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WISCONSIN SOLDIERS

V

;EL KSJORAVINaS OF EMINENT MEN.

iU ONE VOLUME

CHICAGO

W/V

T^ f -T

i l.	^	i:
f (•	r	I t	■ SS'

THE

MILITAEY HISTOKY

WISOOKSIN:

A RECORD OF THE

€ml m& piUtarjj f atwfltfem ot the ^tixU,

WAR FOR THE UNION,

HISTORY OP THE CAMPAIGNS IN WinCH WISCONSIN SOLDIERS HAVE BEEN

CONSPICUOUS — REGIMENTAL HISTORIES — SKETCHES OF DISTINGUISHED

OFFICERS- THE ROLL OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS DEAD— MOVEMENTS

OF THE LEGISLATURE AND STATE OFFICERS, ETC.

BYE. B. QUIISTEE, ESQ.,

OF MADISON, -WIS.

ILLUSTRATED WITH STEEL ENGRAVINGS OF. EMINENT MEN.

IN ONE VOLUME.

^ CHICAGO:

CLARKE & CO., PUBLISHERS.

1866.

G S -:- '

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1866,

By CLARKE & CO.,

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Nortlaern District of Illinois.

CHICAGO TTPE FOUNDST

J. CONAHAN,

BTEEEOTYPEB.

ES3n

TO THE

BRAVE OFFICERS AND SOLDIERS

OF WISCONSIN, WHO

''loUoiml tfe |lHg/' mwm §'mMt§, ilnxlnq tlu "gtMlm;

AND THE

RELATIVES AND FRIENDS OF THOSE WHO LAID DOWN THEIR LIVES IN THEIR COUNTRY'S CAUSE ;

AND THE

PEOPLE OF WISCONSIN,

WHO SO NOBLY AND PATRIOTICALLY AIDED IN UPHOLDING THE INTEGRITY OF THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT;

THIS VOLUME

IS RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED.

Ij^TEODUOTIOI^.

The collection of tlie material for this work was begun soon after the outbreak of the rebellion. Being placed in a favorable position — in a clerical capacity — where most of the correspond- ence relating to the organization of the earlier regiments, passed through his hands, the author obtained the consent of Governor Randall, to the copying of such matters as would possess histor- ical importance. The collection of material was continued during the rebellion. The business in which the author was engaged during the war, enabled him still further to become acquainted with the movements of all the regiments or other organizations sent from the State. In addition, access has been had to the reports and documents on file in the Executive and Adjutant General's Offices. From these sources the author has been enabled to prepare the work now presented to the public. Our object has been to give a plain statement of facts, as far as possible, in a concise form, without attempting an elaborate historical style.

"We have endeavored to give a correct narrative of what was accomplished by the State authorities during the war, in filling the requisitions made for troops by the General Government — of the legislation necessary to enable the State officers to act efficiently in support of the Government, and to provide means to aid the families of those who enlisted in the United States military service from this State — and the various matters relating

6 INTRODUCTION.

to military affairs wliich engaged the attention of the several Executives and the Adjutant Generals of the State, during the war.

The chapter on the Sanitary operations of the State, gives an account of the several expeditions sent out by Governors Salo- mon and Lewis, under the superintendence of Surgeon General VV^olcott, to the several battle-fields wherever Wisconsin soldiers were engaged, showing that the State has always exhibited an active and noble interest in the comfort and welfare of our sick and wounded heroes, as well on the battle-field, as in the several hospitals, where State agents were sent to attend to the wants and comfort of those of our soldiers who were inmates of those institutions.

In order that the general reader may understand the connec- tion which Wisconsin regiments had with the general military operations of the Government, we have endeavored to make a short sketch of those operations in the several divisions or departments into which the rebellious district was divided, and the war was prosecuted, by the Government.

The regimental histories are prepared from the best material within reach. They are necessarily brief, but are believed to contain a fair history of the organizations, and the lists of casu- alties have been gathered wherever they have been officially published, or otherwise made public, and the names corrected, wherever it could bo done. They . are necessarily imperfect as even the original muster rolls cannot be considered as giving the names of enlisted men correctly, as every person knows who has occasion to examine the rolls. In many cases the casualties are not reported, or are so mixed up in the monthly reports as to defy all attempts to make up a reliable list. Besides this, the monthly reports, in many cases, contain only the names of those who were wounded and absent from the regiment when the report was made. The gathering of these casualties has involved

INTRODUCTION. 7

mucli time'and labor, and tliey have swelled the work to much larger dimensions than was originally intended.

In the sketches of the military services of our general officers and others, we have attempted no literary effect, but have been contented to give a correct outline of their services as far as practicable. In many cases, due credit has been given these offi- cers in the regimental histories, for the several actions in Avhich they were engaged. A biographical notice of each of the regi- mental officers would have been an interesting feature, but it was impossible to obtain data for that purpose, except by per- sonal application to the parties themselves, which in many cases would not have secured a reply.

Our acknowledgements are due to Governors Lewis and Fairchild, for the favoi-s which they have extended for the preparation of the work.

To Adjutant General Gaylord were we especially indebted for numerous favors we have received at his hands, and the read- iness with which our request to examine the reports and records in his office, has been responded to. At great labor the General has caused to be prepared from the monthly reports, a list of those killed in battle, or died of wounds received. By reference to the regimental histories, it will be seen that we have largely availed ourselves of this valuable record, deeming it the most correct of any list attainable, as it is taken from the original reports, and published in the Adjutant General's report of 1866. The statistics found at the end of each regimental history are taken from a table, also prepared in the office of Adjutant General Gaylord from the original reports.

We are also indebted to various officers for memoranda relat- ing to their several regiments, among them, Brigadier General Fairchild, of the Second Regiment, Brigadier General Paine, of the Fourth, Brigadier General Allen, of the Fifth, Major General Solomon, of the Ninth, Chaplain Walker, of the Twelfth,

8 INTRODUCTION.

the Chaplain of the Thirteenth, Colonel Hancock, of the Four- teenth, Major "Wilson, of the Fifteenth, Brigadier General Ho- bart, of the Twenty-first, General Winkler, of the Twenty-sixth, Mr. Tompkins, of the Twenty-ninth, Major Ball, of the Thirty- first, Colonel "Warner, of the Thirty-sixth, Lieutenant Colonel R. C. Eden, of the Thirty-seventh, and Lieutenant Colonel Pier, of the Thirty-eighth Infantry, and to Lieutenant Stevens, of Company G, Sharpshooters, and Captain Zichrick, of the Twelfth Light Battery. To Sergeant George Fairfield, of Company C, of the Sixth Lifantry, we are indebted for the loan of a well kept diary, from July, 1861, to the battle of Antietam, where he was severely wounded, and during the Wilderness campaign, up to the assault of the 18th pf June, 1864, where he was again wounded.

A summing up of what was accomplished will show that Wis- consin sent to the field over 91,200 men, over 1,200 more than the several requisitions of the General Government called for. That nearly 11,000 of these were killed or died of wounds received in battle, or fell victims to diseases contracted in the military service, to say nothing of those who died after their dis- charge, and whose deaths do not appear upon the military rec- ords— that nearly $12,000,000 were expended by the State authorities, and the people of the several counties and towns throughout the State, in their effort to sustain the National Government.

At this date, only two regiments of Wisconsin remain in the field, viz: the Fourth Cavalry, in Texas, and the Fiftieth Lifantry, at Fort Union, in Dakotah Territory. Since writing up the regi- mental histories, the Thirty-fifth and Forty-eighth regiments have been mustered out of service and disbanded.

After the completion of the body of the work, which has swelled to a volume far beyond the limits first intended, the Legislature of 1866, convened, and among other matters, passed

INTRODUCTION. 9

a law authorizing the establishment of the " Soldiers' Orphans' Home of "Wisconsin," appropriating $10,000 for the purchase of the necessary buildings and grounds, and also, $25,000 for the support of the " Home," during the current year. In order that our readers may understand the character of the Institution, so nobly established by the efforts of Mrs. Harvey, and her friends, in a subsequent page of this introduction, we have given a description of the building, after a personal examination, accom- panied by an engraving taken from a photograph made expressly for this work, together with a synopsis of the law establishing the institution, by which the friends of the soldiers' orphans will be able to understand the manner in which admission to the " Home " may be obtained.

Wisconsin may well feel proud of her record made in defence of the N"ational existence. Shoulder to shoulder with the other lo3'al States of the Union, she has stood in the front rank. From her workshops, her farms and her vast pineries, have poured forth the stalwart men, who have filled up the organizations which she has sent to the field. The blood of these brave men has drenched almost every battle-field of the rebellion from Get- tysburg to the valley of the Rio Grande. Establishing at an early day, a reputation for gallantry and endurance, Wisconsin regi- ments always occupied positions where hard fighting was to be done, and reference need only to be made to the history of the Iron Brigade, the Third and Fifth, the Twenty-sixth, the Thirty- sixth, Thirty-seventh and Thirty-eighth Infantry in the army of the Potomac, to show that their pathway was marked by a bloody record.

It is out of place to assume that Wisconsin did better than her sister States. We claim that she did her full duty — that her several Executives in every way, used their best efforts to for- ward the desires of the General Government for troops — that her people responded from first to last, with a noble patriotism, to

10 INTRODUCTION.

tlie several calls — aud tliat those who remained at home, were lavish of their means, not only to stimulate enlistments by the payment of extra bounties, but to aid and support that left wing of the grand army of the Union, composed for the most part, of the mothers and daughters of the ITation, and the effect of whose labors and patriotic efforts are seen in the happiness of many a family, for the return and restoration to health of' many a son and father, who otherwise would have slept in death on Southern soil.

April 12, 1866.

SOLDIEES' OEPHAXS' HOME.

In the chapter on the sanitary operations of the State, we have incidentally mentioned that a project was on foot to establish a " Home " for the orphan children of soldiers of Wisconsin, who were killed or died in the service of the United States during the rebellion.

We are gratified to be able to state that the " Home " has been established, and by a recent act of the Legislature, adopted as one of the Benevolent Institutions supported by the State.

To correct a sentence in the notice of the institution given elsewhere, we here state that an erroneous impression prevails that the General Government donated the buildings. This is not so, as we are assured by Mrs. Harvey. The buildings were turned over to the owners of the property, in consideration of the rent and repairs necessary to place the main building in its original condition when taken possession of by the United States authorities.

Mrs. Harvey had entertained the idea of establishing an insti- tution of this kind for two years preceding the end of the war,, and on her return after the closing of her business as State- agent, in the summer of 1865, she immediately set about the work which had occupied her thoughts for so long a period. It was ascertained that Government was about to discontinue- the general Hospitals in the N'orthern States, among them, " Harvey United States Hospital," at Madison. Being eligibly situated, and admirably adapted for the purpose designed by Mrs. Harvey, negotiations were entered into with the proprietors of the pro- perty, and so liberal a proposition was received from them, that it was deemed advisable by Governor Lewis, and other promi- nent friends of the undertaking, that Mrs. Harvey should proceed to Washington to endeavor to secure a title to the buildings

12 soldiers' orphans' home.

erected by the United States, The War Department had no authority to make a donation, hut on investigation of the matter, it was ascertained that the buildings, which would have to be torn down, would have no value to the Government except as "old lumber," amounting to but a small sum, an arrangement was made as we have stated above — the proprietors receiving the buildings in lieu of rent and repairs, on condition that the property should be devoted to the purposes of a " Soldiers* Orphans' Home."

Soon after the return home of Mrs. Harvey, a sale of the " Hospital property " at Harvey Hospital, took place, the most of which, was purchased by the friends of the Home, at a price which Mrs. Harvey was enabled to pay by the liberality of the noble hearted citizens of Madison, and a few other places. It will thus be seen that the General Government did not donate any portion of the property, although it dealt liberally with the friends of the enterprise, and enabled them to establish at once the institution contemplated.

Repairs were immediately commenced, and the " Home " was ready for the reception of inmates on the 1st of January, 1866. The personal exertions of Mrs. Harvey, and liberality of the citizens of the State, had secured means for the opening and sup- porting of the " Home," until the needed legislation for making it a State institution could be perfected.

The property consists of a main building, built of stone. It is octagon in shape, three stories in height, with a roomy attic above, and an observatory at the top of the building. The sev- eral stories are reached by a spiral staircase in the centre, from the lower floor to the observatory. The lower floor of the main building is divided into a reception room — dining room for the ofiicers and attendants — store room for bed linen and other arti- cles— a small kitchen with range, complete with closets, pantries, etc. A bath and wash room, with a sleeping room for the super- intendent of the lower dormitory, completes the lower floor. The upper stories are occupied as rooms for the officers and attendants, with a public parlor in the second story, and a recita- tion room, and two rooms used for hospital purposes, and a sewing room in the third story.

soldiers' orphans' home.

13

In order that the reader may better understand our description we have had a photograph taken, an engraving of which we here insert:

/^

From the west side of the main building extends a wing two Btories in height, used as dormitories. Here the beds are arranged lengthwise of the building in four rows. These rooms are well ventilated, light and airy. On the south side of the main build- ing is a wing seventy-five feet in length, and twenty-five in width, the lower story of which is used as a dining room for the children of the " Home," and a large kitchen in which is a range sufiicieut for cooking for a large number of persons. The second story of this wing is occupied as a school room capable of seating one hundred and fifty pupils. An office is also attached to this wing. The building is heated by furnaces in the basement story. A large octagon barn also belongs to the premises, with a laundry, and a steam engine which supplies the building with water from the Third Lake, that forms the southern boundary of the

premises.

At this time, April 6th, 1866, there are eighty-five children at the " Home," all of whom are well cared for, and a good school provided for them under the superintendence of Miss Torrey, a niece of Colonel J. H. Howe, of Green Bay. Another school

14 soldiers' orphans' home.

room is to be fitted up as the number of inmates of the " Home" increases, and it is expected that three hundred will be admitted by the first of June.

The arrangement and organization of the " Home," has been entirely under the supervision of Mrs. Harvey, who has been untiring in her exertions, both in securing the means to start the institution, and to place it in active operation. She fully appre- ciates the liberality of the generous people of the State who have lent their aid to the undertaking, and enabled her to carry out her benevolent design.

The object of the " Orphans' Home," is to afford to the friend- less little ones, the blessings and comforts of a real Home, and no mother need feel any backwardness in confiding her children to its care. Proper attention will be directed to the physical, intellectual and moral development of the children, so that when the proper time arrives for their re-entering the active world, they will be qualified to fulfil the duties of useful citizens and reflect honor upon the State that adopted them.

On the 31st of March, 1866, Governor Fairchild approved a bill providing for the establishment of a " Soldiers' Orphans' Home." We append a s^'nopsis of the law for the information of our readers :

Section 1. Establishes an institution to be stj-led "Tlie Soldiers' Orplians' Home."

Sec. 2. Authorizes the Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer and Attorney General to provide suitable buildings, and purchase block 152 ("The Farwell Property" in the City of Madison,) together with buildings and impi'ovements, provided there is a perfect title, and it can be purchased for 510,000.

Sec. 3. When title is perfected, authorizes the Governor to appoint seven Trustees, to be known as "Trustees of the Soldiers' Orphans' Home, of Wisconsin." Majority to constitute a quorum. Three to serve for three yeai's, two for two years, and two for one year, or until their suece.ssors are appointed. Vacancies to be filled by the Governor.

Sec. 4. The Trustees to manage and direct the affairs of the " Home," making, with the sanction of the Governor, all needful by-laws and regulations for the proper admin- istration of the " Orphans' Home," not inconsistent with the Constitution of the State and United States. No comijensation to Trustees for services, but necessary expenses incurred in performance of their duties.

Sec. 5. Trustees to appoint the President and Secretary, who are to perform their du- ties under such regulations and instructions as is required by their by-laws. The State Treasurer to be ex-offlcio Treasurer of the Board. The Secretary to keep a faithful record of all transactions of the Board. The President to have power to call extra meetings of the Board on a written request of not less than two members.

, Sec. 6. Board of Trustees to appoint the Superintendent of the " Home," and other officers provided for in tlie by-laws, and to fix the coftipensation of ofHcers of the insti- tution. Board to meet annually on the first Tuesday in October, and sani- annually on the second Tuesday in April. At each meeting to visit and examine into the affairs of the " Home," and at their annual meeting make a full report to the Governor of all their proceedings.

soldiers' orphans' home. 15

Sec 7. Board of Trustees to have power to take and hold in trust, for the use and benefit of the "Home," any grant or demise of real estate or any donation or bequest of money or other personal property to be applied to the maintenance of soldiers' orphans or general use of the " Home."

Sec. 8. Superintendent to be chief executive officer of the " Home ;" to have control and authority over all assistants connected with the institution below the grade desig nated in the by-laws as olHcers ; to employ or discharge as he may see fit, being respon- sible to the Trustees for the proper discharge of that duty. For satisfactory causes, the Superintendent may be removed by an affirmative vote of a majority of the Board.

Sec. 9. All soldiers' orphans admitted to the "Home" to be maintained therein at the expense of the State.

Sec. 10. Board of Trustees to apportion, as near as practicable, the number of orphans to be received from each county on the basis of the number of soldiers' orphans actually residing in said county, and the County Board to apportion, as near as practicable, the number to be admitted from the county, between the several towns thereof, upon the basis of the returns made to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, as provided by Section 12 of this Act.

Sec. 11. Establishes the prerequisite for admission into the institution, as follows : — All orphans over the age of four and under fourteen years, whose fathers enlisted from this State, and who have either been killed or died while in the military or naval .service of the United States, or of this State, during the late rebellion, or who have since died of diseases contracted while in such service, and who have no means of support, shall be entitled to the benefits of this institution, giving the preference to those having neither father nor mother in deciding upon applications.

Sec. 12. Board of Trustees to furnish each Clerk of the County Board with uniform blanks, with necessai*y instructions as to filling the same. These blanks to be distributed to the Chairman of each Town Board of Supervisors, and to the Mayor or President of the incorporated cities or villages within the several counties of this State. In cases of doubt, the death of the father is determined by the records of the Adjutant General ot the State.

Sec. 13. On acceptance of any application for the admission of an orphan, the Chair man of Town Board of Supervisors or Mayor or President of a city to make an order for the removal of such orphan, so accepted, to the " Orphans' Home," in the care of some suitable person, and all necessary expenses incurred in such removal to be paid by the county in which such orphan child has a legal residence.

Sec. 14. Trustees to appoint an Executive Committee from their own number to per- form such duties as may be prescribed by the by-laws established by the Board. Said Executive Committee is authorized to draw warrants on the fund belonging to the "Home," as may be directed by the Trustees, in conformitj^ with this Act. All warrants 60 drawn to be countersigned by the Secretary of State, and to designate the appropriation from which the same shall be paid.

Sec. 1.5. Appropriates $10,000 out of the State Treasury to pay for the property authorized to be purchased by Section 2 of this Act.

Sec. 16. Act to take efiect on publication.

In addition to the above, the Legislature appropriated the sum of $25,000 for the support of the institution for the coming year.

Under this law, Governor Fairchild has appointed the following persons as trustees :

F(yr three j/ears— Colonel R. M. Strong, Reedsburg; Colonel Henry Harndex, Jefferson ; General C. C. Washburn, La Crosse.

For two years — 'B.on. N. M. Littlejohn, Whitewater; Hon. W. J. Abrams, Green Bay.

For one year— "Hou. B. F. Hopkins, Madison; General E. S. Bragg, Fond du Lac.

16 soldiers' orphans' home.

The Board of Trustees met at Madison on the 18th of April, and Hon. N. M. Littlejohn was elected President, and Colonel R. M. Strong appointed Secretary. The Board were in session several days, appointing Mrs. Harvey Superintendent of the In- stitution for the ensuing year, and passed such hy-laws, rules and regulations as were necessary for the full establishment of the "Home."

It will be seen that the law establishes the manner in which orphans are to be admitted into the " Home," through the County Boards of Supervisors of each county, and persons who may have orphans in charge, will know how to proceed in securing the benefits of the "Home " for their wards.

The author has visited the Home, where he found about eighty children of both sexes, varying from four to fourteen years of age, all in good health, and apparently happy in their new " Home." They are well cared for, with plenty of good whole- some food, and everything to make them comfortable, without any appearance of being subjects of public charity. In case of sickness, every care and the best of medical attention is given.

TABLE OF OOISrTEJSrTS.

CHAPTER I.

ACTION OF THE STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1861.

PAQK

state Administration of 1860 and 1861 — Resources — Legislature of 1861 —Governor's Message — Laws Passed — Fort Sumter — Popular Excitement- Call for 75,000 Militia— Governor's Proclamation — First Tender of Service — Only one Regi- ment— Reserve Regiments Authorized — First Regiment Organized — Captain Little — Proclamation to Women of Wisconsin — To the People — Companies Tendering Service— Surgeon General Wolcott — Adjutant General Utley— Camp j Randall — Second, Third and Fourth Regiments — Defense of Washington— I Meeting of Loyal Governors — Governor's Letter to President Lincoln — Generals King and Schurz — Two naore Regiments Accepted — Patriotic Women— Letter to Governor Randall 33

CHAPTER II.

ACTION OF STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1861 — CONTINUED.

Extra Session of the Legislature — Governor's Message — Laws Passed — State Mili- tary Departments — Third and Fourth Regiments — Six Regiments Accepted- Fifth and Sixth Regiments— Letter to President Lincoln — Seventh and Eiglith Regiments — Cavalry Authorized — Sharpslaooters — State Agents — Circular to Loyal Governors — State Bonds — Letter to Secretary of War — More Infantry Accepted — Artillery Wanted — First, Ninth, Tenth and Eleventh Regiments — Letter to Secretary of War — Twelfth, Thirteenth, Fourteenth and Fifteenth Regiments — $205,000 Reimbursed— Correspondence — First Cavalry— Second Cav- alry — More Artillery Accepted — Third Cavalry — Consolidation of Companies — Sixteenth, Seventeenth, Eighteenth and Nineteenth Regiments — Recruiting Discontinued — Letter of Captain Eddy — Report of Gov. Randall — Biographical Sketch of Gov. Randall— Close of 1861 71

CHAPTER III.

ACTION OF STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1862.

New State OflScers — Legislature Meets— Governor's Message — Laws Passed — Eleventh and Twelfth Batteries — Recruiting Service Discontinued — Battle ot Shiloh — Fourteenth, Sixteenth and Eighteenth Regiment* Engaged — Expedi- tion to Pittsburg Landing- Death of Governor Harvey — 1 iographical Sketch—

2

18 CONTENTS.

PA8E.

