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HISTOID; "y
OF THE
iinieti-i^wiitl
1
Ofi
PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEER INFAIS
DURING THE
a» ot i8i« E«b«lli<
1861-65,
WITH BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF ITS FIELD AND ST. AND A COMPLETE RECORD OF EACH OFFICI AND ENLISTED MAN.
PREPARED AT THE REQUEST OP THE REQTMj
BY
%j$^^ fthtf M. M. S^f
MAJOR NINETY-SEVENTH PA. VOLS. AND BEEVET OOLONEL
ILLUSTRATED WITH STEEL PORTRAIT ENGRAVINGS AN!
PHILADELPHLi:
PUBLISHBD BT THE AUTHOB FOB TBE SUBBCBIBEBS
1875.
Checlcea
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Enterbd aocordino to Act of CoiraRKSS. iw thb Year 1875, bt
ISAIAH PRICE, Im the Ovfiob of thb Librarian of Ootcgrkss, at Washington.
PRINTERS)
No. 23 Soolh Tenth Street, Philadelphia.
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CONTENTS.
\
Pbefacb, 3. !
/
Introductobt Corbbbfondsncb, 6.
Ik Wab Timb, 8.
Dkdicatobt, 9.
Chaptbb I. — Organization of companies and company promotions, 11; Co. A, 13; Co.
B, 20; Co. C, 24; Co. D, 37; Co. E, 44; Co. P, 47; Co. G, 61; Co. H, 55; Co. I, j
62; Co. K, 65; Gass Fencibles Band, 69; Independent Company, 70. I
Chaptbb II. — Camp Wayne — progress in organization, 71 ; correspondence in regard to \
legislative action, 72; drill and duties in camp — interest of citizens, 77; official visit ^
of Gov. Curtin and staff, 78; flag presentation, 79; the Governor's speech, 80; reply by Col. Guss and Adjt. Carruthers, 82; marching orders, 88; departure from i
Camp Wayne — ovation from citizens at West Chester, 84; Philadelphia — Cooper \
Shop and Union Refreshment Saloons — ^greetings at Chester and Wilmington, ]
I 85; Baltimore — ^Washington — Camp H. Jones Brooke, 86; new Springfield rifles — '
I return to Baltimore, 87; Fortress Monroe, Va., 88; Camp Hamilton, 89; drill and /
I picket duty, 90; firing by the enemy at SewelPs Point — a winter morning in camp,
91 ; the first discharges and the first death in the regiment, 92; October to December, ^
1861. ^ Chaptbb III. — Department of the South — marching orders, 98; voyage to Port Royal, t
8. C.-H3torm at sea, 94; Hilton Head— hospitality of 76th P. V., 95; assigned to [
* Gen. H. G. Wright's brigade, 96; advance at Port Royal Ferry, 97; detail for re- \
• cruiting service — expedition to Warsaw Sound, Ga., 98; Tybee Island and siege \ of Fort Pulaski, 99; death in the regiment, 101; operations on the coast of Florida — i capture of Fort Clinch and occupation of Fernandina, 104; capture and occupation ;
fof Jacksonville, May port and St. Augustine, 105; defensive operations at Jackson- i
ville — night attack and capture of outposts by the enemy — their repulse and loss — a rebel colonel and flag of truce, 106; reconnoissaixce by the 97th P. V. — Brig. .
Gen. T. W. Sherman relieved of command oi department by Maj. Gen. David Hunter — evacuation of Jacksonville, 107; return to Fernandina and to Hilton Head, i
108; muster of officers by order of Gen. Hunter — Gen. Wright's brigade ordered to Edisto — ^hospitality of 55th P. V. — inspection and review,. 109; resignations and discharges — preparation for an advance, 110; December, 1861, to June, 1862. Chaptbb IY. — Gen. Hunter's advance — troops cross to John's Island, 111; the march to Live Oak Point — ^rebel cavalry scouts fire upon Co. B — the march through mud and rain to Legareeville, 112; recruiting party rejoin regiment — reconnoissance by 97th P. V. and skirmish with the enemy — the wounded and prisoners captured — thanks of Gen. Wright, 118; occupation of James Island — ^the detachment at Le- gareeville, 114; position of forces on James Island — enemy intrenched at Seces- sion ville and other points, 115; 97th P. V. on picket — enemy shell the lines — ^their skirmishers fired upon — action at Grimball's Plantation, 116; the position and forces engaged — Col. Guss in command — ^his coolness and judgment in arranging the troops for action, 117; desperate attempts of the enemy to break the lines — their repulse — the loss on both sides, 118; accounts of the action, 120; severity of picket duty — a night attack, 121; the casualties, 123; action at Secessionville, 124; a desperate assault and unsuccessful result — the 97th P. V. cover the retreat — con- gratulations from the troops and thanks of Gen. Benham, 125; Col. Williams' letter to Gov. Curtin— congratulatory order to the troops, 126; commissions and promotions — recapitulation of duty— evacuation of James and Edisto Islands, 128; June to July 16, 1862.
\
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IV CONTENTS.
CuAPTBB V. — Return to Hilton Head— encamp outside the stockade, 130; Col. Gass in command of post^ther officers on post duty, 131; review of troops by Maj. Gen. Hunter— picket duty on Broad River, 132; muster out of the band— sword pre- sentation to Col. Guss, 133; Qen, Hunter relieved of command of department by Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan, U. B. V. — second detail for recruiting service — Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitchel assigned to command of department, 134; active operations commenced — Gen. MitcheFs visit to the regiment, 185; camp at Spanish Wells, 136; Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry assigned to command of brigade, 137; congestive and yellow fever — deaths in regiment— action at Pocotaligo, 189; death of Gen. Mitchel — Gen. Brannan resumes command, 140; death and burial of Lieut. Morton, 141; removal to St. Helena Island, 148; Thanksgiving Day at Fort Pulaski, 144; phristmas Day at St. Helena — ^regiment returns to Hilton Head — ^Maj. Gen. Hunter again in command of department, 145; inspection and review of regiment — detail on duty at Braddock's Point— arrival of additional troops, 146; remains of Lieut. Gardner and Priv. McEinly, of Co. C, sent home for burial, 147; boat drill by troops— detachment on duty at Paris Island, 148; a ballad of Paris Island, 149; theatrical performances — ^rebel raid and capture at signal station, Spanish Wells, 150; night march of 97th P. V., 151; July, 1862, to April, 1863.
Chapter VI. — Second expedition against Charleston — Col. Guss assigned to command of brigade, 152; Folly Island, Hilton Head and Edisto, 153; regiment transferred to Gen. Stevenson's brigade at Seabrook — Col. Guss in command of troops at Botany Bay Island, 154; enemy attack pickets at Seabrook, 157; reoccupation of James Island, 158; operations on Folly Island, 159; assault and capture of the enemy *8 works on Morris Island, 161; Gen. Terry ^s operations on James Island, 162; action at Stevens' Landing, 163; evacuation of James Island, 164; Morris Island — ^first ^assault on Fort Wagner, 166; preliminary siege operations, 167; second assault on Fort Wagner, 168; repulse— gathering up the wounded, 174; statement of casualties, 176; the hospitals and Miss Clara Barton, 177; further siege operations, 178; batteries erected, 180; flag of truce — exchange of prisoners, 182; arrival of reinforcements — Col. Guss in command of 1st brigade, 1st division, 10th corps, 183; attack of enemy upon picket boats in Light House Creek, in charge of Capt. Paine, 100th N. Y., and Lieut H. Odiorne, Co. D, 97th P. V.— Privs. Eyre and Russell killed, and Sapp wounded, 184; Swamp Angel Battery, 185; bombardment of Fort Sumter, 187; effect of bombardment, 188; Gen. Gillmore demands the surrender of Forts Wagner and Sumter to avoid a bombardment of Charleston, 189; the Swamp Angel opens on the city — the effect described by a Charleston paper, 189; enemy charge upon the sappers and miners and are repulsed — men of the 97th P. V. wounded, 190; 97th P. V. advance and engage the enemy's pickets — charge of 24th Mass. upon the enemy, at the sand ridge, supported by the 97th P. v.— capture of the enemy's line and entire force in the trenches — ^the fiflh and last parallel — torpedoes and narrow escape of Capt. Walker, 1st N. Y. Engs., 191; continued bombardment of Fort Sumter and its effect, 192; incidents of the siege, 194; arrangements for a final assault, 198; Forts Wagner and Gregg occupied, 199; complimentary order of Gen. Gillmore to the troops, 204; review of the forces at Morris Island, 205; recapitulation of duty, 206; April 1 to October 1, 1868.
CHAPrBR VII.— Departure from Morris Island, 209; Fernandina, Fla., 210; details for post duty, 212; hospitality of naval officers at post, 216; conscripts assigned to regiment, 218; visitors and social interest — inland excursions, 221; Thanksgiving Day observances, 222; salute in honor of Grant^s victories, 223; desertion of sub- stitutes and arrests, 224; Christmas festivities, 225; visit of Gen. Gillmore, 228; exe- cution of deserters, 230; capture of Camp Cooper, 232; expedition to Woodstock and King's Ferry Mills, 234; re-enlistment of veterans, 240; return of Col. Guss and other officers with veterans on furlough, 241; Maj. Pennypacker in command of post — resignation of Lieut. Col. Duer — promotion of field officers, 242; pro motion of line officers, 243; regiment relieved from duty at Fernandina, 244; de- parture for Port Royal, 245; October 1, 1868, to April 25, 1864.
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CONTENTS. V
Chaptbb VIIL— Embark at Port Royal on steam transport North Star, for Fortress Monroe, Va., 246; whisky and insubordination — a thrilling incident, 247; Gloucester Point, Va., and Yorktown, Va. — organization of the Army of the James, 248; grand review of troops by Maj. Qen. B. F. Butler — departure of the expedition from Yorktown, Va., for James Riyer, 249; incidents — site of Jamestown, 250; captare of City Point, Va. — ^advance through Bermuda Hundred, Va., 251; con- tinued advance— encounter with enemy at Port Walthall Junction, 253; defensive line established from the James to the Appomattox, 254; advance upon Richmond and Petersburg Railroad at Chester Heights— the 97th P. V. destroy the road and telegraph — action at Swift Creek, 255; forced march to support Gen. Terry's ad- vance, 257; return of veterans, 259; Proctor's Creek, Drury's Bluff and Fort Darling, 263; advance and action on Wier Bottom Church Road, 267; action at Poster's Place, Va., 270; April 25, 1864, to May 20, 1864. Cbapter IX— Action at Green Plains, Va., 273; gallant charge of the 97th P. V. upon Gen. Pickett's division — fearful loss — Lieut. Col. Pennypacker wounded, 278; the killed and wounded, 280; endeavor to cast blame upon the gallant commander of the 97th P. V. — a correction, 282; Beauregard's assault upon Gen. Butler's centre repulsed by Gillmore's 10th corps, 284; troops diepatched to join Gen. Grant's Army, 285; White Hoase, Va. — 1st Pennsylvania Reserves, 286; action at Cold Harbor, Va., 287; return to City Point — advance against Petersburg, 289; action at Petersburg Heights, 291; capture of the enemy's strong lines — the advance checked by the arrival of Lee's veteran forces, 292; siege operations, 293; 2d division returns to Bermuda Hundred, 295; resignation of Col. H. R. Guss, 296; correspondence and testimonial, 297; farewell letter of Col. Guss, 298; May 20 to June 23, 1864. CoAPTKR X. — Qen, Gillmore relinquishes command of the 10th corps — ^2d division, 10th corps, again detached — return to Petersburg front, 299 ; severity of service in the trenches, 800; action at Cemetery Hill, Va., 801; casualties, 802; details for spe- cial duty, 808; visitors from West Chester, 804; Maj. Gen. D. B. Birney as- signed to command of 10th corps — 97th P. V. transferred to 2d brigade, 2d division' 805 ; Rev. D. W. Moore appointed chaplain — ^baptism of fire, 806 ; action at Peters- burg Mine, 807; casualties in 97th P. V., 311 ; 2d division rejoin 10th corps at Bermuda Hundred, Va. — terrific explosion, 312 ; Lieut. Col. Pennypaeker promoted to colonel — his return to the regiment — operations north of the James, 313; actions at Deep Bottom and Strawberry Plains, Va., 315; death of Adj. Carru- thers, 316 ; other casualties, 317 ; flag of the 97th P. V. — encampment at Deep Run, 818 ; complimentary order of Maj. Gen. D. B. Birney — muster out of men of Company A, 819 ; action at Wier Bottom Church — return to Petersburg front — Col. Pennypacker assigned to command of brigade, 820; second flag received — muster out of men of Companies C and D, 322; actions at Fort Harrison, New Market Heights and Fort Gilmer, 328; repulse of the enemy by the 10th corps at Charles City Road, 825; death of Maj. Gen. D. B. birney— Gen. Terry appointed to command of 10th corps, 327 ; congratulatory order of Gen. Butler, 329 ; action at Darby Town, Va. — death of Capt. Hawkins, 331 ; muster out of officers and men at expiration of term, 838 ; promotions — preparation of winter quarters at Chapin's Farm, 885 ; farewell letter of Chaplain Moore, 886 ; reorganization of the Army of the James, 887 ; June 23 to December 2, 1864. CffAPTBB XL — Department of North Carolina — Gen. Butler's expedition to Fort Fisher, 388; movements of land forces and naval fleet — storm, 340; bombardment and landing of Butler's forces — reconnoissance by Gen. Weiteel — his adverse report — Cten. Curtis' advance and capture of the enemy's outlines, 841 ; Curtis' preparation to storm Fort Fisher — orders to withdraw the forces — an unsolved problem — return to Chapin's Farm, 842 ; comments in regard to the failure of the expedition — Grant's letter of instruction, 343; Gen. Butler relieved of the command of the de- partment— Gen. Ord appointed — Butler's farewell to his troops, 344; second ex- pedition under Gen. Terry — Gen. Grant's letter of instructions, 845; arrival of Gen.
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VI CONTENTS.
Terry's forces at Federal Point — successful landing of the troops — Gen. Terry's official report of the operations at Fort Fisher, 847 ; Gen. Ames' report to Gen. Terry, 850; table of casualties — Pennsylvania troops in action at Fort Fisher, 851; Admiral Porter's report to the Secretary of the Navy, 852; thanks of the nation tendered by the Secretary of War, 853; the casualties at Fort Fisher, 355; brevet promotions by the War Department, 857; the advance upon Fort Anderson and Wilmington, 859; occupation of Wilmington, 861; relief of starving and dying Union prisoners, 868; advance toward Goldsboro' — Hoke repulsed, 865; opera- tions by Gen. Terry's command — thanks of Gen. Sherman in field orders — 97th P. y. as escort to Gen. Kilpatrick's wagon train, 866; news of Lee's surrender, 367; Johnson's surrender to Sherman — occupation of Raleigh, N. C, 868; Col. Pennypacker promoted to brigadier general, U. S. V. — ^his letter of farewell to his regiment, 869; subsequent promotions, 870; occupation of Gaston and Weldon, N. C, 871; muster out at Weldon, N. C— returjj to Philadelphia, 872; the final disbanding— roster of field, staff" and company officers, 878; official record of en- gagements, 875; additional record and recapitulation, 876; December 2, 1864, to September 4, 1865.
Chapter XII. — Recruiting Service — ^first detail at Fortress Monroe, Va., December 8, 1861, 1st Lieut. Taylor and detachment, 877; detail rejoin the regiment at War- saw Sound, Ga., 878; second detail at Hilton Head, January 2, 1862, Capt. Price and detachment, 879; stationed at West Chester, Chester and Oxford — ^irksomeness of this service — efforts to return — ^the detachment relieved and ordered to Harrib- burg, thence to New York— embark for Port Royal — shipwreck off" Cape Hatt^ras, 880; difficulty of landing — encampment on shore, 881; a serious accident and a lively incident, 882; arrival of the George Peabody and Qr.-Mr. Ellis — a hasty embarking — arrival at Hatteras Inlet — a week's delay — an unseaworthy craft — re- turn to New York — further delay — re-embark for Port Royal, 388; arrival at Port Royal — more delay — the deserted camp at Edisto — Stono River and arrival at Legareeville — rejoin the regiment — list of recruits — ^report for duty, 884; Capts. Guss and Wayne with men of each company detailed at Hilton Head, S. C. — an account of service — list of recruits — resignation of Capt. Wayne, 885; Capts. Lewis and Hoopes ordered to drafl rendezvous for men for regiment, 886; voyage of the Arago — exciting chase — capture of a blockade runner, 887; report at Philadelphia — Capt Lewis and part of detail return with detachment of men, 888; Capt. Hoopes and remainder return with second detachment — Maj. Price ordered to rendezvous for drafted men in Pennsylvania, 889; men assigned to regiment, 390.
Chapter XIII.— Biographical sketches of field and staff officers, 891; Brevet Brig. Gen. Henry R. Guss, U. 8. V.» 892; Brevet Maj. Gen. G. Pennypacker, U. S. Army, 399; Lieut. Col. A. P. Duer, 432; Brevet Col. Isaiah Price, 484; Capt. Harry W. Carru- thers. 487; Surgeon John R. Everhart, 443; Capt. George W. Hawkins, Co. I, 446; Col. John Wainwright, 451; Lieut. Col. William H. Martin, 454; Chaplain Wil- liam M. Whitehead, 456.
Chapteb XIV. — Roster and record of service — afield officers, 457; staff officers, 460; non- commissioned staff, 461; Guss Fencibles Band, 462; Co. A, Guss Fencibles, 464; Co. B, Chester County Grays, 475; Co. C, Paoli Guards, 485; Co. D, Concord- ville Rifles, 496; Co. E, Mulligan Guards, 508; Co. F, National Guards, 517; Co. G, Broomall Guards, 527; Co. H, Greble Guards, 537; Co. I, Brooke Guards, 547; Co. K, Wayne Guards, 555.
Chapter XV. — Recapitulation from roster and record, 565; tabular statement of mor- tality and casualties, 566; recapitulation from tabular statement, 585; In Memo- riam, Fallen Patriots Requiem, 586.
Chapter XVI. — Return of the Battle Flags at Independence Hall, Philadelphia, July 4, 1866. 587.
Chapter XVII. — Proceedings in regard to a monument, 689.
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ILLUSTRATIONS. Til
ILLUSTRATIONS.
No. Pa^e.
1. ' Portrait of Henry R Guss, Brevet Major General, U. 8. Vols.. . Frontispiece.
2. The Cooper Siiop Volunteer Refresiinient Saloon and Hospital, ... 84 8. The Union Volunteer Refreshment Saloon, 85
4. Fortress Monroe in 1861, 88
5. The Burning of Hampton, 89
6. Rains of St. John's Church, 89
7. Battle of the Monitor and Merrimac, 91
8. Plan of the Battle at Port Royal Harbor, 92
9. Fort Walker, . 94
10. Fort Beauregard, 94
11. Stone Fleet Blocrkade, 95
12. Pope's House at Hilton Head, 96
18. Map of Port Royal, S. C, 97
14. 3Iartel]o Tower, Tybee Island , . . . . 99
15. Breach in Fort Pulaski, 100
Id Obstructions in Savannah River, 108
17. Fort Clinch, 104
18. The Planter, , . Ill
19. Pickets on Duty, 121
20. House at Mitchelville, 130
21. Drayton's Mansion, .132
22. Head-Quartcrs of Hunter and Mitchcl, 184
8a Live Oak Grove at Port Royal, 137
24.^ Portrait of Sketchley Morton, Jr., First Lieutenant Com|)any I, 97th P. V., 141
25. Fort Pulaski, 144
26. Siege of Charleston, 160
27. Beacon House, 167
28. New Ironsides and Monitors, 168
29. Fort Wagner at Point of Assault, 172
30. Bomb and Splinter Proof, 180
31. Army Signal Telegraph, 181
S2. The Swamp Angel Battery, 186
83. Fort Sumter after the Bombardment, 103
84. A Respectful Shell, 194
85. Fort Wagner, Sea Front, 199
36. Interior of Fort Sumter, 205
37. A Florida Swamp and Jungle, 221
38. Battery and Church Tower, Site of Jamestown, 250
39. Line of Defence at Bermuda Hundred, 252
40. Butler's Head -Quarters, near Dutch Gap 253
41. Jeff Davis' Ncckiie, 255
42. Fort Darling, . 263
43. Rifle Pits at Green Plains, Va., 274
44. Position of Gen. Smith's Command at Cold Harbor, Va., . 287
45. Gen. Smith's Head-Quarters, Cold Harbor, 289
46. Defences of Richmond and Petersburg, 290
47. Dr. Friend's House, 292
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VIII ILLUSTRATIONS.
No, Pace.
48. Gen. Grant's Head-Quarters at City Point 293
49. Bullet Proof in the Wood, 800
50. Interior of Fort Steadman, ^ .... 301
51. Earthworks and Abattis, 303
52. Outline of the Crater and Ma^zines, 307
53. Battery near Dutch Gap, 313
54. Pontoon Bridge at Jones' Landing, near Deep Bottom, 314
55. Battle Field of Malvern Hill, Va., 315
56. Chesapeake Hospital, ' 816
57. Chapin's Bluff, from Fort Darling, 323
58. ' Portrait of George W. Hawkins, Captain Company I, 97th P. V., . . 331
59. Offieers' Quarters, Chapin's Farm, 334
60. Army Huts at Chapin's Farm, 835
61. Land and Sea Front of Fort Fisher, 340
62. Plan of Land and Naval Operations at Fort Fisher 846
68. Mound Battery, near Fort Fisher 352
64. Interior of Fort Fisher, 354
65. M'Lean'a House, the Place of Lee's Surrender, 367
66. Place of Johnson^s Surrender to Sherman, ,...,., 868
67. ' Portrait of G, Penny packer. Brevet Major General, U. S. Army, . , . 899
68. -* Portrait of Isaiah Price, Brevet Colonel, U. S. Vols 484
69. ^Portrait of H. W. Carruthers, Adjutant 97th P. V., A A. A. Gen, Ist Brig.,
Ist Div,, 10th Corps, Captain Company C, 437
70. "Portrait of J. R. Everhart, Surgeon 97th P. V., 448
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PREFACE.
|^S|HE purpose of preparing a history of the Ninety-seventh Hi Hi I^g^^^t was first presented, as a matter of duty, to the ^bH[ author of the present work, at the close of his term of service.
Some notes and records had been preserved, and all of his letters home were found to have been carefully filed by his family. These afforded such data as enabled him, in fulfilment of a resolution of request, to prepare for Prof. S. P. Bates' State History a sketch of the services of the Regiment in the field, together with brief bio- graphical notices of some of its officers.
