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^■h?^v^'
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History of the Twelfth Regiment,
Rhode Island Volunteers, in the ..
Rhode Island Infantry. 12th
Reqt., 1862-1863, Pardon Elish
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COLONEL TWELFTH REGIMENT R, L VOLUNTEERS.
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TilC UEU YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY
o
S5t()A
»>7'^-. L^r^OX AND
Snow ft Farnham, Printers and Publishers
Providence, R. I.
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^* The Committee appointed to prepare this History con-
^ sisted of the following named members of the Regiment,
V. viz. :
j PARDON E. TILLINGHAST,
^ JAMES SHAW,
♦s C. HENRY ALEXANDER,
GEORGE A. SPINK,
^ OSCAR LAPHAM,
J MUNSON H. NAJAC,
DANIEL R. BALLOU,
LUTHER COLE,
ARNOLD F. SALISBURY,
EDWIN H. TILLEY,
THEODORE A. MANCHESTER,
JOSEPH W. GRANT,
WALTER A. SCOTT,
FRANCISCO M. BALLOU.
The Committee organized by the election of Pardon E .
Tillinghast, Chairman, and Munaon H. Najac, Secretary.
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COMPILER'S PREFACE
Althouqh forty years have elapsed since the Twelfth
Eegiment Rhode Island Volunteers was mustered out
of the military service of the United States, no permanent
history of the part which it took in the Civil War has yet
been written. Many, if not most, of the other regiments
and military organizations which went forth from this
State have put into enduring form a record of their deeds
and experiences while in the service of their coimtry . And
a goodly number of the survivors of the Twelfth Regiment
now feel that they owe it to the memory of the many who
have departed this life, as well as to the honor of the few
who still remain, to do likewise.
Animated by this feeling, a committee was appointed, at
the annual reunion of the surviving members of the regi-
ment held in August, 1901, to prepare and publish a his-
tory of the regiment, and that committee hereinafter pre-
sents the result of its labors.
It is true that the brief term of service of the Twelfth,
by comparison with the longer terms of several Rhode
Island regiments, may seem small, yet the service it ren-
dered during its ten months in the field was high up in the
scale of active duty and efficiency with that of the veteran
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Vi PREFACE
regiments to which it was attached. That it performed its
service with the same degree of patience, courage, self-
sacrifice, and patriotism which signally characterized that
of the other Rhode Island regiments, will not be questioned
by the impartial critic.
The Twelfth was a nine-months regiment, but it re-
mained in the service for fully ten months.
The Hon. William Sprague was governor of our State
when the regiment was formed, and by his superior execu-
tive ability and ardent patriotism he caused to be brought
together and duly officered and equipped a thousand or
more men, who, like the other military organizations from
this State, which he had been so instrumental in placing
on a war footing, rendered valiant service in upholding and
defending the honor and integrity of the nation.
He appointed Hon. George H. Browne, of Glocester, who
at the time was a member of Congress from this State, to
the office of colonel of the regiment ; and a more upright,
conscientious, broad-minded and patriotic leader it would
have been very difficult to find. It is true he was not
versed in military science, but he was possessed of those
qualities of mind and heart which made him a most popu-
lar and acceptable commander. And, with the efficient aid
of Lieut.-Col. James Shaw, Jr., who was an officer of very
superior skill and knowledge in military tactics and affairs,
the regiment had all of the advantages necessary to a suc-
cessful career.
The praise which was bestowed upon the regiment in the
formal and official orders which appear in the following
history, from commanders occupying high positions, show
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PRBFACB VU
the character and standing attributed to it by those who
were best competent to" judge.
Although the services which fell to the lot of the regi-
ment to perform were especially trying and exacting to
new beginners, yet they cheerfully and manfully accepted
the situation and, by strict obedience to orders and the
faithful discharge of whatever duty was imposed upon
them, showed that they were of the stuff of which good
soldiers are made. This fact is well illustrated in many of
the trying vicissitudes related in the following history, but
perhaps in no one of them more signally than in the
famous march of the regiment from Nicholasville to James-
town, Kentucky, a distance of fully one hundred miles,
which it made in six days under a broiling sim and over
dusty roads. And when the arms were stacked and the
roll was called, at the end of that never-to-be-forgotten
journey, every man was found to be at his post.
Probably few regiments covered more miles on foot,
■during the same length of time, than did the Twelfth.
Notably, during the spring and summer of 1863, although
footsore and sweltering imder a tropical sun, the regiment,
scarcely without rest, was chasing the ubiquitous guerilla
Morgan up and down the State of Kentucky to head off
his threatened raids across the Ohio. Indeed, so constantly
was it on the march, from one point to another, that it
<^me to be familiarly known as "The Trotting Twelfth."
The history which the comtmittee has prepared is a com-
posite one. Each contributor has in his own way related
the experiences, and characterized the services rendered by
the regiment from his own standpoint, and has added
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VIU PBEFACE
thereto such personal incidents and reminiscences as
seemed to him pertinent and proper in connection there-
with. That there will be more or less repetition in a his-
tory thus made up is evident. But while this must be so,
it does not necessarily follow that the narrative as given
by each will not be both interesting and useful , for while
it may be similar in a general way, yet each one, having
witnessed the transaction from a different standpoint, is
able to add variety and interest thereto.
Part First of the work has been prepared by Private
Joseph W. Grant, of Company F, who kept a daily record
of the doings of the regiment while it was in the service,
and who was therefore specially qualified for the task
which the committee assigned to him. I feel sure that the
diligence and care with which he has performed his task
will be highly appreciated by all of his comrades, and also
that the product of his assiduous labors will be both inter-
esting and useful to the general reader. Comrade Grant
has strongly fortified the positions taken by him relating
to the part which the regiment took in the battle of Fred-
ericksburg by adding numerous general orders of com-
manders high in authority relating to that terrible battle.
Part Second is a narrative of the regiment from Jan. 8,
1863, to July 17, 1863, carefully compiled by Lieut. Daniel
R. Ballon from letters of Lieut.-Col. James Shaw, Jr., writ-
ten to his wife during the time that he was with the regi-
ment. This compilation gives a very full and accurate
account of the doings and experiences of the regiment
from the time when Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw joined it
until it was mustered out of the service.
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PREFACE ix
Part Third consista of a paper which is a digest of a series
of army letters written by Rev. Charles M. Winchester,
lieutenant in Company B, to the Providence PresSy under
the nonv-derplume of " Minnick." It is full of interesting
incidents and experiences, and is written in a style which
is characteristic of the genius, raciness, and good taste of
the author, who was highly beloved and respected by all
his comrades.
Part Third also contains interesting personal reminis-
cences by Theodore A. Manchester, of Company B,
and a contribution from Theodore F. Dexter, of Com-
pany F, which latter contribution contains, amongst other
things, an account of his thrilling and never-to-be-forgotten
experience, while in the Quartermaster's Department, in
a lively brush with a detachment of Morgan's forces at
Green River, Kentucky, also contributions from Comrades
Edward F. Gurry and Walter A. Scott, of Company F.
Part Fourth contains papers relating to the regiment,
prepia-red and read on various occasions since the war by
members of the regiment, and now brought together and
published in permanent form. Amongst these papers will
be found full and graphic accounts by Capt. Oscar Lap-
ham and Lieut. Daniel R. Ballon of the part which the
regiment took in the bloody strife at Fredericksburg in
December, 1862.
Comrade Erastus Richardson, quartermaster's clerk, who
was the poet of the regiment, and who, since the war; has
treated his surviving comrades to a number of racy and
beautifiQ specimens of his production, has kindly permitted
us to publish some of them in our History.
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X PREFACE
Part Fifth contains personal sketches of Col. George H.
Browne, Lieut.-Col. James Shaw, Jr., Maj. Cyrus G. Dyer,
Surgeon Benoni Carpenter, and Chaplain Samuel W. Field.
Part Sixth contains the roster of the regiment, to-
gether with a concise index, and a list of organizations that
are mentioned in the work.
P. E. T.
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LiKUT.-CoL. James Shaw, Jr.
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CONTENTS
PART FIRST
Rbminiscbncbs and Official Orders. Compiled by
Joseph W. Grant $
PART SECOND
A Narratitb of the Twelfth Rhode Island Voluntbto
Infantry in the Civil War from January 8, 1863,
TO July 17, 1863. Compiled by Col. Daniel R. Ballon
from Letters of Qen. James Shaw, Jr. ... 135
Reminiscences of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteer
Infantry from its Organization to the Recrossinq
OF THE Rappahannock after the Battle of Fred-
ericksburg. By Col. Daniel R. Ballon . . . 163
Reminiscences of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volun-
teers— From Falmouth to Kentucky. By Col.
Daniel R. Ballon 18Q
PART THIRD
Memories and Memoranda of the Twelfth Rhode Island
Regiment in General and Company B in Particu-
lar. By the Rev. Charles M. Winchester, formerly
Second Lientenant of Company B . . . . 197
Personal Reminiscences. By Theodore A. Manchester 214
Reminiscences. By Ekiward F. Qnrry .... 223
A Personal Reminiscence. By Theodore F. Dexter . 22S
Reminiscences. By Walter A. Scott .... 231
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Xll
CONTENTS
PART FOURTH
Reminiscences op Service with the Twelfth Rh(H)e
Island Voluntbbes. By Pardon E. Tillinghast . 237
Recollections of Service in the Twelfth Regiment
Rhode Island Volunteers. By Gapt. Oscar Lapham 261
Verses Read at the Annual Reunion of the Twelfth
Rhode Island Volunteers at Rocky Point, Aug. 7,
1894. By Erastus Richardson 279
The Lamentations of the Chaplain of the Twelfth
Rhode Island Volunteers. Recited at the Annual
Reunion Aug. 3, 1897. By Erastus Richardson . 283
Pace to Pace with Time. Verses read at the Twentieth
Reunion op the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers
AT Crescent Park, Aug. 4, 1903. By Erastus Rich-
ardson 291
PART FIFTH
Personal Sketches:
Col. Gteorge Huntington Browne .... 303
Lient.-Col. James Shaw, Jr. 304
Major Cyras G. Dyer 306
Surgeon Benoni Carpenter 307
Chaplain Samuel Wheeler Field .... 308
PART SIXTH
Roster of the Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volun-
teers 311
Index 389
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ILLUSTRATIONS
Col. George H. Browne .
Lieut-Col. James Shaw, Jr.
Major CyruB 6. Dyer
Surgeon Benoni Carpenter
Chaplain Samuel W. Field
Lieut. John L. Clarke (Quartermaster)
Capt. James M. Longstreet
Lieut. Albert W. Delanah
Lieut. Luther Cole, Jr. .
Capt. Edward S. Cheney
Lieut. John S. Roberts .
Lieut. Joseph C. Whiting, Jr.
Capt. George A. Spink .
Lieut. Munson H. Najac .
Capt. William E. Hubbard
From a recent picture
Lieut. Francisco M. Ballou
From a recent picture
Capt. James H. Allen
Lieut. George Bucklin
Capt. John P. Abbott .
Lieut. George F. Bieknell
Lieut. Henry M. Tillinghast
Capt. Oliver H, Perry .
Lieut. Arnold F. Salisbury
Capt. C. Henry Alexander
Lieut. Daniel R. Ballou .
Lieut. Fenner H. Peckham, Jr.
Lieut. Charles M. Winchester
Theodore A. Manchester
Opposite
. Frontispiece
pagexi
of Preface
Opposite page
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XIV ILLUSTBATIONS
Edward F. Gurry Opposite page 22S
Theodore F. Dexter « " 225
Walter A. Scott " '* 281
Quartermaster Sergt. Pardon E. Tillinghast . . " « 237
Capt. Oscar Lapham " " 261
Erastus Richardson « « 27*
Joseph W. Grant, in uniform as captain of Rhode
Island State Militia « " 291
From a recent picture u u 3
Edwin H. Tilley *' '* 347
Camp Stevens, Providence, R. I. . . Opposite page 7
Map of Battlefield of Fredericksburg ...'*« 21
Crossing the River in Pontoons ...."" 29
Location of Upper Pontoon Bridges nearly opposite
Lacy House " " 3S
Water Street, looking north, our position on morn-
ing of Dec. 18, 1862 « « 37
Steamboat Landing, foot of Water Street (Wash-
ington farm in the distance) . . . . " '* 173
Stevens House, 1902, better known as *^Cobb
House," on Sunken Road, foot of Marye's
Hill, near Cobb's Monument ....'*" 181
Sunken Road, Marye's House on Hill . . . " " 205
Strutton House, better known as the Brick House . '^ " 249
Sunken Road, north of Stevens House . . . " " 269
Brompton, better known as Marye's House, General
Longstreet's Headquarters ...."" 273
Battle Flag of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers « " 389
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PART FIRST
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Joseph W. Grant.
(From a recent picture.)
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REMINISCENCES AND OFFICIAL ORDERS
OOMPILBD BY
JOSEPH W. GRANT
' ... On what condition stands it, and wherein ?
Even in condition of the worst degree, —
In gross rebellion, and detested treason. . . . ^'
Kino Riohabd U.
"With the election of Abraham Lincoln as President Nov. 7,
1860, the rebellion of the Sonthern States may be said to have
begnn as the work of organizing the Confederacy assumed defi-
nite shape from that date. . . .
"Jefferson Davis was inaugurated President of the Confed-
erate States of America Feb. 18, 1861, and three days later Gen-
eral Twiggs of the United States army surrendered 6,000 men
and 11,200,000 worth of property to the State of Texas. . . .
"The day after the surrender of Fort Sumter April 15th,
President Lincoln issued a proclamation calling for 75,000 men
to volunteer for three months. ... On April 16th, the day
after the President's proclamation^ Governor Sprague issued an
order for the organization of the First Regiment of Infantry.
"This was accomplished so promptly that on April 20th the
first detachment left Providence under command of Col. Ambrose
E. Bumside, and the second on April 24th, under command of
Lieut.-Col. Joseph S. Pitman. . . . Call after call for troops
followed in rapid succession and drafts were ordered in most if
not all of the loyal states.
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4 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
"The demand for men by the government was continuous and
imperative. . . /'*
In the book edited by Edwin W. Stone, in 1864, entitled Rhode
Island in the Rebellion, the situation which prevailed at the time
of the call for nine months' volunteers, is described by a member
of the Eleventh Regiment (see page 345) as follows: "Various
causes combined to promote enlistments for the nine months'
regiments in the fall of 1862. The disastrous issue of McClel-
lan's Campaign on the Peninsula had impressed on every loyal
mind the need of new sacrifices and of more strenuous efforts.
Still, under the delusion that the failures of the Army of the
Potomac were caused by inadequacy of force, the North believed
that overwhelming numbers of troops must be at once mustered
to prevent yet more fatal calamities. The timid gladly offered
exhortations and money in order to hasten volunteering which
was to avoid the necessity of a draft. The short term of service
attracted many, whom duties at home . . . forbade to enter
for the longer period, on the duties of the soldier. . . .'*
The influence of the press and the pulpit all over the North
also contributed largely towards the immediate enrollment of
thousands in answer to the urgent call for more men. The
rapidity with which men came forward for enlistment in Rhode
Island resulted in the formation of two full regiments of one
thousand men each, in a remarkably short period of time.
The Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry commencing to recruit
early in September, left the State for the front on October 6th.
The Twelfth commenced its recruiting a little later in the month,
and, on the 13th of October, was mustered in, and left for the
front on the 21st.
In this regiment could be found men from all the varied walks
of life. The laborer from the fields of the country and the
streets of the city, the artist from his studio, the mechanic
from his shop, the collegian who had laid aside his books, the
farmer owning his broad acres, the lawyer from his clients, the
doctor from his patients, and the merchant and manufacturer
from their stores and their mills.
1 From a history edited by Edward Field A. B., published in 1902, entitled
State of Rhode Island and Providence PlanXations, at the end of the century.
Vol. I, Chapter XXII, page 376.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 5
The intelligent boy much under the age required by strict in-
terpretation of military rule, but well developed, was enabled to
find a rating and he was also present with us in the ranks, at-
tired in the uniform of the soldier and pledged to support,
through weal or woe his country's cause.
The writer enlisting on the 16th day of September, on the
22d reported at Camp Stevens, Providence, R. I., for duty, and,
on the 13th day of October, as a member of Company F, Twelfth
Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers, was mustered into the ser-
vice of the United States.
Has any of us forgotten his first lesson in camp life and mili-
tary discipline as inaugurated at the "old Dexter Training
Ground?" With what interest we would fall into line and listen
for the orders: "Attention! Company!" "In Two Ranks!"
"Right Face!" "File Right!" "March!"
After the duties of the day were over with what enjoyment we
would listen to the jokes and comments concerning our situa-
tion, present and prospective, relieved by an occasional song from
Sergeant Lindsey of Company F, or a grand old piece of sacred
melody as rendered by Comrade Kimball.
What a magnificent specimen of the "fine old Irish gentleman"
we always had before us for contemplation in the person of Com-
rade Houlahan, and, as a light weight, what other member of the
regiment could compare in continuous resistance to real or
imaginary wrongs with Comrade Monaghan, the redoubtable
Cornelius.
Who of us will ever forget our rations of "pea soup" and a
certain beverage, generously supplied under the name of "cof-
fee,"— a liquid of very peculiar odor and color, supposed at the
time, by some of the more curious who investigated, to have been
the medium wherein our supervisors, medical and surgical, en-
deavored to eliminate from the system all things relating to civil
life, — that we might the sooner become the full-fledged soldier.
And with what success we can all bear witness as we call to
mind the extraordinary developments resulting therefrom.
What subsequent manoeuvres could be compared with those pre-
vailing at this time all along the line? Here upon Camp Stevens
who could fail to discern the unmistakable evidence of the ele-
ment belligerent, and tactics "Killkenny," which, under the in-
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b HISTORY OP THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
fluence of military restraint and discipline, rapidly developed?
At first we could hear the occasional low, subdued, suggestive
roar, increasing in volume until later, at the camp near Fairfax
Seminary, — fully developed, the Lion's den became an estab-
lished institution. How fresh in memory we call to mind our
honored colonel, as, booted and spurred, he assumed command
of the regiment at Camp Stevens. How vividly we call to mind
Sergeant Lindsey of Company F, with improvised sabre, giving
an illustration of Colonel Browne's impressive presence, and
unique and vigorous action.
It was generally understood that the volunteer was to receive
his bounty before leaving the State. The boys of the Eleventh
received theirs accordingly. But the promptness of the paymas-
ter, though very satisfactory to the boys, proved to be not alto-
gether satisfactory to the authorities, as a number of the men,
taking advantage of the opportunity afforded in transit to the
front, dropped out and disappeared. After this experience it
was resolved to postpone the payment of the bounty due the
Twelfth regiment until after their arrival at the front. This be-
ing decided upon, it was so announced to the regiment while un-
der review at Camp Stevens, by our colonel, together with the
information that we were to proceed at once and take trans-
portation. By a large majority of the regiment this information
was received with enthusiasm and without question, and when
the order to "march" immediately following this announcement
was given, it was responded to promptly and with cheers, as
rapidly we moved to our point of embarkation. Quite a number
of disaffected ones, however, dropped out of the ranks to consider
more fully before leaving the State, this suspension of payment.
It was not at all surprising that some display of insubordina-
tion, the cause of which came unexpectedly and without con-
sideration, should thus have manifested itself. To many of our
comrades, turning from their homes for long, weary months, —
perhaps forever — leaving anxious and needy relatives, this sus-
pension of payment proved a grievous disappointment. We
were powerless to assuage the grief of anxious, loving hearts, and
many of us were now equally unable to provide for those slighter
comforts which might have been imparted by the possession of
the promised bounty.
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t-: :>ry
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 7
By threatening the "bounty jumper," however, who was dis-
covered and held up for inspection, and conciliating the honest
and well disposed^ who were soon led to see the necessity of the
measure, the authorities rapidly gathered together this install-
ment of delinquents who were forwarded in due time and
arrived to join us at Camp Chase.
As before stated, leaving somewhat reluctantly our com-
rades to consider the change in the programme concerning boun-
ties we arrived at our point of embarkation and between the
hours of six and seven p. m. on the 21st of October, the first con-
tingent of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers was safely
aboard the cars en route for the front. At 9.30 we arrived at
Groton, boarded the steamer Plymouth Rocky and, at eleven were
moving down the Sound. A heavy blow from the south pre-
vailed throughout the night changing to the northeast at day-
break, and at sunrise the sky was perfectly clear. We arrived
in Jersey City at eight a. m.^ and, embarking on the steamer
Kill Von Kull, at ten o'clock steamed toward Elizabethport.
Passing Staten Island we received our first ovation. The
streets and grounds, also the tops of many of the buildings^ were
thronged with people, all intent on their kindly greetings, wav-
ing flags and handkerchiefs, and loudly cheering as we passed
along.
Responding to our country ^s call,
What inspiration we receive,
As strangers ceasing from their toil,
Give cheers and kindly words
To help us on.
