Col. J. J. Dickison, Confederate Military History, a library of Confederate States Military History: Volume 11.2, Florida
Clement Anselm Evans, Ed.

Too high an estimate cannot be placed upon the importance of the great responsibility resting upon the gallant men whose duty it was to be a living bulwark between the enemy and the helpless families whose homes were imperiled. Only by the most untiring vigilance of our patriotic soldiery could the inestimable resources of our beautiful peninsula be preserved and rendered available to their utmost capacity. Truly did they immortalize themselves in the proud victory won at the battle of Gainesville. The general commanding at Charleston conveyed to Captain Dickison his congratulations, and stated that he took pleasure ‘in bringing this and several other instances of gallantry on the part of yourself and noble command to the notice of the President, and in recommending you for that promotion which your repeated acts of good service so justly entitle you to receive. He begs that you will make known to your officers and men his appreciation of their gallantry and good service.’

Gen. Sam. Jones, commanding the district of Florida, in a letter to Adjt.-Gen. Samuel Cooper, asked that Captain Dickison be given adequate rank, so that he could take command of the cavalry in Florida, and added, ‘I have reason to believe that the name of Captain Dickison is held in great terror by the enemy. A surgeon who was captured at Baldwin, and who has since been exchanged, reported that the forces of General Birney were kept in a constant state of dread lest Dickison should come upon them.’ Gen. J. K. Jackson, in General Orders No. 44, said: ‘With pride and pleasure the brigadier-general commanding announces to the troops of this district the brilliant victory of Capt. J. J. Dickison and the forces under his command. After a forced march from Waldo they met the enemy at Gainesville, and undaunted by the superiority of his numbers, attacked and completely routed him. This unparalleled success merits for the gallant little band in south Florida the everlasting gratitude of their countrymen, whose homes and honor they have saved ’