THE ADVANCE TOWARDS ATLANTA.--SKIRMISHING.--HOMEWARD MARCH.--ITS
RECEPTION.--MUSTER OUT.
The series of successes in the vicinity of Chattanooga made Grant a
lieutenant-general, and gave Sherman the command of the armies in
Tennessee. Preparations were now made to press back the forces
marshalled in rebellion at all points. Early in the spring the ball was
opened in the East by Lieutenant-General Grant in person, while in the
West the indomitable Sherman set his invincible army in motion towards
the very heart of the so-called Confederacy. The advance was sounded,
and the Union hosts pressed onward.
By sunset on the 17th of May the Seventh Regiment reached Calhoun, and
on the 19th the vicinity of Cassville, where it hastily threw up some
breastworks; but after two hours was ordered forward in line of battle.
On the 23d it passed through the latter village, across the railroad,
and at four P.M., arrived on the banks of the Etawa River; and after
fording the stream, bivouacked for the night. On the 25th it took
the advance of the entire column, and deployed seven companies as
skirmishers. The march of these companies was very toilsome, and their
progress correspondingly slow. Near Pumpkin Vine Creek the advance was
fired upon by the enemy's pickets, and a sharp skirmish ensued. During
this time the enemy attempted to destroy the bridge over the creek, but
were driven back by the regiment; when it immediately crossed, and took
possession of a commanding hill.
Generals Hooker and Geary, with staff and body-guard, had moved forward
with the skirmish-line, and sometimes in advance even of this. On one
of the latter occasions the body-guard was fired upon, and the three
reserve companies of the Seventh were ordered to their relief.
The advance of the enemy was now held in check until the other
regiments of the brigade came up, when he was dispersed.
In this skirmish, one man was killed and eight wounded. At this point
the command threw up some breastworks, where it remained until six
P.M., when it advanced in line of battle. In this movement the regiment
became hotly engaged, losing three killed and fifteen wounded. One of
the enemy's shell exploding in the ranks, occasioned the loss of eight
men. On the 28th and the previous night, considerable skirmishing was
kept up in front of the line of intrenchments, as well as some sharp
artillery firing; which, however, did very little damage. These pieces
were soon silenced by a New York battery. All day and night of the 30th
the regiment was engaged in sharp skirmishing; but one man, however,
was injured, and he severely. On the 2d of June it moved forward to
Allatoona, Georgia, where it built breastworks, and went into camp.
Here it remained for some time, when its term of service having
expired, it hastened its steps homeward; thus severing the connecting
link between it and the army. The members of this veteran regiment now
felt that they were no longer soldiers: that, although they retained
the organization and uniform of a regiment, they were private citizens
hastening to enjoy home and friends, from which they had been so long
separated. They marched with joyous hearts, and yet there was sadness
present with this happiness. Many a comrade was left behind, never to
return. Fresh graves marked its line of march from Chattanooga to
Georgia. Friends and kindred were sleeping beneath these green mounds,
and they could not pass them by, in this homeward march, without a tear
of regret.
Following the line of the railroad, the regiment finally halted and
awaited transportation. When this was furnished, it went to Nashville
by railroad, at which place it embarked on steamers and started down
the Cumberland River. Arriving in the vicinity of Harpeth Shoals, it
was fired on by guerrillas, and two men wounded. Both officers and men
were desirous of landing and punishing this band of outlaws for their
insolence, but could not prevail on the captain of the boat to permit
it.
Arriving in the Ohio River, Sergeant Trembly fell from the boat and was
drowned. This was a sad occurrence. He had served faithfully during the
service of the regiment; and now, on the eve of being mustered out, he
lost his life by accident. The boat was stopped, and efforts made to
rescue him, but without success.
When the regiment reached Cincinnati, the Fifth Ohio had already
arrived. The city being about to give an ovation to this gallant
regiment, the Seventh was invited to take part in it, by partaking of
the hospitality of the city. This demonstration, in honor of the two
regiments, was eminently fitting, for they were united by the ties of
long fellowship. From the very first they had been brigaded together.
The history of the one was the history of the other. They had marched,
bivouacked, and fought side by side. Each prized the honor and renown
of the other not less than its own. The city of Cincinnati, in thus
extending its hospitality to the Seventh Regiment, did much credit to
itself. The friends of the regiment will remember this magnanimous
conduct, while the members of the regiment will keep green the memory
of the gallant Fifth.
The following is from the Cleveland Herald, of the 11th of June:
"On Saturday afternoon, soon after the evening papers had been issued,
a dispatch was received, announcing that the Seventh Ohio had but just
left Cincinnati, and would not arrive in Cleveland until about seven
o'clock Sunday morning. Bulletins to this effect were at once printed,
and distributed through the city; but a large crowd of persons, not
aware of this fact, came down to watch the arrival of the evening
train, on which the Seventh was supposed to be coming.
"On Sunday morning the population of the city were early astir, and by
seven o'clock a large and continually increasing crowd had assembled in
and around the depot. The police, in full uniform, marched down to the
depot, and were followed by the old members of the Seventh, bearing the
second regimental flag, the first having been deposited in the
State-house at Columbus.
"At seven o'clock the ringing of the fire-bells announced the approach
of the time for the arrival of the train; and about half-past seven
o'clock a salute from the guns, manned by the Brooklyn Artillery, and
run down to the bluff at the foot of Water-street, announced the
arrival of the train.
"As it moved into the depot it was received with cheers by the
assembled crowd; and the war-worn veterans were soon out of the cars,
and surrounded by anxious and joyful friends. Shouts of welcome, hearty
hand-shaking, embraces and kisses, were showered upon the sun-browned
soldiers. Many of the scenes were very affecting. In one place a young
wife, whose husband had left for the field just after their marriage,
hung with clinging embrace on her returned brave, and her moist eyes
sought his with unutterable affection, her hands trembling with excess
of joy. In another, an old man, with both hands grasped in those of his
son, mingled smiles of joy over his returned boy, with tears of sorrow
for the one who had laid down his life for his country. Mothers clung
to sons, sisters to brothers, wives to husbands, and some little
children climbed up for a father's embrace.
"The number all told, men and officers, of those who returned, was two
hundred and forty-five. These were the remnants of nearly eleven
hundred men, who left Camp Dennison three years ago, on the
reorganization of the regiment. The whole number of the regiment is
five hundred and one, of whom the remainder were recruited at various
times, and their term of service not expired. Sixty of these were left
in Sherman's army; the rest are scattered in every direction, from the
James River to Atlanta. The greater part of those whose term of service
has not expired are to be consolidated with the same class in the Fifth
Ohio, which fought by its side in many a bloody fray, and which is to
retain its number. The slightly wounded were brought up with the
regiment, the more seriously wounded being left in different hospitals.
"The following is the present organization of the Seventh:
"Lieutenant-colonel, Sam. McClelland; surgeon, Dr. Bellows; assistant
surgeon, Dr. Ferguson; Captain Wilcox, Company E; Captain Kreiger,
Company K; Captain Clark, Company B; Captain Howe, Company A; Captain
Braden, Company G; Captain Davis, Company C, taken prisoner in last
fight; Captain Nesper, Company H; Captain McKay, Company F; Captain
Lockwood, Company D; Lieutenant Bohm, commanding Company I;
quartermaster, S. D. Loomis.
"The regiment left Chattanooga with the Fifth Ohio; but parted company
on the way, the Fifth having left their arms behind them, and were
therefore compelled to come by railroad, no unarmed troops being
allowed to come by the river. The Seventh came up the Cumberland and
Ohio rivers by steamboats, and were fired on by guerrillas on the way.
One man was lost, Sergeant Trembly, of Company C, about thirty miles
below Cincinnati. He was on the guards of the steamer cleaning his gun,
when he fell overboard. The boat was stopped, and efforts made to save
him; but he was carried away by the current and drowned.
"On reaching Cincinnati, they were ordered to Columbus to be mustered
out; but when the train got to Columbus, they were ordered to go on to
this city to be paid, and mustered out.
"After leaving the cars, and the greetings of friends were ended, the
men were marched to one part of the depot, and given a chance to wash
themselves. They were then conducted to tables set along the north wing
of the depot, where a hot breakfast had been provided by Wheeler and
Russel, on the order of the military committee. Rev. Mr. Goodrich
invoked the blessing.
