Homeward bound.
Hurrah! For home. This was the glad greeting, on the morning of June
1st, when the order was issued for our return northward.
We accordingly bade farewell to the Army of the Potomac, and to the
comrades of the company who had veteranized, who were now assigned to
the 190th Penn'a Veteran Volunteers, to serve their unexpired term of
service.
On the 2nd of June, we reached White house landing, and went aboard
the transport George Weems at 10 a. m. on the 3rd, and at 12 m. with
three hearty cheers, started northward, and landed at Washington, D.
C. on the 4th, at 4 o'clock p. m.
On Sunday 5th at 11:30 a. m. we left the National Capitol, and on the
6th arrived at Harrisburg, Pa. the Capitol of our native State.
We were the recipients of a Royal welcome when we disembarked at
Harrisburg, but the joyous greeting can only be measured by the deep
sorrow of many who received not back their loved ones.
Three years before we as a Division of State troops, had gone forth
fully 15.000 strong, and now we were merely a hand-full, then, full of
life and buoyancy, now, war-worn and battle-scarred veterans.
We proceeded to Philadelphia, and were finally mustered out of the
service, on the 13th of June 1864.
Company K. as a body returned to our native town (Gettysburg,) where a
Banquet welcome, had been prepared for us, but owing to the fact that
it was deferred untill evening, only a few remained to partake of the
bounteous banquet, preferring the more humble spread that awaited
them, in the homes where loved ones surrounded the board.
Of the 110 who had gone forth, three years before, only 24 now
returned.
Some sleep peacefully in the unmarked graves of the south-land; no
tender hand wreaths flowers over these unknown graves, but the gentle
zephyrs chant requiems continually, and around them the wild flowers
bloom more beautiful and fragrant, because the soil was enriched by
their blood. Others after a manly struggle for life, yielded to
disability from wounds and disease.
We cherish the memory of our fallen comrades, and as one by one we are
summoned to join the great majority, we hope to meet them again, and
to stand side by side, in nobler array, with the brave and true and
tried who were our comrades here, and who so well performed their work
on the battle-fields of this life.
And when the trumpet shall be heard, not calling to fields of
conflict, but to rewards for deeds well done, may we all be found
sharing the victory won by Him, "who died that we might live."
[Illustration]
Historical Record
OF THE MEMBERS
Of Co. K. 1st P. R. V. C.
[Illustration]
AUTHOR'S PREFACE.
While it is somewhat of a delicate matter, to write up this Historical
Record of individuals, yet we think it should be a part of the purpose
intended by this volume. We take up the membership of the company,
according to rank: First, the Commissioned Officers, in the order of
seniority; Second, the non-Commissioned officers, as found on the
rolls at date of muster out; Third, the members of the company in
alphabetical order.
HISTORICAL RECORD.
=_Captain Edward McPherson._=
To Captain McPherson, presumably, belongs the credit of organizing
Company K. He served as its commander until August 24th, 1861, when he
resigned, to take his seat in the First Session of the Thirty-seventh
Congress, which convened at Washington, on the 4th of July 1861. On
the adjournment of that body, he reported for duty, as a Volunteer aid
on the staff of Gen'l McCall, commanding the Penn'a Reserves, and
served as such until November, when the Second session of said
congress convened. While a Staff-officer, he was a convenient
intermediary, between the Division and the Executive department at
Washington, to which he had ready access by reason of his
representative capacity.
Being Inspector general on the staff, he visited each Regiment and
Battery of the command, and reported its condition as to organization,
health, arms and efficiency, which report was transmitted regularly
each week, to army Head-quarters. During his term as congressman he
was a member of the committe on military affairs. He was Clerk of the
House of Representatives, after his term as a member expired, and is
now serving in that capacity. His residence, when at home, is
Gettysburg, Pa.
=_Captain J. Findley Bailey._=
At the organization of the company Capt. Bailey was made 1st
Lieutenant, and succeeded McPherson, to the Captaincy, to date
September 1st 1861.
Bailey was a born soldier, a strict disciplinarian, at all times
seemingly stern, yet easily approached, and much beloved by every one.
At the battle of Charles city cross roads, June 30th 1862, he led the
company in a general charge against the enemy. When last seen he was
pressing forward in pursuit of fleeing foe, and when the recall was
sounded, Capt. Bailey did not return, and from that hour to the
present he has never been heard of. What his fate was, we dare
scarcely permit ourselves even to guess. But if he fell, it was facing
the foe, and doing noble service, and dying a soldiers glorious death.
=_Captain W. Warren Stewart._=
Captain Stewart was made Orderly Sergeant of the company at its
organization, and served as such until the promotion attending the
resignation of McPherson took place, when he was chosen 1st
Lieutenant, to date September 3rd 1861. Soon afterward he was
appointed Adjutant of the Regiment, and served as such until June 30th
1862, when he was severely wounded, and was finally sent to the Gen'l
Hospital, at David's Island, N. Y. where he remained until the early
part of October following, when he returned to the company encamped at
Sharpsburg, Md. During his absence from the company he was promoted to
the Captaincy, vice Bailey, who was reported killed, and mustered to
date June 30th 1862. He now remained in command of the company until
the general promotion took place in the early part of 1863, when he
was commissioned Lieut. Colonel, to date March 7th 1863.
Stewart had a firm hold upon the hearts and affections of the whole
regiment, and as he served in a regimental capacity most of the time,
he was popular in the Division. While he was qualified to command, he
possessed, at the same time, excellent clerical and executive ability.
He was mustered out with the regiment, June 13. 1864, and soon after
was appointed Colonel, and had command of the 212th Regiment, Penn'a
Volunteers, which position he held to the close of the war.
Professionally, he is a civil engineer, and finds constant employment
in that vocation.
His residence and P. O. address is York Springs, Pa.
=_Captain Henry N. Minnigh._=
Capt. Minnigh recorded his name on the register of the company only a
few hours before it left Gettysburg, and therefore had no part in the
"getting up" of Co. K, having enlisted as "a high private in the rear
rank." When the company was fully organized at Camp Wayne, he was
appointed Fourth Serg't, and at Camp Tennally, September 3. 1861, he
was promoted to Orderly Sergeant, by Col. R. Biddle Roberts, and held
the position till after the Peninsula campaign.
He was promoted to 2nd Lieut. and was mustered as such, to date June
30. 1862. Immediately after his promotion, he was ordered to report to
the officer in charge of the Division ambulance corps, for duty with
said corps, but by special request he was excused from that duty, and
he remained with the company.
Frequently, was it made the especial work of Capt. Minnigh, to be sent
out on a scouting expedition, or a reconnoisance with a detail of
picked men, and he can recount some daring and dangerous adventures,
through which he passed while performing such duty.
At the battle of South mountain September 14. '62, he was wounded by a
minnie ball, through the left arm near the shoulder, at the same
instant that Lieut. Sadler was killed, thus leaving the company
without a commissioned officer. He was absent from the command, just
three weeks.
On March 7. 1863, he was promoted to 1st Lieut. and on October 27. to
Captain, both commissions are however dated March 7.
In reference to Capt. Minnigh's character as a soldier and a
commanding officer, we quote from manuscripts in our possession. Rob't
T. McKinney says, "I can never forget the Captain's kindness of
heart. when in the service. Doubtless, he will remember how, when on
the march, he used to come from the right of the company to the left
where I was, and kindly, ask how I was pulling through, then seeing my
feeble condition, he demanded my arms and equipments, and also the
knapsack, strapped them on his own tired body, and then ordering me to
march outside of the ranks, took his place in the company, and carred
my burdens through a weary march for 48 hours."
Wm. T. Jobe says, "As a soldier, Capt. Minnigh's record is an enviable
one, he led the company with gallantry and spirit on all occasions,
securing the commendations of his superior officers, for bravery and
good behavior, under trying circumstances."
He is the possessor of a commission as Brev.-Major, signed by the
President of the United States.
Having been mustered out with the company, June 13. 1864, he prceeded
to Washington, and accepted a clerkship in the War department, where
he served till August 9. 1866, when he returned to his native county
and engaged in teaching.
In the spring of 1871, he entered the ministry of the Methodist
Episcopal church, and has been laboring successfully in the Itinerancy
since that time.
=_Lieut. J. Durbin Sadler._=
Lieutenant Sadler at the organization of the company was appointed
First Corporal. August 22. he was chosen 2nd Lieut. vice Herron
resigned, and served as such until September 30. 1862, when he was
appointed 1st Lieut. to succeed Stewart promoted.
It is sad to record the sacrifice of one who lived so noble a life,
for when Lieut. Sadler fell, the company we think, lost its best
commanding officer. Sadler was killed by a minnie ball, in the battle
of South mountain September 14. 1862, while gallantly leading the
command in the final charge, which drove the enemy from the summit and
gave the victory to our forces.
His body was removed to his home at York springs, Pa. and was buried
with the honors of war, under the charge of Lieut. Minnigh, who in his
wounded state accompanied his remains and laid them to rest.
He sleeps peacefully by the side of his ancestors, in the beautiful
cemetery at Hampden, Pa. awaiting a glorious resurrection, which his
pure and spotless life and character warrants. May we meet him again
on the peaceful shore, beyond life's troubled river.
=_Lieut. George E. Kitzmiller._=
At the age of Twenty-one years Lieut. Kitzmiller entered the service
as a private, at the organization of the company, and was made 7th
Corporal on the 3rd day of September 1861. November 1st '62, he was
promoted to Orderly Sergeant, vice Minnigh, and on March 7th 1863, he
was mustered as 2nd Lieut. and finally as 1st Lieut. October 1st 1863.
He was mustered out with the company, June 13th 1864, returned to his
home at Gettysburg and there followed the business of Granite cutting
for several years. He died on the 12th day of March 1874.
Lieut. Kitzmiller was a good officer, was well liked by all, and
looked well after the interests of the company, in whatever capacity
he served.
=_Lieut. J. J. Herron._=
Lieut. Herron was an Attorney at Gettysburg, when the company was
formed, and was elected to the office of 2nd Lieutenant.
On August 17. just when we were called into active service he
resigned. It was reported that he subsequently did good service in the
army elsewhere.
