Fremont journal. [volume] (Fremont, Sandusky County [Ohio]) 1853-1866, 1865-03-10
From the Augusta CoustitutionaIist ofFebruary 81
Particulars of the Burning of Columbia.

From the Augusta COustitutionalist ofFebruary 81
Particulars of the Burning of Columbia.
Late in the afternoon pile Of cotton in the
street near the COngaree House, took fire from
sparks, and the flames spread to some wooden
buildings, which were near when the wind drove
the flames down both sides of the street. The
scene became terrific. Loud explosions con-
tinually filed the air. The residences and
ground were shaken as by an earthquake, and
vast columns of smoke and flame arose 10 the
heavens Nothing of any account was saved.
Goods provisions and furniture moved to sup
posed places of security We're burned As the fire
progressed The distance burned on Main street
is about mile and a halt. DIR. Reynolds house
is the only one left standing between the Sec
tiOns known as the cotton town and State House.
The fire also extended fifteen blocks on Main
street, destroying everything. The entire busi-
ness portion Of the city is in ruins. Both hotels
the G.tdrdiaBand CdrOli1iGn newspaper offices,
and number of churches, the Catholic semina-
ry and several other public buildings and all the
depots, the buildings at Charlotte junction,
Evans & Cogswells printing establishment are
burned. All the cars and engines which the
rebels did not remove, We're destroyed. Only
three churches are left standing, the Catholic,
Episcopalian and Presbyterian. The female
college is inquired and is now occupied by house.
less women and children. The old State House
was blown up, but the new State House was
not touched II contains statue of Washing
ton.
Wade Hamptons house was saved by FEEDER
al officers. General Prestons House was saved
and given to the occupants of the Catholic Sem
mary, whose property was accidentally destroy
ed.
The country around was stripped Ofall eata-
bles aud transportation. All horses and car
riages in the city taken. The citizens are said
to be In very destitute condition and unless
some reliefis soon obtained there will he much
suffering and death from starvation.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST.
Some wenty-five miles OF the Greenville
Railroad had been previously damaged by fresh
ets Much damage also was done to the road
by the enemy. Both papers burned portions of
their stock. At the same place many negroes
lett with Sherman's army None were taken
by force, and large numbers were returning to
their masters. Sherman thought he would not
visit the country west of Broad River, and ad-
vised the Mayor to send the citizens there
The Federals seemed much iucensed against
Magrath, and would use him harshly if they
get him in their power.
Few, it any, private residences were entered.
No outrages were known to have been commit
ted on ladies'. The enemy were under strict
discipline during their march through the city.
SPLENDID CONDITION OF sHERMAN's ARMY.
Sherman's headquarters were in the city at
the residence of N. Duncan. IL is estimated
that his infantry and artillery numbered 10000
Nocavalry is with him. Their rear guard pass
ed through Tuesday afternoon. The troops
were in the best condition, and We're well cloth
ed, well shod, aud marched at ifthey Just START
ed on an expedition instead OF being Out for
weeks.
Fort Mott and St. Mathews have been des-
stroyed
Some of Sherman S officers said his destination
is Raleigh and Salisbury. The General himself
appeared i'll good spirits and is confident of sue.
cess One corps took the road TO Camden and
Florence, another to WinnesbOro and Sherman
with two corps moved on the direct road to
Charlotte