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HIS roR V
OF
Companies I and E, Sixtli kgu
Illinois Volunteer Inl'antry from Whiteside County.
CONTAINING A DETAILED ACCOUNT OF THEIR EXPERI-
ENCES WHILE SERVING AS VOLUNTEERS IN
THE PORTO RICAN CAMPAIGN DURING
THE SPANISH-AMERICAN
WAR OF 1898.
A RECORD OF THE TWO COMPANIES AS STATE TROOFS
FROM THE DATE OF ORGANIZATION
TO APRIL 30TH, 1901.
BY R^ S. BUNZEY.
IN THREE PARTS.
ILLUSTRATED.
MORRISON, ILLINOIS.
1901.
Hoos Collection
190163
1912
TO THE KKADER:
It may be well lo acquaint the reader with a few of
the facts which brou<^ht about the idea of compiliiii^ and
putting into book form the records of the two companies
of volunteer soldiers, who represented Whiteside Coun-
tv in the Spanish American War of 1898. I do not flat-
ter myself with the expectation that this work will be
considered as in the line of histories as they are written
today, this being my initial, and without a question of
doubt, tinal attempt in this line. In recent years many
such histories of the Civil War have been written by
ex-soldiers and the lapse of time rendered the task an
extremely difficult one. As time rolls on and the num-
ber of veterans jj^'o^vs less, the more valuable to those
remaining, become the records which contain the detail
of their soldier life. In view of these facts I determined
on publishing an account of the experiences of companies
I and E while the man}' details were yet clear and
distinct. The material for the contents of the book con-
sists chiefly in letters written in the various camps by
Charles Hoobler, of compan}- E, and myself, a high
private in the rear rank of compan}' I. These letters
were published daily or weekly by the home papers and
contain the correct dates of all movements besides man\-
other items of interest which would now be ditlicult to
obtain in any other manner.
In addition to this history, I deemed it nothing more
4 History of Companies I and E.
than just to include as briefly as possible a record of the
organization and previous existence of the two compa-
nies as a portion of the Illinois National Guard who
readily responded to the call for volunteers and by re-
quest of the President w^ere given the preference over
other civilian soldiers. The many difficulties met with,
arising from the seeming inability to secure correct dates
and facts covering the period between the organization
of the companies and the outbreak of the Spanish
American War, were partially overcome by the hearty
co-operation and invaluable aid of members and ex-
members of both companies. For this assistance I feel
deeply indebted to them.
As a finale, and a fitting close to the following pag-
es, a sketch of the present conditions of both comj;anies
has been utilized.
To the volunteer, present and ex-members of com-
panies I and E and to their friends, this book is
dedicated. Respectfully
R. S. BUNZEV.
PART I
HISTORY OF COMPANIES I AND E.
CHAPTER 1.
Ou(; AMZATioN And Muster-In Oi' Comi'anii-:s 1
And E, Sixth Infantry Illinois National
Guards, And Subsequent Events Occur-
RLNG Previous To Their V^olunteer
Service In The Spanish- Ameri-
can War Of I898.
Company I.
Company I Sixth Infantry Illinois National Guards
of to-day, was organized during the summer of 1878
and mustered into the service of the State on the
I ith day of September of the same year, under the
laws enacted bv the Legislature and in force July ist,
1877 which authorized the organization of such State
trooj-)s. It was designated as Company C and assigned
to the 14th Battalion, which was commanded at
that period by Lieut. Col. W. P. Butler, with head-
quarters at Rock Island, Ills. The subject of forming a
company of State militia wms agitated more or less for
some time bv a number of veterans of the Civil War.
8 History of Companies I and E.
The promoters of the idea and most active and ener-
getic in the work of organizing, were: Attorney George
H. Fay, John Grierson and A D. Hill, all of whom saw
several years service in the war of the Rebellion;
George Fay holding a Captain's commission in Com-
pany B 147th Illinois Infantr}-; John Grierson a 2nd
Lieutenants commission in Company H 14th, New
York Heavy Art.; and A. D. Hill serving in a Pennsyl-
vania Regiment. These, with a number of other citizens,
held several meetings in Attorney Fay's office. A paper
was circulated about the town sohciting signatures of
citizens capable of military duty and who were willing to
aid in the organization of the company and serve the
State should the required number be secured. In a
very short time the following names were enrolled, a
total of seventy-six, and a request made for a muster-
ing officer to swear in the company :
A.D.Hill, H.Nash.
George H. Fay, C. H. Planthaber,
Cornelius Quackenbush. F. M. Judd,
George Buckley, William Winters,
George W. Stafford, Milton Morse,
Ed. A. Worrell, J. N. Jackson,
William Wilson, Henry Brown,
Charles F. McKee, J. A. Newbury,
Jacob Feldman, S. Switzer,
Henry Minder. George C. Wilcox,
A. C. McAllister, Frank Fitzgerald,
J. M. Williamson. Peter Spears,
Fred Mathews, J. N. Baird.
E. St. John, Charles H. Trauger,
J. W. McKee, W. B. McClary,
E. Blodgett, C. W. Spears,
PUIVATE RICHARD YATES,
Co. 1,5th Inf., 111. N.G.,
1885.
Governor of III. and Commander-in Chief of
the Military and Naval Forces,
1901.
Illinois Nation. \i. Giauds.
A. Farrington,
George 13. Day.
J. A. Nowlcn,
John Grierson,
H. II. Marshall.
C. M.Johnson,
Harry Sterling,
William Ilogan,
C. H. Marshall,
J. C. Childs,
Plenry Levitt,
William Anderson,
Frank E. James.
J. F. Wellmgton,
G. B. Adams.
J. B. Kirman,
C. F. Montague,
William J. Reutlinger
Charles P. Holt,
Benjamin J. Atwater,
A. C. Buttery.
F. J. Johnson.
A. A. Mattern,
F. M. Fox,
M. R. Kelly.
P. F. Hellerstedi,
F. E. Strawder,
Charles D. White,
William Gishbel.
William Kincade,
P. R. Boyd,
H. S. Ferguson,
James Dean,
A. Richtmyer,
R. W. Sholes,
Z. T. Anderson,
Frank Mann,
Daniel Bowdish.
D. Bray,
J. M. Murphy,
John Lucas,
Curtis Johnson.
Clarence Clark.
D.J. Goodill.
For various reasons a number of those whose sig-
natures appear on this roll, failed to take the oath at the
time of the muster-in of the company; some \\ere phy-
sicalh' unable; others had business interests which in
justice to themselves could not be neglected, yet all took
a personal interest and contributed their moral and ma-
terial support in the work until it became necessar\- for
them to withdraw, when they stepped down and out.
making way for others who were anxious to I)ecome a
part of the company and were more conveniently situ-
ated to give the time and attention to drill and other
10 History of Companies I and E.
duties which would necessarily devolve upon them to se-
cure and maintain a standard of efficiency which would
prove a credit, not alone to themselves, but also to the
town and state. Thus upon the arrival of the muster-
ing officer. Captain Hawse of Moline, Adjutant of the
14th Battalion, the actual number in readiness to take
the oath was but a portion of the total who had signitied
their willingness in the da^'s previous. The company as
mustered in on this date, Sept. nth, 1878, is here giv-
en :
Captain. George H. Fay,
1st. Lieutenant, Cornelius Quackenbush.
2nd. Lieutenant. John Grierson,
1st. Sergeant. Aloiizo Richtmyer,
1st Duty Sergeant, George C. Wilson.
2nd " " Z. T. Anderson,
;3rd " " Albert A. Mattern,
1th " " George Buckley,
Corporal Frank V. Johnson,
William Wilson.
Benjamin J. Atwater.
Peter Martin,
" Milton Morse.
Clarence G. Clark.
" Oscar Rounds,
Henry Levitt,
Musician Charles Trauffer.
Private Bogart. Cornelius
Buttery. Arthur C.
" Bray, Dennis
Bartholomew, George L.
" Bowdish. Daniel G,
Casey, William
I
History ok C()>ri'AMKs I and E. 11
Private Dean, Jnmos
Fox, Frank M.
" Gilroy, Edward A.
" Honcler, Aajijustns
" Hendricks, Jesse Y.
" Hanna, Robert H.
" Haskin, Ezra C.
" Hnmplirey. Erastus B.
" Johnson, John
" Johnson, Curtis
" Kinney, James
" Mouck, Solomon F.
" Marshall, Charles H.
" Montague, Charles F.
" Nash. Henry G.
" Planthaber, Charles
" Reutlinger, Henry G.
•' Story, James
'• Strawn, Frank H.
" Worrell, Edward A.
Wood, Rol)ert
Making a total of three commissioned officers and
forty-one enlisted men. The men as a company, were
highly elated by the success so far attained and the re-
cruiting was energetically continued, which soon resulted
in a company with a full complement of enlisted men.
Several, who were unavoidably detained from being
present at the time of the muster in of the company liy
sickness and absence from the city, took advantage of
the first opportunity to enroll their names on the compa-
ny roster.
The choice of commissioned officers proved to be
un extremely wise sdection; their knowledge of military
12 History of Companies I and E.
affairs had been gained in a school where war was a
cold fact and they had been taught the value and ne-
cessity of strict obedience and discipline. The compa-
ny was the beneficiary of the experiences of these drilled
men, and,, composed as it was, largely of veterans, its
members quickly attained a proficiency in military tac-
tics, of which they were justly proud. With few excep-
tions, the rule established at this early date has been rig-
idly adhered to and a great deal of consideration has
been given to the selection of commissioned officers, as
to the fitness and ability of the candidate for the posi-
tion to which he aspired, which could be obtained only
through the ballots of the enlisted men and, if, at an}'
time they have considered themselves unfortunate in
this regard, they, and they alone were responsible, as
the power was in their hands to place in these positions
men of ability and of their own choice, thus leaving them
no room for a grievance in not doing so.
For several years this company was widely known
as the "Morrison Rifles," just how and where it de-
rived this title it has been impossible to learn, and to-day
should it be referred to as such, very few would un-
derstand the reference as anything in connection with
company I, only in a dreamy, misty manner of some-
thing suddenly recalled to the mind which had been
nearly, if not quite forgotten.
The first arms issued it by the State were muz-
zle loading rifles of the Enfield pattern and it was sever-
al years before it was enabled to secure breechload-
ing guns, and then only by dint of continually petitioning
the Adjutant General of the State to equip the men with
an arm which was not obsolete and practically out of
date as a service arm.
iiUlG.(ii:N.J. N. iiEECE,
Adj.- Gen.
ll.MNOlS NaTIONAI, (jJlJAKDS. I';]
For an armory and drill room, tlic bascnientof [hv.
old frame buildini;' which stood on the lot now occu-
pied by the Hub Clothinir Store was secured, remain-
ino here but a short time, the company removed to the;
City Council room, and shortly afterward to the sec-
ond floor of Hollar Snuth's blacksmith shop <jii east
Main street. At that time the members considered
themselves extremely fortunate in l)eing- so snugly locat-
ed. From here they"trekked''to Milne's opera house, and
later to the old skating rink on Grove street where tlicv
were at home at the outbreak of the Spanish-American
War.
Very littl(> attention was given to target practice for
several years. The cause for the lack of enthusiasm in
this respect was accounted for in the difficulty in secur-
ing the necessary ammunition and ordnance supplies
with which to carry on a successful shoot, saying nothing
of the expense connected with the building of rifle butts
etc., for which the men were compelled to secure
funds without expense to the State. The officers higher
in command of the troops evidently took but little inter-
est in this matter which today, is considered a very es-
sential feature in determining the efficiency of the Na-
tional Guard. The fact now being recognized that
while the men may be proficient in the manual of arms
and precise in executing maneuvers they would be of
little value in actual service without some experience in
the care and handling of the rifle. Not alone in this
matter were the men expected to defray their own ex-
penses; each member was obliged to equip himself with
a uniform at a cost of seven dollars.
What would the Guardsmen of today think of the
proposition of purchasing the uniforms they w(\ar?
14 History of Companies I and E.
Would they do it? It is hardly probable. They would
stand aghast at the suggestion of such an absurd idea;
and to consider that the State placed so little value on our
voluntary service woukl l)e likened to the shaking of
a red mantle in the face of an angry bull, and the re-
cruiting ofhcers must needs to have made a "tine art"" of
their work should they hope to retain a "corporals
guard" in the ranks. A great many surprising things
are found in searching the files of the early correspon-
dence of the company. There appears to have been no
understanding between the State authorities and the
railroads by which troops could be moved on short no-
tice. The transportation of a company meant days of cor-
respondence regarding the manner in which the settle-
ment should be made, the company commander being ex-
pected to make the necessary arrangements for the hand-
ling of his men. These were a few of the obstacles with
which the men and officers were obliged to contend
in those days, and the most surprising feature of
it all is, that the National Guard could exist under
the regulations in force at that time.
Company C attended its first State encampment
at Camp Cullom, at Springfield, September i6th to 19th,
1879, bringing with it on its return home an excellent
report of the condition of the company as measured
by the standard of other troops present. For this
encampment the 2nd Brigade received no compensation
whatever, at least Company C did n(jt, on account of lack
of funds, and for this reason there was no encampment
the following two years. That portion of the appropri-
ation made for this purpose by the State, being distribu-
ted among the dillVront regimental and company com-
iiiaiideis for the heiietit of tlieir commands. The first
Im.inois Na'iionai. Gl akds. ir>
public parndif thecompfiiiy ))iirtici[)att'(l in was at Morri-
risoii. 'July 4th. 1879. C()m])any B of Moliiu', com-
maiidrd by Ca[)taiii William 0. Bennett, was invited
and was present and the two coun)anies made a tine aj)-
pearance; it being the tirst military parade in the city,
since immediately after the Civil War.
The year foUowiuij^. and with few exceptions, each
Memorial day since, an invitation has been extended
to them from the G. A. R. Post to participate in the cer-
emonies on that day. July3 rd, 1880, by invitation, the
company went to Mt. Carroll, 111., taking part in the cele-
bration of Independence Day, ( the 4th falling on Sun-
day.)
In September, the same year, it attended the
Sterling Fair in a body, camping on the grounds the
15th, 16th and 17th., returning the evening of the 17th.
While there, it acted as escort for General Grant and
Governor CuUom.
In July 1880. William Clendenin was commis-
sioned Lieut. Colonel and placed in command of the
I4tli Battalion, establishing head(|uarters at Moline.
William Clendenin was born and reared in Morrison; he
served two years in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting
as a private and being promoted, step by step, from the
ranks, and on March 2ist, 1866 was mustered out of the
service as 1st Lieut, of Company A, io8th U. S. Coloretl
Infantry. He removed to Moline in 1871. Becoming in-
terested in the National Guard in its infancy, he was
commissioned 2nd Lieut, of Company B (afterward
Company F) and held successively, the rank of ist
Lieut, and Captain, an.d was made Major of the 14th
Battalion, May 30th. 1879, ^^"^^ Lieut, Colonel in July,
1880. In 1882 the National Guard of Illinois was re-
10 History of Companies I and E.
orti^anizc'd and he was elected Colonel of the Sixth Regi-
ment May 17th of that year, being twice re-elected to
the command of the Sixth. December 28th, 1892, he was
promoted by Governor Fifer to the rank of Brigadier
General and assigned to commarul the Third Brigade,
Governor Altgeld removing him March 2Sth, 1893. In
April 1898, Governor Thnner ap})ointed him Inspector
of'the Illinois National Guard, with the rank of Colonel.
During t'le following May he organized a provisional reg-
iment and tendered its services to the U. S. Government
in case there should be a call for more troops during the
war with Spain. Among the Field and StafP of this
regiment were, his son Frank J. Clendenin, Major; and
Thaddeus L. Rounds, Assistant Surgeon, both well known
to many citizens of Whiteside county. May 15th, 1899
Governor Tanner replaced him in command of the Third
Brigade with the rank of Brigadier General, which com-
mission he yet retains.
General Clendenin's record in the Illinois National
Guard, is an enviable one. He has held every commis-
sioned ofllce in the service from 2nd Lieutenant to that
of Brig;'dier General, and is the proud possessor of ten
commissions issued to him by the Governors of Illinois.
Not alone this, but in his career as an oflicer, he has won
the respect and esteem of all the men who have served
under him, and in the history of the Illinois National
Guard, his name will be given an honored place.
The effect of having no State encampment for two
year,s. was very demoralizing to the company; 2nd
Lieut. Grierson had resigned in the summer of 1879.
Sheriff E. A. Worrell succeeding him; Lieut. Worrell
resigning in September 1880, this vacancy being tilled by
the election of E. P. Stokes who resigned in 1882;
BUKJ. GEN. WM. CLENDKNIN,
Commanding Third Brigade.
Ilmnois National Giakds. 17
Captain Fay also resii^iiod in 1882; ist Lieut. Quacken-
bush havintr i-esi(!;-nccl in September, 1881, his successor
being Z. T. Anderson, who resigned in April, 1882.
This found the company without a commissioned officer,
the command devolving upon Sergeant E. B. Hump-
hrey, and appears to have been a very critical period in
Its historv. It was seemingly on the point of dissolu-
tion, and in all probability would have been disband-
ed, had not Frank Clendenin, a brother of General
Clendenin, and post master at that time, accepted
a commission in the company. He was unanimously
elected ist Lieutenant in June 1882, Curtis Johnson
being commissioned 2nd Lieutenant at the same time.
Lieut. Clendenin was promoted to Captain and 2nd Lieut.
Johnson to the rank of ist Lieutenant the following
August with William Brearton succeeding as 2nd Lieu-
tenant, which commission he retained until his removal
from the state in 1883.
With Captain Clendenin in command and the able
assistance rendered by Lieutenants Johnson and Brearton
the organization received a new impetus and was rap-
idly re-built and strengthened until it once more at-
tained a desirable standing. But this tranquility was not
of long duration. During the tour of camp duty at
Springfield in 1882. which was the first since 1879, Cap-
tain Clendenin was appointed Aid-de-Camp. with the
rank of Colonel, on Governor Cullom's Staff from the
7th Congressional District. He retained this commission
through the administrations of Governors Cullom, Hamil-
ton, Oglesby and Fifer. until June 1889. when he re-
moved from the 7Lh District. The loss of Captain Clen-
denin was a severe one to the company. He was a vet-
eran of the Civil War, having entered the service as
IS History ok Companies I and E.
Captain, commanding Company B., 147th Illinois Infan-
try and shortly promoted to Major, which rank he re-
tained until the close of the war. He was an able succes-
sor to the command, following the resignation of Captain
Fay, the men parting from him with regret. At about
this time ist Lieut. Johnson tendered his resignation. In
November, Cornelius Quackenbush was commissioned
Captain, and Sergeant N. James Cole ist Lieutenant.
Ii.T.iNOTs Nationat. Guards. 19
CHAPTER II.
The Illinois National Guard was re-organized in the
3ear of 1882, the 14th Battalion being merged into the
Sixth Regiment with Lieut. Colonel Clendenin. commis-
si<ined Colonel, in command. It was at this time that
Company C was designated as Compan}- I.
D. J. Foster of Chicago was appointed Lieut. Colo-
nel; H. T. DePue. Major; John H. Porter, Regimental
Quartermaster with the rank of ist. Lieutenant, and Ed.
Kittilsen, Sergeant Major of the regiment.
In the formation of regiments there were no such
divisions as Battalions, consequently there was but one
Major and one Adjutant. During encampment there
were regimental and company drills and occasionally the
regiment would be made up into divisions, the command
of each division falling to the ranking Captain and in this
manner attaining something similar to the Battalion for-
mation of today.
Lieut Colonel Foster was twice re-elected, and on
January 13th, 1893, he was commissioned Colonel of
the Sixth Regiment, which position he has held contin-
ousl}' up to the present time.
Sergeant Major Ed Kittilsen first entered the mili-
tary service in an independent organization in 1875, and
in 1877, when the Illinois National Guard was organized
he enlisted in the 14th Battalion, was promoted to Regi-
mental Sergeant Major, and appointed Major in 1886,
20 History of Companies I and E.
and on January I3lh, 1893, was promoted to Lieutenant
Colonel of the Sixth Regiment, serving in this capacity
up to the present time.
The affairs of Company I (as it is now designated)
ran quite smoothly for some time. Encampments were
held annually. For three successive years, 1882, 1883
and 1884. the camp grounds were located about five
miles north-east of Springfield, and officially named Camp
Logan. The year following, 1885, the location was
changed to one and a half miles north and east of the city
and named Camp Dickey. About this tune the state
purchased the grounds where Camp Lincoln is now lo-
cated, and a permanent camp-ground established. Camp
Lincoln lies about two miles north-w^est of Springfield
and is a very desirable location. Just inside the entrance
gate lies the wide drill and parade ground; bordering on
this and running north, is the camp ground proper, where
the tents are pitched. This ground is thinly studded
with shade trees. In the rear of this is found the large
swimming pool, built of masonry, and yet farther back
and to the left, is located the rifle range.
The only serious drawback to Camp Lincoln is
found in the drinking water, which is carried to the
grounds from the city in pipes running on top of the
ground for a long distance, making the water very warm
and it is anything but a pleasant drink. This contributes
a great deal to the sickness which appears in camp soon
after the arrival of the troops. The street car line has
been extended to the grounds and terminates just outside
the entrance gate, making the city quickly and easil}'
reached.
Camp week is looked forward to. for months. It
is the one incentive. ur<rin<»; the men to extra work, in
Kntrance gate at Camp L,incolu.
IijjNois National Guards. 21
preparing themselves to appear before the public as sol-
diers. It is the only break in an otherwise monotonous,
un-remunerative, voluntary service and is very beneticial
to the troops, bringing the ollicers and men of the regi-
ment in contact with each other, where discipline and obe-
dience are not only expected, but demanded; teaching
the men that a soldier's life is based upon those two princi-
ples; also teaching them the duties of a soldier in many
ways. The knowledge thus gained being invaluable,
and attainable in no other manner. Why the friends at
home continue to retain such an erroneous idea regfard-
ing the actions of the men while at camp, has always
been a myster}-. There is nothing to warrant this injus-
tice. Is it a cause for wonderment then that many de-
sirable young men, who otherwise would gladly enter
the service, for this reason are deterred from doing
so? They have given wrecks and months, without re-
compense, in making preparations for this week of duty.
After a hard day's work in the store or shop, or at their
trade, it is necessary to devote hours to instructing them-
selves in the duties of a soldier, which, although it may
have its attractions, is never-the-less hard w^ork. Without
the support of friends at home, what inducement is there
for a company commander to neglect his ow^n personal
affairs and devote the necessary time to his company to
tit the men to appear before the people of the state, and
the Governor, their commander-in-chief, who are ever
ready to criticise, reflecting on the fitness of this or that
officer for the position wiiich he holds. If the men. as
soldiers, fall below a certain standard, the public will ask,
'•are we being taxed for the support and maintenance of
those untrained, poorly drilled men who dare to call
themselves soldiers?" And the public is justified in de-
22 History of Companies I an-d E.
manding something more from the soldier, than merely
he'm<r able to wear the uniform of the state and carr}- the
rifle at a right shoulder, but in return it should respect
these same men for this voluntar}- service and should con-
tribute its moral support to the work of securing and
maintaining a degree of eilkienc}^, which will reflect cre-
dit on the ofHcers. the men and the State.
Following the resignation of Lieut. Brearlon in
March 1883, Charles F. Montague was commissioned
2nd Lieutenant, resigning in May 1884, being succeeded
by Sergeant E. B. Humphrey in June 1884; Captain
Quackenbush resigned in April 1884, Lieut. Cole suc-
ceeding him in the command of the company; W. F.
Colebaugh was elected ist Lieutenant in January 1884
and was promoted to the rank of Captain upon the re-
signation of Captain Cole which occurred in March 1885,
Henry Grifhths being elected ist Lieutenant in April.
September 5th, 1885, the compan)- was an attrac-
tion at the Morrison Fair. While in attendance at the
Sterling Fair, one week later, it first met the Chicago
Zouaves and after witnessing their fancy drill, decided to
organize a corps. This consisted of twelve fineh" drilled
men and a Captain. They soon attained a degree of ef-
ficiency and precision in the intricate, silent drill which
they adopted, which would warrant their appearing in
public, and they rarely failed in giving general satisfac-
tion in their performance. After an appearance in
Clinton, la., where they had been secured as an attraction
at a celebration, the Clinton Daily News had this to say
regarding them: ''Following the Rifles, a company of
Zouaves from Morrison, Illinois, gave an unique drill.
Attired in their novel uniform, they attracted much atten-
tion and gave an interesting drill, performing their various
N. J. COLK,
Capt. Co. I, III. N. G.
Showing style of uniform worn in
the 80"8.
Illinois National Guards. 23
movements with much rapidit}' and precision. In re-
tiring from the field, the company made a charge upon a
fence, some twelve feet in height, erected in the centre
of the park, which they scaled with but little effort. The
front rank, upon reaching the barricade, stooped their
heads and those following mounted upon their shoulders
and from there grasped the top of the fence and were
over in a twinkling. This was continued until only one
man remained below. How this man would get over
was quickly settled by two comrades above lowering a
gun. which was grasped, and he w^as drawn up over,
amid loud applause. This closed the finest military drill
ever seen in this city, if not in the state of Iowa."
This will give the reader an idea as to what consti-
tuted a part of their performance and the success they
attained in delivering it. The expenses for maintaining
such an organization were rather more than was anticipa-
ted, and after a season or two, with varying success fi-
nancially, they disbanded. Another corps was formed la-
ter but was of short life, meeting with the same difficul-
ties as the former corps, in securing financial support.
April 1st. 1886, Ca])tain Colebaugh and 2nd Lieut.
Humphrey resigned. Two weeks later the company
was ordered to East St. Louis and was on duty there
during the Martin Iron strike. It entered this service
with depleted ranks: not more than twenty-five enlisted
men and one commissioned officer, ist Lieut. H. H. Grif-
fiths. An election of otiicers was held slii^rtly after its
arrival upon the scene which resulted in the selection
of Lieut. Griffiths as Captain; T. 8. Beach ist. Lieut.,
and John M. Colebaugh, 2nd Lieutenant. Lieutenant
Beach, who was Sheriff of Whiteside County at the
time, had been serving as a private. The St. Louis
24 History of Companies I and E.
experiences were varied and many. One of the boys,
through nervousness and over excitement, ran his bayo-
net through a stray pig which was rooting about the
guard line and then deserted his post, thinking the steel
had entered the heart of some rioter, who had been in-
tent on taking his life. In all probability fresh pork was
a necessary adjunct to the bill of fare for some days
following. The company also charged and captured a
cannon (?) in following its line of duty. This it retained
as a trophy of the exploit, and is with the company to-
day, very few of the men knowing how or where it was
secured. The service at this riot covered a period of fif-
teen days, from April twenty-tirst to May fifth, and on
it's return it first realized how lightly the services of the
National Guard were valued. The State generously
meted out to each the mere pittance of forty nine cents
per diem, corresponding with the pay allowance of the
regular army. Serious trouble was narrowly averted
by the State as the enlisted men of the Illinois National
Guard strongly objected to leaving good positions, com-
manding good salaries, to stand guard and perforin other
irksome duties during riots or other disturbances for the
pay of the regular army man, and the troops from all
over the stale protested so strongly that the Legislature
took the matter u}) and it resulted in a material increase
in their salary while on such duties, fixing a rate of two
dollars per day for all enlisted men. This timely action
taken by the State overcame the then present dif-
ficulties and produced a very salutary effect on the State
troops. Their conduct and soldierly bearing, together
with the yeoman service performed when called for duty,
was considered worthy of recognition by the people, to
whom the memories of the soldier life of the Civil War
'J.
cr?
»5
Illinois National Giards. 25
were yt't clear aiul vivid, and who realized thai the ser-
vices of the men who stood ready and willing to go
where duty eallinl in the cause of justice and good gov-
ernuu'nt, should not go unrewarded. From this time
thi' State troops have steadily improved in efficiency.
1st Lieutenant Beach resigned in January 1887,
and William Brearton, wdio had returned to Morrison,
to reside, was commissioned ist Lieutenant to fill the
vacancy. Previous to this and shortly following his
second enlistment, Lieut. Brearton had been appointed
Regimental Commissary Sergeant, which position he
held at the time of receiving his commission. Cap-
tain Griffiths resigned in April 1888, William Colebaugh
again succeeding to the command of the company, re-
taining his commission until the expiration of his term
of service, three years. 2nd Lieut. John Colebaugh re-
mained with the company until 18S9, his commission
expired in April of this year, and Harry T. Guffin was
elected to the rank which he vacated.
Looking backward a few months, we find our neigh-
boring city, of Sterling, had been deeply interested, for
som<' time ])ast, in the forming of a coni[)any of State
Guards. Let us leave company I for a brief period and
follow the fortunes of the boys of our sister city.'
26 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER III.
Company E.
Company E was organized and mustered into the
State service at Sterling, 111., in the spring of 1888.
Some years previous a company of militia had existed
there, known as the "Sterling City Guards." This organi-
zation disbanded some five years prior to the organiza-
tion of Company E., and military matters remained very
quiet for a time until the subject of forming a company of
State Guards was taken up and agitated by a number of
citizens of the town, among whom. were John W. Niles,
Dr. Frank Anthon}' and T. S. Beach. These men were
chiefly instrumental in organizing and developing the
company and devoted considerable time to the work in
order to secure a desirable membership of young men,
and in various ways building the foundation in such a
manner as to interest the towns-people in the future of
the company, permanently securing the location of this
company of National Guards.
John Niles saw service in an Iowa regiment through-
out the Civil War. The knowledge thus secured proved
to be most valuable and he was naturally looked upon
as the leader in the work.
Dr. Anthony, a life long resident of Sterling and
widely known as a physician of more than ordinary
Illinois National Guards. 27
abililv and Thus. S. Beach, ex-slieriff of Whiteside coun-
tv and an ex-member of Company I of Morrison, with
the heartv co-operation of a number of other influential
citizens, added their combined efforts in brin<rin£r the
venture to a successful termination. Not lon^ after the
idea ori^nnated. the desired membership was secured
and Colonel T. Ewert, Assistant Adjutant General of
the State came to Sterling by request to administer the
oath and on March 24th, 1888, the followin<:f company
was mustered into the service.
Captain, John W. Niles.
ist Lieutenant, Thomas S. Beach.
2nd Lieutenant, Frank Anthony,
ist Sergeant JohnA. Haberer.
2nd Sergeant. Lewis F. Eisele.
3rd >• Walter N. Haskell.
4th " Goodicil B. Dillon.
5th " Samuel T. Mangan.
Corporal, Charles S. Hall.
Frank D. Ely.
" James F. Criswell.
" Orville P. Bassett.
Private Angell, William E.
" Adair, Ambrose.
Burke, Harry T.
" Bickford, Joseph M.
" Boyers, Joseph.
" Crawford, Robert G.
" Connor, John R.
Cook, Ward W.
" Cochrane. Albert G.
'• Cushman, John W.
" Grimes, Frank A.
28 History of Companies I and E.
Private Hoover, Harry G.
Hills. Edward O.
" Hess. Albert H.
" Howland, Harry T,
" Haberly, Frank F.
Haskell, William W.
" Johnson, J. Stanley.
" Kline. John L.
" Lawrie, William F.
" Llewellyn. David.
" Mangan, William F,
" Mangan, E.J.
" Mangan, R. L.
" Myer, Adam B.
»' Osmer, Sydney C.
" Rock, Edwin S.
" Stoddard, Fred R.
" Shumaker, Charles N.
" Smith, Jesse.
<« Van Home, E. Burt.
" Woods, Rollin H.
" Woodworth, Clarence
" Williams, Albert A.
'' Williams, B. Frank.
" Winters, James C.
The company was designated as E and attached
to the Sixth Regiment. Each member immediately put
a shoulder to the wheel and made every effort to estab-
lish a degree of eflicienc3% second to none in the regi-
ment, in which they were more than successful.
It is admitted by those familiar with the affairs of
the Sixth that this company has always retained a very
desirable position in the ranks having been well officer-
BRIG." GEN. CHAS. FITZSIMONS,
Commanding First Brigade.
Ili.inois National Guards. 29
ed 'And fortunate in securing desirable members. The
Wallace Hall which was located on the present site of
the Masonic Temple was secured as a drill room and for
a short time was the home of the company, later remov-
ing to the old skating rink where it remained about
two years when the present armory was leased and
afterward purchased, remodeled and enlarged, making a
one story drill room forty feet in width by one hundred
feet in length with a two story front. This building is
located north of 4th, on Locust street.
During the first few years, each member was asses-
sed $2.00 membership fee and an additional sum annual-
ly. The receipts from this source being added to the
company fund account and in this manner they were en-
abled to secure the necessary amount with which to
meet the running expenses, avoiding the embarrassing
situation of an accumulation of unpaid bills, and placing
themselves on a substantial footing financially. It is
quite evident to a close observer that company E has
been very fortunate in almost every manner from the
first. As before stated, its members have devoted a
great deal of energy in attaining a very creditable degree
of proficiency in military tactics. They have from the
first been very careful in the selection of both commis-
sioned and non-commissioned officers and in addition,
they early secured and retained the respect of their
home people, which means more to, and has a greater
degree of influence with the Guardsmen than the gener-
al pubhc may be aware of. At any time could be found
a half dozen or more Company E boys attached to the
regimental commissioned or non-commissioned staff,
thus placing them in a situation where b\' unwonted fa-
vors were easily secured and taken advantage of to the
30 History of Companies I and E.
benefit of the individual members of the company which
were highly appreciated and gave an added interest to
the work, creating a feeling of good fellowship between
the company members and the regimental officers, a
very pleasing situation for all concerned. The general
condition of the company has remained normal' during
its entire history, giving but few opportunities for a
great amount of noise to be made at any certain period,
yet producing a coveted condition of affairs and reflect-
ing credit on the officers and men alike.
Target practice has always been considered a very
important factor in establishing individual records in the
company. During the first few years it was im-
able to secure a suitable range, and was compelled to
purchase its own ammunition. The only site avail-
able was the old base ball park located in the northern
part of town. This was leased for a short time, but the
range being limited to lOO and 200 yards it was
handicapped to such an extent as to make it necessary
for it to procure a more desirable location which
it did the following year. This range was fitted up
at the expense of the company and was located about
three miles east of town on the banks of Rock river, the
full 1000 yard practice being available, making it one of
the best rifle ranges in the State, and for a number of
years was used more or less by the neighboring compan-
ies. The shooting done on the old 200 yard range re-
sulted very unsatisfactorily and a luimber of the company
went down to Sublette, 111., where was located a 1000
yard range, andB. F. Williams here secured the first dec-
oration as "Sharpshooter"', and Major La\\rie,then a pri-
vate returned an '"Expert." Since procuring the lOOO
yard home raugt* a large numl)er of the members have
Illinois National Guards. HI
(| iialilicd as " Marksiuaii," "Ex|)('rf ,"" and •'Sliai'psliooter"
ill addition to tlicsc arc a hall' do/cii or more "Distin-
•^uislied Sharpshooters" amoii<r whom arc ]3. F. Wil-
liams, Major Lawrie, Captain Eick, 8. T. Maiigau and
Sergt. John Cushman. Captain Eick deserves special
mention in connection with marksmen of Illinois. His
skill in the handling of a ritie has placed him in the front
ranks among the expert marksmen of the United States
and he possesses numerous decorations which he has
won in competitive shoots. For several years he has been
Regimental Inspector of Ritle Practice with rank of
Captain, and during this time he has been the coach for
several teams of marksmen who have entered the com-
petitive contest for the "Washburn Trophy" which is
still held in the office of the Adjutant General of this
State subject to be contested for by the states of Minne-
sota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois.
The decoration of a Distinguished Sharpshooter in the
National Guard places the holder on an equal footing with
the S'iar[)shooter in the Regular Army when considering
<]ualities of a marksman.
The ritle l)utt on the new raiigt' was destroyed by
the wind in the early 90"s. rebuilt by the company and
equipped with steel frame targets by the State. In 1899,
fire destroyed the butts and on account of a shortage of
funds they have not since been re})aired.
Upon the company's return from Canq) Linc()ln in
1888, the citizens of Sterling presented it with a
large silk flag which has since been used as the company
colors and at the present time is in the hands of the W^.
R. C. who are replacing the white silk stripes which had
become badly tattered in the thirteen years of service.
From the period of the muster in of Company E,
32 History of Companies I and E.
it has joined fortunes with Company I, and with the
exception of the affairs personal to members of the indi-
vidual companies they have been as one. Captain Niles
resigned the command of Company E in December 1888,
2nd Lieut. Anthony succeeding him. The resignation
of Lieut. Beach had occurred in November, the vacancy
thus caused being filled by the election of Sergt. Lewis
F. Eisele. Upon the promotion of Lieut. Anthony, private
W. F. Lawrie was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant. Lieut.
Eisele's resignation occurred in October 1890, following
which came the advancement in rank of Lieut. Lawrie to
that of 1st Lieut., Sergt. Walter N. Haskell succeeding
him as 2nd Lieutenant.
Captain Anthony relinquished command of the
company late in the year of 1890. At this time he re-
ceived the appointment of Assistant Surgeon with the
rank of Captain and on February 27th, 1891, was pro-
moted to Surgeon of the regiment and commissioned a
Major. This position he retained for more than eight
years resigning on August 2nd, 1899. No appointment
was made to fill this vacancy^until December 29th, 190Q,
when Major Anthony was prevailed upon to again accept
the commission.
Lieut. Lawrie was commissioned Captain; 2nd
Lieut, Haskell promoted to the rank of ist, and Sergt. G.
B. Dillon, 2nd Lieut. Captain Lawrie was twice re-elect-
ed, retaining command of the company until January 5th
1899 when he was elected Major of the regiment and
placed in command of the third battalion. Lieut. Hask-
ell and Dillon retained their respective rank for a period
of nearly four years. In the month of October, 1894 ist
Lieut. Haskell tendered his resignation and Lieut. Dillon
succeeded him, Edwin S. Johnson being elected 2nd
COL. (lEORGE M. MOULTON,
Inspector General.
Illinois National Guards. 33
Limit., rosigiiing in April 1897, wlu'ii J. Frank Walil was
commissioned as such.
In the spring of 1898, Lieut. Haskell organized a
company of volunteers which was a part of Gen'l Clen-
denin's provisional regiment, but was not called into act-
ive service.
34 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER IV.
Returning to the affairs of Company I, it is found
several changes have occurred in the commissioned offi-
cers. Upon the expiration of his term of service as 2nd
Lieut., in April 1889, John Colebaugh severed his con-
nection with the Guard and during the following month
Harry T. Guffin was commissioned to this rank. In May
1890 he was promoted to ist Lieut, following the termi-
nation of the commission of Lieut, Brearton, resigning
in June, 1891.
Captain Colebaugh's commission expired in May
1891. Sergt. Milford Johnson succeeding him,his resig-
nation occurring in April 1892. Sergt. Merritt Stowe
was elected ist Lieut, in July 1891 and Captain in June
1892, resigning in October of the same year.
Sergt. S. Wellington Baker was commissioned 2nd
Lieut, in May 1890, his resignation being accepted in
July 1891, the election of A. Rollin Baird to till the va-
cancy thus caused occurred in August. Lieut. Baird re-
signed in April 1893, and Harry Guffin was again elect-
ed 2nd Lieut, in May. S. W. Baker was elected ist
Lieut, in June 1892 and resigned in June 1893, 2nd
Lieut. Guffin succeeding him in July 1893.
Upon the resignation of Ca[)tain Stowe in 1892,
William Colebaugh was for the third time commissioned
Captain, remaining in command of the company until Oc-
tober 19th, 1895. 1st Lieut. Guffin was elected Captain,
resigning in June, 1896. Following the promotion of
Iij>iNOTS Nation/M. Guards. 35
211(1 Lieut. Guffiii to the rank of ist Lieutenant, came the
election of Georije H. Kentfield. who was conunissi(med
2nd Lieutenant in July 1S93, resigning March 20th, 1S94,
Edward C Lawton succeeding him in A[)ril and elected
1st Lieutenant in May 1895.
Following the election of Captain Guffin, Walter H.
Clark was then commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and retained
this rank until June 1896 when he resigned and Charles
Puddifoot was elected in his stead. Lieut. Puddifoot al-
so tendered his resignation in June 1897, his successor
beinor Ernest J. Weaver. Limitenant Weaver resio^ned
at Camp Tanner, May 14th. 1898.
Upon the resignation of Captain Guffin in 1896,
William Colel)augh was once again placed in command
of the company serving in this capacity throughout the
Spanish-American War.
The company accepted an invitation from Company
C of Galesburg and was present at a reception given to
President Harrison in that city on October 8th, 1890.
The President was attending; a reunion of his Briijade of
Civil War veterans which was held there at the time.
In drawinor a comparison between the general con-
dition of the two companies during the first six years of
the existence of each company, we find following closely
upon each other that seventeen commissions had been is-
sued to as many officers in Company I and during this
same period from April 22nd, to June 8th, 1882, the
command of the company fell to the lot of a Sergeant, an
unproductive and undesirable condition of affairs, which
took a large amount of hard work and considerable time
to overcome.
Referring to the records of Company E covering
the same number of years, it is found a total of eleven
36 History of Companies I and E.
commissions were issued.
Carefully scanning the roster of commissioned of-
ficers of both companies, and by drawing the contrast
more sharply, the reader will find the issuing of the com-
missions to Company E oflBcers was the result of nearly
as many promotions, while the unequal number credited
to Company I was caused mostly by resignations. This
has a deeper meaning than appears on the surface, tak-
ing into consideration that a resignation usually indi-
cates dissatisfaction somewhere, while the changes
brought about by the promotions show a more settled,
normal condition, which not alone affects the officers and
enlisted men of the company, but also secures the con-
fidence of the citizens with whom they come in contact.
This confidence once lost is difficult to regain and is
very likely to result in gradually losing interest in the
affairs of the company and procuring a release at the first
opportunity.
Following the records on down through the entire
life of each organization, they show that a total of thir-
teen Captains commissions have been issued to company
I during the twenty three years of its existence, the pres-
ent commander holding number thirteen, but happily he
is not superstitious. r
Fifteen commissions were issued to ist Lieutenants
and eighteen to 2nd Lieutenants covering this same peri-
od, a total of forty six commissions in the twenty three
years, or an average of one commissioned officer every
six months.
Company E has in the thirteen years, been com-
manded by four different Captains, seconded by six ist
Lieutenants and eight 2nd Lieutenants, in all eighteen
officers, making an average of one officer for each nine
lu.iNois Nationaj. Guards. 37
months. The iiuinber of resiij^nations occurrin«^ in Com-
pany I shows a total of twenty-six as compared with
eight in Company E.
It does not necessitate the mind of a "Sherlock
Ilohnes'" or the imaginative power of a Jules \'erne, for
one to draw a few modest conclusions regarding the ef-
fect of the var\ing conditions and numerous changes
which the records show have existed in the one compa-
ny compared with the apparently even tenor of the life
of the other.
In drawing the above comparisons, the writer has
endeavored to give the reader the facts as they appear
in the official records of the two companies. The object
in producing them in this manner is to explain why the
early history of Company E appears more brief and
possibly, uninteresting, than that of Compan}- I. Com-
pany I was mustered into the service ten years in ad-
vance of Company E, and this, when the Illinois Nation-
al Guard was comparatively in its infancy.
Ten years brought numerous radical changes in the
regulations causing more or less trouble and dissatisfac-
tion in the Guard throughout the State and naturally
made it extremely unpleasant for the members of the
different companies individually, until matters became
more settled. All of these difficulties were arranged
quite satisfactorily prior to the muster in of Company E,
and aside from this there appears to have been an un-
usually thorough understanding between the officers
and men of this company with few unpleasantries arising
among themselves, consequently their path has been a
comparatively smooth one with but little up hill business
connected with it. On the other hand. Company' I has
passed through some very trN'ing and serious periods.
38 History of Companies I and E.
For a time, everything would move along smoothly
enough and the sun would shine on it, then would come
a slump as sudden and disastrous as the ruin wrought
by the corn king "Phillips" when he squeezed the shorts
until they begged for mercy.
The dissolution of Company I has been seriouslv
considered more than once, and tut for the intercession
of influential friends, who came forward at the last
hour, would in all probability have been a thing of the
past ere this. All of these happenings make history.
and gives an added interest to the work of securing the
data covering the perioJs of the company's varying for-
tunes.
The annual tour of camp duty at Camp J^incoln
has ahvays found Company E present with a full quota
of men where they w^ere given an opportunity to show
the progress made yearly and compare their success
with that of other troops present.
Ii.i-iN(Ms National Guards. 39
CHAPTER V.
The regular routine of drill at home, and at camp
was continued some time without a break of any sort,
barring the lightning changes sometimes made in the
otlicers of Company I. The first incident of interest oc-
curred on the return from Camp Lincoln in 1892. The
train bearing the troops made a brief stop near Beards-
town. Within view of the boys was a melon tield of
some twenty or thirty acres. — The sight of a melon al-
ways appeals to the heart (or stomach) of a soldier and
he is never contented to see them lying about, without
in some manner being able to secure one or more.
With melons in sight, comes the thought of a '-lark"
and the soldier who procures the largest number with-
out expense to himself, is envied by all of his comrades.
For this reason, f^vv. if any fruit venders dare venture to
make a trip through camp with a load of them as they
soon become acquainted with the intoxicating effect it
has on the soldiers. — As the train slowed down and
came to a standstill, several hundred pairs of eyes were
glued on the neighboring fields. Some one said "mel-
ons" the word was passed through the train in half the
time it take.-^ to tell it. But how to get them was a
serious matter as guards were posted at each car door
with instructions to allow no one to pass in or out un-
less he be a comir.issioned officer. The boys could not
look for aid from the otlicers in this matter, but for some
cause the officers had other important business about
40 History op^ Companies I and E.
this time and few were in sight. This was their op-
portunity and out of the car windows and into the melon
field they went. In a short time melons came flying in
through every window. About this stage of the pro-
ceedings, an old man appeared on the scene, closely fol-
lowed by a mammoth bull dog, and the boys hustled
back to the cars and pushed and pulled each other in
through the windows. By this time the trpin was ready
to proceed and in a moment rolled away, leaving the
angry farmer shaking his clenched fist at the receding
cars. What he said or thought could only be imagined
as he was too far distant to be heard and the boys were
too busily engaged plugging the melons, in their search
for a ripe one, to have given him any attention had he
been present. The search for an edible melon contin-
ued for some few moments, but resulted in a flat failure.
They were all too green to be eaten. The boys were
not a little chagrined to find they had exerted themselves
so willingly and were repaid in a half a carload of green
melons, and they reluctantly tossed ihem out of ihe
cars.
When the ofiicers appeared and angrily inquired of
the men what they had been doing, asking each one if
he had not heard and fully understood the order to re-
main in the cars, every one to a man, swore they had
not been out of their seats while the train was at a
standstill and that they did not even see the melon
patch. The pieces of melon found on the car floor, they
said, were thrown in by the boys from the next car, who
Vv'ere all out.
Shortly after the arrival home. Captains Lawrie
and Stowe received a letter from Col. Clendenin, in
which he said he had sent a committee to Beardstpwn
(XJL. HKNllY S. DIKTRICil,
General Inspector of Ritle Practice.
Ti.MNois National (»l akds. 41
to iiivcstiL^ate the matter and make a settlement with
the old gentleman. The amount )")aid, with the expense
of makiiiii;' this settlement, made it necessary to assess
each company $12.00. He instructed the company com-
manders to take such measures as they deemed best to
secure the amount from the, <j[uilty parties and in addition
each man, who took part in the affair should at least, be
reprimanded. trustin<( that '-nothing of the kind would
ao-ain occur in the existence of the Sixth Re<(iment.'"
It appears that the members of Company 1 stoutly
maintained their innocence to the last and in some man-
ner avoided the payment of any portion of the assess-
ment. Company E was less fortunate or better situated
hnancialh', at least the boys paid the amount called for
and this closed the incident officially, but it is recalled
today by the older members of the Guard as rather a
disgraceful affair.
The writer was a member of Company I at the
time and has made the same trip several times since, but
has never known of the train making the stop at this
point ai^ain; and the old familiar ground is passed with
bowed heads and closed eyes.
On December 28th. 1892 the Third Infantry. Sixth
InfanliN' and Cavalry troop B, were relieved from
dutv with the First and Second i5rigades respectivel}^
and \\ere organized into and designated as the Third
Brigade. William Clendeniti was appointed Brigadier
General commanding.
January 13th, 1893, Lieut. Colonel Foster was com-
missioned Colonel, establishing headquarters at Chicago.
Major Ed Kittilsen Lieut. Colonel, and William T.
Channon. Major of the Sixth Regiment.
Major Channon has been connected with the Na-
4-2 History of Companies T and E.
tional Guard of Illinois since 1877, when he enlisted as a
private. He was promoted rapidly and at the time
of the East St. Louis strike was ist Lieutenant of
Company A. He was elected Captain of the company
September 27th. 1887, serving as such during the cam-
paign of the Spring Valley coal miners' strike, In Jan-
uary 1893 he w^as commissioned Major and in this ca-
pacity saw service in Chicago throughout the great rail-
road troubles. He commanded the ist Battalion of the
Sixth regiment during the Spanish American War and
at present is ranking Major of the regiment.
Company I participated in a parade at Moline and
Rock Island, 111., July 4th, 1892.
Both Companies, I and E. attended the Dedication
Ceremonies of the buildings of the World's Columbian
Exposition, at Chicago. Oct 21st, 1892, and took ])art in
the Military parade on that day. Troops from all over
the State were present, and the parade was a ])rilliant
one in every respect. The Sixth regiment was quarter-
ed in the Electrical Building on the Exposition grounds.
The rations issued were furnished by contract and were
not fit to eat. Nearly all of the boys preferred to pur-
chase their own meals rather than be compelled to eat
the food given them. The main floor of the building
in which they were quartered was set with long rows of
tables. Thousands of loaves of bread and hundreds of
pounds of meat and coffee were brought in. A large
force of men and women were' at work all one day mak-
ing sandwiches and preparing to feed the thousands, who
were expected the following day. It became necessary
to post a guard around the tables, as the sandwiches and
(louirhnuts were stolen bv hundreds. The boys who
were standing guard had little opportunity to get out
Illinois National (jtards. [;{
to secure Fi)();l and soon Ix'cnm!' (|tii(f liiiii^Tw . The i^nvls
l)eliiii(l the tahles took |)ilv on them and when the sup-
erintiMi lent w IS n)t h) )'.<in!^, \v.)nld pis-; the ea^'er sol-
d'iVYti a fup of fott'ee or a saiid\vi(dL This was soon
disrovered and we saw an express wa^' >ii driven in cou-
taiiuni;' a h)ad of white muslin. In a few moments a
corps oF workmen a|)peare(l and thcN' (piicklv stretcdied
the cloth arouiul the t;d)les appa.rciitly t-uttiuijf otT all
means of commnnicatiou l)etweeii the fair waiters and
the euar;ls. Bnl tIu'v were not to l)e so easily bv^ten.
The soldi(>rs were standing' j^'uard with fixed bayonets
and they wonkl run the muzzk^ of the rifie over the top
of the cloth barrier, allow it to remain a moment durino-
which time it would suddenly become quite w^eighty with
a <|ueer jerking motion, like the pulling of a five pound
catfish on the end of a line. The soldier upon returning
the ritle to his side of the curtain would find on the
bayonet a couple of nice doughnuts, a large fresh sand-
wich and a tin cup. nearly full, of steaming coft'ee. To
prevent the cup from slipping off. it was necessary to
put another sandwich on tlie outer side of it. This com-
bination made an excellent meal and if more was wanted,
the trick was repeated as the girls could not see the
boys and consequently did not know whether they were
feeding the whole of the Illinois National Guard, or that
one soldier was getting it all. and in all probabilitv did
not care.
AT THE world's FAIR.
The year following, 1S93. four regiments of Infantry,
including the Sixth, one Battery and one Troop of Caval-
ry were ordered to report and encamp at 75th Street
near Windsor Station, Chicago, on the mornintj of Au-
'4'4 HiSTORV OF Companies I and E.
gust 23rd, fully armed, and equipped with blankets and
overcoats. The next day. August 24th had been select-
ed as "Illinois Day" at the Columbian Exposition and
the Illinois National Guard invited to parade and par-
ticipate in the exercises at the Illinois State Building
on that day. They remained there four days. The offi-
cers and men were allowed two days pay for this tour
of duty together with transportation and subsistence.
This ga\e a large number of the troops an opportunity
to visit the Exposition grounds at little expense to them-
selves who otherwise may have been unable to have done
so and the two days pay allowance was considered very
liberal.
The troops from the neighboring towns were invited
to attend a celebration at Sterling on July 4th, 1894.
Several of the companies accepted and were preseni.
The military parade was among the main attractions of
the day and added materially to the general suc-
cess of the affair.
On July 6th, 1894, Companies I and E were order-
ed for duty in Chicago with their regiment. This was
Qt the time of the difficulties arising from the great rail-
road strike. With little preparation they boarded a
special train at six o'clock that evening, less than four
hours after the call, and were at the seat of war shortly
after nine o'clock at night. For twenty days and nights
they were on almost constant duty , the nature of which
was extremely unpleasant. They were confronting men
who were as fully determined as themselves, but luckily
the campaign drew to a close without any serious con-
flict between the strikers and the soldiers. Had there
been, the result would have been disastrous to both.
The soldiers fully realized the situation and did nothing
( ' •■,
1;
Illinois National GirAKDs. 45
to a<j^«jfravat(' i\w rioters to coniinit any rash acts. With
riijfht and jnstict' on llicir side Ihc (Inardsincn at all
limes Tel! (M|nal to the situation and did theii' duty fear-
h^ssly. This duty consisted in <i^uardinn- railroad j)roper-
ty and protecting moving trains. They were at all
times prepared for a sudden call to arms, sleeping with
their rities hy their side and fully (dothed in readiness
to fall in at a moments notice. Tiie ]n'om[)tness in mob-
olizing shown at the time of the exploding of an Artil-
lery caisson on 40th strcnd and (xrand Bijulevard on July
i6th serves as a fair illustration of the capabilities of the
men in an emergency. They were lying about camp,
dreamily thinking of home when suddenly the sound of
a fearful explosion was heard not far distant. Their first
thought was of the deadly bombs which the strikers were
supposed t(j have been preparing for them. With the
thunder of the explosion still ringing in their ears came
the clear shrill notes of the bugle call sounding "as-
sembly." A scramble for quarters followed and in
less than five minutes after hearino: the first sound of
alarm the available troops in camp were marching in
(juick time to the scene of disaster, momentarily expect-
ing to face a horde of half crazed men who, once started
would stop at nothing. Instead, the mangled forms of a
dozen or more unfortunate soldiers met their efaze, and
the cause of the trouble was quite evident. Major
Anthony was the first surgeon to appear and he imme-
diattdy turned his attention to the poor fellows who were
wounded, extracting some eight or ten bullets in a few
moments. Four men were killed outright, literally torn
in pieces. Twelve men and two women were more or
loss seriously injured and the remains of inne horses
were scattered about. After a short tour of guard duty
46 History of Companies I and E.
in the neighborhood of the accident the men returned to
camp. With the evidence of returning peace, the men
became restless and anxious to return to their homes, and
on July 26th they boarded a homeward bound train ar-
riving at four o'clock in the afternoon.
A soldier camp, even in the heart of a great city like
Chicago means many discomforts and not a few priva-
tions, and the efPects of this three weeks service had
worked a wonderful change in the appearance of the
men. Besides, they were badly sunburned and contrast-
ed strangely with the natty boys who had taken such a
hurried departure a few weeks previous. They were met
at the depot by a dense crowd of cheering citizens and
escorted to their armories. The command "break ranks"
was received with a cheer from the soldier boys. The
uniforms were soon discarded and they were again citi-
zens.
The officers of the two companies during the service
were: Captain, Wm. F. Colebaugh: ist Lieut., H. T.
Guffin, and 2nd Lieut., Ed. C. Lawton, of I. Captain,
Wm.F. Lawrie; ist Lieut., Walter N. Haskell, and 2ijd
Lieut., G. B. Dillon of E.
The evening following their heme coming, both
companies were banqueted by the citizens of their indi-
vidual towns. This was the most serious riot that the
State troops had ever been called upon to assist in sup-
pressing and was the second experience of actual soldier
life in the history of Company I, as it was the first for
Company E. Referring to the reference marks at the
hc^ad of the complete roster of the companies, a * denotes
the names of those who saw service in Chicago, while
the -j- which also appears on the roster of Company I
designates the men who were present at the East St.
Ili-im)is National Guards. 47
Louis (•ain[)aigii in 1886, as acciirafcly fis if is |)(>ssi])Ic to
clL'torniiiie at this late date.
Tlie entire National Guard of the State was iiiolxj-
lized at Chieago on July 22nd, 1897, to parade and par-
ticipate in the ceremonies connected with the uiivi'iling
of General Logan's monument. Companies I and E were
present, boarding an early morning train and arriving in
Chicago barely in time to take their positi(Mi in line.
The line of march extended for miles and at the close
they were immediately hurried to the railway station to
embark for the return home, where they arrived about
nine o'clock in the evening.
On September 30th the same year. Captain Colebaugh
commanding Company I received tln' following telegram.
Springfield, III., September 30TH: 1897.
Captain Colebaugh, Co. I, 6th Infantry,
Morrison III..
. R(.'port with coni[)any on nine o'clock train, to Gen-
eral Reece at Fulton, armed and equipped with ball cart-
ridge. . Signed, John R. Tanner.
Shortly after the receipt of the above order and just
as the train was pulling into the station. Captain Cole-
baugh received a second telegram instructing him not
to embark for Fulton until further orders, ])ut to hold
his com[)any in readiness to leave at a moment's notice.
The men remained in the armory all that night expect-
ing to be ordered out again, Init were not and they re-
turned to their homes in the earlv morning'. Tlu' (lis-
turbance at Fulton was caused by the friction arising
from the removal to Rock Island. III., of the head offices
of tlu' Modern Wooduien of America, but peace and (|uiet
were r(?stored without the aid of the State troo[)S. Com-
48 History of Companies I and E.
pany G of Dixon received the same order which Captain
Colebaugh had acted upon in ordering his men to
assemble for riot duty. The Dixon boys were on board
the train which was to carry Company I to the scene
and were the only troops present at the riot.
COL. WALTER FIELDHOUSE,
Aide de Camp.
Illinois National (jUAKds. 11)
CHAPTER VI.
Roster of the Companies.
The fi)ll()\ving pages contain a soparaU' roster of
each eompany from date of organization to April 3otli,
1901. The roster of commissioned officers of the
individual companies precedes that of the enlisted
men. Upon the receipt of a commission by an en-
listed man his record is carried to and complet-
ed in the roster of commissioned officers unless he again
enters the service as a private, which seldom occurs.
The roster of Company I contains the names of
four hundred and five men who have at one time or an-
other been in the State service with this company. Of
this number two hundred and ninety seven ap[)ear on
the company descriptive book. The remaining one
hundred and eight, including the charter members, were
secured by a long and careful search through hundreds
of old letters. General and Special Orders and muster
rolls.
In defence of the commanding officers of the com-
pany during the first six or eight years of it's existence,
it is only just to state that their records consisted solely
of the tiles of correspondence, orders and the retained
copies of enlistment papers. The compan}- descriptive
book was at that time unknown, yet the records ob-
tained after careful re-arrangement tollow upon each oth-
er so closely as to make it quite possible to secure the
narne of every man who has been a member of the corn-
50 History of Companies I and E.
pany in the past twenty-three years.
Again the good fortune of Compan\' E is appar-
ent and barring the natural inclination to make errors,
which seems to be the lot of all mankind, the register
of this company is complete. It shows an enrollment of
three hundred and eleven names of men who have taken
the oath required by the State when entering the ser-
vice of the Illinois National Guard. The failure in many
instances in the record of both companies to show the
date of discharge of an enlisted man, may be attribu-
ted to the fact . that when a Guardsman, whose term
of service has expired contemplates an immediate re-en-
listment, it is considered unnecessary to issue a discharge.
In the roster of enlisted men, the column headed
"remarks" includes the different rank attained by each
man, but does not indicate the date of appointment. It
also covers the losses in the ranks either by promotion,
transfer, discharge or death. Where the date simply
appears, it is understood to indicate a discharge was giv-
en on that date.
ROSTER OF COMPANY I.
A j- indicates service at East St. Louis, a * at Chi-
cago.
COMMISSIONED OFFICERS.
Captains.
ISAME. DATE OF COMMISSION. DATE OF PROMOTION
RESIGNATION OR DISCHARGE.
George H. Fay, Sept. 11, 1878. Kesigned Feb. 24, 1882.
Frank Clendenin, Aug. 1, 1882. Commissioned Colonel and
Aid de camp on the Gov-
ernor's staff, Sept. 5, 1882.
Cornelius Qua3kenbush,"Nov. 2, 1882. Resigned Apr. 7, 1884.
Illinois National Guards.
51
N. James Cole, June 27, 1884. Resigned M'ih. 1(5, 1885.
William F. Colebaiish, Apr. 8, 1885. Resigned Apr. 1, 1S8(>.
jHenry H. Grill iths, Apr. 28, 188f). Resigned Apr. 21, 1888.
William F. Colebaugii, May 21, 1888. Commission expired May
21, 18«)1.
Milford Johnson, May 28, 18'.tl. Resigned Apr. 27, 18'.»2.
Merritt Stowe, June 2, (Nlt2. Resigned Out. 4, 18U2.
*Wiliiam F. Colebaugh, Oct. Ill, ls'.t2, Commission expired Oct.
m, is'».").
Harry T. Giillin, Mav HO, IS'.t.";. Resigned June -, 18".t('>.
William F. Colebaugh, July i), 18S)C). Commission expired July it,
IW.t.
Harvey S. Green, ,Iuly 14, ISlllt.
1st. Likitknants.
Cornelius (iiiackenbnsh,S3pt. II, 1878, Commission expired Sept.
11, 1881.
^0 record, Resigned April 22, 1S82.
June 8, 1882, Commissioned Captain Aug
1, 1882.
Aug. 1, 1882, Resigned Oct. 15th 18S2.
Nov. 3, 1882, Commissioned Capt. June
27, 1884.
William F. Colebaugh, June 27, i884, Commissioned Capt. April
8, 1885.
Apr. 8, 1885, Commissioned Capt. April
28, 188t).
Apr. 28, 188(), Resigned Jan. 15, 1887.
May JO, 18S7, Commission expired May
It), 18i»0.
May 23, 18'.iO, Resigned June lit, I8i)i.
July 3, 1891, Commissioned Capt. June
2, 181)2.
June 2, 18i^2, Resigned June 7, 18i>3.
Julv 21, 18i)3, Commissioned Capt. May
30, 18il5.
May 30, 18it5, Commission expired May
30, I8i»8.
March i», 189i<,
Z T. Anderson,
Frank Clendenin,
Curtis Johnson,
N.James Cole,
Henry Griffiths,
tT. S. Beach,
Wm. S. Brearton,
Harry T. Gutlin,
Merritt Stowe,
S. Wellington Baker,
*Harry T. (Jullln,
Edward C. Jiawton
Harry A. Weaver,
.John Grierson,
Edward A. Worrell,
Edward P. Stokes
Curtis Johnson,
2nd. Lieutenants.
Sept. 11, 1878, Resigned June 5, 187it.
July It), 187i», Resigned Sept. C), 1880.
Sept. 2, 1880, Resigned March 25, 1882.
June 8, 1882, Commissioned 1st. Lieut.
Aug. 1, 1882.
52
History of Companies I and E.
Win. S. Brearton,
Charles F. Montague,
Erastus 15. Humphrey
tJohn M. Colebaugh
Harry T. Gutiin
S. Wellington Baker,
A. Rollin Baird,
Harry T. Gutlin,
George H. Kentfleld,
*£dward C. Lawton,
Walter H. Clark,
Charles Puddifoot,
Ernest J. Weaver,
Jacob L. Rockey,
Aug. 1, 1882,
.Inly 28, 1883,
June 27, 1884.
Apr. 28, 188(5,
May 13, 1889,
May 23, 1890,
Aug. 8, 1891,
May 8, 1893,
July 24, 1893,
Apr. 2, 1894,
May 3vJ, 1895,
July 9, 189(5,
June 29, 1897,
March 9, 1899.
Resigned March — 1883.
Resigned May 27, 1884.
Resigned Apr. 1, 188(').
Commission expired Apr.
28, 1889.
Commissioned 1st. Lieut.
May 23, 1890.
Resigned July 28, 1891.
Resigned Apr. 10, 1893.
Commissioned 1st, Lieut.
July 24, 1893.
liesigried March 20, 1894.
Commissioned 1st. Lieut.
May 30, 1895.
Resigned June— 189(5.
Resigned June 17, 1897.
Resigned May 14, 1898.
ENLISTED MEN.
DATE OF ENLISTMENT
REMARKS
Anderson, Z. T.
Atwater, Benjamin J.
Alexander, Thornton
Austin, Will G.
Austin, A. E.
tAnderson, H. F.
Allen, William
Adams, Henry W.
Anderson, Nils
Aldrich, Albert
Adams, Ray
Annan, George
Annan, Frank \V.
Annan, Floyd J.
Buckley, George
Bogart, Coroelius
Buttery, Arthur C.
Bray, Dennis
Bartholomew, Geo. L.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Dec. 10, 1878,
June 19,1882,
June 20, 1882.
Apr. 12, 1883,
Apr .25, 1889,
May 30, 1895,
Apr. 9, 18915,
Aug. 9,1897
May 18, 1899.
