From the Richmond Daily Whig, 5/22/1861

The Howitzer Companies, forming a battalion under the command of Major Geo. W. Randolph, are encamped on the extreme eastern slope, of the eminence overlooking the river, at and below Rocketts. The guns are stationed on the summit of the hill, fronting an extended plateau, well adapted for field practice. A military road has been constructed, leading from the plateau, along the declivity, to the encampment. We visited the camp, yesterday, and found all "the boys" in good spirits, good health, and contented as shepherds. The majority of them were actively employed in camp duties, while those not so engaged were lolling in the shade of the fragrant pines, reading newspapers, chatting, smoking, etc. The situation is rather a romantic one affording as it does, a picturesque view of the suburban town of Fulton, and the adjacent river scenery.

The culinary operations, for dinner, were progressing during our stay. Two or three sable cooks were preparing the beef, corn bread, and coffee, in regular camp style, and, we doubt not that the food was eaten and relished, with a zest which more luxurious dishes could not have so well imparted, with the exercise and mode of life to which the Howitzer Boys are now subject.

The force in camp, numbers about one hundred and seventy men - the residue of the battalion being on duty, at Gloucester Point. Rev. F. W. White, the chaplain, has evidently entered fully into the spirit of the campaign and while rejecting Puritanism as a characteristic of Yankee Pharisees, will diligently attend to his ministerial and perceptive duties on all proper occasions. We will publish the roll of the Howitzers, in a day or two.

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