=_Lieut. John C. Brandon._=
At the organization of the company, J. C. Brandon enlisted as a
private, and on November 1st 1862, he was promoted to 5th Sergeant.
October 1st '63, he was made 2nd Sergeant, and soon afterward on
recommendation, received a commission as 2nd Lieut. but was never
mustered as such, owing to the fact that the company was below the
minimum in number.
Sergt. Brandon was detailed with the Ambulance corps, in June '63, and
again in April '64, and was also for a short time, at Regimental
Head-quarters, on detailed duty. He was mustered out with the company
June 13. 1864, when he returned home and engaged in farming.
Eventually he drifted westward and located at Salt springs, Missouri.
=_Samuel A. Young, Orderly Sergt._=
Samuel A. Young, was a Drug clerk at the outbreak of the war, and at
the age of twenty, enlisted on June 8, 1861. His promotions, date as
follows:--5th corporal July 26. 1861, 3rd corporal November 1. '62,
Orderly sergt. March 7. 1863.
Sergt. Young filled well every position in which he was placed, and as
an Orderly he was a treasure. The books were neatly kept and always at
hand, as he had a habit of carrying those most needed in his knapsack.
He was wounded near Fredericsburg, early in '62, by the accidental
discharge of his musket. For some time he was detailed as Sergeant of
the guard at Gen'l Reynold's head-quarters, and was also detailed on
recruiting service under Capt. Dobson. He was mustered out with the
company, and soon afterward found his way to the west, and located in
Iowa; he is growing up with the country, and is in the Merchantile
business at Penora, Guthrie Co. Iowa.
=_James McGonigle. 2nd Sergeant._=
James McGonigle, entered the service as a private at the organization
of the company, being nineteen years of age and a mason by trade. On
November 1st '62, he was promoted to 2nd Corporal, and March 1st '63,
to 2nd Sergeant. As a non-commissioned officer he attended strictly to
his duty, and was honorably mustered out with the company. We believe
he is still living, but we could not secure his present address.
=_Peter S. Harbaugh. 3rd Sergeant._=
At the age of twenty-two, Sergt. Harbaugh joined the company as a
volunteer, at Camp Tennally Sep't 20. 1861. November 1. '62, he was
made 6th Corporal, and October 1. '63, 3rd Sergeant.
February 10th '64, he re-enlisted, and took sick when home on veteran
furlough, but when sufficiently recovered, reported to Camp
distribution, and was at once sent to Auger Gen'l hospital, Va. In the
hospital he was placed on duty in the laundry, and remained there till
Feb'y 9. '65, when he was discharged on a surgeons certificate of
disability. He is constantly a sufferer, on account of the disability
contracted in the service. Address,--Fairfield, Adams Co. Pa.
=_Michael M. Miller, 4th Sergeant._=
Michael M. Miller, a citizen of Gettysburg and a Painter by
occupation, was recruited June 28. '61; he was promoted to 3rd
Corporal November 1. '62, and to 4th Sergeant March 7. '63. Being
mustered out with the company, he returned to Gettysburg, and followed
his trade. He died August 5. 1877.
=_Joseph Hamilton. 1st Corporal._=
Hamilton was a volunteer recruit, September 3rd 1861. On November 1.
'62, he was promoted to 8th Corporal, and on October 1. '63, to 1st
Corporal.
Joe was a No. 1. soldier, and could be depended on under any
circumstance. At the battle of Mechanicsville June 26. '62, he was
severely wounded, and was sent to the Gen'l hospital from wich he
returned Sept. 27, '63. At the muster out of the company he was
transferred to the 190. Penn'a V. Volunteers, to serve the unexpired
term. Address:--Seven Stars, Pa.
=_Harry H. Beamer. 2nd Corporal._=
Beamer joined the company at its organization, and was made 2nd
Corporal March 7, '63. He was a soldier that "never shirked duty, and
was always on hand." At the muster out of the company he retired to
his home near Gettysburg, and finally went west.
_James F. Culbertson. 3rd Corporal._
Culbertson was one of the original members of the company, and was
made 3rd Corporal March 7, 1863. He was severely wounded at Gettysburg
July 3, '63. Jim was a good soldier. P. O. address:--York, Pa.
=_George C. Carson. 4th Corporal._=
Carson, entered the service with company as a private, and was
promoted to 4th Corporal, March 7, 1863. He was wounded at Gaines'
Hill, during the Seven day's battles, and was finally mustered out
with the company. "Kit" was a valiant soldier, and did his work well
in all the sphere of soldierly warfare; he dearly loved a cup of hot
coffee, and knew how to get the best the sutler or commissary
afforded.
He still enjoys the good things of life, and for substantial proof,
call on him at Uriah P.O. Cumberland County, Penn'a.
=_Joseph S. Baker. 5th Corporal._=
Baker, entered the service July 19. '61, leaving his vocation, that of
Brick-laying, for his country's service. He was made 5th Corporal,
March 7. '63, veteranized, February 10. '64, and was transferred to
the 190 P. V. Vol's, at the muster out of the company.
=_John F. Mackley. 6th Corporal._=
Mackley, enlisted June 8. '61, at the age of twenty, and was promoted
to 6th Corporal, March 7, '63.
He was mustered out with the company, and now resides in the oil
regions of Penn'a.
=_Robert T. McKinney. 7th Corporal._=
McKinney, was a volunteer recruit, mustered in on August 28. '61, and
was made 7th Corporal, October 1, '63. During the term of service he
was several times detailed on duty with the Division provost guard.
At the muster out of the company he was transferred to the 190 P. V.
Vol's, to serve the unexpired term, and was mustered out on the
battle-field, near reams station, Va. August 27, 1864. In 1876, he
entered the ministry of the Baptist church but on account of failing
health was compelled to leave the work. He is now serving his second
enlistment, and is at this time, the Orderly of Co. D. 12th Reg't, N.
G. of Penn'a. Address:--Williamsport, Pa.
=_Andrew A. Slagle. 8th Corporal._=
Slagle, was one of the original members of Co. K, and was promoted 8th
Corporal to date, October 1. '63. We cheerfully record the fact, that
Slagle was one of our most moral and upright men, and a model of piety
under every circumstance, and while he was one of our oldest members,
his influence was most salutary in restraining the younger. He was
mustered out with the company, and resides at Hanover, Pa.
=_Charles E. Gilbert. Musician._=
Enlisted June 8. 1861. Age 22, and a coach-maker by trade. Was a
Drummer from the beginning to the ending of the war. Re-enlisted on
February 10. '64, and was transferred to the 190 Pa. Vet. Vol's, at
the muster out of the company, and was finally discharged July 3. '65.
Charlie frequently did duty in assisting the wounded on the battle
field, but always claimed that he enlisted as a musician. Since his
service ended, he has been a guide on the Battlefield of Gettysburg.
--=_Arendt Jacob_=, was a volunteer recruit September 4, '61. He was a
good soldier, and was wounded at Gettysburg on the second day. At
muster out of the company he was transferred to the 190 Pa. Vet.
Vol's, to serve the unexpired term, and died soon after the war, but
unfortunately, we have no dates.
--=_Beales Charles W._= joined the company at its origin, was then
nineteen years of age and a miller by occupation. He was mustered out
with the company, and resides at York Springs, Penn'a.
--=_Beard Obadiah M._= enlisted June 8. '61, was a harness-maker by
trade, and 33 years of age. On February 10. '64, he re-enlisted, and
when the company was mustered out he was transferred to the 190 Pa. V.
Vol's. We have entirely lost sight of Beard, and know not whether he
be living or dead.
--=_Bingaman Samuel_=, went out with the company, and did good
service; he was on detailed service for a while with the provost-guard
in August '63, and was mustered out with the company.
--=_Bingaman David_=, was one of original company, and did his duty
well until October 24. '62, when he deserted, and never returned to
the company.
--=_Blocher Andrew H._= was recruited July 19, '61. He was taken
prisoner in the evening of June 30. '62, and exchanged in July. Was on
detailed service for a while in July '63. In February '64, he desired
to reenlist, but did not pass examination. At muster out of the
company he returned to his home at Bendersville, Penn'a, where he now
resides.
[pointing finger] Andy was the best sharp-shooter in Co, K. [pointing
finger]
--=_Brandon Isaac M._=, age twenty years, a farmer by occupation,
enlisted June 8. '61, and was promoted 7th Corporal July 26. '61, and
to 1st Corporal Sept. 1, '61. He lost his rank when he petitioned for
a transfer to another command, and said transfer was made by order of
the Secretary of war, January 15. '63, to Co. H, 2nd Batt. 12th U. S.
I. to serve the unexpired term, and was finally mustered out June 8.
'64. Address:--Paola, Kansas.
--=_Cassatt Samuel J._= enlisted June 8. '61, was 19 years of age, and
a Shoemaker by trade. He was very severely wounded on June 30. '62,
and returned from General hospital November 13, '62. Re-enlisted
February 10. '64, and at muster out of the company was transferred to
the 190 Pa. Vet. Vol's.
--=_Caufman Wm. H._= age 24, and by occupation a clerk, enlisted June
8, '61. Was made 8th corporal on July 26, and 4th corporal September
3, '61.
On account of disability we presume, he went to the hospital at
David's Island N. Y. and remained there in some capacity from July 9.
'62, till muster out of the company.
--=_Bailey Daniel D._= enlisted June 8. '61, was made a Corporal, and
on September 1. '61, was transferred to the 12th Penn'a Reserves.
--=_Caufman Charles E._= aged twenty-two years, a farmer by
occupation, enlisted June 8. '61. At Charles City cross roads he was
badly wounded, and fell into the hands of the enemy. His leg was
amputated and having been exchanged as a prisoner, he was discharged
November 3. '62, by order of Brig.-Gen'l Harvey Brown.
--=_Chronister Amos,_= went out at the organization of the company,
was a farmer, and twenty-two years of age. By Spec. order No. 28, Hd,
qr, First brigade, he was detailed with the ammunition train as a
driver, Feb'y 3. '64 but soon returned to the co. by spec. order.
