On personally arriving in the city, General Weitzel issued the following order:—
“Headquarters, Detachment Army of the James, }
“Richmond, Va., April 3, 1865. }
“Major-General Godfrey Weitzel, commanding Detachment of the Army of the James, announces the occupation of the city of Richmond, by the armies of the United States, under command of Lieutenant-General Grant. The people of Richmond are assured that we come to restore to them the blessings of peace, prosperity and freedom, under the flag of the Union.
“The citizens of Richmond are requested to remain for the present quietly within their houses, and to avoid all public assemblages or meetings in the public streets. An efficient provost guard will immediately re-establish order and tranquillity within the city.
“Martial law is, for the present, proclaimed.
“Brigadier-General George F. Shepley, United States Volunteers, is hereby appointed Military Governor of Richmond.
“Lieutenant-Colonel Fred. L. Manning, Provost-Marshal-General, Army of the James, will act as Provost-Marshal of Richmond. Commanders of detachments doing guard duty in the city will report to him for instructions. By command of
“Major-General WEITZEL.
“D. D. Wheeler, Assistant Adjutant-General.”