It was at that time expected that a history of the Regiment, in course of preparation, would be early completed and published, which would render unnecessary the compilation of another. This expectation not being realized, the desire of many members of the Regiment to have the history of its services prepared for publica- tion found expression in the following resolutions, adopted at one of the meetings in regard to the proposed monument, held at West Chester, Pa., February 22, 1873, over fifty members being present. On motion of Major General G. Pennypacker, " Resolved, That the thanks of the officers and soldiers of the 97th Reg. P. V. are due, and are hereby tendered to its Major — and for a long time com- manding officer — Brevet Colonel Isaiah Price, for the preparation of the sketch of the services of the Regiment published in the State History. The labors of Colonel Price to perpetuate in every way, in history, the gallant deeds of the old regiment more than merit the appreciation and thanks of its surviving members." On motion of Chaplain Moore, " Resolved, That Colonel Price be re- quested to undertake the preparation of a history of the services of the Ninety-seventh Regiment for publication from his manuscript sketch, and that the records of the Regiment be placed at his dis- posal for the purpose."
The duty thus authoritatively presented anew was undertaken
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4 PREFACE.
with many misgivings, fearing lest the very favorable expression in regard to the sketch referred to should elevate expectation beyond any reasonable hope of realization in the more extended work, which would demand a larger ability and the most earnest effort to fulfil.
The pages of the present work have been chiefly prepared during the interrupted intervals of professional duties, reaching nearly to completion by the end of October, 1873. The ascertainment of many dates, and other items of interest from official records and other sources, has required longer time and much patient research, which have delayed the publication beyond the time it was at first supposed would be required for its completion.
To General James W. Latta, Adjutant General of Pennsylvania, whose courtesy and kindness afforded every facility desired from the records in his office, the author is greatly indebted, especially for the verification of the record rolls of the Regiment by the clerical aid in his office, which has enabled him to present a complete and most accurate record of each man upon the rolls.
To Private John L. Kitts, of Company C, he is mainly indebted for the unrestricted use of his private diary, from which were ob- tained many dates of various movements, events, etc., and the record of many occurrences that would otherwise have been lost from remembrance. These were carefully preserved by him in the diary regularly kept during almost the entire period of his enlist- ment. This being kindly entrusted for the purpose, without re- serve, proved invaluable in making up the record. To Colonel H. R. Guss, for official papers, records, etc. To Captains Francis M. Guss, Co. A; W. S. MendenhaU, Co. D; D. W. C. Lewis, Co. F, (since Brevet Lieutenant Colonel); Charles Mcllvaine, Co. H; Dallas Crow, Co. B, and W. S. Underwood, Co. K, he is also indebted for company records and accounts of the organization of their respective companies; to the latter also for some account of the movements of the Regiment from January 1 to August 28, 1865. To Colonel John Wainwright, for the use of retained copies of the muster-out-roUs of the Regiment, from which many of the records were obtained, and for some account of the campaign from October, 1864, to August, 1865, while the Regiment was under his com- mand. To Brevet Major D. Jones, Regimental Quarter-Master, for some records, papers, etc., and for a description of the proposed monument. Also to Musician E. R. Eisenbeis, of Company A, for
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PREFACE.
copies of the regimental records prepared by him while i clerk and clerk of Company A, and for a manuscri'pt Colonel H. R. Guss, from which the one herein publish vised and enlarged.
Some items of much interest were furnished by Cap Johnson, of the steamer Boston, a citizen of Chelsea, Mi kindness and interest for the Regiment will be remembe who learned to regard him as a personal friend. The was frequently embarked upon his boat in trmnsitu froi places in the Department of the South. To Samuel ' packer, Esq., of the Philadelphia Bar, author of "P and its Vicinity," the author is also indebted for ite; Pennypacker genealogy given in the sketch of Majc Pennypacker. Also to J. Hill Martin, Esq., author of '^ Chester, Delaware County, Pennsylvania," for brief s Lieutenant Colonel A. P. Duer and Lieutenant Sketch Jr., of Co. I, to all of whom the author would here c sincere thanks.
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INTRODUCTORY CORRESPONDENCE.
No. 1720 Green Street, Philadelphia, October 29, 1873.
To Major General G. Pennypacker, U. S. A.
My Dear Friend:
FTER many delays, the manuscript history of the Ninety- seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers is now nearly ready for the press.
In consenting to undertake the work of its prepara- tion, I felt the very embarrassing position in which it would place me, having to write of much that transpired while the Regi- ment was under my own command. To present the record of the Regiment under such circumstances, without incurring the criticism of egotism, would be difficult even for one more fully qualified to give the simple narrative of those services in which he had participated in the most obscure position. I have, therefore, not hoped to wholly escape such comment from the captious and the critical.
Yet now — ^when the result of the efforts of the past eight months to reclaim from oblivion the history of the eventful period of service, participated in by our gallant Regiment during the war, is contained in the sheets before me — with a feeling of distrust, and shrinking from the perils and penalties of authorship, I naturally turn to you, my Commanding Officer^ always generous and con- siderate toward every earnest effort in the performance of duty — ^and the friend and companion in arms, long tried and sincere, asking that your support and sympathy may attend this venture toward answering the desire of our surviving comrades, to have the record of our dear old Regiment perpetuated. I know they will not be withheld, and am, therefore, already inspired with the hope that, with your approval, it will be the more leniently regarded and accepted with greater interest.
Ever faithfully, your friend,
I. Price
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INTRODUCTORY CORRESPONDENCI
Head-Quarters Sixteenth Infantry, TJ. Nashville, Tenn., November 1, 18
To Col. Isaiah Price, Philadelphia, Pa. My Very Good Friend:
EG you know that I have no words with which t< you for the kind expressions contained in your the 29th of October]
The great trouble about your book will be — ^i you have shown any egotism — you will not do yourself tb Tou should, for you commanded our good old Regiment the trying and stormy period of its existence. It wou strange in me, perhaps, to commend you; but it seems to m never had a stauncher friend, and never could have had ui command a better soldier, than yourself.
Of course, I will do everything that lies in my power 1 the circulation of your book (the publication of which is \ more of an object with us than with you), and you have indicate to me any way in which I can be of service.
The only fear I have of the book, knowing your diffident such circumstances, is, that it will be incomplete in its nar many events which did great credit to the Regiment, bu occurred while you were the commanding officer, and entitle honor due to one holding your rank and position. With many kind regards and best wishes, I am, as ever l Faithfully, your friend,
G. PENNYPi
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IN WAR TIME.
LOR ISC ANUS queries: "Why should we Vex at the land's ridiculous miserie?" So on his Usk banks, in blood-red dawn Of England's civil strife, did careless Vaughan Bemock his times. O friends of many years ! Though faith and trust are stronger than our fears, And the signs promise peace with liberty, Not thus we trifle with our country's tears And sweat of agony. The future's gain Is certain as God's truth; but, meanwhile, pain Is bitter and tears are salt: our voices take A sober tone; our very household songs Are heavy with a nation's griefs and wrongs ; And innocent mirth is chastened for the sake Of the brave hearts that nevermore shall beat. The eyes that smile no more, the unretuming feet !
WHITTIER.
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DEDICATORY.
|OT for the purpose of fostering in the minds of th of our country an undue love for glory in achievements is this history written. But rathe while enjoying the blessings of peace, secured un through the services and sacrifices of those times when oth( cated their lives to the Vork of preserving the integrity of the nation in its hour of peril — future generations maj *unreminded of the nature of those services, of what \s sacrifices and cost of our country's liberty, permanence an< demanding of them a jealous and perpetual guardianship.
This end is the aim of this record, now reverently dedi< the memory of our fallen comrades, who not only endured Tations of the march, the camp and the field of battle, I their lives also that their country might live.
They returned not with us, to meet the glad welcome i tient loving hearts, that had long kept silent watch, throu^ around the lone home hearths, during all the dark weary "the war time," ever prayerftil and hopeful of the endi should bring back to them husband, father, son, brother, lo^
But for them, instead of such welcome, were fountains welling from agonized hearts, and the sad duty of keepiD their grass-grown graves, and, in the season of their bloom, g by flowers gathered from gardens of lonely vacant homes, i brought by tender hearts. The beauty and perfume of flo\i spread with trembling hands above the resting place of tl secrated dead, in sweet and simple tribute, are worthy a brave and the sorrowing, who gave their all.
Let not the memory of these countless sacrifices eve literated, nor let them have been made in vain !
The deeds of the heroic dead, in such cause, need no The simple record, "They followed where duty called,' sufficient to preserve their memory ever green.
I.
July 4, 1873.
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CHAPTER I.
Organization op Cojipanies fob the Ninety-Seventh Re Pennsylvania Volunteers, August and September, 18
HE grand response of a loyal people, in sup
I national defence against rebellion, in 1861,
. event unparalleled in the history of nation
collect, organize and array the vast numbers
disciplined troops, that were requisite to rm
forces in rebellion, and having possession of
the entire military and naval resources of th(
try, was a work of unprecedented magnitude,
upon the administration of Abraham LinC(
the defection in that of his predecessor, James Buchanan.
The record of those remarkable efforts and events, and i salts of the subsequent memorable conflict, have become a ] the nation's history.
The heroic, self-sacrificing men, who, through four years vation, peril and war, dedicated their lives to the preserve national integrity, wrought also for its progress in the direc its founders' intent toward the realization of true perma prosperity and peace, as a priceless legacy, painfully and per secured for every citizen.
Each of the grand armies organized has its history and its roll of honored names identified with its achievements, it and its success. Each corps, division and brigade has i perishable scroll, perpetuating the deeds of valor that b badges and its banners through the fire of many battles uni liant victories, and the final triumph of liberty, union and pe On the pages of these histories each participant may tn lecord of his own efforts through the campaigns in which hh took part. With eager , interest, he follows the record division and brigade, feeling a just pride in seeing its
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12 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
enumeratecL Kindling anew the old enthusiasm and ardor that was the sustaining influence, enabling brave men to encounter the perils and surmount the obstacles that barred the way to victory and success. A natural desire to further trace the individual expe- riences of the men who so faithfiilly served their country, in its time of need, has prompted the compilation of the " Record of the Regiment." Many of these have been completed with considerable accuracy, and have become invaluable in interest to those whose record has been thus more perfectly and enduringly perpetuated.
The desire to have such a history of the services of the Ninety- seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers published, having long bordered upon expectancy, now reaches a late fulfilment.
The first influence toward the organization of this Regiment originated with the Hon. H. Jones Brooke, late a State Senator for Chester and Delaware counties. Being present at the office of the Secretary of War, when authority to recruit a regiment for the three years' service was being granted, upon an application from his State, it occurred to him to make a similar application for the organization of a regiment from his own Congressional District, the 7th Pennsylvania, when he received the assurance that such authority would be granted to any one he might designate as a proper officer to organize a regiment. He at once communicated the suggestion to Capt. Henry R. Guss, whom he knew as an active and efficient officer, who had entered the three months' service with a large number of men, and was, at that time, about to be, mustered out of service^ at Harrisburg, at the expiration of that term of service. The proposition being favorably considered by Capt. Guss, Senator Brooks forwarded the proposal — to organize a regiment under the command of Col. Henry R. Guss, of West Chester, Pa., to be recruited in the 7th Congressional District — to the Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary of War.
Within a few days, the following letter of acceptance was re- ceived by Col. Guss:
War Department, Washington, D. C, July 25, 1861. Col. Henry R. Guss, West Chester, Pa.
Sir: The regiment of infantry which you offer is accepted for three years, provided you have it ready for marching orders in twenty-one days.
This acceptance is with the distinct understanding that this
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ORGANIZATION OF THE COMPANIES. 13
Department will revoke the commissions of all officers who may be found incompetent for the proper discharge of their duties.
You will promptly advise Adjutant General Thomas, at Wash- ington, the date at which your men will be ready for mustering, and he will detail an officer for that purpose. By order of the Secretary of War:
[Signed] James Lesley, Jr.,
Chief Clerk, War Department.
Capt. Henry R. Guss had commanded Company A, of the 9th P. v., during its term of service (three months) with Major General Robert Patterson's command, in Maryland, Virginia, and adjacent counties in Pennsylvania. The command had been mustered out of service at Harrisburg, Pa., July 29, 1861.
In pursuance of the authority received from Secretary Cameron. Col. Guss set about the purpose of recruiting and organizing his regiment immediately after his return to his home at West Chester. Inviting the co-operation of some who had served under his com- mand in the three months' campaign, and of others whose ability to aid his purpose being recognized through his usual careful and cor- rect observation and estimate of men. these were duly authorized to commence the enrollment of recruits and the organization of com- panies.
Many of the men who were first enrolled had served in the three months' campaign, and some were men who had the experience of drill and discipline as members of military or militia companies previous to the war. The larger number, however, were without former military experience, young men who enlisted from a sense of duty to their government in its impending danger; earnest, con- scientious young men of most excellent character and promise, the sons of the most worthy citizens in their native counties.
Company Organization, with Record of Promotions. Company
A, Guss Fencibles.
Recruiting for the first company was commenced on the 2d of August, 1861, by Capt. Galusha Penny packer, of West Chester, Pa., who had served during the three months' term in Capt. Guss' company in the 9th Regiment P. V., of which he was appointed a
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14 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
sergeant, and, being promoted to a position on the non-commis- sioned staff of the Regiment, had served during most of the time as acting regimental quarter-master.
The authority to recruit a company for the new regiment was given by Col. Guss, verbally, while on the train returning from Harrisburg, after the muster out of the 9th Regiment, and was ac- cepted by Capt. Pennypacker at once, who made his purpose known to some of the young men of his regiment before separating for their homes. A number of them soon after joined his company, ii\^ West Chester, where recruits began to collect rapidly; by the 17th of August, the number had reached sixty-three. On that day, they went into camp in a beautiful grove known as Everhart's Woods, the location being tendered the company by its owner, Hon. William Everhart, a former member of Congress from the district, father of Dr. John R. Everhart, who became surgeon of the 97th Regiment. The camp was named Camp Everhart, in compliment to its owner, who had provided such a pleasant spot, cool and shaded from the August heat.
The company occupied the southeast comer of the grove, ad- joining Barnard Street. The men were furnished with tents for temporary use by the old National Guards, of West Chester, which were used until the company was organized and mustered. The name adopted by the company was the Guss Fencibles, in honor of their late commander in the National Guards, and Company A, 9th Regiment, Col. Henry R. Guss.
The first muster for the company was made by Capt. John H. McArthur, 2d TJ. S. Cavalry, assistant mustering officer for the eastern division of Pennsylvania, who, on the 22d of August, 1861, mustered Capt. Galusha Pennypacker as captain of Company A ; Louis Y. Evans, of West Chester, who had served as sergeant in Company A, 9th Regiment P. V., during the three months* term, was then mustered as 1st lieutenant; William Peace, of Coatesville, as 2d lieutenant ; and eighty-eight enlisted men were mustered as privates, an aggregate of ninety-one men. On the 30th of August, ten additional men were mustered, making the requisite number one hundred and one, officers and men, for the company. The following non-commissioned officers were appointed: 1st sergeant, Thomas E. Weber, of West Chester, Pa.; 2d sergeant, Abel Griffith, of West Chester, Pa.; 3d sergeant, Thomas McKay, of West Chester, Pa.; 4th sergeant, Isaac J. Burton, Coatesville, Chester Co., Pa.; 6th
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY A. 16
sergeant, John Brubaker, Pennington ville, Chester Co., Pa. Sergt. McKay being designated by Col. Guss for the position of com- missary sei^eant of Regiment, he was appointed to that position, October 29, 1861. There was no promotion to 5th sergeant until April 28, 1862.. Ist cotporal, Jervis J. Rudolph, of Coatesville, Chester Co., Pa.; 2d corporal, William L. Morris, of Oak Hill, Lan- caster Co., Pa.; 3d corporal, William H. Martin, of Christiana, Lancaster Co., Pa.; 4th corporal, George Ell am, of Coatesville, Chester Co., Pa.; 5th corporal, Benjamin F. Stackhouse, of Concord- yiile, Delaware Co., Pa.; 6th corporal, Harry L. Pyott, of Willis- town, Chester Co., Pa.; 7th corporal, Reese Elmer Welch, of Honey- brook, Chester Co., Pa.; 8th corporal, Jacob Daubman, of Philadel- phia, Pa.
The time specified by the War Department, twenty-one days, being entirely inadequate to complete the organization of the regi- ment, it was extended by the following order:
War Department, August 22, 1861. Col. BteNRT R. Guss, West Chester, Pa.
Sir: The time granted you by this Department, in which to report your regiment ready for marching orders, is hereby extended fliirty days, with the understanding, however, that you make every exertion to report earlier if possible. By order of the Secretary of War:
[Signed] James Leslie, Jr.,
Chief Clerk, War Department.
The company remained at Camp Everhart until September 12, r^ularly engaged in performing the usual camp duties and in ac- quiring proficiency in drill and discipline under the instructions of their officers, Capt. G. Pennypacker being also meanwhile actively engaged in superintending the requisite arrangements toward the equipment and subsistence of the recruits for his own and the other companies then being organized.
On the 12th of September, Company A moved from Camp Ever- bart, in order to join the other companies of the Regiment, about to go into quarters in the Agricultural Fair Grounds, which had been previously occupied by the 9th and 11th Pennsylvania (three months') Regiments, and by the 1st and 7th Regiments of Penn- sylvania Reserves, being known as Camp Wayne. Company A
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16 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
selected their quarters in the southwest corner of the grounds, along New Street. The sheds having been fitted up as barracks, made very comfortable shelter, which the tact and ingenuity of the men, with a supply of boards and clean straw, soon made quite desirable as domiciles, and with the inflitence of song and violin and the cheer of true brave hearts in close companionship, as bunk mates, the tedium of camp life was made bright and joyous. The scene to a looker-on became a marvel to reconcile the apparent busy unconcern of men about to enter upon scenes and duties so solemn, so stem, so real; yet, to the more sagacious thinker, the thought was presented of a great underlying purpose permeating the hearts of these men ; the apparent unconcern being typical of the airy mist playing about the crest of some vast range of mountain bar- rier, against which storms might dash and tempest beat. Thus should these brave and strong men stand immovable and fixed, a part of a mighty host gathered and gathering, against which the fiery charge of treason and the tide of battle might surge as vainly.
Upon the completion of the organization of Company A, Capt. G. Pennypacker was authorized, pursuant to an order issued by Lieut. Col. Charles F. Ruff, 3d U. S. Cav., chief mustering ofiieer for the eastern division of Pennsylvania, to muster the officers and men who should enlist in the remaining companies of the Regiment. He accordingly mustered the recruits into the service of the United States, from time to time, as enlisted, during the organization, to the entire satisfaction of the officer, who deputized him to perform the service.
Dr. John R. Everhart, having been selected by Col. Guss as sur- geon of the Regiment, made the prescribed critical examination of all the men presented for enlistment in the several companies of the Regiment.
After the organization of three companies, Capt. G. Pennypacker, of Company A, was, by Col. H. R. Guss, designated as major of the Regiment. He had, upon the first occupation of Camp Wayne, assumed command as senior captain, and continued in command of the camp until the muster of Lieut. Col. A. P. Duer, on October 7, 1861.
Company A received its allotment of clothing, camp and garrison equipage on the 80th of August and its arms (the old rifled musket) about the 14th of September. The drill in the manual of arms etc., was diligently maintained, together with all the evolutions and
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PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY A. 17
company movements which tend to perfect the requisite training of the soldier.
Capt. G. Pennypacker's commission as major being dated Octo- ber 7, 1861, created a vacancy in Company A from that date, he having been mustered as major by Lieut. Col. Charles F. Ruff, at Philadelphia, on October 7, 1861. On October 12, the members of Company A being authorized to do so, held an election for captain, which resulted in the choice of Francis M. Guss, of West Chester, a brother of Col. H. R. Guss, and a late 1st lieutenant in Company A, 9th Regiment P. V. (in the three months' service). He was afterward commissioned, by Gov. Curtin, as captain of Company A, and was duly mustered as such on October 15, 1861, and imme- diately entered upon the duties of commander of the company. The subsequent promotions in the company and non-commissioned officers are here given as nearly in their proper order as could be obtained. On April 28, 1862, Corp. J. J. Rudolph was promoted to 5th sergeant. The corporals were each advanced one in grade. Private Alfred B. Peace, of Coatesville, was appointed 8th corporal.
On May 1, 1862, 1st Lieut. Louis Y. Evans was promoted to cap- lain of Company G. 2d Lieut. William Peace was commissioned Ist Heutenant of Company A, and 1st Sergt. Thomas E. Weber, 2d lientenant of the company. 2d Sergt. Abel Griffith was appointed Ist sergeant, the remaining sergeants were promoted one in grade respectively, and Ist Corp. William L. Morris appointed 5th ser- geant. The corporals were then designated in the following order : Ist Corp. Stackhouse, 2d Corp. Martin, 3d Corp. Pyott, 4 th Corp. Ellam, 5th Corp. Welsh, 6th Corp. Daubman, 7th Corp. Peace, and Private Nathaniel R. Cowen, of Churchtown, Lancaster Co., Pa., was appointed 8th corporal. On January 9, 1863, 3d Sergt. Bru- baker was reduced to the ranks. The 4th and 5th sergeants were advanced one in grade, and 1st Corp. Stackhouse was appointed 5th sergeant. The other corporals were advanced one in grade, Corp. Martin being 1st corporal. Private John T. Taylor, of Oxford, Chester Co., was appointed 8th corporal.
On the 30th of January, 1864, 2d Lieut. Thomas E. Weber was transferred to the U. S. Signal Corps, by order of the War Depart- ment, and on the 18th of February, 1864, 1st Lieut. William Peace resigned and was honorably discharged, by Special Order No. 66, Head-Quarters Department of the South, dated February 18, 1864, thus vacating both positions. 1st Sergt. Abel Griffith was promoted 2
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18 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
to 1st lieutenant and 2d Sergt. Isaac J. Burton to 2d lieutenant, their commissions being dated March 4, 1864. 3d Sergt. Rudolph was promoted to 18t sergeant; 4:th Sergt. Morris to 2d sergeant and 5th Sergt. Stackhouse to 3d sergeant. 1st Corp. Martin was ap- pointed 4th sergeant. There was no immediate promotion to 5th sergeant. 2d Corp. Pyott was promoted to 1st corporal.
Private Madison Lovett, of Colerain, Lancaster Co., Pa., was ap- pointed 7th corporal, July 1, 1864, and Private Harry T. Gray, veteran, of Concordville, Delaware Co., was appointed 8th corporal, August 1, 1864. Corp. John T. Taylor was killed in action, at Mine, near Petersburg, Va., July 30, 1864. 3d Sergt. B. F. Stack- house died, August 19, 1864, of wounds received in action at Deep Bottom, Va., August 16, 1864. Ist Sergt. Jervis J. Rudolph, 2d Sergt. W. L. Morris, and Corps. Harry L. Pyott, Jacob Daubman and Alfred B. Peace, were mustered out of service, August 22, 1864, upon the expiration of term of service, and Corp. Reese E. Welsh on August 25, 1864. 4th Sergt. W. H. Martin was then appointed 1st sergeant.
