13thMass Blog

Out of Sync

2012-01-12T19:24:00.000-08:00

     My latest web page is up, Camp at Sharpsburg, Sept. 17th - Oct. 26th, 1862. Highlights include a short biography of the Three Cary Brothers who were officers in the regiment; a biographical sketch of beloved Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General George Lucas Hartsuff, & a humorous remembrance of Corporal 'Bob' Armstrong, Co. B.

     Yet to come is a page about the Fredericksburg Campaign, Nov - Dec. 1862. So, I am still building history pages for the year 1862, which I began in May, 2009. I am trying to get into 1863 before the 150th anniversary of Gettysburg in 2013!

     The Sesquicentennial of the war has brought some notice to my work, particularly in the towns of Natick, and Marlboro, home of Co.'s H, I & F, respectively. I just heard from the town manager of Hancock, Maryland too!

     The towns were recognizing the 150th Anniversary of the war, and the part played in it by their citizens and soldiers.   Early January marked the 150th anniversary of the battle of Hancock, when Stonewall Jackson, rode up from Winchester and shelled the town. Read More

     Since I am immersed in 19th cent. history, I always feel a bit out of touch with modern life. Don't try to call me on a cel phone and don't ask me what time it is. Since my 1917 Illinois pocket watch broke, I don't know.   My '51 Hudson doesn't keep up too well in modern traffic but it does okay. Even the idea of a non-interactive website, like mine, is out of date today. With instant communication devices like twitter, facebook and blogs a staid informational non-interactive site is passez. Imagine too, corresponding by email, my preferred method, is now considered old fashioned. But hey, at least I am aware of the new stuff! I just don't seem to need it.

     Even my blog is out of sync with the Sesquicentennial.

     I started the 'blog in real time' experiment last year. I was able to find and post lots of interesting items, relating to the 13th Regiment, and the build up to the war, that are not on my website. But when I got to August 1st, 1861, the date the regiment arrived in Hagerstown, MD, something kept me from continuing with the series.   At the time I was struggling to finish my webpage about "Antietam," a milestone in the history of the regiment. I gave that priority. I've covered the regiment's history in detail over at the website and I didn't want to repeat myself on the blog, which I would've done with frequent real time posts. So the blog series evaporated.

     The same problem continues, as I strive to keep moving forward with the history pages at the website. I posted about Thanksgiving & Christmas, 1861, here at this blog, a couple years ago. So I didn't want to repeat myself to be in sync with the Sesqui. Instead, I've been continuing to toil away at the website, trying to get to the Gettysburg page before the 150th anniversary in 2013.

     Besides, there are others marking time better than I.

      By the way, did you know that Stonewall Jackson, twice, tried to destroy Dam No. 5 of the C & O canal, 150 years ago, this past December?   (At least my cyber friend and fellow blogger Cenantua mentioned it.) I sent him some more info and he's promised to do a follow up post on it. You can also find information about it on my website, here

So, I'm moving into the Fredericksburg Campaign now. I'm pretty confident I'll have that page built before Dec. 2012. I'll probably be working on the website long after the 150th anniversary of the war.

It feels like that bumper sticker my friend had on the back of his rusted out '75 Dodge Colt, many years ago. "Don't honk, I'm peddling as fast as I can."

Hope you enjoy the new page.

John Brown Bell Presentation

2011-12-31T17:17:00.000-08:00

     One of the many research highlights for me this year, was corresponding with Paul Brodeur of the Marlboro, Historical Society in Massachusetts, hometown of Companies I & F.    The sesquicentennial has brought a lot of attention to the Civil War, and communities are starting to look at how the war impacted their citizens.

     Paul put together an excellent presentation on the John Brown Bell, which members of Company I, retrieved on September 26, 1861, and which they eventually brought to Marlboro, Mass. in 1892. The bell tower in the town square is an integral part of Marlboro's history. Paul did extensive research on abolition in Marlboro prior to the war, the local fire engine companies whose members filled the ranks of Companies I & F, and the former slaves who settled in Marlboro as a result of their association with these companies, whom they met when the regiment was in Western Maryland. The presentation is on-line for all to view. Its a fascinating story. Here is the link: John Brown Bell.

     Our correspondence led down some other interesting paths, including a better look at some of the soldiers within the ranks of Company F and their standing in the community before and after the war.

     My favorite part of the presentation, still is the story of Fannie (Geary) Stanley and her mother, Arenia Geary, former slaves, who worked at the Wager House Hotel in Harper's Ferry during John Brown's fateful raid in October 1859. The following quotes are from the Marlboro Enterprise 1914 obituary of Fanny Geary Stanley.

     “ When the war swept over the country she was working at the same (Wager) hotel, and by dint of extra effort she and her mother accumulated enough money to take them to the north.”

      “ About that time soldiers of the 13th Mass. Regt. were stationed in that vicinity and Mrs. Stanley, making their acquaintance, came north with them. The soldiers were from Marlboro and by their advice daughter and mother came here.”

There is a well known image of "Contraband" in the camp of the 13th Mass. at Williamsport. None of the subjects are identified. The photo is probably one taken by George L. Crosby, a photographer/artist from Marlboro, and a member of Company F, who was active with his camera equipment at this time It is very likely, that the two women on the right of the picture are Arenia Geary and her daughter Fanny Geary. It is also possible their cousin, William Geary, could be in the picture. William would make Marlboro his home too. Check out the slide show.

And, A New Year's Gift to all who read this!

Harper's Ferry, 1861, Revisited

2011-11-25T18:14:00.000-08:00

The web page at my site titled, "Nine Weeks at Harper's Ferry" has been updated with new material and css code. There is a technical glitch in the page design that shows up in my firefox browser. The blue column at screen left does not scroll to the bottom. Other than that distracting problem, there is a lot of new information.

Correspondence with research volunteer Eugene Wilkins and Supervising Park Ranger David Fox, at Harper's Ferry N.P. in early 2010 clarified several key locations of the skirmishes and activities of the 13th Mass soldiers, who picketed the river in the Fall of 1861. More information came to light this summer when I corresponded with Paul Brodeur of the Marlboro, Mass. Historical Society. Other new material cropped up during the 3 years since I built the page, so it was time for an update.

I've always been proud of this page because the period was not written about in Charles E. Davis, jr.'s regimental history, "Three Years in the Army." Some information is given in Sgt. Austin Stearns Memoir, "Three Years With Company K," but there is not enough detail.

I have added the following information to the page:

News accounts from the Boston City Gazette, the Philadelphia Inquier and the Westboro Transcript. This includes information about the John Brown Bell, the burning of Herr's Mill, and more. There is also a little more information on Mr. Abraham Herr, and his claim to the govt. for rent money.

A section on civil engineer Lauriman Russell, Co. I, (pictured) and his maps.

Information on the final resting place of private John L. Spencer, first man of the regiment killed by the enemy.

A photo of California 49er, private Chandler Robbins, of Co. K with a letter to the Westboro Transcript.

An excellent report of the Battle of Bolivar Heights from the Washington Star. Also, the report of Lt. J.W. Martin, commanding Battery K, of the 9th N.Y. artillery.

A photo of Lt. William R. Warner, Co. K with his description of the engagement at Bolivar Heights, including reference to Capt. Shriber's noteworthy command, "Company I, Run!" which is sited in Davis's history of the 13th.

A photo of Corporal George Marshall, Co. C to accompany a description of his experience at Bolivar.

A description of the "drug store" clean-out of a secessionist in town.

Two letters of Capt. Shriber were restored to Richard Humphrey's original research. I had placed these on a different page in order to keep a strict chronology, but thought it best to include them on the Harper's Ferry page also.

And more...

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T12:24:00.001-08:00

Just want to wish all my readers and followers a Happy Thanksgiving. This blog flies pretty low on the radar screens and I'm grateful for everyone who finds time to drop by and read the posts. You are all very appreciated.

The Harper's Ferry page of my website has been updated with lots of new material, but the new page file was corrupted so I have to re-construct it. I will be posting it soon and writing about whats new here. I will also be posting soon about Tim Snyder's book on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal during the Civil War, and on the John Brown Bell.

Happy Thanksgiving! - Brad

John H. Moore and George F. Moore; New Book

2011-10-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

Elin Neiterman of the Sudbury Historical Society contacted me in September, 2010 seeking information on John H. Moore, Co. F, of the 13th M.V.I. Art Rideout and I sent her the materials we had. Recently, Elin wrote to notify me that the Society's new book of Civil War Correspondence is finished and awaiting orders. I'm happy to help get the word out. The following is a news article about the project, which Elin forwarded to me. - Brad

     In honor of the year of the Civil War Sesquicentennial, there will be a special book signing and selected readings of the newly released book entitled “from your loving son” CIVIL WAR CORRESPONDENCE AND DIARIES OF PRIVATE GEORGE F. MOORE AND HIS FAMILY at the First Parish Church, 327 Concord Road, Sudbury, Massachusetts, on November 6th at 2 pm.

     The year was 1862 and the nation was fighting the Civil War. Sudbury, Massachusetts, a small New England farming community, stood ready to support the cause of the Union. Uriah and Mary Moore, a local farmer and his wife, parents of ten children, sent four sons off to fight for the Union. George Frederick Moore was twenty years old when he joined the Thirty-fifth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers in 1862 along with his brother, Albert. Their oldest brother, John, had enlisted in the Thirteenth Regiment and had been serving since 1861. In 1864, a fourth and younger brother, Alfred, joined the Fifty-ninth Regiment. Four cousins also served in the war. This was not the first time this family had sent soldiers into battle. Moore ancestors fought in the Indian Wars, the Revolutionary War, and The Battle of Bunker Hill.

     George often wrote home from 1862 to 1865 of battles, travels, lack of rations, and the weariness of a soldier, while his family in turn wrote to George telling him of their love for him, the news of the family and the town, and their view of the war. These eighty-four letters which span the years from August 1862 to the end of the war survived, along with George’s personal diaries from 1863 and 1864, the diary of Sarah Jones, the girl he married, family photos, and documents of George’s life during and after the war. The letters provide an intimate glimpse of the trials, not only of the soldiers, but of the families who sent their boys off to war. The documents are a historical treasure.

     When it was decided to turn this collection into a book, the authors looked beyond the letters and diaries to the life of George Moore and his family searching through historical documents contacting libraries, cemeteries, town offices, historical societies, military museums, and Civil War battle sites. Explanatory passages of the Thirty-fifth Regiment accompany the letters. George Moore took part in the battles from South Mountain and Antietam to Fredericksburg, Vicksburg, Campbell’s Station, and the Siege of Knoxville. He participated in the Battles of the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, and the assault on Petersburg.

     The book is a story of a small New England town, a patriotic family, and the Civil War. It has been a long labor of love, and we are proud to be able to present it to Civil War enthusiasts throughout the country.

     This project was supported by The Sudbury Foundation, The Sudbury Cultural Council and The Massachusetts Cultural Council.

     To purchase a copy, send check to: Sudbury Historical Society, Attn: BOOK, 322 Concord Road, Sudbury MA 01776. Prices are soft cover ($21.95); hard cover (31.95) Plus $3.50 S & H. Tax included.

     For further information on the book, please contact us at GeorgeMoore35thRgt@gmail.com

Excerpts of letters in the book:

Sudbury
Dec 18th 1862
Dear George …the Family were all together at the Old place Thanksgiving day but George Albert and John and partook of a Thanksgiving supper but then to see those vacant seats at the table it would bring to mind those dear ones that used to fill those seats in former times that they are far away in the war perhaps nothing but hard bread and coffee for their supper but I hope that wee shall all set down to a Thanksgiving supper together next Thanksgiving at our new home up in the middle of the Town and then it is consating to think that you were engaged in a good cause

From Your Father

Sudbury
April 30th 1865

Dear George…How dreadful it seems to think such a dear good man as President Lincoln should lose his life by the hands of an assassin. When we first heard of his death, almost every one felt as though our Country was undone, but we feel differently now. It was wrong to place so much dependence upon one man, for Mr Lincoln was only an instrument in the hands of God to carry out this great work which has been accomplished, and his death reminds us that we must look above this world for help in these days of trial. I think there are not many men, if any, who are equal in all respects to Mr. Lincoln, yet it seems as though his heart was too tender to punish treason as it deserves, and perhaps that is why he was relieved from such a painful duty, and a sterner man put in his place.

From your loving Mother

George’s final letter describes the end of the war.

Alexandria Va
May 14/65

Dear BrotherI received your letter a few days ago and was very glad to hear from you. I meant to have answered it yesterday but Rufus wanted me to go to Mt. Vernon with him so I went. Mt. Vernon was Gen’l Washington’s place. it was worth going to see. it is about six miles from here. we walked down. I suppose it was considered a splendid place in its day an in fact it is as handsome place as there is around here now I went through the House and Gardens also to Washington’s tomb. I guess nearly the whole of our Corps has been there. I have some Magnolia leaves from the tree that Washington planted near his house. I will send one in this. tell Mother to put it with the other things we have sent home. I think she said she had a number of things that we have sent perhaps if she keeps them we may tell something interesting about them when we get home.
     I saw one of the grandest illuminations a few nights ago that I ever saw in my life. there are two Divisions of our Corps camped here together and they all illuminated their tents by setting a candle on top of each end of the tent and there are nearly 12000 men and a candle to each man and they are in camp on a side hill so we could see the whole camp. it was a splendid sight. then the Regiment turned out with their guns with a candle stuck in the muzzle of them. they marched all around the Camp and the Regts were from different States and as they went by a Mass camp they would cheer for that Regt and Mass boys would go by their camps and give them a cheer and so with other States. it was a pleasant night and not a breath of wind stirring so the candles burned first-rate.
     There is considerable talk of our getting home soon but I don’t know whether to think so or not. we may get home before our time is out but not for some time yet we are going to have a review today so I have not time to write much more. Yesterday was my birthday. 23 years old . think of it. shall be an old batch soon. Al comes pretty near don’t he I laugh at him about it. I will now close. give my love to all. write soon and tell me all that is going on in town
                           From your brother
                                              George

Marlboro Rifles; 351 Years Continuous Service

2011-10-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

This is the anniversary of John Brown's Raid at Harper's Ferry. It is also the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Bolivar Heights (the town above Harper's Ferry) in which Company C of the 13th Mass. charged through the town with the 3rd Wisconsin to drive back Confederate Colonel Turner Ashby's attack force. This was considered a pretty major engagement for the boys in the regiment at this time, very early in the war. Companies I and K were at the Ferry too, guarding Herr's Mill, on Virginius Island, the catalyst for the attack. I wrote extensively about the engagement on my website, here: Battle of Bolivar Heights

But to connect the past with the present, there was a ceremony today at the Massachusetts National Guard Museum in Worcester. Company F of the 13th Mass. was the Marlboro Rifle Company. It has a continuous lineage back to 1660, and the organization still exists today as the 125th Quartermaster Company in Worcester, Mass.

The following excerpt is from a copyrighted article in the Marlboro Enterprise, Sept. 20. I hope they don't mind the post here, because it says everything so succinctly.

The Chief of Military History,US Army, recently approvedthe research by Massachusetts National Guardhistorians that proved that the 125th traces its history back to Dec. 3, 1660,when it was organized as a militia company in Marlborough. This makes the 125th the secondoldest company in the MassachusettsNational Guard and US Army.

Brig.Gen. Greg Smith, Assistant Adjutant General, will present the unit with 27campaign streamers for service in the Revolutionary War, Civil War, SpanishAmerican War, World War I and World War II. The first streamer is inscribed “Lexington” for serviceduring the Lexington-Concord battles on April 19, 1775.

From 1822 to 1917 the unit was also called the Marlborough Rifles. The 125th, under various designations, was stationed in Marlborough until 1996 when it moved to Webster, then Worcester.

I know that members of the re-enactment group, Company F, were part of the ceremony, and I hope I can soon post a photograph of the event here. You can visit the re-enactors site here: Company F, 13th Mass. Infantry
If I may quote a friend who attended,

"The unit has the unique distinction of being the only existing American unit with recognized participation in the Lexington-Concord events, having been part of the militias who intercepted the British on their retreat to Boston."

This is quite a distinction indeed!

The John Brown Bell Sept. 26, 1861

2011-09-25T13:27:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Monday, September 26th, is the 150th Anniversary of the taking of the 'John Brown Bell' by members of Company I, 13th Mass. Vols. from the ruined grounds of the Federal Arsenal at Harper's Ferry. Companies I & K were picketing the river crossings along the Potomac in September and October, 1861. Members of the Marlboro Volunteer Fire Department who had enlisted in what became Company I of the 13th Mass., wanted the bell from the engine-house to send home for their fire dept. in Marlboro, which did not have one. The engine-house gained notoriety during John Brown's Raid when the famed abolitionist used it as his fort during the stand off with local militia and Federal troops in October, 1859.

If you live near Marlboro, Mass., Paul Brodeur, Trustee of the Marlboro Historical Society, is giving an in depth presentation on the bell Monday Night, at 7 p.m. in Marlboro. The 150th anniversary of the first part of the long journey of the bell to Marlboro.

Here is the societies description of the event:

Abolition, The War, and The Bell

Marlborough High School "Little Theater"
431 Bolton Street in Marlborough, MA

Drawing from Brad Forbush’s 13th Regiment website, local historian Joan Abshire’s account of the John Brown Bell, Silas Felton’s two volumes of local history, and the newspaper research of Kathy Lizotte Lynde, Civil War Re-enactor Alan Chamberlain and local historian and Historical Society Board Member Paul Brodeur will cover the fascinating period of rabid abolition in Marlboro, the formation of the fire department that helped staff and motivate Co. I of the Mass 13th, and their movements into Harpers Ferry and beyond.

In addition, the program will cover the untold story of the dramatic players in the story of the Bell. Not only the soldiers, but the slaves of Harpers Ferry who had been neighbors to the Bell from their position at the Harpers Ferry Wager Hotel and came to Marlboro at the invitation of the Marlboro soldiers. This account gives new meaning and substance to the Bell’s position as "The Most Important Ringing Bell in America."

Note that this is the first program this season. Details on the other programs planned will be posted on our site and sent in a future newsletter.
I look forward to seeing you Monday, September 26, at the High School.
-- Janet Licht

I've been corresponding with Paul this summer, and provided him a few details about the regiment and its personnel. The exchange of information was mutually beneficial. He knows the history of his town, and has access to materials I don't have. The story of the bell is still controversial.

http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1510860539/Battle-resumes-over-Marlboroughs-John-Brown-bell

http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/opinion/x1510861301/Brodeur-Battle-of-the-John-Brown-bell

The greatest bit of information I received from Paul, was the story of former slaves employed at the Wager House Hotel in Harper's Ferry, at the time of John Brown's Raid, who connected with the 13th Mass. Reg't. when it was camped at Williamsport, Md. in the winter of 1861-62. Two women and their cousin soon made their way to Marlboro, Mass. where they found a new home, settled and became prominent figures in the community.

I showed Paul the following image, taken in the camp of the 13th Mass, by soldier/photographer George L. Crosby, (of Marlboro). None of the people are identified, other than 'contraband.'

His response,
"Could never be certain, but the two women on the right are probably Fannie and her mother Avenia. Wouldn't be surprised if the guy behind is cousin William Geary. "

We hope to follow up on this, but in the meantime, I hope the presentation is well attended. He's covering in depth, the story of the bell, its greater meaning to the community and the country. I won't spoil it here, but I've had a preview. I think it will be great

The Battle of Antietam

2011-09-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

I neglected this blog to finish the latest web page at 13thmass.org. The new page is up, posted last week September 9th, the 149th anniversary of the campaign.

http://www.13thmass.org/1862/antietam.html

Highlights include previously unpublished accounts of the action from John S. Fay, Co. F, Prince Dunton, Co. H, John B. Noyes, Co. B, and others. Also included is Lt. Charles B. Fox's detailed casualty list prepared immediately after the battle. I have made notes to the list with corrections applied from other sources.

The page contains biographical profiles on several soldiers wounded or killed in the fight, including James Lowell, John L. Forbes, Will Soule, Bob Armstrong, Levi L. Dorr, Adna P. Hall and Samuel Shelton Gould.

Pictures are important and I spent a lot of time retouching some important images for the page.

Particular care was taken with this famous image of the rail fence along the Hagerstown Pike. I wanted to use it but it is a bit rough. My wife taught me some retouching techniques with photoshop, which were much more sophisticated than what I was used to, and I came up with a cleaner version as seen at the top of this post. (That is a lower resolution version of the image for the website, I have a much larger file on the computer.) These images are available from the Library of Congress Digital Collections - a fabulous resource!!

Here is another sample.

Adna P. Hall's story is compelling. It was shared with me from family descendants along with this image of Adna. I was a little tentative in deciding to retouch this image because the damage runs across the features of the face, but I gave it a concentrated effort.

Here is the result.

As usual, I tried to include a little humor, when possible, and the opportunity was provided for in the text, "New Recruits."

There were the usual uncanny co-incidences that happened to me while I was preparing the page this summer. Someone wrote me requesting information on Commissary Sgt. Mel Smith. Only a few days before he wrote I acquired an image of Smith. Then I noticed Levi L. Dorr specifically mentioned Smith's role in helping him from the field hospital. I posted the photo with Dorr's reminiscence.

Sorry for neglecting the blog, but I thought the new page had priority. Comments are appreciated.

Blog in Real Time - July 31st 1861 - Post #34

2011-07-31T22:32:00.000-07:00

Fromthe “New York Herald,” July 31, 1861.

TROOPS BOUND FOR THE SEAT OF WAR - THE THIRTEENTHMASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEERS EN ROUTE FOR THE SEAT OF WAR.

TheThirteenth Regiment of Massachusetts volunteers, under command ofColonel Leonard, arrived in this city yesterday en route to the seat ofwar. The regiment, which was organized in a great measure inthe cityof Boston, was encamped for some time at Fort Independence, in Bostonharbor, where they were so well perfected in discipline that fewregiments can compete with them in drilling and manoeuvering. Theystruck their tents on Monday morning, and after a short parade inBoston proceeded to this city by the Norwich & Worcester route,andarrived about eleven o’clock yesterday. They were met at the steamboatwharf by a deputation of citizens, natives of Massachusetts wearing ontheir breasts badges with the inscription “Sons ofMassachusetts.” These badges, as also the banner carried by the “Sons,” were ornamentedwith the coat-of-arms of the Bay State. The regiment thentook uptheir line of march through Canal Street and Broadway to the City HallPark, where the men were dismissed for dinner in the barracks and “aramble about the city.”

Shortly after four o’clock theregimental line was again formed, and the procession, preceded by theescort of citizens, marched down Broadway and around Battery Place topier No. 1, where they embarked on board the steamboat “John Potter,”for Amboy. Their reception was a most magnificent one, and the applauseof the populace was expressed at every step of the route in a continuedclapping of hands.

The Thirteenth Regiment is one of whichMassachusetts may well be proud. It is composed of a superior class ofmen. In physical appearance, soldier-like bearing, andmartialdiscipline, the regiment is perhaps unsurpassed. The members generallybelong to a higher social position than those composing most of ourregiments, and their enlistment had been a matter of pure patriotism,many having left remunerative salaries and situations to go to thewar. The uniform of the regiment consists of a dark-blueloose jacketof flannel, light-blue cloth pants, and regulation cap. They are allarmed with the Enfield rifle.

Memoirs of Charles H.Roundy, Company F

(Charles Roundy's handwritten memoirs are in the collection of the ArmyHeritage and Education Center (AHEC) in Carlisle Pennsylvania.
We leaveFort Independence

Eight weeks from the time we entered the fort we were readyandanxious to get away. We had drawn Uncle Sam’s uniforms andgunsand equipments. We were armed with Enfield Rifles – the nattybattalion uniforms were discarded now and all the companies lookedalike and the eight weeks of hard work showed as we marched Companyfront – 50 men in the front rank with the other 50- thirteen inches inthe rear, and each man struggling for a straight alignment – theCompanies reaching from Curb to Curb as we marched up State Street andon to the State House, where Governor John A. Andrew talked to us likea father to his sons, - gave us our Colors and bid us God Speed.

We went to the Worcester depot and after theexcitement of leave taking we left Boston and arrived at New London,Conn. At midnight- took the steamer “John Brooks” for New York and wereallowed a short liberty in the city, then fell in and marched downBroadway.

This march down this famous Street – lined withthousands on thousands of people – with every window packed withpeople, cheering – clapping hands, - waving flags and handkerchiefs,was for me the proudest day of my life. The regiment marched as neverbefore.

We had got rid of many things which we had thoughtwe could not do without, but we found we could do considerable moretrimming yet, and the process was kept up at every halt.

Marching company front down Broadway reaching fromcurb to curb, the band playing “John Brown’s body lies” – every mannerved to do his utmost to keep a straight line. Themultitude –singing – cheering – and waving of flags made one continuous ovationtill we took train for Philadelphia – going via Havre de Grace (wherethe whole train was run onto the ferry boat with out our leaving thecars) and taken across the river.

Welanded in Phila. About 1 A.M midnight, and at 2 A.M. we were eating thefirst square meal at the afterwards famous “Old Cooper Shop” Restaurant.

How sweet those waiters in their quakerbonnetslooked to us as they helped us to sandwiches and coffee – yes and pie –real pie.

Who of the 13th can ever forget their kindness?

PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER

July 31, 1861

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

At Washington street wharf, at eleven o’clocklast night, the Thirteenth Massachusetts Regiment wasexpected en route from Bostonto Washington. It was doubtful, however, whether they would notbe taken to the Kensington depot, and marched from thence to the depotat West Philadelphia, their final destination being with General Banks,in Maryland. Theregiment numbers one thousand men, well equipped for the war. They arearmedwith the Enfield rifledmusket. The uniform is neat andsubstantial, consisting of dark blue jacket and cap, and light bluepantaloons. The men are supplied witheverything needed on the field, ninety-five horses and twenty baggagewagonsaccompanying the regiment. Theconveniences for taking care of the wounded are unusually ample,consisting ofone two-horse and eight one-horse ambulances, and two hospitalwagons. A peculiarity in connection with the horsesbrought by the regiment is, that they are nearly all grey – designedlychosen. The nucleus of the regiment wasthe Boston City Guard – a rifle corps, consisting of fourcompanies. Of the remaining companies two came fromMarlboro’, one from Stoneham,(nearly all shoemakers,) one from Westborough, one from Roxbury, andthe otherfrom Natick (shoemakers). Themen, it is said, as a class, are sober,intelligent, earnest and determined. (The postershows theCooper Shop Volunteer Refreshment Saloon, 1862, 1009 Otsego Street, Philadelphia, wheresoldiers, including the 13th Mass, at this early stage of the war,could find food and refreshments. The Cooper Shop grew andcontinued the service throughout the war.

Blog in Real Time - July 30, 1861 - Post #33

2011-07-30T20:19:00.000-07:00

On July 30th 1861 the 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry left Boston for the war front in Western Maryland. They would stay at the front for their entire 3 year term of enlistment, although it would be a long while before their first major battle action, but there would be lots of marching and skirmishing along the Potomac in their immediate future.

[From the “Boston Daily Journal,” July 30, 1861.]

DEPARTURE OF THE THIRTEENTH REGIMENT – RECEPTION BY THE SECOND BATTALION AND OLD CITY GUARDS – COLLATION IN FANEUIL HALL.

The Thirteenth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, Colonel Leonard, being the eighth regiment of three years’ troops which Massachusetts has sent to the war, took its final departure for Washington this afternoon.

The admiration and affection of a whole community has been centred upon the young men of this regiment, the nucleus of which, the Fourth Battalion of Rifles, was recruited in our midst from the families of our most respected citizens. It is no disparagement to the members and officers of the battalion to say that the companies from the country, which have been added to the regiment, are equally meritorious and deserving of popular regard.

No pains have been spared to make the Thirteenth equal, if not superior, to any regiment which has left the state. They have a full, neat, and serviceable uniform, equipments which any soldier might be proud to wear, and an arm – the Enfield rifle musket – which has been pronounced by the officers of the regiment to be the most delicate, highly finished, and defensible weapon in the infantry service.

ARRIVAL OF THE REGIMENT IN BOSTON.

The regiment, which has been quartered at Fort Independence, came up to the city on the steamer “Nelly Baker,” the boat making two special trips for the purpose. She arrived at the foot of Long Wharf at a quarter before one o’clock, bringing Companies B, C, F, I, and K, under command of Major Gould, and then returned for the remainder of the regiment, which was finally landed in the city at a quarter past two.

As each detachment of troops left the fort, bidding adieu to quarters which have been the scene of so much happiness, they were honored with a parting salute by Sergeant Parr, the United States ordnance officer in charge of the post. The troops acknowledged the compliment with hearty cheers.

THE ESCORT.

The courtesy of escorting the regiment through the city was accepted by Colonel Leonard from the Second Battalion of Infantry, Major Ralph W. Newton, and the Old City Guard, and past members of the Fourth Battalion of Rifles under Col. Jonas H. French. The two corps paraded as a battalion, being accompanied by Gilmore’s Band, and the Old Guard by the Boston Brigade Band. The first troops which arrived remained under cover of the sheds, where they were protected from the rain until their comrades reached the wharf, when the line was formed and the regiment escorted up and down State Street, making the detour of the Old state House, through Merchants Row to Faneuil Hall.

THE COLLATION.

The hospitalities of the city were extended to the regiment by His Honor the Mayor, in the form of a collation to have been served to the men on the Common; but the storm which prevailed interrupted the programme of the march and collation, and the latter was laid on the table in the “Old Cradle of Liberty,” which the regiment reached about three o’clock. Hastily partaking of a most acceptable repast, the line was re-formed, and the regiment took up the line of

MARCH THROUGH THE CITY.

Nothing but the storm which prevailed all day prevented this regiment from receiving an ovation surpassing any which has been given to the troops going before it.

The social position of the members, the reputation which they have achieved in drill and discipline, and the fact that a majority of the officers of the regiment were representative members of some of our most popular organizations, grown up and educated amongst us, - all these circumstances conspired to ensure the regiment a most generous and enthusiastic demonstration.

The march through the city was accomplished under trying circumstances, the condition of the streets harassing the troops, encumbered as they were with overcoats and knapsacks. The route was through Merchants Row, up state and Washington Streets to the long freight depot of the Boston & Worcester Railroad, which they entered out of Harvard Street. Instead of a “sea of heads,” an ocean of umbrellas filled the streets, surging with the increase from streams of anxious spectators which poured in from every alley and by-way; and above the beating of drums and blast of horns arose the shouts of the people, cheering the brave boys who have pledged their lives in the defence of the Union. What was lacking in numbers was made up in enthusiasm by the people who lined the way. Bouquets were showered in profusion upon the troops by loving hands whose hearts went with floral tributes which they gave.

At the depot scenes occurred never to be forgotten. The fair friends of the troops were in full possession of the place, and when the regiment filed into the cars, the flying moments, which to the actors were as hours, were fraught with incidents of self-sacrifice, of womanly devotion, and manly heroism which caused the stoutest heart to quail and the sternest lip to quiver. There was no calling back of husbands, sons, and brothers, no repining, but brave words of encouragement, pious counsels, and motherly advice to the young and inexperienced volunteer as the final good-by and “God bless you” was spoken.

THE DEPARTURE.

The train left the depot at precisely five o’clock, amid the cheers of thousands of people who filled the side tracks and covered the bridges under which the train passed. The baggage-wagons and horses of the regiment were sent forward in advance of the troops. In this latter respect the regiment fared as well as those who have preceded it. The regiment carried with it two stands of color, consisting of a State and National flag, which were presented to them by the State without ceremony, just as they were leaving the city.

THE REGIMENTAL ROSTER.

Colonel	Samuel H. Leonard, of Boston.
Lieutenant-Colonel	N. Walter Batchelder, of Boston.
Major	Jacob Parker Gould, of Stoneham.
Adjutant	David H. Bradlee, of Boston.
Quartermaster	George E. Craig, of Boston.
Surgeon	Allston W. Whitney, of Boston.
Assistant Surgeon	J. Theodore Heard, of Boston.
Chaplain	Noah M. Gaylord, of Boston.

The following is a list of the officers of the regiment:

Company A. – Captain, James A. Fox; First Lieutenant, Samuel N. Neat; Second Lieutenant, George Bush.
Company B. – Captain, Joseph S. Cary; First Lieutenant, John G. Hovey; Second Lieutenant, Augustus N. Sampson.
Company C. – Captain, John Kurtz; First Lieutenant, William H. Jackson; Second Lieutenant, Walter H. Judson.

Company D. – Captain, Augustine Harlow; First Lieutenant, Charles H. Hovey; Second Lieutenant, William H. Cary.
Company E. – Captain, Charles R. M. Pratt; First Lieutenant, Joseph Colburn; Second Lieutenant, Edwin R. Frost.
Company F. – Captain, Henry Whitcomb; First Lieutenant Abel H. Pope; Second Lieutenant, Charles F. Morse.
Company G. – Captain, Eben W. Fiske; First Lieutenant, Loring S. Richardson; Second Lieutenant, John Foley.
Company H.- Captain, William L. Clarke; First Lieutenant, Perry D. Chamberlain; Second Lieutenant, Francis Jenks.
Company I. – Captain, Charles H. R. Schreiber; First Lieutenant, Moses P. Palmer; Second Lieutenant, David Brown.
Company K. – Captain, William P. Blackmer; First Lieutenant, William B. Bacon; Second Lieutenant, Charles B. Fox.

ON THE ROAD.

After leaving the station of the Boston & Worcester Railroad the regiment was greeted with cheers and fluttering handkerchiefs all along the route to Worcester. The citizens of the towns on the road seemed to have been on the watch for the train, and as the regiment went quickly past they improved the short time by the most energetic demonstration of good-will. It was a considerable distance beyond the city that the members of the regiment took a last look of Boston friends. Far out on the Back Bay lands were a considerable number of ladies and gentlemen who seemed to vie with each other in their exertions to cheer the departing soldiers. “Good-by, boys, - keep up the reputation of the Thirteenth,” were words earnestly impressed upon the minds of the men; and they promised to do all in their power to answer the expectations of the friends of the regiment.

Every house near the railroad was filled with ladies, as the train passed through Brighton, who flung their handkerchiefs back and forth, and seemed anxious to be counted among the well-wishers of those who got to fight for our country. Thus it was at Newton and Natick, and at the latter place large numbers were collected at the railway station, as if desirous to have the train stop; but it whirled past, and many relations of the Natick company were probably deprived of an opportunity to say a parting word to them. The first stop of the train was at

FRAMINGHAM.

As the train drew near, it was greeted with the booming of cannon and ringing of bells. There were several thousand ladies and gentlemen gathered at the station from Marlboro’, Natick, and other adjoining towns, from which several companies of the regiment came. A tarry of ten minutes was well improved by the soldiers, many of whom were engaged in farewells to relatives; while others improved the opportunity to replenish their canteens with what had been provided for them. Had there been a probability of longer stay, still further provision would have been made by the Framingham people for the comfort of the soldiers. As it was, the reception was warm and enthusiastic, and the men left with a renewed feeling of sadness for those left behind. The train arrived at Framingham at six o’clock, and at ten minutes past six it was again whirling away towards Worcester.

At Westboro’, in which town company K was organized, the speed of the train was slackened, and went through the village so slowly as to allow the citizens and the soldiers to take leave of each other. The train then hurried on.

RECEPTION AT WORCESTER.

The regiment arrived in Worcester at half-past seven o’clock, while preparations had been made to give the soldiers a collation. This was prompted in part by the fact that Colonel Leonard was formerly a resident of that city, and has a large number of personal and warm friends there. The cars passed from Worcester to Norwich Railroad, and stopped just beyond the Common. The regiment then filed out and marched round to Main Street, where an escort was waiting to receive them.

The escort consisted of several companies from the Fifteenth and Twenty-first Regiments, as follows : Fifteenth Regiment, Company B, Capt. J.W. Kimball; Company E, Capt. Charles H. Watson; Company E, Capt. Charles H. Watson; Company D, Capt. Charles H. Foster; Company G, Capt. Walter Forsband. Of the Twenty-first : Company G, Capt. Addison A. Walker; Company D, Lieut. C. S. Foster in command. The whole was under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Ward, of the Fifteenth Regiment. The regimental band of the latter regiment headed the escort.

The column marched up Main Street and returned to City Hall, where a collation was in waiting. Main Street was crowded with people, but it was growing dark, and they did not have a good opportunity to see the regiment. They were, however, disposed to praise Colonel Leonard’s command very highly.

THE COLLATION.

On account of the unfavorable weather the arrangements to prepare a collation on the Common were changed, and the City Hall was taken for that purpose.

There was not as much room in this building as was necessary for the whole regiment, and in consequence but five companies were entertained at a time. The collation was prepared liberally, under the supervision for a committee of the citizens, who had received aid from the city government. In the hall were major-General Morse and staff and other prominent individuals, including the mayor of the city. Colonel Leonard and staff were made to realize that they have a host of friends in Worcester.

On the entrance of the colonel to the hall he was presented with a beautiful bouquet by the ladies present. About an hour was consumed in the hall, when the soldiers left and marched back to the cars under escort. At shortly before half-past nine o’clock the train was again in motion, and it moved away amid the drowning cheers of the multitude.

Blog in Real Time - July 25, 1861 - Post #32

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Following the Battle of Bull Run, July 21, both sides wondered what would come next. President Lincoln decided to bring more men forward and strengthen forces in the Shenandoah Valley. Major General Nathaniel P. Banks was appointed commander of the Department of the Shenandoah July 25. The 13th Mass. meanwhile, still drilling at Fort Independence would receive orders to report to General Banks in Western Maryland.

The following is from the defunct website, "Letters of the Civil War" by Tom Hayes.

LETTERS OF THE CIVIL WAR.

JULY 25, 1861.

Presentation. – Capt. C. R. M. Pratt, of Co., E, Thirteenth Regiment of Rifles, is to be surprised this afternoon, at the camp at Fort Independence, by the presentation of an army regulation sword, with sash, belt, shoulder-piece, and other accoutrements, all of the finest workmanship. A number of store-keepers in the vicinity of Webster Hall, are the donors, and intend it as a mark of their esteem, to an able and efficient commander, in Col. Leonard’s famous Rifle Regiment.

The new uniforms of this regiment have been received, and 13th will be sent to join the grand army in a few days.

The following official appointments have been made in the Roxbury Rifle Company: – Captain, C. R. M. Pratt; 1st Lieut., J. Colburn; 2d Lieut., Edwin Frost; all of this city. (Roxbury City Gazette; July 25, 1861; pg. 2, col. 5.)

Blog in Real Time - July 16, 1861 - Post #31

2011-07-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

On this date, the 10 rifle companies garrisoned at Fort Independence, in Boston Harbor, were mustered into Federal Service as the Thirteenth Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, to serve a 3 year term of enlistment.

I'm not sure when officers were elected, but Captain Jacob Parker Gould, of the Stoneham, 'Grey Eagles' Rifle Company, (company G) was elected Major, beating out Captain James A. Fox, (company A) the favorite of the 4th Battalion of Rifles, (companies A - D).

Some original officers from the 'country towns' were replaced with Boston men. In his memoirs, Sgt. Austin C. Stearns of Company K, wrote:

On the 16th of July, about 10 A.M., Company K was marched up to the Fort, and there took the oath that made us Uncle Sam's soldiers. I noticed, as we marched in, a boyish looking fellow with a tall hat on, who followed us, and also Charles B. Fox, a Sergeant of Company B, but did not think they were to be our Lieutenants, but such was the case.

Our old Lieutenants were allowed to go where they pleased. Greenwood (Abner Greenwood) went in K as a Sergeant, Sanderson (John) as a Sergeant in C, while Winslow (Charles P.) and Bullard (Ethan) went home.

William B. Bacon (pictured) was the name of the boyish looking fellow; he was mustered in as our 1st Lieutenant. I have nothing to say about the old Lieutenants, only this: I think they were used as mean as men could be, and I justify them in the course they took. I do not know who was responsible for this. Fox was a good man and officer, and always treated the men as men. Bacon, as far as he knew, did the same, but he was a young man, just from school, without any knowledge or experience of the great principles one should have who is called upon to command. In fact he was a boy; boyish principles and boyish impulses governed all his acts. To put such a boy in command over men who were better qualified, as far as age, experience, and knowledge of human nature, was one of the fatal mistakes of the Executives of Mass. in the early days of the war, and I have no hesitation is saying that full one fourth of the men who marched into the Fort that morning were better qualified to be commissioned than he.

NOTE: Sanderson is John C. Sanderson, (pictured) later promoted 1st Lt., and still later in the war, a Captain of the veteran 59th Mass. Vols. Charles P. Winslow is listed as original 1st Lt. of the company, later 1st Lt. in the 51st Reg., Capt. in the Unattached Co. Infantry, and Capt. in 4th Reg. Heavy Artillery. May have been in other regiments as well. Ethan Bullard was original 2nd Lt. of Company. (From Three Years With Company K, by Austin C. Stearns, (deceased) edited by Arthur Kent, Assoc. Univ. Press., 1976.)

I do not have complete information on the origins of all the officers but Companies A-E kept their original Captains. In Company F, from Marlboro, Captain Abel H. Pope was reduced a rank to 1st Lt. Captain. Henry Whitcomb taking command of the company. In Co. G, Eben Fiske replaced Jacob Gould as Captain, Gould having been elected Major of the 13th Mass. In Company H, William H. Clarke of Boston replaced Capt. Perry Chamberlain who was reduced a rank to 1st Lt. In Co. I, Capt. R. L. Shriber would be assigned Captain on July 29. Moses Palmer was reduced a rank to 1st Lt. Company K retained its Captain, William Blackmer, but rec'd the two new officers mentioned in Stearns narrative above.

Seniority is the usual means for promotion and since all officers had the same muster in date of July 16, Col. Leonard determined seniority would be established by Company, A being first, K being last. This would create some tension within the ranks as will be seen in the future. For an ambitious officer like Charles B. Fox, 2nd Lt. of K, it left little chance for advancement.

{There won't be many more 'real time posts' until July 25, then after that July 29. Things should pick up in August).

Also, If you are enjoying these posts please let me know because the increased frequency of posts may become difficult to maintain in the near future. Thanks.

Blog in Real Time - July 11, 1861 - Post #30

2011-07-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

The following is from the defunct website "Letters of the Civil War" by Tom Hayes.

LETTERS OF THE CIVIL WAR.

JULY 11, 1861.

The advent of the Roxbury Rifle Company among us on the Fourth it is said, took some of our citizens completely by surprise. Their discipline and general appearance having exceeded the most ardent expectations, which gained for them the bestowal of many favors, and the unqualified approbation of all. In the afternoon, the committee on celebrating the day, gave them a fine dinner at the Norfolk House, after which a few hours were spent in a convivial manner, speeches and songs forming no insignificant part of the entertainment.

Alderman Burrill, Councilman Morse, Lieut. Pratt, and others, were among the speakers. These festive ceremonies over, they proceeded to Mt. Pleasant, for drill, where they astonished their many friends by the faultless execution of their various evolutions, especially in wheeling in double quick time. From there they proceeded to Meeting House Hill, where they went through with similar movements, which elicited hearty applause.

At about seven o’clock, they took the Metropolitan cars for Boston, but on arriving at Long Wharf, where they were to embark for Fort Independence, received permission from the Adjutant of the battalion, to remain until morning, which they were not unwilling to do.

Too much cannot be said in praise of this company, the members of which are nearly all young and robust men, who do honor to our city and to themselves. (Roxbury City Gazette; July 11, 1861; pg. 2, col. 3.)

NOTE: the next "blog in real time" post may not arrive until July 25.

Blog in Real Time - July 5, 1861 - Post #29

2011-07-05T23:04:00.000-07:00

The following is from the defunct website, "Letters of the Civil War" by Tom Hayes.

Excursion to Fort Independence

In consequence of the desire of our City Government to avoid everything that has the least tendency to a prodigality in the expenditure of the public money, they have this year concluded to forego the usual annual excursion down the harbor. On last Friday afternoon they did, however, make a trip in that direction, under circumstances that rendered the excursion highly appropriate. The military committee of the City Government having been tendered the use of the Steamer Henry Morrison, by the City Government of Boston, for the purpose of visiting Fort Independence, the offer was accepted, and His Honor the Mayor, with the other members of the City Government, proceeded thither. As is well known, the Fourth Battalion are quartered here, including the Roxbury Rifle Company. The visitors were much please with their entertainment at the Fort, and especially with the dress parade of the battalion under Major Leonard, which proved the Major to be a thoroughly competent officer, and the “right man in the right place.” During the absence of the Major, occasioned by the reception of the five new companies that have been added to complete the regiment, Capt. N. Walter Batchelder of Company B. acted in the capacity of Major, to whom, as well as to Capt. James A. Fox of Company A., the visiting party were indebted for many kind attentions.

The oldest commissioned officer in the Thirteenth Regiment is Capt. Hobart Moore of Natick, – Capt. Batchelder being the next in order. It is understood that the latter will be appointed either Lieut. Colonel or Major General. E. W. Stone, in his official capacity as Master of the ordnance department, also visited the Fort for the purpose of examining the ordnance. In this capacity he holds the rank of a Colonel, with a salary of fifteen hundred dollars.

As the boat was departing on the return trip, Lieut Col. I. H. Burrill, proposed three cheers for Major Leonard, and his battalion, and they were given in an enthusiastic manner, being responded to by three rousing cheers from the Battalion.

[Digital Transcription by James Burton]

Blog in Real Time - July 4, 1861 - Post #28

2011-07-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

     On July 4th, the 4th Battalion of Rifles acted as escort for the city of Boston Government, in the annual 4th of July parade. In Roxbury, the "Roxbury Rifles" put on an exhibition for their hometown.

From "Three Years In The Army" by Charles E. Davis, Jr., Boston, Estes & Lariat, 1894;

     We were up early the morning of the “Fourth” brushing clothes, blacking boots, and making other preparations for the day’s jubilee. We were well tanned by constant exposure to the sun, giving appearance of health and vigor, our uniforms fitting perfectly, with the addition of white collars, and our guns and bayonets in excellent order, so that we made a very satisfactory appearance. As we stood in line inside the fort, we all felt how much was at stake in competing with the two battalions with whom we were to parade. We were told to eat a hearty breakfast, for we had a hard day’s work before us; but what a breakfast that was, and what murmurs of indignation were expressed as we flung the mouldy toast and the mild dilution of coffee at the cook-room! It was too unsavory for us, so we went without it, though the time came, months after, when we wished that we might have some of that same toast.

    We were escorted to the boat by the other companies of the regiment, who expressed their generous wishes for our success. They were quite as anxious for our credit as we were, and the hearty cheers that were given as the boat left the wharf testified the good feeling that existed, and which continued during the whole three years of our service, and indeed has never ceased to exist.

Upon our arrival in Boston it became known that we had come to town without a breakfast, and while halting in front of the Parker House kind friends supplied the deficiency. All along the route of seven miles we were greeted with demonstrations of great kindness and hospitality. It was a day never to be forgotten. The enthusiasm of the people excited us to do our best, and we never did better. Our two months of constant daily drilling enabled us to make a very creditable appearance. The enthusiasm with which we were everywhere greeted was due to the fact that we were part of a regiment soon to leave for the seat of war; for at that time the patriotic feeling was at its whitest heat. It was a hot day, the thermometer at 104; but our daily work out of doors enabled us to make the march with the loss of only one or two men, while the other battalions suffered much more than we did from the intense heat.

After the parade we were furloughed until the following morning, when the battalion returned to the fort to meet the kindly greeting of the companies who were already aware of the success achieved by the five companies, through the newspapers, which were extravagant in their words of praise.

Blog in Real Time - July 2, 1861 - Post #27

2011-07-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

The following is from the defunct website "Letters of the Civil War" by Tom Hayes.

ROXBURY CITY GAZETTE
JULY 5, 1861, (p. 2, col. 5)

FORT INDEPENDENCE, BOSTON HARBOR,
Quarters 13th (Rifles) Regiment,
July 2d, 1861.

MR. EDITOR. – Knowing well the deep interest that is taken in the 13th Regiment, and the especial regard paid to the several companies of which it is composed, I am prompted by a sense of duty to inform its many friends, through the columns of your luminous sheet, of its present condition, location, and future prospects, so far as known to your humble servant.

For the past few weeks we have been favored with fair weather, so that we have rarely been interrupted in our daily exercises. There has been the appearance of a storm for the past few days, and we arose this morning to find the premonition true. It rained quite hard during the night, and still continues. This will test, to a certain degree, the utility of the Sibly tents, which are pitched outside the Fort, and we think they will prove their efficiency.

These tents are occupied by the five new companies which arrived here on Saturday last. By this arrangement the 4th Battalion and the Roxbury company are not disturbed. Four of the companies are on the southerly side of the Fort, and one is located just outside the sallie port. Of the new companies, two are from Marlborough, one from Westborough and Sudbury, and one from Natick. These companies are composed of fine looking men, and their very appearance does honor to the towns from whence they came.

The 4th Battalion is to do escort duty in Boston on the coming fourth, and it is understood that company E. of Roxbury will visit that city sometime during the day. The new additional forces will be left in command.

This regiment is to be uniformed alike throughout before leaving the State. The uniform is said to be somewhat of a Zouave style, with light blue overcoats. When fully equipped we flatter ourselves we shall confer honors upon the State from whence we hail, not only before our departure, but enroute for the seat of war, and on the battle field, if we are favored with such a privilege. It will not be on account of our appearance and efficiency alone, but those enobling qualities which in every respect characterizes true manhood.

The superiority of our officers throughout, in regard to military discipline, and as gentleman, is unquestionable. They are too well known to need comment. Major Leonard is a favorite of the regiment, and we think no one could fill his place satisfactorily.

The best of feeling exists between the different companies, and a happier lot of boys is seldom seen. Camp songs are all the rage, and musical instruments of every description are in abundance. At times our boys are very operatic, but oftentimes the banjo, tamborine and bones take the place, and a regular clog dance and other negro peculiarities come off much to the amusement of the immense audiences present. A little more practice and Morris Brothers and all other minstrelsy will be altogether in the shade. We are progressing rapidly, and it is expected we shall be prepared to leave sometime during the month.

Not wishing to occupy too much space in your paper, I will close without further remark.

Yours occasionally,

RANGER.

Letter of John B. Noyes, Company B.
John Buttrick Noyes, (1838-1908) Civil War Letters; Houghton Library, Harvard College; used with permission.

Fort Independence, July 2d 1861

Dear Martha

I received your note this P.M. immediately after our Battalion drill. I haven’t time to write you at any length, as I wish to have this note go by the 6 o clock boat. I wish to have my duds washed and sent back as soon as possible, together with my boots. The blue shirt is too large in every way & I intended to give some directions as to its alteration. Perhaps mother can alter it to suit herself and me. Make it so as to fit George. You ought to go to Boston to see us. I believe we parade at about 9 A.M., but am not certain. I will get a furlough and talk over matters after the 4^th of July. Mother need not be depressed. I am not obliged to go; and if I were, for my own comfort to look no further, the position of private in our Regiment is much better than that of officer in most of our Regiments. In the First Regiment C. F. Walcott could find no decent society among the officers; the privates in our company are mostly sons of men in good circumstances thrown out of profitable employment by the crisis. The rest of our Reg’t. has now come to the Fort. The men are in every way superior to most volunteer soldiers. They are farmers, and sons of farmers, and of American parentage. The exclamations “by gosh,” “darn it” show their birth places. One of them dipped his hands into the harbor water, licked it, and wanted to know if he had got to drink that water! There is a rumor that Maj. Foster of Salem is to be our Colonel; if that be so, he will have no 4^th Battalion as Major Leonard is our unanimous choice for that position. But I have no fear that Leonard will be rejected.