While leaving friends and home behind
We journey on,
Who but can feel, within his breast,
That what betide, in comradeship,
He may be spared the fate.
That may await, in battle's crash.
And once more see his native hills.
Illumined by the gilded rays
Of lasting peace.
We arrived at Elizabethport about twelve m. and left at three
p. M. en route by rail for Baltimore by way of Harrisburg, halted
at Phillipsburgh and at Easton ; passed through Reading in the
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O HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
night, and the next morning found onrselves close by Harris-
burg, and at sunrise on the morning of the 23d, entered the city.
We left the cars here, formed in the street for roll-call, and, im-
mediately after returning to our places, continued our journey.
The road we found to be strictly guarded long before we came
to Baltimore, passing detachment after detachment on picket,
who cheered as we went past. We arrived in Baltimore just at
nightfall Thursday evening. Leaving the cars, the regiment
formed, and proceeded through the streets of the city to our
resting-place for the night. While on our way we halted at the
special rendezvous established for soldiers, unslung knapsacks,
and paid our respects to a generous collation of coffee, bread,
beef, ham, tongue, etc. ; after which we slung knapsacks, marched
to the depot and camped for the night upon the floor. The fol-
lowing morning at six o'clock we turned out for roll-mil, and,
the regiment forming, we proceeded to our rendezvous of the
night before, received our breakfast, reformed our ranks, and,
marching about the city, visited the Washington monument and
also the monument erected in 1815 in commemoration of those
who, on the 13th and 14th of September, 1814, fell in Fort Mc-
Henry and on the field while in the defence of Baltimore from
the attacks of the British.
During a short halt of the regiment at the latter place an in-
cident occurred that reminded me quite forcibly of the reception
the Sixth Massachusetts received and of the ill-feeling still exist-
ing there. For instance, a man whom the writer supposed to be
a citizen of Baltimore, approached. Informing him as to where
we hailed from, in response to his inquiry, he sneeringly retorted
and volunteered to inform us that as soon as we arrived where
the foe could lay their hands on us, we were doomed, — and that
speedily — to disastrous and ignominious defeat. At this point
our interview was broken by our departure from this locality,
and our interviewer was left to enjoy the anticipation of our
soon being at the mercy of his loving friends in Dixie.
Returning to the depot we finally boarded the cars en route
for Washington. At frequent intervals along the road the camp-
fires of the picket station lighted up our train as we slowly pro-
gressed on our way We finally reached the great Capitol at
eleven p. m. on the night of the 24th of October. We proceeded
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 9
immediately to quarters assigned us^ unslung knapsacks, and
marched about forty rods to the "Soldiers' Retreat*' where we
found rations awaiting us. After a most determined onslaught
upon the collation we returned to our quarters, and, at one a. m.,
turned in.
The writer was hoping we might remain in Washington two or
three days, at least, but was disappointed. We afterwards found
that the Twelfth Rhode Island was not destined to remain long
in any one place, and, accordingly, the following morning at
-eleven o'clock, we were called upon to move on.
Passing down Pennsylvania Avenue we formed in line oppo-
site General Casey's headquarters, gave him three rousing cheers
and at twelve o'clock passed on to "Long Bridge" and across the
Potomac. This day (the 25th of October) was remarkably
warm, and the streets and highways were very dusty; and the
halt we made when about a mile from the river, was a relief most
fully appreciated; after which we continued our march for about
one mile farther, when, filing to the right we left the road, and,
forming our camp upon an eminence within sight of the dome of
the Capitol, pitched our tents in time to shelter us from the rain,
which, the next day, Sunday the 26th, poured in torrents, con-
tinuing throughout the day and night. In one of the tents as-
signed to Company F we had about twenty-two in number, and
among them we had two unlucky members, one of whom the
writer will call Corp. Eugene M. Thain, of Company F, the other,
Private Arnold Jenckes, of Company F, who located for the night
immediately in the centre of the tent directly under the cap.
This cap is a circular piece of canvas peculiar to the Sibley tent,
ingeniously contrived for the purpose of ventilation, is easily
adjusted by means of ropes that hang upon the outside within
easy reach, and the aperture which it covers could be closed en-
tirely or left partially or wholly open at the pleasure of the oc-
cupants. As it happened, we had quite a gale of wind through-
out the night, and the cap not being properly adjusted, blew off
^nd the rain came down upon the above mentioned comrades,
who turned out in the morning in a somewhat dilapidated con-
dition.
Monday the 27th, at noon, the storm ceased, the sun came out,
we dried our blankets, and, on Tuesday, repitched our tents in
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10 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
regular order. Here we were brigaded under Colonel Wright^
in Casey's division, of the army of the defences of Washington,
and received our arms — the right and left companies of the regi-
ment received the improved Springfield rifles ; the balance of the
regiment the old Springfield smooth bore.
Sunday, November 2d, we received orders to march, packed
knapsacks, and, at eleven a. m.^ bade farewell to Camp Chase.
Our route of march lay along the highway to the south, up a
hill and in the direction of Fairfax Seminary. We passed the
Seminary buildings at twelve m. They stood upon an eminence,
almost hidden from view by the thick growth of surrounding
trees, and were objects of interest to us, as being early associated
with leading events at the beginning of the conflict.
Six miles to the north, and partly in view, was the Capitol, and
from here also the course of the Potomac could be discerned for
many miles as it bore away to the south and east of us. A short
distance southeast of the Seminary on the left of the highway as
we descended the hill, we passed a small park or common. This
common was then utilized as a burial place for Union soldiers, —
each grave having a neat marker witb the name of the deceased,
and the regiment and company to which he belonged inscribed
thereon.
Continuing along half a mile farther, we left the highway, filed
to the right up a short, steep incline, and, at two p. m.^ formed
our camp and pitched our tents upon the summit of an eminence
on a level space directly between two fine large houses, — the oc-
cupants of which had left this beautiful situation to be occupied
by our troops, and their buildings to be used as quarters for our
officers and hospitals for our sick and wounded soldiers. The
highway from Fairfax Seminary passed in front, and at only a
few rods distance from us on the side of the hill, — our camp fac-
ing it towards the east. The city of Alexandria was about a
mile and a half also to the east of us and partly in view.
The great highway from Alexandria to Fairfax Court House
and Manassas passed our camp, running nearly east and west,
and at a distance of not more than fifty rods to the south at right
angles with the highway, passing our camp from the north which
entered it at this point.
This thoroughfare was lined with ambulances, baggage wag-
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 11
ong, and other vehicles. Our anxiety led us to immediately in-
vestigate concerning this remarkable ontpnt of ambulances, im-
plying that it must be decidedly unhealthy out towards Manas-
sas, and^ as it looked as though we might be called upon to take
a run out that way, we naturally felt uneasy. Investigation,
however, served to dispel our fears in some measure, and revealed
the gratifying fact that an immense camp had been established
at Alexandria for convalescent soldiers, and that these ambu-
lances were employed in bringing in the sick and disabled from
all points, thus relieving the army at the front of a great burden
and placing them where they could receive the attention neces-
sary to speedy recovery.
Having arrived at a solution of this somewhat startling prob-
lem, we proceeded to examine more fully the interesting features
of this panorama spread out before us from this remarkably fine
outlook.
The railroad from Alexandria to Bichmond, by way of Fred-
ericksburg, was a half-mile or more south of our camp, and ran
parallel with the wagon road for two miles, bearing away farther
to the south as it ascended the hills in the distance. The trains
were running night and day carrying re-enforcements and stores
to the front. Those roads were in full view of our camp for three
or four miles. We could see the trains as they started from
Alexandria, and as they continued their way far to the west of
us. The level space occupied by us on this elevated point cov-
ered an area of perhaps six or seven acres.
Our tents were pitched upon the southern point, and those 6f
another regiment alongside, and, at the north of us, and at an
elevation of perhaps two hundred feet above the level of the Po-
tomac, which coursed along in full view of our camp.
Across a valley to the northwest, and perhaps half a mile dis-
tant, was Fort Worth, and to the south of this fort, upon the
wagon road was Clouds Mills, so often referred to during the
earlier period of the Rebellion. Our camp on the south and west
was bounded by a bluff, up and down the steep side of which
we picked our way to and from the valley where a fine stream of
water coursed its way, supplied from springs located in the im-
mediate vicinity, and south of the Seminary buildings. The
Seminary, Fort Worth and our camp were all on about the same
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12 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
elevation, forming a half-circle; the Seminary at the north, our
camp on the southeastern, and Fort Worth on the southwestern
point. Taking into consideration the surroundings and associa-
tions connected with the situation, a more pleasant or interest-
ing place for our camp could not have been selected.
Monday, November 3d, the next day after forming our camp,
we packed knapsacks and had our first experience in picket duty.
Companies F and G were detailed for that purpose, and, at half
past eight in the morning, we moved down the hills, filed to the
right, passed Clouds Mills at nine, and continued on as far as
Bailey's Cross-Roads, a locality, the name of which we were all
familiar with before leaving home, through the columns of our
papers. Here passing this locality our forces had marched and
countermarched, and at this place we halted, established our
quarters and posted our pickets.
The following day at eleven o'clock, the reserve formed in line
to receive the new "guard," who in turn relieved our pickets, and
at twelve we started for camp, arriving at two p. m. Our camp
was named Camp Casey, near Fairfax Seminary. Alongside of
us were also encamped the Fifteenth Connecticut and the Thir-
teenth New Jersey, our regiment occupying the centre. Fifty of
our regiment were detailed November 7th as "Knights of the
Pick and Shovel" to do fatigue duty at Fort Blenker. The
"Knights" went out, accordingly, but soon returned, driven in
by the storm, which commenced the evening of the 6th, and, by
ten A. M. on the 7th, we found ourselves in the midst of an old-
fashioned New England snowstorm. The wind howled a gale,
the air was very cold, and the snow whirling about made our sit-
uation very uncomfortable, especially to those on guard and ex-
posed to its fury.
From November 8th to the 12th nothing of unusual interest
occurred, our time being taken up in drill and in other necessary
duties connected with camp life. November 12th our colonel re-
ceived orders to have the entire regiment in readiness early the
next day for picket duty. The roll of drums at six o'clock on the
morning of the 13th aroused many a drowsy soldier of the
Twelfth and interrupted many a pleasant dream of home,
awakening him to the stern reality of other duties and associa-
tions.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 13
At eight o'clock we formed in the company streets and at
8^0 our respective compainies passed Colonel Wright's headquar-
ters. The regiment formed for guard,— mounting directly in
front of his residence, executed the manoeuvres, listened to the
music from the brigade band, and, at 8.45, filing into the high-
way and taking the direction of Fairfax Court House, were
fairly on our way.
After passing Clouds Mills and ascending the hills beyond,
we came to a halt. The regiment was divided into companies of
one hundred and eight each. These divisions were named sup-
ports and numbered first, second, third, etc. This arrangement
being made, we continued our march, and, at eleven a. m., found
ourselves at the end of our journey. Here we found good shelter
awaiting us, gladly vacated by the Twenty-seventh New Jersey,
who turned out to receive us upon our arrival. Here our sup-
ports were subdivided into three reliefs of thirty-six men, each
relief to remain on duty four hours ; the first going on to be re-
lieved by the second, and the second by the third, thus giving each
relief eight hours at the general rendezvous. Immediately after
the formation of our reliefs we marched to our posts. We found
Post No. 1 located on the highway and alongside the ruins of a
large building destroyed by fire, probably since the war com-
menced, nothing being left but the walls and chimney.
Upon relieving this post we left the highway, which here runs
nearly east and west, taking our course along the fields to the
south for Post No. 2. The posts were perhaps thirty rods apart,
and three men were stationed at each with one sergeant or cor-
poral in charge of every three posts.
The orders were for one man to remain at the post while his
comrades were to patrol in opposite directions, meet the sentinel
from the post adjoining them and return, thereby keeping up
communication throughout the entire line; the men to have their
pieces loaded and bayonets fixed, with particular Instructions to
be vigilant, build no fires, light no matches, and neither smoke
nor indulge in loud conversation.
The line of pickets ran nearly north and south, the first sup-
port being on the right of the line commencing in the vicinity of
Bailey's Cross-roads and connected with the second at Post
No. 1. The line of our support ran from the main road towards
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14 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
the railroad, the distance between the two at this place being
perhaps a mile and a half; our support reaching two-thirds of
the distance, there to connect with the third, and so on to the
last support.
Our beat led over level spaces, up and down hills, where it re-
quired the greatest care to preserve our equilibrium, through
tangled thickets of bush and brier, and over every conceivable
obstacle in the shape of stump, stone, log, and bog. We were
very fortunate in having pleasant weather during this duty. We
took our posts at twelve, unslung our blankets, knapsacks, can-
teens, and loaded our pieces. We were relieved at four o'clock,
and arrived at the rendezvous in time to make our coffee by day-
light, eat our supper, spread our blankets and turn in. At mid-
night we were called up. The night was warm and pleasant,
the moon just rising as we took our posts. The time passed
quickly, and, at half past four, we were again at the rendezvous.
The weather continued fine and nothing remarkable occurred in
connection with our duties, unless we except a visit from Gen-
eral Casey, who rode along our picket line accompanied by his
staff on a tour of inspection, or the inability of Corp. Jimmy
Good, of Company F, to control his musket, which unexpectedly
went screaming into action with startling effect.
At eleven a. m., the 15th, we formed in line to receive the new
guard, and, by twelve, our last relief was in and we started for
camp. We reached it about two p. m. and found our rations of
soup and hot coffee awaiting us, to which we immediately paid
our respects.
Early Sunday, the 16th, we cleaned our muskets, brushed our
clothes, and, at eleven a. m.^ listened to our chaplain, who held
forth from the steps of the building adjoining our camp on the
north. This building was very large and was occupied by our
colonel, his staff, the post office, hospital, and quartermaster's
department.
Tuesday, the 18th, at dress parade, we had orders to be in
readiness the following morning for brigade review, — ^the same
to come off at Fort Albany.
Accordingly, the 19th, at 8.30 a. m. our raiment, ready and
equipped for the march, halted opposite Colonel Wright's head-
quarters. The Fifteenth Connecticut took position on the right,
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Major Cyrt s O. Dyer.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBES 15
the Thirteenth New Hampshire formed on the left, and we com-
menced our march. After proceeding abont two miles, the or-
der was countermanded, and, coming to an "about face,'' we
made quick march for our camp, arriving in time to escape a
drenching rain. As our large Sibley tents were furnished with
stoves and plenty of wood, we contrived to make ourselves com-
fortable for the balance of the day.
On the 2l8t our time came for picket duty, and again the
Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers, was favored with
pleasant weather. While the other regiments of our brigade had
to contend with storms while on this duty, the Twelfth thus far
escaped this discomforting experience. Saturday, the 22d, was
Yerj warm and pleasant, but Sunday, the 23d, the sky was par-
tially overcast with clouds. The air was raw and chilly and the
wind blew a gale from the northwest. At^two p. m. our regi-
ment came in, all in good spirits, and glad to get into camp.
Monday, the 24th, we had a pleasant day and a fine time drill-
ing. The men were in excellent spirits and were fast improving
in the drill and discipline necessary to make the effective soldier.
With what readiness we fell in for battalion drill, under the
leadership of Major Dyer, whose impressive presence, eagle eye,
and military bearing, bespoke the ideal soldier!
The Twelfth, as yet, continued in remarkably good condition
compared with the Thirteenth New Hampshire and the Fifteenth
Connecticut, who, arriving here at the same time as ourselves,
had already lost several men and at this time had quite a num-
ber sick in the hospital.
Tuesday, the 25th, was a cloudy, misty day, and in the night
it rained quite hard. Wednesday morning it cleared in time for
us to attempt drill. The downfall during the night had softened
the surface of the clay, a peculiarity in the mud at this place,
which you can appreciate by spreading lard an inch thick upon a
plank and then attempting to walk upon it. I will give Com-
rade Andrew M. Belcher credit for the foregoing illustration of
the condition of our parade ground, which was a correct one.
Our manoeuvres this day, though occupying a very brief period,
developed many new features in fancy drill.
The 27th was Thanksgiving day in Rhode Island and it was
also duly observed by us in camp. We were relieved from drill,
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16 HI8T0BY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
attended divine service at eleven a. m.^ and had a little recrea-
tion walking about the country. Several of us, having now the
opportunity, took a run down to Alexandria to which place we
found we had underrated the distance, it being nearly two and
a half miles from the camp. We passed the convalescent camp,
situated on the heights to the west of Alexandria, and to the
north of Fort Ellsworth, on the same eminence. In the vicinity
of this camp was the "Recruiting Camp,'' making, in the aggre-
gate, an immense collection of tents and occupants. From this
locality we had a very extensive view of the country for miles
around. In full view lay the City of Washington to the north of
us; Fairfax Seminary, two miles to the northwest, and Alex-
andria, a short distance to the east and perhaps one hundred feet
below the level on which we stood. The view of the Potomac
from this height was simply grand !
Acquia Creek at this time being the base of Burnside's opera-
tions in Virginia, the Potomac was crowded with vessels of
every size and description plying between Acquia Creek, Alexan-
dria and Washington.
Thanksgiving in camp recalls to mind the scarcity of all the
good things necessary to make up a first-class dinner. Many
of our regiment will recollect that while in camp here, how and
where one or more of our comrades located a remarkably fine
turkey; how the colonel's larder was relieved of the same; the
indignant colonel; the speedy arrest of the guilty culprit; free
exhibition of "High Horse" manoeuvring, a feature in military
tactics well calculated to strike terror to the heart of the guilty
offender.
December Ist, we received orders to march at once and at
twelve M. our brigade was on the move. We passed through
Washington just at nightfall over the bridge which crosses the
east branch of the Potomac, and encamped near Uniontown in
Maryland about two miles beyond the city for the night. The
following morning we continued our journey along the Mary-
land side of the Potomac.
I will again quote from Rhode Island in the Rebellion by Ed-
win W. Stone, who thus describes the close of our third day's
march. This is what he writes : "The sight at the close of their
third day's march was a grand one. The two brigades that had
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BHODB ISLAND TOLUNTBimfl 17
thus far preceded were overtaken. They had encamped on the
southern or farther side hills of the Piscataway valley and we on
the north^n. The whole formed a sort of amphitheatre, when all
were in position. Gamp-fires blajsed np in every direction. The
sight was very dark and this improvised illumination lighted
up objects around with startling effect. The whole was height-
ened by the hurrahs and shouts of the men. The rabbits which
abound in this region were constantly being routed from their
hiding places, and, in their terror and attempt to escape, would
mn from one squad or company or r^ment to another, and the
men, forgetting their weariness and blisters, would put chase
with a hurrah and shout that echoed among the hills till it
sounded as if Pandemonium were let loose. The darkness of
the night, the fitful flash of the thousands of camp-fires, the
rushing to and fro of the soldiers in the chase and the echoed
shouts, all produced a scene of grand confusion and brilliancy
rarely seen, and which will never be forgotten by those who
witnessed it."
We had fine weather until Friday, the 5th, when it com-
menced raining and at night turning to snow, made our en-
campment exceedingly unpleasant. We expected to have reached
the Potomac Friday night, but the rain softening the roads made
our progress extremely difficult and tedious, and, at three p. m.,
we discontinued our march and encamped. It ceased snowing
early in the night and the next day at ten a. m. we were on the
march. It was a most delightful morning (in contrast with our
condition the night before), and one ever to be remembered. The
snow had crusted over, bearing our weight as we marched, and
the sun shining brightly gave the evergreen trees and shrubs by
the roiidside, a beautiful appearance, as they glittered with snow.
At twelve m. we were upon the banks of the Potomac at
Liverpool Point opposite Acquia Creek waiting our turn to be
ferried across. It came at last, and, at five p. m., we were aboard
our craft — ^an open ferry boat — and on cur way. At seven we
were alongside the pier, and, at eight, off the boat, and in line,
waiting orders. It was a bitter cold night and our halt of an
hour and a half at this place will ever be remembered by the r^-
ment. After a tedious search our colonel found a brook and
nearby, on a side hill, a space where the trees had been felled and
2
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18 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
some of them cut up, and, at half past nine, we finally received
orders to move, — ^passing up the railroad which ran from Acquia
Creek to Fredericksburg. We left the track, filing to the left,
and, after proceeding about one-third of a mile, the regiment
was speedily brought up, pushed by companies in among the
fallen timbers, and we proceeded to encamp.
The spot selected was on the side of a hill where heavy timber
had recently been cut, and most of it taken oflP, but the tops of
the trees, and some of the large logs, had been left and were
covered with snow which had fallen the nigh I: before. The
difSculties we encountered here, our fruitless endeavor to make
ourselves anything but miserable, lack of sufficient rations, the
intense suffering caused by the accumulation of smoke from our
fires that hung about and around us, and from which we could
not escape, are ever present to us as memory calls to mind ^^Camp
Smoke."
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
Series 1, Vol. XXI, Paget 338 and 339.]