Aug. 31, 1899.
May 1, 1900.
Mch. 7, 1901.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sergeant. Commissioned
1st. Lieut. No date.
Feb. 24, 1880, Corporal,
Feb. 24,1880. Sergeant,
lune(5, 1883.
July 9, 1887. Corporal,
Sergeant,
July 29, 1890,
Aug, 28, 1899.
May 28, 1898.
Aug. 28, 1899.
Sept. 7, 1880. Sergeant.
Dec. 15, 1882.
Nov. (5, 1883 Corporal, Ser-
geant.
Feb. 24, 1880.
July 5, 1883. Corporal.
Illinois National Guards.
53
tlJowdish, Daniel (J.
IJowdisli, William 15.
IJrandt, John X.
linrns, Howard
lUie.'l, (Jeorfje A.
Hurke, Michael
J>rearton, Wni. S.
iierry, Daniel S.
Ball, William A.
Bartlett, C. C.
Beach, T. S.
Borland, James A.
Bartlett, C. N.
t Bartlett. O. J.
Brett, George
tBaker, S. Wellington,
tBoze, William S.,
Burke, Charles E.
Jirown, Charles C.
Bent, Paul A ,
Baird, A. Itollin,
Boyle, Edward P.,
Sept. II, IST8,
Mays, IHSt,
Mch. 22, ISTU,
Aug. IT), I8T'.>,
Aug. 2C). IST'.t,
July 12, IhSi),
Aug. 30, 18S0,
Junes, 1HS2,
•June I, I88t),
Junes, 1882,
June 23, 1882,
June 2t), 1882,
Nov. 30, 1882,
Mch. 8, 1883,
May 31, 1883,
Feb. 28, 1884,
June 28, 1884,
Apr. 22, 1885,
May 15, 18U0,
Feb, 4, 1892,
Feb. 10, 188G,
June 4, 188(5,
July 15, 188<),
July 11, 1895,
May 24, 1888,
Oct. 17, 1892,
May 31, 1888,
June 4, 1891,
Aug. 2, 1888,
May 24, 1883.
July 7, 188('..
May 22, 1884.
Sept. 1, 1884.
Oct. 17, 1883. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
July 10, 18S5. Corporal. Ser-
geant.
Feb. 27, 1883.
Commissioned 2nd. Lieut*
Aug. 1, 18S2. Appointed
Regimental Commissary
Sergeant July 21, 1880.
Commissioned 1st. Lieut.
May It). 1887.
May 24, 1883.
Oct. 17, 1883.
Nov. 25, 1885. Musician.
Corporal, Sergeant. Com-
missioned 1st. Lieut. Apr.
28, 1886.
Oct. 6, 1884.
May 15, 1885. Corporal,
July 2, 1880. Corporal. Ser-
geant.
Oct. 6, 1884.
Apr. 30, 1890.
Corporal, Sergeant, 1st
Sergeant.
Commissioned 2nd Lieu-
tenant May 23, 1890.
Commissioned 1st Lieu-
tenant June 2, 1892,
May It), 1887. Corporal.
Nov. 13, 1888.
Nov. 13, 1888.
Mch. 28, 1898.
May 24, 1891.
Aug. 4, 1893, Corporal, Ser-
geant.
June 1, 1891. Corporal,
Sergeant, 1st Sergeant.
Commissioned 2nd Lieu-
tenant August 8, 1891.
July 29, 1890.
54
History of Companies I and E.
Boyer, E. C,
*Burritt, Walter E„
Borgman, Harry,
Bly, Timothy,
Bunzey, Rufus S.
Bunzey, Fred A.,
*Bent, Fred D.,
Boyd, Herbert N.,
*Baird, Joseph S.,
*Bailey, Thomafs,
Bush, Ira E ,
Bailey, John A.,
*Bent, John E.
Bnmson, Charles D.
Berry, Charles,
Berry, Harrison, T ,
Bailey, Wilbur E.,
Boyd, William J ,
Bailey, Cager B ,
Boyer, William C,
Baird, John W.,
Besse, Karl,
Bent, Harry A.,
Brearton, Fred W.,
Booth, Clarence A.,
Boyd, Paul F.,
Feb. 9, 1889,
Jan. 13, 1890,
Jan. 'z9, 1893,
Jan. 28. 1894,
Jan. 25, 1895,
Mav 6, 1896,
July 19, 1899,
June 19, 1890,
J uly 31, 1890,
July 20, 1897,
Aug. 7, 1890,
Aug. 31, 1899,
Aug. 31, 1900,
June 4, 1891,
July 21, 1892,
July 25. 1895,
July 21, 1892,
July 21, 1892,
July 30, 1892,
Oct. 7, 1892,
May 4, 1893,
July 21, 1896,
Aug. 12, 1897,
Apr. 28, 1894,
May 23, 1895,
Apr. 12, 1896,
June 12, 1899,
Jan. 15, 1897,
July 6. 18'J7,
July 6, 1897,
July 8, 1897,
Mch. 31, 1898,
Apr. 7, 1898
May 18, 1899,
May 18, 1899,
Jan. 17, 1901,
May 18, 1899,
May 31, 1900,
Feb. 5, 1900,
Burcb, William H., Apr. 12, 1»00,
May 27, 1892.
Jan. 26, 1893.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Appointed Q. M. Sergeant
1st Battalion Aug. 14,
1892. lie-appointed July
29,1899. Appointed Eegr-
imental Commissary Ser-
geant July 23, 1900.
June 26, 1893.
August 4, 1893.
x\ug. 28, 1899.
Feb. 20, 1893.
May 20, 1893.
Aug. 8, 1896
Sept. 17, 1894.
July 16. 1896. Musician.
J uly 16. 1896.
May 18, 1894. Corporal.
July 30, 1896.
Aug. 12, 1897.
Jan. 11, 1898.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Corporal.
Feb. 26, 1900.
Corporal.
Sept. 3, 1899.
Sept. 3, 1899.
Sept. 3, 1899.
Aug. 24, 1899.
Apr. 16, 1901.
Feb. 26, 1900.
Corporal.
Corporal.
Corporal. Appointed Hos-
pital Steward July 21,
1900.
Corporal.
Illinois National Guards.
Beckwith, K. <l,
Brearton, James M.
Bailey, Jesse,
Bowen, Floyd J.,
Breiter, Arthur C,
Casey, William,
Clark, Clarence C,
Cole. N.James,
July 20, 11»00,
Feb. 21, I'.toO,
Mch. 2S, I'.tOl,
Apr. 2.1, 1<»01,
Apr. »), I'JOl,
Sept. 11, INTS,
Sept. II.ISTS,
May iU, 1879,
Colebaiigh, William F., Feb. 22, 1881,
ClendeniD, Frank,
Colebaugh, John M
+Coilins, D. J.,
tCummings, Levi,
Clark, George H.,
Caiitiekl, Ora,
Collins, James,
*Clark, Walter H.,
Colebaugh, James,
'"'Crouch, David E.,
Craft, Frank,
Clark, Walter K.,
*Curtis, Edmund L
Cronon, Arthur,
Colebaugh, Ora,
Aug. 1, 1882.
Aug. 10,1882,
Jan. U, 181t0,
Aug. 21, 18'.)3,
Jan. 11,1883,
Mch. 25, 1885,
June 4, 188(5,
June 16188(5,
June 21, 1888,
June 25, 18<J1,
May 15, 18'J0,
Sept. 27, 1894,
Aug. 13, 189(5,
July 31, 1890,
Feb. 25, 1892,
May 1(5, 1895
A ug. 13, 189(5,
May 12, 1892.
June 9,1892,
Oct. 17, 1892,
Jan. 9, 189(5,
May 13, 1897,
May 13, 190Q.
Apr. 12.;i89(5,
Apr. 1(5,' 189(5,
Muaician.
Sept. 11, 1883.
Sept. 7, 1880. Corporal.
Sergeant. Commissioned
let Lieutenant Nov. 3,
1882,
Corporal, Sergeant. 1st
Sergeant. Commission-
ed 1st Lieutenant Jan.
27, 1884.
Commissioned 1st J^ieut-
this date.
Sergeant. Commissioned
2nd Lieutenant Apr. 28,
188(5.
June 29, 1891.
Sept. 13, 1894.
Jan. 11, 1888. Sergeant.
July 7, 188(5.
Nov. 13, 1888.
May 9, 1887.
Jane 29, 1891. Corporal.
May 14, 1894. Sergeant.
May 17, 1893.
Jan. 16, 189(5.
Aug. 28, 1899. Corporal.
June 29, 1891.
May 11, 1895. Corporal.
Sergeant
Sept. 13, 1899. 1st Ser-
geant.
Dec. 8, 1892.
Corporal Sergeant. Com-
missioned 2nd Lieut.,
May 30, 18ti5.
Jan. 1(5, 189(5.
Corporal.
Sergeant.
May 28, 1898.
August 29, 1899. Musician.
56
History of Companies I and E.
Colehour, George,
Carter, Frank,
Cargy, Olin,
Childs, Clarence C,
Clifford, Benjamin F.
Childs, W. L.,
Dean, James,
tDean, J. H.,
tDodd, George H.,
Davis, James W.,
Deetz, S. L.,
Daniels, Orvilie,
*Deyo, Robert J.,
(t U (t
Davis, Robert E.
Davis, Frank,
Drennen, M. L.,
Dodd, Frank,
Davis, Floyd N.,
Davis, Walter B.,
Derby, Harry H.,
Drury, Walter C,
Donichy, James, G. B.
Emery, Williard,
Eaton, Ernest M.,
Ely, Spencer,
*Ewing, Arthur M.,
Everhart, George,
Ege, Sylvester A.,
Fay, George H.
Fox. FranK M ,
Freezer, A. W. Herd,
Fellows, Edward S.,
France, P. M.,
Farwell, Fred,
Fox, Eugene A ,
Fox, Adolphus H.,
Fergeson, F, A.,
Aug. *J, 1897,
May 18, 1899,
May 18, 1899,
May 18, 1899,
May 7, 1900,
Dec. 29, 1900.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Aug. 7, 1882,
Jan. 12, 1886.
July 15, 1886,
Mch., 7, 1889,
June 19, 1890,
May 26, 1892,
July 25, 1895,
May 17, 1897
May 17, 1900,
Aug. 9, 1897,
Apr. 6, 1899
May 18, 1899,
June 8, 1899,
Jan. 28,1901,
Sept. 14, 1899,
May 17, 1900.
July 20, 1900,
, April 30, 1901,
June 23, 1882,
July 28, 1883,
June 4, 1886,
Jan. 19, 1893,
May 6, 1897,
May 7, 1900,
Aug. 31, 1899,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Apr. 23, 1879,
May 10, 187i',
Oct. 12, 1884,
Apr. 29, 1885,
June 16, 1887,
July 28, 1887,
Mch. 7, 1889,
Aug. 28, 1899.
January 15, 1901.
Jan. 15, 1901. Corporal.
Dec. 15, 1882.
Aug. 7, 1887.
July 7, 1886.
July 15, 1889.
July 29, 1890.
Dec. 26, 1892.
May 26, 1895.
August 8, 1896
Musician.
Sergeant.
Corporal.
Feb. 26, 1900.
Jan. 15, 190!.
Feb. 26, 1900.
Died December 15, -82.
April 17, 1884.
Apr. 16, 1887.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Sergeant,
Commissioned Captain this
date.
July 10, 1879.
Aug. 17, 1881.
Nov. 18, 1881.
Nov. 23, 1885.
Nov. 23, 18b5.
June 16, 1890 Corporal,
Sergeant.
July 29, 1890.
July §3, 1890.
Ikmnois National Guards.
01
*Fellows, Emerson M.
Frye, Jacob li.,
Fisher, Harry J.,
Freek, tJeorge W.,
Fit/.perald, Charles,
Fenton, William J ,
JFreek, Charles,
Grierson. John,
Gilroy, Edward A.,
Garrison, Lelloy C,
Gritliths, William B.,
Gray, William H.,
tGoff, F. M.,
GriJliths, Henry H ,
Green, Lester W.
tGray, John
Guflin, Frank H.
Gulliii, Harry T.
Green, Harvey S.
Gynn, William W.
Gregory, Benjamin F
Geiger, George II.
Green, John
Gorzny, John
Gorzny, Joe
tlloncler, Augustus
Hendricks, Jesse Y.
Hauna, Robert H.
Haskin, Ezra C.
July 27, IS'Ki,
Aug. 10, IS'JT,
July 24, 1S'.('»,
July 25, 11)00,
July 11, 1S95,
Mch. 12, IS'JS,
July 20, WM,
Feb. 5, IstOO,
July 4, ISR'O,
July 20, 11)00,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Nov. 18, 1878,
Aug. 1(5, 187'.»,
Feb. 22, 1883,
Feb. 22, 1883,
May 8, 1883,
July 18, 1883,
July 29. 1885,
June 4, 188t>,
June 4, 188r',
May 8, 18<J3,
June 4, 18M),
May 24, 1888,
July 14, WM,
.June If), l!s'.)2,
Jan. 25, 18'.)3,
Mch. 12, 1898,
May 18, 1899,
April 25, 1901,
April 30, 1901.
Sept. 11, 1878,
June 12, 18X1.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Aug. 8, 189»).
Corporal.
Aug. 8, 189);.
April 19, 1901.
Apr. 19, 1901.
Commissioned 2iid Lieu-
tenant this date.
July 10, 1879.
Dec. M, 1882.
June 19,1884.
Corporal.
Corporal, Sergeant, 1st Ser-
geant. Commissioned
1st Lieut. May 8, 1885.
June 19, 1884.
Oct. 30, 1888. Corporal.
June 4, 1889. Corporal. Ser-
geant.
Corporal, Sergeant. Com-
missioned 2nd. Lieut. May
13, 1889. Commissioned
1st. Lieut. July 24, 1893.
Corporal, Sergeant.
May 16, 1887.
July 29, 1890. Commission-
ed Capt. this date.
Dec 26, 1892.
Aug. 10 1895.
Jan. 15, 1901.
Nov. 6. 1883.
July 10, 1879.
Dec. 15, 1882.
July 10, 1879.
5S
History of Companies I and E.
Humphrey, E. B.
Hill, A. D.
Hughes, William J.
Hawes, Charles T.
tHolt, George W,
Hannan, Thomas B.
Hurd, James M.
Hurd, Lewis M.
Hayes, John F.
Hollinshead, R. P.
Humphrey, William
Hiudes, Horace F.
tHarris, E. L.
Harris, Fred L.
Hoffman, George D.
tHnrless, C. N.
Humphrey, Albert
tHolt, E. E.
Heath, V/alter,
Harrison, George F.
Holt, Frank F.
Hines, John F.
Hobert, William
Hoover, Fred
High, Christopher
*Hullett, Ralph W.
Hughes, Herbert G.
Heath, Willis F.
*Humprey, Byron P.
*Humphrey, Ralph D.
Sept. 11, 1878
Oct. 10, 1883,
Oct. 18, 1878,
Mov, 13, 1878
May 10, 187«J,
Aug. 7, 1879,
Sept. 10, 1884,
Oct. 4, 1879,
Sept. 4, 1880,
Feb. I, 1881,
June 14, 1882,
June 20, 1882.
June 24, 1882,
Aug. 1, 1882,
Nov. 14, 1889,
Feb. 8, 1883,
Mch. 29, 1883,
Aug. 8, 1883,
May 3, 1883,
Aug. 28, 1883,
June 2, 1892,
June »), 1895,
Jan. 21, 1885,
May 15, 1890,
June 2, 1886,
J une 4, 1886,
July 14, 1887,
Mch. 8, 1888,
April 4, 1889,
May 28, 1891
May 2, 1889,
June 1, 1893,
Sept. 23, 1890,
Feb. 25, 1892,
May 5, 1892,
Aug. 30, 1892,
. Jul> 27, 1893,
July 5. 1894,
July 10, 1897,
Sergeant-
Sept.'l 1,1883. Commissioned
2nd. Lieut. June 27, 1884.
June 3, 1880. Sergeant
Color Sergeant.
Sept. 7, 1880.
Nov. 18, 1881.
Sept. J, 1884.
Nov. 13, 1888.
Feb. 27, 1883.
April 17, 1884.
Aug. 17, 1884.
Feb. 27, 1887.
June 19, 1884.
July 28, 1890.
Feb. 8, 1888. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
July 18, 1885. Corporal.
Oct. 6, 1884.
May 3, 1888. Corporj^i, Ser-
geant.
Nov. 23, 1885,
June 2, 1895.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Oi!t. 27, 1888.
June 1, 1891 Corporal, Ser-
geant.
June 10, 1889. Musician
Nov. 21, 1887.
July 16, 1890.
July 29, 1890.
July 29, 1890.
July 28, 1892.
August 1, 1891.
June 27, 1894.
Died Nov. 2, 1890.
May 11, 1895. Corporal.
Died July 31, 1892.
Jan. 16, 1896.
Aug. 8, 1896,
July 10, 1897.
Died in Utuado, Porto Rico,
Oct. 30, 1898.
Ii>LiNois National Guards.
59
Hagen, August,
Hagen, William L ,
lleisp, George,
Harrison, Otto,
Hunt, (Jeorge,
Howe, Martin O ,
Hyatt, Charles E.,
Howe, Abner R.,
Hawes, George li..
High, Aaron,
Hirleman, Samuel B..
Hirleman, Wilber, E.
Johns'in, Frank V ,
Johnson, John J.,
Johnson, Curtis,
Jaeger, Frederick W,
tJohnson, Milford,
tJordan, G. W ,
Johnson, Fred O.,
Judd, Frank,
Jackson, Ralph D.,
Johnson, Ray B.,
Johnson, Bert,
Kinney, James,
Kier, Albert,
Kenyan, E. R.,
Kent Held, George H.
Kool, Adolph,
Kidd, William A.,
Kaler, Orville,
May I'J, 18*t5,
May 28, 1S'»5,
May 28, 1S1)5,
May 20, 1S'»(),
May 6, 1897.
May 81, lUOU,
May (J, 1S<»T,
Apr. 7, lb\>\
Apr. 14, IWtS,
June 14, 181)St.
May 8, I'.tOO.
Apr. 25, r.iOl.
Apr. 80, 1901.
Sept. 11. 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Oct. U, 1878,
Dec. 28, 1882,
Mch. 7, 1889,
Oct. 19, 1892,
Jan. 24, 1888,
May 6, 1897,
May 81, 1900,
July 1, 1897,
Apr. 7, 1898,
Apr. 12, 1900,
Jan. 11, 1901,
Sept. 11, 1878.
J une 2(), 1884,
July 17, 1884,
Feb. 8, 1887,
May 31, 1888,
June 1, 1898,
July 0. 1898,
May 20, 189(3,
Aug. 8, 189C).
Aug. 8, 189("..
Aug. 28, 1898.
Aug. 28, 1899.
Corporal.
Feb. 2'), 1900.
Feb. 2(5, 1*'00.
Apr. 18, 1901.
June 8, 1880. Corporal.
Sergeant. 1st Sergeant.
Com)nissioned 2Qd Lieut.
June 8, 1882.
Nov. 18, 1881.
June 21, 1888, Corporal.
Sergeant, 1st Sergeant.
Commissioned Captain
Apr. 27, 1892.
July 2, 188(5. Corporal,
Sergeant, 1st Sergeant.
Corporal.
Sept. 3, 1899.
Feb. 2t), 1900
Jan. 15, 1901.
July 10, 1879.
Nov. 23, 1885.
Nov. 25, 1885.
Appointed Regimental
Comraissarv
July 23, 1887.
sioned 2nd
July 24, 1898.
May 31, 1891.
July 27, 1894.
August 10, 1895.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Sergeaut
Co'umis
r.ieutenant
60
History of Companies I and E.
Kayler, Orville
Kellett, Charles T.,
Kennedy, Vern V.,
Kaler, Ralph D ,
Levetr, Henry,
Lane, W. L.,
Lovell, Ellsworth,
tLarish, J. W.,
Leber, William H ,
Leogle, Albert,
J^auphere, Jay C,
I ang, Paul,
Laogdon, Porter 13
*Leigh, George E.
*Lane, H. B,
Lawton, Edward C.
Lyon, Harley B.
*Lawton, Willie B.
II ti it
*Lane, Joseph S.
i( t( »
Lewis, Arthur L.
Lane, Mat B.
Lamson, Claude IL
Lewis, Walter P.
Mattern, Albert A.
Martin, Petr^r
Morse, Milton
Mouck, Solomon F.
Marshal/, Charles H.
tMontague, Charles F.
*Morse, William
June I, 189<.t,
June 1, 1900,
May 18, 1899,
May 1, 1900,
Feb. 14, 1901.
Sept. 11, 1878,
June 5, 1882,
Aug. 3, 1882,
July 18, 1883,
April 24, 1884,
May 30, 1881,
July 17, 1884,
June 2, 188B,
Feb. 7, 1888,
June a. 1890,
June 15, 1893,
June 13, 1890,
Aug. 17, 1893,
July 31, 1890,
Aug. 10 1893,
July 9, 1891,
July 27,1893,
J une 10, 1897,
Julys, 1894,
June 13, 1899,
July 28, 1899,
July 18, 1900,
May ) , 1900.
April 25, 1901,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Apr. 7, 188li,
Oct. 5, 1878,
Nov. 8, 1883,
May 23, 1890.
Jan. 15, 1901.
Corporal.
J uly 5, 1883.
June »;, 1883.
July 7, 188('). Corporal.
Dec. 3, 1884.
Oct. 6, 1884.
Dec. 3, 1884.
July 9, 1887.
May 23, 1892.
June (j, 1893. Musician.
Sept. 3, 1894. Corporal.
June 20, 1893.
Sept. 13, 1894.
Aug. 4, 1893.
Corporal, Sergeant. Com-
missioued 2nd. Lieut.
Apr. 2, 1894.
Aug. 4, 1893.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Sept. 3, 1890.
Aug. 8, 189H.
June 12, 19r.O.
Jan. 15, 1900.
Apr. 19, 1901.
Feb. 24, 1880. Sergeant.
Nov. 3, 1879. Corporal.
Nov. 3, 1879. Corporal.
July 10, 1879.
Sept. 7, 1880.
Corporal, Sergeant.
May 20, 1889. Comrois-
sloned 2ad. Lieut.
,>uly 28, 1883.
Apr. 15, 1883.
Jan. 4, 1889.
June 6, 1893
Illinois National Guards.
01
*Morse, William
Murphey, ,1 alius M.
iMoulton, Lewis \i.
Moulton, William H.
Myers, Charles
Murphey, J. II.
Melville, J. 11.
tMc.Gilvary, William
Maxwel', Douglas i>.
Martin, J. 11.
tMericle, Frank E.
Mc^lullin, Frank E.
Marshall, Myron
Majors, Clarence E.
Moulton, Frank
McKee, Charles F.
*Mathews, Andrew F.
Maxlield, William II.
*McKee, Lafayette S.
Mitchell, Orville
Malouey, William T.
Madee, Charles
Mericle, Earle S.
Morse, Edwin W.
Morse, Harry L.
MaGee, Theodore
McKenzie, Kichard
Miller, Frank
June 27, IS'i'S.
June 28, 1HU4.
July 11, 1895.
Aug. 31, 18%.
Au^r. 31, IHOlt.
Aug. 31, 11)00,
Feb. ."), IST't.
Mch. St, 1880,
Mch. •), 1880,
June 8, 1882,
June 8, 1882,
J une 28, 1882,
Dec. 28, 1882,
April 12, 1883,
May 30, 1885,
July 28, 1892,
June 17, 1885,
July 17, 189(),
Aug. 13, 1897,
June 4, 1880,
July 2, 1880,
May 24, 1888,
May 28, 1891,
May 2, 1889,
May 23, 1889,
May 26, 1892,
May 5, 1892,
June 13, 1895.
June 10, 1897.
June 12, 1899,
J une 2, 1892,
Oct. 17, 1892,
May 23, 1895,
July 11, 1895,
May 20, 189(),
July 15, 189(5,
July 8, 1897,
July 15, 1897,
Apr. 14, 1898.
May 18, 1899,
July 18, 1899.
Detailed to H()si)ital Corps.
Feb. 27, 1883.
Nov. 23, 1885.
Oct. t). 1884.
June 19, 1881. Corporal.
Apr. 17, 1881.
Dec. 28. 1887. Corporal.
Oct. »), 1884.
July 7, 1880.
August 4, 1893.
July It), 189('.
Aug. 12, 1897.
Jan. 11, 1898. Corporal.
July 1, 1887.
Oct. 12, 1887.
May 24, 1891.
Feb. 9, 1893. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
May 23, 1892.
May 20, 1892.
June 0, 1893. Corporal, Ser-
geant, 1st Sergeant.
May 11, 1895.
Corporal, Sergeant.
xiug. 12, 1893.
Jan. 10, 1890. Musician.
Aug. 28, 1899.
Aug. 8, 1890.
Aug. 28, 1899.
Aug. 8, 1890.
Jan. 7, 1901.
Jan. 5, 1901. Corporal.
Aug. 24, 1899.
Corporal.
62
History of Companies I and E.
McBride, Harley A.
Maloney, Monty F.
Mahaney, Bert
Meyers, Frank G.
Mouck, Robert H.
Morrill, O. A.
Meyer, Saru
Nash, Henrj G.
North, A. 1).
Naaktgeboren, Jacob
Nelson, Melvin 11,
Oberholtzer, Charley
Osborne, Andrew J.
Olmstead, Stuart
Flanthaber, Charles
Paschal, John H.
Fhiney, Burritt E.
Furdy, M. S.
Petersen, Frank
Puddifoot, Charles H
Preston, Elliott M.
Peterson, Peter
Petersen, Albert A.
Pinkley, Victor M.
Paschal, James O.
i'almer, Bert
Pratt, Thurston T.
( iuackenbush. Cornel
Aug. 31, 189t<.
Feb. 5, 1900,
May 3, 1900,
May 10, 19C0.
May 7, 1900,
July 20, 1900.
Apr. 2o, 1901,
Sept. 11, 1878,
June 4, 188f),
June 7, 1889,
Oct. 19, 1892,
June 19, 1890,
May 24, 1900.
Apr. 24, 1884,
July 12, 1897,
May 18, 1899.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Aug. 5' 1880,
Aug. 19, 1885,
Mch; 22, 1879,
June 28, 1882,
Nov. 30, 1882,
June 4, 1886,
June 4, 1886,
July 9, 1896,
June 4, 1886,
May 28, 1891,
Aug. 3, 1891,
Aug. 8, 1895,
Jan. 24, 1895,
June 6, 1895,
May 13, 1897,
July 3, 1900.
iusSept. 11, 1878,
Apr. 19, 1901.
Jan. 15. 1901.
Apr. 20, 1901.
Nov. 3, 1873.
June 4, 1889.
July 16, 1890.
Nov. 12, 1892.
June 20, 1893.
Dec. 3, 1884.
Sept. 3, 1899.
Quackenbush, (Jeo. A.
*Q,uackenbush, Frank
*Quick, William
Nov. 2, 1882.
Dec. 1, 1879,
June 11, 1891,
June 28, 1894,
Aug. 3, 1893,
Corporal.
Corporal.
Corporal.
Nov. 3, 1879.
Aug. 5, 1885.
May 14, 1886. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
May 24, 1883.
Feb. 27, 1887.
June 19, 1884.
June 10, 1889. C irporal.
May 4, 1889. Corporal.
Commissioned 2nd Lieut,
this date.
June 4, 1889.
June 16, 1892.
Jan. 26, 1893.
July 16, 189().
Aug. 10, 1895.
May 28, 1898.
May 12, 1900.
Commissioned 1st. Lieut.
this date.
Commissioned Capt this
date.
Died Feb. 4, 1884. Sergeant.
June 27, 1894.
Jan. 16, 1896, Corporal, Ser-
geant, 1st Sergeant.
Aug. 28, 1899.
IijjNois National Guards.
m
Kiclitmyer, Alonzo
Rounds, Oscar
Keutlinger, Win J.
Rose, Alex E.
Rose, John
Reecher, Lewis
Record, Albert R.
Ryan, John E.
*Randall, George
Rockey, Harry H,
it i( ((
Rockey, Jacob L.
lUordon, John A.
Story, James
Strawn, Frank H.
Scotchbrook, Aaron A.
Stokes, Edward P.
Sixx, Scott
Stapleton, Joseph
Savage, L. E.
Shatto, James H.
Stafford, D. C.
Small, II. 1).
Springer, IJert
Smith, Edward A.
Spafford, Frank S.
Stowers, Frank E.
Spafford, J. Earle
Sears. Claude
Stone, W. i».
Springer, Myron
Sept. II. 187S,
Sept. II, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Aug. 2(5, 187i».
May 2t), 188(5,
June 5, 18'J0,
May 18, 188r>,
May 28, 1888,
June 7, 1888,
June 25, 1891,
July 15, 188'J,
Aug. 3, 1893,
May 23, 1895.
June 15, 1899.
June 15, 1900,
May 30, 1895,
March 9, 1899,
Apr. 25, 1901.
Sept. 11, 1878,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Nov. 18, 1878.
May 10, 1879,
June 4. 1879,
May 29,
Feb. 24,
June 9,
J une 2«,
Aug. 5,
May 2tJ,
June 4,
May 24,
1880,
1881,
1882,
, 1882,
1885,
188»),
188(5,
1888,
June 23, 188(5.
Aug. 14, 1887,
May 24, 1888,
June 7,1888,
June 7, 1889,
July 25, 1889,
Sept. 7, 1880. 1st Sergeant.
July 10,1879. Corporal.
Sept. II, 1883.
June 10, 1889.
Aug. 13, 1892.
Nov. 13, 1888.
July 29, 1890.
June 7, 1891.
July 20, 1891. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
July 21, 1892.
Sept. 13, 1894,
Corporal, Sergeant, 1st Ser-
geant.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Commissioned 2nd Lieut,
this date.
Frib. 24, 1880.
July 10, 1879.
Corporal. Commissioned
2nd Lieut. Sept. 2, 18S0.
June 1(5, 1884. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
Feb. 27, 1883.
Oct. (5, 1884.
May 24, 1883.
July 15, 188(5. Musician.
May 14, 188(5.
May 9, 1887.
May 1(5, 1887.
May 24, 1891. Corporal, Ser-
geant, 1st Sergeant.
July 10, 1890.
May 24, 1891. Corporal.
July 29, 1890.
June 1, 1891.
June 1(5, 1892, Corporal, Sef-
geant.
64
History of Companies I. and E.
Stowe, Merritt
Steiner, N. W.
Seamen, John H.
Spears, James S.
Shears, W. F,
*Seldon, Ed.
Sanders, Frank F.
*Seavey, Guy A.
Sherwood, Asa K.
Scanlan, Oliver
Stanley, Neal
Stowell, John
Shaffer, Charles S.
Smith, Vern M.
Smith, Nick A.
Seibert, John D.
Shirk, Charles K.
Smaltz, Roy G.
Stalcup, James
Shaw, Harry V.
Snyder, William
Stone, ]{;rastus
Trauger, Charles H.
Turney, Hamilton K.
tTopping, H. C.
Taylor, William Jr.
♦Thompson, Fred A.
Thompson, H. Clay
Trebun, Martin F.
Thompson, Robert C.
Turner, Richard
Taylor, Robert W.
Yiner, Ellis F.
July 25, 1889,
Oct. 17, 1892,
June 5, 1890,
May 28, 1891.
May 28, 1891,
Feb. 25, 1892,
June 16, 1892.
June 27, 1895,
July 27, 1893,
July 27, 1893,
Aug. 13, 189(5,
May ('., 1897,
July 29, 1897,
May 18, 1899,
May 18, 1899.
Nov. 24 1899,
J uly 28, 1899,
Aug. 31, 1899,
Feb. 5, 1900,
May], 1900,
May 1, 1900,
May 24, 1900,
June 1, 1900,
Mch. 7, 1901,
Apr. 8, 1901,
Sept. 11, 1878,
Mch. 15, 1880,
July 17, 1884,
June 28, 1888,
July 2, 1891,
July 18, 1895,
June 28, 1894,
May 23, 1895,
May 23, 1895,
May 23, 1895,
June 3, 1897,
July 14. 1899,
May 18, 1899,
Aug. 10, 1899,
Junes, 1890,
Corporal, Sergeant. Com-
missioned 1st Lieut. July
3, 1891.
Aug. 4, 1893.
June »;, 1893.
Aug. 4, 1893.
Dec. 26, 1892.
Aug. 4, 1893.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Mch. 28, 1898.
May 5, 1900. Corporal.
Jan. 5. 1901.
Jan. 15, 1901.
Jan. 15, 1901.
Jan. 15, 1901. Corporal.
Dec. 15, 1882.
Dec. 15, 1882.
Oct. 12, 1887.
June 29, 1891.
Nov. 12, 1892.
Aug, 8, 1896.
Aug. 10, 1895.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Corporal.
Corporal.
Dec, 3, 1891.
Musician.
Tm-inois National Guards.
Co
* Van Dyke, Henry 15.
Wilcox, George C.
Wilson, William
Worrell, Kdward A.
Wood, Robert
Williams, Clintoo
Winebrenner, Chas. L
Weaver, Henry J5.
Winter, Henry
Wheeler, Jas. A.
Williams, Harvey
Wood, Harry
Wood, Thomas J.
Williams, Henry E.
*Wolf, Henry
West, J. A.
*Whiiemore, Firman
Watson, Chas. E.
Weaver, Ernest J.
Wagner, Jerome
* Weeks, Walter
*Whiteniore, Wm. F
*Wood, Edwin E.
*Weeks, Charles D.
* Weaver, Harry A.
Wallstone, Julius
Wallace, Martin
Mch. :U), IS'.CJ,
Apr. l'.», IS'.it;,
Mch. U\, ISIKS,
Sept. 11, IHIH,
Sept, 11, IHIH,
Sept. 11, ISTH,
Sept. 11, 187S,
Nov. IS, 187«,
Mch. 3, IST'.t,
Oct. 4, 1ST'.),
June 2(), 18S2,
Aug. 7, 1882,
June 2(3, 1884,
.Jiune 4, 1886,
J une 14, 1887,
May 24, 1888,
July 25, 1889,
Mch. 1(5, 1893,
July 30, 1889,
June 19, 1890,
July 20, 1893,
Mch. 31, 1898,
May 21, 1890,
June 4, 1891,
Aug. 9, 1896,
July 2, 1891,
May 2(>, 1892,
Aug. 30, 1892,
Mch. 12, 189j?,
■June 15, 1899,
July 4, 1S93,
July 27, 1893,
Aug. 31, 1896,
Aug. 24, 1899,
Aug. 24, 1900,
Dec. 14, 1893,
June i5, 1897,
Apr. 30, 1896,
May 6, 1897,
Corporal.
AuR. 12, 189(i.
Jan. 11, 1S9S.
Sept. 3, 1899.
July 10, 1879. Sergeant.
Sept, 7, 1880. Corporal.
Commissioned 2nd Lieut.
July If., 1879.
Nov. 3, 1879.
Apr. 19, 1884. Corporal.
Sergeant.
Dec. 1, 1881. Corporal.
'June 6, 1883.
Dec. 3, 1881.
Sergeant.
Nov. 22, 1885.
June 20, 1887.
Nov. 13, 1888.
June 9, 1891.
June 16, 1892
Aug. 8, 1896.
Aug. 1, 1892.
June 20, 1893.
Sept. 13, 1894.
Mch. 31, 1901.
Dec. 26, 1892.
June 27, 1894.
Sergeant. Commissioned
2nd Lieut. June 29, 1897.
Jan. 26, 1893.
Sept. 17,1894.
Jan. 16, 1896.
Corporal.
Musician.
Corporal.
June 14. 1900.
Aug. 8, 1896 Corporal.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Commissioned 1st
Mch. 9, 1899.
Aug. 8, 1896.
Sept. 3, 1899.
liieut.
66
History of Companies I and E.
Wilcox, Albert
VVinans, i'ercy H.
Warner, Jay C.
Weaver, Carl
Welch, Chris
Welch, Harry
Wilbur, Sidney
Webber, G. D.
Yarbrough, William
Yopst, Birt O,
July 'J8, ISyj,
Aug. 81, 1899,
Mch, 1, 1900, Apr. 19, 1901.
May 3, 1900,
May 7, 1900,
Feb. 21, 1901,
Aug. 29, 1901,
Apr. 25, 1901, Musician.
May ♦), 1897, May 5, 1900.
Aug. 81, 1899,
KOSTER OF COMPANY E.
A * indicates service at the Chicago strike.
COMMISSIONED OFFICERS.
Captains.
John W. Niles,
* Frank Anthony
* William F. Lawrie,
J. Frank Wahl,
Thomas S. Beach,
Lewis F. Eisele,
William F. liawrie.
* Walter N. Haskell,
Goodicil B. Dillon,
Samuel H. Feigley,
Frank Anthony,
DATE OF COMMISSION DATE OF PKOMOTION
RESICNATION OK DISCHAKOE.
Mch. 24, 1888, Resigned Dec. 3, 1888.
Dec. 20, 1888, Appointed Assistant
Surgeon with rank of
Captain, Feb. 1, 18i;l.
Feb. 13, 1891, Commissioned Major Jan.
5, 1899.
Feb. 9, 1899,
1st Lieutenants.
Mch. 24, 1888, Resigned Nov. 3, 1888.
Dec. 20, 188», Resigned Oct. 17, 1890.
Dec. 13, 18i'0, Commissioned Captain
Feb. 13, 1891.
Feb. 13, 1891, Resigned Nov. --, 1894.
Nov. 12, 1894, Placed on retired list up
on his own request July
1, 1899.
July 14, 1899,
2nd Lieutenanis.
Mch. 24, 1888, Commissioned
Dec. 20, 1888.
Captaia
Illinois National Guards.
<')7
William F. J/awrie,
Walter N. Haskell,
*Goodicil 15. Dilliin,
Kdwin S. .lohnson,
,1. Frank Wahl,
Samuel II. Feigley,
Charles F. Iloobler,
Dec. 20, 1S8S, Commissioned 1st Lieut.
Dec. i;5, ISIK).
Dec. i;{, IS'.m, Commissioned 1st Lieut.
Feb. i:i IS'.M.
Feb. VA, IS'.tl, Commissioned 1st Lieut-
Nov. 12, ISUl.
Nov. 12, IS'.tl, Resigned A pr.22. IH'.iT.
•lune IS, ISUT, Commissioned Captain
Feb.it, IS'.i'.).
Feb. S», IS'.m, Commissioned 1st Lieut.
-luly 14, l.SD'.l.
.July 11, IS'.tit.
XA.MK
Anthony, Frank
Angell, William IL
Allen, William E.
Adair, Ambrose
Arey, Howard
Allpres^, Martin L.
Aument, Harry
Anderson, Carl
Aument, Frank H.
Atkins, E. Lyle
Alderfer, Phillip
Anning, Clarence
Aument, Jacob H.
Beach, Thomas S.
JJurke, Harry F.
f:nlistei) men.
DATE OI' EXLISTMKNT HK:MAI!KS.
Mch. 24, 1888, Commissioned 2ncl J.ieuf
this date.
Mch. 24, 1888, Sept. 2, 18'.)0.
Mch. 24, 1888, Dropped from rolls May 1.
1888.
Mch. 24, 1888, S. O. No. 9G, 1889.
Oct. 13, 1890, May 22, 1894.
June 27, 1892, July 27, 1895.
July 15, 1895, Mch. 22, 1898.
Jan. »), 189(5, Sept. 15, 18«9.
Apr. 13, 189(;,
July 17, 189(), Transfer-i-ed to band no
date.
Feb. 9, 1899,
May 20, 1809,
June 15, 1899,
Mch, 24, 1888, Coaiaaissioned 1st Lieut,
this date.
Mch. 24,1888, July 5, 1888.
May 20, 1889, Transferred to Co. J} July
;iO, 1889.
J3ickford, Joseph M.
Bassett, Orville 1'.
Boyers, Joseph
Bae--, Frank L.
iienson, William 1*.
Bressler, Heaton J.
Mch. 24. 1888, Dropped from rolls May 1,
1888.
Mch. 24, 1888, Sept. 2, 1890. Corporal.
Mch. 24, 1888, May 23, 1890.
Jan. 21, 1889.
Jan. 23, 1889, S. O. No. 82, 1889.
Jan. 28, 1889,
68
History of Companies I and E..
Burkholder, Charles I.
*Barber, Frank VV.
Behrens, Charles
*Huck, William
*Boyer, llalph 1).
*BensiDger, Chas. E.
*Brown, VV. A.
Billings, Charles
*Brown, Fred E.
Baker, llomeo W.
JJlair, Frank
Bushnell, Leo O.
Burch, Fred R.
Bassett, Edward
r>ook, Enos
Bensinger, John E.
Bassett, Bert
Bailey, Frank C.
Burr, James S.
Byers, Wilson
Berlin, Clark
Boyer, Kaohlin
Blair, George C.
Betts, Verne E.
Baker, John H.
Criswell, James F.
Conner, John R.
Cook, Ward W.
Cochrane, Albert G.
*Cushman, John W.
Nov. 18, 188U, Corporal.
Jan. 7, 1893, Sergeant.
Apr. 2, 1894,
Sept. 1, 1890,
Mch. 1C>, 189().
Appointed
Commissary
date.
May 14, 1892.
July 27, 1S95.
Regimental
Sergt. no
May 25, 1891,
Apr. 25, 1892, July 27, 1S95. Corporal.
June 27, 1892,
June, 3, 1895, Apr. 22, 1891),
Jan. IC), 1893, Mch. 1(5,189(3.
Jan. K), 1893, Mch. 1(5, 189().
Aug. 27, 1894,
Aug. 27, 1894, Apr. 1(5, 1898.
Aug. 27, 1894, Corporal.
Feb. 28, 1898,
July 8, 1895,
Oct, 14, 189o,
Apr. P), 189(5, Mch. 22, 1898.
Apr. 20, 1890,
June 22, 1897,
Mch. 7, 1898,
Mch. 28, 1898,
Mch. 29, 1898,
Mch. 30, 1898, Corporal,
Apr. 11, 1898, May 2, 1899.
May 15. 1898, July 2, 1900.
May 17, 1898,
Feb. 9, 1899,
May 20, 18^9,
Apr, 30, 1901,
Mch. 24, 1888, (Corporal, Q. M. Sergeant.
Mch. 24, 1888, S. O. No. 105, 1889.
Mch, 24, 1888, Oct. 5, 1889.
Mch 24, 1888, S. O. No. 3(5, 1889.
Mch. 24, 1888, Corporil, Sergeant. Ap
pointed Regimental Ord-
nance Sergr. Aug. — , 1899.
(Crawford, Robert G.
Clarkson, Matthew A.
Campbell, Walter S.
Apr. 20, 1891,
Sept. 14, 1894,
Mch. 1(5, 189(5,
June 2,1, 1897,
Mch. 2(), 1888,
June 21, 1888,
Jan. 28, 1889,
S. O. No. 3(3, 1889.
S. O. No. 82, 1889.
Illinois National Guards.
fiO
Cash, Wiley 15.
"Chalmers, John A.
*Cragin, Elmer A
Cunningham, Claire T,
Compton, Claire
Cary, Elroy \l.
Creider, William D.
Cary, John
Coover, W. S.
Clark, Lyman V.
Coryell, Frank M.
Cleary, Arthur M.
Connell, William
Conner, C. Walter
Connell, James
Clark, Edgar L.
Dillon, Goodicil
*De(Trofr, Bert L.
Dickson, John A.
Deitz, Louis F.
^Davison, C. Morton
*Dillon, J. Reese
*Dow, John
Deets, Frank G.
Dunbar, Stowers
Deem, Arthur E
Deyo, D. B.
Deem, William
Diffenbaugh, Benj. F,
Eisele, Lewis F.
Feb. 1, l.S8'.i,
May 25, ISIU,
July 27, IWt."),
Feb. r.i, 189:3,
Feb. 21, LSiKJ,
Mch. 8, 18'.»7,
Mch. 21, 18U8,
Feb. 24, 18i)0,
Mch. 30, 189C.,
Apr. 13, 18%.
Apr. 27, 18%,
June 27, 189().
June 22, 18*.t7.
Sept. f), 18'.)7,
Feb. 2*, 1898
Feb. 28, 19(1.
Mch. 28, 1898.
May 11, 1898.
Mch. f) 1899.
May 10, 1899.
Apr. 30, 1901.
Mch. 24, 1888,
Sept. 1, 1890,
Feb. 19, 1894,
Mch. 25, 1895.
June 8, 1891.
June 4, 1892,
June 20, 1892,
Apr. 9, 1894,
Junes, 1894,
Sept, 23, 1895.
Oct. 11, 1895.
Oct. 14, 1895,
Oct. 14, 1898,
Mch. 2, 189C..
June 27, 189i;,
Dec. 4, 1899.
Apr. 9, 1899.
Mch. 24, 1888,
July 18, 1892.
July 27, 189.0.
Transferred to band,
date.
July 2, 1900.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Sergeant. Commissioned
2nd Lieut. Feb. 13, 1891.
Feb. 10, 1894. Cornoral.
Sergeant.
July 15, 1893.
July 1(), 1895.
Mcii. 1<), 1897.
Mch. 10, 1897.
Musician.
Corporal, Sergeant.
1st Sergeant.
Corporal.
Sergeant. Commissioned
1st Lieut. Dee. 20, 1888.
70
History of Companies I and E.
Ely, Frank D.
Fiisele, J acob L.
*Eick, Benjamin
Eiteman, Wilford L
*Engh, Alfred
Eshleman, F. Roy
Eisele, Edward L.
Emmons, Frank
Eager, Wallace L.
Feigley, Oscar A.
(( It t(
*Feigley, Samuel H.
Fitch, LeClair
*Fiock, Henry J.
*Flock, Mathew
Flock, William. F.
Figeley, Joseph L.
Ford, 11. Leonard
Fanning, Omar A.
Feigley, J. Lovure
Forrester, Frank M.
Finch, Bert
Grimes, Frank A.
Grimes, Alfred N.
*Green, Lourde J.
Grate, Wallace H.
Golder, Lloyd H.
Grimes, Herbert
Mch. 24, 1888,
June 11, 1888,
Jan. 14, 1881).
Feb, 29, 1892,
June 8, 1891,
June 8, 1894,
June 3, 1895.
Mch. 7, 1898,
Feb. 9. 1899.
Feb. 9, 1899.
June 21, 1888,
Feb. 29, 1892,
Jan. 26, 1890,
Feb. 19, 1894.
Mch. 25, 1895.
Mch. 9, 1896.
Mch. 22, 1897.
June 22, 1891,
June 20,1892,
Mch. 2, 1896,
June 22, 1897.
Sept. 25, 1893.
June 22, 1897,
Oct. 31, 1889.
Sergeant.
Dec. 6, 1889.
Corporal.
Appointea Regimental Or-
dnance Sergeant, no
date.
Mch. 29, 1894.
Apr. 22, 1896.
Corporal.
Corporal.
Mch. 1, 1893.
Sergeant. 1st Sergeant.
Commissioned 2nd Lieut.
Feb. 9, 1899.
July 15, 1893.
July 16, 1895.
Sergeant.
June 22, 1897.
March 21, 1898.
Mch. 31, 1898.
Apr. 28, 1901.
May 15, 1899.
Apr. 30, 1901.
Apr. 30, 1901.
Mch. 24, 1888,
Jan. 23, 1889,
Mch. 18, 1889,
Jan. 30, 1893.
Feb. 19, 1894.
Apr. 13, 1891,
May 11, 1891.
May 7, 1894.
June 21, 1897.
Corporal
Corporal. Appointed Bat-
talion Sergeant Major
August i89i».'
Dec. 6, 1889.
S. O. No. 118, 1891.
Musician.
Ii.LiNt)is National Guards.
71
(Jaines, Charles N.
(ioodinan, Harry C.
(irove, Clarence C.
(ioltman, Harry K.
drey, Arthur
(; rimes, ,1. Leon
Haberer, John A.
Haskell, Walter N.
Hall, Charles E.
Hoover, Harry G.
Hills, Edward O.
Hess, Albert H.
Howlnnd, Harry F.
Haberly, Frank F.
Haskell, William W.
Hubbard, Charles L.
Herrman, Charles
Hannan, George H.
Hodges, Stewart
Hessel, Carl J.
*Hoobler, Charles F.
Hartman, Join
HartJng, Frank K.
Hankinson, Harry L.
Higby, Leonard O.
Hubbard, Arthur G.
Hess, Fred
Heathcoate, William
Havens, George
Haberle, Edward E.
Heaton, Francis
Hoover, Ben IL
Hoover, Harry iL
lioover, Arthur G.
Mch. HO, 1S')C>.
June 22, IS'.tT.
June 22, ISiiT.
May 11, WJH,
May ;n, is<ni.
Jan. 8, liiOU.
Mch. 24,1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888.
Mch. 24, 1888.
July 27, 18'.) 1.
Mch. 24, 1888.
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 2(3, 1888,
Jan. 21, 1889.
Jan. 27, 1892.
Mch. 9, 1891,
May 25, 1891,
Jan. 1(5, 1893.
Mch. 2(5, 1894,
June 21, 18i;7,
Sept. 10, 1894.
Feb. 28, 1898.
Mch. 2, 189().
Jan. 8, 1900.
Mch. 9, 189().
Mrh. 16, 189().
July 17, 189C.,
Mch. -SI, 1898,
Feb. 7, 1899,
Feb. 8, 1899,
Feb. 9, 1899.
May 20, 1899.
Jan. 8, 1900.
Jan. 8. 1900.
May 31, 1900.
July 2, 1900.
Oct. 31, 1889. 1st Sergeant.
Sergeant. Commissioned
2nd Lieut. Dec. 13, 1890.
Corporal. S. O. No. 143,
no date.
Oct. 29, 1889.
S. O. No. 82, 1889.
Sept. 2, 1890.
S. O. No. 17, 1889.
Corporal, Sergeant.
S. O. No. 3(), 1889.
Mch. 10, 1893.
June 23, 1891.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Commissioned 2nd Lieut,
July 14, 1899.
Transferred to band, no
date.
Corporal. Sergeant.
July 2, 190U.
Corporal, Sergeant,
Corporal.
72
History of Companies I. and E.
Hartman, Andrew
Hosier, Fred
*lsherwood, Earl
*Isherwood, George W.
Ingersoll, Frank B.
Johnson, J. Stanley
*Johnson, Edwin S.
Jenkins, Alfred K.
Johnson, Earl A.
Johnson, Milton
Johnson, Charles S.
Johnson, Charles A.
Jackson, Arthur E.
Jackson, William D.
Jones, Richard O.
Jackson, Merton 11.
Johnson, Fred A.
Jamison, Paul K.
*Kline, John L.
Kilgour, Cassius M.
Kissel, George B.
Kelsey, William H.
Koberstine, Henry W,
*Kochersperger, John P
*Kauftman, Fred W.
Keeney, H. Ezra
Kromer, George J.
Kahl, Ernest
Kadel, William W.
Kent, George G.
Lawrie, William F.
Llewellyn, David
Lee, John II.
Lee, Daniel W.
Feb. 21, 1901.
Apr. 30, 1901.
Nov. 11, 1889.
Jan. 23, 1893.
June 25, 1891,
Mch. 31, 1898.
Aug. 20, 1900.
Mch. 24, 1888,
May 31, 1889,
Feb. 20, 1893,
Apr. 9, 1894.
Apr. 15, 1898.
May 31, 1889,
Oct. 30, 1893,
June 11,1894.
Apr. 27, 1891;,
Mch. 31, 1898.
Feb. C, 1899.
Feb. 6, 1899.
Feb. 8, 189'),
Feb. 14, 1899.
Feb. 27, 1899.
Apr. 30, 1901.
Mch. 24, 1888,
x\lch. 18, 1889,
May 20, 1889,
Nov. 11, 1889.
Jan. 30, 1893,
Sept. 1, 1890,
Feb. 5, 1894,
July 2 1894,
July 15, 1895,
Feb. 24, 189(5,
Apr. 27, 189(5.
June 22, 1897.
Apr. 30, 1901.
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888.
Mch. 17, 1890.
Apr. 30, 1894.
June 21, 1897,
July 15, 1897.
Mch. 10, 1890.
Corporal, Sergeant.
1st Sergeant.
Commissioned 2Qd Lieut.
Nov. 12, 1894.
Oct. 18, 1890.
May 18, 1894.
June, 1899.
July 2, 1900.
Appointed Hospital Stew-
ard, no date.
July 18, 1894. Musician.
S. O. No. 109, 1889.
Feb. 10, 1894.
May 22, 1894.
Apr. 22, 189(5.
Mch. 1(5, 1898. Corporal.
Mch. 22. 1898.
Aug. 3, 189(5.
Commissioned 2nd Lieut.
Dec. 20, 1888.
Illinois National Guards.
73
LeFevre, Harry F.
LeFevre, Kdwin VV.
Lingel, William J.
Lingel, IJert
Lyle, Guy H,
Limerick, John (J.
J/dland, Charles E.
Little, Harry II.
Jiiind, William C.
Latherovv, Walter
Lindsley, Calvin A.
J^andier, Herman
Mangan, Samuel T.
Mangan, William F.
Mangan, E. J.
Mangan, 11. L.
Myer, Adam 13,
41 U 11
Murphy, William II.
Miller. Herman T.
Myers, Kahler
Manahan, Samuel A.
Miller, Henry
Mueller, Ernest
Meyers, J^ee D.
Morrison, Alfred G.
Moore, Louis E.
Mc Neil, K. 13.
Mangers, Charles J.
Mangan, Clarence J^.
Mead, Clyde W.
Niles, John W.
Newton, William A.
Newton, James H.
Aug. 1, IS'J'J.
Bugler.
Sergeant.
May 22, I8'.>4.
June II, IS'.M.
June 21, IS'.»7, Mch. 22, 1898.
Mch. 2:{, 18'.Mi, Transferred to Co. I).
June lu, I MIT.
Mch. :U ISiiC).
Apr. 27, IS'.H),
July 7, IS'JiJ, Transferred to band,
date.
July 17, ISi'f), Transferred to band,
no date.
Mch. 12, ISUS.
Mch. 28, 18'.»8
May 11, 18l>8,
Feb. 8, 18111).
May 20, 18'I"J.
Feb. 21, lUOl.
Mch. 21, 1888.
Apr. 20, 18<J1,
Mch. 24, 1888, Corporal.
Apr. 27, 1891.
Mch. 24, 1888, May 28, 1890.
Mch. 24, 1888.
Apr. 20, 1891, May 22, 1894.
Mch. 24, 1888.
June 22, 1891, May 14, 1892.
May 28, 1888.
June 27, 1887, Co. B. Transferred to Co. E
S. O. No. 171, I88S. Dis-
ci, argedS. O. No.82, 1889
May 28, 1889, Aug. 5, 1892.
Mch. 30, 189]. May 14, 1892.
May 9, 1892, Mch. 10, 1893.
Aug. 27, 1894.
Mch. Hi, 189t).
Mch. 30, 1891).
June 22, 1897, June 22, 1900.
June 22, 1897, Nov. 10, 1899. Corporal.
May 20, 1899.
July 1,1900.
Feb. lo, 1901.
Mch. 21, 1888, Commissioned Captain this
date.
May 11, 1891, May 22, 1894.
Apr. 18, 1892, Julo 15, 189;f
74
History of Companies I and E.
*MeIleD, Edward W.
Nelms, William W.
Osmer, Sydney C.
*Overholser, S. Guy
Osborn, Harper
Over, Charles B.
O'Hair, John
Onken, Anthony
Onken, George
Pierce, Clarence
Pratt, George F.
Perry, Gentz
Palmer, W. Carl
Parks, Lucius VV.
*Patton, Louis 11.
*Perry, William H.
*Phelps, W. Walter
Pippert, Henry C.
Pigg, James W.
Palmer, Wilbert M.
July 2, 1894.
July 1, 1900.
Mch. 24, 1888,
May 20, 1889,
July 18,1892,
Dec. 18. 1893.
Mch. 25, 1895.
Mch. 22, 1897.
May 4, 1891,
July 15, 1895.
May 1, 1899.
May 15, 1899.
Feb. 3, 1901.
Mch. 26, 1888,
May 28, 1888,
May 15, 1890,
Oct. 20, 1890,
June 8, 1891,
June 18, 1892,
Apr. 30, 1894,
Apr. 30, 1894,
June 23, 18P5.
Apr. 13, 189(3.
July 7, 1896,
Payson, William E. Feb. 7, 1899,
Partridge, Harry G.
Kock, Edwin S.
liamsey, Hugh II.
Rood, Warren A.
Rich, John II.
Keed, John A.
*Kidenour, Frank J.
Round, George
Roland, Robert R.
Reap, William
Rarasdall, Charles D.
Stoddard, Fred R.
(I K U
Shumaker, Charles N.
Smith, Jesse
Feb. 3, 1901.
Mch. 24, 1888,
May 25, 1888,
May 28, 1888,
May 5, 1893,
May 25, 1891.
June 11, 1894.
Mch. 2, 1896.
Apr. 20, 1896.
Mch. 30, 1898,
May 15, 1899.
Mch. 24, 1888,
Apr. 27, 1891,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888.
June 1,1891,
Mch. 10, 1890.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Battalion Sergeant
Major. No date.
Mch. 10, 1893.
June 2. 1888.
Oct. 15, 1890.
Sept. 2, 1890.
July 15, 1893.
July 27, 1895.
June 25, 1897.
June 25, 1897.
Transferred to band, no
date.
Enlisted in U. S. Army
May 2, 1899.
July 18, 1892. Corporal, Ser-
geant.
S. O. No. 87, 1889.
July 15, 1893.
Corporal, Sergeant.
May 22, 1894.
Jalyo, 1888.
Mch. 1, 1893,
Ii.i.iNois National Guards.
75
Smith, Robert E.
Snavely, John M.
Sturtz, C. E.
Stroup, George O.
Strock, W. Chester
*St. John, Burton,
St. John, Thomas E.
*Shultz, U. J}.
*Strock, Linnis L.
Sayers, William II.
*She!(lon, Leslie C.
Strock, John F.
Struckman, Wm. C.
Shafer, Harry
Sheldon, Charles F.
Smith, Frank W.
Shumaker, Hiram W.
Soules, H. Arthur
Street, Albert L.
Stoner, Claude 11.
Smith, PJdward A.
schaub, William H.
Slade, George
Scott, Harry A.
Sneed, Burt J.
Sneed, Fred W.
Sampson, John
Shank, Andrew
Shumaker, Harry E.
Tumbleson, (Charles F.
Thomas, William H.
*Taylor, Frank H.
Triggs, Aipheus
Trefz, Julius
Thorne, George
Thompson, Lloyd E.
Troste, Samuel D.
Mch. 2f., 1H8H.
June 4, 1888,
July »), 1888.
Oct. 14, 188"»,
May 11, 181)1.
Apr. 18, 18i)2,
May '.), 18<.t2,
June 4, 181)2,
14 ov. 10, 181)2,
Feb. 5. 18'.)4,
Mch. 5, 18'.)4.
J une 21, 18H7.
Oct. 14, 189.5,
Oct. 14, 1893.
Feb. 24, 189f5.
Mch. 2, 1896,
Mch. 10, 1896.
May 21, 1899.
July IT, 1896,
Jane 22, 1897.
Mch. 7, 1898,
Mch. 31, 1898.
Mch. 31, 1898.
Mch. 31, 1898.
May 15. 1898,
June 14, 1898.
Feb. 6, 1899,
Feb. 8, 1899,
Aug. 20, 1900.
Sept. 20, 1900.
Apr. 30, 1901.
June 23, 1888,
Feb. 23. 1891,
July 30, 1894,
Feb. 23, 1891,
Dec. 11, 1S93,
July 8, 1895.
Feb. 27, 1899.
Jan. f., 1896.
May 15, 1899.
May 20, 1899,
Apr. 30, 1901.
Oct. 18, 1890.
Mch. 3, 1893.
.»uly 16, 1895.
Mch. 10, 189.3.
July IC), 1895.
Mch. 16, 1896).
Apr. 22, 1896.
.\lch. 6, 1899.
Mch.22, 18;i8.
Transferred to bai)d no
date.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Nov. <•), 1899.
Corporal.
Corporal.
S. O. No. 36, 1889.
Mch. 8, 1894.
Mch. 8, 1894.
Apr. 22, 1896. Corporal.
Corporal.
76
History of Companies I and E.
Van Home, E. Burt
Van Drew, Clarence
Verbeck, Clarence
Woods, Hollin H.
Woodworth, Clarence
Williams, Albert W.
Williams, B. Frank
Winters, James C.
Williams, Grant U.
Williams, Jacob
*Wagley, Frank E.
*\Vildasln, .Joshua
*VVahl, J. Frank
Wetzel, John G.
Weaver, A. L.
Wright, Frank S.
"VVoodyatr, Arthur H.
*Ward, Frank J.
Wagley, Fred E.
Wroten, Frank
Woodard, John
Watson, A. II.
Wahl, Albert A.
Wilkinson, Lee P.
Winters, Carl
Wright, Fred F,
Walch, Jeremiah
Wise, Albert
Meh. 20, 1888
Apr. 20, 1891,
July 8, 18'.»5,
Apr. 1, 1895).
Aug. 20, 1900.
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Mch. 24, 1888,
Apr. 13, 1891
Mch. 24, 1888,
June 4, 1888,
May 1(5, 1889.
June 27, 1892.
May 22, 1889,
July 11, 1892.
Dec. 18, 1893.
Dec. 18, 1893.
Mch. 2, 1891,
July 8, 1895.
Sept. 28, 189«).
May 25, 1891,
Mch. 25, 1895,
June 29, 1891.
June 27, 1892,
Feb. 13, 1893.
Feb. 13, 1893,
Mch. 9, 189(5,
June 18, 1894,
Aug. 27, 1894.
Oct. 1, 1894,
July 8, 1895,
Jan. 27, 189(*..
Apr. 13, 189(5.
May 20, 1899.
Mch. 12, 1897.
Mch. 21, 1898,
Mch. 28, 1898,
Feb. 9, 1899.
Aug. 20, 1900.
Corporal, Sergeant.
May 9, 1894.
July 15, 189(5.
S. O. No. 118, 1891. Corpor-
al, Sergeant.
Apr. 14, 1890. Corporal.
Apr. 14, 189(..
Corporal.
May 1, 1889.
Oct. 7, 1888.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Corporal, Sergeant.
Corporal, Sergeant,
Commissioned 2nd Lieut.
June 18, 1897.
Oct. 23, 1893.
Corporal.
Mch. K), 1897.
June 25, 1897.
Mch. Ifi, 1898.
Apr. 22, 1S9().
Corporal.
May 2, 1899.
COL. C. E. 15L1:YE1{.
Aide-de Camp.
1m,inois National Guards. 77
CHAPTEK VII.
Till': Sixth Ri::(ii.mi:\t |]axi). Its ( )k(;anizati()X and
History Briefly Told.
It is to be much regretted that a more complete and
detailed history of this organization was not obtained as,
in the position it has held for the past five years and
connected as it is with the Sixth Regiment Illinois Na-
tional (xuards, its members are highly esteemed by the
enlisted men of the regiment and comrades they are in
every sense of the word. More especially is this trii? of
its members and the men of companies I and E. Com-
bined they represent Whiteside County in the ranks of
the State troops of Illinois. The tie of comradeship
which binds them together is stronger and more lasting
than that which connects them with the men of the re-
mainder of the regiment which is lacking in the feeling
of friendship arising from personal acquaintances exist-
ing among the band boys and the boys oi I and E. For
this reason every available fact was eagerly grasped and
recorded, aiming to make this history and the history of
those who may have served the State from Whiteside
County as complete and entire as possible.
Very little can be related, with which the reader is
not familiar, concerning the Sixth Regiment Band, pos-
78 History of Companies I and E.
sibly better known as the Keystone of Sterling. It was
organized in Rock Falls, 111., during the year of 1872
under the leadership of Freeman D. Rosebrook. Not long
after the organization was perfected John Kadel became
its leader and under this efficient management the band
became famous as a musical organization even beyond
the borders of our own State.
It has long been recognized as one of the most accom-
plished organizations of its kind in the State and its
members have every reason to be proud of its thirty
years of honorable record.
Director Kadel retired in the summer of 1896 and the
guiding reins were placed in the hands of Professor F.
C. Nixon. The headquarters were removed across the
river and it became a Sterling organization where it has
since remained.
During the same year it entered the service of the
State as official band of the Sixth Regiment, Illinois Na-
tional Guards, which position it retains today. At every
annual encampment of State troops the band is found
marching at the head of the regiment, a position of hon-
or. In the commodious band stand erected on the
grounds, nightly concerts are given, which are very
pleasing to the tired soldiers and hundreds of visitors,
who throng the spacious camp grounds. But to be seen
at its best and to be fully appreciated, one should view
and hear the band during dress parade, in which it takes
a very prominent part.
The regiment is usually formed in double rank, ex-
tending in one continuous line nearly the full length of
the parade grounds. The Colonel and his staff take their
position on the opposite side of the grounds in front
of and facing the regiment. In the rear and to the right
Illinois National (ji akds. 70
and U'l't <»t" till- CuKjiicI. tin- open field is l)lack with tlu'
ninss of visiting citizens, who (•oiii^rc^atc re<(ularly to
witness the most ])h'asiiij^ and attractive feature in tlie
drill of the iid'antry troops. After a short drill in the
nwinual of arms and the otHcers are instructed for tlie fol-
lowing^ (lav. the hand, from its position on tlie rii^lit of
the column, i'uforced by the bu»^le corps, moves forward
about fifty [)ace3, makes a half turn to the left and in
full view of every one present marches the entire length
of the line of motionless men in blue and. countermarch-
ing returns to its original position, keeping step, with a
long swinging stride to the music, of a lively march, of
its own production. The bugle corps sounds '"retreat"
and as the last echoes of the clear and resonant notes die
away in the surrounding hills, the evening gun booms
forth the soldiers good night, the band strikes up the
animating notes of the national air, "The Star Spangled
Banner,'' the retdining figures (]uickly arise, come lo
an "attention" and bare their heads to a man, old glory
which has floated proudly from the tall flagstaff through-
out the day is slowly lowered to the gi'ound and put a-
way until another sunrise.
