Though it was just a couple dozen miles from the Capitol, the place where the First Battle of Bull Run was fought was about a seven hour drive by horse and buggy. The stories of the picnic battle abounded afterward, since the reporters were witness to several scenes of mayhem. Even photographer Matthew Brady was present, and catapulted his photographic career when he covered this event. There were people watching on the hillsides nearby, and enterprising families were quick to capitalize on the situation by hawking snacks and foods. People were able to purchase a bite to eat and watch as if it were the entertainment highlight of their lives. But Union sympathizers - especially Congressional leaders - knew they'd need to pack their own food and water for the day since the Virginia citizenry were already anti-Union support in any manner.

Congressman John A. Logan, Jr., against his wife's wishes, did go along with the group of government leaders to observe the battle. They were assured by the military advisors that the entire "war" was nothing more than a spat that would run its course in less than ninety days. Indeed, the troops recruited for security around the D. C. area were contracted for just ninety days. Uniforms weren't even consistently issued, and Union troops who brought their own wore gray, and some Confederates were wearing blue.

Along with Illinois Congressman Logan were New York Congressman Alfred Ely, Illinois Congressman Elihu Washburn, Ohio Senator Ben Wade, Massachusetts Senator Henry Wilson, Kansas Senator Jim Lane, and Connecticut Senator Lafayette Foster. The men arrived in time to set up for a short luncheon. Senator Wilson had loaded bundles of sandwiches to give to soldiers from his State, so the gentlemen settled near the New York troops.