June 23, 1863, Weekly Columbus Enquirer (Georgia)
During the recent Yankee raid into Florence they burnt the three Cotton Factories of Martin, Weakley & Co., which worked up 4,000 bales per year; the Woolen Factories of Darby, Benham & Co., and of James Martin & Son–5 factories. In Florence they burnt the Masonic Hall, one unoccupied tavern, two blacksmith, one coach and one carpenter’s shops, three unoccupied houses, one small residence, &c. They broke open every store in the place, took what they could carry off, robbed citizens of money, watches, jewelry, horses, &c., took off some negroes, desolated and burnt Mrs. James Jackson’s place, &c. They were only in Florence about three hours, and got off with but a trifling loss. Their success in this raid will stimulate to other raids into our region.
P.S.–We also learn that the Yankees burnt several Mills and Tan Yards in the county. Their force was only about 700 in Florence.–Huntsville Adv., 10th.