Telegram from Major Robert Anderson to the Secretary of War

This telegram notified Secretary of War Simon Cameron of the outcome of the battle that began the Civil War in earnest. It was sent by Maj. Robert Anderson, commander of the Union garrison at Fort Sumter, five days after he surrendered to Confederate Brig. Gen. Pierre G.T. Beauregard. The battle had started at 4:30 A.M. on April 12, 1861, and ended 34 hours later.

S.S. Baltic. off Sandy Hook apr. Eighteenth Ten Thirty A.M. via New York. Hon. S. Cameron. Secy. War Washn.

Having defended Fort Sumter for thirty four hours until the quarters were entirely burned the main gates destroyed by fire. The gorge walls seriously injured. The magazine surrounded by flames and its doors closed from the effects of heat. Four barrells and three cartridges of powder only being available and no provisions remaining but pork. I accepted terms of evacuation offered by General Beauregard being on same offered by him on the eleventh inst. Prior to the commencement of hostilities and marched out of the fort Sunday afternoon the fourteenth inst. With colors flying and drums beating. Bringing away company and private property and saluting my flag with fifty guns.

Robert Anderson. Major First Artillery. Commanding.