July 22, 1863 (Thursday): Custer Reports In

Goose Creek Bridge (Ashby's Gap Turnpike) Virginiaplaces.org

HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, Upperville, Va., July 22, 1863-10 a. m.
Major-General Pleasonton,
Commanding Cavalry Corps:
    One of my officers, from a position on the mountain, near Ashby's Gap, has been enabled, with a glass, to see large columns of troops in the valley beyond, all moving toward Front Royal. An immense train was observed going in the direction of Front Royal, and afterward was seen going into park at Front Royal. I have directed my signal officer to take his post at the station referred to and will immediately report any information I may receive.
     Very respectfully, &c.,


     G. A. CUSTER,
    Brigadier-General, Commanding Division.

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 27, Part 3, Page 741.

Custer had just been appointed a division commander.  His forces were among those attempting to provide Meade with more exact information on the whereabouts and intentions of Lee's army corps.  It is likely the forces he sighted were those of Longstreet.  It was undoubtedly a source of frustration to Lincoln that, after having allowed Lee back across the Potomac after Gettysburg without another battle, Meade now was not even fully possessed of knowledge of his whereabouts.