To fill the remaining and subsequent vacancies, the following were appointed sergeants : Corp. Harry T. Gray to sergeant, August 20, 1864 ; Privates Lewis E. Humpton, appointed corporal, October 10, 1864; to sergeant, November 24, 1864; Robert L. Black, same date; Frank C. Henry appointed corporal, November 24, 1864; to sergeant, February 1, 1865, and Joseph Phillips appointed corporal, July 1, 1866; to sergeant. May 10, 1865. Corp. Madison Lovett was promoted to hospital steward, September 18, 1864. Ist Sergt. William H. Martin was promoted to 2d lieutenant, October 4, 1864; to 1st lieutenant, October 31, 1864; to captain, December 4, 1864; to major, January 15, 1865, and to lieutenant colonel, June 1, 1865. Sergt. Harry T. Gray was promoted to Ist sergeant, October 4, 1864, and to 1st lieutenant, December 4, 1864; he was not mustered; discharged, May 9, 1865, expiration of term. Sergt. Lewis E. Humpton was promoted to 1st sergeant, December 4, 1864; to captain, February 28, 1865. Sergt. Robert L. Black was promoted, same date, to 1st lieutenant. Capt. Humpton resigned May 22, 1865. On June 15, 1865, 1st Lieut. Black was promoted to captain. Sergt. Frank C. Henry was promoted to Ist sergeant, February 28, 1865; to 2d lieutenant. May 1, 1865, and to 1st lieutenant, June 15, 1865, but was not mustered as lieutenant. Sergt. Joseph Phillips was promoted to 1st sergeant, February 19,
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PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY A. 19
1865, and on June 15, 1865, was promoted to 2d lieutenant, but was not mustered as lieutenant. Private Jeptha Clark was pro- moted to corporal, February 1, 1865; to sergeant. May 1, 1866. Private James P. Smedley promoted to corporal and to sergeant, no date; Private Allison Gibson promoted to corporal and to sergeant, no date; John Harman, substitute, promoted to corporal; to sergeant, July 19, 1865. These four sergeants were all mustered out with the company, August 28, 1865. Private Caleb B. Moore, recruit, pro- moted to corporal; discharged for wounds, April 22, 1865; Private Lewis Larrison, drafted, promoted to corporal; discharged by general order, June 2, 1865; Private John M. Stevens, drafted, promoted to corporal, discharged by general order, June 2, 1865 ; Private Nathaniel Whitebread, substitute, promoted to corporal; discharged by general order, May 5, 1865; Private Henry A. Wittich^ sub- stitute, promoted to corporal, April 22, 1865; Private John T. Carpenter, recruit, promoted to corporal, July 19, 1865; Private Lewis Macks, substitute, promoted to corporal, July 19, 1865; Private Taylor Richardson, veteran, promoted to corporal, August 18, 1865 ; Private Robert M. Glisan, substitute, promoted to corporal, August 18, 1865 ; Private Henry P. Towns, substitute, promoted to corporal, August 18, 1865; Private Burton G. Bovee, substitute, promoted to corporal ; Private Daniel Phillips, substitute, promoted to corporal. The eight last were mustered out with company, August 28, 1865. Of the original number, five non-commissioned officers and seventeen privates re-enlisted as veterans at Fernandina, Fk, in accordance with general orders of War Department, No. 191, series of 1863, and No. 25, of 1864, were mustered into the service, for the remainder of the war, by 1st Lieut. M. V. B. Rich- ards, United States mustering officer; those not re-enlisting and not pteriously discharged being mustered out at the expiration of their term of service, from August 22 to 30, thirty-one being discharged on the former date. They were the first to return to their homes, were cordially welcomed at West Chester upon their arrival and provided with hospitable entertainment by their old commander. Col. Gus8, at the Green Tree Hotel.
At North Edisto, July 12, 1862, a splendid sword, sheath, waist- Wt, sash, shoulder straps and sword case were presented by the aembers of the company to Capt. F. M. Guss. The movement had Wi originated in January, by subscription to the fund for the pur- pose, and the order was sent by Col. H. R. Guss. The express
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20 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
package arrived a few days previously, and by arrangement, after breakfast, the mfen were in line to wait upon the captain at his quarters. The presentation speech was made by Private David M. Taylor, who, in a few expressive words, apprised the captain of the purpose of their visit. Capt. Guss received this handsome testi- monial as a complete surprise, having had not the least intimation of any such purpose. He replied in a few happy words, expressing his surprise and thanks for the manifestation of confidence and respect. The occasion was one of much good feeling throughout the company.
Company B, Chester County Grays.
The organization of this company was commenced at Parkesburg, Chester Co., Pa., on the 15th of August, 1861, by the consolidation of two volunteer companies, one known as the Chester County Grays, of that place, commanded by Capt. William B. McCoy, and the other as the Keystone Rifles, of Cochranville, Chester Co., com- manded by Capt. Robert L. McClellan.
The men were mostly from the vicinity of those places. On the 30th of August, 1861, the first muster was made at West Chester, Pa., by Capt. G. Pennypacker, when eighty-five men were mus- tered, with Capt. William B. McCoy as commanding ofiicer, and designated as Company B, 97th Regiment P. V. The remaining officers then mustered were : 1st lieutenant, Jonas M. C. Savage, of Cochranville ; 2d lieutenant, James Hughes. The non-commis- sioned officers then appointed were: 1st sergeant, John Armstrong; 2d sergeant, David N. Bimey; 3d sergeant, Hugh M. Hutton; 4th sergeant, Nelson P. Boyer; 5th sergeant, Henry Kendig, Jr.; 1st corporal, Elisha Middleton; 2d corporal, Samuel McCluskey; 3d corporal, Andrew J. Graham ; 4th corporal, John DeLaugh ; 5th corporal, Robert Ferguson ; 6th corporal, Webster A. Nichols , 7th corporal, Joseph Haines; 8th corporal, James T. Skiles. Musicians: William James Irwin, fifer, and Benjamin K. Hutton, drummer. Wagoner, James McNulty.
The militia Hame adopted by the company was the Chester County Grays, after Capt. McCoy's old company. The men went into quarters in Camp Wayne, on the 25th of August, 1861, occupying the barracks at the southeast angle of the camp. Additional
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ORGANIZATION AND PROMOTIONS, COMPANY B. 21
musters were made on September 9, three men; on September 11, seven men; on September 16, 21 and 24, each one additional; completing the aggregate number for a company, one hundred and one, officers and men. Private Henry Melius having deserted, on August 30, the evening after being mustered, there was an additional man mustered, on November 13, to fill the vacancy.
The company was furnished with every necessary outfit, and received arms from the Schuylkill arsenal soon after being mustered, and entered actively upon the work of preparation for service. The first promotion in the company was that of Corp. James T. Skiles, to be quarter-master sergeant, who was transferred to the non-com- missioned staff, on October 29, 1861, he having entered upon the duties of that position immediately after being mustered into the service. To fill this vacancy. Private Malachi Happersett was ap- pointed 8th corporal, on December 2, 1861. 2d Sergt. D. H. Birney was reduced to the ranks, March 24, 1862. Sergts. Hutton, Boyer, and Kendig were promoted one in grade respectively, and 1st Corp. Elisha Middleton appointed 6th sergeant. Corp. McCluskey, being promoted to 1st corporal, Corps. Graham, DeLaugh, Ferguson, Nichols, Haines and Happersett were then advanced one in grade, and Private Jacob G. Lowry appointed 8th corporal. About this time, charges were preferred against Corp. DeLaugh, upon which he was tried by general court-martial, found guilty and sentenced to be dishonorably discharged from the service, the sentence being subsequently promulgated and carried into effect on May 26, 1862, at Edisto. S. C, as prescribed. The vacancy was filled April 1, 1862, by regular promotion of the five junior corporals, and Private William A. Deisem was promoted to be 8th corporal. On April 19, 1862, Corp. Andrew J. Graham was discharged on account of an accidental wound with loss of index finger of right hand. 2d Lieut. James Hughes resigned, and was honorably discharged, at Edisto, S. C, on May 1, 1862. 1st Sergt. John Armstrong was then pro- moted to be 2d lieutenant, and 2d Sergt. Hutton to 1st sergeant. Sergts. Boyer, Kendig and Middleton were then promoted to 2d, 3d and 4th sergeants, 7th Corp. Jacob G. Lowry being promoted to 5th sergeant, from May 1, 1862. Corps. Ferguson, Nichols, Haines and Happersett were also promoted to be 2d, 3d, 4th and 6th corporals, to fill the vacancies caused by the discharge of 2d Corp. Graham. 8th Corpl Deisem was advanced to 6th corporal, and Privates Gerhard Keeder and Dallas Crow promoted to be 7th and
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22 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
8th corporals. 2d Corp. Robert Ferguson died, at Hilton Head, S. C, on May 18, 1862. The vacancy was filled by the promotion of the junior corporals one in grade, but no appointment was made to 8th corporal until June 1, 1862, when there were other vacancies to be filled. On May 26, 1862, 2d Sergt. Boyer was discharged at Edisto, S. C. 3d Sergt. Kendig was promoted to be 2d sergeant, and 5th Sergt. Lowry to be 3d sergeant. On June 1, 1862, 1st Corp. McCluskey was promoted to be 5th sergeant. 2d Corp. W .A. Nichols was then promoted to 1st corporal, and the other corporals each advanced one in grade. Private David H. Birney was now promoted to 7th corporal, and Private James M. Jackson to 8th corporal. On November 4, 1862, 1st Sergt. Hugh M. Hutton and 4 th Sergt. Elisha Middleton were discharged at Hilton Head, S. C. The latter died on the day of his discharge. 2d Sergt. Henry Kendig, Jr., was then promoted to be Ist sergeant; 3d Sergt. Lowry to be 2d sergeant; 1st Corp. W. A. Nichols to be 3d sergeant and 7th Corp. David H. Birney re-appointed 4th sergeant. The order announcing these appointments was dated January 1, 1863, by which 5th Sergt. Samuel McCluskey was reduced to the ranks and 3d Corp. Happersett was promoted to be 5th sergeant, 2d Corp. Haines to be Ist corporal, and Corps. Deisem, Reeder, Crow and Jackson, and Privates John F. Boofter, Joseph Stott and John B. Griffith appointed 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th corporals, respectively. 2d Lieut. John Armstrong, having resigned, was honorably discharged on the 18th of November, 1862. Quarter- Master Sergt. James T. Skiles was promoted to be 2d lieutenant on December 16, 1862.
Capt. William B. McCoy commanded the company until June 18, 1863, when, owing to failing health, his resignation was accepted and he received an honorable discharge, at Seabrook Island, S. C, and returned to his home, where he died of consumption, September 24, 1866. Ist Lieut. Jonas M. C. Savage was then promoted to captain, to rank from June 23, 1863; 2d Lieut. James T. Skiles being promoted to 1st lieutenant. There was no immediate pro- motion to 2d lieutenant. 1st Sergt. Henry Kendig, Jr., was dis- charged on surgeon's certificate, at Fernandina, Fla., December 9, 1863. 2d Sergt. Lowry was then promoted to 1st sergeant and was soon after recommended for promotion to 2d lieutenant. There was some delay, however, in receiving his commisMon. Meantime, he re-enlisted as a veteran, with forty-three others of his company, and
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PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY B. 23
was subsequently mustered, May 26, 1864, as 2d lieutenant, to rank from June 23, 1863. No appointment to 1st sergeant was made until May 1, 1864, when 2d Sergt. Webster A. Nichols, who was acting Ist sergeant, was appointed to that position. The sub- sequent promotions of non-commissioned officers are noted as far as could be obtained upon the company roster, but cannot be given here in their order for want of the necessary dates of promotion, Capt. Savage commanded the company until May 20, 1864, when he was severely wounded in action, at Green Plains, Bermuda Hun- dred, Va. He was from that time disabled from service, and absent in hospital until discharged, October 22, 1864, on account of wounds and expiration of term of service. 1st Lieut. Skiles commanded the company during a portion of the operations before Petersburg and Richmond, Va., from May 20 till November 5, 1864, when dis- charged at expiration of term of service, being also upon staff duty daring a portion of that time. 2d Lieut. Jacob G. Lowry com- manded the company during the time 1st Lieut. Skiles was upon detailed duty before Petersburg. He was subsequently placed in arrest, under charges upon which he was tried and convicted by general court martial, and sentenced to be dishonorably discharged the service, by Special Order No. 132, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, March 18, 1866. These vacancies were filled by promotion of non-commissioned officers as follows: 4th Sergt. Dallas Crow to commissary sergeant, September 9, 1864; to 1st lieutenant, March 1, 1865, and to captain of the company on April 4, 1866. He remained the commanding officer of the company until the dis- charge of the regiment, August 28, 1865. Private David S. Harry was promoted to corporal, May 1, 1864; to 4th sergeant, September 4, 1864; to 1st sergeant, November 1, 1864, and to 1st lieutenant, February 1, 1865, and held that rank until discharged with the company, August 28, 1865. Corp. John B. Griffith was promoted to sergeant, October 10, 1864; to 1st sergeant, April 22, 1865; to 2d lieutenant. May 1, 1865, and was mustered out as such with the company, August 28, 1865. Private Andrew M. Strickland was promoted to corporal, November 2, 1864; to sergeant, February 1, 1865, and to 1st sergeant, August 1, 1865, being mustered out as such with the company, August 28, 1865.
The men of Company B were mostly such as made efficient and reliable soldiers, and were generally kept in a good state of drill and discipline by their officers. There were, however, some difficulties
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24 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
experienced, during the summer of 1863, that for a time gave some trouble, owing to a want of proper management on the part of the officers in dealing with a spirit of insubordination on the part of a few of the men. These were taken in hand by the regimental commanders, and a careful examination had of all the circumstances, resulting in a restoration of the men to duty after a suitable repri- mand. They subsequently proved to he most excellent and reliable men.
The company was at the point of attack by the enemy at James Island, S. C, on June 10, 1862, and was a part of the force that received and held in check his impetuous advance. The officers and men acquitted themselves most gallantly under the trying ordeal of a first experience under fire. The men never moved from their position. Having emptied their cartridge boxes on the ground, they lay down and kept up an incessant fire upon the foe, who had advanced to within a few feet of them. The record of the company, during the entire period of the service, is one of faithful performance of duty in the field with a promptness and bravery that rendered the company reliable as a cover to the left flank of the Regiment, scarcely second to that which held the right in unsurpassed efficiency and vigilance. To particularize further in detail is un- necessary, the record of the company being identified thoroughly with the narrative of events that make up the history of the Regiment, in all of which it participated.
Of the original number of enlisted men, forty-three re-enlisted for the remainder of the war, at Femandina, Fla., under provision of general orders of the War Department, No. 191, series of 1863, and No. 26, of 1864, and were re-mustered by 1st Lieut. M. V. B. Richardson, United States mustering officer of that department. The others, as the time of service expired, were mustered out by Capt. J. E. Lord, and returned to their homes. (See record).
Company C, Paoli Guards.
The third company, C, was recruited by Isaiah Price, a resident of West Chester, Pa., second son of Benjamin and Jane Price, of East Bradford, Chester Co., Pa., prominent and consistent members of the society of Friends. The former (deceased January 8, 1872) was long an elder, and the latter still an approved minister in that
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ORGANIZATION OP COMPANY C. 25
society. In the education of their children they had faithfully endeavored to instil with their training a correct appreciation of the principles by which their own lives had been led, in exemplary obedience to the *' light that maketh manifest the way in which to walk," and were also carefiil to inculcate the necessity for each mind to be true to the requirements of duty, which might claim the attention under circumstances of peculiar emergency or trial, when none could judge one for another. As a consequence of these in- fluences of early training and of association, until then, in personal membership with Friends, the question of duty presented, when the rebellion came, was one of serious interest to many hitherto re- garded as consistent members of that society. In this instance, the subject was one likely to cause much anxiety and conflict of mind to one reared in the kindest association and sympathy with every parental influence, causing a degree of hesitation that for a time delayed a step which it was realized must bring great pain to the hearts of beloved parents, whose anxieties would now follow, with more than usual solicitude, the departure of another son to engage in the duties and dangers of war, so apparently at variance with the influence of all their early training. (Their third son having abeady gone to the front with the 1st Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves.) They were, however, enabled to confide their sons to the care of Him in whose hands are ever held the lives of all, and in beautiful faith they lived through those years of peril and trial, sending forth the influence of their prayers and their hopes for the preservation of their children, and for others, also, from every danger and from all evil. They were permitted to receive both their sons again at the end of the war, with grateful hearts that their prayers had been answered.
When the culmination of disaster came, at Bull Run, Va., the matter of duty was decided as paramount to all other considerations. As a preparatory quaUflcation for duty, when its imperativeness should be fully recognized, I. Price had joined a company of home guards, the Gray Reserves, organized at West Chester, Pa., in April, 1861, commanded by Capt. William B. Waddell, now a State Senator from Chester Co., Pa. (1873). The company was armed with Enfield rifles, provided by the borough of West Chester, and immediately entered upon a course of drill and discipline that very soon resulted in a commendable degree of proficiency in the various movements of company and battalion drill, the manual of arms, etc.
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26 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH BEGIMENT.
Of this company he was appointed a corporal, and omitted no opportunity for acquiring the practical advantages of drill and dis- cipline with his company.
About the middle of August, 1861, the first and second companies of Col. Guss* Regiment were in process of organization, and efforts were being made to have other companies started.
It was at this juncture that Henry W. Carruthers, Esq., called upon I. Price, at his office, in West Chester, with a request from Col. H. R. Guss for an interview with him at his residence, Mr. Carruthers stating, at the same time, that it was the desire of the colonel to have Mr. Price recruit a company for his Regiment. This proposition was so unexpected, so entirely beyond any idea entertained of qualification for a responsibility so great, as to be deemed quite impossible of acceptance. Mr. Carruthers was, there- fore, assured that, in response to Col. Giiss' kind confidence, the matter would be considered in the possibility of accepting the less responsible trust of a lieutenancy. In the interview with CoL Guss, which followed, he urged the acceptance of his original pro- position, upon the ground of his own judgment in the matter of qualification, stating some points wliich he regarded as of more primary importance than mere military training.
The proposition of Col. Guss was eventually accepted, when the following letter, addressed to whom it may concern, authorized Capt. Price to commence recruiting his company :
West Chester, Pa., x^ugust 21, 1861. Dear Sir: I have authorized Mr. Isaiah Price, of this borough, to recruit a company for the Chester County Regiment, and would be pleased if you could lend him your counsel and aid in the matter. Mr. Price is a gentleman of character, and is an energetic, attentive man. Those in your vicinity who desire to enter the service of their country will find Mr. Price reliable.
Very truly, yours, Henry R. Guss.
On August 22, a message from Col. Guss informed Capt. Price that some young men were at the Green Tree Hotel, who desired to see him. He was then introduced to Mr. Emmor G. Griffith, and several others, from the vicinity of Warren Tavern post office, in Chester Valley. They were members of a company of home guards, Mr. Griffith being 1st lieutenant of the company. There
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY C. 27
had been an eflfort to have the company enter the service of the United States, but there not being sufficient unanimity among its members, those who were desirous of entering the service had determined to join Col. Guss' regiment. They had come to West Chester for that purpose, and signified their willingness to enlist in Capt. Price's company. Their names being the first appended to his list of recruits, are here given: Emmor G. Griffith, East Whiteland; Stephen H. Eachus, David N. Ruth, Willistown; Samuel A. March, Alexander Beck, Joseph M. Lewis, East White- land; Henry Weidner, Charlestown; Franklin T. Eppright, Levi Keeley, William D. Thomas, East Whiteland; Joseph R. Acker, Joseph Kugler, Tredyffrin.
It was then stated that there were others in that neighborhood desirous of enlisting, and it was proposed to call a meeting at the old Mennonite meeting house, then known as the Flat school house, in Chester Valley, of which public notice was given, inviting all to be present who were desirous of enlisting in the service. The meet- ing was held on the evening of August 28, 1861, at which there was a large number in attendance. Some eloquent and stirring remarks were made by Dr. F. Taylor, of West Chester, presenting the necessity of the call of the government for troops. Remarks were also made by several of those who had joined Capt. Price's company, and, some reference being made to the home guard company, it became evident that some of the members of that or- ganization were regarding the meeting as an effort to dismember the company. An officer of that company, upon obtaining the floor, endeavored to explain the status of the company and its action, and deprecated any effort to enlist the men of his company by others. Capt. Price, upon being presented to the meeting, expressed his regret that a misapprehension should exist in the minds of any in regard to the purpose of the meeting. He had been invited to meet at this place all persons in the vicinity who were desirous of immediately entering the service of the United States. He had been informed that there were a number in this neighborhood, and he was here to present them with an opportunity of so doing. If, however, there was an organized company here, whose officers were desirous of entering the service with their men, he would not ask a man to leave that company; but would, on the contrary, urge its officers to enlist these men and invite the company to join the regi- ment of Col. Guss.
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28 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT,
After the meeting, several names were added to the list of recruits. Capt. Price subsequently visited various localities in the vicinity of Chester Valley, accompanied by Lieut. Emmor G. Griffith, adding daily to the list of recruits. A meeting was also held at the Leopard Inn, in Williston township, which was largely attended and was addressed by Dr. Franklin Taylor, E. P. Needles, Esq., and others, several recruits being obtained. He also visited Chatham, New London, Oxford Borough, and other places in the county. At Ox- ford, he attended a harvest home celebration, at which Capt. Waddell's company of Gray Reserves was present for parade and target practice, making a very favorable impression by their pro- ficiency in drill, manoeuvres, firing, etc., and for their remarkably well conducted behavior.
At the meeting, Capt. Price, in some brief remarks, called attention to the efforts being made to obtain recruits for the 97th Regiment, and invited those present, who were desirous of entering the service, to join that regiment, stating that he desired not to pursuade any one to enlist — that each should be guided in the matter from a sense of duty — and he would use not a single argu- ment to induce any to assume otherwise so serious a responsibility. From this locality the list of recruits was largely increased.
Having notified his recruits that the first muster would be had on the 11th day of September, 1861, Capt. Price appointed the ren- dezvous at the Green Tree Hotel, at' 10 o'clock A. M. They then proceeded to the armory of the National Guard, on Church Street, West Chester, where the surgeon of the Regiment, Dr. J. R. Ever- hart, made a personal examination of the recruits in accordance with the regulations of the service. Fifty-four men were passed for muster and then mustered into the service of the United States, for three years, by Capt. G. Pennypacker, mustering officer for the Regi- ment, with Henry W. Carruthers, Esq., as 1st lieutenant, Capt. Price and 2d Lieut. Emmor G. Griffith awaiting muster until the number of men should reach an aggregate of eighty-three. When the muster was completed, Capt. Price marched the company to quar- ters in Camp Wayne. It occupied the sheds from the southwest corner of the grounds along Rosedale Avenue, toward the east. Lumber had been furnished by the quarter master for making the quarters tenantable by the men, and tools furnished for the work. The men had arranged themselves in squads according to their ac- quaintance and desire to associate. Straw had also been provided.