Report op Col. Aaron F. Stevens, Thirteenth New Hampshire
Infantry.
Opposite Fredericksburg, Va.,
Dec. 22, 1862.
I have the honor to report to you the operations of the regi-
ment under my command since their departure from Camp
Casey, near Fairfax Seminary, Va. . . .
My regiment moved from Camp Casey on the 1st instant with
the 1st brigade of Casey's division, consisting of the 15th Con-
necticut, 13th New Hampshire, 12th Rhode Island, and 25th and
27th New Jersey Volunteers, under command of the Senior Col.
Dexter R. Wright, of the 15th Connecticut Vols.
The first day we reached Uniontown, some two miles southerly
from Washington City. We encamped the second day near Pis-
cataway, and the third day, about six miles northerly from Port
Tobacco. We passed Port Tobacco about noon of the fourth
day, and encamped for the night some six miles west of that
place. The fifth day in the midst of a cold and. violent snow
storm, we encamped about a mile and a half from Liverpool
Point, or Bluebank as it is sometimes called, a point on the Po-
tomac nearly opposite Acquia Creek.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 19
On the morning of the sixth day we broke camp and marched
to Blnebank, where we were detained some eight hours awaiting
transportation ; the soldiers during that time being exposed to a
keen, cold, piercing wind which swept down the river and across
the plateau where they halted.
My regiment was ferried across the Potomac about six o^clock
Saturday evening. The weather was extremely cold, and the
men suffered much from its severity.
From Acquia Creek, where we landed, we marched about two
miles, and encamped in a ravine well sheltered from the northerly
winds, but filled with snow. . . .
In this encampment we remained until the next Tuesday after-
noon, when we moved to this point, reaching here Wednesday
afternoon. . . .
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your Excel-
lency's obedient servant,
A. F. STEVENS,
Colonel Thirteenth Regiment N. H. Vols.
His Excellency Nathaniel S. Berry,
Governor op New Hampshire.
We will now return to the organization of our regiment,
its brief stay at Camp Stevens, its departure therefrom,
our journey to Washington by rail and boat, our march
across the Potomac, the establishing of Camp Chase, the
formidable weapon assigned us, namely, the old Springfield
smooth bore, with its deadly outfit of ball and buckshot; taking
in also the sights and scenes coming under our observation from
the remarkably fine outlook afforded us at Camp Casey, near
Fairfax Seminary, at which place our camp was established Nov.
2, 1862, our varied duties there; how, December 1st, our brigade
broke camp, marched to Washington, thence along the Maryland
side of the Potomac to Liverpool Point, were from here ferried
across the river to Acquia Creek, and, at ten p m., December 6th,
again going into camp on Virginia soil under conditions wherein
the question might not unnaturally arise "And why did you go
for a soldier?"
While on this march, who of us will cease to remember the
miserable allowance of "mouldy hard-tack" and the impossibility
of procuring anything else whatever upon which to satisfy our
hunger? The scarcity of live stock along our line of march yTRs,
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90 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH BBGIMENT
after due investigation, prononnced as something remarkable;
the stealthy tread of the lAon, even, failed to surprise, or its
roar of disappointment startle from its hiding, the coveted prize.
I well remember coming upon a squad of Ck)mpanj F, a portion
of whom wer^on the lookout for Colonel Browne, who had issued
strict orders against foraging along our line of march, while the
balance of the crowd had started a fire upon whose smoking em-
bers a very small animal, with very long bristles, was undergo-
ing treatment in the interests of roast pig for breakfast; but a
most important factor, salt, could not be obtained to render the
dish palatable; the expected feast gave way to the more lively
practice of the gymnast, as under the impulse of disappoint-
ment, and the vigorous application of the army whang, all traces
of failure went scurrying skyward, while the altitude, acquired
by certain portions, was something astonishing. At no time dur-
ing our term of service were we compelled to subsist on such con-
temptible rations as were issued us during this march, and, after
a continued journey of six days, at about ten p. m., on the even-
ing of December 6th, a decision to halt, if only for a day or two,
was extremely gratifying to us. In the meantime, we hoped
that our commissary might have a chance to improve our condi-
tion, as our dilapidated stomachs had become in appearance
identical with that of "Seth Green's Shad" after passing through
his hands in the interests of pisciculture.
Here, after being enveloped in smoke for about forty-eight
hours, it appeared quite certain that starvation, asphyxiation,
annihilation, and possibly damnation to the unregenerated, was
to be the immediate doom of the regiment.
However, on the morning of the 9th, the clouds of smoke par-
tially rolled away, and, as the beams of the sun illumined our
camp, our commissary appeared upon the scene. With what
emotion we contemplated the expected feast, as the camp kettles,
filled to overflowing, were swung upon the glowing fires! But
presto, change, — the beat of the drum, the hurried commands,
"pack knapsacks," "fall in", — rolled sharp upon the field I
Speedily the Twelfth Regiment is again in motion ; our feast, "so
near, and yet so far." Quickly emerging from the glowing sur-
roundings of "Camp Smoke," we resume our march. As we
stride along, our thoughts linger but briefly over our bitter dis-
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS SI
appointment, and our sudden call led ns to contemplate other
possibilities. Under the friendly shelter of the trees, whose over-
hanging branches, in our imagination, look down upon us in si-
lence and sympathy, we halt for the night. On the afternoon of
the following day, we descended the hills towards the plains of
the Rappahannock, and at Glaybourne's Run, at the foot of the
hills, on the evening of December 10th, we halted.
Here, and in the immediate vicinity, the Army of the Potomac
was fast concentrating. Qeneral Burnside, whose headquarters
were at the Phillips House, about a mile in front of our position,
hastens to greet our colonel as an old friend and acquaintance,
after which brief interview we prepared to camp for the night.
Somewhere about eleven p. m., through the combined eflPorts of
the commissary and cook, a generous allowance of hot soup was
distributed, only to be secured, however, by a limited number of
the boys. The balance of the regiment, weary, footsore and lame
from long-continued marching, had pitched their tents early, un-
der the shelter of which they soon became oblivious to present
surroundings and did not respond to the call for rations.
It will not be out of place here to review events transpiring
since November 7th, the date of McClellan's retirement, and of
Burnside's appointment to the command of the army.
General Burnside, having reluctantly accepted the responsi-
bility, quickly decided to move upon Fredericksburg. The move-
ment was made with great rapidity. Burnside only failed of
seising the place through the non-arrival of the pontoons at the
time appointed.
Lee, occupying the town, threw up his earthworks and planted
his batteries. In the meantime, a heavy storm set in which still
further delayed operations on the part of our army, thus giving
lee an opportunity to so strengthen his works as to render them
well-nigh impregnable to assault from the direction contemplated
in the original plan of General Burnside.
It was generally supposed that the army would go into winter
quarters now, while the press of the country pronounced the
campaign at an end.
Here, alongside the Seventh Rhode Island, on a gravelly knoll
or bluff, at the foot of which the clear waters of Claybourne's
Run shallow as they broaden and ripple across the highway, and
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22 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
over which stream we were destined to march and countermarch
so many, many times, with ever lessening numbers, — here, incor-
porated in the Army of the Potomac and at the immediate front,
hurriedly we pitched our tents and awaited developments.
The people of the. North were greatly discouraged that our
splendidly equipped army, from which so much was expected,
should have accomplished so little. Chafing under the general
ill-feeling prevailing. Congress demanded that Burnside should
move somewhere. Neither the public, the politician nor the war
department would consent to his going into winter quarters.
No alternative remained for General Burnside except to devise
a new plan. He had already obtained correct information of
the position held by General Lee, who occupied Fredericksburg,
and whose advance columns, along the river in front of the city,
lay strongly entrenched; while the main body of his army occu-
pied the heights in the rear of the city and the hills upon either
side, the line of his main defences running parallel with the
river from opposite Falmouth to a point some two and a half
miles below the city. The right and left defences of Lee's army
occupied positions three-quarters of a mile from the banks of the
Rappahannock, while the line gradually receding at Deep Run
(where Jackson's and Longstreet's corps intersected, forming the
centre of the rebel army), .the distance from the river was about
a mile and a quarter. At the rear of the centre, on the Rich-
mond road. General Lee had established his headquarters.
Deep Run, an almost impassable ravine, separated Jackson's
corps from Longstreet's, but General Lee caused a road to be
constructed through the woods and across the ravine by which
troops could be readily marched to the right or left, as might be
necessary.
Judging that Lee did not expect him to cross the river opposite
Fredericksburg, but lower down, Burnside decided to bridge the
Rappahannock directly opposite the town, as well as below, and
make a desperate push to obtain possession of the road men-
tioned above, thus dividing Lee's army. This plan was consid-
ered and accepted by a council of officers December 10th.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 23
OFFICIAL RJEC0RD8.
[Series 1, VoL XXI, Page 103.]
Headquarters, Army op the Potomac,
November 22, 1862.
General: By reference to my plan of operations submitted
by order of the Commander-in-Chief, it will be found that one of
the necessary parts of that plan was to have started from Wash-
ington at once pontoon trains sufOicient to span the Eappahan-
nock at Fredericksburg twice, and I was assured that at least
one train would leave as soon as the General-in-Chief and Gen.
Meigs returned. . . .
It is very clear that my object was to make the move to Fred-
ericksburg very rapidly, and to throw a heavy force across the
river before the enemy could concentrate a force to oppose the
crossing, and supposed the pontoon train would arrive at this
place nearly simultaneously with the head of the column. Had
that been the case, the whole of General Sumner's column —
33,000 strong — ^would have crossed into Fredericksburg at once
over a pontoon bridge, in front of a city filled wth families of
rebel officers, and sympathizers with the rebel cause, and gar-
risoned by a small squadron of cavalry and a battery of artillery
which Gen. Sumner silenced within an hour after his arrival.
Had the pontoon bridge arrived even on the 19th or 20th, the
army could have crossed with trifling opposition. But now the
opposite side of the river is occupied by a large rebel force under
General Longstreet with batteries ready to be placed in position
to operate against the working parties building the bridge, and
the troops in crossing. . . .
The work of the quartermaster's and commissary departments
at Acquia Creek or Belle Plain has been most completely accom-
plished, and I am not prepared to say that every effort has not
been made to carry out the other parts of the plan ; but I must,
in honesty and candor, say that I cannot feel that the move indi-
cated in my plan of operations will be successful after two very
important parts of the plan have not been carried out, — no mat-
ter for what reason.
The President said that the movement in order to be success-
ful must be made quickly, and I thought the same.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient ser-
vant,
A. E. BURNSIPE.
Gen. G. W. Cullum,
Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C.
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24 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
OFFICIAL BEC0BD8.
[8«riM 1, Vol. XXI, Page 61.]
Headquarters, Army of the Potomac,
Dec. 9, 1862, 4.05 a. m.
In accordance with your directions I send you copies of orders
issued which I hope will be satisfactory. I will send you a more
definite dispatch after my interview with the commanders of
grand divisions today.
Our movements have been very much embarrassed by the cold
weather, but we still hope for success. The gunboats will not
be able to assist us in consequence of the ice in the river ; in fact,
it is feared that they may now be frozen in at a point some thirty
miles below here. The harbor at Belle Plain was frozen over
this morning. The men suflPer very much from the cold, but the
sick list is not very largely increasing. I hope to make the at-
tempt to cross on Thursday morning at daybreak, with chances
of success in our favor.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
MajorOeneral Commanding Army of the Potomac.
Maj.-Gbn. H. W. Haixeck,
General-in-Chief^ Washington.
In the distribution of regiments, the Twelfth, through the
efforts of Colonel Sayles, of the Seventh Rhode Island, was brig-
aded with the Seventh, in the First Brigade, General Nagle ; Sec-
ond Division, General Sturgis; Ninth Army Corps, General Will-
cox, in General Sumner's Grand Division.
Preparations were made that night for crossing the river. The
artillery took their position along the bank. Orders were issued
to the troops to be in readiness. A brigade of engineers was or-
dered down to the river. Soon after dark the brigade, with its
long train of boats, came rumbling down the Stafford Hills.
Boats sufScient for two bridges halted near the railroad ; enough
for two more continued one-third of a mile down stream opposite
the lower end of the town, while the remainder of the boats were
carried a mile and a half still further down.
Sumner and Hooker were to use those opposite the town, while
Franklin's troops were to cross on those below. To protect the
engineers in their work, a brigade of troops was ordered out.
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SrUCiEON l^ENONI CARPENTER.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBHS 25
Beside their guns the artillerymen stood ready to open fire if the
rebels opposed them. The engineers removed the boats from
the wagons, and, anchoring'them one by one in the stream, com-
menced laying the timbers and planks. By daybreak, on the
morning of the 11th, the bridges were nearly completed. A dense
fog prevailed, which concealed operations.
The Eighth Florida Regiment of Perry's brigade, and the
Seventeenth and Eighteenth Mississippi of Barksdale's brigade,
were on picket along the river, while the Third Georgia, and the
Thirteenth and Twenty-first Mississippi, were in reserve in the
town.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[SwiM 1, Vol. XXI, P»g« 64.]
Headquarters^ Army op the Potomac,
Dec. 9, 1862, 11.30 p. m.
Gbnerad: All the orders have been issued to the several com-
manders of grand divisions and heads of departments for an at-
tempt to cross the river Thursday morning. The plans of the
movement are somewhat modified by the movements of the en-
emy, who have been concentrating in large force opposite a point
at which we originally intended to cross. I think now that the
enemy will be more surprised by a crossing immediately in our
front than in any other point of the river. The commanders of
grand divisions coincide with me in this opinion, and I have ac-
cordingly ordered the movement which will enable us to keep
the force well concentrated, at the same time covering our com-
munications in the rear. . . .
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Maj.-Gen. Cominaunding.
General. G. W. Cullum,
Chief of Staff, Washington.
Lee expected an advance of the Union army. His commands
were given "to be especially vigilant." The sentinels along the
river through the long winter night peered into the darkness,
listening to catch the meaning of the confused* hum as it fioated
to them across the stream.
On the morning of the 11th, at five o'clock, the deep and heavy
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26 HISTORY OP THB TWELFTH EBGIMENT
roar of the signal guns, rolling along the valley and reverberat-
ing from hill to hill, roused the sleepers of both armies.
The crossing was not to be a surprise; the rebels were ready
for battle. At daybreak, the rebel pickets along the river opened
fire. The rattling of their musketry was immediately followed
by the roar from our batteries, as grape and canister were hurled
across the stream. At the lower bridges the rebel pickets were
compelled to retire, and the engineers completed their work. But
at the upper bridges the resistance of the rebels was such that,
notwithstanding the most heroic efforts of the builders, it was
found impossible to land the bridge upon the opposite shore.
The Mississippi sharpshooters, taking shelter in the buildings,
poured a continuous and deadly fire upon them. Nearly every
soldier who attempted to carry out a plank, fell. "The bridges
must be completed," said General Burnside. Again the brave
engineers attempted it. The fog still hung over the river. From
the northern bank only the flashes of the rifles could be seen on
the other shore. Our gunners, posted on the bluff opposite the
town, could only fire at random, but with such rapidity that the
engineers were able to carry the bridge to within seventy or
eighty feet of the opposite shore, when the fire of the rebels be-
came so deadly in turn that it was simply murder to send men
out with a plank.
The Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers, in the meantime, rest-
ing at Claybourne's Run about one mile from the Rappahannock,
not so far exhausted as to be oblivious to all things transpiring,,
had revolved in their minds the probabilities of soon encounter-
ing something more startling even than frost, smoke or starva-
tion, and when at five o'clock on the morning of the 11th the re-
port of Lee^s signal guns came rolling across the valley of the
river, although a few of the regiment, not fully conscious of the
situation, might be prompted to inquire "Where am I at?" it
was soon evident to all that something would have to be attended
to, in which the Twelfth would doubtless be invited to partici-
pate.
At about nine a m. we received twenty extra rounds of ammu-
nition; were ordered to place our knapsacks and extra luggage
in a pile, and, with tent and blanket, musket and equipments,
place ourselves in line, shortly after which, the regiment, taking
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RHODB I8I/AND VOLUNTEERS 27
the highway to Fredericksburg, crossing the run and proceeding
a short distance, gained the level of the plains opposite the town.
We here left the road, filed to the right, joined our brigade, rested
upon our arms at a distance of about three-quarters of a mile
from the point of slaughter below the bluff, and awaited the
completion of the bridge.
General Burnside's headquarters were at the Phillips House,
a short distance from us to the right of our position, with the
Locej House a half mile in advance of us to the left, and upon
the bluff overlooking the river.
I will now quote from C. C. Ck>iBn, correspondent of the Bos-
ton Journal, who was present at Burnside's headquarters and
whose report relates to what was taking place while we were
resting on our arms at the Phillips House. This is what he
says :
''At half-past nine General Bumside stood on the piazza of the
Phillips House, three-quarters of a mile from the pontoons.
General Sumner and General Hooker were there. Aids and cou-
riers came and went with messages and orders. ^My bridge is
completed and I am ready to cross' was Franklin's message from
below at half past nine. 'You must wait until the upper bridge
is completed,' was the reply to Franklin.
"Two hours passed, a half-dozen attempts were made to com-
plete the upper bridge, without success. Brave men, not belong-
ing to the engineers, came down to the bank and volunteered
their services, seized planks and boards, ran out upon the bridge,
only to fall before the sharpshooters concealed in the cellars of
the houses, not ten rods distant. Captain Brainard, of the Fif-
tieth New York, volunteered to finish the nearly completed work.
They went out upon the run ; five fell at one volley, and the rest
returned. Captain Perkins, of the same regiment, led another
party. He fell with a ghastly wound in his neck. Half of his
men were killed or wounded, their blood turning crimson the
ttirbid waters of the Rappahannock.
"Gteneral Burnside had no desire to injure the town, but, under
the usage of war, he had a right to bombard it, for the rebels had
concealed themselves in houses, making use of them to slaughter
his men. ^Bring all your guns to bear upon the city and batter
it down,' was the order issued to General Hunt, chief of artil-
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28 HISTORY or THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
levy. Colonel Hays had eight batteries on the right. Colonel
Thompson had eleven batteries on the right centre^ opposite the
upper pontoons, some of them in the yard of Mr. Lacy's house.
Colonel Tyler had seven batteries a little farther down on the
left centre, while Captain DeRussey had seven batteries opposite
the lower pontoons.
"There were in all thirty-five batteries, with a total of one hun-
dred and seventy-nine guns, all bearing upon the town. The ar-
tillerymen received orders to prepare for action with a hurrab.
They had chafed all the morning and longed for an opportunity
to avenge their fallen comrades. The hour had come. They
sprang to their pieces. The fire ran from right to left, from the
heavy tw^ity-four pounders on the heights of Falmouth to the
smaller pieces on the hills where Washington passed his boy-
hood. The earth shook beneath the terrific explosions of sh^ls
which went howling over the river, crashing into houses, batter-
ing down walls, splintering doors and ripping up fioors. Sixty
solid shot and shells a minute were thrown and the bombard-
ment was kept up, until nine thousand were fired. No hot shot
were used, but the explosion set fire to a block of buildings,
which added terrible grandeur to the scene.
"The rebel army stood upon the heights beyond the town and
watched the operations. Lee's artillery was silent, and the Mis-
sissippians, concealed in the houses, were alone in the contest.
The fog lifted at last and revealed the town. The streets were
deserted, but the houses, the church steeples and the stores were
riddled with shot, yet no impression had been made on the Mi»-
sissippians. Burnside's artillerymen could not depress thdir
pieces sufficiently to shell them out. A working party went out
upon the bridge but one after another was killed or wounded.
"The time had come for a bold movement. It was plain that a
party must go over in boats, charge up the hill, and rout them
from their hiding places. Who would go? Who would attempt
the hazardous enterprise? Hall's brigade, standing on the bank
by the Lacy House, had watched the proceedings during the
long hours. They were accustomed to hard fighting. This brig-
ade was composed of the Seventh Michigan, Nineteenth and
Twentieth Massachusetts and Forty-second New Ywk. They had
fought at Fair Oaks, Savage Station, Glendale, Malvern Hill and
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IjTJi-:-'
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Crossing the River in Pontoons.
Copyright 1884-1888 »)y The Century Co.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBIRS 29
Antietam. The Twentieth had been in all these battles and
were also at Ball's Blnff. ^We will go over and clean out the
rriiels," was the cry of this brigade. ''You shall have the privi-
lege," said General Bnmside. There were not boats enough for
all, — not enough for one raiment even. A portion of the
Seventh Michigan was selected to go first, while the other fo-
ments stood as a supporting force. The men run down the path
to the water's edge, l^mp into the boats, and push into the
stream. It is a moment of intense excitement. No one knows
how large is the force opposing them. The rebel sharpshooters
are watching the movements from their hiding places. They
have a fair view and can pick their men. The men in the boats
know it, but they move steadily onward, steering straight across
the stream, without a thought of turning back, though their
comrades are falling, some headlong into the river, and others
dropping into the boats. The oarsmen pull with rapid strokes.
