding the organization of militias to serve the
Virginia State Line. Signed: Major General John B. Floyd,
From: Commonwealth of Virginia. To: Col. Preston. Commission to Colonel of Infantry. Signed: John Letches,
August 23, 1862.
From: The Virginia and Tennessee Railroad Company, Christiansburg Depot. Freight receipt. Signed: by Depot agent,
November 1, 1862.
From: Salem Va. Statement of goods received from Christiansburg Depot. Signed: James Wade,
November 17, 1862.
From: Salem Va. To: Col. Preston. Statement of wheat received. Signed: James Wade,
December 12, 1862.
From: Blacksburg Va. To: Col. Preston. Proposal for coal mining venture at "Machine Hill." Signed: W. G. Atkinson,
December 27, 1862.
From: Richmond. To: Col. Preston. Request for a certificate of estimated loss. Signed: M. Mason,
December 30, 1862.
box-folder 1 folder: 11 1863
From: Solitude. Call to ask all the men of Montgomery and Roanoke to help repel the enemy. Signed: Col. Robert Preston,
May 13, 1863.
To: Col. Preston. Regarding the formation of a committee to assist in the raising of companies to fight. Signed: J. H. Anderson,
September 9, 1862.
From: The Virginia and Tennessee Railroad Company, Christiansburg Depot. Freight receipt for goods sent to Salem. Received
of Col. Preston,
November 8, 1863.
box-folder 1 folder: 12 1866, 1871
Certified document of the United States of America, Department of State. Acknowledgment of the President's Warrant of Pardon.
Signed: Robert T. Preston,
January 8, 1866.
From: Solitude, Montgomery Co. Va. Information regarding the depositions on the case of Thos. L. Preston v/s W. A. Stuart.
Signed: Robert T. Preston,
August 14, 1871.
box-folder 1 folder: 13
Undated manuscript materials
From: Richmond. Certificate of Examination of Lieut. Col. Samuel B. Paul. Signed: Medical Director of the 2nd Division, Army
of the Potomac,
February 5.
From Dublin. To: Col. Preston. Report that no arms were received. Signed: James Wade,
May 13.
From: Head Quarters, Camp Smith. Orders regarding Col. Preston Assuming command of all infantry Companies of the Volunteer
Forces of Virginia. Signed: Col. Preston,
May 17.
From: Richmond, War Department Confederate States. Regarding letter of the 14th accepting volunteer regiments. Signed: Secretary
of War,
May 19.
From Lynchburg. To. Col. Preston. Detail a committee to value the horses in the company warehouse,
May 20.
From Lynchburg To: Col. Preston. Resignation of position. Signed: W. Watts,
June 1.
From: 8th Brigade. Concerning mess accounts,
November 2.
From: Adjutant General's Office of Virginia, Richmond. An uncompleted form letter regarding the Raising of a Volunteer Regiment.
Stamped, canceled envelope addressed to Col. R. Preston, Near Christiansburg, Montgomery Co. Virginia. n.d. Requisition for
ordnance and ordnance stores for the use of the 28th regiment of the Virginia Volunteers.
Orders and correspondence between General Longstreet and Col. Preston at Mason's Hill.
From: Col. Preston. Marching orders.
Morning Report form.
Order No. 9: Prepare and hold in readiness to march to Lynchburg Sunday morning the 26th. By order of Col. Preston.
Regarding subsistence to officers.
Designation of company commanders. Signed: Col. Preston.
Request to assume former position at Mason's Hill. Signed: Col. Preston.
List of items for the 28th Regiment. Signed C. C. M. Phail.
Order of punishment of James W. Johnson for leaving camp and being drunk. Signed: Col. Preston.
From: Camp Cocke. To Col. Preston. Request for transfer. Signed Ro. C. Allen.
Fragment of detail order stating that H. Y. Cumpton of Bedford County will be arriving soon to visit his friends in the 28th
Regiment.
Telegraph envelope from Christiansburgh, VA. Addressed to Col. R. T. Preston,
May 15.
To: Col. Preston. Request for information. Signed: Thomas Jordan.
List detailing the No. of extra guns and cartridges in each company.
To: Col. Preston. Regarding the raising of a compnay of 200 men from Roanoke County, VA. Signed: M. P. Preston.
Certification that 2nd 2nd Lieutenant Benj. Willis Jr. has been discharges and has received his commission.
oversize folder: 1
Pardon signed by President Andrew Johnson granting Preston a "full pardon and amnesty for all offenses by him committed, arising
from participation, direct or implied, in the said rebellion..."
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