"A number of ladies were on hand, who supplied the soldiers bountifully
with strawberries, after the more substantial part of the feast was
concluded.
"As soon as the men had been properly fed and refreshed, they fell into
line, and proceeded through Water and Superior streets to the front of
the government buildings, where the formal reception was to take place.
The procession was headed by the police, followed by a brass band, and
by the military committee, members of the council, and city officers.
The old members of the Seventh, with the second flag of the regiment,
tattered and torn, immediately preceded the bronzed veterans, who,
fully armed, and bearing their last flag, rent with a hailstorm of
hostile bullets, marched with proud steps through the streets they had
left three years and three months since. Carriages followed with the
sick and wounded who were unable to march. The procession was
accompanied with a throng of people, and crowds lined the streets,
whilst flags fluttered in all directions.
"On reaching the front of the government building, the regiment was
drawn up in double line, and Prosecuting-Attorney Grannis, in the
absence of Mayor Senter, addressed the regiment, in behalf of the
corporation and citizens, as follows:
"SOLDIERS OF THE SEVENTH OHIO--The people of the city of Cleveland
welcome you home. More than three years ago, you went forth with full
ranks--more than a thousand strong. To-day a little remnant returns to
receive the greetings of friends, and to mingle again with society, as
was your wont in times gone by. But this is not all. You, and those who
went with you, whether present here to-day or absent, whether among the
living or the dead, shall be held forever in grateful remembrance.
"We witnessed your departure with pride, not unmingled with sorrow. We
did not regret that the men of the glorious Seventh had gone out to
fight against a brutal and insolent foe, or fear that any member of it
would ever fail to do his whole duty in the perilous ridges of the
battle; but we did know that your departure was attended with many
sacrifices;--that you would be exposed to cold, fatigue, and hunger;
would suffer from disease, from honorable wounds, and in loathsome
prisons; and that many a noble form would bite the dust. We knew that
these things must needs be, that the nation might live. The half was
not told us. It did not enter into our hearts to believe what you would
suffer and what you would accomplish. Upon almost every battle-field,
from Cross Lanes to Dalton, the glorious banner of the Seventh has been
in the van of the battle. We have watched your course with painful
interest. After every battle, came the intelligence that your regiment
had fought bravely, and had come out with thinned ranks.
"You have the grand consolation of knowing that the victories of
Gettysburg, of Lookout Mountain, of Ringgold, and of Resaca, were not
won without your aid. To have been in any one of those desperate
conflicts, is glory enough for any man. The record you have made will
seem almost like a tale of fiction. We have often had tidings of you,
but such as would not cause our cheeks to tingle with shame. It was
never said of the Seventh Ohio that it faltered in battle, that it
failed to do its whole duty. You have been faithful, uncomplaining, and
heroic. These things have not been accomplished without painful
sacrifices. How painful, let the honorable scars many will carry to
their graves answer. How painful, let this begrimed and tattered flag
answer. How painful, these thinned ranks will answer. Your gallant
colonel and lieutenant-colonel came home before you. Not as we could
have wished them to come, but wearing the habiliments which all must
wear; and now they lie yonder, and their graves are still wet with the
tears of their mourning countrymen.
"Not so fortunate many of your countrymen, for they lie in unknown
seclusion, but not in unhonored graves. We will not mourn these dead as
those who die without hope, for their names shall be honored, so long
as liberty is prized among men.
"'Death makes no conquest of these conquerors,
For now they live in fame, though not in life.'
"It is an honor to be engaged in this conflict, which those who share
it should fully prize; and those who have been engaged in it have shown
a self-sacrificing devotion to duty, seldom excelled. It is a conflict
in favor of liberty against treason and traitors; against a desperate
and implacable foe, fighting with desperate energy, that fraud,
oppression, and crime may stalk abroad in daylight.
"Let us hope that the final overthrow of rebellion is at hand; that
soon our soldiers may all return home, with--
"'Brows bound with victorious wreaths,
Their bruised arms hung up for monuments,
Their stern alarums changed to merry meetings,
Their dreadful marches to delightful measures.'
"On concluding, Mr. Grannis introduced Governor Brough, who also
addressed the regiment. He said in substance as follows:
"MEN OF THE SEVENTH OHIO--I know you are anxious to turn from this
public to private greetings, to clasp friends and acquaintances in your
hands and hearts. Under these circumstances I have not the courage to
detain you. I will not read the glorious record of your achievements,
for it would keep you so long. It is not necessary. We know your record
in all its glory, but not, like you, in all its pain. A little over
three years ago, on a Sabbath morning, you left Cleveland. Now, on a
Sabbath morning, you return to us. That Sabbath was hallowed, by the
purpose with which you went forth. This Sabbath is rendered sacred, by
the joy with which you are welcomed back to us.
"On behalf of the State, I am here to give you a cordial greeting on
your return. For the people of Cleveland, no formal greeting is
necessary. In the crowd that gather around you, you can read the
cordial welcome, that needs no words to express it.
"The Spartan mother, who sent her son to battle, bade him to return
with his shield in honor, or on his shield in death. You have returned
with your shields, and with honor reflected from them on you. But let
us not forget that many have come home on their shields. We cannot
forget those that, on another Sabbath morning, came home, and were
received by the city in the weeds of mourning.
"We welcome you back, not only because you are back, but because you
have reflected honor on your State. Standing, as I do, in the position
of father of all of the regiments of the State, it will not do for me
to discriminate; but I will say, that no regiment has returned to the
bosom of the State, and none remains to come after it, that will bring
back a more glorious record than the gallant old Seventh.
"There is no need to tell you what the lesson of this war is. You have
learned it in many a weary march, and on many a field of carnage. None
know better than you, that there are but two ways possible for the
termination of this war. One is an inglorious peace and disgraceful
submission, and the other is to completely crush the military power of
the rebellion. There is no other way; and he who goes about on
street-corners, and talks about a peace short of one or the other of
these alternatives, is either grossly ignorant or intentionally
attempting to deceive. More than that, no one knows better than
yourselves, that to secure a lasting peace, when the military power of
the rebellion is crushed, the cause of this infernal rebellion itself
must be thoroughly wiped out. You have been taught that in many a fiery
lesson, and know it to be a truth.
"There are gallant men and brave generals in the army laboring to reach
this end; and we have confidence that their efforts will be crowned
with success. God grant that it may be so. I had almost said that God
and Grant will make it so.
"But I will detain you no longer. There is another greeting awaiting
you in your homes--a greeting that no other eyes should witness. To
that sacred and precious greeting I remit you."
The regiment now marched off to Camp Cleveland, escorted by the old
members of the Seventh.
The men were given a brief furlough, after which preparations were made
to be mustered out.
On the 4th of July, a grand ovation was given to the regiment, in
connection with the Eighth Ohio; in fact, while the regiment remained
in Cleveland, it was one continued ovation. The citizens vied with each
other, in caring for and honoring the old Seventh. It seemed as if they
could not do enough. These brave men will not soon forget the anxious
care bestowed upon them by the citizens of Cleveland, during this
closing period of their career in the service of their country.
After remaining for a brief period in camp, the regiment was mustered
out; and after kindly farewells had been exchanged, each member
departed for his home, from which he had been so long absent in
protecting a Government that he loved from the ruthless touch of
treason and slavery.
When the regiment entered the field, it numbered more than a thousand
men. As these began to dwindle away by the shock of battle and the
ravages of disease, new members came in, until we find nearly fourteen
hundred men on the rolls, exclusive of three months' men: the latter
would swell the number to about eighteen hundred men. Of the former,
over six hundred were killed and wounded--the killed alone amounting to
about one hundred and thirty. One hundred and upwards died from
disease; while more than six hundred were discharged on account of
disability arising from various causes. Many of those who were on the
rolls at the time the regiment was mustered out were disabled for life,
and were only retained for the want of an opportunity to be discharged.
The whole number of able-bodied officers and men returning with the
regiment was only two hundred and forty-five, leaving upwards of eleven
hundred dead and disabled.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
BRIGADIER-GENERAL E. B. TYLER.[3]
E. B. Tyler entered the service as colonel of the Seventh. He brought
with him some little military experience, having been a
brigadier-general of militia before the rebellion broke out.
[3] General Tyler has failed to furnish us any data from
which to write an extended sketch, though often requested to
do so.
