From the National Archives, RG 109, Ch. 6, Vol. 364, “Letters Sent & Received, Medical Director’s Office, 1864-65.” p. 82

Medical Director’s Office, 18 May ‘64

Sir:

I have the honour to request that the buildings and grounds at the old fair grounds, at Main st, lying partly within the corporate limits of Richmond and for some time in use as Barracks for the City guard force be at once turned over to me for Hospl purposes.

I consider this very important for the service; as a Receiving Hospital is needed at this point and its proximity to the RRs and the large Hos in the upper portion of the city offer great advantages.

The Hospitals now opened are insufficient, and I can suggest more suitable places for barracks.

The Surgeon Genl has verbally approved and suggested this application.

Very Respy &c
Wm. A. Carrington
Medical Director

Sec. of War