NP, JR 7/30/1864

From the Jacksonville (Ala.) Republican
 
July 30, 1864
 
Damage to the Montgomery & West Point Railroad
   Since the raiders left the Montgomery & West Point Railroad, the amount of damage to it has been ascertained. We learn that it is not materially injured until at a point commencing 2 1/2 miles above Notasulga and thence to Opelika. One mile on the branch road to Columbus from Opelika and a mile from Opelika towards West Point were destroyed. The track was damaged but not so badly but that ninety per cent of it can be used again. It was the flat bar that was placed in a condition not to admit of use again, and unfortunately this kind of iron was on that part of the track which received the special attention of the raiders.
   Unless the people of this section will come forward and lend assistance to the company or the Government steps in and assists, the company may not be able to repair the damage and put the road in working order before the 1st September. The importance of this railroad in a military point of view, it seems would direct the attention, energies and resources of the Government to the complete repair at the earliest practicable day. Doubtless the authorities at Richmond will take hold of this matter as soon as advised, and place all the force necessary at once upon the road. Doubtless too, the people here and along the line of the road will imitate the example of Maj. J. L. Calhoun, whose letter we published yesterday tendering four hands, and a wagon and team with rations to the company. Its speedy repair is a public and military necessity, and we hope to se it completed by the first week of next month.
   The depots and Government property at Loachapoka, Auburn and Opelika were destroyed a well as Camp Watts near Notasulga. The long and important bridge at Chehaw was saved by the troops who were sent up the road at 2 A. M. Monday, and who had the engagements with the enemy.
Montgomery Advertiser

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