For a brief moment, (juiet. verging on painfuhiess,
reigns over the scene and everyone is motionless as a
statue.
The shades of night are falling. The shadows in the
neijjhboring woods lengthen and become deeper and
more indistinct. Not a sound is heard to mar ihv etfect
of the last sweet strains of melody as it floats softly o'er
the green sward, touching a responsive (diord in every
heart, tilling the breast of everv one present with a lire
and zeal experienced only on such occasions ami tlilTicult
to portray
80 History op^ Companies I. and E.
Surely it is an inspiring moment. As those men stand
with heads uncovered, doing homage to a great nation,
an indescribable sense of })ride and pleasure steals over
them. They are proud with the thought that the em-
blem of liberty and freedom, which was that moment
lowered from view, and which was purchased and has
been protected by the hearts blood of so many of our
countrymen, was their flag: proud of the fact that they
are children of this great union of states and citizens of
this grand old state of Illinois, which gave to us such
patriots as Abraham Lincoln, l^lysses S. Grant and
John A. Logan, and pleased that they are privileged to
serve that State even in the humble capacity of an ob-
scure member of the National Guard, and in that mo-
ment they feel they have received full recompense for
the many hours of tiresome work given at home that
they might be present at this time. The little child
standing by the mothers side is strangely affected and
looks wonderingly up into her face all unconscious that
he is receiving the tirst lessons in the teachings of patri-
otism and love of country, but the seed is sown and an
impression is made on that young mind, never to be for-
gotten.
The tension is relaxed and with one accord hats are
replaced and all is bustle and confusion. Hoarse com-
mands are given and repeated, the regiment is formed
into a column of companies, the band takes its position
in the frcmt and they pass in review before the command-
ing officer of the regiment and the public, each company
vieing wnth the others in an attempt to preserve a solid
front and an unwavering line. They then return to their
quarters, the days duties are over.
To the onlooker it is a beautiful scene and one long to
MAJOR A. T. TOURTILLOTT
Sixth Infantry.
Illinois National (juakds. SI
1h- rLMiK-inbLTi'd. Willi each ocneraliuri arisiii^^ ainoiii;-
siK-li scenes and reeeivini;- the teachings of such lessons
on ever\- hand I'roni early childhood to manhood, who
can ever doubt the integrity of our country; who can
even imagine the time to come when the stars and
stripes will lie trampled in the dust and our people
humbled bv defeat? Not you or L nor our children or
our children's children. Centuries must elapse before
such a wonderful change could take place.
An Englishman, making a tour of the United States,
while riding across the country one day made the ac-
tpiaintance of an elderly gentleman, who- was sitting in
ihe seat beside him. The conversation drifted to inter-
national affairs and to the matter of the mere 1 andful of
soldiers which represented our standing army. The
Englishman put the ciuestion to the old gentleman -If
difliculties should arise with a foreign country and troops
called for, where would you get your soldiers?" Point-
ing out through the car window to where a half a do/en
men were working in the fields, the old gentleman re-
plied --If war ca<me upon us and a call for troops was
made, at least five of that half dozen men would throw
down their tools and hurry to the nearest recruiting sta-
tion and so it would be all over our land." "But can
they fight" (queried the Englishman. "It was such men
as those that made it possible for us to whip you twice."
replied the old man "and if we ever get into trouble
with you again, we will go over to your country, put a
rope on that little island of yours and tow it back home
with us." At that the Englishman excused himself and
moved up to the next car.
A regiment of soldiers without a band may be com-
pared to a horse whose driver has lost his whip. He
82 History of Companies I and E.
may plod along in a manner but the moment the lash is
regained and begins to tickle his back he takes a new
lease on life, pricks up his ears, arches his neck and
stepping high corr.pletes the journey at race horse speed.
So it is with the soldier. He may be ever so weary,
and his thoughts wandering far from his immediate
surroundinfTs, but the instant the band strikes the tirst
note the spirit which lies dormant, awakens, and he is
again the animated, watchful soldier with the welfare of
his country uppermost in his mind and he moves about
with a free step and light heart.
In tune of service, or should the regiment get into
action, the duties of the members of the band are to as-
sist the hospital corps in aiding and caring for the
wounded.
When the call for troops came and the Sixth regiment
was ordered to Camp Tanner for service in war. the
band boarded the train and reported for duty but unfort-
unately there were no provisions made for a band organ-
ization in the volunteer regiments. In Governor Tan-
ner's instructions from Secretary of War. R. A. Alger,
he was advised that "bands will be organized from the
strength of the regiments as in the regular army."
Thus it will be seen that it could not be mustered into
the government service as a whole, and on May ist
nearly all of the band returned to their homes. John
Prestine and Fred Forbes remained at Springfield and
organized a volunteer band from the enlisted men of
the regiment who were detailed from the different com-
panies for this duty. John Prestine was appointed Chief
Musician and Fred Forbes was made principal musicirin.
Upon the muster-out of the volunteer service and the
return home of the Sixth Regiment, the Sterling band
Im.inois National (jiiAuns. 83
naturally assumed its former position with comrade
Prestine as leader.
The three years following have been vcars of con-
tinued success and while in attendance at Camp Lincoln
during the last tour of dut\' it gave ample jiroof of its
abilities, each man is an artist and a credit to the regi-
ment.
In the years to come, bringing with them the man\'
inevitable changes, may the good wishes of the men of
the regiment follow the members of the band as stead-
fastly as has the kindly feeling which has existed in the
eventful years past.
PART 11.
mm STATES VOLIJNTliEll SERVICE,
SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR OF 1898.
CHAPTER I.
ANXIOUS DAYS
Bv far the most interesting epoch in the history of the
IlHnois National Guard occurred during the period cov-
ering their services as U. S. Volunteers in the Spanish
American War of 1898.
The causes which led up to this war are familiar to
all. The long and determined struggle for freedom, of
the people of the Island of Cuha has gone down in
historv. Under Spanish rule tht-y had been bled b}'
taxation for hundreds of years. They had been tyran-
ized and made to suffer indignations beyond all human
endurance. The Governor Generals of the island were
selected by the government of the mother country, Spain,
apparently for their cruelty. For this quality they were
world renowned and they practiced it upon these help-
less people un-relentlessly. year after year, crushing and
grinding them into veritable slavery, in the hopes of thus
keeping their spirit broken and allowing no opportunity
88 History of Companies I and E.
to arise giving the people a foothold whereby they could
make a stand for themselves. But Spain's efforts were
fruitless and with a mere handful of loyal soldiers, under
able leadership the Cubans made such headway as to
attract the attention of the civilized nations of the world.
The loss of the island meant much to the Spanish
government. The revenues derived from the system of
robbery, hidden under the name of taxation, inaugu-
rated years ago and rigidly adhered to, could not well be
spared at this time and every effort was made to frus-
trate the object of the people of the sunny isle.
As the war dragged on and on with no prospect of its
immediate close, and the funds of the Spanish govern-
ment grew more depleted and her national credit more
weak, her worst fears were aroused and a policy of
butchery and criminal warfare was determined upon and
put into practice, never before credited to a civilized na-
tion.
The indignation of the American people knew no
bounds. Within a few hours ride of the shores of our
own fair land, at our very door, were a people imbibed
with the same spirit shown by our fore-fathers in "7^,"
fighting against great odds, for an object no less noble
than did those of the immortal Washington's time, de-
termined to suffer death to the last man or secure their
independence.
Helplessly, they saw their homes pillaged and de-
stroyed, their wives and families taken from them and
driven like cattle, corralled and guarded by the thou-
sands, to have insults heaped upon them without stint
and to die from starvation in such numbers as to make
the beautiful island reek with the stench of the decay-
ing, unburied bodies of unfortunate men women and
\VM. F. LAW 11 IE,
Capt. Co E, Sixth l)if., Vol.
Present Kank, Major <>th Inf., 111. N. G.
Till-. Wak Ci.ori). s'.»
children.
With these heartrending scenes transpiring hefore
their very eyes, with the loss of all that makes life beau-
tiful and w')rth the living, these men became more deep-
ly imbued with the spirit of freedom and a tn-m deter-
mination lo give their all to the cau>e. to die fighting for
a principle which must be recognized the world over as
just and right, and they fought with the desperation of
a wounded beast driven in a corner. Spain was as fully
determined that success should never crown the efforts
of the revolutionists and Spanish soldiers were poured
into the island by thousands. The cruelties were in-
creased, if such could be, and nothing left undone, no
stone remained unturned which could aid in suppressing
the insurrection.
Reports of this system of crime and butchery came to
us daily. Sitting by the fireside in our peaceful homes,
thinking of the sufferings of the Cuban people in their
unequal fight, the history of our own country was
ijrought vividly to the fore. The privations and suffer-
ings those brave men endured that we might be a free
and independent people, expanding and developing into
the grandest, and most liberal country on earth, and how
in the darkest hour the noble Frenchmen came to our
aid and standing shoulder to shoulder with the Ameri-
cans, they fought the war to a successful termination.
The spirit of independence which glowed in the breast
of the redoubtable "minute man" of 1776 was inherited
and fostered by the generations following and they could
not stand idly by and see this wanton destruction con-
tinued without making a vigorous protest. lUit Spam
would not listen to us. She reckoned without her host.
Our people were getting restless and uncontrollable.
90 History of Companies I and E.
Excitement ran high and all over this broad land could
be' heard the ominous sound of war. The distant rum-
bling became louder and more distinct, a cloud had risen
on the horizon, very small at first but increasing with
Fuch rapidit}- as may well have been a warning to the
Spanish people, but they were blind to everything,
smartino- from the defeats met with at the hands of the
Cuban soldiers and they went doggedly forward to their
own destruction.
War, war, war. go where you would one heard
nothing but the talk of war. On ever}' street corner
groups of excited men congregated. In every village
store and in every farm house the sole topic was war.
The older ones relating incidents of the Civil War, de-
scribing scenes of death and carnage, telling of hair
breadth escapes and of deeds of valor performed by
men wearing the blue or the grey. The younger men
became more enthusiastic with each hour and anxiously
awaited for the President to declare war and issue a call
for troops.
In the tpiiet of the homes the father and mother would
sit pouring over the- daily papers, closely following
every action of the officials at Washington, hoping
a<i^ainst hope that the war clouds might clear away with-
out the necessity of throwing our peaceful land into the
turmoil of an armed c6nflict with the dark and treacher-
ous people beyond the sea.
Not that they would withhold the aid which they
knew our people would tender the intrepid Cuban sold-
ier. Not that they feared the final result of such action.
Rut thev had passed through the ordeal years before
and they knew the horrors of war and the distressing-
scenes brought about by it and their thoughts flew back-
Oi.r) Mrmorits Rf.vivf.i). 01
ward to the chirk days of 1861 and 65. A^^ain they saw
the father, husband or son marching away to face un-
known dangers perhaps never to return, they heard the
roar of the cannon as it belched forth its liery Ihune and
hurled its leaden messenger of death into the midst of
the loval men who rallied about the stars and stripes
when danger threatened the honor of our glorious re-
public. Closing their eyes they could again see it all.
The mangled forms of the dead and dying lying all
about. The wounded calling for succor an».i aiding each
other. The scene is changed and they see long rows
of trenches tilled with the bodies of unknown heroes
who had given their all for the love of their country.
Then came the search for missing loved ones. The
mother looking for the son, the wife for the husband and
father and the gentle timid maiden searching for her
sweetheart. Perhaps he is found among the wounded,
and again they may search in vain, at last to turn reluct-
antly away, with a heavy heart, realizing their dear one
lies in an unknown grave, sleeping side by side with
hundreds of his brave but unfortunate comrades. -Mus-
tered out.'", for him the last long roll has sounded. An-
other scene presents itself. The return of the soldier.
He comes slowly down the old familiar path, the v»ait-
ing wife or mother hurries, with extended arms to greet
him, she stops and her arms fall listlessly to her side,
her heart stands still, overflowing with pride and love
and sorrow.
There he stands, in faded blue, with white and
haggard face. The empty sleeve or the crutch upon
which he rests, speaks volumes or the hungry eager
look and the wasted emaciated form may tell the story
of weeks and months of prison life which was worse
92 History of Companies I and E.
than death. Can this be the man who, not long before,
marched proudly away, so full of life and vigor and
now stands before her as helpless as a child .^ He
totters and is about to fall, she springs forward closing
him in a long fond embrace and they find relief in their
mingling tears.
This man to whom home and family were precious,
this man who perhaps must go through life maimed and
crippled, an object of pity to all his fellow men, broke home
ties, turnino- from his loved ones with an aching heart, to
sacrifice his all if need be on the altar of his country. And
why? Because that independent, liberty -loving spirit
born in every true American, places the love and honor
of his flag and his country before all else. There are
no sacrifices he will not make, no dangers he dare not
face when the hour of peril comes.
As the parents sat dreamily thinking of these trou-
blesome days the full meaning of war and its many pain-
ful scenes came forcibly to their minds. They realize
that should the call to arms come, their sons will be
among the first to volunteer, and their hearts are heavy
with dread and anxious waiting. They will not put
forth a staying hand. They will not detain them, but
they will part from them with a full realization of what
they may expect. The kind father, the gentle mother
and the loving wife all had their doubts and fears and
the suspense was very trying.
CAl'T. W. F. COI.EBAU(;il,
Commanding Co. I, Vol.
The Maink Disastkr. 93
CHAPTER 11.
With a single voice our people were iiri^niii,^ tlie
Washington government to make a decided stand to rec-
ognize the Cuban revolutionists as l)elligerents and de-
clare war if necessary. Cooler heads saw the toUv of
rushing madly into this contlict. If war must come,
it was of the utmost importance that extensive pre])arations
should be made and carried forward energeticallv.
There must come a test of strength on the sea. The
fleet of naval vessels was increased and put into condi-
tion with all possible speed. These floating fortresses
were of the newest designs and equipp^^d with all the
modern munitions of war, yet they were practically un-
tried, and many were fearful of the outcome should there
come a clash between these monster flcrhtin.j^-machines
and those of the Spanish navy.
With every indication pointing to an early outbreak,
an incident occurred which forced matters to a climax
and brought our people to their feet with a bound. The
first class battleship Maine, while lyiii ^^ in a friendly har-
bor, bent upon a peaceful mission, was l)lown up froui an
external explosion, and more than two hundred and fifty
souls were hurled into eternity, without a moment's warn-
ing. These American seamen, lying asleep in their ham-
mocks, all unconscious of the |)ending danger, were mur-
94 History of Companies I and E.
dered by a villainous hand and cries of vengeance were
heard on every side, coupled with the sobs of anguish
and distress from the lips of bereaved parents, wives and
sweethearts. Our hearts went out to the dead and dying
heroes and from the Atlantic to the Pacific, from the
Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico, our people rose as
one man and demanded satisfaction. An eye for an eye,
a tooth for a tooth, yes and tenfold.
The Maine was blown up while lying in the harbor
of Havana, Cuba, February 15th, 1898.
•A board of inquiry was appointed to investigate
the cause of the explosion and proceeded to Havana and
beo-an its investig^ation Februarv 21st. After an ex-
haustive examination of the wreck, and after taking the
testimony of witnesses and of experts, the board reported
on the 2ist of March that the Maine had been destroyed
by the explosion of a submarine mine, but that it was
unable to fix the responsibility upon any person or per-
sons. It was evident that the cause of the disaster must
have been from the outside."
Although this board of inquiry failed to point out the
guilty ones, the American people were quick to decide
the question in their own minds and no amount of argu-
ment could induce them to think difPerently. They
eagerly awaited the declaration of war and the beginning
of hostilities that the men might shoulder their muskets
and be off to wreak vengeance on the heads of this treach-
erous foe who worked under the cover of darkness and
"stabbed innocent men in the back.'" Our dislike for
the Spanish was equal to that of the Cubans, and no
power on earth could stem the tide or turn back the wave
of righteous indignation which swept over this broad
land.
Wak Di:ci,.\ki:i). '.••")
Oil April 2 1st, 1898, Congress declared war. I'lider
an act of Congress. ap[)roved April 22nd. 1898. and is-
sued Ai)ril 23rd. the President made a call for 125,000
volunteers.
The following is an extraet from a telegram receiv-
ed by the Governor of Illinois from the War Department
at Washington:
Washixciton, D. C, xIpril 25x11. 1898.
The Governor of Illinois-
The number of troops from your State under the
call of the President, dated April 23, 1898, will be seven
regiments of infantry and one regiment of cavalry. It
is the wish of the President that the regiments of the
National Guard or State Militia shall be used as far as
their numbers will permit, for the reason that they 'are
armed, equipped and drilled. * * * *
R. A. Algeb,
Secretary of War.
Previously, on February 17th. while the G^-neral As-
sembly of Illinois was in extra session, it adopted reso-
lutions, authorizing the Governor "to tender to the
President of the United States all moral and material sup-
port that may be necessary in this emergency to main-
tain the proper dignity of our republic and the liDiior of
the American flag."'
•'It will thus be seen that Illinois, through lu-r i)at-
riotic Governor, was tlu> tirst of all the rnioii to assure
the President of the United States that the moral and
material support of a great State was his. that Illinois,
with all her treasures of men and money, with all her
wealth of patriotic blood, was ready to supimrt him. tin-
honor of our cfumtry and the flag of our Union.
96 History of Companies I and E.
— From thy valleys and thy prairies, Illinois,
Illinois.
Illinois was the first state in the Union to mobolize its
volunteer quota under the first call, the first to be mus-
tered into the United States service; the first to report for
duty at the volunteer camps and during each stage of the
war, Illinois was represented in the van both on land and
sea. History not only repeats itself but adds luster to a
glorious name. Thus it was with Illinois in the Spanish -
American War. Its citizen soldiery cast aside peaceful
pursuits and adapted itself to the nef'ds of war with an
ease and brilliancy eclipsed by no other State in the
Union. Its infantry organizations were within the arena
of combat, both in Cuba and Porto Rico, while its sailors
enjoyed a peculiar distinction on board the victorious
vessels of war at Santiago, in which no other State
shares.
This is not fulsome praise, but simply what history
will chronicle when the events of the war and the hero-
ism of each component body of the American army, are
viewed in the light of a well balanced judgment.
Illinois' ready response to the call for volunteers
was an inspiration in itself. The massing of an army of
over 8,000 citizen-soldiers at the State rendezvous with-
in twenty-four hours after the call was flashed to every
community and village of the State, was a feat unsur-
passed.
Each regiment responded "Ready" without asking
any conditions, what the rations would be, without
thought of the trials, discomforts and inevitable hard-
ships of soldiers in the field. It was the buoyant, strong
and healthy manhood of the State which spoke in ac-
cents of patriotism that could not be doubted. Behind
GOODICIL B. DILLON,
1st Lieut. Co. E, Vol.
Illinois' Ri;ai)n Ri.sponsk. <>7
this <,n-c'at army of cili/en-soklicrs which IHiiiois offered
as its first contrilnition of tit^lilinf; material to the gov-
ernment, stood an army, nondescript, undiscipHned, but
tired by patriotic zeal, all evi ncing with one accord,
eagerness to bear the standard of Illinois into every field
of battle. This was the provisional army which rallied
as if by magic in every village, town and large commun-
ity in the State.
The States of the union which had as many troops
right in the centers of conflict, upon which the eyes of
the world were focused, may be counted on the fingers
of one hand. By far the larger portion of the first army
sent out in response to President McKinley's call for
125,000 volunteers, took the oath to join federal service
with many years of State militia service to its credit.
These men knew how to handle their guns, understood
the manual of arms and maintained a standard of dis-
cipline which was a rarity in most volunteer troops.
The professions, trades and occupations which the vol-
unteers of Illinois abandoned to defend the honor of the
nation and help liberate the victims of Spanish misrule,
embraced every imaginary calling from the highest to
the humblest.
Little wonder then that the Statte of Illinois is proud
of the men who represented her in the war with Spain.
In the trenches before Santiago, or on the warships
with Sampson and Schley, making forced marches
across the Island of Porto Rico, skirmishing with the
Spaniards or guarding the yellow fever hospitals, in
camp as well as in the field the men from Illinois — in-
fanlrv. artiller\-. cavalr\-. engineers and marines accjuil-
ed themselves with credit to their stale.
And if those in one regiment or detachment or
98 History of Companies I and E.
branch of the service apparently acquired more honor
and fame than those in another, it was merely because
their opportunities t\^ere greater. So far as it was per-
mitted them, every man displayed the courage and forti-
tude that combine to make the hero, and every one did
his full duty to his country. - In honoring them Illinois
honors herself.
In considering these matters, it should be borne in
mind that the most soldierly qualities may be found in
camp as well as on the field of battle: that while $15.60
a-month may pay a man for acquiring fame for himself
under fire, it requires a large measure of devotion to
country to accept it without protest as full recompense
for the irksome and thankless duties of garrison or
camp life. The men who passed the summer in camps,
drilling and preparing themselves for the duties it was
expected would devolve upon them later, have to add
dissapointment to whatever else they may have endured.
Their opportunity did not come, and the tendency of the
world is to overlook the devotion and courage that do
not bor<ier on the sensational.
TO THE Volunteers of Illinois.
Troops the nation called one day,
Men of valor, strong and steady;
Ere the echo died away
Illinois had answered "Ready."
While the call was yet resounding.
Came the boys from bench and stool;
From the town and farms surroanding,
Eager students in war's school;
lioys from every walk aQd station,
Sons of parents rich and poor,
Stirred to righteous indignation
By the suffering at our door.
Volunteers of Illinois. 99
Death and danger all unheeded,
Fearing neither sword nor ball,
Three and four fold more tiian needed
Ans\vered to the nation's call;
Every youth cur thanks deserving
For a duty nobly done,
Faith and purpose most unswerving.
Though no lield his daring won.
Jn the camps and on the ocean,
Braving Cuba's tropic heat.
Proving ever their devotion,
Knowing nothing of defeat;
All they had thus bravely tendered,
Here and ther*^ death claimed a boy
Freely but with tears surrendered
By the State of Illinois. .
Troops the nation called one day,
Men of valor, strontf arid steady;
Ere the echo died away
Illinois had answered "Ready.''
Elliott Flowek.
100 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER III.
From the hour that the news was received that war
had been declared, excitement increased. The men of
the National Guard were speculating on the probabili-
ties of their being called to the front. There apptc-red
to be but little room for doubt in this matter, yet it was
very uncertain until the company commanders received
orders to increase the ranks of the enlisted men to the
maximum, eighty-five, and to prepare for a hurried de-
parture on receipt of orders to move. "Shortly after
twelve o'clock on the morning of April iwenty-sixth,
Captains Colebaugh and Lawrie received telegraphic
instructions from Colonel D. J. Foster to report with
their companies at the State Fair Grounds, near Spring-
field, not later than noon of April twenty-seventh.
The Illinois National Gaurd was to mobolize at this
point for war service.
This brought matters to a crisis and a long list of
emergency men was added to the register of the regu-
lar enlisted men of the companies. They came from all
directions, on foot, on horseback and by train. They
came from the farms, and country towns surrounding,
from the schools, the stores and the professions until
there was room for no more, all eager and anxious to
don the blue that their fathers wore a generation back.
E. C. LAWTOX,
1st Lieut. Co. 1, Sixth 111. Vol.
Farewem, to Ho.mk. 101
On sober thought it was a serious matter aiul to many
it meant a battle within themselves, but whatever mis-
Ljivings were brought to the fore they were thrust to
one side and the single idea of taking a place in the
ranks, side by side with loyal friends, was kept con-
stantly before them.
With their names once entered on the roll, none but
a coward would flinch from the duties which were be-
fore them, regardless of their nature. This thought
gave them courage to look the situation squarly in the
face and to part with their loved-ones with a sense of
fulfilling a duty which they felt was theirs although it
might Uican a long and possibly last separation. The
instinct for fair treatment was aroused within them and
they were spoiling for a fight, not a disgraceful slug-
ging match but an honorable meeting with the foe they
had learned to dislike so heartily, where the whole
world stood by as judges and right and justice would
triumph.
Naturally, the home towns of the two companies of
National Guards became the central points for the con-
gregating of the many citizens of the county. As the
day wore on the crowds increased to unparalelled
proportion! with amazing rapidity. The moments and
hours passed quickly, and the hour for departure was
close at hand before it was fully realized. The good-
byes were yet to be said, and many a friend almost for-
gotten in the hurry and excitement came forward with
outstretched hands and although no outward sign was
visible, true friendship could be read in the hearty clasp
of the hand and gazing straight into each others eyes,
they san something there which strangely impressed
them and they knew that the good-byes and'good-wishes
102 History of Companies I and E.
which were being said, were not thoughtlessly given,
but came from the heart.
Not for years had there been such a gathering of the
citizens as occurred in these towns on that memorable
day. Young and old, rich and poor alike, jostled each
other in an attempt to secure a point of vantage. Men
there were in those lines who were among strangers,
yet they were quickly made to see that every one was
their friend. The events occuring in those fleeting mo-
ments were indelibly stamped upon the minds of all who
were present, and to the volunteer, it marked the he-
ginning of an epoch in his life, the picture of which,
Father Time, wielding his ever ready sickle, can not
dim. and in after years, in reflecting on the past, he
may, in imagination, wander back to those davsand feel
truly thankful that it was his lot to be irmong ihe fortun-
ate ones who could in no other manner give proof of
their true Americanism. Hundreds more there were
ready and willing to serve their country but at that time
there was no room for them and they could do nothing
but remain at home.
Not the least conspicuous among the throng were
the veterans of the war of the rebellion. Old men with
bent forms and locks of silvery grey, the hand of time
resting heavily upon them were made young again; they
stood erect and their eyes shone brightlv. while their
thoughts wandered back to the days of their youih and
they imagined they were again^ in the ranks wearing the
blue. They seemed to hear the stirring notes of the
martial music as it pealed forth from fife and drum and
they were once more among the "flelds of cotton and of
cane," fighting over the battles of nearly two score
3'ears ago where oft times brother met brother and
Tim; () I.I) \'i/n:i<.\N I03
tatlu'i" nun son in a dospcratc strui;i;le lor sujircniacy.
As tlu'se loni;' to be iLMnrinbercd scenes llitted rapid-
ly before them their hearts grew warm and the patriotic
tire which burned so tiercly in their breasts long years
ago but w Inch had slumbered for a generation, was re-
kiiullcd and llanied up with renewed strength and vigor;
thev, for the moment, forgot their surroundings and
looking beyond the swaying crowds saw many familiar
faces the memory of which the lapse of time had
dimmed. Tender recollections flooded their minds and
they were lost to the bustle and activity about them un-
til awakened from their dreams with a start as the com-
mand ••attention"' rang out sharp and clear and the eager
boys, soldiers of another generation, fell 'quickly into
line to receive their final orders before boarding the
awaiting train.
The old soldier cast a critical eye down the line of
youthful faces and mentally repeated, it is well for them
that they know not what ma}^ be before them and he
thanked God that Mason and Dixons Line has been
swept away and if go they must and should their lot
bring them to an honorable death on the field of battle
they were taking no chance of being laid low by the
hand of one of their own fiesh and blood. There was
but one sentiment among the people; not two but
seventy millions of souls with but a single thought. No
more substantial evidence of this fact could have been
established than did Congress, when, without a dissent-
ing voice, it voted fifty millions of dollars into the hands
of President McKinley as an emergency fund in prepar-
ing the troops for the field. Not alone was this proof
of the sentiment of the people as to the action they
considered necessarv but it algo bore witness of the
104 History of Companies I and E.
implicit faith and confidence which they placed in the
man at the helm.
After the final preparations were made and all in
readiness, those boys, in whose keeping was placed the
honor of Whiteside county, in this test of strength with
a foreign foe. marched out into the night and down
the street through the living lanes to the depot; the
crowds cheering themselves hoarse in an effort to show
their appreciation of the offering made by the boys in
line in thus voluntarily placing their slight aid at the
disposal of the government. As they drew near the
station the crowds became more dense and it was a
difficult matter to make ones way through the throng.
For numbers and enthusiasm no such gatherings had
been witnessed since the days of the Civil war.
With but a few moments at their disposal the boys
bade their friends and relatives a last farwell; the
mothers, sisters and wives, smiling through their tears,
admonished the departing soldiers to remember the
homes they were about to leave and those about them;
the sweethearts, forgetting their natural timidity, turned
blanched faces upward to the quiet, thoughtful visages
of the youthful soldiers to receive the parting caresses
and breathing words of encouragement into each others
ears, they separated; the kind fathers and brothers ill at
ease yet cheerfull, grasped the outstretched hands and
in the glare of the nearby arc lights, in a low but
earnest tone, cautioned the volunteers to do their duty
as soldiers fearlessly; that unlooked for trials might
come and in the dark hours for them to remember that
the eyes of the folks at home were upon them and their
hearts with them always; that in the history of our
country many high examples of the faithful, patroitic
J. FRANK WAHL,
2nd Lieut. Co. E Vol.
Later, Capt. Co. E, 111. X. G.
BoAui)iN(; rill. Cars. 105
soldier shone forth and should the occasion demand it,
much would be expected from the volunteer soldiers of
1898; they placed every confidence in their courajje and
abilities and would eagerly await their triumphal home
cominir, certain that they would bring with them such
records as would establish new marks in history of the
qualities of the American Volunteer soldier.
The clanging of the engine bell was the singal for
the waiting soldiers to board the cars and amid the wild
cheering of the throngs they were off.
Company I with three commissioned officers and
eightv-five men left Morrison at ten o'clock on the
night of April 26th, Walter Burritt. Quartermaster Ser-
geant of the first Battalion accompanying them; arriving
at Sterling twenty minutes later they were joined by
company E with three commissioned officers and eighty
men, also the Sixth Regiment Band, with John
Prestine, Chief musician and Fred Forbes, principal
musician. Regimental Surgeon, Frank Antl ony, Cap-
tain Ben Kick, Regimental Sergeant Major, Ned John-
son and Hospital Stewards John Kline, Fred Brown and
Howard Geyer, of the Sixth Regiment, all of Sterling
also boarded the special train here.
Leaving Sterling at ten fortN'-five p.m. we were
again enroute. Little time for serious consideration and
thought had been given us. Now that we were alone
and away from the excitement which had prevailed for
some time previous to our departure, the countenances
of many of those in the half lighted cars grew serious as
the full realization of what might be before us dawned
upon them. There was not the slighest indication of
fear, but scanning the faces of our comrades, a resolute
look was readily discernable which bespoke of deter-.
106 History of Companies T and E.
mined minds and a settled purpose, and, inexperienced
as * we were in the trials and possible danc^ers of war,
we were alive to the situation and with our hearts in the
work which was before us and a just God to watch o'er
and protect us, we felt that all would end well.
With the last tender good-byes and i^ood wishes
of our friends and relatives still ringing in our ears, it
naturally left us somewhat low spirited, but the dull-
ness was soon dispelled and as we rolled into Dixon at
eleven o'clock we were as jolly as a pleasure party.
We were backed over the Y to the Illinois Central
tracks avoiding the march between depots and giving
us through car service to Springfield, which was mnch
appreciated by us.
We were ordered to lay here, awaiting the arrival
of company M of Galena, General Grants old home.
Companies I and E. headed by the Sixth Regiment
Band, marched down town to company G's armory and
were lunched by the patriotic people of Dixon. The
lateness of the hour having no apparent effect on the
number or enthusiasm of the throng which had gath-
ered to witness the departure ot their own soldier boys
and we were treated royally.
At four o'clock the following morning. April 27th,
companies I and E enforced by G of Dixon and M of
Galena, boarded the cars for the final ride to Spring-
field. We were given a very creditable run from
Dixon, making but few stops. We picked up company
K of Lamoille at Mendota, this making a heavy train of
eleven coaches, all crowded, and three large box cars of
baggage.
Company L ot Freeport. which had been following
us with a veryMight train passed us here.
JCNKOri'l'. TO Si'KlNCII 1",I,I). 107
As wc reached the coal mining district the boys be-
j^aii to arouse themselves, and as we neared LaSalle
iniiier> heL,Mn lo pop up all around us on both sides of
the s\vit'il\- inoxini^ train: from every direction we could
see them with the small lamps attached to their caps
and dinner buckets in hand, soon they would be lowered
into the bowels of molher earth, there in the darkness to
toil ihroui^^h the long weary hours, digging out the fuel
which might ere long furnish the power to drive our
might\- warships across the trackless ocean in search of
our \\il\- enemies, the Spaniards.
At every town along the route crowds had gath-
ered to cheer us as we sped by. '-Old Glory" could be
seen on everv hand. It caused hearts to beat a triile
quicker and heads to be thrown back and a very war-
like spirit would steal o'er us as we heard the cry of
••Cuba and freedom." The country between LaSjalle
and Clinton is tjuite Hat and considerable of this section
was under water.
Arriving at Clinton we were hacked.-, over onto the
Spriugiield l)rauch and ran down to the lunch counter.
We were given hfteen minutes to lunch, and soon the
station grounds were covered with boys with both hands
full of fo;rl. We fo'atid another Large gathering here to
greet us.
Chaniifinii: enjjines we were affain on the road with
l)iit a few miles intm-vening befori' reaching our (k^stina-
tion. Our train was com})elle(l to run (][uite slow at sev-
eral points through this section on account of heavy
rains having caused several washouts, and at one point
in particular the roadbed had been carried away entirely
for a stretch of about tiftccn rods, but had been tempor-
arily repaired.
108 History of Companies I and E.
At eleven fifteen we entered Springfield. The State
Fair Grounds being some distance from where we enter-
ed the city, we were picked up by a switch engine and
run down to Camp Tanner, as the rendezvous at the
Fair Grounds had been officially designated by Briga-
dier General Barkley, Post Commander. A draw bar
was pulled out of one of the coaches which caused a de-
lay of nearly two hours. We marched into the camp
grounds at one thirty p. m. Nearly all of the State
troops had arrived in advance of our delayed train. The
Third and Sixth regiments were assigned quarters in the
Exhibition Building; the First. Second, Fourth and Fifth
were located in the various buildings scattered about the
grounds. The Seventh was under tents in the center of
the race course. Governor Tanner, Commander-in-Chief
of the State troops, established headquarters in the
Dome Building. The Commissary Department was
located in the Poultry Building, separated from our
quarters by a long high bridge that spanned a wide, dry
ravine which coursed through the grounds.
Akuuai, at Cami* Tanni-'.k. 100
CHAl'TKR TV.
Disorder prevailed, niid it was impossible to learn
aiiytliiiiij^ re<i^ardiiiof our future uioveiiieiits. The eoui-
uiissary sero'eaiits went inuiiediatelv on a t'ora*;'in»>' expe-
dition: food was sjarce. hut success finally crowneil
their (4Vorts and by night we had coflt'ee boiling and meat
cooking. As we were weary and somewhat hungry our
first meal in i'ani[) was relished by all. and our drooping
spirits were soon revived. Acccmimodations for lodging
were poor, and we were initiated in our soldier life by
turning in on plaid; and cement fioors with newspapers
for coverings. Considering the gigantic task of mobol-
izing eight or ten thousand troops from all over the
State within twenty-four hours after the call, we felt that
we were fortunate in securing the attention that was ours
and we did not complain.
"With the dawn of the following day, (jrder and com-
parative (juietness succeeded where chaos and confusion
had reigned. We awoke to find sentinels [)atrolling the
(quarters, and everything had taken on the aspect of a
soldier cam]). Rubbing our eyes and looking about we
wondered if we were dreaming; thelast notes of "reveille"'
were vibrating through the large building, and after
thoroughly shaking ourselves we realized the stern reali-
ty of our position. As a rule the boys met the situation
110 History of Companies I and E.
in a matter of fact way and readily adapted themselves
to their surroundings, moving about, attending their
duties (juietly and in such a manner as might well have
led the casual observer to Ijelieve that soldiering was an
every day experience in the lives of many of these men.
The first act of General James H. Barkley. in com-
nimd of the entire Illinois National Guard, until such
time as the entire organization was turned over to the
government, was to issue his first general order as follows:
••By direction of the commander-in-chief. Governor
John R. Tanner I hereby assume command of this post.
The staff of the Second brigade will act in their ri^spect-
ive departments at this post."
•'The camp will be known in the official correspond-
ence as Camp Tanner. The necessary orders fur running
the camp followed. Under the order Lieutenant J. Mack
Tanner was appointed post adjutant. Lieutenant Colonel
George N. Krieder. post surgeon. Major Lincoln Du-
Bois, post commissary. Other members of the staff were:
General William Clendenin, inspector general. Lieu-
tenant Colonel Henry Davis, assistant inspector general.
Lieutenant R. D. Loose. Lieutenant George Pashfield,
Jr.. Lieutenant Ricard, aides."'
We w^ere governed by the following service calls;
Reveille, - - - 5:30 a. m.
Fatigue call. - - 6;oo a. m.
Mess call, - - - 6:30 a, m,
Sick call, - - ' 7:00 a. m.
Drill call, - - - 8:oO a. m.
Recall. - - - 9:30 a. m.
School call, (officers) - 10:30 a. m.
First sergeant's call. - 11 :00 a. m.
Mess call, - - I2:00 m.
IC.\i'1".uii:nlI': as KiauuiTs.
Ill
Drill .•ail.
R.H-all.
Guard uiouiit.
Mess c-all. -
AsReuil)Iy j)ara(lf.
Tattoo.
Tai)s.
1:30 1 1, m.
3:S" I'. 111.
4:30 I'- HI-
5:'')0 p. in.
6:00 |). m.
9:30 p. 111.
I0:00 |). 111.
^lajor Anthony and iiis corps of assistants were
busily engaged in establishing a hospital and equipping it
with the necessary cots and blankets, securing a suppl\-
of medicines and otherwise iireparing to receixe the sick
which experience had taught them would surel\- come.
These arrangements were completed none to soon, as the
volunteers, many of them unused to the severe training
they were gix'en. succumed to the heat and onlv the
prompt and etTecti\e treatment recei\-ed at the hos|-iital
prevented a number from serious illness.
The lirst few daws of drilling, to the imitiated. was
found to be hard work and had a tendancv to dampen the
ardor of a fe^v of the It-ss patriotic. A number of theni
found that it would be impossible to remain with the reg-
iment as circumstances were such as necessitated their
presence at home and all hough the\' regretted \-er\- much
to lea\e us yet they were compelled to do so.
Men in scpiads and fu'l companies, marching and
countei'marching cox'ered the camp groimds. Troopers
and mounted otlicers galloping here and there gave a
very war-like appearance to the camp.
.\pril twenty ninth. t()m]->anies I and K wei'e gi\en a
pri'Iiiiiinary examiiiaiioii. C'omiiain' 1'2 came through the
test wiihout ilie loss of a man while C()mpan\- I had se\'en
rejected. This examination was given us bv Major An-
112 History of CoMrANiEs I and E.
thony and his assistants.
On Saturday. April thirtieth, the Third and Sixth
regiments were ordered out for their first long march.
It had rained considerable since our arrival and the
roads were in bad condition; this added to the other ditli-
culties of not being fully prepared for the call made it
quite severe for the boys. They made a grand showing,
coming in from the five mile tramp with as regular a
step and unbroken line as when leaving camp. Orders
were issued to continue the practice marches each day
and gradually increase the distance to from ten to twenty
miles. This was necessary to work the men into con-
dition for actual service.
The following day, Sunday, great crowds of visitors
swarmed into camp. It was estimated that nearly fifty
thousand people, exclusive of the soldiers, were on the
grounds that day. They gazed at us as though we were
curiosities. We looked hard in return, searching for a
familiar face in the throng. Sometimes we were re-
warded with a smile and a nod only to chase the donner
up to find it was a case of mistaken identity. The com-
pany mess tents were pitched on a hillside, facing the
high bridge. During mess the bridge was lined with
people watching us devour hard tack and sowbelly.
During the Sunday dinner, one of the boys remarked,
•'They look at us as though they thought we were a lot
of Indians." and another member retorted '-What are we
but a lot of Indians?" A running fire of friendly rep-
artee was kept up continually between the soldiers and
their smiling, good natured visitors.
Fully one half of the men had not the first mark of
a soldier in their dress, and excepting the officers, hardly
a man was visible who possessed a complete uniform.
o n
3 E
? 5i
2 3
I)i;\i;i,or.Mi;N'i" oh riii': Mkn. l\-i
It was a very noticablc fact that while the volunteer who
was fortunate in securin;<r a uniform, was the recipient of
nian\- brii^ht smiles and shv Ljlances from the ever pres-
ent fair visitors, and much s()u<^ht after by the ladies'
affable, incjuisitive. L;"entleman companions; the comrade
at his side who had recenth' staked him with his last
ijuarter. but who was decked in the garments of an or-
dinary citizen, with, perhaps the exception of possessing-
a pair of j^overnment socks, met with a cold stare and a
"sir!" that caused him to have cold feet, if he ventured
to reply to anv of the hundreds of questions which were
plied to the --real soldier." Feelincr himself growing
smaller each moment the un-uniformed volunteer retired
to some quiet corner to reflect on the ways of mankind,
the while consoling himself with the thought that al-
though he was minus the outward mark of Uncle Sarr.s'
servants he was full to overflowing with fight that mo-
ment, and he nursed his injured pride tenderly until sought
out bv his more fortunate comrade who greeted him with
a merry twinkle in his eye and the encouraging remark,
••cheer up comrade, it may not be true." His spirit.
dampened for tlie time but naturally buoyant, soon re-
vived and the rebuff thoughtlessly given was forgotten.
The tirst few days passed quickly. The company
commanders were kept hard at work preparing their
men for the physical examination, .•securing and issuing
clothing and ordnance supplies, making up preparatory
muster rolls and linding appar(.Miil\- endless work before
them. The men settled down to the task of making
soldiers of themselves. They were earnest students in
the school of war and worked steadily, becoming more
prolicient in the drill and n'.ai.eiivers with each day.
The otlicers were all old members of the Natit)nal Guard
114 History of Companies I and E.
and as a rule were well versed in the tea chin (:rs they be-
stowed on the less tutored but willing man in the ranks
It was with much pride and pleasure that the officers
witnessed the gradual development of the men as they
were slowly but surelv transformed from an awkward
thronrf into an army of trained troops. True, a few
days schooling could not bring about the desired result
in attaining such a thorough training as is expected of
the regular army man, yet the regular was the ideal for
the time being, of the volunteers and settmg their mark
hio-h and grasping every opportunity to make iheir ad-
vance as rapid as possible, they more readily mastered
the difficulties which presented themselves and they
foro-ed ahead at a pace as unexpected as it was desired
by the officers in command.
The practice marches were continued each day but
the stormy weather which prevailed prevented them
from making the distance as originally planned. To the
men who had several years of service in the National
Guard to their credit, the work came with less fatigue
than to those who were receiving their primary teach-
ings in the school of war and it was pure grit alone that
pulled many of them through when at times it appeared
that they were unable to endure the severe training giv-
en them.
The First regiment of cavalry was among the troops
early upon the scene. This with the seven regiments of
infantry which were there, completed the mobolization of
the Illinois troops. In view of the fact that this State
was not represented in the artillery branch of the ser-
vice, and the eager desire of the batteries to go to the
front. Governor Tanner took energetic action to include
the artillery in the tirst call, and was lewarded with sue-
l^QniMMNC Till". N'oMlNPl'-KUS.
11
cess bv receiv'iii!^ itistiiRlions I'rcjin tlu' Secretary ot War.
April iweiitv iiinlli. aiuhori/in*^ liim to furnish one six
L^un baltei\' of liijlit aililliT\ . in adciilion to the scxaai rcLj-
imenls of infanlr\- and one ol ca\aliy as |irt'\iously in-
sl rnt'ted.
in conforniit\- with this au!horit\- h'ttcr\- A of l)an-
\ille. L'ajttaui Thilip \'eaL,'er. coniniandinL,^. and ecjuipped
with modern breech-loachivj; ,V - inch ^"uns. was ordered
to report at Canij) Tanner. April i hirtieth. for the jiiir-
pose oT being mustered into ihe United States vohuiiccr
service. The battery arrived in camp that nii;ht.
On Mav hrst. Go\'ernoi Tanner made an eifort to
have balter\- I>. of Galesbur:^-. included in the first call
from thii^; State, but the War Department declined t(j in-
crease the e^uota from Illinois.
Equipping" the volunteers wiih the necessary cloth-
ini;' and (ordnance supplies was found to be a serious
problem. Secretary of War. R. A. Alger requested the
State to turn over to the general government, all of the
uniforms in possession of the Illinois organizations, also
the arms and equipment for tlie time being. General
Reese, an.xious V) assist the government in every manner
possible, at once entered the mar'ket for campaign hats,
leggins. ^hoes and ponchos, and as rapidly as these ar-
ticles could be obtained they were i^sued to the troops.
The United States, and every State in the Union,
were Inning clothing and equipments ior their troops.
Nearl\- the entire amount of these articles that were on
hand had been jiurchased at the first intimation of war.
and it was conceded to be almost an accomodation on
tlu- [larl of the manufacturer to listen to [iroposals of any
kind. 1>\ sencing agents to Chicago and St. Louis, the
Statt; secured enougli hats, shoes, leggins. blankets and
IIG History of Companies I and E.
ponchos, to not only relieve the most pressing needs of
tl e troops, but to ht them out fairly well for practical
field service. May ninth, Governor Tanner received a
telegram from Secretary Alger in which he said, "we
wish ever^'thing you can furnish, as the government is
going to have hard work to equip its troops in time for
service.'" This demonstrattd that even the government
could not purchase or manufaclure equipments as rapidly
as the necessitv demanded.
Upon receipt of this advice, the State officials re-
doubled their efforts to secure such additional clothing
and equipage as was not habituallv issued to the Na-
tional Guard, and were required for the volunteers, and
all concerned labored night and day to bring the Illinois
volunteers under National control at ihe earliest possible
moment.
Thus it may be seen that while the rank and file of
the volunteers were perspiring in the broiling sun, step-
ping on one anothers heels in a vain effort to be graceful
in the evolutions of a soldier; preparing and eating their
meals in the rain and mud and sometimes more than half
inclined to rebel at the restrictions placed over them;
the Commander-in-chief, and his staff, together with the
large corps of assistants were receiving the brunt of the
work. They felt that they were responsible to a great
degree for the health and condition of the thousands of
volunteers who had streamed in upon them even before
the arrangements were completed as to what disposition
should' be made of them until such a time as thev could
be turned over to the government. They were in duty
bound to care for those men and the numerous obstacles
w^hich they met and overcome represented no small vol-
ume of labor. They were hampered by the shortage in
r- '?
1Cqi:ii'1'in<; 'riih: Voi.i'ntici'.us.
11
su]-)plies of all kinds and only by dinl of energetic work
wiili litlk' or no rest were tlu- men fed and clothed. That
Illinois was liie lirsl Stale in the union to report ils t|uot.i
of volunteers as ready for Held ser\ ice was due U) the
tireless and continued efforts of the State otlicials to this
end.
118 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER V.
The resrular routine of work was continued day after
day and as the men grew more accustomed to their duties
they fo'ind a certain amount of pleasure in performing
them. It required but a short time to form many new
acquaintances among the men of the various regiments;
and the hours oflP duty were spent in the large buildings
where the practical joker was much in evidence, and the
rafters fairly shook with the continued laughter and mer-
riment of the hilarious, fun loving lioys. There was no lack
of sport and from early morn until taps. Indian war dances
accompanied by the regulation whoop, glove contests and
amateur theatricals followed u}>on each other closely.
The entertainment which received the most attention
and was put into more general practice, until every man
was initiated was lermed ''hot-foot," or •'cheese-malee." It
consisted of running the gantlet between two long lines
of young fellows with well developed muscles. Each
man in the lines armed himself with a strong stick or can-
teen strap and as the victim gathered his energies and
shot down the narrow lane he received a warming that
was remembered for some time, and if he succeeded in
escaping punishment from the upper end of the line he
was given the full degree by the remaining ones, and as
the instruments of torture were plied one after another
I Nl. I Dl'.N'IS ()|- C AMI' I.l I I'".. 1 1 '••
in rapid succession tliccMiididatc increased Ids nmnictit nin
nnd shut liv tlic last man with the speed ol' ;i i-ace horse.
]Iis lii'sl ini pulse was to sit (hiwn and think the matter
o\ei- l>ut he no sooner ionnd a resting' place than he con-
(dnded it would l)e more conNenient to remain on his feel
and for the tirst time since his anival at camp he loii^e(l
for the luxury of the old arm chair with its downv cush-
ions and padded l)a(d\. \ rv\ fe\v escaped tins tri'al as
the nit'ii were considerate to a fault and |)artiality would
not t)e tolerated. The ^nnd lhin<^s were not for the few
hut were equally distributed to all. To strue^i^de or pro-
test was to eventually l)rine- an extra portion tn the
friendless victim, and as misery loves company hi' added
his mite to the working team and took his revenge on the
ha[)less and helph^ss ones who soon came darting down
the course.
At night the scene was an animating one. In tlie
building with us was the Third regiment, in all nearly
two thousand high spirited young fellows and it was im-
possible to keep them quiet. Promptly at ten o'<dock the
l)Ugler of the Third Would step out on the stair landing
at the upj)er end of the ])uilding and blow t;q)s, and as the
men of his regiment snutfed the liuriuTig candles they
idieered his efforts to the echo. Immediatel v afterward.
the bugler of the Sixth would appear at the opposite land-
ing and rej)eat the call for the benefit of the nu'U of his
regiment, and among tiie hurrahs of our boNs the fiicki i-
ing tianies of the candles in our ipiarters disappeared.
This friendly rivalry b, 'tween the buglers of the Tiiird
and Sixth and their supporters continued throughout our
stay at Camp TaniuM". For a few moments aftei- taps.
dee[) s-ilenci- ndgiied thr<nighout the i)uilding. then v.
voice from some far away corner would crv out •"have a
120 History of Companies I and E.
good time and e-n-j-o-y-y-y yourself," then a perfect bed-
lam would break loose. A multitude of voices with one
accord, joined in a chorus, most hideous and unearthly.
Cat calls from the back yard fence, watch dogs, growling
and barking on the front porch, hoot owls in the neigh-
boring trees, the mooing of cows and bellosving of bulls
in the barn yard lot, added to the caw caw, of the crow,
the cry of the chicken hawk, the ([uack of the duck and
the gentle cooing of the turtle dove, formed a combina-
tion that baffles description and nearly drove the officers
frantic. In vain they would command silence, and taking
a still hunt down the rows of reclining figures in an effort
to locate the source of the pandomin they found every one
quiet and to all appearances fast asleep. Eeturning to
their sleeping quarters the officers would fall into a doze
to be rudely awakened by a repetition of the noise.
This was repeated until the boys grew weary of the sport
and one after another they dropped asleep to dream of
home and the treasures which they knew were stored
away in the cellars.
The Young Mens Christian Association of Spring-
field, put up a large tent shortly after the arrival of the
troops and regular services were held throughout the life
of Camp Tanner. Writing material was furnished gratis,
to those desiring it and the large tables were well occu-
pied during the long evenings and leisure hours of the
day. Good literature was never lacking and the kind-
ness in general, shown us by the young men in charge
demonstrated the fact that they were deeply in earnest in
the work.
The second Sunday in camp was a re[)etition of the
preceding Sabbath. The regiment attended church ser-
vice in the race track amphitheatre at eleven o'clock in
SrK(;i':()Ns Ir^orM) S'l i'.i<i,in»; T'o-s s. 121
till" moriiiiii;-. The service was led l)y ( Miapliii xMorgan.
of the Sixth. The custoniaTv ai'tcriiooii practice march
was taken in the nl()rniIl,i^^ After churdi the men were
given their lil)erty until six o'clnck in the evening wlien
they assembled for dress parade. (In-at Ixtxes and bar-
rels of delicacies had licen received from homes of the
soldiers the day previous and a day of feasting was theirs.
From all directions the relatives and frii^nds of the boys
came in.
The boys of company E received a liberal share of
the edibles and their visitors were numerous. They ate,
drank, smoked and made merry, and for hours the rela-
tives and friends from home were busily engaged an-
swering questions. The visitors with well tilled j)ockets,
graciously feted the boys until the hour of departure
arrived when they bid them good-bye and left them feel-
ing lonely but happy.
Company I boys searched the crowds in vain for a
familiar face, and ate hard tack and sowbelly with poor
grace, washing it down with army coffee: a good substan-
tial, one course dinner without trimnnngs of any kind.
To them the hardtack was tougher and the meat fatter
than ever before and they eyed their more fortunate com-
rades with ill concealed envy. It was a sorrowful day
for thcni but their time was yet to come: they had no
means of knowing it and they felt that they had been
forgotten. They were not in want of anything in par-
ticular, the inner n)an was well supplied and clothing
pleid\. but among this cheerfulness, the evitlence of
which could be seen on (^-ery hand, a feeling of depres-
sion came over them which would not be shaken otf.
:\[onday May ninth, the final physical examination
was given Company E. The boys marched down town
122 History of Companies T and E.
to the State Capitol building in the morning, and after
a long wait on the outside they were taken to the Senate
Chamber and there, twenty men at a time were stripped
of all clothing and taken before the examining board.
This board consisted of Colonel Senn. Ass"t Surgeon
General of the U. S. A., Captain Birmingham also
of the regular army. Major Anthony. Surgeon, and
Captain Cole, Assistant Surgeon of the Sixth regi-
ment. The Sterling boys came through the or-
deal with flying colors, losing only two men. Cor-
poral William Deem and private Lovier Feigley. Both
were sorely dissapointed, but the regulations could not
be ignored and the only course open to them was to re-
turn home. Captain Lawrie recruited two volunteers
from Chicago to till the vacancy.
The following day, May tenth Company I was ex-
amined. Its members were taken to the quarters of the
Fifth, and the examination was given them by the board
of that regiment. It was composed of Major Milton R.
Keeley, Surgeon of the Fifth, and one of the Ass't Sur-
geons of the same regiment. It was quite evident from
the beginning that they were to receive a searching ex-
amination and when the last man had donned his cloth-
ing the list of rejected ones contained the names of
twenty-four of the Morrison ' boys : among them were
some of the oldest members of the company of State
troops and this ripping up the back so weakened the
company in point of numbers as to bring the matter of
disbandins: and reorgfanizinii: it, to serious consideration.
Captain Colebaugh, feeling that an injustice had
been done the men who were rejected, brought the matter
to th(^ attention of Colonel Foster, commanding the Sixth
regiment. After considering the problem the Colonel
Co. 1. L()si:s Hkavily 128
fiuthorizfd Major Anllioiiy toj^ivc the rejected men a re-
(•xaniiiiatiou. Six of the twciity-t'onr accepted the op-
|)ort unit \ and cvim'n man went llu'ou^h. Tliis a|i|i('arc(l
to l)t' sulist;uil iai cxidrnrc that lliry were ii;i\rn an i'\-
trnnch' t Iioimhi^Ii i^'oinu' oxer at tlic hands of Major
l\crh'\ . cithri' intentional or ot hi'rwisc. With srvcn
men ri'jfctt'd at the pid iin inary. and twcidy-four at the
linal cNaniinat ion. h'fl the coiupany witli l)ut fifty-four
of the ori<^inal ci'^-lity-tix i-. Another of the company.
]-irice ^fcCune. thinkini;" he would sooner get to the
front, went over to the Third regiment and entered their
ranks. Fifty-three men were all that could he mustered.
The return of the six men wlio were accepted at the I'e-
exannnatioii brought the iiunil)er uj) to fifty-nine. There
were plenty of extra men about camp awaiting just
sucli an oj)p()rtunity as this to enter the ranks ami in a
short time twent\-one recruits were selected find com-
pany I had a full comiilement of men.
Those of com|)aii\ 1 who were rejected at the pre-
liminary examinati(.n were: Corporal CharU^s Weeks,
privates William Morse. Firman McWhiteniore. Timothy
Bly. Frank Davis, Frank Judd and Orville Mitcheli.
Those rejected at the final were: Sergeant Ed Curtis.
Corporal Orville Kaler. privates Henry Clark. Harry
Morse. William Almanrode. George Hubbard. William
Hubbard. Charles Magee. Theo Magee. Emerson Fel-
lows. Otto Harrisou. Alvin Bun-h. Walter Weeks. Wil-
liam Yarbrough. Henry \'andyke. Gecjrge Colehour.
Arthur Stinton and Harry Fisher. These men. with the
rejected ones of company 1'.. were furnished transporta-
lion and regretfulh". ihev turned their faces homeward.
I'ortunatci\ . the men who were recruited to till the \a-
caticics caused li\- tlu' loss of these men we-ri.' all tine
124 History of Companies I and E.
fellows and had the opportunitv and time been ^iven to
investigate each individual, it is doubtful if a more de-
sireable selection could have been made.
The weather continued wet and nasty. The camp
grounds had become a sea of mud and the buildings
were kept clean with difficulty. A day of sunshine was
exceptional and the men were beginning to tire of their
quarters. Many rumors floated about camp and we
were constantly expecting something to occur which
would result in our being, mustered in and hurried to
the front. We were rapidly being equipped with cloth-
ing but were short of arms, having only the few rifles
which the companies had taken to camp from home,
and a goodly portion of them had been condemned and
taken up. as unfit for service.
There was very little sickness in camp. It was sur-
prising too; the unfavorable condition of the weather and
the inexperience of many of the men in taking proper
care of themselves in such surroundings may well have
been cause for much sickness. The examining sur-
geons evidently did their work thoroughly and the ac-
cepted men possessed excellent constitutions; otherwise
the conditions would have been vastly different from
those existing at the time.
The Fifth and Third regiments of infantry were mus-
tered into United States service in the order named
on the seventh day of May, and we anxiously awaited
orders, hoping to follow them closely. The officers and
men of the Fifth and Third were highly elated at their
success in being the tirst of the Illinois troops to be mus-
tered in, and delighted in calling the attention of the
men of the remaining regiments to the fact, and they in-
formed us that they would be at the front in a few days
E. J. WEAV^EH,
2nd Lieut. Co. 1, Vol.
Sixth Ini antun Mis ri:ui;i) In. Tio
while in all prohabilily we woultl not leave the Slate.
In all events the ii.osl we could hope for would be <;ar-
risoii dulv ill so:ne out of ihe way army posl. The e\eiils
which tollowetl in the succeeding luonlhs proved the un-
relialiilitv of these- statements and the uncertaiiit\- siu-
roundiui!," a soldiers life.
The Sixth reL;iuu'nt. Illinois X'olunteer Infantr}'.
was nuistered into the United States service. Wednes-
dav. Mav eleveiuh. by Captain Cyrus S. Roberts. 17th
U. S. Infantry, nuistering ollicer. The regimental
officers and non-commissioned staff were the fu'st to
take the oalh and sign the muster roll. Company E of
Sterling was the first and Company I of Morrison, the
last to be sworn in. of the twelve companies which com-
posed the Sixth regiment. Captain Roberts, r^ccom-
panied bv Colonel Foster and the commanding otlicer of
the companv took his position in front of the awaiting
soldiers. As the name of each man was read from the
muster in roll, he stepped forward a few paces, forming
a new line. After this had been repeated until every
man in the company had answered --here", Captain
Roberts retjuested the men to take their caps in the left
hand and raise the right while he administered the fol-
lowing oath:
I do solemnly swear ( or aflirm ) that 1 will bear
true faith and allegiance to the United States of Ameri-
ca; that I will serve them honestly and faithfully against
all their enemies whomsoever; and that I will obey the
orders of the President of the United States, and the
orders of the officers appointed ov»er me. according to
the rules and articles of war.
We were soldiers in fact as well as practice. This
was the hour of the disbanding of the Illinois National
126 History of Companies I and E.
Guard, as company after company took the oath of
allegiance to serve the government for two years unless
sooner discharged. Colonel Foster spoke words of en-
couragement to the men and informed us that we were
thejirsi regiment of volunteers czrr mustered into the
government service from Illinois with twelve full com-
panies.
The die was cast and come what would we were
bound to the flag of our Union for two years or until
the Spaniards were driven from the Island of Cuba and
peace declared.
Kosii.u oi L'c)M^.\^^ I'
127
CHAPTER VI.
Tlie tollowinnr is a (.-oniplete rosier of companies E
and I as ihey were mustered into the Nolunteer service;
^i\-ing the residence of each man at the time of enlist-
ment :
COMl'ANV E.
Captain, William F. Lawrie,
1st Lieutenant, (loodicil B. Dillon,
2nd Lieutenant, Frank Wahl,
I St Sergeant, Samuel H. Feigley,
(l M. Sergeant, Edward A. Xellen,
Sergeant, John W. Cushman,
" Joshua H. Wildasin,
" Fred E Wagley,
Corporal, Charles F. Hoobler,
" liomeo^W. Jiaker,
" Herbert II. (irimes,
*' Leslie C. Sheldon,
" Martin L. Allpress,
" Harry L. Ilankerson,
Mudiciau, V. lioy Eshelman,
" J^ee D. Meyers,
Private, Anderson, Charles
Alderfer, Philip
" Aument, Frank H
" IJyers, Wilson
" IJailey, Frank C.
" Bassett, Bert
Sterling.
liock Falls.
Sterling.
Hock Falls.
Sterling.
itock Falls.
Sterling.
128
History of Companies I and E.
Private Bassett, Marcus P. "
" Bassett, Ed. "
Bassett, Milton B. Rock Falls.
" Bushnell, Leo H. Sterling.
" Book, Enos Emerson.
" Bensinger, John E. Sterling.
" Burr, James S. "
" Berlin, Clark
" Buckley, Bernhard J. "
" Blair, Frank "
" B'jrkhart, Will L. Chicago.
" Cary, John G. Sterling.
Cary, Elroy 11.
" Coryell, Frank H. Rock Falls.
" Cunningham, Claire Sterling.
'* Clark, Lyman P. "
" Compton, Clare "
" Deem, Arthur E. "
" Deyoe, Devillo B. Rock Falls.
" Dillon, Reese J. Sterling.
" Eager, Wallace L. Rock Fa' Is.
'• Eisele, William "
" Flock, William F. Sterling.
" Goodman, Harry C. "
" Hess, Fred R. "
Higby, Leonard C.
" Heathcoate, William "
" Hansen, Gus Rock Falls.
Hall, Guy G.
" Havens, George F. Sterling.
'• Johnson, Charles S. "
■' Johnson, Charles A. ''
" Johnson, Bert "
" Kahl, Ernest Rock Falls.
" Lingel, William J. Sterling.
Lund, William C.
'• Lineberry, John '■
" Lindsley, Calvin Rock Falls.
Little, Harry Sterling.
" Moore, Louis E. l!ock Falls.
" Morrison, Alfred G.
McNeil, Robert B.
" Mackey, Fred W. Sterling.
ROSTEK OK C0M1'AN> 1.
121
I'rivate Merricks, i;d\v;u\l
IMgp, Frank
Kouiul, (ieorge
IJeil'snyder, William
Kanger, Charles K.
llhodeniyer, Ilennan
Uodgerc?, (Jiiy Alden
Smitii, Frank W.
Sheldon, John
Struckman, William C.
Street, Albert L.
Sneed, Fred W.
Slade, George
Strock, John Franklin
Triggs, Alpheiis W.
Wright, Fred W.
\Vinters, Carl
Wahl, Albert A.
Wilkinson, L^^e D.
Kock Fblls.
Sterling.
Kock Falls.
Chicago.
Sterling.
Hock Falls.
Sterling.
Date of enrollment. April twenty sixth, for those
who joined the company for duty previous to its de-
parture from Sterling. Privates Burkhart and Rodgers
were recruited at Springfield and enrolled May four-
teenth. Hospital Steward Kline secured an excellent
photograph of company K as the boys lined up awaiting
to be mustered in.
Company I.
Captain, Wni. F. Colebaugh,
1st Lieutenant, Edward C. J^awton,
'Jnd Lieutenant, Ernest J. Weaver,
1st Sergeant, David E. Crouch, •
il. M. Sergeant, Andrew F. Mathews,
Sergeant. Harry A. Weaver,
" Jacob L. Hockey,
Corporal, Harry H. Hockey,
" Andrew J. Osborne, J r
Musician, Ora M. Colebaugli,
" Robert E. Davis,
Morrison.
I'rairieville.
Morrison,
l']rie.
Morrison.
130
History of Companies I and E.
Private, Adams, Henry W.
'' Andrews, James
" Berry, Charles
" Berry, Harrison S
" Boyer, William C.
Baird, John AV.
" Brubaker, John S.
" Brearton, Fred W.
" Birley, Charles H.
" Burr, Amos A.
" Bunzey, llufus S
" Black, Evan
" Baker, John
" Cnlp, Gecrge W.
" Carlton, Frank E.
" Corbin, John
" Cullum, Paul
" Dahlstrom, William
" Donavan, David A.
" Everhart, George
" Fenton, William
" HumphrHy, Ralph D.
Hyatt, Charles E.
" Hawse, George B.
" Heath, Lafayette S.
H artless, Ernest T.
" Johnson, Fred O.
" Judd, Charles
" Jenks, Edwin
" Kingrey, Frank
Kellett, Charles T.