When General McClellan was about to make his advance into Western
Virginia, he selected Tyler to lead the way, on account of his thorough
acquaintance with that wild region, he having been engaged in
purchasing furs from the people for many years. During the entire
summer he was kept well out to the front. He was finally given a
brigade, with which to assist General Cox in driving General Wise from
the valley. He moved as far as Somerville, in the very heart of the
enemy's country, and was soon after in the skirmish of Cross Lanes.
From this time, during the remainder of his stay in the department, he
was in command at Charleston, in the Kanawha Valley. In the winter
following, he was ordered to Kelley's department, where he was again
given a brigade, with which he did good service on the outposts. We
next find him at the battle of Winchester, where he commanded a
brigade. It was his command that charged the battery, for which it
acquired so much renown. His conduct at this battle won him a star. He
now served with his command in the Valley, accompanying it to the
Rappahannock and back. After which he commanded the forces in the
battle of Port Republic. His conduct in this engagement is above
criticism. No general could have made better dispositions than he, and
no one would have met with better success. Defeat was certain; and all
that the best generalship could do, was to save barely a remnant of the
command. It is a wonder that any artillery was saved. He gained much
reputation in his command for the manner in which he acquitted himself
in this battle. He soon after left his old brigade, and finally took
command of a Pennsylvania brigade, which he led in the battle of
Fredericksburg, in December, 1862. He had acquired a fine reputation
with Governor Curtin, and his conduct in this battle confirmed it. The
spring following he was assigned to a command in Baltimore, under
General Schenck. At the time of the raid on Washington, in the summer
of 1864, he was at the front. During an engagement he became separated
from his command, and only escaped by dint of hard riding. After
remaining concealed for some days, he escaped, and returned in safety
to our lines. After this campaign he returned to Baltimore, where he is
at the present time stationed.
BREVET BRIG.-GEN. J. S. CASEMENT.
J. S. Casement came into the regiment as major, and was just the man
for the place. The regiment needed a practical, common-sense sort of a
man, and it found him in the person of Jack Casement. Many of his
previous years had been spent in the construction of railroads. In this
he had not a superior in the United States. He is of small stature, but
of iron frame; and for endurance has few equals. He will shoulder and
walk off under a load that would make the most athletic tremble. He has
probably superintended the laying of as much track as any man of his
age.
On joining the regiment, the major at once made himself useful in
looking after matters for the comfort of the command, that really
belonged to no one to look to, and yet, when attended to, went far to
improve the condition of the men. He rapidly acquired a knowledge of
military tactics, which was afterwards to fit him for a leader. This
was not difficult for him to do, for he made it a practical study. He
was always on duty when the occasion required it. This habit of
promptness he acquired while working large parties of men, and it never
left him during his service. During the long marches in Western
Virginia, he was ever watchful as to how matters were going on in the
rear; and while other mounted officers were riding leisurely along, he
was ever watchful of the train, as well as all other matters connected
with the easy movement of the command. Arriving in camp, he made it his
business to see that all was snug. At the affair at Cross Lanes he
conducted himself with such gallantry as to endear him to the entire
regiment. He rode over that fatal field as calm and collected as on
drill. When his superior officers had escaped, he organized the balance
of the command, and then commenced that memorable march over the hills
and mountains, through the valleys and over the streams, of that wild
waste. It was finally crowned with success, and the regiment felt proud
of its major; and the Western Reserve felt proud, too, that they had
sent so brave a man to serve with so brave a regiment. He now did his
duty, until we find the regiment in the East, and in its expedition to
Blue's Gap, Major Casement at its head. Just before reaching the
fortifications, he made a speech. Said he: "Boys, you've not got much
of a daddy, but with such as you have, I want you to go for those
rebels." And they did go for them in earnest. It seems the boys did not
object to the character of the "daddy." He now went with the regiment
to Winchester, where he was engaged in that battle. He sat on his horse
where the bullets were flying thickest, and seemed to be a stranger to
fear. When the battle was nearly over, followed by a few men, he took
possession of a piece of artillery, and held it until the close of the
action. In the evening succeeding the battle, he found that ten
rifle-bullets had passed through the cape of his coat on the left side,
near to his arm.
Major Casement accompanied the regiment on its march up the Valley,
making himself useful in the way of constructing bridges and roads. On
arriving at Falmouth, on the Rappahannock, he tendered his resignation,
which being accepted, he returned to his home. All missed the merry
laugh, as well as the merry jokes, of the ever happy major.
He was not long permitted to enjoy home, however, as in the following
summer he was made colonel of the One Hundred and Third Ohio Regiment,
and immediately after left for the field. His regiment was ordered to
Kentucky, in which department he served until Sherman's triumphant
march on Atlanta, when he joined him, and soon after commanded a
brigade. In this campaign he distinguished himself. After Sherman left
for Savannah, Casement commanded a brigade in Thomas' army. At the
battle of Franklin, which followed, he conducted himself in such a
brilliant manner as to win a star by brevet. He now took part in the
pursuit of the disorganized forces of Hood, and when it ceased, went to
Wilmington, North Carolina, with the corps of General Schofield, where
he has since remained.
The career of this dashing officer has been one of usefulness, and his
numerous friends, as well as the entire country, appreciate his
services.
BRIGADIER JOHN W. SPRAGUE.[4]
General Sprague entered the service as captain of Company E. He
immediately gained a high character as an officer, both for his fine
military bearing and gentlemanly deportment. His company was first in
discipline, and during the time he was in command not one of his men
was under arrest. His influence was such, that they seldom disobeyed an
order. They regarded their captain as a fit person to lead them--one
whose example was worthy of imitation.
[4] The writer has been unable to learn sufficient of General
Sprague's services, after leaving the Seventh, to enable him
to write an extended sketch, which he very much regrets, for
his gallant services entitle him to a more lengthy notice.
During the trying marches in Western Virginia, Captain Sprague was ever
at his post to encourage and cheer his men. A few days previous to the
Cross Lanes affair, he was given a leave of absence; and soon after
leaving for his home, he was taken prisoner by the enemy's cavalry. He
remained in prison about a year, suffering all the hardships that the
imagination can picture. When he was released, his hair had become
gray, and his every appearance was indicative of great suffering. On
his return, he was immediately commissioned colonel of the Sixty-third
Ohio Regiment, and very soon after entered the field. From this time on
he did gallant service in the armies of the West. His great military
talent was at last acknowledged, and his vast services rewarded by
conferring on him a star. He is now serving in the West.
LIEUT.-COL. SAMUEL McCLELLAND.
The subject of this sketch is a native of Ireland. He was born in 1829.
While in his youth, his parents emigrated to this country, landing at
Philadelphia, from whence they went to Pittsburgh. Remaining here for a
short time, they removed to Youngstown, Ohio, where they have since
resided.
He entered the service as first-lieutenant of Company I, and was at
once active in the discharge of his duty. He accompanied the regiment
to Western Virginia, where he took part in all the hard marches that
followed. At the affair of Cross Lanes, he demonstrated, by his
gallantry, the fact of the possession of great military talent; for he
was brave, prudent, and skilful. Up to the battle of Winchester, he was
with the regiment in every march and skirmish. At this battle he
commanded a company, and had the honor of opening the battle, and
sustaining it for a few minutes, till other companies formed on his
flanks.
He was engaged in the following battles and skirmishes, which embrace
every one in which the regiment was engaged: Cross Lanes, Winchester,
Port Republic, Cedar Mountain, Antietam, Dumfries, Chancellorsville,
Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, and Taylor's Ridge. The
various skirmishes and battles during the march of Sherman to Marietta,
are to be added to this list. At the battle of Winchester he was
slightly wounded in the head, but remained on the field, against the
urgent solicitations of his friends, until the close of the engagement.
At the battle of Taylor's Ridge he was severely wounded in the leg. He
now returned to his home, but remained but a short time, rejoining his
command before he was entirely recovered.
While in the East he was made captain of Company H, and after the
battle of Taylor's Ridge, lieutenant-colonel. He now took command of
the regiment; leading it through the arduous campaign of Sherman, as
far as Marietta, in which service he won a fine reputation for ability
as an officer. He was known and recognized throughout the army as the
fighting colonel. At the above place, the old Seventh turned its steps
homeward, commanded by Colonel McClelland, who had the proud
satisfaction of leading the regiment into Cleveland, to do which the
lamented Creighton was ever ambitious.
