Offered is a great badge worn at the reunion of
the 15th New Jersey Infantry in 1903 held in Morristown, New
Jersey. This badge is a Guest badge worn
by people other than the veterans. The
badge has a gold colored ribbon as its base.
A wonderful U.S. flag is applied and stitched on the upper part of the
badge. Written on the badge in silver
color ink is “Guest – 27th Annual Reunion 15th N.J.V.V.A.
– Morristown, N.J. – October 18, 1906”.
The badge is approximately 5 7/8 inches tall and approximately 2 inches
wide. The badge was made by the
Whitehead & Hoag Company of Newark, New Jersey as noted by the makers label
attached to the back of the ribbon.
15th New Jersey Infantry
Regimental History
Fifteenth Infantry. — Cols., Samuel Fowler, William H. Penrose; Lieut. -Col., Edward L. Campbell; Majs., James M. Brown, Daniel R. Burrell, Lambert Boeman, Ebenezer W. Davis. This regiment was organized at Flemington in July and Aug., 1862. Three companies were recruited in Sussex county, two in Warren, two in Hunterdon, two in Morris and one in Somerset, and all were composed of men of superior physical strength and capacities for endurance. The regiment was mustered into the U. S. service on Aug. 25, and on the 27th left for Washington, numbering 925 officers and men, Col. Samuel Fowler commanding. At Bakersville, Md., it was assigned to the 1st brigade, 1st division, 6th army corps, and henceforth participated in the hardships, battles and triumphs of the Army of the Potomac. At the battle of Fredericksburg the regiment was stationed along the line of the railroad, keeping up a musketry fire and now and then charging upon the enemy. The total loss in the regiment here was about 30. Its next engagement was at Chancellorsville, where it charged gallantly through a thick wood, found the enemy advantageously posted behind a wall and ditch, but with a royal courage the 15th bravely faced all obstacles and maintained the fight until 8 p. m. when, owing to a want of concert of action, it was compelled to fall back, having lost 150 in killed, wounded and missing. The regiment was present at the battle of Gettysburg, though not actively engaged. Then following the enemy it came upon his rear-guard near Fairfield on July 5, and a sharp skirmish followed. The pursuit was continued for several days and near Hagerstown there was a skirmish in which 2 men of the regiment were wounded, 1 by a bullet through the foot, and Jacob O. Burdett through both thighs. The regiment marched with the army to Centerville and back again to the Rappahannock ; was present, though not engaged, at the capture of Rappahannock Station ; and after the Mine Run movement went into winter-quarters 2 miles from Brandy Station. May 5, 1864, found it in the Wilderness and the sounds of battle where Warren had come into collision with Ewell's corps, soon brought the order hastening the 6th corps to his support. Several men of the regiment were wounded and Leonard Decker of Co. D was killed. On the following day the line was broken on the right and the enemy penetrated to the rear, but the men of the 15th held an advanced and isolated position till midnight, when, without loss they followed the rest of the army to a new line in the rear. By 10 a. m. on the 7th, the works on the new line had been made very strong, and though the enemy felt the line in front and drove in a part of the skirmish line, by which 3 men were wounded, and John Brogan of Co. A was killed, no real advantage was gained. About noon on May 8, the regiment reached the field of action at Spottsylvania Court House, meeting many of the 5th corps going in squads to the rear. On the following day it moved gallantly forward, charging at a double-quick, and had it been properly supported the victory must have been complete, but overwhelmed, it slowly fell back, having lost in all 101 men. However, it had performed one of the most gallant achievements of the campaign and in that thought the survivors found some compensation for their sufferings, as, exhausted and worn, they withdrew from the scene of combat. At noon of the 9th, the regiment again moved, marching to the right, but did not become actively engaged, though three companies were stationed on the skirmish line and the whole command was much exposed. On the 10th the regimental position was no less exposed, but the command bravely held its own against the onsets of the enemy, losing in all 20 men. On the 12th the regiment dashed through the abatis before the Confederate works, swept over a portion of the breastworks, which for a time it stoutly held, driving out the Confederates, or bayoneting those who tenaciously clung to the position. But the regiment was forced to fall back and when Col. Campbell gathered his shattered battalion only 75 were found. Forty bodies, or nearly one-fifth of the whole regiment, lay on the breastwork, in the ditch or on the narrow open space in front. From this time until May 24, the regiment was moved backward and forward, from the center to the left of the army, occasionally skirmishing with the enemy and losing a few men. It had broken camp on the 4th with 15 officers and 429 muskets, and was now reduced to 6 officers and 136 muskets. From May 21 to June 1 it was kept in motion most of the time with an occasional loss on the skirmish line, being present at the battle of the North Anna and other places of conflict. When the 6th corps charged at Cold Harbor 25 of the regiment were killed or wounded — Sergt.-Maj. A. V. Wyckoff being among the former. On a little hillock captured in this charge the regiment remained for the greater part of the next ten days, though from it many never came alive. On June 19 it reached the outer defenses of Petersburg, where it remained, with the exception of a march to Reams' station, until the night of July 9, when it proceeded to the James river and took steamer for Washington, going thence to the Shenandoah Valley. Nothing of particular importance occurred until Aug. 15, when it was assaulted at Strasburg and lost 9 men. On the 17th it skirmished all day through Newtown and Winchester, the brigade forming the rear-guard of the army. In this action the regiment lost 61 men in killed and missing. On the 21st the enemy assaulted the lines at Charlestown, whither the army troops had retired, and a number of men were lost. At the battle of the Opequan the regiment suffered severely, losing nearly 50 in killed and wounded. On the 21st the regiment had a skirmish with the enemy, in which 2 men were killed and 15 wounded. At Fisher's hill, whither Early had retreated, the brigade moved to the right and at 4 o'clock p. m. assaulted and captured the Confederate works, the regiment displaying great gallantry. It also performed with its usual gallantry at the battle of Cedar creek, and thereafter it was never again heavily engaged, though in the final assault upon the enemy's works at Petersburg, April 2, 1865, it carried itself with conspicuous courage, suffering, however, only a trifling loss. Upon Lee's surrender it was sent to Danville, whence it proceeded to Washington late in May, and subsequently to Trenton, where it was finally disbanded. The total strength of the regiment was 1,871, and it lost during its term of service, by resignation 26, by discharge 197, by promotion 76, by transfer 619, by death 361, by desertion 108, by dismissal 2, not accounted for 66, mustered out, 416.
Offered is a great badge worn at the reunion of
the 15th New Jersey Infantry in 1903 held in Dover, New Jersey. This badge is a Guest badge worn by people
other than the veterans. The badge has a
red, white, and blue ribbon as its base.
A wonderful U.S. flag is applied and stitched on the upper part of the badge. Written on the badge in gold color ink is
“Guest – 24th Annual Reunion 15th N.J.V.V.A. – Dover,
N.J. – September 17, 1903”. The badge is
approximately 5 7/16 inches tall and approximately 2 inches wide. The badge was made by the Whitehead &
Hoag Company of Newark, New Jersey as noted by the makers label attached to the
back of the ribbon.
