Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood
February 8, 1862

HEADQUARTERS FORTY-FIFTH VIRGINIA REGIMENT,
CAMP AT MOUTH OF BLUE STONE,
Mercer County, West Virginia, February 10, 1862.

DEAR SIR: As instructed by Colonel Jenifer, I took three companies of my regiment to the Jumping Branches day before yesterday (8th). I reached that point at 6 p. m. At 10 p. m. of the same date the cavalry pickets were driven in, stating that the enemy were advancing in some force. I sent out Lieutenant Samuels, of the Border Rangers, to ascertain the truthfulness of the alarm. He confirmed the report, and stated that they were advancing in superior force and with several pieces of artillery. Under the circumstances I concluded to fall back to this point, 5 miles distant from the Jumping Branches, a point that could not be defended against a superior force of any kind, and entirely indefensible against artillery when the opposing force had none. I fell back to this point and selected a point upon which to fight them should they advance. They did advance, attacked us with 450 men and three pieces of artillery (two portable howitzers and one 6-pounder rifle piece), and were signally repulsed. I selected such a position that they could not use their artillery against us with effect. I had not more than 225 men, cavalry included. I did not lose a man. How many of the enemy were killed I am not able to say. My men were in no condition to pursue them. They had worked the day and night before. I hope it may be in the power of the Government to send re enforcements to this portion of the State. The people:a large number of them:are true, and ready to fight if assisted. There is not force enough here to meet the enemy at all of his approaches.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WILLIAM E. PETERS,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Forty-fifth Virginia Regiment.

General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army.

Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: February 1862