Re-enlisted February 10. '64, and at muster out of the co. was
transferred to the 190 Pa. Vet. Vol's.
--=_Cox George W._= was recruited July 19. '61, was a farmer, and 19
years of age. He served continuously with the co. and was mustered out
with it, June 13, 1864. He was one of our quiet and steady members.
--=_Creamer John T._= enlisted June 8. '61, was a coach-maker aged 29
years. Served with the company till after the battle of Gettysburg,
and was then sent to Mt. Pleasant Gen'l hospital, Washington, D. C.
where he died, December 21. 1863.
--=_Devine Bernard_=, joined June 8. '61, was a farmer, and 39 years
of age. He was detached with Battery A. Penn'a Reserve artillery, by
Spec. order, No. 78. April 2. '62, where he served till mustered out
on account of disability, February 19, 1863.
Barney was the only Irishman in the company.
--=_Dixon William_=, was a member of the company from the beginning,
age 19 years and by occupation a laborer. Was discharged, December 24.
1861, on account of physical disability.
--=_Dixon Samuel_=, a brother of Wm. also was a member of the original
company, age eightteen years and a laborer by occupation. Was detailed
with the provost guard July 29. '63, for a brief space, and was
finally mustered out with the company.
Nothing foolish about Sammy, but he was always there.
--=_Duey John J._= joined the company at its origin, and was made 2nd
Sergeant. He deserted from camp at Shargsburg, Md. and was reduced to
the ranks, by order of Col. Roberts October 17. '62, and December 29,
returned to the company. In the Wilderness campaign he was notably
brave and daring, and on the 16th of May near Spottsylvania, he was
very severely wounded by a minnie ball, and was sent to the hospital.
We heard that he died there, but no official notice of such fact was
ever received. On December 29. '63, he re-enlisted as a veteran
volunteer.
--=_Danner H. Knox_=, was a member of the company at its organization,
and was made 7th Corporal Nov. 1. '62, but on account of continued
absence from the command, being sick in Gen'l hospital from July '62,
to January '64, he was deposed from office. Is still suffering on
account of disability contracted by a sun-stroke, during the Peninsula
campaign. Was mustered out with the company and resides at York,
Penn'a.
--=_Durboraw Isaac N._= went out with the company at its original
organization, and was promoted to 6th Corporal July 26. '61, and 4th
Sergeant Nov. 1. '62.
Durboraw was a sympathetic man, and as such was always ready to assist
the helpless; he took charge of Wisotskey when he received his
terrible wound, and with the assistance of Beales, carried him from
the field, and when he died, as the shades of evening fell, they
scooped a grave and buried him; he also assisted in carrying Lt-Col.
McIntyre from the field, when he received the wound, from which he
afterward died. He was slightly wounded at Charles City cross roads,
and by an accidental injury May 19. '63, when he was hit on the foot
by a 12 pound cannon ball, tossed by some one, from which injury he
has never fully recovered.
He applied for a transfer and was reduced to the ranks, on October 1.
'63, and was finally transferred to the Signal Corps, by Spec. order,
No. 317, Head-quarters Army of the Potomac, November 1, 1863.
On June 9. '64, he was discharged by reason of expiration of term,
when he returned to his home, and resumed farming; has been a Surveyor
and a Justice of the Peace for 25 years, and resides at the Durboraw
homestead, in Mountjoy Township, Adams Co., Penn'a. Address:--Two
Taverns, Pa.
[pointing finger] We are under especial obligation, to comrade
Durboraw for valuable assistance in this work.
(See reminiscences.)
--=_Elden Henry W. C._= was recruited July 26, 1861. The recruiting
officer (Sergt. Minnigh) refused to accept him, being only 16 years of
age, but he followed to camp, and reporting his age as 18 years, was
mustered in. Though "Doc" was an excellent soldier, we must
nevertheless record the fact of his being reported a deserter, not
having returned to the company, when absence with leave expired.
August 30. '63, he was sent back under arrest, having been absent from
July 6, '63. Charges were necessarily preferred, but by a special
request made by Capt. Minnigh, he was released from arrest and all
charges were withdrawn, on the 29th of Oct, 1863. He re-enlisted as a
Vet. Volunteer December 29, 1863. At the battle of Bethesda church,
June 30. '64, he was taken prisoner, (See page 37,) and endured the
horrors of Libby, Andersonville and Florence prisons, and died at the
last named place, but we failed in securing dates.
--=_Eyster Samuel H._= aged 19, and a Silver smith by trade, was
recruited July 19, '61. He was wounded at South mountain, September
14. '62, and was discharged from the service, at Frederick, Md,
January 19, '63, by order of Thos. S. McKenzie.
--=_Fanus Hiram J._= a laborer aged 20 years, joined the company at
its organization. On March 25. 1863, he was discharged on account of
physical disability, at Phil'a, and now resides at Idaville, Pa.
--=_Foutz Adam_=, age 20, a laborer, enlisted June 28. '61, and
deserted September 13. '62, arrested and sent back to the co. tried by
court-martial, spec. order No. 10, Div. Hd-qrs, March 9. '64, and
sentenced to forfeit all pay due, and $10 per month for ballance of
his term, and to make up lost time, equivolent to, 13 mo. and 25 days.
Was transferred to the 190 P. V. V. to serve the unexpired term.
--=_Gardner Richard P._= was recruited July 19. '61, was a coach-maker
and 21 years of age. Deserted from hospital at Annapolis, December 16.
'63, and never returned to the company.
--=_Gardner Amos F._= enlisted June 8. '61, aged 21, and a farmer by
occupation. He deserted from Gen'l hospital at Washington, D. C. March
3. '63, was returned under arrest, February 12. '64, and at muster out
of company was transferred to 190 P. V. Vol's.
--=_Gibbs George W._= aged 20 years, a wheel-wright by trade, joined
the company at its organization; he was an excellent soldier, and he
always was ready for duty; served the whole term, and was mustered out
with the company.
--=_Hamilton Calvin_=, was a volunteer recruit, Sept. 4. '62. He was
detailed with the ambulance corps, December 8. '62, and did excellent
service with said corps at the battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 13,
1862.
He was severely wounded at Gettysburg, July 2 '63, in the charge made
by the Penn'a Reserves, and was on account of said wounds, transferred
to Co. D, 12th Veteran Reserves, January 13. '63, and was discharged
at Point Lookout, June 29, '65. He is a Teacher professionally, and
since Sept. 1889, he has been Supt. of the Gettysburg National
Cemetery.
--=_Hart Barnett_=, enlisted June 8. '61, aged 39 yrs, and a mason by
trade. Deserted, from Brooks station Va. December 26. '62, and never
returned to the co.
--=_Hart Levi J._= aged 27 years, and a mason by occupation, went out
with the company. On June 16, '62, he was discharged at Camp Pierpont,
Va. on account of physical disability.
--=_Harbaugh Calvin_=, enlisted June 8, 1861. Aged 19 years, and by
profession a laborer. Re-enlisted Feb'y 10, '64. Was taken prisoner,
May 30. '64, (see page 37,) and at muster out of co. was transferred
to the 190 P. V. Vol's. Was in Libby prison, and when Lee surrendered,
he was at Andersonville. Returned home in June 1865, went to Kansas in
1867, and died soon afterward.
--=_Henry Peter H._= enlisted at the origin of the company, was 24
years of age, and by trade a miller. He was made 3rd Sergeant, and
promoted to 2nd Serg't Nov. 1. '62, and soon afterward reduced to the
ranks for insubordination, by order of Col. Roberts. Was wounded at
South mountain Sept. 14. '62, and discharged January 10. '63, at
Frederick, Md.
--=_Hildebrand John F._= joined at organization, was 19 years of age,
and professionally a bar-keeper. He deserted from Gen'l hospital
Washington, D. C. March 3. '63, and never returned to the company.
--=_Hollinger Philip_=, a black-smith, aged 30, joined June 8. '61,
and was discharged December 22. '61, at Camp Pierpont, Va. on account
of disability.
--=_Hortkins Henry_=, enlisted July 19. '61, age 37 years, and a
cabinet-maker by trade. The muster out roll reports him, previously
discharged, but no dates are given.
--=_Houck Philip L._= enlisted June 8. 1861, and was made 2nd
Corporal, and September 3. '61, was promoted to 5th Sergeant. At
Charles City cross roads, June 30. '62, he was severely wounded, and
was discharged, September 12. '62. He afterward was elected to
represent his native county, (Adams) in the Legislature. P. O.
address, Gettysburg, Pa.
--=_Jacobs John H. K._= was 20 years of age, a plasterer by trade,
enlisted June 8, 1861. Was on detailed service with the Pioneer corps
March 1864, and was much absent from the company on account of
physical disability. After his muster out with the company, he resided
at Shenandoah, Pa. till '76, when he went to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and
to Omaha, Neb. in 1881, where he died February 3. 1891.
--=_Jobe William T._= went out with the company, in his 19th year and
was a Blacksmith by trade; he was a true soldier; we think he never
was absent from the co.
He was mustered out with the company, and at the present time holds a
position in the Revenue service of the U. S. government.
Address:--York Springs., Pa.
--=_Johns David E._= was a laborer, 18 years of age when he joined the
company, at its first organization.
Dave was a little unruly sometimes, but withall was a good soldier; he
stuck to the company and was mustered out with it.
--=_Jones Henry H._= joined the company June 14. '61, and deserted
near Waterford, Va., November 1. '62, was returned to the co., under
arrest, August 30, '63. Re-enlisted Feb. 10. '64, and while on veteran
furlough deserted again, and was never heard of afterward. The muster
roll says he was from Kentucky.
--=_Keckler Samuel_=, a black-smith by trade, aged 19 years, enlisted
September 3, '61. Re-enlisted as a Vet. volunteer December 29, '63,
and at muster out of the company was transferred to the 190 P. V.
Vols.
--=_Keim Frederick A._= aged 22; a mason by trade; went out with the
company at its organization. The rolls report him as having died at U.
S. hospital, Baltimore, Md. No date given.
--=_Lady Hiram_=, joined the company Sept. 3, 1861. Age 19, and a
carpenter by trade. Was wounded at Charles City cross roads, taken
prisoner, exchanged and discharged at Annapolis, April 16, 1863.