When one falls, another takes his place. Two-thirds the dis-
tance over the boats ground in shoal water. The soldiers wait
for no word of command, but, with a common impulse, with an
ardor which stops not to count the cost, they leap into the water,
wade to the shore, and rush up the slippery slope. A loud hur-
rah rings out from the soldiers who watch them from the Fal-
mouth shore. Up, up, they go, facing death, fearing not, in-
tent only to get at the foe, and win victory at the point of the
bayonet. They smash the windows, batter down doors, driving
or capturing the foe. Loud and hearty are the cheers of the
regiments on the opposite shore. When the bridge builders saw
the soldiers charge up the hill, they too, caught the enthusiasm
of the moment and finished the bridge. The other r^ments of
the brigade before the last planks were laid, rushed down, ran
out upon the bridge, dashed up the bank, joined their comrades,
and drove the rebels from the streets nearest the river."
History furnishes but few records of more daring exploits
than this sketch of the Seventh Michigan. Their work was
thorough and complete. In fifteen minutes they cleared the
houses in front of them and took more prisoners than their own
party numbered.
It was now half-past four in the afternoon, one of the shortest
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30 HI8TORT OF THS TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
days of winter. The sun was going down. The rebels had de-
layed the crossing through the entire day.
The other brigades of General Howard's division moved across
the river. The rebel batteries, which till now had kept silent,
opened furiously with solid shot and shell, but the troops moved
steadily over and took shelter under and along the river bank.
The rebels were falling back from street to street, and the men
from Michigan and Massachusetts were pursuing. Far up the
streets there were bright flashes from the muskets of the rebels,
who fired from cellar, chamber windows, and other sheltered
places.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Page 64.]
Dec. 11, 1862, 6.30 p. m.
(Received 7.40 p. m.)
General: Our troops now occupy Fredericksburg. We have
two bridges opposite the town, and two below, with a force on
the opposite bank covering them. I exx)ect to cross the rest of
my command to-morrow.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-Oeneral.
Major-Gen. Hallbck.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages 64 and 65.]
Headquarters, Army op the Potomac,
December 11, 1862, 7.45 p. m.
(Received 8.45 p. m.)
. . . Fredericksburg is occupied by a division of our troops,
and I hope to have the main body of our force over early tomor-
row. Our loss is very slight.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-Oeneral Commanding.
Maj.-Gbn. H. W. Halleck.
Nearer moved the dark masses of men in blue, who gave quick
volleys as they marched steadily on, demolishing doors, crushing
in windows and searching every hiding place. Cannons were
flaming on all the hills, and the whole country was all aflame
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 31
with the camp-fires of the two great armies. The Stafford Hills
were alive with men, regiments, brigades and divisions, moving
in columns from their encampments to cross the river. The sky
was without a cloud. The town was lighted by lurid flames.
The air was full of hissing, the sharp cutting sound of the leaden
rain. The great, twenty-pound guns on the heights of Falmouth
were roaring the while. There were shouts, hurrahs, yells and
groans from the streets. So the fight went on, until the rebels
were driven wholly from the town to their entrenchments be-
yond.
In the meantime our brigades, which had rested on their arms
near General Sumner's quarters the greater part of the day, late
in the afternoon were ordered to return, occupy their camp of
the night before and wait for further orders.
. . . The pale-faced moon looks bloody on the earth,
And lean lookM prophets whisi>er f earf al change. . . .
Richard II.
Here on the night of the 11th of December we again pitched
our tents under the shelter of which we stretched our weary
limbs, and, as the events of the day rapidly passed in review, for-
getfulness stole upon the senses, anxious thoughts were dispelled
by refreshing sleep and the night sped away.
Again in light marching order, the early morning of the 12th
finds us in line and under orders to move at once. On the south-
em bank of the Rappahannock, foothold having been secured, the
army crossed the river. With the rest of our brigade, the
Twelfth was speedily underway. Crossing the run, we came
again upon the level plain and taking the same course as on the
day before, passed General Sumner's quarters, to whose grand
division we belonged.
The general stood on the piazza of the Phillips House as we
marched past; his snow white head uncovered, presenting a strik-
ing figure, — ^by most of us to be remembered as the first and only
opportunity we were to have to see the venerable general whose
advanced age compelled his retirement from active service
shortly afterwards.
On the extreme edge of the plain, in the direction in which we
were marching and to the front and left of us, the Lacy House,
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32 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH BEGIMENT
a fine old mansion with its numerous out-buildings, occupied a
position from which an extended view could be had of the sur-
rounding country. The point on the bluif, where this fine old
historic mansion was situated, is elevated one hundred feet abo^e
the level of the river, at about the same elevation as the hills in
the rear of the town, — one mile from the river where Lee had
planted his batteries.
Across the river directly opposite the Lacy House, not more
than one^third of a mile "as the crow flies/' and at an average
height from the level of the river of about fifty feet, lay the old
sleepy town of Fredericksburg.
At the Lacy House General Sumner took position while his
divisions were engaged in the assault upon the heights, and from
that point directed operations. Opposite, and for a quarter of a
mile towards Falmouth, above the Lacy House, the bluff descend-
ing to the river is remarkably steep, the general outline only
broken at one place by a ravine, along the sides of which the de-
scent to the river could be somewhat facilitated. To this ravine
the regiment directed its course, and also on this point Lee's gun-
ners had trained their pieces. Under their fii*e we entered the
ravine and speedily made our way to the foot of the hill, then
taking the "right oblique" a few rods across a comparatively
level space, we reached the pontoons and crossed the river where
the day before such determined resistance was made by the reb-
els to delay or prevent the completion of the bridge. This bridge
was laid exactly in line with what is now called Fourteenth
Streetj and up the slippery, steep ascent of this unimproved, un-
graded opening, we scrambled. Our course along Fourteenth
Street lay directly towards the enemy occupying the heights be-
yond the rear of the town. About five hundred feet from the
river this street crosses Caroline Street (now B Street). Filing
to the left, we entered this, the principal street of the town, and
here, alongside this thoroughfare, partly sheltered from the tire
of the enemy, we rested on our arms and waited further orders,
this portion of the town suffered severely during the shelling of
the place the day before as the fire, from our batteries across the
river, was directed to this point; there also the sharpshooters,
after being driven from the buildings nearest the river, contested
the advance of our troops, and only through the pressure of over-
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBERS 33
powering numbers, they finally retreated to the shelter of their
entrenchments beyond the town. "Bight into the jaws of death"
rushed the first detachment of the Seventh Michigan, whose he-
roic efforts rendered it possible to complete the bridge.
OFFICIAL BECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Page 65.]
Headquarters^ Army op the Potomac,
Dec. 12, 1862.
(Received 4.45 p. m.)
Our forces are crossing the river, and thus far without opposi-
tion.
A. E. BUENSIDE,
MajorOenertU.
This precipitated the final struggle for the possession of the
town, the evidence of which, in some measure, we now had leisure
to contemplate. Within forty feet of my place in the ranks, the
lifeless remains of two of the rebels lay exposed to view ; the one
nearest me having had the top of his head, just above his eyes,
squarely taken off; a grim messenger from our artillery being
doubtless the transforming agent. Inside a small enclosure, at
the corner of Caroline and Fourteenth Streets, could be seen a
newly excavated trench, alongside of which sixteen of our sol-
diers lay in a row, cold and still in death, awaiting burial. The
thought came upon the writer as he gazed upon this mournful
scene, of the loved ones at home waiting, watching and praying
for the safe return of these same men, whom, in the dispensation
of a mysterious Providence, they would never more see on earth,
and he turned away from the saddening spectacle to become ac-
quainted with other features of this cruel war.
The writer had left the ranks to examine still more closely our
surroundings, when a more rapid fire from the enemy warned
him to return. The shells were exploding about us, and he
found the regiment already moving down the street and taking
position in a less exposed situation. Here we remained, and,
without shelter, except from the fire of the enemy, and took lodg-
ings in and alongside the street. Loose boards in the neighbor-
hood and an outfit of straw, secured by a little foraging, com-
pleted the preparations for the night.
3
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36 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
halt, and wait for his artillery to pass, while the pioneers then
under fire from the enemy's batteries, bridged ditches; cut away
hedges^ etc., thus enabling the artillery to reach assigned posi-
tion, where, on a knoll to the left of the First Brigade, the gun-
ners, here having a good view of the rebel batteries across the
plain, opened on the enemy.
At ten A. M. Meagher's brigade was called upon to change posi-
tion. We instinctively grasped our muskets with a firmer hand
as hurriedly past our line from the right a messenger descends
the slope in front of us, approaches General Meagher, delivers
his message, urging his horse to greater speed as, turning away,
he retraced his course.
The general is already in his saddle. His men, with sober, de-
termined faces, all attention: a brief address, they fall into
line, the general turning his horse leads the way. They ascend
the slope to the street and, rapidly passing along the right of
our line, are lost to view.
In the meanwhile General Sumner with his staff took position
at the Lacy House, from which he could have a full view of the
movements of his division in the assault upon the heights. It
was not until twelve m. that General Meade's opportunity came
to pierce the rebel line, gaining a decided advantage on the left.
At this juncture French's division was ordered in by General
Sumner to be followed and supported by Hancock.
French's division was represented by the brigades of Kimball ^
Anderson and Palmer; Hancock's by the brigades of Zook,
Meagher and Caldwell. Kimball's brigade led, while the whole
force in turn moved rapidly to the assault.
The movement of Meagher's brigades at ten a. m. while taking
new position at the rear of the town being observed by the rebels
drew their fire, but not until the advance of French's and Han-
cock's divisions did we fully realize the situation. Then came
the roar of artillery marking the time, when, moving from the
shelter of the town, they encountered the murderous fire from the
enemy so strongly entrenched along the heights, supplemented
by the sharp cracking of rifles and musketry, as rebel regiments
and sharpshooters in advance of their main defences put in their
deadly work.
The falling back of these advance regiments to position behind
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 37
the stone wall along the sunken road (a veritable fortress in
itself) aided by subsequent re-enforcements finding place and
position there, enabled them to pour a continuous fire upon the
advancing columns of the Union army, the most destructive re-
corded in history.
About twelve m. Sturgis received orders to support General
Couch, and, accordingly, commenced moving a portion of his
division towards the upper rear of the town and to the front,
sheltering his troops in a measure under cover of fences, houses,
etc.
In the meantime General Couch threw forward his divisions,
but the fire of the enemy's artillery and musketry was so severe
as to cause his left to break and roll in irregular masses back
towards the city.
Observing this Sturgis ordered in Ferrero with four regi-
ments of his brigade supported by Lieutenant Dickenson's horse
battery. Fourth United States Artillery, which took position on
a blufif to the left and front of a brick kiln at the left of the rail-
road. Under cover of this battery Ferrero moved forward, gal-
lantly checking the advance of the enemy, forcing them back
with heavy loss. The opening of Dickenson's battery was imme-
diately followed by a concentrated heavy artillery fire upon it
from the enemy, forcing a withdrawal in less than fifteen min-
utes with the loss of Lieutenant Dickenson, four men, and a
number of horses killed and many other men and horses wounded.
The fire of artillery and musketry concentrated upon the Sec-
ond Brigade (Ferrero's) after the withdrawal of Dickenson's
battery was something terrific. To support in turn, Sturgis now
ordered our brigade, the First (General Nagle) to advance and
take position on the left of Ferrero, throw forward his (Nagle's)
left and open a cross fire in front of the Second Brigade who
were manfully standing up to their work.
An alignment, a rapid movement by the right flank, a wheel
into and along Third Street brought our raiment to the rear of
the city. Deploying now to the left, a movement to the front
brought us into position at the left of the railroad with the
Sixth New Hampshire next us on our right and to the right of
the Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad, and the Seventh
Rhode Island to the right of them, while on our left the Sec
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38 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
ond Maryland and Ninth New Hampshire held position. Hav-
ing now arrived within sight and range of the rehel artillery the
opportunity for slaughter was at once taken advantage of, as the
artillery fire from the heights fully assured us.
At this time we were passing obstacles, climbing fences, etc.,
and as the solid shot and exploding shell came in contact with
the outbuildings and board fences, the ripping, tearing and
crashing was something terrific. An order to lie down, although
immediately countermanded, developed the inconceivable rapid-
ity with which a regiment of men can flatten out and disappear
from view.
A summons to "get out of that'' brought us quickly to our feet
and to a second alignment along the roadbed of the railroad,
which here a shallow cut along the plain had changed direction
towards the southeast parallel with our line and afforded par-
tial shelter from the fire of the enemy. Previous to this our
major having become disabled was borne from the field, while at
this time our colonel was with the left of the regiment reform-
ing on the roadbed and had swung ahead and partly around an
eminence intervening. At this point. General Nagle coming to
the front along the right, directed the company officers to take
their men into action at once, whereupon the right moved rapidly
out and ahead, breaking from the left, which was unable to move
to the front having come upon the Second Maryland, which regi-
ment had called a halt with no indication on their part of further
progress. This state of affairs obliged Colonel Browne to move
the left of the regiment by the right flank, then change direction
to the front in the rear and along the same line as the right
which had preceded him. This he gallantly accomplished, bring-
ing along our colors and planting them in front of Marye's
Heights where the right of the regiment already in action was
awaiting him, within 200 yards of the stone wall at the foot of
the hill. Meanwhile, owing to the impassable nature of the
ground and the heavy enfilading fire of artillery and musketry
concentrated upon the left of his (Nagle's) brigade from across
Hazel Run, Sturgis directed Nagle to change direction, move by
a flank to the right and to the direct support of Ferrero. Ac-
cordingly, the balance of the brigade coming to the front latw,
took position on our right leaving the Twelfth Rhode Island
Regiment the extreme left on the firing line.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 39
I will now relate concerning the right of our regiment after
breaking away from the left. Our course to the front brought
us directly upon a deep cut in the plain exactly at right angles
with the direction taken by us to the front. A cut where the
Gordonsville railroad (in progress of building about the tima
the war commenecd) crosses the plain and at our point of cross-
ing some thirty feet deep. A plunge into this gave promise of
shelter from the fire in our front and another halt to get our
windy but when at the bottom we found ourselves in a trap ; for
from elevated ground, across Hazel Run, at a very convenient
distance to our left, hidden by the trees and bushes, the rebel
riflemen and artillery enfiladed this cut and poured such contin-
uous and deadly volleys that an earnest desire to gain the top of
the opposite bank took possession of us. This feat was accom-
plished only by a display of muscle seldom put on exhibition. A
few of us, throwing off our rolls of shelter tents and blankets,
made an onslaught on the bank and finally succeeded in landing
ourselves at the top. Most of our men, however, unwilling or
unable to scale the bank made a detour to the right, along the
road some two hundred feet, turning to the front again where
the road came to a grade with the plain. This was the course
we all should have taken and thus have been able to have kept
our formation ; but our officers, owing to the confusion unavoid-
able from this most dangerous situation, allowed a part of the
men to scale the bank, at the top of which the concentrated fire
of artillery from the heights and from muskets and rifles, along
the sunken road at the base of Marye's Hill, not more than eight
hundred yards in front of this cut, prevented our entertaining
any thought of formation for a moment, and the old saying,
"Devil take the hindmost," was here fully illustrated. The most
striking example falling under the writer's observation was that
of an orderly sergeant of one of our companies, who, having been
somewhat indisposed previous to the day of battle, was either
excused, or more likely, excused himself from carrying the regu-
lar equipment of the sergeant and went in burdened only by his
sergeant's sword and belt, canteen and haversack, thus enabling
him to go out of that cut like a cat up a tree. Being thus
equipped for the race, and able to outstrip his comrades, a wave
of his sword on the top of the bank and a shout for the boys to
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40 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH EBQIMENT
"come on," won for him special notice and honorable mention
in the colonel's report, and very soon thereafter a lieutenant's
commission. We could see our advanced line holding position
a few hundred feet from the base of Marye's Hill, and making
this our objective point, we moved to their support upon the
run. At this point, the writer will here affirm that no arrange-
ment for the annihilation of a regiment of men, or where they
could have been brought under a more destructive fire, with that
end in view, could have been made than that arranged for the
reception of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers at Fredericks-
burg, Dec. 13, 1862.
But to return. The writer's run from the railroad cut to the
front line brought him alongside a small brick dwelling, to the
rear of which he hastened; and here, fairly sheltered from the
deadly fire poured upon us from Marye's Hill and the sunken
road, now within from five to eight hundred feet of his halting
place, he rested. Directly behind this house, partly covered by
loose boards, was a cellar hole some six feet wide by eight long.
Now, by the way, the writer has heard it affirmed that a hole
in the ground, a stump, a rock or a fallen tree on the field of bat-
tle and within a certain radius wiil so affect soldiers of an un-
certain temperament that they immediately strike out towards
it. In corroboration of this, will say that the writer found
himself drawn as by some irresistible influence towards this cel-
lar hole. Lifting aside one of the boards he found most con-
clusive evidence, beside his own experience, of the magnetism of
cellar holes when under fire ; for in that pit or cellar some dozen
or more of our men lay packed, like sardines in a box, one on top
of another. One among the number he recognized as one of his
own company, — a man something over six feet in height who
nearly measured the length of the hole as he lay the topmost one
of all, flat upon his back. One of the men, fearing the writer was
about to join them, with the tears coursing down his cheeks, en-
treated him to keep out as the place, he said, would hold no
more; upon which the writer quickly replaced the board and
drew back to the shelter of the house. Only a few moments had
elapsed after the writer's arrival here before he was joined by
a comrade of his own company whom the writer had outstripped
in the race, but who was doubtless cellar-hole proof, and together
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTSBRS 41
they left their shelter and pushed on to the support of the ad-
vance line.
By taking advantage of a depression at the base of Marye's
Hill within from five to seven* hundred feet of the sunken road,
Sturgis and his brigades held their ground. We were so near
the hill that the rebel guns could not be depressed so as to bear
upon us, and we held our position throughout the balance of the
day, and by pouring an occasional volley upon the sunken road,
assisted the subsequent advance of troops from the rear of the
town. At sunset a most determined effort was made to carry the
heights, but without avail, and, as darkness enveloped us, we re-
treated from our position to the shelter of the town.
Your writer will now again quote from Coffin that which re-
lates to Sumner's divisions on the right where we were engaged.
After relating what occurred under Franklin, he writes:
'*But while this was transpiring under Franklin on the left,
there was a terrible sacrifice of life at the foot of Marye's Hill.
Soon after noon French's and Hancock's divisions of the Second
Corps, with Sturgis's division of the Ninth, advanced over the
open fields at the rear of the town to attack the heights. Officers
walked along the lines giving the last words. "Advance and
drive them out with the bayonet," were the orders. The fifteen
thousand in a compact body moved to the edge of the plateau.
The hills are aflame. All of Longstreet's guns are thundering;
shells burst in the ranks. The rebel skirmishers, concealed in
the houses and behind fences, fire a volley and fall back to their
main line. Onward move the divisions, firing no shot in return.
Now a sheet of flame bursts from the sunken road and another,
half-way up the slope. Hundreds fall, but onward, nearer to
the hill, rolls the wave. Still, still, it flows on; it begins to
break. Hancock's and French's divisions, unable to find shelter,
are driven back upon the town. A portion of Sturgis's division
reaches the hollow in front of the hill and settles into it. The
attack and repulse have not lasted fifteen minutes. Sturgis is
in the hollow so near the hill that the rebel batteries upon the
crest cannot be depressed sufficiently to drive him out. He is
within close musket shot of Cobb's brigade lying behind the
stone wall at the base of the hill. Sturgis's men lie down, load
and fire deliberately, watching their opportunity to pick off the
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42 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
gunners on the hill. In vain are all the efforts of Longstreet to
dislodge them. Solid shot, shell and shrapnel are thrown to-
wards the hollow without avail. A solitary oak tree near is torn
and broken by the artillery fire and pitted with musket balls and
the ground is furrowed by the deadly missies ; but the men keep
their position through the weary hours. This division is com-
posed of two brigades: Nagle's, containing the Sixth and Ninth
New Hampshire, the Seventh and Twelfth Bhode Island, Forty-
eighth Pennsylvania and Second Maryland; and Ferrero's, com-
prising the Twenty-first and Thirty-fifth Massachusetts, Eleventh
New Hampshire, Fifty-first Pennsylvania and Fifty-first New
York.
"A second attempt is made upon th^ hill. Humphreys's divi-
sion, composed of Tyler^s and Briggs's brigades of Pennsylvania,
nearly all new troops, lead the advance closely followed by Mor-
rill's division of veterans. The lines move steadily over tlie
fields under cover of the batteries which have been brought up
and planted in the streets; Sturgis pours a constant fire upon
the sunken road. Thus aided, they reach the base of the hill in
front of Marye's, deliver a few volleys and then, with thinned
ranks, retire to the shelter of the ridge.