15th New Jersey Infantry
Regimental History
Fifteenth Infantry. — Cols., Samuel Fowler, William H. Penrose; Lieut. -Col., Edward L. Campbell; Majs., James M. Brown, Daniel R. Burrell, Lambert Boeman, Ebenezer W. Davis. This regiment was organized at Flemington in July and Aug., 1862. Three companies were recruited in Sussex county, two in Warren, two in Hunterdon, two in Morris and one in Somerset, and all were composed of men of superior physical strength and capacities for endurance. The regiment was mustered into the U. S. service on Aug. 25, and on the 27th left for Washington, numbering 925 officers and men, Col. Samuel Fowler commanding. At Bakersville, Md., it was assigned to the 1st brigade, 1st division, 6th army corps, and henceforth participated in the hardships, battles and triumphs of the Army of the Potomac. At the battle of Fredericksburg the regiment was stationed along the line of the railroad, keeping up a musketry fire and now and then charging upon the enemy. The total loss in the regiment here was about 30. Its next engagement was at Chancellorsville, where it charged gallantly through a thick wood, found the enemy advantageously posted behind a wall and ditch, but with a royal courage the 15th bravely faced all obstacles and maintained the fight until 8 p. m. when, owing to a want of concert of action, it was compelled to fall back, having lost 150 in killed, wounded and missing. The regiment was present at the battle of Gettysburg, though not actively engaged. Then following the enemy it came upon his rear-guard near Fairfield on July 5, and a sharp skirmish followed. The pursuit was continued for several days and near Hagerstown there was a skirmish in which 2 men of the regiment were wounded, 1 by a bullet through the foot, and Jacob O. Burdett through both thighs. The regiment marched with the army to Centerville and back again to the Rappahannock ; was present, though not engaged, at the capture of Rappahannock Station ; and after the Mine Run movement went into winter-quarters 2 miles from Brandy Station. May 5, 1864, found it in the Wilderness and the sounds of battle where Warren had come into collision with Ewell's corps, soon brought the order hastening the 6th corps to his support. Several men of the regiment were wounded and Leonard Decker of Co. D was killed. On the following day the line was broken on the right and the enemy penetrated to the rear, but the men of the 15th held an advanced and isolated position till midnight, when, without loss they followed the rest of the army to a new line in the rear. By 10 a. m. on the 7th, the works on the new line had been made very strong, and though the enemy felt the line in front and drove in a part of the skirmish line, by which 3 men were wounded, and John Brogan of Co. A was killed, no real advantage was gained. About noon on May 8, the regiment reached the field of action at Spottsylvania Court House, meeting many of the 5th corps going in squads to the rear. On the following day it moved gallantly forward, charging at a double-quick, and had it been properly supported the victory must have been complete, but overwhelmed, it slowly fell back, having lost in all 101 men. However, it had performed one of the most gallant achievements of the campaign and in that thought the survivors found some compensation for their sufferings, as, exhausted and worn, they withdrew from the scene of combat. At noon of the 9th, the regiment again moved, marching to the right, but did not become actively engaged, though three companies were stationed on the skirmish line and the whole command was much exposed. On the 10th the regimental position was no less exposed, but the command bravely held its own against the onsets of the enemy, losing in all 20 men. On the 12th the regiment dashed through the abatis before the Confederate works, swept over a portion of the breastworks, which for a time it stoutly held, driving out the Confederates, or bayoneting those who tenaciously clung to the position. But the regiment was forced to fall back and when Col. Campbell gathered his shattered battalion only 75 were found. Forty bodies, or nearly one-fifth of the whole regiment, lay on the breastwork, in the ditch or on the narrow open space in front. From this time until May 24, the regiment was moved backward and forward, from the center to the left of the army, occasionally skirmishing with the enemy and losing a few men. It had broken camp on the 4th with 15 officers and 429 muskets, and was now reduced to 6 officers and 136 muskets. From May 21 to June 1 it was kept in motion most of the time with an occasional loss on the skirmish line, being present at the battle of the North Anna and other places of conflict. When the 6th corps charged at Cold Harbor 25 of the regiment were killed or wounded — Sergt.-Maj. A. V. Wyckoff being among the former. On a little hillock captured in this charge the regiment remained for the greater part of the next ten days, though from it many never came alive. On June 19 it reached the outer defenses of Petersburg, where it remained, with the exception of a march to Reams' station, until the night of July 9, when it proceeded to the James river and took steamer for Washington, going thence to the Shenandoah Valley. Nothing of particular importance occurred until Aug. 15, when it was assaulted at Strasburg and lost 9 men. On the 17th it skirmished all day through Newtown and Winchester, the brigade forming the rear-guard of the army. In this action the regiment lost 61 men in killed and missing. On the 21st the enemy assaulted the lines at Charlestown, whither the army troops had retired, and a number of men were lost. At the battle of the Opequan the regiment suffered severely, losing nearly 50 in killed and wounded. On the 21st the regiment had a skirmish with the enemy, in which 2 men were killed and 15 wounded. At Fisher's hill, whither Early had retreated, the brigade moved to the right and at 4 o'clock p. m. assaulted and captured the Confederate works, the regiment displaying great gallantry. It also performed with its usual gallantry at the battle of Cedar creek, and thereafter it was never again heavily engaged, though in the final assault upon the enemy's works at Petersburg, April 2, 1865, it carried itself with conspicuous courage, suffering, however, only a trifling loss. Upon Lee's surrender it was sent to Danville, whence it proceeded to Washington late in May, and subsequently to Trenton, where it was finally disbanded. The total strength of the regiment was 1,871, and it lost during its term of service, by resignation 26, by discharge 197, by promotion 76, by transfer 619, by death 361, by desertion 108, by dismissal 2, not accounted for 66, mustered out, 416.
1890 Robert E. Lee Monument Unveiling/ Lee's Farewell Address Badge
Item #: 16384
Click image to enlarge
SOLD!!!
Offered is a nice badge worn at the 1890 General Robert E. Lee Monument unveiling. This neat badge consists of two ribbons. The top ribbon is red. On the red ribbon in gold ink is a likeness of the Lee Monument. Written in gold colored ink is "Souvenir - Robt. E. Lee Monument - Richmond, Va. Oct. 27, 1887 - Unveiled May 29, 1890". The white bottom ribbon has General Robert E. lee's Farewell address to his army given on April 10th, 1865. The two ribbons are sewn together. The top ribbon is approximately 4 7/8 inches tall and approximately 2 1/2 inches wide. The bottom ribbon is approximately 7 1/2 inches tall and approximately 2 1/2 inches wide.
Headquarters, Army of Northern Virginia, 10th April 1865.
General Order No. 9
After four years of arduous service marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources.
I need not tell the survivors of so many hard fought battles, who have remained steadfast to the last, that I have consented to the result from no distrust of them.
But feeling that valour and devotion could accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that must have attended the continuance of the contest, I have determined to avoid the useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared them to their countrymen.
By the terms of the agreement, officers and men can return to their homes and remain until exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you his blessing and protection.
With an unceasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your Country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and generous consideration for myself, I bid you an affectionate farewell.
1928 Confederate Veterans of Virginia Program and Ribbon
Item #: 15965
Click image to enlarge
SOLD!!!
Offered is a very clean program and ribbon from the 1928 annual reunion of the Confederate Veterans of Virginia held in Portsmouth, Virginia. The ribbon is white. Written in red ink on the ribbon is "Confederate Veteran - 1928". The ribbon is approximately 5 13/16 inches long and approximately 1 1/2 inches wide. The program is approximately 9 1/4 inches tall and 6 inches wide. Written on the front cover is "Forty-first annual reunion Confederate Veterans of Virginia - Thirty-third annual reunion Sons of Confederate Veterans - Official Program - Portsmouth, Virginia - June 19, 20, 21, 1928". Along with information on the reunion, there is also photos of Virginia Confederate veterans in the program.
