June 26, 1862
Prominent Citizens Captured.--Two of the most prominent citizens of Martinsburg, Pendleton Kennedy and M. J. C. Hoffman, were taken forcibly away from Martinsburgh during the recent raid of Jackson into Berkley [sic] county. They are both uncomprmising Union men, and were arrested because of their Union sentiments. Mr. Hoffman was on his way to Maryland, and was induced to return to town by being assured by some of the leading rebels in the place that he should not be molested. His arrest shows how far they kept their promises. Indeed, they had no intention of protecting him; they wished him to return to his home that he might be arrested, and they were gratified.
There was no re[a]son in the world for the arrest of Mr. Kennedy, as he is not subject to militia duty, and has never done ought against the Southern Confederacy. The Martinsburg Republican suggests that four of the most quiet and inoffensive secessionists of that place be arrested and held as hostages, to be released when Kennedy and Hoffman are set at liberty.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: Undated: June 1862