04 Apr 1865
Page 1
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Newspaper
Dubuque Democratic Herald
Location
Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America
Date
Apr 04, 1865
Page
1
A tense confrontation erupts as abolitionists challenge Copperhead supporters in a public scene. Observers report heated rhetoric and protests outside a local meeting hall, with organizers vowing continued action to push for end of slavery.
In a decisive election, the Democratic ticket wins all wards and top city offices. Mayor Thompson secured a unanimous win, and the council tilts fully Democratic, ending abolitionist influence per the official counts across wards three through four. The victory highlights strong youth participation and broad majorities, with detailed ward tallies showing sweeping gains.
The report proclaims two major Union victories at Dubuque and Richmond with Richmond’s fall after a three year siege. Federal troops occupy the city and Shockoe Hill tents cover the area, marking a decisive blow to the Confederacy though further fighting and peace negotiations will continue to unfold.
New York on April 3 reports that intelligence from headquarters confirms Mobile falls into our hands and a major battle looms in Virginia though a formidable resistance is anticipated. Maj Gen Potter reportedly wounded. Vast public excitement follows. stock markets and exchanges suspend activity, fireworks and illuminations light the city while floods and ice threats are noted in Williama Wellington streets.
Official confirmation of Richmond and Petersburg fall. Telegraph reports Union forces under Weitzel and Ord capturing Richmond at 8:15 am, city burning in places, Lincoln at the front, Grant moving to block Lee. Details of marching divisions, rifle pits seized, and lines established for defense. Herald notes a forthcoming amnesty proclamation.
New York dispatches report Union forces driving toward Petersburg with Lee’s army demoralized and retreating. Grant’s plan aimed to cut the south side railroad and reach the Danville road. Sherman and others closing around rebel fragments. Commerce notes war news dampening markets as gold fluctuates amid expectations of Confederate collapse. Mrs Lincoln returns to Washington as Grant promises a 48 hour Richmond entry.
The Potomac army occupied by erecting works and repairing roads, while wagon movements slowed by rain. Reports from New York and Petersburg describe Sheridan moving to Five Forks and White Oak Road, with Union forces gaining ground, taking prisoners and capturing artillery as Lee’s line strains. A courier cites 4,000 prisoners and looming prospect of evacuation. The Times adds actions at Five Forks and Stony Creek as lines bend toward the capital.
A long Civil War update from Washington and City Point reports continued heavy fighting with gains for Union forces. Dispatches describe Sheridan and Warren driving back the enemy, capturing brigades and batteries, with thousands of prisoners and shattered Confederate lines. The front across Petersburg and White Oak Road shows progress, while Savannah and Richmond news reflect Confederate resistance and Union triumphs amid frenzy of exclamations and public celebration. Local elections in Louisville show a Democratic mayor elected as war news dominates.
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