Stars and Stripes “Over” Richmond

Or, at least its northern suburbs

From the Richmond Daily Dispatch May 24, 1862:

Yankee Devices

–Our Northern brethren are now engaged in an assiduous endeavor to restore the Union and set the Stars and Stripes afloat in Richmond, by laying plans to murder and rob all of our people who may wish to prevent the consummation of their dearly-cherished project. For several days past they have cavorted around the suburbs in sufficient numbers to pillage with impunity, but not to meet any respectable force,–on whose appearance they would fly like frightened sheep. Yesterday, with characteristic caution, they sent up Prof. Lowe in his famous balloon to observe the motions of the rebels. The machine, which was distinctly observed by a large number of spectators in this city, was embellished with two United States flags, and ascended about four miles from the city in a northeast direction. No doubt the observations of the Yankee Ă…ronant were satisfactory, as by 3 o’clock a fight was reported in progress between the Abolition and Southern forces at the head of the Mechanicville turnpike.

Civil War envelope showing two American flags tied with a ribbon (between 1861 and 1865; LOC: v)

Yankee devices about 4 miles northeast of Richmond

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