The Daily Dispatch: February 16, 1864., [Electronic resource]

Later from Huntsville.

‘ Our latest dates from Huntsville are to January 20th. We learn that the Methodist church, near the public square in Huntsville, was burnt in the early part of December. Some Yankees were occupying the basement of the church at the time. It is not known whether it was the result of accident or design, but supposed to have been the former.

’ Of the twelve citizens who were arrested and required to take the oath of allegiance to the Lincoln Government or leave the Yankee lines, we have heard of Messrs. Geo. P. Beirne, Stephen W. Harris, and Dr. Anthony, having arrived in Dixie.

Of many family residences in which the Yankees have quartered, we learn that Gen Sherman and staff have taken full possession of Mr. Beirne's, with the furniture pictures, &c., occupying it as headquarters, and the portion of Mr. B's family at home being thus compelled to seek a home with friends. Gen. Smith has made Gov. Clay's residence his headquarters, leaving but two rooms for the use of the family, and a portion of J. W. Clay's residence is similarly occupied.

The country on the south side of the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, from Morrisville to Bridgeport, is occupied with Federal troops. There are said to be about 13 regiments in and around Huntsville. The timber in the vicinity is freely used for fuel; in fact, everything desired is taken without limitation, and should they continue until April great suffering amongst the resident population must be the inevitable consequence.