Twentieth Regiment — Legislature Re-assembles — Governor Salomon's Message — Laws Passed — State Sanitary Agents — Call for 300,000 more — Monster meeting in Milwaukee — Twenty-flrst to Thirty-third Regiments Authorized — Extra Session of Legislature — Governor's Message — Laws Passed — 300,000 Militia to be Drafted— Draft Ordered — Draft Riots — Thirty-fourth Regiment — Close of 1862... 109

CHAPTER IV.

ACTION OF STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1863.

State Military Officers — Legislature Meets — Governor's Message — Laws Passed — Number of Regiments Furnished —Thirteenth Light Artillery — Heavy Artillery Battalion — Six Months Men Wanted — Enrolment Act — Provost Marshal Gen- eral's Department— State Districted — Thirty-fourth Regiment Mustered Out — Thirty-fifth Regiment — Harvey Hospital Established — Quotas and Credits — Settlement of Credits — Results of Draft of 1863 — Negro Soldiers— Call for 300,000 More — Towns, etc., to be Credited — Big Bounties — Sixteenth Regiment — Biographical Sketch of Governor Salomon— Close of 1863 150

CHAPTER V.

ACTION OF STATE AUTHORITIES IN 186*.

State Officers Elect in 1864 — State Military Officers — Legislature Meets— Governor's Message — Laws Passed — Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettj'sburg — Re-enlist- ment of Old Regiments — Call for 500,000 more — Thirty-sixth, Thirt5^-seventh and Thirty-eighth Regiments— Veteran Re-enlistments— Veteran Regiments ordered to General Sherman— One Hundred Day Troops Organized — Thirty-ninth, Fortieth and Forty-flrst Regiments — Call for 500,000 Men for One, Two and Three Years— Excessive Quota — Enrolment Lists Corrected — Quota Reduced — Error Corrected — Forty-second Regiment — Fifth Regiment Re-organized — Forty-third Regiment — Heavy Artillery Regiment— Forty-fourth and Forty-fifth Regiments — Draft in September— Result— Another Call for 300,000 — Close of 1864 168

CHAPTER VI.

ACTION OF STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1865.

Military Officers of the State — Resignation of Quartermaster General Lund — Legis- lature Meets — Extracts from Governor's Message — Laws Passed — Forty-sixth and Forty-seventh Regiments — Change in Manner of Recruiting — Recruiting Agents Authorized — Quota under Call of 19th December — Reduced— Appor- tioned to Congressional Districts — Forty-eighth, Forty-ninth and Fiftieth Regi- ment—Draft Ordered — Fifty-first, Fifty-second and Fifty-third Regiments — Last Regiments Raised in the State — Correspondence between Grant and Lee — Surrender of the Rebel Army — Final Overthrow of the Rebellion — Recruiting Discontinued — Orders for Mustering Out of Regiments — Biography of Governor jje^is— Adjutant General Gay lord— Quartermaster General Lynch 183

CONTENTS. X9

CHAPTER VII.

SANITARY OPERATIONS OF THE STATE.

Surgeon General's Department — His Duties — Expedition to Pittsburg Landing- Second Expedition— Expedition to Perryville Battle-fleld — To Murfreesboro — Visit toVicksburg— ToWashington Hospitals— Expedition to Chicamauga Battle- field—Visit to Army of Potomac —Visit of Governor Lewis and Surgeon General Wolcott to Hospitals for Transfer of Sick and Wounded —United States Hospitals in Wisconsin — Sanitaiy Agents — Soldiers' Aid Societies —Wisconsin Soldiers' Home — Soldiers' Orphans' Home — Bureau of Employment 208

CHAPTER VIII.

GENERAL MILITARY OPERATIONS— EASTERN DIVISION.

Wisconsin Organizations in Eastern Division — Skirmish at Falling Waters — First Battle of Bull Run — Bolivar Heights — Winchester — Peninsula Campaign — Banks' Retreat — Battle of Cedar Mountain — Gainesville — Second Bull Run- South Mountain — Antietam— Fredericksburg— Chancellorville—Marye's Heights — Gettysburg — Rappahannock Station — Battles from the Rapidan to Petersburg — Weldon Railroad — Explosion of the Mine— Ream's Station— South Side Rail- road—Hatcher's Run — Fort Stedman — Five Forks — Evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond — Pursuit of Lee's Army— Sailors' Creek — Surrender— Sherman's March from Savannah— A veiysboro—Rentonville — Johnston's Surrender — "Johnny Comes Marching Home," .*. •2A^

CHAPTER IX.

GENERAL MILITARY OPERATIONS— CENTRAL DIVISION.

Wisconsin Organizations in the Central Division — Bowling Green — Nashville — Huntsville — Bragg's March on Louisville — Battle of Perryville — Jefferson Pike

— Stone River — Spriug Hill — Tullahoma— Dug Gap — Chicamauga— Chattanooga

— Mission Ridge— Dal ton — Buzzard's Roost — Resaca — Dallas— Kenesaw Moun- tain—Atlanta— Jonesboro—Lovejoy's Station— AUatoona— Destruction of At- lanta — Shei-man's March to Savannah — Battle of Nashville— General Wilson's Campaigns in Alabama and Georgia 320

CHAPTER X.

GENERAL MILITARY OPERATIONS —WESTERN DIVISION.

Wisconsin Organizations in Western Division — Battle of Frederickton — Pea Ridge

— New Madrid — Island No. 10 — Shiloh — Siege of Corinth —Battle of luka — Corinth — Bayou Cache — Prairie Grove — New Orleans Captured — Vicksburg Bombarded in 1S62 — Sherman's Attempt — Arkansas Post— Grant's March on Vicksburg — Port Gibson — Jackson — Champion Hills — Black River — Invest- ment of Vicksburg — Surrender — Jackson— Yazoo River — Teche Expedition — Port Hudson Surrenders— Little Rock Captured — Second Teche Expedition — Carrion Crow Bayou — Texas Expedition — Honey Springs — Battle of Helena — Meridian Expedition— Red River Expedition — Fort de Russey — Sabine Cross Roads — Pleasant Hill — Cane River — Alexandria — General Bailey's Dam- Jenkins" Ferry— Price's Raid in Missouri— Fort Morgan— Siege and Capture of Mobile , „ ., 377

if

20 CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XI.

KEGIMENTAL HISTORY— FIRST INFANTRY, (THREE MONTHS.)

PAQB.

Regimental Roster— Ordered to Chambersburg — Hagerstown— Skirmish at Falling Waters — March to Martinstaurg — Bunker Hill — Charlestown- Upper Potomac — Mustered out — Regiment Reorganized — Regimental Roster — Skirmish on Granny White's Pike — Rogersville — Battle of Pen-y ville — JeflFerson Pike — Stone River— Hoover's Gap— Chicamauga — Resaca— Dallas — Kenesaw Moun- tain — Atlanta — Jonesboro — Return to Wisconsin — Muster out — Statistics 42$

CHAPTER XII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— SECOND INFANTRY AND IRON BRIGADE.

Regimental Roster— First Battle of Bull Run — King's Brigade — Roster of the Sixth Regiment— Roster of the Seventh Regimen t^Organization of the "Iron Brigade" — Operations near Fredericksburg— Beverley Ford — Battle of Gainesville — Second Bull Run — South Mountain — Antietam — Fredei-icksburg-Fitzhugh's Crossing— Cliancellorville — Gettysburg— Veteran Re-enlistments— Battles of the Wilderness — Spottsylvania— North Anna — Cold Harbor — Second Regiment Re- turns Home — Mustered out — Statistics — Independent Battalion — Subsequent Brigade History— Assault on Petersburg — Battle at Weldon Railroad — Hatcher's Run — Dabney's Mills — Five Forks — Capture of Lee's Army —March to Wash- ington— Grand Review — Sent to Louisville — Return to Wisconsin — Mustered out— Iron Brigade Dissolved — Statistics 438

CHAPTER XIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRD INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Sliirmish at Bolivar — Occupation of Frederick — Pursuit of Jackson — Fight at Buckton Station — Retreat of General Banlcs- Battle of Cedar Mountain — Antietam — Cliancellorville — Fight at Beverley Ford— Gettys- burg — Sent to New York — Transferred to Army of the Cumberland —Veterans Re-enlist— Veteran Tliird on Furlough — Battle of Resaca— Dallas — Pine Knob

— Kenesaw — Atlanta — March to Savannah — March to Goldsboro — Battle of Averysboro — 6entonville — Surrender of Jolmstou's Army — Homeward Bound

— Return to Wisconsin — Muster out — Regimental Statistics 483

CHAPTER XIV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FOURTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Regiment Arrives at Baltimore — Expedition to the Eastern Sliore — Newport News — Ship Island — Capture of New Orleans — Baton Rouge — First Attack on Vicksburg— Burning of Grand Gulf— Second Attack on Vicks- burg — Gunboat Tyler — Battle of Baton Rouge — Texas Rangers Captured — Bombardment of Port Hudson — Fii-st Teche Expedition — Battle at Bislaud — Port Hudson — Assault of May 27th and June 14tli — Surrender of Port Hudson — Changed to Cavalry Regiment 498

CONTENTS. 21

CHAPTER XV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FIFTH INFANTRY,

PAOE.

Regimental Roster — Winter near Washington — Embark on Peninsula Campaign — Battle of Lee's Mills— Williamsburg— Qolden's Farm — Change of Ba.se — Rear Guard, at White Oak Swamp Bridge — Malvern Hill— Return to Alexandria — Battle at Crampton's Gap — Antietam— Fredericksburg- Marye's Heights— Salera Church — Gettysburg — On Duty in New York — Rappahannock Station — Mine Run — Battles of the Wilderness— Spottsj'lvania — North Anna — Cold Harbor- Petersburg- Ream's Station —Veterans Return Home — Defense of Washington

— Independent Battalion — Battle of Snicker's Gap — Charlestown — Cedar Creek

— Regiment Reorganized — Roster — Joins Sheridan at Cedar Creek — Return to Petersburg— Battle at Dabney's Mills — Capture of the Enemy's Works at Peters- burg—Battle of Sailor's Creek — Lee's Surrender — March to Washington — Return to Wisconsin — Muster out 508

CHAPTER XVI.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— EIGHTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Arrives at St. Louis— Battle of Fredericktown — New Madrid and Island No. 10 — Farmington — Siege of Corinth — Battle of luka — Corinth — Sei-vice in West Tennessee — Move to Vicksburg — Battle of Jackson— Siege of Vicksburg — Expedition to Canton — Meridian Expedition — Red River Expedi- tion—Rear Guard of Banks' Army — Battle of Lake Chicot— Veterans Return Home — Retui'n to Memphis — Move to White River —Join in Pursuit of General Price — Reinforce General Thomas— Battle of Nashville — Return to Vicksburg — New Orleans— Battles before Mobile — Mustered out of Service — Statistics 526

CHAPTER XVII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— NINTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster— Move to Leavenworth, Kansas— March to Fort Scott— Join the Indian Expedition— Battle of Newtouia — Prairie Grove — Service in Missouri — Embark for Helena, Ark. — Join General Steele's Army at Little Rock — March to Camden — Battle of Elkins' Ferry — Jenkins' Ferry — Return to Little Rock — Non-veterans — Mustered out — Independent Battalion — Expedition to the Saline River.-. 540

CHAPTER XVIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster— Arrival in Kentucky — Move to Nashville — Capture of Hunts- ville — Railroad Guard Duty — Brilliant Fight at Paint Rock Bridge — Death of Captain Moore — Rear Guard at Stevenson — March to Louisville — Battle of Per- ry ville — Battle of Stone River — Hoover's Gap — Cross th5 Tennessee — Battle of Chicamauga — Severe Loss — Assault on Mission Ridge — Battles from Dallas to Atlanta — On Guard at Marietta — Return Home —Mustered out — Statistics 548

22 . CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XIX.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— ELEVENTH INFANTRY.

PAGK.

Hegimental Roster — At Sulphur Springs — Steele's Advance into Arkansas — Battle of Bayou Cache — Helena, Ark.— Return to Missouri — Join Grant's Forces near Vieksburg — March Across the Peninsula — Battle near Port Gibson — Champion Hills — Black River Bridge — Before Vieksburg — Assault of the 22d of May — Second Battle at Jackson, Miss.— Transferred to the Department of the Gulf— Berwick City — Teche Expedition — Return — Embark for Texas — Return to Bra- shier City— Move to Mobile— Assault on Fort Blakely— "War Closed — On Duty at Mobile — Mustered Out— Return Home— Statistics 559

CHAPTER XX.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWELFTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster— Leavenworth City— March to Fort Scott — To Fort Riley— Re- turn to Leavenworth— Embark for West Tennessee — Join Grant's Southward Movement— March to Memphis — Expedition to Coldwater — Move to Vieksburg — The Siege — Battle of Jackson — Natchez — Return to Vieksburg — Veteran Re- enlistments— The Meridian Expedition— Skirmish at Baker's Creek— On Veteran Furlough — Joins General Sherman in Georgia — Battle at Kenesaw Mountain — Nickajack Creek — Bald Hill, July 21-22 — Battle of the 28th of July — Siege of At- lanta—Jonesboro—Lovejoy's Station— Join Sherman's Grand March — Savan- nah— Pocotaligo — Orangebui'g — Goldsboro — Johnston's Surrender — March to Washington — Grand Review — Move to Louisville — Return to Wisconsin — Disbanded — Statistics 574

CHAPTER XXI.

RECtlMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTEENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Leavenworth — March to Fort Scott — To Fort Riley — Return to Leavenworth — Move to West Tennessee — Stationed at Fort Henry — Fort Donelson — At Stevenson, Ala.— Huntsville — Guard Sherman's Communi- cations-Veteran Re-enlistments— Return to Huntsville — Move to Knoxville — Return to Nashville — Move Down the Mississippi— New Orleans — Texas — Muster out — Return Home — Statistics 590

CHAPTER XXII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FOURTEENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Arrive at St. Louis — Move up Tennessee River — Battle of Shiloh— Battle of Corinth — Joins Grant's Southward Movement — March to Memphis — Move to Vieksburg — To Lake Providence — Return to Vieksburg — Assault of the 22d of May — The Siege — Move to Natchez — Re-enlistments — Veteran Furlough — Red River Expedition — Worden's Battalion — Battle of Tupelo — Expedition to Augusta, Ark.— Pursuit of Price through Missouri — Battle of Nashville -^ Return to Vieksburg — New Orleans — Investment of Mobile — Attack on Spanish Fort — Mobile Captured— Muster out— Return Home — Disbanded — Statistics 598

CONTENTS. 23

CHAPTER XXIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FIFTEENTH INFANTRY.

PAGE,

Regimental Roster — Arrive at St. Louis — Bird's Point — Island No. 10— Skirmisli at Union City— Capture of Island No. 10 — Move to West Tennessee — Transferred to Army of the Cumberland — Florence, Ala.— Move to Louisville— Battle of Perry- ville — Knob Gap — Stone River — Death of Lieutenant Colonel McKee — March on Tullahoma — Battle of Chieamauga — Death of Colonel Heg — Battle of Mission Ridge — Move to East Tennessee — Battle at Rocky Face Ridge — Resaca — Dallas

— Kenesaw Mountain — Atlanta— At Whitesides — Mustered out — Statistics 613

CHAPTER XXIV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— SIXTEENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move up Tennessee River — Battle of Pittsburg Landing — Siege of Corinth — Battle of Corinth — Lake Providence — Stationed at Redbone Church

— New Companies— Old Companies on Veteran Furlough — Move to Cairo — Join Sherman's Army in Tennessee — At Ackworth — Brush Mountain — Kenesaw— Cross the Chattahoochie — Battle at Bald Hill— Atlanta— Jouesboro — Pursuit of Hood — Join in Sherman's Grand March — Savannah — Goldsboro — Surrendep of Johnston's Ai'my- Return Home— Mustered out — Statistics.....". , 632

CHAPTER XXV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— SEVENTEENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to St. Louis — To Pittsburg Landing— Siege of Corinth — Battle of Corinth — In West Tennessee — Move to Vicksburg— Lake Providence

— Return to Vicksburg — Assault of May 19th — Siege of Vicksburg — Move to Natchez — Fort Beauregard — Vicksburg — Veterans Return Home on Furlough

— Return to Cairo — Join Army of General Sherman — Battle of Kenesaw Moun- tain— Bald Hill — Atlanta — Jonesboro — Pursuit of Hood — Sherman's Grand March — Savannah — Goldsboro — Raleigh — Richmond — Washington — Return Home — Muster out — Statistics 644

CHAPTER XXVI.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— EIGHTEENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Sent to Tennessee River — Battle of Pittsburg Landing — Siege of Corinth — Battle of Corinth — Lake Providence— Battle of Jackson — Champion Hills — Siege of Vicksburg — Move to Chattanooga — Battle of Mission Ridge — Battle of AUatoona — Veterans on Furlough — Non-veterans In Sherman's March — Veterans in Provisional Division — Proceed to Goldsboro — Rejoin the Regiment

— Review at Washington — Return Home — Muster out — Statistics 656

CHAPTER XXVII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY- NINETEESTTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Ordered to Fortress Monroe — Norfolk — Suffolk —Yorktown

— Newbern — Join Eighteenth Aimy Corps — Before Petersburg — Fort Darling— Veterans on Furlough — Battle of Fair Oaks — Enter Richmond— Mustered out- Return Home— Statistics 668

24 CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXVIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTIETH INFANTRY.

PAGE.

Regimental Roster— Ordered to Missouri — Marcli to Cross Hollows — Battle of Prai- rie Grove — Expedition to Van Buren — Move to Rolla — Siege of Vicksburg — Expedition to Yazoo City — At Carrol ton — Expedition to Texas — Proceed to Matamoras, Mexico — Return to New Orleans — Proceed to Mobile — Capture cf Fort Morgan — East Pascagoula — Capture of Spanish Fort— Proceed to Galveston •—Return Home— Mustered out — Statistics 675

CHAPTER XXIX.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY- FIRST INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Cincinnati — To Louisville — Battle of Perryville— Jefferson Pike — Stone River— Hoover's Gap — Move into Georgia— Dug Gap — Battle of Chicamauga — Resaca — Dallas — Kenesaw Mountain — Peach Tree Creek — Atlanta — Jonesboro — Pursuit of Hood — Join the Grand March of Sherman — Savannah — Bentonville — Goldsboro — Raleigh — Review at Washington — Return Home — Muster out— Statistics 686

CHAPTER XXX.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY- SECOND INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Proceed to Cincinnati — On Duty in Kentucky— Proceed to Nashville — Battle at Thompson's Station— Brentwood Station— Regiment again Organized — At Murfreesboro — Battle of Resaca — Dallas — Kenesaw — Chatta- hoochie — Peach Tree Creek — Siege of Atlanta — First to Enter the City— Accom- pany the Grand March — Savannah — Bentonville — Goldsboro — Return Home- Muster out— Statistics 697

CHAPTER XXXI.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY- THIRD INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Depart for Cincinnati — Service in Kentucky— Move to Mem- phis—Sherman's Attack on Vicksburg— Battle of Arkansas Post — March to Rear of Vicksburg — Battle of Grand Gulf — Champion Hills — Black River Bridge- Siege of Vicksburg — Transferred to Department of the Gulf — Teche Expedition — Battle of Carrion Crow Bayou — Return to Berwick City — Embark for Texas — Return to Berwick City— Red River Expedition— Battle of Sabine Cross Roads — Expedition to Mobile — Return to Morganzia — Expedition to Mobile — Capture of Spanish Fort and Blakeley— Mobile — Muster out — Return Home — Statistics.. 707

CHAPTER XXXII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY- FOURTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to J,ouisville — Battle of Perryville — Stone River- Chicamauga — Mission Ridge — East Tennessee Campaign— Atlanta Campaign- Rocky Face Ridge — Resaca — Adairsville — Dallas — Kenesaw Mountain — Peach Tree Creek— Siege of Atlanta — Jonesboro — On Duty at Chattanooga— Battle of Franklin -Nashville — Service in East Tennessee — Muster out— Return Home- Statistics 720

CONTENTS. 25

CHAPTER XXXIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY-FIFTH INFANTRY.

PAGE.

Regimental Roster — Sent to Minnesota — Return to Wisconsin- Move to Colum- bus, Ky. — Satartia, on the Yazoo River — Snyder's Bluff— Siege of Vicksburg — On Duty at Helena — Slierman's Meridian Expedition — Move to Cairo — Thence to Decatur, Ala.— Join Slierman's Anny — Battle of Resaca — Dallas — Battle of Decatur, Ga.— Atlanta — Jonesboro — Pursuit of Hood — Join in the Grand Marcli

— Savannah — Battle of the Salkchatchie — Reach Goldsboro — Surrender of Joim- stou's Army — Homeward March — Grand Review at Washington — Muster out — Return to Madison — Statistics 734

CHAPTER XXXIV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY-SIXTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Virginia — Battle of Chancellorville — Gettysburg — TransfeiTed to Tennessee — Battle of Mission Ridge— Atlanta Campaign — Battle of Resaca — Dallas — Kenesaw Mountain — Peach Tree Creek— Atlanta— March with Sherman — Battle of Averysboro — Ben ton ville— Return Home — Muster out — Statistics '. 74g

CHAPTER XXXV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY-SEVENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster— Move to Columbus, Ky.— Down the Mississippi — Up the Yazoo

— March to Snyder's Bluff— Siege of Vicksburg — Move to Arkansas — Capture of Little Rock — March to Camden — Battle at Jenkins' Ferry — Return to Little Rock — Ordered to Join Canby's Forces — Capture of Spanish Fort — Move to Texas — Mustered out — Return Home — Statistics 760

CHAPTER XXXVI.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY-EIGHTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Columbus, Ky.— To Helena — At St. Charles— Yazoo Pass Expedition — Return to Helena — Battle of Helena — Capture of Little Rock

— Expedition to Mount Elba— Skirmish— Return to Pine Bluff— Join Canby's Forces before Mobile — Surrender of Spanish Fort and Blakely — On Service in Alabama — Move to Texas — Mustered out of Service — Return Home — Disbanded

— Statistics 7(37

CHAPTER XXXVII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— TWENTY-NINTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Cairo- To Helena— Friar's Point— Cotton Specula- tors—Expedition to WTiite River— Yazoo Pass Expedition — March to Hard Times Landing — Battle of Port Gibson — Cliampion Hills — Assault of May 22d — Siege of Vick.sburg — Battle of Jackson — Transferred to Gulf Department — Sec- ond Teche Expedition— Texas- Red River Expedition — Battle of Sabine Cross Roads — Retreat to Alexandria— Assist in Building Bailey's Dam — Stationed at Morganzia — Join General Canby's Forces — Siege of Spanish Fort and Blakely — Move to Shreveport- Muster out— Return Home — Statistics... 774

2!8, CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXXVIII.

KEGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTIETH INFANTRY.

PAOB

Regimental Roster — On Duty in the State — Move to Dacotah Territory— Take Part in Sully's Indian Expedition — Build Fort "Wadsworth — Return — Move to Louisville, Ky.— Muster out — Return Home — Statistics 789

CHAPTER XXXIX.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY-FIRST INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Columbus, Ky.— Thence to Nashville — Ordered to the Front — Siege of Atlanta — Join General Sherman's Grand March — Battle of Averysboro—Bentonville— Arrival at Goldsboro — Surrender of Johnston's Army

— Homeward March — Bichmond—Washington— Grand Review — Move to Louis- ville, Ky.— Muster out — Return Home — Statistics 793

CHAPTER XL.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY- SECOND INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Memphis — Join Grant's Southward Movement — Dis- aster at Holly Springs — Return to Memphis — On Provost Duty — Move to Mos- cow, Tenn.— Move toVicksburg — Take Part in Meridian Expedition — Move up the River— Caii-o- Up the Tennessee — Decatur, Ala.— Ordered to Atlanta— In Atlanta Campaign — In Sherman's Grand March— Savannah — Fight at Pocotaligo

— River's Bridge — South Edisto — Bentonville — Goldsboro — Surrender of John- ston's Armj' — Homeward March —Washington — Grand Review — Muster out — Return Home — Statistics 800

CHAPTER XL I.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY-THIRD INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Memphis — Join Sherman's Army — Join Grant's Southward Movement — Expedition Abandoned — Return to Memphis — Expedi- tion to the Cold water River — Move to Vicksburg — Snyder's Bluff — Move to the Rear of Vicksburg — Engage in the Siege — Battle of Jackson — Return toVicks- burg—Move to Natchez — Return to Vicksburg — Meridian Expedition — Red River Expedition — Vicksburg — Expedition to Central Mississippi — Camargo Cross Roads — Tupelo — Move to Brownsville, Ark. — Pursuit of General Price into Missouri — Move to Nashville — Battle of Nashville — Move to New Orleans

— Move to Mobile— Spanish Fort — War Closed — Move to Vicksburg — Mustered out — Statistics • 808

CHAPTER XLII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY- FOURTH INFANTRY.

Kegimental Rost«r — Move to Columbus, Ky.— Engage in Garrison Duty — Time Expires— Return Home — Muster out — Statistics 820

CONTENTS. 27

CHAPTER XLIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY-FIFTH INFANTRY.

PiOE.

Regimental Roster — Move to Alexandria, La.— Port Hudson — Morganzia — St. Charles, Ark.— Join General Canby's Forces- Siege of Spanish Fort — On Daty in Alabama — Move to Texas 821

CHAPTER XLIV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY-SIXTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Washington — Join Hancock's Corps — Battle of Tolo- potomy— Cold Harbor — Before Petersburg— June 18th — Jerusalem Plankroad — Strawberry Plains— Explosion of the Mine — Battle at Deep Bottom — Weldon Railroad — Battle at Ream's Station — Hatcher's Run — Dabney 's Mills — Peters- burg Captured — Pursuit of Lee — Surrender of his Army — March to Washing- ton—Grand Review— Proceed to Louisville — Mustered out — Return Home — Statistics 82:1

CHAPTER XLV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY-SEVENTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to Washington— Join Grant's Army — Move to Peters- burg—Assault of 17th and 18th of June— Explosion of the Mine — Assault of 30tli of July— Weldon Railroad — South Side Railroad— Hatcher's Run — Raid on tlie Weldon Railroad —Winter Quarters — Fort Steadman— Capture of Fort Mahone — Enter Petersburg — Surrender of Lee's Army— War Closed — Move to Wasli- ington — Grand Review— Muster out — Return Home — Regiment Disbanded — Statistics 835

CHAPTER XLVI.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRTY-EIGHTH INFANTRY.

Regimental Roster — First Battalion Arrives at Washington — Join the Army of the Potomac — Cold Harbor — Cross the James River— Petersburg —Assaults of June 17th and 18th — June 30th — Battle on Weldon Railroad — Hatcher's Run — Second Battalion Arrives at Petersburg — Regimental Organization Complete — Capture of Fort Mahone— Occupation of Petersburg— War Closed— Proceed to Washington —Grand Review — Muster out— Return to Wisconsin — Statistics 845

CHAPTER XLVII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— ONE HUNDRED DAY TROOPS.

Rosters— Thirty-ninth— Fortieth — Forty-flrst — Move to Memphis— On Picket and Guard Duty — Forrest's Raid— Time Expires— Return Home— Muster out 8.54

CHAPTER XLVIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY- FORTY-SECOND TO FIFTY-THIRD INFANTRY. 8<^

4

28 CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XLIX.

COMPANY HISTORY— COMPANY G, BERDAN'S SHARPSHOOTERS.

PAGE.

Organization — Move to New York— To Washington —At Battles on the Peninsula — Second Bull Run— Antietam — Blackburn's Ford — Battle of Fredericksburg — Chancellorville — Gettysburg — Wapping Heights — Locust Grove — Campaign of 1864 — In Battles from the Wilderness to Cold Harbor— Before Petersburg — Term Expires— Muster out— Return Home 871

CHAPTER L.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FIRST CAVALRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to St. Louis — To Cape Girardeau — Operations in South- east Missouri — Raid into Arkansas — Disaster at La Anguille Ferry — Helena — Return to Cape Girardeau — Attack on Cape Girardeau — Ordered to Tennessee — In Rosecrans' Army — Battle of Chieamauga— Anderson's Cross Roads — Opera- tions in East Tennessee — In the Atlanta Campaign — Campaign of 1865— Assault and Capture of West Point — Cessation of Hostilities — Pursuit of Jefferson Davis — His Capture— Muster out — Return Home — Statistics 881

CHAPTER LI.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— SECOND CAVALRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to St. Louis— To Springfield— First Battalion Bent to Cassville — Second and Third Battalions March through Arkansas— At Helena- Memphis — Snyder's Bluff— On Big Black River— Battle of Jackson — Expedi- tion to Canton —At Redbone Church — Fight near Yazoo City — Move to Memphis — Move to Texas — Muster out— Return Home — Statistics 900

CHAPTER LII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— THIRD CAVALRY.

Regimental Roster — Move to St. Louis — To Leavenworth City — On Duty in Kansas — Major Henning at Fort Scott — Regiment Joins Salomon's Brigade — At Battle of Cane Hill — Prairie Grove — Fight at Fort Gibson — Honey Springs— Cabin Creek — Massacre at Baxter Springs — On Veteran Furlough — Return to Little Rock — Regiment Reorganized — On Duty in Ariiansas — Missouri and Kansas — Ordered to Leavenworth City — Muster out — Return Home — Statistics 909

CHAPTER LIII.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FOURTH CAVALRY.

Organization as a Cavalry Regiment — On Scouting Duty — Exploit of Lieutenant Earl — Expedition to Rosedale — To Gros de Tete— Veteran son Furlough — Expe- dition to Clinton, La.— Death of Colonel Boardman — Earl's Independent Scouts — Major Craigue Captures Clinton — March towards Mobile — Return to Baton Rouge — Skirmish — March to Mobile — Into Georgia — Return to Vicksburg — Move to Texas — Still in Service 92i

MILWAUKEE CAVALRY 928

CONTENTS. 29

CHAPTER LIV.

COMPANY HISTORIES— LIGHT ARTILLERY.

PAGE.

Batteries One to Thirteen 928

CHAPTER LV.

REGIMENTAL HISTORY— FIRST HEAVY ARTILLERY.

Regimental Roster— Battery A in Defenses of Washington— Battery B at Lexington, ^ Ky.— Battery C at Cliattanooga— In East Tennessee— Battery D at Brasliier City,

La.— Batteries E to M in Defenses at Washington— Muster out — Statistics 970

CONCLUSION 973

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Major General Charles S. Hamilton— Major General C. C. Washburn— Major General Carl Schurz— Brevet Major General T. H. Ruger— Brevet Major General Frederick Salomon — Brevet Major General Lysander Cutler — Brigadier General Rufus King — Brigadier General Halbert E. Paine — Brigadier General John C. Stark- weather—Brigadier General Lucius Fairchild — Brigadier General E. S. Bragg — Brigadier General Joseph Bailey — Brevet Brigadier General Harrison C. Hobart — Brevet Brigadier General Oscar H. La Grange — Brevet Brigadier General T. S. Allen — Brevet Brigadier General Jeremiah M. Rusk — Colonel Charles R.Gill — Colonel Sidney A. Bean — Colonel Frederick A. Boardman — Lieutenant Colonel David McKee — Mrs. Cordelia A. P. Harvey 975

ILLUSTEATIOISrS.

Governor ALEXANDER W. RAKDALL. Governor LOIJIS P. HARVEY. Governor EDWARD SALOMOIS'. Governor JAMES T. LEWIS. Adjutant General AUG. GAYLORD. President ABRAHAM LINCOLN. Lieutenant General ULYSSES S. GRANT. Major General WILLIAM T. SHERMAN. Mrs. CORDELIA A. P. HARYEY. Brigadier General HALBERT E. PAINE. Brigadier General LUCIUS FAIRCHILD. Brigadier General T. S. ALLEN. Lieutenant Colonel DAVID McKEE. Colonel 0. H. LaGRANGE. Colonel F. A. BOARDMAN. Colonel SIDNEY A. BEAN.

MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

CHAPTEE I.

ACTION OF THE STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1861.

State Administration of 1860 and 1861 — Resources — Legislature; OP 1861 — Governor's Message — Laws Passed — Fort Sumter — Popular Excitement — Call for 75,000 Militia — Gtovernor's Pro- clamation— First Tender of Service — Only one Regiment — Reserve Regiments Authorized — First Regiment Organized — Captain Little — Proclamation to Women op Wisconsin — To the People— Companies Tendering Service — Surgeon General Wol- cott — Adjutant General Utley — Camp Randall — Second, Third, and Fourth Regiments — Defense op Washington — Meeting op Loyal Governors — Governor's Letter, to President Lincoln — Generals King and Schurz — Two more Regiments Accepted — • Patriotic Women — Letter of Governor Randall.

IK N"ovember, 1859, His Excellency Governor Alex. "W. Ran clair, was reelected to the office of Governor of Wisconsin, and entered upon the duties of his second term on the first Mon- day of January, 1860. The other State officers, elected in 1859, were the Hon. Butler G. ISToble, as Lieutenant Governor, Hon. Louis P. Harvey, Secretary of State, Hon. Samuel J). Hastings, State Treasurer, being his second term, Hon. J. H. Howe, Attor- ney General, Hon. J. L. Pickard, State Superintendent of Schools, and Hon. G. Van Steenwyck, Bank Comptroller. The above named individuals composed the State administration for the years 1860 and 1861.

The reports of the several State ofiicers, in 1860, exhibited the condition of the State before the outbreak of the rebellion. 3

34 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

The decennial enumeration of the population of the State was made in the year 1859, and Wisconsin was found to contain 775,881 inhabitants, being an increase of 470,490 in ten years, the population in 1850 being 305,391. Wisconsin was organized as a Territory in July, 1836, at which time the enumeration showed a population of 11,683. From that period up to 1842, the population increased very slowly, the tide of emigration not setting towards Wisconsin until that year, when the population of the State rapidly rose from 44,478, in the year 1842, to 155,277, in 1846. Wisconsin was organized as a State in 1848, when it was admitted into the Union. In 1846, the first wave of the great flood of emigration from the old countries reached the western shore of Lake Michigan, and from that time, yearly, our State has received a large share of population from that source.

We desire to show, by the above statement, the aggregate of the population of the State immediately preceding the war, and to state that fully one-third of our people being of foreign birth, many of them were not liable to do military duty, not being recognized as United States citizens. In round numbers, the population of Wisconsin, at the beginning of 1861, was about 800,000.

The valuation of real and personal estate, in 1861, was as follows :

Number of acres assessed $17,298,631 d8%

Aggregate value of lands, exclusive of city and village lots, 96,513,421 77

" " " " of city and village lots, 32,013,734 42

Total aggregate of real property, as assessed, 128,527,156 19

» " " " " as equalized by State Board, 158,175,360 58

Aggregate value of personal property, 24,331,861 55

Total value of all property in tlie State, as equalized by the State

Board of Equalization, was 182,507,222 13

At the beginning of 1861, the total banking capital of the State was $7,237,000, with a circulation of |4, 580,832, which was secured by the deposit of State stocks to the amount of $5,120,080, and specie amounting to $88,725 60. Of the State stocks deposited for security, as above stated, $3,163,560 were issued by States who were eventually in open rebellion' against the government. In consequence of the attitude assumed by these States, their stocks rapidly depreciated in the New York market, and the Bank Comptroller was obliged to call for further security from the banks of the State. This crippled many of the

RESOURCES OF THE STATE. 35

banking institutions, and the financial aiiairs of the State were in a very critical condition when the war of the rebellion began in April, 1861. This state of aifairs was in a great degree reme- died during the summer of that year, by the sale of the State bonds authorized to be issued at the regular and extra sessions of the Legislature, in 1861, for war purposes. These bonds were sold to the bankers of the State, on condition that they should be deposited as security for the circulation then outstanding. To etfect this, the stocks of the rebellious States were disposed of at the best price to be had in New York, and the proceeds invested in Wisconsin State bonds.

We cite these statistics of the State to show its numerical, eco- nomical and financial condition prior to the terrible contest which, for the past four years, has drawn so enormously upon * the resources of the country, in the shape of men and money.

The educational and other institutions of the State exhibited a good degree of prosperity, but as they were only incidentally afiected by the war, we content ourselves by merely mentioning the aggregate amounts of the different funds under the manage- ment of the State ofiicers :

The School Fund was estimated at 83,234,1.56 00 on the 1st of October, 1860. " University" " " " 286,725 92 " " " " " "

The number of persons between the ages of four and twenty, as reported to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, for 1860, was 288,984, of which number, 199,455 attended school during the year.

Such was the condition of Wisconsin when she was called upon to aid the General Government in its efifort to sustain itself against the designs of the secession conspirators. The commer- cial afiTairs of the State were sadly embarrassed by the deprecia- tion of the currency, which was felt very severely by the State authorities when they entered upon the labor of raising forces for the IsTational defense.

The designs of the secessionists were so far developed at the close of 1860 as to show that resistance to the National authority had been fully determined on. The formal act of secession in South Carolina, on the 20th of December, the seizure of the forts, arsenals and other property of the Nation, in the Southern

36 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

States, indicated that a struggle was at liand, whicli would necessi- tate a call, ou the part of the President, for a military force, iu order to preserve the National authority.

It is not the province of this work to discuss the points at issue or to enumerate the causes which led the Southern States to seek a disruption of the Union. Those matters more properly belong to the general historian. Our mission is merely to show what a single State has done towards sustaining the National Govern- ment in its great struggle for existence — to gather, and place in permanent form, the deeds of those of its people who went forth to battle for the preservation of the blessings which our favored country had so long enjoyed, under the liberal principles of our National Constitution.

The open acts of the conspirators attracted the attention of the authorities of the loyal States, and their several Executives took early occasion to lay before their respective legislative bodies the necessity of such action as would empower them to respond to any call which might be made by the President for aid to put down the threatened insurrection.

The Legislature of Wisconsin met at Madison on the 9th day of January, 1861. In his annual message, Governor Randall set forth the dangers which threatened the National Union, as de- veloped in the actions of the secessionists up to that date. He also elaborately argued the question of the right of a State to secede from the Union, and goes on to say :

A variety of excuses are made for the threatening attitude assumed toward the Government and Union. Tlie extreme Southern States complain of the personal liberty laws, and demand their immediate and unconditional repeal. * * * Further com- plaints are made because of the difficulty of enforcing the Fugitive Slave Law in the North.

*******************

Personal liberty laws are found, or should be found, upon the statutes of every State. They ought to be there. All States have them, both North and South, varying in their character and provisions, yet still personal liberty laws. The highest duty of the Leg- islature of any civilized State is to provide, by every constitutional means for the protec- tion of the rights of person of the citizens. So a law for the protection and preservation of the liberty of the people cannot be too stringent, if it is within the Constitution. The States never surrendered the right to protect the person of citizens. Every living human being has a right to a legal test of the question of whether he is a free man or a slave. While it cannot be consented that laws, looking to the protection of liberty, should bo repealed, yet all such laws should conform to the Constitution of the United States. If, on, a close examination and scrutiny, you are satisfied that any of the provisions of our personal liberty laws are in conflict with the Constitution, it will be your duty, as your pleasure, to so change them that they shall conform to that Constitution. But no fear, no favor, no hope of reward, no demand, no threat, should ever induce or drive a free

governor's message. 37

people to break down the walls of their protectiou. We love the Constitution and the Union of tliese States. We will make sacrifices of feeling to appease and conciliate our brethren, but lue will make no more sacrifices of principle. While this Government stands, and we consent to live under it, Liberty may pay to Slavery the price the Fathers agreed should be paid, but, with our consent, it shall pay no more. We will abide by, and have never refused to abide by, the compromises of our common Constitution. But, subject to that Constitution, the civil and religious liberty, for which the flesh of the martyrs melted, and their bones crackled, in the flames ; for which the Pilgrims becanie Pilgrims, and for which our fathers fought, shall travel down to otiier genera- tions as they came careering on in the midst of the ages, with not one right impaii'ed or one attribute lost.

*******************

Secession Is revolution; revolution is war; war against the Government of the United States is treason.

It is time, now, to know whether we have any Government, and if so, whether it has any strength. Is our written constitution more than a sheet of parchment ? The nation must be lost or preserved by its own strength. Its strength is in the patriotism of the people. It is time, now, that politicians become patriots, that men show their love of country by every sacrifice taut that of principle, and by unwavering devotion to Its interests and integrity.

The hopes of civilization and Christianity are suspended now upon the answer to this question of dissolution. The capacity for, as well as the right of, self-govern- ment is to pass its ordeal, and speculation to become certainty. Other systems have been tried and have failed, and all along, the skeletons of nations have been strewn, as warnings and land-marks upon the great highway of historic government. Wisconsin is true, and her people steadfast. She will not destroy the Union, nor consent that it shall be done. Devised by great, and wise, and good men, in days of sore trial, it must stand. Like some bold mountain, at whose base the great seas break their angry floods, and around whose summit the thunders of a thousand hurricanes have rattled, strong, unmoved, immovable — so may our Union be, while treason surges at its base, and passions rage around it, unmoved, immovable — here let it stand forever.

In the same message, His Excellency urged the necessity of farther legislation, in order to effect a more efficient organization of the militia of the State, and concluded in words that indicated that he " scented the battle afar off," and warned our legislators to make preparation.

The signs of the times indicate that there may arise a contingency in the condition of the Government, when it will become necessary to respond to a call of the National Government for men and means to maintain the integrity of the Union, and to thwart the designs of men engaged in an organized treason. While no unnecessary expense should be incurred, yet it is the part of wisdom, both for individuals and States, in revolutionary times, to be prepared to defend our institutions to the last extremity. I commend this subject to your wisdom and discretion.

On the 16th of January, the following joint resolution was adopted by the Senate, which was concurred in by the Assembly :

Resolved, hy the Senate, the Assembly concurring/, That the people of Wisconsin are ready to co-operate with the friends of the Union everywhere for its preservation, to yield a cheerful obedience to its requirements, and to demand a like obedience from all others; and therefore adopt, as the sentiments of this Legislature, the preamble and resolutions of the State of New York, as follows :

Whereas, The insurgent State of South Carolina, after seizing the Post Ofllce, Custom House, moneys and fortifications of the Federal Government, has, by firing into a vessel ordered by the Government to convey troops and provisions to Fort Sumter, virtually declared war ; and

38 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

Whereas, The forts and property of the United States Government in Georgia. Alabama and Louisiana have been unlawfully seized with hostile intentions; and

Whereas, As treason, as defined by the Constitution of the United States, exLsts in. one or more of the States of the Union ; and •

Whereas, further. Senators and Congressmen avow and maintain their treasonable acts ; therefore

Hesolved, by the Senate, the Assembly concurring. That the Legislature of Wisconsin, pro- foundly impressed with the value of the Union, and determined to preserve it unim- paired, hail with joy the recent firm, dignified and patriotic special message of the President of the United States : that we tender to him, through the Chief Magistrate of our own State, whatever aid, in men and money, may be required to enable him to en- force the laws and uphold the authority of the Federal Government, and in defense of the more perfect Union, which has conferred prosperity and happiness on the American people. Renewing the pledge given and redeemed by our fathers, we are ready to devote our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honors in upholding the Union and the Constitution.

Resolved, by the Senate, the Assembly concurring. That the Union-loving citizens of Dela ■ ware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee, who laJjor witli devoted courage and patriotism to withhold their States from the vortex of secession, are entitled to the gratitude and admiration of the whole people.

Resolved, by the Senate, the Assembly concurring. That the Governor be respectfully re- quested to forward, forthwith, copies of the foregoing resolutions to the President of the Nation, and the Governors of all the States of the Union.