" Koepke, Bernhard
" Xirk, Alonzo L
" Leatherwood, Scott
Tattell, John C.
" J^ay, Roy
" Lee, Edward Saxon
" Lueck, William H-
" Lepper, Edward
" Morrison, John
" Middleton, Leonard C.
'* Miller, FranK
" McKenzie, Richmond
Prophetstown.
Erie.
Morrison.
Lyndon.
Thompson.
Morrison.
Springfield.
Prophetstown.
Morrison.
Neoga.
Prophetstown.
Decatur.
Morrison.
Erie.
Morrison.
Prophetstown.
Aurora.
Morrison.
Fenton.
Mendota.
Prophetstown.
Amboy.
]>ecatur.
Spring Hill.
Prophetstown.
Clyde.
(^uincy.
Morrison.
Prophetstown.
Erie.
i'rophetstowQ.
RosTisR oi'~ Company 1.
131
Private
May, Chester N.
Decatur.
Marold Charles M.
(Jiiincy.
IMiilleo, Arthur
Krie.
I'eters, (ieor^jn
"
I'ense, Clayton A.
I'rophetstown.
Toison, August
(ieneseo.
Patterson, Henry
Fowler.
Phillips, Thomas
(^uinoy.
Reynolds, John
Lyndon.
Koderich, John
Aurora.
Sherwood, Asa
Morrison.
Scanlan, Oliver
Fen ton.
Stanley, Neal
I'ropiietstown.
Seaton.T. Lyie
Round drove
Savage, Orin J.
Lyndon.
Smith, Verne M.
Albany.
Shear, Thomas R.
Morrison.
Stakelbeck, Otto
(^)uincy.
Schanz, William
(^uincy.
Schachtsifk, Fred
•'
Thompson, Robert C. "
', , Morrison.
Turner, Lewis C.
Neoga.
Thomas, Harry
(ieneseo.
Wbitemore, William
Fenton.
Wilcox, Albert
Erie.
Willcox, Hilton
"
Wilkins, Ross C.
Lyndon.
Wood, Mark
Moline.
Yopst, Birt ().
Albany.
Date of enrollment. April twenty-sixth, for tho.sie
who joined the company pre\iou.s to its departure from
Morrison. Privates Baker. C'ullum, Donavan. Hartless,
Koepke. Kirk. Lee. Lueck. Lepper. Maw Marold.
I^atterson. Poison. Phillips. Roderich. Stakelbeck. Schanz.
Schachtsiek, Turner, Thomas and Wood were recrnited
at Springfield, and enrolled May eleventh.
Very soon after company I was mustered in. lOr-
nest Weaver, for private reasons, tendered his resigna-
tion as 2nd Lieutenant. Had this occurred licfore the
132
History of Companies I and E.
muster in. and while the troops were yet in the service
of the State, the ^'acanc^■ would have been iilled by the
election of a member of this compan}'; but as they were
sworn in and i^overned by the regulations of he U. S.
x\rmv, his successor came through appointment. Cap-
tain Ben Eick, of Sterling. Inspector of Ritie Practice,
of the Sixth 111. N. G. for several years, received the ap-
pointment. In the organization of the ^'olunteer regi-
ments there were no Inspectors of Riiie Practice on the
staff, and as Captain Eick. was anxious to remain with
the regiment he accepted the commission. Colonel
Foster immediately appointed him Regimental Ordnance
Officer and he was on detached duty throughout our
volunteer service. Companv I was practically without
a 2nd Lieutenant during its entire service, as the duties
connected with the oflice of Ordnance Ofiicer kept
Lieutenant Eick away from the company.
As the position of Battalion Quartermaster Ser-
geant also became void in the volunteer organizations,
Walter Burritt of Morrison, who held this rank in the
first battalion, accompanied Lieutenant Weaver home.
Whiteside county was well represented in the Field,
Staff and Non-commissioned Stafi* of the Sixth regi-
ment, as will be observed m the roster which follows:
Coloiid, B. Jack Foster, Chicago.
Lieut. Colonel, Edward Kittilsen, Moline.
Major, Will T. ChaniioD, Rock Island.
" David E. Clark, Monmouth.
" William E. Baldwin, Dixon.
Reg. Adjutant, John J. Cairns, Chicaa:o.
Surjreon Major, Frank Anthony, Sterling.
Ass't Surgeon, Lorenzo S. Cole, Monmouth,
" " Charles A. Robbins, Dixon.
Chaplin, Alanson R, Morgan Cuba, III.
~H ^
oK r^
?r=
2" c
b'lKl.l) AND StAM- Ol' Till-: SiX 111.
l;{:}
Keg. (l Master. Frank IJarber, Chicago.
1st. Lt. Bat. Adjt.,
L. U. (Jaylord, Moline.
" James VV. Clendenin, Monmotitli.
Joseph H. Showalter, LaMoille.
Sergeant Maj.ir, Kdwin S. Johnson, Sterling.
{}. M. Sergeant, lludolphas Hicks, (ialena.
Chief Musician, John C. Prestine, Sterling.
Prin. " Fred W. Forbes,
Thomas II. Flynn, Kock Island,
Hosp Steward, John L. Kline, Miiledgevilie.
Howard N. Geyer, Rock Falls.
Fred N.Brown, Sterling.
134 History of Companies I and E,
CHAPTER VII.
The members of company I were pleasantly sur-
prised on the Friday succeeding our muster in, to see
Judge Ramsav, SI eriff Fuller. L. T. Stocking and J.N.
Baird put in an appearance. They were kept very
busy until mess call at noon answering questions relat-
ino- to friends at home. Getting news of home from
such a source had a pleasing effect on us all. and as we
formed for mess we were all feeling very light-hearted.
Our visitors took dinner with us in regular army style.
eating hard-tack and beef from tin plates and apparently
enjoyed their first meal in camp. Judge Ramsay took
a snap shot at us as we were eating and another after
dinner when we had a better opportunity to form.
After dinner the practice march had to be gone over
again, this left our visitors to their own amusement un-
til the time when the company returned.
It was soon discovered there was something out of
the ordinary going on about us. and Capt. Colebaugh
informed us we would be expected to be in our quarters
ready to fall in line at 6:30 p. m.
All were relieved from duty of any sort, by ar-
rangements made with Colonel Foster. At last the
secret leaked out. and we began to realize the mission
of those from home. At 6:30 all were in line and we
Co.^^^\^^ I Uanqi i:ti:i). 1-5-~
wtMc iu;irclu-(l lo llu- ciitraiK-t' ^ate and tlu-ri- louiul
three street ears in n-acliness and wailing for us. wliieli
Irad beiMi eliartered lor the oceasion. We were taken
up town and ordered out of the cars in front of the
•■Lehind."' the leadiri<,r hotel in the city, and were ^iven
twenty minutes in wliich to stroll around and jirepare
for the feast awaiting us.
At 7:.^0 we were again foruieil in line anil uiarehed
direct to the spacious dining hall and seated. Here we
also found Major Channon. Maj(jr Anthony. Chaplain
^lor^an. (*a[)t. Lawrie of Co. E. and Lieut. Kick, all of
the 0th. Col. Foster being unable to attend on account of
very pressing business.
After l)lessings had b-en asked by Chaplain Morgan
the feast began, course aft-T course being seryed. We
ate and ate. and yet it came: we had colored waiters
standing about us ready to ••jump'" at the first signal.
Wordwas sent down the line to -tdkeyi'iir //ii/r." -rd/ afl
yon llkr'' and •'oijuy ytJiir^clics." And maybe we ditl
not. It was the tirst time in the experieiice of many of
us where eyery time a knife, fork or spoon was taken
from our nio'iths it was taken away to l)e replaced by
another; l)ut bear in mind we were dining at one of the
finest hotels in this part of the State: remember, we were
guests of a people who knew h.ow to entertain, and eyery-
thing 5eryed us was the best. Cigars were passed around
by a big black fellow: they were lighted, windows and
transoms were (opened, and we settled down to enjoy a
good smoke.
L. T. Stocking, speaking in behalf of the conunittee.
then explainiul to us the circumstances. He told us
how the citizens had been planning to send something
to the boys, but they finally hit upon tliis plan of selecting
1:3(5 History of Companies I and E.
a committee to represent them, send them down and f^ive
us a banquet. He stated the people at home had not for-
gotten us, that they were with us from first to last, that
every man was remembered, and they had taken this
method to express their appreciation. After a fevv appro-
priate remarks he called on Major Channon, Major An-
thony, Chaplain Morgan and Captains Colebaugh, Lawrie
and Lieut. Eick, each one of whom responded and ex-
pressed his satisfaction and pleasure at being with us
on this occasion. Chaplain Morgan gave us a very im-
pressive talk. He told us that in our hands (referring
to Illinois volunteers ) rested the honor of a State which
had given us such men as Grant, and Logan, whose pres-
ence on the battletield was worth more than ten thousand
troops; Oglesby. and last but not least that soldier-states-
man who gave up his life for his flag and his country,
that martyred patriot. Abraham Lincoln. He cautioned
us to bear in mind the fact that we represented the grand-
est State in the union: he cautioned us to remember we
had friends and loved ones at home who followed our
every movement, therefore we should watch ourselves
and return to our friends and homes as pure as when we
left them. He continued at some length and made a
very warm place for himself in the hearts of us all.
Judge Ramsay then responded in behalf of the people
whom the committee represented, and as is his custom^ie
more than pleased us. Every one who reads these lines
know oidv too well how able a speaker the Judge
is. and it is sufficient to say that he spoke with his
usual elo(]uence. This was followed by breaking up of
the party, and when we were in line on the outside three
rousing cheers were given with a will for the representa-
tives and the represented. Our visitors bade us all good-
Col. "Jack" Foster and his Held headquarters in Porto Rico.
Till-, !)()^s Madi: ll.\l•l•^. 137
1)V. and we ^iivc cadi a |iartiiii;' liaiid-sliakc
Wt' found, as Ixd'orc, c-ars await iii>^^ to take us hack
to cauij). and we wci-c soon restino- in oui- ( juai'tcrs. Did
we think we had Ikh'U foro-ottcn V Hai'dly so. Tht- b(>}s
received new encourn<i^enieni from this *fenerous and
thouijchttul act of our friends at home, and wc then and
there decided that sliouhl it occur that we shouUl serve
our full enlistment term of two years, and the opportu-
nity came and we were caUed upon to face tlu' enemy in
batth'. wi" wouhl strain every nerve, make every effort
possibh'. to ])rove to the friends at home that they had
not misphiced their confidence: that in phicing in our
hands the integrity of a jtortion of OUI Whiteside ami
Old Glorv. wdiicli has l)een so nol)ly protected in trials of
this same nature before by our fatlu-rs and forefathers.
they had made no mistake: that ••/// ramp, on the niarrh.
OY ill coiifl/r/.'^ we wouUl do with all our nnglit that whicdi
should be reipiired or asked of us.
Looking l)ack\vard and recalling the many incidents
in ou]- short service, this occasion will be reniend)ered as
one of the most pleasant in the soldier life of com[)any I.
Companv E was often renicndiered by the people of
Sterling and Rock Falls. Hardly a day passed that did
not bring something from home, and it was always of
the best and plenty of it. The effect of this treatment
was to inspire tlu' bovs with a determination to so govern
themselves as to be a credit to their people and to 1 llmois.
The following non-commissioned othcers for c(mipany
I were ap])uinted l)v Captain C'olebaugh: Cori)urals
Rockey and Osborm' to be Sergeants: Privates Harrison
Berry, Seaton. Pense. Black. Adams and Leatherwood lo
be Corporals
The whole of the Sixlh ifiiimenl was vaccinated the
138 History of Companies I and E.
day following its luiister in. The l)oys nnrseil sore arms
for a few days and protected the tender s})ots l)y pinning
placards on their sleeves ])earing inscriptions such as
•'touch not," "keep off the grass." '"beware" and ••vacci-
nated.'"
The Erie people remembered their l^oys with several
large boxes of good things. Sunday as we formed fcr
mess at the noon hour, down tlie line came one after an-
other of the Erie boys with chicken, cake, jelly and fruit.
They fed us until we could eat no more. ICvery one was
remembered, all ate until satistied. and then a box of
cigars was tished out of the box and sent around.
This dinner made a warm spot in our hearts for the
good people of Erie. The shortest and surest route to a
soldiers heart is by way of his stomach. Allow him to
exist on army rations for a week and then place a good,
old fashioned dinner before him ami you have sealed an
everlasting friendship with him.
One evening, just bef(jre dusk, the story \\ as circu-
lated through camp to the effect that a sergeant of one of
our neighboring companies, who had been accepted by
the surgeons, absolutely refused to enlist. A crowd com-
posed of the men of the regiment congregated and [)roposetl
to drum the man who had showed the ••yellow" out of camp.
The threat was carried out and he was roughly handled
by his infuriated comrades. The timely arrival of a
guard from ]:)ost her>dquarters scattered the men. but for
this the fellovv would have suffered se\erely. For a
time the unsoldierlv actions of the men created consider-
able excitement in camp.
Comrades Prestine and Forbes were untiring m
their efforts to organi/.c a band. It was a dillicult mat-
ter to secure men who were good musicians to enter the
Sixth I<i:(. i.mi-.n t X'oi.iiNri'.i^u I^and. \H'.)
si'i-\i(.x' and iKCi'pt \\\v pay of a prixatf. ^riu-ri- wi-rt- a
mimbi'i" ot t'.xcrlU'iit band mi'ii in the rcLjinieiU b\il more
wiTi' iR'e'iK'd and ilu'x liad lU) iiisininu'iil.s. Chief Musi-
cian I'restint' .sn;_,fi;c'sl('tl thai cuh of the tweK'e towns
representetl hv a conipanx' iii the ii'^iim'ni , start the work
of iaisin<4' a fund lor \Uv purpose of maintaining- a tirst
class liand. This suL;'j4'estion was acted on h\ the pt'oph-
at home and a considefabU' sum reali/A'ch 'I'his was the
foundation of the Sixth Regiment N'ohuUeer Band and it
was buik up and improxed as rapidlv as circumstances
would permit, and eventual!} proved to he one of the
best and stronL(est bands in the volunteer service. The
men detailed to the band from companv I were: John
(Jorbin. John Monison and John ])aird. commonl\- re-
ferred to as •■The Thi-ee Johns."
On May twelfth, the Sixth regiment marched out to
l.incolns monument and also paid a xisit to the familiar
mrounds of Camp Lincoln. They held dress parade and
passed in review before returning to quarters. Major
Channon was in conmiand of the regiment. Captain Law-
rie acting Major of the first battalion. Lieut. Wahl acting
as battalion adjutant. Company E was placed under
command of Lieut. Dillon, and Sergeant Cushman was
acting regimental sergeant-major.
Upon the first inspection of arms, cojnpany E was
found to be in the possession of ten ritles in excess of the
nundier w ith which the\' arri\ed in camp. No one ap-
peared to know where the extra guns came from, but
for years it had been customary for the indi\idual mem-
bers of this company to see to it that su]')plies of e\ er\-
description were plenty and so far thev were successful:
but there was a time coming when thew with all of their
ingenuity in foraging would be sadl\- in lUH'd of the in'cessi-
140 History of Companies I and E.
ties of life and thev would be powerless to aid themselves.
Under the first call of the President of the United
States for volunteer troops from the various states, the
regiments from Illinois were mustered into ihe llnited
States service in the following order:
( I ) Fifth Infantry. 111. N. G., May yth, I898.
(2) Third Infantry. 111. N. G.. May 7th, 1898.
( 10:30 p. m. )
(3) Sixth Infantry. 111. N. G.. May nth. 1898.
(4) Battery A, 111. N. G.. May 12th, 1898.
( 5 ) First Infantry. 111. N. G., May 13th. 1898.
(6) Second Infantry. 111. N. G., May i6th. 1898.
(7) Seventh Infiintry. 111. N. G., May i8th. 1898.
(8) Fourth Infantry. 111. N. G.. May 20th. 1898.
(9) First Cavalry. 111. N. G.. May 21st. 1898.
The commissions of the ofiicers were made to cor-
respond with these dates, except in the case of the Third
Infantrv, where the commissions of the field and staff
were dated May 8th. for the reason that these otiicers
were mustered in after the business hours of the 7th and
near the first hours of the 8th. and to prevent any future
dispute as to the seniority of the commanding otiicer. or
the priority of muster in.
The first order to move an Illinois regiment was re-
ceived on Mny 13th. Colonel Culver, commanding the
Fifth Infantrv received orders direct from the War De-
partment, to proceed at once, with his regiment to Camp
George H. Thomas. Chickamauga National Park, Geor-
gia. An hour later. Colonel Fred Bennitt. commanding
the Third Infantry, received telegraphic instructions
from Washington to proceed to Camp Thomas.
Both regiments immediately broke camp and made
hurried preparations to leave Camp- Tanner. Joy was
iNM^'C^!
LIEUT. COL. EUWAKD KITTILSEX,
Sixth Infantry,
( )ki)i;ri<:i) to Wasiiin<;ton. 141
depicted on the counlcnaiKes of the men of these two
regiments as theN' hustled about. The Fifth boarded the
cars the mornini;" of the foiirteentli. TheThird following
it a few hours later.
Monday Ma\' i()ih. Colonel Foster received orders
to prepare his regiment for its immediate departure for
Camp Russell A. Alger, near h\alls (.^hurch, \'a. Cheer
after cheer rent the air as the joyful news passed from
mouth to mouth. We had heard so many conflicting
rumors about our destination tliat it was quite a relief to
at last receive definite and final instructions.
Arrangements for transportation over the Wabash
railway were made as soon as possible, but it was the
afternoon of the day following that we broke camp.
The closing hours at Camp Tanner were busy ones for
the officers and men alike; writing letters home occupied
the fleeting moments of many of them for a time. Then
there was the packing up and discarding of numerous
articles that had accumulated in our brief but interesting
stay at Camp Tanner. Clothing was hurried to us and
by noon Tuesday the men were fairly well equipped ex-
cepting arms. These w^ere issued to us after breaking
camp and just previous to boarding the cars.
142 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER VIII.
We boarded the cars at 4:30 p. m.. Tuesda}-. May
17th. We were very pleasantly surprised to note that
the cars arranged for were all Wagner sleepers. By
accident one of the cars assigned to Co. I was the
"Maine." The bovs in this car as a rule were very
proud of it. and it attracted a great deal of attention along
the route and a great many comments were made in re-
gard to it. a few of the superstitious ones telling us we
would never reach our destination in this car. but we ar-
rived safel}' nevertheless.
A porter had been sent out with each car. Toilet
articles were furnished, and at about 8:30 in the evening
the porter arranged the berths. — two men in the lower
and one in the upper. This was giving us advantages of
which we had never dreamed, and you may be sure the
boys were not long in turning in. The sight of snow-
white bedding, feather pillows and spring mattresses
caused us to think of home, and its comforts.
A train had been made up for each battalion, making
three sections of thirteen or fourteen coaches ea/ch, the
ist battalion. Companies E. I. A and F. including regi-
mental officers car, being on the ist section. It was
11:45 p. m. before we steamed away from our old camp
and nearly every one was asleep.
ScKNi:s Ai.oNc iiiF. RoiTi:. 1413
The bovs were astir quite early the followiu^r niorii-
in<;. as all had sellled their miiuls on iiiissiiiLj nothint^ of
interest while enroute. We found we had crossed the
liorder line and entered Indiana about four o'clock a. m.
We were takin<r a north-easterly course. passini^Mhrou^di
LaFavette. Lou^ansport. Peru and Ft. Wayne.
Over three weeks of camp life had placed us behind.
When we entered Springfield very little had been accom-
plished in the way of getting in crops. On getting out
on our trip we found all had changed: small grain of all
kinds had a good start in several places, everything was
green, all around was beautiful and very pleasant.
We were surprised to see so many log cabins and
worm fences. A great many of the buildings were new.
The primitive stvle of building yet clings to these people.
As a rule the section of Indiana through which we passed
was very poor and stonv. The cities were excellent, but
the countr\- surrounding them looked very desolate. At
Peru we found oil wells in operation and the towers could
be seen as far as the eye could reach. Entering Ohio at
12:15 p. ni. we found the same condition prevailing here
as in Indiana. Arrived at Defiance Junction at two
o'clock: this is a town with a population of about 10,000.
Thev had turned out in large numl^ers to greet us. We
were told it was the largest crowd congregated in the
town for some time. Veterans of the civil war were nu-
merous, a number of them having been members of Illi-
nois regiments. We were treated very kindly.
Taking the Baltimore and Ohio railway here we
[)assed in a south-eastern direction through Fostoria. New-
ark and Cambritlge. At Hellairc. just before crossing the
Ohio river, our train was divided into t\yq sections to prct
pare for erossinij" the mountnins.
144 History ov Companies I and E.
The commissioned officers of each company had been
requested to remain with the Colonel and his staff in the
rear coach. Not having been notified of the dividing of
our train, this left the first section, comprised of Co's E
and I without an officer. This occurred about one o'clock
in the morning. Col. Foster placed Capt. Colebaugh in
charge of the first section. This was very easy to do but
not so easy for the captain to reach his post of duty as we
were some miles ahead of them and going right along.
Our train was telegraphed to wait, and after a fifty mile
run was caught near Bellton. West Virginia, Capt. Cole-
baugh taking a half mile sprint between trains.
He had been instructed to keep the boys in their
cars and no one was allowed off the train when stops were
made. This had been the order from the starting point,
and the boys began to feel the effects of being cooped up
in such close quarters. But it proved Col. Foster
thoroughly understood what to do under the circum-
stances, as the section following us, bearing the 3rd bat-
talion, allowed their men to get out at Alexandria, Va.,
and the consequence was one hundred and fifty of them
could not be found when the train pulled out and they
were left behind. They were fortunate in the fact of an-
other section following them, which they })oarded: only
for this they would have been placed in an unenviable
position as no one seemed to know whether they missed
the train by accident or design.
We were soon among the mountains of West Vir-
ginia, and to those of us who had seen nothing but a few
hills in our native State it was grand. The road-bed be-
ing about half way up the mountain side and in most pla-
ces having been blasted from solid rock, below us we
could see tiny villages and small streams. Railroads
ScENi-:s Ai,()N(; riii-: Roi-ri':. 145
wtTo also ill these valleys: tliev with their engines and
trains aj)])eare(l to us as toys.
Luokiii"^ up on tlie ()|)j)osite side in sonu' [)laceri the
nioiiutain side was nearly ]iei'|ieiidicular with great over-
hanging rocks which looked as though they were ready
to topple upon us at any moment. Small streams came
dashing down, the water ])eing as clear as crystal. We
crossed innumerable streams, all rushing along at a ter-
rific pace. We passed through a number of tunnels, the
longest one being aliout one and one-half miles in length.
It was so dark it was thick, and the smoke crept in around
doors and windows until it bscam e stifling.
Once in a great while we would see small farms on
the mountain side with men at work on them. We won-
dered a great deal how they could do an\thing on those
side hills until we learned they were all built right or left-
sided according to the side of the mountain on which
thev were born and raised. A man li\ing on the left
side could not work on the other side, and vice versa;
one leg being considerably shorter than the other and
built accordingly. The\' have wh'-'t is called side hill
pants with one short leg. We had often heard of them
but never knew to what usage the\" were put until ex-
plained to us by a friendly train man.
Apparently these people knew noihing of our com-
ing, as we went sjunning along we would see a man or
woman at work near the house who would look up and
catch a glimpse of a Hag and the brass buttons, then
the\' would run into the house and out would come a
whole village, who would stare at us until we were out
of sight.
Negroes were becoming nu)re numerous, some vil-
lages being composed entire! \- <»f them, A great many
140 History of Companies I and E.
of the old time farm houses still stand. They are low
and rambling, with verandas nearly surrounding them.
They are very picturesque.
We were held some time at Grafton to allow the
second section to come up. We had the car of provisions
but the Quartermaster was on the rear train and we
could get nothing to eat until he arrived. We were de-
layed some time here. The second section passed us in
order to have Col. Foster ahead to make necessary ar-
rangements when we arrived at our destination.
Soon after leaving Grafton we crossed into Mary-
land, going almost directly east to Cumberland. About
twenty miles above Cumberland we struck the Potomac
river, following along its banks to Harper's Ferry. Be-
tween Cumberland and Harper's Ferry we skirted an-
other range of mountains.
On this division we took a twenty mile ride down a
very steep grade; brakes were all set and yet we went
down with a rush and roar around curves and over
brid^^es. At one moment the coaches appeared to be al-
most over, the next they would go back with a lurch and
on over to the other side. We arrived at Harper's Ferry
at io:oo a. m.. Thursday, May 19th.
We were given only ten minutes here, and ihen
must stay on our cars, so it was impossible to learn much
in regard to this old historic place- C)ne of the most
beautiful scenes on the whole trip was here. To the
east, and just in front of our engine as we stopped, was
a <n-eat bare cliff, the largest one seen; about its center
was a black hole, the mouth of the tunnel through which
the B. & O. railwav runs direct to Washington. On
either side of us as we stood on the bridge which crosses
the Potomac, could be seen prominent cliffs on which
Akkiv.m, at C\:\ii' Ai.(;i:r<. 1 17
were perched summer hotels and resorts (j1 all sorts.
We were switched on to a hranch of the H. cV O. at
Harper's T'errx' and taken southwest aloni;" ihe fo(jt of
the Blue RicJfjje mountains to SirashurLf. \ a., a distance
of fifty-three miles. fn this section of \ ir^inia the lav of
the land m.ule us think of home. Tlu- soil is of a thick
red clay and we were informed produced excellent crops.
Leaxin^r Strasbur^ about four o'clock in the after-
noon on the Southern railway we crossed the Blue Ridfj^e
mountains, going nearly east to Manassas. As we \>ere
entering this place we saw a large monument near the
railway which the trainmen said marked the spot where
soldiers who were slain in the battle of iMill Run were
buried. The location of the battle-field proper lies
about three miles to the north of Manassas. We took a
north-easterly course from here to Alexandria, on the
Potomac, about ten miles southwest of Washington.
Here our train which had been divided at the Ohio
river, was once more coupled together and we were
pulled out to Dunn Loring. which lies almost directlv
west of the Capitol about twelve miles, thus taking a
two hundred mile ride to cover a distance of tiftv miles.
We afterward learned that this side trip was caused bv
the si/e of the Wagner sleei:»ers. they were too large to
pass through the great tunnel at Harpers Ferrv.
We arrived at Dunn Loring about nine lhirt\ . p.
m.. Mav nineteenth, and lay in the cars all night, disem-
barked in the morning and remained there until two
o'clock in the afternoon awaiting the arrival of the re-
mainder of the regiment. Captain Lawrie visited Camp
Alger in the morning, for the purpose of selecting a
location for our regiment to establish a permanent
camping ground.
148 History of Companies I and E.
The delayed sections of our train bearin*^ the
second and third battalions arrived shortly after noon and
we formed and marched out to camp, a distance of
about three miles; it was very hot and the roads were
dusty. A number of the boys fell out along the line of
march, and some of them were taken to the hospital
where they remained several days.
We immediately set to work getting our camp out-
fits together and putting up tents and had bareley com-
pleted the task when it began to rain.
MAJOR WM. T. CHANNON,
Sixth Infantry.
L'a.mi' Ai.f.i'.K. 14<>
CHA1TI']U IX.
iiiilt'
Cauil) Uussi'll A, Al^'cr was lucatrd {•\<_:;]\\
south and west of Wasliiugtoii. J). ('. The caiiiii i,M-(iiiii(ls
contained about six hundred acres, and hoi-ih^rrd on a
hiri^,' tratd of tiinh.T hind. A small sh'cani coursed
through the edij^e of the woods ami was ]iracticall\ the
h^onnchiry line of the caai[) <,n'ounds. Manv stirrini; in-
cickMits occurred in ami alxjut this neiijhhoi'hooil ilurini''
the civil war. and the old residents entertained ns ))v re-
lating tales of those eventful davs.
When we arrived in cani}) we found little or no
|)re[)arations had been made to reccdve us. although sev-
eral days had flapscd since tlir War |)e|.artmcnt had or-
de'red the regiment to this camp. \'ery little if anv
complaints were made by the men. yet it did appear to
us that the National government was less energetic in
the matter of taking [iroper care of its troojis than was
the state of Illinois.
We were not long in deterudning that the e\il lav
not so niucli with an\ one person in particular, but was
caused i)v the red ta])e jjroeess which we met with.
This obstacde. or at least it appcart d as such to the vol-
unteers, confronted us at every turn throughout our ser-
vi(H'. It was undoubtedh a necessity and will always
remain S(j in the liandliu'r of larire bodies of troops, but
150 History of Companies I and E.
it caused no end of inconveniences for us and we were
slow to become accustomed to its tedious methods.
Our rations were short and the water was bad and
of poor (juality. These conditions existed but a short
time and when the work of sup[)lying the troops had
foUowed its channel and terminated with us we imme-
''^>>^iately felt its eff'ecTS and were well fed from that time
on.
General E. B. Williston was in command of the
camp for a short time but was succeeded on May 24th
by Major General William M. Graham. The troops at
Camp Alger were designated as the Second Army Corps.
The Sixth Massachusetts, Eighth ()hi(j and Sixth
Illinois infantry regiments formed the Second Brigade.
The First District of Columbia Infantry broke camp and
marched out the day of our arrival: they had been or-
dered to Camp Thomas. Troops were arriving almost
hourly and soon numbered ten thousand. Among them
were the Sixth, Eighth, Twelfth and Thirteenth Penn-
sylvania: the Seventh, Eighth and Seventeenth regi-
ments and on? battalion of colored troops from Ohio:
^ the First New Jersey: Sixty-Fifth New York: Sixth
Massachusetts and Sixtli Illinois Infantry. Later an in-
fantry regiment from Missouri, and one from Kansas
came in. with a squadron of Cavalry from New York
and then the Seventh Illinois. By the time these
troops had all pitched their tents Camp Alger pres(mted
a lively scene: a city of tents had risen as if from the
earth, stretching away To the left until lost in the distant
woods which at intervals broke into the camj) grounds.
A great many of the troops were without uniforms
and few had received arms. The New Jersey regiment
was eqiapped throughout by the State; the, Sixty-Fifth
FiKST l)i-.\rii IN rill Sixrii. l-'l
New \'(>rk iiKiili' M (Icciilrdiv slrjiii^'f !i|H)»'firiUicf as ivfi\
man wori' stTi^n-aiit "s stiipts mi his lionscrs. iiiid llit-y
Wfi-i' jokiii<4;lv rt'ft-rrtMl In as tlic ic^finn'iil of sfVLT'-inits.
( )iu' coiiipaiiN' ill this n'iriiiii'iit was coiiiiMisi'd of and ol-
fu'crcd t'Mtindv 1»\ nci^rocs. and it was admitted Ity the
other men of t he vei;imenl that tliis eompany was l>\ lai-
the best drilled in the rei^'iiiieiit .
Private Louis Jilotidsoe of eompany A from Rock Is-
hiiid died of an acute attack of typhoid fever dnriiii; the
ui;;ht of our first day in camp. Tht iiext afternoon the
hist tribute was |iaid to the ih-ad soldier. Chaphuu 1. X.
Keefer. of tile Kiijhtli Ohio, in the absence of ('haphiin
^Ftirij^an. conducted the simple funeral service of the ar-
ui\ I'ituai.
Standing out in the company street, he led the lioys
as ihevsang ••Nearer Mv (lod to Thee.'" then followed
the reading of the XC'l ]isalm: the bu£,de corps sounded
••taps" and then the usual escort and the pall-bearers,
chosen from amon^ his comrades ot company A. fol-
lowed b\- the entire conipanv. carried the body to I'alls
Church, from which place the remains were sent to his
home for interment.
Such was the death and funeral rites of the first
volunteer soldier of the Si.xih Illinois who forfeited
his life while servinL,^ the tlaer. In the few short weeks
of his soldier life he had won no laurels for deeds of
Ljallantrv: no i^lorious achievements were his. yet he
died an American soldier, serving iiis flaL;" and his
countrv. No higher tribute than this can be paid a
citizen of this Republic iivine- or dead. He had given
his all. follow in <^' the Stars and Stripes, in a cause of
justice and lunnanit\; <j;i\in<; his aid to brini; to an un-
liappy people that of which they had had visions for
152 History of Companies I and E.
years but as yet had never realized, but he as an Amer-
ican citizen knew its full value and loved better than life
itself; that for which Old Glory has ever proudly waved
in defence and stands as an unquestionable emblem,
siueet libcr/y. One more name had been added to the
already long roll of honor of dead American soldiers and
sailors whose lives had been sacrificed on the alter of
their country.
The day following we received the sad tidings of
the death of Lieutenant Cole of Monmouth, Ass't Sur-
geon of our regiment. He died of pneumonia at Hope
Hospital, Ft. Wayne. Indiana. May twenty-second.
His illness was contracted at Camp Tanner. He started
for Camp Alger with the regiment, but his condition
grew steadily worse and when Ft. Wayne was reached
Colonel Foster ordered him removed to the hospital.
He lingered along, hovering between life and death
but a few days, then he too forfeited his life. He
breathed his last serving the flag he loved. The sweet
notes of the bugle call coming soft and low from an un-
known world had sounded -'taps." and his life-light
which had been burning so brightly was snuffed, and he
was mustered out.
There was but little sickness as yet in the regiment
Some few of the men were slightly indisposed having
contracted hard colds while at Camp Tanner and aggra-
vated by the long journey to Camp Alger. Rushing
the men into an unprepared camp had not bettered their
condition and three privates, one from compony M. one
from company K and one from company L were sent to
Fort Myer Hospital the second day in camp. This act-
ion was considered necessary as their condition became
alarming and Major Anthony felt unwilling to assume
An An<;i:i, oi iMicKt n . l'>3
the l•t•^^|1on.sihilit\ of nursing tlicst- men b;uk to health
witli iIk' htuitt'd resources at hand at the turn-.
Ainoiii^Mhi- lirst visitors at eamp after tlie arrival of
the Illinois troops was Mrs. Kleeta K. Smith of Wash-
in(;ton, formerly post-mistress of Sterliiio-. I'rom the
lirst hour of her presence in camp she took a deep in-
terest in oin- bo\ s and more especially the bo\-s of com-
pany IC. It was she who found the soldiers lying in the
hospital without cots or beddino- of any description. She
lost no time in calling the atteniion of ihe Illinois Sena-
tors to the condition of affairs and urged them to bring
their influence to bear on the War Department to pro-
vide better accomodations for the Illinois boys.
Senator CuUom paid a visit to our quarters and in-
spected the regimental hospital and hurried to Washing-
ton, where he had an interview with the Secretary of
War. who promised that everything possible would he
done for the comfort of the men. Senators Cullom and
Mason, and Representatives Ilitt and Marsh were on
the LH-ound several times and labored to provide the
Illinois troops with everything possible. The wives oi
these gentlemen were also frequent callers, and always
came laden with artijlei a i i d/iicuic^i for th- hos-
pital patients.
Cots and mattresses were soon forthcoming and
Major Anlhonv and his assistants secured a supply of
drugs and medicines. The regimental hospital became
thoroughly eiiuipped for the lifne being, and the unfor-
tunate soldiers who fell \ iitims to dis^^•lse were given
the best of treatment.
Mrs. Smith gave tli\' boys of company K a royal
spread the In-sl Sunday in camp. Tables and table
linens were conspicuous bv iheir absence, but the eat'
154 History of Companies I and E.
ables were abundant and made up of everything. The
dinner was served in an informal style but she tried
hard to console the boys for the sickness and death of
their comrades by ministering- to the inner man. Her
influence was continually brought to bear on the Wash-
ington otiicials to provide well for the men, and Colonel
Foster and Major Anthony expressed the sentiments of
the men of the regiment in a few well chosen words.
She was looked upon as the mother of the regiment.
Certain it was. she was our good angel, ministering to
the wants of thC; sick and speaking words of encourage-
ment and cheer to everyone.
It was very amusing to walk about among the east-
ern regiments cjuarters and hear the remarks of their
members regarding the boys from Illinois. We were
looked upon as cow-boys, rough riders and reckless
shooters. We were asked a great many times about
cow-boy life,and bear hunting, and if the Indians were
all peac^fiil at home. As we strolled about we over-
heard such remarks as: "Those fellows are ficm Illi-
nois, away out west, nice fellows but h- 1 when they
get started; thev would just as soon shoot as not, and
we had better look out for them.
We were a little non-plussed at first to know
whether thev really thought as they spoke, but we
soon saw they were in earnest and we did every-
thmg possible to mislead them and keep them of the
opinion that we were really bad men. Company G
of Dixon gave an exhibition of an Indian war dance
at intervals. Wrapped in red blankets, they would
hop around, whoop and yell, beat the drums and hold
a pow-wow. This farce never failed to draw a large
crowd of niteregted spectfitprs. At night the parade
Illinois Cow |•,()^•^;.
1
j^rouiuls wiTc aliv r witli would he liuiiaius. howling.
l^roaniiiL; ami lanviiii; tlu- jport to tlir last stri'ttli of
llu'ir iina<4inalioii in .i supri'Mu- ctfort to U-avc a lasting
iinp' t'ssioii willi our i oiin adcs from ihc cast that w c
were IfiTors.
.\hiiiy of tlif hoys liail liail tlirii- li.iir cliiiiM-d <-|csf
to tlit'if head oil account of tlic c<iiitiiiucd jiot wcallicr.
( )iic of t liciii. a iiiciiihir of the Sixth Illinois haiuh was
sitting' in the shade of a tree )n the outskirts of the
camp eri-,,i|iid one afternoon. He hail tlii-own his hat on
the ground nud .vas putViui; hard on a corn-col) pipe.
While in this j>ositioii t hiiikini,^ of incidents which had
ot'curred ill the past few weeks, he was aroused l)\- the
curious actions of a soldier who had approacdied him
(piietly and was slowly walkinj^ around the tree aijainst
which the wonderiu;^^ Illinois s )ldier rested. The sohl-
ier was evidentall V a private from oiit^ of the eastern re<'-
inieuts.
After ^azin^f at the i-ecliniiiii: ti^'ure a nioineiit. his
eyes l)eeanie rjlued on the uiU'overed head of the musi-
cian, and after a short jtause he said. -Sav coiniade. how
dill you <;et those ]:\jr scars on your head.-"' The man
from Illinois ^'rasped the situation like a tlash and re-
jijied. ••Well you see it was this wa\ . a coii|ilc df vears
a«;o the Indians out our way i,^it liled ahout sonletllin«^
I don t reinenilier tlie cause now: at any rate thev «»"i)t
troiililesome and a dozen of us \ouiii; fellows started out
on their trail to corral them. W'e soon run across them
and in the mix-up two of om- lio\s were killed and I was
knocked senseless.
••The Indians supposed I was dead and on.' <.f | hem
stol.e up. and atteuijited to tinish the joh hv scalpiut; me.
I revivetl just .as Ue wa- prej>arinij to nuike the final
ITii) History of Companies I and E.
swiiifT with his knife find lift my hair. I managed to get
niv hand on mv six-shooter which he had not taken time
to secure, and as he was gh)atingover me. I half opened
my eyes, took (jnick aim and tired. That poor red devil
never knew what hai)[)ened to him. for that piece of lead,
half the size of your tist had liored a hole clear through
his head, and with a yell he sprang into the air and fell
on his face dead as a door nail.""
••The oth"r boys who hadgiven chase to the red-
skins, returned in a couple of hours. They had met a
troop of V. S. regulars and put them on the trail of
the Indians. We picked up our dead comrades and re-
turned to our homes. It was some time before 1 en-
tirely recovered from the slashing I had received at the
hands of the vicious Indian, and the hair has never
grown on those spots since."
The man from the east drank in the whole story
eai^erlv and as the man from Illinois finished the narra-
live he gathered himself up and pulled a big six-shooter
from his hip pocket and caressed it tenderly. The
stranger looked about him for a moment and seeing the
way clear, backed away a few paces and turning, made a
bee line for camp. The musician lay on the grass and
laughed until he was sore. The fact of the matter was
he fell from the top rail of a fence and cut his scalp
(luite severely when a mere boy. and it had left him with
the scars which had caught the eye of the wandering
soldier from the east. This deception regarding the
presence of the cow-boy and Indian in Illinois was kept
up until a regiment of infantry arrived at cam]) from
Kansas and another from Missouri, then we ke])t quiet
on these matters.
On May twenty-fourth, General Graham appointed
r
>
Ed
7^
Tkooi's K 1'.\ 1 1 \\ id ^.^ Mi l\l^I.l.^. loT
( 'olniH'l l''i isli'i' to t he i-t >iiitii;iii(l of t he Scci iikI liri;^'!i(lc .in;ik-
iiijLC liiin '"ictiiij^' Hri^^jidicr (ifiM'j;il ot' xdluntt ns. This iiii-
(•x|ii'ctt'(l lioiior to till' Ctiloiicl ol" (Uir rciriiiit'iit \v;is lifiilcd
with (lfli;;ht li\ our l)o\s ;iim1 our cjiiii |> life \v;is liri^dit-
cuimI fof a t inif. The appoiiitiiH-nt was not |irniiaiu'iit
howcvci-. and not lonj^' al'tcrward (iciifi'al ( iarrctson from
( )hio was phicrd in coinuiand of the l)rii,^•ld»'.
M(v t went V scvfut 1). (icncral (Irahani ri'vii-wcd thi'
troops of his iMtiumaiid. and conipliiiu-nti'd them lii<;ldv
oil their military appcarniicc Tlic day foUowini,^. the
troops [)asscd in review l)ef(jre I'resiih'ut McKinK-x.
Vice President Hohnrt. See"y Al»jei-. (ien'l Miles and a
number of other CTOvernmeiit offieials.
The President and his party arrived on tlie ^n-oumls
at three tliivtv p. m.. escorted l)y two tr<iops of New
York Cavalry. The parade formeil immediately after-
wards. It was exactly one hour from the time the
first company [)asst'd the reviewing stand until the last
went by. There were eleven regiments in line: First
New Jersey; Seventh and Eighth Ohio: Sixty-Fifth New
York: Sixth Illinois; Sixth Massachusetts; Eighth.
Twi'lfth and Thirteenth Pennsylvania; Fifteenth Indiana
iuid Twelfth Missouri. Two or three of the regiments
that were in camp did not partici[)ate in the review for
some cause.
Colonel Foster was in command of the Second bri-
gade, First division of the Second army corps, which
was com[)osed of the Sixth Illinois, Sixth Massachusetts
and Eiirhth Ohio. Lieut. Colonel Kittilsen was in com-
mand of our regiment. This lirigade was the reci[)ient
of many compliments on the showing it maile. as com-
pany after company swung by the reviewing stand with
regular step and perfect line. It was witiiout doubt the
158 History of Companies 1 and E.
best equipped and most thoroughly drilled brigade at
Camp Alger. i
After the review the Presidents party drove through
each regiment's quarters and was greeted with rounds of
cheers on every side.
We were never in want for music. Nearly every
regiment present had either a band or fife and drum
corps. The fife and drum corps of the Sixth Massachu-
setts was extremely persistent in its rehearsels and it
could be heard the first thing in tlie morning, all through
the day and late at night. The Washington papers
gave the Eighth Ohio band first place, with the Sixth
Illinois band as a close second; but thanks to the con-
tinued efforts of C'hief Musician Prestine, our band kept
steadily improving until we readily saw it was first
in the favor of the many camp visitors whose iulerest in
the boys in blue never lagged.
Coi.ONi:i, (jiKAKD i\ J*]\-ii)i;nci;. IT)',)
CHAPTER X.
Tlif hours of duty were leiiij^thcned shortly after
our arrival at Oam|) Alger. First call tor reveille sound-
ed at five fifteen a. m. and taj)S at nine Ihirtv ]>■ ni ; we
were <]^iven an hour's hard drilling, from six thirl v until
seven thirty in the morning: an liour and thirty minutes
before mess at noon: and from three o"elock until four
in the afternoon, witli dress parade at six thirty in the
evening.
Our regiment held its first dress |)arade and review
on the evening of May twenty-fifth. The band marched
down the line to the stirring strains of the good old
••First ^^rigade March." The review was tine and elicit-
ed great applause from the visitors. The regiment
marched in column of conn)anies l)etV)re Colonel Foster,
and the alignment and step was ])erfect.
()r(lers were read to the mi'U practicall v establishing
a tlead line one mile from camj): or in other words, a sol-
dier wh) WIS foua 1 l).'yoii;l the mile limit from camp
without j)ermission was subject to court martial. .\ por-
tion of the Articles of War was i-eail to the men each
night to familiarize them with the regulations which
controlled their actions at all limes, whether on or otT
duty.
I^rivates (xoodnian and Little, (jf company K. were
1P)0 History of Companies I and E.
detailed to duty in tlie hospital, and private John Strock
of the same company, regimental color guard. May
twenty-eighth. Captain Lawrie made the following ap-
pointmenlsin company E: Corporal Sheldon to be Ser-
geant; private McNeil, Corporal; private Book. Wagon-
er. Private Will Flock was detailed to special duty in
the quartermaster's department.
Major Anthony established a theoretical school of in-
struction to soldiers, or ''The first aid to the wounded."
He explained to us how^ the various injuries and wounds
should be treated when una})le to secure medical assist-
ance. We were given thirty minutes of this instruction
daily.
Quite a sensation was caused in camp when we were
informed that Colonel Girard, Chief Surgeon in com-
mand of the First division hospital, had ordered the
regimental surgeons to turn over to the division hospital
all of their supplies such as cots, bedding, tents etc.
The information given out carried with it the idea that
this was done in order to centralize the work of caring
for the invalid soldiers. A vigorous protest was made
by our surgeons. The cots and bedding in our hospital
were furnished the regiment by Senator Mason and Mrs.
Electa Smith from their private funds and Major Antho-
ny decided that the supplies received from this source
did not come under the jurisdiction of Colonel Girard.
The transfer of this equipment meant the relinquishing
of all hopes of securing respectable treatment for our
boys as the division hospital was a farce.
It was lacking in equipment, nurses, supplies, med-
icines and surgical instruments, with which the regimen-
tal hospitals were kept supplied. A rigid examination
of the existing conditions at the division hospital brought
CAPT. JOHN J. CAIRNS,
Ile^t'l Adj. Sixth Inf.
Ni:\\ (ji Au ri;i<s. 101
1(1 lii;-lit til ■ lad that tlic patients were pm^rlv cared tor,
wliile tlie men ill the re<;iiiieiital hospitals were receivin<jj
the best oi" Ireatiiieiit and supplies were constantly l)ein<^
1)rone-ht in in hir<^e (jnantities by private parties.
Alajoi' Anthony (h'ci(h'd to I'isk a cdurl martial
rattier tliaii see tlie result of so much time and lalxir
thrown into the hands of the surgeons at the division
liosjiiTal, and refused point blank to deliver his sup-
plies to Colonel Girard The controversy was carried
on for some time ami eventually resulted in the re-
tention of the regimental liospital.
The next, move of Colonel Girard was to order the
transfer into the regular service of all members of the
volunteer hospital corps. This caused another stir
among the men wdio would be effected by the order,
but there was no way of avoiding it and the final re-
sult was that several of tlu" Sixth rei;-lni'nt w.-re trans-
ferred to the regular service, with the verbal nnder-
standiniT that thev were to be allowed to remain with
their regiuu'iit ami br niuslcrrcl oul with it.
Ralph Humphrey of company I. and (niy Rod;^ers
of conipan\- 1^ were among the number.
We had just fairly settled ourselves in our
quarters when we were ordered to strike tents and
move across the road. The boys had been jniiling in
the hours off dut\- in building bunks in their lents.
We drove crolched slicks in the ground, on these we
placed strong poles, then a layer of bark, from trees.
then an armful of pine twigs and o\er all a blanket
was thrown, making a very comfortable bed. and
raised about si.x inches from the ground. Tnis work
was just completed when the order came to move and
on June third w^e reluctantly packed our belongings and
i
1()2 History of Companies I and E.
camp equipage and began life anew in our new quar-
ters.
Our new site was on a side hill, the lower end
of the company street terminating at the very edge of
the timber land. On our right wound the corduroy
road leading to Falls Church. This had become
a very busy thoroughfare, and a continual string of
teams was passing our tents from early morning un-
til late in the evening. The soil was sand v. and the
weather hot and dry and every gust of wind would
till our eyes and cover everything about us with
dust.
Along this road opposite our quarters, it had been
built up solid for nearly a half a mile with temporary
structures of wood and canvas. There was a barber-
shop, billiard hall, shooting gallery, and several dining
halls, with numerous refreshment stands interminj^lino-.
Once in a while a blockade of teams would occur and
then the mule-whacker could be heard for half a mile
as he urged his four-in-hand throughthe labyrinth of
vehicles:
A few days previous to our moving to the new
camp site we were given another degree in soldiering
bv the appearance of --greybacks." We had been
dravv'in<»- clothinir and one of the bovs. among other
articles had been issued a new flannel shirt. He had
taken the clothing to his tent and was looking it over
when he saw something crawling on' the collar of the
shirt. He picked the shirt up and called the attention of
several of his comrades to the moving object and they
decided it was the old original army greyback and they
scattered itistanllv.
The owner of the shirt carried it down to the
KF.(;iMr,Nr R i-akivi r.i) ro jMaximim. l(i;5
end of the compaiix' street and plaei-d il <m the irround
where it was inspected hy ihi- whoU- eonipany as there
were hut few of the h;)\s wh > had ever seen one of
the "eritters."' TheN all niacU' sine lo ri-main a re-
spectful (Hstance fi-();n thr cotiianiinatinj^ piece of cloth,
while its owner stood In thinkin'4 of the 81.85 which
liad heen eli ir^ed to his account in pa\ nicnt toi^ the
article. 'rurninLi" the matter ovvv in his nniid he walked
oxer, picked the shirt up and carried il hick to his tent,
lie knew il would be a matter of onl\- a few daws unli!
the new-comer would tind him aiuwav and he ma\- as
well keep the slurl.
Mrs. Smith (.ontinued her \isiis to eairiji always
hrin^ini;" something; for the bo\'s to eat. Iler sunlin^'
face and o'entle \oice had become almost a necessiu- to
many of the xolunteers. Her strong character and the
enthusiasm wuh whicli she kept at her self-imposed task
was an inspiration to all those who witnessed it. and
the effec was noticeable h^ng after her departure.
It was through her efforts that bugler Eshelman of
company E. recei\ed his discharge and was sent home.
He had been in poor health for some time and camp
life was rapidly wearing him out. As soon as Mrs.
Smith came to know the circumstances she took im-
mediate steps to hurry his release. x\n application for
his discharge had been forwarded to the War Depart-
ment on the grounds of physical disability. As soon
Us the discharge was granted Mrs. Smith took him to
iier home in Washington and cared for him for sev-
eral da\s until she felt he was in lit condition to make
the journe\' home safely. He left Washington for
Sterling the second week in June.
Early in June, the government having decided to
104 History of Companies I and E.
till every or<»:anization to its maximum, otiicers were de-
tailed from all Illinois reij^iments to visit their home
stations and there recruit each company to its desired
na;nbsr of o:ie han h-e:l an_l si\- eiliste^i me.i fro:n the
neighborhood where the company was original'y organ-
ized. First Lieutenant Dillon of comp my E was ap-
pointed recruiting otiicer of the First battalion of the
Sixth regiment. A man from each company was de-
tailed to accompany him and aid in the r^^cruiting; Ser-
geant Osborne of company I and private Bensinger of
company E were detailed from those two companies.
They left Camp Alger for Illinois. June seventh. Lieut.
Dillon opened a recruiting oiiice in Sterling and he
soon had the desired number of volunteers. He, with
the enlisted men detailed to assist him returned and
reported for duty at Camp Alger June twenty-sixth.
The recruits for companies E and I arrived at
Camp Alger at intervals between the nineteenth and
twenty-sixth of June and were as follows: Company E;
Clare Brumley. Ford Brittenham. Moses N. Dillon,
Isaac Davis, Charles Eberle, Harry Eberle, Ed. Haberle,
Louis E. Hayes, Fred A.Johnson. Mert Jackson, G. A.
McKelvey and j. D. VValck, who were sworn into
the service at Sterling. June sixteenth, by Lieut. Dillon
and departed the next morning for Camp Alger. They
reported to Capt. Lawrie for duty on the morning of
June nineteenth.
Twelve more men for Company E were mustered
at Sterling, June eighteenth and embarked for Camp
Alger, June twentieth, reporting for duty June twenty
third. Thev were: Fr?>nk Apple. Howard Armstrong.
William Connell. Ernest Esterbrooks. Frank Heath,
Wilber Jackson, R. E. Jackson, Richard O. Jones,
C APT. FRANK W. BARBER.
Q.-M. Sixth Inf.
Sixth Recument on Dkess Parade. KiT)
Walter Latherow. Harold Matlack. Arthur Overholser
and Bert Sneed. John Drew si<jfned the muster roll
June t\vent\-third antl started for W ashin^^ton immed-
iately. This completed the roster of company K.
June nineteenth, twenty recruits reported to Capt.
Colebaugh for duty in compaiu' I. they were: Olin Car-
oay, Marcus L. Drennen, Walter C. Drur\-. (jeorge
I'Veek. Charles Fretk. Georu^e Hunt, B\ron Humphre\-.
Rollin Humphrey. Arthur Lewis, Charles Lewis.
William Leslie, Edmund S. Laiif^don, Bert Palmer,
Charles Reafsnyder. Ernest Snyder, John Stowell.
Arthur Sears. Schuyler Sweeney, Olin Wells and Frank
Weaver. June twenty-third, Albert Anstett, Guy
Humphrey. Irvin Stumbaugh, Frank Wells and Fred
White joined company I; and on June twentv-sixth:
FLirry Bent came into comp. This gave company 1 a
full complement of men.
A misunderstanding occurred in the enlistment of
private Langdon, His father applied for his discharge,
and it was granted, "by way of favor."' It took some
time to secure his release but it was accomplished and he
returned to his home. The vacancy thus caused was
tilled by the enlistment of William Boilshaus. Private
Brubaker of Company 1 was transferred to the Signal
Corps and detached from the company and regiment.
The practice drills contmued regularly, and soon the
recruits were placed in the ranks by the side of the older
men. The effect of the course of instruction which the
volunteers constantly received was quite evident. At
regimental dress parade, the troops from the unoccupied
regiments would congregate to witness the maneuvers of
the men of the regiment that was on parade. Hundreds
of visi'ors from Washington and the surroundincr country
160 History of Companies I and E.
were usually on hand each evening for the same purpose.
When the Sixth Illinois formed and executed the manual
of arms drill there was nothing in camp that could touch it.
With the command, '-order arms,"' every rifle came down
at the same time with a thud; the left hand of each man
dropped to his side with a precision like clock work, and
the men never failed to receive hearty applause.
In passing in review before the commanding ofhcer
and his staff, each company, with few exceptions, held a
perfect line and kept regular step. Colonel Foster was
extremely proud of his command and was the recipient
of many words of praise from the brigade and division
officers for the splendid showing made by the men of his
regiment.
A limited number of passes were issued to the men
each day and they eagerly took advantage of die oppor-
tunity to visit the city of Washington. A three mile ride
in the dirt and dust to Falls Church, and about ten miles
on an electric car, up hill and down dale, whizzing around
sharp curves and over bridges in Old Virginia, bringing
up suddenly on the bank of the Potomac opposite George-
town; taking foot passage over the bridge into this
suburb of the Capitol City, then a short ride on a street
car and the party landed in the heart of the National
Capitol.
There was much to be seen and usually the lime
was limited to a few hours in the city. The Capitol
building and White House must not be over looked; then
there was the Navy yard, the Marine barracks, the U.
S. Museum," Treasury and Navy building, the Congres-
sional Library, which is the finest building in the world,
with its long corridors, library rooms and large open
stairs, all built of the best trranite and marble the world
A N'lSir TO WASIlINCiTOX. 1(*7
produces and \'er\- liii^hlv polished. Holli tlie upper and
lower domes on this Iniildiiiii;- are over laid with i^old leaf
on the out side. The walls of the iiiterioi- are adorned
with beautiful jxiintiiiij^s and works of art wrouirht bv
master hands. The wide shehes and mammoth tables
are laden with books, papers and magazines published
centuries ago.
Washingtons monument must also be visited be-
fore returning. This testimonial erected in memory of
the father of our country, is thirty five feet square at the
base and towers five hundred and fifty five feet above
the earth. The interior is open and contains a winding
stairwav from bottom to top. An elevator makes the
ascent and descent everv thirtA- minutes. The stones
used in the construction of this memorial were contribu-
ted by 'the manv states, and societies of the union, each one
bearing an appropriate inscription.
Arri\-ing at the upper landing a birds-eye \'iew of
the citv and the countrv for miles surrounding is had,
men and women, on the lawn far below look like pig-
mies. The waters of the Potomac shimmering in the
sunlight can be traced for miles and as its course grows
fainter and fainter in the distance it appears like a band
of silver girdling this part of the world. The city itself,
lies spread out before \"OU like a page of an open book.
Its labryinth of streets and avenues, bordered by beau-r
tiful shade trees and handsome residences are bewilder-
ing while the pure white of the federal buildings nest^
ling among the green foliage of the many gardens rests
the e\ e and reilects peace and secuiity ()\er all. De-
scending ill the elt'\aloi- the pirl\- turns its steps towaril
the Lincoln home. It is getting late and the boys com-
plete their dny of sightseeing by taking a drive through
168 History of Companies I and E.
the residence portion of the city and return to camp very
tired but more than pleased with the result of the days
excursion.
L.ll. GAYLORD,
l8t Lieut., Adj. 1st Bat Sixth 111. Vol.
Paying thk Tkooi's. 100
CHAPTER XI.
June fourth,' General George R. Garrettson, of Col-
umbus, O., assumed comnr.and of the Second brigade, re-
lieving Colonel Foster who had been in command since
May twenty fourth. Capt. Cairns who had been acting
Ass't Adj't Gen'l at brigade headquarters was also re-
lieved and returned to regimental headquarters.
The men were growing weary of camp life. They
were not tired of soldiering but]were restless and anxious
to begin active service. We were fitted out with uni-
forms and clothing very slowly. The one bright spot in
these long days of monotonous drilling and camp duty
was the day the paymaster made his first visit at camp.
We signed the pay roll June eighth and the following
morning we lined up and one at a time received our pay.
This was the lirst money the boys had received
since their leaving home and they were sadly in need of
it. Many of them had entered^the service with but little
money in their pockets. Some were yet wearing citi-
zens clothing and had been compelled to purchase vari-
ous articles of wearing apparel, besides the dining halls
and refreshment stands hard by had lured the loose change
from the pockets of the majority of the soldiers and long
before the arrival of the paymaster their last cent was
gone. They soon began to realize that they must plan
differently, that fifteen dollars and sixty cents per month
170 History of Companies T and E.
would not meet their expenses at the pace which had
been set and immediately after receiving their first pay
from Uncle Sam a goodly portion of it was sent directly
home.
Intoxicating liquors had been kept away from our
quarters as much as possible. The Pennsylvania regi-
ments had a wide open canteen running but nothing of
the kind was allowed in the neighborhood of the Illinois
or Ohio regiments. The crafty fellows in our vicinity
were not slow to take advantage of the situation and they
sold whiskey on the sly until they were caught and put
under arrest. We called them "moonshiners" and the
stuff they sold was known as "moonshine whiskey.'* It
was about the worst mixture that ever tickled a palate.
It was prepared in such a way that a man could drink a
quantity of it but would not feel the effects of the over
indulsrence for several hours. Take several drinks in the
middle of the day and towards evening he would begin
to feel queer, couldn't find the ten" he lived in. wander
around awhile, begin to feel a little sick, vvabble and
stagger a few moments and then he would give up in de-
spair, --Don't care if I never get home," and generally
landed in the guard house, waking up in the morning he
would reach out "a foot or so'^ feeling for his head and
wonder what it all meant. Not until then did he know
the full meaning of "moonshine~whiskey.'"
Talk about -cullud"; folks. They were so plenty
in that country that it would get dark about three o'clock
in the afternoon; no matter how bright the sun was shin-
ing it always appeared like twilight. Ask one of them
how far it was to a certain point and the general repl\-
was — '-Well. I doan know exactly, sah, but it's ah right
smaht wavs." The white people were but little in ad-
Pa'-sinc Incidents. 171
vance of the •"Ciilhur" folks. They were iinmercifullv
slow. Thev woukl iiol luii'r\- under am* eircunistances,
a <;"oo(l man from our country would work all around
them. They sjieak with the twani;- peiailiar to the \'ir-
ij^inia people and it was d tlicult to keep from lauuhin^
when talking" with one of them. The}' were little hetter
at iud^"ini4" distance than the ne^ro: a.-k one of them the
same (.question that w as put to the negro and he w<nil(l re-
ply -'about a mih-."' walk nearly two miles and xour dt-s-
tinalion not in sight: ask another one how nmch farlht-r
it was and it was then a mile and a half. A Virj.inia
mile was never understood bv the western boNs.
Shortly aftei- Chaplain Morgan joined our regiment
at Cam]) Alger he tendered his resignation to Colonel
Foster. His age and health would not permit him to fol-
low the fortunes and hardships of a eam[)aignhi a foreio-n
climate. Colonel Foster considered the circumstances
and regretfully accepted his resignation. He delivered
liis farewell seruion on the nineteenth day of June. (Sun-
day) and with diffieulty kept from breaking down l)efore
completing liis talk. He had \)ovn connected with the
regiment for a long time and the tliought of severing all
connection with it at the time when we were on the eve
of entering the strife, where his services would be so in-
valuable, nearly overcame him,
Private Jack W. Ferris of company D was appointed
to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Chaplain
Morgan. He was a Methodist clergyman and pastor of a
flourishing church at Abingdon. 111., when the war broke
out and the President called for volunteers. He immedi-
ately tendered his resignation to the trustees of his church
and took a place in the ranks as a private. He had
shared camp life with his comrades, had enjoyed it. and
172 History of Companies I and E.
was as eager as any of tliem to get to the front.
At about this time a severe blow was administered
to the many refreshment stands that were established in
the neighborhood of the camp. The commander of the
post issued a swee})ing order, prohibiting the sale of pies,
cakes, cookies, sandwiches, ice-cream or lemonade, within
one mile of camp. The managers of these places had
been doing a flourishing business, but the officers in com-
mand decided that the quality of the goods i)ut out was
of the poorest and detrimental to the health of the troops-
The situation could be met in one way only and that was
to stop the sale of the articles, which they did.
Shortly after this a vaudeville show erected a tent
near our quarters. It received liberal patronage from the
soldiers and in return the manager tendered the use of the
tent to the Sixth 111., in which to hold church services.
The camp was favored by a call from Dr. Mary Wal-
ker. She was selling pamphlets and poems of her own
composition. She was dressed in man's costume, wearing
a suit of black, prince Albert coat, black straw hat, white
shirt and standing collar, and carried an umbrella. She
was the source of a great deal of amusement among the
bovs and a great many of them doubted its being a woman
at all.
Chaplain I. N. Keefer of the Eighth Ohio, died of
heart trouble June twenty second. Military funeral ser-
vices were held the following day and the corpse was es-
corted from camp by the regimental band and one com-
pany of infantry, his riderless horse following the funeral
car. This was the man who, a few weeks previous, oflBci-
ated at the funeral of the volunteer from Rock Island.
The weather continued hot and dry ; there had been
but little rain, and the wagon road which was in constant
NED JOHNSON,
Reg. Sergt.-Major Sixth Inf. \'ol.
Api'ointmf.nts; in Comi'Amf.s K ani> 1. 17o
ns«' was i,n'(>iiii(l into a l)c(l of very tine sand. With every
ij^iist of wind caiiir a Hurry < it dust and ilirt; llie clotliiii^
and (juartcrs of (lur nicn were wit li ditiiculty kept pi'cscnt-
al)l('. We had sweltered in the sun and l)atl!ed witli the
dirt until everv man in <-ani]i was anxiously a wait inL( a
t hundershower to hreak the (lronL;ht and cool the atmos-
phere.
< )ne sultr\' e\"iiinL;" late in .lime it came; the rain
came down in toi-reiits. and the wind lijew a hurricane.
Evt'rvom' whose duties would allow it soui^'ht shelter in
his tent. When the rain had ceased the lioys crawh'd out
of theii- tents and eheenul thc>niselves hoarse. And such
a sii^ht as the sk\" [iresented ever\' one in camp was out
(IrinkiiiiZ in its l)eaut\'. In the east, a l),'autiful rainbow
shone forth. It was perfect: sti'etclun<.( from north to
south until lost in the liorizon. (douds of a mellow gold
drifted rapidh' !)v into a l)a(d\ground of a most delieate
blue. The foliage of the neighboring trees glistened like
wreaths of silver, while the rain drops tremlding on the
leaves sparkled like diamond settings as the slanting rays
of the disa[)pearing sun reflected o\'r the scene. It was
errand, and it was remarked on everv hand that it was the
most sublime spectacle ever witnessed.
With the companies increased to one hundred and
six eidisted men. came new appointments of non-commis-
sioned officers. June twenty-third Capt. Lawrie made
the following promotions: Privates D.eyoe, Reese Dillon,
Triggs, Burkhart, Bert Johnson and Lineberry to be
Corporals: private Clark was appointed musician, to fill
the vacancy caused by the loss of bugler Eshelman. dis-
charged. Private Hess was appointed company Artificer
and private Smith detailed to duty at the regimental hos-
pital. Sergeant Cushman was detailed to assist Ord-
174 History of Companies I and E.
nance OSiicerEick as Ordnance Sergeant. Corporal Dil-
lon was detailed to duty in the quartermaster's depart-
ment.