When encamped in the city, he set himself industriously at work
preparing the regiment to be mustered out; which was done in due time.
McClelland was one of the few officers who were ever at their post. He
was brave, active, and zealous, a good officer in every particular. His
kindness and good feeling towards his fellow-soldiers won him many
friends. His family have suffered severe loss, two brave brothers
having died in battle. During all this affliction he has remained true
to his country, his patriotism never growing cold for a moment.
MAJOR FREDERICK A. SEYMOUR.
The subject of this sketch came into the regiment as captain of Company
G, having organized the company immediately after the first call for
troops. He had seen a good deal of service in the militia of his native
State, which was of great assistance to him in this new position. When
the regiment was organized for the three-years' service, he was elected
to his old position, which was an indication of the esteem his company
had for him.
During the terrible campaign among the mountains of Western Virginia,
his health became very much impaired; till just previous to the affair
at Cross Lanes, he was compelled to leave his command and seek to
restore it in his home. Therefore he was not in that skirmish. He soon
after returned, but after reaching the Shenandoah Valley his health
again failed him, and he once more sought to restore it by returning to
his home. While he was absent the battle of Winchester was fought, and
he therefore did not take part in the engagement.
He now accompanied the regiment in its march up the Shenandoah River,
across the Blue Ridge, and back again to Front Royal; and from thence
to Port Republic. In the battle fought at the latter place he was
conspicuous for bravery. During that well-contested action be
contributed all that lay in his power towards winning a victory. But
valor alone cannot win a battle; numbers combined with it can only
accomplish that. This was his first experience under fire; but he stood
up to the work like a veteran; being second to none in deeds of daring.
Soon after this action he was engaged in the battle of Cedar Mountain,
where he more than sustained the reputation acquired at Port Republic.
This was a terrible battle, and every officer and private who fought
there became a hero.
From this time forward the writer has no knowledge of his services,
beyond the fact that he was promoted to major; which position he filled
till some time in the fall of 1863, when he resigned, and returned to
his home. It can be truly said that, wherever Major Seymour was placed,
he endeavored to do his duty. Among his fellow-soldiers he had many
friends, and he will always be remembered as a kind-hearted gentleman.
SURGEON FRANCIS SALTER.
Francis Salter entered the service as assistant surgeon of the Seventh
Regiment; and on the resignation of Surgeon Cushing, was appointed
surgeon. He held this position until the latter part of 1862, when he
was made a medical director, and assigned to the staff of General
Crooks. As a surgeon, he hardly had a superior in the service. His
services were of great value in the hospitals, as he had had a long
experience in those of England, his native country. He has remained in
the service from the beginning of the war; and during that long period
has alleviated the suffering of many a soldier.
C. J. BELLOWS.
The subject of this sketch was appointed surgeon of the regiment, from
the position of assistant in the Fifth Ohio. Before entering the
service he was enjoying a good practice in Northern Ohio, in which he
had acquired a good reputation. While with the regiment he was much
esteemed, by reason of his ability as a surgeon, as well as for his
kind and courteous behavior.
G. E. DENIG.
On the appointment of Francis Salter to the post of surgeon, the
subject of this sketch was made assistant. While with the regiment he
was attentive to his duties, and always kind and obliging to those
seeking medical aid. He many times acted as surgeon of the regiment;
and on such occasions was always prompt in the discharge of his duty.
FREDERICK T. BROWN, D.D.
The subject of this sketch was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, of
respectable and pious parents. His father was a wealthy merchant, and
therefore gave his son a liberal education. After arriving at a proper
age, he was sent to Princeton College, New Jersey, where he graduated.
He early developed those Christian qualities which he has possessed in
such an eminent degree during the whole course of his life. He was born
to be a minister. At an early age his mind took a lasting hold upon
religious truths; and it has never relaxed its energies in that
direction for a single moment. He has gone on doing good from a child,
his usefulness only increasing as his mind developed its powers. He has
been a close student of theology during his whole life; and it is doing
no discredit to others to say, that in this respect he has hardly a
peer in the United States. He graduated at the Theological Seminaries
at Princeton, New Jersey, and Geneva, Switzerland.
The Westminster Church, of Cleveland, Ohio, was organized by him; and
in the course of his nine years' labor with it, increased from a small
congregation to one of the most respectable religious societies of the
city. He was pastor of this church at the breaking out of the
rebellion.
While the Seventh Regiment was at Camp Dennison, he paid it a visit by
request of some of the officers, and was immediately chosen its
chaplain, there being but few dissenting voices. Immediately returning
to his home, he tendered his resignation to his church, which, however,
was not accepted; but in its stead, he was voted a leave of absence,
which he accepted, but refusing to draw pay during the time. He joined
the regiment early in July, while it was in Western Virginia, and at
once entered upon his duties.
While here, he preached a sermon in one of the churches--to the rebel
as well as Union people of the town--which was noted for the powerful
arguments used against the position occupied by the South in relation
to the Federal Government. This effort made him many friends in the
village. He afterwards had a large influence over its people, being
often invited to their homes. On such occasions he was received with a
hearty welcome; although he never neglected an opportunity to reprove
them for the opinions cherished by them.
While at Glenville, Gilmer County, he carried a message to General Cox,
whose forces were somewhere on the banks of the Kanawha River. This has
already been mentioned; but as it was an enterprise attended with much
danger, we here copy a detailed account of it.
About the 15th day of July, Colonel Tyler, feeling it important to open
communication with General Cox's forces on the Kanawha, determined to
send a messenger with unwritten dispatches across the country through
the enemy's lines; and as our chaplain could more readily be spared
than any other member of the regiment deemed fitting to undertake the
enterprise, the expedition was proposed to him. He accepted it
willingly, though well aware of its difficulties and dangers. Colonel
Tyler suggested to him to go in the character of a merchant or trader,
so that, if arrested by roving guerillas or any of Wise's patrols, he
could say he was on business to Gauley Bridge, or some other place. But
he declined adopting the suggestion, as involving a possible lie, and
asked to be left to his own resources.
Hastily divesting himself of every tell-tale mark of name, residence,
or connection with the service, mounted on a blooded mare, captured
from some guerrillas a few days before, and taking no rations but a
bunch of cigars, an hour after receiving the order he started. It was a
ride of a hundred and twenty miles through the enemy's country, by
highways, and by-ways, and no ways at all, nearly half of it at night,
sometimes alone, full of adventures, amusing and otherwise, and
involving some narrow escapes from the enemy, but completely
successful.
On the morning of the third day, at daylight, he struck the Kanawha,
four miles below the mouth of the Pocotaligo; and there, for the first
time, got word of General Cox, and learned that his camp was only four
miles up the river. It was Sunday morning. He was soon at the general's
quarters, and in the language of the chaplain himself, "received such a
welcome as that genial man and accomplished Christian gentleman knows
how to give." General Cox refused permission to him to return to us by
the way he had come. He therefore remained with the general for the
time; was with him at the capture of Charleston, and in the pursuit of
Wise to Gauley Bridge, from whence he joined us again. Surviving
members of the old Seventh will remember "the three times-three" cheers
of each company in succession, as the chaplain rode along the line. We
were on the march, a long distance from where he had left us, had not
heard a word from him or of him, and had thought him lost; his arrival,
safe and sound, coming from the direction of the enemy, was as one from
the dead, or from Richmond.
At the battle of Cross Lanes he bore a gallant part, remaining with the
command during the entire affair, and leaving only when all hope of
saving the day had expired. He escaped, with others, through a gap in
the enemy's lines, caused by well-directed volleys of musketry from the
regiment. The same day he came into Gauley Bridge, after having
rendered much service in bringing off the wagon-train. He soon after
visited Cross Lanes, under a flag of truce, for the purpose of looking
after our killed and wounded, as well as to learn the fate of those
taken prisoners. While within the enemy's lines, he was treated
civilly, but was refused the privilege of administering to the wounded,
as well as visiting the prisoners. He therefore returned, without
having accomplished, in the least degree, the object of his visit. The
chaplain was soon after ordered to Charleston, where the scattered
members of the Seventh had been collected.
