CCLHP: Deposition of B. Spence
I was in Charleston on the 28th last month. I was at the commencement of the shooting – standing at the door of Van Doren and Winters store. The firing was very rapid – but I could tell from where I stood who was principally engaged in it. Soon after the commencement some ten or twelve men came in great haste and got behind Judge Edword’s office. I noticed Hanks (Elsberry I think) loading his pistol, afterwards shoot at a soldier who was crossing the Courthouse yard from the north gate south westerly. I also saw John OHair come from toward the Court house – pistol in hand and jump the fence east of the Courthouse – southward. I also saw John Frazier on horseback in front of Van Doren and Winters’ shop – pistol in hand – trying to rally the men. Soon after I saw Robert McClain come across the street and run into the alley north of Miller’s store - - appeared very much excited – running half bent with pistol in hand cocked.
B. Spence (Signed)
Subscribed and sworn to
before me this 1st April 1864
M.C. McClain, M.P.