Good by for the present.

Yours Affectionately

John B. Noyes

Letter of James Ramsey, Company E

Fort Independence July 2^nd1861

Dear Mother I am well and I like it here very much, now I amaquanted I think I will come home someday next week The company talks of goingto Roxbury next Fourth of July if they do not get our new uniforms we willcome to Bostonwith the fourth Batallion. We will mostprobably go to Roxbury. I will not havea chance to go out of the ranks. I wenton guard this morning for 24 hours Iwill get releived to morrow morning at 8 O’clock. We commenced to draw pay Saturday we have our regular allowance of food we are to have no more butter and thelike. Yesterday Col Lenard received adispatch to be ready to move from the fort at 24 hours notice if we do we willgo into camp before we go south. Thewhole regiment are to have a full zouave uniform.

Give my love to all

From your son

PS I have not received a letter yet.

Blog in Real Time - July 1, 1861 - Post #26

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The following is from the now defunct website "Letters of the Civil War" by Tom Hayes.

BOSTON HERALD
July 1, 1861 (page 2, column 2).

The Thirteenth (Rifle) Regiment at Fort Independence.

The five companies from Marlborough, Sudbury, Natick and Westborough, which, together with the Fourth Battalion of Riflemen and the Roxbury Rifle Company, form the new Thirteenth Regiment, went down to Fort Independence Saturday afternoon in the steamer Nelly Baker. The several companies reported themselves to Major Leonard, on the Common, and under his command marched down to the boat, which left at half past two o'clock. - The Natick and Marlborough firemen, who escorted the companies from those towns into Boston, marched down to the wharf in the rear of the military, and gave their friends some parting cheers as the boat left.

Capt. Hobart Moore, of the Natick company, resigned his commission Saturday morning on account of ill health, and 1st Lieut. Terry (Perry?) D. Chamberlain was in command.

The battalion was handsomely received by the soldiers already at the Fort, and the men, soon after their arrival, set about putting their camp in order.

All five companies are encamped outside the Fort; Co. F, of Marlborough, Capt. Pope, upon the southerly side, nearly opposite the sallyport, and the others upon the easterly side of the Fort, Co. H, of Natick, and Co. I, of Marlborough, being located upon the high plat of ground, and Co. K, of Marlborough, and Co. G, of Sudbury, upon the lower. All have the Sibley tents.

The 4th Battalion and the Roxbury company remain in the same quarters as before, the former inside the Fort, and the latter in the building outside.

The regiments lack about 200 men of being full. The new arrivals reported as follows: Co. F, 90 men; Co. G, 64 men; Co. H, 79 men; Co. I, 90 men; Co. K, 101 men. The Boston companies could be filled up at very short notice, and the orders for that purpose will probably be given in a few days. Major Leonard will have a splendid regiment. We all know what the Fourth Rifle Battalion is, and the new acquisition are of the right stamp. Of course they are at present lack the drill and discipline which the Boston Battalion has had an opportunity to obtain, but that they will make good advancement in military science we have no doubt.

The rank of the commanding officers of the Regiment, according to the dates of their commissions, is as follows:- Capt. Batchelder, of Co. B; Capt. Fox, of Co. A; Capt. Pope, of Co. F; Capt. Kurtz, Co. C; Capt. Blackmer, of Co. K; Capt. Harlow, of Co. D; Capt. Palmer, of Co. I; Capt. Jones, of Co. G; Lieut. Chamberlain, of Co. H; Lieut. Pratt, of Co. E.

The regimental line will be subsequently formed thus:-

1-6-4-9-3-8-5-10-7-2

B-D-C-H-F-G-K-E-I-A

    The following is a roster of the five companies which arrived at the Fort Saturday:-
    Co. F, Marlborough Captain, Abel H. Pope; 1st Lieut., John T Whittier; 2d, Charles F. Morse; 3d, Donald Ross; 4th, Rufus H. Brigham.
    Co. G, Sudbury-Captain, Abel G. Jones; 1st. Lieut., Joel Parmenter; 2d, Marshall Davis; 3d, Lenan Willey; 4th, W. H. Benham.
    Co. H, Natick-Captain (vacancy); 1st Lieutenant, Perry D. Chamberlain; 2d, A. W. Pray; 3d, Francis Jenks; 4th, Joseph Adams.
    Co. I, Marlborough-Captain, Moses P. Palmer; 1st lieutenant, David L. Brown; 2d, Alfred G. Howe; 3d, Samuel D. Witt; 4th, (vacancy).
    Co. K, Westborough -Captain, William P. Blackmer; 1st Lieutenant, Charles P. Winslow; 2d, Ethan Bullock; 3d, John Sanderson; 4th, Abner Greenwood.

1st Lieutenant Palmer, of Co. G, has resigned, but his resignation has not been accepted.

Blog in Real Time - June 29, 1861 - Post #25

2011-06-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

It was on this day, that the remaining five rifle companies joined the Roxbury Rifle Company, and the 4th Battalion of Rifles at Fort Independence. The 10 rifle companies that would make up the 13th Mass. Vols. came together for the first time.

In the afternoon, Major Leonard met the 5 new companies on Boston Common and escorted them to the ferry dock where the steamer "Nellie Baker" took them to Fort Independence. (The July 1 post will have more information.) The two companies from Marlboro, with the Westboro Rifles, Natick Mechanic Rifles, and Stoneham's Grey Eagles were enthusiastically received by the men they were joining.

The following description of Company K, comes from the History of Westboro.

Westborough - COMPANY K

After weeks of preparation, on the 29th of June the Rifle Company departed to Fort Independence, Boston Harbor, and on the 16th of July was mustered into service for three years as Company K, Thirteenth Regiment, Mass. Vols. The following Westborough men were in the ranks: -

William P. Blackmer, Captain.
William B. Kimball, First Sergeant.
Abner R. Greenwood, Sergeant.
William W. Fay, Sergeant.
William R. Warner, Sergeant.
Augustus Allen, Corporal.
John Jones, Corporal.
William H. Sibley, Corporal.
Alfred L. Sanborn, Corporal.
Melzar G. Turner, Corporal.
Sidney Barstow.
Isaiah H. Beals.
Charles R. Brigham.
Harrison M. Brigham.
Francis A. Brigham.
Emory Bullard.
John S. Burnap.
Thomas copeland.
John Copeland.
John H. Crowley.
Wallace H. Cushman.
Ira L. Donovan.
George R. Douglas.
Charles Drayton.
George F. Emery.
Joseph H. Fairbanks.
Hollis H. Fairbanks.
Henry A. Fairbanks.
Charles M. Fay.
John Fly.
William H. Forbush.
John Glidden.
George C. Haraden.
Frank A. Harrington.
Lyman Haskell.
Hiram G. Hodgkins.
John Lackey.
Edward Lee.
Alden Lovell.
Michael Lynch.
Chandler Robbins.
Harvey C. Ross.
John W. Sanderson.
James Slattery.
Frank L. Stone.
Melvin H. Walker.
Stephen Warren.
Charles H. Williams.

In Company C
Spencer Chamberlain.
George B. Searles.

In Company E.
John Burns.

At the time of its organization the company had made choice of the following officers, who had been duly commissioned by Governor Andrew ; captain, William P. Blackmer, the pastor of the Methodist Church ; first lieutenant, Charles P. Winslow ; second lieutenant, Ethan Bullard ; third lieutenant, John W. Sanderson ; fourth lieutenant, Abner R Greenwood. As only tow lieutenants were allowed in the United states service, changes in the roll of officers soon became necessary. Captain Blackmer retained his commission. The positions of first and second lieutenants were given respectively to William B. Bacon, of Worcester, and Charles B. Fox, of Dorchester. Lieutenants Winslow and Bullard withdrew temporarily from the service ; Lieutenant Sanderson enlisted in Company C of the same (thirteenth) regiment, was appointed orderly sergeant, and afterwards was promoted to first lieutentant ; and Lieutenant Greenwood remained as second sergeant in Company K.

Blog in Real Time - June 28, 1861 - Post #24

2011-06-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

John Buttrick Noyes, (1838-1908) Civil War Letters; Houghton Library, Harvard College; used with permission.

Fort Independence,Boston Harbor June 28, 1861

Dear George,

Tomorrow theother rifle battalions which are to form with us the 13^th Regt(Riflemen) of the M.V.M. come down to the fort. The Major meets these battalions on Boston Common at 3 P.M. So you can see them if you care to.

Wednesday Tower’s (N.A. Rev.) school came down tothe fort and saw our dress parade at 5:30 P.M. The wind blew furiouslyso that you could hardly keep in line, and hear but indistinctly the orders, sothat the parade was not very good in a military point of view. The girls liked it though, and the more sofrom the contrast between things here and at Fort Warrenfrom which they had come here. I foundtwo or three Boston friends among the girls and MissDixwell’ (3d) of Cambridge. It is the general remark that no objectioncould be made to the advent of Tower’s School on every visiting day during ourstay here. Yesterday we received fatiguepants, a blue shirt, brogans, & towel. Co.C signed 3 year enlistment papers also. I think we shall wait to see what officerswe are to serve under before we sign. Weshall probably be mustered into the service in about 10 days, and start for thesouth within a months time. I shall notprobably go to Cambridgebefore Commencement day. Let me knowwhen that is to be.

We are to beescort to the City Government of Boston 4^th of July. You will then have a chance of seeingus. Our selection as escort is quite acompliment to us & our efficiency in drill. If you know any first rate fellows who want to join our Battalion sendthem down here at once as we are filling up to our complement of 101 men. We haven’t any room however for any Irishmenor unmitigated roughs. I shall send myvalise to Adams’ Express office to day ortomorrow, and I should like to have you call there and take it. Let Mother get the duds ready as soon aspossible. I will enclose a letter withdirections.

Withlove to all,

YoursTruly John B. Noyes

Blog in Real Time - June 27, 1861 - Post #23

2011-06-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

LETTER OF JAMES RAMSEY

Ramsey's stint with the 'Tigers' over at Fort Warren came to an end. He probably had to scramble to find a new organization to join, when the Tigers services were not excepted by the Governor. The quota of the required number of organizations called for by the president, were filling up quickly. Ramsey found an opening in the Roxbury Rifle Company, which became Company E, of the 13th Mass. He arrived at Fort Independence, June 26, 1861.

Fort Independence June 27th 1861
Dear Mother I am very well. I arrived safely at the fort yesterday morning at about ten o’clock. I was in such a hurry that I forgot my penholder. I like the rifle drill very much we only drill four hours a day and it is a great deal easier than infantry. I enjoy myself very much here better than I did at fort Warren because it is a great deal pleasanter. I hope you will come down to the fort. I signed the papers showing that I was willing to serve three years we expect to be sworn into the United States service soon. The rest of the regiment are expected to be at the Fort this week. It is a great deal cooler here than in the city there is a cool wind comes over the water every evening. At night you can here (sic) the sentinels cry out the hour and say all is well they here (sic) the clocks in the city strike. This morning they made a mistake and cried the hour of five to (sic) soon about a half an hour. I may come to the city in about a week. Give my love to all. Kiss Hugh for me.
From your son.

Blog in Real Time - June 26, 1861 - Post #22

2011-06-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

Catching Up
I've neglected the blog in real time series for June, so I'll post a few pieces today to catch up.
The 4th Battalion of Rifles and the Roxbury Rifle Company, (Five companies that would become the nucleus of the 13th Regiment) were busy drilling at Fort Independence since arriving there in late May for garrison duty. The rifle companies organized in the other towns,(Marlboro, Stoneham, Westboro, and Natick) had not yet had their services accepted or been assigned. The Westboro Rifle Company was about to disband, when orders to report to Fort Independence were received on June 25. These companies would arrive at the fort June 29.

The following newspaper columns will serve to get us caught up with events.

The following two transcriptions were downloaded from the now defunct website, "Letters of the Civil War" which was run by Tom Hayes. Photos of the fort are by Boston Photographer Sarah Kizina.

CHELSEA TELEGRAPH and PIONEER, June 8, 1861, (Pg. 2, Col. 5.)

Puff! Puff! Puff! went the little steamer, as she ploughed her way through thewater that formed around her path, glancing merrily in the sunshine. A widesheet there was, spreading all around her shinning, sparkling blue, dotted hereand there with white sails, swelling in the breeze. With what a surpassinggracefulness does yonder tiny craft glide upon this summer sea. And there isanother, and another, spreading its white wings as though full of life andrejoicing in strength.

It seems but afew minutes, and we are standing on shore of this fair island. The bustlinglittle steamer has passed on, and the waters are rippling quietly at our feet.We hear in the distance the soft dashing of oars, and around us we see rowboats manned by sun-brown oarsmen.

Behind us risethe walls of the Fort. Peaceful enough is all without, and over flowing withimages of beauty; but within-we will enter.

Here we see thebomb-proof walls, with their deep casements,-the openings for the heavy guns,the smaller apertures for the musketry,-the heaps of cannon balls, the stacksof deadly shells,-the stern preparations (if it must be) for deadly conflict.And now, through the broad gateway, we enter the area within. Here are themustering soldiers: they fall duly into their ranks, and a hundred men aremoved like one. The whole seems to be animated by one soul, swayed by one will.Now, as the word of command goes forth, the whole move onward with geometricalexactness, and again they are standing still as automatons. Again, at anotherword, one bearing his country's flag comes forward, and the flag-bearer isescorted with music and martial attendances as he bears it to its place. As itssilken folds wave in the summer air, what heart goes not out after it in tenderreverence! It embodies all of that we know of our country's history. It speaksto us of a nation's birth and a nation's growth; of past days and conflict. Ittells, too, of years of peace and prosperity; of competence security enjoyed;of happy homes; where war has til now been undreamed of; of the means tosustain those homes, won by patient toil and manly enterprise. It tells to-dayof that sublimest sight the world has seen, when, that banner having beendraggled in the dust, millions rush to the rescue, not counting the cost of theNation could be saved.

We have learnedmuch in a short time. It has been imaged that this people had out-grownwar,-that the terrible science, among ourselves at least, was become anobsolete thing. The nation has been supposed to be too far advanced inChristianity and civilization, and the arts of peaceful life ever to seek theexcitement of war. We have been at ease, and have followed the peacefulpursuits that distinguish a prosperous people.

But the summonshas gone forth. When did ever a nation hold back so long in moving to crushrebellion among her children? Was ever war more entirely unsought? Was evercause, in the sight of God and man, more just? Was ever conflict more sacred inthe eye of eternal truth and right?

It is writtenthat the time shall come when the science of war shall cease to be learned; theact shall no more be practised. There shall come such a day; but only throughscenes of battle, and garments rolled in blood,-forever til the strong manlearns that his strength is for the protection and safety of the weak, ratherthan for their oppression, will the sound of war cease from earth.

But the visit isover, and we must go home. There is a flush of sunset upon the waters, andagain, after a delicious sail of half an hour, we are landed.

M.A.C.

ROXBURY CITY GAZETTE; June 13,1861; pg. 2, col. 3.)

It was outpleasure on last Saturday afternoon, in company with a party consisting of themembers of the Old City Guard of Boston and their families, to visit the FourthBattalion of Rifles at Fort Independence, andwitnessed the presentation of a beautiful silk flag to the Battalion. TheGermania Band accompanied the party.

Though theweather wasn't the most comfortable, it being rainy, the garrison went throughthe review, presentation and dress parade in a creditable manner, and elicietedunqualified praise of the spectators.

The battalionwas reviewed by Gen. Tyler, Cols. Thompson and French, Capt. Bird of the"Old City Guard," Capt. Holmes of the Boston Independent Cadets.After the review, the troops being formed in close company on three sides, MajorLeonard advanced, and the ensign being placed conspicuously in front of theline, read a letter of presentation from Messrs. Hogg, Brown and Taylor, inwhich they stated that they presented the banner, "knowing that you willnobly bear your part in the struggle, to wipe from it every stain, and againfling it to the breeze from the summit of every State."

Major Leonardresponded in behalf of the Battalion, with appropriate sentiments and eloquentwords. "If," said he, "it should be our good fortune to benumbered among those of whom in future days it should be said that with thatdetermined and unwavering bravery which vaults not myself, they breaded a waveof revolt which threatened the destruction not only of our lives and our homes,but of the grandest government which the world has ever seen, rest assured thatthe considerate friends who have by this presentation, inspired us with a newincentive to honorable achievement's, shall not have occasioned to feel theblush of shame for any deeds of ours."

In conclusionthe Major called for three cheers for the American flag, which were given withan enthusiasm that could not be mistaken.

The affair was a pleasant onethroughout, and all returned well satisfied with their visit. We tender outthanks to Lieuts. Pratt and Colburn for the many kind attentions bestowed uponus during our visit.

NOTE: The flag described in thepresentation here mentioned, is probably the flag now hanging in theWestborough Memorial Library. (pictured). Lt.William R.Warner, Sgt. Austin C. Stearns and Sgt. Melville H. Walker donated itto the library in 1903.

Travel Guide

2011-06-19T18:14:00.000-07:00

A loyal reader is planning a trip back east this summer and asked me if I could suggest, a "top 10" list of Civil War sights to see, pertinent to the 13th Mass. Volunteers.

Since it is the Sesquicentenial, (I just wanted to say that word) perhaps more people would be interested in this idea, so I offer up a few suggestions.

Generally speaking, I think it would be easy to see several important sites by visiting just 2 major regions; Western Maryland (from Sharpsburg to Harper's Ferry) and Central Virginia at Fredericksburg National Battlefield Park. There are several interesting sites between the two regions, or a short distance away, but these two areas provide lots to see within a small geographical area.

Nonetheless, I'll cover more points of interest, beginning with Gettysburg, PA. I highly recommend contacting the parks or at least carefully planning your trip before visiting these places. I don't know specifically how they operate, but some guides do have particular research interests and might be more excited to share what they know about a particular aspect of a battle. You might be able to schedule a tour in advance. [Any ranger friends reading this feel free to comment.]

Gettysburg, PA

     Gettysburg would be the northern most point of interest on this tour. You could easily spend a couple of days here touring the town and battlefield. The "13th Mass." fought on Oak Ridge, north of the town, in the first days battle. They were on the extreme right of the 1st Corps line. The regiment's monument is modeled after color sergeant Roland B. Morris who was killed in action. Ninety men of the regiment were captured and about seventy made it to Cemetery Hill at the end of the day's fight. The regiment was so cut up, they were held in reserve the following two days, supporting artillery on Cemetery Hill and moving to other parts of the field as re-enforcements when needed.   Several soldiers from the regt. are buried in the National Cemetery here. The Gettysburg Battlefield sights for the 2nd and 3rd days fighting are more popular with visitors, and definitely worth seeing.   Gettysburg National Park.

     Christ Lutheran Church in the town is also connected to the history of the "13th Mass." regiment. It was established as a field hospital during the battle and many wounded men from the regiment were brought here. One of the 13th's physicians, Surgeon Edgar Parker was wounded on the church steps during the battle. He would recover from the wound at the home of Gettysburg resident Jenny McCreary.   In the summer months, a candlelight service is given inside the church, with presenters reading stories from several of the wounded men who were present at the church, including Sergeant Austin C. Stearns, Co. K, "13th Mass." You can watch some great videos about the church here: Christ Lutheran Church

     And just for the heck of it, I'd tour the free Gettysburg Museum of History, because it has such an incredible collection of artifacts from all periods of U.S. history. I follow them on facebook where they post pictures from their collection.

Western Maryland Region

In 2005 my wife and I visited Western Maryland, a region rich in Civil War history, where the 13th spent a great deal of time picketing the Potomac River along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the winter of 1861-62.   At one time, Col. Leonard was in command of all troops on the river from Harper's Ferry to Oldtown, a distance of nearly 100 miles.   I chose this area to visit because I had limited time and there are a number of interesting sites close by; some are obscure, others very famous. We enjoyed our stay in Hagerstown and Shepherdstown when we were in the area. A good local guide book I found in the Shepherdstown bookstore is "The Civil War in Washington County Maryland" by Charles S. Adams. The Western Maryland Room of the Hagerstown Library might be a good place to stop into. The staff are very knowledgeable about the area.

     Sharpsburg was the first place the regiment marched to and stayed for 2 weeks in Aug. '61, just after arriving at Hagerstown, MD from Boston. This is also the site of Antietam National Battlefield Park, so you can see the battlefield and the area where they first arrived at the same time.

   A year later, the battle of Antietam was fought in Sept., 1862. The "13th Mass". were in Hooker's First Corps, Ricketts' Division, Hartsuff's Brigade. They charged through the famous cornfield early in the morning at the start of the battle. A trail follows the same path the regiment took into the fight. Several "13th Mass." soldiers killed in the engagement are buried in the National Cemetery here, including Harvard Graduate, Samuel S. Gould, who was with the regiment only 6 days.

     Not far off is South Mountain State Battlefield Park. The 13th participated in the fight at Turner's Gap, here on the night of September 14th, 1862.

The cities of Williamsport and Hagerstown are closeby, where the regiment spent more than 4 months in the winter of '61-'62. The exact spot of the winter camp is not known to me, but I think highway 81 runs through it today. Its still a bit of a mystery. Some simple sites that might be of interest are Mrs. Ensminger's House, Dam 5, and Antietam Village.

Driving through the town of Williamsport you can see Mrs. Ensmingers house on Church Street. This is where the John Brown Bell was kept for 30 years before members of the regiment re-claimed it and brought it to Marlboro, Massachusetts. The house is a private residence, not an attraction, so this would just be a 'drive by' site.

Dam 5 of the C&O canal is up river a bit from Williamsport, a short drive in the country. The entire C&O canal towpath is a National Park. The 13th Mass. skirmished twice with Stonewall Jackson's troops in December, 1861. The second time, Stonewall himself was there directing the action of the Confederate troops. The setting is still rural. It looks much today like it did then. You can read about the fight here. There is a marker designating the skirmish. (Henry Bacon of Co. D, drew the illustration). Good reference book for this area is "Towpath Guide to the C&O Canal" by Thomas F. Hahn.

        Hancock, MD is farther to the northwest. Companies A, B, E, H, spent a month here in December 1861. Here's the link to my website. Company E had a skirmish with the Rebels at Sir John's Run a couple miles away, and in early January, Stonewall Jackson shelled the town. Companies D, C, I, and K, were rushed to the scene from Williamsport as re-enforcements. I'm not sure if there are any 'official' sites to see here, other than a drive in the country (?) but the main street of the town looks very similar to what it was in the 1860's judging from the pictures.

   From August 24 - October 30, 1861, Companies C, I & K were detached opposite the town of Harper's Ferry. (The rest of the regiment was camped farther away at Darnestown). The stay was eventful for these 3 companies. Harper's Ferry is one of the most visited National Parks. There is too much history here to mention, but the sites unique to the 13th Mass, include John Brown's Fort, where members of Co. I commandeered the bell for their fire department back home in Marlboro, Mass.; Virginius Island, location of the ruins of Herr's Mill and Bolivar Heights. When Major Jacob Parker Gould began evacuating 15,000 bushels of un-milled wheat from Herr's Mill, Lt. Col. Turner Ashby attacked to put a stop of it. Ashby's force was too late, but the Battle of Bolivar Heights ensued, Oct. 16, 1861. Visitors interested in this action might want to call the park to see if they could arrange a tour with a specific ranger interested in this more obscure battle. A good reference book for the area is "A Walker's Guide to Harper's Ferry by David T. Gilbert."

Shenandoah Valley

     Driving a short distance south into the Shenandoah Valley will take you through Martinsburg, WVA and Winchester, VA. These towns are rich in Civil War history, but the 13th's relation is much more esoteric. Martinsburg was the hometown of Samuel Derrick Webster and his brother Isaac. Two young Virginia boys with Union sentiments, not unlike others in this region with divided loyalties. Sam and Ike enlisted as drummers in the 13th Regiment when it was camped at Williamsport. After the war, Sam's diary was used as a major reference when Charles E. Davis, Jr. wrote the regimental history; "Three Years in the Army." The regiment marched through both these places as part of General N.P. Banks advance in March of 1862. In Martinsburg, members of Company D, fixed up an old steam engine from the ruined rolling stock at the Baltimore & Ohio roundhouse and took a ride up to Halltown near (Harper's Ferry) to get supplies. The over stressed steamer blew up on the return trip, trying to carry a heavy load up a slight grade about a mile from the town. You can read the story here.

     The old Courthouse in Winchester is now a Civil War Museum. Company B, bivouacked as Provost Guard during the regiments brief stay of about 2 weeks in March, 1862. Chaplain Noah Gaylord, probably the first Yankee Chaplain the citizens had seen, gave a sermon from these courthouse steps on the 'Evils of Secession' . It didn't play very well with the locals. The basement walls are covered with soldiers' graffiti. Winchester was a flash point during the war and several battles were fought here. But the humble events described are the most interesting for fans of the "13th Mass."

    The regiment also visited Front Royal, and Culpeper, Virginia, much further to the south, where the Cedar Mountain Battlefield lies. The regiment did see action at Cedar Mountain, but the fighting was mostly over when they took to the field as re-enforcements. Mostly, they endured a night time shelling by the enemy artillery, but they escaped un-harmed. The Historical Marker Database has a virtual tour of the battlefield. This was the regiment's first participation in a battle, so they thought, but I would place more importance on seeing Manassas.