A lively intei'est was manifested in the discussion of these reso- lutions in botli branches of the Legislature. Several proposed amendments were defeated, and the resolutions adopted unani- mously by both houses. It is worthy of remark, however, that the democratic members voted for the resolutions under protest, as follows :

In voting for the preamble and joint resolutions. No. 6, adopted by this honorable body, the undersigned ask the consent of the Senate to have this their protest go on the journal in connection with their votes, to the end that the country may know, that wiiile we cannot vote against any reasonable proposition to aid the President of our common country in maintaining the Constitution and the laws thereof against treason- able violence and lawless force, we at tlie same time are in favor of announcing to the world our purpose to be just and even magnanimous to our brethren of the South, in all things j ust and proper under the Constitution, before (or at the time) we declare our pur- I)Ose to resort to extreme measures. In other words, we believe it our duty that while we vote to aid in the execution of the laws, and the maintenance of order, we should at the same time hold out a means of reconciliation, with a view to avoid bloodshed if possible. Having failed, for want of numerical strength, to enforce these, our solemn views in the resolutions before this honorable body, we yielded to overpowering numbers in pursu- ance of patriotic motives, and voted for the resolutions, while earnestly, yet respectfully, protesting against the action of the majority in voting down the propositions we have contended for, with a view to a harmonious solution of the complications by which we are surrounded.

This protest, signed by the democratic members of the Senate and Assembly, was entered on the journals of both Houses.

On the 26th day of January, Governor Randall sent to the Legislature the preamble and resolutions adopted by the Gene- ral Assembly of Virginia, on the 19th January, 1861. As these

VIRGINIA RESOLUTIONS. 39

resolutions possess historical interest, from the fact that they formed the foundation of the celebrated "Peace Congress" which met at Washington City in 1861, we insert a synopsis here.

In the preamble, it is set forth as the deliberate opinion of the General Assembly of Virginia, that if the unhappy controversy between the South and North could not satisflictorily he settled, a permanent dissolution of the Union was inevitable — that the General Assembly, representing the wishes of the people of Vir- ginia, was desirous of averting such a calamity, they therefore

Resolved, That, in behalf of Virginia, they extended an invi- tation to all States willing to unite with Virginia, for the adjust- ment of the alleged difEerences, to appoint Commissioners to meet at Washington on the 4th of February, 1861, to consider and agree, if practicable, upon some suitable adjustment.

The second resolution appointed five Commissioners to repre- sent Virginia in said Convention.

The third resolution instructed said Commissioners, if any plan of adjustment was agreed on, involving amendments to the Federal Constitution, to communicate such proposed amendments to Congress, for the purpose of having the same submitted by that body to the several States for ratification.

The fourth resolution provided that if Congress should refuse to submit such amendments for ratification, as may be proposed, the Commissioners shall immediately communicate the fact to the Executive of Virginia, to be laid by him before a Convention of the people and the General Assembly.

The fifth resolution gave it as the opinion of the General As- sembly that the resolutions submitted to the Senate of the United States by Hon. J. J. Crittenden should be modified, so that the first article proposed as an amendment to the Constitution of the United States should apply to the territory south of latitude 36° 30', and requiring the protection of slavery therein during terri- torial government, and that slave owners should be secured in the right of transit between and through the non-slaveholding States, and that this proposition should be the basis of settle- ment that would be accepted by the people of Virginia.

The remaining resolutions appointed Ex -President Tyler a Commissioner to the President of the United States, and Judge John Robertson, Commissioner to South Carolina and other

40 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

seceded States, for the purpose of requesting a suspension of any action which might produce collision between those States and the United States, during the pendency of the deliberations of the convention so desired by the people of Virginia.

Copies of the resolutions were telegraphed to the Execlitives of the several States and the President of the United States.

We have given a synopsis of these Virginia resolutions, deem- ing it sufficient for a perfect understanding of their import.

Resolutions appointing Commissioners to this proposed " Peace Congress " were adopted in the Senate and Assembly of Wis- consin, but there being some dissimilar features in the resolutions, as proposed by each house, so much delay was occasioned by the usual parliamentary manoeuvering for a Committee of Conference, that the time for the meeting of the "Peace Congress" passed, and fortunately Wisconsin was saved the humiliation of partici- pating in the attempt to- settle our national difficulties on the basis set forth in the Virginia resolutions.

The result of that " Peace Convention," or rather the attempt to patch up our ITational Union, by making protection to slavery one of the amendments to the Constitution, has become matter of history. It is sufficient here to say that, on the submission of its propositions to Congress, that body, in both houses, speedily rejected them, as well as the Crittenden resolutions.

Those desirous of examining more fully the proceedings of this " Peace Convention," are respectfully referred to the general history of the rebellion, and also Moore's " Rebellion Record," where the proceedings may be found in full.

We are inclined to look upon that " Peace Congress " as a farce, got up by the secession conspirators, to amuse the people of the North, while they obtained time to proceed with their nefarious plottings, looking with contempt at the efforts for com- promise thus being made, having resolved that no compromise or conciliation whatever would be concurred in by them, as they had fully made up their minds to break up the Union at all hazards.

At the beginning of the session, Senator Gill offered a resolu- tion calling for a joint committee of the Senate and Assembly to inquire into the expediency of putting the State on a " war footing," and if deemed by such committee necessary and

LAW PASSED. 41

expedient, that the}" report a phiii or bill for that purpose. A bill was reported and became a law — for the defense of the State, and to aid in enforcing the laws and maintaining the authority of the General Government.

Under this act, and its amendments, Governor Randall was enabled to organize the earlier regiments for Wisconsin.

Section 1 stated that, in case of a call from the President of the United States, to aid in maintaining the Union and the suprem acy of the laws, to suppress rebellion or insurrection, or to repel invasion within the United States, the Governor was authorized to provide, in the most efficient manner, for responding to such call — to accept the services of volunteers for active service, in companies of seventy-five men each, rank and file, and in regi- ments of ten companies each, and to commission officers for the same.

Section 2 authorized the Governor to contract for uniforms and equipments necessary for putting such companies into active service.

Section 3 appropriated one hundred thousand dollars, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this act, and to pay for the transportation of troops, arms and munitions of war.

Section 4 authorized the issue of State bonds to the amount of one hundred thousand dollars — directing how they should be pre- pared and made payable.

Section 5 authorized the Governor to negotiate the sale of the bonds, and directed the money to be deposited in the State Treasury, to be applied to war purposes.

Section 6 authorized the levying of a tax upon the property of the State, to pay ^le interest.

This law was amended subsequently, at the close of the ses- sion, so as to increase the amount of bonds to two hundred thous- and dollars.

Escaping the hands of the conspirators who had been set upon his track by the secession leaders to prevent his inauguration, on the 4th of March, 1861, President Lincoln politely bowed his prede- cessor into retirement, and took up the reins of Government, and at once set to work in the effort to save the Nation from destruc- tion. The conciliatory tone of his inaugural address, while, at the same time, he insisted that the integrity of the National

42 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

Union should be preserved, gave token to tlie people of the ISTortli that a man was at the helm of Government, who was dis- posed to sustain the principles of the Constitution, and, if neces- sary, to resort to stringent measures in order to preserve the Union intact. The public mind at the ISTorth became easier, and the development of events was watched by millions of jealous eyes, and when news spread throughout the land that the rebel cannon were levelled at and about to open on Fort Sumter, the people of the North prepared to gird on their armor and meet the onset, which had now become inevitable, with that determi- nation and courage which the brave man feels when he has used every endeavor to conciliate and settle a contest without resort to blows. This was the condition of the public mind at the l^orth, when the news arrived that the flag of Fort Sumter was lowered to the rebel conspirators, on the 14th of April, 1861.

l!^o sooner had the news come over the wires, than all other business was laid aside, and nothing but " war, war, war," was heard in the cities, and villages, and hamlets. The pen is inade- quate to describe the excitement which prevailed everywhere. Political parties seemed to be forgotten, and the public will was bent upon one idea, of sustaining the General Government, with men and money to the "bottom dollar." Political diflierences were merged in a single desire for the public good. Then we had a united N^orth.

Early on Monday morning April 15th, Governor Randall received the Proclamation of President Lincoln, which reads as follows :

Whereas, the laws of the United States have been for some time past, and now are opposed, and the execution thei'eof obstructed, in the States of Soutli Carolina, Gteorgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas, by combinations too powerful to be suppressed by the ordinary course of judicial proceedings, or by the powers vested in the Marshals by law :

Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, in virtue of the power in me vested by the Constitution and Laws, have thought fit to call forth , and hereby do call forth, the niilitia of the several States of the Union, to the aggregate number of 75,000, in order to suppress said combinations and to cause the laws to be duly executed.

Tlie details for this object will be immediately communicated to the State authorities througli the War Department.

I appeal to all loyal citizens to favor, facilitate and aid this effort to maintain the lionor, the integrity, and the existence of our National Union, and the perpetuity of popular government; and to redress wrongs already long enough endured.

I deem it proper to say that the first service assigned to the forces hereby called forth, will probably be to re-possess the forts, places and property which have been seized from

POPULAR EXCITEMENT. 43

tlie Union ; and in every event, the utmost care will be observed, consistently with the objects aforesaid, to avoid any devastation, any destruction of or interference with, property, or any disturbance of peaceful citizens in any part of the country.

And I hereby command the pei'sons composing the combinations aforesaid to dis- perse, and retire peaceably to their respective abodes within twenty days from this date. Deeming that the present condition of public affairs presents an extraordinary occa- Bion, I do hereby, in virtue of the power in me vested by the Constitution, convene botli Houses in Congress. Senators and Representatives are therefore su mmoned to assem- ble at their respective chambers, at twelve o'clock, noon, on Thursday, the fourth day of July next, then and there to consider and determine suclx measures as, in their wis- dom, the public safety and interest may seem to demand.

In witness whereof, I have hei-eunto sot my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this fifteenth day of April, in the year of our [l. S.] Lord, one tlaousand eight hundred and sixty-one, and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-tilth.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN. By the President,

William H. Seward, Secretary of Stale.

Oil the reception of the news of the fall of Fort Sumter, the excitement was intense. For months the people had watched the lowering clouds, looking with anxiety for the storm to break, hoping, however, that- some measure might he adopted whereby a resort to arms might be prevented. The persistency with which the Southern States proceeded in their mad career, by seizing National property, holding Secession Conventions, firing upon the steamer bearing succor to Major Anderson, and at last opening a cordon of fire upon the devoted garrison at Fort Sum- ter, demonstrated to Northern people that the great contest had begun.

With a unanimity unknown in the history of the Nation, the people of the north, ahnost as one man, arose and gave assur- ances to the National Executive that the Government should be preserved at all hazards. ■

In "Wisconsin, as elsewhere, the public pulse quickened under the excitement. The dangers which surrounded the Nation awakened the liveliest sentiments of patriotism and devotion. For the time, party fealty was forgotten in the general desire to save the Nation. The minds of the people soon settled into the conviction that a bloody war was at hand, and that the glorious fabric of our National Government, and the principles upon which it is founded, were in jeopardy, and with a determination unparalleled in the history of any country, they rushed to its de- fense. On every hand the National flag could be seen displayed, and the public enthusiasm knew no bounds, and in city, town, and hamlet, the burden on every tongue was war.

4-4 MILITARY 'HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

At Madison, the Madison Guard and Governor's Guard ap- peared on parade, and after marching about the Park, proceeded to the Capitol, and paid their respects to Governor RandalL A large concourse of people had assembled in the Park and about the Capitol. Captain J, P. Atwood presented the companies, in an appropriate speech, to which the Governor responded, in substance as follows :

We have never been accustomed to consider the military arm as essential to the maintaiuence of our Government, but an exigency has arisen tliat demands its em- ployment. The time has come when parties and platforms must be forgotten, and all good citizens and patriots unite together in putting down rebels and traitors. The war just commenced should be fought where it had begun, on the ground of the seceding States, Charleston, where the first act was rehearsed, should be the theatre of the clos- ing scene. Fort Sumter should be retalien, and held, though it cost fifty tliouaand lives and a hundred million of dollars. What is money— what is life— In the presenc« of such a crisis ?

The Governor closed by declaring that whatever power and whatever means should be placed at his disposal tor equipping the army of Wisconsin should be most faithfully employed to prosecute the war, and to aid in restoring peace.

The occasion was one that roused up every patriotic impulse, and the speaker and audience seemed to feel that the hour had come for every man to do his duty.

The meeting adjourned with three rousing cheers for the Governor, and three for the " Star Spangled Banner."

The Legislature had voted to adjourn sine die, on Monday morning, April 15th, at 8 o'clock. No quorum being present in the Assembly, a call of the house was had, and the Sergeant-at- Arms sent for absentees. When a quorum was obtained, the following message was received from the Governor :

To THE HONOEABLE THE LEGISLATURE :

Extraordinarj' exigencies have arisen which may create the necessity of further legis- lation in order to aid efficiently tlie Federal Government to maintain its integrity. The act approved April 13, 1861, is entirely ineflicient. It provides for an expenditure and outlay of money, and provides nowhere for drawing money until after it has been ex- pended. Before anything can be done under that act, it requires a material amend- ment. It is a time when party politics sinlt into insignificance, and when the patriot- ism of legislators and the people must be manifested by works. An amendment of the law at this time will save the expense of a special session of the legislature, which I shall be compelled to call unless the necessary legislation is passed before an adjournment, A. W. RANDALL,

On motion of Mr. Spooner, in the Assembly, and Senator Foot, in the Senate, the resolution to adjourn sine die, at 8 o'clock, was rescinded.

AN UNITED NORTH. 45

On the evening of tlie 15tli, there was an informal meeting of republican members of the Legislature and others in the Execu- tive Rooms. The object was to discuss the subject of providing for a resjionse to the President's call. Judge Cole, of the Supreme Court, was called to the chair, addressing the meeting in a sterliuo- speech, full of patriotism and the noblest sentiments.

The democratic members had assembled elsewhere to discuss the mode of action which they should adopt under the circum- stances. About 9 o'clock, a committee of three was appointed to wait upon the meeting in the Executive Rooms and inform that body that they cordially endorsed every reasonable effort which could be suggested, in order to render aid to the General Government, and desired the opportunity to unite with the balance of their fellow members in the great work.

The announcement of this decision, on the part of the demo- cratic members, was received with heartfelt enthusiasm, and a committee of three appointed to accompany the committee, and invite the gentlemen composing the democratic side of the Leg- islature to seats in the Convention, and to a cooperation in the objects of the meeting. Their entrance was greeted with ap- plause, and they were received in a brief and eloquent welcome by Judge Cole. Their chairman, Hon. W. H. Ramsay, remarked that, on behalf of the democratic members of the Legislature, he wished to express their hearty desire to promote the welfare of our common country, by lending their aid and counsel in any deliberation which had for its object the defense of the country and the restoration of the principles of our National Constitution.

Li response to calls, several speeches were made, brief and to the point, all uniting in the declaration that they were ready to sustain the appropriation of whatever sum might be necessary to ejiforce the laws and quell the revolt. Various sums were pro- posed. $500,000 or 11,000,000, if adopted, it was contended, would show to the South that JSTorthern men were not parsimoni- ous of money or courage ^'hen called upon to sustain the Government.

It will be well to state here that the rebels afterwards expressed themselves as astonished at the manner in which the Northern people met their hostile demonstrations. They had counted on a quiet submission, on the part of the North, to their demands,

46 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

and that a few weeks or months would serve to place the South- ern Confederacy among the recognized Nations of the earth. The uprising of the North, with its armed millions of men, and thousands of millions of wealth to hear the expense of a long war, startled the Southern conspirators to a realization that they had awakened a mighty power, which must eventually crush their treasonable designs.

The law passed on the 13th of April was so amended as to authorize the issue of $200,000 of bonds.

Before adjourning, the Legislature passed a law exempting from civil process all persons enlisting and mustering into the United States service from this State.

The closing scenes in the Legislature are worthy of note, as showing the state of feeling which pervaded all classes at this period. In the forenoon, while waiting for business from the Assembly, the Senate took an informal recess, during which some patriotic senator struck up the song of " The Star Spangled Banner." No sooner had the first line been sung, than the whole crowd joined in singing both song and chorus, and never has that glorious old song inspired a more enthusiastic crowd than was then assembled. Hardly had the echoes died away, ere the strain was taken up in the Assembly Chamber, which was added to by the rushing crowd from the Senate, and from outside the Capitol, who joined in the chorus, and the volume of sound from hundreds of patriotic throats permeated through the whole building, and the old Capitol shook from basement to dome with the echoes. Every one, whether possessed of "music in his soul " or not, did his utmost to do justice to the song. The " Star Spangled Banner " hung over the Speaker's chau', and never did it look more lovely, or its stars brighter, than when thus saluted by the hundreds of patriotic hearts there assembled.

The Legislature finally adjourned, giving nine cheers for the Star Spangled Banner and three cheers for the Governor's Guard, who had just then tendered their services.

During Monday April 15th, the following despatch was received from the Secretary of "War :

To His Excellency,

A. W. RandalI/, Governor of Wisconsin. Call made on you by to-night's mail for one (1) regiment of miUtia for immediate service. SIMON CAMERON, Secretary of War.

governor's proclamation. 47

The letter spoken of in the despatch was duly received and read as follows :

War Department, Washington, April 1.3th, 1861. Under the Act of Congress " for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insurrection, repel invasion, etc., approved February 2Sth, 1795, 1 have tlie honor to request your Excellancy to cause to be immediately detached from the militia of your State the quota designated in the table below to serve as Infantry or Riflemen for the period of three months unless sooner discharged.

Your Excellency will please communicate to me the time at or about which your quota will be expected at its rendezvous, as it will be met as soon as practicable by an officer or officers to muster it into the service and pay of the United States. At the same time the oath of fidelity to the United States will be administered to every officer and man.

The mustering officer will he instructed to receive no man under the rank of commis- Bioned officer who is in years apparently over forty-flve or under eighteen, or who is not in physical strength and vigor.

[Here follows the table of quotas of each State.] The rendezvous of your State will be at Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

I have the honor, etc., To His Excellency, SIMON CAMERON.

Alex. W. Randall, (Governor of Wiscotisin.

In obedience to the call of the President and order of the Secretary of War, and under the provisions of the law of the State, the Governor on the 16th of April, issued his proclamation, as follows :

To the Loyal People of Wisconsin:

For the first time in the history of this Federal Government, organized treason has manifested itself witliin several States of the Union, and armed rebels are making war against it. The Proclamation of tlie President of the United States tells of unlawful com- binations too powei'ful to be suppressed in the ordinary manner, and calls for miLtary forces to suppress such combinations, and to sustain him in executing the laws. The treasures of the country must no longer be plundered ; the public property must be pro- tected from aggressive violence ; that already seized, must be retaken, and the lawa must be executed in every State of the Union alike.

A demand made upon Wisconsin by the President of the United States, for aid to sustain the Federal Arm, must meet with a prompt response. One Regiment of tlie Militia of this St-ate, will be required for immediate service, and further services will be required as the exigencies of the Government may demand. It is a.time when, against the civil and religious liberties of the people, and against the integrity of the Govern- ment of the United States, parties and politicians and platforms must be as dust in the balance. All good citizens, everywhere, must join in making common cause against a common enemy.

Opportunities will be immediately offered to all existing military companies, under the direction of th« proper authorities of the State, for enlistment to fill the demand of the Federal Government, and I hei-eby invite the patriotic citizens of the SVite to enroll themselves into companies of seventy-eight men each, and to advise the Executive of their readiness to be mustered into service immediately. Detailed instructions will be ■ furnished on the acceptance of companies, and the commissioned officers of each regi- ment will nominate their own field officers.

In times of public danger bad men grow bold and reckless. The property of the citi- zen becomes unsafe, and both public and private rights liable to be jeopardized. I enjoin upon all administrative and peace officers within the State renewed vigilance in the maintenance and execution of the laws, and in guarding against excesses leading to disorder among the people. \

Given under my liand and the Great Seal of the State of Wisconsin, this 16th [L. s.] day of AprU A. D. 18C1. By the Governor, ALEX. W. RANDALL

L. P. Harvey, Secretary of Stale.

48 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

Thus did Wisconsin wheel into line, and take her place with other loyal States, and gird on her armor to battle for the Union and its perpetuity. Gloriously has she fought the great fight, and all honor is due to the brave boys who have gone forth to represent her in the battle field, too many, alas, never to return.

Before entering upon the task of detailing the particulars of the organization of our military forces, we desire to show the reader the material which Governor Randall found at hand, out of which to meet the requisition of the President and Secretary of War.

Up to the opening of the rebellion, Wisconsin enjoyed the benefits of a militia law, to a sufficient degree to permit the Adjutant General of the State of Wisconsin to draw his annual sahary, his stationery, and to enable him to make a report of the number of men subject to military duty, and the condition and whereabouts of a few hundred rusty guns, which were in the hands of a score of independent companies, whose duty was to ornament the occasion of a 4th of July, or some other gala day.

According to the Report of the Adjutant General, for 1860, there were 130,000 persons in the State liable to military duty, of these, 1,993 were doing duty as follows :

Infantry, 23 companies, rank and file 922 men.

Artillery, 6 " " " " 198 "

Cavalry, 2 " ■ " " " 104 "

Riflemen, ...19 " " " " 769 "

Total, ....50 " " " " 1993 "

According to the same Report, there were then in the hands of the above companies, and in the armory, 56 tents, 6 brass cannon, with carriages and limbers, without caissons, 135 flint muskets, 796 percussion muskets, 811 rifles, 35 flint pistols, 66 percussion pistols, 80 musketoons, 40 cavalry sabres, 118 artillery sabres, 44 swords, 1118 cartridge boxes and plates, 1340 cartridge box belts, 1360 cap pouches, 88 pistol holsters, 407 powder flasks, 371 gun-slings. This included condemned arms and accoutrements of all kinds.

Notwithstanding the inadequate operation of our militia law, several independent companies had been organized in various parts of the State, who took a soldierly pride in their knowledge of drill. To these Governor Randall naturally looked for men

THE STATE MILITIA. 49

to fill the requisition of the Secretary of War, and it is the promptitude with which several of these independent companies responded to his call that enabled him, in so short a time, to organize the First (three months) Regiment. Eight of the ten companies composing the First Regiment were organized parti- ally under this defective militia law, and had attained considerable proficiency in drill.

Governor Randall determined to avail himself of the services of these companies, or, on their declining to volunteer, to dis- arm them, and use the State arms for the drilling of companies raised for active service. He accordingly sent out trusty agents, with orders to the commanding ofiicers of such organized com- panies, to muster their commands within twenty-four hours of the reception of the order, and have them determine whether they would volunteer and prepare for immediate service. By this course, he gave such companies the first opportunity of mustering into the service of the country. In case they declined to volunteer, the agent was authorized to demand the arms and accoutrements belonging to the State, and forward them at once to the State armory. Many of the companies refusing to volun- teer for active service, their arms were delivered over to the Governor's agent, and sent to the State armory.

