The Daily Dispatch: July 23, 1861., [Electronic resource]

An incident of the Bull's Run fight.

‘ During the height of the battle, many of our troops, in their anxiety to get a sure pop at the enemy, left the ranks for that purpose, and advanced some distance in front. One of these, James Wooldridge, of Capt. Blankinship's company, who was wounded, made for a tree, which would afford him protection, but just as he arrived there, a Lincolnite came up, who disputed the possession of the tree with Wooldridge. The matter was, however, quickly settled, for without any parley, Wooldridge ran his bayonet through the Yankee, killing him instantly. A Federal officer then rode up, who had observed the affair, and while Wooldridge's bayonet was still in the body of his victim, ordered him to surrender. The proposition, however, did not accord with Woodridge's idea, for in an instant his bayonet was withdrawn, when he let the officer have the full benefit of it, and, killed him instantly also. Two more Lincolnites were just then rushing upon Wooldridge, but observing the fate of those who had preceded them, immediately turned about, and, taking to their heels as fast as they could, left our hero in possession of the much coveted tree. Wooldridge was subsequently wounded, no doubt in consequence of exposing himself unnecessarily.

’