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Manassas National Battlefield Park is a definite stopping place. Right now, the park is planning a re-enactment for the Sesquicentennial of the battle of Bull Run. Its coming up in about 6 weeks, but if you hurry you can still get tickets. The 13th Mass. was still at Fort Independence in Boston, when the first battle of Bull Run was fought in July, 1861. They were however actively engaged in the 2nd Battle of Bull Run a year later. There is a trail and marker on Chinn Ridge where the regiment was heavily engaged on August 30, 1862. This was a terrible engagement for the men and their first major battle, surrounded on three sides and outnumbered 10 to 1. Thirty-eight men were killed and countless others wounded during their brief stand here. Here's the brigade marker courtesy of my 'cyber friend' Craig Swain, and the Historical Marker Database. Other relevant markers are available to view here too.

Fredericksburg National Battlefield Park

     I've been through or to some of the sites described above, but I have never been to the Fredericksburg National Park. This park encompasses 4 significant battlefields, and other interesting campaign sites all in one place. And of course they have special events planned for the sesquicentennial.    I would think this site would be a primary destination for those interested in the history of the regiment . The 4 battlefields at the park are Fredericksburg, Chancellorseville, Spotsylvania, and the Wilderness. Spend some time at the site and plan accordingly. I can provide some rudimentary information about the regiments part in these battles.

     At the Battle of Fredericksburg, the regiment acted as skirmishers for General Franklin's Left Grand Division, for two days, thereby avoiding participation in the bloody charge of Gibbon's 2nd Division that followed. They were in the First Corps, 2nd Division, 3rd Brigade. Col. Leonard led the brigade. Casualties for the regt. were extremely low with four killed.

     According to the regimental history, the 13th weren't significantly involved in the important fighting at Chancellorsville. This is rare for the 13th. I haven't yet studied this campaign at all. According to their history they did accomplish a 30 mile march in 22 hours from Fredericksburg to Ely's Ford beginning May 2nd 1863. On May 4th a reconnoissance was made in which 7 men were wounded. Casualties for the fight were low again; 1 man listed killed.

A significant event happened on April 30th, 1863 as part of this campaign. It was the killing of two officers and the severe wounding of Sergeant. John S. Fay opposite Fredericksburg. Capt. George Bush, Capt.William Cordwell and Sgt. John S. Fay were all struck by the same shell. Cordwell and Bush were killed instantly. Fay lost an arm and a leg. It would be interesting to find the field hospital Fay was rushed to. It was there that Surgeon Allston Whitney saved his life. John S. Fay called it the Fitzhugh House, the proper name for the estate is Chatham House. I don't know if the house proper was the hospital or an outbuilding.

The battles of the Wilderness and Spotsylvania were part of General Grant's Overland Campaign in 1864. Grant's advance began 2 1/2 months before the regiment's term of enlistment was up, on July 16th of that year. General G. K. Warren, commanding the 5th Corps, personally directed the movements of the 13th in many of these engagements.

     At Spotsylvania May 8th - The 13^thare among the first infantrytroops to clash with Anderson's Confederate Corps at Spotsylvania. After atiring night march they made threeseparate ½ mile long charges around 8:30 A.M. on the Alsop and SpindleFarms. They wereoutflanked. Anartillery shell shattered their NationalFlagstaff during one of the charges. Later,Gen. Warren seized the shattered flag staff and used the 13th's colors to rally a MarylandBrigade. ArtistAlfred Waud makes asketch of this for the illustrated papers. Twelve of their men die from wounds received thisday, many of them havebeen with the regiment since the start. Twelve more are captured. Gen.Robinson, the Division Commander, lost a leg.

     Intrepid visitors might also want to see the area of the Mine Run campaign, included within the boundaries of this park. In November, 1863 the regiment formed in line of battle to charge a well fortified Rebel Position. Casualties would have been high had the attack not been called off.

Petersburg, VA

     Looking at the map, I see Petersburg is about 80 miles south of Fredericksburg. This was the last place the regiment fought at the front lines (They helped build the Fort Davis) before going home to Massachusetts and probably would be the last stop on a tour of significant sights. For several weeks, the regiment was busy digging and fighting in the trenches before Petersburg. Austin Stearns and Sam Webster give detailed accounts of the fighting that went on. This was the exiting point for those few soldiers (about 70) who survived the 3 year ordeal at the front lines. A few men re-enlisted and stayed on with other units. Several had been detached and many had been promoted to other organizations.   The regiment was still with General G. K. Warren and the 5th Corps. The famous battle of the Crater took place here, 2 weeks after the regiment went home. Its noteworthy, because their original Major, Jacob Parker Gould, was mortally wounded in this engagement leading his own regiment and brigade in a charge as Colonel Gould of the 59th Mass. Petersburg National Battlefield Park

This is a much longer post than I thought, with way too many links so thats all - I'm tired! --Thanks Mary !!!

Website's 3rd Anniversary

2011-06-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the 3rd anniversary of 13thmass.org

It had a false start some years earlier, when my friend and fellow researcher Greg Dowden set up a '13thmass' site with free web space and web authoring tools that were frequently offered with service providers back in the day. Greg and I were both anxious to get the stories of the '13th Mass.' out there. I was pursuing my 'book' at that time.

In 2008 with Greg's approval, I took over the reins of building the site, using the same url. I did about 6 months of research on web authoring before choosing a service provider and building the site. Much of this research was done here.

Susan Harnwell who maintains the website for the '15th Mass.' provided some excellent advice and encouragement too.

In late May, 2008 I purchased a plan from Futurequest, and in a couple weeks I had my basic website live on-line.

Adding the 'detail' pages is an on-going project that was planned from the start. This is the heart of the site. Pictures and graphics are an important part of each page and care is taken to find the right images to match the text. In search of these, I've often contacted historical societies and towns that could provide insight, images and anecdotes about the local areas the 13th Mass traveled through. Usually this leads to an exchange of information which is mutually rewarding. It probably builds a little bit of regional interest in the site too. (I've corresponded with people in Hagerstown, Hancock, and Williamsport, Md.; Bluemont, Va., Front Royal, Va., and Warrenton, Va., among other places back east).

I'm finally working on the Antietam Campaign, a year and 2 months into the regiment's three year term of enlistment and three years into the slow building of the website. Here the regiment made its mark, a lasting reputation for valor and dependability that continued through to the end of service. It was at the front from the day it arrived in Western Maryland Aug. 1, 1861, to the day it left the trenches before Petersburg to return home, July 14, 1864.

I must add however, that the regiment was already famous back home in Massachusetts. It gained for itself the moniker of 'The Marching Regiment" in its early days, and it began skirmishing with Rebel pickets across the Potomac almost immediately from the time it arrived in W. Maryland the summer of 1861.

I have lots of good material for the Antietam page.

Antietam is also a turning point in the history of the unit. Several of my primary sources dry up following the battles of 2nd Bull Run and Antietam, fought within 3 weeks time of each other. I've had the good fortune to use several letter collections, gathered from institutions or family, that simply end at this time with the soldiers wounding, or muster out. There won't be as many consistent voices with which to follow the fortunes of the regiment from this point forward. This might be a good time to appeal for source material from any that might have a collection of 13th Mass. letters they wish to share.

The website has so far fulfilled my expectations. I hope it proves a valuable resource for others as time marches on.

And, thanks for stopping by!

Time out from the Blog in Real Time

2011-05-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

The next "Blog in Real Time" post may not come again until late June. I was actually surprised at how much material I was able to post for April and May ! I must check my sources though, and this break allows me to make a couple observations and seek feedback.

I'm wondering for those of you following how well it plays. The Civil War soldier was immersed in the great excitement and events of the day, whereas some readers of the blog need background information. I'm wondering if the real time posts are as effective as I thought they might be. The excitement level was high on both sides at this early period of the war. I'm not sure the posts capture that reality. Certainly there has been enough interesting material so far. (I thought posting links to a site listing daily occurrences might be useful.)

I was only late with a post one time so far, however I added material to the May 25th post after the fact. I also have pictures to add to some of these posts - retroactively.

So far, I haven't wanted to interrupt the flow of the posts with other subjects. For instance, last week I posted a new page at my website, without announcing it here. I'll write about that next.

Blog in Real Time - May 25, 1861 - Post #21

2011-05-25T00:23:00.000-07:00

Fort Warren
On May 25, the "Tigers" left Fort Warren. The governor declined the offer of the Tigers for Federal Service so those men interested in going to the war front had to seek out another organization to join. For George Kimball, the author of this reminiscence, that organization was the 12th Regiment, Mass. Vols. For James F. Ramsey, and Dr. Alston Whitney, members of the Tigers, that organization would be 13th Regiment, Mass. Vols.

Brig. Gen. Ebenezer W. Pierce took command of the fort on May 15, and ten days after, the battalion, finding that the Government would not accept their services as an organization, returned to the city. The Eleventh and Twelfth got square with us by “toting" our luggage to the steamer, and Companies D and E of the Twelfth, under Captains Shurtleff and Saltmarsh respectively, accompanied us to the Hub. Marching up State street, headed by Gilmore's superb organization*, the men sang the now famous song, which created great popular enthusiasm.

It now looked as if I must hustle if I intended to get at the enemy before he surrendered, so I ran about looking for a favorable opportunity to enlist. I finally brought up in the camp of the First Regiment in Cambridge, and spent several days there, but that organization was full.

Finally Henry Wilson advised Secretary Cameron to send for Col Webster's regiment, and, hearing that recruits were wanted, I returned to the fort and joined Company A.

*Gilmore's superb organization is a famous Boston area Band.

Fort Independence
From Three Years in the Army; The Story of the 13th Massachusetts Volunteers, Charles E. Davis, jr. writes:

On the 25th of May the five companies, with knapsacks, blankets etc., marched down State Street to the wharf, where they took the steamer "Nelly Baker" for the fort, and where they arrived in due time.

It was a joyous day, though cloudy. We were puffed up with pride and importance at our new responsibility and the knowledge that we were to relieve the New England Guards, who had been garrisoning the fort for a fortnight. The New England Guards was one of the crack organizations of Massachusetts, of which the citizens of Boston were justly proud. It subsequently became the nucleus of the Twenty-fourth Regiment, that left Massachusetts for the seat of war December 9, 1861, and afterward made a glorious record.

As we marched into the fort, that battalion was drawn up in line to recieve us. As we watched with admiration the precision and skill with which they performed their movements, we shed a big lot of conceit.

The duties of a soldier began immediately on their departure. We were in possession of a fortification of the United States, and the responsibilities seemed immense. We were to guard it, and see that it was not stolen or captured by the enemy.

A detail was made from each company for guard duty, and the writer began at once the tremendous duties of a soldier. Being placed on the extreme southern point of the island, nearest the enemy, he was cautioned to watch carefully, that he enemy might not come up the harbor without warning being given of his approach. There seemed nothing ridiculous in all this; the caution was given and received in all earnestness. These instruction were the first and, so far as can be recalled, the only ones he ever received, and they made a deep impression on his mind. We often laughed afterwards as we reflected on the difference between this and the reality, though it was real enough to us then. Not a wink did some of us sleep that night. The responsibility was too great for sleep.

Blog in Real Time - May 19, 1861 - Post #20

2011-05-20T11:31:00.000-07:00

May 19, 1861.
(Apologies for posting one day late).

Letter of James F. Ramsey

Fort Warren May 19th 1861

Dear Mother I am very well. I have not got much time to write If you come down the first of the week Tuesday would be the best day I should like to have a box of crackers? I was on guard last night it was pretty cold. There are a great many visitors here to day some that I know we had a real pot pie for dinner and beans and brown bread for breakfast   I should like one or two pens my pens were in my pocket book and got a break.

     Good by
              from James

Letter of John B. Noyes

MS Am2332 (1) By permission of the Houghton Library, Harvard University. John B. Noyes enlisted in the 4th Battalion of Rifles. He wrote the following letter to his brother Stephen in New York. Noyes was a prolific letter writer. He seems to be having a jolly time playing soldier at this time, but he would live to see hard service and prove a very capable officer with the 28th Mass. Vols., mustering out as Captain, Brevet Lt-Col. with that organization in Dec., 1864.

Cambridge, May 19, 1861

Dear Stephen,

Your letter to Martha reminded me that yours of hte 22d ult. was still unanswered. I have thought several times of writng, but occasional duties have prevented at the moment. The war progresses without the immediate results desired by some. I take it that Gen'l Scott knows what he is about as well as another man, and that his plans are the best possible. I did duty at the Arsenal for the week ending May 3d. During this time I was on guard six to eight hours a day, sleeping at the arsenal. The Drill Club of which I was a member under Capt. Meacham had orders to protect the arsenal, and of course I obeyed. While there we were the observed of all observers, and attracted much attention from the Citizens of Cambridge. We lived while there, for a time at least, on the fat of the land, sent to us in part by friendly citizens. Cigars and drinkables were plentifully provided. On the whole I passed a grand week there, albeit a somewhat rainy one. What a proud thing it was to be guard at the gate, holding the keys of office, at an afternoon parade when the fair demoiselles of Cambridge flocked to behold the scene; and to bellow forth with stentorian voice "Sergeant of the Guard, No. 1." How jolly to join in patriotic and other songs after Supper before turning in to snatch a couple hours of sleep, if possible, before doing guard duty at dead of night! How like a "sojer" to cry Halt! Who goes there? And porting arms, or at charge bayonet to order the Sergeant of the guard, or officer of the night to "advance and give the countersign." Since the week we were there, we have not been stationed at the arsenal as we did not care to serve there except under our own officers. The students now take turn in defending the state property.

Payson Tucker was not there as Captain, but served in the ranks as a private. His eyes prevented him from quartering at the arsenal, and he accordingly slept at home. I have not gone yet, as you might surmise from the reception of this letter. I hold myself ready to go however, having joined the Fourth Battalion of Rifles, Major Leonard. I hope we shall go to the wars, but whether we shall or not is a matter of uncertainty. The Governor does not know, not as yet having determined whom to send. I attend two Evening battalion drills, and one Company drill a week in Boston, and occasionally drill at other times during the week. We have splendid accommodations at Nassau Hall on Common Street.

Gen'l. Butler seems to be gaining a great reputation by his energy and direction. I suppose Maryland is now safe for the Union. I hope Gen'l. Harney will do as much for Missouri, though the obstacles against it are incomparably greater. New England is doing nobly and hereafter may not be quite so much black guarded by partisan politicians.

Several students have gone into the army. Some are at the Forts in the Harbor, and some are earning laurels farther South. Two belong to the gallant Salem Zouaves, who helped convey the Constitution to New York. Sam Bigelow, I believe is now a Lieut. in the 7th Regt of New York. Sociables were broken off by the fall of Fort Sumpter. Up to that time there had been considerable gaiety in Cambridge Society. Our old friends Alfie & Martha Brooks are now in Cambridge. I told the former to night that you had not gone & probably wouldn't for some time to come, I might have added till you could see an enemy before he would pistol you. Charles is getting along very well, and that little girl of his. He is strong on the war question. Business is at a stand still, as I suppose it is in Brooklyn.

Yours Aff.
John B. Noyes

Blog in Real Time - May 17, 1861 - Post #19

2011-05-17T00:54:00.000-07:00

May 17, 1861

Letter of James F. Ramsey

Fort Warren May 17th 1861

Dear Mother, I am very well I should have written before but I have not received a letter I expected one every day I hope you will write some The other night we had an oyster stew to day we had fish chowder for dinner some of the officers are getting so proud? that they dine with the men the officer of the day who
is second in command of the fort for the time being dined with us to day two of the captains dine at the head of the tables occupied by their men It says in the paper that we will garrison the fort I have seen George he is well I cant see to write any more so good by
James

P.S I layed the letter by last night because it was to dark to write yesterday we were inspected our beds knapsacks and everything belonging to the government They say we are to have the best uniform in the state. I hope you will write soon I cannot tell how soon I shall be home probably not before a week.

Blog in Real Time - May 15, 1861 - Post #18

2011-05-15T01:12:00.000-07:00

May 15, 1861

Roxbury City Gazette
The company mentioned, from Roxbury, would be mustered into Federal Service as Company E, of the 13th Mass.   The following newspaper transcription was originally published on the now defunct website "LETTERS OF THE CIVIL WAR"

MAY 15, 1861.

CAPT. BARLETT'S COMPANY.

            Last Sabbath morning, Capt. Barlett's Company attended divine worship at the Dudley Street Baptist Church, Rev. Thomas D. Anderson, D. D. Pastor, who preached from the 12th verse of the 60th Psalm: "Through God we shall do valiantly; for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."

            After the service, as the Company passed out in single file before the pulpit, every soldier received a copy of the Testament and Psalm, together with a small 18mo of 64 pages, published by the American Track Society, entitled, "Welcome to Jesus," containing a chapter entitled, "Good advice to soldiers." In each Testament was inscribed the name of the soldier, and the words "From the Dudley Street Society, Roxbury," and the quotation, "A light onto my path." Previous to the close of services, the soldiers joined in singing the "doxology."

(Roxbury City Gazette, May 15, 1861, pg. 2, col. 6.)

Blog in Real Time - May 12, 1861 - Post #17

2011-05-11T10:00:00.002-07:00

From the Memoirs of George Kimball, 12th Mass. Vols.
     At this time Kimball was a member of the 2nd Battalion, or "Tigers" serving at Fort Warren. The 12th Mass. Vols. (The Webster Regiment) had arrived at the fort May 4 & 5. Kimball describes the occasion. Also, on May 12, the "John Brown Song" was performed for the very first time by a band visiting Fort Warren.

     A neat illustration of the fact that all men are brothers was given when Col. Webster's regiment came to the fort. Some of the companies had been quartered in Faneuil Hall, and when orders came to proceed to Fort Warren all the stray companies were summoned to the "Cradle of Liberty" to prepare for the start. A Captain, with neither discretion nor propriety, advised the men to prepare themselves for a cold reception at Fort Warren, saying that the stronghold was garrisoned by "kid-gloved soldiers." "A little bird " or some other messenger brought the tidings down. Think you the men of the battalion indulged in a towering rage? They didn't . We simply laughed, for we knew that the Captain was laboring under a misapprehension.

     Our officers suggested that we show them by a hearty reception that all men engaged in the suppression of the Rebellion occupied the same broad platform—that we were all Americans. So, when the steamer bringing the regiment came, we began to cheer as soon as they could hear us, and kept it up until they landed. Then we escorted them to their quarters, and while they were wondering what we were up to, we stacked arms and broke ranks, and returning to the wharf on the run. seized mattresses and every bit of camp equipage we could lay hands upon, and started back, screaming with delight, as though the labor afforded us infinite pleasure. What little false impression the Captain's remark had created vanished into thin air, and the Captain himself took it all back with tears in his eyes. After that the men of the two organizations were fast friends. When the Eleventh came we repeated the performance for fear that they, too, might think we were "stuck up.”

     Gilmore's and the Brigade Bands, which alternately visited the fort on Sundays, had learned to play the “John Brown Song,” and Sunday, May 12, was a great day. Rev. Mr. Hepworth of the Church of the Unity, Chaplain of the battalion, preached an eloquent war sermon, after which we had a grand flag raising. Judge George D. Wells made a speech. Miss Louise B. Rogers raised the flag amid the cheers of the men, and we sang:

"Emblem of liberty,

Float thou o'er earth and sea.

By thee we stand.

Stay thou our enemies.

God of the earth and sky;

Under this flag we'll die,

God bless our land."

to the tune of "America." Then Miss Rogers was made "Daughter of the Battalion." At a dress parade that night all the troops were combined, and when Gilmore's Band, which played for us on this occasion, started up the long line from the left, they astonished and delighted everybody by playing "John Brown." This was the first time the piece was performed publicly by a military band.

Blog in Real Time - May 11 - 1861 - Post #16

2011-05-11T09:53:00.000-07:00

May 11, 1861

Letter of James F. Ramsey
James letters were graciously shared with my by his descendants.

Fort Warren May 11th 1861

Dear Mother I arrived safe at the fort. The Governer was here in the afternoon and reviewed the troops. There were four more companies at the fort when I arrived There is about fourteen hundred men now at the fort. I enjoy myself very much, we can go in bathing when we want to. I shall not go in to the water untill it is warmer.

Dr Parker was here yesterday morning. Hayley is better he was on guard yesterday. I was complimented on my drilling yesterday by one of the Officers. Please send me a penholder and some ink I have got some pens. I should like a blacking brush and some blacking. send me some apples and maple sugar leave the things on board teh May Queen at Union Wharf 9 Oclock A.M. and 1 and 4 P.M. Mark them J. F. Ramsey
2d Bat.
Company C

PS. Give my love to all yesterday we were clearing the parade ground
from your Son
good by.

Marlboro, Mass.
In Marlboro, Mass., the town's new rifle company continues to organize. (Transcription courtesy of Mr. R. Humphrey, from the original company field books).

May 11th 1861.

The company met at there room

and on motion voted to choose

a committee of one on the part of

the company to procure uniforms

for this company.

chose

Capt Moses P. Palmer

said committee

Blog in Real Time - May 10, 1861 - Post #15

2011-05-10T11:01:00.000-07:00

May 10, 1861.

     Both sides were preparing for war, but what to expect neither side knew. The destruction of the railroad in Baltimore, April 19th, delayed the arrival of troops in Washington D.C. for several days. Rumors of an attack from Virginia were persistent. President Lincoln despaired, "Why don't they come?" and "I don't believe there is any North." But on the 25th of April the troops began pouring in.

     In Virginia, May 1st, Maj. Gen. Robert E. Lee, commanding state troops ordered a concentration of volunteers at Harper's Ferry under Col. T. J. Jackson. Machinery at the rifle factory was to be sent south. Lee, considered the best officer in the Federal Army by commanding general Winfield Scott, and an opponent of secession, had resigned his military commission on April 18th to return to Virginia.

     President Lincoln extended the Federal blockade of southern ports south to Virginia and North Carolina.

Meanwhile in Massachusetts the organization of militia continued with zeal. The 2nd Marlboro Rifle Company drafts a constitution on May 10th. The company will muster into the 13th Mass., as Company I. (Document transcription from the original company field books, courtesy of Mr. R. Humphrey.)

Marlborough May 10th. 1861

The company met at there room

for drill.

The committee chosen to draught

the by-laws for the company reported

that they had attend to that duty

And ask leave to report

Moses P. Palmer for the comtt

We who have enrolled our names upon

the volunteer militia enlistments roll

of Massachusetts and have organized

ourselves into a company of Riflemen

agreeable to the Laws of the State.

Say one and all

that whereas a certain portion of our

countrymen have rebelled and have

taken up arms against our constitutional

Government and have refused to obey its just

Laws under which they as well as we have

enjoyed so many blessings, that we have so acted

because we fully believe it to be our duty

which we owe to our country to humanity

and to God. And we further say that we do

pledge our lives our fortunes and our sacred

honor to help to maintain and defend the flag

of our glorious union from traitors at home or

foes from abroad, and we do agree to do and submit

to such orders rules and regulations as the Law

requires and such as shall be adopted by the

company under the following by Laws:

Art. 1st, This company shall be called the Union

Rifle Guards, Marlborough.

Art. 2nd. No person hereafter shall be considered a member

of said company until he is voted in by a

majority of two thirds of said company and

signs the enlistment and By Laws of the company.

Art. 3rd. All business of the company shall be

considered binding when a majority of the

company present shall designate at any

regularly called meeting.

Art. 4th. The Commanding Officer shall preside

at all meetings of said company.

Art. 5th. Penalty for nonappearance at the time

appointed for drill or otherwise - for

commissioned officers – one dollar,

privates fifty cents. Fines for evening

drill excepted.

Art. 6th. The roll shall be called precisely at the hour of meeting.

Art. 7th. It shall be the duty of the clerk of the

company to record all votes and proceedings

at each and every meeting in an orderly

book kept for that purpose. All fines shall

be collected by the clerk and paid in to the

Treasurer of the company and he shall keep a

fair record of all fines and for forfeitures in the

aforesaid orderly book all fines shall be

for the use of the company.

Art. 8th. There shall be chosen annually a committee

of three whose duty it shall be to make

all assessments on the company and provide

when required and pay out all bills of the

company and if any surplus remains it shall

forthwith be paid into the Treasurer, and said

committee shall draw orders on the Treasurer for

any money not otherwise appropriated in his

hands.

Art. 9th. There shall be chosen annually a Treasurer of

said company who shall give bonds for the

strict performance of his duty. He shall receive

all orders from the committee and pay the

same when there is money in Treasury.

Art.10th. There shall be chosen annually a committee

to settle all differences between members of

the company.

Art.11th. All assessments of the company shall be made

equal on all members of the company. Musicians excepted.

Art.12th. We pledge ourselves that we will support and

obey our officers.

Art.13th. Any by-Laws of said company may be altered,

amended, as abrogated by a vote of two thirds

of the members present at any regularly called

meeting.

Art.14th. Any member of said company who shall behave in a

disorderly manner while on duty shall be liable to

be voted out of said company (provided) that two

thirds of the company present shall vote for it.

Art.15th. Any member may call a meeting of said company by a

petition to the commander accompanied by a

majority of members.

Art.16 th. Each and every member shall be held

responsible for the damage his uniform, rifle, and

other equipments may sustain through carelessness

or neglect.

Art.17th. All uniforms furnished by the town shall

be held as company property.

Art.18th. Uniforms and equipments held as company property

shall be used only in the performance of military

duties except by permission of the officers of

said company, and all said uniforms and equipments

of any leaving said company for any cause shall

be left with the clerk of said company.

Art.19. The annual meeting of the company shall be

holden on the last Wednesday of May in each year.