The appointments in company I were; privates
Bnrr, Hyatt, Charles Berry. Everhart. Sherwood and Sny-
der to be Corporals, and Hilttni Willccjx. Lance Corporal.
Private Jenks was detailed to special duty at post head-
quarters, and private Kingery was appointed acting Vet-
erinary Surgeon of the Sixth regiment and placetl in
charge of the officers horses.
The post commander had. for some time. coiiteni[)la-
ted giving the troops a long practice march to the Poto-
mac river, and an opportunity to bathe in its waters Oti
June twenty-sixth, the Second brigade was instructed to
prepare for a two days absence from camp. The follow-
inuf mornin«f. each man was issued two davs rations and
fifty rounds of blank cartridges. We formed in heavy
marching order and at six o'clock we marched out of camp
with ten Virginia miles before us.
It was quite cool on the start and the rain a couple
of days previous had put the roads in good condition, but
as the sun rose higher in the heavens, it grew warm and
we found plenty of dust before reaching our temporary
camp, christened Camp Starvation. We ai'rived at ten
o'clock a. m. and had our tents up in a very few moments.
We were then given our liberty for a time and found we
were not far from the Potomac river. We were cautioned
about getting into the water until a saitahle bathing place
could be selected.
The Potomac is very picturesque at this place, wind-
ing its way through qi'^^^t cliffs; the stream itself is full
of rocks and extremely treacherous. The current is swift
and the rocks risinsf out of the water shelve off into th9
IM.Muii TO I'lii". Potomac 175
stream where iiiaii\- urilieiii slieer dtV al>ni|i1 1 y. tnrniiiij;-
numerous holes many feet in th'pth. Tlie l)aiiks were
soon lined with men Tor nearly a mile and in a lew mom-
ents tlu' water was alive with shouting, lauuhini^- Woys.
They roni|HHl in the stream for some time and tlioron«^hly
enjoveil the sport. Private Dearth, of (•omj)any I), from
Geiieseo. was drowned in ait 'nn)ting to swim the river.
He was within a few feet of the bank when hi' smhlenly
sank out of siLjht. Every effort was made liy expert
divers to rescue him hut without success. (Traj)i)lintr
hooks were lowered and the river dragii^ed but no trace
of the body could l)e found for some time. The water
was found to be nearly eiij^hty feet in de])th at the jxiint
where lie went down.
This had no eiff-ct on the \enturesonie batlieis anil
they continued to take the same risk which had [)roven
so disasterous to one of their number until ordered out
of the water by Major Anthony. In the afternoon, a
party of the boys took a stroll about three miles from
camp in sean-h of a country store, as our rations consisted
of coffee, hardtack and sowbelly, and our ten mile march
had given us ravenous appetites.
After trudging along for some time we were al)out
to retrace our steps, when, making a tu)-n in the road we
espied a cluster of Ijuildings a short distance in advance;
among them we saw the object of our search, a country
store. We ai)i)roached the uiini;iture village, and on en-
teriuii the store we fouiul a lari>;e room ivith shelves near-
Iv bare. The proprietor was busily engaged weighing
UD ten cents worth of ••cohn-mear' for a colored custo-
mer, and looking about the vacant room we found this
inans stock in trade to consist of a limited amount of the
bare necessities of life; a few canned goods on the shelves.
n bo5 or two of crackers, a little sugar, a (luantity of corn-
176 History of Companies I and E.
meal and a small supply of cigars, tobacco and pipes, in
all about ten dollars worth of goods was in sight. We
counted out our few nickles and dimes, and after an ar-
gument over the value of the articles we wished to pur-
chase, we left him happy in the possession of nearly
thirty cents.
Opposite the store, and back from the road a number
of rods, nestled a low, rambling, southern farm house.
On the veranda sat a young woman and romping on the
lawn, a little boy and girl, aged about six and seven
years, respectively. Filling our canteens at the town.''
pump near by, we crossed the street? and resting on the
sloping lawn, opened the can of peaches, unwrapped the
pound of cookies, which reminded us of the hardtack we
had left at camp, and prepared to appease our gnawing
hunger.
The housewife stopped her sewing and the children
ceased their play: together they watched us at "'mess"'
for afew moments, then the little ones timidly approached.
We tendered them a portion of our supper which was ra])-
idly disappearing, but they shook their heads and hung
back. They soon overcame their timidity and sitting
down plied us with questions, asking if we were still hun-
gry? We replied in the affirmative, whereupon the little
boy ran to the house, disappearing for a few moments he
returned with a handful of vegetables fresh from the gar-
den. Then both the little tots scampered back up the
lavs'ii and held a brief conversation with the lady, evident-
ly their uKjther. the trio entered the house, reappearing
directly, the children came towards us bearing between
them a large pitcher of cold milk and a big cake. They
sat the food before us and with e3-es sparkling with de-
light, watched us as we stored it away.
We were just completing the rather sumptuous meal
KEESE DILLON,
Q.-M. Sergt. sfixth Inf., V'ol.
Till-, Sham 1>\ iru:. 177
when the father ch'oxe up. 1 le had been to \\ a^hii)^toii
and on the return hac] learnrd of the pri'sence of tlie
troops in that vieinitw He took the situation in at a
ghmce and sitting by our side, rekited stories of the t"i\ il
war. He was a native \'irginian. The house was liis.
also the broad acres surrounding it. It was the property
of his father in the sixties. General McCalTs and Han-
cock's troops were encamped here during tin- hill ol six-
ty one and spring of si.\t\ two and iiad used his fathers
farm for a drill and parade ground. General McCall
had used the dwelling as his headt[uarters.
We were so occupied by the entertainment of our
new found friends that night was upon us before we re-
alized it. Hastily bidding the hospitable father and little
ones goodbye we hurried toward camp. As we walked
swiftly along whistling and singing, feeling contented and
at peace with the world in general, congratulating our-
selves on the success of our venture, and while yet nearly
a mile from camp, we were brought to a standstill as we
heard the warning notes of the bugle as it sounded --tat-
too." We increased our pace to a run. As we tore
over the brow of the hill which lay between us and our
goal, we heard the tnial notes as they rose and fell on the
night air. Before us lay the city of tents, the flickering
flames of the tallow candles shining dimly through the
canvas shelters: we heard the \-oice of the --Top Ser-
geant"" as he ordered the men to ••fall in for roll call"" and
we knew we could never cover the distance and would
•'miss check.'" We hurried along and ran iilumii into a
sentinel, and were again brought to a sloji by the com-
mand ••Halt! Who comes there:"" We had forgotten
that our regiment was expecting an attack Iroin tlie Mass-
achusetts boys and had a double guard out \\ iih instruc-
tions to be wide awake and not caught napping. W e
178 History of Companies I and E.
formulated a flimsy yarn about being guards just relieved
from duty and came in to get something to eat. and after
a little parley, we were allowed to pass. We crawled
under our shelter tent and the next morning at roll call
were informed that they thought we had been drowned
as we were last seen at the river the day before.
Extra precautions had been taken throngliout the
night to prevent our being surprised by the "•enemy,"
the men sleeping with cartridge belts and rifles by
their side. Nothing occurred and we slept soundly
until daylight. After a light lireakfast we broke camp
and began the return inarch. Advance, rear and flank
guards were ])ut out and the line of march was guarded
in every way in the same manner as it would have been
had we been in the heart of the Spanish country.
It was very hot, the boys began to drop out of the
line and the ambulances were soon filled. When about
half way to Camp Alger we were attacked l)y the Sixth
Massachusetts and a troop of New York Cavalry. The
conflict was warm for a couple of hours; during the bat-
tle we captured a number of prisoners, held our wagon
train and repulsinl the enemy. A shin't distance from
camp the Massachusetts boys intrenched themselves l)e-
hind the railroad embankment and made a final stand,
but a spirited charge on the part of our boys drove them
from their position and the battle was over. We arrived
in camp at eleven o'clock a. in., tired and dirty yet all
appeared to have enjoyed the march. This was the first
of a series of sham battles that occurred in the timber
near camp, in which the troops showed a surprising a-,
mount of tact on the skirmish line,
Ci,o-in(;'*1)avs at Camp Ai.iJKit.
17;^
CHAITI-:K XII.
A> till' weeks |):issril. tlic \ c i| iiiitcci's ;il C'amn Al"-('i'
hci-aiiif lUiirc proticieiit as a result of t lie severe traiiiiii<r
which they had imih'ri^oue since their nnister in. and
they felt they were capable of duty at the front. Tlie
closing chiys of June found them only partially ecpiipped
for field service. Ordnance OfKcer Kick and Quarter-
uiastcr Barber of our rei^iuient. wert^ doini; their utmost
to secure the necessary sup[)lies to [)ut the men on a war
foot in ij^.
The many rumors that floated about camp, kept the
men i-imtinually on the (jui vive. hourly expectintr the
order to t'ome calliuij^ them into active seryice.
Major W. T. Chaniion. commanding- the first liat-
talion of our regiment, was attaidjed to the general st?itt'
of Gen'i (xraham. from June seventeenth until June
twenty-fifth, acting as provost-marshal-general. Second
Lieut. Georgi- W. j-'lood of com[)any A. l-'irst battalion.
was also attached to the general stalf. ac-ting as assistant-
[)rov(jst-marshal from June seventh to June twenty-
fourth. Capt. liiwrie of Cann)any E comaianded the
First battalion during the al)sence dI Major Channon.
Corporal Dillon of company IC received the intelli-
gence of a death in his family and was gr.mted a seven
days furlough. lie immediately boarded the cars en-
route for Sterling. Corporal Lealherwood of company
180 History of Companies I and E.
I also received a furlough of several days and was ab-
sent for a time.
During the two months we had been in the service,
the home people had never lost sight of us for an in-
stant. We were constantly receiving boxes and pack-
ages put up b\ loving hands, containing good things to
eat and supplies for the hospital. Now and then a
package would be received, the miscellaineous contents
of which told the story of the thoughtfulness of the
mothers, wives, sisteis and sweethearts of the absent
soldier bo}'S. The Womans Rtlief Corps, of the differ-
ent towns were prominent factors in the distnlnuiun of
these generous <jifts to the soldiers.
From Sterling, Rock Falls, Morrison, Erie, Proph-
etstovvn. Lyndon and Albany the precious parcels came
and their arrival was always hailed with delight.
The pleasure evmced by the soldiers on receiving
these articles was caused not more by the possession of
them, than by the silent messages which they betok-
ened. Although twelve hundred and hfty miles of
mountain and prairie land separated us from home, we
felt secure in the knowledge that the moral and material
support of our friends would ever be forthcoming.
With many indications of our regiments early de-
parture for the front, the letters from relatives and
friends grew more grave and tender, breathing words
of praise and encouragement, causing the first feeling of
homesickness to enter the hearts of manv of the bovs as
they eagerly devoured the contents, word by word, and
pictured to themselves the family group as it gathered
in the far away home, anxiously watching the progress
of the war and calculating on the prospects of their own
boy being safely returned to the family fold. Distance
C'hiot Mu>iciiiii Juhii Frestiii.
ClIlCICRlNC. Ml'.SSACl'.S 1"k()M 1'^<11.M)S. Isl
lencLs enchant iiiont. and the lionics, always pn-cious, hut
doubl\- so under the circinnstances. lilled th'' thou'^hls
of the soldiers and a feelini^ of depression would steal
o"er ihein as the\' allowed their minds to wander back, to
Illinoi<. TheN' \^ ere L!,"iven but little lime for such le-
Ik'Ciions and the activil\- all about them t|uickly turned
their thoughts to other channel.
Amon!^" other letters received Irom home was one
from J'vineiine Lodi^e. No. 8. Degree of Rebekah. I. ().
O. I'\. of Morrison. I'his letter expressed the feeling of
interest taken in the volunteers from Illinois by llie
patriotic citizens of the State, and in \iew ol this fact.
permission to publish the letter in lull, was sought and
granted. The communication was addressed to Capt.
Colebaugh of company^ I but referred to the volunteers
in general, a complete cojiy of whicii follows.
Morrison. 1i,k.. Jr.xi-: 24. 1898.
Capt. W . V. Colebaugh,
Co. I. 6th Regiment.
Camp Alger \'a.
To OiR Soldier Bovs:
The Emeline Lodge No. 8, D. of R. has requested
me to write. Although not surprised by the command.
1 know that I can not do justice as my heart is too full
of the great and glorious cause that has brought you
together but I cannot disobey the order of those who
have commanded me to write. You. soldiers, have
about ended \-our career as mere holiday troops, I be-
lieve, and are now about to buckle on the armor and to
unsheathe the swords of gallant knights enrolled to
maintain, uphold and defend that Constitution and that
Union which were hammered out amidst the lires of the
Revolution, and cemented by the blood of the fathers
and heroes of the war of our independence. That tem-
ple in which the exiles of despotism from all parts of the
182 History of Companies 1 and E.
world have always sought an asylum; while the even-
ing tattoo will bid you to sleep on your burnished arms,
ready, at any moment, to rally at the bugle call to the
rescue of that flag which has already floated in triumph
over every sea and in every clime. The hour that you
left us was in some respects painful, for you leave your
wives, your kinsfolk, and your cheerful happy homes.
And yet. our greatest regret is, that we. too. cannot
join your ranks, enroll our names upon your muster and
rally with you under those dear old Stripes and Stars.
You are, indeed, to be envied that you can go. and ihe
buttons vou wear, the swords that gird your thighs, ihe
epaulettes that mark and designate your rank, are all
badges of honor, of shivalry. of duty in the field. v\ hich
we can only covet, not enjoy. You. and such as you.
are the honored children of this glorious republic, of
whom, in after times, when peace has been restored, ilie
children shall say, as they point at you wiih pride, and
their eyes sparkle with delight, as you sha'l pass along
the pathwav of life: "There goes one of our soldier
boys." Honors shall cluster thick around you. and
garlands of myrtle shall be woven by fairy Angers to
entwine around your brows and when Anally you shall
be gathered to another and brighter world on the slab
that marks your resting place shall be engraven these
words: "Sacred to the Memory of a Soldier of the U.
S." Go, then, soldiers of the U. S.. to a proud and
glorious victor v. or to a soldier's honored graxc. Our
praver at morning and evening shall be — God bless.
protect and save our country and its noble sons.
As I have said before, we regret we must sta^- at
home, yet if we must stay we shall try to help you in
every way we can. If at any time or any place we can
send you articles of an\- kind to make you more com-
fortable we will do so if you will only let us know what
is needed.
The young girls of our Lodge are a little shy, yet
they send their love but wanted to send angel food cake.
Hoping you mav allow us to aid you. in behalf of
C"iii:i'.i<i.\<; Mi-:ssA(;i'.s i-rom I-'kii-.nds.
ls:5
iIk' Lodjn'*-' I \\ill wish \'()U lu-allh aiul succi-ss in all you
undertake.
^'()Ul" Prairie Stale I'^'iends.
Daisy D. I'ond.
Seerctarw
Man\- K'ticrs of likt.- eharaeler were- rcecivcd but
durin!^" the jiackiuLI and uiipaekint;' ol our t'ttL-ds which
occurred niaiu" times in the followiiiL;' months. [hv\'
were lost. A pathelii" little incident occurred in camp
on the lirst dav of )une when l^ieut. Colonel Kitlilsen
read a letter from a little i;"irl. s'x y^iars of a^e, of
Moline. She was the daughter of an old comrade who
was taken ill and died a few years a<(o at one of the
National (niard encamjiments. The letter read as fol-
lows :
DL'ir -Mr. Kittilsen: I lieard my nnimma readiuL,^
in the jxiper that some of the boys that went in cou.-
p,ui\- V were sick and needed some thiuLTs. and I send
vou some mone\- that I have saved, and 1 want you to
bu\" some thing's for some of the sick hoys.
Moline. 111., May 28th, 1898.
I'^om \-our little friend.
Al.TA Wai-kkk.
Inclosed with the letter was a check for tifty-three
cents and a letter from the little .girls grandfather, in-
closing a larger contribution: and one from a lady in
Moline apprising the lieut. colonel that a ijuantity of
supplies made bv some of her friends and herself were
on their wa\- to camp.
The bovs of compan\ IC. wishing to show their
gratitude and appreciation of the many kind acts of
Mrs. Smith, raised a fund in the company and pur-
( based a neat silver card receiver, had it suitably en-
graved and presented it to her. In acknowledging the
184 History of Companies I and E.
gift Mrs. Smith addressed the following letter to the
boys:
Treasury Department.
Oftice of Auditor of Postotfice Department,
Washington, D. C,
To Members of Compan}- E, Sixth Regiment of
Illinois Volunteer Infantry; My Dear Friends: It is
with sincere grati ude that I acknowledge the lovely
gift you so generously granted, and it shall be treasured
beyond the expression of words, and my future life
will be happier for the memories it will always awak-
en. My prayers will follow^ the brave hearts of Com-
pany E. Illinois Volunteers, as they eagerly hasten to
defend the cause of a greater humanity and for higher
civilization. I know you will proudly maintain ••Old
Glory"' and may God bless and protect you and bring
_you home safely is the earnest wish of your sincere
"friend. Electa E, Smith.
These and many other cheering messages were
received and read to the men. The source from which
they came gave the men renewed courage and they
determined on giving their friends no cause to think
they were undeserving.
The members of company I, desiring to promote
a feeling of close comradeship between themselves and
their company ofhcers, presented Captain Colebaugh
and Lieutenant Lawton each a handsome, gold mounted
sword. The recipients of the gifts prized them highly
and expressed their gratitude to the donors. Thc}'
were by far the neatest blades carried by line officers
which came under our notice throughout the campaign.
This incident occurred on the fourth da}' of July, 1898.
On the second of July one of Uucle Sams repre-
sentatives again visited our camp and left a slight re-
^linder that we had served him faithfully for another
LAI' T . F. J . C L 1 : X 1 J 1-: N 1 N ,
Co. F, Sixth Inf., \'()1.
I'resent rank, Lieut, ("ol. Asst. Adj.
Gen. :{d Ikioraile, III. \. (i.
Oin)i<:iii-.i) 'PC) Cri'.A. ISo
iiKMilh. About tliirlN'-onc hundred dollars was dislrilnit-
ed among" the men of the regiment, a goodl}' portion of
this soon disappeared, some sending theirs home and
not a few spending their portion freely until it was near-
h' gone, l^'ortunateh' for the boys in genei"al a number
of them foresaw that an emergenc}- might arise, where
a little ready money would pro\e invaluable to the men,
and they preserved a sum which, although not large,
was the means of relieving the pangs of hunger and
furnished clothing for many during the dark days which
followed and which none could foresee. In truth more
than one man who is enjoying good heidih today owes
his preservation to the kind and ready friends who had
fortitied themselves with a few dollars which they gen-
erously divided among their needy comrades who in
their enfeebled condition could not have existed on the
rations issued them.
Thursda}', June twenty-third we were instructed to
pack our accoutrements and be prepared to leave camp
the next day. The Eighth Ohio and sevent}-tive men
from each company of the First battalion of our regi-
ment were to be sent to Cuba to re- enforce the Fifth
Armv Corps, under command of General Shafter. The
order came late at night and bright and early next
morning the bo\s were hard at work getting tlu-ir few
belongings into portable shape, but at noon llie oi'der
was countermanded and we suifered our first real dis-
appointment.
The bo\s took theii medicine like men ami sor-
rowfulK- began to unroll their blankets and begin another
sieire of waitino. We were instructed to unpack such
articles as absolutely necessary as we might be ordered
out at any moment. General Duliield, in command of
the Separate brigade, consisting of the Thirty-third and
18() History of Companies I and E.
Thirty-fourth Michigan and Ninth Massachusetts regi-
ments of Infantry- received the preference and taking
the Thirty-third and one battahon of the Thirty-
fourth Mich, he moved out of camp enroute for Cuba:
the remainder of the brigade followed a few days
later. This brigade arrived in Cuba in lime to reach
the scene of battle and partcipate in the glorious victory
of General Shafier's troops. General Duffield himself
nearly succumbing to an attack of "'yellow jack" and a
number of officers and enlisted men were killed and
wounded in the several engagements in \\hich they par-
ticipated. This was the fate of the troops \n ho fore-
stalled us in 'retting to the front. From the time of re-
ceivin"- the first order to be in readiness to march out of
camp, until we did get out. we were held in readiness
constantlv to move on short notice.
The volunteers at Camp Alger represented four-
teen states with from one to three regiments froiu
each state. In July the total strength of the troops
at this camp, comprising the Second Army Corps,
was twenty two thousand one hundred seventy-flve
officers and enlisted men. The general health of the
men continued good up to the time of the removal of
our brigade, although a few cases of typhoid and ma-
larial fever developed in June.
About six weeks after the departure of our regi-
ment, or to be exact, on the fifteenth of August the
War Department ordered the transfer of the Second
Armv Corps to Middletown. Pa. The removal of
the troops began immediately and before the last of the
month '-Camp Alger" was a camp in memory only.
The camp at Middletown was named C^imp George
Gordon Meade, in honor o£ the aero of Gettysburg, an
illustrious son of the state of Pennsvlvania.
PutXlKKS- ()!• IIIK W AK. 1 S'
('llAPTi:!^ XIII.
nuviiiii,' the (la\s (if oiii- (•;ini|i life <iur tiiiic and
lli()U;^-lits NVfTc cni^-rdssril liy lln- luaiiv cxiicriciiccs \vc
im-t ivitli in prvfiiniiiii;!;- llu' duties nf a soldier. The
newness ut mir suiTDundinLis had worn oil' lo a i^real
I'xtcnt 1)V the (dose of June and we he^an to look l)aek
to the scenes and ineidenls which had oeeurred else-
wheri'. Evidence of U'reat activity was on every hand
and the reeriiitini; hrd lieen continued Ii.iil;" al'te]- we
had or(jiie t'ruui our homes.
In the month of May the President had made a
second call for an additional seventy rive thousand
volunteers. Congress bad authorized an increase of the
Kei^ular Armv to sixty one thousaml men. auti in addi-
\um hail provided for sixteen regiments of volunte*-r
troops, (immuues. I During the month of July the
total aggregate strength of the Regular and ^ olunteer
Armv was two hundred sixty eight thousand, three
hunilretl fifty-two. officers and enlisted men. This num-
ber was increased in August to two hundred seventy
four thousand, seven hundred seventeen, which repre-
sented the largest number of soldiers, regular and vol-
unteer, in the service, during any one month through-
out the Spanish American war.
April first, just previous to the outbreak of the
war. the aggregate strength of the Regular Army was
188 History of Companies I and E.
twenty eight thousand, one hundred eighty-three, officers
and men. Thus it may be seen that in ninety days
from the dechnration of war, over a quarter of a million
men had l)een recruited, mobolized at tlie state rendez-
vous, mustered into the United States ft i vice hurried
to the many permanent camps designated h\ the War
Department, and organized into brigades, clivisicns and
army corps, and under the guidance of R(\gular Army
(officers, who had grown gray in the service, formed an
army which, for intelligence and patriotism had never
been exc(dled in the history of the world. During the
next thirty days this fcjrce was augmented by over six
thousand nnui.. with thousands u[)on thousands more
formed into |)rovisional regiments eagerly awaiting
another cnll for troops.
In the Navy the number of enlisted men allowed by
law prior to the outbreak of hostilities was twelve
thousand live hundred. On August fifteenth, when the
enlisied force reached its maximum, there \\ere twenty
four thousand, one hundred twenty-four men in the ser-
vice. This great increase was made necessary by the
addition of one hundred twenty-eight ships to tlit^ Navy.
This increase in the number of vessels brought the max-
imum fighting force from sixty-eight to one hundred
ninety-six.
The war was progressing with great strides, both on the
land and on the sea. Our soldiers and our sailors were
transported to the scenes of conflict in both the Old World
and the New. The area of Spanish rule was slowly but
surely contracting and it was but a question of a few weeks
at the most when they would be driven from many of their
possessions. History was being made rapidly and every
man who was aiding in bringing success to the Ameri-
COL. TllEU. KOOSEVEI.T
Manila Han ANDvSANJrAN llii.i,. ISV)
(•■ill t'orct^s took a i^rcal [n-ulr in liis work. Tlif <itlicials
at Washini^loii were I'vcr oii tin' alert, iiiofc than lialf
<'\|)',n'tiiuj tlio S[)anish jj^ovormncnt woulil sucrci'il in sc-
curini; tlu' assistance of s )ni.' foveii,ni power in their lie-
hali:'. l)r.t t'»)rtunately for us. and possildy tor themselves
all of the powers took a neutral stand and left the oj)-
Dosin^'- "-overnnients to settle the (luestion Ictween theni-
loo *
selves.
The first test of the lighting (inaiities of the opposing
forces oceurred on the first day of ]May. Commodore
Dewev. on that day, destroyed the Spanisli tl-et in Ma-
nila ))av without the loss of a man on tht- part of our
forces, while the Spanish loss was three hundred eighty
one men killed and wounded. The downfall of the eity
of Manila did not occur for some time, not until after the
arrival of General Merritt: on the lifteenth day of August
the city capitulated and the American Hag was floated to
the breeze over Spanish soil.
On May twelfth the fleet umler i-onnnand of Ad-
miral Sampson bombarded the Sjjanish fortification at
San Juan. Porto Rico. On the morning of May thirty
tirst the lieet under command of Commodore Schley, ex-
changed shots with the Spanish vessels in the harl)or of
Santiago de Cuba with no ap[)arent effect on either side.
On June seventh the Murhlchcad and I'cinkcc took poss-
ession of the lower bay of Guantanamo and on June tenth
the first battalion of marines landed there and went into
camp where for three days and nights these men fought
almost constantly. On June fifteenth the fort in this bay
was destroyed.
On June fourteenth. General Shaffer with a force of
eio-ht hundred fifteen officers and sixteen thousand sev-
enty two enlisted men sailed from Port Tampa, Fla.
190 History of Companies I and E.
The expedition arrived in the vicinity of Santiago on the
twentieth, began disembarking on the twenty second and
continued until the evening oE the twenty fourth. On
the morning of the twenty fourth General Young's bri-
gade had a spirited engagement with a force of Spanish
and drove the enemy from the field.
For a week following the landing of the troops in
Cuba. General Shafter was busily engaged in concentra-
ting his men at the desired points of attack and on July
first with the co-o[)eration of the Cuban troops the ad-
vance on Santiago was begun and resulted in the now
famous battle of El Caney, where the Spanish works were
carried by assault, and the brilliant charge of the Ameri-
can troops up San Juan Hill.
The Stars and Stripes were floating over El Caney
and San Juan Hill before nightfall of the first of July,
and the outer works of the enemy had been carried. For
two days following this victory the Spanish kept up a
series of attacks without avail and at noon of the third of
July General Shafter sent a letter into the Spanish lines
under a flag of truce apprising the commander of the
Spanish forces that the city of Santiago would be shelled
unless he surrendered, and requested General Toral to
inform the citizens of foreio'n countries, and all women
and children, that they should leave the city before ten
o'clock the following morning.
General Toral refused to surrender and informed the
non-combatants of the contents of General Shaffers letter.
A party of foreign consuls came into the American lines
and requested that the time limit for leaving the city be
extended until ten o'clock July fifth, this was granted
and the cessation of firing at noon of the third of July
practically terminated the battle of Santiago.
N.w \i. \'u■^(»K^ at S.\ni'i.\(;(). T.M
Tlic tlrcl nf Aiiici-ic;iii \fsscls utV S;iii! ia^-ii .MSsistiMl ill
t liis liattlf li\ ki'c|iiiii;- ii|) a lira\y I imii 1 lani iiH'iit <>\' tlif
oneuiy's works at Saiit iai^o and tlic lowiis sit uatrd almi^
till* coast ill that vicinitx. Tin- Aincri<-afi lusscs in these
hattles wei-f tuen1\- 1 \vi > otlicers and two liiindi-ed eiglit
nicii killed, and eii;lil\' one otlieers and one tlionsand two
liuiidred three men wminded : niissiiii;- se\ cut y nine. The
niissiiii!; with few exeeptions reported latei-.
The news of tliis vietorN' of our forces in and ahout
('ut)a was received with iinndi satisfaction liy Ihe peoph'
in the States. Tlie (^reat h)ss of life was depi-ecated and
with the tears of joy brought forth l>y the success of the
hovs in l)lue came the breathing of earnest prayers in
behalf of the dead and dviug heroes who Imtl made the
\ictorv possilile. The enemy had confronted our troops
with numbers about ecpial to our own: they fought ob-
stinately in strong and intreiudied positions, and the re-
sults obtained clearly indicated the intri'pid g.dlantry of
the com[)anv officers and men of our forces, and tiie wise
guidance of the tiejd otlieers in eoiiiinand.
On the morning (jf July third occurred the naval
tijjht off Santiago, where the American tieet under the
direct command of Commodore Schley, in the absence
of Admiral Sanvpson. destroyed Admiral Cervera's
Sipiadron. The casualities on our side were one man
killed and ten wounded, our shi]»s suffering im injury
of any account . Admiral Cervera. al)out seventy oliiceis
and sixteen huntlred men were made prisoners, while
about three hundretl tift\ Spaniards were killed or
drowned and one hundreil and sixty wonnde(l. -lust a
moidh to a day previous to this nav;d engagement oc-
curred the sinking of the collier Mirrinuic across the
entrauce of the harbor of Santiago in an attempt to com-
pletely bottle up Admiral Cervera's s(iuadron whi(di had
192 History of Companies I and E.
been lying in the harbor since the nineteenth of May.
The attempt though unsuccessful in its object, was dar-
ingly executed. It is now one of the well-known histor-
ic marvels of naval adventure and enterprise, in which
Naval Constructor Hobson and his men won undying
fame.
Thus far the hand of providence had seemingly
been raised in behalf of the American forces in every
engagement in which they had participated, both on
land and sea. Our people felt that the Army and Navy
were equal to any emergency that might arise and were
certain of success, while on the other hand the Span-
iards must have been depressed and were fast losing
heart in the struggle which had resulted so disasterously
to their arms.
Letters passed between General Shafter and Gen-
eral Toral caused the cessation of hostihties to continue;
Each arm}', however, continued to strengthen its in-
trenchments. The strength of the enemy's position was
such General Shafter did not wish to assault if it could
be avoided. An examination of the enemy's works,
made after the surrender, fully justified the wisdom of
the course adopted. The intrenchments could only
have been carried with very great loss of life.
At four o'clock p. m., on July tenth, the truce was
broken off. The city was bombarded by the Navy and
General Shatter's field guns and was continued until two
p. m., July eleventh, when the firing ceased and was not
again renewed. The surrender of the city was again
demanded. General Toral communicated General
Shatter's proposition to his general-in-chief. General
Blanco, the troops of both armies rested on their arms
awaiting the consideration of the proposition by the
Spanish.
Cessation of IIostii.itihs. 1".i;{
Such was the silualion as w c found il on thi- an"i\al
of our regiment off Sanlia<^a) al three o'cloik p. in..
Monday, July eleventh. The failure of the city of
Santiacfo to surrender was cause for the anticipation on
the part of the commander of the Anu*rican forces that
an assault might yet be necessary and reeinforceinents
were hurried to him from the States.
The data for this brief review of the progress of
the war was secured from the animal report of the Sec-
retary of the War and Secretary of the Navv.
194 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XIV.
Tuesday. July Hfth. the Second brigade received or-
ders to prepare for immediate departure for Santiago.^
the Eighth Ohio to go via New York Citv and the St.
Paul, the Sixth Mass. and Sixth 111. via Charleston. S. C,
and the Yale and Columbia. This order was received
with loud cheers and some hustling v>'as done, which soon
put us in condition for traveling. At two o'clock in the
afternoon the tents fell. The Ohio bovs got away hirst,
followed by the Mass. regiment, then our regiment
marched to the parade grounds where the boys gave
three rousing cheers for Camp Alger and Colonel Foster.
The band played '-The Star Spangled Banner." the bu-
gle corps sounded "Taps." in token of our far well to
camp. Then the band struck up "The girl I Left Be-
hind Me.'' and the Sixth Illinois was off to the war, yell-
ing and cheering like mad.
Leaving Camp x^lger at six forty p. m.. we marched
to Dunn Loring. where we bivouaced under the trees
until three o'clock the next morning when we boarded
the cars for Charleston. S. C. We were not given sleep-
ing cars this time, day coaches and box cars were loaded
instead. At Alexandria we took the x^tlantic Coast Line
Ry. and continued on this line into Charleston.
We skirted the city of Richmond. \'a.. at nine lifteen
a. m., passing through Battleboro. N. C, at two thirty
p. m., and Fayeteville at four p. m., crossing the bprcjer
b^NiuirrK TO Ciiakm"ston. r.).")
liiu' tu'lvsH't' n Xorlh ami South Carolina al tivr ihirly.at-
riviiig at Charleston at ten thirl\- p. m.. iiiakini; a very
creditable run.
The countr\- aloiii; the route was vei"\ lhinl\ M-ttled.
Occasionalh' we would see a small strai^^^linL; xilla^e and
a few acres ol cultixated land. IC\ erythini;" in the line of
lniildinii"s looked \ery old. Two wheeled ox carts were
mnnerous with ne^ro ihi\'ers. .VIoiil;" the whole route
we failed to notice one white man doino" manual labor.
Hogs, which looked as if the}" had been titled for the
race course instead of tlie pork barrel were running
ever\\vhere. We found a number of old gra\-headed
natives, i while ) who did not appear to be overjo} ed at
siiihl of us. vet we met with kind treatment at every
stoppmg place. The stars aud stripes were lloating in
everv town and settlement, the Cuban dag in manv cases
In' its side.
1^-evious to our lea\'it:g Camp Alger the men de-
tailed to dut\- at the division hospital returned to their re-
spective regiments. I'rixate Frank Kinger}-. of company
I. followed the regiment to Charleston with the ollicers
horses. While there he contracted typhoid fever and
was seriously ill for some time. He was unable to join
the compan\- and it was some time after we had left the
States that he recovered sutliciently to be removed to his
home in .Mendota. He was granted a furlough and re-
ported to the company at Springfield immediately after
the arrival of the regiment from its campaign in Porto
Rico.
We lay in the cars at Charleston Wednesday night
and until afternoon of the following day w hen we were
given quarters under one of the numerous wharf-sheds
which line the bay. The bovs were soon in the water
lOfi History of CoxMpanies I and E.
bathing. Colonel Foster gave us unusual liberties and
we were allowed to visit the city. We all felt that it
mic'ht possiby be the last day on x\merican soil for some
tirr.e and we took advantage of the opportui.ity to the
fullest. We found the citizens very friendly and they
iiave us the best of treatment.
While a partv of volunteers v\as touring the city,
they became acquainted with a resident of Charleston
named I. W. Bicot. He was at that time senior member
of the State Legislature. He said the people were very
sorry that we were brought into the city so suddenly, as
had they been aware of our coming they would have ar-
ran<»'ed to have made it more pleasant for us; as it was
the city was ours while we remained.
He told us that they were not very well satisfied
with the manner in which the War Department had
treated the volunteers of the Southern States. He said
their own troops were not yet eejuipped, and had no
hopes of being ordered to tht: front for some time. Not
one regiment from the South had been sent out. They
claimed there was too much sectionalism shown and the
northern troops received the preference.
The local papers had taken the matter up and the
editorials were very bitter, one editor published a letter
written by an old confederate soldier to a comrade who
had served the so-called Confederac}- in the sixties, ask-
ing if he intended to enlist as a volunteer in the war with
Spain. In reply his comrade said he hardly thought he
should; he could fix it up with the boys living, but if he
should be killed in battle wearing .the blue uniform and
be called to another world, the old comrade who had giv-
en up his life while wearing the gray, would look at him
and say .-"deserted, by G — d.'" This the editor said was
Lkavin(; '"God's Covs\h\." 107
showing llic true spirit; every man sliould he wiliiiii,^ to
tii^ht for his counliw hut he should also he true to liis
old comrade who died li^litini;- hy his side. We ^a^\ a
confederate llaij w;uin^" in a door\\a\ and atlei'ward en
the street. The hovs considered thai the man who
flaunted th.e emhlein of a lost cause v\as undouhtediy a
crank and let the circumstance pass unnoticed, althoui^h
it caused a stroni^ feeling- of resentment to arise.
The streets are very narrow as are also the pave-
ments. A great l^an^• of the residences are built of
stone and verv substantial, by far the most pretentious
building in the citv is the U. S. Custom House. Direct-
Iv in front of this building lav the Spanish prize ship
Rita. Out in the bay stands old Fort Sumter, and far-
ther out to the left lies Fort Moultrie.
Down ill the cit\'. standing alone in the center of the
church vard is the famous church of the St. Michaels:
one of the oldest places of worship in this country. The
pipe organ is one hundred forty years old, the first one
ever brought to A merica. The baptismal front is one
hundred thirty two years old. The pulpit is a high cov-
ered pedestal sort of an affair reached by a stairway.
On the side of the stair down near the floor can still be
seen the mark where a Federal shell struck. The Mem-
orial Tablet is in the front part of the church. It informs
the tourist that the church was begun in 1752, opened
for worship Februar\' first. 1761. exposed to the fire of
the British artillery in 1780. struck four times by the
Federal artillery 1862 65. nearly w^recked by a cyclone
in 1885. almost destroved b\' an earthquake in i8S7. re-
stored and reopened for worship June nineteenth. i88',l.
An interesting record for a liouse of worship.
The Yale and Columbia were out about twehe
198 History of Companies I and E.
miles, drawing too much water to enter the harbor.
They were delayed in getting out by the roughness of
the sea. they were coaling ship and the colliers could not
work with the waves running so high. The soldiers
passed the time by amusing themselves with the little pick-
aninnies, who swarmed about the wharf in droves.
Fridav.July eighth, the First battalion of our regi-
ment, composed of companies E. I. A and F. and the
battalion othcers. boarded the ferr\--boat. Commodore
Perry at six thirty in the evening, which took us out to
the awaiting vessels. Company A was put on board ilie
Yale with the Sixth Mass., E, I and F going on the Co-
lumbia. Three hundred men, besides her crew, was all
this boat could accomodate. General Miles and General
Garrettson were on the Yale. Colonel Foster and staff,
the second and third battalions and the band remained at
Charleston, intending to follow us oh the Rita within a
day or so.
As we steamed out of the bay and down past Fort
Sumter the boys cast wistful glances toward the reced-
ing shore. Darkness was soon upon us and waving a
last farewell we bade good-bye to '"God's Country." As
we drew nearer the open sea the waves rolled higher and
the little boat rocked and pitched until many of us land-
lubbers began to fear we would go to the bottom. The
captain of the boat drove us first to one side and ihen the
other, making human ballast of us in an effort to keep
his craft right side up.
Long before we reached the boats out at sea, many
of us were "feedinfj the fishes." To those who were
unaffected by the tossing of the boat it was an amusing
spectacle to walk into tne passengers cabin and tind the
long rows of seats occupied by soldiers with their knees
li(>\I<I>IN(; rilR COLHMKIA. 199
rcsling on i1k' cushion, tlu'ii hcails iiiii lluou^h the open
windows wliik' thev ga/,etl intcnih into the brinv deep.
Now and ihen an apparenlK' lifeless form would drop
back onU) the seal and a wliite and ha^Ljard face appear
at the window: the countenance li<(hted by a sad, sweet
smile, and aflei" a moments silence, the sufferer appeared
about to speak, when his mouth would close with a snap,
his eyes begin to roll, the veins stand out like whip cords
on his brow, and the head would duck out of the window,
while the body was convulsed with a violent shudder,
his legs would straighten out hs though a vain effort was
being made to force his feet fhro\igli the plank floor or
crowd his })o(ly out of the narrow window, and a weak
voice woidd l)e lieard re[)t'atii!g. •■! want to get out and
\\alk."
It was nearly ten o'clock that night when wc reached
till' Vale. Tilt' transfer of (•om[)anv A to this boat was a
coin[)aratively easy matter as the ferry-boat pitlled along
si(U' of it and plard\S wcn'e run over and the bovs scram-
bled across. On aci-ount of the [)eculiar build of the Col-
umbia the work of getting the three remaining companies
aboard of her was more exciting and to the land troops it
a[)[)eared rather a dangerous undertakiiii,^ The Colum-
bia riding at anchor some distance from the ferrv-lioat
sent out her whale boats and cutters manned l)y the ves-
sels crew. These small crafts were pulled to the side of
the ferry-boat and as the sea rose earr\ ing the smalj
boats up to within leaping distaiu-e the men jumped down
into them. Then the wave would recede and the boat
dr<jp dovvii a number of feet. With the approach of the
next bUlow the trick would be repeated. Soiue times the
o-'vcitad soldier would make the leap at the moment the
boat was taking a drop, ur meet it coming up when the
lai^tdiug vyas ratl^ev gey^ye ^ntj he would go spravylinf^
200 History of Companies I and E.
amoiijr the sailors much to their amusement. Wlien a boat
was loaded it was pulled away in the darkness and to the side
of the Columbia and the men would scramble up the rope
ladder to her deck to be hustled into the sailors (juarters
and out of the way of those that were to follow.
It was dark as pitch and the work was carried on by
the aid of the brilliant glare of the Columbia's powerful
search-light. As the cutter left the ferry-boat and was
pulled toward the Columbia the rolling of the waves kept
it hidden from view most of the time, and to those who
were watching the work and awaiting their turn it looked
like anything but a pleasant journey, but when once in
the craft the feeling of dread disappeared as we saw the
ease with which the old salts guided the frail craft on its
course and kept it riding the waves like a duck. It was
slow work and quite late when the last man crawled up
the side of the Columbia and sought a place of rest.
The next morning we awoke to find ourselves out at
sea. having weighed anchor at midnight, the Yale keep-
ing within sight about ten miles out on our port side.
The day passed away very quickly, the wonderful ma-
chinery, the large guns, torpedo tubes, and all kee[)ing
us very busy exploring. We were not slow to realize our
good fortune in being ])laced on this magnificent vessel
instead of an old dirty transport which had been carrying
nothing but live stock for years.
The Columbia is a triple-screw, first class protected
cruiser; the plates are five eighths of an inch in thickness
and double; length two hundred twelve feet: breadth
fifty eight feet; displacement seven thousand three hun-
dred seventy five tons. On her trial trip she made twen-
ty two knots per hour but since has made a record of
twenty seven, making her one of the swiftest boats in the
navy. Battery, one eight inch breech loading rifle, two
On BoAKi) \ \V.\K Sim-. 201
six inch and ('ii;ht Idiir iiidi. twelve six |niiiii(lei- and tour
one pounder ra[)id tire i,Miiis. f ur ,i,'atlin^' i,nins and one
threr incli field pieee. She also had four toi'pedo tnl)es
witli three tor])edoes foreneh. There are ei<i;ht niaininolh
(h)ut)le end hoih'rs. niakiuijf sixty four tires which can he
Itnilt in an euiern^ency. and three |io\vert'ul eiiifincs of sev-
en tliousand liorse-power eacii. Slie carried a crew of
forty otiicers and four hundred twenty-nine men of wliich
fv)rty-Hve were marini's. is liglited t)y eK'cti-icit\ from
stem to stern and has an ice niacdiine whiidi at that time
was kept running night and day. She cost I'ntde Sam
tw(j million seven hundred twenty five thousand dollars.
C^aptnin Sands was in command of the vessel and the
crew thought a great deal of him. As for the crew itself,
it did everything possible to nrd^e us comfortable.
Placing three hundred men on board a boat that had ac-
comodations for the crew only, made it rather unpleasant
but they gave up quarters and divided rations with us
and did us many other favors, if they had not we would
have fared rather [)oorly.
The sea was smooth and the vessel seemed as solid
as a rock, the continual swish swash of the waves as they
broke against her sides was al)out the only indication we
liad that we were on the wide sea as we rested in (Uir
quarters on the main dack. During the daytime the men
spent their time on the up[)er or superstructure deck, se-
curing protection from the broiling lie;.t of the sun as
best they may in the shadow of the mammoth smoke
stacks, the jun shields and in and around the half dozen
whale-boats and cutters which swung from the davits at
the vessels side.
As the work of the sailors brought them towards
our resting places we were driven ])efo)-«' them, from one
end of the vessel to the other and all around it- We
202 History of Companies I and E.
would be resting <|uietly on the upper deck wlien a bare-
foot seamen would bellow out "get down below."" after
scrambling through the hatchways to the main deck and
get comfortably located, another voice would command
us to "go up above,*' a few moments after reaching the
upper deck we were told to "get in the whale boats," and
shortly we wovild be instructed to "get out of the boats."'
Thus the hours dragged on until darkness came when we
would settle ourselves for the night and for a couple of
hours listen to the tales of the jolly tars as they related
their experiences in their many sea voyages.
Several ships were sighted on the voyage and both
the Yale and Columbia would give chase, hoping to over-
haul some Spanish vessel and secure it as a prize, but
they were all tiying the stars and stripes or the emblem
of a neutral government. On the morning of July
eleventh, we sighted land and found it was the eastern
coast of Cuba. We steamed along the coast and about
noon passed (Tuantanamo l)ay where the handful of ma-
rines had landed some days before and fought so Ijravely
against great odds.
We soon sighted tln' hulls of several vessels ahead
and all precautions were taken to prevent our running in-
to a trap; the gunners were at their posts and everything
made ready for a fight if they should prove to l)e un-
friendly, but thev were Uncle Sam's ships and we were
soon among them. We arrived about three o'clock in
the afternoon of July eleventh, just an hour after the
last bombardment of Santiago had ceased, A slight
indentation in the coast line indicated the entrance to
Santiago harbor but we were too far distant to see
more of this then famous place. On the eastern side of
the entrance and situated on a prominent poirit old
Morro Castle frowned down upon us,
Aino\ \i. AT S.\NTiA«.o. 203
I'Or miU'S around us we could sih" mati-of-war
ships, cruisers, lorpcdo hoat> and transports. The
Spanish lookout stationed al Morro Castle reported lo
his commander on that dav he counted lilty-seven war
ships and transports all Hyin^r ihe American llai; within
a ratlins of a few miles m the vicinity of Sanlia^^o har-
hoi . Amon^- them were New \'ork. Iirooklyn. Texas.
Indiana. Oregon. Massachusetts. Iowa. Newark. Hel-
ena. \\'ihiiinL,aon ami the (1\ namite boat \ esu\ ins. also
the hospital ship Solace, inlerminglinn" with the numer-
ous transports and all cruisini^ about and up and down
the coast.
This was a pleasing sight for us laiul troops, cruis-
ing about not far from tlie shore, jxissing lirst one and
then another of those wonderful lighting machines
which had won such a glorious victory a week pri-\-i(nis.
the mountains looming up in the background dotted
with white tents and liuiidings and within sight of Santi-
ago harbor, the outer fortifications plainly discernaiile.
We could hardh- realize our posiiion, so much that was
new and deeplv interesting having been crowded upon
us in a shoi t lime.
Ten of liu' remaining C(»mpanies of our regiment,
the band and the colonel and his staff boarded the Rita
at Charleston, Sunday. July tenth and arrived at Santiago
the following Friday. Their voyage was not a pleas-
ant one. as the vessel rolled and pitched throughout the
trip and nearlv everv man aboard of her was seasick.
Companies U and M followed on the transport, Duchesse.
204 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XV.
Immediateh' on our arrival at Santiago. General
Miles sent a note to Admiral Sampson to the effect that
it was his desire to land troops from the Yale. Colum-
bia, and Duchesse to the west of the bay of :;?aniiaoo
harbor, and follow it up with additional troops, moving
east against the Spanish troops defending Santiago on
the west. He requested Admiral Sampson to designate
the most available point for disembarking the troops,
and render all of the assistance practicable as they
moved east. Admiral Sampson then went on board the
Yale and consulted General Miles, who told him he
desired the co-operaiion of the Navy m the plan above
stated. The admiral cordially acquiesced in the plan
and offered every assistance of his fleet ^to cover the
debarkation of the^troops and also infilade the Spanish
position with the guns of the ships.
General Miles then went ashore aind the following
morning opened communication with General Shafter.
after which he gave diiections to General Garrettson to
disembark all the troops on the Yale, Columbia, and
other transports that Vv'ere expected to arrive, viz, the
Duchesse and Rita, whenever he should receive orders
to do so. A note was directed to General Toral, com-
manding the Spanish forces, apprising him of the pres-
ence of the General commanding the American Army
SURKENDER OK SaNTIAOO. 205
and a meeting In'twceii the lines was arranLjecl for at
twelve o'clock noon the followint^ day.
At the appointed time. Cieneral Miles and a portion
of his staff, met (leneral Toral and two of his staff
otlicers and ai interjireter. Negotiations for the sur-
render of General Toral's forces were carried on, the
United States government to return his armv to Spain.
General To^mI plead for time to communicate with his
superiors. This was granted and he was given until
twelve o'clock noon the following da}- to arrive at a
decision.
General Henry, \\ i^io had been placed in command
of all the infantry and artiller\- then on transports, was
instructed to be in readiness to disembark at noon, the
following day, Julv fourteenth, at Cabanas. This in-
cluded the Sixth Illinois regiment. On the morning of
July fourteenth, iVdmiral Sampson's fleet was in posi-
tion to cover the landing of the troops from the trans-
ports, about two and one iialf miles west of Santiago
harbor, in case the Spanish should fail to surrender.
On meeting General Toral by appointment at
twelve o'clock noon that da\-, he formall\- surrendered
the troops of his army corps and division of Santiago
to General Miles. General Henry was notilied and as
a portion of the army was infected with yejlow fever it
was determined not to land the troops on board the
transports at that point but to run them back to Guan-
tanamo bay and there take on coal and otherwise pre-
pare the fleet for an early departure for Porto Rico.
The men on board continued in good health and
few if any on the Columbia had been affected bv sea-
sickness. After the novelty of the situation had worn
off we bea^an to <ret an.xious to iiet ashore. We had
206 History of Companies I and E.
prepared to land several times but each order was
countermanded. It had rained every day since our
arrival at Santiago, the sun coming out very bright and
hot immediately afterward. The mountains wearing
anything but an inviting aspect at these times, as a
heavy fog enveloped everything on land. Many of the
soldiers and sailors found sleeping quarters on the upper
deck and in the dead of the night they would be awak-
ened by a heavy downpour of rain and they would
scramble down through the hatchways completely
drenched.
The disappointment at not going ashore at Santiago
left the men very low spirited. We had been drilling
for months, all the while looking forward to the day
when we should be among the victorious troops march-
ing into the Spanish city. Now it looked as though we
were to have the trouble for the pains as we had no idea
whether we were to be sent to Porto Rico or returned
home.
The inactivity was wearing on the men more than
did the tedious work in the states. On the sixteenth of
July our vessel steamed west to Guantanamo bay arriv-
ing in the early evening. We found a number of the
boats that had been lying off Santiago had preceded us
and some were already taking on a supply of coal from
the coaling ships. As our boat stood bow on to shore,
to the left and some distance inland we saw the wreck of
a fortress the walls of which had been partially demol-
ished by the guns of our vessels some time before.
The white tents of Camp McCalla stood on the
crest of a hill not far from the shore. This was the
quarters of the marines who landed from the Marblehead
on the tenth of June. At the foot of the hill and extend-
GU ANT ANA MO Vt.W. 'JOT
iii;^ out oil llu' beach lav the Cuban eaiiip \\ hieh con-
tained about two hundred soldiers, mostly black and from
all indications the\- re]ircsented the worst class of natives
on the island, "^rhev were indolent and appeared to wish
for nothin;^ tiiore tiian to [possess a comfortable hammock'
a supply of tobacco and draw rations from Uncle Sams
larder as often as possible.
The marines found but little use for them except as
sentinels as the}' had been doing scout dutv for years
and were very alert besides they were acquainted with
every nook and cranny on the island. Many of the ma-
rines came on board our vessel and some of them gave
us a very graphic description of the three days battle
which occurred following the landing of their men.
Nearly every tent which they had put up was so riddled
with Spanish bullets that they were but poor shelter dur-
ing the heavy rains which occurred daily.
In the face of a continual tire the men had thrown
up a rampart ofgravel completely surrounding the camp
which gave them a protection from the Mauser bullets
and an opportunity to rest after the seige had been raised.
Three graves in the center of the camp marked the last
resting place of Surgeon Gribbs, a sergeant major and a
private who fell early in the battle. Part way down the
hill on the other side were the graves of three men who
were instantly killed, while doing outpost duty, by a
squad of seventeen Spaniards all of whom were after-
wards killed with the lieutenant in command.
In the center of the camp was Colonel Huntington's
headquarters, over which the stars and stripes were flying
the first to float over Cuban soil. To the left was a
small rapid firing gun. which discharged bullets at the
rate of i]vti hundred a minute. The Spaniards had a
wholesome respect for this gun. and an oflicer, taken
208 History of Companies I and E.
-prisoner by our men, when asked if there was anything
he would like done for him, said, nothing except he
would like to see this gun. Several officers from the
Columbia, including our company and battalion officers
visited this camp also the Cuban camp and what they
saw proved that the marines had been subjected to a
severe fire, in an extremely exposed position and the
indomitable courage of the marines in retaining the foot-
hold established was quite evident.
Our rations while on the boat were not conducive
to the health or comfort of the men. Fresh meat, or at
least the boys said it was fresh because it was "alive",
was sent to us almost daily. It came lashed to the
whaleboat which brought it to us. We wondered at this
as the siu'face of the bay was as calm as the waters of a
mill-pond. It was hoisted on board and four expert
sprinters from each company sent for, then the chase be-
gan.
That confounded meat just would not be caught; it
flip-flapped about at a lively rate until finally cornered.
After being captured and "killed" the meat was cut up
into great hunks about a foot square and brought out
along with a bushel of hard-tack, into which an empty
tomato can was thrown, a little water poured over the
mixture and the whole run down to the ships galley and
placed over the fire a few moments, this they called hash,
and it was doled out to the men with all the precaution
that would have been taken had it been angel-food cake
with a prize in every cutting.
About an hour after we had gotten on the outside of
our portion of this first course, a pail would be rundown
to the galley, some coffee dumped in, filled with hot
water and brought out to us. Then the fighting began
and after crawling out of the mix-up we generally found
AWAITINC OUDIIHS. 200
ourselves vvilh a pint of coltce ^rouiuis and a tahU-spocMi-
ful of coffee.
At intervals diirin<^ the day we would take up our
belts a few notches; this we continued until nearly time
to tuin in for the nii(ht, then we would eat a few hard-
tack drink a little water, lie ijuitc still until the hard-tack
bei^an to swell, then slip the belt olf c[uickly and fill up
on water. This was necessary to keep the front side of
the back from coming- in contact with the back-bone
while lyings down.
'•Music sounds the sweetest when on the moon-lit
sea." The reality of this came to us with full force as
we heard the rich, sweet notes of "The First Brigade
March" come pealing across the water from the deck of
the Rita which carried our band. As the music reached
us, faintly at tirst but clear and distinct as the two vessels
drifted nearer, a hush fell over the throng of idle soldiers
and the}^ eagerly drank in every sound until the position
of the boats changed and the music died away in the dis-
tance. Then cheer after cheer went up from our boat.
Drooping spirits were revived and it almost seemed that
we were back again in the states. This was the first
time we had heard our band since leaving Charleston
and it had a wonderful effect on us all.
At niirht the scene in the bay was l)eautiiul. The
number of vessels had increased daily and during the lat-
ter part of our stay there the bay was nenrly tilled with
boats. When all were lighted for the night it had the
appearance of a miniature city, while the e\er changing
position of the boats gave us a paiioraiuic view of the
whole scene. As the bugle calls from the war vessels
were sounded, first on one hand then the other, we imag-
ined we were back in our quarters at Camp Alger, and
we felt we were again soldiers.
210 History of Companies I and E.
For nearly three months previous to our boarding
the Columbia for Cuba we had been accustomed to almost
continual duty of some sort and bands and bugle corps
were ever present. Since taking to the sea we had done
nothing but scramble for something to eat and lay around,
killing time as best we could. The monotony was telling
on the men and they were anxious to be up and doing.
They fully recognized the many perils which beset a sol-
dier in the field, facing a wily enemy but this had been
considered long before and they would gladly have taken
the risk only to be on shore and do even a little actual
service. They were fairly disgusted with the "coffee
cooler" soldiering.
On the morning of the eighteenth, the crew made
preparations for coaling ship. Volunteers were called
for from among the soldiers on board but less than a half
dozen men responded as none relished the idea of shovel-
ing coal on an empty stomach. The following three days
were occupied in coaling shi]> and they were horrible
days,-dirt and coaldust over everything. It was but a
short time until we were as dirty a lot of men as one
cared to see, but we were rapidly becoming accustomed
to accept anything that came along and say nothing.
Captain Sands wanted eighteen hundred tons of coal
to fill the boat's bunkers but the supply was nearly ex-
hausted and he was fortunate to secure six hundred tons:
the vessel had something like three hundred tons when
we arrived in the bay making a total of about nine hun-
dred tons in her bunkers.
At noon, Thursday, July twenty-first, orders were
received for the vessel to have steam up and everything
in readiness to put out to sea at three o'clock that after-
noon, and at four we steamed out of the harbor enroute
for Porto Rico, the Massachusetts acting as flag ship,
Oki- I'Ou Pok I() Rko. 'Jl 1
leadini^ tlif Hoot which was coniijosi'd of the MatHaciiu-
setts. Colnmbin. Vah> with (xoiuTal Miles. Henry nnd
Garrettson on l)oartl. the (ih)ncest('r, a tlispateli boat and
nine trnnspt)rts heavily ladm with troops, c.-ivalry nnd ar-
tillery horses nnd light artillery.
With three thousand four luiiidn-d liftrm infantry-
nicn nnd artillervnien. to<.jether wilh two companies of
engineers and one company of tiie Signal Corps, with one
hundred ot this aggregate number of men sick, which re-
duced our I'tVective force to about tlirct' tliousaiid three
hundred men, we moved on the Island of I'orto Kico. at
that time occupied by eight thousand two hundred thirty
three Spanish regulars, and nine thousand one hundred
seven volunteers. The objective point being San Juan,
on the north-eastern coast of the island.
The Columbia acted as re^r ^uard for the tieet and
our course was necessarily much slower than when we
made the run from Charleston to Cuba on account of
having the slow moving transports in the tleet. eight, or
at the best, nine knots per hour was the maximum speed
during the journey. On the second night out we were
joined by the cruiser Dixie.
Just the slightest ripple of excitement was caused on
board our boat before a signal was sent out by the Dix-
ie making herself known. The Columbia was some dis-
tance in the rear of the tieet when a light was seen ap-
proaching the stern of our vessel. The Dixie was ex-
pected to join us in this vicinity but nothhig could be
Been to determine the nature of the approaching vessel
other than the light which gradually drew nearer us.
High up on the mast the Columbia's signal lights flash-
ed the Dixie's call "D"' but could get no res[ionse, a
sailor picked up a hand electric lantern and stepping to
212 History of Companies I and E.
the stern of our boat made an attempt to get a reply to
his signals but all to no purpose.
The peculiar actions of the crew of the vessel follow-
ing us gave Captain Sands cause for suspicion that all
was not right and he changed the course of the Colum-
bia, making a loop and coming down close to the sus-
picious craft and again flashed the signal "'D", this time
receiving a reply that apparently satisfied him and we
came around onto the direct course once more. As day.-
light came we saw the Dixie was among the vessels of the
fleet and then understood the actions of the boats the
night before.
We steamed through the Windward Passage in a
northeasterly course, not losing sight of land until near-
ly to our destination. The Islands of Cuba and Hayti
appearing not more than ten miles apart yet they are
nearly fifty. On the morning of the twenty-second the
Columbia was signaled to report to General Miles as he
wished to send a cablegram to Washington, and she be-
ing the swiftest vessel in the fleet was selected for that
purpose. An officer was sent on board the Yale and re-
ceived the dispatch; then our vessel was headed for Mole
St. Nicholas, on t\w eastern coast of Hayti, arriving there
about eleven thirty a. m. A cutter was sent ashore to the
cable station, returning immediately. The soldiers were
ordered to remain below and keep out of sight but a half
dozen of us managed to find a secluded place and re-
mained on d-eck and with the aid of a small field glass an
excellent view of the bay and island was had. The town
appeared as almost nothing; a few houses and an old
fortress was all we could see. The French flag was fly-
ing over nearly every house, also over the cable station.
Returning we left the bay about twelve o'clock noon, and
AkKI\.\I, at P<»I< r (jlANKA. 2i'il
caught tlic tlfft ill thr luidiilr of llical'lm ii. Tli.'
eonsts of ('iil):i. Ilavtijiiid I'oito Kico an' lined with
niountaiiis and loi.kcd iinvthing hut inviting to the Illi-
nois i)oys who wore accustonu'il to the hroad prairirs of
tht'ir nativi' state.
\Vi> hi'Kl the original ooursi' of east l»y north until
the morning of the twenty-fourth, when (xeneral Milrs
chnngeil his plans and direeted the fh-et to (diange its
course and make Port Guanica, on the southwestern
coast of the island its destination, (jeneral Miles, after
consulting with Cap't Iligginson of the Massachusetts,
decided tiiat the Spanish governnieiil must certainly
be aware of his intentions to land troops at San Juan and
it would accordingly mobolize its forces at that point.
He learned that a very desirable landing place could be
secured at Port Guanica and later at Port Ponce and in
all probability would meet with but little opposition.
The Dixie was sent on to San Juan to notify all ves-
sels e.xpected to arrive there of the chainge in the origin-
al plans. That night we sailed through the Mona Pass-
age without lights and silently we neared the goal. The
following morning we were on the Caribbean Sea close
to land and about nine thirty the Gloucester entered the
harbor of Port Guanica. throwing shells from a six pound
gun into the hills and scattering the few Spanish soldiers
stationed there. The Columbia could not get close in as
she drew too much water and we were once more load-
ed into the ships whale boats and cutters and towed a
mile and a half to the landing.
214 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XVI.
About ten o'clock on the morning of July twenty-
fifth company E landed at Guanica, closely followed by
fifteen men of company I, A company of marines from
the Gloucester was the first American troops to land on
Porto Rican soil. These men had a brush with the few
Spanish soldiers that remained in the vicinity driving
them back into the hills where the six pounders fired
from the Gloucester had forced the larger portion of the
enemy early in the day. The marines hoisted the stars
and stripes and shortly returned to their vessel. Follow-
ing them came a division of the First Illinois Engineer
Corps, then company E and the fifteen men of company
I, with Major Channon in command on shore.
When we arrived in the village there was not a na-
tive or Spaniard in sight. They had completely desert-
ed the town. We were not allowed to approach an}' of
the buildings but were formed in the center of the nar-
row street and held there for a short time awaiting Maj-
or Channons orders. The town in main consisted of one
street running north to the foot of the hills which sur-
rounded the ba}'. A few comfortable dwellings and
summer homes of the more wealthy of the residents of
the vicinity bordered the narrow street with here and
there a general store building, the village itself termi-
nating in cluster of thatched huts about three quarters
Oiri'osr Dirv in iiii-. 11ii.i>. 215
of a iiiilr from llu' luMch.
Surrouiuliii!4 ihr village was a level plain wliirli ran
back from the beach about a mile. On the north and
east the hills or mountains rose to a considerable hei<(ht
while on the west the bav ran back several hundred rods
and close up to the foot of the hills. Directly north of
the landinj.^ the hills were separated by a beautiful valley
about a mile in width which wound back into the island
for several miles. The one street of the town led di-
rectly to the southern entrance of this valley and it was
here that the Spaniards and natives retreated on the
approach of the American troops.
Company E was divided into two platoons and
sent to the hills to the east to estabhsh an outpost ^uard
line under command of Capt. Lawrie and Lieut. Wahl
respectively. The fifteen m^n of c )mp:iny I. under
command of Serg't Weaver were ordered to take a
position on the summit of a hiijh hill about a mile to the
south and west of the town, there to be joined by the
remiinder of the comparu' as soon as they came on
shore. Major Channon instructed the men to keep
their ritles loaded and in readiness for instant action and
to take no chances whatever.
Arriving at the foot of the hills we found we had a
difficult climb before us as the cactus plant, which grows
there as large as our fruit trees, were very thick from
the base of the hill to the summit. Many other small
trees and shrubberv grew so dense it was impossible
to see more than a do/en feet m advance, while the
hills iiad everv indication of being the result of some
gigantic upheavel caused by volcanic eruptions in years
past. Great irregular pieces of stone, honey-combed
to the depth of half an inch, the outer surface covered
with tine, projecting points of stone as sharp as a knife
216 History of Companies I and E.
blade and as hard as steel, were thrown up in apparent-
ly insurmountable masses.
Company E took its position and remained there
until five o'clock in the evenin<T, when they were re-
lieved by company A. During their stay on out-post
the boys of company E explored the locality thoroughly
but found no indication of the enemy. After return-
ing to the landing they pitched their shelter tents en
the grassy plain a few rods back from the bay and were
placed on duty unloading baggage and supplies from
the Rita.
Five of the handful of men of company I made the
ascent of the hill where they were to take a position
and establish a point of observation, arriving on the
summit nothing could be seen in either direction. The
cactus plants, shrubbery and large stone were so thick
that it was impossible to find a place large enough to
pitch a shelter tent in that neighborhood. After a long
search a large rock was found projecting far out over
the hill side and clear of the brush. Crawling out on
this an excellent view of the plain below and the valley
sti etching away to the north could be had.
