"The Confederate troops that were embarking on this new campaign were a lean, mean little force of experienced soldiers. They had fought many battles, conducted numerous campaigns and were accustomed to hard, difficult marches, short rations, and variable weather. Their uniforms were new, equipment clean, and for once they were well fed, carrying five days rations in their wagons and two days supplies in their haversacks. Shoes were still a major deficit as evidenced by the trail of blood which followed their passage."
“Warrior in Gray – General Robert Rodes of Lee’s Army” by James K. Swisher, page 202
July 4, 1864
"The men marched through ravines attempting to shelter themselves as much as possible. They remained in a deep ravine until nightfall, at which time they and the rest of Battle’s Brigade were ordered to go into Bolivar to see what, if any, stores there were left. They found a large quantity of provisions and other quartermaster stores, such as tents, that the Yankees were unable to destroy before their hasty retreat. As it was the 4th of July, preparations had also been made for a big celebration. The Federals had invited all the local citizens to participate and there were any quantity of candy, ice cream, whiskey, cakes, etc. The men all came out with their haversacks full. A quantity of shoes and clothing were captured as well. The Yankees abandoned Harpers Ferry that night."
“Voices of Company D” edited by G. Ward Hubbs, page 297
The next morning, the men returned from Bolivar, coming back about two or three miles to the camp near Halltown , under an artillery shelling by the Yankees. They made camp in a wooded area and the commissary wagons were brought forward to issue rations. Most of the men refused to take any, as they were well supplied from the town. At dusk, Rodes’ Division sent about 100 wagons into Harpers Ferry to bring off the stores. They returned just after midnight, well loaded.
“Voices of Company D” edited by G. Ward Hubbs, page 298