In Virginia, the time for a decision arrives. In the morning, U.S. President Abraham Lincoln meets with Virginia Unionist John Baldwin and discusses the fate of the state. The content of the conversation between the two men is disputed. Some argue that Lincoln offered to evacuate Fort Sumter if Virginia agreed to stay in the Union. Nonetheless, Lincoln is encouraged, as Virginia’s secession delegates this afternoon decide against secession, by a rather decisive vote of 89-45.
Shortly after the Virginia vote is made public, Lincoln gives the order to resupply Fort Sumter.
Virginia Baptists are also divided. State Baptist leaders at this point remain relatively muted. The Religious Herald, the newspaper of Southern Baptists of Virginia, covers war items and offers criticism of Lincoln, but does not expressly take sides at this time. The loyalties of state Baptist leaders, however, will soon be revealed.