Offered is a great badge worn by a member of the 153rd Pennsylvania Infantry at their 1889 reunion held in Gettysburg. During the 1889 reunion they also dedicated the main monument to the 153rd Pennsylvania Infantry on the Gettysburg battle field so this badge was worn during the monument dedication! The badge has a gold colored cloth hanger attached to a red ribbon with gold metalic fringe hanging on the bottom of the ribbon. An 11th corps badge is in gold colored ink at the top of the ribbon. Written below the corps badge is "153d Regt. PA. Vols - 1st Brigade - 1st Division - 11th Corps - Army of the Potomac - Gettysburg - July 1,2,3, 1863 - Sept. 11 & 12, 1889". The ribbon is approximately 7 3/8 inches tall and approximately 2 inches wide. There are six nat bites out of the left side of the badge.
153rd Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
The 153rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment lost 1 officer and 48 enlisted men killed or mortally wounded and 28 enlisted men to disease during the Civil War. The regiment is honored by two monuments at Gettysburg.
1862
September
Organized for nine months service at Easton under Colonel Charles Glanz, Lieutenant Colonel Jacob Dachrodt and Major John F. Frueaff
Reconnaissance from Chantilly to Snicker’s Ferry and Berryville, Va.
December 9-16
March to Fredericksburg, Va.
December 17
Duty at Stafford Court House
1863
January 20-24
Burnside’s 2nd Campaign, “Mud March”
Feberuary-April
At Stafford Court House
April 27-May 6
Chancellorsville Campaign
May 1-5
Battle of Chancellorsville
The regiment’s first experience of battle was Stonewall Jackson’s flank attack, with the 153rd at the extreme flank f the army. The regiment fired a single volley before it was flanked on both flanks and was ordered by General Von Gilsa to retire. It did so until reaching the open ground to the west of Chancellorsville, where it rallied.
Colonel Glanz and 33 enlisted men were captured. Nineteen men were killed. Lieutenant Colonel Jacob Dachrodt, Major Frueaff, Captain Owen Rice of Company A, Second Lieutenant Conrad Reyer of Company H, and 53 enlisted men were wounded.
June 11-July 24
Gettysburg Campaign
Colonel Glanz returned from imprisonment but his health was too poor to resume command.
July 1-3
Battle of Gettysburg
The regiment was commanded at Gettysburg by Major John Freuauff. It suffered heavily in the fight north of town at the Almshouse on July 1, and again at the gates of the Cemetery on the evening of July 2.
From the monument on Barlow’s Knoll at Gettysburg:
July 1. The Regiment held this position in the afternoon until the Corps was outflanked and retired, when it took position along the lane at the foot of East Cemetery Hill, where it remained until the close of the battle, assisting to repulse the enemy’s assault on the night of the 2nd.
Carried into action 24 officers 545 men. Killed and died of wounds 10 officers 40 men. Wounded 7 officers 117 men. Captured and missing 46 men. Total loss 211.
Second Lieutenant William H. Beaver was killed and Captains Theodore H. Howell, John P. Ricker, Joseph S. Myers, Henry Oerter and George Young, and First Lieutenants Benjamin Schaum, George W. Walton and Horatio Yeager were wounded.
July 5-12
Pursuit of Lee
July 24
Mustered out under Colonel Glanz, Lieutenant Colonel Dachrodt and Major Frueaff
A wonderful badge worn by a survivor of Mahone's Brigade at the 1903 reunion held in Petersburg, Virginia. This really great badge has a red ribbon with a pin for a hanger. The hanger is attached to a large celluloid pin back button. The button is approximately 2 inches wide. Written on the celluloid drop is "Mahone's Brigade Reunion of the Survivors of the Charge of the Crater - Petersburg, VA. - November 6th, 1903". The writing is surrounded by a Confederate battle flag and a gold colored division between the writing and the battle flag. On the back of the drop is a Confederate battle flag. Written around the flag is "Battle of the Crater - July 30, 1864". The badge was made by the Whitehead & Hoag Company of Newark, New Jersey as noted by the manufactures label attached to the back of the hanger.
The Battle of the Crater
Two weeks after Union forces arrived to invest the Confederate defenders of Petersburg, the battle lines of both sides had settled into a stalemate. Since Cold Harbor, Lieut. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant was reluctant to mount a frontal attack against well-entrenched Confederates. By late June, Grant's lines covered most of the eastern approaches to Petersburg, but neither side seemed ready to risk an offensive move. Part of the Union line was held by Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside's Ninth Corps. Some of Burnside's men were Pennsylvania miners, and they approached Burnside with a plan. They would tunnel underground from behind Union lines to a point underneath a Confederate position and fill the mine with explosives. When detonated, the resulting explosion would destroy a portion of the Rebel lines that could be exploited by infantry. Grant demurred but the digging began. On July 30th, after weeks of preparation, the Federals exploded the mine beneath a Confederate salient, blowing a gap in the defenses. At that point, everything deteriorated rapidly for the Union attackers. Unit after unit, most of whom were U. S. Colored Troops, charged into and around the crater, where most of them milled in confusion in the bottom of the crater. The Confederates quickly recovered and launched several counterattacks led by Maj. Gen. William Mahone. The break was sealed off, and the Federals were repulsed with severe casualties. Most of the black soldiers were badly mauled. Instead of ending the siege, both sides settled in for eight months of trench warfare. Burnside was relieved of command for his role in the debacle.
Offered is a great badge worn by veterans of the 9th Michigan Infantry at many of their reunion. The hanger has an eagle standing over two crossed rifles. Attached to the hanger is a drop with the likeness of Major General George Thomas. Written on the badge is "Maj. Gen. Thomas - 1861 - 1865". Written on the back of the drop is "The Rock of Chickamauga - September 20, 1863 - With Peace Who Shall Set bounds To Our Nations Greatness". The badge was made by a Kalamazoo, Michigan badge maker as noted on the back of the hanger.
