Valley of the Shadow
Newspapers (1857–1870)

Valley Spirit

July 27, 1861
Newspaper Images
Page 1

Full Account of the Great Battle at Manassas Junction

(column 1)
Summary:

Very lengthy account of the battle of Manassas (Bull Run) that stresses the panic of the men and the utter incompetence of the Union officers.

Excerpt:

"If we are to have any more battles, God save us from such Generals as Schneck and some of the other commanders, who figured on Sunday as they are worse enemies than Davis and Lee. Our greatest loss is in the thorough demoralization of our army. It will take weeks to gather the scattered forces in the condition we had them."
Page 2

Important Dispatch from the Secretary of War

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Summary:

Series of reports from Washington that discuss the war effort in the wake of the defeat at Manassas. Article discusses General Scott's admission that he was a "coward [who] deserve[s] to be dismissed for having allowed myself to be forced into this battle" and praises the appointment of General McClellan.

The Administration and the War

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Summary:

Criticizes the Lincoln administration, which has thus far proven itself "not competent to conduct this war." The Spirit claims that even Republican papers recognize the incompetence of the administration.

More Bad Treatment

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Summary:

The Spirit continues to be appalled at the poor treatment of the Pennsylvania Volunteers, who, in addition to being badly fed and clothed, have not received their pay.

The Contrast

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Summary:

Criticizes the "cowardice and hypocrisy" of Wilson and Wade, who called for war but fled from the battle at Manassas in panic. The Spirit praises the actions of two newspapermen, Mr. Stedman of the World and Mr. Villard of the Herald. Both of these men attempted to stop the panic and rally the troops during the retreat from Manassas.

Greeley's Panic

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Summary:

Criticizes Horace Greeley for fanning the pro-war flames and urging the Union army into battle.

Excerpt:

"The Republicans themselves now say that if we want a successful war we must first 'hang Greeley' for while he is permitted to meddle in affairs we may expect nothing but a series of 'break-down panics.'"
Page 3
Page Description:

Chambersburg markets, column 2; advertisements

Opinions of the Press

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Summary:

The Spirit reprints the views of various Northern papers on the failure of the Union army at Manassas.

Married

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Summary:

Married on July 25 at the Franklin Hotel. Mr. Huber is from Letterkenny township and Miss Mish is from Hamilton township.

Names in Announcement:
Rev. J.W. Bard; Benjamin S. Huber; Charlotte E.C. Mish

Died

(column 2)
Summary:

Died on July 25 at age 5 months.

Names in Announcement:
William Sullenberger
Page 4
Page Description:

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