NAMES

Moses P. Palmer

David H. Brown

Alfred G. Howe

Samuel D. Witt

Samuel W. Fay

Issac B. Crowell

Frank J. Wood

Edwin Diel

William Baker

M. L. Lucus

Algenon S. Smith

Lysander P. Parker

Amos C. Morrill

E. R. Emerson

Alexander M. Gilvary

Henry A. Holyoke 1^st

John M. Russell

John S. Felton

Benjamin F. Russell

Francis W. Hastings

Charles W. Whitcomb

W. Frank Brigham

Ald B. Hastings

Rufus Howe 1^st

Cranston Howe 2^nd

John W. Kirby

George E. Dean

Warren I. Stetson

Sylvanus H. Parker

Eugene A. Albee

John F. Klenert

Joseph Hall

Franklin Stetson

James Gleason drummer

William W. Willis

Charles S. Parker

Francis H. Stowe

Otis Chose

Eugene J. Holyoke 2^nd

Origin B. Williams

Samuel T. Shattuch

Millard S. Williams

William A. Alley

Harrison Chose

Gerhart Gentner

John P. Peebles

C. C. Weight

Charles H. Cotting

John L. Spencer

Benjamin J. Whittier

Albert Taylor

William Cossroy

John F. Rose

George F. Smith 1^st

James C. Fox

John F. Wright

George T. Brigham 2^nd

George O. Grady

Charles Scott

Lowell P. Parker

Owin Beane

Edward H. Mosher 2^nd

Ariel Crosby

Edward E. Bond

Levi Taylor

William Barnes

George Brown

Lowell S. Wheeler

Theodore H. Goodnow

G. M. Brigham

Nathaniel B. Tryham

Benjamin Parker

Theodore L. Makan

George Minek

Michael Murphy

William H. Wight

Elery E. Goodwin

John M. Pierce

Moses P. Rice

George H. Tuckey

Henry A. Mowry

Thomas L. Bryant

William M. Weeks

Osceola V. Newton

Patrick Lavell

Davis P. Howard

Peter Flynn

Charles Stone

John McIntire

George H. Moore

Charles T. Love

Benjamin G. Hallet

Albert F. Holmes

Thomas Boyd Jr.

Charles M. Tales

Marlborough, May 10th 1861

The company met at there room and

on motion voted to choose a committee

of three to meet the town committee and

assertain if they intend anything and what they will do toward providing

for the familys of those who enlist to

serve as soldiers during the present war.

Chose A. S. Smith

S. D. Witt

Geo. F. Smith

Said committee

Blog in Real Time - May 7, 1861 - Post #14

2011-05-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

May 7, 1861

The 2nd Militia company in Marlboro continues to organize. (Document from the original company Field Books, courtesy of Mr. R. Humphrey).

Marlborough, May. 7th, 1861

The company met at there room in the

Exchange building.

on motion voted to choose a committee

of three to see the committee chosen

by the town to assist volunteers

and see if the company can have

uniforms at the expense of the town.

Chose. Captain. Moses P. Palmer

Lieut. David L. Brown

“ Alfred G. Howe.

Said Committee.

on motion voted to choose a committee

of three to draught some by-laws for

this company.

Chose. Lieu Alfred G. Howe

Capt Moses P. Palmer

Wm. Barnes

Said committee

Blog in Real Time - May 6, 1861 - Post #13

2011-05-06T00:51:00.000-07:00

May 6, 1861

Marlboro, Massachusetts

The town of Marlboro Massachusetts had a rifle company, "Marlboro Rifles" which tendered their services to the Federal Government, and which was mustered into the 13th Mass. as Company F.

From "Three Years in the Army" by Charles E. Davis, Jr.

Company F

     Company F had the honor of being the oldest chartered company in the regiment. It was organized in 1819 as the Marlboro' Rifles, and continued its organization without interruption until it became a part of the Thirteenth Regiment. During all this time its armory was located in the town of Marlboro'.

     For several years prior to 1861 it was known as Company A, First Battalion of Rifles, the other companies being Company B from Sudbury and Company C from Natick; the latter being assigned to the Thirteenth and known as Company H. The battalion was commanded by Major Ephraim Moore, of Sudbury. Major Moore died in March, 1861, and was succeeded by Captain Henry Whitcomb, of the Marlboro' Rifles, who was elected major of the battalion.

     On the 25th of June the First Battalion of Rifles was ordered to Fort Independence. The Sudbury Company was disbanded. The officers of the Marlboro' Company, which became Company F, were:

Captain......Abel H. Pope.

First Lieutenant.....John T. Whittier.

Second Lieutenant....... Charles F. Morse.

Fourth Lieutenant..... Donald Ross.

note: This rifle company has continuous lineage dating back to December 3, 1660. Today the unit is still in existence, known as the 125th Quarter Master Company, Massachusetts Army National Guard.

Formation of a second Marlboro' Company
There was interest in raising a second rifle company in Marlboro. A record of the organizational meetings is provided from the original books which were carried by this company in the field during its 3 years service. Mr. R. Humphrey shared the transcript with me.

Marlborough May 6th 1861

In compliance to General Orders

from Headquarters the company

met at the town hall for the choice

of officers.

Major Jonathon Ladd Presiding.

After the roll was called: the company made

choice of the following officers.

Moses P. Palmer. Captain.

David L. Brown First Lieutenant.

Alfred G. Howe Second “

Samuel D. Witt Third “

Samuel W. Fay Fourth “

Wm. Barnes, Clerk.

Blog in Real Time - May 5, 1861 - Post #12

2011-05-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

Fort Warren - Early May, 1861.

The origin of "The John Brown Song."

It will be remembered the 2nd Battalion of Rifles, or "The Tigers" occupied Fort Warren, Boston Harbor on April 29. It was from this time that the famous "John Brown Song" developed. George Kimball of the "Tigers" explains.

GARRISON DUTY AT FORT WARREN.

In time of peace garrison duty is doubtless very dull music, but with a great war opening and events daily transpiring which excited their enthusiasm to the highest pitch, the 250 men of the Second Battalion of Infantry found life at Fort Warren exceedingly pleasant. The fort was comparatively new and had never before been occupied by troops. Piles of rubbish of every kind incumbered not only the spacious parade ground, but every casemate and every nook and corner was filled with it. So we set to work with a will to put our house in order and had manual labor galore. Twas interesting to see professional men, merchants, clerks and others as busy as bees with shovel and wheelbarrow and broom, while song and jest and heartiest laughter rose continually as an accompaniment.

It was out of these conditions that the famous "John Brown Song" sprang, and If the "Tigers' had done nothing else to help the cause of the Union, this song alone would have been sufficient to entitle them to gratitude, for it is impossible to overestimate the effect it had all through the war as an inspirational force upon the armies in the field. It was pre-eminently the song of the war, and was sung in camp and on the march with a heartiness and dash that I never saw equaled in the case of any other. It even invaded England after performing its mission in this country, and was almost as popular there as it had been here. Mr Richard Grant White, in 1886, said that the song had "a certain rhythm, or lilt, which seizes upon the memory and bewitches without always pleasing the ear," and that "the alternate jig and swing of the air caused it to stick in the uneducated ear as burs stick to a blackberry girl." As I said in my previous letter in The Journal, we had a soldier in the battalion named John Brown. We were ready to seize upon everything that promised fun, and so guyed Brown unmercifully because of his name. He was a jolly Scotchman and entered heartily into the nonsense.

There were many good singers among us, Brown himself being one. Then there were Newton J. Pernette, James H. Jenkins, Charles E. B. Edgerle,. James E Greenleaf, Gordon S. Brown, Louis N. Tucker, Caleb E. Niebuhr, Henry J. Hallgreen Brooks and many others that I do not now recall. We sang all the popular songs of the day and many favorite hymns.

I belonged to the Boston Young Men's Christian Association before my enlistment and boarded with L. P. Rowland, the Librarian, Rowland one day brought down fifty copies of The Melodeon, a collection of hymns compiled by the late Rev. J. W. Dadmun. I distributed these. One of the hymns in the book then very popular was – “Say. Brothers, Will You Meet Us.” The first verse was as follows:

“Say. brothers will you meet us,

Say, brothers, will you meet us,

On Canaan's happy shore.

CHORUS.

Glory, glory, hallelujah,

Glory, glory, hallelujah.

For ever evermore.”

We sang this hymn a great deal, both while at work cleaning up rubbish and during the long evenings in barracks. As I have said, we often guyed our Scotch comrade on account of his suggestive name, and some of the wags finally hit upon the idea of making parodies in his honor (?) upon the above hymn, thinking, probably, that this might "rattle" him, but it didn't —he took it good-naturedly, as he did everything else, and even helped us along.

I cannot say whether any lines used at the fort eventually became parts of the song as sung by the army beyond "John Brown's body lies moldering in the grave," "He's gone to be a soldier in the army of the Lord," and "We'll hang Jeff Davis to a sour apple tree," but am certain that these three did. We had to quicken the music of the hymn a bit to make it conform to our doggerel rhymes, but the grand old chorus was unchanged.

I have no copy now of "The Melodeon," but have "The Revivalist," a collection of hymns arranged and published by Mr. Joseph Hillman of Troy, N. Y., in 1872, and this contains "Say, Brothers, Will You Meet Us."

It may seem odd that such prominence should be given to the statement that the old martyr had "joined the silent majority" and that his body was "moldering in the grave," but this came from frequent emphatic denials, playfully made, that our Scotch laddie was actually with us. We would say. "Why. you're dead," “Your body is moldering in the grave," etc., and from this kind of nonsense finally sprang the beginning of the song. Then it grew.

There was a germ of inspiration in the idea that John Brown "had gone to be a soldier in the army of the Lord," and this, with the glorious chorus, together with the fact that the music was just right for a marching air, made it immensely popular. Major Newton and others thought that it would be better to commemorate the services of some distinguished soldier, and "Ellsworth's body" was tried, but it would not go.

Greenleaf was organist of a church in Charlestown, and he naturally had much to do with the early arrangement of the notes of the song. Mr. C. S. Hall, an acquaintance of Mr. Greenleaf, often visited the fort, and becoming interested in the song, he took hold with his friend to see what could be done with it. Mr. C. B. Marsh also helped, and the result was the composition of additional lines and the issue of the production as a penny ballad, on common printing paper, surrounded by a pretentious but inartistic border. It bore this imprint: "Published at 256 Main street, Charlestown, Mass."

Later, Mr. Hall issued a more elaborate copy, giving both words and music, and headed it with a cut of the national bird. It bore the words, "Origin. Fort Warren," and "Music arranged by C. B. Marsh." At the bottom was the imprint, as before, and a statement that it had been "Entered according to act of Congress in the year 1861, by C. S. Hall, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of Massachusetts." I have ascertained by inquiry of the Librarian of Congress that the date of this copyright was July 16. 1861.

Mr. Abram E. Cutter of Charlestown has well-preserved copies of each issue, the first of which he thinks he purchased directly from Mr. Hall.

When the song was growing fast, the Twelfth Regiment, raised by Fletcher Webster, came to the fort, and it took the men of that organization by storm, as indeed, it did every body of soldiers that ran up against it. Pernette, Edgerely, Brown, Jenkins and myself finally joined the Twelfth.

The Eleventh came to the fort, and later the Fourteenth (afterward First Heavy Artillery), and the song became popular with both these organizations. Everybody knows how later it spread throughout the army.

Poor John Brown, who bore our pleasantry so good naturedly, possessed the love and esteem of all his comrades. He found a watery grave in the Shenandoah River on the 6th of June, 1862, at Front Royal, Va. While on picket across the river, opposite the camp, the bridge was carried away by a sudden rise of the stream, and to save themselves from capture the detail tried to cross on a raft. The raft went to pieces, and Brown was drowned, the rest being rescued.

I have given the origin of this famous song somewhat in detail, because there has been so much needless discussion about it. Everybody who was in Fort Warren in 1861 and every Bostonian who remembers the opening of the war knows that it originated substantially as I have stated.

Blog in Real Time - May 4, 1861 - Post #11

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May 4, 1861

Letter of James F. Ramsey

Fort Warren May 4, 1861.
Dear Mother I received the bag after I had sent you the letter   I thank you for the cake and apples I do not
care much about the cake because we have very good meals. I am getting along very well and think soldiers life agrees with me. Two companies of the Webster regiment arrived yesterday. Alonzo Haley belongs to one of the Companies and is here, the men in our battalion do not like to go with the men in the Webster regiment they hold them at arms length there are some Irish among them.

I have not much time to write now Give my love to all kiss Hugh for me Good by
      from your son,
             J.F. Ramsey

Blog in Real Time - May 2, 1861 - Post #10

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May 2, 1861

Letter of James F. Ramsey
James F. Ramsey was serving with the 2nd Battalion at Fort Warren.

Fort Warren May 2d 1861

Dear Mother I received your letter and was glad to hear from you and I hope you will write often I will write every day if I have the materials. Please send father's bag with my rubber coat, two towels, a pair of stockings, a comb, a lead pencil, and a revolver case. Carry my things to the Eastern rail road wharf the boat leaves at 10 O'clock AM and 2 1/4 PM the name of the steam tug is the May Queen. mark the things Fort Warren 2d Battallion V I company C. J.F. Ramsey. send some Apples and Maple Sugar some times I like here very much and I think it agrees with me I never felt better when we arrived the fort we stacked our arms and went to work a carrying our beds up to the barracks most of hte soldiers sleep in one long room directly over our dining hall there are three long tables one for each company we have as much coffee as we can drink we have cold corn beef & cold bacon hot bisquit and bread for dinner rost beef and soup. 6 O'clock is Reveille signal for the men to rise, all the lights are put out at 10PM we parade 3 times a day 2 hours at each parade all the rest of the time to ourselves they mount a guard at 8 Oclock AM each man is relieved every 2 hours there are three relief guards each man has 16 hours to him self out of 24 hours and all of the next day except 1 hour. Give my love to all I served on guard last night. it was very cold there is nothing to break the wind be sure and send me some maple sugar good buy
your son James.

p.s Walter Hinds sends his love to the Harts he would like to have one of the boys come down they are enlisting new recruits every day for another company at the armory.

Blog in Real Time - April 30, 1861 - Post #9

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War preparations were zealously pursued by people on both sides.

Tuesday, April 30, 1861
Westborough

Two hundred ladies, with their needles and thimbles, met at the Town Hall Tuesday morning, April 30, at ten o'clock. After prayer by the Rev. Dr. Arnold, of the Baptist Church, and the singing of a hymn, the different garments, "consisting of four dozen blue-flannel shirts and four dozen pairs gray-flannel drawers," were distributed. The work progressed steadily for four or five hours, until the allotted task was completed. This work was for the State. Subsequent meetings for preparing uniforms for the Westborough company were frequently held until the 20th of June. The result was the thorough equipment of the company (the town furnishing the material, and J.A. Trowbridge, who then had a tailor's shop, attending to the cutting) with uniform, fatigue-suit, havelock, thread-bag, towels, handkerchief, soap, and comb for each soldier.

Blog in Real Time - April 29, 1861 - Post #8

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April 29, 1861
From the Regimental History:

While this work was going on(organizing companies A, B, and D ) John Kurtz and others were engaged in recruiting a third company, which was subsequently known as Company C, with an election of officers which occurred on the 29th of April, 1861 as follows:

Captain .....John Kurtz. (pictured)
First Lieutenant .....William H. Jackson.
Second Lieutenant .....William M. Chase.
Third Lieutenant .....Joseph S. Cook.
Fourth Lieutenant .....Walter H. Judson.

Natick, Mass. raised a company of rifles which became Company H, of the 13th Mass. Vol. Inf. The town officially opposed the expansion of slavery into the new territories since the Kansas-Nebraska Act.
The following is from "The History of Middlesex County" by Duane Hamilton Hurd.

Beginning Of The Great Rebellion Movement.— April 3, 1854, the town had adopted the following resolutions, reported by its committee, John W. Bacon, chairman :

“Whereas, the bill now before Congress for the organization of the Territories of Kansas and Nebraska proposes to repeal so much of the Act of March 6, 1820, as forever prohibiting slavery north of 36° 30' In the Louisiana purchase — Be It therefore

" Resolved, That the inhabitants of Natick in town-meeting assembled do solemnly protest against the passage of said bill because

"1st. It will violate the plighted faith of the nation.

"2d. Because it will allow African Slavery to enter into 480,000 square miles of territory, from which it has been excluded for thirty years.

"3d. Because It will tend to keep out of these territories the farmers, mechanics and workingmen of the free States and the poor men of the stave States now oppressed and degraded by African Slavery who would rear in these territories free Institutions for all.

"4th. Because it will tend to increase the influence of Slavery over the policy of the national government.

     Thus early did this town commit itself to the cause of human liberty against the encroachments of slavery, in the fearful contest which the wisest and most patriotic all over the North and West foresaw was impending.
April 29, 1861, the town appropriated $5000 to be expended under the direction of the selectmen, for the benefit of the families of such citizens of the town as may serve in the impending war.

     The selectmen at that time were Willard Drury, William Edwards and C. B. Travis.

     Leonard Winch, Deacon John Travis and John Cleland, Jr., were chosen a committee to consider "the wants of those citizens who may volunteer their services for the impending war." May 7, 1861, the town authorized the selectmen to pay for the uniforms of the Mechanic Rifle Company, of Natick, to the amount of $1000. It was also voted that each volunteer soldier should be furnished with one rubber camp blanket, and one pair of woolen stockings and each commissioned officer and musician with a revolver. Also the town appropriated $500 to furnish arms, equipments and clothing to volunteers, if called into actual service. July 17, 1861, the town voted to raise the sum of $10,000, in aid of the families of volunteers, and at the same time appropriated $1400 to meet expenses already incurred and to carry out contracts already made with volunteers.

     Westboro's Rifle Company Mustered into the federal service as Company K, 13th Mass. Vol. Inf.
From the History of Westborough, Massachusetts:

   A company was organized, known as the Westborough Rifle Company, and was chartered on April 29 as Massachusetts Volunteer Militia. It numbered seventy-nine men. But before the time came of going into camp, the announcement came that the Government could accept no more volunteers for three months' service. The company was accordingly re-organized, with a view to enlisting for three years. It lost, in consequence, nearly half its members ; but recruits kept joining from day to day, and before its departure (June 29) the company contained one hundred and one men. Of the total number, Westborough furnished fifty-six men ; Southborough, eighteen ; Upton, nine ; Shrewsbury, nine ; Hopkinton, eight ; and Northborough, one.

   Several weeks were spent in drilling and equipping the company, during which it made marches to several of the surrounding towns. "Sumptuous dinners, patriotic speeches by town magnates, and the blessings of the fathers and mothers," in the words of one of their number, "were everywhere showered upon the volunteers."

   Calvin Chamberlain, a resident of California, but a native of Westborough, showed his interest in their welfare by presenting each man with a dagger ; and on the company's visit to Upton, each member was presented with a drinking-tube by the Hon. William Knowlton.

The following is from Sgt. Austin C. Stearns Memoirs, "Three Years with Company K." Edited by Arthur Kent, 1976, Fairleigh Dickinson Univ. Press.

   The Spring of '61 found the South arrayed against the North. A Confederacy was formed with Jefferson Davis for it's President. Richmond, Va. was it's capital.

   Fort Sumter had fallen and the little army of the United States was treacherously surrendered, leaving President Lincoln no other alternative than to call on the loyal people to maintain the supremacy of the laws and the integrity of the Union.

   A proclamation was issued calling for seventy five thousand men, and the loyal, regardless of party, quickly responded. A living stream then commenced to flow from the North, which abated not, but increased in volume for four long years, till secession was conquered and peace was declared in our land.

   My native town failing to raise a company and hearing that Westboro wanted a few more men to make her company full, six of us Bear Hill boys came over and offered ourselves. We were voted in and commenced to drill immediately. The company was already formed, with the following named officers: for Captain, William P. Blackmer (Methodist Minister), First Lieut., Charles P. Winslow (Expressman). 2nd Lieut., Ethan Bullard (Carpenter), 3rd Lieut., John Sanderson (Carpenter), 4th Lieut., Abner Greenwood. The Company was known as the "Westboro Company," but men from Shrewsbury, Southboro, Hopkinton, and Upton were in its ranks.

Memoirs of George Kimball (12th Mass)

Kimball joined the Tigers, but eventually enlisted in 12th Mass., but other members of the "Tigers" including Surgeon Allston Whitney and James F. Ramsey, joined the 13th Mass.

In the early part of April, there being indications that Uncle Sam was about to awaken from his lethargy, I joined the Second Battalion of Infantry, familiarly known to Bostonians as the “Tigers.” Our armory was in old Boylston Hall, and here, night and day, was heard the tramp of feet and the clatter of arms as the embryo soldiers learned their lessons. My captain was the late proprietor and publisher of The Boston Journal. Col. Charles O. Rogers, and a more generous, patriotic man it was never my good fortune to meet. He was a super soldier, too, and had he found it possible to forsake the engrossing cares of his great newspaper for the tented field, he would doubt less have won a place among the foremost heroes of the age.

The Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Eighth Regiments went to the front, and orders came for the Fourth Battalion (New England Guards), commanded by Major Thomas G. Stevenson, afterward Colonel of the Twenty-fourth and a Brigadier General, and who fell at Spottsylvania at the head of a division, to garrison Fort Independence, and for the Second Battalion ("Tigers"), commanded by Major Ralph W. Newton, to proceed to Fort Warren. Both organizations had been stationed at Boylston Hall.

Some delay occurred, out on the 29th of April the "Tigers" were let loose, 250 strong, and, headed by Gilmore's Band, we marched to the wharf, where we took a steamer for the fort . All along the route we were cheered to the echo, and we were very proud to be looked upon as defenders of Old Glory.

GARRISON DUTY AT FORT WARREN.

Fort Warren April 29, 1861

Dear Mother I am safe and like my quarters well I am pressed for time and cannot write much If it is convenient I should like to have fathers valice with my rubber coat I should like to have a revolver case father can buy one and send it down to morrow in the valice and any other thing you would like to send give my love to all kiss Hugh for me father can carry the valice to the armory and it will get to me I will want my name put on it or a card glued on from your son

J.F. Ramsey,

Good by don’t worry

P.S. send my suspenders and a small blank book to keep an account, send me at towel and comb and a lead Pensil quick.

Blog in Real Time - April 26, 1861 - Post #7

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April 26, 1861
The towns in Massachusetts were busy preparing for war.

From the History of Westborough:

The work of preparing uniforms was undertaken by the women. On April 26, the day following the town-meeting at which it was voted to raise a military company, a meeting was held in the Town Hall to organize a Soldiers' Sewing Society. After prayer by the Rev. Mr. Cummings, of the Unitarian Church, J.F.B. Marshall explained the objects of the meeting. It was voted to organize a society, and the following officers were chosen : president, Mrs. E.M. Phillips ; secretary, Miss M.J. Marshall; directors Mrs. J.F.B. Marshall, Mrs. S.B. Lakin, Mrs. A.N. Arnold, Mrs. J.A. Fayerweather, and Mrs. Salmon Comstock.

Blog in Real Time - April 25, 1861 - Post #6

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From the History of Westborough, Massachusetts, By H.P. DeForest & E. C. Bates:

April 25, 1861

Westborough Town Meeting
At the town meeting held April 25, T.A. Smith, C.P. Winslow, J.F.B. Marshall, Benjamin Boynton, and John Bowes were chosen a committee to consider the matter of raising a company, and to report the necessary expense. They reported the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted: -

Old Westboro Town Hall, 1903. (The soldiers' monument
on the right was built after the war.)

   "Resolved, - That the town appropriate five thousand dollars, to be expended in the purchase of uniforms, pay of men while drilling, and for pay in addition to the amount paid by the Government, when called into active service.

   "Resolved, - That a committee of five be chosen, whose duty it shall be to attend to the expenditure and disbursement of all moneys hereby appropriated ; and no bills shall be contracted for or paid without the approbation and approval of said committee."

   No petty bickering marred the unanimity with which the people of Westborough responded to the call of the President. After the unanimous adoption of the above resolutions, it was immediately voted that "the treasurer be authorized to borrow $5,000, the selectmen issuing town script therefore, to fall due $1,000 per annum after the present issues ;" and further, that the selectmen, - G.C. Sanborn, B.B. Nourse, and S.B. Howe, - with J.F.B. Marshall and Patrick Casey, be the committee called for in the second resolution.

   The Military Committee, as it was called, having organized by choosing B.B. Nourse chairman and J.F.B. Marhall secretary, immediately set about its tasks.

From Three Years in the Army, by Charles E. Davis, Jr.; Estes & Lauriat, 1894.

COMPANY E

Company E, known as the Roxbury Rifles, was organized about the 25th of April, 1861, by the election of Dennis S. Bartlett as captain, Charles R. M. Pratt as first lieutenant, and Joseph Colburn as second lieutenant. After its organization , the company was quartered in Bacon's Hall, Roxbury, the boys obtaining their meals at a restaurant near by. From this time on until Sunday, the 12th of May, the company was daily drilled in citizen's clothes. On that day the company appeared for the first time in new uniforms furnished by the State, and attended divine service at the Dudley-street Baptist church, at completion of which service each man was presented with a Testament.

Lt. Joseph Colburn (pictured) would prove a brave and capable officer.

Blog in Real Time - April 23, 1861 - Post #5

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April 23, 1861.
    Washington was isolated due to the Baltimore riots which cut off communication and transportation to the capitol. Virginia voted to secede on the 17th. The Harper's Ferry National Armory was evacuated and burned by its small garrison on the 18th, but much of the equipment was in tact. It was seized and sent south by Virginia militia who marched on the town. The Norfolk Navy Yard had been lost to the Confederates. President Lincoln wondered if any more Federal troops would come to Washington, "Why don't they come?" he exclaimed.

     The people of Massachusetts were busy recruiting.

    The following is from the Regimental History, Three Years in the Army, but I have paraphrased parts of it for brevity:
     Summary of the formation of the 4th Battalion of Rifles; Boston.

     In July, 1860 a committee consisting of James A. Fox, W.F. Davis, D. H. Bradlee, N.S. Dearborn, and A.N. Sampson were appointed to nominate a captain and third and fourth lieutenants to fill vacancies in the Boston Militia Company known as the "Boston City Greys" or, the "Boston City Guards." A charismatic recruiter was sought after, who would inspire men to enlist under his command. (James A. Fox pictured).