To show that our old military system was not entirely devoid of good fruits, we append a list of such companies as responded favorably to the call of the Governor, with the positions they severally occupied in the regiments subsequently organized, as the Wisconsin Active Militia :

First Regiment (three months. >— Company A, Milwaukee I>lght Gu.ard; Company C, Horicon Guards ; Company D, Black Yagers, Milwaukee ; Company E, Madison Guards, Color Company ; Company F, Beloit City Guards ; Company G, Park City Greys, Keno- sha ; Company H, Milwaukee Riflemen ; Company K, Governor's Guard, Madison.

Second iJeg^iwe^ii.— Company A, Citizens' Guard, Fox Lake; Company B, La Crosse Light Guard ; Company E, Portage Light Guard ; Company I, Miner's Guards, Mineral Point.

Third Megiment.— Company A, Watertown Riflemen; Company D, Waupun Light Guard; Company E, Williamstown Union Rifles, (late Mayville Rifles); Company G, Neenah Guards ; Company F, Geneva Independents ; Company G, Hudson City Guards.

Sixth Iieginient.—Com.pa,ny B, Prescott Guards ; Company D, Montgomery Guard.s, Milwaukee.

Such was the material on hand, to which Governor Randall was obliged to resort, in order to fill the requisition for one regi- ment of the militia. It will be seen that the First Regiment

50 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

was nearly completed from the old militia companies, recruited to the required strength.

The question having arisen as to which was the first company that tendered service, we have been to the trouble of securing evi- dence, from papers in the Executive Department, which seems to establish the fact without doubt.

In view of the threatening aspect of public affairs, at the beginning of the year 1861, and the evident tendency to a war- like collision, the Madison Guards, on the 9th day of January, 1861, held a meeting at their Armory, the proceedings of which were embodied in a letter to the Executive, as follows :

Madison, Wis., Jan. 9th, 1861, To Your Excellency Axexander W. Randall, Governor of Wiscmisin:

Sir :— I have the honor to report to the Commander-in-Chief of the Military of Wis- consin tlie following resolution introduced by Lieutenant Plunkett, and this day approved by my command :

" Resolved, That Captain George E. Bryant be instructed to tender to Governor Ran- dall the services of the ' Madison Guards,' in case their services may be required for the preservation of the American Union."

And I pledge you the services of my company at any and all times when you may require them for the preservation of our State and of our American Union. Your obedient servant,

GEORGE E. BRYANT, Captain Madison Guards.

This tender of service was duly acknowledged by Governor Randall, the Company highly complimented, and the assurance given that if the exigencies of the country demanded an exQi-cise of military authority, the Madison Guards would be among the first to be called to duty in the field. Accordingly, on the 16th of April, 1861, the following letter of acceptance was forwarded to Captain Bryant :

State of Wisconsin, Executive Office,) Madison, April 16th, 1861. J

Captain George E. Bryant, Commanding Madison Guards :

Sir :— Tlie offer of the services of yourself and Company, made some time since, to be enrolled in the service of the Federal Government, is hereby accepted, and you are authorized to fill your Company to eighty men.

Your obedient servant,

A. W. RANDALL, Governor of Wisconsin.

At the outbreak of the rebellion, little did the mass of people of the loyal States know the perilous condition in which the Government was placed. The infamous conspirators had taken care that the National Executive should be made as powerless as

POPULAR ENTHUSIASM. 5X

possible. Tlie contents of the ISTational arsenals liad been trans- ferred to the armories of the seceding States, and placed in the hands of those who, it was designed, should use them in the overthrow of the Government. Military organizations were per- fected, and thousands of men drilled to the use of arms, so that when the first cloud of smoke rolled away from Sumter, the Na- tional authorities discovered that the conspirators had a well drilled army, ready to go to the field, and that the hundreds of thousands of glistening bayonets, stolen from Northern armories, were ready to march to the destruction of the Republic. "With its regular army scattered to distant sections, and the naval force sent to the farthest corners of the earth, and for the moment left almost powerless, the Government officials chose to keep their own councils until they were able to place the National Capitol in comparative safety. Such was at that time the condi- tion of the Government, that it was compelled to call for volun- teers from the loyal States, and request the several State Exe- cutives to clothe and equip them, relying upon the future ability of the National Government to reimburse the expenditure.

Under these circumstances. Governor Randall was instructed to organize, clothe and equip the force required from "Wisconsin. "Without experience in military affairs, and entirely ignorant of what was necessary to put a force of a thousand men into the field. Governor Randall went at the work with characteristic energy, and in four days a sufficient number of men were enrolled to enable him to report to the Secretary of "War, on the 22d of April, that the First Regiment was ready to go into rendezvous.

No sooner was it known that Governor Randall had received a requisition for troops to sustain the Government than tenders of personal service, and of companies of men, were made to the Governor, and in all sections of the State public meetings were held to raise volunteers and money to aid the families of such as could go to the war was freely subscribed. At Milwaukee, Madison, and all the principal cities and towns, large sums were subscribed", and appropriated to the use above specified. In all these gatherings, the democrat and republican met on the same platform, advocated the same principles for carrying on the war, even to the annihilation of slavery itself, if necessary to preserve the Union, many of the democracy being more radical on that

52. MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

point, as their published remarks will show, than their radical republican friends.

Justified by the overwhelming patriotism of the people every- where exhibited throughout the State, and the large accumula- tion of requests for active service, the Governor telegraphed to Secretary Cameron, stating the facts, and requesting the assign- ment of more regiments from Wisconsin, urging that injustice had been done in calling for six regiments from Illinois, and only one from Wisconsin, when Illinois had not quite double the population of Wisconsin.

" To this request, the Secretary replied thus : " one regiment for the present will suffice." It was interesting to see the outbreak of feeling exhibited when this reply was received, and to view the scenes enacted at the recruiting stations, when men were re- jected for some imperfection, or declined on account of the com- pany being full. Many a poor fellow was seen weeping, almost broken hearted, on being told that the company was full, or that he was physically disqualified for a soldier.

Repeatedly did Governor Randall plead for permission to raise more men, but without avail. The War Department seemed de- termined not to comprehend the magnitude of the rebellion, while the people themselves could see that a long war was in prospect, and were ready, with their blood and treasure, to sus- tain the Government, if they could be permitted to do so.

Notwithstanding this refusal of the War Department, the peo- ple still kept up their enthusiasm, and company after company was organized, filled up, and tendered to the Governor, until a dozen regiments were on the roll of the Military Secretary.

With Jackson-like disposition to assume responsibility, when necessary, so characteristic of Governor Randall, he determined to organize two or three regiments, which might be held in re- serve for any further calls of the President. The Governor had been an attentive observer of the events which preceded the final action of South Carolina, in December, 1860. By a careful study of Southern character and institutions, and a thorough under- standing of the principles on which the Southerners based their theory of secession and the establishment of a separate Govern- ment, Governor Randall had formed conclusions in regard to the magnitude of the contest, which led him to advise the strongest

FIRST REGIMENT. 53

measures, on the part of the Government, for its suppression. It was, therefore, with no little chagrin that he received the reply of Secretary Cameron. Persistent in his views of the necessity of the case, he immediately threw all his energies into the work of organizing additional forces. Therefore, no sooner had the several companies of the First Regiment been assigned, filled up and ordered into camp, than he ordered his Military Secretary to assign the next ten companies on the roll to the Second Regi- ment, with orders to hold themselves in readiness to come into camp at twenty-four hours' notice.

The several companies composing the First Regiment were ordered to rendezvous at Milwaukee by Saturday, the 27th of April, at which time they were assembled. Captain J. C. Stark- weather, of Milwaukee, had been commissioned as Colonel ; Charles L. Harris, of Madison, as Lieutenant Colonel ; David H. Lane, of Kenosha, as Major; and Alfred R. Chapin, of Milwaukee, as Adjutant.

The departure of the several companies for Milwaukee was characterized by public proceedings at their several localities, and these pioneer soldiers of our State were greeted by the en- thusiastic cheers of thoiiSands of their neighbors and friends as they departed from their homes and firesides to put on the habi- liments aud accept the duties and dangers incident to a soldier's life.

Colonel Starkweather, assisted by James Holton, Esq., ot Milwaukee, who had been appointed the agent of the State by Governor Randall, provided temporary quarters for the com- panies, as they arrived, in several of the public buildings and halls, where they remained, being boarded at the several hotels, until the Camp on the Fair Grounds, on Spring Street, could be made ready for their reception.

The State being required to clothe the soldiers sent to the field, the Governor ordered the purchase of the necessary quan- tity of grey cloth, and authorized contracts to be made for its manufacture into uniforms. He also ordered the purchase of shoes, caps and other articles necessary to the full equipment of the Regiment.

Awakened suddenly from a long period of peace, to assume, without delay, the attitude of a nation at war, the country was

54 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

found to be unprepared for the organization and full equipment of large bodies of troops. Particularly was this the case in the Northwest, being a great distance from the large manufactories and depots of goods. The Military Secretary of the Governor encountered much difficulty in procuring such supplies of cloth as would enable the Regiment to appear in uniform. It was, however, accomplished, although the several Companies showed a diversity of shades of grey, in their coats and pants, which gave a somewhat unique appearance when the Regiment was on parade.

A mess-house and other buildings were erected in the Fair Grounds, and the Regiment was in a few days encamped under canvass. Colonel Starkweather gave to the encampment the name of " Camp Scott."

Captain Henry Little, of the Seventh United States Infantry, had been ordered to this State as a mustering officer for the troops in Wisconsin. It seems, however, that the gentleman preferred to take up on the rebel side, and accordingly forwarded to Governor Randall the orders and books which he had received, with the information that he had tendered his resignation as an officer of the United States army, ^n being informed of the defection of Little, the Secretary of War ordered Lieutenant J. B. Mclntyre, of the First United States Cavalry, to Wisconsin, to muster in our regiments.

The subsequent history of Captain Little shows that he joined the rebel army, under General Sterling Price, of Missouri, was present at the battle of Boonville, in that State, and when Mar- maduke refused longer to lead his men in a hopeless charge upon the National forces, the rebel Governor of Missouri, Claib Jackson, placed Captain Little in command of Marmaduke'a Brigade. lie followed the fortunes of General Price into Ar- kansas, and across the Mississippi into Tennessee, and took part in the Battle of luka, on the 19th of September, 1862, where, in command of a Division in a charge against the gallant heroes under General Charles S. Hamilton, of our State, who com- manded the Union forces, Little was shot from his horse by the side of General Price, being instantly killed.

The organization of the First was completed, and the regiment mustered into the United States service on the 17th of May, and

APPLICATION FOR ARMS. 55

the War Department informed that it awaited orders to march. The danger to the National Capital, which was the cause of the urgent call for 75,000 men, had passed away, and the Regiment was allowed to remain in camp until the 9th of June, when, in obedience to orders of the AVar Department, it left the State for Harrisburg, Pa.

Called for, as the First Regiment was, in haste, and with the popular impression that the City of Washington was in danger. Governor Randall is entitled to much credit for the energy dis- played in calling in a regiment of men, and, in ten days, placing them at the disposal of the Government, uniformed and ready to march. It is w^ell to consider that our people were unused to war, that we lacked experience, supplies and everything requisite for the full equipment of so large a body of men as a regiment, and what, to-day, may appear trivial and unimportant, in 1861, was of a character to put the most energetic of men to a test of their best abilities. Secretary Cameron returned a high compliment to Governor Randall for the energy he displayed in responding to this first call of the Department for troops.

Finding it impossible to get early replies to communications f ent to the War Department, at Washington, in regard to uni- forms, arms and equipments for our volunteers. Governor Ran- dall despatched a special messenger, with authority to lay before the Department the urgent necessity for supplying such informa- tion and instructions as would enable the State authorities to organize the several bodies of men which might be required from the State, and place them in camps of instruction, where they would be drilled and otherwise prepared to render eflective aid to the Government, and also to procure arms, for use in these camps of instruction, and further, to ascertain whether uniforms and clothing would be supplied by the General Government.

The messenger reported that, at the War Department, he had been informed that our regiments would be furnished with arms after they were mustered into the United States service, that further than that they could not go, as the regiments arriving at Washington must be first served ; that the Springfield Armory was the only source of supply at that time ; that the large amount of arms which had fallen into the hands of the rebels had made it necessary to economize, in order that troops ordered forward

56 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

might be supplied ; that all our troops would be armed by the Government as fast as called for. Further, that the G-overnment could not get uniforms and clothing in sufficient quantity to sup- ply the State troops, but that the State was depended on to fit its soldiers for the field, and look to the National Government for reimbursement.

The Governor endeavored to procure arms at New York city. A requisition from General Wool, on the Governor of Illinois, was secured, for three thousand stand of arms. This requisition, in the hands of a special agent, was sent to Governor Yates, of Illinois, who declined to fill it, as he doubted the authority of General Wool to make the order. The arms, under the control of Governor Yates, were examined by the agent of Governor Randall, land found to be of inferior quality, and pronounced unfit for the uses contemplated by Governor Randall. A scheme to get possession of the arms in St. Louis Ai-senal had been set on foot by influential men at St. Louis, and the Governors of Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin were requested to cooperate. It was feared that the secessionists would obtain possession of the arms, and use them against the Government. Agents were sent to St. Louis, but the seizure had been accomplished by Captain Stokes, and the arms stored at Springfield, Illinois.

Much complaint was made that our regiments were sent out of the State without being armed. It will be seen that Governor Randall used every means to procure them, and that Government, at the time, was actually unable, by reason of Floyd's treacher- ous conduct, to supply them.

In order to carry out his design of a reserve force in advance of the calls of the President, Governor Randall ordered the for- mation of the Second and Third Regiments, and eventually the Fourth.

Camps were formed for the reception of these Regiments, on the State Fair Grounds, at Madison, at Fond du Lac, and at Racine, at each of which places suitable buildings were erected for the accommodation of the soldiers.

On the 22d of April, the Governor sent out the following proclamation to the ladies of the State ;

governor's proclamations. 97

To THE Patriotic Women of Wisconsin :

I know that you will respond cheerfully to my request that you contribute your aid ia the present crisis, in the way of preparing lint and bandages for the use of the array, A much larger amount of such necessaries for an army may be prepared than may be required by the sons of Wisconsin, but in the long war likely to follow, there may be thousands who will require such kindness. Whatever is prepared can be forwarded to James Holton, Esq., Milwaukee, who will attend to its proper distribution

Your husbands and brothers and sons are called upon to aid in subduing rebellion, in punishing treason, in the maintenance of the Government, and in the execution of the laws. It is your country and your government, as well as theli's, that is now in danger, and you can give strength and courage and warm sympathies and cheering words to those who go to do battle for all that is dear to us here. Bitter as the parting may be to many, I am assured that you will bid them go bravely forward for God and Liberty, to "return with their shields, or on them."

I commend the soldiers to your kindness and encouragement and prayers, with full confidence, that when occasion calls, many, very many, Florence Nightingales will be found in our goodly land. Most respectfully,

ALEX. W. RANDALL,

On the same day, the following proclamation appeared, in- forming the people of the progress making in the organization of companies, &c. :

To THE Patriotic People of Wisconsin :

In six days from the issue of my Pi-oclamation of the 16th instant, the First Regiment called for by the President of the United States, for the defense of the Union, is enrolled already for service. Five companies from Milwaukee, one from Kenosha, two from Madison, one from Horicon, and one from Beloit are assigned to the First Regiment, while nineteen more companies have tendered their services. It is to be regretted that Wisconsin is not permitted to increase largely her quota, but her loyal citizens must exercise patience tiU called for. I urge the formation of companies of able-bodied men to the number of seventy-seven each, in every locality where it can be done without ex- pense for subsistence ; men, who will pledge themselves to be minute men, standing ready, at short notice, to answer to other calls of the Government. When such com- panies are full, if infanti-y or riflemen, let them elect a Captain, Lieutenant and Ensign, and report to the Adjutant General for commissions and for orders. It is not necessary that men be taken from their peaceful avocations to be drilled for active service, thougli, where companies are located in large towns, it is desirable that they be drilled as fiir as possible in the use of arms. Whenever they are called into service, all their expenses will be paid. Where companies have been enrolled, and have reported, offering their sei-vices, they will be first called upon whenever a new demand is made ujjon the State by the President, which is likely to be very soon. I thank the good people of the State for their ready response to my Proclamation, and for their patriotic devotion to the country.

ALEX, W. RANDALL.

In seven days after the Governor's proclamation, thirty-six companies had tendered service, although but one regiment had been called for by the Government. We give the locality of these companies, and name of the Captain, in the order of accept- ance, to show the manner in which all parts of the State respond- ed to the call of the Governor; — Madison' Company, Captain Bryant ; Kenosha Company, Captain McVean ; Horicon Com- pany, Captain Twogood ; Milwaukee Company, Captain Bing- ham ; Madison Company, Captain Fairchild ; Milwaukee Com- pany, Captain Mitchell ; Milwaukee Company, Captain George ;

ft8 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

Milwaukee Company, Captain Draher ; Beloit Company, Captain Clarke ; Fond du Lac Company, Captain McCall. These com- panies composed the First Regiment, and entered the service for three months. Milwaukee Company, Captain O'lvourke ; La Crosse Company, Captain Colwell ; Milwaukee Artillery Com- pany, Captain Herzberg ; Fox Lake Company, Captain Stevens ; Portage City Company, Captain Mansfield ; Milwaukee Dragoon Company, Captain Von Deutsch ; Keenah Company, Captain Hubbard; Mineral Point Company, Captain Allen; Prescott Company, Captain Dill; Beloit Company, Captain Slaymaker; Oshkosh Company, Captain Bouck; Racine Company, Captain Strong; Janesville Company, Captain Ely; Shullsburg Com- \ydny, Captain Vandergrift; Grant County Company, Captain McKee ; Madison Company, Captain Randolf ; Watertown Com- pany, Captain Gibbs; Sheboygan Company, Captain Grey; Williamstown Company, Captain Hammer ; Geneva Company, Captain Roundy ; Oshkosh Company, Captain Scott ; Janesville Company, Captain Wheeler ; Green County Company, Captain Flood ; Darlington Company, Captain Whitman ; Grant County Company, Captain Limbocker; Berlin Company, Captain Bugh; Waupun Company, Captain Clark; Beaver Dam Company, Cap- tain Catlin ; Hudson City Company, Captain White. Of these thirty-six companies, it is worthy of remark, that although when originally organized, the President's call contemplated three months service only, they, with one exception, enlisted for three years. When it was known that Government required enlist- ments for that length of time, they, with alacrity, accepted the proposition, and were embodied in the first six regiments raised by Wisconsin, and all of them were engaged in the severest actions of the war, and covered themselves with honor. The , exception was the Beloit City Rifles, many of whom were stu- dents in the College at Beloit, and had made no preparation for longer than a three months service. This induced some of the company to hesitate in mustering for three years, which, together with a misunderstanding with some of the officers, prompted the Adjutant General of the State to order them aside, and another company took their place in the Second Regiment. The com- pany was afterwards disbanded, and many of its members entered other companies for three years. The people of Beloit were much

governor's aids. 59

disappointed, as this company was composed of some of its best young men, and tlie city had taken much pride in its organization.

In order to distinguish the volunteer service from the organi- zations under the Militia Law, the Governor ordered that the new regiments and companies should be designated as the Wis- consin Active Militia. It was made the duty of the company officers to muster their men into the State service prior to muster into the United States service.

Dr. E. B. Wolcott, of Milwaukee, was appointed Surgeon General of the State on the 17th of April, and entered immedi- ately upon his duties. The well known professional reputation of Dr. Wolcott, and the fact that he formerly occupied the posi- tion of Surgeon in the United States Army, induced Governor Randall to avail himself of his services in the organization of the Medical Department of our regiments. To this foresight of Governor Eandall, and the eminent ability of Dr. Wolcott, our Wisconsin regiments, organized during the year 1861, are in- debted for the outfits of stores and implements with which their Surgeons have been furnished, and which have conduced so much to the welfare of the soldiers in the field, and also to Dr. Wolcott's personal labors, after the battles in which our Wisconsin troops were engaged.

Seeking further for the services of men of experience, Gover- nor Randall called Lieutenant T. H. Ruger, of Janesville, to his aid, and appointed him as Engineer- in -Chief on his stafi'. He also subsequently appointed Captain C. S. Hamilton, of Fond du Lac, as one of his aids. Both these gentlemen were graduates at West Point, and had served in the Mexican war — ^Lieutenant Ruger in the Engineer Department, and Captain Hamilton in the Infantry service. These gentlemen acted as military advisers, and contributed their military experience towards the organiza- tion of our earliest regiments. They were subsequently com- missioned, and served during the war with distinction, both being made Major Generals of volunteers.

On the 25th of April, General James A. Swain, Adjutant General of the State, resigned, and the Governor appointed Colonel William L. Utley, of Racine, as his successor. The military department continued under the general supervision of

60 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

Governor Randall, until the organization of new regiments so increased the business of the ofhce as to require the formation of Quartermaster, Commissary and Paymaster's Departments. The Quartermaster Department was placed in charge of Major W. W". Tredway on the lltli day of May, who acted also as Commissary General until the 28 th of May, when E. R.. Wadsworth was appointed Commissary General.

Sixteen hundred army blankets were purchased in New York by Governor Randall, for the use of the First and Second Regi- ments, and contracts for several thousand yards of grey cloth were made with Stewart & Co., Beaver Dam, and the Burlington Woolen Factory.

The Governor having determined to organize more regiments, as a reserve for future calls, accepted the proposition of the State Agricultural Society, tendering the use of their Fair Grounds, at Madison, as one of the Camps. These grounds were already enclosed with a high board fence, with several buildings which might be fitted for use until more substantial ones could be built. About the 27th of April, carpenters and laborers were set to work to clear up the grounds, enlarge one of the buildings for a mess house, and otherwise prepare for the reception of the Second Regiment. Halbert E. Paine, Esq., of Milwaukee, had been commissioned as Quartermaster of the Second Regiment, and superintended the preparation of Camp Randall, until Horace A. Tenney, Esq., was appointed Superintendent by Governor Randall, to oversee the erection of buildings, the pre- paration of suitable quarters, and to attend generally to matters pertaining to the fitting of the grounds for the reception of troops. Mr. Tenney acted as such Superintendent until 1862, when Camp Randall ceased to be a State institution, and passed entirely under the control of the United States authorities.