"The day is waning, Franklin has failed, but Sumner cannot
see the day lost without another struggle and orders a third at-
tack. Humphreys, Morrill, Getty, Sykes and Howard (or por-
tions of their divisions) are brought up. The troops have been
under arms from early daylight. They have had no food. All
day they have been exposed to the fire of the rebel batteries and
have lost heavily. Brooks's division of the Sixth Corps moves
up Deep Bun to engage in the last attack. All the batteries on
both sides of the river are once more brought into action. Getty
moves up Hazel Bun to take the rebels in flank who are protected
by the sunken road at the base of the hill.
"It is sunset. The troops move out and across the open plains
with a cheer. The ground beneath them is already crimson with
the blood of fallen comrades. They reach the base of the hill.
Longstreet brings down all his reserves. The hillside, the plain,
the crest of the ridge, the groves and thickets, the second range
of hills beyond Marye's, the hollow, the sunken road, all are
bright flashes. Two hundred cannons strike out fierce defiance;
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Chaplain Samuel W. Field.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 43
forty thousand muskets and rifles flame. The rebels are driven
from the stone walls, the sunken road and the rifle-pits at the
bottom of the hill. The blue wave mounts all but to the top of
the crest. It threatens to overwhelm the rebel batteries, but
we who watch behold its power decreasing. Men begin to come
down the hill singly and in masses.
"The third and last attempt had failed. The divisions return
leaving the plain and the hillside strewn with thousands of brave
men who have fallen in this ineffectual struggle."
I will also quote from Lossing's History of the Civil War,
published in 1866, that which relates to the attack from the city
as directed by General Sumner wherein he reports as follows :
"Let us see," he writes, "what Sumner was doing while a part
of Franklin's corps was struggling so fearfully on the left. Sum-
ner was to attack the Confederate front, when lYanklin should
fairly inaugurate the battle with a prospect of success. The
conditions were complied with. At eleven o'clock he and his
staff repaired to the Lacy House near the river, opposite Fred-
ericksburg, from which he could have a full view of the opera-
tions of his divisions. Couch's corps (Second) occupied the city
and Willcox's (Ninth) the interval between Couch's and Frank-
lin's right. Upon Couch fell the honor of making the first at-
tack. At noon he ordered out French's division to be followed
and supported by Hancock. Kimball's brigade led and the whole
force, as it moved swiftly to the assault from the town, suffered
greatly from the converging fire of the artillery on the heights
which swept the plains below. Those batteries could be but lit-
tle affected by the National guns on the distant Stafford Hills.
On Marye's Hill, and behind a stone wall, on the road at its foot,
near the town already mentioned, Longstreet was posted with
heavy reserves behind him. Upon this formidable host, under
the storm of iron from the heights which made great lanes
through his ranks, French threw his columns and was met by
murderous volleys at short range from . . . riflemen who
had been summoned to position behind the wall. The struggle
was brief and French was driven back shattered and broken by
the loss of nearly one-half his command while the victors shouted
and yelled in wildest enthusiasm. Hancock, who was close be-
hind, now closed up and with such portions of French's com-
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44 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
mand as were still organized, advanced in the face of a like tem-
pest of shot and shell. His brigade fought most gallantly, es-
pecially that of Meagher's, composed of Irishmen, who dashed
themselves time after time against the force at the stone wall but
without success, until the ground was strewn with two-thirds of
its numbers. After a struggle of about fifteen minutes, Han-
cock was driven back with great slaughter. Of five thousand six
hundred veterans led by able and tried commanders, whom he
took into action, two thousand and thirteen had fallen. How-
ard's division came to the aid of French and Hancock ; and those
of Sturgis and Gretty, of the Ninth Corps, made several attacks
in support of the struggling Second, but still no advance conld
be made. Finally, Burnside ordered Hooker across with such
of his forces as he had in hand, saying, as he from the north bank
of the river gazed upon the smoking heights for which his troops
had been struggling unsuccessfully for hours, 'That crest must
be carried to-night.'
"Hooker crossed with three divisions, but on surveying the
gi'ound and learning the situation of affairs, he was so well sat-
isfied of the hopelessness of the enterprise that he hastened to
Burnside and begged him to desist from further attack. Bum-
side would not yield, so Humphreys's division, four thousand
strong, was sent out of the city by Hooker with empty muskets
to use the bayonet only. They followed the track of French,
Hancock and Howard. When almost up to the fatal stone wall
which they intended to storm, these troops were hurled back by
terrible volleys of rifle balls, leaving seventeen hundred of their
number prostrate on the field. Night soon closed the awful con-
flict when the Army of the Potomac had nearly fifteen thousand
less effective men than when it began the battle on tne previous
day. It was evident to the commanders engaged in the conflict
that it would be useless to make any further attempt to carry the
position by storm; but General Burnside, eager to achieve vic-
tory, prepared to hurl his own corps (the Ninth) on the follow-
ing morning against the fatal barrier which had withstood
French, Hancock, Howard and Humphreys. He was dissuaded
by the brave Sumner, who was supported, in his opposition to
the proposed movement, by nearly all the general olEcers. It
was finally determined to withdraw the troops to the north bank
of the Rappahannock.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 45
"For two days (December 14th and 15th they remained on the
Ppederieksbnrg side, while Lee, evidently ignorant of the real
weakness and peril of his foe, fortunately maintained a defensive
position and was engaged during that time in strengthening his
works in anticipation of another attack. On the morning of the
16th he was astonished by the apparition of a great army upon
the Stafford Hills and by seeing none in front of his line.
"During the night of the 15th Bumside had quietly withdrawn
his ^entire force and all his guns, taken up his pontoon bridges,
and offered Lee full permission to occupy Fredericksburg. The
latter accepted the boon and boasted of a great victory in terms
wholly irreconcilable with truth and candor.''
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Series 1, YoL XXI, Page 584.]
C. S.
BopoET OF Col. Henry Coai/ter Cabell, Cuief of Artillery.
Camp near Fredericksurg, Va.,
Dec. 25, 1862.
. . . The division of Maj.-Gen. McLaws arriving here at the
head of the column Thursday, November 20, . . . it devolved
upon me ... to place the artillery in position and prepare
for the attack. . . . All but five of our batteries were so
placed as to command not only the approach of the enemy on our
lighty but also the Telegraph road and the abandoned railroad
called the lYedericksburg and Gordonsville Railroad, . . .
and enabled us to give an oblique and almost an enfilading fire
upon the enemy advancing from the various streets in Fred-
ericksburg, and who were drawn up under the protection of the
inequalities of the ground in front of Marye's Hill. The main
battle on the left was fought to obtain this hill. Between this
hill and the town of Fredericksburg, it is said, the Rappahan-
nock formerly flowed. . . .
My position enabled me to observe the enemy's left flank, upon
which our guns opened a most destructive fire. . . . Several
times their advance was repulsed by well directed fire of our
batteries. . . . Once a whole brigade was dispersed and scat-
tered in confusion to the rear. Once they made for the railroad
cut, and several shells from our batteries exploded among them
before they could escape from it. Once they charged by attempt-
ing to cross the cut, running down one side and up the other.
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46 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH RBQIMBNT
The right of Marye's Hill terminates almost precipitously.
The Telegraph road passes on the right of the hill, and then
turns almost directly at right angles at the foot and in front of
the hill. The railroad cut and embankment would have enabled
the enemy to come in almost perfect security within a short dis-
tance of the right flank of our troops, drawn up behind the stone
wall on the Telegraph road, and by a rapid charge to have our
troops at the most serious disadvantage. Their advance could
not have been effectually checked by the artillery on Marye's Hill
owing to the conformation of the ground. . . .
I have the honor to be, Major, very respectfully,
HENRY COALTER CABELL,
Colonel, Chief of Artillery,
Major- O^n, McLaws* Division.
Major James M. Goggin,
Assistant Adjutant-Oeneral.
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages 571 and 579.]
Report op Gen. Lafayette McLaws^ C. S. Aemy, Commanding
McLaws' Division.
Headquarters Division,
Camp near Fredericksburg, Va.,
Dec. 30, 1862.
My division occupied the front of defense. . . . One brig-
ade was constantly on duty in the City to guard the town and de-
fend the river crossings. . . .
The brigade of General Barksdale, The Seventeenth Missis-
sippi, Colonel (John C.) Fiser, and 10 sharpshooters from CoL
(J. W.) Carter's regiment (The Thirteenth) and three companies
of the Eighteenth Mississippi Regiment, Lieut. Col. (William
H.) Luse, under Lieut. (William) Ratliflf, were all the troops
that were actually engaged defending the crossings in front of
the City. ... As the enemy advanced into the town, our
troops fell back to Princess Anne St. . . .
The street fighting continued until 7 p. m. when I ordered Gen.
Barksdale to fall back and take position along and behind the
stone wall below Marye's Hill. . . .
On the night of the 11th, the Eighteenth and Twenty-Fourth
Georgia Regiments and Phillips's Georgia Legion of Cobb's brig-
ade relieved General Barksdale^s command behind the stone
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iJfO^iiJ L'.
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Quartermaster John L. Clarke.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 4T
wall, at the foot of Marye's Hill, Phillips's Legion on the left, the
24th Georgia in the center, and Eighteenth Georgia on the right,
occupying the whole front under the hill. . . .
On the 13th . . . about 1 p. m., the 16th Georgia B^ment
was sent to the support of General Cobb, also two regiments from
Kershaw's brigade. Soon after this General Kershaw was di-
rected to take his whole brigade and assume command as Gen.
Cobb had been wounded and disabled.
The South Carolina Regiments were posted, the 2nd and 8th,
Ool. (J. D.) Kennedy and Gapt. (E. T.) Stackhouse command-
ing, in the road doubling on Phillips's Le^on, Col. (B. F.) Cook,
and the 24th Georgia, Col. McMillan, and the 7th and 3rd South
Carolina, Col. (James D.) Nance and Lieut. Col. (Elbert) Bland,
on the hill to the left of Marye's house . . . about 4.30 p. m.
the 15th South Carolina, Colonel DeSaussure, was brought for-
ward and posted behind the stone wall . . . Captain (G. B.)
Outhbert, of the 2nd South Carolina Regiment, with his company
of sharpshooters, was thrown out on the edge of Hazel Run, and
did good service in annoying the flank of the enemy as their col-
umns advanced to the attack. . . .
L. McLAWS,
Major-General.
Ma J. G. MOXLBY SOREBL,
Assistant Adjutant -Oeneral.
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages 588 and 589.]
Report of Brig.-Gen. Joseph B. Kershaw, C. S. Army, Com-
manding Kershaw's Brigade.
Headquarters, Kershaw's Brigade,
Near Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 26, 1862.
Major : I have the honor to submit a report of the operations
of my command during the recent engagement.
On the morning of the 11th instant, by daylight, the brigade
was formed in line of battle in the position assigned me, the right
resting at the left of Howison's Hill, and the left near Howison's
Mill, on Hazel Run. . . .
Saturday the 13th, about 1 o'clock of that day, I waa directed
to send two regiments into the City to the support of General
(^obb, then engaged with part of his brigade at the foot of Marye's
Hill. . . . Within a few minutes after, I was directed to
take my entire command to the same point and assume command
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48 HISTOBY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
there. . . . The position was excellent. Marye'a Hill cov-
ered with onr batteries . . . falls off abruptly towards Fred-
ericksburg to a stone wall, which forms a terrace on the side of
the hill and the outer margin of the Telegraph road which winds
along at the foot of the hill. The road is about some twenty-five
feet wide and is faced by a stone wall about four feet high on the
City side. The road having been cut out of the side of the hill,
in many places this last wall is not visible above the surface of
the ground.
The ground falls off rapidly to almost a level surface, which
extends about one hundred and fifty yards, then with another
abrupt fall of a few feet to another plain which extends some
two hundred yards, and then falls off abruptly into a wide ravine
which extends along the whole front of the City and discharges
into Hazel Run. I found, upon my arrival, that Cobb's brigade,
Col. McMillan commanding, occupied our entire front, and my
troops could only get into position by doubling on them. This
was accordingly done, and the formation along most of the line
during the engagement was consequently four deep. ... I
may mention here that, notwithstanding that their fire was the
most rapid and continuous I have ever witnessed, not a man was
injured by the fire of his comrades. . . .
Line after line of the enemy deployed in the ravine and ad-
vanced to the attack at intervals of not more than fifteen min-
utes until about 4.30 o'clock when there was a lull of about a
half hour, during which a mass of artillery was placed in position
in front of the town, and opened upon our position. . . .
Under cover of this artillery fire, the most formidable column of
attack was formed which, about 5 o'clock, emerged from the ra-
vine and . . . assailed our whole front. From this time un-
til after 6 o'clock, the attack was continuous and the fire on both
sides terrific. Some few, chiefiy oflBcers, got within thirty yards
of our lines, but in every instance their columns were shattered
by the time they got within one hundred paces. . . . Our
chief loss was from sharpshooters after getting into position in
the road, who occupied some buildings on my left flank in the
early part of the engagement. . . .
General Cobb I learn was killed by a shot from that quarter.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. B. KERSHAW,
B rigadiei*' Genera ?, Com m a tiding,
Maj. James M. Goggin,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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RHODE ISLAND VOIiUNTEBRS 49
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages 180 and 181.]
Report op Brig.-Gen. Henry J. Hunt, U. S. Army, Chief op
Artillery.
Artillery Headquarters, Army op the Potomac,
Camp. NEAR Falmouth, Va.,
January 10, 1863.
General: I have the honor to submit herewith a report of
the general operations of the artillery of this Army from Dec.
10th to 16th, 1862.
It having been determined to cross the Rappahannock and at-
tack the enemy in his position, I received orders from Maj.-Qen.
Bnrnside to make the necessary disposition of the artillery, to
protect construction of the bridges, and to cover the passage of
the army. . . .
The right division was charged with the duty of clearing the
hills on the south side of the river in front of them, and their
slopes down as far as the town, to engage the enemy's batteries
of position on the crests, and to sweep the plain from below the
ford to the hills so as to clear it of the enemy, and thus aid the
advance of Sumner's grand division in the assault. . . .
The right center under the command of Colonel Tompkins,
First Rhode Island Artillery, was directed to protect the throw-
ing of the bridges, and to cover the pontoons and workmen by
subduing the fire of the enemy's troops from the houses and cover
opposite the points selected, to sweep the streets of all columns
of re-enforcements, and to destroy any guns that might be placed
in positions to bear on the bridges.
The left center under the command of Col. (now Brig-Gen.)
R. 0. Tyler, First Connecticut Artillery, commanded the ground
between Sumner's left and Franklin's right, from Hazel Run to
Deep Run, and was specially directed to prevent the enemy from
reinforcing either of his flanks from the other, except by the
circuitous route in rear qi his position, to sweep the valley of
Hazel Run, and to control the railroad bridge across it. . . .
Orders were given for all the batteries first to concentrate
their fire on such of the enemy's works or guns as should open on
our masses as they approached the crossing places, second, to
turn their fire upon such bodies of the enemy's troops as should
offer to oppose the passage, third, to cover the deployment of
troops when across, by checking any advance of the enemy,
fourth, after the deployment, not to fire over the heads of our
own troops except in case of absolute necessity, and lastly, to aid
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60 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
their advance, when possible to do so, by sweeping the ground in
front of them with their fire. . . .
At the upper bridges, there passed the river with Sumner's
grand division nineteen batteries. The greater number of these
could not be used, but were left in the streets of Fredericksburg,
and a portion were ordered back to the north side.
Of the nineteen batteries which crossed, seven were wholly or
partly engaged. . . . ^^umner's and Franklin's attacks (Sat-
urday, December 13th) were entirely independent of each other.
In Sumner's, the front of attack was limited by the Plank road
on the right and Hazel Run on the left, and there was but little
opportunity for the employment of artillery to advantage until
the enemy's skirmishers and sharpshooters were driven off. The
divisions accordingly moved out of town without their batteries,
but artillery was soon called for. Dickenson's battery (four 10
pounders), 4th U. S., of horse artillery, and Arnold's (six 3 inch
guns), A 1st R. I., were then placed in action upon the outCT
edge of the high ground on which Fredericksburg stands. The
first (a horse) battery being very much exposed, within a very
short distance of the enemy's works, Lieut. Dickenson himself
killed, and a number of his men killed and wounded. . . .
I sent, on application of Gen. Couch, two batteries of six three
inch guns each, (D 1st N. Y. Battery, Capt. Kasserow and 1st
R. I. Battery, Capt. Waterman) under command of Major Doull,
Second New York Artillery, Inspector on my staff, to replace it.
Major Doull placed these guns on the right of the Plank road
about eight hundred yards from the enemy's batteries, and at
short musket range from their infantry, and preparatory to each
infantry attack, the fire was directed obliquely to the left to take
en echarpe the enemy's batteries, and, as far as possible, the
stone wall at the foot of the hill behind which their infantry lay.
During this time Arnold had been engaged with the enemy's bat-
teries but was from his position compelled to cease action when
our infantry advanced, as at such time it masked his fire. . . .
In front of the crest occupied by these batteries (Kasserow's
and Waterman's) was a second crest separated from the first by
a wide ditch. About 3.30 p. m. it was determined by (Jen. Couch
to risk a battery in this position. Captain Morgan, his Chief of
Artillery, carefully examined the ground, and directed Captain
Hazard, Battery B, 1st R. I., to place his battery (six 12
pounders) at the point indicated.
The order was executed with coolness and gallantry, the bat-
tery being brought within one hundred and fifty yards of the
enemy's position. In about fifteen minutes, sixteen men and
fifteen horses, including those of the Captain and his two Lieu-
tenants (Bloodgood and Milne) were placed hors de combat.
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BHODB ISLAND YOLUNTEBRS 51
Hazard's battery was supported by four guns of Captain
Frank's battery (A) Ist N. Y. (12 pounders) which were taken
into action in fine style a little to the left and rear of Hazard's.
These batteries were withdrawn when the assault of Hum-
phreys's division failed. . . .
When these batteries were moved to the advanced ridge they
were replaced on the first by Captain Phillips's (six 3 inch) gun,
Battery E, 1st Mass., the fire of which was very eflfective. . . .
Respectfully your most obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-Oeneral and Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac.
Maj.-Gkn. J. G. Pabkb,
Chief of Staff, Army of the Potom^ac.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages 90-M.]
Rbpoet op Gbn. Burnside.
New York, Nov. 13, 1865.
. . . The forces under command of Gen. Franklin consisted
of about 60,000 men. . . .
One of the smallest divisions of the command (General
Meade's) led the attack. At 9 o'clock it moved out. ... At
11 o'clock it had moved one-half mile and halted without serious
lofis. ... At 12.05 p. M. General Meade's line was advancing
in the direction I prescribed in my first order to General Frant-
lin.
At 1 P. M. the enemy opened a battery enfilading Meade. At
1.15 p. M. infantry was heavily engaged, and Meade assaulted the
hill. . . . From Gen. Meade's report it seems that he had
great difficulty in getting his command into position to assault
the hill. The time occupied for that purpose was from 9 a. m.
to 1.15 p. M. In consequence of the smallness of his division and
the absence of immediate and available supports, he was forced
to make frequent halts for the purpose of protecting his flanks,
and silencing the enemy's artillery, but once in position, his divi-
sion moved forward with the utmost gallantry.
He broke the enemy's line; captured many prisoners and col-
ors; crossed the road that ran in the rear of the crest, and estab-
lished himself at the desired point on the crest; and had he been
able to hold it, our forces would have had free passage to the
rear of the enemy's line along the crest
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62 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
The supports which the order contemplated were not with him,
and he found himself across the enemy's line with both flanks
unprotected ... he was forced to withdraw from his ad-
vanced position with his lines broken. . . . Gen. Meade and
his troops deserve great praise for the skill and heroism dis-
played on this occasion. Their brave efforts deserved better suc-
cess, which, doubtless, would have attended them had he been
well supported. . . .
The Sixth Corps, the strongest and one of the most reliable in
the army, commanded by Gen. W. F. Smith, was not seriously
engaged in any attack during the day, as is stated in his report.
Neither was the division of Gen. Burns, of the Ninth Corps, which
was under the command of Gen. Franklin, at this time. . . .
General Sumner's corps was held in position until after 11
o'clock in the hope that Franklin would make such an impression
upon the enemy as would enable him (Sumner) to carry the
enemy's line near the Telegraph and Plank roads. Feeling the
importance of haste, I now directed Gen. Sumner to commence
his attack. . . .
I supposed when I ordered Gen. Sumner to attack, that Gen.
Franklin's attack on the left would have been made before Gen.
Sumner's men would be engaged, and would have caused the en-
emy to weaken his forces in front of Sumner, and I, therefore,
hoped to break through their lines at this point. It subsequently
appeared that this attack had not been made at the time General
Sumner moved, and when it was finally made, proved in such
small force as to have no permanent effect upon the enemy's
line. . . .
A. E. BURNSIDE.
The Adjutant-General, U. S. A.,
Washington, D. C.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages M and M.]