     Samuel H. Leonard had moved from Worcester to Boston and was obliged to resign his commission as brigadier-general, as an officer could not hold a commission outside the limits of the district where he resided. He was an officer of wide reputation as one of the most skillful and thorough drill-masters in the State.

     The aforementioned committee offered General Leonard the captaincy of the Boston City Guards. Leonard accepted upon condition that a second company be raised to be joined with the City Guards, forming a battalion, and changing the arms from muskets to rifles.

This was agreed to, and General Leonard petitioned the Governor and Council to set off the City Guards from the Second Massachusetts Regiment (which included the "Boston Light Infantry (Tigers)," & the "New England Guards" for this purpose, and authority was given him to form a rifle battalion using the City Guards as a nucleus.

The City Guard was called Company A in the new battalion. On December 15th, 1860 they elected the following officers:

Captain ....Samuel H. Leonard.
First Lieutenant ....James A. Fox.
Second Lieutenant ....William F. Davis.
Third Lieutenant ....Charles S. Chandler.
Fourth Lieutenant .....George H. Bush.

Immediately following this election, privates Thomas J. Little and Augustus N. Sampson, with fifty-one others, petitioned the Governor and Council to leave to form a new company, which was subsequently known as Company B. When the company's ranks were full the following officers were elected on March 29th 1861:

Captain .....N. Walter Batchelder.
First Lieutenant .....Joseph S. Cary.
Second Lieutenant .....David H. Bradlee.
Third Lieutenant .....John G. Hovey.
Fourth Lieutenant .....Augustus N. Sampson.

On the 23d of April, Lieutenant Bradlee having been elected adjutant of the battlion, Horace T. Rockwell was elected Fourth Lieutenant and Messrs. Hovey and Sampson were each promoted. (Batchelder pictured).

(John Kurtz's company C was recruiting at this time, but will be included in post #8).

      Company D was organized as follows:
     A military company was formed after the Mexican war composed of Massachusetts veterans, and known as the "Massachusetts Volunteers." The company was attached to the 1st Regiment of Infantry M.V.M., Company I. After two years the company changed its by-laws to include non-veterans so it could continue. It was then voted to take men who had served not less than a year in the volunteer State militia. The name of the company was changed to "National Guard." Augustine Harlow was elected captain in the spring of 1854 and served until July 1860, when he resigned.

     April 15, 1861 he was asked to form a new company, and proceeded to do so at once. The free use of a room in the Adams House was granted him by the proprietors, and in a few days the required number of names was obtained for organization and the following officers were elected:

Captain .....Augustine Harlow.
First Lieutenant .....Samuel N. Chamberlain.
Second Lieutenant .....William H. Cary.
Third Lieutenant .....Charles H. Hovey.
Fourth Lieutenant .....James H. Mayo.

It should be born in mind that in raising these companies the impetus given to enlistments by the startling events of the day, made it quite easy to obtain all the men needed to complete the organizations to the maximum number required. As a matter of fact, so many men offered to enlist that it was decided to accept only those who were voted in and willing to pay $12.50. This sum, added to moneys received by subscription, was expended in the purchase of uniforms, each man being measured to ensure their fitting. The jacket was tight fitting, with a short skirt. The shoulder knots and trimmings were red, and the uniform gray. The cap was trimmed with scarlet and surmounted with a pompom. It made a handsome, serviceable uniform, and gave a very effective appearance to the battalion. Unidentified soldier in the uniform of the 4th Battalion.

Blog in Real Time - April 19, 1861 - Post #4

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Friday, April 19, 1861.
BALTIMORE RIOTS

From Three Years in the Army:

The 19th of April, which is one of the days sacred to American history, on account of the battle of Lexington, this year received an additional interest from the events that were transpiring. It was celebrated by the ringing of bells, flag-raisings and speeches, a drill on Boston Common by one of the artillery companies, and at noon by the firing of one hundred guns in honor of the day.

   While the people were thus actively engaged in celebrating the day, news was received that the Sixth Regiment had been attacked in the streets of Baltimore. The most intense excitement followed. Men gathered in groups about the streets, while crowds surrounded the bulletin boards of the newspapers to learn the particulars.

   If anything was needed to arouse the patriotism of the North, it had now occurred. Public meetings were held in various parts of the city. Merchants, Lawyers, physicians, and members of other professions met, and offers of service and money were proffered to the use of the State. Large loans were generously offered by the Boston banks and by the banks of cities, for the State's immediate use, trusting to the honor of the Legislature to reimburse them, when it met. Numerous offers of money were made to the Governor by private individuals, as aid to soldiers' families. Nor were women lagging behind the men in enthusiasm. Rich and poor, high and low, all offered their services for the preparation of bandages and lint, the making of garments, attendance in hospitals, or any other service compatible with their sex.

   Business seemed, for the time, to be forgotten in the excitement. The minds of men were too much disturbed to give proper attention to other matters. Only one subject possessed the public mind, - to protect the government from the clutches of traitorous hands.

   It was under the influence of these patriotic demonstrations, as exhibited in all the cities and towns of Massachusetts during the first months of the war, that our regiment was enrolled. Many of the young men who left lucrative positions were guaranteed them on their return, by their employers. The generous impulses of all were awakened by the danger that threatened the country.

From the History of Stoneham, by William Burnham Stevens, 1891.

     Twenty-five years have passed since the close of the great Rebellion. It seems hard to realize that to a large part of the people now living the events of the war are known only as matters of history or tradition ; that almost one generation has come and another gone since the opening events of 1861. Those were stirring times in Stoneham, and all who love the old town are proud to dwell upon her record. No town was more patriotic, none more prompt in hurrying to the front, or furnished more men in proportion to her population. Stoneham's company of minute-men having been engaged in the first battle of the Revolution, it was a remarkable coincidence that Captain John H. Dike's company, from the same town, on the same day of the same month, should have participated in the first skirmish of the Rebellion. At Lexington she was in the vanguard of the army which founded the Republic. At Baltimore and Washington she led the hosts that saved the Union. The conduct of Captain Dike and his men in a great emergency deserves more than a passing notice. The part they acted in the march through Baltimore has made the name of the Stoneham company historic. The Stoneham Light Infantry had been the military organization of the town for many years, and was Company C of the Seventh Regiment. The first proclamation had been issued by President Lincoln calling for seventy-five thousand volunteers. On Tuesday, April 16th, Captain Dike goes to Boston, presents himself at the State-House, and begs the privilege of calling out his company in obedience to the President's call. On his return home the men are notified to meet in the armory in the East School-house, where they assemble at 8 P. M., and unanimously vote that they are ready to start at a moment's notice. The night was dark and stormy, and Wednesday morning broke with a cold and hazy atmosphere, but the town was alive with excitement. Men were hurrying to and fro, and preparations being made for immediate departure. A messenger had been despatched from the Governor, who reached Captain Dike's at half-past two in the morning, notifying him to muster his men and report in Boston forthwith. These men were again summoned to meet in the armory at 6 A. M. New names were added to the roll, and the members dismissed to make the last arrangements, and bid their final adieux. Those who witnessed the company's departure on that morning of the 17th of April can never forget it. The company met at the Town Hall, where prayers were offered, and a little before ten, in military array, they reached Central Square.

The people had assembled in a great multitude, wild with patriotic enthusiasm. It was an occasion such as Stoneham had never witnessed. The company departed from the square amid the ringing of bells, waving of hand kerchiefs and tumultuous cheers. After reaching Boston, they marched to the State-House, where they received over-coats and other articles. A. V. Lynde, Esq., presented to each one of the commissioned officers a revolver. The company was assigned to the Sixth Regiment, commanded by Col. Jones, and the same afternoon they were en route for Washington. The commissioned officers of the company were: Captain, John H. Dike, First Lieut., Leander F. Lynde; Second Lieutenant, Darius N. Stevens; Third Lieutenant, James F. Rowe; and Fourth Lieutenant, W. B. Blaisdell. In addition to the officers there was one musician and a full complement of sixty men. No language of the writer could give so vivid a description of what occurred during the next few days as the following letter, written by one of the chief actors, Lieut. Lynde, who was in command of the company after Captain Dike was wounded in Baltimore:

HEAD QUARTERS SIXTH REGIMENT OF I. M. V. M.

Senate Chamber, April 26, 12 M., '61

MR. C. C. DIKE:

Dear sir:—Yours was received this A. M. For the first time we have got direct news from home, and I assure you it were gladly received. Last night at 7 P. M. the 7th Regt. N. Y. arrived and were quartered at the House of Representatives. That cheered us up considerably, but to-day, when the gallant 5th, 7th and 8th Massachusetts and the 1st Rhode Island arrived, the wildest enthusiasm prevailed, for it was refreshing to see familiar faces from the old Bay State. Previous to this we had been worked very hard for green soldiers, sleeping with, and at all times having with us, our equipments, but the men have done well, and have stood by each other like brothers. Now for our journey here. The papers give an account of our route to Philadelphia. From there I will try and give the particulars. Our muskets were loaded and capped before we got to Philadelphia. We left there at 2 in the morning, arriving at Baltimore at 12 M. Our company were in two covered baggage cars. We had stopped for about fifteen minutes and a crowd was gathering fast, when we discovered that the Colonel and Staff, together with seven companies, had left their cars, and gone across the city. The men whose duty it was to draw with horses our cars across, were driven off and could not, and we proceeded to get out, fall in, four companies in all, to march across, we having the colors in one of the companies. The companies were C, of Lowell on the right; Co. B, of Lowell, with the colors ; then came Co. C, of our town, Captain Dike, followed by Co. I, of Lawrence. Before we got formed we were taunted and spit upon and insulted in every way possible. After marching about ten rods, stones and brick-bats flew merrily, and the order was then given by Captain Follansbee, who commanded the regiment, to double quick march. We had not gone more than ten rods before I saw a man discharge a revolver at us from the second story of a building, and at the same time, a great many were fired from the street. We got scattered a little, and I gave the order to close up in close order, solid column. Just then, Captain Dike being ahead, two of our men fell, one by a bullet from a pistol, and one by a brick-bat. I then ordered my men to fire, which they did, and I then gave the order to load and fire as we went. We got partly through the city, when we found them tearing up a bridge, and the street blockaded up with stone and large anchors, but we scaled them and kept up our courage. I kept around the colors and stood by them till they were at the depot, then helped put them in the cars. We were scattered very much, all trying to get into the cars. About ten rods from the depot I saw Captain Dike. That was the last I saw him. He being some way ahead, I supposed he had got into the forward cars. A great many of the cars were locked, and the windows closed, but the buts of the guns soon made a passage into them. Every gun was pointed out of the window, and the rebels began to leave. While we were getting into the cars, we were showered upon with pistol balls, and they were unshackling the cars so as to leave some of us, but when we got right we soon stopped by stationing men on the platform and muzzles out of the windows. After helping put in the colors in company with the color-bearer, I got into the cars and they began to move very slow, for the rebs had gone ahead and torn up the track. The police went ahead and we fixed the track and finally moved on to Washington. One word in regard to the police. Some of them were loyal, but what could they do when we were in the thickest of the fight. As soon as we got started I looked through the train to see who was hurt and who were missing, for we were awfully mixed up. I found upon examination that our Captain, James Keenan, Horace Danforth, Andrew Robbins and Victor Lorendo were left-behind. The band did not get out of cars on the north side of Baltimore, and we did not know what had become of them till this morning when we learned that part of them had gone home, and a part of them were in New York. As soon as possible after getting to Washington, took means to find out in regard to those left behind, and found that Captain Dike was shot in the thigh, and was in good hands, but was told that they could not tell the names of the parties with whom he was stopping. James Keenan was shot in the leg, and Andrew Robbins was shot and hit with a stone, hurt very bad. Horace Danforth was hit with a stone and injured very severely, but all were in good hands, and well cared for. Communications by letter being cut off from Baltimore, I have not received news from there as well as I should had there been a mail, but have heard several times by men coming from there that they were cared for and doing well, but rumor said yesterday that A. Robbins and H. Danforth were dead. I cannot tell, for it is impossible to write and nobody goes there. I shall do the best I can to hear from them and help them in every way. We got to Washington at dark, went directly to the Capitol, and were quartered in the Senate Chamber. The Pennsylvania Regiment was quartered in the southern wing, 350 men. Monday we took the oath of allegiance to the United States. It was administered by Maj. McDowell. We have marched up to the President's house, passing in review before President Lincoln, Gen. Scott, Wm. H. Seward and Simon Cameron. To-day at 12 M. the 5th and 7th Massachusetts Regiments arrived and marched to the Patent Office, where they are quartered. The 8th Massachusetts are in the Rotunda and old Senate Chamber, very much used up with marching, and going without sleep and provisions, but our men are doing all in their power for them. Say to all our Stoneham friends that the men behaved like men as well as soldiers, and attend to their duties cheerfully, and are ready if needs be to rally at a moment's warning around the colors of 6th Regiment, and under the stars and stripes there to protect our glorious Union against any odds and at all hazards. We all unite in sending good news to all inquiring friends, and will endeavor so to act that none of them shall ever be ashamed to own that they had friends in the time of need in the Stoneham Light Infantry. Yours truly,

"L. F. LYNDE, Lieut. Commanding."

From the History of Westborough:

On the 19th of April the news of the attack on the Sixth Regiment in the streets of Baltimore added fuel to the flames. Patriotic enthusiasm could no longer endure opposition or indifference. The postmaster, who had spoken rather too freely, it was thought, in expressing his sympathy for the South, was its most prominent victim. On the afternoon of the outrage in Baltimore a crowd of excited men appeared before the office, - at the corner of South and Main Streets, - and presenting him with the flag of his country, demanded that he raise it at the office door. This he refused to do. Fifteen minutes were given him to change his mind ; and when it was announced that the allotted time had nearly expired, a friend of the postmaster, with the excuse that "the easiest way is the best way," avoided further trouble by nailing the flag to the door-post. There it remained for months, until the wind and rain had reduced it to tatters, inspiring loyalty and rebuking indifference.

Blog in Real Time - April 17, 1861 - Post #3

2011-04-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 17, 1861

From the History of Westborough, Massachusetts, by H.P. DeForest and E.C. Bates:

   The attack on Sumter aroused the North as no event had done since the stirring days of 1775. The cold and unemotional New Englander again glowed with patriotic ardor. "The instant effect produced," says one historian, "was that of solemn silence, - that silence which in the resolute man is the precursor of irrevocable determination ; and then there arose all through the country, from the Canadian frontier to where the Ohio, rolling his waters westwardly for a thousand miles, separates the lands of freedom from those of slavery, not the yell of defiance, but the deep-toned cheer."

   The patriotism of the people of Westborough was stirred in unison with the general thrill. Slavery and secession found little sympathy. The sentiment of the town was shown in the election of 1860, when two votes were cast for Breckenridge, forty-four for Bell, ninety-seven for Douglas, and three hundred and one for Lincoln. But he prompt and earnest action of the town in response to the President's appeal, and the spontaneous and vigorous protest of the people against any sign of sympathy with the seceding States, are perhaps better evidence of the loyal spirit which animated the community. On Wednesday, April 17, - two days after the call for troops, - a warrant was issued by the selectmen, G. C. Sanborn, B.B. Nourse, and S.B. Howe, calling a town-meeting for April 25, "to see if the town will grant or appropriate any money toward raising a military company in the town, or act anything in relation to the same." The excitement was intense, and warlike talk and preparations did not wait for the official sanction of the town.

   Stoneham Massachusetts would organize a company called the "Grey Eagles," Jacob Parker Gould, Captain. The Grey Eagles would become the nucleus of Company G, 13th M.V.I. But another militia company was already active in Stoneham when President Lincoln called for troops. The Stoneham Light Infantry, commanded by Captain John H. Dyke. On Tuesday April 16, Capt. Dyke went to Boston and offered his company's service to the President. His men assembled that night in Stoneham and made preparations to set out at a moment's notice for Washington.

From the History of Stoneham, Massachusetts by William Burnham Stevens & Francis Lester Whittier:

   Wednesday morning broke with a cold and hazy atmosphere, but the town was alive with excitement. Men were hurrying to and fro, and preparations being made for immediate departure. A messenger had been despatched from the Governor, who reached Captain Dike's at half-past two in the morning, notifying him to muster his men and report in Boston forthwith. These men were again summoned to meet in the armory at 6 A. M. New names were added to the roll, and the members dismissed to make the last arrangements, and bid their final adieux.

We will hear more from Captain Dyke's company...

Blog in Real Time - April 15, 1861 - Post #2

2011-04-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

From "The Civil War, Day by Day" by E.B. Long & Barbara Long; (Civil War Almanac) Da Capo Press 1971:

Monday, April 15, 1861
   As excitement increased among the peoples of the now warring nations, President Lincoln at Washington publicly issued a proclamation declaring that an insurrection existed, calling out seventy-five thousand militia from the various Northern states and convening Congress in special session on July 4.

From "Three Years in the Army," by Charles E. Davis, Jr. (1894):

   The present generation has no conception of the consternation that prevailed among the people of the North when the startling news was received that Fort Sumter had been fired upon. It aroused the patriotic indignation of the community to the highest pitch of excitement.

   Up to this time most people were skeptical about the possibilities of a war. Threats of secession had often been made before, by politicians of the South, without being carried into effect. The feeling of hatred that existed toward the North was not fully appreciated except by a comparatively small number of persons. Although the air was filled with rumors of war, they were generally believed to be nothing more than the irrepressible mutterings of disgruntled politicians. Therefore, when the announcement was made that Fort Sumter had been fired upon, it awoke the public mind to a realization that rebellion and secession were at hand. Public meetings were held in every town and city. Resolves were passed condemning the outrage, coupled with an expression of determination to avenge the insult to the national flag.

   Such a display of bunting in Boston was never seen before. Across every street, at the mastheads of vessels lying in the harbor, in the horse-cars and on express-wagons, and upon private houses could be seen the American flag floating in the breeze ; and, indeed, every opportunity was taken to give expression to the prevailing sentiment by displaying the national emblem.

   On the 14th of April Fort Sumter surrendered. On the 15th a telegram was received by Governor Andrew to forward two regiments, and on the same day the following communication was sent to the Secretary of War :

Boston, April 15, 1861.

To Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary of War :

SIR: I have received telegrams from yourself and Brigadier-General Thomas, admonishing me of a coming requisition for twenty companies of sixty-four privates each; and I have caused orders to be distributed to bring the men into Boston before to-morrow night, and to await orders. Allow me to urge the issue of an order to the Springfield (Mass.) Armory, to double the production of arms at once, and to push the work to the utmost. If any aid by way of money or credit is needed from Massachusetts, I hope to be at apprised. An extra session of our General Court can be called immediately, if need be; and, if called, it will respond to any demand of patriotism.

And I beg you would permit, in addition to suggesting the utmost activity at the Springfield Armory, to urge that the armory at Harper's Ferry be discontinued, and its tools, machinery, and works be transferred elsewhere, or else that it be rigidly guarded against seizure, of the danger of which I have some premonitions. If any more troops will certainly be needed from Massachusetts, please signify it at once, since I should prefer receiving special volunteers for active militia to detailing any more of our present active militia, especially as many most efficient gentlemen would like to raise companies or regiments, as the case may be, and can receive enlistments of men who are very ready to serve.

Allow me also to suggest that our forts in Boston Harbor are entirely unmanned. If authorized, I would put a regiment into the forts at any time.

Two of my staff spent last Saturday in making experiments of the most satisfactory character with Shenkle's new invention in projectiles; and so extraordinary was the firing that I have directed eighteen guns to be rifled, and projectiles to be made. May I commend this invention to the examination of the United States Government?

I am happy to add that I find the amplest proof of a war devotion to the country's cause on every hand to-day. Our people are alive.
Yours,

JOHN A. ANDREW.

Blog in Real Time - Prologue - Post #1

2011-04-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 12, 1861

FORT SUMTER FIRED UPON AND REPLIES, WAR BEGINS!
(From the Civil War Day by Day by E.B. Long & Barbara Long)
(abridged - B.F.)

   At 11 P.M. the night of April 11 Gen. [P.G.T.] Beauregard's messengers returned to Maj. [Robert] Anderson at Fort Sumter, prompted by the telegram of Confederate Sec. of War [Leroy Pope] Walker expressing a wish to avoid firing if Anderson would state time at which, due to lack of supplies, he would have to evacuate. They reached Fort Sumter at 12:45 A.M., April 12, and at 3:13 A.M. received Anderson's reply. The major said he would evacuate on the fifteenth at noon if he did not receive additional supplies or further orders from his government. Anderson added that he would not fire unless fired upon. These terms were obviously unsatisfactory to the Confederates as it was common knowledge supplies and possibly reinforcements were coming, probably along with further orders. The officers had to refuse Anderson's proposal and notified him in writing that Confederate batteries would open in an hour's time. They proceeded to Fort Johnson, arriving at 4 A.M.

   At 4:30 A.M. the signal shot was fired from the post of Capt. George S. James at Fort Johnson, with other batteries opening according to previous orders. Capt. James gave the order and, probably, one Henry S. Farley actually fired the signal shot that arched in the night sky over Charleston Harbor.

   .....For a while, until near 7 A.M. the forty-eight guns of Fort Sumter were silent, and then some of them replied, manned by eighty-five officers and men and some of the forty-three workmen employed at the fort. Opposing the Federal garrison were well over four thousand Confederates and seventy or more guns. ...All day the Confederate bombardment was constant and heavy.

   ...For the Confederates it was said a thrill went through the city of Charleston - the issue had been met. Crowds of people watched from the battery and many others perched on rooftops for a better view. ...Out at sea the vessels of the Federal relieving fleet could be seen. Would they attempt to come in?

The Following is from "The History of Westborough, Massachusetts," By H.P. DeForest & E.C. Bates, 1891. From the chapter "The Civil War." It presents the view of events from a Massachusetts perspective. Westborough would raise a rifle company in response to President Lincoln's call for troops. The rifle company mustered into Federal Service as Co. K, 13th M.V.I.

   The story of the growth and development of Westborough now turns from matters strictly local to her humble, though loyal and earnest, share in suppressing a great rebellion. At the outbreak of the war the town had increased to a population of about three thousand. Agriculture was still the main occupation of her people, though the manufacture of sleighs, and of boots and shoes, was to some extent carried on. It was a quiet village. The busy hum of machinery was little heard, and the era of "modern improvements" in buildings, highways, sidewalks, and the rest had not yet begun. But while the people of Westborough were quietly attentive to their various local interests, - their farms and shops, churches and schools, - stirring events were occurring in the great world outside. The cloud of Secession, which had been lowering over the country for nearly half a century, was growing blacker and more threatening. Slavery was the cause of the disturbance. As long as the cherished institution of the South had been confined to its original boundaries, the indulgent North had made little protest. But with the rapid growth of the South in industrial importance and wealth, - following Eli Whitney's invention of the cotton-gin, which made cotton "king," and slave labor profitable, - the extension of slavery became the question of the day; and the extension of slavery into new territory aroused vigorous opposition. The solution of the troublesome question was delayed for a while by a series of humiliating compromises ; but the increasing power of the slaveholders made each demand more bold, and more dangerous to grant. A sectional war was inevitable. The pecuniary interests of the South were too great to be voluntarily surrendered, and the moral judgement of the North could never sanction the growth of slavery as a national institution. The weak and vacillating administration of President Buchanan gave the South an opportunity to prepare for the approaching conflict. Arms and ammunition were sent to Southern forts ; ships of war were despatched to distant parts of the world ; the army was weakened and scattered ; in fact, before the grand crisis arrived, every possible means had been taken to make secession an easier talk.

   In the Presidential election of 1860 the Republican party presented as its candidate Abraham Lincoln, and pledged itself to oppose the further encroachment of slavery. The Democratic party, which was more friendly toward the system, became hopelessly divided. The more moderate Democrats nominated Stephen A. Douglas, while John C. Breckenridge represented the extreme slavery sentiment of the South. In the midst of the excitement, a party favoring conciliation and compromise nominated John Bell. On the 6th of November, Abraham Lincoln was elected President. His election was hailed with joy in the North, and with bitterness and rage throughout the South. The Slave States had boldly threatened that they would secede from the Union in case of Lincoln's election, and it was soon seen that their threats were more than idle bluster. On the 20th of December South Carolina passed her ordinance of secession ; and before the inauguration of President Lincoln, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas had followed her example.

   The first act of open hostility took place on January 9, 1861, when the steamer "Star of the West," bearing supplies to the Federal garrison, was fired upon off Charleston harbor. On April 12, Fort Sumter, which was garrisoned by eighty men under Captain Anderson, was bombarded by South Carolina troops. Two days later - Sunday, April 14 - the fort surrendered. The next morning came President Lincoln's famous call for seventy-five thousand men for three month's service.

Blog in Real Time - Coming Up

2011-04-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

   Tomorrow, April 12, I plan to start my experiment, 'blog in real time.'

   This morning I prepared 9 posts which run through April. The idea is to post a news item, from the perspective of a '13th Mass.' soldier on the date it happened, - only 150 years later. The early posts however, will be somewhat summative of events because of the nature of the source material.

   They are culled from the regimental history, "Three Years in the Army," by Charles E. Davis, jr. (1894, Estes & Lauriat) & "The History of Westborough, Massachusetts," by H.P. DeForest and E.C. Bates, (1891), and deal with the organization of the various rifle companies that became the '13th Mass.'

   I have tried to arrange the posts close to important corresponding dates. They provide an accurate description of the prevailing sentiments and activities in Massachusetts at the outbreak of hostilities.

   The posts will come fast and furious for the month of April, drop off noticeably for May, and then resume with regularity from June forward. I simply don't have much material for May.