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY C. 29
and the men had brought with them overcoats and blankets for use until clothing, etc. could be issued. Before night, provisions had been issued, and everything under way of preparation to provide for the comfort of the men in camp.
On September 16, twelve men were mustered; on the 17th, nine more; and on the 18th, seven, making the number eighty-one, sufficient to complete the company, at the minimum standard, by the muster of Capt. Price and 2d Lieut. Emmor G. Griffith, en- titUng the company to rank third in the Regiment, and to be de- signated Company C, with the honor of bearing the colors during the service, attaining the position just two days in advance of the next company organization. The militia name adopted by the company was the Paoli Guards, in compliment to the first list of recruits to join the company from that historic locality. On the 21st of September, fifteen men were added to the company, and on the 23d the company was completed by the muster of three men, making a total of one hundred and one, officers and men.
Requisitions had been previously made for the requisite clothing, camp and garrison equipage, which were furnished from the Quarter- Master's Department, at Philadelphia, the invoices being signed by Col. G. H. Crossman, Deputy Quarter-Master General, and by Col. W. R. Gibson, Pay-Master U. S A. and acting military store- keeper, and by C. A. Alligood, military storekeeper U. S. A., the entire outfit of the company being completed between September 21 and October 15. Arms were furnished by Col. T. J. Treadwell, 1st Lieutenant of Ordnance at the Frankford arsenal, and for- warded by Col. G. H. Crossman, Deputy Quarter-Master General, consisting of ninety-eight muskets of the old pattern having been altered to percussion locks. They were received at Camp Wayne on September 23, 1861,
There had been, from the day of muster, regular drill hours established, the men being divided into squads for exercise in the step and the march, facings, etc., under the direction of Lieut. Carruthers. Upon the completion of the muster, the following non- commissioned officers had been appointed, September 18, 1861: l8t sergeant, Isaac Smedley; 2d sergeant, Francis J. Eachus; 3d sergeant, John D. Beaver; 4:th sergeant, Joseph R Acker; 6th sergeant, William Gardiner; 1st corporal, Gerritt S. Hambleton; 2d corporal, Stephen H. Eachus; 3d corporal, Joseph M. Lewis; 4th corporal, Henry KaufFman, Jr.; 5th corporal, Richard B. Moore;
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30 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
6th corporal, Hibberd Aitkin ; 7th corporal, Samuel W. Hawley ; 8th corporal, Isaac A. Cleaver. To prepare the men for company drill, these officers were placed in charge of squads for instruction and practice in the preliminary movements, so that by the time the arms, etc., were received, they had attained very creditable progress; and were then instructed in the manual of arms; the day being divided into periods for the different movements ; a por- tion being devoted to drill in squads without arms, a portion to the manual, in squads, and a portion to company drill in the step and the march, and later in the manual by the company and the march under arms ; allowing periods of rest and recreation ample enough to avoid weariness to the men. The subsequent narration of events at Camp Wayne will be left for what is said in general of the Regiment while at that locality.
1st Lieut. Carruthers having been designated by Col. Guss for the position of adjutant of the Regiment, he was, therefore, de- tached from Company C, and mustered as adjutant, by Col. C. F. Ruff, United States mustering officer, October 31, 1861. On November 4, 2d Lieut. Emmor G. Griffith was promoted to 1st lieutenant, to fill the vacancy, and was mustered as such on No- vember 5, 1861, by Maj. G. Pennypacker, mustering officer for the Regiment. It being understood that the men of the company would be permitted to designate their choice for promotion to the 2d lieutenancy, a vote was taken, when it was found that 5th Sergt. William Gardiner had received a majority of the votes of the company, whereupon he was appointed 2d lieutenant and sub- sequently duly commissioned. He was mustered as 2d lieutenant on November 5, 1861, by Maj. G. Pennypacker.
1st Corp. Gerritt S. JSambleton was then promoted to be 5th sergeant of the company, and the remaining corporals advanced one in grade, Stephen H. Eachus being 1st corporal. Private John Y. McCarter was appointed 8th corporal, to rank from November 5, 1861.
On November 4, 1861, William WoUerton, Esq., an Associate Judge of the county of Chester, upon the application of the parents of William Shingle (an alleged minor), enlisted in Company C, issued a writ of habeas corpus, directed to the company commander, requiring him to produce the soldier before him, for a hearing, on November 5, at 10 o'clock A. M. Capt. Price appeared with the recruit at the hour named, and made answer that he held the
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VACANCIES AND PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY C. 31
soldier upon a regular and voluntary enlistment into the United States service, he having stated his age to be eighteen years, that his parents knew of his coming to enlist and made no objection thereto. His parents, however, claimed that his age was only seventeen years, and manifested great unwillingness to his enlist- ment. The lad was equally anxious to serve his country in the company. The Judge, however, decided upon his discharge on the ground of minority.
While at Camp Wayne, Private James J. Wilson, in wrestling, fractured the small bone of his leg, near the ancle. He received prompt attention from Surgeons Everhart and Miller, and was treated with great care and attention by his comrades at the hospital The accident cast a feeling of regret over the men, which tended to moderate the enjoyment of feats of agility and tests of strength in the camp. He regained the use of his limb before the Regiment was ordered to march, much to his own gratification, as he had suffered as much from the fear of being left behind as he did from his hurt.
After being in camp a few weeks, Corp. Hibberd Aitkin was taken iU, with hemorrhage of the lungs, and was removed to his home, where he remained when the Regiment was ordered to Washington, being unable to leave his bed. He continued to de- cline— ^notwithstanding he received the best medical care and at- tention— until the 16th of July, 1862, when he died. His absence from the company and subsequent death were most deeply felt by his comrades, with whom he had become a great favorite for his genial, lively and social disposition, which, by its gentle and win- ning influence, had endeared him to all.
The death of 5th Sergt. Gerritt S. Hambleton, on the 30th of January, 1862, which is more particularly noticed in the narrative of the Regiment, was also a most serious loss to the company. His quaUties and services, in the brief period of the voyage to Hilton Head, had become recognized as unobtrusive and most efficient to a degree that made each member of the company, and of the Regi- ment, so far as his intercourse extended, his earnest friend. This loss was quickly followed by that of Private Joseph R. McKinley, who died on board the transport Boston, in Warsaw Sound, Ga., during the siege of Fort Pulaski, of ship fever, February 1, 1862. Within a very few days, 2d Lieut. Gardiner was also prostrated by the same disease, and died on the 19th of February, This suc-
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32 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
cession of deaths in this company, within a period so brief, the insatiate archer claiming for his victims the brightest and most gifted of their number, caused sorrow and mourning in the camp as for brothers beloved, whose presence being missed in the tent, and in the intercourse of companionship, left a void deep and sore in many hearts, beside those at home who should behold the faces of their loved ones no more. To these was soon added yet another victim to the malarious miasma of the climate, and confinement to the crowded transports during the siege of Pulaski. Corp. Joseph M. Lewis died, on the 1st of March, 1862, after only a few hours' illness of ship fever, while on the way to Florida. He was buried at sea. To say of him that he also was young, gifted, brave and faithful is but poor tribute to his memory or relief to those who mourned with us his early loss. These vacancies in the company were soon followed by the resignation of 1st Lieut. Emmor G. Griffith, on account of illness (chronic diarrhoea), on April 30, 1862. About this time, the following promotions were made, in the absence of Capt. Price, by Col. H. R. Guss: 1st Sergt. Isaac Smedley, promoted to 2d lieutenant, February 19, 1862, vice W. Gardiner, deceased; 2d Sergt. F. J. Eachus was acting 1st sergeant after the promotion of Smedley, the designation of 1st sergeant being delayed for a time; on 'February 1, 1862, Ist Corp. Stephen H. Eachus was promoted to 5th sergeant, vice Hambleton, de- ceased; the remaining corporals being advanced one in grade. On March 20, the following appointment of corporals was announced for Company C, by order of Col. H. R. Guss: 2d Corp. Henry Kauff- man, Jr., to be 1st corporal, vice J. M. Lewis, deceased; 3d Corp. Richard B. Moore, to be 2d corporal, vice Kauflfman, promoted; 4th Corp. Hibberd Aitkin, to be 3d corporal, vice Moore, promoted; 5th Corp. Samuel W. Hawley, to be 4th corporal, vice Aitkin, pro- moted; 6th Corp. Isaac A. Cleaver, to be 5th corporal, vice Hawley, promoted; 7th Corp. John Y. McCarter, to be 6th corporal, vice Cleaver, promoted; Private B. Lundy Kent, to be 7th corporal, vice McCarter, promoted; Private John R. Miller, to be 8th cor- poral, to fill vacancy, to rank from March 20, 1862. On April 30, 1862, upon the recommendation of Col. H. R. Guss, 2d Sergt, F. J. Eachus was commissioned as 1st lieutenant, vice Emmor Griffith, resigned. The vacancies of 1st and 2d sergeant were not imme- diately filled. Upon due consideration, in regard to previous and subsequent promotions that might occur, it was determined by the
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VACANCIES AND PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY C. 33
company commander, upon his return to the company, to recom- mend for promotion, to 1st sergeant, 1st Corp. Henry Kauffman, Jr., who was accordingly appointed, by order of CoL H. R. Guss, to rank from February 19, 18Q2, vice Smedley, promoted; 3d Sergt. J D. Beaver wa^s then promoted to 2d sergeant, to rank from April 30, 1862, \ice F. J. Eachus, promoted; 4th Sergt. Joseph R. Acker was promoted to 3d sergeant, vice Beaver, promoted; 5th Sergt. S. H. Eachus was promoted to ith sergeant, vice Acker, promoted; 2d Corp. R. B. Moore was promoted to 5th sergeant, vice S. H. Eachus, promoted. The recommendations lor these promotions were made in June, 1862, and the appointments made by order to date from April 30, 1862 The remaining corporals were advanced two in grade. To fill one of the vacancies. Private Davis O. Taylor was appointed 6th corporal, to rank from April 30, 1862. On June 6, 1862, Corp. Hawley was promoted to be sergeant-major of the Regiment, and the death of Corp. Aitkin, occurring on July 26, 1862, caused two more vacancies. The order promulgating these appointments was made in July, to rank from April 30, in the following order: 1st corporal. Cleaver, vice Kauffman, promoted; 2d corporal, McCarter, vice Moore, promoted,- 3d corporal, Kent, vice Aitkin, deceased; 4th corporal. Miller, vice Hawley, promoted to non-commissioned staff; 5th corporal, Taylor, vice Miller, promoted; Private Robert Holmes was appointed 6th corporal, vice Taylor, promoted, to rank from July 18, 1862; Private Levis Beidler was appointed 7th corporal, to fill vacancy, to rank from July 18, 1862; Private Robert B. Wilson was appointed 8th corporal, to fill the remaining vacancy, August 1, 1862. When the company received an assignment of drafted men, November, 1863, the unexpended balance of company fund amounted to $429.36. It was ordered to be distributed to the men of the company by authority of Col. H. R. Guss. Capt. Price made the distribution, amounting to firom $5.68 to $6.97 per man, sixty-two in number, for which receipts were given upon a special roll prepared for the purpose. The company savings had always been carefully looked after, and were used, as wanted, for company purposes, by direction of a committee of non- commissioned officers, according to prescribed regulations.
On January 18, 1863, Corp. Taylor was discharged to re-enlist in
Company E, 3d U. S. Arty., and on the 28th of January, 1863,
Corp. Holmes was discharged, for disability, on surgeon's certificate.
Another vacancy was occasioned on April 1, 1863, by the appoint-
3
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34 BISTORT OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
ment of 2d Corp. John Y. McCarter to hospital steward. To fiU vacancies, the remaining corporals were advanced in grade as they occurred; and, on May 6, the following additional appointments were made, by order of Col. H. R. Quss, in Special Order No. 13: Private C. Burleigh Hambleton to 6th corporal, to rank from January 22, 1863; Private Maris Peirce to 7th corporal, to rank from February 8, 1863; Private M. Davis Thomas to 8th cor- poral, to rank from April 1, 1863. Owing to failing health, 2d Lieut. Isaac Smedley had tendered his resignation, on March 9, which, being accepted in April, created a vacancy in the line. To fill this, 1st Sergt. Henry Kauffman was appointed 2d lieutenant, to rank as such from March 9, 1863. The four remaining sergeants were advanced one in grade, the order promoting them and fiUing the vacancy being dated July 1, 1863. 2d Sergt. J. D. Beaver was released from duty as color bearer to fulfil the duties of 1st sergeant; 1st Corp. Isaac A. Cleaver was appointed 5th sergeant; 2d Corp. B. L. Kent was pronioted to 1st corporal; the six re- maining corporals were advanced one in grade, and Private Jesse D. Farra was promoted to 8th corporal; on February 29, 1864, 1st Corp. B. L. Kent was discharged to re-enlist as veteran; he was re-appointed 3d corporal on same date.
The next vacancy in the company ofiicers was caused by the pro- motion of Capt. Price to major, to rank from April 3, 1864. This was filled by the appointment of Adjt. H. W. Carruthers, formerly 1st lieutenant of Company C, to be captain. These commissions were not received until June 6, 1864, when, owing to the absence of Lieut. Col. Pennypacker, on account of wounds, these officers could not be mustered until his return and muster as lieutenant colonel of the Regiment. On May 18, in action at Green Plains, Va., 2d Sergt. Isaac Acker was killed, and 4th Corp. R. B. Wilson and 7th Corp. M. Davis Thomas were mortally wounded. The latter died on May 24 and the former on the 25th. On May 28, the 3d, 4th and 5th sergeants were advanced to 2d, 3d and 4th sergeants, respectively, and 1st Corp. B. L. Kent was appointed 5th sergeant; 2d and 3d Corps. Miller and Beidler were promoted to 1st and 2d corporals ; 5th and 6th Corps. Hambleton and ' Peirce were pro- moted to 3d and 4th corporals, and 8th Corp. Farra to 5th corporal ; Privates J. J. Dewees, L. R. Thomas and G. W. Abel were promoted to 6th, 7th and 8th corporals, respectively. On August 16, 1864, Capt. H. W. Carruthers was mortally wounded in action, at Straw-
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VACANCIES AND PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY C. 35
berry Plains, Va., from which he died on August 22, 1864. There was no immediate promotion to fill the vacancy. Corp. L. R. Thomas was appointed quarter-master sergeant, September 1, 1864, vice Qr. Mr. Sergt. Taggart, and transferred to non-commissioned staff.
As the term of service of the original officers and men expired, from September 11 to 21, they were mustered out by Capt. T. E. Lord, and returned home, except 1st Lieut. F. J. Eachus, against whom charges were pending for trial before court-martial, and three non-commissioned officers and seven privates, who had re-enlisted at Femandina, Fla., in accordance with general orders of the War Department, No. 191, series of 1863, and No. 25, of 1864. Of these, Sergt. Kent, having applied for promotion in the United States colored troops, was ordered to report to the superintendent of recruiting service for duty in the Department of the Southwest, about the end of August, having received notice of his being ap- pointed to a captaincy in the 13th U. S. Hy. Art. (colored troops). He was, however, not discharged and re-mustered until the 17th of April, 1865, owing to the arbitrary and unjust conduct of the colonel of the Regiment, but having vigorously endeavored to obtain his muster, it was ordered by Special Order No. 47, Head-Quarters De- partment of Kentucky. Capt. Kent encountered and overcame the most persistent and systematic injustice, on the part of the com- manding officer of the Regiment, to prevent his muster, by assigning the men obtained by him to other companies, so as to reap the ad- vantage of his success in recruiting himself. Capt. Kent finally presented himself before the proper authorities, with a sufficient number of men, and was duly mustered as captain of Company E, 13th Regiment, before reporting with his men to the colonel, other- wise he would have been still further delayed and prevented from drawing the pay due to re-imburse the heavy expenses incurred for the recruiting service out of his own means.
Qr. Mr. Sergt. Leonard R. Thomas was promoted to 2d lieu- tenant, September 23, 1864, vice Kaufl&nan, term expired. About the same time, Corp. Abel was promoted to sergeant, and to 1st sergeant; Private Warren to corporal and to 2d sergeant; and Private Showalter to 3d sergeant. Privates Thomas Clark and William Hammill, drafted, Francis Hoffman and Cyrus M. Davis, veterans, were the first corporals appointed afl;er the discharge of the former non-commissioned officers. Among the men assigned to
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36 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
the Regiment, October 20, 1864, were two Polanders, who claimed to be officers in the Polish army, one a captain and the other a lieutenant, who desired to serve in our army for the advantage of its drill and discipline. These men, Casper Slabowski and Albert Lesczzynski were appointed corporals, and subsequently sergeants of the company, being discharged with the Regiment in that rank.
On the 3d of November, 1864, 1st Lieut. F. J. Eachus was discharged. The court-martial before which he was tried, having found him guilty of the charges preferred, had sentenced him to be dishonorably discharged from the service; but, pending the promulgation of the sentence, upon his earnest application, Col. Pennypacker interposed no objection to his being mustered out of service, upon his claim of expiration of service, which was accord- ingly done, by Capt. T. E. Lord, on the above date. To fill this vacancy, 2d Lieut. Leonard R. Thomas was promoted, the date of his appointment being November 1, 1864. No other promotions followed until after the action at Fort Fisher, N. C.
On February 1, 1st Lieut. Thomas was promoted to captain; 1st Sergt. George W. Abel to 1st lieutenant; 2d Sergt. Warren to 1st sergeant. On February 1, Capt. Thomas was promoted to major, vice Martin, promoted to lieutenant colonel; his commission was not received until June; he was not mustered as major. 1st Lieut. Abel received promotion, same date, to captain, but was not mustered. On May 1, 1st Sergt. Charles Warren was promoted to 2d lieutenant, and on June 1 to 1st lieutenant, but was not mustered. On same date, Sergt. C. B. Showalter was promoted to 1st sergeant and to 2d lieutenant, but was not mustered. The only remaining promotions were those of Corps. Hammill, Davis, Sla^ bowski and Lesczzynski to sergeants. The dates of promotion of Corps. Hammill and Davis were recorded as July 1 and 26, 1865, respectively; of the others no dates could be found. Corp. Clark was killed, at Fort Fisher, N. C, January 15, 1865, and Cotp. Hoffman was transferred to Company E, 3d U. S. Arty., June 24, 1865. The following named privates were appointed corporals: Isaac Rodgers and James H. Quinby, date of appointment unknown ; both were discharged, by general order, on June 5 and 28, 1866, respectively; Thomas H. Bastian, substitute, appointed corporal April 1, 1865, was discharged by general order, June 23, 1865; George J. Switzer, drafted, promoted to corporal June 26, 1865; John Latch and Henry H. Stiteler, veterans, were promoted to
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY D. 37
(»rporals, July 1, 1865; Joseph Brown and Daniel W. Clemmer, drafted, promoted to corporals; no date given. The five last named were all mustered out with the company.
Company D, Concordville Rifles.
The fourth company of the 97th Regiment was recruited by William S. Mendenhall, of Chadd's Ford, Delaware County, Pa. He was descended from a family of English Quakers, who emi- grated to America during the persecutions of that people in Eng- land, and settled in Concord, Delaware County, contemporary with the William Penn settlers in Pennsylvania. Two brothers, Moses and Robert Mendenhall, and a sister, who married a Mr. West, and was the mother of Benjamin West, the celebrated painter, were among the earliest settlers, from whom sprung a numerous family. Their descendants, for several generations, were landed proprietors in Chester and Delaware counties, leading the quiet life of Friends^ well-to-do and respected. Caleb Mendenhall, grandfather of Wil- liam, married a Miss Taylor, of Westtown, of whom were born two sons and five daughters. They lived near Chadd's Ford, Delaware County. Their youngest son, J. Taylor Mendenhall, married Miss Mia Speakman, daughter of William Speakman, of Dilworthtown. The eldest son of this marriage was William S. Mendenhall, born at the historic locality of Chadd's Ford, October 13, 1830. At the death of his parents, when about five years of age, he went to reside with his Grandfather Speakman, who sent him regularly to school until about thirteen years of age, when the death of his grandfather occnrred. He then found a home with Mr. James Cloud, of Con- cordville, Delaware County, where he remained, going to school occasionally, until near sixteen years of age, when he found a place in the office of Hon. Nimrod Strickland, editor of the " American Republican," at West Chester, Pa. About a year after, when the Mexican War broke out, young Mendenhall, fired with patriotic ardor, volunteered under the call of President Polk, in December, 1846, for ten new regiments to reinforce the army in Mexico. He joined, and was appointed a corporal in Capt. C. J. Biddle's company, in Philadelphia, which was ordered to rendezvous at Brazos San- tiago, in February, 1847. It was then assigned to the 1st Regiment U. S. Voltigeurs, under command of Col. F. P. Andrews, with
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38 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
Lieut. Col. Joseph E. Johnson and Majs. Talbot and Caldwell, all of the U. S. A. He participated with his regiment in the siege of Vera Cruz, under Gen. Scott, and with Gen. Cadwalader, in the battles of Cerro Gordo, Jalapa, Perote and Puebla, and in assisting to keep open communication between Vera Cruz and Puebla; afterwards, in the valley of the city of Mexico; .at the battle of Contreras, August 20, 1847; at Buena Vista, Cherubusco, and Molino del Rey, September 11; and at Casa del Mata, where he was wounded in the right foot; on the 13th of September, at the fierce storming of Chepultepec, the key to the gates of Mexico, he was again slightly wounded in the head, and was with the final assault upon the last defences of the city and the triumphal entrance into the Mexican capital. He remained with the army of occupa^. tion until after the conclusion of peace, July 4, 1848. His regi- ment left Mexico, in October, and was disbanded at Fort McHenry, Baltimore, November, 1848.
After an honorable discharge, and with the commendation of his ofiicers for faithful services, he returned to West Chester, being then about eighteen years of age. The discovery of gold in California, during the winter of 184S, having attracted his attention, he joined a company of adventurers known as the Philadelphia Mining Com- pany. Their vessel, the Clarissa Perkins, sailed in January, 1849. After a tedious and eventful voyage around Cape Horn, they arrived at San Francisco, having been out eight months and fourteen days.