9th Michigan Infantry in the American Civil War
Regimental History
Ninth Michigan Infantry.— Cols., William W. Duffield, John G. Parkhurst; Lieut. -Cols., John G. Parkhurst, William Wilkinson; Majs., Dorus M. Fox, William Jenney, Jr. This regiment was organized at Fort Wayne, Detroit, in Sept., 1861, and was mustered in Oct. 15. It left the state Oct. 25, for Jeffersonville, Ind., moved to West Point, Ky., in November and engaged in building field works, roads and bridges. On Jan. 4, 1862, companies A, B, C, D, F and K were detailed to Elizabethtown, E and G following on the 17th, leaving I at West Point. Co. K was sent to Nolin. In the spring the regiment was attached to the 23d brigade, Army of the Cumberland, and moved to Nashville in March, where it joined in the pursuit of Morgan's forces in May, overtaking them at Lebanon and driving them from the town thoroughly demoralized. The regiment engaged in the movement into Tennessee, making a demonstration on Chattanooga, and was in the forced march over mountain roads near Winchester, capturing the enemy's pickets at Sweeden's cove, surprising and routing Adams' cavalry. It was in the engagement at Chattanooga in June and in July six companies were attacked at Murfreesboro by Forrest's cavalry. After a sharp struggle they were compelled to surrender, with a loss of 13 killed and 78 wounded. The wounded officers and men were at once paroled and were afterwards exchanged. The 9th's share in this was most gallant, and it was only when reduced to 137 men and officers, with no hope for reinforcements, and annihilation as the only alternative, that the command surrendered. The regiment was engaged at La Vergne in December and was detailed by Gen. Thomas for headquarters guard and provost duty for the 14th corps. At the battle of Stone's river it checked the rout of the right wing, which was being driven back by overwhelming numbers, and at a time when the panic was extending to the army. The flight of infantry, cavalry and artillery was stopped with bayonet and saber. Col. Parkhurst forcing 2,000 cavalry, 3,000 infantry and 11 pieces of artillery from the demoralized and fleeing troops and repulsing a charge by the enemy. The regiment was engaged on provost duty during the battles of Chickamauga and Missionary ridge, remaining on provost duty during November. In December 306 reenlisted as veterans and were furloughed home in Jan., 1864. They returned to Chattanooga in February with about 200 recruits and participated in the Georgia campaign, being in action at Rocky Face ridge, Resaca, Dallas, Kennesaw mountain, the Chattahoochee river, the siege of Atlanta and at Jonesboro. The regiment was on provost duty in Atlanta during its occupation and returned to Chattanooga Nov. 1 via Marietta. It remained on guard duty at the headquarters of the Army of the Cumberland and on picket duty until March 27, 1865, when headquarters were moved to Nashville, the regiment following for the same duty and for prison guard. It was mustered out at Nashville Sept. 15, 1865. Its original strength was 913: gain by recruits, 1,309; total, 2,222. Loss by death, 292.
Offered is a super badge worn by a veteran of the 7th Michigan Infantry at their annual reunion held in 1912 at Lapeer, Michigan. This neat badge has a metal hanger with "Lapeer, June 18, 1912" written in the middle on a celluloid strip. A blue ribbon is attached to the hanger. Written on the ribbon in a gold colored ink is "26th Annual Reunion of the 7th Mich. Infantry - Pres., Hohn G. McMillian - Vice-Pres., Jos. McDaniels - Sec.-Treas., Robert King". A large celluloid disk is attached to the ribbon. The base color of the disk is red and there are three photo likenesses of 7th Michigan Infantry members on the disk. The three veterans on the disk are A.T. Heacock, J.W. Holmes, and C.A. Brink. The badge was made by the Whitehead & Hoag Company of newark, New Jersey as noted in the back of the celluloid disk. The badge is approximately 5 1/2 inches tall and approximately 2 3/8 inches wide.
Of the three men with a photo likeness on the celluloid disk, C.A. Brink was wounded at Gettysburg, A.T. Heacock was promoted to captain, and J.W. Holmes was discharged early in the war.
7th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment
The 7th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment lost 11 officers and 197 enlisted men killed and mortally wounded and 3 officers and 186 enlisted men by disease. The regiment is honored by a monument at Gettysburg.
1861
August 22
Organized at Monroe, Mich. and mustered in under Colonel Ira Rufus Grosvenor
Moved to Harper’s Ferry, thence to Charleston and Berryville
March 24
To Harper’s Ferry, then to Washington, D.C
March 27
To the Virginia Peninsula
April to August
Peninsula Campaign
April 5-May 4
Siege of Yorktown
May 7-8
West Point
May 31-June 1
Battle of Fair Oaks or Seven Pines
June 25-July 1
Seven days before Richmond
June 29
Peach Orchard and Savage Station
June 30
White Oak Swamp and Glendale
Lieutenant Charles Hunt was wounded
July 1
Malvern Hill
July 7
Colonel Grosvenor resigned “due to the impoverished state of my health.”
July 14
Lieutenant Norman J. Hall, USA (USMA 1859), former Acting AAG on the staff of Brigadier General John G. Barnard, was commissioned colonel of the 7th Michigan.
July 2 – August 16
Duty at Harrison’s Landing
August 5
Action at Malvern Hill
August 15-28
Movement from Harrison’s Landing to Alexandria
August 28-31
To Fairfax Court House; Cover Pope’s retreat from Bull Run to Washington.
September 4
Captain Henry W. Nall was transferred to the 24th Michigan and appointed major.
The 7th Michigan was commanded by Colonel Norman Hall. Colonel Hall took over the brigade as senior colonel when General Dana was wounded and was himself wounded. Lieutenant Colonel Baxter was wounded by this time, and Captain Charles J. Hunt took over the regiment.
Dana’s Brigade, following Gorman’s in column of attack, passed through the East Woods, crossed the Cornfield and the Hagerstown Pike, about 50 yards in rear of Gorman, and entered the West Woods, where its advance was checked about 40 yards east of this point.
Its left flank having been attacked and turned, by McLaws’ and Walker’s Divisions, it was compelled to retire.
A portion of the Brigade, with the 1st Minnesota Infantry, occupied a line near the Nicodemus house which it held for a time until, its flank having been again turned, it retired to the woods and fields east of the Hagerstown Pike.
September 22
Moved to Harper’s Ferry, W. Va. and duty there
October 30- November 17
Advance up the Loudon Valley and movement to Falmouth, Va.
December 11-15
Battle of Fredericksburg
The 7th Michigan was the first regiment to cross the Rappahannock River in pontoon boats under the fire of Confederate sharpshooters. It then drove the Confederate skirmishers from their cover, allowing a pontoon bridge to be constructed. Lieutenant Colonel Baxter was wounded in the attack.
December 11
Forlorn hope to cross the Rappahannock at Fredericksburg
The 7th Michigan was commanded at Gettysburg by Lieutenant Colonel Amos Steele, Jr. while Colonel Hall commanded the brigade as senior colonel. Lieutenant Colonel Steele was killed on July 3rd, and Major Sylvanus W. Curtis took command. The 7th brought 165 men to the field, losing 21 killed and 44 wounded.
From the regimental monument near the Copse of Trees at Gettysburg:
Regiment held this position during the engagement of July 2nd and 3rd, 1863. On the evening of the 2nd changed front to the left, meeting and aiding in driving back the enemy. On the 3rd assisted in repulsing Pickett’s Charge, changing front to the right and assaulting the advancing force in flank.
Present for duty 14 officers 151 men. Total 165. Casualties, 2 officers 19 men killed; 3 officers 41 men wounded. Total 65.
July 5-24
Pursuit of Lee to Manassas Gap, Va.
August 20- September 12
On detached duty at New York City during draft disturbances
Offered is a great badge worn by a veteran of the 7th Michigan Infantry at their 1927 reunion held in Monroe, Michigan. The 7th Michigan Infantry was a hard fighting unit in the Army of the Potomac with all the major battles the Army of the Potomac fought on their resume. This super badge has as a hanger a large celluloid pin back button (approximately 2 1/4 inches) with the likeness of Colonel G.W. La Pointe on it. Three ribbons are attached to the hanger. The first ribbon is red and has "7th Mich. Inf." written on it in gold colored ink. The second ribbon is white and has "Monroe, Mich." written on it in gold colored ink, and the third ribbon is blue with "June 14, 1927" written on it with gold colored ink. The badge was made by the St. Louis Button COmpany of St. Louis, Missouri as noted on the manufacturer's label located on the back of the pin back button.