The following companies had been assigned to the Second Regiment, and were ordered to commence moving into Camp, at Madison, on the Ist of May : — Fox Lake Company, Captain Stevens ; Beloit Company, Captain Slaymaker ; Oshkosh Com- pany, Captain Bouck ; Racine Company, Captain Strong ; Janes- ville Company, Captain Ely ; La Crosse Company, Captain Col- well ; Mineral Point* Company, Captain Allen ; Grant County Company, Captain McKee ; Madison Company, Captain Randolf ;

SECOND REGIMENT. 61

Portage City Company, Captain Mansfield. The Fond du Lac Badgers, Captain McCall, was originally assigned to the Second Regiment, but the Montgomery Guards, of Milwaukee, not being full in time for the First Regiment, they were set aside, and Cap- tain McCall's company took their place in the First Regiment. The Second Regiment were all in camp by the 6th of May. The weather being cold and wet, and the barracks leaky, the soldiers suffered severely. They also suffered from the want of blankets, which the State was unable to purchase. The Governor appealed to the ladies of the State to furnish blankets and comfortables for the use of the soldiers until blankets purchased in New York city should be received. Some of the companies of the Second Regiment had procured uniforms at the several localities where they were recruited. The others were uniformed by the Quarter- master General. The patriotic ladies in Madison,Watertown, and other places volunteered to make up the flannel shirts and draw- ers needed by the volunteers of the earlier regiments.

On the 7th of May, the Secretary of War telegraphed to Gover- nor Randall that no more three months volunteers were wanted ; that those companies recruited must enlist for three years or the war, or be disbanded. This question was submitted to the com- panies of the Second, and about 500 of those enlisted consented to go in for three years. The Beloit Rifles, Captain Slaymaker, did not appear on the ground, and it being understood that they de- clined going for three years, they were set aside by the Adjutant General, and the Milwaukee Rifles, Captain Langworthy, took their place. The companies short of men, by the order to enlist for three years, were given time to fill up, which they did in a few days.

For some time before the downfall of Fort Sumter, the atten- tion of the Government authorities had been given to prepara- tion for the defense of the Capital. Orders were given for the assembling of the Militia of the District of Columbia, and their muster into the United States service. Many of them refused to do so, alleging one pretense or another for this course, but in many cases it was evidently owing to the sympathy with the rebel cause. Volunteer companies were also formed. It was said that President Lincoln had reliable information that the rebels designed an immediate attack on Washington, with 30,000 men,

62' MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

and that the Governors of the nearest loyal States were desired to call troops together, to be used for the defense of the City in case of a rebel attack. These preparations were going on when President Lincoln issued his Proclamation for 75,000 militia. To still further add to the public defense, the employees of the several Departments were organized into military companies. Many strangers, temporarily in the City, with a patriotic desire to aid in the defense of the Capital, enrolled themselves under the command of Colonels Cassius M. Clay and Jim Lane, of Kansas, and took their turns in guarding the several avenues leading into the City, a heavy force being stationed at the end of Long Bridge, over which, it was supposed, the rebels would march to the attack. Many of our Wisconsin people thus evinced their patriotic impulses, and shouldered arms in defense of Washington City. The basement of the Capitol was turned into quarters for the troops, and the lower stories of the Patent Office and other public buildings were barricaded, or fitted up for defense, or for military quarters.

The excitement at the North, over the attack on Fort Sumter, was redoubled at the reports circulated in regard to the rebel de- signs on Washington. In thirty-six hours after the call for 75,000 militia, old Massachusetts, God bless her, had more than five regiments ready to march. The Sixth was sent to Washing- ton April 17th, and on the 19th encountered the mob, in going through Baltimore, losing several killed and wounded, but deal- ing a fearful lesson to their assailants, and arrived in Washing- ton, being the first regiment of volunteers, fully equipped, which entered the city for its defense. Four or five hundred unarmed troops, from Pennsylvania, had arrived the day before.

The attack on the Massachusetts troops, by the mob at Balti- more, closed for a time the communications with Washington, and the excitement became intense throughout the North, lest the rebels should attack the Capital in its defenseless condition. The Governor of Maryland declared that no more troops should pass through Baltimore. This only tended to increase the indig- nation of the people of the North, and a determination was made to go through Baltimore, even if it was necessaiy to raze it to the ground. In the meantime, the railroad bridges between

SECOND CALL FOR TROOPS. 63

Havre cle Grace and Baltimore had been destroyed, and commu- nication, by rail, with Washington was impossible. At this time, General Ben. Butler reached Philadelphia with the Eighth Massa- chusetts Regiment, where he learned that the railroad was im- passable beyond Havre de Grace. He accordingly run the trains to that point, seized the ferry boat, and took the responsibility of ordering the Captain to steam down to Annapolis, below Balti- more ; arriving there, he was soon. followed by the Seventh New York Regiment. Repairing the locomotives and relaying the track, which had been torn up by the secessionists, the Seventh Regiment reached Washington on the 25th of April, where they were received with the intensest enthusiasm. The next day, several thousand troops landed at Annapolis, from steamers sent round by Chesapeake Bay. These were despatched as fast as the railroad from Annapolis would permit, and on their arrival at Washington were greeted with heartfelt satisfaction, and the Government authorities began to feel that the Capital was safe. Troops continued to arrive, the route through Baltimore having been opened by General Butler, with his Massachusetts troops, and the public heart of the North beat more freely.

The dimensions of the conspiracy had been increased by the formal secession of Virginia. Reports were rife of the assemb- ling of rebel troops at Richmond, for the purpose of moving on Washington. The uncertain position of Maryland also gave cause for the apprehension that she, too, would finally go over to the rebels. Under these circumstances, President Lincoln, find- ing the 75,000 men called for on the 15th of April insufficient to suppress the rebellion, issued another Proclamation for 83,748 men — 42,034 volunteers, 22,714 recruits for the regular army, and 18,000 seamen for the navy, all for three years service. The tone of the Proclamation seemed to indicate that the President did not consider his authority to call out troops for the defense of the Government sufficient unless sanctioned by Congress. He could not mistake the opinions and desires of the people of the Northern States, for, at the very moment he issued that Procla- mation, at least 500,000 men had been enrolled, and anxiously waiting for him to accept their services.

64 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

A convention of the Governors of the several loyal States was called at Cleveland, Ohio, on the 3d of May, at which were pre- sent the Governors of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana. The Governors of New York and Illinois were represented by proxies. The several members of the convention were serenaded at the Angier House, which was responded to by their appearing on the balcony, and acknowledging the com- pliment. Being severally introduced to the audience by the Mayor of the City, addresses were delivered. Governor Ran- dall, on being introduced, spoke as follows :

Fellow Citizens of Ohio:

I thank you for the honor you have conferred upon me, and upon the State ■whicli I represent, by thus calling me out. We have been in the habit of saying that the strength of the Government was in the ten thousand chords which bind together the people of our land, l)ut now this is all changed, and without fault of ours. Rebellion and treason are abroad in our land. We know where this commenced, and we know, too, where it must end. Tliere is but one course for us to pursue, and that should be followed. We should transport an army down the Mississippi, and blaze a broad track through the whole South, from Montgomery to Charleston. Charleston should be razed, till not one stone is left upon another, till there is no place left for the owl to hoot nor the bittern to mourn. Had I the power, were I possessed of the thunderbolts of Jove, I would wipe out not only traitors but the seed of traitors. We are no longer republicans or demo- crats, but all parties are blended into one. We are brothers and patriots in a common cause. Have we interfered with Southern institutions ? Have we not given them what our Constitution and the Constitution of our fathers requires ? We will pay the price which our fathers paid, and no more. Wisconsin is a younger sister, but she, like Ohio, was born of Virginia, when liberty was the theme of her orators, and her children have not forgotten the lessons taught.

The objects of the convention are well set forth in the letter of Governor Randall to President Lincoln, and we, therefore, lay it before our readers, with the information that the letter was sent to President Lincoln by the hands of our esteemed fellow citizen, Judge Hood, who bore also a letter of introduction in- forming the President that Judge Hood was a true, reliable and intelligent man, entitled to confidence in all things, and who was authorized to consult upon the difficulties as affecting the North- ern border and Northwestern States, and to receipt for such arms as might be furnished by the Government to the State :

Executive Office, Madison, Wis., May 6, 1861. His Excellency, Abraham Lincoln, Ih-esident of the United States :

A meeting of the Governors of several of the Western and Border States, on the even- ing of Friday last, at Cleveland, Ohio, resulted In a determination to make to you some suggestions in regard to the supposed condition of portions of the country, and to ask advice from the President. Messengers were selected to confer with you. The extreme anxiety we feel, and the anxiety felt by the people of the Border and North-western

LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT. .65

States, must be our sutflcient warrant for urging some moi-e definite course of policy in regard to the relations bejtween the Government and these States. We are prepared, and the people of the States we represent are prepared, to sustain you and your Administra- tion in every measure, however extreme, for the suppression of tliis untoward rebellion, and for the punishment of the treason. "We appreciate, also, most fully, the difficulties under which you labored in taking the reins of Government at a time when its treasury was empty and its credit exhausted ; when its army was scattered, its ships dismantled or disabled, or in foreign ports, and its arms secured by deposit in the ha7ids of traitors. We appreciate, also, the anxieties incident to the known or suspected treachery of a multitude of civil, military and naval officers. We can understand the immense labor that must have been performed to bring back the Government to the point it has now reached. We approve most fully of what has been done by the Government, and are prepared to expect still further exhibitions of energy, such as the public exigencies de- mand. But now we wish to submit to you the absolute necessity, since Washington is safe, of giving more attention to the country imruediately contiguous to the line be- tween the free and slave States. The fierceness of this wicked rebellion is to exhibit itself through the last named extent of country more than anywhere else, and on the law and Government side of that line, there is less preparation than almost anywhere else. From Pittsburg and Cincinnati to the mouth of the Ohio, on tlie northern side of the river, the country is almost entirely defenseless against an armed enemy. Cincinnati, and numerous smaller towns on the river, could be utterly destroyed, and the country about them laid waste, without the means of resistance. It would require no very heavy battery and no very large army to take Cairo, and for a long time to hold it. The com- manding positions, for defense or attack, are on the south side of the Ohio. It is matter of absolute necessity, not only for the Northern Border States, but for all the North-western States, to be able to control the business and commerce of the Ohio River, and the Uppci Mississippi, in order to reach a vital part of this rebellion. We must be able to cut oft all supplies of breadstufTs, and alsolo stop the transit or transportation of arms or mimi- tions of war. An enemy to our common Government cannot be permitted to hold an important point like Cairo. The Mississippi and Ohio Rivers must be kept, at all times, open to the legitimate commerce and business of the North-west. The vast lumber ajid mineral interests of Wisconsin, independent of her commanding produce and stoclv trade, bind her fast to the North Border States, and demand, like them, the free naviga- tion of the Mississippi, and all its tributaries, from their highest navigable waters to their mouths.

It requires but slight knowledge of the country and of the character of the States to see all this. The necessities I have named being granted, we must look to the means ne- cessary to do what ought to be done in the least possible time. It needs men, will, ajans and munitions of war. One hundred and sixty thousand men can be rallied, in four weeks, for this purpose, and among the swarming millions of the North Border and North-western States, there is but one pulse beating to-day, and but one puipose : to hold up your hands, sustain the integrity of the Government, and aid in executing tlio laws in every State alike. The North-west needs a better military organization, and a militai-y head to which it can immediately look for orders, and to which it can commu- nicate its necessities without tedious and mischievous delays. I know full well that the Government will do for the West and Border States just as fast as it seems to see a neces- sity. We see a necessity now, not only for the safety of the Government, but for the safety of the free Border States, for immediate action. There is no occasion for the Gov- ernment to delay, because the States themselves are willing to act vigorously and effi- ciently. I must be permitted to say it, because it is a fact, there is a spirit evoked by this re- bellion, among the liberty-loving people of the country, that is driving them to action and if the Government toill not permit them to act for it, they will act for themselves. It i« better for the Government to direct this current than to let it run wild. So far as pos- sible we have attempted to allay this excess of spirit, but there is a moral element and a reasoning element in this uprising, that cannot be met in the ordinary way. There is a conviction of great wi-ongs to be redressed, and that the Government is to be preserved by them. The Government must provide an outlet for this feeling, or it will find one for Itself. If the Government does not at once shoulder this difficulty, and direct this cur- rent, there will come something more than a war to put down rebellion ; it will be a war between Border States, which will lose sight, for a time, of the Government. If It was absolutely certain that the seventy-five thousand troops first called -y^ould wipe out this

66- MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

rebellion in three weeks from to-day, it would stUl be the policy of your Administration, and for the best interests of the Government, in view of what ought to be the great future of this Nation, to call into the field, at once, three hundred thousand men. The majesty and power of the Government, if it has either, should be manifested now, so thai the world may see it. When the people see that tlieir uprising has put down the rebellion, they will be satisfied, and not before, because they understand the Government. to be theirs, and that they are a part of it.

The Border and Northwestern States cannot wait to see their towns and cities, upon navigable streams, sacked and burned, and the contiguous country wasted, and then content themselves with retaliation. They should have the means of preventing disasters of the kind.

These States cannot be satisfied with small call after small call of raw troops, to be put into the field as soon as mustered, without discipline or drilling. They would not be soldiers, but marks for an enemy to shoot at. We want to understand the use of arms, to be efficient soldiers, either in defending ourselves or in aiding the Government. We cannot learn the use of them until we get them.

We want an authority to put more men into the field, and we want arms for the men. The soldiers must go into camp and learn the use of weapons and the duties of soldiers. If the Government cannot at once furnish arms, the States are ready to do it, and wait upon and aid the Government. Unless something of this kind is done, I much fear that what we count our greatest strength will prove our most dangerous weakness.

It should be determined now to what extent the Government expects aid from the States, so that the States can be preparing that aid, both in furnishing men and provid- ing arms, and so that, when niustered into service, the army may be eflicient. If the Government authorizes the States to act efliciently, in organizing military forces, and in ai'ming them, it can then both hold the control of those forces, and by distributing arms to the States, or authorizing their purchase by the States, for the use of the Government, it would have the right, as well as power, of ultimate dil-ection and control, without the confusion that otherwise might arise between the States and the Government.

In Wisconsin, we need arms now. Illinois has but a trifle over double the popxilation of Wisconsin, and the call for six regiments from Illinois, and but one from Wisconsin, was so disproportionate as to excite extreme dissatisfaction. Companies for five regi- ments, instead of one, are drilling now, without arms, and two regiments, but partially armed, are in camp. I have endeavored, time after time, to ascertain, both by messen- gers and letters, to what extent service would be required, or proffered service received ; and to what extent it was expected the States would arm, equip and uniform the men. I have failed to obtain any satisfactory information. The Government, in order to retain the confidence of the people, must show sonve confidence in the people. The people are anxious to know what, and how much, is expected of them, and they are ready to respond. While the details of the policy of the Government should not be made public, information of the general purposes of the Government should be lodged somewhere in each loyal State, so that there can be an authoritative assurance of what the Govern- ment expects and intends. I received a request to send to St. Louis for arms, but before my messengers reached there, the arms had been moved to Illinois. I received, then, an order from General Wool upon the Governor of Illinois, for three thousand stand of arms— enough, with what Wisconsin already had, to arm five regiments of men. While my messenger was on his way to Springfield, a despatch from General Wool stated that his powers had been suspended, and that the Governor of Illinois, of course, could not answer the order. I have to request that arms be furnished to arm such troops as are likely to be called into service from this State, so that our soldiers may become accus- tomed to the use of them, or that a license be given to purchase arms to be used for the same purpose, and ultimately turned over to the Government, after its troubles are quieted, upon its order.

You will excuse the frankness and freedom of this communication. The great inter- ests involved, and the anxiety of the whole people, have induced me to thus address you, and I feel assured that you will receive it with the good will with which it is in- tended. Very respectfully.

Your obedient servant,

ALEX. W. RANDALL.

WISCONSIN GENERALS. 67

In response to this letter, the Governor received the following from the Secretary of War :

War Department, Washington, May 15, 1861. Governor A. W. Randall, Madison, Wis. :

Dear Sir: — X have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 6th instant, addressed to the President of the United States, and by him referred to this Department, giving an account of the proceedings of the Governors of a number of the States, held at Cleveland, on the 6th instant, and containing suggestions in regard to the condition of public affairs.

The assurances of those who composed that meeting, that the pyeople of the States whom they represented are prepared to sustain the President and his Administration In every effort which may be made to suppress tlie present rebellion is gratifying to the President and those connected with him in the administration of the Government, and honorable to the people of the States those high functionaries represented at thai meeting.

Concurring fully with you and your associates, as to the necessity of giving attention to the country immediately contiguous to the line between the free and slave States, I beg leave to assure you that all the steps deemed necessary to be taken have already, or are now being taken. Before tliis letter reaches you, you will have received a dispatcl\ from this Department, informing you of the number of regiments desired from your State, to serve during the war, which will be mustei-ed into service as soon as practicable, and ordered to be marched into tlie field when they may be most needed.

I learn from your communication that in Wisconsin there is a need for arms now. These, I beg to assure you, will be furnished immediately to all your regiments on beiJig mustered into service. Difficulties like those you mention to have occurred under the first call of the Pi'esident, in regard to the arms of Wisconsin, are naturally incident to an occasion like that then existing, and I trust it will not happen again. I regret that the people of your State should for a moment doubt the disposition of the Government to do full justice to them and to give them as large a quota of troops to be furnished for the war as can consistently be given to her, and I trust the requisition now made will be entirely satisfactory to them. I am, sir, very respectfully,

SIMON CAMERON, Secretary of War.

The requisition spoken of was for three regiments — one for three months, and two for three years or the war. At this time, companies sufficient for over ten regiments were reported as ten- dering service, and anxious to go to the war. The War Depart- ment, for some reason, was disposed to throw a wet blanket on the effi^rts of the Governor, and the patriotism of the people, at this stage of the rebellion.

On the 7th of May, orders were issued by the Governor ap- pointing General Rufus King as Brigadier General, and assigning the First, Second, Third and Fourth Regiments, as the First Wis- consin Brigade, to his command. This brigade organization was never recognized by the General Government, but General King was appointed by President Lincoln Brigadier General, and or- ganized the famous " Iron Brigade," consisting of the Second, Sixth and Seventh Wisconsin, and Nineteenth Indiana, which command he retained until placed in command of a division.

68 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

General King was on his way to Europe, as Minister to Rome, when the rebellion broke out. He immediately resigned his position, and accepted a Brigadier Generalship.

Our fellow citizen, Carl Schurz, was about this time appointed Minister to Spain, but his steps were arrested by the approach- ing contest, and procuring leave of absence from his European post, entered the military service of the United States, being commissioned as Major General, which position he held during the war.

Early in May, companies had been assigned to the Third and Fourth Regiments, and their officers instructed to board and lodge their men at recruiting rendezvous, to be ready to be called into camp at short notice. This work was done before it was known that Government would require any more men.

On the 6th of May, Governor Randall received a telegram from Secretary Cameron, stating that it was desirable that regi- ments sent from Wisconsin should enlist for three years, or dur- ing the war, and ordering the mustering out of such persons as declined to enlist for that time. In a subsequent telegram, the Secretary of War stated that the quota of Wisconsin, under the new call, was two regiments.

The Governor still wishing to gratify the enthusiastic desires of the companies who had tendered their services, again wrote to the Secretary, urging the Department to call for five more regi- ments from Wisconsin. The Secretary replied " that as anxious as are the people of your State to furnish the volunteers, they are no more so than I am to gratify their wishes, but this I can- not do, but I have done the best I could, by giving you three regiments — one for three months, and two for three years." In reply to another letter of Governor Randall, the Secretary made answer, " Two regiments are assigned to your State in addition to the regiment of three months militia already called for, mak- ing three regiments. It is imjportant to reduce rather than enlarge this number^ and in no event to exceed it. Let me earnestly re- commend to you, therefore, to call for no more than three regi- ments, and if more are already called for, to reduce the number by discharge J'

PATRIOTIC LADIES. 69

Nothing daunted by these discouraging refusals, Governor Eandall proceeded to organize the Second, Third and Fourth Regiments. The Second Regiment was in camp, and the companies of the Third and Fourth were at rendezvous.

One of the great features of this war of the rebellion has been the position occupied by the women of the loyal States, and the great work which they have been able to accomplish, stands out in bold relief, and challenges the admiration, not only of our own people, but of the civilized world. For the spirit manifested by the daughters of America, history finds no parallel in the records of any nation, and the patriotic women of the loyal States de- serve a monument higher than that on Bunker Hill, for their achievements in aiding our suffering soldiers in the hospitals and on the bloody field.

At the Assembly Hall, the ladies performed a large amount of labor, done at a time when great suffering would have occur- red, if their timely assistance had not been rendered. Ladies in Watertown and other places were supplied with material, and assisted in making up the shirts and drawers so much needed by our volunteers.

Much credit is due Mrs. B. F. Hopkins, and her staff of assist- ants, in carrying out the benevolent designs of the ladies, and the Governor in a letter, on the occasion of a collation in the As- sembly Hall, on the conclusion of their labors, gratefully acknowl- edged the services performed by the ladies in aid of the Quarter- master's Department of the State. The Governor's letter is worth preserving :

Executive Office, Madison, May 11, 1861. To THE Patriotic Ladies of Madison :

I am necessarily compelled to be absent from [Madison this morning, or I would, in person, pay my respects to you.

I thank you for the devotion you have manifested, and the sacriflces you have made, in aiding to prepare comforts and necessaries for the gallant sons of our beloved State, -who go so bravely to defend and maintain our common Government. Next to the devo- tion they must feel to the good cause in which they are engaged, will be the homage their noble hearts will pay you for the kindness and consideration and care you have bestowed for them and upon them. It is not the business of your sex to mingle in the severer strifes of the thronging heaving world, but we know that where smiles are sweetest and eyes are brightest, there hearts are warmest, and that thence comes en- couragement and moral strength to the stalwart-heart«d men of the land. In another age, wives and mothers and daughters sent husbands and sons and brothers to the fierce battle fields, to gain for themselves and for us and for all who are to come after

70 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

us, all that is great and useful and good in our institutions. To-day, you, following the patriotic example of the noble women of the Revolution, send freely out all who are near and dear to you, to preserve and maintain, for all coming time, what was so fear- fully acquired. Remember now, and always, that your kindness will never be forgotten. Very respectfuUy,

ALEX. W. RANDALL.