The city at that time was a motley collection of tents and houses, property of every description being strewn about without owners, people having abandoned all and emigrated to the mines. This com- pany followed the example in eager haste to reach the El Dorado. After a varied experience at the mines on Sacramento and Ameri- can Rivers, attended by little success, he joined Col. Fremont's ex- ploring party for Southern California, in the Fall of 1849, but, pur- sued by hostile Indians, the party returned to winter at Long Gulch and engaged in mining successfully. He remained in California until the summer of 1858, continued mining at various places, and was connected with prospecting parties in exploring, while a wilder- ness, most of the places that have since become noted towns and cities peopled with numerous inhabitants, prosperous in the products of adventurous enterprise and wealth. He was also active in the organization of companies of mounted men for defence against hostile Indians, who resisted the presence of the white man in his
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ORGANIZATION OP COMPANY D. 39
native wilds. The narration of these adventures, aflEbrding material and interest for a volume, would be too extensive for the present sketch. After ten years of pioneer life, with its attendant hardships and exposures, Mr. Mendenhall returned to the Atlantic States in the summer of 1858. The next two years were spent in traveling through the Northern and Southern States. During 1860,^e was in Texas and Alabama, while Yancey, Rhett and others were firing the Southern heart, and was present when the • secession de- ckration of the Montgomery convention was received with the wildest joy by the people. The firing upon Maj. Anderson, at Fort Sumter; the attack of the Alabama State troops on Mount Vernon Island and the forts of Mobile harbor, and the treachery of Gen. Twiggs, in Texas, events following in such rapid succession, deter- mined the patriotic young democrat to choose sides in the coming conflict involving the life of his country.
Quietly making his arrangements, he resolved to proceed north by the first opportunity. This he effected, arriving at Wilmington, Del, in time to join the 1st Delaware Regiment (three months' vo- lunteers), under the first call of President Lincoln for seventy-five thousand men, on April 26, 1861. The regiment was commanded by Col. H. H. Lockwood, and was by the War Department sta- tioned upon duty on the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Raihoad, from Havre de Grace to Baltimore, to guard the road and bridges from interruption and keep open the line of communication to Washington during the gathering of the army. The regiment was disbanded, at the expiration of the three months' service, at Wilmington, August 7, 1861.
Upon his return, at the end of that service, with the let Dela- ware Regiment, W. S. Mendenhall was solicited, by several of his Delaware acquaintances, to form a company for the three years' service, in which his Delaware County friends also joined, and, having received from Col. Guss authority to recruit a company for the 97th Regiment, he determined to canvass in Delaware County, with head-quarters at Concordville. Within a few days, over fifty men signed the roll of his company, which was called the Concord- ville Rifles, in honor of his boyhood home. A meeting was called, at Media, on August 23, 1861, to organize the company and select its officers. It was held at the ofiice of Jesse L. Cummins^ Esq. The day being very wet the attendance was not large. The pro- ceedings are here given :
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40 HISTORY OP THE NINETT-SITVENTH REGIMENT.
Media, Pa., August 23, 1861.
The persons enrolled for the formation of a company of volunteers to form a part of the regiment being organized by Col. Henry R. Guss, of West Chester, met, pursuant to notice, in Media, this evening. Mr. Jesse L. Cummins was called to the chair, and Dr. G. B. Jflotchkins appointed secretary of the meeting. The roll being called, the following persons answered to their names: Wil- liam S. Mendenhall, Concord ville ; George W. Williams, Crozier- ville ; Isaac Fawkes, Dilworthtown ; Charles H. Hannum, Philip E. Hannum, Concordville; Stephen W. Cloud, David M. Cloud, Lewis C. Cloud, Henry H. Cloud, Harmon B. Cloud, John Jordan, Wil- mington, Del.; Isaac B. Hannum, John Sheen, Michael Kamey, Jesse Walters, William H. Larkin, Concord ; Joseph Russell, Bir- mingham; Samuel Parker, Lenni; Charles S. Cloud, John F. Cloud, Crozierville;
After some discussion in reference to the small attendance ol the persons enrolled, it was resolved to proceed with the organiza^ tion. Nominations for officers were then made as follows: for captain, William S. Mendenhall; for 1st lieutenant, George W. Williams and Isaac Fawkes ; for 2d lieutenant, Isaac Fawkes and Charles H. Hannum.
William S Mendenhall was elected captain by acclamation. On balloting for 1st lieutenant, George W. Williams received fifteen votes and Isaac Fawkes five votes. George W. Williams was de- clared elected 1st lieutenant. On balloting for 2d lieutenant, Isaac Fawkes received seven votes, and Charles H. Hannum thirteen votes. Charles H. Hannum was declared duly elected 2d lieute- nant. Charles H. Hannum then arose and declined the office, stating he believed Mr. Fawkes more capable of performing the duties of that office, and moved the re-nomination of Isaac Fawkes. On motion, his proposition was accepted, and Isaac Fawkes was declared unanimously elected 2d lieutenant.
On motion, a vote of thanks was unanimously given to the officers of the meeting for their services, and to Mr. James R. Cummins for a bountiful supper given to the company present, and for the use of his office for the meeting. Also to Mr. Charles H. Hannum for his patriotic conduct in giving up a valuable office for the best good of the company.
[Signed] J. L. Cummins, Pres't.
G. B. HoTCHKiNS, Sec'y.
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY D. 41
This meeting having effected the organization, the enrollment proceeded rapidly, after some stirring appeals posted throughoVit the county and in the papers. It was found necessary to establish a permanent rendezvous, where the enrolled men might be supplied with subsistence and qu8rters until arrangements were made for their muster into the service. Thirty-six men were collected and occupied quarters in Camp Wayne, West Chester, about September 1, 1861. The sheds on the eastern side of the camp were fixed up for barracks. Provisions, cooking utensils, and blankets for tem- porary use, were supplied through the generosity of the citizens of West Chester.
The first muster was had on September 6, 1861, when 1st Sergt. Henry Odiome and thirty-nine men were mustered into the service, at Camp Wayne, by Capt. G. Pennypacker.
On September 9, 1st Lieut. George W. Williams, of Crozierville, who had materially assisted in recruiting the company, was mus- tered, by the same officer, with thirteen additional men. On the 11th, there was a muster of six men; on the 16th, ten men; on the 18th, two men; on the 19th, three men; on the 20th, Capt. Mendenhall and 2d Lieut. Isaac Fawkes, with six additional men were mustered, making an aggregate of eighty-three, officers and men, completing the organization at the minimum number and giving the captain fourth place in rank of company officers. On September 21, four additional men were mustered; on the 23d, seven men; on the 24th, five men, and on the 28th, two men; making the aggregate of one hundred and one, officers and men.
The non-commissioned officers then designated were: Ist ser- geant, Henry Odiome; 2d sergeant, Charles H, Hannum; 3d sergeant, Samuel McBride; 4th sergeant, John E. Davis; 5th ser- geant, Isaac B. Taylor; 1st corporal, David W. Odiome; 2d corporal, Stqphen W. Cloud; 3d corporal, Wilbur F. Flannery; 4th corporal, James A. Allen; 5th corporal, William H. Snyder; 6th corporal, William McCarty; 7th corporal, David M. Cloud; 8th corporal, Robert Fairlamb.
To fill vacancies, caused by discharge and desertions at Camp Wayne, there were subsequent musters as follows: on October 17, one man; October 26, one man; November 4, one man, and November 13, two men; making the entire muster for the company, at West Chester, three commissioned officers and one hundred and three men; total, one hundred and six.
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42 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
For this company, and those previously organized, the number could have been largely increased, beyond the limit, from the numerous applications after they were filled. Many of these appli- cants subsequently entered other companies. Two men deserted from Camp Wayne and were not retaken. Two were discharge d, for disability, in October, 1861.
On October 12, 1861, the company was invited to a reception by the citizens of Concordville, Delaware Co., and marched from West Chester, at 9 A. M., taking the West Chester and Wilmington plank road, a distance of eight miles, to Concordville, arriving at 11 A. M., where the company was heartily welcomed by a large concourse of citizens assembled to greet them.
Several prominent citizens addressed the command in patriotic speeches, which were replied to by Capt. Mendenhall and others of the company, pledgipg the fidelity of the entire command to the country in her time of peril and need. Much enthusiasm was mani- fested. The men sat down to a sumptuous dinner, at 1 P. M., under the shade trefis. The repast was furnished by the ladies of the vicinity, who vied with each other in attentions to the gallant men, many of whom were never to return to revisit the scene of this most cordial welcome, the remembrance of which lived as a green spot in the recollections of home during the years of peril, hardship and suflfering that foUoVed in the field.
After dinner, the company paraded and drilled to the satisfaction of all present. About 4.30 P. M., they set out on their return march, in the midst of a rain storm, giving nine hearty cheers for the people of Concordville and its vicinity for their royal wel- come. After a march of three miles, the company, well drenched with the rain, reached Cheyney's Station, on the West Chester and Philadelphia Railroad, where they took cars for West Chester, arriving at Camp Wayne about 6.30 P. M., wet and tired but greatly gratified with one of the most pleasant days in the history of the company.
A few days after the events just noticed, Capt. Mendenhall's Concordville friends made him a present of a handsome Colt's revolver as a testimonial of their esteem, which he carried through the entire service.
The time in Camp Wayne was spent in constant drill and exer- cise, preparing the men for service in the field. About October 3, the company was armed, uniformed and equipped for active service.
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY D. 43
the arms being the smooth-bore percussion muskets, received from the Bridesburg arsenal. The average ages of the officers and men of Company D was twenty-one years, many having a youthful ap- pearance. It was remarked by William Whitehead, Esq., who administered the oath of enlistment to the first forty men on the enrollment list, " That the men looked young for soldiers." Capt. Mendenhall replied, '*They are the best material for soldiers; they will develop into hardy tough men." Before the close of the war, his observation proved correct, as the hardiest men of the company were the youngest.
About the 18th of October, Capt. Mendenhall appealed to the people of Concord and of Delaware County, soliciting their aid in procuring an outfit of rubber blankets to protect his men in the winter campaign. A meeting was called at Concordville and a subscription list started. By the earnest endeavors of Hon. Wil- liam Gramble, Mrs. Dr. Pennock, and a host of other friends, the company was furnished with a complete outfit of rubber blankets before their departure for the field of duty. The roster of Com- pany D, in another part of this work, sets forth the record of each man, so far as could be obtained from every available source, and will show the promotions in each grade as far as was possible to ob- tain the dates of promotion. The personal remarks in the company roster, enclosed in brackets, are taken from a record roll, furnished by Capt. Mendenhall, and are given without any intention of making invidious distinction.
About the 1st of December, 1863, at Femandina, Fla., fifty men of Company D re-enlisted as veterans, in conformity with terms of general orders of the War Department, Washington, D. C, No. 191, series of 1863. They were subsequently re-mustered by 1st Lieut. M. V. B. Richardson, A. C. M. Dept. South, to date from enrollment, December 1, 1863. They returned home, with the veterans of the Regiment, upon veteran furlough of thirty days, under command of Capt. W. S. Mendenhall, starting from Feman- dina, Fla., on the 27th of March, 1864. The account of the return is given in the narrative of the Regiment.
From a tabular statement, furnished by Capt. Mendenhall, of the casualties in his company, the following summary is taken: Total number mustered at Camp Wayne, three ofiicers and one hundred and three men; total, one hundred and six. Of the enlirted men, three deserted and two were discharged at West Chester. At the
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44 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
end of the war, of the officers and men originally enlisted, there had been killed two commissioned officers and fourteen enlisted men; wounded, two commissioned officers and thirty enlisted men; died from wounds, four enlisted men ; discharged for wounds, three en- listed men; died from sickness, nine enlisted men; discharged for disability, one commissioned officer (resigned), and twelve enlisted men ; transferred, one enlisted man ; discharged, at the expiration of service, one commissioned officer, two sergeants, seven corporals and sixteen privates; one recruit, received May 1, 1864; total ac- counted for, one hundred and seven, officers and men. Of the fifty re-enlisted veterans, included in above account, nine were killed, two died of wounds, one was captured, wounded and died in rebel prison, nineteen were wounded, one discharged for wounds, one transferred and seventeen not injured; total, fifty. These losses occurred chiefly before the expiration of the original term of service. Of the twenty-three drafted men assigned to the company, at Fer- nandina, Fla., two were killed, seven wounded, four discharged for wounds, eight deserted and two were transferred.
Company E, Mulligan Guards.
Company E was recruited by William McConnell, a naturalized / citizen of the United States, bom in Caven Co., Ireland, about the year 1827. He received an excellent education at a college in Londonderry. He emigrated to this country, with other members of his family, about the year 1848, settled in Philadelphia, and was engaged in a mercantile house as clerk and book-keeper. After a few years, he went to New York, where, in 1852, he married Eliza Jane Jephson, of that city. He soon afterwards found employment as a house painter. He then returned to Philadelphia, and about 1853 removed to West Chester, Pa., where he followed the oc- cupation of painting, with diligence and success, for several years previous to the war. He became an active member of the National Guards, and was a thoroughly drilled soldier. He had received an appointment as a non-commissioned officer in his company, and was noted for accuracy and precision in the various movements of the drill, etc.
When his company, commanded by Capt. H. R. Guss, marched to Harrisburg, in April, 1861, to enter the three months' service, with
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY E. 46
a sufficient number of men enrolled to organize three companies, he was appointed Ist sergeant of Company E, 9th Regiment P. V., and served in that capacity during the term, an account of which is elsewhere given.
Upon the return and muster out of the 9th Regiment, at Harris- burg, July 29, 1861, Sergt. McConnell was authorized, by Col. H, R. Guss, to recruit a company for his Regiment. Upon this duty he entered with energy and determination, about the 5th of August, 1861, and soon began to realize success. The men he enlisted were chiefly naturalized citizens, of his native land, residents of Chester County, who espoused the cause of their adopted country in her conflict with treason. They generally made sturdy, reliable soldiers, efficient in the field of battle and in the arduous trench duty that became so largely the experience of the Regiment during the war.
On September 9, 1861, the first muster for the company was made, by Maj. G. Pennypacker, of thirty men; on the 11th, nine men were mustered; on the 14th, one man; on the 16th, two men; on the 16th, ten men; on the 18th, seven men; on the 20th, one man; on the 21st, three men; on the 23d, six men; on the 24th, one man, an aggregate of seventy men, when John W. Babb, of West Chester, was mustered as 1st lieutenant of the company. On the 20th of September, Capt. McConnell collected his men, sixty having been mustered, and occupied the barracks on the eastern side of Camp Wayne. Additional musters were made each day, as recruits were enlisted. On 2d of October, the number had reached eighty- two, when Capt. McConnell was mustered, and the company desig- nated as Company E, 97th Pennsylvania Volunteers, it being the sixth company organized. John McGrath, of West Chester, was also mustered, on the 2d of October, as 2d lieutenant. The officers and non-commissioned officers were as follows: captain, William McConnell, West Chester; 1st lieutenant, John W. Babb, West Chester; 2d lieutenant, John McGrath, West Chester; 1st sergeant, James McWilliams; 2d sergeant, Samuel D. Smith; 3d sergeant, James Coughlin; 4th sergeant, John McNamee; 6th sergeant, Patrick Carter; 1st corporal, George L. Smith; 2d corporal, Edward Corcoran; 3d corporal, Greorge Jenkins; 4th corporal, Bernard McDermott; 5th corporal, William Glanding; 6th corpo- ral, James O. Day; 7th corporal, John Sullivan; 8th corporal, William H. Spicer; musicians, Charles Riley, Jr., and Hugh ODonnell, Jr.; wagoner, Jonathan Pine.
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46 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
The militia name adopted by the company was Mulligan Guards. The company was filled to the maximum number, October 29, seven- teen men having been mustered subsequent to October 2; on No- vember 8 and December 26, two additional men were mustered to fill vacancies from desertions. One of these, enlisted by 1st Lieut. Taylor, of Company H, joined the company, at Warsaw Sound, Ga., July 15, 1862. On February 10, 1862, another recruit, Francis Carter, was enlisted at West Chester, Pa., and forwarded to the com- pany with other ;recruits ; he was subsequently promoted to corporal, re-enlisted as a veteran volunteer, in February, 1864; was captured in action, near Petersburg, Va., July 16, 1864; was prisoner until December 21, 1864, and died at Annapolis, Md., December 30, 1864, while a paroled prisoner of war. The men of Company E were of a hearty, robust physique, and many of them, after re- ceiving the benefit of careful training by Capt. McConnell and his ofiicers, made very good soldiers; but the climate of the South proved more disastrous to this company than to some of the others, the men seeming to be more subject to the chills and with prevalent tendency to chronic diarrhoea. Those who remained able for duty were very effective soldiers, both in the field and at fatigue duty upon the lines of intrenchment and earthworks.
On April 26, 1862, 1st Lieut. John H. Babb resigned, on account of failing health from climatic influence. 2d Lieut. John McGrath was then promoted to Ist lieutenant and 4th Sergt. John McNamee was promoted to 2d lieutenant. He served until May 9, 1863, when he resigned, and was honorably discharged on surgeon's certificate of Usability. 1st Sergt. James McWilliams was then promoted to 2d lieutenant. At Femandina, Fla., in February, 1864, twenty-six men of Company E re-enlisted as veterans and went home on fur- lough for thirty days. The names of these men appear on the company roster marked " Vet.^*
Owing to failing health, from exposure during the arduous duties in the department of the South, Capt. McConnell was honorably discharged, April 28, 1864, when the Regiment reached Hilton Head, S. C, e7i route to join Gen. Butler's command, at Gloucester Point, Va. He returned home and became somewhat improved in health, but he never fully recovered. He died at his home, in West Chester, Pa., August 14, 1866, of hemorrhage of bowels, resulting from the effects of long prostration from chronic diarrhoea.
Upon the resignation of Capt. McConnell, there was no pro-
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY F. 47
motion to fill the vacancy. 1st Lieut. McGrath cominanded the company for a time; but, being detailed upon duty in the quarter- master and commissary departments, the company was mostly com- manded by 2d Lieut. Mc Williams until his discharge, November 3, 1864. 1st Lieut. John McGrath was discharged on account of ex- piration of term of service, November 10, 1864. The original men of the company, who had not re-enlisted, were discharged as their terms of service expired, and returned to their homes, being fur- nished with transportation to the place of enlistment.
Ist Sergt. Samuel D. Smith was promoted to 1st lieutenant, December 6, 1864, and commanded the company during the re- mainder of the service. He was commissioned and mustered as captain of the company, May 1, 1865, and continued its com- manding officer until mustered out, August 28, 1865. On May 1, 1st Sergt. John C. Nicholson was mustered ^s 1st lieutenant and Sergt. John Sullivan as 2d lieutenant. These officers were mustered out with the company, August 28, 1864, having received their pro- motion for gallant and meritorious service at Fort Fisher, N. C.
There has been no complete record found of the dates of pro- motions of the non-commissioned officers from which a correct list could be made, or it would have been given. It is believed that the roster of the company will show the names of all who were thus promoted, in the different grades, but some dates are necessarily omitted.
Company F, National Guards.
The sixth company of the 97th Regiment was recruited by De Witt Clinton Lewis, of West Chester, Pa. His paternal grand- fether, Phineas Lewis, bom in Chester Co., Pa., was the son of a Welsh emigrant, James Lewis, who came to this country previous to the Revolution. He became a soldier in the American army and served during the War of Independence. The grandmother of Capt. Lewis, also of Welsh descent, was one of the survivors of the massacre at Wyoming, having escaped by drifting down the Susque- hanna, the night after, in a flat-boat. His grandfather, on his mother's side, Patrick McKennin, a Scotch-Irishman, who came to this country before the Revolution, also became a soldier in the American army and served during the war. He was wounded at
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48 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
the battle of Brandywine, He died at the age of ninety years. Mary, his wife, was d German girl, who came to this country when quite young, and was sold by the captain of the vessel, for payment of her passage, as was often the case at that period.
Capt. Lewis' father was Benjamin Lewis, of Chester Co., Pa., somewhat extensively known as a school teacher, and, during the last few years of his life, engaged at Gause's Academy, on the Brandywine, near Marshalton. He died at the age of twenty-eight years. His mother, Margaret (McKennin) Lewis, was born in Chester Co., and died at the age of seventy-eight years. De W. C. Lewis was bom near West Chester, Pa., on the 30th of July, 1822. After the death of his father, he lived with the family of Joseph Taylor, father of Bayard Taylor, during the boyhood of the poet, until sixteen years of age, aft;er which he learned the trade of a carpenter with Samuel Way, at West Chester, Pa. Having a liking for a military life, at the age of eighteen, he joined a volunteer company in West Chester, called the National Grays, commanded by Capt. William Apple. He continued an active member until the company was disbanded, in 1842.
On the breaking out of the war with Mexico, in 1846, he joined, as one of its first members, a company called the National Guards, raised by Capt. William Apple, who had commanded the National Grays. The company was designed to form a part of the State quota, tendered its services and was accepted by the State authori- ties and designated as a part of the 3d Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, but was not called into active service. The company continued its organization, Mr. Lewis remaining an active member until the rebellion occurred, it being the same company of which Capt. H. R. Guss became the commanding officer, in June, 1859.
When the services of the company were accepted, for the three months' term, in April, 1860, Mr. Lewis marched with it, as a private soldier, to Harrisburg, Pa., and, upon the organization of two other companies of the men enlisted by Capt. Guss, Mr. Lewis was elected 1st lieutenant of Capt. James F. Andrews' Company E, in the 9th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served with the company until its discharge, at Harrisburg, Pa., July 29, 1861. He then returned to West Chester with his discharged comrades. On August 4, 1861, Lieut. Lewis received authority, from Col. H. R. Guss, to recruit a company for his Regiment, and soon after entered upon the work of enlistment. By the 23d of September, he had
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY F. 49
fifty-six men enrolled, who were, on that day, mustered into the service of the United States by Maj. G. Pennypacker, with Joseph T. Burnett, of West Chester, as 1st lieutenant. These recruits, in chaise of Lieut. Burnett, after being mustered, went into quarters in Camp Wayne, and occupied the barracks on the north side of the camp, from the east corner, adjoining the quarters of the guard established at the entrance. On the 3d of October, having a suffi- cient number of men enlisted, the remaining officers were then mustered into the service by Maj. Pennypacker: De W. C. Lewis, as captain, and Oliver E. Strickland, of West Chester, as 2d lieute- nant, and the company designated Company F, 97th Regiment P. \'. The militia name adopted by the company was the National Guards, after the former company of which Capt. Lewis and several of the men had been members.
The company was filled to the maximum number about the 15th of October, 1861. The men were mostly residents of Chester county. They received the usual outfit of clothing, etc., soon after being mustered, and the camp and garrison equipage was fur- nished when the company was. fully organized. Arms were not issued to Company F, at Camp Wayne, the company having been per- mitted to use those belonging to the Old National Guards, of West Chester, while it remained at that place. The same attention to drill and discipline, and exercise in the various preliminary move- ments requisite to the thorough training of the soldier, as has been described in regard to the other companies, was also maintained by Capt. Lewis and his officers, in order to prepare their men for effi- cient service in the field.