George W. LaPointe
Residence Monroe County MI; 19 years old.
Enlisted on 6/19/1861 at Monroe, MI as a Private.
On 8/22/1861 he mustered into "D" Co. MI 7th Infantry
He was Mustered Out on 7/5/1865 at Jeffersonville, IN
He was listed as:
* Wounded 5/13/1864 Spotsylvania Court House, VA
Promotions:
* Sergt 11/2/1861
* 2nd Lieut 9/18/1862
* 1st Lieut 5/20/1863
* Capt 9/21/1863 (As of Co. C)
* Lt Colonel 10/12/1864
* Colonel 4/2/1865 by Brevet
7th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment
The 7th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment lost 11 officers and 197 enlisted men killed and mortally wounded and 3 officers and 186 enlisted men by disease. The regiment is honored by a monument at Gettysburg.
1861
August 22
Organized at Monroe, Mich. and mustered in under Colonel Ira Rufus Grosvenor
Moved to Harper’s Ferry, thence to Charleston and Berryville
March 24
To Harper’s Ferry, then to Washington, D.C
March 27
To the Virginia Peninsula
April to August
Peninsula Campaign
April 5-May 4
Siege of Yorktown
May 7-8
West Point
May 31-June 1
Battle of Fair Oaks or Seven Pines
June 25-July 1
Seven days before Richmond
June 29
Peach Orchard and Savage Station
June 30
White Oak Swamp and Glendale
Lieutenant Charles Hunt was wounded
July 1
Malvern Hill
July 7
Colonel Grosvenor resigned “due to the impoverished state of my health.”
July 14
Lieutenant Norman J. Hall, USA (USMA 1859), former Acting AAG on the staff of Brigadier General John G. Barnard, was commissioned colonel of the 7th Michigan.
July 2 – August 16
Duty at Harrison’s Landing
August 5
Action at Malvern Hill
August 15-28
Movement from Harrison’s Landing to Alexandria
August 28-31
To Fairfax Court House; Cover Pope’s retreat from Bull Run to Washington.
September 4
Captain Henry W. Nall was transferred to the 24th Michigan and appointed major.
The 7th Michigan was commanded by Colonel Norman Hall. Colonel Hall took over the brigade as senior colonel when General Dana was wounded and was himself wounded. Lieutenant Colonel Baxter was wounded by this time, and Captain Charles J. Hunt took over the regiment.
Dana’s Brigade, following Gorman’s in column of attack, passed through the East Woods, crossed the Cornfield and the Hagerstown Pike, about 50 yards in rear of Gorman, and entered the West Woods, where its advance was checked about 40 yards east of this point.
Its left flank having been attacked and turned, by McLaws’ and Walker’s Divisions, it was compelled to retire.
A portion of the Brigade, with the 1st Minnesota Infantry, occupied a line near the Nicodemus house which it held for a time until, its flank having been again turned, it retired to the woods and fields east of the Hagerstown Pike.
September 22
Moved to Harper’s Ferry, W. Va. and duty there
October 30- November 17
Advance up the Loudon Valley and movement to Falmouth, Va.
December 11-15
Battle of Fredericksburg
The 7th Michigan was the first regiment to cross the Rappahannock River in pontoon boats under the fire of Confederate sharpshooters. It then drove the Confederate skirmishers from their cover, allowing a pontoon bridge to be constructed. Lieutenant Colonel Baxter was wounded in the attack.
December 11
Forlorn hope to cross the Rappahannock at Fredericksburg
The 7th Michigan was commanded at Gettysburg by Lieutenant Colonel Amos Steele, Jr. while Colonel Hall commanded the brigade as senior colonel. Lieutenant Colonel Steele was killed on July 3rd, and Major Sylvanus W. Curtis took command. The 7th brought 165 men to the field, losing 21 killed and 44 wounded.
From the regimental monument near the Copse of Trees at Gettysburg:
Regiment held this position during the engagement of July 2nd and 3rd, 1863. On the evening of the 2nd changed front to the left, meeting and aiding in driving back the enemy. On the 3rd assisted in repulsing Pickett’s Charge, changing front to the right and assaulting the advancing force in flank.
Present for duty 14 officers 151 men. Total 165. Casualties, 2 officers 19 men killed; 3 officers 41 men wounded. Total 65.
July 5-24
Pursuit of Lee to Manassas Gap, Va.
August 20- September 12
On detached duty at New York City during draft disturbances
Offered is a nice badge worn by veterans of the 2nd Michigan Cavalry at their 1909 reunion. The badge has a brass colored metal circular disk that holds a celluloid photo likeness of a lieutenant. A yellow and blue ribbon is attached to the pin on the back of the badge. Written around the lieutenant is "1861 - 65 - 2nd Mich. Cav. - 1909". The badge was made by the Whitehead & Hoag Company of Newark, New Jersey as noted by the manufacturer's label attached to the pin.
2nd Michigan Cavalry in the American Civil War
Regimental History
Second Michigan Cavalry. — Cols., Gordon Granger, Archibald P. Campbell; Lieut. -Cols., William C. Davies, Frederick Fowler, Benjamin Smith, Thomas W. Johnston; Majs., Robert H. G. Minty, Charles P. Babcock, Frank W. Dickey, John C. Godley, Leonidas S. Scranton, Marshall J. Dickinson, Harrison F. Nicholson, Charles N. Baker. This regiment was organized at Grand Rapids and was mustered in Oct. 2, 1861. It left the state on Nov. 14, was stationed at Benton barracks, St. Louis, was engaged in skirmishes at Point Pleasant, Tipton and New Madrid, participated in the siege of Island No. 10, and then moved with Pope's army to Mississippi. It was in the engagements at Pine hill, Monterey and Farmington, and the siege of Corinth. Col. Granger was made brigadier-general and was succeeded by Philip H. Sheridan as colonel, but the latter was not mustered in as such. The regiment was in the engagements at Booneville, Blackland, and Baldwin, in June, 1862, and was in a spirited fight at Booneville July 1, where 7,000 of Chalmer's cavalry were repulsed by six companies, numbering less than 500 men. This was one of the greatest minor victories of the war. The 2nd Mich. and 2nd Ia. cavalry followed the enemy for 20 miles, capturing a large amount of arms and clothing. The regiment was engaged at Rienzi in August, when a largely superior force was defeated and dispersed and many prisoners were captured. Col. Sheridan was made a brigadier- general and Lieut. -Col. Campbell was appointed colonel. The regiment was engaged at the battle of Perryville, Ky., then at Harrodsburg, Lancaster and the Rockcastle river. In Dec, 1862, and Jan., 1863, it was in a raid in eastern Tennessee, being engaged at Blountville, Zollicoffer, Wartrace, Jonesville, Bacon creek and Glasgow. In March it was engaged at Milton, Cainsville, Spring Hill, Columbia, Hillsboro and Brentwood. The engagement at Columbia was against a much larger force, but two battalions of the 2nd Mich. cavalry by tremendous efforts, saved the wagon trains, which were in charge of the 18th Ohio cavalry. The regiment fought at McGarvick's ford in April, and during the summer was engaged at Triune, Rover, Middletown, Shelbyville, Elk river ford, and Decherd. It participated at Chickamauga, holding an important point against an enemy, and in October was engaged in the pursuit of Wheeler's cavalry, being in action at Anderson's cross-roads. It fought at Sparta, Dandridge and Mossy creek, in December, and at Dandridge and Pigeon river in Jan., 1864. While at Cleveland, Tenn., 326 reenlisted as veterans and took a furlough, rejoining the regiment in July. On the Atlanta campaign the regiment fought at Dug gap, Red Clay, the Etowah river and Acworth, and joined Gen. Thomas' army in Tennessee. It met and defeated the enemy at Campbellville and Franklin in September; was engaged at Cypress river in October, where a force four times that of the Union army was defeated; participated at Raccoon ford, and during November was engaged at Shoal creek, Lawrenceburg, Campbellville, Columbia, Spring Hill and the battle of Franklin. During December it was engaged at Nashville, Richland creek, Pulaski and Sugar creek, and in 1865 fought at Corinth, Tuscaloosa, Trion, Bridgeville and Talladega. It was in camp at Macon from May 1 until July 17, detachments being sent to garrison Perry, Thomaston, Barnesville, Forsyth and Milledgeville. The regiment was mustered out Aug. 17, 1865. Its original strength was 1,163; gain 1,262; total, 2,425. Loss by death, 338.