The scene was a beautiful one. It was the noon
hour and the sun was shining brightly. Everything was
green and refreshing. Down the narrow valley small
farms were laid out and the crops appeared to be in ex-
cellent condition, the hills jutting out here and there
formed dark recesses where the sunlight faded into a
gloom and the shaded green of the foliage appeared to
extend a welcoming hand to the invading soldiers,
beckoning them in, there to find protection from the
burning heat of the sun. But as far as the eye could
reach not a living being was in sight. Peace and quiet-
ness reigned over the whole valley and on first thought
First Mkktinc With Nativks. '_!17
it seemed criminal to throw tliis beautiful laiul into the
turmoil of war.
Turninu^ about and lookinij toward the sea an en-
tirely different scene presented itself. Out on the open
water the lead colored hulls of the war vessels stood
out in bold relief, the uncovered f^uns directed shore-
ward prepared to throw a storm of shells into the ranks
of the enemy, should they develop in formidable num-
bers. Close into shore the many transports were busily
enu^aged unloading their cargoes. Much of the work
had already been accomplished and white tents dotted
the plain while the battery of artillery was getting its
guns in readiness to limber up at a moments notice.
The position taken by the men on the summit
seeming untenantable, a report of the situation was made
to Major Channon and he ordered them to the plain below,
where they were soon joined by the remainder of the
company. The men were immediately placed on out-
post duty, the second platoon, under command of Lieut.
Lawton was placed on the extreme left and along the
main road which led to San German, with the wooded
hill on the one side and the waters of the bay run-
ning up close on the other. The last out-post to the
left was stationed fully two miles from the camp on the
beach. Capt. Colebaugh. with the first platoon ex-
tended his line in toward the camp and was joined on
the right by company F. Farther to the right company
G of Dixon, was on out-post duty between the left of
company A and the right of company F.
As the day wore on several natives were captured
and brought into camp. They were very much excited
and more than half expected the ^ mericans would put
them to death as they had been made to believe this
by the Spanish soldiers who had so recently tied. The
21S History of Companies I and E.
natives were made to understand that no harm would
befall them if they would return to their homes and re-
main quiet. The glad tidings soon spread to the
mountains and they began to come in from all directions.
They were quite timid at iirst but soon overcame their
fears and in a short time they were mingling with the
soldiers apparently perfectly satisfied with the turn
affairs had taken. Of course we could not understand
a word of their language, nor they ours, but by signs and
motions we made fair headway and usuall}' made them
understand what was wanted. One of the first things
they learned was that we were completely out of to-
bacco, and for several days after our arrival when a na-
tive met a soldier he would come to a halt several
paces from him and if he had any tobacco, cigars or
cigarettes he would produce them as a peace offering,
but should he be so unfortunate as to not have any of
these articles he would strike each pocket in turn to
show it was empty, throw both hands out before him
and repeat "No I, No I," meaning he had none and
look appealingly at us fearing we would do him harm
because he could not pay us tribute. Some one of the
boys would step toward him and in a threatenmg man-
ner tell him he must be a Spaniard, the native would
turn pale and tremblingly exclaim. "Spanolia, No! No!
America, Porto Rico."
We knew there had been but few Spanish soldiers
in the village but we were told by the natives that
there were several hundred lurking in the hills near rs
and we did not know what moment they might steal
upon us and open fire. The underbrush and shrubbery
was so thick they could have approached us without
much fear of detection. We had no dinner and the
provisions did not get out to us until after dark; then
On thp. Picket Line. 210
we were not allowed to tniilcl tires to make colfee, hut
we enjoyed it nevertheless as we were in actual service
then and felt that we were soldiers in e\ery respect.
We sat around the hox of hardtack and ate keep-
iuLj as quiet as possible, our u^uards were posted along
the public highwav and paitl\- up \hc tiiountain side.
It was not long until the boys began to take snap shots
along the line. There were a number of cattle running
through the timber and we had been i-autioned to be-
ware of the mooing of cows, barking of dogs and h(jot-
ing of owls, as these were Spanish signals. This made
us suspicious of everv sound and the consetjuences were
the bovs tired at imaginary Spaniards quite frequently.
The enemy was not far distant as we found be-
fore daylight. The bullets kept zipping around and
over us and in the morning we })icked up some of the
spent bullets which had dropped in our camp. When-
ever a shot was fired every man was wide awake with his
ritie ready for instant action; the moon shone brightly
and the relief guards were more or less exposed through-
out the night. The natives continued to straggle in
long after dark and it was a miracle that some of them
were not shot as they did not appear to recognize the
challenge of a sentinel as a command to halt but more as
a greeting and they would walk straight ahehd. The
sentinels hardly knew what action to take. They knew
there were Spunish soldiers in the vicinity but they
doubted their bavin <r the courajje to cruie forward so
boldly; they also knew there were any number of harm-
less natives yet in the mountains and they did not wish
to have the blood of an innocent man cm their hands.
There was but one alternati\e and that was to be pre-
pared for instant action upon the first sign of treachery
220 History of Companies I and E.
and allow them to pass the lines. The actions of the
Americans in this matter went a long way toward quitt-
ing the fears of the natives and gave them a feeling of
safety which made them our friends.
During the early hours of the morning, company G
was attacked by the Spanish. As this was the only in-
stance where our regiment clashed with the enemy, the
report of this skirmish, given in the words of General
Garrettson, follows.
'•At about six p. m. a re})ort was sent in from this
outpost that the enemy in considerable numbers had
been discovered. I sent out two companies of the Sixth
Massachusetts as a reserve.
During the night the enemy opened fire on the out-
posts, and their commander sent in a report, which ar-
rived in camp at two a. m., July twenty-sixth, that an at-
tack was expected. At three a. m., 1, with my staif and
Major W. 0. Hayes, First Ohio Cavalry, and tive com-
phnies of the Sixth Massachusetts, left camp for the out-
post on the Yauco road. The command arrived there
shortly before daylight, at about four thirty o'clock.
From the reports of the outposts the enemy was supposed
to be in a field to the right of the road to Yauco. Packs
were thrown off and the command formed for an attack.
The company of Sixth Illinois! G) remained on the hill
and protected our right flank. The remaining companies
were collected, two as support and three as reserve. Af-
ter advancing to within two hundred yards of the plain
of the hacienda Santa Decideria, the advance guard of
our attacking force was discovered by the enemy, who
opened fire from a position on the hill to the west. The
north and east slopes of this hill intersect each other,
forming a solid angle. It was along this angle that the
enemy was posted. Their reserve, posted in a road
leading from the hacienda to the east, also opened a
strong fire on the road. A body of the enemy moved
against the company on our right (G, Sixth Illinois),
Skirmish With tiii-. Spanish. 221
statioiu'd ou tlu' hill of N'cntiira <Juiii<iiics. This coin-
panv had intrt'iichtHl Ihi'insi-lves duriii'' tlu' iiii'ht, and
ixhvT re[)ulsiii^ the attackiii*^ t'ort'e, directed their fire
against the enemy on tlie hill to tlie west.
The conformation of the <^round was such that the
tire of the enemy's reserves and party on the left was
eifective in the seemingly secure lioUow in which our re-
serves were posted. The heavy volume of tire, the noise
ot shots striking tlie trees and on the ground, and the
wounding of two men among the reserves caused a
momentary confusion among the troops. They were
(juickly rallied and placeil under cover. The tire of the
advance party and su[)ports was directed against the
[)arty of the enemy on the hill, and temporarily silenced
their fire from that direction.
Our advance guard of two coni[)!inies, ignoring the
enemy on the hill, then deployed mainly to the right of
the road, and were led with (j[uick antl accurate military
judgement and great personal gallantry, by Lieutenant
Langhorne. First Cavalry, aid, against the reserves of
the enemy. The supports and one coni[)any of reserves,
under the direction of Captain L. Gr. Berry, charged
against the party on the west of the hill, through the
barbed-wire fence and chaparral. The reserves were
deployed along the barbed-wire fence running at right
angles to the road, conducted through the fence, and
brought up in the rear and to the left of the attack-
ing party conducted by Lieutenant B. Ames, adjutant,
Sixth Massachusetts. The enemy were driven from
the hill and retired to the valley, disappearing behind
the hacienda. The reserves of the enemy ceased firing
and retired. It was supposed that they had retired to
the hacienda, as this house was surrounded on the
sides presented to our view, with loopholed walls. The
troops on the hill were collected along the road.
A reserve of three companies was established at the
intersection of the road and the main road to Yauoo.
The two companies in advance, which were deployed,
wheeled to the left and advanced throuirh the cornfield
222 History of Companies I and E.
to our right. The remainder of the command deployed
and advanced to the hacienda, enveloping it on the left.
It was then discovered that the enemy had retired from
the hacienda' in the direction of Yauco, along cleverly
concealed lines of retreat.
As the' object of the expedition was considered ac-
complished, and in obedience to instructions received
from Major-General Miles, no further pursuit was un-
dertaken.
The battalion of recruits of the Regular Army, un-
der Captain Hubert, reported for orders, having heard
the firing, but were not needed and returned to camp.
The force of the enemy engaged in the battle con-
sisted of Battalion twenty-five, Patria, of the Spanish
Army, and some volunteers, in all about six or seven
hundred men.
The casualties on our side were four slightly wound-
ed, all of the Sixth Massachusetts. After the occupa-
tion of Yauco the casualities of the enemy were found
to have been, one lieutenant and one cornet killed, eight-
een seriously and thirty-two slightly wounded.
After the confusion resulting from the first unexpected
fire, the conduct of the troops was excellent. They were
speedily rallied, and afterward obeyed orders given
through my staff officers without hesitation.
The following officers of the command are especially
commended for gallantry and coolness under fire: Maj-
or C. K. Darling, Sixth Massachusetts Volunteers; Cap-
tain F. J. Gibon, Sixth Massachusetts Volunteers, who
was painfully wounded early in the action, and remained
in command of his company until it reached camp; Cap-
tain L. G. Berry, assistant adjutant- general volunteers;
Lieutenant G. T. Langhorne, aid; Lieutenant G. M.
Wright, aid; Major W. C. Hayes, acting aid; Major Geo.
W. Crile, brigade surgeon, and Major Frank Anthony
surgeon Sixth Illinois Volunteers, were present under fire
with hospital attendants and rendered necessary aid to
the wounded."
During the early part of the engagement, Major
Majok .\^•nl()^^• at riii: l""i<f)\'r. 22:5
Anlhoin'. who with llu- hospital coips was (|uick. to re-
spond lo a call to the front jn'obaliU- sa\ecl the Massa-
chusetts boys from having a large number of their men
cut down by the wltherini:^ fire of the Spanish which was
poured in on them after the Dons had located General
(jarrettson's troops. The major was not far distant
wlien the tirst volley of the enemy wounded two of the
Massachusetts boys. They were formed in a solid col-
umn and remained huddled together, apparently having
lost their heads for the moment, when Major Anthony
rushed among them and with voice and gesture urged
the men to scatter out which they did. Had they re-
mained in close ranks a well aimed volley from the
enemy would have wrought havoc in their ranks.
i^ fter the skirmish was over the major and his
corps of assistants rendered the wounded Spanish all the
medical pssistance possible, the fact that ihey were our
enemies being entirelv forgotten bv the big hearted ma-
jor.
This skirmish i-aused considerable oxoitemeiit in
camp as well as amnng tlie men who were scattered
among the hills and l)rush iluing outpost duty. The
fact that we were possible targets for Spanish marks-
men gave us a creeping chilly feeling, as we were in the
open wlu're the enemy could steal upon us. tire a volley
or more and get back in the underbrush into couiparn-
tive safety before we could form for defence or an at-
tack. During the night the powerful searchlights of
the boats lying in the harbor swept the hills and moun-
tain sides quite frequently. This no doubt restrained
the Spanish soldiers from venturing too near our
picket lines.
During the first twent\-four hours of outpost duty
company I's guard headquarters were established at the
224 History of Companies I and E.
very entrance of the village graveyard. It was rather
a grewsome place as nearly all of the boys had explored
the small enclosure during the day and visions of the
white wooden crosses and the larger shafts, built of brick
or stone and covered with a coating of w^hite lime, float-
ed before their eyes ever and anon during the lonely
watch throughout the night.
The next morning we were privileged to build
small fires and searching everywhere we could find
nothing that would burn excepting a couple of decayed
burial cases which lay in one corner of the graveyard.
They had either been in the ground for some time or
were very old as they all but dropped in pieces when we
attempted to carry them out. We concluded it must be
the latter as during our stay on the island we witnessed
several burials and in not one instance was the casket
interred. The body was taken out and placed in the
ground without the box. We did not wait to decide the
question but hurriedly broke them up and soon had a
bright fire burning merrily.
The afternoon of the second day following the land-
ing at Guanica occurred the first burial of an American
soldier in Porto Rico. One of the Massachusetts boys
had breathed his last on board one of the boats which
lay in the harbor. His body was wrapped in the folds
of the starry banner which had lured him to his untimely
death, placed on an artillery caisson, which was drawn
by six horses; by the side of the heavy carriage marched
an escort of infantrymen, his comrades. Then the silent
march to the little graveyard was taken up where the
body, from which the soul had wunged its flight, was -in-
terred, a volley was fired over the newly made grave,
the company bugler sounded '-taps", and the little pro-
cession turned sadly away wending its way slowly back
Second Camp at Giank a. 225
to camp. IJefore the troops left this camp, private
Aberg of company F was buried by the side of the Mass-
achusetts soldier.
The second 'day company I was ordered farther
out and we marched a couple of miles to the west
where a new picket line was establislu'il. This position
was considered too much exposed and in the afternoon
we were returned about a half mile towards camp where
we remained on duty all night and until afternoon of
the following day when we were relieved and returned to
the general camp at the landing. During our tifty-two
hours of picket duty there had been but little opportuni-
ty to sleep and but few of the boys would have taken ad-
vantage of it had there been. When we arrived in
camp and had our shelter tents up we sought the much
needed rest and retired early.
The boys of company E were detailed to general
duty, building bridges and unloading ammunition, etc.,
on the twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh. On the morn-
ing of the skirmish previously mentioned, the company
went out to the scene but did not participate in the en-
gagement. On the afternoon of the twenty-eighth the
company went out on outpost duty for twenty-four
hours. The nun were posted along the main road at in-
tervals, covering more than a mile of tlie outer picket
line, and were about a mile and a half from camj). The
duty performed was a repetition of that of the guards of
the previous day. The feeling of apprehension which
naturally affected the men during the first hours of their
presence in the enemy's country had gradually worn off
and the long hours of guard duty were made more pleas-
ant by the rising spirits of the boys and they whiled the
time away with joke and repartee yet ever on the alert.
Sunje scattered shots were heard during the night but
226 History of Companies I and E.
nothing occurred to cause alarm. They fought the mos-
quites until relieved the next day.
Down at the camp we found the remainder of our
regiment. The boys who came in on the Rita related
their experiences and pronounced that vessel an old tub
not fit for a river boat. Serg't Cushman had met with
an accident while at sea which resulted in the amputa-
tion of a portion of one of his fingers. The band boys
were all there and living high, the result of their for-
aging. They appeared to enjoy the situation and spent
the most of their time in scouting.
Privates Sneed, Bert Johnson and Frank Aument of
company E were on board the Lampassas, which was ly-
ing in the harbor of Guanica. Aument was sick and
Sneed and Johnson were detailed to assist the nurses on
the boat on its trip to Fort Monroe where the invalid
soldiers were to be nursed back to health. The boat
sailed first to Port Ponce leaving there July thirty-first.
On the eighth of August the patients were taken to the
fort and Sneed and Johnson received a thirty day f.ur-
louo-h going directly to their homes. Aument remained
at the hospital in the fort.
On the twenty-eighth we broke camp and pitched our
tents on a low level piece of ground about half a mile
to the north and east of the original camp.
July twenty-seventh, Major General Wilson arrived
in the harbor of Guanica with General Ernst's brigade.
The same day Commander Davis of the Dixie entered
the j.ort of Ponce and found that it was neither fortified
nor mined. The next morning the tieet and transports,
with General Wilson's command, moved into the harbor
of Port Ponce. The troops disembarked and marched
into the city of Ponce, a distance of two miles, taking
possession of the city und adjacent country, the Spanish
Advance on Vauco. 227
troops witlidrawiii,'^' oil t lit' niilitarv road to Saii.Iiian.
and our troops were pusluMl well forward in that direct-
ion. In the nioantinu' Gont^ral H(M)ry's conunnnd. (^f
which wi> foruu'd a part had been directed to [)roceed to
Ponce.
228 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XVII.
Major Clarke with two companies of his battalion
was selected as an advance guard of General Henry's
troops in their march to Ponce. He left camp in the
afternoon of July twenty-eighth. Ten men from each
company of the tirst battalion, with a few others from
our regiment, under command of Lieut. E. L. Phillipps,
of the Sixth Cavalry, and Lieut. Geo. M. Gould, of
company F, Sixth Illinois, the whole command under
the direction of Major W. C. Hayes, First Ohio Cav-
alry, with three days rations and one hundred rounds
of ammunition, were ordered to proceed to Talaboa,
about half way between Guanica and Ponce, where it
was reported the Spanish had concealed, or on cars, a
considerable number of Mauser rifles with a supply of
ammunition. This force was to capture these supplies
and return them to Guanica. or destroy them.
This detachment was to receive mounts and pro-
ceed with all speed possible. After a long wait, the
horses, which were to have been sent into camp by
alcalde of Yauco. but which never came, the start was
made about five o'clock in the evening. Every one
was anxious to be among the number selected for this
expedition and those who were fortunate in this respect
felt highly elated as they expected they would have a
brush with the Spanish, and as they were given to un-
Portu Rican belles.
Reception at Yauco. 229
cU'rstaiKl the men were to be mounted tliev anticipated
a rather li\ely t'\perieiH\'. When ihe\- \vei"e informed
they would make the marcli on fo(;t ihev were .^adlv dis-
appointed but left the camp and re;,nment in a happy
nuK)d. They were dubbed '-(jouUrs Rouj^h Riders."
The expedition overtook Major Clarke's command
on the outskirts of Yauco and together ihey entered
the city. Their entry into tiie town was hailed with
delight by the citizens. In fact a more enthusiastic
welcome was never given to any body of troops. The
streets of the village were lined with the inhabitants,
who indulged in vivas to the American Republic, the
President of the United States, and the American sol-
diers. This reception was repeated at every town and
village where the troops entered. Major Hayes and
staff, proceeded to Tallaboa. in company with General
Stone, who had come from Ponce to Tallaboa that after-
noon in command of a sinall detachment and a telegraph
corps. On theii" arrival they found the sidetracks empty
and after a thorough inquiry concluded there were no
supplies in that vicinity and the major returned to
Yauco, where he fountl the fifty men of his command
encamped.
Arrangements were made for the formal raising of
the American flag over the residence of the alcalde the
following da}'. The citizens were somewhat awed by
the military at first, and there was absolute silence
while the military presented arms and the colors were
raised; and not until the close of the proclamation bv
the alcalde was there any demonstration on their part,
when, without a note of warning, a volunteer band
struck up an inspiring strain and all of the citizens
joined in vivas to the United States, to the President,
SSO History of Companies I and E.
to the American soldiers, and to the city of Yauco, in
the United States of America.
On the morning of July thirtieth, General Henr3''s
division broke camp at eight-thirty and began the march
to Ponce. It had rained heavily the day previous and
in many places the roads were in bad condition. The
bo3'S made the start with long swinging strides but
were brought down to a more moderate pace after
covering a few miles. The heat was not so intense, that
is, the mercury did not register an3'thing astonishing
but there was a thin vapor rising from the damp earth
which made the men feel as though they were broil-
ing. We soon began to feel the effects of being cooped
up on board the boats for nearly three weeks without
exercise. Had we been thrown into this country with-
out loss of time after our training at Camp Alger, we
would not have been so easily overc(jme with the heat.
We arrived at Yauco shortly after noon and
camped on the bank of a swift brook. In passing
through the town we had met with a very cordial wel-
come by the citziens. We found the "Rough Riders,"
and Major Clarke's command encamped on a hill to the
left of the spot designated as our camping ground.
Previous to leaving Guanica each company had
been given a number of bullock carts in charge of native
drivers, to transport rations and a supply of ammunition.
These carts were huge two wheeled affairs and were
drawn by from one to three pairs of bullocks. The ani-
mals were fine looking specimens of bovines, being
large, with wide spreading horns and usually very gen-
tle. The yoke was an uncouth affair hewn from some
species of hard wood. It was strapped to the horns on
top of the animals head, the draft of the loaded cart
TiiK Spanish Pkisonicr. 231
coiiiiiiLC (lircc-tU- on ihc horns. Tlu'ie wore sonu'lhini^
like one luiiulietl of ihese "Ariiiy wai^ons" attached to
our command. They were behind the Iroojis and did
not arrive in camp until late and we got nothing to eat
before dark. We had not been allowed to stop for
mess at noon consequently we were feeling rather lank
wdien we finally drew our rations.
From this time on we were illy fed. We were is-
sued fresh beef nearly every da>' for a time, but it was in
such condition it was unfit to eat. They would run the
animals for half an hour before being able lo catch
them, shoot them down the moment they got them back
to quarters, and cut them up before they were fairl}'
dead, and the meat would be on the tire in less than an
hour from the time thev were shot. We were compelled
to eat this or qo without and to this cause we could
trace the beginning of man}' a case of sickness.
In the camp we found the ground alive with centi-
pedes, and in some cases the boys would not lie down
for fear of getting stung. An English speaking native
informed us that the female sting alone was fatal, and
then during a certain period only. The natives were
deathly afraid of them, and as a rule they were bare-
footed and would jump at the sight of one, getting as
far away as possible. We found the wicked little things
in every camp along the coast, but on getting farther in-
land they disappeared. While encamped at Yauco the
guards captured a Spanish soldier. When brought into
camp he carried a Springfield rifie such as our troops
were then equipped with, wore the regulation U. S. blue
shirt and about his waist was strapped a web cartridge
belt of the U. S. manufacture. The prisoner acted rath-
er queer and his being in possession of a portion of an
AlueriCcm soldier's outfit had a suspicious look- Genera^
232 History of Companies I and E.
Garrettson was sent for and he asked the fellow if he was
not a Spanish soldier. He fell on his knees and replied
"No, no; Americano, Americano.*' It was pitiful to see
him grovel in the dirt at the general's feet. He kissed
his hands, his shoes and the ground he trod on; he stood
up and hugged the boys about him, kissing their hands
and all the time repeating, "Americano, Americano."
This was the reply we inevitable received from everyone
if we asked if they were not Spanish. The prisoner ap-
peared to be nearly famished and indicated by signs that
he had been living on roots and fruits. He was taken to
the hospital and we after ward learned he no sooner found
himself among friends, as there were some fifty wounded
and sick Spanish soldiers in the hospital, than he revived
immediately and in all probability laughed in his sleeve
over the smooth trick he had played on the Americano
soldiers.
The battery of artillery came into camp behind us
and crossed the creek to the flat beyond where they re-
mained that night. In coming in, their field pieces had
almost slid down the steep embankment before crossing
the stream. The next morning, (Sunday), before break-
ing camp the men of the battery worked with pick and
shovel for some time reducing the abruptness of the
climb so as to make it possible to drag their pieces out
to the main road. After all was in readiness for the
start, the men took their places, and the stream was
crossed at a gallop; up the hill they tore, the men riding
the pieces hanging on for dear life. If they appeared to
make the start to slow a mounted officer, stationed on the
opposite side of the stream and half way up the hill
would roar some unintelligable command to the drivers
and they would goad their horses on with whip and spur.
After all were over we fell in behind them and continued
At Tallahoa. 233
the march toward I'once. The day bd'orc, (lie Sixth Ill-
inois was in the advaiu-c followi'd l)y the artillery, the
Massaehusetts boys brin^nng u[) the rear. The second
and third days the j^jsition of the regiments were re-
versed and we brought up the rear.
We [)assod through sevcn-al small straggling villages
and in the middle of the afternoon went into camp. To
get to the camp we were marched nearly a mile to the
left of the direct route and crossed two streams before
haltintr. Here the bovs began to be troubled with blis-
tered feet. There were no bridges over these .streams
and although they were nearly all quite shallow and easi-
Iv forded, wading through the w^ater left the man with
shoes and leggins thoroughly soaked; the mountain roads
were covered with a sort of lime stone made hot by the
sun and in a short time a large number of stragglers
were scattered along the route.
That night we dined on fruit, the wagon train com-
ing in late again. Half ripe bananas fried in grease was
considered a treat although tlu'ywere lacking in nourish-
ment. Before leaving Guanica each man had been is-
sued one hundred rounds of ammunition; the cartridge
beltscarried about half this number the remainder being
put in the haver-sacks. This additional weight pulling
over the shoulder wearied the men considerable. At the
beginning of the march every man carried one half of a
shelter tent with pole and stakes, a rubber poncho, gun,
belt and bayonet, besides an extra shirt or two, a change
of socks, and under ivear, a blouse, a meat plate, knife, fork
and spoon and whatever personal articles he had collected
and desired to retain. A canteen of water completed the
outfit.
When we had been two days on the march a rather
decided change was manifest as to what was necessary
234 History of Companies I and E.
for a soldier to "tote." Ammunition was thrown away
by the box; clothing was scattered along the whole route,
while here and there some weary soldier's-half-of-a-shelter
or "pup" tent would be found. Some even went so far as to
cast their bayonets in the brush by the roadside, any-
thing to lighten the weight which grew heavier and
more troublesome with each mile.
The second night out found the majority of the
boys with wardrobes very much depleted, those who
had retained their tents sharing with the comrades who
had "lost" their own during the day. At nine o'clock
in the evening we were unexpectedly ordered to fall
in for inspection of ammunition, and there were few men
in the regiment who could produce the one hundred
rounds or one half of it. We were informed that the
shortage would be charged to the men but our infor-
mant was evidently a joker as we escaped the ex-
pected penalty.
Breaking camp the next morning we recrossed the
two streams which we had forded the night before, and
started on the tinal march to Ponce. Fording the
streams at the commencement of the days march aggra-
vated the already tender feet of the men and in a short
time they were in a deplorable condition. We had not
seen an ambulance, and no one was allowed to ride on
the overloaded ox carts. The straggling became gen-
eral and when the regiment marched through the city
of Ponce and out to the camp grounds a mile beyond
there were but few men in line.
We were kept moving for hours without a mo-
ments rest and this in a climate entirely strange to prob-
ably every man in the division. On passing through
some of the mountain trails. Old Sol would shoot his
darting rays down upon us and not a breath of air stir-
Enter I N(; Ponce. 235
rint^; the burnin<^ heat at these places almost suffocated
the riieti and it seeiuetl we were at the very maw^ of a
inaininolh furnace which we niiojil enter at the next
step. We had been extreiiu'l\- anxious to '^vi into act-
ive service and here we were but we failed to notice
any expressions of great joy on the countenances of the
weary soldiers.
Strag<jjling into Ponce we found every eating house
in the city crowded with hungry soldiers. Upon enter-
ing and taking a seat at one of the numerous tables we
looked in vain for the waiters. The\- had dished up every-
thing in the house to the early comers and taken
refuge in some remote part of the building, badlv scared
by the jiresence of so many "Americanos." In one of
the houses we did manage to get a loaf of bread and a
couple of eggs.
The diminutive proprietor was nearly wild, half a
hundred men all yelling for something to eat and curs-
ing the waiters for a stupid lot. The little fellow would
start for the kitchen when he would be stopped by a
six foot soldier who demanded something to eat.
Throwing up his hands and attempting to back away he
repeated over and over ••D--n you. cant vou wait,"'
This vvas in all probability the extent of his knowledge
of the English language and more than likely he had
heard some of tke boys repeat it but did not know its
meaninjT.
After waiting some time we came to the conclusion
there was nothing more to be had and tossing an Amer-
ican dollar into the outstretched hand of the proprietor,
we picked up our belongings and prepared to get out
as soon as we received our change. The little man had
disappeared and after a long wait he was hunted up and
236 History of Companies I and E.
requested to return at least a portion of the dollar which
was worth two of their own coins of like denominr.tion.
To all of our entreaties we received the same reply,
"No compr-r-r-ehendo." Fie did not understand English.
With but little hesitation we began an argumerit with
him, which he, as dumb as he was, could not fail to
understand.
About this time a prov^ost guard, one of the Massa-
chusetts boys, rushed into the place and ordered us to
move on. We were alone with the trembling but de-
fiant native and the scarcity of money gave us sufficient
reason why we should not allow him to rob us in such
a manner. ' After explaining matters to the guard he
volunteered to assist us and remarked "We'll get the
change or have satisfaction." Just then a negro stepped
in. He was as black as ebony and a shock of wooly
hair stuck out from beneath a high crowned, wide
brimmed straw hat. Good nature beamed from his
smiHng face and coming directly toward us, he spoke
in perfect English, inquiring the cause of the distur-
bance. Upon hearing our story he turned to the na-
tive and said a few words in Spanish, whereupon the
dwarf took an American half dollar from his pocket
and gave it to us. We were satisfied to let matters go
at that and thanking the provo and the darkey, we left
the place.
We were but fairly ou the outside of the building
when along came a patrol of drunken soldiers who were
ordering the stragglers into a column of fours, all the
while swearing, and cursing the men like a pirate cap-
tain. A squad of perha])S twent}^ men had been collect-
ed and were marching along the best they could. Some
were quite ill and nearly on the point of dropping, others
Exi'-ERiitNCE With tiiI': PAruoi,. ^37
Were- sliutlliiii,^ aldii^'' with l)lisl('r('(l IVct wlicii every
step l)r()Uij;lit its tori lire. They wci-e in no iikkxI to ac-
(■e|)t the open iiis'ilt of the iiitoxieated ser<^'('ant and lieu-
tenant in cH)innian(l l)ut were relnetant to cause ailistui'l)-
auee with their comrades.
After trutlging along nearly a block, the abuse he-
eauie unbearable and the men o[)enly protested against
its continuance. The lieutenant spurred his horse for-
ward and loosening his revolver in its holster, ordered
them to '"shut u[)," and with a tlrunkenleer informed the
men he would kill the first one who dared to disoV)ey him
and fall out of the ranks. Instantly there was the sound,
of a dozen click-clicks and as many Springfield rifles were
full cocked and brought to a "ready." The little hand-
ful of men had grown desperate and while they knew
they were courting death in thus defying an officer, they
also knew there were men in the line, who from sheer
exhaustion, might drop at any moment and should the
lieutenant attempt to carry his threat into effect they cer-
tainly would have done so regardless of the consequences
to themselves. The first movement on the part of the lieu-
tenant towards drawing a weapon would have been the
signal for at least a dozen rifles to be trained on him and
every man was in the mood to shoot to kill. The officer
was not so drunk but what he saw and understood the
actions of the men and reining in his horse he dropped in
behind the column. Taking advantage of the opportuni-
ty the men broke from the line and in two's and three's
took to the narrow [)avement all the while keeping a
close watch on the actions of the lieutenant. He ap-
peared to be stunned or the dangerous position in which
he found himself had sobered him to the extent that he
began to realize he had carried his authority to extremes
238 History of Companies I and E.
under the circumstances. At any rate he made no eifort
to stop the men and in a moment they were out of his
sight, mingling with other belated soldiers and he could
not have identified them if he had cared to do so.
The crooked narrow streets of Ponce were now all
but blocked by the train of bullock carts which followed
in the wake of the troops. It was with difficulty that we
made way through them at times and it seemed we never
would get within sight of the camp. Just before reach-
ing the outskirts of the city we heard the sound of march-
ing troops and halting, we waited for them to put in an
appearance as we were in doubt as to what direction we
had best take to find our regiment and thought it possible
the approaching soldiers might lead us to camp. As
they hove in sight a military band struck up a lively
march and the street suddenly swarmed with natives,
drawn thither by the sound of the music. Imagine our
astonishment when, as the tall color sergeant strode by
bearing the American flag, the little Porto Ricans doffed
their hats to a man. We were accustomed to witnessing
this salute from our own men but were very much sur-
prised to witness the mark of respect which was paid the
colors by the natives, considering the few days they had
known the "Americanos."
Upon making inquiries from the passing soldiers we
were directed to our camp which was something over a
mile out of town in an open field. We hurried along
and fording a shallow stream soon found the regiment.
We were in the nick of time too, for as we threw off our
packs and stretched out on the ground for a good rest,
the busier sounded orderlies' call and when the first ser-
geants arrived at headquarters they were instructed to
return to their companies at once and all stragglers who
The Sick Stand Guard. 239
arrived thereafter should be plneed under arrest Miid tlie
regimental guard selected from among them.
It may have been good generalship but to the sick
and worn-out soldiers it seemed l)ut little short of an
outrage to be compelled to stand guard in the condition
they were then in. Nine out of every ten of the men
had fallen out becai>se they could not stand the strain.
Any number of them were actually ill and were in need
of medical attendance, yet they were forced to shoulder
their guns and keep a lonely vigil throughout the long
hours of the night.
The number of stragglers was considerably in excess
of the force required for guard duty and the remaining
ones were placed in a temporary guardhouse for the
night. This guard house was an open place selected
near headquarters. The ground was rough and covered
with stone. Into this place the men were huddled and
a heavy guard placed over them. Seeking rest as best
they may they spent the miserable night, and morning
found them in an angry frame of mind. A little kind-
ness at the hands of those who were chief in command
would have been fully appreciated at this time but the
experiences of the past few days had taught the men
that they need not look for it and they said but little,
realizing they mast obey.
240 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XVIII.
One company of the Sixth Massachusetts had been
retained at Yauco to guard the field hospital which had
been established there upon the arrival of the division.
Shortly after the departure of the force as it advanced
toward Ponce, reports were brought in to the officer in
command at Yauco to the effect that the Spanish at San
German were planning an attack on the small garrison.
Assistance was called for and company F of Moline com-
manded by Capt. Frank Clendenin and two companies
of the Nineteenth regulars were returned to Yauco to re-
enforce the company of Massachusetts boys. Either the
plan of attacking the garrison was abandoned by the
enemy or the re-enforcements scared them away as noth-
ing was heard from them. On the third of August the
company of Massachusetts troops joined the regiment at
Ponce. On the seventh the three remaining com})anies
were relieved from further duty at that point and re-
turned to the general camp, the hospital having been re-
moved to Ponce in the meantime.
General Henry evinced much displeasure at what he
termed the lack of discipline shown by the men in drop-
ping out of the ranks during the march and straggling
into camp. After our arrival at Ponce he summoned the
officers to his quarters and scored them heavily for "not
having better control over the men." The matter caused
considerable ill feeling to arise throughout the division
Gkn. Hknry Displeased. 241
niul was the cause of the colonel and several of the staff
of the Massachusetts regiment tendering their resigna-
tions which were immediately accepted and the ex-officers
returned to the States.
General Henry appeared to overlook the fact that
these men had been alternately baked and broiled for
seventeen days while on shipboard and were weakened
considerably as the consequence. In this condition they
had been thrown into a foreign country where the cli-
mate differed mnterially from that to which they had
been accustomed. In addition to this they had been
given a test that would have severely tried the endur-
ance of troops hardened by a campaign. The actions of
the general plainly showed his dissatisfaction and the
men, although anxious to do all within their power were
disheartened by the treatment they received, when a few
words of encouragement would have done wonders toward
reviving their drooping spirits.
A half hours work, or less, by a score of men at
each of the streams forded, would have made it possible
for the whole force to have crossed dr}' shod, and thus
avoided the cause for fully one half of the straggling.
If the column w^as halted by the side of a glaring cliff
where the sun darted its fierce rays down upon the men
they were compelled to remain in that position rather
than allow them to seek a shaded spot. At such times
weary as the men were, it was a relief to continue the
march. All of these things, slight as some of them
were, were noted by the men and although they did not
have a desire to rebel, it had a tendency to cause them
to exert themselves less than they would have done, had
they been privileged to take advantage of the few op-
portunities that arose looking toward their own comfort,
yet in no manner detracting from the strength or dis-
242 History of Companies I and E.
cipline of the force, at least untilthey had become some-
what more accustomed to the conditions surrounding
them.
The march from Guanica gave us a fair idea of the
chorography of the country as it differs but slightl}^
throughout the island. After leaving Guanica the line
of march followed a cart road for a distance of about
three miles m a northerly course, thence turning sharply
to the east. About half way between the turn and
Yauco, the cart road terminated and the remainder of
the march to Ponce was made over a horse trail. Just
before reaching Yauco we crossed a spur of the mount-
ain range which extended toward the south in the di-
rection of the coast. We were then several miles in-
land. We passed several banana and cane fields while
the trail was bordered with cocoanut palms laden with
fruit, and a great variety of tropical plants which under
different circumstances would have delighted the hearts
of the boys from the north but then were passed al-
most unnoticed.
The streams which were crossed are very pictur-
esque, wending their way around the base of the mount-
ains, singing and hurrying on toward the sea and finally
bursting forth to view from a tangled mass of shrubbery,
gurgling over and around the stepping stones which
had been placed in the shallow beds by the natives, the
water as clear as crystal. These streams, or mountain
brooks, expand into raging torrents immediately after
a rain storm farther up in the mountains. The low
embankments overflow and the swirling current is filled
with debris which is carried down from the mountain
sides. Occasionly portions of the hastily constructed,
■primitive abode of a hapless peon was seen on the crest
of the mud colored stream as it swept by.
Pdkto RicAN. Rain Storm. 243
What would be coiisitK-recl a lu'a\ \' laiii >t(>iiii in
Illinois is as a s]ti"in!^ shower wlu'ii iNdiiparcd with the
delii<Te that occurs almost daily in the inouiitains of
Porto Rico, during the months of Aui^fust and Sejilem-
hei". Cjreat low han^'iiii^ clouds, race swiftly aloni^ un-
til they come in contact with the jagged peaks of the
highest mountains which apparently make great rents
m the black masses, out from which pours enormous
quantities of water, flooding the whole country in the
vicinit}' of the storm. As the violence of the storm in-
creases, the mountain sides and trails become danger-
ous as great rocks are dislodged and go rolling and
tumbling far down into the valleys below, carrying with
them large trees and setting hundreds of cubic feet of
earth in motion, causing landslides of no mean propor-
tions completely blockading the trail for rods.
Tiie dry beds of the valleys are buried in the seeth-
ing torrents, the tiny rivulets become rivers and the
topography of the scene is altered as if by magic. As
the storm abates, the sun shines forth brightly and a
heavy fog of steam arises from the earth which all but
suffocates the unacclimated. The rugged countr}- is
rapidly drained of the tiood only to meet with a re-
petition of the occurrence on the following day. If a
native remained out in storm he protected his head and
shoulders with a wide banana leaf which he carried
poised above him.
Yauco was at that time the western terminus of
a narrow guage railway which followed the coast as
far east as Ponce. Upon leaving Yauco we crossed
another mountain range, our route following the general
direction of the railroad and bearing slightly to the
south. At times we were within sight of the sea. We
244 History of Companies I and E.
skirted sev^eral prominent mountains but did but little
climbing as the horse trail wound in and about the foot
of the hills but seldom crossed the summit while along
the coast. Several miles out from Ponce the tr lil and
the railroad ran side by side for some distance. As we
were marching alon^, a diminutive, box like locomotive,
to which was attached a queer open car, came rumbling
along. The engine was apparently doing her best as
she was working hard and was covering about twelve
miles per hour. At Tallaboa, the train picked up a few
sick soldiers and took them back to Yauco to the hos-
pital.
The trail led us through a sparsely settled portion
of the island. We passed through several small vil-
lages but in the open country a house was rarely seen.
The manner of building is peculiar to the inhabitants
of that countr}'. The better class of residences are
built of corragated iron, both walls and roofing, some
are clap boarded similar to the less pretentious homes
of the working class of people in the United States,
others are built of brick and overlaid with a coating of
whitewash, while the home of the peons are built of
poles and rough boards with thatched roofs, or with
walls and roof covered with grass and huge leaves.
Without exception every house in the couutry and in
the villages is raised from two to five and six feet
from the ground. The houses of the more wealthy of
the residents are enclosed in high fences or walls inside
of which are beautiful gardens of flowers and all about
everything is neat and tidy.
One peculiarity of all buildings which gave them
an odd appeai-ance was the absence of window glass.
With one or two exceptions we did not see a house of
Snap slidl of Kdi-tci Kifiin rhild in ii>iial <(i~.tiiin<'. woaring-
a briirht smile and a string nf beads.
Pj'.ople of Till-: Island. 245
any description on the island which had a piece of
window tj^lass in its construction. The doors are made
in two parts, the nppe-r half remaining open tiie better
part of the time while the lower iialf is kept closed.
The window openings are protected by paneled shut-
ters. The temperature varies but little at anv period
during the year and glazed windows are considered an
expensive luxury and not at all a necessity. The sys-
tem of taxation in vogue previous to the invasion of the
American troops practically prohibited the purchase cf
numerous articles which we, in our homes, could not
well get along without. Among them was the window
glass. A glimpse of the interior of several of the bet-
ter class of residences showed bare walls and uncarpct-
ed floors and a scarcity of furniture that was surprising.
After entering Ponce we found praictically the
same conditions existing there as in the countrv with
possibly a slight change for the better in certain portions
of the city. If cleanliness is next to godliness, then
they were certainly an ungodly lot, as the condition of
the streets and interior of nearlv all of the store build-
ings was indisputable evidence against them. Ordinari-
ly they were neat and tidy about their clothing and
person, but beyond that the common people appeared
to care nothing. Occasionally one found a store or
other public building where the exception proved the
rule but such places were not numerous enough to im-
press the visitor with the habits of cleanliness of the
general people.
The people are small in stature, the average height
being less than tive feet. The men are narrow chested
and have a consumptive look about them. The women
are slightly taller and more portly than the men and
246 History of Companies I and E.
appear healthy and robust as a rule. The children
are small and usually run about wearing nothing but
a string of yellow beads and a bright smile until they
are from ten to twelve years of age. They are pot-
bellied almost to a deformity and delight to roll about
in the dirt, the hot rays of the midday sun having no
apparent effect on their glistening, naked bodies.
Either through fear or wishing to cover their naked-
ness,they would hide behind their mothers skirts at the
approach of an "Americano,"
Generally speaking, the men were moie tidy as to
dress than the women. The men wore white linen
suits throughout. The glossy bosoms of their white
shirts were artistically embroidered and surmounted
with white standing collars. The coat was loose and
cool, but the trousers, usually dirty and greasy, with
frayed edges at the lower extremities, spoiled the effect
of the otherwise natty dress. The head was covered
with a high peaked, wide brimmed, straw hat, the
outer edge of the brim being turned up in a half roll.
The feet are wide and flat, with wide spreading toes
and usually without covering of an}- sort.
The dress of the opposite sex is more difficult to
describe. The design of the garments were invaribly
the same, being made from a white flimsy sort of goods
and loose fitting. The fashion of lacing did not prevail
among the native women at that time. They apparent-
ly made but little effort to keep their clothing clean and
like the men went about barefooted. They seldom
wore any covering for the head and when they did it
was either a large kerchief, wound about the head in the
form of a turban, or a shawl, woven from some white fab-
ric, which was thrown loosely over the head and should-
Pi:oPLK oi- TiiK Island. 247
ers.
AmoniT the common people, men, women and child-
ren alike were adicted to the habit of smoking and they
went about putrinu^ at a bio- black ci<(ar or inhalin^^ the
fumes of a cigarette. Hut few of the smokers used a
pipe and not many of the natives chewed tobacco.
While passing through the "tough" part of Ponce we
were disgusted at the sight of numerous women, dressed
in bedraggled, greasy clothing, swaggering along the
street with a bold air and a brazen look, pushing and el-
bowing their way through the crowds, all the while chew-
ing at the stub of a half consumed, foul smelling cigar.
They represented the lowest class of people on the island
and were truly a disgusting lot.
On account of the man}' inter-marriages of the na-
tives and foreigners, their complexion and features vary
to the extremes. Some are quite swarthy yet nearly as
white as the Europeans. Others are of a brovvuish yel-
low while the mulatto and the ebony black negro are
found in about equal numbers. The features of those
of the lightest complexion are long and thin. The eyes
are dark and deep set and extremely bright. The hair
is dark or black and inclined to be curly. With the
darker complexion, the features appear coarser, while
the profile of the blacks is almost identical with that of
the African negro, the exception being in the absence
of the thick protruding lips.
They are a mild mannered class of people and their
actions proclaimed thev had never known the sweetness
of independence and untrammeled liberty. They bowed
to every command and accepted their lot as inevitable,
yet before we left the island a noticable change came
over them and they appeared to have come tu realize
248 History of Companies I and E.
that the tyrannical yoke of Spanish misrule had been
lifted from their necks and that the freedom and pro-
tection offered by Uncle Sam had opened up a new
world to them and they were slaves no more but men
among men.
Who can wonder at the expressions of joy and
"vivas" to the '-Americanos" which we met with in
every town and village as we marched through the
crooked, dirty streets, bearing the starry banner which
even they, uneducated as they then were, knew brought
hope and life where before all must have been black
with despair. That combination of red. white and blue,
in the stars and stripes is an inspiration in itself and is a
welcome sight to everyone who loves their liberty. It
implies more to the downtrodden and oppressed than
any combination of colors and figures which adorns the
emblem of any other nation on the globe, and toda}' it
carries more weight in an international argument than
any other one emblem afloat.
This brief description of the inhabitants covers
what may be termed the middle class, which predomin-
ates in point of numbers. The lower class was scantily
clothed and appeared half starved, while the more
wealthy people were more elegant in appearance, man-
ners and dress. This latter class of people was com-
posed of Freneh, German, Spanish and a few natives,
and represented the greater portion of the wealth of the
island. The women were richly dressed and painted
and powdered lavishly in a vain effort to cover the
swarthiness of their complexion. They were seldom
seen on the street unless accompanied by a gentleman
escort.
The usual mode of conveyance was on horseback.
?"ri ITS, Wild and Cultivated. 249
Nearly e\-ery man and boy had his pony. They are yet
smaller than our western bronchos, but j^entle and they
move alonuj with an eas^^ rocking motion which at once
proclaims them as excellent saddle horses. For trans-
porting supplies etc., the two wheeled bullock carts and
pack horses were both in use along the coast, but in the
interior the roads are impassible to wheeled vehicles
and the pack horses alone are used. A native pack
train consists of half a dozen of the small horses or don-
keys. On each side of the animal a large basket is
hung in which is placed the articles of transport. The
contents of these baskets was either fruit enroute to a
seacoast town or a supply of codfish going inland. The
driver sits astride the horse between the two baskets.
No matter how heavy the load, the man seldom thinks of
walking any distance and then only to stretch his legs
after sitting in the cramped position for some time.
The fruits, of which there were numerous varie-
ties, grew wild to a great extent. The bananas were cul-
tivated and foujid only in groves, but the oranges, limes,
mangoes, pineapples, bread fruits and many other kinds,
the names of which we never learned, grew in profusion
alonsr the lencjth of our route while on the march. At
every camp established on the island we fonnd them
among tlie|woods and shrubbery. Cocoanut palms were al-
ways within sight. The oranges were not ripe, or if they
were they had none of the deliciousness of the kinds we
were accustomed to. They contained a great amount of
acid and were quite bitter. By ni.iking an incision in the
peel and giving the orange a slight squeeze between the
palms of the hands, the escaping acid, when applied to
the tiame of a lighted candle or burning match would in-
stantly become ignited and give forth a lurid blue
250 History of Companies I and E.
flame, flashing up like smokeless powder.
The limes are not unknown in our own land as the
juice from this fruit is used quite extensively as an in-
gredient in some of our most delicious drinks and liquors.
They are a species of lemon and grow on a tree similar
to the lemon tree. The fruit is much smaller, and like
the oranges, we found them to contain much acid and
very bitter to the taste. In the hotels and eating houses
lime water was a common drink. The mangoes are also
found in the fruit markets of some of the larger cities
of this country. They grow on trees which have many
branches like the most common apple trees. The fruit,
when ripe, is quite yellow, and oblong in shape having a
length of about three inches with a width of two or two
and one half inches. The skin is thin but tough and
covers a yellowish, stringy meat in the center of which
is a large core or pit. Many of the boys relished a man-
goe as they would an apple, yet there were others who
could not become accustomed to the peculiar flavor which
is sweet and yettart. We were told that eating this
fruit and drinkinor the native rum was the cause of much
sickness and many deaths on the island and we were ad-
vised to let them both alone.
Everyone knows what the pineapple is. The bread-
fruits are of several varieties. The fruit is shaped like
an apple but is several times larger, being from six to
eight inches in diameter. The species which appeared
most in evidence has a hard shell covering from an eighth
to a quarter of an inch in thickness. The contents is
white and mealy and is eaten as food. Of the fruits the
names of which we were unable to learn, there were two
varieties which were much sought by the soldiers.
One grew on a large tree and was usually found among
Fkiits. Wii.i) AM) Ci i/ri\ ATi:i). 251
the very thickest i^rowth <tf liiuli<i-. Tlic fruit li!iii<,rK on
branches hijjjh up from tlic ^roniid .iiid is similar to the
breaiifruil in size. Wlieii ripened it is soft and in strik-
mg the earth when falling; frum the tree. l)re?iksopen and
soon decays if left lying on the ground. The outer sur-
face is of a tiark green color and covered with numerous
small growths which in some respects reminds one of the
hedge ap])le. The purplish fruit is nearly entirely edible,
containing but a very small core, and is extremely rich,
juicy and delicious.
Another very desirable variety grows in clusters and
size and shape much like the ordinary plum and on
trees somewhat similar to a cherry tree. It is green in
color when ripe and has a thin, hard shell for a covering.
Upon breaking the shell open a flabby, pinkish pulp is
exposed which clings to a large pit in its center. The
peel is easily removed l)ut the pulp is with difficulty sep-
arated from the pit. The pulp is pleasing to the taste,
having a tartness about it which reminds one very much
of plum jelly. From its growth, formation and flavor we
judged it to be a variety of plum.
We were plentifully sup[)lied with cocoanuts at all
times. During the flrst few days after our arrival on
the island the natives gave them to us for a mere noth-
ing. One day, a soldier, in a generous moment, gave
one of the little brown fellows a blue flannel shirt in ex-
change for a cocoanut. He had more clothing than he
could conveniently carry when on the march and rather
than throw it away, as many of the boys did. he made the
trade with the fruit seller. From that moment the price
of a cocoanut was a blue shirt and no amount of argu-
ment or persuasion would induce them to reduce the
price until the commanding officer of the camp notified
252 History of Companies I and E.
the venders that he would strictly prohibit the sale of
the cocoanut unless a reasonable price was put upon
them and maintained. This had the desired effect and a
great many of them were brought into camp and sold.
The natives would break the half-ripe nut open, drink
the milky fluid which it contained and throw the remain-
der away, while the soldier cared not so much for the
drink as the white, solid meat if the nut was ripe.
The banana groves were a welcome sight to us as
we soon came to rely on this fruit for food when our ra-
tions would not suffice us, which was not an uncommon
occurrence. In the midst of this land ol: fruits, which
were the staff of life of more than one half of its million
of souls, we expected to literally roll in the deliciousness
of the many varieties which grew on nearly every shrub,
bush and tree within sight and which we had been ac-
customed to consider as luxuries in our northern homes.
In this we were sadly disappointed as we were not long
in recognizing the fact that while these people were pro-
ficient in the cultivation of many of them, they knew
practically nothing of the art of curing or ripening the
product. The cheapness of the fruit was its one re-
deeming feature as the quality was of the poorest when
compared with that which is put upon the market of this
country.
Mahogany wood which we value so highly was found
in profusion in certain jiarts of the island. We found
mahogany telegraph |)oles of large sizes strung for miles
along the line of march. Rail fences were built of this
wood. In fact it appeared to be about the only kind of
hard wood which could be utilized for such purposes as
it bore no fruit and its commercial value was under es-
timated or unknown.
Searchiiiir the foot hills for siirns of tho onciiiv,
Tiiic Ci TV oi Ponce. 253
CHAPTER XIX.
During the eight days we were in cam[) at Ponce we
had many opportunities to visit the city. This is the
largest city on the island, the population of the town and
port was variously estimated at from twenty to thirty
thousand. To one unaccustomed to their mode of living
it seemed utterly impossible to crowd such a number of
souls Into a city covering no more area than does Ponce.
The tenement houses were seldom more than two stories in
height and never more than three. In the center of a
brick block would be a large court with several wide en-
trances opening onto the streets. These entrances are
protected by heavy iron doors made of bars or corrugated
iron. Peerinor into the court one would see swarms of
children and women. All of these places were foul
smelling and the occupants unkempt and dirty. As in
the tenement districts of our own larger cities, whole
families were crowded together in one small room.
Venders of all sorts of groods were seen on the streets
daily and our camp was alive with them from early morn
till night. The men, women and children invariably tote
everything on their heads. Little tots, selling candies,
made of sugar or molasses, ran about with a large tray
nicely balanced on the head and it was a common sight
to witness a woman carrying a babe in her arms with a
huge can or kettle of water poised on her head.
254 History of Companies I and E.
The business portion of the city was surprisingly
quiet and although the stores and shops are numerous,
there appeared to be but few buyers for the wares. The
market square usually presented a lively scene but the
articles on sale were of little value and commanded
prices so low that a large volume of trade represented
very light cash receipts. In the poorer districts grocer-
ies and meats were bought and sold by the ounce. The
balance scale was everywhere in use and it was
amusing to witness a transaction between a storekeeper
and purchaser. We had been on the island but a few
days over a week, yet the shelves of many of the stores
were well filled with army hardtack and sowbelly. Just
how the merchants secured these goods was a mystery
to us, more especially so as the rations issued to the sol-
diers were always short. It was irritating to stop into one
of those dirty, halfway places and find our supplies star-
ing us in the face from the shelves. These things may
have been purchased from the government but we doubt-
ed it very much.
The natives were eager to secure the meat and pur-
chased it in very small quantities. A seemingly half
starved native woman dressed in tatters would enter a
store. In one thin, brown hand, a few coppers were
clutched and after looking around nervously for a mo-
ment, she wovild give an order for a piece of meat. The
clerk', with all of the dignity of one accepting an order
for several hundred dollars woi'th of goods, would slice
off a piec'e of side meat no wider than your two fingers,
and weighing less than a half a pound, drop it into the
balance and if it was the slightest fraction over weight,
he would trim it off until satisfied and if the purchaser
was not alive to the trickery of the wily shopkeeper, he
Life in the City. 255
would sli|) a small wi'iij^ht under the picci' of coftrse
wra{)j)in»^ paper and info the pan of the balance which
contained the meat. Picking up his knife the clerk
would continue the trimming process and as the small
square of sowbelly grew smaller and smaller, the anx-
ious customer would put up a fearful howl which was
usually the opening gun of a war of words. Shaking
their hsts in each others faces and gesticulating wildly the
argument would continue fast and furious for some time,
the customer apparently alternately protesting and plead-
ing, but to all entreaties the clerk would turn a deaf ear
and giving a turn or so of the paper around its precious
contents he would retain his grasp on the packag<? un-
til he had secured the few coppers which the customer
would angrily deal out to him.
Not alone in the sale of meat were these difficulties
evident. A hot exchange of words accompanied nearly
every sale and to us it appeared the shopkeeper was
usually victorious. With the exception of possibly half
a dozen stores located in the center of town, each one
sold li(]uors in connection svith the other Inisiiless. The
rum and wine, common to all parts of the island, was
sold in large quantities. The natives drank it with a
relish and without effect, but to the uninitiated soldiers it
was the vilest of fire water, a very little of it would start
a soldier to wabbling and leave him halt sick for a week.
The most popular y)lace in town was a wine room con-
ducted by a young fellow who appeared as a king among
the sporting element of the city. He was always flashi-
ly dressed and reminded us of one who followed the
prize ring and race course for a living. He spoke Eng-
lish quite fluently and was indeed a genial fellow» The
place was not a resort, there was no "Ladies Entrance,"
256 History of Companies I and E.
and women did not frequent the house. The proprietor
received the patronage of all classes of people, as in that
country the drink habit is as general as that of smok-
ing.
A general store carried a small stock of groceries,
hardware, drygoods, tobacco, liquors and fruit. The
business represented here, as in all of the towns of any
size, which was most distinct in itself, was that of the
druggist. There we found a very intelligent class of
clerks and employees, one or more of which could speak
English fairly well. They were extremely polite, well
dressed and had a business way about them that placed
them far in advance of the ordinary merchant in the es-
timation of the soldiers.
The milkman leads his docile cows to the door of his
patron and fills the bottle while you wait. They evi-
dently are not acquainted with the productive qualities
of the town pump as are their brother tradesmen of this
country. The city police wear a uniform of white and
are armed with the Remington rifle. The police officers
carry a side arm in the shape of a large machete, made
much like a heavy cavalry saber, incased in a leather
scabbard. In patroling the city they usually walk in
the middle of the street.
The port of Ponce presented a lively scene through-
outeach day and sometimes far into the night. The bay
was well filled with transports, relief ships and supply
boats, with here and there a war vessel swinging at her
anchor. The government had secured the services of a
large number of natives to unload the supplies which
were being brought to the island. Huge barges were
continually on the move and thousands of dollars worth
of supplies and ammunition was rapidly placed on shore,
The Ciiin|Kiii y tdiixiri.il arli.^t. " Xcxl."
A Visit to tiik Almshouse. 257
Lart^e stora^'o l)uil(lin<rs were in the course of coiistruc-
tion and everyone about the j)lace was busy' as a bee.
The natives worked like beavers under the eyes of an
armed guard. Bullock carts, and army wagons drav^n
by sleek looking mules, were moving great loads of sup-
plies out to the various camps. General Miles' head-
quarters was in a brick building not far from the wharf
and he was supervising the work.
On coming into the city from camp and while re-
turning we passed and repassed a small, dingy, stone
building. A small, grated window opened out on the
street. The head and shoulders of a heavy bearded,
dark featured man could always be seen at this window.
One long, hairy arm dangled through the iron bars and
hung limply over the stone window sill. His presence
there every day and always in the same position excited
the curiosity of the soldiers. One day Captain Lawrie
and a party stepped over to the building, which set back
from the street several rods, and were admitted by an at-
tendant. And what a sight met their gaze. They in-
stantly saw they were in an alms or mad house. They
were conducted through a numl)er of filthy rooms. The
walls were bare and the only furniture visible was- a cot
or two on which rested some of the most pitiable objects
imaginable. The face which appeared ht the window
was that of an insane man. He was larger by consider-
able than the ordinary native and one close look was suf-
ficient to decide that he was a maniac. In the center of
one room stood a young girl. Her legs and arms were
crossed, her eyes were closed and her head hung to one
side. Not the first spark of intelligence shone from
the white face and she weaved backward and forward
as though about to fall. Her clothing was in tatiers
258 History of Companies I and E.
and hung loosely upon the spare form of the unfortvin-
ate girl. She was an idiot, unable to think or do for
herself, uncared for and probably unthought of, grinding
out a miserable existence among surroundings which
could not be worse and yet she was human. Who
could imagine a worse lot and for one so young?
Fortunately there were but few inmates in the place and
the little party, made sick in both mind and body by
the sight and repugnant odor of the interior of the build-
ing, hurried out into the open air and away from it. If
one met a native in the neighborhood of the building
and pointed inquiringly toward it, he would raise a hand
to the side of his head and turn it around and around,
signifying that the occupants had "wheels in their
heads." "
Out at camp it was a question as to which was the
most troublesome, the natives or centipedes. During
the day it was the former and as the gloom of night
settled over us the latter made their appearance and
broke the rest of many of the volunteers. The natives
carried their wares about offering them in exchange for
money, hardtack, meat or clothing. They did a thriv-
ing .business in the hardtack line as we were getting
extremely tired of them and either traded or gave them
away. These they sold in the town for one cent,
(Porto Rican coin) each. A number of enterprising
native women did a thriving laundry business among
the officers and men. Their manner of washing cloth-
ing is primitive but the result is very satisfactory. The
washboard .^nd tub are unthought of and there is no
lugging water. The clothes are carried to the bank of
some convenient stream, a large flat stone partially out
of the water is selected and on this the clothes are
A Trip to Port Ponce. 259
pouiuk'd and rubbed until every particle of dirt has been
taken out. then tlic clothin<r is spread out upon the
grass to dry.
The chitic's while at Ponce were light as they con-
sisted mostly of i^uard duly. Full companies relieved
each other on outpost duty and shortly after we ar-
rived in camp we were advised that we were to be
equipped with the U. S. Magazme rifles. We were
given target practice with the Springfield rities and
shot away thousands of rounds of the ammunition which
we had packed from Guanica. The men detailed to
guard the ammunition on the wharf at Guanica, made
the trip to Ponce by boat and joined us later on.
On the sixth of August w^e were issued the new rifles
and belts with a supply of ammunition. The guns w ere
some lighter than the old Springtields and the difference
in weight of the same number of rounds of ammunition
was considerable.
We had been using the shelter tents, consequently
our quarters were rather cramped. After four or five
davs in camp we were informed that the heav}' tentage
was being unloaded at the port and each compan}- was
given a couple of bullock carts, and with a detail of men
were sent after them. Arriving at the wharf they
found such a congestion of carts and wagons that it
was impossible to get near the sheds. They lined their
teams up by the curb and awaited their turn. The
noon hour came and they were still waiting, the scant}'
rations were di\ided with the native drivers. Another
long wait and darkness was upon them with the long
line of teams ahead of them gradualh' growing smaller.
The native drivers began to get restless. The an-
imals had not been fed or watered since earlv morning.
260 History of Companies I and E.
The soldiers rations had all disappeared as they had
fully expected that they would be back at camp in the
early evening at the latest. The drivers became uglier
with each passing moment and after consulting together
a few moments they took the bullocks from the carts
and started down a by street with them, leaving the
soldiers guarding the lone carts. They attempted to in-
duce the natives to remain but failing in this, they used
force and after a time the teams were once more at-
tached to the carts. About nine o'clock a portion of the
carts were sent for and pulling up at the wharf they
were partly loaded with tent poles and they returned to
camp. The tents were not all unloaded from the boat
and ihe next morning we received orders to continue
the march. The tent poles, which had caused so much
trouble were not taken from the carts at all.
The volunteers who were sick were ordered to report
to the surcreons for an examination, and those who were
physically unable to continue the march were to be re-
turned to the United States. A number from each
company took this examination and several of them
were found to be in such condition as to make it im-
practicable for them to remain with the regiment for a
time at least, during the hard march which was expect-
ed would be a severe one even for those who were in
good condition.
In the meantime Brigadier General Schwan had
arrived at Guanica and was ordered to disembark his
troops, and march to Yauco and thence west with an
additional force of two batteries of artillery and one
troop of cavalry. This force was to occupy the western
portion of the island and driv^e out or capture all of the
Spanish troops in that territory. From August seventh
Mankuxkhs oi- \ AKinrs (.'ommands. 201
lo lifleeiUh (jcmu'iiiI Sihw.iii's troops had several eiit^aj^e-
inents with th*- Spani^^li. madr prisoiu'is of war one
hundred and sixly-luo li'^iilais. capiured and jiaroled
two hundred volunteers, caplurcd nuuh \aluahk' mater-
ial, and cleared the wet:tern jxirl of the island of the
enemy.
Major (leneral lirooke arri\ x-il (jii July thirty-lirsl
ami disembarked at Arroxo. on the southeastern coast
of the island. On Au<]just liflh his troops had a sharp
eniTJitrement with the enemv at Guavama, which was
tlnall}' occupied by our forces. (Jn the ei,i,fath. another
action took place near this point and the Spanish troops
were driven to the north in the direction of San Juan.
The order for cessation of hostilities arrived at about
this [)eriod and stopped farther action. General Wil-
son's troops, which had landed at Fonce previous to the
arrival of General Henry's division, had been advanced
in a northeasterly direction, and at Coamo a sharp en-
gagement took place between liis command and the
Spanish. Our troops were successful in the action and
a number of the enemv were killed and nearly two hun-
dred taken prisoners. The Spanish troops had taken a
position at Asomante, in the mountains some fifteen
miles in advance of General Wilson's command, in the
direction of San Juan. On the twelfth of August, Gen-
eral Wilson's artillery began shelling the enemy's pos-
ition, preparatory to an advance, and were under arms
and ready to move when orders were received suspend-
ing hostilities.
The western and southern portions of the island was
well invested by our troops and the enemy had been
driven in the direction of San Juan. Our division,
under command of General Henrv. was to march direct-
262 History of Companies I and E.
ly north from Ponce in the direction of Arecibo, which
is located on the northern coast of the island. There
we were to join General Schwan's brigade. The ob-
ject of this movement was to intercept the enemy re-
treating before the advance of General Schwan's troops.
This operation would have formed a strong division on
the line of retreat of the Spanish troops occupying the
western portion of the island.
On August ninth our brigade began the march in
the direction of Arecibo. For a few miles north of
Ponce the military road was in excellent condition, but
beyond that the trail had at first been considered almost
impassable for an army. General Stone had been en-
gaged for several days, with a force of natives, in open-
ing the trail for the passage of our troops. The new-
ly made trails were in horrible condition and the men
could make but little headway at times. In the march
to Utuado and their subsequent return, the troops of
General Henry's command covered more miles than
those of any other division of the invading army of
Porto Rico, and this over mountain trails, which were
poor enough at their best, and made much worse by the
daily downpour of rain which we encountered.
Makciiino Oirr ok Ponck. 2<)n
CHAPTER XX.
On the morning of the ninth of Auf^just, our division
broke camp and marching through the town, took a
northerly course with Arecibo as its final destination,
as far as we then knew. Arecibo is located on the
northern coast of the island, about half way between the
eastern and western coasts and almost directly north of
Ponce as the crow flies. The island is about forty
miles in width at this point but the trail wound in,
out. and around the mountains in such a craz}' fashion
as to make the actual distance between the two cities
several times fortv miles.
