July 8, 1861
Latest from Martinsburg.
Washington, July 6:Reliable information by telegraph states that Gen. Johnston, in command of the Confederate forces, is seven miles from Martinsburg in force. No general advance has yet been made. The Southerners, however, are gradually approaching the Federal lines. It is understood that a general Federal movement will take place next week.
Latest.:July 6, P.M.:Gen. Patterson's whole force is at Martinsburg. The Federal pickets had fired on each other, and ten of their men were killed. Gen. McClellan was reported within two days' march of Martinsburg. Gen. Johnston had approached within three miles of Martinsburg with 4,000 less than the Federal forces at that point.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: July 1861