While at this place he formed an agreeable acquaintance with many
gentlemen of learning and ability, at whose houses he was a frequent
visitor; and it may be truly said that on such occasions he added much
to the fund of enjoyment.
While the regiment was at Charleston, a misunderstanding arose between
the chaplain and Colonel Tyler, by reason of which the former felt it
his duty to resign. His resignation was in due time accepted, and he
was honorably mustered out of the service; the esteem and regrets of
the entire command going with him to his home. While with the regiment
his conduct had been above suspicion, and his sudden departure caused
universal gloom.
Shortly after returning to his home in Cleveland, he was called to be
pastor of a church at Georgetown, District of Columbia, which is both
large and influential.
Not forgetting the cause of his country and her suffering soldiery, he
is now engaged, in addition to his pastoral labors, in attending to the
wants of the sick and wounded soldiers at the various hospitals in the
vicinity of his home. Many a poor soldier of the republic will remember
the words of consolation which have fallen on his ear from the lips of
this devoted Christian.
In the personal appearance of Chaplain Brown, alone, there is a
character. His light, fragile figure, erect and graceful carriage,
strikes one as peculiarly fitting to his elegant, chaste, and mature
intellect. He leaves an impression on the mind as lasting as it is
positive. In his company the dark moments are lighted up. Generous and
manly, he would distribute even his happiness among his fellows, were
it possible. There are few men more companionable than he; and few ever
won the love of their fellow-men equal to him. Endowed with rare
conversational powers and a pleasing address, he always commands the
attention of those around him. In public speaking, the first impression
he makes upon the mind of the hearer is not such as would lead him to
expect a flowery discourse; but as the speaker proceeds, it becomes
evident that dry logic is not his only gift. His life is a constant
reflection of truth. He takes a great grasp on eternal things; and
lives greatly by seeking, as the one high aim of his studies, his
labors, and his prayers, the supreme glory of God in the everlasting
welfare of man. May such samples of Christian character be multiplied,
till all the world has learned how great is God, and how great is
goodness.
CHAPLAIN D. C. WRIGHT.
D. C. Wright was appointed chaplain during the winter of 1861. He
reported to the regiment at Patterson's Creek, Virginia.
He was with the regiment at the battle of Winchester, where he rendered
much assistance in caring for the wounded. He now followed the fortunes
of the Seventh until its arrival at Port Republic, at which battle he
served as aid to General Tyler. During the entire engagement he was
much exposed, carrying dispatches in the most gallant style to
different parts of the field. He was mentioned in the official reports
for gallant conduct. After this battle he left for his home, and
finally sent in his resignation, which was duly accepted.
Before the war broke out he was a minister of the Methodist Church, and
acquired no little reputation as a revivalist preacher.
LIEUT.-COL. GILES W. SHURTLIFF.[5]
At the beginning of the rebellion, Giles W. Shurtliff was one of the
teachers in the college at Oberlin. Immediately after the bombardment
and capture of Fort Sumter, he organized a company, principally from
among his pupils, and reported at Camp Taylor. He was with the regiment
in its toilsome marches in Western Virginia, during which he was always
at his post. During the affair at Cross Lanes he was taken prisoner,
and now began those terrible hardships which no pen can describe, nor
imagination picture. Prison life is a sort of living death,--a state of
abeyance, where the mind is thrown back upon itself; where time,
although passing, seems to stop, and the great world outside, to stand
still. Through all this trial, and hardship, and misery, Colonel
Shurtliff passed, without weakening his faith or his patriotism. He
returned to his home, after more than a year's imprisonment, as firm in
the support of the Government as ever. After allowing himself a short
rest, he served in the Army of the Potomac on staff-duty; but was soon
after made lieutenant-colonel of the Fifth United States Colored
Infantry. He has since greatly distinguished himself in the numerous
battles in the vicinity of Richmond. He is at the present time at his
post, where he will probably remain until the rebellion is crushed, and
the Government vindicated.
[5] The writer would be glad to give an extended account of
the gallant services of Colonel Shurtliff in the bloody
battles before Richmond and Petersburg, but has not received
the necessary facts.
COLONEL ARTHUR T. WILCOX.
Arthur T. Wilcox is a native of Ohio, and entered the service as
second-lieutenant of Company E. On the organization of the regiment for
the three years' service, he was made a first-lieutenant, and assigned
to the same company. He served with much credit in Western Virginia,
until the Cross Lanes affair, when he was taken prisoner. He remained
within the prison-walls of the enemy for more than a year, most of the
time in Charleston, South Carolina, suffering every hardship; but
coming out as true and pure a patriot as when he went in, he again
joined his regiment, and was soon after made a captain. He now took
part in all the battles of the West, in which the regiment was
engaged,--Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Ringgold, and Sherman's
battles in the march on Atlanta. He came home with the regiment, and
was in due time mustered out. He was not, however, permitted to remain
long at home, for, when new regiments were forming, he was made a
colonel, and assigned to the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Regiment.
He soon after joined his command, and was almost immediately ordered to
the front. He joined General Thomas' forces, then falling back before
the forces of General Hood. Arriving at Franklin, he was engaged in the
bloody battle fought there, and greatly distinguished himself. He soon
after arrived at Nashville with the army. The rebel army immediately
advanced; and the two armies stood face to face, at the same time
gathering strength for a desperate conflict. The Union army was
triumphant, and the rebel hosts were beaten and demoralized. In this
battle, Colonel Wilcox gained new laurels. He now took part in the
pursuit of the scattered forces of Hood.
Every one who has fallen in company with Colonel Wilcox, will remember
him as a genial friend and true gentleman. He has made many friends in
the army as well as at home. He has chosen the law as a profession, and
when "this cruel war is over" the writer wishes him the success his
many virtues and talents merit.
LIEUT.-COL. JAMES T. STERLING.
James T. Sterling entered the service as first-lieutenant of Captain De
Villiers' company. On the organization of the regiment for the three
years' service, he was made captain. While at Camp Dennison he labored
diligently to perfect his command in both drill and discipline; and
when it entered the field it was second to none, so far as these
essentials were concerned.
While in Western Virginia, Captain Sterling was on many scouts, in
which service he showed great skill and bravery. Such adventures were
very much to his liking.
In the affair at Cross Lanes he won the respect of all those who were
witness to his coolness and daring. During the march to Charleston he
made a good account of himself, being one of the most active in his
labors, and among the wisest in his opinions.
He now followed the regiment to the East, where he engaged in all the
marches and skirmishes which took place. At the battle of Winchester he
commanded two companies; leading them into the hottest fire like a
veteran. During the entire action he stood on the hill urging the men
forward, regardless of the great danger to which he himself was
exposed. He came through the battle, however, without a scratch, but
with some holes in his clothing.
He now took part in the long chase of Jackson up the Valley, and from
thence to Fredericksburg and back again; but was not in the battle of
Port Republic, his company having been detailed for headquarters guard.
Very soon after this engagement he was made lieutenant-colonel of the
One Hundred and Third Regiment, at that time about to be raised in the
vicinity of Cleveland. He soon after reported to this regiment and was
assigned to duty. He went with it to the field; but, after a limited
period, was assigned the position of inspector-general on the staff of
General Cox. He filled this position with much credit to himself, until
early in the year 1864, when he resigned and returned to his home in
Cleveland.
Colonel Sterling, as an officer, was much esteemed. As a companion, he
was much admired. His easy manners and agreeable conversation gathered
about him many friends. Every one regretted his departure from the
Seventh; he had been with it through so many trials and dangers, that
he was closely identified with it. His company thought well of him,
and, therefore, his unexpected departure caused many regrets.
COLONEL JOEL F. ASPER.
Joel F. Asper was born in Huntington, Adams County, Pennsylvania, on
the 20th day of April, 1822. When he was but five years old his father
removed to Farmington, Ohio, by the slow process of a four-horse team
and Pennsylvania wagon. The county of Trumbull was then but sparsely
settled.
Until eighteen years of age he assisted his father in clearing a farm,
at the same time attending a district school in winter. This is all the
school education he ever had; all other education being acquired by his
own exertion and application to study out of school.
Having a passion for reading and writing, he was led to study law. But
previous to this, however, he commenced teaching a school in
Southington, but, for some reason, left it after one month's
experience. Early in the year 1842, we find him in the law-office of
Crowell and Abel, at Warren, Ohio, and working for his board at the
American Hotel.