The campaign, as mapped out by General Miles,
was intended to drive out or capture all of the Spanish
troops in the southern and eastern portions of the island,
thus forcing them toward a common center, and event-
uallv drawing the lines of the advancing troops closer
until the enemv's forces were practically hemmed in,
in the vicinitv of San Juan, the capital city of Porto
Rico, and located on the northeastern coast of the island.
With the Spaniards driven together and our land troops
menacing them in the rear and on both Hanks, while the
guns of our war-ships were trained on the city and
neighboring countrv. the position of the enemy would
soon have become untenable and thi result must have
been the surrender of their forces.
264 History of Companies I and E.
The natural consequence of the movements of the
commands of Generals Wilson and Brooks, on our right
and General Schwan's troops on our left, would be to
gradually force the troops of the enemy back into the
center of the island and toward our line of march, and
we fully expected to have a brush with'^them 'most any
time after we had gotten well away from the coast.
The military road running north from Ponce sev-
eral miles, was far superior to any country road we had
ever seen in the states. In man}' places it was blasted
and built from solid rock with a generous growth of fine
shade trees on either side. As we drew away from the
coast the roadway gradually inclined upward and made
abrupt turns around the foothills of the mountains which
we were approaching. The steady climb soon began
to tell on the men and they began to drop by the 'road-
side. The Massachusetts boys were in advance of us
and as we plodded along we passed numbers of their
regiment who had been beaten down by the fierce heat.
These men were readily recognized by the brown uni-
forms which they wore.
We found the nights to be very cool, and before
dawn a heavy dew fell. As the sun rose over the hill
tops the dew was condensed and a heavy vapor envel-
oped everything. By this the men were given a thor-
ough broiling early each morning and left them soft and
weak for the remainder of the day. The heat was
more intense and did more execution between the hours
of eight and ten o'clock in the morning than at any
other time during the day. At the commencement of
this march the officers had been instructed to watch
their men carefully and no man would be allowed to
fall out of the column without a written permit from a,
Climhinc Till': Mountains. 2^)5
commissioned ollicer of liis companv. We were given
ten minutes rest each hour, march t\vent}'.five minutes
and rest live, repeatini^ this each half hour while on the
march.
At about the noon hour, as the column was taking
its five minutes rest, the men were ordered to an atten-
tion and General Henry, accompanied by two staff
officers, came riding towards us. By this time the men
were in hard shape and General Henry must have
passed a large number of them who were lying by the
roadside overcome by the heat. The call for a doctor
or a hospital attendant was being continually passed up
and down the line as some of the weaker ones fell faint-
ing in a comrades arms or at his feet. As the General
rode by our battalion he was heard to remark, '"This
is terrible, if the heat continues we must put these men
on night marches." Nothing more was heard from it
however.
We were then well into the mountains and were
passing through a very productive part of the island.
Coffee plantations, covering several thousand acres each,
were located along the route. They extended partly
up the mountain side, midst w hat appeared to us to be
a heavy growth of timber. Upon getting into the wood-
land we saw that the trees were kept thinned out and
just enough remained standing to make a good shade
for the coffee plant. These plants attain a height of
from six to ten feet, branching out at the top. the berry
growing in a pod at the extreme end of the branches.
The pods were just turning to a reddish color and in a
short time would be in condition to harvest.
The residences, and buildings which surrounded
them, were much handsomer and more substantially
266 History of Companies I and E.
built than those found along the coast. Coffee houses
were usually of large dimensions and well built. In
the front of the store houses, dry beds were made of
cement and slightly raised from the ground. Small
cars, built on trucks, were run out to the dry beds on
platforms built of plank. Sugar mills became more fre-
quent and here and there a naitive would have his corn
crop harvested and strung on poles very close to his
abode. We had been informed that corn was one of
the principle products of the island but never saw more
than five or six bushels of ear corn in one mans gath-
ering for the season.
The first night out from Ponce we bivouaeed in and
about a coffee house. A small store building and a cou-
ple of native homes were in the neighborhood and the
village bore the name of Gagos. On the opposite side of
the road from the coffee house an excellent grazing
ground for the bullocks and mules was found. This was
on the mountain side and quite steep. An embankment
ten feet high bordered the inner side of the roadway.
Just over the outer edge of this brink the men had
rolled themselves in their blankets and were sleeping
soundly. Back of them and farther up the slope the
mules and bullocks were feeding. During the middle of
the night the cattle stampeded and rushed about in the
wildest confusion. The startled sleepers awoke, and tak-
ing: in the situation made a break to get out of the path
of the oncoming, half crazed bullocks. In the hurry and
excitement they forgot the abrupt drop into the roadway
directly in front of them and the darkness of the night
prevented them from seeing it. Rushing straight ahead
many. of them suddenly found themselves treading the
air and the next instant dropped in a heap in the road-
Camp "l>i ll Rin" at (jA(;os. 207
way below, or wiMit spriiwliiiijf lialf wny across it. Several
of tlie men were hruist'd eoiisiderable and one of our re<^-
iment had a le*^ broken. Major Anthony set the frac-
tured limblhe next mornint^ and the injured man was
sent l),ick to Ponce. From this occurance the camp de-
ri\e(l its name of ••jiuil l\un."
The rations did not ^ei to us until after nine
o'clock that night; there was nothiuij^ to forage and the
scarcity of wood for making fires made it difficult to se-
cure a cup of cotfee. I say there was nothing to forage
and, generally speaking, there was nothing, but upon
skirmishing around, the proprietor of the store was
found to have three half grown chickens and a duck hid-
den under his house.
After some dickering, two of the boys purchased a
couple of chickens, paying an outrageous price for them.
while the remaining chicken and duck was secured by a
pair of comrades. With much difficulty the boys gath-
ered a limited supply of wood and securing a couple of
tin buckets, the fowls were placed in them and swung
over the fires. They sat about the impromptu fire-places
eagerly watching for the first sign of broiling, alternate-
ly stirring the fire and removing the cover of the pot to
take a peep at the contents. As the odor of the broiling
fowls filled the nostrils of the hungry men, they sat back
in the shadows and patiently awaited for the end, and
for one of the groups it soon came.
As they sat with closed eyes, their hunger increas-
ing with each moment, and anticipating the feast which
was soon to be theirs, their attention was attracted to the
fire by the smell of something like that of burning leath-
er arising from the pot while the delicious odor which
had so recently pervaded the air, had disappeared. Hur-
268 History of Companies I and E.
rying to the fire they were just in time to see the bottom
fall out of the pot and the badly burned chicken and duck
drop into the fire. Dragging them from the blaze they
found them burned to a crisp and cursing their ill luck
and stupidity, they tossed the remainder of the fowls in-
to the darkness, and kicking the glowing embers of the
fire in a dozen directions they returned to the c^lfee
house to await the coming of the wagon train which
would bring them sowbelly and hardtack.
In their inexperience they had overlooked the fact
that during the broiling process the water was rapidly
passing away, and the pleasure derived from the pros-
pects for a good feed, lulled them into semi-conscious-
ness, from which they were aroused too late, and they
saw their feast disappear in a moment. The boys about
the other tire took warning from the experience of their
unfortunate comrades and were soon devouring their
chickens. Salt and pepper were both lacking bat such
trifles were overlooked and in a short time a small stack
of bones, picked clean, lay on the ground, the only visi-
ble evidence of the repast remaining.
At one o'clock, the following afternoon, the division
broke camp and in a downpour of rain, continued the
march. Company E, acting as rear guard, remained
motionless the remainder of the day. The march before
had been difficult but was now doubly so as the hard
military road terminated at the coffee house and the re-
mainder of the march was made over freshly made trails.
The trail was kept soft by the heavy rains and after the
first few companies had passed over it, became a perfect
sea of sticky mud, the men going in above their ankles
at every stej), nearly pulling off their shoes in extricating
their feet. It was just a trifle the strongest case of "leg-
7; -H
C -;
'>Si,i:f.1'1N(; Pass." 200
]) illiiiir"' which \vc had as yet experienced.
\A e had covered hut a short disfniice when we were
halted on the hank of a stream an I held in a column of
fours. We hrul hi'en steadily (•lind)in<'- upwards since
leaving I'oiua' and i)y this lini' were well up in the
uioiuitains. The rain [)uured (h)wn and we were soon
wet to tlu.' skin and sliivering from the cold. Althoufli
the men were wet and cold they ke[)t their spirits up by
singing, laughing, and treating the whole situation as a
huge joke. After the storui ceased we again moved
forward. In crossing the stream several of the Ixjys
slipped on the wet stepping stones and into the water they
went. With each spilling, a shout went up from the
watching soldiers, and the victim of the accident would be
informed that no orders had been given to '-fall in."'
We paddled through the mud and water a few miles
when we were halted for th.e night. And such a site
for a caui[). The trail at this [).)int was not more
than ten feet in width and the mud was fearful. On
our left the solid face of the mountain rose abruptly
far above us. On the right the trail sheered oflf nearly
perpendicular to the valley several hundred feet be-
low. For several moments we remained motionless,
wondering how, in the name of mud. we were to convert
this place into a camp. To lie or sit down meant a seat
or bed in the sloppy clay. The tall grass and wide
leaves of the plants growing on the very brink of the
drop to the valley, were as wet as water could make
them. The sun. which for once mitrht have broutrht
joy and comfort with its warm rays, failed to break
from beneath the heavy clouds, and before preparations
could be made, night was upon us.
Someone espied a wi?-e fence close to the trail
270 History of Companies I and E.
and the boys immediately began a systematic search
for fence posts. Before long it was necessary to walk
two miles in advance of the camp to secure a single
post. Away out there we found a banana grove and
the returning soldiers brought back a double load of
wood and bananas. One of the boys gave a treacher-
ous looking native an American dollar for a scrawny
duck and with a fence post on his shoulder and the
duck under his arm he hurried back to camp. The
rations had not coms up and the contents of the
haversacks svent but a little way in appeasing the hun-
ofer of the men. A limited number of small fires were
built and the men huddled about them in a vain ef-
fort to partially dry their clothing and drive the chill
from their bodies.
The mountainside was cut away in places to make
fire-places and a dry spot in wliich to rest. The duck
which the soldier had brought into camp was dressed
in the dark, cut up and placed in a meat pan. The
fires were so small and occupied so fully that it was
a scramble to get near one. After edging the pan lo
within close proximity of the scattered coals, the
duck was left to roast. About ten o'clock the fowl was
supposed to be well done, and the better part of it was
disposed of in a few moments, the wings and drum
sticks were retained for a breakfast. The meat w^as ex-
ceedingly rare and had a peculiar flavor but it went at
any rate and sufficed to appease the hunger for the time
being.
We had no blankets and the shelter tents were back
with the wagon train. As the fires burned lower the
weary men turned their attention to the task of arrang-
ing as comfortable sleeping quarters as possible. Some
The Midmciit Scarf.. 271
crawled into 1 ho hdU's wln'rc llif lii-cs li.-ul h m-u huilt
others sat on their rifles and rested jii^fninst the mountain
side and a few stood upri<jjht and nodded. A few of tlie
boys secured two fence posts eacli, and lay in <^ them par-
allel with each other, filled the intervenin<:^ space witli
wet leaves and grass. Nearly every man had fallen into
a fitful, restless sleej), when, close to our ears came the
muffled report of a shot. All \vere awake in an instant.
We had seen or heard nothing of the enemy since leav-
ing Ponce but the conclusion formed by each of us was
that the Spaniards had come upon us unawares and tired
at the sentinels. Following the first report came another
and another, the sound appearing to come from our very
midst.
Everyone was mystified for a moment and^'rifles
were brought to a "ready" and the men prepared for ac-
tion. The darkness was so intense and the men were
brought to their feet so suddenly that confusion reigned
about us. We knew not in which direction to I'-ok for
the impending danger and could not even guess in what
shape it might present itself. One of our boys who
was leaning against the mountain, opened his eyes
and hearing the reports of the shots, shook his comrade
roughly and cried out "come on comrade, the Spaniards
are after us." and up the trail they flew, expecting every
second to he shot down.
The mystery was soon solved and it was soon learned
that one of the boys nicknamed "Alice," had placed his
haversack on top of a bed of coals which contained a lit-
tle fire and the canvas had ])nriied through, bringing the
cartridges which he carried, in contact with the fire,
which resulted in the explosions and brought the whole
camp to its fe3t. Major Channon was on the scene and
272 History of Companies I and E.
by his orders the haversack and contents were hurled
down into the valley. "Alice" protested against this
action and told the major there were but three boxes of
loaded cartridges in the haversack. And he did not
care so much for the haversack and ammunition but they
had thrown away his tin plate.
Returning to our resting places we again stretched
ourselves on the downy beds and for the most part re-
mained awake till morning. Shortly after daylight a
detail of men went back to the wagon train and brought
us rations. We crawled to the eastern slope of the
mountain and basking in the warm sun, dried our cloth-
ing. Looking back in the direction from which we had
come the day before, we could plainly see the buildings
in the village and the flat roofs of every one of them
was covered with soldiers, lying prone on their backs and
faces upturned to the sun. They too were drying their
washing.
The man who had retained a portion of the duck for
his breakfast brousfht it to lisht and found the feathers
were not more than half plucked from it and the job of
cleaning which had been done in the dark was anything
but an appetizer for breakfast. He concluded sowbelly
was good enough and threw the foul fowl over the em-
bankment. This camp was appropriately called "Sleep-
ing Pass," and is remembered as one of the "original"
camps which circumstances forced upon us during our
service in the Porto Rican campaign.
Hospital Stewards Brown and Geyer cro.ssinj,'- the
mountains in Porto Rico.
Mountain Sc finery. 273
CHAPTER XXI.
At ten o'clock, on the morninj^ of Auofust eleventh,
the division ao^ain moved forward through the mud,
fording numerous streams. The rain storms increased
in number and violence as we climbed higher each day.
Fording the streams became a more difficult task as they
increased in depth and the currents grew swifter. The
waters seemingly leaped Prom rock to rock, barely touch-
ing the gravely beds as they continued on their mad
race down the mountain, throufjh o^ullies and jjorcjes.
dashing against great boulders which stood directly in
their paths, swinging out and around them, always forg-
ing down and ahead, never resting. Here and there the
course would narrow and the force of the entire stream
would press the waters through a small opening in the
rocks and with a graceful curve the glittering body
would spring out and away from mother earth, pick-
ing up its course again a dozen feet below, forming
a beautiful water-fall.
The scenery became more wild and grand. At
times as we crawled around the mountain the trail would
make a sudden turn and as we stood on the point,
the valley below and country for miles about us lay
^xposed to our vision. These narrow valleys or gorges
were entirely uncultivated and the tropical plants, bear-
ing beautiful foliage, grew in the wildest confusign,
274 History of Companies I and E.
Looking over and beyond the beautiful handiwork of
nature, opening out before us in all its splendor, the
grandeur of the scene almost entirely lost to the weary
soldiers, the home of some planter could be seen nestling
on the mountain side, and surrounded by some half
dozen less pretentious homes of his servants. In the
distance they bore the appearance of buildings freshly
painted white, but upon closer inspection, as we neared
them later, thev were found to be thatched, unpainted,
tumble-down shacks, bleached to a dazzling white by
tlie fain and sun.
The trail coursed in and out. following the irreg-
ular contour of the mountains. In many places it
doubled on itsself, and gazing behind us we conld see
the rear of the column apparently moving back in the
direction of Ponce. Numerous deep gorges barred the
way. To reach the opposite side we were compelled
to traverse a decline for a mile or more, parallel with
' the gorge, crossing it some distance from where we
first encountered it and climb up again on the other
side. Reaching a point opposite to where the gorge
made the break in the trail, less than a stone's throw
separated us from the portion of the column in our rear.
-We had doubled more than tw^o miles to cover an actual
advance of much less than an eighth of a mile. Such
was the condition of the country which we met with
day after day as we advanced farther into the heart of
the enemy's supposed stronghold. "Eternal vigilance"
was ever the watchword and we momentarily expected
to hear the pop of the "greaser's" rifles fired from
ambush, the opportunity for such a move on their part
frequently appearing to us to be rather tempting.
Looking back over the scenes after a lapse of three
Arrival at Adji'ntas;. 275
years, one can haidlv realize that we were allowed to
move forward, unmolested, ihrouj^h that ruj^ged coun-
try. One troop of well mounted cavalry, ecjuipped with
a half dozen jiortable. rapid lire j,Hms, could have an-
noyed us greatly, and made it a runnin<r fi^ht for davs
if they had cared to have done so. The countr\' must
have been lhoroun"hl>' known to the Spanish, while to
us it was a strange land. 'I'he expeditions of thje scouts
and ^advance guards being our only source of receiving
information. On either liank the/eneniN- might have
laid in ambush for us, poured in a withering lire on the
marching column, and scattered among the rocks and
trees before our troops could locate them. The topog-
raphv of the country was such that Hank guards could
not be put out as the only trail over which it was pos-
sible to move and remain in touch with the column was
the one we were traversing.
As we advanced we saw signs of the late departure
of the enem}', in many places. The strong walls which
surrounded the burial grounds, had been loop-holed and
made into temporary forts. In several places, a point
commanding the approaching trail for some distance,
had been cleared and leveled, with the evident intention
of mounting a tield piece with which to bar tiie advance
of our troops. But whatever their intentions or oppor-
tunities, the Spaniards did not molest us and we con-
tinued the weary climbing. Some little distance from
Adjuntas, the trail descended rapidly and taking a brace
on ourselves, we slid, rolled and half ran the last mile
before entering the outskirts of the town.
It was late in the afternoon w^hen we marched
down the narrow street, and a half mile beyond the
town. The site selected for the campground of our
27G History of Companies I and E.
regiment was on a side hill and had ahout -"a foot of
raise to every foot of run.'' Our blankets and shelter
tents were on the bullock carts, about a days march be-
hind us. It began to rain and we "staked our claim."'
because we had no tents to pitch, in a stead\- down pour.
A very little wood was secured at the expense of the
government and a small fire built at the foot of the hill,
the lower end of the compan}- street. Hungry and
weary we s'ood about until long after dark. When
completely exhausted we stretched our worn bodies on
the wet ground and courted rest and slumber but they
were not for us.
In the inky blackness of the night, a herd of pack-
mules, wandering about, struck the center of our camp
and tramped up the hill right into our midst. After
much profanity on the part of the mule-whackers, ably
seconded by the drenched soldiers, the long eared
quadrupeds were driven away. With little or no rest
the night before, and clothing soaking wet for the past
forty-eight hours, the men put in a miserable night.
The rain continued the next day and when the wagon
train, bringing our provisions, came in during the after-
noon, the drivers guided the carts off the road at the
foot of the hill on which we were "stopping," the cart
wheels buried in water and mud to their hubs. Here
the mess tents were pitched. We quickly secured our
tents and blankets and made ourselves as comfortable as
possible.
Trailing in behind the wagon train came company
E. The evening of the afternoon upon which we left
Gagos, or Camp '-Bull Run," company E was marched
in the direction of Ponce some distance to the rear of
the division and remained as rear ijuard of the column
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IIOMK, SWKET IIoMi:. 277
until their arrival at Adjuntas. The ni^ht that we
camped <in ••Sleepini,^ Pass." the boys of company E
hivouaced amontr the bullock carts. About three
o'clock ill the iiioriiiiiij^ they were awakened by the rain
and they whiled away the remainin<T hours oi darkness
and drizzle by singing songs and dancing cake-walks.
During the day they advanced to Gagos, sleeping that
night ill the coffee house or barn which had been con-
verted into a hospital. The following day they
marched from Gagos to Adjuntas, covering the distance
which had occupied us parts of the two preceeding days.
Following in the rear of the column they saw much
the worst of the experiences as the trail was fearfully
chopped up and each days delay added many discom-
forts to the alread}' troublesome expedition. Carts and
their contents had fallen over the brink of the narrow
trail, drag-ging the struggling bullocks with them.
Horses and men were with difficulty kept right side up.
A gatling gun became overbalanced and went rolling
down the mountain, injuring several men and horses.
Broken down carts nearly blocked the narrow trail at
points. These were some of the scenes as witnessed by
the Sterling boys while following in the wake of an
army. When they arrived in Adjuntas they were given
quarters in a brick shed for a night but were brought
out to the camp site the following day. The boys of
Company I were given one night of comfort also, and
they found an empty building in which they were se-
cure from the rain, but it was for a night only.
On the thirteenth, we received the first authentic
information regarding the cessation of hostilities. The
news was received with cheers and huzzas. The band
save a concert and for the first time since we were mus-
278 History of Companies I and E.
tered in, they rendered "Home, Sweet Home." Recol-
lections of "Home"' flooded our thoughts in an instant.
No one had forgotten home and its comforts, but they
had put it behind them, because they had come to real-
ize that homesickness was worse than malarial fever and
we knew "where we were at," so avoided the subject as
much as possible. But when our own band boys were
given the privilege of stirring the hearts of the men
with this hitherto forbidden piece of music, we knew
that the end of the war was in sight. To us that meant
home, and home meant everything, rest, dry clothing,
an abundance of rations, a soft bed with snow white cov-
erings, and a happy gathering of loved ones whose faces
were crrowing dearer to our hearts each day and hour.
Imagine, if you can, the joy which prevailed in our
camp as we gathered in small groups and talked of go-
ing "Home." If you have never been there, you can
only imagine, you can never know. Our mail had been
very light since landing on the island. We were practi-
cally cut off from the world and the people way up here
in the States knew better what was transpiring in our
immediate vicinity than did we ourselves. Our lives
were limited to our individual companies and we longed
to be released from this oblivion.. If the war was over
then our usefulness had ceased. If a warning note had
been sounded and the men told there was yet danger
ahead for the flag, then we would have put "Home" be-
hind us again and never faltered in performing our du-
ties until the hour of peril was past.
A band, composed of natives, marched out to our
camp and serenaded us. Among other selections, was
one, composed and written by their leader. The words
sang the praises of General Miles and the "Americanos."
'•Camp Mud." 2711
The niusicijuis t\v:mi;T(l and tooled af this piece of music
very earnestly and a[)pearetl to l)e carried away with the
realization that they were, or in a short time would be,
our countrymen. We were as well pleased as they were
but just at that period our thoughts were not with the
happy natives, but wandering back to "Old Illinois."
—'•Thy prairies and tiiy valleys, Illinois,
Illinois."'
The rains continued to come on schedule time and the
siile hill became a toboggan slide. The company streets
extentled from the bottom to the very top of the hill.
Just back of them, on a flat, was the regimental officers
(juarters. At the foot of the hill, and to the right. General
Garrettson and his staff had their tents pitched, while
the troops of the Massachusetts regiment were quar-
tered in buildings along the road, near our camp. One
battalion of regulars, which formed a part of the division,
was also given tjuarters in the buildings.
In the course of our stay at this camp the officers and
men made many tri[)s up and down this hill. Slipping
and sticking in turn, the dignified officers performed
many acrobatic feats which surprised even themselves,
in making the decent. The men looked on and grinned
but said nothing. After once making the start it was a
certainty that the soldier would reach the bottom of the
hill before stopping, but it was a question as to which
end he would land on. In forming in company front for
roll call or inspection of arms, each man in turn acted as
a pillar for the man above him and if some one had giv-
en the first man a shove the whole line would have top-
])led over like a row of ten pins, This camp was given
the name of "Camp Mud."
280 History of Companies I and E.
The town of Adjuntas had a population of about
one thousand souls, possibly fifteen hundred. The peo-
ple were kind to us but we found more Spanish sympa-
thizers here than were met along the coast. They were
awed by the soldiers and gave us no trouble, but their
actions and looks were readily understood by our men.
The demand for the American flag was growing and the
natives were trading fruits and tobaccos for envelopes
and writing paper which were decorated with the stars
and stripes. They wore the bits of paper pinned to their
sleeves and breasts an stuck them in their hats, proudly
proclaiming themselves "Americanos."
Although peace was not declared as yet, we imag-
ined that we would not advance farther but soon return
to Ponce, there to embark for home. In this we were
disappointed and on the sixteenth of August we broke
camp and marched north to Utuado. The battalion of
regulars and one battalion of the Sixth Massachusetts
boys, had preceded us. The march was a long, hard one
and we covered nearly eighteen miles over a trail that
was in many places, being cut out by the force of the na-
tives.
As we hove within sight of the camp grounds the
Sixth Mass. Band came out to meet us and we swung
along the road at a lively pace. We stood in the rain for
some time until the site for our camp was pointed out to
us. Our shelter tents were pitched nearly a mile from
town on a flat near the bank of the Arecibo river. This
stream was in every respect more of a river than any oth-
er encountered on the island.
The bullock carts were abandoned at Adjuntas, the
trail was impassible for them and the supplies were car-
ried forward by pack mules. It was surprising the
Typical Porto Rico Peons ami liabitatiniis.
Arrival at Arixiijo. 281
amount of weight the drivers strapped to the backs of
tlieso animals. They trotted along, the contents of the
lu)X('s strapped to their pack-saddles, shaking and rat-
tlinj;. the cluick-a-chuck beatingf regfidar time to the
movements of the mules. The drivers of the pack mules
were not enlisted men but were hired by the govern-
ment at a salary of from thirty to fifty dollars per
month, according to the rank which they held in the out-
fit. They were typical westerners and appeared to be
thorougldy acquainted with the business. It requires no
little skill and training to securely fasten the boxes to
the pack-saddles. If the fastenings became loosened,
the animal would stop and wait for the driver to come up
and rearrange the trappings.
A number of ambulances were worked over the trail
and a few miles from Adjuntas one of them rolled over
the edore of the narrow way and went tumblincj and
twisting down the mountain, smashing the wagon and
killing a horse. One of the pack mules, sure-footed as
they appeared to be, lost his balance and found a lodg-
ing place among the tree tops below us.
Up to the time of leaving Adjuntas each company
had carried its cooking outfit with it. When leaving
'•Camp Mud,"' orders were given to the forces working
about the mess tents to [)ack the outfits in such a manner
as to make them portable by pack mules. The order
was misconstrued in some instances and the camp stove
and cooking uiensils were stored in the large chests as
usual, and instead of being forwarded with the troops,
they were taken to a store house and put away with
other heav}' camp equippage, which could not be moved
forward when the bullock carts were abandoned.
When we arrived at Utuado, and order was estab-
282 History of Companies I and E.
lished in the camp, the cooking outfit of some few of
the companies failed to put in an appearance and the
cooking was thrown upon the men. If the suppl}' of
fuel had been adequate, the task of preparing our rations
would have been a trifling matter. As it was, we
searched far and near and in a very short time every
stick of firewood was picked up and burned. Not far
from our camp was an open shed and stored in this we
found several tons of sugar-cane which had been run
through the mill. It was wet, mouldy, and full of small
insects, and when coaxed for an hour burned like a wet
rag. It was the only available fuel at that time and
we were compelled to use it or nothing. Little groups
of men gathered in the company streets and kneeling
about the smouldering fires, attempted to make their
coffee.
The coffee w^as issued to us in the kernel, along
with a meager quantity of hardtack. Arising early in
the morning and by dint of much fortitude, the coffee
was pounded between a couple of stones, a slow fire
started with the cane stalks, and with a strong pair of
lungs for a blower, with no accidents occurring, a pint
of muddy coffee, which had never come to the boiling
point, would materialize by the noon hour. If anything
was expected at the supper hour, preparations for the
mess must be commenced immediately after dinner.
To those who do not understand the meaning of the
term "mess," it is only fair to state that to fully compre-
hend its reference, one must exist for a month or so on
the rations issued to an active army in the field. If, at
the end of that period, you do not come to the conclu-
sion that the application of the term "mess." is not only
appropriate, but stands alone as an expression which de-
"FoRA(;iN(;." 283
lliK's llie breakfast. dimuT. or supper of llie average sol-
dier, than any attempted explanation on our part would
prove f\itile. For a number of days the soldiers existed
on '-recollections" and ^-anticipations,'" with Hat coffee
and buggy hardtack for desert. The bill of fare for the
morning "mess" consisted of coffee and hardtack, with
a change at the noon mess to hardtai^k and coffee, while
at night hardtack alone was served.
With hunger gnawing at their stomachs, some of
the men seized every opport.unit}- to secure something
eatable. One of them, a sixfooter with broad shoulders,
a giant as compared with the average native Porto Ri-
can. made a trip to the town with the avowed intention
of not returning until he had secured both food and
drink. He was penniless, but nerved to desperation, he
in some manner, juggled a rum seller out of several
drinks of firewater, and started in search of an eating
house. Selecting the one which he judged would set an
elaborate table, he entered the place, stalked over to a
small table and seated himself, lie wore no coat, and
picking at the breast of his blue shirt, he attracted the
attention of the proprietor and repeated --Americano,
Porto Rico."
With a few such exclamations and some sign lan-
guage, he gave the little yellow man to understand that
an "i^ mericano""and a Porto Rican was one and the same
and that thev were brothers. Then he ordered dinner.
Evervthinp- that he thoui^ht the house might contain and
was eatable he ordered brought to him. Throughout
the meal he kept pulling at the blue shirt and repeating
'•Americano, Porto Rico." When everything in sight
was eaten, he arose, and started for the door. The little
native ran over and placed himself in front of the big
284 History of Companies I and E.
soldier, hurled a jargon of meaningless words at him
and attempted to stop his progress toward the door.
The burly man in blue forged straight ahead and ex-
pressed his brotherly love for the wrathy native 1 \v gent-
ly pulling at the blue shirt and repeating "Americano,
Porto Rico"
The tender feeling vl brotherl}- love was pleasant io
the natives under some circumstances, but it would not
compensate the proprietor of the house for the dinner
eaten by the soldier, which, based upon the rates usuall}'
charged the invaders, footed up to something like three
or four dollars, Porto Rican coin. Clenching both
hands the native shook his fists in the face of "Major,"
as the soldier was known by his comrades, and made
a more determined effort to hold him until he had se-
cured pay for the meal. "Major" was slow to anger
but he wanted to get out and t^oniinue the search for
iood. Reaching out one brawny arm he grasped the
hand of the native, twisting him to his knees on the
floor before him and with an oath, he again repeated
"Americano, Porto Rico," and with the disengaged
hand plucked once more at the bosorr. of his blue
shirt. The native fairly screamed with pain as the
twisting process continued and the instant he was re-
leased he jumped to his feet and backing away from
the soldier, motioned for him to get out and out he
went.
A little farther down the street he came to the en-
trance of a general store and stepping in he saw a box of
dried fish near the door. The fish looked something like
herring but were much larger, and tied up in bundles.
The "major" picked up a bundle and holding it up to
the gaze of a clerk, inquired the price of it. The clerk
c
Q
td
The "Major." 285
made some reply, and the "major" looked hard at him
and said. '-Well! I may return before the sun goes down
and if I do I'll drop in and pav you," and walked out.
During the night some time, he was picked up by an
officer and he rested in the city lockup until the next
morning, when he returned to camp.
286 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XXII.
By the time we arrived at Utuado tiie men were a
sorry looking lot. A number of them were barefooted,
and their clothing was hanging to them in shreds.
Some few had no trousers at all and went about in their
underclothing. With their dilapitated clothing and
scraggly beards, tht-y looked more like a gang of bush-
whackers than a regiment of Uncle Sam's soldiers.
Those that had money to buy with could not purchase
clothing as the natives were so much smaller than the
Americans that they were unable to tind garments large
enough for them.
When we were in the States we could get a shave
often enough to at least avoid having the appearance
of wild men, but on the island it was different and a
tonsorial artists outtit, even the most simple, was rarely
seen. Some few of the boys had razors that had not
seen a strop or hone for months. They had went the
rounds of the companies many times since leaving home
and were in condition fit to trim corns but not to re-
move a tough beard of several weeks growth. Once
in a while one of the boys would pluck up courage
enough to face the ordeal. The preparations were
made by placing a blanket on the ground. Stretching
out full length on the blanket, whh his face upturned
to the sky, the '-customer" would close his eyes and
Sterlin<; Boys on Outpost. 287
await the onslought of the -'barber," who, sittini,^ astride
the victim, would commence and continue the work in
much the same manner as one who was scraping a hog.
The man underneath took his medicine with good grace
and arose minus his whiskers, but oft times the face ap-
peared as though the beard had been taken off with
a butchers cleaver.
On the twentieth of August, a detail of men from
company E, under command of Lieut. Dillon, marched
north in the direction of Arecibo and were placed on
outpost duty about seven miles in advance of the troops
camped at Utuado. This outpost was stationed at the
most northern point reached by any troops in the
Porto Rican campaign and but a few miles from the
northern coast of the island. The boys were quartered
in comfortable barracks which had been vacated by the
Spanish but a short time previous. The guards were
posted along the main road leading to Arecibo. There
was considerable traveling over this route at the time
and as the duties of the guards made it necessary for
them to halt and search each passer by, they met man}-
of the, better class of inhabitants, and among them
some few who could speak English. They were told
that the Spanish soldiers had retreated from Arecibo
in the direction of San Jaun, and that the terms of
peace were settled and the war was practically over.
The postmaster of Arecibo was made a prisoner by the
guards and taken, under a guard, to the general camp
at Utuado where he was detained for a time but later
released and allowed to continue unmolested.
The boys appeared to enjoy the situation, and
were in better spirits than they had been for some time.
They were snugly located in comfortable quarters and
288 History of Companies I and E.
the weather was exceptionally fine. Upon referring
to Corporal Hoobler's diary, which is authentic as it
was posted daily, the weather reports show three con-
secutive days in which there was no rain, certainly it
was phenomenal, and with dry clothing and an unusual
supply of rations, the results of successful foraging
expeditions, the men regained their naturaly buoyant
spirits and the days slipped by rapidly. At that time
it was the supposition of the men that the whole of
our division would continue north to Arecibo and
there embark for home. The boys of company E,
who were on outpost, expected to remain in that
locality until the division advanced, but were ordered
back to divison headquarters where they arrived on
the evening of August twenty-fifth.
While on outpost duty, two of the Sterling boys,
George Slade and John Lineberry, composed the fol-
lowing poem, dedicated to "Bill Heathcote's Rough
Riders."
Bill Heathcote's Rough Riders.
Every man who lives remember?
How he read when but a child,
Of the soldier up at Bingen
Who in death his chum beguiled.
How he died without a falter,
As he btood in the front line;
And he also does remember
That fair Bingen on the Rhine.
There are other soldiers dying,
Just across the raging brine;
In a place called Porto Rico,
And they number twenty-nine;
They are veterans, are the warriors,
And they all have been the rounds,
They are captained by "Bill Heatheote,
And they came from Sterling town.
Bill Heathcote's Rou(;ir Riders. 289
If the world but knew their courage,
And what chey dared to do;
How seventeen long days they floated
Out upon the briny blue,
How across Porto Rico they are marching
With their tents and ponchos, too,
vVhat a tough right they are maliing
For hardtack enough to chew.
How the Spaniards tlew before thera,
When they heard Ueifsnyder chew,
How Berlin slowly limped along
Wiih but a single shoe.
When Slade could march uo longer,
Because his leg gave out;
They hauled him in a two wheeled cart
J3ehind two oxen stout.
And Lineberry had trouble
'J'o make the natives undtrstand;
13ut there were many others
In brave Capt. Heathcote's band.
And there was Leonard Higby
Weak and wildered, tired and lame.
And yet he never seemed to falter.
Kept eating hardtack just tbe same.
And there were our brave color guards,
Cal Lindslay, Street and Strock,
Who marched across the island,
And never wore a sock.
How Barney Buckley chattered.
When Anderson lost his hat,
And Hankerson, our slimes^,
Is slowly getting fat.
How Hoobler and Moore became footsore.
On one of our long quarters
And they languished in the guard house
All one sad nighi down in Ponce.
Ana how, without apparent cause,
Sergeant Wildasins tobacco flew.
And he is looking for it yet
Just to get a single chew.
290 History of Companies I and E.
How we marched into Adjuntas
While the cold rain on us beat,
And we pitched our little shelter tents
Upon the hillside steep.
And when the mess call sounded
Each soldier grabbed his plate,
And to get his canned tomatoes
Down the hillside he would skate.
And when Sam Feigley looks in the glass,
It makes his heart feel glad.
When he sees his noble whiskers
And he says, "I look just like dad."
Sergeant Wagley sits around,
And rubs his sun burned neck,
And vows he is working harder now
Than he ever did for Peck.
There's Latiierow and Wilkinson,
Whom Uncle Sam hired,
Tis thought he made a big mistake.
Because they're always tired.
And Jim Burr walks with the grace of a Knight,
As he climbs the mountain high,
And says he is always spoiling for a tigiit.
With some of Sol Seely's pie.
How Macke on the outpost
Met a Porto llican fair.
And tried to work a "standin,"
But Eberle beat him there.
And that hard march from Ponce
Merricks had good luck of course,
And while we toiled up the mountain
Ed. Merricks rode a horse.
So now you have heard my story,
A tale so sad and true.
How they marched through Porto Rico
In their little suits of blue.
And they're coming back to Sterling
Midst their old familiar scenes,
To tell about the hard times
When they lived on pork and beans.
Cemetery at Utuado. 291
In the few lines above, these boys briefly tell the
storv of their trip and some of the many incidents oc-
currinir during*- their soldier life on the island. The
Sterhng bovs were not dispondent, although the con-
struction of the poem might lead some to think so.
They were in fact about the most contented lot of men
in the reGfiment, as contentment goes in the army.
During the wanderings of the men, while in the
various camps, they witnessed many strange sights.
The customs of the inhabitants of the island were pecu-
liar in many respects. While encamped at Utuado, a
party of boys took a stroll about town and among other
things of interest they explored the cemetery. As near
as we could learn, there was at that time but one cem-
etery in each province of the island. As a consequence
the people living in the country carried their dead for
miles on their shoulders to bury them and the death
rate among the poorer class being extremely heavy at
that time, the sexton was kept very busy attending to
the wants of his customers.
The term customers may appear strange as applied
to a funeral party, yet when you consider that the sex-
ton was also the undertaker it puts an entirely different
face on the matter. As an undertaker, the duties of
the sexlon were to keep on hand a limited supply of
rouo-h boxes, which he hired to the person who had a
corpse to bring in for burial. He must see to it that he
secures the rental on the rude cofhns and as it is a
custom to bury in the morning, he is charged with the
care of the bodies brought in too late and held over un-
til the following morning.
The coffins which the natives hire to bring in their
dead are simply two rough boards for the sides, with
History of Companies I and E.
pieces across the ends at the head and foot. Strips
of the same material are nailed across the under side
of the box. These strips are placed about two inches
apart and those on each end extend two feet beNond
the side of the box. The corpse is placed in the rough
box, four men, one at each corner of the box, place it
upon their shouldfTS and the cortege begins its long
tramp to the cemetery, which in many instances is sev-
eral miles distant.
The little party was always preceded by a man
bearing a small wooden cross. The face of the dead
was unprotected from the fierce rays of the sun and
the procession hurried along with little or no cere-
mony. Arriving at the cemetery, the body was soon
in the ground unless the hour for the burial day had
passed. In that case the coffin and contents were
placed in charge of the sexton and the burial post-
poned till the morrow.
The party of exploring soldiers had passed the
cemetery several times as it was located on the street
which led to the town from our camp. This morning
the boys turned up the path which led to the entrance
of the burial grounds and as they neared the gate
the frowning walls which surrounded the little city of
the dead, looked anything but inviting. At the gate
they were met by the sexton who ap])eared courteous
as one could wish and they were led inside. On the
inner side of the walls and on each side of the en-
trance was H large room built of stone. In these
rooms were stored a number of rough coffins some of
which contained bodies soon to be consigned to the
grave.
Awed by the presence of the dead, the men
Burial of a Pokto Rican Child. 203
looked about them silently and as they moved about
the dark room they came across a small cotfin containing
the remains of a child, a little girl. Drawing nearer.
they saw that the pallid face and hands were nearly
white. Clad in a garment of white, with her little hands
so thin and wasted as to be almost transparent, folded
across her bosom and clasping a small bunch of flowers;
with closed eyes and just the faintest semblance of a
smile lingering about the corners of her mouth, the little
child appeared to be sleeping. There was a look of peace
and contentment on the white face which proclaimed that
death had come without suffering to the little one.
As the men stood gazing upon the pure face of the
dead child, they were visibly affected by the sight and
not a word was spoken. Who knows what was in their
thoughts at that moment? They may have mourned
the loss of one whose innocence, purity, and sweetness
was forever pictured on their minds, and the silent form
before them, with its childish face may have taken them
back to days of yore, or caused their hearts to ache as the
memory of a scene in the little church yard back in the
states came forcibly to them — the rattle of the earth as
it fell on the casket below, the voice of the minister,
slowly but distinctly repeating, '-dust to dust, ashes to
ashes,"' and the sweet face was hidden from view for-
ever.
Or they may have been thinking of those whom they
had left behind them, alive and well when last heard
from, but may have been sleeping in the grave for aught
they then knew, as news came slowly, and death may
have entered the home across the sea weeks before, and
they not be aware of it. They were aroused by the en-
trance of a man and two little boys who came toward
294 History of Companies I and E.
them, and without casting a look at the body, picked up
the box and carried it out to the burial grounds.
The men followed and watched the native as he
placed the coffin on the ground, and without regard as to
location, began to dig a narrow grave. In his down-
ward course he came upon the bones of a body which
must have been in the ground for some time. Kicking
them out of his way he continued to throw out the earth
until he reached a depth of not more ihan»three or four
feet, when he placed a cord underneath the corpse, at the
knees, and another at the neck, and lifting the body from
the rude box, placed it in the shallow grave, picked up a
handful of earth, pressed it to his lips, threw it upon the
upturned face in the grave and hurriedly covered the si-
lent form. After partially filling the grave he jumped
into it and tramped the loose earth down, then completed
his task. Without the slightest sign of emotion, the
man and two boys, apparently the father and brothers
of the dead girl, turned from the grave and returned the
rented coffin to the stone room at the entrance and hur-
ried out upon the street.
If that man was the girl's father then he had either
a heart of stone or a will of iron, as he was narrowly
watched from the beginning of burial and the expres-
sion of carelessness never left his face. Not in the
slightest did he appear to care whether he was perform-
ing the last sad rites for one who should have been the
light of his life, or digging a post hole. He did not lin-
ger an instant after he had completed his task and he
did not glance backward as he hurried away. But be-
neath that untidy blouse there might have been a bleed-
ing heart, torn with anguish, as he realized that the dear,
sweet face, was gone forever. And perhaps far up in the
Exri ORiNc; the CkiMETERv. 211
'i\r,)
mountains a fond mother sat alone in her grief, thinking
of the little one. on whom in their poverty, she liad
lavished her all, a mother's love. The prattling voice
was stilled and the patter of lur footsteps on the
rough board floor would cheer the mothers heart no
more.
Shortly after the departure of the man and boys,
the soldiers roused themselves and looking around saw
that the little cemetery was not more than five rods
square and surrounded by a high wall of solid masonry.
Loop-holes had been cut through the wall and it appear-
ed as though the Spaniards had made preparations to
make a stand in this temporary fortress. Within the
w\alls was numerous vaults or tombs. This was where
the wealthy people disposed of their dead. Everything
was in a dilapitated condition and the front of some of
the tombs. were broken open. Peering within, human
bones, from which the flesh had long ago decayed, lay in
perfect order, the complete skeleton exposed to view.
The area contained in the grounds, and the large
number of burials which occurred within the walls, had
resulted in many skeletons being unearthed in the sink-
ing of fresh graves. A wall had been built diagonallv
across one corner, and into this space the disinterred
bones had been thrown. They had been accumulating
for years and as the heavy door well up the wall was
thrown open it was found to be full of grinning skulls
and human bones of every description. With a feeling
of abhorrence the party of soldiers left the place, and it
was with a sense of relief that they heard the massive
gates close behind them and the sickening sights were
shut out from their view by the high stone wall.
Shortly after our arrival at Guanica, Colonel Foster
296 History of Companies I and E.
had been taken sick, and although he remained with
the regiment, the duties of the commanding officer fell
upon Lieut. Colonel Kittilsen. He was a most popular
officer and held in high esteem b}' the men. His man-
ner was quiet but determined and he fell gracefully into
the position as acting colonel. Colonel Foster slowly
regained his health and resumed command of the regi-
ment in a short time. The opportunities for drill were
scarce as the ruggedness of the country would not per-
mit of more than a practice march. The men were
taken out for a march several times while at Utuado,
and an attempt was made to give them a company or
battalion drill but with poor results.
A half dozen native boys had followed the troops
for some time and were about the camp so much that
the boys began to experiment on them and endeavored
to teach them a little of the English language. They
were eager to learn and would repeat a word over and
over until they became very proficient in its pronunci-
ation. The soldiers first taught them to swear. With
this accomplishment they soon became popular through-
out the regiment. Of course the natives thought the
boys were sincere and were very proud of their abilities
and aired them on every possible occasion. If a soldier
spoke to one of them with the air of one expecting a
reply, the native would pay strict attention to every
word and appear to be weighing it in his mind and look-
ing up innocently, would reply by repeating a string of
oaths that would put a drunken sailor to shame.
When we were in camp at Utuado, one of the boys
took a machete and going to a stone bridge about a
half mile from camp, cut a large bundle of bamboo
twigs to put in his tent to sleep on. Rolling the twigs
The En(;lisii Si'Kakinc; Nativk. 207
into a couple of canteen-straps he started for camp.
The load was an a-kward one and after several in-
effectual attempts to keep it under his arms, he rolled
it onto his head, native fashion. The loose twigs
dragged the ground and nothing could be seen of the
soldier excepting his shoes. As he moved toward
camp the bundle became heavier and it slipped from
side to side scratching his neck and bending his head
forward until he became exasperated and was nearly
at the point of throwing the whole thing, canteen-straps
and all, in the ditch by the roadside. Taken all in all,
he was in an unpleasant state of mind and in no humor
to take a joke.
As he plodded along, he heard footsteps approach-
ing, and thinking it might be a comrade whom he
knew and would assist him, he was about to call to him
when the sound of the footsteps ceased and in a moment
a hand parted the hanging twigs and a face peered up
at him. It was one of the natives who had been hang-
ing about the camp. He had evidently expected to
find one of his countrymen under the enormous bundle
of twigs as it was seldom a soldier made an attempt to
tote anything on the head, and in fact it was an un-
usual sight to witness a soldier carrying anything
heavier than a load of Porto Rican rum. At any rate
the native opened his eyes wide with surprise when he
saw the blue uniform of a soldier through the mass of
brush, and no doubt, wishing in some way to apologize
to the "Americano, "looked up at him and speaking in
English, jerked out a combination of epithets, inter-
mingled with a profusion of oaths, which caused the
soldiers blood to boil.
Out of patience with himself in his struggle to keep
298 History of Companies I and E.
the bundle of twigs from getting away from him. Dis-
appointed in not finding the newcomer a comrade who
would give him a lift with his troublesome burden, and
maddened by the idiotic expression on the face of the
native as he repeated his insults, the soldier threw the
bundle to the ground and made a dash for the little man
dressed in w^hite. The native, innocent of anv wronof
intent, but proud of his vocabulary, was first surprised
and then frightened and he jumped out of reach of the
soldier and flew down the road, barely touching the
ground, with the soldier a close second. After a short
chase, the soldier saw he vvas being outstripped and
coming to a halt, he recovered his senses and sitting
down, laughed heartily as he thought of the hours he
had spent in teaching this same native how to swear and
he saw that the joke had been turned upon himself.
With just the slightest feeling of shame he returned to
where he had thrown the bundle, and again taking up
the burden he continued on to camp.
By this lime the condition of a majority of the men
was extremely bad. The malarial fever had been
working on their systems for sometime. Nearly every
man had stomache or bowel trouble and the surgeons
were handicapped by an inadequate supply of medicine.
They were working hard with what they had, but it
was of little avail in many cases and the men grew
gaunt aud thin. The hospital was filled and the men
in camp were not fit for duty. Some kept up by ex-
ercising their mdomitable will power, with a full de-
termination not to give up until nature gave way en-
tirely.
The weakened condition of the men was uiuloubted-
ly due, iu a great measure, to the lack of provisions and
Voi^uNTERRs Disgusted. 290
the quality of the little that was issued. There was cer-
t;unly something wrong in connection with the conimis-
snrv department. Uncle Sam never intended that his
soldiers should be hnlf fed. The men were discouraged
aud sorely disappointed by the treatment they had re-
ceived since departing from the shores of their country.
They had never expected much. yet. when enlisting as
soldiers, Uiey had not considered the salary, cared little
what duties might be imposed upon them, but felt they
were entit'ed to plain substantial food enough to keep
them in bodily health and strength.
To this day, the men who were either robbed of
their rations, or through neglect allowed to suffer for
want of them, cannot say positively where the trouble
was. or who the guilty ones were that lined their pockets
with ill gained wealth at the expense of the men in the
ranks. The regiment had been on the island just one
month, yet had some of their friends chanced to appear
in their midst it is doubtful if some of the soldiers would
have been readily recognized as the robust, light hearted
troops, who, a few weeks previous had eagerly awaited
the summons to go to the front.
It does not appear possible that any man who
was a citizen of the United States could be guilty of
scheming against the American soldier, and it is possible
that such was not the case and the fault lay with the in-
experience of the officers who were charged ^ith the
care of the men. At any rate the fact could not be dis-
guised that there was a terrible wrong being done the
men, and if intentional, the law has yet to be framed
which would deal out the punishment which such a crime
deserved.
300 History of Companies I and E.
CHAPTER XXIII.
On the twenty-fifth oi August, orders were received
to return to Ponce at once and as soon as transports
could be provided we were to embark for home. The
following morning the return march was begun. With
our band leading we marched down the roadway, our
faces turned homeward. We had but fairly made the
start when it began to rain and it continued to come down
all day. The force of natives had been kept continually
at the work of opening the trail and had succeeded in a
measure. Here and there huge rocks rose up in the very
center of the trail. These were yet to be blasteii and
broken up. The daily downpour of rain made the task
of building roads an everlastino^ one as the trail that was
opened one day might be blocked with earth and rocks
the next.
The regiment arrived at Adjuntas late in the after-
noon. On the outskirts of the town, as we came in, we
forded a stream which was a raging torrent for a time,
caused by the heavy rain during the day. We had
crossed the stream when advancing to Utuado but at
that time the current was sluggish and the water shallow.
Some of the men would not make the attempt and re-
mained on the opposite banks until the water had sub-
sided. A little party of soldiers crept into an abandoned
Return to Adjuntas. 301
hut close to the stream and partly up the mountain,
awaiting for the storm to abate. As they lay in the
single room, enshrouded in dfirkiu'ss, the little buihl-
ing gave a lurch and went crashing down into the wati^r.
Luckily for the men, the walls separated and they es-
caped injury.
The shelter tents were lirst pitched in the square
in the center of the town but the rain loosened the
tent-pins and the tents could not be kept standing.
After several futile attempts were made, the men were
moved to another part of the town and given quarters
in a mill. They were packed in the enclosure like
sardines but they were iji the dry and as they were
very weary soon rolled up in the wet blankets and
slept.
A short distance out from Utuado we came upon
a native traveling in the direction of Adjuiitas. A
couple of the boys enlisted him in their service and
transferred their heavy rolls to his shoulders. He
trotted along by their side for some time evincing no
sign of fatigue but evidently not satisfied with the ar-
rangement. He could not speak a word of English,
couldn't swear even, but by his actions he made them
understand that he wished to possess the rifle of one
of the boys. To please him the soldier removed the
roll from his shoulders and gave him his gun, can-
teen and haversack, retaining his cartridge belt and
bayonet. Before giving him possession of the gun,
the cartridges were removed from the magazine as a
precautionary measure should the native be inclined to
treachery. A prouder man no one ever saw than was
this happy Porto Rican. His eyes shone with delight
and he pranced through the mud like a two year old
302 History of Companies I and E.
colt. And he wouldn't return the outfit but clung to
it until we reached camp. Even then he remained
with the boys for some time and every action ■ spoke
his pleasure in being permitted to carry the soldier's
outfit.
When the regiment marched away fro m Ulvr.co
it left a number of sick men in the hospital there.
They were to be brought t o Ponce in an ambulance.
The start was delayed and with a clear trail, it was a
question with the driver whether they would complete
the journey before nightfall or not. The teams could
move but slowly at the best and they struggled through
the mud at a snails pace. The driver was a thirsty
fellow and pulled up his team at the sight of every
habitation and leaving the ambulance made a bee line
for the house to secure a drink of rum. They h.id not
covered many miles when their further progress was
checked and they were brought to a standstill by a
barrier of rocks and earth which had been dislodged by
the heavy rain and slid down the mountain completely
blocking the trail for a thousand feet.
Night would soon be upon them but it was im-
possible to proceed and they would not turn back.
The sick boys in the ambulance groaned when they
were informed they would be compelled to pass the
night where they were. VViih nothing to eat and it
utterly out of the question to attempt to build a tire,
the outlook was far from pleasing. Weakened by sick-
ness until they were unable to sit upright, they huddled
together within the covered ambulance and the long
hours dragged wearily on. The rain did not cease and
they became chilled to the marrow. To make the
situation more aggravating the driver, who by the way
An Uupi easant Experience. 303
was the only attendant accompanying them, turned his
mules loose and struck out in search of a native home,
there to indulge in his favorite pastime, drinking rum.
He evidently was sucessful in the search as he did not
return until the following morning.
The sick men were soon without water and
suffered severely. How they passed the night, they
themselves hardly knew. The ne.v't morning Dr. Rumt
mell gained possession of an old white mule and wen-
back to their assistance. It was an unpleasant situation
and the approach of daylight did not improve matters
materially. One course alone was open to them and
this was to carry the sick men over the blockade, take
the ambulance apart, drag it over in sections and set it
up on the other side. This was no small chore, but
willing hands soon had matters set aright and the hearts
of the sick men were gladdened as the ambulance rolled
away from the spot where they had spent such a miser-
able night. It was one of the most severe trials ex-
perienced by any of the men throughout the campaign,
and the victinis, who were in a serious condition at the
outset, were made much worse by it.
Dr. Rummell was indefatigable in his work at all
times. He did not wear the marks designating him as
a commissioned otiicer. He was simply a man in the
ranks detailed to the hospital corps. But for all this he
did the work of an assistant surgeon faithfully. He
was an excellent physician and turned from a good prac-
tice to enlist. He did not appear to give the matter a
thought that he was performing duties which should
have paid him a salary equal to that received by those
who were working by his side. If he did not receive
tittini: remuneration from the government in the way
304 History of Companies I and E.
of dollars he won the eternal gratitude and lasting
friendship of the men and he was given a warm place in
their hearts. The medical corps was composed of
earnest workers and each one of its members will al-
ways be remembered as faithful performers of their
duties and firm friends of the soldiers. Major Anthony
of Sterling, Ass't Surgeon Robbins of Dixon, Dr. Rum-
mell of company B, (Geneseo) and Hospital Stewards
Kline, Geyer and Brown, of Sterling, all combined their
efforts to the end of giving the men the best possible
attention and medical assistance, although at times
greatly handicapped by a lack of supplies. The men
understood the circumstances and will never forget the
many acts of kindness received at the hands of the
medical staff of the Sixth.
The Sixth Massachusetts boys were retained at
Utuado for garrison duty and did not make the start
home for a month or more. Some one of the hospital
corps of our regiment must remain there and assist the
Massachusetts corps. The lot fell upon Ralph Humph-
rey, previously of company I, but who had been trans-
ferred to the hospital service of the regular army while
at Camp Alger. It will be remembered that the men
who were transferred from the volunteer to the regular
service received verbal promises that they would be
allowed to follow their regiments where ever they went.
Up until this period the promise had been lived up to
but when our regiment turned back, Ralph was com-
pelled to remain in the mountains.
One can easily imagine his feelings as he saw us
us marching awa3^ Watching the disappearing column,
he looked for the last time on the faces of his comrades.
He no doubt was buoyed up with the hope that he
Arrival at Ponce. 305
might be relieved before the regiment embarked on the
transport. But if such was the case he was disappoint-
ed for we never saw him aUve again. We left him
there among new found friends and comrades, and from
information contained in letters received from tlie
stewards in charge of the hospital, it was afterward
learned that he never once uttered a word of protest
against remaining, but realizing that it was not for him
to say what his duties should be, he continued the work
of caring for his sick comrades without faltering and
won the love and esteem of all those with whom he
came in contact.
The morning following our arrival at Adjuntas, on
the return march, was wet and storm}-. As we were
in comfortable quarters, permission was granted us to
remain there for the day. The weather improved in
the afternoon and the footsore and those who were sick,
vet able to remain with the regiment, were placed in
charge of orderl}' sergeants and started for Ponce. It
was the intention of Colonel Foster to make the re-
mainder of the journey in a single days march. The
next morning we made the start. The weather was
fair and the trail descended rapidly as we were then
over the crest of the mountain range and were making
the downward journey.
Arriving at Gagos, w'e rested for a short lime and
ate our scanty dinner. We did not tarry long at this
place as we were anxious to reach Ponce. We halted
in the afternoon at a point about three miles from the
city and there pitched our tents on an elevated plain.
This w^as on Sunday, August twenty-eighth. We had
been on the island one month and three days, yet to us
it seemed we had seen nothing but mud and mountains
306 History of Companies I and E.
for nearly a year. Shortly after our arrival we were
issued the wall tents and what a relief it was to be able
to starnd upright under a canvas cover.
On the return trip from Adjuntas a couple of band
boys were trudging along, keeping a sharp lookout
for stray chickens or ducks. At last they found some
but they were guarded by a watchful native. The boys
could not get an opportunity to "lift" one so they formed
a plan whereby they could get possession of it. The}- had
a little money between them, but the price of one dollar,
which the shrewd native placed upon the duck they
selected, was more than they cared to invest at that
time. One of the boys tucked the duck under his arm
and walked away while the other remained and put up
a long argument with the native, with the object of
detaining him until his comrade had put a considerable
distance between them.
With the soldier talking in English, and the native
replying in Spanish, neither one comprehending the
conversation of the other, the argument progressed
slowly. Jingling the few pieces of coin which he
possessed, the soldier ostensibly made an effort to induce
the native to reduce his price. The Porto Rican was
arbitrary and would make no concessions. He had
grasped the out\\ard intentions of the soldier and
evidently thought if he held his ground he would event-
ually get his price. As the form of the soldier who had
possession of the duck grew fainter in the distance and
finnally disappeared around the mountain, the owner of
the fowl became suspicious then angry. The soldier
who had remained, concluding his comrade had been
given a good start, again jingled the loose coins in his
pocket, politely informed the native to journey on to
Waitinc; for a Transport. 307
hides, and lau<^hing at the discomfitted man, turned out
on the trail and hurriedly followed in the footsteps of
his comrade. Not until then did it dawn upon the
na i\<.,' I hat the boys had no intentions of givin<r him any-
thini;' in leturn for the fowl and his raije knew no
bounds. Shaking his clenched lists at the receeding
man in liiue and howling like an Indian, he made a
movemetr. forward as though he would follow him, but
had not pi-Qceded far when the soldier halted and made
as thovigh intending to return. Then the native stopped
suddenly and hurling a parting shot at the soldier dis-
appeared in the brush. The man with the duck sat
down and awaited the coming of his comrade, when
together, they proceeded uniil feeling safe from pursuit,
then dressed the fowl, built a tire and ale their dinner,
all the while cont^ratulatin''" themselves on the success of
their plan.
Although camped within a few miles of the wharf
at Ponce, where tons upon tons of supplies were stored,
our rations did not materially improve. We did get a
quantity of canned hamburger-steak but it soon dis-
appeared and we fell back on hardtack and sowbelly.
About a half mile below us a battery of the Seventh
Light Artillery was camped. A number of our boys
made regular trips to this camp about mess time and
for a while received a warm welcome. The men of the
artillery were being well fed and had rations to spare.
They geneously shared with our boys until iheir officers
put a stop to it. They told us they had never seen the
ti:ne since entering the service that they had not been
well supplied with rations and could hardly credit our
stories when we informed them how we had been ex-
istinsi.
308 History of Companies I and E.
With nothing to do but keep our spirits up while
awaiting the order to embark, many of the boys made
regular trips to the city. To remain in camp and lie
about on the damp grouud was only to aggravate the
sorry condition of their fever infected systems and al-
though-barely able to stand, many of them forced them-
selves to keep on their feet and felt better, if much
wearied, from the six mile tramp to town and return.
There were many other regiments represented in and
about the city, but one could distinguish a member of our
regiment trcm that of any other as far as he could be seen.
With clothing ragged and dirty, rough beards and dilap-
itated footgear, or perhaps barefooted, tanned brown
from continued exposure to the weather, worn thin and
gaunt by lack of provisions and the ravages of disease,
but with a devil-may-care bearing, they contrasted
strangely with the neat, rugged appearance of the other
troops met with.
If other proof was lacking, this in itself was suffi-
cient to convince us that our experiences had been much
more severe than those of any other troops we had so far
encountered. True we had not been in an engagement
with the enemy, with the exception of the skirmish par-
ticipated in by company G, the first morning after our
arrival at Guanica. But it is a well known fact that in
all active armies of the world, bullets work less destruc-
tion than disease, and the hardest worked lot of men in
the army, and those having much responsibility resting
on their shoulders are the surgeons and corps of assis-
tants. The men may be half clothed and illy fed, but it
seldom occurs that they enter an active campaign short
of ammunition. This vital point is never overlooked.
If it does occur that the supply of ammunition is not
As It Might Have Been. S(,i)
equal to the occasion, then the advance or attack is (h^-
hiyed until the stock is replenished. There are exce])-
tions to this hut they are rare indeed. Why then is it
such a difticult problem to forward rations and liositifal
supplies to the front V In onr short campai<j;-n we had
concluihHl that the ditfiiculty lay between two evils, red
ta[)e or negligence. In the case of a heavy engagement
where tlif)U3ands were slain or wounded and the needs of
the men increased a hundred fold it is an entirely differ-
ent matter and there is some excuse for a shortage of sup-
plies.
When the conditions are normal, or in other words,
when an army of ten thousand or one hundred thousand
men are put in the field, the officials can, without difficul-
ty, determine the amount of supplies necessary to pro-
vide each man. and it is their duty to see that he receives
them. It would be an easy matterforone who has the au-
thority, and the health and comfort of the m^ni in mind,
to make a tour of the camps at the proper hour and see
for themselves how they are being taken care of. If un-
ilesirable conditions are found, then let them take the
matter up through the proper channel and push it vigor-
ously until the wrong is set aright. If the course of pro-
cedure is slow and difficult, then why allow officials to
remain iu charge of the worlv who have proven themselves
negligent or inca})able.''
The men have but little opportunity to look to
their own comfort in the way of supplies. When taking
the oath and donning the blue uniform, they trust to God
ai^id the government. They are a party to an agreement,
whereby they willingly place their lives at the disposal
of their country.
In return, they are to receive a remuneration of a
310 History of Companies I and E.
few dollars per month and a certain amount oi: clothing
and rations. Their compensation is based npon this al-
lowance and when the supplies are not deliverd to them,
the contract is broken and the men are defrauded with
no chance of having the matter adjusted.
The regulations provide for a moneyed reimburse-
ment where the rations or clothing are not drawn by the
men. But to avail thems-T'lves of this proviso a strict ac-
count must be kept as to what portion of the allowance
has not been drawn and is yet forthcoming. It also ])ro-
vides that asup[)ly of requisition blanks will be furnished
and must be used in drawing on the different departments
for supplies. At stated periods a report must be for-
warded giving in detail each item for \Ahich a shortage
is claimed. If this report is delayed or overl(»)ked. then
it is taken for granted that there is nothing due tln' imjh
and their accounts are balanced accordingly. In evciy
way, the regulations cover the question completely and
the course of action is made clear, but where it errs is in
not providing each volunteer company with a stenographer
and bookeeper, wh'' couid keepan account of llie many d(^-
tails. and an attorney who could prosecute m claim and
keep it moving through its tortui-ons channels.
In the Spanish-American war the hand of Providence
appeared to be with us at every turn and had the govern-
ment, or the men \^ honi the government placed in res-
ponsible positions, charged with the welfare of the
soldiers, done their duty, their simple duty, then
there would have been but little cause for the men to
make complaint. The men expected, and were willing to
endure hardships. Not for an instant did they carry the
idea they were on a holiday excursion or making a tour
of foreign lands on pleasure bent. Expecting but little
Resli.t ok a iSix Weeks Cami'ak;n. ."511
they were terril)ly disa[)poiiitetl in even that. The volun-
teer appointments seOmed to be made not on the merits
of the applicant, but his political pull alone was consid-
ered. The man of ability was forced into the background
and the preference given to the politician. This in ref-
erence to the men who were issued commissions l)earing
an attractive rank, whose tluties. (as they saw them)
were to wear a spotless uniform and draw a liandsome
salarv. not the officers in the field who were broujjht face
to face with all the privations of an enlisted man. Such
positions ns those were little sought after bv the hungrv
man with a pull.
The regular army otticer had been given a five years"
training in the art of war at West Point and had been
taught the mode of procedure in taking action in almost
any emergency Ihat might arise. Besides this, the ma-
jority of those in I he service during Il:e late war had
years of experience which tauglil: iheni niucli that couUl
not be learned in any other manner. These men, when
connected with the volunteer troo])s. were placed in posi-
tions of such high rank that a protest from the men was
usually shelved before reaching them.