--=_Leech Elijah L._= a farmer; age 19 years; enlisted September 4,
'61. Was a teamster at Brig. Hospital, for ten weeks from November 16,
'63. Re-enlisted as a Vet. Volunteer, Dec. 29, '63, and at muster out
of the co. was transferred to the 190 P. V. Vols.
--=_Mackley Jacob_=, enlisted June 8. 1861, was a laborer by
occupation, and 23 years of age. Jake spent considerable of his time
in the guard-house, but was finally mustered out with the company.
--=_Megary William R._= went out at the organization of the company;
age 21 years, and a manufacturer by trade. Was on detail with the
Pioneer corps, August 3, '63, and with the Provost-guard January 4,
1864, and while on the first named detail was slightly wounded by a
spent ball. He was mustered out with the co. and since that time has
resided at Hazleton, Pa, and has been an engineer on the Lehigh valley
R. R. for twenty years.
--=_McGrew William_=, age 22: shoe-maker by profession, enlisted
September 4, 1862. He was severely wounded at Gettysburg July 2, '63,
and died at the Hospital, July 6, '63. He is buried in the National
cemetery at that place.
--=_McKinney John W._= enlisted August 22, 1861. A farmer and 18 years
of age. Was a good soldier but yielded to disability brought on by
exposure and died at the Gen'l hospital Alexandria, Va., Feb'y 24,
1863. He is also buried in the Nat. Cemetery at Gettysburg.
--=_Miller Peter W._= was a recruit July 19, '61, was a farmer aged 18
years. He fell in the battle of South mountain, September 14, 1862.
"With latest breath, ... he cried,
'Bear up the Flag,'--and died."
--=_Metcalf Wooster B._= was one of the original company, aged 20, and
a clerk by profession. Was wounded accidentally during the Peninsula
campaign, and went to the Hospital at Phil'a, where he remained till
January '63, when he left, and from that date he was reported as a
deserter. Residence:--Hanover, Pa.
--=_Monteer Henry R._= joined the company July 24, '61; age 21 and a
sadler by trade. Detailed at Div. head-quarters as Sadler, March 7,
'64, S. O. No, 74. Re-enlisted December 29, '63, and was at muster out
of the co. transferred to the 190 P. V. Vol's.
--=_Mumper William,_= went out with the company; was 19 years of age
and a farmer by occupation.
Re-enlisted Feb'y 10, '64, and transferred finally to the 190 P. V.
Vol's. Will was one of our best men, and a terrible fellow in the
excitement of battle. At battle of Charles City cross roads, he was
severely wounded. Address:--Sheridan Lake-side. Nebraska.
--=_Myers David M._= age 21; a clerk; enlisted June 8, '61. On
November 1, '63, he was transferred to the Non-commissioned staff, and
we think re-enlisted as a Veteran volunteer.
--=_Myers John J._= was one of the original company, age 21 and a
clerk by profession. On account of physical disability, he was
discharged at Camp Pierpont, December 22, '61, and died several years
ago at his home in Gettysburg.
--=_Myers George W._= enlisted September 3, '61, was a carpenter, and
20 years of age. Died of disease at Camp Pierpont, December 3, '61,
and was sent home for burial.
--=_Nailor Wilson E._= came to Camp Wayne when only sixteen years of
age, but reported himself as nineteen, and was mustered in July 19,
'61. At Gettysburg, in the evening of second day, he was wounded, and
was at Gen'l hospital till October 23, when he returned to the
company. Re-enlisted on February 10, '64, and at muster out of co, was
transferred to the 190 P. V. Vol's. At present he resides in
Harrisburg, and is a Dentist by profession.
--=_Naylor Jeremiah E._= was recruited July 19, '61, at nineteen years
of age, and a laborer by occupation. At the battle of South mountain,
September 14, 1862, he was killed instantly by a minnie ball. "The
noblest fell that day."
--=_Ogden John Q._= age 18; a farmer; enlisted Sept. 4, '62, did good
service, and at muster out of the co, was transferred to the 190 Pa.
V. Volunteers, to serve the unexpired term of service.
--=_Pearce J. Shaw_=, age 20; a butcher; enlisted on Sept. 3, '61. Was
discharged for disability, October 3, '63, from Convalescent camp, by
order of General Martindale. Resides in Washington, D. C. where he is
in Government employ.
--=_Pensyl George W._= age 20; a plasterer by trade; enlisted June 8,
'61. He was detached on recruiting service, June 12, '63, and
re-enlisted February 10, '64, and transferred finally to the 190 P. V.
Vol's. George was as good a soldier as ever carried a musket, and he
was always disposed to make the best out of every situation. Resides
at Bendersville, Pa.
--=_Pittenger John F._= was one of the original company, was a laborer
by occupation, 25 years of age. He was a good soldier, and re-enlisted
on February 10, '64, and at muster out of co, was transferred to the
190 P. V. Vol's.
--=_Rhodes Andrew H._= was recruited July 24, '61; a clerk; and 21
years of age. Was discharged from Gen'l hospital at Alexandria, Feb'y
11, '63. Resides at York Springs, Pa.
--=_Riggs William A._= went out with the company; age 18: a shoe-maker
by profession. He was detailed with the Pioneer corps, from June 26,
'63, to July 30, '63; and was mustered out with the company.
--=_Remmel David E. H._= was one of the original co, was a laborer by
occupation, 18 years of age. Was detailed with the Ambulance corps,
September 15, 1863, and was mustered out with the company.
--=_Resser Jacob_=, was one of the original company, a merchant; 40
years of age. At organization he was made 3rd Corporal, and was
appointed to receive and distribute the mail, and served in said
capacity at Camp Wayne, Tennally and Pierpont; he also had charge of
all express matter. He was promoted to Qr. master Sergeant, by Col.
Roberts, and transferred to the Non-commissioned Staff, March 26,
1862, and was mustered out June 13, 1864. He is now engaged in the Tin
and Stove business at East Berlin, Pa.
--=_Robison Daniel W._= age 23; a tailor by trade was a member of the
company from its organization. Was detailed as Regimental tailor,
September 14, '63, and was employed as such until the campaign of
'64.
"Web, was always up to something," says Orderly Young, "but the
failure to capture a whole barrel of ham, at Brooks station, must be
recorded against him." Resides at Punxsutawney, Jefferson Co., Pa.
--=_Rosensteel John H._= age 21; a farmer; enlisted June 8, '61,
re-enlisted December 29, '63, and served the company well till muster
out, when he and transferred finally to the 190 P. V. Vol's.
--=_Rouzer James M._= age 40; a carpenter; enlisted July 19, '61. Went
home on furlough May 27, '63, and having taken sick while there, was
absent quite a long time, but returned in season to join in the
wilderness campaign. "Snap" was a peculiar sort of a soldier, but the
strangest thing he did, and perhaps the only occurrence of the kind on
record, took place at the battle of the Wilderness, when he actually
caught a minnie ball in his mouth, after it had knocked out two of his
front teeth. He was mustered out with the company, and died at
Gettysburg, July 25, 1885.
--=_Shaffer David_=, age 18; a farmer; joined Sept. 3, 1861, and was
discharged December 4, '63, on account of physical disability.
Address:--Markle, Indiana.
--=_Shank Jesse_= enlisted June 8, '61, at the age 24, and was a
shoe-maker by trade. He died of disease at Camp Pierpont, Va.,
November 24, '61, and was sent home for burial.
--=_Sheads Robert,_= went out with the company, was 18 years of age
and a machinist by trade. Reported a deserter on route to Gettysburg
June 26, '63, and then reported himself to the Gen'l hospital at that
place, as sick, was furloughed for 20 days, from October 3, to 23,
'63, when he returned to the company. Re-enlisted, December 29, '63,
and was at muster out transferred to the 190 P. V. Vol's. He is dead,
we believe.
--=_Shipley John W._= joined the company July 24, 1861, was a
teamster, aged 24 years. He was killed at Spottsylvania, on wednesday
May 18, '64, while doing noble duty on the skirmish line. The comrades
buried him under the wide-spread branches of an evergreen.
Breathe soft, ye winds!
Ye waters, gently flow!
Shield him, oh, evergreen!
Ye flowers, around him grow!
Unhallowed feet, I beg you pass in silence by!
Our Comrade here asleep doth lie.
--=_Siplinger Mathias J._= age 18; a farmer; enlisted July 19, '61.
Was absent much in Hospital, and was discharged May 7, '63, on account
of physical disability, by order of Gen'l Heintzelman.
We know not whether he is dead or living.
--=_Stewart David M._= age 20; a farmer; enlisted June 8, '61, and
served on detail at Gen'l hospital in Baltimore, from October 10, '62,
till muster out.
We are not advised as to his present residence.
--=_Stouffer Jacob,_= enlisted June 8, '61, at the age of 27, and was
a shoe-maker by trade. Was taken prisoner November 27, '63, while
disobeying orders, and he was mustered out with the company in his
absence.
--=_Swisher Charles A._= age 20; a stone-cutter; joined July 19, 1861.
Deserted on route to Gettysburg June 26, '63, and then reported
himself to the Gen'l hospital at Phil'a August 19, '63, and was
returned to the company. January 15, '64, he was transferred to the
Invalid corps. Resides at Pine-grove, Cumb'd co, Pa.
--=_Tawney Charles Z._= was 29 years of age, and a brick-layer by
trade; joined the company, June 28, 1861. Was made 8th Corporal,
August 24, 1861, and promoted to 5th, September 3, '62, and discharged
for disability, January 2, '63. Resides at Gettysburg, Pa.
--=_Trimmer William_=, age 18; a farmer; enlisted July 19, '61. He was
discharged November 3, '62, on account of physical disability,
(deafness,) contracted under the heavy cannonry, in the Peninsula
campaign. He afterward served as cook, for the officers of Co. I, 205
P. V. In 1872, went to Kansas, and took a homestead, but returned to
Penn'a in 1883. He now resides at Mechanicsburg, Pa.
