When I interrupt Union strategy threads to post that a Confederate army can take Washington D.C. in 1861, this is the force I mean. In July of that year, this could be waiting in Leesburg, VA:
[ATTACH]33190[/ATTACH]
Two turns later, a fourth large VA brigade would show up pushing the stack's power to 1600. Depending on who is active, the following army of Divisions would be possible in October '61:
[ATTACH]33191[/ATTACH]
So, dear Union player, in 1861 split your forces to defend Alexandria and take Harper's Ferry. Send troops west to secure MO and KY. Spend resources to build some Iron Works and expand your blockade fleet. Launch an amphibious assault on Charleston or New Orleans, while you're at it.
Just don't forget that D.C. is the Union nail to this Confederate hammer.