In 1843, he carried the Western Reserve Chronicle through several
townships, and during the entire year did not miss a trip.
In August, 1844, he was admitted to the bar, but remained with General
Crowell till 1845, when he learned the daguerrean business, but not
succeeding in this, in October following opened a law-office at Warren.
His first year's practice netted him over four hundred dollars, and it
increased from year to year.
In 1846 be was elected a justice of the peace, and in the following
year was married to Miss Elizabeth Brown.
In 1847 he was elected prosecuting attorney. In 1849, was announced as
one of the editors of the Western Reserve Chronicle; and wrote, during
the campaign of that year, all of the leading political articles
published in its columns. During the summer of 1848, Mr. Parker,
proprietor of the paper, left for a pleasure excursion, and while
absent, Mr. Asper, being left in charge, took ground against General
Taylor. During this campaign he did much towards developing
anti-slavery sentiments in the party. For this conduct he was denounced
by the minority of his party. At this time he made a speech before a
Whig convention, which is said to have been the best effort of his
life. Carrying out these sentiments, he sustained Martin Van Buren for
the presidency, and in the following year ran for prosecuting attorney
on the Free-Soil ticket, but was defeated.
In 1850 he moved to Chardon, Ohio, and edited a Free-Soil paper until
1852, when, it proving a losing business, he returned to Warren, where
he again commenced the practice of the law, which he continued until
the breaking out of the rebellion, in 1861. He was among the first in
Northern Ohio to tender a company to the Governor. It marched to camp
on the 25th of April. He served in the regiment until March, 1863, when
he was honorably mustered out of the United States service. During this
time he took part in the affair of Cross Lanes and the battle of
Winchester, in which last engagement he was severely wounded. After the
Cross Lanes affair he accompanied a detachment of four hundred men to
Charleston, rendering much assistance during the march. He was promoted
to lieutenant-colonel during his service with the regiment, in which
position he commanded the regiment in the retreat of Pope's army from
the Rapidan.
On returning to Warren he opened an office, and in August organized the
Fifty-first Regiment National Guards, and was elected its colonel.
When, in the spring of 1864, the corps was ordered into the field, his
regiment was among the first to move. It went to Johnson's Island, and
while there the noted John H. Morgan commenced a raid through Kentucky.
To resist him, several militia regiments were ordered to the front;
among them was the Fifty-first, now become the One Hundred and
Seventy-first.
Arriving at Cincinnati, he reported to General Hobson, and was ordered
to Keller's Bridge by train. Soon after getting off the cars, it was
attacked by the enemy in overwhelming numbers. After a gallant fight of
six hours, the brave little band of heroes was compelled to surrender.
No regiment of new troops ever did better: it made itself a name which
history will perpetuate.
The regiment was mustered out on the 20th of August, 1864. Asper now
perfected his arrangements to move to Missouri, which he put into
execution in October following. He is now engaged in the practice of
law at Chillicothe, in the above State.
MAJOR W. R. STERLING.
The subject of this sketch entered the service as Captain of Company I.
He carried with him some considerable military experience, having been
connected with a company in his native State. He accompanied the
regiment in its Western Virginia campaign, taking an honorable part in
the affair at Cross Lanes. He was with the detachment in its march over
the mountains to Charleston, during which he rendered great assistance,
contributing largely towards bringing the command off in safety.
From Charleston he returned to his home on leave, but soon after
returned to his command, accompanied by a number of recruits. He now
took part in the various marches and skirmishes occurring in the
mountain department of Eastern Virginia. He was not in the battles of
Winchester or Port Republic; but was in all the marches occurring
before and after those engagements. At the battle of Cedar Mountain he
did yeoman's service. His company was led with such coolness and
bravery, that many a rebel was made to bite the dust. He now remained
with the regiment until General Hooker came to the command of the Army
of the Potomac, when Captain Sterling was assigned a position on his
staff. In this capacity he served until after the battle of
Chancellorsville. A short time after this engagement he was taken
prisoner by a roving band of rebels, and conveyed to Richmond, where he
was for some time confined in prison. He was finally taken further
south to another prison, from which, in the summer of 1864, he escaped;
and after spending some time in the mountains, during which he suffered
many hardships, finally joined the Union forces in Tennessee.
He was a brave and competent officer. While on Hooker's staff he was
promoted to major.
MAJOR E. J. KREIGER.
The subject of this sketch is a native of Germany, and entered the
service as a sergeant in a company composed of his fellow-countrymen.
He very soon rose to the rank of lieutenant, and before the term of
service of the regiment expired, to that of captain. He was in the
following battles and skirmishes: Cross Lanes, Winchester, Port
Republic, Cedar Mountain, Antietam, Dumfries, Chancellorsville,
Gettysburg, Mission Ridge, Lookout Mountain, Ringgold, and in all the
engagements in which his regiment took part in Sherman's march on
Atlanta. No officer can show a prouder record. He was always with his
command, and on all occasions showed great bravery and gallantry, as
well as ability to command.
Immediately after the Seventh was mustered out, he was appointed major
of the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Regiment, and left soon after
for the field. He now added to the above glorious list of battles that
of Franklin, where he fully sustained the honors that he gained while
with the old Seventh. He is at the present time in General Thomas'
army, where he will remain, if his life is spared, until the overthrow
of the rebellion.
CAPTAIN J. B. MOLYNEAUX.
The subject of this sketch was born, January 1, 1840, at Ann Arbor, in
the State of Michigan. At the age of four years his father removed to
Penn Yan, New York, and soon after to Bath and Elmira, in the same
State. In 1854, young Molyneaux went to Belville, Ohio, and commenced
the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Whitcomb. He remained for
nearly a year, when, not liking the study, he went to Cleveland, Ohio,
and entered the job-office of John Williston, where he learned the art
of printing.
Having a natural liking for military life, he joined the Light Guards,
and afterwards the Sprague Cadets, of which he was appointed
drill-master. On the first call for troops, he joined a company being
raised by Captain De Villiers, as a private, being among the first to
enroll his name. Soon after arriving in camp, he was appointed a
sergeant, and, immediately after, drill-master for the non-commissioned
officers of the regiment. On the three years' organization, he was
unanimously chosen first-lieutenant by the vote of his company. He
remained with this company during the earlier part of the campaign in
Western Virginia, taking a gallant part in the affair of Cross Lanes,
as also in the final march of Major Casement's detachment to
Charleston. After this action, he was placed in command of Company E,
which command he held until January, 1862, and then being relieved,
only for the purpose of receiving the appointment of adjutant.
He took part in all the marches and skirmishes in both Western and
Eastern Virginia. At the battle of Winchester, he was mentioned, in the
official report of his colonel, for gallantry on the battle-field. At
the battle of Port Republic, he won new laurels, being constantly under
the enemy's fire. In the fearful struggle at Cedar Mountain, he
particularly distinguished himself. He was, for a limited time, in
command of the regiment, during which he extricated it from a position,
where, under a less skilful leader, it would have been captured. In
this gallant exploit, Molyneaux lost two horses, one of them being
pierced by fourteen bullets.
In September, 1862, he was appointed captain, after having waived rank
three times. This position he held until March, 1863, when, on account
of wounds and ill-health, he was compelled to resign. In the mean time,
he was with the regiment in all its marches, as well as the battle of
Antietam and the affair at Dumfries.
On his return home he followed his occupation of a printer, until the
governor's call for the National Guard, when he again entered the
service as a captain. His regiment being stationed in the defences of
Washington, he was placed in command of a fort, which was, a part of
the time, garrisoned by several companies. After the expiration of his
term of service, he returned to his home in Cleveland, and resumed his
business.
CAPTAIN CHARLES A. WEED.
Charles A. Weed was born, March 30, 1840, in Lake County, Ohio. He
enlisted in Captain John N. Dyer's company, on the 22d day of April,
1861. After its arrival in camp, he was made orderly-sergeant, in which
capacity he developed fine military talent, such as led his company, at
an early time, to look upon him as a proper person for promotion when a
vacancy should occur. Therefore, on the final organization of the
company for the three years' service, he was made a first-lieutenant.
He was with the regiment during the entire Western Virginia campaign,
taking part in the skirmish at Cross Lanes, in which he took command of
the company after the death of Captain Dyer, which position he held
until January, 1862, when he was relieved by an officer promoted to the
captaincy by reason of superiority of rank. He was soon after made
captain, February 5, 1862, and assigned to Company E.