--=_Weber Frank_=, enlisted June 8, '61, at the age of 21, and was a
tobacconist by trade. Deserted December 12, '62, from Brooks station,
Va., and never was seen afterward. He was a "Baltimore dutchman."
--=_Wisotzkey Craig F._= age 20; a Coach-painter; enlisted June 8,
'61. He was killed at Mechanicsville in the battle of June 26, 1862,
and was the first of the company that fell in the country's service.
The comrades buried him near the battle field.
--=_Woodring David H._= was one of the original co, was a lime-burner
by occupation, 27 years of age. Was detailed with the Pioneer corps,
in July 1863. Re-enlisted as a Vet. volunteer February 10, '64, and
was at muster out of the co. transferred to the 190 P. Vet. Vol's.
Residence, Lancaster, Pa.
--=_Woods Alex. L. C._= age 25; a cabinet-maker by trade, was a member
of the company from its organization. Was made 5th Sergeant, July 26,
'61, and promoted to 4th Sergeant, September 3, '61. Discharged on
account of physical disability, but no official notice was ever
received. He died a few years ago, in the west, where his family now
resides.
--=_Goutermuth Paul_= and =_Sheets Samuel_=, were on the original
rolls of the co, but were not actually mustered into the U. S.
service. They were however arrested as deserters, in 1863, sent back
to the co. Court-martialed and sentenced to serve the full term, and
at muster out of the co. were transferred to the 190 P. Veteran
Volunteers. These men we believe suffered unjustly, as they never were
recognized as members of the company, and were not reported as
deserters from it.
--=_John Gibson_=, =_Adam Holtzworth_=, =_George Holtzworth_=,
=_Zephaniah Rogers_=, =_William Zell_= and =_Geo. Little_=, when the
company was mustered into the U. S. service at Camp Carroll Baltimore,
Md., July 26, '61, stepped from the ranks, as they were privileged to
do, and refused to be mustered into said service. They accordingly
were dropped from the rolls of the company, from that date.
THE END.
[Illustration]
PAPERS
and
REMINISCENCES.
Company K we presume, was not far behind the general run of soldiers,
in "stirring up the de'il."
Many amusing incidents might be recorded, but we give only a few
Reminiscences in these pages, as they readily occur to us.
* * * * *
WHO STOLE THE DUMPLINGS?
At Fairfax Station, Lieut's Minnigh and Kitzmiller having secured some
very fine apples, and a batch of real wheat flour, concluded to have
an Apple-dumpling dinner. A Camp-kettle was brought into requisition,
the dumplings were made by "Cornelius", who took charge of the
preparation, and soon the kettle was steaming over a blazing fire.
A few guests were invited, the board was well spread and all waited
anxiously, the summons to the feast, for 'Nelius had said, "Dey's most
biled, Boss." Suddenly while thus waiting, Cornelius at one bound
sprung into the tent and blurted out these words, "deed and double,
dey's gone, sure 'nuff; somebody's done gone and stole de
dump-l-i-n-e-s, kittle and all!"
This proved to be an actual fact, and to this day the real thief, who
stole everything but these officer's tremendous appetite for
dumplings, has never been discovered.
* * * * *
NO TWO SHOTS, EVER STRIKE THE SAME SPOT?
An incident at Spottsylvania, will easily be recalled to memory. In
some movement, in which our regiment participated, our flank was
brought in range with a rebel battery, when a 20 pound shot came
whizzing along. Fortunately, it was poorly aimed, and exploded as it
struck the ground.
The shell tore a hole in the ground, about ten feet from our line,
immediately in front of our company, sufficiently deep to bury a team
of mules. Several of the boys said, "No two shots, ever strike the
same spot," as they jumped into the cavity, considering it a safe
place. Scarcely had they entered it however, until another shot from
the same gun, came rico-cheting in the track of the former, struck the
ground and tore its way right through under them. The shell did not
explode, fortunately, and no one was hurt, but such a "scrabbling out"
of that hole, and scratching of dirt out of eyes and ears, was
rediculously amusing.
* * * * *
TWO FRIENDS PART FOREVER.
It was amusing to listen to Bill Mumper express himself under the
excitement of Battle, when somehow, though brave as a lion, he lost
control of himself.
At North Anna river, after we had crossed at Jericho fording, we lay
in an open field, and the artillery were throwing shot and shell, to
and fro, over our heads. One of the shells exploded prematurely right
above us, and a portion coming straight down, struck Mumper's tin-cup
buckled to his haversack, which was slung over his shoulder, smashing
it into a shapeless mass. Bill got mad, and in his anger uttered
words, something like these, "Make out a requisition for a new
tin-cup, quick; d--d if that was'nt the last tin in the brigade;"
then taking the relic in his hand, he soliloquized as follows.
"Good bye! old tin-cup, Good bye! You've been a faithful friend to
me, ... I have'nt time to shed any tears just now, but I'll miss you
like ----, and I'll often think of--" Just then a shell exploded right
in our midst, and springing to his feet, as the order, attention! was
given, he exclaimed finally, "H---- they won't let me alone in my
sorrow!"
* * * * *
AN AWFUL DEATH.
At Charles' City cross roads, when lying down under the heavy
cannonry, a solid shot struck a tree, twenty feet from the ground,
cutting it off clean from the main trunk. It then dropped to the
ground in an upright position, and in doing so, struck the prostrate
form of a soldier, lying at the root of the tree, crushing him into
the ground. The tree as it impaled the luckless soldier, rose thirty
feet into the air, and stood upright by the parent stock.
* * * * *
"SNAP" IN A PIG-PEN.
On the march toward Washington, after the Second Bull-Run, 'Snap'
Rouzer got tired out, and concluded to take a rest. Finding a
convenient pig-pen by the road-side, he crawled in, and soon was
asleep. When he awoke from his slumbers, the troops were still going
by, but he resolved, first, to take a look at outside surroundings.
When he did so, he discovered that our troops had disappeared, and the
Johnnies were going by with long and hurried steps, so he laid low for
two mortal hours watching and counting the rebels passing.
When the way was clear, he lit out, by a flank movement and rejoined
the company, first reporting to Division Head-quarters, the numbers of
the enemy he had seen in pursuit of our forces. He said that a
commission was promised him for the valuable information, but the
commission never came to hand.
Rouzer frequently was absent from the command, a day or two at a time,
and when interrogated as to the matter, would merely say that he had
been on a scout.
We must here relate, one of Rouzer's pranks. An order had been issued,
from Head-quarters, requiring all soldiers to remain with the Camps of
the various regiment, as many were accustomed to pitch their tents in
a convenient woods, away from the camp. Jim was one of those affected
by the order, but as usual, paid no attention to it, and with several
comrades remained out, "where wood and water was plenty." When told of
the order, on coming to the main camp for rations, he simply uttered a
single bad word, gave his long black mustache a push to one side, (you
remember that mustache, one side up in the air and the other trying to
look respectable?) and then he went back to his "dog-tent" in the
woods.
Presently an officer was sent from Head-quarters, to drive all
stragglers into camp, and riding up to Snap's tent, with the usual big
fire in front of it, inquired of Jim sitting composedly by the fire,
why he was not in camp according to orders. "Well, Captain! I'd like
to be there, but I'm taking care of them fellers in there, just now,"
said Jim, pointing to the tent, where two men were sleeping on a
pallet of straw. "This is a hos-pit-tal, and them poor sojers is awful
bad with the Small-pox." It is said that the officer concluded that he
had business some where else just then, and rode off at full speed,
and left Rouzer master of the situation.
* * * * *
"You can't spit in my ear."
The comrades will remember the squad of new recruits, at Camp
Tennally, a few of whom were "raw, very raw," but who at the end of
the term of service, "were sharp as any."
L--h was one of these, and it is said, some the boys played the
following trick on him, when, for the first time, he was put on guard
duty. He was warned by the boys, to be a little watchful, as they
often played tricks on the new beginners, and named some rediculous
things that had been formerly played on recruits, none of which, had
any foundation in fact. L--h had no idea that the boys were putting
up a job on him, and when put on guard, he walked his beat as proud as
a gobbler in a barn-yard, and with an air about him that said, "you
can't play any tricks on me!"
About sunset the officer of the camp guard made the rounds, and gave
the countersign, whispering the same in the ear of each guard as
customary. The officer approached L--h for this purpose, but was
held back by a movement of the bayonet, and with a knowing grin, he
exclaimed, "Oh! You can't spit in my ear."
* * * * *
A printing press, is an agent by the use of which, much good or much
harm may be done, but our object is to preserve a few reminiscences,
which ought to be handed down to our children.
Jacobs was on guard, at Regimental Head-quarters on one occasion, and
as was often the case when the relief seemed to be behind time, he
called out two or three times, very distinctly, "Two o'clock, and no
relief." This annoyed Col. Roberts who was awaked in the midst of his
slumbers, so when the sentinel again yelled, "Two o'clock, and
no-o-o-o--" he never finished, for two distinct shots of a revolver,
in the Col's tent attracted his attention, and approaching the same he
hurriedly inquired "Colonel, Colonel! any thing the matter, in there?"
The reply was, "I did'nt hit you, did'nt I? Now you holler again,
d---- you, and I'll blow out your brains." Jacobs did'nt holler any
more.
* * * * *
Having been detailed for duty, with the Pioneer Corps, he reported at
once to Head-quarters, and when they asked his name and regiment,
replied "Co. K., of the First, and my name is John Henry Kelley
Jacobs." The Captain looked at him inquiringly, and said, "I want only
your name, not all the names in the regiment." That was, however, his
real name.
* * * * *
It is related that on the march, through Maryland, Rouzer came
straggling into camp and reported to the boys, that he had discovered
an Ice-house well filled, and not a great ways off. A party of half a
dozen, soon were on the way piloted by Jim. Presently, they came to
the house, mostly under ground, by the side of a pond of water. The
door being locked a few lusty blows knocked it off the hinges, and
sure enough, it was well filled, and covered nicely, with a layer of
straw. Well, several of the boys jumped in at the same instant, when,
Lo! what seemed to be a body of Ice, was water, with a mass of
floating straw on top, and the boys were plunging and snorting in six
feet of ice-cold, filthy drainage. They charged Snap with a put-up
job, and--well, maybe it was.