The" following named were the original non-commissioned officers of Company F: 1st sergeant, John Wainwright; 2d sergeant, Thomas Cosgriff; 3d sergeant, John Kennedy; 4th sergeant, Thomas B. Guest; 5th sergeant, J. Elwood Huntsman; 1st corporal, Thomas H. Short; 2d corporal, Lee A. Stroud; 3d corporal, James T. Terry; 4th corporal, Caleb Mercer; 5th corporal, John Weber; 6th corporal, Daniel Farrell; 7th corporal, James A. Fries; 8th corporal, Edward Townsend; musicians, Thomas St. John and Jesse Opperman; teamster, James D. Roberts. Eighty-one privates; total, one hundred men.
On the 8th of Januar)% 1862, at Hilton Head, S. C, 2d Lieut. 0. E. Stickland resigned, on account of failing health, and was honorably discharged. To fill the vacancy, Isi Sergt. John Wain- 4
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50 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
Wright was promoted to 2d lieutenant. 1st Lieut. Joseph T. Bur- nett resigned, for the same cause, and was honorably discharged, at Hilton Head, S. C, on March 9, 1865. 2d Lieut. John Wainwright was then promoted to 1st lieutenant, and 1st Sergt. Thomas Cos- griff to 2d lieutenant.
On February 29, 1864, at Fernandina, Fla., forty-five men of the company re-enlisted as veterans for the war, and were re-mustered on March 15, 1864, by 1st Lieut. M. V. B. Richards, 4th N. H. V. A. C. M. Department of the South, to rank from February 28, 1864, and December 31, 1863, the days previous to enrollment of the men as veterans. Their names are marked " VeC^ on the roster of the Regiment.. These men received a furlough of thirty days, and re- turned home with the other veterans of the Regiment.
No other changes occurred in the commissioned officers of the company until the expiration of Capt. Lewis' term of service, when he was honorably discharged, September 20, 1864. Previous to his discharge, Capt. Lewis was in temporary command of Company A, for a short period, during the absence of the officers of that com- pany, all of whom had been wounded. On the 28th of August, 1864, he signed the muster-out-rolls of thirty-one of the original-* men of Company A whose term of service had expired. Capt. Lewis returned home, about the end of September, 1864, with the men of his company whose terms had also expired.
1st Lieut. John Wainwright was commissioned captain of Com- pany F, to date from November 1, 1864, but was not mustered, as he then desired to be mustered out of service. 2d Lieut. Thomas Cosgriff was mustered out of service, March 28, 1865, on account of expiration of term of service. On February 28, 1865, Sergt. Lewis P. Malin was commissioned captain of the company and Sergt. Isaac J. Nichols as 1st lieutenant, both having been pro- moted to corporal and to sergeant after re-enlistment as veterans. They continued in their respective commands until mustered out with the Regiment, at Weldon, N. C, August 28, 1865. On May 1, 1865, John E. Huntsman, 5th sergeant of the company, who had also re-enlisted as a veteran, was commissioned as 2d lieutenant, and continued to hold that position until the end of the service. These were well-deserved promotions of faithful and brave soldiers. Capt. Malin, having commanded the company at Fort Fisher, had received brevet promotion for gallantry in that action. The re- maining changes and promotions of the non-commissioned officers
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ORGANIZATION OP COMPANY G. 61
have been noted as far as ascertained upon the roster, it being found difficult to obtain the exact order in which they occurred, so as to present them in this place. Company F was also part of the force, with Company B, that received the impetuous attack of the rebel advance upon our position, at Grimball's Plantation, on June 10, 1862, and vied with the other troops present in the stubborn re- sistance that resulted in maintaining their ground and repulsing the enemy with heavy loss.
On October 25, 1862, Company F detailed a funeral escort, at U. S. General Hospital, Hilton Head, S. C, for Private J. Lind, of Company E, 47th P. V., and on October 28, 1862, one for a private of Company F, 47th P. V. On January 14, 1863, Com- pany F was detailed on special duty in engineer's department, at St. Helena, Special Order No. 1, to report to Lieut. Edwards, N. Y. Engineers, Superintendent of Constmction, engaged in building a wharf at St. Helena, was relieved, February 23, 1863, and rejoined the Regiment, at Hilton Head, S. C.
On February 9, 1864, part of Company F, under command of Capt. Lewis, embarked on the steamer Island City, and proceeded up the Nassau River, Fla., to furnish support to Maj. Penny packer's advance against Camp Cooper. The company also made a raid into Georgia, from Woodstock Mills, to destroy the telegraph con- nection from Tallahassee, Fla., to Savannah, Ga., which was success- fully accomplished, after a march of nearly twenty miles, capturing a rebel mail rider by the way. The return march was accelerated by the approach of a part of the rebel Gen. Clinch's command. The company also made a reconnoissance up the St. Mary's River, in March, 1864, for the purpose of obtaining some mill fixtures for use in the department.
Company G, Broomall Guards.
Company G was recruited in Delaware Co., Pa., by Jesse L. Cammins, fourth son of George and Matilda Babb Cummins, who was bom in the township of Upper Providence, Delaware Co., Pa , in 1840. His father dying while he was quite young placed him abnost upon his own resources. He early exhibited great precision as a marksman, and a desire for the experiences of hunting and frontier life. With an elder brother, he went West during his
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52 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
minority. They together encountered, in a log house, on Eden Prairie, one of the severest of Minnesota winters, cooking and baking for themselves. Jesse returned home before the commence- ment of the rebellion, and began to develop business qualifications, energy and order. Not having selected a tra(ie, he was induced to enter the law office of Hon. John M. Broomall, vrtth whom he studied law, at Media, Delaware Co., and had just entered upon the practice of his profession, at that place, when the rebellion occurred. At the first call of the President for troops, he enlisted as a private in Company I, 9th Regiment P. V., in the three months' service. The company was commanded by Capt. H. B. Edwards, of Chester, Pa., and served with Gen. R. Patterson's com- mand, in Maryland and Virginia. At the expiration of its term, he was discharged at Harrisburg, Pa., on July 29, 1861. Capt. Cummins was authorized, by Col. H. R. Guss, to recruit a company for his Regiment, on August 25, 1861. He commenced to recruit his company about September 1. The men enlisted were mostly from the vicinity of Media and Chester, in Delaware County. By October 15, 1861, an aggregate of eighty-three men being enlisted, they were mustered into the service of the United States, at Camp Wayne, West Chester, by Maj. G. Pennypacker, with the following named officers: captain, Jesse L. Cummins, Media, Del. Co.; Ist lieutenant, Caleb Hoopes, Upper Providence, Del. Co.; 2d lieute- nant, Joseph M. Borrell, Media, Del. Co.; 1st sergeant, Reuben H. Smith, M. D.; 2d sergeant, William H. Eves; 3d sergeant, John C. Morton; 4th sergeant, William M. Collom; 5th sergeant, Thomas J. McMullen; 1st corporal, Gasway O. Yamall; 2d corporal, Wil- liam N. Baker; 3d corporal, Thomas J. Wade; 4th corporal, William H. Cox; 5th corporal, Harry G. Yocum; 6th corporal, Israel Oat; 7th corporal, Simon Litzenberg; 8th corporal, Reece L. Weaver; musicians, Jonathan S. Farra and George W. Ross; team- ster, Enoch Dunlap.
The company was filled to the maximum number about Novem- ber 16, and, from the time of its muster, occupied quarters in the barracks, on the north side of Camp Wayne, adjoining Com- pany F. Being the seventh organized, it became Company G in the 97th Regiment. The militia name adopted was Broomall Guards, in compliment to Hon. John M. Broomall Member of Con- gress from the 7th Congressional District, and a resident of the lo- cality from which the company was recruited.
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VACANCIES AND PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY G. 53
On December 21, 1861, 5th Corp. Harry G. Yocum died, at Fortress Monroe, Va. On January 1, 1862, 3d Sergt. John C. Morton was transferred to Company I, at his own request. The 4th and 5th sergeants were advanced, 1st Corp. Yarnall appointed 5th sergeant and the other corporals promoted. Privates Albin Edwards and Eli B. Grubb were appointed 7th and 8th corporals.
Capt. Cummins commanded his company until May 1, 1862, when, owing to failing health, from exposure and climatic influences, he resigned and was honorably discharged, at Edisto Island, S. C, Special Order No. 53, Department of the South, approved by Maj. Gen. D. Hunter, commanding the department. He then returned home and became somewhat improved in health, after a tour through the Western States. On June 17, 1863, he again enlisted as a private in Capt. Joseph Pratt's Company I, 29th Regiment Penn- sylvania Militia, called out for the emergency when Lee invaded Pennsylvania. He served with that company until August 1, 1863, when he was mustered out of service, with the company, at Harris- barg. Pa., by Capt. M. A. Kerr, 1st U. S. Arty., mustering officer.
Capt. Cummins was also drafted by the district authorities about July 23, 1863. (In view of his having three times entered the ser- vice as a volunteer, how his name could have been placed upon the draft list is unaccountable.) Upon his application for exemption, on the ground of three voluntary enlistments, together with physical disability, a certificate of exemption was given him by Capt. E. L. Christman, provost marshal of the district.
Being afflicted with pulmonary consumption, his health soon began to fail rapidly. He died, at Media, near his birth place, December 21, 1866. He had married aft;er his discharge from the 97th Regiment. His wife survived him but a short time, leaving a son, James R. Cummins, Jr., now under the care of his uncle, James R Cummins, of Media.
The vacancy in the command of Company G, for reasons satis- bctoij to the colonel commanding, was filled by the promotion of the senior 1st lieutenant of the Regiment, Louis Y. Evans, of Com- pany A, to captain, to rank from May 1, 1862.
Ist Corp. William N. Baker was discharged. May 25, 1862, and 44 Corp. Isaac Oat died, August 10, 1862. 1st Sergt. Dr. Reuben H. Smith was promoted to hospital steward, September 4, 1862. 2d Sergt. William H. Eves was promoted to 1st sergeant. The re- maining non-commissioned officers had been duly advanced. 1st
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54 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
corporal Thomas J. Wade became 5th sergeant. To fill the other vacancies, Privates John Doyle, Hillary Fox and Henry Hoofstiteler were appointed. The date and order of subsequent promotions of non-commissioned officers of the company could not be accurately ascertained. The record gives such as could be found. Capt. Evans continued in command until October 23, 1862, when he re- signed and was honorably discharged on account of ill health. 1st Lieut. Caleb Hoopes was then promoted to captain and was the commanding officer of the company until his discharge, at the ex- piration of his term of service, October 17, 1864.
To fi.ll the vacancy occasioned by the promotion of 1st Lieut. Hoopes, 4th Sergt. G. O. Yarnall was commissioned 1st lieutenant, October 23, 1862. 2d Lieut. Joseph M. Borrell thereupon tendered his resignation, which, being accepted at department head-quarters, on November 13, 1862, he was accordingly discharged. 1st Sergt. William H. Eves was then promoted to 2d lieutenant, but, ovsdng to delay in receiving his commission, he was not mustered until July 1, 1863. Lieuts. Yarnall and Eves served with the company until the expiration of the term of service, October 22, 1864, and were honorably discharged. Lieut. Yarnall held the position of post ordnance officer, at Fort Clinch, Fernandina, Fla., from October 7,
1863, until April 23, 1864, and was acting ordnance officer of Ar- tillery Brigade, 10th A. C-., from July 2 to October 14, 1864, when he was discharged on account of expiration of term of service.
Lieut. Eves was wounded, near Petersburg, Va., July 10, 1864. He was frequently in command of his company while on active duty at the front, during the Virginia campaign, and was conspicuous for gallantry and bravery in action. Being in command of his company, at New Market Road, September 29, 1864, and at Darby Town, October 7, 1864, he received honorable mention in Gen. Butler's congratulatory order to the Army of the James, dated October 11,
1864. He was also recommended for promotion to the Governor of Pennsylvania. This recognition of his services was well de- served, as during the entire service he was regarded by all his commandihg officers as a most faithful untiring officer, always found at his post of duty.
The term of service of officers and men, originally enlisted in this company, expired about the middle of October, 1864, and they were accordingly discharged and returned home. Thirty-five had re- enlisted as veterans for the war, in accordance with orders already
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY H. 55
Specified. Their names will be found upon the roster of the com- pany, designated " VeL^^ Corp. Cheyney T. Haines was promoted to sergeant major, September 18, 1864, and Corp. Washington W. James to commissary sergeant, April 1, 1865.
After the discharge of the orginal officers of Company G, Sergt. Maj. Cheyney T. Haines was commissioned 1st lieutenant of the company, December 1, 1864. He was mortally wounded in action at Fort Fisher, N. C, January 15, 1865, and died on the same day, having been breveted captain for gallantry during the assault.
Com. Sergt. Washington W. James was commissoned captain of Company G, May 1, 1865, and continued to be the commanding officer until the muster out of the Regiment, at Weldon, N. C, August 28, 1865. 1st Sergt. Isaiah Bird was commissioned 1st lieutenant, May 1, 1865, and Sergt. Jeremiah Yoast, 2d lieutenant, same date. These officers also served in their respective grades during the remainder of the service.
Company H, Greble Guards.
About the middle of August, 1861, Charles Mcllvaine, of Springton, near Waynesburg, Chester Co., Pa., offered to raise a company of volunteers for acceptance by the War Department. This offer was accepted by the Secretary of War, in the following letter, dated:
War Department, August 30, 1861. Capt. Charles McIlvaine, Brandywine Manor, Chester Co., Pa.
Sir: The company of infantry, one hundred and one men, which you offer, is accepted for three years, or during the war provided you have it ready for marching orders in thirty days.
This acceptance is with the distinct understanding that this Department will revoke the commissions of all officers who may be found incompetent for the proper discharge of their duties.
Your men will be mustered into the service of the United States, in accordance vnth General Orders Nos. 58 and 61, from this Department. You are at liberty to attach the company to any of the regiments now forming in Pennsylvania, with the consent of the colonel commanding.
Very respectfiilly, Thomas A. Scott,
Assistant Secretary of War.
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56 HISTORY OP THE NINETr-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
Capt. Mcllvaine was the only surviving son of Hon. Abraham Robinson Mcllvaine, a prominent citizen of Chester Co., who was elected to represent the 7th Congressional District, then composed of Chester Co., Pa., and took his seat at the commencement of the Twenty-eighth Congress, being afterwards re-elected for three suc- cessive Congresses. He was a member of the House of Representa^ tives of Pennsylvania, in 1836 and 1837, and declined a nomination to the State Senate, in 1838, his private affairs demanding his entire attention. In 1840, he was the representative of his district in the Electoral College of Pennsylvania, casting his vote for the success- ful candidates for the Presidency and Vice-Presidency. In June, 1840, he was nominated for a vacancy in the State Legislature, but the Speaker of the House withholding the order, the special election was not held.
Mr. Mcllvaine entered Congress as a member of the old Whig party, an ardent supporter of the pohcy of a protective tariff, and stood among the earhest and most constant opponents of the an- nexation of Texas, taking the position " that annexation would be unconstitutional, injurious to the interests of the free States, as it tended to extend and perpetuate slavery and to involve the country in war." He subsequently took strong ground in opposition to the prosecution of the aggressive war against Mexico, and in a speech delivered in the House of Representatives, on June 18, 1846, ably presented the aggressive attitude of the Administration in in- volving the country in war without authority of law and in viola^ tion of the Constitution. The constituents of Mr. Mcllvaine fully sustained his course in Congress in both public and private expres- sions.*
In 1848, and for several successive years, he was President of the Agricultural Society of Chester and Delaware Counties, and for many years was Vice-President of the Pennsylvania State Agricul- tural Society. He possessed the personal esteem of men of all parties, the excellence of his private character being recognized by all within reach of its influence. He died August 22, 1863, aged about seventy years.f
♦History of Congress, Biographical and Political, by Henry G. Wheeler, 1848.
f This family of Mcllvaine is descended from Allan's Mcllvaine, who, in 1520, secured from Queen Mary the grant of lands in Upper and Nether Orimmet, in Ayr, Scotland. He was the first Laird of Grimmet. Two of his sons fell in
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY H. 57
Charles McHvaine was born at Springton farm, one of the original Penn manors, near Waynesburg, Chester Co., Pa., May 31, 1840. His early education was received, under the guidance of his father and a private instructor, at home. At the age of ten, he entered the Northwest Grammar School, in Philadelphia, and passed through its course, before attaining the age of twelve, at a sacrifice of health which required a suspension of his studies. Having access to his father's library, and inheriting one from his grand- fether, with a strong desire to acquire knowledge, he had oppor- tunity for pursuing earnestly his studies at home. In this he was encouraged by his parents, whose liberality enabled him to add quite extensively to his library. At the age of eighteen, he entered an engineer corps, then making the survey for the Brandywine and Waynesburg Railroad, as chainman. After one year of service in that capacity, he was promoted to the position of division engineer and placed in charge of the upper division of the above-named road, in which service he was engaged when the rebellion occurred. Upon the acceptance, by the Secretary of War, of his offer to raise a company for the service, he commenced to recruit his company, after having arranged with Col. Guss to attach it to the 97th Kegiment. Bills were struck off and posted all over the country about Springton, Waynesburg and villages along the Welsh Moun- tain and Conestoga Valley, and meetings called at the places designated. As fast as recruits were obtained, they were taken to Camp Wayne, at West Chester, and mustered into the service, by Maj. G. Pennypacker. The men occupied quarters on the south side of the camp. After quite a number of recruits had been ob- tained by Capt. Mcllvaine, it was decided to unite his men with those enlisted by David Jones, of West Chester, who had served as 1st Ueutenant of Company F, 9th Regiment, in the three months' service, who had also been authorized by Col. Guss to recruit for the Regiment; thus aggregating eighty-three officers and men, the number necessary for the organization of the eighth company, of which Charles Mcllvaine was mustered as captain, on October 17, 1861, and David Jones as 1st lieutenant; the understanding being
the battle of Faoshawe, and two of bis graodchildren were in tbe following of the Earl of Casselis, at Lady Care, in 1601. Tbe family were known as Cove- ntoters, iind suffered terribly in tbe persecution of tbe Scotih Presbyterians, by tbe King's troops, wbich caused tbeir emigration to Ireland, wbere tbey re- otoincd about one generation.
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58 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
had that Lieut. Jones was to be regimental quarter-master. Thomas S. Taylor, of West Chester, was mustered as 2d lieutenant.
The company was called the Greble Guards, in honor of the brave officer of that name who fell at Big Bethel. The non-commissioned officers were: 1st sergeant, El wood P. Baldwin; 2d sergeant, Jeffer- son T. Massey; 3d sergeant, George A. Lemaistre; 4th sergeant, Joseph H. Walton; 5th sergeant, William Garver; 1st corporal, Thomas John; 2d corporal, John A" Russell; 3d corporal, George W. Bums; 4th corporal, Robert S. Keene, Jr.; 5th corporal, George H. Dumall; 6th corporal, Thomas J. Henderson; 7th corporal, WiUiara F. Smith; 8th corporal, Abner Evans.
The company did not receive arms at Camp Wayne, but was drilled in the step, march, etc., by its officers, with the same dili- gence and attention given by officers of the other companies.
On the 29th of October, 1861, Capt Mcllvaine was notified, by Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary of War, of his appointment, by the President of the United States, as captain in the 19th Infantry, U. S. A., to rank from that date, with orders, in case of his acceptance of the appointment, to report in person for orders, to the colonel of that regiment, at Indianapolis, Ind.
In consideration of his promise to the men enrolled by him, to remain in the service with them, his acceptance of this appoint- ment was qualified by a request to be permitted to remain in the volunteer service, during the term of his enlistment, which being granted by the Secretary of War, he continued in command of his company.
On October 31, 1861, 1st Lieut. David Jones was mustered, as regimental quarter-master, by Lieut. Col. C. F. Ruff, U. S. commis- sary of muster. 2d Lieut. Thomas S. Taylor was promoted to the vacancy, November 5, and 1st Sergt. Elwood P. Baldwin was pro- moted to 2d lieutenant, to which grade both were mustered by Maj. G. Pennypacker, on that date. 2d Sergt. Jefferson T. Massey was' then appointed 1st sergeant. 3d Sergt. Lemaistre was promoted to sergeant-major of the Regiment, and transferred to the non-com- missioned staff. Corps. John and Russell were promoted to ser- geants, and Privates James McConnell and Thomas W. Durnall to 7th and 8th corporals.
On the arrival, at Fernandina, Fla., March 5, 1862, Company H, under command of Capt. Mcllvaine, established the first picket line outside the town, and came upon a masked battery intended
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VACANCIES AND PROxMOTIONS IN COMPANF H. 59
for protection of the retreating rebels toward Harrison's Landing, who, in their haste, had left two guns in position, which were brought in by the company. At Jacksonville, the company took part in the arduous picket duty and night skirmishing performed by the 97th Regiment. Soon after entering upon active service, the regulation hat, scales, etc., were mostly discarded by the other companies, on account of their inconvenience and imposing unne?- cessary labor upon the men. By hard work, Capt. Mcllvaine had required his men to retain them, and, from the company fund, pro- vided the men with gloves and other articles that added to their personal appearance, the company being favorably noticed, in these respects, by Gen. Wright, the brigade commander, at a grand review, at Hilton Head, S. C, by Gen. Hunter. Upon making his head-quarters at Seabrook, in North Edisto, Gen. Wright selected Company H as guard at head-quarters, April 25, 1862, and retained it upon that duty until the march toward James Island. The company then formed part of the rear guard, and was a part of the force left to guard the passage of a creek on James Island, about five miles south of Legareeville, S. C.
On April 29, 1862, 1st Lieut. Thomas S. Taylor resigned, on account of ill health, and was honorably discharged. 2d Lieut. Elwood P. Baldwin was then promoted to 1st lieutenant and Sergt. Maj. George A. Lemaistre was promoted to 2d lieutenant of the company.
On November 5, 1862, 1st Lieut. Elwood P. Baldwin resigned, on account of failing health, and was honorably discharged. He sub- sequently recovered and re-enlisted as a private in this company, as will appear in the record. There was no immediate promotion to fill the vacancy.
On April 29, 1863, while serving upon the staff of Gen. Terry, Capt Mcllvaine made application for a leave of absence for twenty days, on account of a severe bronchial affection. This application was forwarded to the department head-quarters, by Gren. A. H. Terry, with the following endorsement:
Hi). QuAR. U. S. Forces, Hilton Head, S. C, April 28, 1863.
Capt. Mcllvaine is a most excellent and faithful officer, and fully deserving of any indulgence which the interest of the service will permit. Although in feeble health, suffering from bronchial disease, he has remained on duty at the sacrifice of health and comfort.
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60 HISTORY OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
for the purpose of accompanying his regiment in the late movement on Charleston. I respectfully commend his application to the favor- able consideration of the major general commanding.
