From the Richmond Whig, 9/10/1861

"ROCK BATTLE." - From time immemorial the boys in Adams Valley, (popularly known as "Butchertown,") and those residing on the north side of Shockoe Hill, have engaged, every successive summer, in "rock battles," rallying under the distinctive titles of "Butcher Cats" and "Hill Cats." Within the last few years, the majority of the respectable white boys, among the former, have so far been convinced of the discreditable character of these conflicts as to leave them chiefly to negro lads on their side; though a goodly number, influenced by the excitement of the mimic warfare, have participated in the "battles" which have taken place within the past few weeks. Last Sunday afternoon the contending parties waged a fierce contest on Navy Hill, about one hundred boys being engaged on each side. - Stones and other missiles flew as thick, almost, as the Minie balls at the battle of Manassas, and it is wonderful that some of the belligerents were not maimed or seriously hurt. The progress of the fight was fortunately arrested by the timely arrival of officer, Chalkley, Seal, Davis, Quarles and Crone, in one direction, and officers Pleasants, Perria and others, in an opposite direction. At the sight of the police, the boys fled the field, but all of them did not make their escape. Six white boys and ten negro boys were captured and taken to the station house. The former were eventually bailed out; but the others were detained until next morning, when they were conducted to the presence of the Mayor. The parents of the white boys were fined $1 each, and admonished that a repetition of the offence would involve a heavier fine. The little darkies were ordered to be switched.

• Prev
• Next