   Right now, I can't say how long I will be able to continue the experiment, due to other obligations, but let's see how it goes.

   Happy Reading !

The Circulars, Part II

2011-04-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

   In August last year, I wrote a bit about the beginnings of the 13th Regiment Association Circulars, an annual publication issued to members of the regiment, published between the years 1888 - 1922. There are over 1,000 pages of printed materials; a great resource on the '13th Mass.' I'd like to continue that narrative and describe the growth of content that took place between 1895 and 1910.

   After 1895 some former soldiers became regular contributors to the Circulars. Charles Bingham of Co. C, and Clarence Bell, of Co. D, both submitted original poems, relating to some aspect of service in the 13th during the war. The poems were read at the re-union dinners and later published in the next year's Circular as part of the description of festivities. The poems are very long, but here's an example of a shorter one from 1895, by Charles Bingham.

(Portrait of an unknown soldier in the gray uniform of the 4th Battalion.)

THE BLUE AND THE GRAY

[These lines were suggested by the uniforms worn in 1861 by a military organization of Boston, known as the "Fourth Battalion of Rifles, M.V.M.," and to which they are appropriately dedicated.]

Tis a subject somewhat mouldy -

"Blue and Gray;"

But I'll give a newer version,

As I hope, for your diversion,

Though you question my assertion,

As you may.

In the days of sixty-one

We wore Gray.

We were youthful then, and slender,

And our hearts were young and tender,

And we "mashed" the female gender

Every day.

We were "dandy jim" militia

In those days;

With our uniforms so nobby,

And battalion drill our hobby,

Our behavior wasn't "snobby" -

More's the praise !

But we wore another shade

In sixty-two;

Then in uniforms so "stunning,"

With our rifles, went "a-gunning,"

And we didn't look so "cunning"

In the Blue.

Again in sixty-three we wore

The Gray ;

And our dormant ire arouses,

For in our shirts and trousers

And in our "canvas houses"

Thick they lay !

This brought another change

To the Blue;

But now 'twas only mental,

Though the cause was accidental,

We were rather sentimental

On review.

But no more shall we appear

In war's array.

Let our children tell the story

How we fought and bled for glory,

While we now, with heads so hoary,

Wear the Gray !

The poems appear regularly through 1901. During this period Bingham also penned "How We Joined the Army, The Story of a Raw Recruit." This was the story of his journey to the front in August, 1862 as one of the early batches of recruits to join the regiment in the field just after the battle of Cedar Mountain. Clarence Bell, along with his poems, wrote two noteworthy pieces, "Some Camp Followers of the 13th," and "A Hot Time in Winchester." These were humorous remembrances of some of the former slaves, "contraband," that attached themselves to the unit as servants for the officers and enlisted men, and silly anecdotes from the advance to Winchester in March, 1862.

Association Secretary, and author of the Regimental History, Charles Davis, always filled things out with items of interest to the membership. In 1896 & 1897 he printed corrections to the regimental roster. The next year he reported on the participation of the regiment's delegation at the dedication of the Massachusetts Monument at Antietam. He told his own war story anonymously in Circular #12, "An Episode of the Civil War." This was re-told with added detail years later, when Davis felt less embarrassed writing about himself. (The more detailed story, "From Manassas to Boston," is on the '2nd Bull Run' page of my website.) In Circular 14 Davis wrote "Drafting for Recruits." He presents a look into how the draft was conducted in 1863 & 1864, at the Third Massachusetts District where he was chief clerk. Davis's contributions continued through the entire run of the Circulars.

In 1902, (Circular #15) George Jepson of Co. A, became a regular contributor of articles for the next 9 years. His articles were written for the newspapers and re-printed in the Circulars. They are generally over-long treatments on major campaigns or key players of the war. His subjects include, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Generals Hooker, Reynolds, Grant and Lee, and President Lincoln. The reader's reward for plowing through Jepson's ponderous prose, is getting to the priceless gems of personal reminiscences, trivial as he called them, yet fascinating for their association with great events.

Jepson played chess with Ely Parker of General Grant's staff in 1864. While standing sentinel at a New Year's Bash, he blurted out that he wished to shake hands with the President, as Mr. Lincoln and General Wadsworth crossed the thresh-hold. He tells the story of '13th Mass' Color Bearer Roland Morris, who was shot dead at Gettysburg. He tells how Lt. J. A. Howe saved the colors from capture in that same fight. And, he describes vividly, Private N. M. Putnam's ordeal with the company wash-basin while skirmishing at Fredericksburg. Jepson's articles are always a good reference for personal anecdotes and character sketches from the annals of the 13th. Between Jepson and Davis the Circulars flourished between 1902 - 1911. Others were inspired to try their hand at authorship and some of the most gripping tales from the regiment were published in this span. These include George Henry Hill's "Reminiscences from the Sands of Time," Major Elliot Clark Pierce's humorous "Midnight Ride," and John S. Fay's, "Libby Prison."

Hill tells of his capture at the Wilderness and internment at Andersonville. He and two comrades escaped from a Rebel train en-route to another prison. Pierce's article relates how he imagined himself as Paul Revere, while on a midnight ride between Sharpsburg and Sandy Hook, Md. to deliver some routine dispatches to General N. P. Banks, very early in the war. Fay writes of his loss of two limbs when struck by a rebel shell that killed two others. He and Surgeon Allston Whitney were eventually captured at their field hospital and sent to Libby Prison in Richmond.

The great material would keep coming in future years, but I'll write more on that later. For now, I leave you with Private Nathaniel M. Putnam at Fredericksburg, as told by his Company A comrade, George Jepson.

"The rebel sharp-shooters had ensconced themselves among the limbs of the opposite trees, and were popping away at us and picking off the officers in the line of battle behind. Our own rifles were hot with constant firing, and every tree that sheltered a "Johnny" was made the billet of many a bullet. What execution our shooting did, as a whole, it was hard to tell. We now and then saw a rebel slide down from his cover and limp away ; but it was at least equally effective, if not more so, that that of the enemy, for as we lay at the regulation distance of five paces apart the intervening ground was literally peppered with hostile lead, but up to a certain period not one of us had received a scratch.

My immediate neighbor on the left was N. M. Putnam. (pictured) "Put," as he was familiarly called, was the model of a soldier ; one of those men of sturdy New England build, morally and physically, always ready for any duty, and who could never acquire, apparently the first principles of the art of shirking, whether it was that of the most disagreeable police duty or the more dangerous one of keeping his file in the face of bursting shell and a storm of leaden hail ; presenting, moreover, the rare example of an old soldier who never drank a drop of intoxicating liquor, never smoked or chewed tobacco, was absolutely insensible to the fascinations of poker, loo, or seven-up, and was never known to indulge in even the mildest and most innocuous cuss word.

It happened, on this of all days, to be "Put's" turn to carry the mess wash-basin, a new and glittering affair recently bought of the sutler.

We all had our knapsacks on, and as we lay on our bellies - firing in that position, turning sideways to load - it might have been thought that such an object, slung on the back of a knapsack, would afford a first-class mark for a Southern rifleman.

We noticed, indeed, but without divining the cause, that the shots were coming a little thicker and faster about the particular spot where we lay, until a "Bucktail" - one of the famous Pennsylvania regiment, so named because they had adopted the device of wearing a buck's tail on their caps - who was next to us on the right, sang out:

"Tell that cuss to take that damn tin pan off'm his back !"

I passed the warning to "Put" just at the moment when there came the sharp pish of a bullet, accompanied by a slight tintinnabulation - I am sure that must be the right word for it - and "Put" hastily tore off the basin. Such a comical look of stupefied consternation came over his face as he held up the bright object and exhibited a jagged hole completely through it, that we who beheld it fairly yelled with laughter. The next instant, with a frantic gesture, "Put" threw the thing from him, and it rolled with many a grotesque gyration down the slope almost to the rebel lines. That was close shooting, and we Northern veterans have good reason not to deny the abilities of "our friends the enemy" in that line. We all remember the characteristic story of the Northern traveler who witnessed the Kentucky lad shoot a squirrel dead with his pea-bore rifle and who began to blubber on examining his prize. "What's the matter, my boy" Why do you cry?" "Pap will give me a lickin' 'cause I didn't shoot the varmint through the head!"

But now a sudden commotion in the rear, and the sound of our bugle to fall back, told that our long, harassing, and nerve-wearing duty was finished."

Sandy Hook, August 1861; Revisited

2011-03-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

I decided to retro-fit one of my earlier web pages and chose the 'Sandy Hook' page to start. ("History > 1861 > Sandy Hook"). The idea is to update my earlier web pages with css code, to match the current page designs. The Sandy Hook page was short, and I thought I could finish it over a weekend. But with new material to be added it proved to be more challenging.

The regt. camped at Sandy Hook, MD for about a week, Aug. 24 - Sept. 3rd 1861. As the page stood, the most noteworthy event in camp during this week at Sandy Hook was the arrival of state issued uniform coats and hats. For most of the men, the apparel didn't fit, and regimental historian Charles E. Davis, jr. had fun describing the results,

"the person who selected the sizes was under the impression that every man from Massachusetts had a head like Daniel Webster"

   In contrast to the quiet at Sandy Hook, there was a lot of shooting going on up river at Harper's Ferry where companies K & I were posted. There were two alarms of note; one on Aug. 24th, the day the regt. arrived, the other on September 2nd. The new material describes these 'engagements' with divergent terms.

   One man wrote of the former, it was a "fruitless alarm," while another said "we kept up a fire all night."  Inconsistencies appear in descriptions of the latter engagement too. So, who was more accurate in their reporting? That's when I noticed subtle attitudes in the soldiers' letters that corresponded to the company they belonged to. (as in Co. B, Co. I or Co. K)

   There was a jealous rivalry going on between the Boston Companies and the other companies during the first year or so of service and the letters subtly reflect this. A Company K man, reporting from the Maryland side of the Potomac, opposite Harper's Ferry, describes events in a pretty straight forward manner. -- The captain commanding, spotted some rebel cavalry in the town, and called for re-enforcements from the ranks camped at Sandy Hook a mile and 1/2 away. The writer called the affair a "fruitless alarm."  But one of the re-enforcements, a Co. B man, (from Boston) adds a bit more excitement when describing the event,

"we all rushed out pell-mell... to the rescue of our comrades.. They kept up a fire all night, but no one else was hurt on our side."

The tone of these last comments can be attributed to the excitement of the soldiers on both sides early in the war. The regt. had only been out 3 weeks, and they were eager to enter the fray. But could there also be a touch of bragging in the letter, as the boys from Boston, "rush to the rescue of our comrades." The two companies at the ferry were from the so called 'country towns' of Marlboro and Westboro.

If there was a fire kept up all night, the boys were probably shooting at phantoms as evidence suggests this was indeed a 'false alarm.' And the boys of the 13th were a bit 'trigger happy' at this time.

"The gallant 13th kept up a constant fire on the few inhabitants of Harper's Ferry, suspecting or affecting to suspect them of being rebels."

So wrote Harper's Ferry Historian Joseph Barry.

There was another more serious skirmish on Sept. 2nd which is called "Beller's Mill" although no official reports were made of the engagement. Both sides claimed to have killed several of the enemy. Again the accounts of the event are somewhat sketchy. Evidence suggests Co. I & K were attacked by elements of Turner Ashby's cavalry, when they ventured a couple miles into Virginia, to confiscate supplies at a mill. Only one man in the 13th was wounded, George Brown, of Co. I. Turner Ashby wrote in a letter to the Conf. Adj. Gen'ls office in September,

"I had occasional skirmishes with the enemy in this vicinity, ...having only 1 man wounded, and he doing well. I have killed several of them each time."

In contrast, Joseph Barry wrote about this engagement,

"a rebel soldier named Jones was killed near the graveyard, a bullet having penetrated through the palm of his hand and then into his stomach."

The rivalry between companies becomes evident again when a Company I man describes the event to a friend in the hometown of Marlboro,

"The 4th Battalion (from Boston) are not used any better than the other companies, and, perhaps, not as well as Co. I, which undoubtedly stands at the head of the Regiment as the best company."

The web page is better now. I added more letters, found and added Turner Ashby's letter regarding his activities at this time, [from the Official Records], and discovered traces of the subtle friction between companies beginning to show up in these early letters home. One other quote in particular stood out, from a soldier's letter to his mother. I added the quote to the footer at the bottom of the page. (The old page designs don't have a footer).

"The Colonel says we will all be home in three months."

Here's the new link:
Camp at Sandy Hook

An Experiment - Feedback welcomed

2011-03-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

While preparing another blog post for this site, (which I'm juggling with my website) and lamenting the lack of posts lately, an idea occurred to me.

We are nearing the 150th Anniversary of the formation of the 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment. Militia groups began forming in April and May, 1861. In June, the original 5 rifle companies reported to Fort Independence, Boston Harbor. They mustered into federal service as the 13th Mass. in July.

With all the soldiers' letters I have, I could 'blog' the war in real time. That is, I could post a letter from the rank and file of the '13th Mass.' on the date which it was actually written, -- only 150 years later.

If successful, I could probably keep this up until September 2012, at which time the amount of letters might drop off somewhat significantly. (But it has the potential to go on longer). I thought the idea was sound.

My website contains many of these materials already, but it might be interesting to follow them along in 'real time.' Of course, I would include materials not on the website, and continue with other regular blog posts.

Those of you who happen to read this, leave a comment and let me know what you think!

The 13th Mass., at 2nd Bull Run

2011-01-27T15:00:00.000-08:00

There's a new web page up at my website. The page contains 13th Mass., soldiers' letters and memoirs of their experiences at the 2nd Battle of Bull Run. I've had some of these materials for a long time, and I always wanted to share them with a wider audience. This is a milestone for my site. This is the point in the history of the regiment where many original recruits left, one way or another. Second Bull Run was the first major engagement for the unit. Forty men were killed, about 200 wounded. About five hundred went into the fight.

Here's whats on the page.

An overlong introduction but there are maps! - apologies ahead of time. Then the source material.

Excerpts from the regimental history by Charles E. Davis, (with pictures & maps!).
A short piece on Major Jacob Parker Gould who was the senior regimental officer on the field.
Westboro Transcript (hometown newspaper). A letter from Capt. Hovey, Co. K listing casualties.
Sergeant Austin Stearns account of the action. (with pictures !) Stearns memoirs have been around since the mid 1970's, so its a well referenced source, but he provides a good overall description of the chaos on the field.
Letter of Lt. Charles B. Fox to his father. (Co's I & K) Fox expresses his discouragement in the conduct of the war, and the difficulty of service.
Letter of Lyman Low, Co. B. Low's long account of the battle was published in the 13th Regt. Association Circulars in 1911, but I don't think many historians have seen it. The Circulars are over 1,000 pages of material, and the letter does not reference 2nd Bull Run in the title. He describes the death and wounding of several comrades and the chaos at the stone bridge.
Letter of Capt. Joseph Cary, Co. B, of his companies losses in the engagement. From the Boston Herald. (previously available on the defunct website "Letters of the Civil War.")
The Three Ponies of Company B. A story of the death of Charles Mills, and Albert Curtis, on the battlefield; from the regimental history, followed by a brief (1915) letter of their 3rd comrade, Michael Ayers. (with pictures).
Letter of John B. Noyes, Co. B. Another long descriptive letter from John Noyes describing the campaign, and what he saw on the battlefield. (with pictures and maps!).
Letter of George Henry Hill, Co. B. Un published letter shared with me by a family descendant. Hill describes the experience of being under fire in the heat of battle. (with picture).
Roxbury City Gazette (hometown newspaper). The regular correspondent for the 13th Mass, from Roxbury describes the companies experiences in the campaign. (Previously posted on the defunct website, "Letters of the Civil War." )(picture of Lt. Colburn).
Two letters of James Ramsey, Co. E. Shared with me by descendants. Ramsey was taken prisoner on the battlefield and describes his treatment at the field hospital. He compares this with the shabby treatment he gets later in Washington, D.C. (picture of James included).
Sam Webster's account of the battle. Another well known source from the Huntington Library, San Marino, CA. (with pictures).
George F. D. Paine's well known story from the 13th Regt. Association Circulars, "How I Left Bull Run Battlefield." Paine's narrative is so gripping it is quoted on the brigade's historical marker at Manassas National Battlefield Park. (with pictures).
Letter of John B. Noyes. A second letter, written from a hospital, well after the battle, when Noyes was recuperating from wounds received at Antietam. He criticizes the conduct of several specific 13th Mass officers in the engagement. He was mad ! (pictures of the rascals included).
Charles E. Davis, Jr.'s horrific account of his experience in the battle; lying wounded on the field for a week; and then receiving worse than lousy treatment from one of the surgeons at Carver Hospital in Washington DC. It goes on from there too... Davis went on to write the regimental history of the 13th Mass. (with pictures!)
List of men killed during this campaign.

Here's the link: http://13thmass.org/1862/second_bull_run.html

Looking Forward

2011-01-08T17:36:00.000-08:00

I thought hard for a topic to post in December for the Christmas and New Year’s Holiday, but nothing came to mind. Last year I posted on Private John B. Noyes’s pleasant holiday experiences in Hancock, Maryland during the winter of 1861-62. In mid-December fellow blogger and author, James Schmidt, linked to this post from his own blog, which I highly recommend. http://civilwarmed.blogspot.com/

A new post referencing Christmas in 1862 would have been pretty grim, considering it followed the disastrous battle of Fredericksburg.

On that day in 1862, Private Sam Webster of Co. D wrote;

“Our Christmas Dinner is half broiled beef and hard bread.”

That was all he mentioned of Christmas. Private Noyes, was home in Boston recovering from wounds received at Antietam, so I have no letters from him to reference. He probably had a happy Christmas. Warren Freeman of Company A, wrote a letter to his father 'from the field' on Christmas Day, but didn’t mention Christmas at all;

“I was sick some days before we left Brook’s Station, but marched with the regiment the first day, and on the second day rode in an ambulance on account of the swelling of my lower limbs. When we arrived at Fredericksburg the sick were put in a barn near the river; here we found some corn-stalks and made our-selves tolerably comfortable on them, with the addition of our blankets; but about midnight, after the battle, we were turned out of the barn into the field, as the barn was wanted for the badly wounded. We kept our cornstalks, however, and lay on the frozen ground two nights and one day. The field was covered all over with wounded men groaning and calling for water; some attempted to crawl on their bellies to the river side for a drop of water to relieve their thirst. In the course of two days, these wounded men were carried away and we were put in the barn again; here we suffered terribly from the cold, as we had no way to warm ourselves.”

These passages don’t exactly jump out and say, “MERRY CHRISTMAS !”

I was still immersed in the battle of 2^nd Bull Run, and didn’t wish to post on that subject for the holiday, so I ended up waiting until January to post something new.

This year, being the 150^th anniversary of the war, the subject is receiving more attention than usual in different media outlets. I’m hoping the added attention will draw some more interest to my blog and website during these anniversary years. I’m very excited about posting the latest page to the website, which consists entirely of 13^th Mass. soldiers’ letters and recollections of what they experienced August 30^th, 1862 at the 2^nd Battle of Bull Run; their first major engagement. The text for the page is finished, but it will take a short while to add the maps and images which I want to accompany the narrative. I think of my website as a sort of ‘illustrated history’ of the regiment. To me at least, finding appropriate pictures and portraits to go with the text is one of the more satisfying tasks in building the website.

To try and drum up a little bit of interest, here’s a pre-view of what’s coming.

Private Lyman Low, Co. B:

"The little knoll or rise of ground opposite our center and right was quickly chosen by a few of our men as a position of advantage, but they speedily retired, for the place proved to be untenable. I believe all were wounded. I well recollect that Albert Morse was among them, and particularly do I remember the scowl on his face as he fell and viewed his wounds. At another point I observed Lieut. Thomas J. Little (afterwards captain in the Massachusetts Heavy Artillery) as he suddenly turned to the rear, with hands covering his mouth and chin, from which blood was copiously flowing. Among the very first to fall was a comrade directly in front of me. I saw a piece of his scalp drop from the back of his head; he went down in a heap, and as his face came into view it showed that the fatal bullet had entered the center of his forehead. He was bathed in blood, which rose high from his wound, falling back over his face. I was never able to ascertain who it was, though I have always thought it might have been Fred Williams, who was killed in the battle, and stood beside me when the fighting began."

Private George F. D. Paine, Co. A:

"Our boys dropped like tenpins before an expert player. Ten feet to my left the tall sergeant of Company F sank down in a heap, shot squarely through the head. I saw the brain ooze out. My left hand mate whirled, shot through the shoulder. F. went down with a bullet through the face. S. was swearing "like mad," shot through the thigh. A man I did not recognize dropped just in front. I heard the bullets chug into his body; it seemed half a dozen struck him. I shall never forget the look on his face as he turned over and died."

From Private Charles E. Davis, Jr. :

"The surgeon who first examined my wounds made them construct a frame over the bed and cover it with gauze, to keep the flies out. The second one, with no particular purpose in view, lifted a corner of the gauze and let in upon me no end of flies, whereupon I called him some kind of a fool and he remonstrated at my use of profanity and gave me a lecture, saying he would see me again on this subject, but took no pains to adjust the gauze or rid me of the flies. He made no examination of my wounds, nor showed any interest in me until the following morning when he came to announce that I must have my arm taken off in order to save my life. I told him I would see him damned first before I would submit to such an operation.

"Very well," said he, "if you won't allow us to do anything to save your life, you had better prepare to die."

It seems that this man had "experienced" religion and was baptized about six weeks before, the only effect of which was the removal of any solicitude he may have felt, as a physician, in the saving of life. Perhaps the baptismal water was stale. I had felt something moving under my shoulders and made complaint, but he said it was nonsense and suggested to the nurse that my mind was giving way. This made me excited and that seemed to confirm his opinion. I quieted down and then he was sure I was insane. In the meantime I could plainly feel the movement under my shoulders. It is a fearful thing to be thought insane, and each remark you make considered confirmation. It was a terrible moment to me. At last I shouted, "For God's sake, will no one lift me up and see." The man on the next bed called another, and they lifted me into a sitting position, pulled down a sheet and blanket, uncovering a nest of young rats, whereupon the doctor and nurse walked away, showing no interest in the result."

That's all for now, hope to write more soon. Best wishes to all for a healthy and prosperous new year.

Charles Roundy Manuscript

2010-11-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

Whether you believe in spirits or not it sometimes seems that the soldiers of the 13^th Mass periodically look in on me.

The U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center [AHEC] in Carlisle, Pennsylvania has in its collection of ‘13^th Mass’ materials ‘Charles Roundy’s hand-written manuscript “Recollections of the Civil War.” Roundy (Company F) illustrated his stories with charming color illustrations throughout this one of a kind book. Ten years ago a friend provided me with black and white photocopies of the manuscript made on a visit to Carlisle. The copies have too much contrast and don’t do justice to the color illustrations, but it’s still a great resource to have.

Several memorable scenes from the history of the regiment are vividly described, with a personal flair that captures the emotions of the time. These include, “How I enlisted,” “The 4^th Battalion of Rifles of Boston,” “We Leave Fort Independence for the Front,” “The John Brown Bell,” and one of the funniest camp stories I’ve read, “A Secret for 16 Years.” The secret for 16 years, was a secret for another 8 years with me, for alas, my copy of the manuscript was missing a page - the one with the end to this story. Not until I was determined to include it on my website, did I contact Carlisle to see if anyone could provide me with the missing page. They sent the missing page, and they included color scans of some of the prominent illustrations for use on my website!

Roundy’s writing is round-a-bout. It’s folksy, plain spoken, and very entertaining! “I kept as mum as a Hippopotamus,” he writes in one instance, and at another “This is a longer preliminary than I meant to make when I began this, and ‘tis like the story of the city boy telling his chum about a snake he saw while on a visit to the country. “he said the snake was all tail but his head.” My story thus far seems to be all head and but little tail.”

The larger part of his “Retrospection,” is commentary on military leadership and his participation in General John Pope’s summer campaign of 1862. “Pope’s retreat” comes up time and again in the manuscript. General Pope’s blundering, no doubt, left a lasting impression on Charles Roundy. In June of this year I began building the web page for 13thmass.org that describes Pope’s Retreat, but I didn’t plan to use Roundy’s recollections.

I know his manuscript confuses some dates, (which I can verify from other sources), and his musings can ramble. I discredited its value and found it too confusing to follow. My planned web page ended with a brief account of the 2^nd battle of Bull Run on August 30^th 1862. But I think Charles Roundy, Co., F, wherever he is, had other ideas.

My web page grew as I familiarized myself with the campaign. Several stories were added, along with maps and descriptions of complicated military maneuvers. At the last minute I decided to remove the account of the battle of 2^nd Bull Run and save it for later. The page would end with accounts of the engagement at Thoroughfare Gap on August 28, 1862.

In mid November, after six months of reading, research, study, writing and editing my new page, “Pope’s Retreat,” was ready to post on-line. I had some technical tasks to finish - format the table of contents, check links, and add links to the site map page, but the content was finally finished - and Charles Roundy’s retrospection wasn’t included. The week I planned to post the page I received this message:

“Good Day, I've recently become interested in my boyfriend's family tree which contains members of the Roundy family. I'm fairly certain that Charles Roundy mentioned numerous times on your website is a direct ancestor.

I'd be interested in finding out if any of Charles' writings are either in print or if they are on display somewhere?”

I received a similar request from another person a couple of days earlier.

I’ve had a copy of Roundy’s manuscript for 10 years. Some of Roundy’s stories have been posted on my website for the past 2 ½ years. In all this time I have never had an inquiry about the man or his writings. But the very week I was planning to post my new web page on Pope’s Retreat, after 6 months of research and writing, I received, not one, but two inquiries, for the Charles Roundy Manuscript.