* * * * *
Orderly Young says, that after returning to our camp from the Burnside
"stick in the mud," he was ready for almost anything, and that night
he and John Brandon played their first game of cards.
By the way, Sammy, where did you play the final game, Hey?
* * * * *
WHO KILLED THAT CALF?
In a foraging Expedition, two members of the company found a fatted
calf, in a farmers barn-yard, and soon the greater portion of it was
transferred to their haversacks, and they rejoined the command just in
time for the evening Dress-parade.
They kept very quiet about the matter, and no one suspected what was
about to happen. The parade was formed the foragers were in the rear
rank. After the usual manual of arms, the Colonel gave the command,
"Rear rank, open order, March!" this movement being gracefully
performed, the Colonel went to the head of the regiment, and
accompanied by a citizen, they passed down the line, the farmer
scanning the face of every soldier in the front rank; having reached
the left of the line, they turned and gave the same attention to the
rear rank. Just then, a movement took place in Co. K., two men quickly
exchanged places in the rear rank with two others in the front rank,
no one outside of the company, it seems, noticing the movement.
The sequel, to the whole proceeding was this. That lank looking farmer
had followed the men into camp, and having reported to Colonel
Roberts, he was told, that if he could point out the two men, he would
have them punished; hence the inspection that took place.
Well, he did'nt find the men, but still he said that they belonged to
the First regiment. Of course they did, but they outwited the farmer.
* * * * *
"SHUNKA-FLIESH."
An appetite for smoked meat, was omnipresent among the men, and all
the "salt horse and sow-belly" in the commissary, could not satisfy
that appetite.
At Bristow station, it was necessary to make a special trip to army
Head-quarters on the Rapidan, for a supply, but our "little dutchman"
took another plan. Going down the rail-road to the next station, he
jumped an open car loaded with barrels of ham, (he called it
shunka-fliesh,) and as the train neared our camp, he tumbled a barrel
off, into a clump of bushes by the road-side. Then quietly, assisted
by others, it was brought into camp.
That was good ham, as we have reason to know, a fine slice having
somehow found its way to our table.
* * * * *
McCABE'S BIG KNAPSACK.
Captain Minnigh at Spottsylvania, was placed in charge of some men,
with orders to find the ammunition train, and get a supply of
cartridges for the regiment.
The train was soon found, and at no great distance from the command,
but the direct intervening space, was open ground and covered by a
rebel battery; this necessitated a long detour, in order to reach the
regiment in safety. One of the detailed men was McCabe of Co. D, (I
think,) a noble and good-hearted specimen of an Irish soldier, and a
man who always carried a mule's load in his knapsack; when therefore,
each man had shouldered a box of cartridges and started, McCabe
turned to the Captain, and said, "Faith and be-jabers Cap'n, an' oi'm
goin' shtraight over to the rigament." Suiting his action to the
words, he was gone.
All went well till he reached the middle of the open space, when the
boom of a single gun was heard, and a hissing shell came down the
ravine as if it was hunting for the Irishman. He looked around for an
instant, then turned just in time to let the shell strike squarely,
the well packed knapsack. It knocked him down, his cap going one way
and the box of cartridges the other way; to our surprise he scrabbled
up, picked up his cap and deliberately put it on his head, then
shouldered the ammunition box, and started again. The fact is, he was
not hurt in the least degree. That tremendous knapsack saved his life.
* * * * *
[Illustration]
We witnessed a strange sight on one occasion, as we awoke from the
slumber of the night. It was a bivouac, and snow had fallen during the
night, and as one soldier after another, rose, from under the bed of
snow, we thought of the great resurrection morning.
* * * * *
BROKE THE REBEL'S ARM.
In the Battle of Charles' City cross roads, many Charges were made,
and many rebel prisoners taken, when an order was given to take no
more prisoners, but to disarm them and let them go. After a certain
charge, Orderly sergeant Minnigh when the recall was sounded, met M.
M. Miller returning to our line with two prisoners.
He called Miller's attention to the orders, and said he should smash
the muskets around a tree and let the prisoners go. Mike proceeded to
do this, but the fellow resisted and there was quite a scuffle.
Sergeant M. watched the contest for a moment, but just then he noticed
a movement on the part of the other Johnnie, and saw him in the act of
levelling a revolver at Miller. Quick action was necessary, and with a
spring and a yell he struck the arm of the rebel, with his clubbed
musket, sending the pistol into the air, and breaking the arm midway
between the elbow and the wrist. Minnigh picked up the revolver and
sent it home afterward as a relic. Miller took the muskets, and
destroyed them, letting the prisoners go.
* * * * *
On the Floor in Prince William's C. H. Virginia, among a mass of
rubbage, Capt. Minnigh picked up several papers that bear the marks of
a past age, both in appearance and subject matter, and as relics of
the past we insert one or two in these pages; notice the dates.
George the second by the grace of God of great Britain, France
and Ireland; King, Defender of the Faith, &c:--To the Sheriff of
Prince William County Greeting--We command you to Summon Thomas
Fletcher, to appear at the next Court, on the fourth Monday in
December next, to testify and say the truth on behalf of Richard
Mathews, in a matter of controversy depending and undetermined
between the said Richard and Thomas Garner, and this he shall not
omit under the penalty of £100. Witness John Graham, Clerk of our
said court the 29th, day of November in the XXVII Year of our
Reign.
(The date of this paper is Nov. 29th., A. D. 1756.)
Another Interesting Document.
The Commonwealth of Virginia to the Sheriff of Stafford county
greeting: You are hereby commanded to take Charles Carter Esq.
Enoch Benson, William Mullen and Benjamin Fichlin, if they be
found within your bailiwick, and them safely keep, so that you
have their bodies before the Justices of our said county court,
at the Court-house of the said county, on the 2d Monday, instant,
... to answer Eli Nichols, & Jane his wife, late Jane Follass,
and Rachel Follass, of a plea of Debt for 69,500 lbs, of Crop
Tobacco of Falmouth or Fredericksb'g inspection, Damage £50,
current money, ... And have there this writ.
Witness Thomas G. S. Tyler, Clerk of our said court, the Seventh
day of August 1788, in the 14th year of the Commonwealth.
T. G. S. Tyler.--_C.S.C._
* * * * *
WHO CAN EXPLAIN?
We give here, a copy of a document, found among the company papers,
that fell into our possesion, when the command came into our hands. We
venture (a supposition only,) that the paper refers in some way to
what was known as "The company fund," viz: money paid to the company
by the commissary department, for rations that were not drawn.
Copy of the Statement.
1862. Cr.
Jan. 26. Rec'd of Co. fund $61.75
" 30. " Cash .30
Feb. 8. " of David Myers .25
" 13. " of Capt &c. for sugar .20
" 22. " of Com. Sergt 79.00
Mar. 17. " for Bread 1.08
May 6. " for month of March 51.00
-------
Total credit =$193.58=
1862. Dr.
Jan. 27. Stove $3.00
Feb. 7. 6 copies tactics 4.75
" 13. Sand paper .10
" 24. Ex. on $50 sent to bank .50
" 25. Stockings .50
Mar. 17. Bread 13.39
" 19. Brushes and blacking 1.95
June 8. 2 doz. Blacking 1.20 =$25.39=
----------------
Ballance due the company =$168.19=
If my supposition is correct, then, who received the monies and as the
expressage is charged, where was it sent, and where is it now? The
paper has no signature.
It seems to have been a settlement made after September 1. 1863, as it
is written on the back of another document dated at that time.
* * * * *
"DOC" ELDEN and THE "BLACK-LEG."
An experienced Gambler came to the front at a certain pay-day, put up
his Tent without opposition from the authorities, and opened a
"gambling hell," and a number of the boys were beaten out of their
hard earnd money by the wily rascal. Doc was lured into the den, and
lost every cent he had in a very few games. He then took a favorable
position and watched the gambler closely, and soon discovered the
secret of his success, and concluded to beat him at his own game. But
how? his money was gone. He approached one of his most intimate
friend, (every member of of the company was his friend,) and solicited
the loan of $10, candidly revealing the facts, as stated above,
asserting in addition, the positive assurance of retrieving his former
losses.
At this moment another comrade came in and heard the concluding words,
and at his suggestion, each gave Doc $5.00, and having received the
cash, he seemed very grateful, then turning to go he said, "I'll pay
you back your money to-night."
In about two hours, he returned to camp, paid back the borrowed money,
promptly, and held in his hand quite a roll of green-backs besides.
When asked the question, "How did you do it?" he answered with a
single word, "Bluffing."
* * * * *
"RED TAPE."
This was a Term applied to the lengthy routine, through which all
business had to pass, even the minutest affair, went from Company to
Regimental, thence to Brigade and Division Head-qrs, for approval,
after which it was returned to the place of starting, through the same
channel, thus taking much time, which often, under certain
circumstances, made applications or petitions, a mere farce.
On one occasion, a comrade received a dispatch informing him of the
death of his wife. Having applied for leave to go home, it took two
days to get it, and when he got home the wife was already buried.
We insert a boda-fide copy of a paper in our possession, (we have many
such papers,) that proves our assertion, concerning the "Red-tape"
business. Beyond the above, the document has no significance here.
Camp near Auburn, Va.
October 29., 1863.
Captain:--
I have the honor to request, that the Charges preferred by me
against Privates H. H. Jones and H. W. C. Elden, members of Co. K,
1st Reg't, (Inf't) P. R. V. C., and now on file at Head-quarters
Division Penn'a Reserves, be withdrawn. These men have been (for
the last 20 days) doing duty with their company. Their conduct has
always, previous to this offence, been such as becomes good
soldiers.
Very Respectfully,
Your Obed't Serv't.
H. N. Minnigh.
To Capt. Auchmuty. Capt. 1st P. R. V. C.
A. Adj't Gen'l. 3 Div. 5th Corps. Com'd'g Co, K.
On the back of this neatly folded paper, are recorded the following
endorsements, in the order given.
Camp near Auburn, Va.
October 29th, 1863.