1 New Jersey Brigade Crampton Pass 50th Anniversary Badge
Item #: 15644
Click image to enlarge
"SOLD"
A great badge worn by a veteran of the First New Jersey Brigade at the 50th anniversary of the battle of Crampton Pass in 1912. The badge has a heavy metal backing with an insert which says "VETERAN". A blue, beige, and blue ribbon is attached to the hanger. Written on the ribbon is "50th Anniversary Battle of Crampton Pass - 31st Reunion of Kearny's First New Jersey Brigade Society - Camden, N.J. - Sept. 14, 1912". The likeness of a Sixth Corp badge is in the center of the ribbon. The badge was made by the Sommer Badge Manufacturing Company of Newark, New Jersey as noted on the makers label attached to the back of the ribbon. There is a small piece of museum quality acid free tapeon the upper part of the back ribbon. The badge is approximately 6 1/8 inches tall and 2 3/8 inches wide.
First New Jersey Brigade
Through the course of the Civil War, the brigade was composed entirely of units from New Jersey, the only Union brigade during the war to be constituted as such. Its origins were on May 4, 1861, when New Jersey was directed by the Federal government to fill a quota of three infantry regiments to serve a three-year term of enlistment. Recruitment took place for the new regiments all over the state, and on May 21, 1861, the 1st New Jersey Volunteer Infantry was mustered into the Union Army at Camp Olden in Trenton, New Jersey, under Maj. Theodore T. S. Laidley of the United States Regular Army. The 1st New Jersey was then followed into Federal service by the 2nd New Jersey Volunteer Infantry (May 28, 1861) and the 3rd New Jersey Volunteer Infantry.
On June 28, 1861, the three newly created three-year regiments began the journey to Virginia, where in June they were joined with a brigade of three-month enlistment New Jersey Militia regiments to form a division commanded by Brig. Gen.Theodore Runyon. This was the first time the New Jersey regiments officially formed the brigade. During the First Bull Run Campaign, most of the brigade saw service in the field guarding train hubs, supply depots and roadways, being considered too "green" to be reliable in combat. However, a few companies of the 1st and 2nd New Jersey Infantries were directed to help stem the retreat at Centreville, Virginia, after the Confederates routed General Irvin McDowell's forces at Manassas, Virginia, on July 21, 1861. They were unsuccessful, and many officers and men retreated in the rout as well.
In August 1861, the 4th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry was recruited and added to the First New Jersey Brigade after its muster into service. From that point on, the four regiments and their later remnants would serve together until the end of the war and their final discharge.
Later service
As the war progressed, more regiments were added to the brigade, but in keeping with its tradition, they were New Jersey units. In September 1862, the nine-month enlistment unit 23rd New Jersey Volunteer Infantry and the three-year 15th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry were added, with the 23rd New Jersey serving until June 1863 and the 15th New Jersey serving until the end of the war. On April 19, 1864, the 10th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry "Olden's Legion" was added. In March 1865 the 40th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry—the last raised by the state—was brigaded with the original units.
First New Jersey Infantry Service in brigade: June 1861–June 3, 1864 153 killed or died of wounds and 99 died of disease or accidents
Second New Jersey Infantry Service in brigade: June 1861–May 21, 1864 96 killed or died of wounds and 69 died of disease or accidents
Third New Jersey Infantry Service in brigade: June 1861–June 3, 1864 157 killed or died of wounds and 81 died of disease or accidents
Fourth New Jersey Infantry Service in brigade: June 1861–June 22, 1865 161 killed or died of wounds and 105 died of disease or accidents
Tenth New Jersey Infantry "Olden Legion" Service in brigade: April 19, 1864–June 22, 1865 93 killed or died of wounds and 190 Died of disease or accidents
Fifteenth New Jersey Infantry "Fighting Fifteenth" Service in brigade: September 30, 1862–June 22, 1865 240 killed or died of wounds and 132 died of disease or accidents.
Twenty-Third New Jersey Infantry Service in brigade: October 8, 1862–June 27, 1863 35 killed or died of wounds and 55 died of disease or accidents
Fortieth New Jersey Infantry Service in brigade: February 2, 1865–July 13, 1865 2 killed or died of wounds and 17 died of disease or accidents
Commanders
The brigade's first commander was Brig. Gen. Philip Kearny, whose training and discipline molded the regiments into an effective fighting unit. He was succeeded by George W. Taylor, who was Colonel of the 3rd New Jersey. Taylor was promoted to brigadier general soon after assuming command of the brigade. After his mortal wounding at the Second Battle of Bull Run, the leadership of the brigade went to Alfred Thomas Torbert, who was serving as Colonel of the 1st New Jersey Volunteer Infantry. Subsequent commanders were Col. Henry Brown (3rd New Jersey), Col. William H. Penrose (15th New Jersey), and Capt. Baldwin Hufty (4th New Jersey).
Medal of Honor recipients
Six soldiers from the First New Jersey Brigade received the Medal of Honor for bravery:
1st Lieutenant William Brant, Jr. - 1st New Jersey Veterans Battalion
Private Frank E. Fesq - 40th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry
The Battle of Crampton Pass
In the aftermath of his great victory at Second Bull Run, Robert E. Lee was determined to launch an invasion of the North. He hoped that a similar victory on northern soil would weaken the North’s resolve, and possibly encourage Maryland to rise and join the Confederacy. Lee convinced Jefferson Davies to approve his plan, and at the start of September Lee’s victorious army crossed the Potomac.
Once in the north, Lee became concerned about the 13,000 strong Federal garrison of Harper’s Ferry. He decided that he could not risk leaving that garrison in his rear. To capture it he took the decision to split his army. Two thirds of the army, under Stonewall Jackson, was sent to capture Harper’s Ferry, while he remained further north with the rest of the army. Lee was taking a massive risk. He assumed that the Federal army defeated at Bull Run would take weeks to be recover, especially with George McClellan restored to command. He had repeated demonstrated a slow, cautious attitude during the Peninsula Campaign, and Lee expected more of the same.
He was wrong. McClellan had taken over a beaten army, but not a demoralised or unorganised one. McClellan soon had an army 70,000 strong on the move towards Lee. He also had a stroke of luck when a copy of Lee’s order for the move against Harper’s Ferry was discovered on 13 September. McClellan received this piece of luck at Frederick, less than twenty miles from Harper’s Ferry, where the garrison was still holding out.