Two visitors to my website wanted to know more about Charles and his writings. This piqued my curiosity, so I pulled out the manuscript, which I hadn’t read in a while, and revisited his accounts of Pope’s Campaign.

By now, I was very familiar with the events of that two week period in 1862, when General John Pope retreated from the line of the Rapidan River to the line of the Rappahannock River, and then, to Bull Run. Suddenly Roundy’s descriptions made sense to me. I understood what he was describing. I realized its value was in the summary of the campaign rather than as an introduction to the campaign, which is why I had discredited it as a source. His account was a perfect ‘wrap-up’ of events; so I added it.

It could just be a coincidence. Or, was Roundy reaching out across the great divide to give me a nudge or two, to look his way?

I still think the march he describes and attributes to August the 26^th is more likely the withdrawal of August 18^th, but why argue with him at this point? After all, he was there, and it doesn’t make his account any less interesting or insightful.

For my readers I end this post with Roundy’s account of General George Lucas Hartsuff’s encounter with company F cook, George Atkinson. You can find more of his stories at my website, including "A Secret for Sixteen Years." Site Map - 13thmass.org Click on the link and scroll down the page to soldiers letters, and look for Roundy.

General Hartsuff and the Baked Beans

We had a fine camp – and when General Hartsuff arrived to take command of the Brigade it happened on a Sunday morning that he strolled down the Company Street of Company F. Just then the air was filled with the fragrance of Yankee Baked Beans. For our Cook – Atkinson – surnamed “Greasy Cook” was taking them up from the trench where they had been baking all night, and they did smell good.

The General following his nose and the smell, found a man very busy lifting great Kettles from the trench where they had lain buried up in live coals, and wishing to make himself agreeable he remarked, “Well – but those beans do smell good” – “ Wonder if I could get a taste of them?”

Atkinson, without looking up replied “not by a damned sight, I am not feeding every damned tramp that comes along.”

This tickled the General immensely, and he slid away quickly to the Captains tent and doubling up with laughter he told the story.

Pretty soon the Lieutenant came out and spoke to Atkinson saying, “he felt sorry to lose Atkinson, sorry too that he had done it – sorry for his family – sorry that he was going away and hoped it would be a lesson all his life” etc.

Atkinson straightened up and said “What in thunder are you talking about? – I’m not going away – wish I was.”

“Not going away says Morse – well I guess you are, and you are to be sent to the Dry Tortugas* for insulting the General.”

“What in thunder – I haven’t insulted any General”

“Yes you have, you insulted General Hartsuff.”

“General Hartsuff – I never saw General Hartsuff in my life.”

“Never mind – when he asked you for a taste of your beans you told him that you was’nt feeding every damned tramp that came along did’nt you say so?”

“Yes. – My God – yes, was that General Hartsuff? What shall I do,” and down he flopped.

After enjoying the situation awhile the Lieut. Spoke “Come, Atkinson, better be getting ready, the Dry Tortugas is an awful place, but -”

“Say – Lieutenant, I did’nt intend to insult the General; and the boys bother me so! Is’nt there some way that I can get out of this scrape?”

“Well, I don’t know, – but I would suggest that you take your cleanest – prettiest plate and fill it with beans and some pork – some brown bread, if you have it – wash your face and hands – and go up to the Captains tent and make an humble apology to General Hartsuff and present him the plate of beans – who knows? It may keep you from the Tortugas.”

Pleased enough – Atkinson set about it, and a more humble man never lived as he begged the General’s pardon, telling of his trials and troubles, etc.

The General accepted the gift and enjoyed the joke like the good man we afterward found him to be – he shook hands with Atkinson – dispelled the Tortugas fear, and Atkinson went back to his work; - but often spoke of how near he came to a trip to Florida Keys.

*Dry Tortugas, a dreary desolate Convict Station among the Florida Keys.

Pope's Retreat

2010-11-14T18:12:00.000-08:00

The new webpage is finally up at 13thmass.org. The page is long with lots of large pictures so it should scare off any of the few visitors that might be interested in checking it out.

The page covers the history of the "13th Mass" from Aug 9th 1862 - August 28th 1862; from the Battle of Cedar Mountain to the engagement at Thoroughfare Gap. Two days later on August 30th the regiment participated in the 2nd Battle of Bull Run, on Chinn Ridge. I will be devoting an entire page of the website to this subject.

The military situation changed nearly every day during the two week period known as Pope's Retreat. I've added more narration to this page than usual to set the stage for any visitors. There is some repetition in the narration. Events are summarized in the introduction at the top of the page, but repeated in the various page 'sections' in case a visitor jumps around. This way they will still learn what is happening.

It was at times easy to loose sight of the 13th Mass while building the page. I branched out a bit to include bits on the Union Cavalry raid to Verdiersville, the Confederate raid to Catlett's Station, Herman Haupt and the Orange & Alexandria Railroad, and many other topics.

Initially the page went up to August 30th. But I cut out the last section and decided to put it onto the next page. It just seemed like too much.

The new page ends with Charles Roundy's, opinionated reminiscences of Pope's Retreat. For those of you who believe in spirits, I think Roundy himself gave me a gentle tap on the shoulder to use this resource - I hadn't planned to use it, except for a short bit, but how I changed my mind is the subject of another blog post.

Here is the link:

http://13thmass.org/1862/popes_retreat.html

Hope you all enjoy it, and with this task at hand completed, I will have more time for regular blog posts !

An Update

2010-10-11T22:52:00.001-07:00

This blog is not in full retreat. I still have lots of good stories to tell. I've spent all my spare time the past month, preparing the latest web page for my website, www.13thmass.org. Consequently I haven't posted much here on the blog.

The new page will cover the history of the unit between August 11, 1862, through August 30, 1862; or, "General John Pope's Virginia Campaign." The campaign climaxed with the 2nd Battle of Bull Run which is a milestone event in the history of the regiment. It was the first major engagement in which the men played an active part, after more than a year of hard service. For many it was the last battle. The regiment did not participate in any heroic charges; but merely a delaying action; outnumbered 10 to 1 and surrounded on 3 sides by the enemy. The encounter bought time for General Pope to pull his lines back to high ground which prevented the capture and destruction of his little Army of Virginia.

The previous webpage ended with 13th Mass. accounts of the Battle of Cedar Mountain. The new page starts off the same way.

Because events changed rapidly from day to day during this campaign, the page requires more exposition than any previous page I've built for the site. The primary sources were quickly added and organized chronologically, last June. These include the usual letters, diary excerpts and articles from my collection. The three subjects the soldiers wrote about in general, were the Battle of Cedar Mountain, the three day artillery duel at the Rappahannock River Railroad Bridge, (Hartsuff's Brigade held a lodgement on the south side of the river) and the arrival of 90 new recruits to the regiment on August 18. This was also the day General Pope retreated from the Rapidan River to the Rappahannock River. The soldiers were mostly in the dark about other events; - and there is so much that happened.

During this time General Lee moved his army to Gordonsville and planned to attack and destroy General Pope's force while it was wedged between two rivers. Logistical matters postponed Lee's attack and Pope escaped. It isn't hard to guess what might have happened had Lee attacked as planned.

Colonel Thornton Brodhead's exciting raid to Verdiersville was a first class adventure worth including on the new page. It is mostly remembered as the raid in which Confederate Cavalier J.E.B. Stuart lost his hat. He was surprised by the large troop of Union Cavalry trotting up the road. Stuart fled so quickly he left behind his trademark plumed hat - which became a casualty of the raid. I particularly enjoyed the part of this tale in which General Robert Toombs recalled his Georgia infantry to camp, - moments before 1,000 Union Cavalrymen splashed across the Rapidan River at the very spot the Georgians were ordered to guard.

Also on this page: Pope's Retreat to the Rappahannock; the Artillery duels along the river; Stuart's Raid to Catlett's Station; (he avenged his hat by capturing Gen'l. Pope's dress uniform); General Sigel's ordeal on the 25th at Sulphur Springs; Stonewall Jackson's famous flank march, (50 miles around Pope's lines) and the sacking of Pope's supply base at Manassas Junction. There is the unraveling of the Union high command at this time; the clogged Orange and Alexandria railroad and Herman Haupt's gallant efforts to to keep the lines running. There is a lot more, you get the idea, and all of this is before the battle itself. My primary source for this narrative is John J. Hennessy's masterful book "Return To Bull Run." I wish I could just quote directly from the book, the story is so well told. I'm supplementing this narrative with other sources as always, but its really just a superb account of the campaign. (I discovered General Gordon's account from the 1860's too).

Consequently, it's taken a lot of time to carefully summarize these events within the context of the regiment's experience. I try very hard for accuracy. The military situation changed so much from day to day, I had to re-organize my source material to keep the story moving forward. The men were usually about a week behind in their news. The page page ends with just a short summary of the battle as described in Charles E. Davis' 1893 regimental history. I intend to devote another page entirely to 13th Mass. soldiers accounts of the battle. (That won't take as long).

In preparing this page, I've developed some more sympathy for General John Pope. I think he was a poor field commander for the most part, but he did a lot of things right, and he was under tremendous political pressure, like all the early Union Generals in the war. What if heavy rain had not forced him to call off his planned offensive on August 23rd? His plan was the same as Gen. Lee's; cross the Rappahannock and assault the enemy's right flank and rear. My dislike for him, and for General McClellan, is due to the large number of lives lost in this campaign, in large part because of ego, or professional jealousy. It was the poor foot soldier who paid the price in blood.

I'm almost done with the text of the new web page. A few pictures will be added next, and then I'll upload to the website, hopefully sooner rather than later. And then, perhaps I'll have more time for the blog ! A very tired adieu. Comments are appreciated.

The 13th Regiment Association Circulars

2010-08-12T23:47:00.000-07:00

Part I

I’d like to write a bit about the 13^th Regiment Association and its annual Circular. The association was formed to facilitate companionship among the veterans that served in the “13^th Mass.” Officers were elected each year, but the secretary remained the same; Charles E. Davis, Jr. of Company B. Between the years 1888 and 1922, the association published a pamphlet, or circular, for the membership, announcing the time and place of the annual re-union dinner in Boston. There are 35 circulars in all. They are rare, and hard to find, (but more on that later). Soon, letters, articles and poems began to appear within its pages, - vivid tales of personal war-time adventures. In time the circulars became highly regarded for the history they contained. Sets of them were requested by librarians at the Library of Congress, and the U.S. War Department.

Each Circular included:

A list of newly elected officers for the coming year;
Association treasury reports and dues assessments;
A list of former comrades who had passed away;
And, a list of attendees at the previous re-union dinner.

An article of general interest to the membership would follow the ‘business’ reports. In number one, (1888) there was a reprint of General James Beaver’s address to the First Corps Survivors at Gettysburg, given the same year. Number two contained a biography of General George Lucas Hartsuff, the popular commander who lead their brigade in the summer of 1862. Secretary Davis’ “official history” of the 13^th Regiment actually grew out of a series of narratives he began for the circulars.

In Circular #3 Davis re-printed period newspaper clippings that detailed the unit’s departure for the front on July 30^th, 1861. The narrative continued in the next two issues, appearing in Circulars nos. 4 & 5. Between these years the Association’s “History Committee” rejected another writer’s manuscript intended to be the official history, because it was incomplete and un-publishable. The committee urged Davis to continue his narrative and this became Davis’s well regarded book, “Three Years in the Army; The History of the Thirteenth Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers.” Davis’s book did not contain any personal anecdotes of the war, but the Circulars did.

Morton Tower’s memoir “Escape from Libby Prison” was the first, appearing in Circular #8; 1895. Tower’s story was written for the Oregon Veteran Association. When Davis learned of it he requested a copy for publication in the circulars. In the forward to the article Davis wrote “I am prompted to say that for a long time I have hoped our circulars would be made a vehicle for the publication of similar papers from comrades who can recall incidents of their service worth reading and preserving.” Tower’s memoir was followed up in Circular #9 with Charles Bingham’s reminiscence “The Story of a Raw Recruit.” This cleared the path and one or more articles appeared in every circular for the next 25 years. Davis’s wish was fulfilled. The Circulars are a valuable historical resource that personalizes the history of the war. They give a glimpse into the lives and experiences of many of the men who comprised the “13^th Mass.”

I will post more on the circulars soon.

Lt. William Greenough White, 12th Mass

2010-07-11T16:52:00.000-07:00

In the bibliography of Robert K. Krick’s Stonewall at Cedar Mountain, I found reference to the memoirs of George Kimball of the 12th Mass. Vols. The 12th Mass., was in Hartsuff’s brigade during Pope’s Virginia Campaign and at Antietam. The 12th was closely associated with the 13th Mass., and Kimball frequently references the 13th regiment in his memoirs. (I’ll be using the memoirs on my website).

     Kimball’s writings mention several comrades, but the story of Lt. William Greenough White at Antietam is quite compelling. White was a graduate of the Boston Latin School which still exists. Here is Kimball’s abridged narrative of the battle of Antietam, focusing on the story of Lt. William Greenough White.

     "The company in which I was serving numbered at this time forty men. We had borne our full share of the hardships and losses of Pope's ill-starred campaign. Our Captain had been killed at Bull Run on the 30th of August. Our First Lieutenant, William Greenough White, a noble fellow, had been stricken down with slow fever early in Pope's campaign. We left him behind when the advance was made up to Cedar Mountain. He would gladly have gone with us, but was too sick, and reluctantly entered the brigade hospital tent. We bade him an affectionate good-by, for we all loved him. The nurses who had charge of him told us afterward what trouble they had to keep him in bed, so great was his desire to leave and to follow on after us. When Lee cut loose from Richmond and turned his whole army upon us we were forced to retire, but we fell back fighting inch by inch. The sound of the guns came nearer and nearer the tent where our Lieutenant lay. After a while he heard it, and his keepers could keep him no longer. He rose like a lion from his lair. Demanding his uniform and sword he left while the other sick ones were being hurriedly loaded into ambulances for transportation to Washington. He started in the direction from which the firing came. Alone and unassisted he hurried forward. His desire to be with us, his love of country, his manly pride, and the heavy roar of the guns, every moment sounding louder and nearer, nerved him on and gave him unnatural strength. When he came up we gave him a cheer, and he wept like a child, so glad was he to be with us once more.

     We were being whipped, but were constantly ready to fight and to fight again, and the arrival of our Lieutenant gave us fresh courage. We did our best to hold Lee in check till McClellan could get up from the Peninsula to help us. We were sent upon a long march to Thoroughfare Gap to try to keep Longstreet from coming through. Our Lieutenant had been as active as any of us, and we all felt his influence and loved him more than ever. But the poor fellow's strength began to leave him in a few hours after we set out, and finally he fainted and fell in the road. The surgeon took him from us again and sent him to the rear in an ambulance. In a Washington hospital he had a relapse of the fever.

     Now that Bull Run and Chantilly and South Mountain had passed into history, and our brave Captain and many of our men were “sleeping the sleep that knows no waking,” we are face to face with the army of Lee upon the soil of Maryland. It is the night before the great ball at Antietam Creek is to open. The moon, which for a number of nights had been lighting our weary way over the mountains and through the forests of the land of the Calverts, has now withdrawn her face. Evidently the heavens have thought it more in keeping with the scene and the time to draw a curtain of clouds over our heads and to shut us up in blackness. Now and then a lurid flash and a screaming shell tell us we are very close to the enemy, while the crash of rifles in front shows that the pickets are already at it.

     We are just lying down for a little sleep, with our rifles beside us and our equipments on—for we are very tired—when an unusual stir and bustle, with hand-shakings and God bless yous, announce the presence of our Lieutenant. He has again broken away from his keepers, but is no more fit to endure the rigors of campaigning than before. His face is pale, his eyes are sunken, his limbs weak, but his soul is on fire. News of an impending battle has taken him from his bed and brought him to us again in spite of the protests of doctors and nurses. We share our rations with him, for he has none, and roll him up in blankets and overcoats, and he sleeps between two comrades as peacefully as a child."

     I skip ahead now in the narrative. The next morning after watching the earliest of the fight Hartsuff’s brigade is called into battle :

     "…We are now in the famous cornfield. Before proceeding far we strike the enemy's skirmish line and brush it away. As we move forward our brave Lieutenant, tall and as erect as a statue, is a conspicuous figure in the line. He is as cool as he would have been had he been leading his company in review. To us he seems the very embodiment of an ideal soldier. We push our way through the tall corn, which reaches far above our heads and waves as if shaken by the wind. Shells are bursting all about us, and men are falling every moment. My limbs tremble at every step, for fear has taken a strong hold upon me, and it is only by thinking of the requirements of duty and of the ridicule to which I would be subjected from my comrades should I fail that I am able to keep my place in the ranks. Some men never had this fear in going into battle. I confess I never entered one without it.

At last we gain the open ground, and are here met by a perfect storm of bullets, while shells and canister fly about us furiously or go screaming over our heads to the rear. Our Lieutenant is struck in one of his feet by a bullet, it is a bad wound, as two of his toes are cut away, but he halts only a moment while we are pulling down a fence. Major Burbank advises him to go to the rear, but he only smiles and says he is “worth a dozen dead men yet” I am holding a rail above my head in both hands, in the act of throwing it behind me, when a piece of shell or a solid shot wrenches it from my grasp with such violence that my arms are benumbed.
We finish leveling the fence and move forward again. The fire has been increasing every moment until now it is indeed terrible. We start up a slight rise, and our Lieutenant follows, limping. Second Lieutenant Orne advises him to go to the rear. He raises himself to his full height and somewhat scornfully replies: “I shall not leave the company.”

     We gain the crest of the little ridge. Our main line has not yet fired a shot. Being now upon open ground, high enough to afford a view of our surroundings, what a scene is that which opens up about us! Directly in front, not more than one hundred yards away, is "Stonewall" Jackson's whole division moving toward us. With their saucy battle flags gayly floating above them, these gray-clad heroes present a magnificent spectacle . To their left, in more scattered order, behind fences and rocks and trees, are Hood's men. Farther still in the same direction are Stuart's batteries, pouring a heavy cross fire upon the little knoll upon which we are standing.
We comprehend the situation at a glance and open and receive a storm of leaden missiles. How terrible is the shock and how our men go down! What screams and groans follow that first volley! Then we load and fire at will as rapidly as we can. Our officers cry, “Give it to them, boys!” and the men take up the cry, too. There is a pandemonium of voices as well as a perfect roar of musketry and a storm of bullets. Shells are bursting among us, too, continually. In the wild excitement of battle I forget my fear and think only of killing as many of the foe as I can. The tall soldier at my side, who had told me on the march that he felt as though he was to be hit in this battle, has already fallen. He lies at my feet with a mortal hurt. His brother drags him back a few paces and then returns to his place in the ranks. A few moments more and my brother, too, is wounded, though not so badly. When I have assisted him to a stump a short distance in the rear he creeps up behind it and tells me to “go back and give it to them.”

   Our ranks are terribly broken now, but the line is kept up and we fight on. Our Second Lieutenant has gone to the rear, his right shoulder being torn from its socket by a piece of shell. Lieut. White remains still. His eyes glow with the joy of battle, and he seems to be everywhere imparting courage and stimulating the efforts of his men. By-and-by he is struck again. A piece of shell has stripped the flesh from the upper part of one of his arms. The shock is severe enough to throw him to the ground, but he quickly rises again and his voice is heard as before above the din of battle. I look at his face to see if he shows evidences of pain and am met with a cheery smile. By this time our ranks have become fearfully decimated, and the Lieutenant begins moving those who are yet in line up nearer the colors. “Let us die under the flag, boys!” he cries.

Incidents of the fight are happening every moment. My ramrod is wrenched from my grasp as I am about to return it to its socket after loading. I look for it behind me, and the Lieutenant passes me another, pointing to my own, which lies bent and unfit for use across the face of a dead man. A bullet enters my knapsack just under my left arm while I am taking aim. Another passes through my haversack, which hangs upon my left hip."

Again, I skip ahead in the narrative :

     "….Still we fight on. The Lieutenant moves what few are left of our company up to the colors. We have some distance to go, for the gaps are wide. The regimental line, such as it is, is reformed. Seven men have fallen while holding the flags. The groans of the dying seem louder and more dreadful every moment.
A piercing shriek is heard behind us. We look, and find that our brave Lieutenant has been hit again. This time it is a mortal hurt. His hip is shattered and his abdomen torn open in a shocking manner, but his voice is heard high above the din: “Don't mind me; give it to them !”

Kimball describes in detail his exit from the front-line. The following two passages are about Lt. White :

       "…As we leave I look about for my brother, but find that he has gone. Of the 40 men of my company who entered the fight but seven remain. Four of us take up Lieutenant White. We place him on a blanket and start for the rear. We have to pick our way among the dead and dying. The groans of the wounded are terrible. It is hard to disregard the appeals for help that come from every quarter. The enemy have been reinforced, and it now seems as if they are bound to annihilate what remains of our brigade. Shot and shell plow the ground about us and go crashing into the troops that are pressing forward to continue the work which we have so well begun. It seems almost a miracle that we are not hit, for the air is full of flying fragments of iron and whistling bullets. But we hurry on with our precious burden, anxious to get our poor Lieutenant to a place of safety where the Surgeons can care for his wounds.

     …At last we reach Poffenberger's and lay our dying friend at Surgeon Hayward's feet. The doctor examines his wounds. The Lieutenant talks lightly of his hurts, and with his own hands replaces the torn flesh. This exhibition of heroism is too much even for professional self-control, and the Surgeon turns aside and bursts into tears. We take an affectionate leave of our dear friend, for we must return to the ranks. He thanks us one by one for the service we have rendered him, and whispers a message to those who love him at home.
Those who were with him when he died told us he was brave to the last. He died late in the afternoon. One of his lower limbs was very painful just before he breathed his last. An attendant was rubbing it.

   “Does this rubbing do you any good, Lieutenant?”

“No,” said he, but that cheering does,” for just then our troops had gained an advantage.

     His body was sent home and buried in the family lot at Mount Auburn. The funeral, at St. Paul's Church, was attended by the Independent Corps of Cadets, to which organization he belonged when he joined the Webster Regiment. He was 22 years old and a son of Ferdinand White, a Boston merchant. He was a Latin School boy, and resigned a desirable position in the office of a prominent State Street banking firm when the war came."

Tipton Photo - Gettysburg

2010-06-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

Who Are These Guys ?

A collector shared with me a great photo of the veterans of the 13th Mass., taken at the dedication of their monument at Gettysburg, September 25th 1885. The photo came from the Clements Library, University of Michigan, Tipton Collection. None of the veterans in the photograph were identified.

The image has a very good resolution, and I'm able to zoom in and get a good look at the faces. (click on the image and you should be able to also). I began to wonder who these guys were.

I had pictures of several of the soldiers; both war time and post-war images. The gentleman who shared it with me pointed out Colonel Leonard standing in the back, on the left. Leonard appeared very much like his war time image. Others were easily identifiable; James Fox, A.N. Sampson, and John H. White to name a few. I tried to identify some of the others by comparing images in my collection to the Tipton photograph. To aid in this endeavor, I sent copies of the photograph to descendants of soldiers with whom I had contact.

Some of them were able to help me positively identify their ancestors, like David Sloss and George Henry Hill. Others weren't as sure, such as James Ramsey and Sam Webster. In a few cases a little logic helped.

I figured Charles Davis, Sam Webster, John H. White, and William Warner would all be up front, center. This factor helped pinpoint the identity of George Hill too. Its funny how much these guys look like each other. For instance, notice how many bald men with mutton chops (or mustaches) there are! In the back row, I thought I could pick out Elliot C. Pierce, but the guy right next to him looks almost identical from this distance. Same with Moses Palmer in the front row, on the right. See how similar the guy next to him looks ? Moses needed a cane to walk, he was shot up in the knee at Gettysburg, and the gentleman I identified has an umbrella to lean on. The hat he's holding is also a clue that this is Moses Palmer.

Much later, another friend sent me a digital file of the Gettysburg Star & Sentinel, (pdf format) with a column describing the events at the dedication. From the article I learned that David Sloss was one of the speakers as well as James Fox and Jacob A. Howe.

Sloss carried the state colors for the regiment during the final months of their 3 year enlistment. I never could have identified him from his war time image. But his descendant shared a post war image with me and he was suddenly identifiable.

Captain James Fox, was the initial captain of Company A, later Mayor of Cambridge and a successful politician/public figure. He was easily identifiable from a post war image I found on the internet.

Jacob A. Howe saved the colors from capture during the battle of Gettysburg. As the regiment fell back, overwhelmed by the enemy, Howe took the colors and made a dash for Cemetery Ridge and safety.

"A corporal who had the colors was severely wounded here and I took the flag and carried it along to the main street of the town where I had to run the gauntlet of the rebels, who were now pouring in in large numbers. In the doorways of the houses were many of our officers and men who offered to make room for us, but I felt that having command of the color company it was my duty to save the colors. I finally reached Cemetery hill, where i found a small number of the regiment who , like myself, were worn out with the fatigue and excitement of the day."

Unfortunately. I don't have a picture of Howe and I can't locate one. But, I know he's in this photo somewhere.

Some of the identities are educated guesses, and I put question marks to note that. This is an on-going project. Meanwhile I've shared the identities with the people at the Clements Library, University of Michigan. I also shared it with the re-enactors back east who portray Company F of the 13th Mass. They laid a copy of the photograph at the base of the monument later that year when they made their annual November trip to Gettysburg a couple years ago.

One interesting note about the Tipton photo and the monument; - at the dedication, many of the veterans were disappointed in the direction the monument faced (westward). It should have faced more to the north, the direction the regiment faced during the battle. A committee of the veterans was formed to look into the matter of re-orienting the statue, a quarter turn more to the north, which was done successfully a couple of years later.

One last parting shot...It's the 13th Mass., Gettysburg Monument with the photograph laid at its base. Click on any of these images to enlarge them. And, if you can help with the identity of any of these men in the photo, I'd like to hear from you.