A request that the charges against Private Jones and Elden of 1st
Inft. P. R. V. C. be withdrawn.
Hd-Qrs, 1st Reg't
Oct. 29th 1863.
Approved and respectfully forwarded,
W. W. Stewart.
Lt-col, Comd'g.
Hd-qrs, 1st Brig, Pa. Res.
3d Div. 5th corps.
Oct. 31, 1863.
Respectfully forwarded with the request that the charges against
these men be withdrawn--a sufficient punishment can be had by
trial before Regt'l commander.
Wm. Cooper Talley.
Col. comd'g Brig.
Head Quarters Div.
Nov. 2, 1863.
Respectfully returned--The charges against Private Elden will be
withdrawn. Private Jones will be tried for the charges preferred.
By command of
Brig. Gen'l Crawford.
Comd'g Div.
J. S. Marquis.
A. A. A. G.
Head Qrs. 1st Brigade.
Nov. 2, 1863.
Respectfully returned--attention called to above.
By command of Col. McCandless.
Wm A. Hoyt.
A. A. A. G.
* * * * *
Meeting friends, amid Scenes of strife.
In the advance toward Gettysburg, (our home,) many incidents worthy of
note took place, but we will only give, in this connection, portions
of a letter, sent us by I. N. Durboraw, Esq., who tells his experience
among the friends and relatives that surrounded him.
Many of Company K. had like experiences, if they cared to relate them.
"I was with the company on the march to Gettysburg," says comrade
Durboraw, "and it was amusing as familliar scenes, persons and faces
were presented to our view. Some young ladies whom I recognized, as we
passed along, not far from my home, and who were waving their
handkerchiefs at the soldiers passing by, gazed at me in amazement as
I named them, and as they did not recognize me, inquired, one of
another, who that could be that knew them. When we arrived at the home
of Serg't Young his own brother Robert came to us, but the Sergeant
did not leave the ranks.
While in bivouac, in J. M. Diehl's field, where we halted just before
noon on July 2, to get a little rest, and wait for orders, Robison
came to me when cooking my coffee, and told me that Peter Baker,
living near by, wished to see me, so I went to his house, and after
getting something to eat, returned promptly to the company. Just when
I reached the command the orders were given to fall-in double-quick,
and hurriedly we advanced to the Round-tops, obliquing into position
left in front, ... fired two rounds, when the order 'Forward!' was
given, and every man had to hunt his way as best he could, over, round
and through the bushes, rocks, stones and Plum-run swamp in the flat
below. How the rebels, who were in numbers right in our front as the
order to charge was given, it is hard to tell, but most of them did;
when we got to the wheat-field the line was halted, and finaly
established at the stone fence, which is in place today.
I now told Capt. Minnigh I was going home, and that he should neither
say, Yes or No! I went back to the place where we had piled our
knapsacks, the day before, but could find neither knapsack nor Creamer
the guard, but looking round I eventually found it in a quarry on the
banks of Rock-creek. I had only three miles home and soon reached it,
only to find it filled with wounded soldiers, Gen'l Meredith being one
of the number. I slept on the floor that night, and the next morning,
with a knapsack well filled, I returned to the company. I did not
find many of the people in the neighborhood at their homes, and their
houses were occupied by skulkers and shuysters absent from their
commands. When I got back to the company I shared out the contents of
my haversack, and when we marched that night it was empty.
On the march that night I passed through a house by the road-side, and
met a number of my relatives, but only said, How d'ye do, and Good
bye, and was off again."
* * * * *
"Green Persimmon Pies."
Cheated, by gosh! was the exclamation of a certain comrade in an
undertone, as he spat out a huge mouthful of fresh baked pie.
Well! the explanation is just as follows; two pies had been secured on
the march that day from a colored woman, at twenty five cents each,
but when the soldier came to sample the pies, he found they were made
of green persimmons, and the lower crust was corn-meal. No wonder he
tried to use "cuss words," his mouth being ready either to swear or to
whistle.
* * * * *
Thirty-two rebels Captured on the Picket-line.
An incident at Spottsylvania may be related here. The Picket line had
been driven in, and a detail of forty men, was placed in charge of
Captain Minnigh who was merely instructed to re-establish that line,
which he was told curved in, bringing the rebel pickets near to our
Division Head-quarters. The only portion of our line visible was on
the extreme right, at a white house on an elevation of ground. He at
once proceeded a short distance to the left, and soon reached
Burnside's unbroken line, on its extreme right and at the point where
that line was broken off abruptly. From this point to the house
referred to, was a distance of half a mile, and this space was to be
occupied by the new line. "That woods is full of rebels, and you and
your men will be captured if you go in there," was an officers
greeting when told of the work assigned to the detail, "It will take a
brigade to re-establish the line."
Not the least dismayed, the word of command was given and the advance
into the woods was started, in a bee-line for the white house, a
glimpse of which was occasionally seen through the trees.
By stationing a picket every twenty five yards, the space could be
covered, and this was done, without the least molestation on the part
of the enemy, not a rebel being visible. Scarcely was the line
re-established, when one of the movements peculiar to this campaign
commenced, and an order came instructing the picket line to fall back,
preserving an unbroken line. This was done, and when the movement was
completed we counted thirty-two rebel pickets captured on the line.
This question remains to be answered. How did the new line of union
pickets cut the rebel line in two places, as evidently it did, without
seeing an enemy or firing a shot?
* * * * *
A REBEL GIRL "SPIT IN HIS FACE."
"Only for the Soldiers, none for officers," were the words that met
Sergeant M---- as he took a cup of water out of a bucket, at a
yard-gate, in the neat village of Drainsville while the Pa. Reserves
were passing through on a reconnoisance.
An aged lady and two young girls stood by the vessel of water, and one
of the girls had spoken the words quoted above. The Sergeant was about
to drink from the well filled cup, when Gen'l Reynolds riding up to
the gate, said to him, "Sergeant! get me a cup of that water." He
promptly handed the cup, still untouched, to the General, who drank
the water, expressed his thanks and rode away. Deprived of his drink
he now turned to get another cup for himself, but was met by a blunt
refusal from one of the girls, who said, "You gave your cup of water
to that officer, and you cannot have any more." His reply to this was,
"I'll give my Brigade commander a cup of water every time, even if it
deprives me of a drink, at the hands of a she rebel."
As he finished this direct language she turned quickly and 'spit' in
his face, not once but twice. M---- turned and walked away, but took
along the bucket of water.
* * * * *
Who were the boys, that took a Piano from the mansion near Camp
Pierpont, and hid it in the barn among the fodder, previous to its
shipment north, at the close of the war? As the war unexpectedly
continued for four years afterward it must have been considerably out
of tune.
* * * * *
"THAT'S THE VERY FELLOW!"
The Army of the Potomac, in one of the advances southward, crossed the
Potomac at the Berlin ferry, and pushed down through Loudoun valley.
The Captain was sick during part of this advance, and we give a
strange coincidence which then had its origin, in his own words.
After crossing on the Pontoon bridge I was put into an ambulance, and
after proceeding a mile or two, I gave my place in the ambulance to a
poor fellow who had sun-stroke, and who seemed more dead than alive. I
plodded on as best I could, being some distance in the rear of my
command, when Gen'l ---- followed by his staff came riding along. He
addressed me sharply, inquiring why I was away from my command. I told
him of my illness and how I had given my place in the ambulance to the
soldier, then, with a contemptible toss of the head he muttered, "A
likely story," and rode on. In the evening I caught up, at the camping
ground, sick, tired and hungry; but soldiers fare was entirely
unpalatable, and I could not eat it, so I went to the village close
by, (Lovettsville,) determined to secure something tasteful. I
approached a house at the outskirts of the town, for the flavor of
newly baked pies had been wafted toward me by the evening breeze and I
decided that a pie, a fresh blackberry-pie, was just what would suit
my case. Knocking at a side entrance I was admitted by a young lady,
who moved a convenient rocker and bade me be seated. Presently a
middle-aged lady entered the room, bearing two pies, which were added
to a number already on the large dining table opened to its full
capacity. Taking courage I told the woman of my illness and my craving
for home-fare, and that in her motherly goodness would she sell me two
of those pies? She replied, that she would like to do so, but that
General ---- (the same officer I had met on the march that day,) had
ordered the pies, for himself and his staff officers.
With this she left the room, and then I appealed to the young lady who
seemed to be on my side, but she stated her inability to reverse the
decision made by her aunt, but added these words as she pointed to the
table, "If I want a pie I take it." That settled the matter, and I
went to the table, put two pies together, and with an ordinary stride
started for camp, convinced that the two pies were not baked for
Gen'l ----.
I got to camp all right, and enjoyed the pies exceedingly, and the
whole circumstance was soon forgotten, and perhaps never would have
been recalled had not the following incident occurred.
When Company K, had been mustered out at the expiration of the full
three years term of service, we returned home, and having closed up
all the company affairs, I finally turned toward the residence of my
father on the corner of Middle and Washington streets, and entered the
door as the bell called to supper, I was ushered into the dining-room,
and introduced by my mother as the returned soldier boy, and was shown
to a seat at the board, where a number of persons, of both sexes were
already seated. Suddenly a young lady, a perfect stranger to me, after
staring me full in the face for a moment, with a hearty laugh and a
gleeful clapping of her hands, addressing my mother exclaimed, "Oh,
Mrs. M., do you remember I told you about a sick officer taking two
pies from aunties dining table, down at Lovettsville, Va?" and without
waiting for a reply, pointing her finger in my direction she added
"That's the very fellow!" This proved to be the same young lady
teaching in Gettysburg, and boarding at my mother's table. We enjoyed
that supper, after rehearsing the story of the stolen pies, and when
supper was about finished, I got an extra piece of pie.
* * * * *
An interesting story! is the general verdict rendered, where ever I
have related the incidents connected with my visit home, on the
evening of July 3rd, when the command was relieved from the front, at
the Round-tops.
As the Story may be interesting to others, I will relate it for the
benefit of all.
