April 26, 1863 (Monday): Hooker Moves to the Attack

Union Wagon Trains (dclawyeronthecivilwar.blogspot.com)

CAMP NEAR FALMOUTH, VA., April 27, 1863-1 a.m.
Commanding Officer, Fifth Corps:
    The major-commanding directs me to inform you that your corps is to march to-morrow, so as to reach the vicinity of Kelly's Ford by Tuesday at 4 p.m. The corps of Generals Slocum and Howard take the same direction (and will be on the same route, probably) from Hartwood. The provisions, as to rations, in former circular (eight days'), will be complied with. The trains will be left in the vicinity of Stoneman's Switch. Such two-years' men as you may desire to leave for the purpose may remain with them as guards. Further details of the orders will be sent you early to-morrow morning. Two ambulances and one battery only will accompany each division, with the pack train of small-arm ammunition. A few wagons only to accompany the column, sufficient to carry forage for the animals. The destination of your command will be strictly confidential. General Couch has been directed to send a regiment to Banks' Ford to relieve your regiment there.
     Very respectfully, your obedient servant,


     DANL. BUTTERFIELD,

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 25, Part 2, Page 262.

Hooker's plan was sound.  He would fix Lee's forces in the lines of the December battlefield at Fredericksburg and move around his left, forcing Lee to retreat toward the North Anna.  Against lesser opposition than Lee and Jackson it might have succeeded.