Civil War Fortifications

The Home News, November 23, 1861

Marietta, it would seem, has been in the most imminent and fearful danger of being attacked, conquered, sacked, burned and destroyed by the ruthless band of the renowned rebel brigand Jenkins, “or any other man.” Wherefore, to save our unconscious citizens from such dire disasters, and “upon the urgent petition of leading men, who were confident the rebels intended a raid in retaliation for the burning of Guyan,” the State authorities forthwith ordered Col. Pond, of the 62d regiment, at Camp Goddard, Zanesville, to report to Col. Craig, “for duty.”

Down the Muskingum they came, on Saturday morning, 600 strong, and were handsomely escorted to Camp Putnam by the excellent regimental band of the 63d. The train on the same evening, brought a ferocious looking gun from Chillicothe, accompanied by light experienced gunners. On Sunday morning, the long or some other roll was beaten, and the troops got speedily under arms. With drums beating, the long procession of martial heroes filed down Front street, across the bridge to Harmar, and thence down to the narrows, where, under the direction of skillful engineers, some strong fortifications were erected, and three bloody-thirsty columbiads duly mounted, ready to blaze away at all friendly or unfriendly steamboats that may attempt to pass up or down, without acknowledging the salute. Our city is now safe, and its citizens ought to breathe easy and sleep sound.