When we went into bivouac, on the spot where the Round-top Park
dancing-floor now stands, many of the company whose homes were in
Gettysburg or the immediate vicinity, quietly slipped away, and
believing that our work, for a while at least, was ended, I also went,
saying to the boys when I started, "Boys if you go home, don't fail to
get back to-morrow morning." I am proud of the conduct of company K,
at, as well as after the battle of Gettysburg, and why should I not
be? These brave fellows could easily imagine the dangerous
surroundings of loved ones, during the terrible conflict, in their
homes within the bounds of the battle-field, yet, not a man left the
ranks or fled from duty, and while most of them got home after the
battle, by a peculiar device, only one failed to return.
But to my story; I passed northward just in the rear of the line of
battle, and through the Citizens cemetery, thence up Baltimore street
to the Court-house on the corner of Middle street, which was a
dangerous performance, as the whole route was exposed to rebel
sharp-shooters, making it necessary to cross all streets and alleys at
a bound. Having reached the point indicated, I found the residence of
my father, on west Middle street one square from the Court-house, so
completely covered by rebel sharp-shooters, that it was an impossible
measure to go there.
I observed things closely, and saw a certain officer who was apparetly
not acquainted with the dangerous surroundings, turn the corner where
I was standing, and walk deliberately down in the middle of the
street, without being molested, but, Alas! the poor fellow when he got
below Washington street, was taken prisoner. So I took advantage of
what I had seen, and walked down the street, with misgivings I
confess, for doubtless many rifles were aimed at me, with a rebel
finger on each trigger, ready to send as many messengers of death, if
I should turn either to the right or to the left. It was an awful
moment, but I determined to carry out my plan, which was to spring
into a flower garden on the east side of the house, when I would reach
that point, for I would then be in a safe place.
On! on, to hesitate would be fatal; and how terrible it would be to
die so near to the loved ones; still on I went, not hurriedly, for the
enemy must not even think that I have a purpose in view; Oh! If only
the yard-gate were open! Ah, it is open! A spring, and I am through
it, and behind the cover of the house; I am safe, but what a shower of
minnie balls strike the pavement over which I came, and how they tear
through the palings of the fence on both sides of the open gate,
terrible messengers they are, but harmless now as far they concerned
me.
None of the family were visible, so I entered the unlocked door of a
back kitchen, which was empty, then into the main building I went and
all through it from main floor to attic, and found no one;
disappointed I turned to the cellar and was met on the stair-way by a
sister, who failed to recognize me in the semi-darkness, who said,
"Here! what do you want?" On the spur of the moment I said, "Can you
supply me with just a bite to eat?" With this she retired below and I
followed to the foot of the stairs, and took a seat near the lower
step, and this is what I then saw: father and mother, four sisters and
a brother, two or three improvised beds, an almost consumed tallow dip
on the end of a barrel in a far off corner, and each person being a
perfect image of dejection and despondency.
Sister Lucy whispered something to mother, who then entered an
adjoining pantry, doubtless to get the "bite to eat," while a younger
sister approached me inquiring, "I wonder how much longer we will have
to remain in this cellar?" I merely answered, "Not long," but I
discovered that they were entirely ignorant of the state affairs
without. She looked at me closely, and then followed mother into the
pantry.
Presently, mother approached me, bearing a huge piece of bread in her
hand, and peering very closely into my face, then as if in glad
surprise, she ejaculated, "Oh, you bad fellow, I know you now! Here's
your supper."
I will not attempt a portrayal of the scene that followed, but in a
few words I revealed the state of affairs without, and brought them
from that lower world, in which they had dwelt several days, into the
light and comfort of the upper world once more.
Soon an ample supper spread the board, and then all retired to the
comfortable beds, of which they had been deprived for two nights, and
I had not enjoyed for two years. That night the confederate army began
the evacuation of Gettysburg.
* * * * *
Lieut. Sadler, buried at home.
On the 14th of September 1862, at South Mountain, in the charge up the
last acclivity, and just when the victory was won, Lieut. J. D. Sadler
fell in death, and Lieut. Minnigh was wounded.
As I wish to relate the circumstances connected with the removal of
Sadler's body from the field where he fell, to his home fifty-two
miles away, for burial, and as I in my wounded state, in the face of
many difficulties in the way, undertook the work of removal, I will
tell the story, in my own words.
I was wounded by a minnie ball, through the left arm near the
shoulder, when in the act of crossing the stone fence at the foot of
the hill, and as my arm dropped to my side being completely paralyzed,
I believed the injury was greater than it afterward proved to be,
hence, I did not proceed any further. Having retired to the field
hospital, a surgeon grasped my wounded arm and after a cursory
examination, said, "Your arm must be taken off," but I did not see
things just in that light, and slipped away.
At Middletown, four miles away, dwelt a relative of my wife's family,
Appelman by name, and Mrs. A., was at the same time Lieut. Sadler's
aunt, so I determined to go there. Upon reaching the village I was
informed, that Dr. Reed our Regimental surgeon, was in charge of the
Gen'l Hospital in a Church, so I went there. He told me my arm was all
right after removing quite large piece of the bone.
After mid-night, I found the home above indicated, but as no response
came to my timid rapping, I waited for the morning. At the early dawn
I was admitted to the house, got a good breakfast, had my arm dressed
and was put to bed. Presently voices were heard below stairs, and I
recognized that of Roades of our company. Hastening below I heard the
sad news of Lieut. Sadler's death, as well as the other losses that
befel the company. We at once planned the removal of his body by
private conveyance, to York Springs, Pa., a distance of fifty-two
miles.
Mr. Appelman had two horses in his stable, and we concluded to use
them in the furtherance of our plans. A hearse and driver were
secured, and Sadler's body was brought from the battle-field,
en-coffined, and all things got ready for an early start on the
morning of the Sixteenth; I determined to accompany the body
incognito, and borrowed a citizens suit accordingly.
On the morning of the 17th at 2 o'clock, we started with the hearse
drawn by one horse, and I mounted on the other horse, apparently the
most unsophistocated countryman you ever saw. Let me say here, that I
had determined to accompany the body, and as it would have been
impossible to have secured a leave of absence, the above measure was
adopted, so as not to be annoyed by the Provost guard.
We soon reached Frederick city and passed through unmolested, but at a
toll-gate a mile out on the Emmittsburg pike we found the out-posts,
who refused to let us pass, but after giving satisfactory answers to
all questions, we finally were permitted to pass on. At Creagerstown
we fed our horses and took breakfast, I also resumed the military
uniform, as there was now no necessity of a disguise. Near the town of
Emmittsburg I stopped at a residence, in the front yard of which there
was a well of water, for the purpose of bathing my wounded arm, when a
woman came rushing out and said, no Union soldier could have any water
from that well; I answered in laughing good humor, that I thought I
knew one who would, when she took hold of the pump handle, and tried
to prevent my pumping the water. I gently pushed her away, when she
called a dog to her assistance, and a large bloodhound rushed around
the house, and sprung at me.
But I was ready, and a single shot laid him low. At this, the woman
commenced to cry bitterly, and said she would call the men; my reply
was, that the men would be dealt with in the same way. No men appeared
fortunately, and I mounted my horse and rode off.
At Emmittsburg we fed our horses and took dinner, and then we were on
the road again. A few miles out on the Gettysburg road we were met by
my father and brother, who came with a conveyance to aid me on my way.
We reached Gettysburg about 4 o'clock, and rested until after supper,
and then were off again, having still 14 miles to the end of our
journey. But I was entirely worn out, when I reached Heidlersburg. I
went into the hotel, kept by a relation of Sadler, threw myself on a
bar-room bench, and--slept, slept so soundly that I could not be
awakened, so they carried me to bed, and I was surprised next morning,
to find myself there and still seven miles to the journey's end.
After breakfast, I quickly covered this distance, and found all
arrangements made, for the funeral that day in the afternoon. A squad
of raw material, was briefly drilled, in the manual of arms, and at 4
o'clock, we buried "our fallen comrade" with the honors of war, in the
family burial ground, at Hampton, to await the reveille on the morning
of the resurrection day.
=In Memoriam.=
_OUR FALLEN COMRADES!_
Killed in Battle.
J. F. Bailey, Charles City cross roads, June 30, 1862.
J. D. Sadler, South mountain, Sept. 14, 1862.
P. W. Miller, " "
Jere. Nailor, " "
J. W. Shipley, Spottsylvania, May 18, 1864.
C. F. Wisotzkey, Mechanicsville, June 26, 1862.
Died of Wounds.
Wm. McGrew, at Field hospital, July 6, 1863.
J. J. Duey, " date not known.
Died in Prison.
H. W. C. Elden, at Florence, Ala. date not known.
Died of Disease.
J. F. Creamer, Mt. Pleasant hosp't, Dec. 21, 1863.
F. A. Keim, Hosp't, Baltimore, Md. no date.
J. W. McKinney, Alexandria, Va. Feb. 24, 1863.
G. W. Myers, at Camp Pierpont, Dec. 3, 1861.
Jesse Shank, " Nov. 24, 1861.
It would be in vain for me to attempt a proper Eulogium, of the
character of these fallen heroes.
They gave up the fair promise of a useful life, gave up chances of
fame, aye! gave up life for the Salvation of the common country.
In what light can I set the high mark of their patriotism? What words
can tell the story of their courage, with what language can I adorn
their lofty heroism?
How valiently they fought, how serenely and sublimely they died.
They fell in the fierce conflict, amid the cheers, the fire, the
smoke, the flame, soothed in the dying hour by the consciousness that
victory came to side of right and truth and liberty, and that "Old
Glory" still waved triumphantly. They have pitched their tents, in the
eternal bivouac beyond the stars, and are camped in the mysterious and
unknown silence of the life immortal.
Oh, unconquerable heroes! Let it never be said that the great republic
is forgetful of your deeds, or unmindful of those whom you most
loved.
Finally, my Comrades, let us fight valiently, on all the stern
battle-fields of this life, so that, when the last tattoo is beaten,
and 'lights out' forever, we shall be worthy to join the immortal
ranks of the comrades on the other side, and march before the Great
Reviewing officer, when time and earth and hostile armies are no more
forever.
* * * * * *
Transcriber's note:
Apparent printer errors have been retained.