Th;3 ti'oops in Porto Rico were in an unenviable po-
sition. Separated from hon)e and friends by hundreds
of miles of land and sea. in active service in a foreign
country and a tropical climate, among a strange people,
illy fed and poorly clad, their st(jri(>s cjf privations which
did reach home discredited and laughed to scorn, with
no one in authority who ap[)eared to care whether the
the men suffered unnecessarily or not. and those who did
and made an ( ffort to rdji-:st matters found their work
blockeil at eviT\' turn, disease dwindling the ranks of
men fit for dutv dcnvn to a mere nothinir, ami this all
312 History of Companies I and E.
within less than six weeks. Such was the situation on
the first of September. Is it surprising that they early
became disgusted with the life they were leading ?
In dwelling upon this matter it would be well to
consider that to one sitting in the home, with all its pleas-
ant surroundings; provided with all the necessities of life,
with dry clothing, wealthy in the possession of health
and with an unconscious sense of contentment pervading
the soul, for such an one it is difficult to fully comprehend
the true situation. They may picture, in their imagina-
tion, themselves placed in just such a situation but they
cannot realize the effect of it all. Experience alone can
bring this about. No picture can portray it. The veter-
ans of the 60's understand. Many of them experienced
years of soldier life. They were brought face to face
with dangers which we never met. Many of them more
than once were in the midst of scenes of carnage, where
the blood ran red and the dead were strewn all about
them.
These were experiences of which we knew nothing.
But on the other hand they were in their own country, a
few ho'irs ride would land them at the door of their own
homes. The climate differed little from that to which
they had been accustomed all their lives. A successful
foraging expedition replenished the ration supply, and
in various ways their position differed from that of the
men who were serving in a foreign land. This compari-
son is not draw with the intention of in any manner at-
empting . to place our services or experiences on an
equal with those of the civil war veteran. But to
point out bow, in some respects, the conditions varied
nnd brought about entirely different results.
No class of citizens in the republic, not actually par-
Falling of the tents." h'Ant camp near Ponce,
Veterans ok the 6o"s. 313
tici[)ating in the civil war, realize more fully the many
privations endured by the soldiers of the war of the
rebellion, than does the men who saw actual s(^rvice in
the war with Spain. Standing as they did the keystone
of our Union, preservers of a republic, the greatness of
which has placed it at the front among the first nations
of the world, those soldiers of Aliraham Lincoln, are ad-
mired, respected and loved by our whole people, and es-
pecially so by the soldiers of a younger generation, the
volunteers of 1898. We shall ever touch our hats in res-
pectful salutation to them and in after years, when the
last one has answered the final summons, then shall
we consider it our sacred duty to strew tiowers o'er their
graves and plant the banner which they loved in life on
the mounds which mark their resting places. The mem-
ory of those men will be fondly cherished for all time.
314 History of Companies I and E,
CHAPTER XXIV.
Daring the few weeks which elapsed between the
date of the entrance of our regiment into Ponce on its way
to the front, and its subsequent return enroute to the
States, there had been visible changes wrought in the ap-
pearance of thiC main portion of the town. A number of
the business houses had been newly painted in attractive
colors. Before, the sameness of the shades of every
building wearied the eye and gave the town an unattract-
ive aspect. The interior of many of the store buildings
had been cleaned and on the shelves we found a surpris-
ing quantity of American goods, and above the doors of
several of the stores, signs had been placed which in-
formed the soldiers that English was spoken by one or
more of the courteous clerks.
Some few of the boys managed in some way to se-
cure a little money and purchased various articles which
they carefully packed to be taken home to their friends.
Down near the wharf, an American conducted a sutlers
store. His main stock in trade consisted of tobaccos and
goods of such nature which the soldiers would be willing
to part with their scanty horde of money to secure. One
of the boys from Whiteside county went down to pur-
chase a supply of tobacco for his comrades who were less
fortunate than he and had no money to make a parchase
with. His bill of broods amounted to about seven dollars
Akmv Sr ilkr in Ponxr. 315
au 1 h? giv3 tha sutler a t/.Mi (l;)llar Hill from wliich to
take the amount of the purcliase. The sutler was a iier-
vou.'^. excitable man. and during the transaftinn high
words \V(M-e t-xchanged in reference to llie ]irice of the
goods. He had not regained his composure, and pick-
ing np llie currency, turned 1o the cash driiwcr rnd
contitiiig out the ch;ing(^. stepped over to the hoard coun-
ter, .-'.nd p'accd the ten dollar l)il!. \\lii( h the soldier
hid I)it a miin Mit 1) v'ort' given him. together with the
change, on foj) of the |)-n\'el of tobacco.
Thi» soldier tt)ok the situation in at a ;;lance and
making an excuse grabbtnl the package and the thir-
teen dollars and hurriedly left the place. The nH)in(nit
he stepped on the street he selected a route which
Wound in and out among the buildinj^s and soon
broui;-ht him to thy center o' the town. Even then he
did iu)t feel comfortable and kept a sharp lookout
for a ptjssible {)ursuer but none appeared. Itis'safe to
say that man never entered the sutlers store again. He
was an even icn dollars to the good on the deal and out
at camp it look him ab(jut tifieen minutes to dispose of
the tobacco for more than double the price he was sup-
posed io have paid the sutler, taking an 1. O. U. in t^ach
case for settlement.
While we were in this, our last camp on the island.
Regimental Quarterma>ie.' Sergeant. Rudolph Hicks,
of (jalena. succumbed to i\phoid fever. He wa.'^ ill but
a short time but he suffered much. He was cjuiie a
large man and up until within a few davs of taking to
the hospital, had the appearance of one in perfect
health. During the last hours before life left him it
lequired the combined strength of several men to keep
him on his cot. The news of his death was a shock to
316 History of_,Companies I and E.
eveiT man in the regiment. He was popular with
ever^^one and held in high esteem by the men. He was
buried on the island with military honors. Corporal
Rees Dillon of company E who iiad assisted in this
department at different times was appointed to till the
vacancy.
The transport Manitoba, ]a\" out in the harbor and
we were waiting for her to discharge her cargo and I e
put in readiness for us. Ii was slow w^ork and the
carpenters sent out to her had much to do before we
could board her. It uas then but a question of a few
days when we would leave the island for home. It
would never do to put us on shore at New York in the
condition we were tiien m. con sequentK' a supply of
clothin<r was issued to the re<riment and the men in-
formed they would be expected lo equip themselves
with sufficient wearing apparel to make a good appear-
ance when disembarking in the States. We were not
anxious to return looking so rough, \et we felt that if
we did, our appearance would be silent but (jverwhelm-
ing testimony to substantiate the stories which had gone
to our homes in advance of us. But it was determined
that such a thin<r would not be allowed and of course
we had no choice but to do as we were bid.
The work of issuing the clothing had but fairly be-
gun when orders were received to break camp and
march to the wharf, a distance of about live miles. The
orders came to us at noon on the sixth of September,
and contained the information that we were to strike
tents at two thirty that afternoon, and have everything
in readiness to march out of camp at three. At the
appointed time every tent fell at the beat of a drum, the
little city of tents disappearing as if by magic. The
Returniiiir to the United States.
Embarking on tiik MANiTOBy\. 317
tents were soon rolled up and with the other heavy
bagi^^age was taken to the street and placed in readiness
for the wagons.
At three o'clock we marched out headed bv the
band and we bade good bye to "Camp Starvation." As
we arrived opposite the camp of the artillerymen, Col-
onel Foster halted us and we gave them three rousing
cheers and a goodbye. In reply, they tired a salute of
several guns. \\\t heard many of them express the
wash that they might accompany us home now that the
war was over. As we neared the center of the city
the band struck up, playing marches and patriotic airs.
About a mile from the wharf we passed the camp of
the Nineteenth regulars, and below them a short distance
two or three companies of the Second Wisconsin. The
remainder of their regiment had embarked for the
States several days before and they were anxiously
waiting for a transport in which to follow them.
We were soon at the wharf and found the Manito-
ba lying a short distance out in the bay. The horses
were loaded before w^e arrived, a portion of our bag-
gage had arrived and details of men w^ere soon at work
loading the barges. Darkness w^as upon us before
much had been accomplished, but by the aid of lanterns
the work continued as it was hoped that by making a
special effort everything would be in readiness for an
early start the following morning. We lay around on
the ground and on boxes without supper, our provision
w^agons not getting in until after midnight.
We remained on the wharf all night and at nine
o'clock the follow^ing morning assembly was sounded
and we were soon on barges on our way to the boat.
After boarding her we lay there until six o'clock in the
318 History of Companies I and E.
evening taking- on baggage; then taking a parting look
at the city we put out to sea.
On board we found 800 canvas hammocks. These
we soon had arranged and we were not long in turning
into them. The boat was of good size, 460 feet in
length with 48 feet beam, there being four decks be-
sides the saloon deck. She was an- English boat and
manned by an English crew. The government had
either purchased or leased her, and she was used as a
Quartermaster's supply boat. Her decks were very
wet and dirty throughout the whole voyage, contrasting
strangely with the neatness and cleanliness on board the
U. S. S. Colun^bia.
Accommodations for cooking were ver\' poor, not
beinor able to make anv thinfj but coffee. Shortly after
midnight our boat dropped anchor off the westerm coast
of the island, lying there until daylight then entering the
harbor of Mayaguez, where we took on ice. It looked
very inviting for us as we had nothing to drink but con-
densed sea water which was very warm, but we were
disappointed when we learned we would not be allowed
any ice to use in the water. It was for the boat's crew
and our officers.
We left the harbor at 10:30 a. m. and continued on
our course direct to New York. Nothing of impor-
tance occurred on board, everything going well until
Sunday evening when we encountered a storm, and the
boat was taken out of its course to avoid colliding with
a water spont which could be plainh- .^een a shoit dis-
tance ahead. From this time until we entered the har-
bor at New York the wind blew a gale, retarding the
speed of the boat considerably and making the sea quite
rounh.
Arrival at New York. 819
Sunday, Chaplain Ferris held church services on
board and in the course of his talk he referred to the
n.anner in which we had been fed while on the island.
He said. '"It was the work of a few mean, contemptible,
damnable men. and they alone were the cause of all the
suffering from lack of food. They were unfit to be
called men." He scored them hard but not more than
they deserved. This caused the boys to applaud loud
and long. But why was it nothing had been said of
this before. The devilish work had been <roinfr on for
six or eight weeks and now we were on our way home
it seemed rather late in the day, and if the matter had
been taken up before we might have received some
benefit from it.
Tuesday morning we sighted laiid and all was
excitement from that time until we landed. Oh! how
inviting it looked. — possibly because it was home. This
was ''God's country" as Col. Foster was pleased to term
it The sick and down-hearted brightened up and
everyone was cheerful. As we came slowly into the
harbor small tujfs and sleam yachts came sailino- out to
greet us. whistles were blown continually, and all was
confusion.
The v\ ater was fall of ferr}' boats, excursion steam-
ers, lugs, sailing boats and yachts. They sailed around
us, some following us up the bay, all whistling and
snortint^, everv one cheerinij us and waving^ hats, hand-
kerchiefs and umbrellas. VVt: stopped at the cpiarantine
station and an otlicer came on board. He had been
with us but a few moments when we noticed a small tug
boat which had been following us some time steam
along side, (jlener d Gariettson and several of his staff
were takei on board the tu'j'-boat where the General's
320 History of Companies I and E.
wife and a number of friends were waiting to receive
him. This we knew meant no quarantine for us and
soon we were on the move once more.
As we neared the statute of Libert}' we again
slowed down and came to a standstilh Our boat sig-
nalled several times, by whistling, and shortly the har-
bor master's tug came along side and after another
short delay, we continued up North river to the docks
of the West Shore Railroad in Weehawken where our
vessel was made fast and our sea voyage terminated.
This was about three o'clock in the afternoon of Tues-
day, September thirteenth.
We were not allowed to go ashore until the follow-
ing day when everyone was given the privilege of visiting
New York across the river. Crowds of the boys
crossed on the ferry-boats which transported them free.
The people of New York and Weehawken treated us
royally and nearly every man who came in on the boat
was given a good meal. This was appreciated as it
had been sometime since they had sat at a table and ate
food like white men. Cigars and fruits in abundance
were given freely. Congressman George Prince was
an early caller to welcome the boys back to their homes
and he gave each Captain ten dollars to expend for food
for the men. Through him we were also issued soft
bread.
The cargo of baggage and horses was unloaded
Wednesday and at ten o'clock that night we boarded
the cars for Springfield, arriving there about ten thirty
Fridav night. We left the cars at the uptown station
and marched to Camp Lincoln, occuping the tents which
had been vacated a short time previous b}' the men of
the Fifth regiment.
I
On to Springfield. 321
The bo\'s of the Fifth were a very disappointed lot.
It will be remembered that the Third and Fifth regi-
ments were mustered into the volunteer service in ad-
vance of the Sixth, and they carried the idea that they
would get to the front long before the boys of our regi-
ment. In this they were mistaken as we landed in
Porto Rica some little time ahead of the Third, and the
boys of the Fifth, poor fellows, never got far from the
shores of their own country. They were twice ordered
to embark for Porto Rica, but each time were called
back. At one time they had so far proceded as to
board a vessel and had put out to sea when the com-
mand was given calling them back, and they realized
that their hopes were blasted and they must be content
with the lot which befell them.
Our trip from New York to Springfield was thorough-
ly enjoyed by the boys. They were met by cheering hos-
pitality at every stopping place along the route, and sym-
pathetic mothers made great inroads on their stores of
canned goods. It seemed to us that they must have been
preparing for our coming for weeks as the number of
pies, cakes and cans of jelly given us was little short of
astonishing. Great cans of pure, sweet milk were
brought into the cars and carried from one end to the
other and an open invitation was extended to each man to
to fill his cup as often as he liked. Large bas-
kets of various kinds of fruits were broug^ht to the train
and bushels of sandwiches were found at almost every
stopping place.
In exchang'e for these gifts of food the people asked
nothing in return except some little thing as a button, or
a bullet. The craze appeared to settle on the cartridges
and at every window there would be found a nian, woman
322 History of Companies I and E.
or child petitioning us to ''gimme a bullet.'" This con-
tinued until our cartridge belts were empty and we had
nothing more to give. The name of one man was in the
mouth of nearly every person we met in passing through
the state of New York. Theodore Roosevelt. "Roosevelt
is all right, isn't he?" '"What do you think of Roose-
velt?" and "Roosevelt will be our next Governor." Such
remarks were heard on every side at each stopping place
and it was readily seen that the citizens of the state of
New York were extremely proud of the gallant officer
and intended to honor him by placing him in the high-
est office within their gift.
Leaving Weehawken in the night, we covered many
miles before the dawn of the following day and we were
given an opportunity to witness the beauties of the Key-
stone State. Our train arrived at Kingston atoue thirty
a. m. and although it was in the dead of the night the
whole town seemed to be astir and waiting for us. The
people could not do enough for us and everything was as
free as air. Cana Joharie was reached at six a. m. It is
a nice looking town with an old ivy covered stone church
which was very picturesque. For several miles after
leaving this town the road ran beside the Erie canal.
Ilion was reached at six-fifty. A little farther up
the road a half dozen hobos had a fire built and were
getting their breakfast. Some of the boys began to sing
'"Comrades." We pulled into Syracuse at nine a. m.
and found the citizens much excited over a suicide. The
train came to a standstill in Buffalo at three p. m. Here
we saw the Ninth New Y'ork boys who had just come
from Chickamauga. The Thirteenth Infantry, regulars,
whose barracks are here, had also arrived but a few hours
iti advance" ot us. We were switched to the Nickle Plate
Camp Lincoln. 323
road and at four-thirty we were off once more.
At five twenty-tive we sighted Lake Erie and a short
time later ran through Silver Creek, one of the prettiest
little t(jwns on our route. Vineyards were seen on every
Inind and the fruit gave the air a peculiarly fragrant
odor. We entered Pennsylvania at seven p. ni. and rolled
into Erie a half hour later. A large crowd was waiting
to welcome us. The railroad passes directly down a busy
street and at every crossing a crowd cheered and waved
handkerchiefs. Here as at every other stopping place,
I he cry was, "Mister, please give me a bullet."'
We struck Cleveland about midnight where coffee,
milk, and sandwiches were served. We remained in the
town about thirty minutes. New Haven was reached at
eight o'clock in the morning, where we overtook the
second section of our train. Several boxes of canned
peaches were sent to us by the merchants of the city.
After a short delay our train was switched to the Wabash
and we were soon in the Hoosier State where ''The frost
was on the pumpkin and the fodder in the shock."
Peru was reached about no(jn. At Lafayette we
were treated to more sandwiches, bread, jelly, pickles,
grapes and peaches. It is not surprising that numbers of
the boys were ill for weeks, after eating everything in
sight from New York to Illinois. In the middle of the
aL'ternoon we stopped a few moments at a little station
which bore the name of State Line, and we were once
more in Illinois. We made a short stop at Danville and
the train remained for some time at Decatur. It was af-
ter ten o'clock on the night of September sixteenth when
we arrived at Springfield. Marching out to camp we
found sandwiches and coffee prepared for us by the citi-
zens and the following morning they served breakfast
324 History of Companies I and E.
for us.
When our train Ifft New York, lliere were a num-
ber from the regiment who were too much taken up
with the sights of the metropolitan city to return to
the wharf in time to board the train. We left them
to return as best they could, not expectiag to see them
for some time. Imagine our surprise when we de-
barked at the passenger depot at Springtield to find
them there in advance of us. They had secured trans-
portation through one of the many officers in New York
and had gone around the northern route, through Can-
ada, and fortunately for them, made quick time to
Springtield.
Immediately on our arrival at camp Lincoln we
began the work of preparing muster and pay-rolls, and
we were informed we would be granted a sixty day
furlough on full pay. after the expiration of which we
would probably be returned to Springfield and mustered
out of the service. Ordnance supplies were turned in
and checked up and everything made ready as rapid-
ly as possible for our departure for home.
Steri.in(; Boys at the Leland. 325
CHAPTER XXV.
Many friends and relatives of the returning vol-
unteers came to Springtield to welcome them home.
Between the work of making ready for an early depart-
ure for home and visiting with friends the days passed
quickly but none too much so for the boys who were all
anxious to get away. \ committee from Morrison and
another from Sterling, assisted by many others from in
and about our home to A'ns, took the soldiers under their
especial charge and Sf w to it that nothing was wanting
which money could purchase. Every setting of the table
was a banquet and the boys were not slow to take advan-
tage of the opportunity and they stowed the good things
away with a relish and scant ceremony.
The Sunday following our arrival at Camp Lincoln,
the members of Company E were pleasantly surprised by
the citizens committee from Sterling and Rock Falls, who
extended them an invitation to attend a banquet to be
ariven at the Leland hotel in their honor. At seven tif-
teen in the evening they asembled, and marching to the
entrance of the grounds, found street cars awaiting to
convey them to the city. Arriving at the hotel at eight,
the supper was served soon afterwards. The steaks were
done to a turn, the omeiets were perfection, the cold
meats were better than usual and the coffee was the best
326 History of Companies I and E.
money could purchase. The cakes and jellies were all
that mortal man could desire and the boys were unani-
mous in proclaiming it the most enjoyable meal they had
partaken of for months.
The colored waiters stood ready to replenish the
su})ply at a moment's notice and appeared eager to assist
in every way possiVjle to make the occasion a pleasant one.
One of the amusing incidents of the evening was the
unanimous refusal of the pork and beans. The dish was
passed to everyone present and in nearly every instance
it was untouched. The boys absolutely refused to have
anything to do with them. The colored waiters saw the
joke and enjoyed it fully as much as did the guests at
the ban(|uet.
The boys ate long and heartily, and did but little
talking, and no time was wasted. At the conclusion of
the repast, cigars were passed around and while the sold-
iers sat at their places, quietly and peacefully puffing
away at the rich Havanas, a number of good speeches
were made. C. L. Sheldon, the chairman of the commit-
tee, was the toastmaster. In as few words as possible he
congratulated the boys on their safe return home. '"You
have succeeded,'' said he ''in writing anolher page of
American history which will take place along with the
civil war, You have assisted in emancipating a race and
giving it liberty. We are here to congratulate you this
evening in the name of the people of Sterling, because,
while you have sufPered great privations and hardships,
you have done a great good to humanity in the name of
humanity." Continuing in this strain for a few moments
Mr. Sheldon closed his remarks by calling upon Colonel
Poster, who was present as a guest, to respond to the
toast, ''The Sixth Regiment," which was drank by all
Flrlouoii!-:!). .'527
standing.
The colonel re[)liecl l)rieflv. and in the eourse cjf his
remarks said that company E had done everything to the
best of its ability. It had dune everything it had ])een
asked to do. and did it without c()m[)laining. C/haplain
Ferris, and Captfxin Colebaugh of Company I, each spoke
briefly, expressing their pleasure at being present.
When Major Anthony was called upon he was compelled
to wait some minutes before the applause died down suf-
ficiently to make himself heard. His remarks were brief
but he expressed his satisfaction in the boys getting back
to Springfield in as good condition as they were.
Mayor Miller then addressed the boys, telling them
he was proud to be present and proud to be there in the
name of the city of Sterling to welcome company E. He
told the boys that the people at home were all proud of
them, that they regretted to see them leave home, par-
ticularly because of the serious errand, and that they were
doubly glad at their return, and when they arrived home
the town would be theirs. His sincere words were greet-
ed with prolonged applause. Ex-Mayor Street gave a
short talk and vvas followed by Robert McNeil, represent-
ing the people of Rock Falls. Lieutenants Dillon and
Wahl each spoke briefly and the aflPair was over.
The boys of com[)any E appreciated the welcome ex-
tended them and kntjw that this was only a forerunner of
what they might expect when they finally rea(died their
homes. The members of com[)any I were royally treat-
ed by the citizens committee, headed by Sheriff Fuller,
which was sent to Springfield to represent the people of
Morrison and surrou;iding towns.
Monday we received two months pay and the re-
mainder of the stay at Camp Lincoln was spent by
328 History of Companies 1 and E.
the boys in getting rid of their hard earned money.
Orders were issued granting the men of the Sixth
Regiment, sixty days furlough to take effect the twen-
ty-first. A number of boys from both companies were
taken to the military hospital in Springfield. Malari-
al fever was the general complaint. In their weak-
ened condition the disease was severe on them and a
number were unable to return home with the com-
panies. These men were left lo the care of the medi-
cal corps at the hospital where they received the best
of care and although some of them were seriously ill
for a time, they all came home later.
At one o'clock on the morning of the twenty-first
of September the train bearing the returning soldiers
pulled away from Camp Lincoln. Our route was over
the Burlington as far as Sterling, where we arrived
about ten o'clock a. m. After company E had debarked,
the remaining coaches occupied by company I were
hurried to Morrison. At every town along the route
we were greeted by large and enthusiastic crowds,
and when we left the cars in our home towns, the re-
ception extended us bafiles description. Company. E
was marched to its armory which had been placed
at the disposal of the many relatives of the boys and
those dear to them. There the first tender greetings
were exchanged. Company I was taken direct to the
court house hill where they were welcomed home by
what appeared to them, the inhabitants of the whole
of the western half of Whiteside county.
Home again, home again,
From a foreign shore.
And oh I it fills our hearts with joy
To meet our friends once more.
RKci:rTio\ IIomi:. 329
Here we dropped tlie parting tear,
To cross the ocean's foam,
But now we're once again with those.
Who kindly greet us home.
Fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and sweethearts
were there to extend a first welcome. From the train the
boys were escorted by (t. A. R. Posts, bands, organiza-
tions and school children. The line of march was black
with peoj^le and all cheered and aided in making the wel-
come a royal one. Arrangements had been made where-
by the citizens were to receive news of our coming by the
rinsrinof of bells and blowing of whistles. Easiness was
suspended for the time and the returning soldiers were
given the first place in the thoughts of nearly every man,
vva)man and child. The crowds were more dense and
enthusiastic, if such could be. than those present when
the good-byes were said five months before.
Such a welcome home! The bpys, surrounded by
relatives and friends, each vying with the other in an
attempt to make the welcome home complete, thought
of the discomforts, trials, and the miny trying days
which they had experienced since leaving home: their
minds worked with the rapidity of lightning and they
went over the whole campaign like a flash and they felt
after all that in this welcome home, this reuniting with
loved ones and kind friends, the hospitality extended
them on every hand and the sincerity with which each
was greeted; they were being paid in full for every hour
of the privations they had endured. They felt that such
a irreetincr was of more value than all thev had done
to receive it. and in those first hours of ecstasy they
wondered if they deserved such homage.
In more than one respect they were gratified be-
yond expression. If the welcome home was any indica-
330 History of Companies I and E.
tion of the feelings of the people, and no stronger proof
was necessary, the boys felt that they had performed
their duties in a manner satisfactory to their friends.
This meant much to them. To be sure they might
have done more if the opportunity had arisen, but it did
not and for every duty they were called upon to per-
form there was one man or more ready to respond to
the call. In every manner possible they had bent their
efforts toward fulfilling their duties to the best of their
abilities, and to know that their efforts in this direction
had given satisfaction to their relatives and friends at
home was very pleasing to them.
The Sixth Regiment band escorted company E to
its armory and boarded the train to be on hand at the
welcome of company I. The band arranged to make a
tour of each of the twelve towns which was the home
of a company of the Sixth, giving a concert in each
town. This the}' did later on and met with pleasant re-
ceptions and gratifying success at each place.
After the public reception was over, the volunteers
sought their homes and there enjoyed to the fullest thi't
peace and rest that comes to the weary wanderer on his
return to the family fold. The hour that had been
looked forward to for so long was at last at hand and
they gave themselves up to the full enjoyment of it.
Invitations to dinners were showered upon them and
had they accepted of all of them and ate one half of the
good things which was prepared for them, they must
have foundered themselves and suffered with the gout
the remainder of their days. As it was, many of them
were taken ill shortly after their arrival home and
hovered between life and death for weeks and months.
Their fever infested systems were over taxed and they
Sick Rkmain in Ponck. 381
were compelled to give in to it. No doubt many of
those who were taken ill so soon after reaching home
would have given up before had not the thought of re-
turning buoyed them uji and gave them courage to
light down the disease. The reaction of the pleasure
of the home coming left them weak and resulted in their
taking to their beds, there to remain for weeks battling
with that ^rim monster, death, which appeared deter-
mined to claim them for its own.
When the regiment left Ponce for New York, we
left a number of the sick soldiers who were too weak
to withstand the sea voyage home at that time and the\'
remained to return later on hospital ships. At the time
of our departure it was expected that these boats would
arrive in the harbor at any moment and might possibly
land the sick boys in New Yoik in ad^•ance of us. This
did not prove to be the case and a number of days
elapsed before the boys got awa^/ from the island and
then they were placed on board of several different ves-
sels and in this way became widely scattered.
They were placed in the hospital, of the Nine-
teenth regulars to await the arrival of the hospital ships.
Later the Nineteenth removed from that location and
the sick wej-e taken to the general hospital. Of those
remaining on the island there were four from company
E: privates Fred Sneed, Ernest Kahl, Leo Bushnell and
George Rounds. Corporal Luther x\llpress also of
company E, was taken ill before the regiment left
Ponce for the States and was placed on board a hos-
pital ship and taken to Philadelphia where he remained
for a short time, returning to Sterling as soon as he had
recovered sutliciently to make the journey.
Of the sick members of company 1 who were left
332 History of Companies I and E,
on the island there were fourteen. Q. M. Serg't
Andrew Mathews; Serg'ts Andrew Osborne Jr., and
Harry Rockey; C?orp"l Harry Berry; privates Fred
Brearton, Schuyler Sweeney, Clarence Sears. James
Andrews, Charles Freek, V^erne Smith, Edward Lepper,
William Lueck, Ross Wilkins and Henry Patterson.
Ralph Humphre\' of the hospital corps was detained
in the mountains and did not rejoin the regiment.
The condition of the sick bONS varied somewhat
as a few of them had been ill for weeks and were in a
danoferous condition, while others were more fortunate
and able to move about. The bo3S who were strong
enough to be up and around rather enjoyed the situa-
tion, but those that vvere bed ridden were very much
depressed when the regiment left the. island, and were
slow to recover sufficiently to brighten their drooping
spirits. It certainly was not a pleasant state of affairs
for them.
On the twenty-seventh of September, nearly all of
the forty-three members of the Sixth Ills., who were in
the hospital at Ponce marched or were carried to the
wharf at Port Ponce and boarded the hospital ship
Obdam, which sailed at noon the following day for
Santiago by the way of the Windward Passage. The
first night out occurred the death of private Schuyler
Sweene}', the first volunteer from company I to answer
the final summons. He was found dead near an open
hatchway and it vv as supposed he fell to the deck below
breaking his neck. With but a few days between him-
self and home, he had suddenly passed, over the great
divide to the world beyond where the general and the
private are adjudged alike and and the epaulettes and
gilded cords which adorn the commander, shine no
brighter than the worn and faded blouse of the volun-
PHIV. TflOS. PHILLIPS. PKlV.SClirVLKH SWEKXKV
Four members of Co. I who died in the service.
Death U.ndkk thic Old 1"'i..\(;, 3;};}
teer in the ranks. The morninL,'' fnllowino- his dcalli lie
was buried at sea.
The Obdam arrived at Saniiai^ro the followini; Fri-
day ni<fht. enteriiiLJ the harbor in the morninij. The
crew was engaged in unloading supplies for the army
ill Cuba until midnight Sunday when it sailed for New
York. x\t about ten o'clock the next morninif, after
rounding the eastern point of Cuba the slack in the
bunkers was discovered to be on tire and the boat
turned back towards Santiago where it arrived the same
night. The tire was not of much consequence and at
noon Thursday the boat again set sail for New York.
On the way out of the harbor the boys had an excellent
view of the fortifications and Morro Castle, The boat
reached New York on the eleventh and on the morning
of the twelfth all were transferred to the city and taken
to Miss Helen Gould's place for soldiers.
Among the number who returned on this vessel
were the four bo}S from company E and the following
members from company I: Q. M. Serg't Andrew Math-
ews, Serg't i\ndrew Osborne and privates Verne Smith,
Fred Brearlon and Edward Lepper. Serg't Harry
Rockey and Corp'l Harry Berr}- of company I, both
of whom were more dead than alive, left Ponce on
the hospital ship Missouri on September twent}'-eighlh,
arriving at Fortress Monroe, Newport News, October
first. They were taken to the hospital where they re-
mained for some time gradually regaining health and
strength until able to continue the journey home.
Privates Ross Wilkins, Charles Freek and Henry
Patterson of compan}- I, were among the number who
returned to Newport News on the Missouri. James
Andrews, William Lueck and Clarence Sears arri\ed
331 History of Companies I and E.
later and all of the boys from both companies E and I
eventually reached their homes with the exception of
private Wilkins, who died at Fortress Monroe on the
ninth of November. The circumstances surrounding
the death of private Wilkins were peculiar and excep-
tionallv sad. About the first of November he wrote to
his parents stating that he was able to return home if
someone would go there to accompany him on the
journey. Later a telegram was received which stated
that he thought he was hardly able to withstand the
lon<T trip at that time, and two days later he died. No
notice of his death was sent his parents, although he had
their address on his person. His brother w^ent after
him intending to remain with him until he had recov-
ered sufficient to be brought home. On arriving at the
hospital he found that the soldier brother had been dead
and buried some ten days. The shock was a severe
one to his relatives and friends. The remains were
later brought to Lyndon for burial.
On October nineteenth occurred the death of pri-
vate Thomas Phillips of Company I. He was one of
the number who joined the company at Springtiefd, his
home was at Buda 111. When the regiment was fur-
louf^hed he came to Morrison with the companv and
w^as taken ill with typhoid fever a short time afterward.
He sank gradually, the end coming quite suddenly.
Relatives came and took the remains to Buda where
they w^ere interred.
The fourth member of company I to close his eyes
to all things earihl}- while in the service of the govern-
ment was Ralph liumphrey. When the regiment left
Porto Rico, with Ralph in the mountains, none suspect-
ed that thev had looked upon his face for the last time
R.\i.ni IIiMniKi'v DiKs AT L'tuado. 3^")
in life. His parents heard from him at intervals and he
was apparently in good health and the lirst intimation
deceived that he had been ill was in the return of a let-
ter which was mailed to him on the fourteenth of (Octo-
ber. It was received at Utuado November third and
returned to Morrison arriving on the thirteenth. Across
its face the burning words were written '-Deceased,-
Returned." The heart stricken parents could hardly
realize that their son was not among the living until his
death was confirmed officiall}- a few days later.
Following the first notice of his death letters were
received from his comrades who were at his bedside
when the end came, giving the details in connection
with his illness and death. He had been on duty at the
hospital up to , the time he was admitted as a patient,
October fifteenth, and developed typhoid fever. He
appeared to be gaining up to the twenty-ninth when he
suffered a relapse from which he never rallied and en
the thirtieth he died. He was buried with military
honors in the pretty little cemetery at Utuado bv the
side of a number of his unfortunate comrades. He was
the tirst and only one of the boys from Whiteside coun-
ty to suffer death in the beautiful little island of Porto
Rico. His remains were disinterred and brought to
Morrison where they were buried in Grove Hill ceme-
ter\' April thirtieth, 1899.
One of the most sad incidents occurring in the
history of the Sixth regiment was the death of Major
William E. Baldwin of Dixon. Shortlv after the arrival
of the regiment in Porto Rico he was affected with
dysentery. His health failed gradually and when the
return to Ponce was made he was so weakened that he
decided to take a berth on the hospital ship Relief. He
33G History of Companies I and E.
was taken to Philadelphia and placed in a hospital
where he remained until the time of his death which oc-
curred on September fifteenth. In a letter written -his
wife under date of the fourteenth of September, he
stated he was receiving the best possible treatment and
attention, that he was getting along nicel}^ and there
was no cause for her to worry as he would be home
shortly.
His perdiction of the early arrival at home proved
true, but little did anyone surmise the conditions that
would surround the return of the soldier. The an-
nouncement of his death following so closely upon the
receipt of the cheering letter completely overcame the
waiting wife, a bride of a year, and the anxious father
and mother were grief stricken. While in the hospital
apparently on the road to ultimate recovery, he suffered
a relapse and passed away very suddenly. The re-
mains were brought to Dixon for interment. Guarded
by a squad of G. A. R. veterans, the body lay in state
in the corridor of the Lee county court house, where it
was viewed by hundreds of sorrowing friends. The
funeral occurred on the Sunday following his death. It
was one of the largest and most impressive ever held
in this section of the state. He was buried with mili-
tary honors befitting his rank.
Major Baldwin had been connected with the Illinois
National Guard for ten years, having enlisted as a»n
original member of company G of Dixon, July second
1888. He served as a non-commissioned officer for a
time and was commissioned second lieutenant in 1890;
promoted to captain in 189 1, commanding the company
during its service in Chicago where it participated in the
campaign arising from the railroad strike. In the fall
Major Win. li. Baldwin and his mount.
Death oi' Major Haldwin. 337
of 1896 he was comir.issioned major of the Third
Battalion and entered the service of the government as
a volunteer otFicer in this capacity. He was well and
favorably known throughout the re<riment and his
death caused a wave of sorrow to sweep over the entire
command.
338 History of Comfanies I and E.
CHAPTER XXVI.
The sixty days furlough granted the volunteers were
spent in accepting invitations to, and attending receptions,
which came one after another with amazing rapidity.
Public affairs in which the entire communit}- partici-
pated were followed by informal dinners and parties
where the thought which appeared uppermost in the
minds of the hosts was to heap tempting morsels of food
upon the tables until they fairly groaned from the over
burdening. Everything that lay in the power of these
good people was done for the comfort of the returned
soldiers, and the thoughts of the days and nights of
hunger, rain and mud, passed in the jungles of Porto
Rico, were quickly replaced by the most pleasant mem-
ories of the days following the home comiT}g.
About a week after the furlough was granted, the
company commanders and their assistants were ordered
to Springfield to begin the work of preparing the mus-
ter-out rolls. This occupied much of the time which
followed previous to the date of discharge, as the reg-
ular army officer detailed by the government to oversee
the work of mustering out the regiment, and under
whose directions the work had made fair progress, was
relieved from this duty and succeeded by another whose
ideas concerning the rules to be followed were entirely
Mustered Out. 339
different from tliose of the lirsl ollicer on tlie lield. and
much that had been completed was ruled out and re-
placed by such entries as the ideas of the laie arri\;i',
deemed proper.
The serious illness of many of the returned soldiers.
v\ith ihe receipt of the information, now and then, of the
death of some comrade, kept the homes of man\- in a
state of gloom ond suspense for sometime, but this
gradually wore away and as the boys gathered in their
accustomed haunts as of }ore. those places took on a fam-
iliar aspect and much that had occurred in the summer
which had passed, w^as apparenth' forgotten.
Sunday morning, November twentieth, eouipany I
boarded the train for Sterling, where they joined com-
panies E and Gr and were soon enroute for Springfield
over the "Q." They arrived at their destination in the
evening and reported to Colonel Foster the following
morning. Several from each company had not sufficient-
ly recovered from their illness as to be in condition to re-
port to Springfield and while those who did report for
the muster were given a very thorough physical exami-
nation previous to receiving their discharge, the sick
boys at horn?, some of whom were yet hovering between
life and death, were given their final papers releasing
them from the service without so much as a single query
being put to them or their physicians, as to their physi-
cal condition.
01 company E members, the following were
mustered out while ill at home: privates Eager, Lingle,
Haberle, Book. Compton and McKeh'ey. The members
of comyau}' I who were unalde to report at Springfield
were: musician Colebaugh, and privates McKenzie, Sav-
age, Reynolds, Smith and Bunzey. Ty})li()id malarial
340 History of Companies I and E.
fever was the complaint in each case.
While at Camp Tanner the regiment was quartered
in the Machinery Hall which had been prepared for their
coming by the merchants and citizens of Springfield. The
weather turned cold and they were chilled to the marrow
as they huddled around the big stoves and strove to keep
warm. The Monday following tlieir arrival the boys
were given the physical examination. During the next
few days pay rolls were signed and on the twenty-fifth
they were given their final settlement. They received
two and one-half months pay, together with the balance
of clothing allowance and ration money while on furlough
and that evening boarded the train for home, soldiers no
more, but citizens of the state of Illinois. They arrived
the next morning, and the Sixth Regiment of Infantry.
Illinois Volunteers, of the Spanish -American War of
1898 was an organization of the past and had gone into
history.
The war was over as far as actual hostilities were
concerned. The signing of the peace protocol on the
twelfth day of August was practically the end. A peace
commission was appointed and negotiations were in
progress which eventually resulted in the renewing of
the friendly relations, officially, between our g-- vernment
and that of Spain. A number of regiments of volunteers
were retained in the service to do garrison duty in both
Cuba and Porto Rico as the then existing conditions
were such as would warrant the presence of the military
for some time to come.
Porto Rico became a United States possession, the
Cubans were given their liberty and the Philippine Is-
lands became the property of our government, which in a
spirit of generosity, paid tht- Spanish government twenty
Results oi' Till': War. 341
millions of dollars in cxelifiii^x' for its rijLflils mid titles to
these islands. This act went far tf) substantiate the state-
ment made by o'lr government at the outbreak of the
war. when it declared that this was not a war of conquest
but of civilization and humanity. Although our govern-
ment realized that Spain's actual claims to the Philip-
pines at the commencement of the war were hardly worth
twenty cents, it also knew that in the eyes of the nations
of the world Spain still retained the right of sovereignty
over the islands even if she did maintain it by force of
arms and that in but a few localities along the coast.
To allow Spain to remain in possession of the islands
was not to be considered, as th^ inhabitants had done
much to aid in driving her out of that territory. To
withdraw our troops at that period would have been an
act unworthy of our people. To remain in possession
without remuneration to the Spanish government would
place the war as one of conqest, hence the payment of the
twenty millions.
The Philippine war which followed, and has dragged
along since, is to be deplored, but in the future when
peace reigns over the land which has been torn by w^ars
from center to circumference for years, those untutored,
half civilized people will recognize the beauties and
strength of our government and their hearts will be filled
with thankfulness in being allowed the protection of the
parental wing of a people whose very existence as a gov-
ernment is based upon the watchword, "freedom," a peo-
ple who, in a single century has risen from a position of
the humblest to that of the foremost in the ranks of the
nations of the globe, and is known and feared alike the
w^orld over for its stand for right and justice in every in-
stance and the power which it can and does bring to bear
342 History of Companies I and E.
to enforce its principles.
In every war in the history of our government from
that of 1776 to the late war of 1898, the American sold-
ier has carried the stars and stripes to a glorious victory.
Many dark clouds have appeared but each had its silver
lining and on many occasions when hope was all but lost,
the determination to fight it out never lessened, the tide
of war would change, at times ebbing and flowing gently
and again rushing fiercely along but ultimately landing
the American eagle, with the red. white, and blue em-
blem clutched in its talons, high and dry, there to rest
from its wearying struggle and regain its spent energies.
The intervening hand of Providence which has come be-
tween our people and their enemies so many times, and
which appears to be continually hovering over this united
people, must have a significant meaning to those who
recognize a supreme power and who will give the subject
the consideration which it merits.
The Sixth 111. regiment covered three thousand miles
by rail, three thousand on the sea, and marched nearly
two hundred miles over cart roads and horse trails along
the coast and in the mountains of Porto Rico, during its
brief campaign. The record which it made in the few
months of service, though not a brilliant one, as army
records go, yet it was one of which it may well feel proud.
Every duty which it was requested to perform was carried
out with an energy which gave it a prominent place in
the volunteer regiments of the Spanish war.
When the regiment was in New York, enroute from
Porto Rico, Chaplain Ferris met a regular army officer,
who, upon learning of the chaplain's connection with the
Sixth Illinois, congratulated him on the sterling quali-
ties which the men of the regiment had shown in th^ re-
Kind Words for tiik Sixth. :{4;}
ci'ut campaign. Tlio ij^t'iioral, for such was tlit' rank of
tlu' officer with whom Cha[)huti Ferris held tlie ooiiversa-
tion. siiid. '"You should bo proud of your men. They arc
soldiers, every inch of them. Every time the world has
heard of the Sixth Illinois, it has been Ix'cause of some
duty well done. They have not crept into the newspa-
pers because of scandals among the officers, wholesale
complaints from the men or in any of the many ways in
which some regiments have acquired '"yellow"' fame.
They have done every duty well, and while thev did
not do any shooting, the part they took in the war was
in every way honorable. The officers have watched them
and I assure you that we consider the record of the Sixth
Illinois as true soldiers the best of any of the volunteer
regiments."
During the month of October 1898, General Miles
passed through Illinois enroute to Omaha, and at one
of the cities in which he stopped he is quoted as say-
ing: ''I had two regiments of Illinois volunteers in Por-
to Rico, and in justice I must say they stood the fatigue
and hardships better than the eastern troops. The
Sixth Illinois was brigaded with the Sixth Massachu-
setts, and I am bound to say the boys from the prairies
of Illinois stood the campaign better than the boys
from the mills of New England."
Such words as these, coming from the lips of
trained soldiers whose lives had been spent in study-
ing the arts of war, had a very pleasing elfect on the
members of the regiment and they were content to al-
low the people to pass judgment upon their actions
while serving as United States volunteers.
Shortly after the first call for troops was made in
the spring of '98, the second company of volunteers
344 History of Companies 1 and E.
was organized in Sterling and Eock Falls. Walter N.
Haskell, ex-ofJicer of company E, Sixth 111. N. G., was
elected captain, W. L. Emmons ist lieutenant, and
G. A. McKelvey 2nd lieutenant. The company was
made a part of the provisional regiment which was
organized by Gen. Clendenin of Moline and stood ready
for a call to the front. The early termination of the
war made this unnecessary and the company was not
mustered into the service, much as it desired to be.
Illinois has never failed to furnish its quota of
men when duty called them to shoulder the musket
in times of war. Whiteside county has always been
among the first to be heard on such occasions and the
brilliant record it has made in offering its vv'ealth of
men and. treasures in behalf of the love it bears "Old
Glor3'," when danger threatens it, is the source of con-
tinual pride of its loyal hearted citizens.
Since the close of the war death has claimed a num-
ber of the boys for its victims. In each case the death
of the men could be traced to disease contracted while
serving as volunteers. Private Leo H. Bushnell of
company E, died April twent}' sixth 1899. . Bugler Roy
Eshleman, who it will be remembered was discharged
while the regiment was at Camp Alger, died of con-
sumption August eleventh 1899, and private Frank
Aument who was ill for some time at Fortress Monroe,
and was afterward granted a penison for disability, died
March twenty-fourth 1900. Lieut. Ed. Lavvton of
company I, died at Springfield, Ills., October twenty-
first 1899, and private Albert Anstett of Albany, an ex-
member of compan}^ I, died April second, 1901.
A number of the boys found the life of a soldier
so much to their liking that they re-enlisted a short
w
J.
Rii;-ENTi":i<iN(; riii". Si:r\ici':. 34;")
lime after bein*:^ discharged from the Sixlli Ills., regi-
ment. As far as is known the following is a complete
reirister of those who re-entered the service: ex-mem-
hers of company E, Serg't Leslie Sheldon, company M,
Fourth U. S. Infantry and private Richard O. Jones,
company II, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, both of wiiom
served in the Philippines; private Wilson R. Hyers,
company E, Eighth U. S. Infantry, served in Cuba,
and private John Sheldon who enlisted in 1899 but was
discharged shortly afterward for disability.
The ex-men-.bers of company I, who enlisted in the
regular service and saw duty in the Philippines were
privates Frank Weaver, William Schanz, William
Dahlstrom, Rollin Humphrey and Lewis Turner. The
last named was wounded during an engagement in
which he participated and was invalided home. Private
Otto Stakelbeck, another ex-member of company I,
enlisted in the Heavy Artillery early in 1899 and was
assigned to duty at Fort Moultrie in South Carolina.
Private Mark Wood enlisted in the cavalry and served
a full term in Cuba.
It is not the intention of the writer to attempt to
record the names of all those who may have served in
the different branches of the service from Whiteside
county during the Spanish — American war, but among
the number there are a few whose services can will not
be overlooked. Any attempt to complete an entire
register of the names would entail considerable expense
on the part of the person who went in search of the
data covering such a record, as men offered their ser-
vices from nearly every town, village and hamlet within
the borders of the county, besides oihers from the farms.
It was decided to make brief mention of -those whose
3-tG History of Companies I and E.
records were available, or could be secured without
adding materially to the already unwarranted expense
of publishing the book.
James P. Kervan, of Sterling, served throughout
the Cuban campaign as a corporal in company C,
Twenty-second U. S. Infantry. He was in the midst
of the battles before Santiago and El Caney and came
out of the combats uninjured. His record as a soldier
was an honorable one and he returned to the States
with his regiment anticipating an early rejoinder with
the home folks. While at Montauk Point he w^as
taken down with typhoid fever and soon succumbed to
the disease. He died August thirty-first, 1898. The
remains were brought to Sterling for burial, the funer-
al taking place Sunday, September eleventh. The
services were conducted by the Sterling G. A. R.
Post and '-taps" were sounded o'er the grave, bring-
ing to a close one of the most solemn and impressive
funeral services ever held in that city.
Another Sterling boy who made a brilliant record
with the Cuban army of invasion was Frank D. EI3'.
He iniisted in company E, 111. N. G. as an original
member of that organization and was promoted to the
rank of corporal and sergeant within the 3'ear. Some
years later he successfully entered the contest for an
appointment to West Point, from which institution he
graduated with high honors and was issued a com-
mission in the regular army. His regiment was
among the first to be ordered to Cuba and participated
in the engagements before San Juan Hill and PCI Caney.
Fortunately he received no wounds, but he, like hun-
dreds of others returned home to be bed ridden for
long weary weeks, suffering from typhoid fever, con-
Review OF Volunteers FROM Whiteside. 347
tracted in the treacherous cHmate of Cuba.
Will H. Allen, who was a resident of Morrison
up to the time of his receivin<^ the appointment to the
Naval Academy at /^nnapolis some \ears a<ro. was a
Lieut, on board the battleship Ore^^on durin:^ the
Spanish-American war. He was on dut\- on this \es-
sel when it made that wonderful run from the Pacilic
ocean to join Admiral Sampson's fleet at Santiaf^o, and
durintj^ the naval light off Santiago harbor on that
memorable third day of July, 1898, where the (Oregon
and Brookhn did such terrible execution and estab-
lished records as lighting machines which surprised
the civilized world.
George H. Fay, an old Morrisonite, and first
Captain of the original organization of company I. 111.
N. G.. also a veteran of the civil war. served throuirhout
the war of '98, in the paymasters department with the
rank of Major. At the time of receiving the appoint-
ment he was a practicing attorney at Oakes, N. D.. and
where he now resides.
Another of Whiteside county's sons who served as
a volunteer is Henry Clayton Thompson, of Fenton.
He was taking a course in medicine in Hahnemann Col-
lege, Chicago, and when the call for volunteers came
was studying with a physician in Appleton. Wis. He
enlisted in company E, Second Wisconsin Volunteers,
June seventeenth, and was immediately sent to Chicka-
magua Park, Ga. Later he was transferred to the Re-
serve Ambulance Corps which accompanied the regi-
ment to Charleston, S. C. The members of the Sixth
Ills, will remember meeting the Wisconsin regiment at
Charleston, and afterward fn Porto Rico. Private
Thompson was taken ill at Charleston and placed in the
348 History of Companies I and E.
hospital where he remained from July ninth until Octo-
ber fourteenth. His case of typhoid and malaria was
a severe one and it was a miracle that he recovered.
He was given a furlough and sent home and later was
discharged.
The above brief mention of a number of Whiteside
county boys who were Uncle Sam's servants in '98,
closes Part II of this history. On the following pages
the record of companies E and I, 111. N. G., is taken up
with the arrival at home after being mustered out of the
volunteer service, and completed to April thirtieth, 1901,
the date on which this record closes, giving a roster of
the members of both companies as they were entered
upon the company registers at that date.
PART III
ILLINOIS NATIONAL CUARI).
Closing Chapters or the History of Companies I axd
E, Recording the Incidents Occurring Follow-
ing Their Volunteer Service, and Com-
pleted TO April 30, 1901.
CHAPTER I.
For some time after the return of the volunteers
mihtary affairs remained very quiet in the National
Guard. Many of the ex-volunteers who were guards-
men were adverse to taking up the work of drilling and
maneuvering with the state troops for a time at least.
These men were in no great hurr\- to pick up the
thread where it had been dropped some months before
as they had satisfied the longing for a soldier life to a
certain extent, and the National Guard had but little
attraction for them.
This feeling of indifference gradually disappeared
and the interest in the State organizations was again
manifest in a short time, although a goodly number of
those whose term of enlistment had expired during the
352 History of Companies I and E.
summer months did not again enter the service. On
the other hand there was more of an interest apparent
in the affairs of the Guard on the part of the citizens of
the communities wherein the companies were located
than had existed for years. A number of the boys who
had served as volunteers, but who had not previously
been connected with the Guard, entered their names up-
on the rolls for a term of years.
The military spirit which had enveloped and
swayed our people from one end of the country to the
other during the late war, had left its effects on the
youths throughout the land and they were anxious to
become connected with the State troops. With the
general awakening of the interest of the citizens in the
affairs of the Guard and the spirit with which the mem-
bers entered upon their duties, the companies rapidly
re-organized and were soon placed on a footing which
bid fair to advance the efficiency of the troops in gen-
eral beyond that of former years and add materially to
their worth as citizens soldiers whose duties it is to
guard and protect the interests of peaceful citizens with-
in the borders of their State.
The affairs of companies I and E ran along on the
old even tenor for a time and the regular weekly drills
were called as of yore. The tirst change of any note
occurred when Capt. Lawrie ot Company E was elect-
ed Major of the Third Battalion. He was commis-
sioned as such January fifth, 1899. The vacancy caused
by the promotion of Capt. Lawrie was filled by electing
2nd Lieut. J. Frank Wahl as Captain, his commission
was dated Feb. ninth, 1899. On the same date Order-
ly Sergt. Samuel H. Feigley was commissioned as 2nd.
Lieut. On the first of July following these changes,
Capl 11, S. (Jro.ii.
1st Lieut. H. A. Weaver. 2iid Lieut. J. L. Rickey.
Officers of Co. I., Sixth 111. N. G.
Illinois National Guards, S^.i
ist. Lieut. G. B. Dillon was placed upon ihe retired
list by his own request, and on the fourteenth of the
same month 2nd. Lieut. Feii^ley was commissioned ist.
Lieut, and Sergt. Charles F. lloobler was advanced to
the grade of 2nd. Lieut, which constitutes the roster of
commissioned ollicers of compan}' E at the close of tliese
records, April thirtieth 1901.
The return home of company I found it without a
lieutenant. The resignation of 2nd Lieut. E. J. Weaver
from the volunteers which was accepted May fourteenth
1898, was also effective in the National Guard. The
commission of ist Lieut, E. C. Lawton expired May
thirtieth 1898. An election was called to till such va-
cancies as existed at the time, which resulted in the
selection of Sergt. Harry Weaver as ist. Lieut, and
Sergt. Jacob L. Rockey as 2nd Lieut., each commission
bearing the date of March ninth, 1899. Capt. W. F.
Colebaugh's commission expired July ninth of the same
3'ear and Harvey S. Green was elected Captain and
commissioned as such July fourteenth. By referring to
the roster of company I it will be seen that Capt. Green
had served as a private and non-commissioned otlicer
in this company some ten years previous.
Walter Burritt of Morrison was re-appointed Q, M.
Sergt. of the ist Battalion July twenty-ninth, 1899, and
promoted to Regimental Commissary Sergt., July
twenty-third 1900. On the twenty-first day of July
1900, Corp"l Paul F. Boyd of company I received the
appointment of Hospital Steward of the Sixth Regi-
ment. During the annual encampment at Springtield
in August 1899, Sergt. John Cushman of company E
was appointed Regimental Ordnance Sergt. of the
Sixth.
354 History of Companies I and E.
On October sixteenth 1899, Edward A. Smith of
Morrison was commissioned ist Lieut, and attached to
the staff of Gen. Wm. Clendenin, commanding the
Third Brigade. During the Brigade encampment held
at Springfield in August 1900, Lieut. Smith was com-
missioned Colonel and Aide de camp on Governor
Tanner's staff. Although Col. Smith did not accept
the commission officially, it was entered on the State
records at Springfield and he retained this rank until the
expiration of Governor Tanner's term of office.
Company E continues to retain the even, tranqui
tenor of the early days. Nothing appears to disturb the
serenity of its existence. Each member seemingly
takes a deep interest in the affairs of the company and
they work in harmony in everything which they under-
take. In following this unwritten rule, as it were, they
have strengthened the organization materially. Con-
fidence in their officers and comrades in the ranks, has
much to do with the general condition of the company
as a military organization; renders pleasant the duties
which the men may be called upon to perform, and is
invaluable in bringing about that ver}' desirable con-
dition of affairs which can only be attained by the
united efforts of every officer and man in the company,
to the mutual benefit of all.
To company E and its members since the date of
organization in 1888, is due no little credit for the man-
ner in which it has maintained its enviable position in the
National Guard. This company is today, and always
has been, one of the most efficient and best drilled in the
state.
With company I there has been a wonderful trans-
formation in its condition in the past few years. When
Illinois National GuAUb^^. Hljo
Captain Green was placed in command of the company
he realized that the organization was sadly in need oi
assistance in various wa3-s. He immediately set to
work deterrraned to re-build the company and if his
personal assistance was equal to the task, place ii on a
par with the foremost organizations of like character in
the state. From that day to the present he has never
lagged, and the elegant home of company I today is the
result of his untiring labors. Not alone in this respect
has his influence and energies beneflted the company,
but also in the general condition of the organization as
citizen soldiers. With this installation of new vigor and
life, those connected with the company combined their
efforts in an attempt to raise it from the level to which
it had gradually fallen, with a result that is highly grat-
ifying to all.
Shortly after receiving his commission, Captain
Green began laying plans for the erection of a new,
commodious armory. After some time had been ex-
pended in formulating plans and securing the assistance,
financially, of interested citizens, a lot was purchased on
west main street and the work of building began in
earnest. Ground was broken in September 1900. and
although handicapped by the inclemency of the weather
during the early wmter months, the armory was prac-
tically completed by January lirst 1901. The building
is constructed of brick and is the full depth of the lot.
The drill room is on the first floor and is large and well
proportioned. The wardrobe rooiu is also located on
the first floor.
The front of the building is two stories in height,
the ground floor being occupied as a store room. The
second floor is <>iven to a suite of rooms for the use of
35G History of Companies I and E.
the "Morrison Military Club," an organization founded
by the members of company I. On the east side of the
upper floor is the bathroom, which is equipped wiih
both tub and shower bathing apparatus, also toilet
rooms. Joining this is the captains oflice which opens
into the main room or clubroom proper. This room is
large and fitted up for the convenience of the club
members, and is a very pleasant resort for both the old
and young men of the town as all citizens are eligible
to membership upon payment of the regurlarl}' estab-
lished quarterly dues. A janitor is in attendance both
day and evening.
This elegant home for the company was erected at
a cost of twelve thousand dollars, and without doubt is
one of the most roomy, comfortable, and convenient ar-
m Dries in the State of Illinois, outside of the regimental
armories in Chicago. It is the priJj ol: tho company
and the citizens of Morrison. The company took poss-
session of the building the first cf the year, 1901, the
dedication ceremonies were held on the evening of the
twenty-second of that month.
Company I stands first in the regiment in the point
of numbers and as for general character and proficiency,
stands second to none among the companies which com-
pose the country regiments of the state. This may
appear to some as a very broad assertion but it is the
simple truth nevertheless. Such conditions were not
brought about without much hard work, and to retain
this coveted state of affairs its members must continue
to exert their energies and personal influence for the
good of the company generally, and keep before them
the fact that if everything is left to the willing hands of
a few who have the interest of the company at heart,
JOHN CUSHMAX,
Recently commissioned Capt. Co E
111. N. G.
!li ■iNOis National (Juauds. fitn
those few will tire of tlic tliauklcss task in tiiii ■ iiml the
result will be a gradual deeliiiing into the old nil.
The officers and enlisled men of both cuniiijuiirs I
and E are fully justified in liavin*.,^ a sense of pride in
their connection with these organizations as a part of
the state troojis of Illinois. Illinois, as a s- tate. ranks
among the first in tlu^ union, ;uid it is fitting that tin-
men who represent it in whatever capacity, should lend
their every assistance in maintaining the fair name and
honor of "Illinois." Next to servinij the irijvernnient
there is no more patriotic manner of paying tril)ute to
the tiag than in that of serving the state faithfully and
loyally under all circumstances.
There are those who are inclined to jeer at the
National Guard but it is a noticeable fact that when a
disturbance arises it is quickly brought to mind and lis
members called upon to shoulder their muskets, and leav-
ing bench and stool, take up the thankless task of guard-
ing lives and property even at the peril of their own lives.
Since completing the records on the pre\ious pages
Capt. Wahl of company E, severed his connection with
the Guard and upon his own application was placed on
the retired list. His commission expired February ninth
1902, he having been in the service continually since the
compan}^ was organized in 1S88. At the election which
was called to fdl the vacancy caused by the retirement
of Capt. Wahl, John Cushman, the only remaining mem-
ber of company E, who was a charter member of the
organization, was elected Captain commanding.
Captain Cushman enlisted in company E March
twenty-fourth, 18S8, and has been connected with the
3o8 History of Companies 1 and E.
Guard continually since. He was appointed Corporal
June sixteenth. 1891, and promoted to the rank of Ser-
geant a short time later. He enlisted as a volunteer in
company E April twenty-sixth, 1898, serving as a ser-
geant until July when he was appointed Regimental
Ordnance Sergeant of the Sixth Ills. Volunteers, and at-
tached to the non-commissioned staff of that regiment.
In Aucjust of the year followin<T the war he was
appointed Ordnance Sergt. of the Sixth Illinois National
Guards which warrant and rank he held at the time
of his being commissioned Captain of company E.
The commission bears the date of February tenth, 1902.
Captain Cushman has a number decorations which
he has received in recognition of his excellent marks-
manship. He is considered one of the best shots in
the state. He won the decoration of Distinguished
Sharpshooter by a score of five hundred and thirty-eight
points, w'hich is the record score for Illinois as shown by
the reports of the adjutant general of the state. He is
popular among the members of the company and its af-
fairs are placed in safe hands. The boys of company E
and man}' friends of Captain Wahl regret that he should
retire at this early day when prospects for his future in
the Guard were exceedingly bright.
Illinois National Giakds. 351)
CHAPTER TI.
The roster of each company as recorded April
ihh-tieth, 1901, follows. This closes Part III, and
brings to a tinal the records of companies I and E.
From the outset it has been the aim of the writer to
record the man}- incidents and changes which have oc-
curred since the organization of the companies, without
partiality being shown to either companj^ or any one
of their many members. The facts and data from
which this history w^as compiled, were taken from the
files of both companies and the utmost caution has been
used throughout to place them just as they were written
in every case.
Company I.
Captain, Harvey S. Green.
1st Lieutenant, Harry A. Weaver.
2nd Lieutenant, Jacob L. Rockev,
1st Sergeant, Harry H. Rockey.
Commissary Sergt., E. L. Curtis.
Sergeant, Andrew F. Mathews.
" Orville P. Kaler.
" George A, Everhart.
Corporal, Fred W. Brearton.
" Geortje Hunt.
'" Robert C. Thompson.
860 HisTORv OF Companies I anp E,
Corporal, Robert W. Taylor,
u Emerson M. Fellows.
ii William H. Burch.
a Harry A. Bent.
i-i Richard L. McKenzie,
Bugler, • James Brearton,
G. Webber.
R. E. Davis.
Hospital Corps. William Morse.
Private, Annan, George
" Annan, Frank W.
" Annan, Floyd J.
" Adams, Ray
" Breiter, Arthur
«' Bunzey, R. S.
" Besse, Karl
" Beckwith, E. Q.
<« Bailey, Jesse
" Bowen, Floyd J.
" * Brearton, Martin R,
" Brown, Lloyd J.
«' Cargay, Olin
«' Childs, Clarence C.
Childs, W. L.
«' Booth, Clarence A.
Davis, Walter B.
" Davis, Floyd N,
'< Derby, Harry
" Drennen, Marcus L.
" Drury, Walter C.
" Donichy, James G. B,
^' Ego, Sylvester
n Ege, Harry P.
SAMUEL H. FEIGLEV,
1st Lieut. Co. E, 111. N. G.
Illinois National Giards. 301
Private, Fitzgerakl, C^liarles D.
" Fenton, William J.
'• Green. John W.
" Gorzney, John
*' Gorzney, Joe
*' HawBe, George B.
'* High, Aaron
" Hirleman, Samuel
*' Hirleman, Wilbur
'' Johnson, Bert
«' Heiss, Joseph C.
" Kennedy Vern V.
«' • Kaler, Ralph
" Lamson, Claude B.
'« Lewis, Walter P.
«« McBride, Harley A.
«« Miller, Frank
«' Meyers, Frank
K Morrill, O. A.
♦' Meyer, Sam
<« Nelson, Melvin R.
<' Olmstead, Stuart
«' Odell, Arthur B.
«' Pratt, Thurston T.
*' Riordon, John A.
<' Stone, Erastus
" Smith, Nick A.
«< Shaw, Harry V.
" Stalcup, James
" Stowell, John
" Smaltz, Roy
" Seibert, John D.
a Shirk, Charles
362 History of Companies I a
Private,
Snyder, William
((
Turner, Richard
a
Weeks, Charles D.
a
Wilcox, Albert
a
Winans, Percy H.
li
Weaver, Carl
a
Welch, Chris
a
Welch, Harry
u
Wilbur, Sidney
u
Yopst, Birt 0.
Company E.
Captain,
J. Frank Wahl.
1st Lieutenant,
Samuel H. Feigley.
2nd Lieutenant,
Charles F. Hoobler,
1st Sergeant,
Arthur E. Deem.
Commissary Sergt,
J. D. Walck.
Sergeant,
Fred Hess.
a
Frank H. Coryell.
a
George Havens.
li
Albert Street.
Corporal,
Carl Winters
a
Burt Sneed.
a
James Burr.
((
Fred Sneed.
it
Lloyd Thompson.
ii
William Deem.
Bugler,
William Lund.
a
John Sampson.
Hospital Corps,
William Connell.
(( a
Charles Ramsdell.
Privates,
Anning, A. H.
a
Alderfer, Philip
Illinois National Oiauds;. ;],;;■{
^*i'i^'itfS Aiimont. Ht'ni.-ins
Bailey, F. C.
Bassett, Bert
Blair, George
Bander. C.
Betts, ^'erll(•
Baker, John H.
Conners. Walter
Conneil, Janiea
Clark, Edg'ar L.
DiiTenbaugh, Ben
Emmons, Frank
Eager, Wallace L.
Feigley, J. Lovure
Forrester, Frank M.
Finch, Bert
Grey, Arthur
Grimes, Leon
Harting, Frank
Heaton, Frank
Hoover, Arthur
Hoover, Harry
Hartman, Andrew
Husler, Fred
Hoover, Ben
Ingersoll, Brue(>
Jackson, Arthur
Jackson, Merton
Johnson, Fred
" Jamison, Paul R.
" Kent, George
Latherow, Walter
** Landier. Herman
364 History of Companies I and E.
Private. Mangan, Clarence
Mangers, Charles
Meade, Clyde
Nelms, William
Partridge, Harry
Phelps, Walter
Onken, Anthony
Shank, Ambrose J.
Stevens, Earnest
Shumaker, Harry E.
Troste, Samuel D.
Thome, George
Van Drew, Clarence
Wahl, i^lbert
Wise, Ed.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
013 902 261 •
