February 26, 1862 (Wednesday): Lander Ordered to the Ready

General Frederick W. Lander

WASHINGTON, D. C., February 26, 1862.

General F. W. LANDER,

Paw Paw, Va.:

    Banks' advance occupies Harper's Ferry, and he is now throwing across the river at that place a pontoon bridge, after which a bridge of canal boats will be constructed, if this does not prove substantial. I do not think the movement on Winchester will be made until a proper bridge can be made. This will soon be determined, when you will be duly informed. The present intention of the general commanding is for you to march by Bloomery, and I would think it advisable for you to make all your preliminary arrangements accordingly. The general will time your departure from your present position so as to reach Winchester about the same time with Banks' column. The information from Banks regarding the position of enemy at Winchester I sent you yesterday seems to make if quite positive. I regret that I cannot procure Snyder or Butler for you. The former is aide to General Sykes, and the latter the only officer present with his company.



R. B. MARCY,
Chief of Staff.

Series I., Vol. 51, Part 1, Page 541.

With progress being made in the West, McClellan prepared to make a quick strike towards Winchester to secure the Valley.  Jackson was rumored at this time to be contemplating a move toward Bath (west of Frederick and South of Hancock).  A move against Winchester would place Union forces well into Jackson's rear, cutting off his supply line. At the time of this writing, Lander had recently come down with chills and fever, which would lead within weeks to his death from pneumonia.  Lander was an able commander, and his loss one of consequence to McClellan.