It is proper here to remark that the effort of the ladies at Madi- son and other places laid the foundation for the permanent or- ganization of the " Soldier's Aid Society," and kindred benevo- lent institutions throughout the State, having for their object the gathering and forwarding of sanitary supplies to the soldiers in the hospitals and in the field — a labor that has contributed much to the comfort and welfare of the soldier, and smoothed the death-bed of many of our brave boys, who have in the field and hospital laid down their precious lives for the cause of their country.

CHAPTEK II.

ACTION OF STATE AUTHORITIES IN 1861— CONTINUED.

«

Extra Session of the Legislature — Governor's Message — Laws Passed — State Military Departments — Third and Fourth Regi- ments— Six Regiments Accepted — Fifth and Sixth Regiments — Letter to President Lincoln — Seventh and Eighth Regiments — Cavalry Authorized — Sharp-shooters — State Agents — Circu- lar to Loyal Governors — State Bonds — Letter to Secretary OP War — More Infantry Accepted — Artillery Wanted — First, Ninth, Tenth and Eleventh Regiments — Letter to Secretary OF War — Twelfth, Thirteenth, Fourteenth and Fifteenth Regi- ments— 8205,000 Reimbursed — Correspondence — First Cavalry- Second Cavalry — More Artillery Accepted — Third Cavalry — Consolidation of Companies — Sixteenth, Seventeenth, Eigh- teenth AND Nineteenth Regiments — Recruiting Discontinued — Letter of Captain Eddy — Report op Governor Randall — Biographical Sketch op Governor Randall — Close of 1861.

ON being notified of the second call of the President for troops, Governor Randall immediately issued a Proclamation con- vening a special session of the Legislature on Wednesday, the 15th of May. On that day the Legislature met in extra session, and the Governor delivered a message, from which we extract Buch portions as have a military bearing :

Senatoes and Representatives :

At the close of the last annual session of the Legislature, to meet a sadden emergency an act was passed authorizing me to respond to the call of the President of the United States, for "aid in maintaining the Union and the supremacy of the laws, or to suppress rebellion or insurrection, or to repel invasion within the United States," and I was au- thorized, and it was made my duty, to take such measures as, in my judgment, should provide in the speediest and most efficient manner, for responding to such call : and to this end I was authorized to accept the services of volunteers for active service, to be enrolled in companies of not less than seventy-five men each, rank and file, and in regi- ments of ten companies each. I was also authorized to provide for uniforming and equipping such companies as were not provided with unilbrms and equipments. , The flist call of the President, for immediate o«tive service, was for one regiment of men.

72 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

My proclamation, issued immediately after the passage of the act of the Legislature, ■was answered within less than ten days, by companies enough, each containing the re- quisite number of men to make up at least five regiments, instead of one. I then issued another proclamation, announcing the offers that had been made, and advising that thereafter companies might be enrolled to stand as minute men, ready to answer further calls, as they might be made, but without expense to the State, except as they are mus- tered into service. In less than one month from the date of my first proclamation, at least five thousand men, either as individuals or in enrolled companies, have oflFered their services for the war, and all appear anxious for active service in the field.

In providing for the First Regiment, embarrassments have resulted from the fact that there has never been an eflScient military organization in this State — no system or dis- cipline. The men who had seen active field service were very few, or were almost en- tirely unknown ; and the order and manner of equipping and uniforming and arming soldiers and officers for rugged war were mysteries, the solution of which could only be found by actual experiment. *

So the expenses incurred in preparing the First Regiment have been greater, to some extent, than they otherwise would have been, or than they hereafter will be.

The spirit evoked by the rebellion against the Government of the United States is such as has never before been manifested since its organization. The x>eople understand that it is their government that is assailed, and everywhere throughout the North they are rising up to rebuke the treason so rife in some portions of the land.

The deepening and widening dangers that threaten our institutions, and the pressure of public opinion from all parts of the State, with the growing certainty that further calls would be made upon this State, forced me to form another camp, and to bring to- gether another regiment of men, and to authorize a number of isolated companies which had volunteered, to remain together, and to learn so far as was possible without suitable arms, the discipline and drilling necessary for men going into actual war.

T Illinois has but a trifle over double the population of Wisconsin, and the call for six regiments from Illinois, and only one from Wisconsin, is so disproportionate, as to ex- cite extreme dissatisfaction. Companies enough for five regiments, almost, are enrolled and drilling without arms, and two regiments, partially atmed with indifferent weap- ons, are in camp. We need, for the protection, and use, and benefit of our own citizen Boldierjj, arms now, war or no war. It is as yet impossible to ascertain to what extent the Stales, particularly this State, will be called upon to furnish forces, or to what extent the forces called for must be armed, equipped and uniformed for service. The people of the State, and of all the States, are anxious to know what and how much is expected of them, and are ready to respond. While the details of the policy of the Administration should not be made public, information of the general purposes of the Government should be lodged somewhere in each loyal State, so that there can be an authoritative assurance of what is intended and expected. In the absence of such information, the judgment of this Legislature must determine for Wisconsin what aid she can afford to extend to the Federal Government in the way of regiments of men, and in the way of arming, equipping and uniforming its own citizens, for military purposes, and how far it will make its military forces useful and efficient, bj' putting them, in the shape of regiments, into camp to be drilled, inured to the hardships of the soldier's life, and made skillful in the use of arms, before being called upon to face experienced ai-mies in battle.

In my judgment, at least six regiments of soldiers ought to be put into camp to learn soldiers' duties, in addition to the one first called for. They should be armed and uni- formed and equipped by the State now, and when mustered into the service of the United States, their arms and uniforms and equipments accounted for to the State by the National Government. The men sent to war should be soldiers when they go, or there will be few of them living soldiers when it is time for them to return.

An appropriation of at least one million of dollars wUl, in mj^ judgment, be necessary for the purpose of putting into the field a reserved force, and for providing to meet the demands of the Government as they are made. An authority ought to be given' to pur- chase, for the use of the State, in addition to such arms as are required for the use of jregiments going into tlie field, six rifled cannon.

LAWS PASSED. 73

Tlie people ■will never consent to any cessation of the war, forced so wickedly upon us, until the traitors are hung or driven into ignominious exile. This war began where Charlestons; it should end where Charleston li'cw. The Supreme Ruler can but smilts upon the efforts of the law-loving, government-loving, liberty-loving people of this land, in resisting the disruption of this Union. These gathering armies are the instru- ments of His vengeance, to execute His just judgments; they are His flails wherewith, on God's great Southern threshing floor He will pound rebellion for its. sins.

The Legislature, by joint resolution, determined to transact no business except that for which it was expressly called.

The limits of a single volume forbid our publishing in full the laws of this or subsequent sessions, and we are compelled to content ourselves with naming such acts as are passed, bearing upon military mattei^, referring the reader to the published volume for the laws in full.

The law hurriedly passed at the close of the regular session, and under which Governor Randall had organized the First Regi- ment, was found inadequate to meet the second call of the Presi- dent. A bill was introduced, and became a law, which author- ized the Governor to raise six regiments of intantry, inclusive of those he had organized or placed at quarters. When the six regiments were mustered into the United States service, he was authorized to raise two additional regiments, and thus to keep two regiments continually in reserve to meet any future call of the Government. He was authorized to quarter and subsist vol- unteers at rendezvous, to transport, to clothe, subsist and quarter them in camp at the expense of the State. Arms and munitions were to be furnished by the United States. Recruits were to be mustered into State service, and into United States service for three years. Two assistant surgeons to each regiment were to be appointed and paid by the State. The regiments, as they came into camp, were to be instructed in drill and various camp duties to secure efficiency in the field. The troops, so called in, were to be paid monthly by the State, the same pay and emoluments as the soldiers in the United States army, from the date of enlist- ment. The Paymaster General was authorized to draw funds from the State Treasury for the payment of the State troops, and the expenses incurred in subsisting, transporting and cloth- ing them. The Governor was authorized to purchase military stores, subsistence, clothing, medicine, field and camp equipage ; and the sum of one million dollars was appropriated to enable the Governor to carry out the law.

74 MILITAKY HISTORY OP WISCONSIN.

Under another law, he was authorized to purchase 2,000 stand of arms, and fifty thousand dollars was appropriated.

Another law was passed, authorising counties, towns, cities and incorporated villages to levy taxes for the purpose of provid- ing for the support of families of volunteers residing in their respective limits.

The law exempting volunteers from civil process was amended, so as so include all who might thereafter enlist.

A law granting five dollars per month, as extra pay, to enlisted volunteers having families dependent upon them for support, payahle to the volunteer's family, was passed.

The Governor was authorized to employ such aids, clerks and messengers as he deemed necessary for the public interest.

A law was also passed, authorizing the payment of those who had enlisted for three months, but declined to go in for three years.

The expenses of the extra session were ordered to be pail out of the War Fund.

One million dollars, in bonds, were authorized to be issued for war purposes, to be known as the " War Fund," The Governor, Secretary of State and State Treasurer were authorized to nego- tiate the sale of these bonds, &c. A section of the law required all claims against the " War Fund " to be presented in three months from the time they accrued.

The Governor was authorized to be absent from the State during the war, if thought advisable, in connection with military matters of the State.

A resolution was passed, recommending the appointment of General King to a Brigadier Generalship.

Governor Randall having, by the Legislature, been invested with full powers to act in the matter of raising troops, proceeded to organize the Military Departments of the State, as follows :

His Excellency, Alexander W. RandalI/, Governor and Oommander-in- Chief.

Brigadier General William L. Utley, Adjutant General.

Brigadier General W. W. Tredway, Quartennaster General.

Colonel Edwin R. Wadsworth, Commissary General.

Brigadier General Simeon Mills, Paymaster General.

Brigadier General E. B. Wolcott, Sturgeon General.

Major E. L. Buttrick, Judge Advocate.

Colonel W11.LIAM H. Watson, Military ISecretary,

STATE MILITARY OFFICERS. 75

The several offices were organized, as follows :

Adfuiant GeneraPs Q^e.— William L. Utley, Adjutant General; H. K. White, Assistant Adjutant General.

Quartermaster General's Office. — W. W. Tkedway, Quarterma.^ter General; N. B. Vax- 8LYKE, James Holtqn and William R. Mears, Assistant Quartermaster Generals.

C&mmissary General's Q^ce. — Edwin R. Wadsworth, Commissary General; F. L. Hicks, John G. Clark and S. D. Clough, Assistant Oymmissary Genei-als.

J>apmaster General's Office.— Simeon Mills, Paymaster General; James R. Mears, Assistant Paymaster General.

The assistants in these several departments were appointed, as the business of the respective offices required additional assistance.

The volunteers raised in "Wisconsin, in the year 1861, were all recruited, subsisted, clothed and equipped, (except arms,) and paid by the State authorities ; the General Government not as- suming control of the recruiting service until the 1st of January, 1862.

Quartermaster General Tredway was authorized to contract for all the supplies necessary to equip the several regiments and batteries called for in 1861.

Commissary General Wadsworth had under his supervision the subsistence of recruits at rendezvous and in camp, until the regi- ments were mustered into the United States service, after which time, the Government paid their subsistence bills. All accounts for subsistence of recruits in rendezvous were examined and adjusted by this department.

The expenses incurred by the State, in 1861, became a rightful claim against the General Government, by whom the State was eventually reimbursed, with the exception of some of the ac- counts which were returned for irregularity, but which will eventually be adjusted.

Governor Randall determined to make another effort for the acceptance of more regiments. By the hands of General King, he sent the following letter to the Secretary of War :

You will excuse me for urging, respectfully, that the disposition of the St:Tte in fur- nishing men and means in aid of the Government may warrant a recognition from the Gtovernment, by accepting, as has been done with other States to some extent, the addi- tional force of three regiments ordered into camp by tlie Legislature of the State, to be turned into efficient soldiers, in anticipation of further calls of the President. General King is the bearer of this letter, and is authorized to communicate fully with you upon the subject herein suggested, and upon such questions as may suggest themselves of interest between the Government and this State.

76 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

Bringing to his aid the influence of the President and Secretary Seward, General King succeeded at length in obtaining from Sec- retary Cameron an agreement to accept the six regiments from Wisconsin, provided they could be got ready in three weeks.

The First and Second Regiments were ordered to move for- ward to Harrisburg. The First Regiment left the State on the 9th of June, and the Second on the 20th.

The six regiments being thus accepted, the Governor proceeded to call into camp the Fifth and Sixth Regiments.

The Third Regiment was composed of the Watertown Com- pany, Captain Gibbs ; "Williamstown Company, Captain Ham- mer; Oshkosh Company, Captain Scott ; Neenah Company, Cap- tain Hubbard ; Lafayette County Company, Captain Whitman ; Grant County Company, Captain Limbocker; Waupun Company, Captain Clark ; Green County Company, Captain Flood ; Dane County Company, Captain Hawley ; Shullsburg Company, Cap- tain Vandergrift. These companies were ordered into camp, at Fond du Lac, about the 15th of June. Here the regimental or- ganization was completed, under the supervision of Captain C. S. Hamilton, who had been commissioned as Colonel, and the Regiment was mustered into the United States service on the 29th of June, and left the State, for Harrisburg, Pa., on the 12th of July. On their arrival at Harrisburg, the regiment received arms, and were sent forward to Hagerstown and Harper's Ferry.

The Fourth Regiment was composed of the Calumet County Company, Captain Hobart; Sheboygan Company, Captain Grey; Geneva Company, Captain Roundy ; Jefferson County Company, Captain Moore; Columbia County Company, Captain Bailey; Monroe County Company, Captain Lynn ; Hudson City Company, Captain White ; Ripon Company, Captain La Grange ; White- water Company, Captain Curtice ; Oconto County Company, Captain Loy,* and was ordered into camp, at Racine, on the 6th of June. Halbert E. Paine, Esq., was promoted from Quarter- master of the Second to Colonel of this Regiment, under whose supervision the organization was completed, and the Regiment left the State on the 15th of July, to report at Baltimore, Md.

* The Black Hawk Rifles, of Fort Atkinson, were originally assigned^ to the Fourth Regiment, but, not being full, was displaced, and the Oconto County Company substituted.

FIFTH AND SIXTH REGIMENTS. 77

The companies composing the Fifth Regiment were recruited, two in Milwaukee, one eacli in Janesville, Waukesha, Richland, Taychedah, Beaver Dam, Manitowoc, Berlin, and Meuomonee, in Dunn County, and were all assembled in Camp Randall by the 28th of June, where their organization was perfected under the supervision of Amasa Cobb, of Mineral Point, as Colonel, and were mustered into the United States service.

The Sixth Regiment was composed of companies recruited at Prairie du Chien, Baraboo, Prescott, Beloit, Fond du Lac, Buftalo County, two from Milwaukee, and two from Mauston, and were all in Camp Randall by the 1st of July. Lysander Cutler, of Milwaukee, was appointed Colonel. The organization was completed, and the Regiment mustered into the United States service.

The disastrous news of the defeat of our army at Bull Run, on the 21st of July, was recei\'ed at Camp Randall, while these regi- ments were yet in camp. On that day, orders were received from the Secretary of War for the immediate forwarding of all the troops in the State, to Washington. Colonels Cobb and Cutler were notified to have their commands in readiness, and as soon as transportation could be procured they left the State, the Fifth on the 24th of July, and the Sixth on the 28th.

The necessary number of Companies to form the Seventh and Eighth Regiments were severally assigned, but the Governor declined calling them in until after harvest, unless specially required to do so.

A letter from President Lincoln under date of June 24th, requesting a full report from the Adjutant General and Quarter- master General of the State, concerning the troops sent from Wisconsin, was replied to, by the Governor forwarding the required reports and by the following letter :

EXECTTTIYE DEPARTMENT, MADISOK, WIS., July Ist, 1861.

To Bis ExceUeney, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United Slates:

Sir:—1 have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 24th of June, desiring certain information in regard to the military preparations of the State of Wis- consin, and in reply, forward to you the enclosed reports relating to the six regiments accepted from this State.

In addition to the six regiments thus accounted for, we have organized and in readi- ness to be called into service at short notice, two more regiments of three years' volun- teers. The companies composing them have for the most part been drilling at their Beveral localities in the State for some time past, and could be called together in a brief time. At the outbreak of hostilities, we had in this State, a very few good uniformed

78 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

companies, and a very insufficient militia law, so that we liave been obliged to form our regiments entirely of new material. I think however, that the troops which we have sent forward will bear comparison as to drill and efficiency with most of those sent from other States, and that our succeeding regiments will be satisfactory in those respects. We have endeavored to furnish them with everything necessary except arms. As to the latter we have been unable to furnish them except at such exorbitant prices that understanding that the government was in a condition to furnish them, we have not attempted to do so.

We have had volunteer companies tendered in this State to the number of about one liundred and twenty. So long a time elapsed before we were assured of the acceptance of more than two that their organization and withdrawal from their usual avocations was discouraged, until the acceptance of six regiments by telegraph reaching me June lOth, enabled me to say to those who wished to enter the service that there was some prospect for them to do so. We shall, in a few days have forwarded the six regim.ents to their appointed rendezvous, at the East, fully equipped except arms.

Owing to the necessity for men to take care of the abundant harvest, it was not my intention to call the Seventh and Eighth Regiments into camp before the 20th of August, unless the emergency should make it necessary, and the companies have been so advised. If they are needed sooner, a call will be immediately responded to, and we shall have their uniforms and equipments ready for them. By the authority of our Legislature I shall, after the middle of August, keep two regiments equipped and in camp ready for a call to service and will have them ready at an earlier day if needed. Our people are ready and anxious to take part in this war to sustain the Constitution and the Union, and only wait to know that they are wanted, to respond immediately to any call that the Government may make upon them.

I beg leave to urge upon your attention the fact that we have not in this State arms of all kinds sufficient to supply two regiments, and that as it is necessary to leave a suffi- cient supply in the hands of companies in various parts of the State, to guard against outbrealcs in our large towns, such as has recently occurred in Milwaukee, and for the protection of our Northwestern frontier, there is a pressing need of a supply of 1,500 or . 2,000 stand, with swords, for non-commissioned officers, if they can possibly be spared from the exigencies of the war. I trust that they may be forwarded to us.

I am very respectfully

Your obedient servant,

ALEX. W. RANDAIjL.

General Scott at the beginning of the war had assumed that infantry would compose the chief force called for, ignoring artillery almost entirely, and throwing cavalry aside as unneces- 8ary. Repeated offers of artillery and cavalry had been made by several of the loyal Governors, which were uniformly declined, until about this period a change appeared to have taken place in General Scott's plans.

In the latter part of June, Edward Daniels, Esq., of Ripon, made personal application at Washington, and received a special permit to raise a squadron of cavalry, and was commissioned by Governor Randall, as Lieutenant Colonel, in order to enable him to recruit for that arm of the service. We will state here that all of the cavalry regiments which were subsequently sent from Wisconsin, were " independent organizations," authorized to be raised by the General Government, independent of the State

COMPANY OF SHARPSHOOTERS. 79

authorities, although the commissions were issued by the State Government. Colonel Daniels proceeded at once to recruit and organize a battalion at Ripon.

About the latter part of June, the General Government author- ized the raising of a regiment of sharpshooters, and placed the matter in the hands of Mr. Berdan, for the recruiting and organ- ization of such a corps, to consist of the best marksmen in the loyal States. Knowing the character of our population as pioneers and woodsmen. Colonel Berdan authorized Captain Rowland to act as his agent. The matter was laid before Governor Randall, and an order was issued by Adjutant General Utley, detailing the manner in which these recruits were to be examined, enumerating the qualifications necessary to secure a position in this company, of which only one was to be raised. Captain W. P. Alexander of Beloit, a good marksman himself, was commissioned as Captain, with authority to raise a company. The Captain at once engaged in the work, taking only those who could show, practically, that they could put ten consecutive shots in a target not to exceed the average of five inches from the centre of the bull's eye. Each applicant was required to exhibit his skill, and only those who could meet the requisition were enlisted. The company was filled to one hundred and three privates and three officers, and left the State about the middle of September, under Captain Alexander, and was mustered into the United States service at Weehawken, on the 23d of September. This Regiment went to the Army of the Potomac and performed gallant service. Company G, from "Wisconsin, holding a position among the best in the regiment. The history of this company will be found in subsequent pages of this work.