Even with this information in hand, McClellan still did not move quickly. He was nearly always convinced that whatever army he commanded was badly outnumbered – here he was convinced that Lee had at least 100,000 men, twice the real number. Accordingly, he did nothing on 13 September other than issue orders for a movement on the following day.
The main barrier that faced McClellan was South Mountain. This mountain runs north from the Potomac, reaching the river just east of Harper’s Ferry. McClellan’s men would have to force their way through Confederate held passes before they could engage Lee or go to the relief of Harper’s Ferry. Worse for the garrison of Harper’s Ferry, McClellan decided to make his main attack at Turner’s and Fox’s Gaps (Battle of South Mountain). Success here would bring McClellan up against Lee’s smaller section of the Confederate army.
A smaller force, 12,000 men under Major-General William B. Franklin, was sent to Crampton’s Gap, further south. This force might not have been big enough to defeat Jackson’s entire force around Harper’s Ferry, but it was easily big enough to deal with that part of Jackson’s force that had remained north of the Potomac, which was no more than 8,000 strong, and thus to rescue the garrison. However, Crampton’s Gap was also defended. First, Franklin would need to fight his way through the pass.
This should not have been a problem. He was opposed by three brigades from the force that had been sent against Harper’s Ferry, a total of 2,200 men. Even by his own account, Reynolds was able to get 6,500 men into action at Crampton’s Gap. Despite this numerical advantage it took Reynolds most of 14 September to fight his way through the pass. He suffered 533 casualties during the battle (113 dead, 418 wounded and 2 missing), and probably inflicted twice that many (he captured 400 prisoners). However, the victory came too late in the day to achieve its aim. The next morning, when Reynolds made a tentative move towards Harper’s Ferry, he decided that he was too weak to attack the Confederate forces north of the river. In any case it was by then too late. Harper’s Ferry surrendered early on the morning of 15 September.
A nice badge worn at the 1930 United Confederate Veterans/Sons of Confederate Veterans Reunion held in Biloxi, Mississippi. The hanger is a bronze type material. It is in the shape of the Gulf Counties of Mississippi. Written on the hanger is "Hancock - Harrison -Jackson, Mississippi - The Magnolia State". A red and white ribbon is attached to the hanger. The bottom drop which is attached to the ribbon is in a round shape. The drop has a sailing boat image in the middle of the drop. Written around the ship is "40th Annual Confederate Reunion, Biloxi, Miss - S.C.V. - June 3-4-5-6, 1930".The badge is made by the Greenduck Company, Chicago as noted on the bottom of the drop.The badge is approximately 4 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Lewis S. Pilcher, U.S. Army Steward New York Pin back
Item #: 16672
Click image to enlarge
SOLD!!!
A neat pin back worn by G.A.R. members who supported Lewis S. Pilcher for the Department of New York Commander, G.A.R. The pin has a likeness of Pilcher in the middle. Pilcher is wearing four badges in the photo. One is a Mollus medal and another is a one star G.A.R. officers badge. I can't quite tell the other two badges. The pin back is approximately 1 1/4 inches wide. It was made by the Whitehead & Hoag Company of Newark, New Jersey. Written around the likeness is "For Department Commander - Lewis S. Pilcher - U.S. Grant Post 327".
Lewis S. Pilcher
Residence was not listed;
Enlisted on 3/1/1862 as a Hospl Steward.
On 3/1/1862 he mustered into US Army Hospl Stewards
He was discharged (date not stated)
(Estimated date of enlistment)
Other Information:
born in 1845
Member of GAR Post # 327 (U. S. Grant) in Brooklyn, NY
Held GAR Offices:
* National Rules & Regs Committee for 1931
died in 1934
Buried: Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY
The following was submitted by: Research by Jack R. Box, CemeteryWorks.com
Lewis S. Pilcher is a famous surgeon / author / journal editor.
he wrote several books on treating wounds [with graphic illustrations]
his bio indicates
- he was a hospital orderly
- he was a Navy surgeon in the Civil War era;
albeit, it may have been post war
the SUVCW grave registration reports him
hospital orderly, regular army
Lewis S. Pilcher, surgeon general
New York
served 5 years as a Navy surgeon
M.D. ( 1845–1934), who served for 50 years as the first editor of the Annals of
Surgery.
Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, New York
GAR US Grant Post
A great badge worn by Civil War veterans at Grand Army of the Republic functions. The badgge has two pieces. The hanger is celluloid and has a metal backing. "Only A Few Of Us Left" is written on the hanger. A round celluloid drop with a metal back is hanging from the hanger. There are two veterans shaking hands. One veteran has lost his leg and the other veteran has lost his arm. "Whitehead & Hoag Co., Newark, N.J." is written under the veterans.
Major General John F. Reynolds Gettysburg Monument Pin Back
Item #: RX31006
Click image to enlarge
SOLD!!!
A great pin back with the Gettysburg monument of Major General John F. Reynolds in the middle. Around the monument is written "Gen. John F. Reynolds - Lancaster, PA.". The pin back is approximately 1 1/4 inches wide. The pin back was made by the Sommer badge Manufacturing Company, Newark, New Jersey.