Report of Gen. Burnside.
New York, Nov. 13, 1865.
... It may be well to state that at 10.30 a. m. I sent Capt.
Lydig, of my staff, to Gen. Franklin to ascertain the condition of
affairs in his front as I was anxiously expecting to hear that the
hill near Hamilton's had been carried. Capt. Lydig's written
statement is as follows:
"I found General Franklin in a grove of trees in the center of
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Capt. James M. Longstreet.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 53
his command, and on delivering the message, I was inforn^d by
him that Meade was very hotly engaged, and that his men by
that time were pretty generally engaged. He also added, 'I
think that Birney had had orders to support them.' I then in-
quired if any of General Smith's men were engaged and was told
they were not. I returned to Headquarters, passing Capt. Cutts
who arrived as I left Gen. Franklin, and reported the informa-
tion to Gen. Burnside, who seemed at the time annoyed at the
smallness of the force engaged, and expressed his surprise that
none of General Smith's corps had been put into the fight. It
was about 12.30 o'clock when I arrived with my report at Head-
quarters.
P. M. LYDIG,
Captain and Aide-de^Campy
I next sent Capt. Cutts with an order to Gen. Franklin to ad-
vance his right and front.
Capt. Cutts states in his note book that he carried the order
to General Franklin, and the General said to him that it was im-
possible to advance, upon which he returned to me, to show why
General Franklin thought it was impossible to advance.
When he communicated his reply to me, he says that my reply
was, "But he (General Franklin) must advance."
I then sent Capt. Goddard to Gen. Franklin with an order
which the following statement will explain :
"I was sent on the day of the battle of Fredericksburg to Gen.
Franklin, on the left, with this order from Gen. Burnside. *Tell
Gen. Franklin, with my compliments, that I wish him to make
a vigorous attack with his whole force; our right is hard pressed.'
This order was given me about 1.30 o'clock in the afternoon, and
I delivered it to Gen. Franklin in the presence of Gen. Hardie
before 2.30 o'clock.
R. H. I. GODDARD,
Captain and Aide-de-Ca/mpJ*^
T had before this sent to Gen. Franklin an order by telegraph
directing him to make an attack upon the heights immediately
in his front.
A. E. BURNSIDE.
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54 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
OFFICIAL REC0BD8.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Pages 315, 316, 317.]
Report of Brigadier-General Samuel D. Sturgis^ U. S. Army,
ck)mmanding second division.
Headquarters, Second Division, 9th Army Ck)RPS,
Near Fredericksburg, Va.,
Dec. 24, 1862.
Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report of the
part taken by my Division in the late operations in the vicinity
of Fredericksburg.
In accordance with orders from your headquarters, my troops
were massed near the headquarters of Major-Gen. Sumner at 8
A. M. on the 12th instant, preparatory to crossing over to Fred-
ericksburg in rear of the Second Army Corps. The crossing was
effected on the upper bridge by 11 a. m., and the Division took
position on the streets next the river and parallel with it, where
the troops remained throughout the day, and bivouacked for the
night, the right, resting near the bridge, and the left, extending
towards the right of General Getty.
About noon on the 13th, 1 received orders from your headquar-
ters to support Gen. Couch, who had been ordered to assault the
enemy's works facing Fredericksburg. I moved my Division at
once to the upper portion of the City toward the front, shelter-
ing the troops as much as possible from the fire of the enemy
under cover of the fences, houses, etc. Lieutenant Dickenson's
battery (E), Fourth U. S. Artillery, was held in readiness to take
up a position on a bluff to the left and front of the brick-kiln,
with a view to driving the enemy from behind a stone fence used
by his sharpshooters as a breastwork.
Battery D, First Rhode Island Artillery, was held in reserve.
Gen. Couch now commenced the attack, but the fire of the en-
emy's artillery and musketry was so severe that his (Couch's)
left was soon broken and rolled back in irr^ular masses towards
the City.
Observing this disaster, I ordered General Ferrero (12.30
p. M ) to advance with four regiments of his brigade, leaving the
5th (Colonel Potter's 51st New York) to support Dickenson's
battery which was placed in position on the bluff before men-
tioned. Under cover of the battery General Ferrero moved for-
ward very handsomely, completely checking the advancing foe
and forcing him back with heavy loss.
As soon as Lieutenant Dickenson's battery opened, the enemy
concentrated a very heavy artillery fire upon it, and I was forced
in less than a quarter of an hour to withdraw it, Lieutenant
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 55
Dickenson and some four men and a number of horses having
been killed, and many others wonnded.
The fire of artillery and musketry which the enemy now con-
centrated upon the second brigade (Ferrero's) was terrific, but
they stood manfully up to their work. To relieve them in some
degree, however, I sent forward the first brigade, under Gen.
Nagle, with orders to take his position on the left of Perrero
and throw forward his own left a little, so as to open a cross-fire
in front of the second brigade. This Gen. Nagle failed to exe-
cute, owing to the existence of deep and impassable ravines in
his front. I then directed him to move by the flank to the direct
support of Ferrero, which was executed at a double-quick and
with alacrity and rapidity. The Fifty-First New York (CJolonel
Potter) was now also ordered forward and moved up with that
impetuosity which has characterized this gallant regiment on so
many hard fought fields. My entire Division was now engs^ed,
and every human effort was made that could be made to carry
the rifle pits and stone fence, but without success. Every man
fought as if the fate of the day depended upon his own individual
exertion. They fought indeed until every cartridge was ex-
pended, and even remaining upon the fleld long after their last
cartridge was flred, and until regularly relieved at 7.20 p. m. by
the Division of Gen. Griffin.
I then drew my Division from the field under cover of Captain
Buckley's battery (D), First Rhode Island Artillery, which was
placed in position for that purpose on the bluff formerly occupied
by Dickenson's battery, this latter having been ordered to an-
other part of the field by Major-General Hooker. . . .
It may not be improper to mention here the names of the regi-
ments and their commanders compoeing my Division. They are
as follows :
First Brigade, General James Nagle: Seventh Rhode Island,
Col. Z, R. Bliss; Twelfth Rhode Island, Col. G. H. Browne;
Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. J. K. Sigfried ; Sixth
New Hampshire, Col. S. G. Griffin; Ninth New Hampshire,
liieut-Col. J. W. Babbitt; Second Maryland, Col. T. B. Allard.
Second Brigade, Gen. E. Ferrero: Fifty-first New York Volun-
teers, Col. R. B. Potter; Eleventh New Hampshire Volunteers,
Col. W. Harriman; Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. J.
P. Hartranft; Twenty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, Col. W.
8. Clark; Thirty-fifth Massachusetts Volunteers, Capt. S. H.
Andrews. Light Battery D, First Rhode Island Artillery, Capt.
W. W. Buckley. Light Battery E, Fourth United States Artil-
lery, Second Lieut. John Egan, after Lieutenant Dickenson was
killed.
The 7th and 12th raiments R. I. Vols, and the 11th regiment
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56 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
N. H. being all new regiments and never having been in battle
before, are deserving of great praise for their steadfast gallantry
throughout the whole conflict. . . .
I am, sir, very respectfully your obedient servant,
S. D. STURGIS,
Brig.'Oen. Commanding Second Dioision.
Capt. Robert A. Hutchins,
Assistant Adjutant-Oeneral, Headquarters 9th Army Corps.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI, Paget 319 and 320.]
Report of Brig.Gbn. James Nagle, U. S. Army, (Commanding
First Brigade.
Headquarters, First Brigade,
Near Falmouth, Va.,
December 16, 1862.
General: I have the honor to submit the following report of
the part taken by my brigade in the recent operations against
the enemy :
On Friday morning, the 12th instant, in obedience to your
order, I crossed the Rappahannock in the vicinity of the Lacy
House, with my brigade, and took position under shelter on the
opposite side of the river. I remained in this position until 4
p. M. when I moved my troops a short distance down the . . .
street running parallel with the river, where they bivouacked for
the night.
On the morning of the 13th I moved my troops farther down
said street left in front, until I came up with the right of Gen-
eral Getty's troops. Here I remained until 12.30 p. m., when
I. by ^ your order, advanced to the support of General Ferrero,
who was already engaged. I moved by the right of regiments to
the front to pass obstacles until I got to the rear of the town
where the regiments formed in line of battle. The 6th N. H.,
Col. Griffin, and the 7th R. I., Col. Bliss, advanced to the front,
on the right of the railroad in good order, under a murderous
fire from the enemy's artillery. The 2nd Maryland, Col. Allard,
12th R. I., Col. Browne, and 9th N. H., Lieut-Col. Babbitt com-
manding, being on the left of the railroad, were moved in order,
under shelter as much as possible, to the railroad cut, and ad-
vanced from there to the front. The 48th Pennsylvania, Col Sig-
fried, was for a time held in reserve.
At 2.30 p. M. the 48th Penn. was ordered to the front. The
men marched under a most galling fire like true veterans. The
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^Iv ..
31 < AITS*.,
] TJLOty F;
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Lieut. Albert W. Delanah.
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BHODB ISLAND YOLUNTEBRS 57
whole of my brigade remained in the fronts and did good service
until after sixty rounds of ammunition had been expended, and
until they were relieved at dusk by other troops, when, by your
order, my command was withdrawn in good order to the position
occupied the previous night. The men were here supplied with
ammunition, and then bivouacked for the night.
My brigade remained in the same position until Monday even-
ing, when I was again, by your order, moved to the front with
instructions to hold the City at all hazards. I placed my troops
in position on the left of the railroad, and commenced to
strengthen and fortify my position by throwing up entrench-
ments and digging rifle pits, etc. At 11.30 p. m., by your order,
I withdrew my command across the river to our former camp.
Too much praise cannot be given to the officers and men of my
command. . . .
The 12th R. I., being an entirely new regiment, some little dif-
ficulty wa« had in getting them into position, but they behaved
well, and did more service than was expected from raw troops.
Col. Browne, who was the only field officer (Major Dyer having
been disabled before going into action), is entitled to much praise
for his personal conduct. . . .
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES NAGLE,
Brigadier-General,
Generate Sturgis,
Commanding Second Division Ninth Ai-nty Corps.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXI. Page 324.]
Report of Col. George H. Browne, Twelfth Rhode Island
Infantry.
Camp near Fredericksburg,
Dec. 14, 1862.
Sir: I have the honor to report that your order of yesterday,
to move my regiment through the City and against the enemy in
line of battle, found it resting on Sophia St., near the lower pon-
toon bridge, from whence it moved by the front to the railroad
track in good order. But there the left wing came up with the
2nd Maryland, and, your orders directing us to follow them, it
was waiting their movement when you personally ordered us
forward. At this point, my major (having no Lieut.-CoL), be-.
ing in charge of right wing, was disabled ; but it moved forward
in tolerably good order, and reached the front early.
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58 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
The 2nd Maryland not being moved, the left wing had to march
by the flank, and on reaching the exposed plain above, was
thrown into considerable disorder. Co. E, however, and various
portions of the other companies formed on the colors and bore
them to the front where they were joined by the companies al-
ready on the ground, and continued to deliver their fire until all
of their ammunition was expended. After that, they remained
some hours and till after dark; but receiving no orders, under
the advice of the Senior Colonel, and following his example, I
withdrew my command in good order to the position it occupied
the evening previous. . . .
. . . Of the companies entitled to commendation, A, F, E,
alid D are to be named ; of the officers. Captains Cheney and Hub-
bard; Lieutenants, Briggs, Lawton, Hopkins, Abbott, Tabor, Al-
exander, Roberts, Bucklin, and Pendleton; Sergeants, Cole. Ba-
con, Pollard, Ballon and Burgess, and Corporal Devolve.
Lieut. Tabor, Lieut. Abbott, and Sergeant-Major Potter merit
especial notice for their cool gallantry under the terrible Are that
raked the plain across which the battalions moved.
A list of the killed, wounded and missing is hereto appended.
All of which is respectfully submitted by your
Obedient servant,
G. H. BROWNE, Col
Beig.-Gen. James Naglb,
Commanding First Brigade.
Return of casualties in the Union forces commanded by Maj.-
Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army, at the battle of Fred-
ericksburg, Va.
Dec. 11-15, 1862.
(Compiled from nominal list of casualties, returns, etc.) . . .
Grand total killed, wounded, and missing, 12,653.
I will now endeavor to describe more definitely our position
in front of Marye's Hill, our retreat therefrom, etc.
By actual measurement taken since the war, we find that a
portion of the regiment advanced to within five hundred feet of
the sunken road, falling back directly some two hundred feet to
where the balance of the regiment were massing in position.
Here we remained until ordered to retire. We were on the ex-
treme left of the advance line, the balance of Sturgis's division
being mainly to the right of us, protected in a measure by a de-
pression in the plain. Fortunately a slight elevation interven-
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 59
ing between us and the enemy, with a sharper descent towards
the city, on which incline we took position^ afforded us security
in a measure from the fire of the enemy and also enabled us to
move about with some little degree of freedom while waiting de-
velopments.*
The advance of French's, Hancock's and Sturgis's divisions
was in itself a most lamentable illustration of the fact that it
was not possible for men to be brought one-third of a mile across
an open plain exposed continually to the most destructive fire
conceivable, and be found in condition at the extreme front for
the final assault where nothing less than the sheer weight of
overpowering numbers could have brought about a successful is-
sue.
It was expected that Franklin's attack upon the left would
compel Lee to draw from Longstreet's division and make it pos-
sible for Sumner to push forward. Franklin's failure allowed
Longstreet his full measure of strength, which it was impossible
for Sumner to overcome.
Why Franklin, with all the resources at his disposal, should,
after engaging Lee, fail to follow up the advantage gained by
Meade's advance column is looked upon with astonishment.
Meade had pierced Lee's lines, gaining decided advantage. Why
did not Franklin push to Meade's support troops already in hand,
compelling Lee to re-enforce his right from Longstreet's division,
averting the terrible slaughter of Sumner's columns, and, instead
of accepting defeat, achieve the victory within his grasp?
We retained our position until the close of the day, at which
time the final assault was made by Humphreys's division. Con-
nected with this, a most splendid exhibition of artillery practice
opened upon our view.
General Sturgis having decided to hold his position no longer,
his division having expended all or nearly all its ammunition, to
cover his withdrawal at 5.15 o'clock, ordered in Battery D, First
Rhode Island Artillery, Captain Buckley, which took position
for that purpose on the bluff formerly occupied by Dickenson's
battery. (See Official Records, General Sturgis's report.)
Words fail to express the grateful feeling of relief coming over
* Our position was about one hundred yards to the left facing the hiU of the
historic " Brick House.''
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60 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
lis as the darkness now fast closing in enabled us to watch the
course (by burning fuse) of the deadly missiles from this bat-
tery, as circling over our heads like rockets they sped on their
mission to the heights beyond. Immediately the enemy concen-
trated their fire upon this battery and our grandly helpful dis-
play soon came to an end.
The approach of darkness now enabled us to arrange for re-
treat. Our colonel, in a few words enjoining upon us the strict-
est silence, moved us quickly to the left and rear of our late posi-
tion. Here again the railroad cut still asserted itself as a most
dangerous thoroughfare, for having leisure, under cover of dark-
ness, to lay our course, we moved towards Hazel Run as the easi-
est route to the city. At this juncture a shell exploding just
above our heads so illuminated ourselves and surroundings as
to bring upon us a most terrible fire from the rebel riflemen, and
the deadly enfilading volleys from across Hazel Run were again
in evidence. Quickly responding to the order to lie down, we
thus remained until the firing somewhat slackened, when, rising
to the occasion, with a burst of speed we cleared that cut, enter-
ing it at grade opposite Hazel Run, and again in the streets of
the city, disheartened and despondent over our inglorious defeat,
we awaited the final orders for the night.
Waiving the usual arrangement in order of companies, it was
only required of us to remain in the immediate vicinity, and we
were allowed to cast about and arrange for the night as best we
could, keeping within call of our officers in case of an emergency.
Many of us found shelter in the abandoned houses close at hand,
where, soon unconscious to all surroundings, continuous refresh-
ing sleep throughout the long winter night brought the much
needed relief.
The house affording shelter to the writer and many others of
our regiment was quite large and evidently the residence of well-
to-do people who had doubtless hurriedly vacated, seeking safety
within the rebel lines. To all appearances, none of the furniture
had been removed. The beds, the carpets upon the floors, the
piano, the pictures upon the walls, the easy chairs, the sofa in
the room occupied by the writer and comrades, and upon which
he had thrown himself in sheer exhaustion, all remaining, be-
spoke a most hasty departure. Thankful that we had found such
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• Aire.', L -
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Lieut. Luther Cole, Jr.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 61
excellent quarters after our terrible experience, securing the
doors^ upon the thick, heavy carpet we stretched our weary limbs,
while the night of the ever-memorable 13th of December, 1862,
passed away.
The morning was far advanced when, fully awakening to a
realization of further responsibilities, we gathered ourselves to-
gether. As yet no order to report for duty, and no call sounding
for rations, our sharpened appetites naturally suggested an in-
vestigation of the culinary department. Proceeding to the base-
ment we found the finely equipped kitchen as anticipated, but
ijiiatever the condition of the larder might have been earlier in
the day, nothing now remained excepting a bountiful supply of
flour, which was being rapidly converted into flap-jacks. A very
large range, an abundance of fuel, and plenty of water at hand,
with two or three dozen of our comrades gathered together as
earnest workers, made it possible to turn out flap-jacks at a most
surprising rate.
A very fine looking elderly colored man, a tall, gentlemanly
fellow, belonging to the owner of the premises, upon the hasty
flight of the family remaining behind, glad, doubtless, of the op-
portunity to show his good will towards the Yankee soldiers,
presided over this restaurant, and the way that barrel of flour
disappeared under his supervision, was something remarkable.
After partaking of breakfast at our new-found restaurant, we
returned to our room, remaining there throughout the balance of
the day.
At night a general recall brought our regiment together, and
our company taking shelter in the garret of an unoccupied house
close at hand, was ordered to lie upon their arms, keep quiet,
and be ready for action at a moment's warning.
These special orders fell upon us with most significant mean-
ing as an indication of impending assault, and, although the im-
pwtance of concealing our whereabouts was conceded, the degree
of quiet desired was only obtained after a discussion lasting some
ten minutes between two of our comrades (Lancashire men) over
some trivial matter.
How well the writer remembers with what unconcern these
two fellows continued their conversation ignoring all thought of
possible danger, and with what concern the writer listened to
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62 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
the broad dialect peculiar to the Lancashire men as it echoed
about that unplastered garret, escaping through the roof and
possibly finding lodgment in the ears of enemies not far distant.
Towards morning there was a disturbance along the picket
line, resulting in quite a sharp fusilade. We were all aroused,
but the firing, which was quite rapid for a while, ceased, and
we turned in again.
In the morning we arose and were privileged in having another
day of rest. At the close of this day, the 15th of December, un-
der cover of the darkness now fast gathering around us, we were
called into line and informed that we were to move at once, and
also that the nature of our movement called for the utmost dis-
cretion on our part. No matches must be lighted, and in all re-
spects we were to march as noiselessly as possible, following
which, the command, "Attention! by the right flank, march!"
ran along the line, and again our regiment, sadly depleted in
numbers, mourning the loss of valued comrades, but still un-
daunted, promptly and rapidly follow their leader, the colonel,
as taking the same course as on the morning of the battle, they
ascend the same steep hill, and under cover of darkness Egyptian
(remembered as one of the blackest nights in all our experience),
we take position just inside our advance picket.
Here a detail of men was made from the regiment to procure
picks and shovels, and, upon the arrival of these, the front rank
was called upon, and, proceeding a short distance in advance,
commenced throwing up an embankment, while the rear rank re-
mained lying on their arms ready as a supporting force.
Little did we think as we lay upon our arms, almost within
the enemy's grasp, that instead of another advance we were here
as a menacing force to cover the retreat of the army from the
city, who were even then rapidly recrossing the bridges, leaving
us to follow later, if Providence should favor us, and keep the
knowledge of their movements from our enemies, the failure of
which would most certainly result in our being cut off from fol-
lowing their example, and a change of direction on our part early
in the morning towards Richmond, as prisoners of war.
About twelve o'clock the entrenching force was called in and
quickly and as noiselessly as possible we hurried into the city,
the evacuation of which was in evidence on every hand.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBfr OO
A few hours before, the streets were filled with soldiers, regi-
ment upon regiment, battery upon battery, while now, hardly a
man was to be seen as we passed along the streets. The muffled
tramp of men and horses in the direction of the pontoon bridge
told our destination. Hurriedly we marched along, and, at one
A. M. on the morning of the 16th, we recrossed the bridge (ap-
parently the last regiment to leave the city), and continued on
to inspect our luggage left at Claybourne's Run the morning of
the 12th.
