Chicago (IL) Tribune, "Immense Rush of Negroes to Fortress Monroe," August 2, 1861

Immense Rush of Negroes to Fortress Monroe

A dispatch from Fortress Monroe, dated July 26th, says:

              It became apparent, early last evening that the rebels meditated an attack on Hampton. The rebels mediated an attack on Hampton. General Butler determined to abandon the town in case of a formidable advance, and at seven o’clock the order was given for families and goods to be removed. Within one hour orders were also issued to burn the town rather than have it fall into the hands of the enemy. The General well understands that the possession of Hampton by the rebels will be no particular importance.

              A stampede of the colored population took place al night, and today the road has been lined with refuges to the fortress, and army wagons and carts bringing in goods from Hampton. The road has presented a most remarkable appearance; nearly 1,000 contraband men, women and children must have come in during the last twenty four hours. For the present those not escaped in this Fortress, will be in and around the sanitary building, lately the headquarter of Colonel Durges.