Reynolds was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, one of nine surviving children of John Reynolds (1787–1853) and Lydia Moore Reynolds (1794–1843). Two of his brothers were James LeFevre Reynolds, Quartermaster General of Pennsylvania, and Rear AdmiralWill Reynolds.[2] Prior to his military training, Reynolds studied in nearby Lititz, about 6 miles (9.7 km) from his home in Lancaster. Next he attended a school in Long Green, Maryland, and finally the Lancaster County Academy.[3]
On his return from Mexico, Reynolds was assigned to Fort Preble, Maine, New Orleans, Louisiana, and Fort Lafayette, New York. He was next sent west to Fort Orford, Oregon, in 1855, and participated in the Rogue River Wars of 1856 and the Utah War with the Mormons in 1857-58. He was the Commandant of Cadets at West Point from September 1860 to June 1861, while also serving as an instructor of artillery, cavalry, and infantry tactics. During his return from the West, Reynolds became engaged to Katherine May Hewitt. Since they were from different religious denominations—Reynolds was a Protestant, Hewitt a Catholic—the engagement was kept a secret and Hewitt's parents did not learn about it until after Reynolds' death.[5]
The Confederate attack continued on June 27 and Reynolds, exhausted from the Battle of Gaines' Mill and two days without sleep, was captured in Boatswain's Swamp, Virginia. Thinking he was in a place of relative safety, he fell asleep and was not aware that his retreating troops left him behind. He was extremely embarrassed when brought before the Confederate general of the capturing troops; D.H. Hill was an Army friend and colleague from before the war. Hill allegedly told him, "Reynolds, do not feel so bad about your capture, it is the fate of wars."[8] Reynolds was transported to Richmond and held at Libby Prison, but was quickly exchanged on August 15 (for Lloyd Tilghman).[9]
Second Bull Run, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville
Upon his return, Reynolds was given command of the Pennsylvania Reserves Division, whose commander, McCall, had been captured just two days after Reynolds. The V Corps joined the Army of Virginia, under Maj. Gen. John Pope, at Manassas. On the second day of the Second Battle of Bull Run, while most of the Union Army was retreating, Reynolds led his men in a last-ditch stand on Henry House Hill, site of the great Union debacle at First Bull Run the previous year. Waving the flag of the 2nd Reserves regiment, he yelled, "Now boys, give them the steel, charge bayonets, double quick!" His counterattack halted the Confederate advance long enough to give the Union Army time to retreat in a more orderly fashion, arguably the most important factor in preventing its complete destruction.[10]
At the request of Pennsylvania GovernorAndrew G. Curtin, Reynolds was given command of the Pennsylvania Militia during General Robert E. Lee's invasion of Maryland. Generals McClellan and Joseph Hooker complained that "a scared governor ought not to be permitted to destroy the usefulness of an entire division," but the governor prevailed and Reynolds spent two weeks in Pennsylvania drilling old men and boys, missing the Battle of Antietam. However, he returned to the Army of the Potomac in late 1862 and assumed command of the I Corps. One of his divisions, commanded by Brig. Gen. George G. Meade, made the only breakthrough at the Battle of Fredericksburg, but Reynolds did not reinforce Meade with his other two divisions and the attack failed; Reynolds did not receive a clear understanding from Brig. Gen. William B. Franklin about his role in the attack.[10] After the battle, Reynolds was promoted to major general of volunteers, with a date of rank of November 29, 1862.[11]
At the Battle of Chancellorsville in May 1863, Reynolds clashed with Maj. Gen. Hooker, his predecessor at I Corps, but by this time the commander of the Army of the Potomac. Hooker originally placed the I Corps on the extreme left of the Union line, southeast of Fredericksburg, hoping to threaten and distract the Confederate right. On May 2, Hooker changed his mind and ordered the corps to conduct a daylight march nearly 20 miles to swing around and become the extreme right flank of the army, to the northwest of the XI Corps. The march was delayed by faulty communications and by the need to move stealthily to avoid Confederate contact. Thus, the I Corps was not yet in position when the XI Corps was surprised and overrun by Lt. Gen. Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson's flank attack, a setback that destroyed Hooker's nerve for offensive action. Hooker called a council of war on May 4 in which Reynolds voted to proceed with the battle, but although the vote was three to two for offensive action, Hooker decided to retreat. Reynolds, who had gone to sleep after giving his proxy vote to Meade, woke up and muttered loud enough for Hooker to hear, "What was the use of calling us together at this time of night when he intended to retreat anyhow?" The 17,000-man I Corps was not engaged at Chancellorsville and suffered only 300 casualties during the entire campaign.[12]
Reynolds joined several of his fellow officers in urging that Hooker be replaced, in the same way he had spoken out against Maj. Gen. Ambrose Burnside after Fredericksburg. On the previous occasion, Reynolds wrote in a private letter, "If we do not get some one soon who can command an army without consulting 'Stanton and Halleck' at Washington, I do not know what will become of this Army." PresidentAbraham Lincoln met with Reynolds in a private interview on June 2 and is believed to have asked him whether he would consider being the next commander of the Army of the Potomac. Reynolds supposedly replied that he would be willing to accept only if he were given a free hand and could be isolated from the political influences that had affected the Army commanders throughout the war. Unable to comply with his demands, Lincoln promoted the more junior George G. Meade to replace Hooker on June 28.[13]
Gettysburg
"The Fall of Reynolds" – drawing of Reynolds' death at Gettysburg
On the morning of July 1, 1863, Reynolds was commanding the "left wing" of the Army of the Potomac, with operational control over the I, III, and XI Corps, and Brig. Gen. John Buford's cavalry division. Buford occupied the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and set up light defensive lines north and west of the town. He resisted the approach of two Confederate infantry brigades on the Chambersburg Pike until the nearest Union infantry, Reynolds' I Corps, began to arrive. Reynolds rode out ahead of the 1st Division, met with Buford, and then accompanied some of his soldiers, probably from Brig. Gen. Lysander Cutler's brigade, into the fighting at Herbst's Woods. Troops began arriving from Brig. Gen. Solomon Meredith's Iron Brigade, and as Reynolds was supervising the placement of the 2nd Wisconsin, he yelled at them, "Forward men! For God's sake forward!" At that moment he fell from his horse with a wound in the back of the upper neck, or lower head,[14] and died almost instantly. Command passed to his senior division commander, Maj. Gen. Abner Doubleday.
For the Union side, the death of John Reynolds meant more than the loss of an inspiring leader; it also removed from the equation the one person with enough vision and sense of purpose to manage this battle.
Noah Andre Trudeau, Gettysburg: A Testing of Courage[15]
The loss of General Reynolds was keenly felt by the army. He was loved by his men and respected by his peers. There are no recorded instances of negative comments made by his contemporaries.[16] Historian Shelby Foote wrote that many considered him "not only the highest ranking [sic] but also the best general in the army."[17] His death had a more immediate effect that day, however. By ratifying Buford's defensive plan and engaging his I Corps infantry, Reynolds essentially selected the location for the Battle of Gettysburg for Meade, turning a chance meeting engagement into a massive pitched battle, committing the Army of the Potomac to fight on that ground with forces that were initially numerically inferior to the Confederates that were concentrating there. In the command confusion that followed Reynolds' death, the two Union corps that reached the field were overwhelmed and forced to retreat through the streets of Gettysburg to the high ground south of town, where they were rallied by his old friend, Maj. Gen. Winfield S. Hancock.[18]
Possible location of General Reynolds' death
Reynolds' body was immediately transported from Gettysburg to Taneytown, Maryland, and then to his birthplace, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he was buried on July 4, 1863.[6] Befitting his importance to the Union and his native state, he is memorialized by three statues in Gettysburg National Military Park (an equestrian statue on McPherson Ridge, one by John Quincy Adams Ward in the National Cemetery, and one on the Pennsylvania Memorial),[19] as well as one in front of the Philadelphia City Hall.[20]
Kate Hewitt had agreed with Reynolds that if he were killed in the war and they could not marry, she would join a convent. After he was buried, she traveled to Emmitsburg, Maryland, and joined the St. Joseph Central House of the Order of the Daughters of Charity.[21]
Death controversies
Historians disagree on the details of Reynolds' death, including the specific time (either 10:15 a.m. or 10:40–10:50 a.m.), the exact location (on East McPherson Ridge, near the 2nd Wisconsin Infantry, or West McPherson Ridge, near the 19th Indiana), and the source of the bullet (a Confederate infantryman, a Confederate sharpshooter, or friendly fire). One primary source was Sergeant Charles Henry Veil, his orderly and unit Color Guard, who described the events in a letter in 1864 and then contradicted some of the details in another letter 45 years later. A letter from Reynolds' sister, Jennie, stated that the wound had a downward trajectory from the neck, implying that he was shot from above, presumably a sharpshooter in a tree or barn. Historians Bruce Catton and Glenn Tucker make firm assertions that a sharpshooter was responsible; Stephen Sears credits volley fire from the 7th Tennessee against the 2nd Wisconsin; Edwin Coddington cites the sister's letter and finds the sharpshooter theory to be partly credible, but leans towards Sears' conclusion; Harry W. Pfanz agrees that the location was behind the 2nd Wisconsin, but makes no judgment about the source of the fire. Steve Sanders, writing in Gettysburg magazine, suggested the possibility of friendly fire based on some accounts, and concludes that it is as equally likely as enemy fire.[22]
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Antietam