He now took part in all the marches and skirmishes in Eastern Virginia,
and also in the battle of Winchester, where he displayed great
gallantry. After this battle, he commanded his company in the pursuit
of Jackson to Harrisonburg, and in the toilsome march to
Fredericksburg, and the return to Front Royal. He was now in the
advance to Port Republic. In the battle which succeeded, he displayed
great courage, as well as ability to command. He took part in the
battle of Cedar Mountain and Antietam, and also in the skirmish at
Dumfries. On the 22d of February, 1863, he resigned, and returned to
his home.
There were few better officers in the regiment. He was prompt in the
discharge of his duty, seldom questioning the propriety of an order
emanating from a superior, but executing it at once. In his intercourse
with his fellow-soldiers, he was frank and courteous, and all cherished
the kindest feelings towards him.
CAPTAIN JUDSON N. CROSS.
The subject of this sketch is a native of Ohio. When the war broke out
he was attending college at Oberlin, Ohio. He immediately enrolled
himself in Captain Shurtliff's company, and was soon after made a
first-lieutenant. He served with his company in Western Virginia, with
much credit to himself and profit to his country. At the skirmish of
Cross Lanes he was brave, and showed that he was competent to command.
During the affair, he was severely wounded in the arm and taken
prisoner. At the battle of Carnifex Ferry, which followed soon after,
he was recaptured by the forces under General Rosecrans. Being unfit
for service, he now went to his home, where it was thought he might
recover sufficiently to rejoin his command. But after the expiration of
some months, being still unable for service, he was ordered on
recruiting service at Cleveland, Ohio. He was engaged in this work
until the fall of 1862, when he was honorably mustered out of the
service, on account of the unimproved condition of his wound. In the
mean time, however, he had been promoted to a captaincy.
CAPTAIN JOHN F. SCHUTTE.
Entered the service as a lieutenant in Captain Wiseman's company, and
on its organization for three years, was made its captain. He was with
the regiment until just before its affair at Cross Lands, when, being
on picket duty on the banks of the Gauley River, he imprudently crossed
over, and after advancing some miles into the enemy's country, was
fired upon by a body of cavalry, concealed in the bushes, and mortally
wounded. After being taken to an old building close by, he was left, at
his own request, and soon after expired. The rebels buried him on the
spot. No braver officer ever entered the service. Had he lived, he
would undoubtedly have distinguished himself.
At the time of his death, no officer had a better reputation. His
company was somewhat difficult to manage, but while he was in command,
it was not surpassed for discipline, and hardly equalled. He was kind
to every one who did his duty, but when one of his men failed to do
that, he came down upon him with a heavy hand.
His loss was deeply felt throughout the entire command. His company had
recognized in him a leader, and they deplored his loss.
LIEUT. LOUIS G. DE FOREST.
Louis G. De Forest was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on the 9th of
September, 1838. His youth was spent in the city schools, where he
acquired a fair education. In 1853, at the age of fifteen years, he
entered the store of N. E. Crittenden. It is a high compliment to his
industry and business habits, that he has remained in his employ since
that date, with the exception of the time that he spent in the military
service.
Having a natural taste for military life, in 1859 he joined a company
of Light Guards as a private, but soon rose to the positions of
corporal, sergeant, and finally lieutenant. The latter position he
filled with credit, until the rebellion broke out, when, on the
organization of the Sprague Cadets, for three months' service, he
hastened to enroll his name. He was soon made orderly sergeant, which
position he held when the company went into camp. After the regiment
arrived in Camp Dennison, he was elected a second-lieutenant of his
company. And on its final organization for the three years' service, he
was chosen its adjutant, by a vote of its officers, and soon after
received his commission, with the rank of first-lieutenant.
He accompanied the regiment in its arduous Western Virginia campaign,
and during the time Colonel Tyler commanded a brigade, he served as
acting assistant adjutant-general. At the affair at Cross Lanes, he
took a prominent as well as gallant part. He was among the number of
those who made the march over the mountains to Elk River and
Charleston.
He accompanied the regiment to Kelly's department, where he again acted
as acting assistant adjutant-general to Colonel Tyler, serving in this
capacity until his resignation, which took place in March.
When the National Guard was organized, he raised a company, and was
made its captain. In this position he served during the one hundred
days' campaign of this corps, being stationed in a fort in the vicinity
of Washington.
Every one who came in connection with the Seventh Regiment will
remember the stentorian voice and soldierly bearing of its first
adjutant.
LIEUTENANT HALBERT B. CASE.
Halbert B. Case was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, May 3, 1838. His
father being a farmer, he was bred to that occupation. At the age of
sixteen years he entered the W. R. Seminary, at Farmington, Ohio,
preparatory to entering college. After a year and a half spent in this
institution of learning, he went to Oberlin, where he pursued his
studies for more than three years, when, his health failing him, he was
compelled to leave college.
During the winter of 1859, his health being somewhat improved, he went
to Tiffin, Ohio, and commenced the study of the law. He remained here
two winters. In the spring of 1860, being in indifferent health, he
returned to his home in Mecca, Ohio, where he pursued his studies
privately for some months. After which he went to Warren, and studied
law with Forrist and Burnett until the breaking out of the rebellion.
On the 19th day of April, 1861, deeming it his duty to serve his
country, he enlisted in Asper's company, the first organized in the
county. He was soon after made orderly-sergeant. When the three years'
organization was made, he was unanimously chosen a lieutenant by a vote
of his company.
He served honorably during the campaign in Western Virginia, taking an
active part in the affair of Cross Lanes, sharing the fortunes of the
detachment under Major Casement.
Among the first promotions that were made in November, 1861, he was
remembered by the authorities, and appointed a first-lieutenant. He
accompanied the regiment to Eastern Virginia, where he joined the
expedition to Romney and Blue's Gap.
While at Patterson's Creek he felt it his duty to resign his
commission, on account of a personal difficulty with Colonel Tyler. He
therefore left the regiment early in February, with the regrets of the
entire command.
He was not long permitted to remain at home, for his former services
were acknowledged by giving him a commission as captain in the
Eighty-fourth Regiment, which was being organized for three months'
service. This position being accepted, he proceeded with his regiment
to Cumberland, Maryland. Soon after its arrival he was made
provost-marshal and commandant of the post. In this position he won an
enviable reputation. Among his first orders was one against the use and
sale of intoxicating liquors, which he proceeded to enforce in an
effectual manner; and thus materially aided in maintaining order and
quiet at the post.
After nearly five months' service, when the regiment was mustered out,
he was appointed colonel, for the purpose of reorganizing it for three
years' service. He immediately entered upon this task; but owing to the
number of regiments at that time being organized in Northern Ohio, he
was but partially successful. The regiment being finally consolidated
with the One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Ohio, he returned to his home.
He soon after entered the law-school at Ann Arbor, Michigan; and after
a year and a half spent at this university, he graduated, with the
degree of L. L. B. Soon after, he returned home, married, and commenced
the practice of his profession at Youngstown, Ohio.
LIEUTENANT HENRY Z. EATON.
Lieutenant Eaton entered the service as a private, but on the three
years' organization was made a second-lieutenant. He was with the
regiment constantly during the campaign in Western Virginia, and always
at his post. He took an important part in the Cross Lanes affair, and
in the march of Major Casement's detachment.
He now went to the East with the regiment, when Colonel Tyler being
given a brigade, he was assigned to his staff as aid-de-camp. He held
this position at the battle of Winchester; and no one in the army did
better service. He was constantly in the saddle, riding fearlessly in
the heat of the battle, a fair mark for the rebels. During the
engagement his horse was wounded. He was mentioned in official reports
for gallant conduct. He soon after took part in the battle of Port
Republic, where he added much to his already well-earned reputation for
courage and other soldierly qualities. He now followed the regiment to
Alexandria, where he returned to his company and to the front of Pope's
army, where he was at the battle of Cedar Mountain, in which he was
severely wounded. He soon after returned to his home, and finally
resigned, on account of disability from wounds.
LIEUTENANT A. H. DAY.
A. H. Day was a lieutenant in company F, in which capacity he
accompanied the regiment in Western and Eastern Virginia, taking part
in the battles of Winchester and Port Republic, in both of which he did
good service. In the latter he was severely wounded in the shoulder, by
reason of which he was soon after compelled to resign.