Arriving, we take possession of our belongings, make ourselves
for the balance of the night as comfortable as circumstances will
permit, and wait further orders, much in the spirit of the old
sailor, who, as the story goes, narrowly escaping shipwreck,
finally made port, and, proceeding ashore, indulged somewhat
freely in that which inebriates, and in a somewhat dazed condi-
tion strolled into a theatre, where, among other things presented
in keeping with the play, was a realistic illustration of a thun-
der-storm. While this was going on and the vivid lightning and
crashing thunder was at its height, much to the gratification of
the audience, the gunpowder, an indispensable factor in this ex-
hibition, of which there was quite a large amount on hand in re-
serve, unfortunately ignited, causing a most terrific explosion.
Whereupon the old sailor, after being blown over the tops of ad-
joining buildings, landed in a tangle of shrubbery unhurt, and,
assuming this event as a part of the performance, was heard to
exclaim, ^^what the devil will come nextr
It will be remembered that up to this time we had been in the
service but eight weeks, had journeyed from Rhode Island, had
established different camps, and just completed a long and weary
march.
Why this regiment, not far removed from its base of supplies,
should have been while on this march, forced to subsist on such
miserable rations, is a mystery as yet unsolved, as only on this
march along the Maryland shore of the Potomac, did mouldy
hard-tack find a place in our bill of fare, and this the only thing
available.
It has been suggested by some that we were under the control
of military experts in the interest of the government, and es-
pecially detailed, that it might be known how far certain condi-
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64 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
tions most trying to the soldier might be continued, that our fit-
ness for special service later on might be determined. For, when
through fasting we were supposed to be ready for the next course,
we were duly gathered together where the piercing icy blasts
from the north pole could penetrate the very marrow of our
bones, the remembrance of which at this distant day will send
the sympathetic shiver along our spinal columns, as memory calls
to mind our transit across the icy waters of the Potomac on the
deck of an open ferryboat, during the early hour of evening on
the 6th of December, 1862, and our subsequent exposure and suf-
fering, waiting exposed to the terrible icy blasts, while a suitable
place for the next course was under consideration.
That we were finally consigned to a place especially adapted
to the purpose in hand, and that the instigators of our misery
were familiar with the final treatment accorded evil doers as out-
lined elsewhere and fully illustrated here at Camp Smoke (bar-
ring the brimstone), goes without question.
Now, while reviewing the events of the last two weeks, culmi-
nating in our terrible experience at Fredericksburg, where also
we are offered as a possible sacrifice to engage the attention of
the enemy while the main body of the army make good their es-
cape, the question arises, is it possible that we are already in
fact, as appearances indicate, the scap^oat of the Army of the
Potomac, detailed as of exceptional brawn and muscle, which our
endurance under outrageous discipline fully corroborated?
On the morning of the 16th our regiment was called into line,
and, moving by the right flank, descended into a slough of bog
and mire, emerging from which we came to a halt, having arrived
at ground assigned us, and, in order of companies took possession
and established our camp. This very undesirable location was
only a short distance removed from where we made temporary
camp before and after the battle, some four hundred yards north
of where the highway crosses Glaybourne's Run, in a broad val-
ley opening to the south. This run, a small insignificant stream,
zigzagged its way from the north along the centre of the valley,
dividing our regiment encamped on either side. Those having
shelter tents made use of them, while one-third of the regiment,
about the number who encountered the railroad cut at its most
difficult point of crossing, and who managed to push their way
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBES 65
up the bank only after throwing off the regulation roll, were now
without the indispensable blanket and tent, having left them be^
hind, a most welcome gift to the enemy, who shortly thereafter
gathered them in.
Nearly a month elapsed before tents and blankets in sufficient
quantity could be procured to replace those lost, and in the mean-
time branches of trees were gathered and arranged, affording
shelter. Some more enterprising burrowed in dugouts, and, as
a distribution of tents and blankets was made before the storms
came upon us, they managed to overcome the shortage, pulling
through in fairly good condition.
Some of our comrades, too many alas! unable to withstand
further privation and suffering, were compelled to seek relief in
the hospital, a few only to receive the glad welcome accorded the
gallant comrade upon his recovery and return to his regiment.
The writer, having his equipment of blankets and tent in com-
pany with comrades equally fortunate, excavated for a founda-
tion and erected their habitation. Commencing, we measured
off a space some nine by sixteen feet, throwing out the earth to a
depth of eighteen inches or thereabouts. Cutting logs, we placed
them against the wall of earth, continuing these up some three
feet from the bottom of our dugout. Placing a ridgepole length-
wise of our structure, at a sufficient height to clear our heads,
we passed our tents over this, fastening them to the sides. Ob-
taining rubber blankets later on we placed them over these shel-
ter tents, which, of course, made us quite secure from the ele-
ments without. We also constructed a fireplace, making our
chimney of logs closely fitted together and cemented with the
sacred clay, capping the same with a pork barrel. We found
our, fireplace very useful, the fire keeping our house warm and
dry, and, as we sat and watched the burning logs, we could real-
ize in a measure the comforts of civilization.
Friday, the 19th, our regiment was detailed for picket duty
along the northern bank of the Rappahannock, the right of our
line resting at Falmouth, with headquarters at the Lacy House.
Every Friday thereafter while stationed here at "Camp near
Falmouth," we were called upon for this special duty, remaining
on dut}- twenty-four hours. Our pickets were posted along the
*»ighway, from Falmouth to the bridge, crossing into Fredericks-
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66 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
burg. Our duty here was rendered somewhat undesirable,
through exposure to the cold blasts of winter coursing along and
across the river. The pickets were relieved at frequent intervals,
and, if, when at the rear as reserve, we could have had the omi-
fort derived from good rousing fires, we should have had no cause
for complaint. But throughout the long winter nights no fires
must be lighted, under which conditions it will require no
stretch of the imagination to realize that this duty "was no pic-
nic," as the saying goes.
As a rule, the road defining our picket line ran along at the
foot of the bluff. At one point, however, the river makes its
way directly against the bluff, which here shows rock formation
nearly perpendicular; the highway rising above this nearly to a
level with the plain, descends again, as the river recedes from
the foot of the bluff. Along this highway, at the top of the bluflf,
the wind at times swept most unmercifully, and at this point on
one of the bitterest, coldest nights, returning from his post to
where the reserve was stationed (the course of the wind giving
us no chance of shelter) , the writer found strong men in tears,
having lost control of themselves through extreme suffering. As
hereinbefore stated, many of our regiment, having through mis-
fortune on the field of battle been deprived of the indispensable
blankets, suffered exceedingly.
The town of Falmouth is an old, dilapidated looking place,
containing x)erhaps 1,000 inhabitants. It is situated at the head
of tidewater on the Rappahannock, three-quarters of a mile
above Fredericksburg on the northern slope, and is connected
with the opposite side of the river by a bridge, which crossed di-
rectly opposite the centre of the town. Half of the bridge on the
Falmouth side stood uninjured ; the balance contributing to the
fortunes of war, nothing but the piers remained in evidence.
The length of this bridge was perhaps six hundred feet, crossing
the river at the height of about thirty feet. It was a wooden
structure resting on piers of logs and stone. There is a consid-
erable fall in the river opposite and above Falmouth, the bed of
which, at this place and extending up the river as far as I could
see, was one mass of broken rocks over which the water tumbled
in considerable volume.
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RHODE ISI/AND VOLUNTEERS 67
A large mill here in Falmouth was still in operation in a lim-
ited way, turning out flour and meal, but the twelve sets of stone,
with which this mill was equipped, an abundant water power,
and the advantage of transportation by water to points far and
near along the Atlantic coast, signified that Falmouth had en-
joyed no little degree of prosperity in days gone by.
Owing to the long continuance of dry weather the river could
have been easily forded at the time we were there. 1 believe it
was considered by many to have been a mistake in not fording
the river and occupying the heights, which it was thought might
have easily been accomplished at the time our advance arrived
here. Burnside, however, having had experience in the winter
of '61 and '62, which was unusually rough and stormy, enter-
tained fears, no doubt, of similar conditions, and would not ap-
prove of a movement fraught with the great danger arising of
the swollen, impassable Rappahannock dividing his army. In
which event nothing but the pontoon so long coming, could have
re-established communication. Alas! how much depended upon
the prompt arrival of these pontoons as promised, — our great
disaster averted, — victory instead of defeat.
The bluffs upon the northern side of the Rappahannock at Fal-
mouth and beyond Fredericksburg, are very high and precipi-
tous, covered with a growth of wood and underbrush, with maxi-
mum height at the Lacy House eighty or one hundred feet, while
the southern shore, in direct contrast to the rugged northern
bluffs, ascends from the river in rolling banks to a higher eleva-
tion and rolling plain beyond, showing cultivation in its luxuri-
ant verdure and great fertility of soil.
To corroborate his statement concerning the remarkable fertil-
ity of soil in this locality, the writer will say, that journeying
this way in the Fall of '92 he found a field of corn covering the
plain at the Phillips Farm and all the surrounding vast area
80 well known to all of us, and over which we marched and coun-
termarched in '62 and '63.
Continuing down the ravine and across the highway at the
foot of the bluff, he found the clearing along the river, over which
we passed to the pontoon bridge, covered also with a growth of
corn, the stalks from ten to twelve feet in height, ears fully
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68 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
capped with golden grain, from ten to fifteen inches long and
from two to three inches in thickness at largest diameter;
while ahout Falmouth, along and near the river, smaller patches
of even lai'ger growth were on every hand, stalks occasionally
sixteen feet high with corresponding ears ready for the harvest.
In those garden patches could he found sweet potatoes,
squashes, tomatoes and all things appertaining to garden pro-
ducts in the greatest abundance.
By the way, having had experience raising pole beans in Rhode
Island, which, among other items, includes the cutting and
sharpening of poles, taking them into the field, making the holes
with a heavy iron or steel bar of sufficient depth to keep the
poles erect, and then inserting these poles, mount them, with a
leap or jump, that they might be set firmly into the ground ;—
when the writer says that this is no easy job he thinks he will be
borne out in his assertion. But lo and behold! here he found
peas and beans planted with the corn in the same hill, and, when
ready for climbing, finding the needed support already at hand,
would tackle that cornstalk, and, after a climb of ten feet or so,
giving up the chase would develop an array of pods in great
abundance, filled to bursting, the faintest glimpse of which,
would make a bean-eating Bostonian leap for joy.
From Fredericksburg, a wagon road running along parallel
with the river and connecting with the bridge at Falmouth, was
doubtless occupied by the rebel pickets when screened from ob-
servation by darkness. While our soldiers as a rule made no at-
tempt to conceal their movements by daylight, the rebels kept
themselves covered both day and night.
Although surprising as it appears to me, through all my ex-
perience in and about Falmouth and Fredericksburg, before,
during, and after the battle, I was rarely able to set my eyes on
a man, with or without the equipment of the soldier, whom I had
reason to believe was in the service or sympathy of the Confed-
erates. But that they were about us, and not far distant, we
had most convincing proof, nevertheless. And although within
five hundred feet of the sunken road, at the foot of Marye's Hill,
whence the terrific fire could only have resulted from the pres-
ence of rebels, massed in large numbers, although comrades
claimed to see an occasional movement, I failed to notice it.
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I
"U fr 'N0*'""^'''» '
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Capt. Edward S. Cheney.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS
69
That they were in condition to withstand our assault without
exposing themselves to view, reflects much credit on rebel engi-
neering. And to those of us who were in position to observe the
volume of their fire, when, and how delivered, we could realize
that on their part, no ammunition was to be needlessly expended.
January 17th we received marching orders; packed our knap-
sacks accordingly, filled our haversacks with rations, and pre-
pared to move at once.
All things seemed to indicate an early movement. Sunday,
the 18tb, passed by.
Monday, the 19th, regiment after regiment marched past our
camp.
Tuesday, the 20th, it was plainly evident that the "Grand
Army'' of the Potomac was in motion. This day at our "dress
parade" an address from General Burnside was read to us, call-
ing us once more to face the enemy. Our colonel had orders to
move the regiment that night, or early the following morning.
At nightfall the wind, which had been blowing fresh from the
southeast, threatening rain for two days, suddenly veered to the
northeast and the expected storm burst upon us; consequently,
we remained in camp. It continued raining until the morning
of the 23d, when it finally ceased. This storm will be remem-
bered as defeating the plan of General Burnside to again cross
the Rappahannock at another point and engage the enemy from
another direction; this plan failing, we resumed our r^ular
duty.
Friday, the 23d, was the appointed day for picket duty.
A saying had already obtained among us, that when the
Twelfth Rhode Island moved the storm ceased. Sure enough, al-
though raining in the morjiing, showing no sign of clearing off,
immediately the regiment moved the clouds began to disperse,
and, upon reaching Falmouth, the sun came out, and, at two
p. M., not a cloud was to be seen.
We took up our quarters in an old meeting house or church
(still standing in 1892), "much the worse for wear,'' on the
heights of Falmouth, overlooking the entire village, the city of
Fredericksburg and the river for a mile or more in each direc-
tion.
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70 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
The army commenced its return movement the morning of the
23d, and the highway was thronged with batteries, baggage wag-
ons, ambulances, and men moving to their old quarters. Just
at nightfall I wafi in the village, and at that late hour battery
upon battery, ambulance upon ambulance, lined the street, hur-
rying back to their respective quarters. One need but to have
seen this immense amount of war material on exhibition^ to have
b^n assured of the great strength and effectiveness of the Army
of the Potomac. As the enemy were opposed to us in large
force, and disposed no doubt for desperate efforts (as we had
every reason to believe), we expected soon another bloody strug-
gle.
Through the interposition of a merciful Providence it was
postx>oned for the time being. However, we had faith to think
that the enemy would finally be obliged to yield to the irresist-
ible force of our army, and patiently waited the appointed time
that would bring sorrow, shame, and defeat to the enemy, and
crown our arms with victory.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXV, Page 3. Part 2.]
General Orders, |
No. 20. [
War Department, Adjt.-Gen^s. Office,
Washington, Jan. 25, 1863.
The President of the United States haB directed :
I. That Maj.-Gen. A. E. Burnside, at his own request, be re-
lieved from the command of the Army of the Potomac.
II. That Maj.-Gen. E. V. Sumner, at his own request, be re-
lieved from duty in the Army of the Potomac.
III. That Maj.-Gen. W. B. Franklin be relieved from duty in
the Army of the Potomac.
IV. That Maj.-Gen. J. Hooker be assigned to the command
of the Army of the Potomac.
The officers, relieved as above, will report in person to the
Adjutant-General of the Army.
By order of the Secretary of War,
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant-Oeneral,
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 71
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, VoL XXV, Page 4, Part 2.]
Executive Mansion,
Washington, D. C, January 26, 1863.
Major-Gbn. Hooker:
General: I have placed you at the head of the Army of the
Potomac. Of course, I have done this upon what appears to me
to be sufficient reasons, and yet I think it best for you to know
that there are some things in regard to which I am not quite sat-
isfied with you. I believe you to be a brave and skillful soldier
which, of course, I like. I also believe you do not mix politics
with your profession, in which you are right. You have confi-
dence in yourself, which is a valuable, if not an indispensable,
quality. You are ambitious, which, within reasonable bounds,
does good rather than harm; but I think that during General
Bumside's command of the army, you have taken counsel of
your ambition and thwarted him as much as you could, in which
you did a great wrong to the country and to a most meritorious
and honorable brother officer. I have heard, in such a way as
to believe it, of your recently saying that both the Army and
the Government needed a dictator. Of course, it was not for
this, but in spite of it, that I have given you the conmiand.
Only those generals who gain successes can set up dictators.
What I now ask of you is military success, and I will risk the
dictatorship.
The Government will support you to the utmost of its ability,
which is neither more nor less than it has done and will do for
all commanders.
I much fear that the spirit, which you have aided to infuse
into the army, of criticising their commander and withholding
confidence from him, will now turn upon you. I shall assist you
as far as I can to put it down.
Neither you nor Napoleon, if he were alive again, could get
any good of an army while such a spirit prevails in it.
And now beware of rashness. Beware of rashness, but with
energy and sleepless vigilance go forward and give us victories.
Yours, very truly,
A. LINCOLN.
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72 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXV, PageH 4 and 5, Part 2.]
General Orders, |
No. 9. [
Headquarters, Army of the Potomac.
Camp near Falmouth, Va., January 26, 1863.
By direction of the President of tlie United States, the com-
manding general this day transfers the command of this Army
to Maj.-Qen. Joseph Hooker.
The short time that he has directed your movements has not
been fruitful of victory, or any considerable advancement of onr
lines, but it has again demonstrated an amount of courage, pa-
tience, and endurance that under more favorable circumstances
would have accomplished great results.
Continue to exercise these virtues; be true in your devotion
to your country, and the principles you have sworn to maintain ;
give to the brave and skillful general, who has so long been iden-
tified with your organization, and who is now to command yon,
your full and cordial support and co-operation, and you wilf de-
serve success.
In taking an affectionate leave of the entire army from which
he separates with so much regret, he may be pardoned if he bids
an especial farewell to his long tried associates of the Ninth
Corps. His prayers are that God may be with you, and grant
you continual success until the rebellion is crushed.
By command of Major-General Burnside,
LEWIS RICHMOND,
Assistayit Ad jt. General.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXV, Page 6, Part 2.]
General Orders, )
No. 1. j
Headquarters Right Grand Division,
Near Falmouth, Va.,
January 26, 1863.
In pursuance with General Orders No. 20 from the Adjutant-
GeneraFs OflSce, War Department, Washington, January 25th,
1863, I announce to the Right Grand Division that I have been
relieved from duty in the Army of the Potomac by order of the
President of the United States.
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\^ U 1^ - *<^ •^-
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I
Lieut. John S. Roberts.
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BHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 73
1 have only to recall to you the memory of the past, in which
you have fought so many battles with credit and honor always,
in which you have captured so many colors without losing a sin-
gle gun or standard, and to urge that, keeping this recollection
in your hearts, you prove always worthy of it. It is only in so
doing that you can retain for yourself a reputation well won,
and which I feel will be preserved under the gallant and able
commander, Major-General Couch, to whom I confide you.
E. V. SUMNER,
Brevet Major-Oeneral U. S, Army,
OFFICIAL REC0BD8.
[Series 1, Vol. XXV, Pago 12, Part 2.]
Washington, D. C, January 31, 1863.
Maj.-Gbn. Joseph Hooker, Commanding Aimy of the Potomac:
General: The Ninth Army Corps, now under your command,
will be sent to Fort Monroe to report to Major-General Dix. . . .
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief,
OFFICIAL RECOIiDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXV, Page 44, Part 2.]
Washington, D. C, Feb. 4, 1863.
Ma.70r-General Hooker:
Maj.-Gen. Burnside is the permanent commander of the Ninth
Corps.
Make such temporary changes as you may think proper.
H. W. HALLECK,
Oeneralrin-Chief .
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXV, Pages 52 and 53, Part 2.]
Headquarters, Army op the Potomac,
Camp near Falmoutu, Va.,
February 6, 18G3.
Col. J. C. Kelton^ Assistant Adjutant-General:
I have the honor to enclose herewith copies of Special Orders
Nos. 35 and 36, directing the movements of the Ninth Corps. .
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74 HISTORY OP THE TWEI^FTH REGIMENT
. . It will be observed that Major-General W. F. Smitli has
been ordered to the Ninth Corps. . . . The Ninth Ck>rp8 will
be shipped as rapidly as the transportation is furnished for that
movement.
One brigade embarked to-day. . . .
Very respectfully, &c.,
JOSEPH HOOKER,
Maj.Oeti. Conima4iding.
Realizing the tremendous effort put forth on both sides en-
gaged in this sanguinary struggle, when men of science and
genius all over the civilized world are largely turning attention
to the production of appliances and machinery insuring greater
means of defence, or a corresponding increase in ability to
slaughter, some thoughts naturally suggest themselves.
We cannot but acknowledge the fact, that from time immemo-
rial the diflferences of men upon approaching a certain point,
where "forbearance ceases to be a virtue," have culminated in
this summary way of cutting, slashing, and braining one an-
other. Still it does seem very unfortunate that these diflfer-
ences cannot be settled by other methods. History rarely makes
mention of other ways provided, and I trust we are following the
appointed way by laying on "hip and thigh.*'
From Saturday, January 24th, to Tuesday the 27th, the
weather was quite warm, with occasional showers of rain.
Wednesday morning we found it snowing, the air extremely
cold, the wind from the northeast blowing a gale, which con-
tinued throughout the day.
Thursday, the 29th, was sunny, warm, and pleasant, and we
had no more rain until Sunday, February 1st, when we had to
submit to another rainy day, which, though unpleasant, was the
means of clearing off the snow.
The day before, we enjoyed a visit from one of Uncle Sam's
paymasters, and received our pay from date of enlistment to
October 13th.
Tuesday, February the 3d, was severely cold, the wind blowing
from the northeast again, with frequent snow squalls.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBERS 75
Thursday, the 5th, rumors were afloat that we were soon to he
removed from our present situation.