[Signed] A. H. Terry,
Brig. Gen. Comdg. Post.
The leave of absence being approved at department head-quarters, Capt. Mcllvaine went north and returned at its expiration.
About June 12, 1863, having previously tendered his resignation, on account of continued ill health, he received the following dis- charge :
Hd. Qrs. Deft. South, Hilton Head, S. C, June 10, 1863. Special Order. No. 327.
Par. Vni. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Capt. Charles Mcllvaine, 97th Pa. Vols., having tendered his resignation, on the ground of ill health, and having been approved by the medical director, Department South, the same is hereby ac- cepted, to take effect this date.
Capt. Mcllvaine is accordingly honorably discharged the military service of the United States.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
[Signed] Israel R. Sealy,
1st Lieut. 47th N. Y. Vols, A. A. A. Gen.
He also resigned the captaincy in the 19th Infantry, U. S. A., which had been held open for his acceptance, after discharge from the volunteer service.
Before the notice of discharge was received, Capt. Mcllvaine was tendered the appointment of a majority in the 1st South Carolina Volunteers, by Lieut. Col. M. S. Littlefield, commanding 1st South Carolina Volunteers, which appointment he decided to accept. He received orders from Gen. Hunter, detailing him for duty with the 1st South Carolina Volunteers, with directions to report to Col. Littlefield, at Morris Island, to recruit for that regiment. Upon the acceptance of his resignation, however, he determined to return north for the benefit of his failing health. The vacancy in Com- pany H, caused by the resignation of Capt. Mcllvaine, was filled by the promotion of 2d Lieut. George A. Lemjustre to captain, to rank from June 11, 1863. Owing to active operations in the de-
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VACANCIES AND PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY H. 61
partment and upon Morris Island, and the invasion of Pennsyl- vania, by Gen. Lee, there was considerable delay in commissions being received from that State. Capt. Lemaistre was, therefore, prevented from muster. He continued to command the company as 2d Ueutenant. At Hilton Head, S. C, April 13, 1863, Company H, under command of 2d Lieut. George A. Lemaistre, was detailed for provost guard duty, with orders to report to Capt. Z. H. Robin- son, 9th Maine Volunteers, provost marshal. The company moved its quarters within the provost guard camp, being dropped for the time from the regimental morning reports. The company remained upon that duty until released by orders, the date of which has not been retained.
At Femandina, Fla., the company was stationed, under the com- mand of Capt. Lemaistre, at Old Town, where it remained upon duty while at that post. In the action at Green Plains, Bermuda Hundred, Va., on May 20, 1864, Capt. Lemaistre was severely wounded in the arm and disabled from further service, and, being absent from his command on account of wounds, he was not mustered as captain. He was honorably discharged, September 20, 1864, at the expiration of his term of service.
Thirty-two men of the company had re-enlisted as veterans for the war and were re-mustered, by Lieut. M. V. B. Richards, with two others of the Regiment. The subsequent promotions were made from those who re-enlisted. On May 1, 1864, Sergt. George H. Durnall was promoted to 1st lieutenant of the company and, on May 10, Sergt. Lewis H. Watkin was promoted to 2d lieutenant. The commissions of these officers had just reached the Regiment when it went into action, at Green Plains, Va., previous to their being mustered. Both were killed in the memorable charge upon Gen. Pickett's division, which swept down so many of the bravest and best of the Regiment. Durnall and Watkin had been selected for promotion in recognition of faithful service. They were young men of much promise, beloved by all the Regiment. Their bodies were never recovered, as they fell upon a portion of the field of which the enemy retained possession. The next promotions in the company were those of Sergt. Theodore M. Smedley to 1st lieute- nant, August 8, 1864, and Sergt. Phares P. Brown to 2d lieute- nant, September 21, 1864. On April 5, 1865, 1st Lieut. Smedley was promoted to captain, to rank from December 5, 1864, and 2d lieut. Brown to Ist lieutenant, to rank from same date. Sergt.
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Isaac L. Dutton was promoted, May 1, 1865, to 2d lieutenant. These officers held their respective positions during the remainder of the service, and were mustered out with the Regiment, August 28, 1865. Capt. Smedley was wounded in the charge upon Fort Fisher, N. C, January 15, 1866, and was appointed brevet captain, in orders, for gallantry in command of his company during the action.
Company I, Brooke Guards.
This company was recruited by George W. Hawkins, of Dela- ware Co., Pa., assisted by Sketchly and Annesley N. Morton, sons of Judge Sketchly Morton, of Delaware Co., whose great grand- father, Hon. John Morton, was a signer of the Declaration of Inde- pendence.
Capt. Hawkins was born at Chester, Delaware Co., Pa., Novem- ber 18, 1827. As a biographical sketch of him will appear in an- other part of this work, it is not necessary to give his record here. In response to the call of President Lincoln, for seventy-five thou- sand volunteers, he enlisted as a private in the Washington Grays, of Philadelphia, which became Company A in the 17th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanded by Col. Francis E. Patterson, being mustered into the service of the United States, April 25, 1861. This regiment served with Gen. Robert Patterson's command, in Maryland and Virginia, during the three months' term, and was discharged at Harrisburg, Pa., August 2, 1861.
Soon after his return to Delaware County, his zeal for the national cause induced him to return to the service, and having ascertained that a regiment was being raised by Col. Guss, from the district composed of Chester and Delaware Counties, he obtained authority from that officer, and in co-operation with the Mortons, commenced to recruit a company. Every inducement being afforded by Col. Guss to make the company a success, recruiting commenced about September 1, 1861, but owing to the number of enlistments already made from the district, for the other companies of the 97th and other regiments, the number increased but slowly. The first muster for the company was on the 16th of September, at Camp Wayne, by Maj. G. Pennypacker, about twenty-five recruits being mustered. They then went into quarters on the south side of Camp Wayne,
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ORGANIZATION OP COMPANY I.
in charge of the officers engaged in recruiting for th one of whom remained at the camp to drill and e men while the others were looking up additional recruiti tember 21 and October 9, 15, 17, and 19, additional n made, aggregating, on the latter date, fifty-three Sketchly Morton, Jr., was mustered as 1st lieutenant i pany, which was now designated Company I, 97th P Volunteers. The militia name adopted was the Brooke compliment to Hon. H. Jones Brooke, State Senator and Delaware Counties, and a resident of Media, Delaw Pa. The men of this company were mostly from Dela\^ Additional musters were made for the company on < November 7, 8, 10 and 16. It yet lacked a suffici( for the muster of its full complement of officers. Bei Camp Wayne, on November 16, Annesley N. Morto tered as 2d lieutenant of the company.
The original officers, and non-commissioned officers < 1 were as follows: captain, .George W. Hawkins; 1st Sketchly Morton, Jr., and 2d lieutenant, Annesley N. Morton, Delaware Co., Pa.; 1st sergeant, J^mes WiUia geant, John Knapp; 3d sergeant, Thomas N. Watson; 4 John C. Morton; 5th sergeant, George W. DufFee; 1 William R. Wood ; 2d corporal, William P. Hayman ; John L. Morton; 4th corporal, Robert Trowland; 5 Clayton C. Elbertson; 6th corporal, Thomas Creigan; 1 William Otto well; 8 th corporal, vacant.
Capt. Hawkins could not be mustered until the com] aggregate of eighty-three men. He was subsequently r order of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter, commanding Departr South, April 19, 1862, to rank from October 29, 18 at Camp Wayne, the company received such instructi and discipline as their limited time afforded, Capt. H his lieutenants being indefatigable in their efforts to bri pany to a degree of proficiency that should not leave behind those companies that had longer opportunity : tions. The company was uniformed but not armed at Ct
When the Regiment reached Fortress Monroe, Va. Sketchly Morton, Jr., returned to the district for the pu taining recruits to fill the company. There was, howev success realized afler the departure of the Regiment. ]
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were sent forward in December, 1861; one in January; one in February; one in March, and two in April, 1862.
In consequence of long-continued close confinement on shipboard, during the movements for the reduction of Fort Pulaski, January, February and March, 1862, the health of many officers and men was much impaired. Of these, 2d Lieut. A. N. Morton suflfered seriously, necessitating his resignation, and return to a northern climate. He was, therefore, honorably discharged, at Hilton Head, S. C, April 16, 1862, and returned home.
Upon the resignation of Lieut. Morton, 1st Sergt. James Wil- liams was promoted to 2d lieutenant, April 16, 1862; he resigned and was honorably discharged, September 8, 1862. John Knapp, who had previously been promoted to 1st sergeant, was then pro- moted to 2d lieutenant, to rank from September 10, 1862. The next vacancy in the company officers was caused by the death of 1st Lieut. Sketchly Morton, Jr., of yellow fever, at Hilton Head, S. C, November 12, 1862. An account of this sad event wiU be given in another part of this history. This was the first death of an officer of the Regiment, and caused a deep-felt regret for the loss of one so young, sb bright and earnest in all his eflfbrts, and endeared, by his gentle and genial nature, to the entire circle of his brother officers.
There was no immediate promotion to fill this vacancy, or those of the non-commissioned officers, on account of the absence of Capt. G. W. Hawkins on recruiting service. The record of these could only be presented in the record roll, owing to the absence of any reliable data in regard to the time and order of promotions. 2d Lieut. John Knapp resigned, and was honorably discharged, at Femandina, Fla., February 5, 1864. About this time, thirty-seven of the company, with others of the Regiment, re-enUsted as vete- rans and received a furlough of thirty days. The vacancies in the company officers were now filled by the promotions of 1st Sergt. George W. Duffee to 2d lieutenant, to rank from February 5, 1864, and on February 6, was promoted to 1st lieutenant; 2d Sergt. W. H. H. Gibson was promoted to 2d lieutenant, to rank from February 6, 1864, both being of the number who had re-enUsted.
Capt. Hawkins continued in command of his company until the expiration of his term of service, being mortally wounded in action, at Darby Town, October 27, 1864, and died on the 28th. As the term of service of the men, enlisted in 1861, expired in October and
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ORGANIZATION OF COMPANY K. 65
November, 1864, they were accordingly mustered out and returned to their homes. On December 2, 1864, Ist Lieut. George W. Duffee was commissioned as captain of the company, 2d Lieut. W. H. H. Gibson was promoted to 1st lieutenant and 1st Sergt. George M. Middleton was promoted to 2d lieutenant. These officers served with the company during the remainder of the war, and were mustered out with the company and Regiment, at Wel- don, N. C, August 28, 1866.
Company I was detailed, with Company A, to occupy Paris Island, S. C, February 17, 1863, and moved over from Hilton Head, where the Regiment was then stationed, the detachment being under the command of Capt. F. M. Guss, of Company A. These two companies were relieved and rejoined the Regiment, at Hilton Head, S. C, March 26, 1863. For an account of this ser- vice, see narrative of the Regiment.
Company K, Wayne Guards.
The tenth company of the Regiment was organized by Capt. WilUam Wayne, of Paoli, Chester Co., Pa., a descendant of the renowned Maj. Gen. Anthony Wayne, the hero of Stony Point, one of the most daring and successful officers of the Revolutionary War.
Capt. Wayne, being almost the only remaining descendant of the femily, succeeded to the title and possession of the family estate- and mansion that had been the residence of Gen. Wayne, situated near the memorable spot of the Paoli massacre. Possessed of ample competency and surrounded by the comforts of a most at- tractive home, with wife and young children just at an age to most require the presence of the husband and the father's care, Capt. Wayne, true to the impulses of his patriotic ancestry and to his own sense of duty, resigned all these in response to the call of his country for defenders, in her hour of peril, trusting all to the care of Him who has promised to be a shelter unto the widow and the iatherless.
Authority to recruit a company for the Regiment was given by CoL Guss to Capt. Wayne, about September 1, 1861, when he im- mediately entered actively upon the work of recruiting. Various localities were visited in company with other officers. Success waa 5
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necessarily limited, owing to the ground having already been very much gone over and many enlistments made for other companies and regiments ; but, through perseverance in the effort, a few men were obtained almost every day. These were taken into quarters in Camp Wayne about September 20, and occupied the barracks adjoining Company I, on the south side of the camp. The first muster for the company was on September 28, when five men were mustered into service by Maj. G. Pennypacker; four more were mustered on September 30. During October, thirty-five additional were mustered. By November 7, the number reached fifty-three, an aggregate sufficient for the muster of one lieutenant. Samuel V. Black, one of the first five enlisted, was thfen mustered as 2d lieutenant of the company, and took command of the recruits in camp. Three more men were mustered while the Regiment re- mained at Camp Wayne. For the position of 1st lieutenant, John J. Barber, of West Chester, was strongly recommended by his friends. It was also understood that he was well qualified for the duties of an officer and could secure several recruits. Capt. Wayne was induced to consent to his appointment in the hope of realizing a more rapid accession of recruits. In this, however, he was disap- pointed, for, notwithstanding .Mr. Barber seemed to be quite earnest in his efforts, he did not succeed in adding to the number of enlist- ments.
At the time of leaving Camp Wayne, fifty-six men had been obtained for the company, being under the number requisite for .the muster of captain and 1st lieutenant This was necessarily de- ferred until an aggregate of eighty-three men could be secured. Those officers were subsequently mustered at Hilton Head, S. C, about April 19, 1862, by order of Maj. Gen. Hunter, to rank from October 29, 1861. The militia name adopted by the company was the Wayne Guards. The officers designated before leaving Camp Wayne were: captain, William Wayne, of Paoli, Chester Co., Pa.; 1st lieutenant, John J. Barber, of West Chester, Pa.; 2d lieute- nant, Samuel V. Black, of Chester Co., Pa.; 1st sergeant, Levi L. March; 2d sergeant, James M. Griffith; 3d sergeant, David P. Thomas; 4th sergeant, William S. Underwood; 5th sergeant, R. Powell Fithian, appointed December 3, 1861; 1st corporal, Mariott Brosius; 2d corporal, Channing Brinton; 3d corporal, William E. Davis; 4th corporal, David S. Christman; 5th corporal, Alfred J. Hartman; 6th corporal, William Taylor; 7th corporal, Bamet R.
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VACANCIES AND PROMOTIONS IN COMPANY K. 67
Rapp; 8th corporal, James W. Phillips; musicians, John H. Kauff- man and George W. Smith; wagoner, Peter J. Wonderly. The order announcing these appointments was issued January 29, 1862. Of the men originally enlisted in this company, and who subse- quently joined as volunteer recruits, several had served in the three months' campaign, mostly in the 9th Regiment Pennsylvania Vo- lunteers. They were all reliable and efficient soldiers, many of the company being most estimable young men of the best families in Chester County. The drill and discipline attained at Camp Wayne were more than proportionate to the limited opportunity afforded, it being the last company organized. Equipment of the men in clothing, etc., was furnished as fast as enlisted, but no arms were issued to the company until its arrival at Washington. Lieut. Barber had remained in West Chester, when the Regiment left Camp Wayne, in order to obtain recruits. At Fortress Monroe, Va., Sergt. R. P. Fithian was detailed upon recruiting service and returned to West Chester with 1st Lieut. Thomas Taylor. Ten recruits were received by the company in December, 1861 ; six in January, 1862; nine in February; one in March; one in April and another, November 18, 1862.
Capt. Wayne commanded his company through the operations of 1862; the expedition to Warsaw Sound, Gra.; Fort Clinch, Fernan- dina and Jacksonville, Fla.; Edisto, John and James Islands, S. C, and during part of the October campaign of that year. At Hilton Head, S. C, on September 10, 1862, he was detailed on recruit- ing service and returned home. His health having suffered mate- rially from exposure and climatic influences, and being unable to return to duty, he tendered his resignation and received an honor- able discharge from the service, by order of the Secretary of War, Special Order No. 24, dated January 19, 1863. There was no immediate promotion to fill the vacancy. The Regiment being then encamped at St. Helena Island, relieved of active duty for sanitary considerations, recommendation for promotion was delayed as long as possible in order for better observation to determine the best interests of the company under the circumstances. 1st Lieut. Barber tendered his resignation about March 1, which, being accepted, he was honorably discharged, March 9, 1863. 2d Lieut. Samuel V. Black was then recommended for promotion to 1st lieu- tenant and let Sergt. Levi L. March for 2d lieutenant, their com- missions being dated May 3, 1863. 2d Sergt. James M. Griffith was
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68 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
then promoted to 1st sergeant. The three other sergeants were also promoted. On May 6, 1863, 1st Corp. Mariott Brosius was pro- moted to 5th sergeant, the remaining corporals being also promoted. Private John W. Thompson was promoted to corporal. 2d Sergt. David P. Thomas was discharged for disability, at Hilton Head, S. C, October 14, 1862. 3d Sergt. Underwood was promoted to 2d sergeant. The other sergeants were also promoted and Corp. Channing Brinton was designated as 5th sergeant. The dates of subsequent promotions to corporals not being accurately obtained, it is not known who was next appointed to that rank. Ist Lieut. Samuel V. Black was promoted to captain, to rank from May 1, 1864; 2d Lieut. Levi L. March to 1st lieutenant, from same date, and 1st Sergt. James M. Griffith was recommended for promotion to 2d lieutenant, but before the application for these commissions could be forwarded the latter was mortally wounded, in action. May 20, at Green Plains, Va., and died of his wounds on June 3, 1864. 2d Sergt. William S. Underwood was promoted to 1st ser- geant, to rank from May 1, and, upon the death of Lieut. Griffith, he was recommended for promotion to 2d lieutenant, to rank from May 1, 1864. He was not mustered as 2d lieutenant on account of delay in receiving his commission. On July 30, 1st Lieut. Levi L. March was mortally wounded, in action, at the battle of the Mine, •and died of his wounds, after the amputation of an arm and leg, August 13, 1864. 2d Lieut. Underwood was then promoted to let lieutenant, and was mustered upon his second commission only, to rank from December 2, 1864. There was no immediate promotion to 2d lieutenant. Capt. Black had commanded the company in all the engagements of the James River operations until captured, in action, at Deep Bottom, Va., August 16, 1864. He remained a prisoner until paroled in April, 1866, rejoined the company, April 10, at Ealeigh, N. C, and was honorably discharged, May 4, 1865, to date January 29, 1865, expiration of term.
After the capture of Capt. Black, the command of the company devolved upon 1st Lieut. Underwood, who led it in the remaining engagements before Richmond and in the assault upon Fort Fisher, and was of the number who received recommendation for promotion for gallantry, in orders from the Secretary of War. He was pro- moted to captain, February 28, 1865, and continued commanding officer of the company until mustered out, August 28, 1865. Wil- liam M. Sullivan, who had been promoted to 1st sergeant upon the
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Organization op Guss Fencibles Cornet Band. 69
promotion of Ist Sergt.^ Underwood to 2d lieutenant, was promoted to Ist lieutenant, to rank from February 28, 1865, and Sergt. Mariott Brosius, who had been severely wounded, in action. May 20, 1864, at Ghreen Plains, Va., and had since been absent in United States hospital, was promoted to 2d lieutenant. Being unable to perform active duty, he was discharged from the service, January 2, 1865, before receiving his commission, and not feeling able to resume duty, therefore declined to be mustered. Ist Sergt. J. W. Thomp- son was subsequently promoted to 2d lieutenant and mustered on February 1, 1865. Sergt. J. R. Montgomery was then promoted to Ist sergeant.
The re-enlistment of veterans in this company amounted to thirty- seven. Those of the original number and recruits who did not re- enlist were discharged, at the expiration of their term of service , and returned to their homes in October and November, 1864.
Guss Fencibles Cornet Band.
On October 24, 1861, the regimental band, under the leadership of John H. Taylor, of West Chester, assisted by Gteorge Ellinger, of Lancaster City, numbering twenty-two picked musicians, was mnstered into service, for three years, as the Guss Fencibles Cornet Band. A part of these men had been previously mustered in Com- pany H, during the organization of that company. Upon being transferred to the band, it was requisite for them to be re-mustered. After a brief period of practice together, a degree ot proficiency was
manifested that soon rendered the camp more attractive from the influence of enlivening strains of music. An increased interest was also added to guard mounting and dress parade, giving the camp more of the order of a military post or garrison, where every duty was duly observed in accordance with army regulations.
During the time the band remained with the Regiment it continued a feature of interest that often gave relief to the monotony of duty, discoursing melody during the hours of evening or intervals of camp Kfe, when no other influence was available upon which the thoughts might rest or be held with the power by which the floating notes of some familiar air, borne upon the evening breeze, recalling dear and familiar scenes, rendered them still more dear. While the joys of the far-off home and all its endearing and holy influences were
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70 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
thus brought more near, inspiring also the hope of the good time to come when we might again listen to the dear strains of " Home, sweet home," and " When this cruel war is over/'
The band was discharged, at Hilton Head, S. C, August 31, 1862, in accordance with Greneral Orders No. 91, from the War De- partment, at Wjishington. A few of the men joined as musicians to fill vacancies in the companies, but most of them returned home. Some re-entered the service. All such as were ascertained are noted in the roster.
Independent Company.
Toward the end of 1864, Col. Pennypacker received notice, from the War Department, that an independent company had been as- signed to his Regiment, from Pennsylvania. The company, how- ever, never joined the Regiment nor became identified with its services. The only knowledge of its existence had by any of the officers of the Regiment was subsequently through having offi- cial communications directed to the Independent Company, 97th Regiment P. V., and through unofficial reports, received by Col. Wainvmght, that said company had been assigned to duty in Balti- more. Prof. Bates, in his State History, gives the roster of the officers and men of the company as a part of the organization of the 97th Regiment P. V. [See Bates' History, Vol. III.]
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CAMP WAYNE, WEST CHESTER. 71
CHAPTER II.
Camp Wayne, West Chester; Camp Jones Brooke, Washington; Camp Hamilton, Fortress Monroe, October to December, 1861.
ECRUITING proceeded with all possible diligence, at Camp Wayne, during September, and every effort was being made to complete the organization of the Regiment within the time allotted. About eight hundred men had been enlisted and the number was , being daily increased, less rapidly, however, than was » desirable, primarily owing to the check put upon the spontaneous offer of sevices pouring in from all parts of the north, followed quickly by the intro- duction of a system of bounties deemed essential by the government to promote enlistments, yet which in reality became a serious check thereto, as it became evident that increased bounties were to be re- sorted to in proportion to increased demand for additional troops. Men now waited to enlist under later calls, when the bounty should reach its highest limit, it becoming evident that whatever legislation was probable in regard to bounties would be entirely prospective — benefiting future enlistments — ^rather than general, and retroactive in a spirit of just appreciation of those most deserving of bounty, who earliest tendered their service to their country freely without waiting for such stimulus to awaken their patriotism.