LIEUTENANT WILLIAM D. SHEPHERD.
William D. Shepherd entered the service as a private in company D. He
was soon after made a sergeant, and at Camp Dennison, orderly. He
followed the fortunes of his company through the wilds of Western
Virginia till the affair at Cross Lanes, where he showed great
gallantry. He went with his company to Charleston, where, in the
absence of Lieutenant Weed, he took command. During this time the
company was detailed to guard a party who were engaged in erecting a
telegraph line from Point Pleasant to Gauley Bridge. In this service he
gave good satisfaction to all concerned in the undertaking.
He now remained with his command until a few days before the battle of
Winchester, when he was compelled to leave the field on account of
inflammation in one of his eyes. It had become very painful long before
he would consent to go to the rear. A fever soon following, he was
completely prostrated. He now went to his home, where he was engaged in
the recruiting service. He returned to his regiment late in the summer,
and having been promoted to first-lieutenant, was immediately made
adjutant. He served with the regiment in this capacity until after the
affair at Dumfries, when he was compelled to resign on account of
ill-health.
After his return home he did great service in recruiting. In the winter
of 1863-4 he canvassed Lake and Geanga counties, and was the means of
enlisting a large number of men. On these occasions he made speeches,
of which any public speaker might well be proud.
In the fall of 1864 he raised a company for the National Guard, which
he commanded in the one hundred days' service. Returning to his home,
he was appointed a quartermaster, with the rank of captain, and
assigned to a division in the Twenty-third Army Corps.
His promotion was won in the field, and therefore honorable. His
commission as second-lieutenant bears the date of November 25th, 1861;
and that of first-lieutenant early in the following year.
Every one who has fallen in company with Lieutenant Shepherd will
remember him as a genial friend and profitable companion. His frankness
and courtesy have made him many friends. To know him, is to esteem him.
I doubt whether he has an enemy in the world. He has always been a warm
supporter of the Government, although not an American citizen by birth,
having been born in Canada.
LIEUTENANT E. HUDSON BAKER.
Lieutenant Baker entered the service in Company C. He remained with the
regiment during its entire campaign in Western Virginia, doing good
service. At the affair at Cross Lanes, he was particularly conspicuous
for gallantry. He now took command of the company, which he held during
the remainder of his term of service. He was in the battle of
Winchester, where he commanded his company with great credit to
himself. As an officer, he was very popular with his command; as a
companion, he was sociable and benevolent. He was finally compelled to
resign from ill-health, but much against his wishes. He desired to
remain until the close of his regular term of service, and then return
with his old comrades; but his increasing debility would not admit.
LIEUTENANT RALPH LOCKWOOD.
Lieutenant Ralph Lockwood entered the regiment, on its first
organization, in Company E. He served creditably through the Western
Virginia campaign, taking part in the skirmish at Cross Lanes, and the
battles of Winchester and Port Republic. In these battles he was
distinguished for personal courage. By constant exposure, he contracted
a rheumatic difficulty, which finally compelled him to resign, at a
time when his services were much needed in the regiment.
LIEUTENANT T. T. SWEENEY.
Lieutenant T. T. Sweeney entered the service in Company B. He saw much
service in Western Virginia, and was in every respect a gallant
officer. At Cross Lanes, he made an honorable record. Soon after this
skirmish, he resigned his commission, and returned to his home in
Cleveland, Ohio.
LIEUTENANT EDWARD W. FITCH.
Lieutenant Fitch entered the service in Company I. He served faithfully
until after the skirmish of Cross Lanes, in which he bore a gallant
part. While at Charleston, he resigned his commission, and returned to
his home.
LIEUTENANT A. J. WILLIAMS.
Lieutenant Williams came into the regiment as second-lieutenant of
Company D, which position he filled with much credit till after the
affair at Cross Lanes, when he resigned his commission. At the time the
above skirmish took place he was sick, and therefore did not take part
in it. Previous to this he had toiled on with his company, through all
its terrible marches and dreary bivouacks; and for this is entitled to
the gratitude of the country.
OUR DEAD.
COLONEL WILLIAM R. CREIGHTON AND LIEUT.-COLONEL ORRIN J. CRANE.
Colonel William R. Creighton was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in
June, 1837. At the age of ten years, he entered a shoe-store, where he
remained for two years; after which he entered a commercial college,
where he remained for six months. But these pursuits were not to his
liking--he had no taste for accounts. We next find him, at the age of
thirteen years, in the job-office of McMillin, in Pittsburgh, where he
remained for four years, completing his apprenticeship. The year
following, he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and entered the Herald office,
where he remained till the fall of 1860, with the exception of one
winter spent in a job-office in Chicago.
He united with the fire companies of both Pittsburgh and Cleveland, and
was an active and zealous member. In 1858, he joined the military
organization known as the Cleveland Light Guards, and soon after became
a sergeant, and a lieutenant. He advanced in rank without any
effort--it was a matter of course.
When the rebellion broke out, his love of adventure would not permit
him to remain at home; but he immediately set himself at work
organizing a company, which was completed in a few days, and, on the
22d day of April, marched to Camp Taylor. He immediately commenced
drilling his company, and with such success, that it took the lead of
all then in camp.
At this time his military genius shone so conspicuously that he was
looked on by all as the future leader of the regiment.
All will remember with what skill and pride he led the regiment in its
first march. It was on a beautiful Sabbath morning; and as the young
soldier, with a proud step, took his position at the head of the
column, every eye was turned upon him in admiration; one could see in
the countenances of the men, a willingness to follow such a leader amid
the hail and thunder of battle. Before reaching Camp Dennison, this
admiration warmed into a determination to place him in a position when,
at no distant day, he could be made available as the commander of the
regiment. Therefore, on its arrival at camp, he was elected
lieutenant-colonel, a position which he did not seek, nor intimate to
any that he desired. Very many were desirous of making him colonel.
During the stay of the regiment at Camp Dennison, he took no active
part, seldom being seen on drill, or on duty of any kind. When the
regiment was about leaving, however, he took command, Colonel Tyler
having gone to Virginia in advance of the starting of the regiment.
Previous to the movement, every thing had been arranged in perfect
order; but this arrangement was partially defeated by the indecent
haste of a captain. An unutterable look of scorn and contempt settled
upon the features of Creighton; but not a word passed his lips. He
never entirely forgave that officer for this act of disobedience of
orders, till his death, when all feelings of animosity gave way to
regrets for his loss; for, outside of a disposition to criticise the
conduct of his superiors, he was a brave as well as competent officer.
Arriving at Clarksburg, he turned over the command to Colonel Tyler;
but on arriving at Glenville, he again assumed command, which he held
until reaching Cross Lanes; in the mean time, drilling the regiment
daily when in camp. During this time it improved rapidly; in fact, it
acquired, during this short interval, most of the proficiency it
possessed.
On the march back to Cross Lanes from Twenty-mile Creek, he was with
the advance, in command of the skirmishers. During the affair which
succeeded, at the above place, he bore himself creditably. During the
retreat, his horse fell with him: seizing the holsters, he started on
foot through the underbrush, but soon after saw his horse coming after
him at full speed. He again mounted; but in a short time his horse
again fell, when, for the second time, he abandoned him; but he was
soon joined by his faithful "Johnny," and this time the devoted horse
carried its gallant rider safely to Gauley Bridge.
This misfortune to the regiment completely unmanned him. Meeting a
comrade on the retreat, who was not in the engagement, he burst into
tears, and, grasping his hand, in choked utterances related the story
of their encounter.
While the regiment remained at Charleston, Creighton was in command,
and was untiring in his efforts to advance his command in both drill
and discipline; and I doubt whether any regiment in the field made more
rapid progress towards perfection. It seemed to emulate its leader, who
was ever at his post.
When an order came for five hundred picked men from the regiment to
report to General Benham for duty, in the pursuit of Floyd, he was
chosen to command the detachment. On arriving at Benham's headquarters,
he was given the advance, and, for several days, was separated from
Floyd's camp by a range of mountains only. He was finally given a
brigade, although only a lieutenant-colonel, and ordered across a range
of mountains to the rear of the enemy; but for some reason no attack
was made, and soon after, half of the command was ordered back.