155 Years Ago, January 28, 1862-- Part 1: Movement Against Fort Henry

JANUARY 28TH, 1862:  Flag Officer Foote wrote Major General Halleck:  "General Grant and myself are of the opinion that Fort Henry on the Tennessee River, can be carried with four gunboats and troops and be permanently occupied."

Halleck replied the next day that he was waiting only for a report on the condition of the road from Smithland to the fort, and would then give the order for the attack.

Seeking to push forward, Foote hurried an answer the same day, noting"  Lieutenant Phelps has been with me [at Cairo] for a day or two, and in consultation with general Grant we have come to the conclusion that, as the Tennessee will soon fall (water depth lowered), the movement up that river  is desirable early next week (Monday). or, in fact, as soon as possible."

--Old B-Runner