An act of the extra session of the State Legislature had provided for the relief of families of volunteers from the State. The question whether such relief would be extended to the families of the men enlisted in regiments accepted directly by the War Department, being now raised, also tended to materially retard enlistments in the 97th Regiment. In order to obtain the views of the members of the State Legislature, from the district, upon this point, the following letter was authorized to be addressed to the members of the Senate and House of Representatives from Chester and Delaware Counties:
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72 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. [September,
West Chester, Pa., September 4, 1861. Hon. Jacob S. Serrill, State Senator, Hons. Caleb Peibce, Wil- liam T. Shafer, Isaac Acker and Chalkley Harvey, Members of the House of Representatives, Harrisburg, Pa. Dear Sirs: It is desired to have the opinion of members of the late Legislature upon the bill, passed at the extra session, relative to the relief of families of volunteers enlisted in the war for the defence of the Union. Was it designed that companies or regi- ments enlisted within the State, which have been accepted by the War Department, as independent companies or regiments, should be excluded from the benefit of the provisions of the bill] Your views will greatly interest many of your fellow citizens.
Very truly, yours, Isaiah Price.
It is not remembered whether replies were received from all the gentlemen addressed. The two following are found among the papers preserved, which, expressing opposite views upon the ques- tion, are sufficient to indicate the embarrassment thereby occasioned to enlistments in the Regiment at the time, and which became an influence of grave consideration in finally determining the question of merging the Regiment with those of the regularly constituted State organizations:
Darby, Pa., September 7, 1861. Isaiah Price, Esq.
Dear Sir: The object which the Legislature had in view, in pass- ing the act for the relief of the families of volunteers, was to extend such aid to those dependent upon the volunteer for support as might be deemed just and reasonable, by the board of relief constituted by the act in the several counties of the State. I never heard, nor never supposed, that any distinction was contemplated between those who entered the service of the State and those who should be directly mustered into the . service of the United States. No such discrimination, in favor of the first, was intended by the General Assembly, and any construction of the act which shall exclude from its benefit the family of any citizen, who enters the service of his country, is, in my judgment, a violation of its spirit and meaning, and must tend to retard enlistment. I do not pretend to put a legal construction upon the act, but speak of it as I understood it, and the purpose which it was designed by the Legislature to effect. Thousands of men who have joined the army did so without asking
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1^ J ORGANIZATION OP THE REGIMENT. 73
whether it was the State or the United States service they were entering. The object of all was the same. They are fighting for the same noble cause and are making the same sacrifices to sustain it Why, then, should those have any greater claim to the aid of the State than the others] I am one of those who believe that, in a struggle like that in which we are now engaged, every induce- ment should be held out for enlisting, and the premium for the relief of families is one of the strongest which can be offered. It removes an objection which would properly prevent many from becoming soldiers. It is true that the aggregate taxation for war purposes may seem to be oppressive, but which can we best afford, to pay the taxes or lose the government? It were better that every acre of land in Pennsylvania should be mortgaged to its full value than that the cause of the Union should fail! Our government should be dearer to us than our property, and loyal men will be willing to make every sacrifice to preserve it.
Trusting that the application of this law may be as broad and general as it was designed by the Legislature, I remain,
Very truly, yours, Jacob S. Serrill.
Chester Springs, September 9, 1861. Isaiah Price, Esq.
Dear Sir; Yours of 4th instant was received on Saturday, 7th. 1 was of opinion, and think it was the design of the Legislature, that all volunteers, to secure the benefit of the act, must first be recognized by the State authorities. The twelfth section of the act makes it unlawful for any volunteer to leave the Commonwealth unless he shall have been first accepted by the Governor under a requisition from the General Government. The relief committee is restricted in their work of benevolence to such as are dependent upon those who are in the service of their country, under orders from the State authorities. As you are aware, the late proclamation of the Grovemor required all parts of companies, etc., to report at Harrisburg. Pennsylvania, conscious of the patriotism of her sons, desires that all who enter the service of their country should be known and recognized officially by her, that all may partake and enjoy her bounty.
I was not awaire until very recently you were engaged in the good work. May the smiles of a kind Providence ever be upon you. Truly yours, Wm. T. Shafer.
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74 HISTORY OP THE NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. [October,
There had, about this time, some correspondence taken place, be- tween Gov. Curtin and the Secretary of War, in regard to the companies and regiments being organized in the State, by direct authority of the latter, independently of the call upon the State for troops. The Governor urging the claim of the State to have all the troops enlisted and commissioned by the State authorities, pre- vious to acceptance by the War Department; which, being finally acquiesced in, the Regiment now came under the direction of the State authorities, with the distinct understanding that Col. Giiss was to be permitted to complete its organization in accordance with the original design.
The number designating the Regiment had at first been under- stood to be the 42th P. V., but owing to that number being already assigned upon the State records to another regiment, it was designated by Gov. Curtin as the Ninety-seventh Regiment Penn- sylvania Volunteers.
Augustus P. Duer, of Penningtonville, Chester Co., Pa., whp had been appointed lieutenant colonel of the Regiment, by Col. Guss, was mustered on the 7th of October, together with Maj. G. Penny- packer, by Lieut. Col. C. F. Ruff, United States mustering officer of the district. Dr. John R. Everhart, of West Chester, and Dr George W. Miller, of Philadelphia, were mustered as surgeon and assistant surgeon, respectively, on October 14. 1st Lieut. Henry W. Carruthers, of Company C, was mustered as adjutant, October 31, 1861, and Ist Lieut. David Jones, Company H, as quarter- master, on the same date.
To complete the organization of the Regiment, on October 29, Col. Guss had designated the following non-commissioned staff offi- cers from the enlisted men of Regiment, who were transferred to the roster of the field and staff: hospital steward, Harmon Heed, of Company H; sergeant major, George A. Lemaistre, of Company H; quarter-master sergeant, James T. Skiles, of Company B; com- missary sergeant, Thomas McKay, of Company A; drum major, James St. John, Sr., of Philadelphia, Pa.; fife major, Casper C. Fahnestock, of Paoli, Chester Co. These field and non-commis- sioned staff officers had performed the duties of their respective po- sitions, during the progress of the organization, by virtue of verbal appointment from Col. Guss.
George Kirk, of E^sttown, Chester Co., and John F. Forrest, of Delaware County, received the appointment of sutlers. The
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1^-3 ORGANIZATION OF THE REGIMENT COMPLETED. 75
fonner remained with the Regiment until January, 1862, when he was obUged to return home, from Hilton Head, S. C, owing to fitOing health from the influence of the Southern climate. Mr. Forrest continued with the Regiment a much longer period and be- came fully identified with its interest and success, providing the necessary supplies for the comfort of the men and also a substantial ftmd, arising from a percentage upon his sales, which became a basis for the monumental fund. Rev. William M. Whitehead, of New Centreville, Chester Co., was appointed chaplain, by Col. Guss, about the time the Regiment left Camp Wayne, the date of his muster being November 19, 1861, which must have been at Wash- ington, D. C.
Eight companies of the Regiment had now (October 29) reached the requisite number of men duly mustered into each company. Companies I and K yet lacked the aggregate to entitle them to the muster of aU their officers. Until these were obtained. Col. Guss was also delayed, being mustered some months after the Regiment reached Hilton Head, S. C. He, however, entered fully upon the command of his Regiment from October 29, from which date the Regiment was considered an organized command. The first official order to his Regiment was issued by Col. H. R. Guss, October 15, 1861, as follows:
Head-Quartebs, 97th P. V., Camp Wayne, West Chester, Pa., October 15, 1861. %)ecial Orders No. 1.
Augustus P. Duer having been duly mustered in as lieutenant colonel, and Capt. Gralusha Pennypacker as major of the 97th Regi- ment P. v., they will accordingly assume their respective duties, Wednesday morning, October 16, instant.
The officers and men composing this Regiment will respect and obey them in accordance with the rules and articles of war as laid down in United States Army regulations.
lieut. Col. Duer will take command of Camp Wayne, at 9 o'clock A. M., on the 16th inst., and issue such orders as may be necessary for camp regulations. 1st Lieut. Henry W. Carruthers will be tem- porarily detailed as adjutant.
By order of Henry R. Guss, Colonel 97th P. V.
[Signed] Henry W. Carruthers, 1st Lieut., Acting Adjutant.
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Lieut. Col. Duer relieved Maj. Pennypacker in the command of Camp Wayne, as designated in the above order. Regimental orders were now duly issued as occasion required. The camp was be- coming each day a place of increasing interest.
The companies having muskets were regularly drilled, in the manual of arms, by their officers. All the companies were regularly exercised in the various movements required to prepare them for the service, from four to six hours each day being thus occupied.
Schools of instruction for officers were organized and kept up at various periods subsequently during the term of service. The in- struction for officers was mainly devoted to the school of the com- pany and the battalion, and occupied one or more evenings each week. The school for officers was conducted by Col. H. R. Guss, during the early period of the service, and subsequently by Maj. G. Pennypacker. The schools for non-commissioned officers were conducted by a commissioned officer of each company, being devoted chiefly to the school of the soldier and the company.
After the first four companies had progressed sufficiently in com- pany drill, singly, battalion drill was commenced and continued regularly while at Camp Wayne, commanded either by Col. H. R. Guss, Lieut. Col. A. P. Duer, Maj. G. Pennypacker, or the senior captain present. Dress parade daily, and the usual weekly inspec- tion of arms, quarters, etc., as prescribed by the army regulations, was conducted every Sunday morning.
During this period, it was the constant aim of the commanding officer, and also of the company officers, to secure the advantages of perfect drill and discipline for the Regiment, at the outset, in order to render it most efficient for the service upon which it was about to enter.
These efforts caused the camp soon to present the daily routine of duties appertaining to a well-appointed military post; having effi- cient guards, regularly posted and relieved in due form, regular hours appointed for drill of companies, and of squads of recruits acquiring proficiency in the first movements of a soldier's training. These influences naturally resulted in the attainment of a degree of discipline alike creditable to both officers and men.
The varied calls, designating the hours for the usual camp duties, guard mounting, drills, parades, etc., were regularly observed as prescribed, and the entire camp and quarters kept in thorough order
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by the men, tending to impress a proper appreciation of sanitary r^ulations of great value in after service.
While at Camp Wayne, the men were visited by friends from the surrounding district, who brought abundance of supplies, substan- tials and delicacies, for the comfort of those who were soon to leave homes and friends to encounter the perils of war.
The battalion drills and dress parades became occasions of such interest to the families and friends of the men, and to the citizens generally, as to attract thousands daily to witness them. Of these, the most interested spectators were ladies: mothers, wives, daughters and sisters, who came daily to meet a son, husband, father, brother, or one held, perhaps, as dear to her heart as by any of these ties of kindred, coming to behold them again, and for brief moments to enjoy sweet and loving communion with their dear ones, before they should go forth to meet their country's foes in deadly conflict. Who shall measure the depth of that interest that brought, day after day, to witness these preparations, those whose hearts, bleeding with an- guish silently, could yet smile through their tears and bravely bid their loved ones God speed, burying in the all-absorbing present the deep agonies of uncertainty that must for long years cloud the heavens and the earth about their lives, as they bear the burden of its duties with patience and hope, in lonely vacant homes, while their hearts must ever continue to reach out toward these loved ones, thus given up to their country in her time of need, with an unrest which only their return can satisfy.
Many contributions of blankets, stockings, and other articles of utility and comfort, were brought to the camp and distributed to the men by their friends. Some of the companies were the recipients of such favors to a considerable extent, the particulars of which cannot now be ascertained. Company C received one hundred and one pairs of heavy woolen stockings, knit by ladies interested in that company, some of which were knit by Rachel Sharpless, a minister in the society of Friends, then in her eighty-fifth year, two of her grandsons being members of that company and three others in other regiments in the service.
While at Camp Everhart, Company A was the recipient of many favors from the citizens of West Chester. A series of resolutions were drawn up by the members of that company, tendering sincere thanks to Mrs. David McConkey, Mrs. Phebe Evans, Mrs. Lieut. Louis Y. Evans, Mr. and Mrs. Lemuel Kinney, and Mr. William
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Maris, for their many acts of kindness in furnishing, on various occasions, bountiful supplies of edibles, and to the Rev. James R. Anderson, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church, West Chester, since deceased, for a supply of Testaments and other religious reading matter.
The different companies of the Regiment were frequently taken by their company commanders, on Sunday mornings and evenings, to service, at the various churches of West Chester, and, upon a few occasions, to Friends' meeting, arrangements being previously made to have the men seated in a body. Their deportment upon these occasions was uniformly orderly and attentive, evincing a proper regard for the object of their going. Many of the discourses to which they were privileged to listen were impressively addressed to the deep and serious importance of the duties and the dangers of the service upon which they were about to enter, demanding of them most serious consideration, and urging the necessity of an individual reliance upon the Divine power, which alone was sufficient to sustain them in the midst of their perilous and arduous future. The under- lying influences of the cause in which they were called to serve were set forth, showing that a last effort toward supremacy in the national control, by a power hostile to the principles upon which the goverment was founded, had now resorted to the force of arms in resistance to the constituted authorities, devolving the duty upon every true citizen to aid in maintenance of the national integrity. Patriotism was the watchword and the text of the faith preached in those days, like Cromwell's advice to his soldiers, *• to trust in God and keep their powder dry."
On October 29, orders were issued for the first regular inspection of the Regiment, to be held on October 30. Every man was re- quired to be in ranks with clothing in knapsacks and all other accoutrements on. The inspection was duly made by Col. Guss, accompanied by his field officers. It was a new experience to many of the officers and to most of the men, but was quite gratifying to all, as the men were in excellent order, with every part of outfit new and complete, wanting only the experience of usage and self- confidence to become a regiment of the first order, a credit to them- selves and their experienced commander.
On Tuesday, November 12, 1861, Gov. A. G. Curtin, accompanied by the members of his staff, visited Camp Wayne for the purpose of presenting a stand of colors to the 97th Regiment.
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In accordance with previous arrangement, the Governor was met, at Oakland Station, upon the Pennsylvania Railroad, by a commit- tee of citizens appointed at a town meeting on the evening previous. The following gentlemen accompanied the Governor: Lieut. Col. John A. Wright, Lieut. Col. J. B. Price, Lieut. Col. Thomas S. BeD, 61st P. v., Lieut. Col. Charles Hay, Paymaster Gen. Henry D. Maxwell, Commissary Gen. William W. Irwin, Auditor Gen. Thomas E. Cochran, Col. Joseph H. Wilson, of the 101st P. V. (then organizing at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg), Col. Samuel B. Thomas, Deputy Secretary of the Commonwealth, Capt. Charles M. Donovan, of Philadelphia, and Surgeon Gen. H. H. Smith.
As the distinguished visitors arrived opposite the Hill Meeting House, on High Street, they were met by Col. Guss, who had marched his Eegiment to that point for the purpose of escorting the Governor and suite to the Court House, where they arrived at 12.30 P. M. The Governor was received in a very neat and appropriate speech by Joseph J. Lewis. Esq., which was responded to by the Governor, in his usual felicitous manner, thanking the citizens of West Chester for their very kind reception. Further ceremonies were then deferred until after the Governor and suite had dined.
At about 3 P. M., Gov, Curtin and staff, with the other guests, arrived at Camp Wayne, where an* immense concourse of citizens had preceded them.
The Regiment was formed in column by division closed in mass in front of the stand, on the north side of the Fair buildings. The people had crowded around the reserved space with such eagerness as to render it difficult for the guard to keep clear sufficient room for the reception committee and those who were to take part in the proceedings.
When all had been arranged, the Governor came forward, un- covered, holding the staff upon which waved the beautiful stars and stripes of the flag he was about to entrust to the keeping of the Regiment, as its banner, around which to rally when led forth into the performance of whatever duty an imperiled country might de- mand, and, in these words, consigned it to the Regiment:
Fellow citizens and soldiers: I am here to-day for the perform- ance of an official duty. The Legislature of our State, at its late session, provided that regimental flags should be procured and pre- sented to the brave men who should go out from the State for the
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defence of the National Government. This is one of many like occasions in which I have appeared before the soldiers of Pennsyl- vania, and I can truly say that no other has had associations more inspiring to the patriotic breast, or more calculated to stir within me emotions of pride for my native State, with its glowing histories, its continual progress for so many years, and its present devotion to the principles of truth and justice in which its foundations were laid.
I cannot stand here to-day without remembering that, in the year 1682, in the county of Chester, the proprietors and founders of the province enacted, by and with the consent of the delegates assembled, the first body of laws for the government of Pennsyl- vania; those laws which, in their first lines, recognized that from the Almighty come all gifts of truth and justice, and the provisions of which so clearly recognized an abiding faith in the principles which their makers professed. Nor can I forget that in this county of Chester were enacted some of the most trying scenes that illus- trated so forcibly the bravery and steadfastness of the soldiers of that period.
To the great army of the Revolution she gave, too, one of its bravest leaders. No general stood more highly in the confidence of the Father of his Country, none did more valiant or better ser- vice, than Gen. Anthony Wayne. We are now assembled within a few miles of his birthplace, not far from the spot in which he spent much of his life; the place, too, of his death and burial. Chester County has not forgotten him, and his name, made so glo- rious in the war of the Revolution, in the great contest for the establishment of a government upon a basis which thoroughly re- cognized the right of man to self-government. That name, I find, is now inscribed upon the roll of your Regiment and that you have a Wayne as one of your captains.
I am gratified to see, too, that another Revolutionary name has its representatives in your ranks: two lineal descendants of that John Morton, who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, are lieutenants in another company. These facts show that the patriotic fervor, which warmed the men of the olden times, still bums in the hearts of their descendants, who are now ready to die in the defence of those same principles for which their ancestors risked their lives and encountered the hardships of the battle field.
Here, too, we are in the vicinity of Brandywine, Paoli and Valley
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^^•J SPEECH OF GOVERNOR CURTIN. 81
Forge; and here, indeed, we cannot but feel that we are treading upon classic ground.
But, citizen soldiers, while we thus dwell for a moment upon the memories of the glorious past, we may not close our eyes to the stem realities of the present time.
You are here to-day prepared to go forth and battle for the main- tenance of those constitutional rights which were transmitted by Tour ancestors, and for the prostration of which more than two hun- dred and fifty thousand rebels stand arrayed.
You have voluntarily left your homes and firesides, the compa- nions and scenes of your youthful days, with a full knowledge of the probable trials and vicissitudes of a soldier's life, that you may aid, to the extent of your ability, in restoring to its original condition that Government which was fought for by the most courageous band of warriors, and at length triumphantly established by the wisest and most prudent statesmen the world has ever known.
Your mission is not of conquest, is not for spoils and rapine. You will go into those States where rebellion rears her haughty head erect, holding out to those who are loyal at heart and want but the opportunity to display their fidelity as citizens, offering to such as these our Constitution, full, perfect and operative, as it has been adopted by the chosen representatives of the whole people of the United States.
It is for this you are contending; for this you are ready to lay down your lives. But, to the persistent rebel, to the traitor who would strike at this Constitution, and who seeks to destroy this most excellent Government, this glorious Constitution, this national fabric, to him you offer the dread retribution of the sword or the rope of the executioner.
Yours is not a revolutionary struggle — you wish to build up and not destroy. In such a cause, with such antecedents of sacrifice and devotion for the sake of constitutional liberty, with such prospects of a far-extending future, beneath the influence of its institutions, I do most heartily say God speed.
But I cannot be unmindful, whilst thus offering you words of encouragement, of the serious reflections that must come home to the heart of each of you. You leave at home, a mother, a sister, a wife or a child; you are about to part from friends that are dear; you know that the warrior's path is beset with dangers, and that many a day of fatiguing labor, many a night of sleeplessness, will be the 6
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inevitable lot of a soldier's life; bat yours is the virtue that can feel and know all this, yet, for the sake of truth and justice, encounter all these perils in their most trying forms. It is this virtue which makes your position so elevated, as it proves that you are worthy of your sires and the place which gave you birth; that you are fit recipients of the flag of your country, which, by the direction of the Legislature, I now entrust to your keeping. Take, then, this flag; upon its blue field is placed the coat of arms of Pennsylvania, surrounded by the thirty-four stars emblematic of the States of the whole Union.
It is the flag of your fathers and of your country. It will be youK to bear it in the thickest of the fight and to defend it to the last. Upon its return, it will have inscribed upon it the record of those battles through which you have carried it, and will become a part of the archives of Pennsylvania; and there it will remain, through all coming time, a witness to your children and your children's children of the valor of their fathers. With full confidence that in your hands this banner will never be disgraced, I entrust it to your care and for the last time bid you farewell
At the conclusion, the flag was received by Col. H. R. Guss, who said to the Governor :
I have asked the adjutant of the Regiment, Lieut. Henry W. Carruthers, to make the reply to your eloquent address, feeling sure he will more adequately express what I desire to say than I could, speaking being more in his line than mine.
Adjt. Carruthers then came forward and repUed to the eloquent sentiments of the Governor as follows :
Governor: On behalf of Col. Guss and the Ninety-seventh Regi- ment, I receive from your excellency's hands this beautiful flag, the emblem of our country's nationality. I have no language to delineate the emotions that throb within each soldier's breast at this mark of confidence reposed by the grand old Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in them, her citizens. Suffice it to say that we thank you with overflowing hearts; and although we desire to make no idle boasts, and although we profess mainly to be citizens of a quiet agricultural district in the Commonwealth founded by
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^^'^ REPLY OF ADJUTANT CARRUTHERS. 83
Perm, the Apostle of Peace, yet it shall be our endeavor to rally around this standard with a sincere devotion truly worthy of the great cause. We shall endeavor to bear it victoriously aloft, high above the smoke and turmoil of battle, and unpolluted by the touch of an inimical hand; and here, in your august presence, before this multitude, composed of beauty and manhood, in the heart of a county rendered famous and classic by Revolutionary scenes, and by the names of Brandywine, Paoli and Valley Forge, we this day devote our strongest efforts and, if need be, our lives to the defence of liberty and republican government. Again, your excellency, re- presenting the teeming millions of the Keystone State, has addressed us with words of encouragement, with words of compliment and words of hope. We thank you for them; we feel proud that we are Pennsylvanians ; we admire her patriotism ; we glory in her strength ; we rejoice at her prosperity and boast of her elements of greatness and empire; yet we derive a greater satisfaction from the fact that we are American citizens, subjects of a Government founded by Washington, and rather than be less "we would be dogs and bay the moon."
A government so free can never be destroyed; a cause so glorious as its defence cannot but be victorious. How clear it is to the people is evidenced by the patriotic host that, at the first tocsin of alarm, gathered around her planet standard with a spirit more eager for the fray than the wild retainers of the Macgregor's Scot- tish clan. We desire to be numbered with them, and, like the idolized Harry of the West, we believe that the colors which float from this standard should be the credentials of every freeman ; and we shall stand erect whilst life endures, with a spirit undaunted, ready to second the efforts of the Administration in behalf of liberty, the Union and the national prosperity.
The exercises of the day, which were no less impresssive than in- teresting throughout, concluded with