One feature has characterized this war, difiering entirely from any other war on record. We mean that portion of it represented by the several Sanitary Commissions and Soldiers' Aid Societies. It may have had a prototype in the benevolent noble hearted efforts of Miss Nightingale in the Crimean war, but hers were the unaided labors of a single individual, isolated and alone, dependant on her own resources, to carry out her benevolent intentions. Ours assumed the character of a National enterprise, and became so gigantic in its several channels of benevolence,

80 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

that its aggregate labors have become as much matter of astonish, ment to ourselves, and to other civilized nations, as the organizing and maintaining of our vast armies in the field. It is a pleasant, reflection, that through this bloody struggle, there has been so much noble-heartedness and genuine benevolent feeling displayed in the endeavor to contribute to the wants of our sick and wounded, and so much consolation aflforded those who have closed their eyes in death upon the battle-field or in the hospitals. It is not out of place to turn back to the early portion of the rebellion, and trace the incipient eflforts of those who began this system of benevolence. The idea of affording relief to the sick and wounded, was first developed in the appointment of agents by the Governors of the loyal States, whose duty it was to accompany the reofiments to the field and furnish to the sick and wounded such articles as would contribute to their restoration to health as were not permitted by the army regulations. True, these appointees may have failed to perform the duties they were ordered to, but that did not vitiate the principle. Faulty it may have been in its first organization, but theprinciple being establish- ed it ripened into a system that accomplished, in a more ex- tended field, the object sought in the original design. The his- tory of all wars shows that the disasters of the battle-field are less fatal than the diseases which are incident upon the exposures to heat and cold, the exhaustion of long marches, the disarrange- ments arising from insufficient or indifferently cooked food, the use of impure water, and other health destroying elements, which enter largely into the experiences of a military campaign. The Government furnishes Surgeons to take care of the sick and wounded, but it does not furnish them all with the requisite skill, with patience and enduranee, and that kindness of heart which often proves so efficacious in the welfare of the patient. Constant attention to a Surgeon's duties often sears his sensibility, and he becomes indifferent to the distress around him, and careless of his patients, and they suffer and die sometimes, through his neglect. Under these circumstances, the Sanitary agent is a fit person to step in and bestow those attentions which the Surgeon has not time or disposition to give. To show that Governor Randall appreciated the sufferings incident to the military service, which

STATE SANITARY AGENTS. 81

it was not in the power of the Government wholly to relieve, we insert here the circular sent by him to the Executives of other loyal States :

ExECTTTiVE Ofeice, Madison, Wisoonsin, July 4th, 1861. To His Excellency, The Governor of New York,

Dear Sir: It seems to be assumed that the moment one of our citizens enlists as a sol- dier in the service of the United States, he loses to a certain extent his citizdbship, and that he is entitled to but little further consideration. This has been at all times an Inhuman error, but at this time it is doubly so. The men who have enlisted as soldiers in the present war have not done so for the pay of the soldier, nor because they were out of employment. The men who fill the armies of the United States, to-day, enlisted with the patriotic purpose of putting down a wicked rebellion, and maintaining the Integrity of the Federal Government. They are our neighbors and fellow-citizens, who, braver than we are, go to endure the privations of the camp, and to brave the dangers of the battle-field, not only for themselves, but for us. From Wisconsin — and I doubt not the same may be said of all the loyal States — all classes and conditions of men, men of all the professions and avocations and employments of life, swell the ranks of our regi- ments. There is scarcely a soldier but leaves behind him a family or social circle broken by his absence. In every conceivable way they make great sacrifices. They carry the honor of their respective States with them, and are pledged to uphold that honor as well as to punish rebellion. They are entitled to our greatest consideration and care. Who- ever defrauds a patriotic, liberty-loving, government-loving soldier is a thief. So far as possible, the several States should do, and are doing, all in their power to send their regiments forward well uniformed and provided for the service in which they are to engage. I feel impelled to submit that the duties of the authorities of the several States toward the stalwart-hearted men who go to do our battles for us, do not and cannot end here. The history of all wars tells us that both during their continuance and after their close, thousands of soldiers, sick and diseased and maimed, go wandering homeward, suffering with privation and want, begging their weary way, and meeting that curious public gaze, which has no sympathy or kindness in it. Each State has a rich reversion- ary interest in the citizen soldiers who represent it, and each State owes to itself and to every soldier, an obligation to take care of that interest.

I have determined, in behalf of Wisconsin, to send with each regiment, men whose sole business it shall be to stay with the regiment, look after its welfare, and to see that every man who, from sickness or the casualties of war, becomes so far disabled that he can no longer endure the fatigues or perform the duties of the camp or field, shall be safely and comfortably returned to this State, and to his family or friends. In health or sickness, in triumph or defeat, these men are ours and our country's, and our obliga- tions and hopes equally go with them. May I invite you to co-operate in this move- ment ? The agents appointed by and for the several States, for these purposes, can, to a very large extent, act in concert, and aid each other. I cannot doubt but that by a proptr effort, all Railroad and Steamboat Companies, touched by the humanity of the object, can be induced to pass all disabled persons free, upon a certificate from the proper responsible authority, that as such they were honorably discharged from service. The expense will be comparatively light, and the good to result, incalculable.

Very respectfully,

ALEX, W. RANDALL.

In compliance with the circular, Governor Randall appointed agents to accompany our earlier regiments to the field. In some cases these agents acted for the Quartermaster's Department of the State, in attending to the shipment and distribution of such supplies as could not be furnished the regiments before they left the State. The fact is undeniable, that the Medical Department 6

82 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

of the United States Army, at the outbreak of the war, was very inefficient, and many of the soldiers in the earlier battles suffered severely, and many lost their lives by the inadequate provision made by the Medical Department in the several hos- pitals. To our own knowledge several of our brave boys were permitted to die for want of proper medical attention, especially at the btttle of Shiloh.

To the humane intentions of Governor Randall, and the untir- ing industry and eminent ability of Surgeon General Wolcott, our several regiments are indebted for the perfection of their medical outfit. Ordered by Governor Eandall to see that nothing was lacking in medical supplies for each regiment. Surgeon General Wolcott, gave the matter his personal attention, and it became notorious that Wisconsin regiments were superior in their medical stores and instruments, to those of other States.

The organization of the several Sanitary Commissions, ren- dered unnecessary a continuance of the system of regimental agents, and they were finally recalled.

In explanation of the manner in which the bonds authorized to be issued by the regular session of 1861, and also the extra session, amounting to $1,200,000, were disposed of, we insert here an extract from the report of the Secretary of State, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1861 :

Chapter 13 of the General Laws, passed by the Legislature of 1861, at the extra session, constituted a Board of Loan Commissioners, consisting of the Governor, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer, who were charged with the duty of negotiating, in such man- ner as they should deem proper, and "on the most favorable terms which in their judg- m^ent could be obtained," a loan or loans for war purposes, not exceeding in the aggregate tJtie sum of one million of dollars.

Through an alleged defect in the law, and owing to other causes not necessary to recite, it was found to be impracticable to effect a negotiation of the bonds authorized by said chapter 13, in the money marts of the East. But an arrangement was, after some delay, perfected with the bankers of our own State, by which it was agreed that the Loan Com- missioners should sell to them, and the said banlcers should purchase, eight hundred thousand dollars of the one million authorized to be issued, at seventy per cent, of their face, cash in hand, {sixty per cent, thereof in specie or New Yorlc exchange, and/tw/y per cent, in current bank bills, as directed by section 8 of the Loan Act,) and the remaining thirty per cent, in installments of one per cent, every six months ; the corporate bond of each bank purchasing bonds to be taken for this thirty per centum.

An understanding was had by the Loan Commissioners with the leading bankers of the State, that all bonds so purchased should be placed with the Bank Comptroller, as security for Wisconsin currency then in circulation ; that the notes of all banks current at the time the arrangement was made, (June 25th,) were to be made par by the deposit of additional securities with the Bank Comptroller, and, finaUy, that bonds then in tho Department as security, chiefly of Southern States, whose rapid depreciation was stag- gering all confidence in our currency, should be sold in New York by the Bank Comp- troller, sufficient to provide the means of effecting the purchase of the Wiscoosiu Bonds oy which they were to be replaced.

SALE OF BTATB BONDS. 83

It Is believed that the seventy per cent, thus realized on the bonds sold, Is nearly, if not quite, as high a rate as could have been realized from their sale in Wall street, after the expense and delay of another extra session of the Legislature, and all objection to the legality of their issue had been removed. On the other hand, the diversion of the entire discount of the State must have suffered upon a sale at the East, to strengthen the cur- rency then perishing In the hands of the people, has proved an Incalculable relief and protection to all the business interests of the State, while at the same time the plan of Bale promises the return to the Treasury of the State, in greater part, at least, the discount thus abated.

But whether the obligations taken of the banks for the thirty per cent, remaining unpaid at the time of purchase, are all of them paid or not, it is submitted that the substantial Interests of the State have already been benefitted through this negotiation, in the manner before indicated, far more than to equal in value the entire amount for which credit was given in the sale of the bonds.

The exact number and amount of bonds sold and delivered (of the one million issue) np to October 1st, are as follows :

794 bonds for $1000 each, for cash in hand 8555,800 00

90 bonds for $500 each, for cash in hand 31,920 00

6 bonds for $100 each, at par „ 500 00

$588,220 00

Leaving now on hand —

6 bonds of $1000 each 6,000 00

110 bonds of 500 each 55,000 00

995 bonds of $100 each ., 99,500 00

$160,.500 00

An issue of two hundred thousand of State bonds for war purposes, was authorized by an act of the regular session of the Legislature, the negotiation of which was left to the Governor alone. Owing to a restriction in the law, those bonds cannot be negotiated below par, and consequently all but twelve remain unsold.

"WTien tlie news of the disaster at Bull Run was received, Governor Randall was in New York. He took the first train and was in "Washington at the earliest possible moment. Imme- diately upon his arrival, he entered upon the work of hunting up our sick and wounded of the Second Regiment, visiting the camp and cheering up the drooping hearts of our brave soldiers, by his electrifpng speeches, assuring them that the State had not forgotten them; that their welfare should be attended to, and the evils they had labored under remedied. Several persons were employed to assist in this labor of looking after the sick and ailing, in furnishing new clothing, shoes or other articles which had been lost in the fight, and relieving those who were suffering from hunger and from the hardships incident to the heat of the day. In this work of humanity the Governor took the responsibility of authorizing the purchase of supplies and comforts for the sick, and paid it from funds he was permitted to use for purposes con- tingent upon the organization of our Wisconsin troops. In this he was governed by the impulses of a noble patriotism and

84 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

generosity, which could not see the faithful defenders of our country's liberty suffer and die when he had the power to relieve them. However much the Governor's action in assisting our exhausted soldiers, after Bull Run, may have been censured by those desirous of criticising his administration, it is certain that the mass of the people of the State upheld the Governor in his efforts for the relief of our soldiers at that time.

The disaster at Bull Run was destined to be one of the import- ant points in the rebellion, and to awaken the administration to the magnitude of the task which they had before them, and Congress next day passed an act authorizing President Lincoln to call for a million of men, if necessary, to suppress the rebellion. After this no trouble was had by Governor Randall in the acceptance of troops from Wisconsin.

The news of the defeat of our army at Bull Run, on the 21st of July, was received with dismay, at first, but a reaction soon took place, which had a tendency to augment recruiting, and to rouse the public enthusiasm, to an ardent desire to wipe out the stigma of defeat.

On the 26th of July a commission was issued to G. Von Deutsch, of Milwaukee, to raise a company of cavalry. He succeeded in filling this company to eighty-four men. It left the State in September, joining the forces under General Fremont, and was afterwards attached to the Fifth Missouri Regiment of cavalry.

A despatch from the Secretary of "War, under date of August 13th, requested Governor Randall to send all the available force in the State to General Fremont without delay, and to furnish a full supply of field artillery and small arms.

The defeats of Bull Run and Wilson's Creek — the death of the brave General Lyon — the peril of the National Capital, showing the inadequate force opposed to the rebel armies in dif- ferent parts of the country, opened the eyes of the officials at Washington, to the fact that the rebellion was something more than a riotous demonstration, and that the people were ahead of the War Department, when their Governors were urging Cameron to accept more troops to crush out the rebellion.

Governor Randall was not in the State at the time when the dispatch was received, but answered it on the 16th of August as follows :

GERMAN REGIMENT. 85

^on, Simon- Cameron:

Some days since, I received from your Department a telegraphic dispatcli, calling upon me to forward immediately to General Fremont, all the organized and available force in this State, and to send a full supply of field artillery and small arms. I replied imme- diately, stating in the brevity of a telegraphic dispatch, the facts in the case, but desire that your Department should be more fully informed of our condition. We have two regiments organized, so far as the companies to form them are concerned. One of these Is now coming into camp, many of the men sacrificing their harvests in their patriotic feeling. We did not intend to call the other to camp until after harvest. After the first of September we can proceed rapidly with the organization of regiments, the men being ready and anxious for service, if we can avail ourselves of the arrangements which we observe are extended to other States, for reimbursing our expenditures tlius far made. It is very desirable that we should thus be provided with means in order that our work of organization may proceed without delay. If the Government is prepared to furnish any portion of the outfit of succeeding regiments, we should be relieved to that extent.

In relation to artillery and small arms, we have in this State, six old six pounder can- non, which have for a number of years, been in the possession of independent compa- nies, some of them more than ten years — all without caissons — and neither in harness nor implements fit for use. We have no arsenal nor accumulation of ammunition. When the war broke out we had some sixteen hundred stand of arms of all kinds and patterns, in the hands of independent companies. These were called in for use in drill- ing our troops, and by reason of hard usage among six regiments, are mostly unfit for service. This is our condition and explains why we are unable to respond to your call upon this State.

The Governor also wrote to General Fremont explaining the reason why he could not respond to the order of the Secretary of War. In conclusion he says :

If your authority extends far enough to enable you to equip and arm a German regi- ment, we think we can send you in ten days after your acceptance, a regiment, more than half of which has seen service, and who are anxious to join your force.

This proposition was made to General Fremont in deference to the Germans of the State, many of whom desired the oppor- tunity to serve under the " Pathfinder." Out of this grew the organization of the Ninth or German Regiment, though it was too late to eerve under Fremont.

On the 19th of August Secretary Cameron telegraphed to know if a part of our uniformed militia, or "Home Guards,'* could be spared for temporary service. The Governor replied as follows :

Hon. Simon Camehon :

In reply to your dispatch of the 19th, I would say that our uniformed militia have gone into service. We have no Home Guards to call upon. We have been embarrassed from the first with a large number of companies seeking service, but we could not get them accepted. If Government will call on us for four or six, or more regiments, agree to muster them into service at once, and to refund our expenses on presentation of vouchers, we can have all the men we want speedily. On the same understanding we can raise a regiment of cavalry, and we have large numbers of European artillery men but no cannon.

♦ ^Bwer by telegraph, and send detailed instructions by letter,

ALEX. W. RANDALL.

86 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

In response to the above, the Governor received the following:

To Governor Rand all, of WiscanMn :

You may organize and equip as rapidly as possible, five regiments of infantry and five batteries of artillery, and procure for them necessary clothing and equipments according to TTnlted States Regulations and prices, subject to the inspection of United States offl- cei-p, Exjyenses incurred will be refunded by the Government. If you need the cannon at once, send us an order and they shall be forwarded, and such other arms as may be necessary. Please answer if this is understood and satisfactory,

SIMON CAMERON, Secretary of War.

The companies for the Seventh Regiment were ordered into Camp Randall during the last week in August. They were recruited at Lodi, Fall River, Platteville, Stoughton, Montello, Lancaster, Grand Rapids, Fennimore, Beloit and Dodge County. These companies were mustered in by the United States officers soon after they arrived in camp, by companies. Captain Mcln- tyre and Major Brooks were the mustering officers at Madison, and Captain J. M. Trowbridge at Milwaukee.

Immediately on the receipt of the order of the Secretary of War, Governor Randall issued a Proclamation calling for volun- teers for the five regiments of infantry and five batteries of artillery. One regiment of infantry was to be German. The plan for organization was recited in the Proclamation.

From the beginning of the war a great desire was manifested for the organization of artillery companies, and when this requi- sition was received, but a few hours elapsed before commissions to raise artillery companies were issued. Captain Hertzberg's tender of service of the Washington Artillery of Milwaukee, was accepted, and he was ordered to fill up to one hundred and fifty men ; the same order was sent to Captain Foster of La Crosse Artillery Company. Captain Pinney, Captain Drury and others, were authorized to recruit for the artillery.

As instructed in the dispatch of Secretary Cameron, the Governor made a formal requisition for the guns and the neces- sary stores and ammunition for the five batteries of artillery, and also for the arms and equipments for the five regiments, ordered to be raised in addition to the Seventh and Eighth.

In reply to the above requisition the Secretary wrote, that orders would be issued to send arms for three full regiments of infantry, and guns for two batteries of six guns each. The remaining regiments and batteries were ordered to be sent forward to

FIRST REGIMENT. 87

Wiisliington without arms, to report to General McClellan for orders, and arms and equipments would then be provided. The Secretary concluded his letter thus — " K you desire to add more regiments to those already off'ered, I should be glad to hear from you. Before closing this communication, permit me to extend the acknowledgements of this Department for your prompt and liberal response to all calls that have been made upon you for forces."

It appears that an order of the "War Department required that Adjutants and Quartermasters should be Lieutenants in the regi- ments attached to companies. Governor Randall found it neces- sary sometimes to disregard this order and appoint such regimen- tal officers from civil life. lie addressed a paragraph to the Secretary of War, enquiring if the order could not be modified and suspended as it was in Illinois, to enable him to appoint such officers as were fully competent for the positions without depriving the companies of their officers. To this the Secretary subsequently replied, authorizing the appointment of officers on the recommendation of the Colonel of each regiment with the rank of Lieutenant, who can then be appointed Quartermaster or Adjutant by the Colonel.

On the 22d of August the term of service of the First Regi- ment having expired, that organization was mustered out. To a telegram from Governor Randall, inquiring if the First Regi- ment reorganized for three years, would be accepted in addition to those in service and the five regiments recently authorized, the Secretary replied in the affirmative, thus making six infantry regiments, in addition to the Seventh and Eighth.

In order to meet the desires of the German portion of the population of Wisconsin, the Governor authorized the formation of a German regiment, to be known as the Ninth. Orders were issued on the 24th of August appointing Frederick Salomon of Manitowoc, as Colonel, and William Finkler was appointed Quartermaster, with authority to recruit and organize the regi- ment, under special instruction until the Colonel took command. They were ordered to encamp in Milwaukee. The men were recruited in squads and sent into camp, where they were formed into companies.

88 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN,

On the 28tli of August, orders were issued for the reorganiza- tion of the First Regiment for three years, under the command of John C. Starkweather, as Colonel, David H. Lane, Lieutenant Colonel, and George B. Bingham, Major.

On the same day orders were issued assigning companies to the Eighth Regiment, as follows : one company from "Waupaca, Greenbush, Eau Claire, Fox Lake, Fitchburg, Janesville, Belle- ville, La Crosse, the other two companies originally assigned, failing to fill up, companies from Prairie du Chien and Racine, were substituted. They were ordered to move to Camp Randall, the first week in September, where they all arrived and were mustered into the United States service by the 13th of September.

Daniels' battalion of four companies of cavalry being reported ready for muster. Captain J. M. Trowbridge was ordered to muster them. The muster was completed on the 10th of September.

At this time Government had organized general camps of rendezvous, at different points in the loyal States, under the orders of the Government. The mustering ofiicer. Major Brooks, insisted on sending recruits to these general rendezvous, which compelled Governor Randall to telegraph to Washington as follows, on the 3d of September :

Hon. Simon Cameron:

Your mustering officers in this State do not understand that they are to provide for mustering, subsisting and transporting to the State camps, where we are gatliering our new regiments. They expect to forward recruits to the general camps of rendezvous ■which have been provided elsewhere. This is all wrong — men will not enlist to be lent away. Please instruct your officers, at once, by telegraph and mail.

A. W. RANDALL.

This dispatch brought about the desired reform in the action of Major Brooks.

The Secretary of "War, on the 7th of September, desired " information as to what number of regiments could be ready to march on a few hours notice, if required, to meet an emer- gency, urging that organization and equipment should pro- gress as rapidly as possible, and in such manner as will enable the Government to use the force actually mustered ?" to which the Governor replied — " We can send our Seventh Regiment by Wednesday or Thursday of this week. Another will be ready in ten days thereafter, and we hope to be able to give you four

TENTH AND ELEVENTH REGIMENTS. 89

more regiments at intervals of ten days. "We send three com- panies to camp this week for drill. We are so far from the scene of action that we do not wish to send incomplete regiments miless absolutely necessary."

Leave of absence was obtained by the Governor, for Captain Maurice Maloney, of the Fourth Regular Infantry, to enable him to take command of one of our volunteer regiments. Captain Maloney was a resident of Green Bay, and had been promoted from the ranks, for distinguished services. He was appointed to the command of the Thirteenth Regiment which was authorized to be raised in Rock and Green counties.

Orders were issued September 18th, assigning to the Tenth Regiment, companies from Delavan, Kekoskee, Horicon, Juneau, Black River Falls, New Lisbon, and Waupun, to which were subsequently added companies from Menasha, Lancaster, and Platte\alle. This Regiment was ordered into camp at Milwaukee and was fully organized about the 1st of October.

The same order assigned to the Eleventh Regiment, companies from Madison, (three companies,) Waterloo, Richland Centre, Mineral Point, Mazomanie, to which was subsequently added, companies from Portage City, Markesan, and Neenah. These were all ordered to be in Camp Randall by the 1st of October.

We have stated that the First Regiment had been mustered out from its three months service on the 22d of August. Availing himself of the experience acquired by the officers and soldiers in their short service in the field, the Governor apjaointed several of them to official positions in the new regiments.

An attempt was made by Major Brooks, the United States mustering officer, to put the soldiers of the Eighth Regiment in Camp Randall on raw rations, compelling them to do their own cooking. It produced a small rebellion immediately, and was only pacified by an order from the Secretary of War, instructing Major Brooks to rescind the obnoxious order.

The batteries authorized to be raised were reported full. These companies numbered one hundred and fifty men each, and were raised as follows: No. 1, at La Crosse, by Captain Foster; No. 2, at Milwaukee, Captain Hertzburg; No. 3, at Madison and Berlin, by Captain Drury ; No. 4, at Beloit, by Captain Vallee; No. 5, at Monroe, by Captain Pinuey. It was ascertained that

90 MILITARY HISTORY OF WISCONSIN.

seven companies had been raised, and the Secretary of War was telegraphed to and the extra companies were accepted, making No. 6, Captain Dillon, at Lone Rock, and No. 7, Captain Griffith, at Milwaukee.

Daniels' cavalry battalion, although mustered into United States service as an " independent acceptance," was suffering for the want of blankets, tents, etc. It was entirely under the con- trol of the United States authorities. On the Department being informed, acting Governor Harvey was requested to furnish the articles needed, and the General Government would reimburse the State.

The 3,000 stand of arms for the infantry arrived, but were without accoutrements. The Governor urged the necessity of an immediate supply, and informed the Department that seven hundred artillerymen were in camp waiting for the guns and stores.

On the 21st of September, the Seventh Regiment left the State, being ordered to report at Washington, under the command of Colonel Vandor.

Up to, and including the Eighth, our Wisconsin regiments had been clothed in grey uniforms. This being the color worn by the enemy had produced much confusion, when the contend- ing parties became mixed up in the battle-field. The War De- partment promulgated an order, dated September 23d, recom- mending that no more troops should be sent to the field in grey uniforms, substituting the army blue. Before the order was received, the outfit for the Eighth had been furnished, except overcoats. These were made, in pursuance of the order, of sky blue cloth. Subsequent regiments were clothed in blue.

This change of color was the occasion of great loss to the soldiers of our regiments, as on their arrival in the field they were compelled to throw aside their grey clothes, and receive blue uniforms, being obliged to pay for both suits. This was a hardship, and occasioned much complaint, as the grey clothing, which the soldier was compelled to pay for and throw aside, was an utter loss in most cases. Repeated efforts were made to secure a refunding of the amounts paid for