Suffolk Christian Sun

November 11, 1864

Page 2

FROM BELOW

Last week a gunboat came up to Suffolk and sent a hundred men on shore, who during the night robbed the houses of many of the citizens.  Those who suffered most are James A. Parker, Mrs. Eli Jones, Benjamin Riddick and Dr. Robert H. Webb.

A few days later, the boat went up to Chuckatuck, and the men arrested a number of citizens, among them our old friend, Major Frank Holladay.  All were released after examination except Captain Bass Wilson and Mr. Statz, who were carried off as prisoners.  They threatened to burn Smithfield.

All the citizens below the lines of Grant are living in a constant state of apprehension and dread, especially in the country between Blackwater and Portsmouth.  The Yankees are out raiding every week, and neither their persons or property are safe.

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]