Sunday, the 8th, had orders to provide ourselves with three
days' rations, as we were to proceed to Acquia Creek the next
day by rail, and from thence by transports to Fortress Monroe.
Monday opened up pleasantly, and, at three p. m., we "struck
onr tents," or, in other words, dismantled our dugouts, and bade
farewell to "Camp Mud." At 4.30 p. m. we stacked arms along-
side the railroad depot in company with other regiments of our
brigade, waiting our turn. At 5.30 p. m. we were aboard the
cars, and, after the usual delay, Anally started on.
Although thankful that we were called to other fields of ac-
tion, sorrow filled our hearts for comrades left behind. Though
blinded by the gathering tears, we take a final look afield, where
brave and loyal comrades lie in silence evermore among the dead.
Buoyant and hopeful, trusting and loyal, they shared with us the
hardships of the march with ever ready, helping hand to smooth
the way. No more their presence cheers along the weary road.
In battle's crash and gloomy camp the summons came, far from
kindred, friends, and home.
^^ For them no more the blazing hearth shall bum,
Or busy housewife ply her evening care,
No children run to lisp their sirens return,
Or climb his knees the envied kiss to share."
Proceeding slowly, we did not reach Acquia Creek until ten
o'clock in the evening, where, without delay, we boarded the
steamers Metacomet and Juniata, that were in waiting to receive
us. Hauling into the stream, we here passed the night.
The morning of the 10th dawned upon us promising a pleasant
day.
By the way, through letters from home we received the wel-
come news that a vessel had been chartered to deliver whatever
our friends at home chose to contribute and send to the boys of
the Twelfth as a reminder that, though absent, they were not
forgotten. Later on we learned that this vessel was already on
its way freighted with boxes and barrels, the contents of which
we were anxious to investigate. Still later on we received the
somewhat discouraging news that our cargo was afloat some-
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76 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
where on the Atlantic coast, its guardians watching for an op-
portunity to interview some one authorized to receive it.
Having learned that our regiment was due at Acquia Creek
the 9th, they trimmed their sails accordingly, and, on the morn-
ing of the 10th, the long expected schooner Elizabeth and
Helen, with freight for the Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Vol-
unteers having arrived during the night, lay at anchor close by,
waiting instructions. Colonel Browne lost no time in intervie^r-
ing the skipper and arrangements were made to deliver the car^o
later on at Newport News. Returning to the steamer, the col-
onel brought along, among other things found aboard for himself
and staff, two barrels of apples for the boys. It may be needless
to say here that these apples were immediately sampled and duly
appreciated. At 11.30 our quartermaster's stores came alonf^-
side, were taken aboard, and, weighing anchor, we started dow^n
the river.
It was a beautiful morning and all were in good spirits. Our
steamer, the Metacomct, proved a fast sailer. The Juniata^
which passed us before we started, we soon overtook, and, as we
passed Point Lookout, at five p. m., and entered the broad waters
of the Chesapeake, the Juniata was fast falling astern in the
distance. Sometime during the night, where sufficient space
could be found between decks, we stretched ourselves for rest.
At six A. M., the 11th, we turned out to ascertain our where-
abouts and look upon new scenes. We found the wind blowing
fresh from the east, and a cloudy sky threatening rain. We also
learned that we were in Hampton Roads, close in shore, and
within three-fourths of a mile of the village of Hampton. There
were quite a number of vessels in the Roads, steamers, schooners,
gunboats, etc.
Our companion, the Juniata, lay a short distance from us, hav-
ing finally caught on.
At about nine a. m. we started for Newport News, passing
close to the Rip Raps, a ledge of rocks so named, between For-
tress Monroe and the opposite shore. Since the war commenced,
this place had been fortified to some extent and was becoming
somewhat celebrated as a place of confinement for those under
restraint, or suffering punishment at the hands of the govern-
ment.
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Lieut. Joseph C. Whiting. Jr.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 77
We arrived at Newport News, landing at twelve m., and pro-
ceeded immediately to disembark. We filed off the boat upon
the piers, came upon "terra flrma," and, filing to the left, con-
tinning on, we gained the top of the bluff at easy grade and
stacked our arms, whereupon our colonel leaving us, while he
made report to the commanding oflScer, Major-General Dix, we
took the opportunity to become acquainted with the sights and
scenes of Newport News. The Cwrriberland, sunk by the Merri-
mac, lay opposite the landing, a short distance away, her three
lower masts and bow only remaining above water, of what was
once considered one of the finest vessels in the service. What
was left of the Congress also, after her encounter, lay one mile
below, the outline of her hull plainly visible above water. It
was fortunate that the Monitor made her appearance in time to
call a halt.
This place as a military post, had been built up since the war
began. Opposite the landing, the buildings extended from the
beach up and along the bluff, to the level space above. The
height of this bluff was about forty feet above high water mark
for a mile or two, in either direction from the village, and ex-
tending to the rear from this bluff was a level plain, half a mile
in width, and in length as far as the eye could reach. Upon this
level space, well towards the rear, the different regiments were
encamped, presenting a very fine appearance. The space in
front of our camp, one-fourth of a mile in width between our
camp and the bluff, was used for drill and parade. The ground,
from the top of the bluff to the rear, descended gradually. A
few hundred feet to the rear of our camp, we obtained plenty of
water. A short distance to the rear of our water supply was the
swampy forest upon which we levied at once for fuel. Although
for the last two years the woodman's axe had told effectively
upon these noble trees, still a goodly supply was left standing.
That we had arrived on more hospitable shores was plainly evi-
dent, even the denizens of the forest contributed in choral voice
their greetings to the soldier, making melody far into the still
watches of the night.
The piping frog heralding the coming Spring ;
Piped his familiar notes, in song continuous.
While from his perch, the owl sent forth
In dissonance, his hoot and howl.
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78 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
The camp of the Twelfth Rhode Island was about one-third of
a mile from the landing to the northwest.
The following correspondence from the Providence Journal
at this time may be of interest to our readers :
Twelfth Regiment, R. I. Vols.,
Newport Nbtws, Va., March 14, 1863.
Capt. W. E. Hubbard, of Company F, was yesterday made the
recipient of a beautiful sword, belt, and pistol, by the non-com-
missioned o£Qcers and privates of his company, as a token of
their high respect and esteem for their commanding oflScer.
The presentation speech was made by Andrew M. Belcher, as-
sistant in the quartermaster's department, and a member of Com-
pany F. The captain responded in a few and very appropriate
remarks, expressing his interest in the welfare of his men, as
well as his confidence in their integrity and valor as soldiers,
and assuring them that he would never call upon them to go
where he would not lead them.
The speech was received with three rousing cheers for the cap-
tain, immediately after which the quartermaster, John L. Clarke,
drew from beneath his overcoat another most beautiful sword,
sash, belt, and equipments, which he presented to Lieut. Fran-
cisco M. Ballon, from friends at home.
The presentation speech was well suited to the occasion, and
the new lieutenant, although taken evidently by surprise, re-
sponded in a happy manner, after which three cheers being given
for Lieutenant Ballou, and three for the quartermaster, the com-
pany "broke ranks," all well pleaded with the entertainment.
Such scenes have been of rare occurrence since we left Camp
Stevens, but they nevertheless have a very happy effect upon the
regiment inspiring confidence in both ofiScers and men, and
thereby promoting the general good of the whole.
The village of Newport News was enclosed upon the north and
west, by palisade and ditch, to repel attack from the rear. In
this enclosure was the barracks for the men and the usual space
allowed for drill and parade. Outside this enclosure, upon the
east, other barracks had been built. Nearly all the buildings
were of logs, — some of them, put up as storehouses for traders
and quartermasters' supplies, were of rough boards evidently
not intended for permanent use. In extent these buildings were
scattered over an area of half a mile in length, along the water
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEBBS 79
front The bay of itself is a beautiful sheet of water, and op-
posite us was x>erhaps four miles in width.
As we stood upon the bluff facing the water, just below upon
the opposite side we could discover the ox)ening leading to Nor-
folk; to the right we could see the mouth of the James River,
and directly at the entrance could be seen one of our gunboats.
In front of us were a few craft whose general appearance be-
si>oke their calling. The Oalenay which will be remembered as
taking part in the attack upon Fort Darling, lay in the bay op-
posite us. Judging from her appearance and reputation, when
called upon again she doubtless would have been able to give
a good account of herself. The Minnesota lay one and one-
half miles below us. If the Monitor had not come to the
rescue, instead of the noble vessel lying now before us, she would
doubtless have presented the same sorry figure as the Congress
and Cumberlandy undoubtedly sharing the same fate. Included
in this fleet were three gunboats of the Monitor pattern. These
boats needed no praise, and were particularly expected to speak
for themselves.
February the 12th, the next day after our arrival, it being
warm and pleasant, some of the more enterprising members of
the regiment entered the woods and commenced logging, being
desirous of more comfortable quarters than the shelter tent af-
forded.
On the 15th my comrades and myself interested in our particu-
lar house, realizing that we were on the verge of collapse, ad-
journed business until such time as we felt better able to con-
tinue, as we found, upon encountering the heavy timbers at hand,
that we had engaged in very laborious work, the hauling of the
logs to our camp, some quarter of a mile or more, reminding us
quite forcibly of our experience poling hay across the bog-
meadows and marshes of Rhode Island, at home, with thermom-
eter ranging from 85^ to 100^ in the shade, an occupation desig-
nated by one of our townsmen as "soul-carting.''
The 16th, it commenced storming, thus putting a stop to house
building operations, but the Elizabeth and Helen having arrived,
our boxes and packages from home were soon afterwards brought
to camp and distributed among the eager and expectant recipi-
ents.
Many of the boxes filled largely with material of a perishable
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80 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
nature requiring prompt delivery, came to the comrades par-
tially or entirely ruined, through delay in transit.
My contribution of one-half a barrel of apples from home,
came to hand in good condition and received prompt attention.
One barrel addressed to Company F was turned upon the ground
in the company street and was immediately taken care of.
Saturday, the 2l8t, our colonel ordered all log huts leveled
and taken off the ground. This was done. New A tents were
issued and put up at once, having just time to pitch them before
it commenced raining. In the night it snowed, and the follow-
ing morning it rained again, continuing through the day. Upon
the whole, the regiment was better off for the new tents, as many
of the boys, having nothing but the shelter tent were poorly pro-
vided for, but for those disposed to provide better quarters, the
change was submitted to with an ill grace.
Wednesday, the 25th, the Ninth Army Corps, here encamped,
passed in review before General Dix.
Saturday, March the 14th, we took part in a sword presenta-
tion,— Company F presenting its captain with a beautiful sword,
revolver, and sword belt, etc. The money was raised by the com-
pany, and the articles were purchased by J. L. Clarke, our quar-
termaster.
Our second lieutenant, who had lately received his commis-
sion and assignment to Company F, was also presented with
sword, sword belt, revolver, cap, etc., from kind friends at home.
These were also brought on from Rhode Island by Mr. Clarke
who had just returned to his regiment after an absence of two
weeks. The camp of the Twelfth Rhode Island was conceded to
be the finest looking on the grounds. The streets were well laid
out and were kept swept clean. The tents were new and pre-
sented a uniform appearance. The regiment had improved
greatly, being well fed, clothed, and finely equipped. Beside the
regular army ration in abundance here, we will not forget the
ranch just outside the limits of our camp, at which place the
sons and daughters of Ham built up a flourishing trade with the
boys. The fine quality of the oysters abounding in the waters
near at hand was fully demonstrated here, while the fried
chicken, cake and pies, brought in and sold at very reasonable
rates, insured a "right smart'' trade at once. Truly we must
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 81
admit that the institution of slavery had developed amongst the
dnskj matrons of the South a proficiency in that appertaining
to culinary matters, not surpassed the world over.
While in camp here we had occasion to interfere and repress
the fighting instinct, now rapidly developing, under our generous
fare in camp, supplemented by our dusky neighbors at the ranch.
The writer was in the quartermaster's tent one evening, when
our orderly came in informing us of our company entertaining
some of the boys of the Forty-eighth Pennsylvania who bad
come provided with clubs and stones to settle some difficulty.
A very brief entertainment sufficed for the Pennsylvania boys,
when they retired from the field. In about half an hour they
again called on our boys, re-enforced in numbers and hoping for
better results. After a very brief engagement, the lieutenant-
colonel coming along, we were ordered to our quarters, and quiet
reigned again. The next morning, as the writer lay in his tent
looking out upon the street, a party of three or four stopped in
front for a talk. Soon one of them began to show symptoms of
a strange nature, and directly over he went upon his back.
In connection with the affair of the night before, the writer be-
gan to think that matters were coming to a crisis. However,
the man, who, to all appearance was dead, through the somewhat
heroic measures of those gathered about him, was at length
brought to and carried off.
March the 18th a cold, disagreeable storm commenced, lasting
until the 21st. It commenced with a drizzling rain which finally,
however, turned to a stiff snowstorm. On the morning of the
21st it cleared away, the snow lying on the ground six inches
deep.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXHI, Page 147, Part 2.]
Headquarters of the Army,
Washington, March 16, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside,
Washington.
General: By direction of the Secretary of War you will re-
sume command of the Ninth Army Corps, and immediately re-
lieve Gen. H. G. Wright of the command of the Department of
the Ohio.
6
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82 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
One division of the Ninth Army Corps will be left for the pres-
ent in the command of General Dix, and the other two divisions
will immediately proceed to the Department of the Ohio. Ton
will arrange with the Quartermaster-General for transportation.
As soon as yon have made the proper arrangements yon will
repair to Cincinnati and assume command of the Department,
leaving the officer next in rank to superintend the movements of
the troops.
These instructions will, at present, be regarded as confidential.
Very respectfully,
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
All were now looking for the time, evidently near at hand,
^vhe1l we should pull up and leave for other parts.
March the 23d the snow had disappeared, much to our satisfac-
tion. This day was employed in the issuing of clothing to the
regiment. The boys were now fully prepared for the journey,
now close upon us. The Twelfth Regiment at this time was the
largest in the entire corps, and the finest in its general appear-
ance as regards the men, their clothing, arms, equipments, etc
Wednesday, the 25th, we received marching orders.
Headquarters^ Department op the Ohio,
Cincinnati, Ohio, March 25, 1863.
General Orders, )
No. 27. j
In accordance with instructions from the General-in-Chief, the
undersigned hereby assumes command of the Department of the
Ohio.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Maj.Oen. Commanding,
Thuisday, the 26th, at seven p. m., we struck our tents, and re-
mained in the streets, waiting orders to fall in. Meanwhile the
cook's quarters were consigned to the flames and a general scn^)-
ing up of sticks, poles, boxes, and everything of a combustible
nature took place. It being a cold night our fires were duly
appreciated. At eleven in the evening we were called upon and
immediately proceeded to the landing, and, boarding the steamer
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Capt. George A. Spink.
(From a recent picture.)
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 83
Long Island, were soon on our way, bidding farewell to Newport
News, where we had spent so many pleasant hours^ much to our
own comfort individually and with profit to the regiment.
The morning of the 26th we were steaming up the Chesapeake
en route for Baltimore. Leaving the broad waters of the bay at
six p. M. we entered the Patapsco River, and at seven were along-
side the wharf at Baltimore, where we passed the night.
At six o'clock on the morning of the 27th we were ordered to
sling knapsacks. This done, we died off the boat, and, marching
through the streets of the city, we stacked our arms opposite the
depot in readiness to board the cars, as soon as the necessary
arrangements could be made.
Realizing that we should not be called upon for some time, the
boys were allowed to leave the ranks and look about. The peo-
ple of Baltimore were very friendly. As we marched through
the streets we met with cordial greetings, handkerchiefs were
waved, flags displayed, etc. This was reciprocated by the regi-
ment, by answering back in deafening cheers. Assured that we
were among friends, now that we were relieved from duty for the
time being, the opportunity for foraging and extending our ac-
quaintance was not to be neglected. Accordingly, many of the
boys immediately "struck out" to bask in the sunshine of hos-
pitality, and, in the meantime, replenish the haversack and can-
teen. Going down street among the many things engaging the
writer's attention, he observed a sign over the entrance to a store
or saloon inscribed "Ho every one that thirsts draw nigh!" and
also found that quite a number of our boys, attracted by this
unique invitation, had already reported as suffering beyond all
measure from thirst, and, under the direction of the proprietor,
were busy sampling from numerous barrels ranged along the in-
ner walls, the contents of said barrels being administered as
"Wet Goods" of extra quality. Those sampling, soon pro-
nounced these goods to be "A No. 1" and the proprietor a jolly
good fellow; whereupon, a number of the comrades in waiting
hastened to slake their thirst, and, filling their canteens, con-
tinued to slake their thirst. Some of the more thirsty shortly
began to exhibit the warlike spirit engendered by this kind of in-
dulgence, and frequent invitations to "knock the chip off me
shoulder," or "step on the tail of me coat," or other remarks
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84 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
equally Bignificant, were extended to all, regardless of size or
color. That the pressing invitation was accepted by comrades
or townspeople disposed to accommodate, was evident from the
appearance of a few of the more pugnacious who were assisted
aboard the train later on.
The call to take the cars at twelve m. was not promptly met
owing to the confusion wrought by over-indulgence in these
extra special Baltimore rations. However, by the exercise of
patience and considerable extra labor, the boys were all finally
landed. The train started at two p. m., proceeding slowly
throughout the afternoon. Late in the evening we stopped at
Little York, Penn., where hot coffee and bread were served to
such of the regiment as felt disposed to partake. We were fairly
on our way for the West, by way of Harrisburg. After leav-
ing Little York we moved along with more rapidity, and the
next morning at eight o'clock halted at Lewiston, sixty miles to
the west of Harrisbui:g.
March 28th, at 1.30 p. m., we stopped at Altoona, where hot
coffee and soft bread engaged our attention.
At 2.15 p. M. we commenced the ascent of the Alleghanies.
Our train consisted of thirty cars drawn by one powerful loco-
motive. Upon commencing the ascent of the range at steepest
grade, two more engines were attached, one at the rear of the
train, and one at the front. As the train slowly wound its toil-
some way, not unlike some huge serpent, it presented to the eye
of the beholder a most remarkable exhibit of man's ability to
overcome the forces of nature. At 2.30 p. m. we passed through
the tunnel at the summit of the ridge and commenced our de-
scent.
Passed Johnstown at six and at twelve midnight entered Pitts-
burg. At 12.30 we disembarked, and marched to the City Hall,
the general rendezvous for hungry soldiers en route. We here
found supper awaiting us, to which we quickly introduced our
selves, and had fresh bread and butter, crackers, pickles, apples
and hot coffee served us. Our supper was accompanied by music
from one of the city bands. We were delayed an hour in the hall
enjoying the music, regaling the inner man, and listening to our
colonel, who addressed the Pittsburg people, thanking them for
their hospitality, after which we left highly pleased with our en-
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 85
tertainment. From the hall we marched a short distance and
took lodgings under a large shed adjoining the depot, where some
of ns were enabled to secure a short nap.
At 9.30 A. M. the regiment entered -the cars and at ten the train
crept slowly out of the city, crossing the Alleghany River
en route for Cincinnati, via Steubenville and Columbus. We
passed through Steubenville, Ohio, at two p. m.
At the village of Means, a short distance beyond, we halted for
the indispensable coffee ration, making a short stop also at New
Comerstown, and Coshocton, arriving at the city of Newark at
the midnight hour. All along through the villages and towns of
Ohio we were warmly welcomed by the people. The young wo-
men were foremost in their endeavors to interview us, would
run in haste to extend their sympathy and welcome, as the train
came to a halt, and would bring as gifts to the boys bread, pies,
apples, preserves, etc. "We kneio you were coming," they
would say. "We thought you might be hungry." "We are 8o
glad to see you !" "O yes, all the girls are here. There was a
great crowd, but the older ones got tired and went home, but we
wouldn't go." "We have been waiting a long while." "So you
have come all the way from Rhode Island, just think of it!"
"Have left mothers and sisters behind, same as we are left be-
hind." "Now don't think we are too forward." "All the soldier
boys are our brothers and fathers." "We have fathers and
brothers down at the froirt with Grant, ^^ "You may see them
when you get down there." "This is my name and address. I
wrote it on this paper." "When you get to the front write me."
**Do, I should be so glad to have a letter from you." "Why ! the
cars have started T "There now is a sister's kiss for you."
**Good-by, the Lord save you from harm." Handkerchiefs are
waving now. We scramble to get aboard, while the train rolls
all too quickly away. Who wouldn't be a soldier?
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXHI, Page 176, Part 2.]
Cincinnati, March 26, 1863, 12 m.
Maj.-Gkn. H. W. Hallbck, GeneraX-in-Chief :
Your letter of instructions of the 23d is this moment received,
and I will be governed accordingly.
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86 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Nothing new from the enemy. I think we can hold the line
of the Kentucky until a column can be organized at or near Leb-
anon to move against the enemy. One brigade of the Ninth
Corps has gone down to Louisville to be sent out from there.
The other brigades of the First Division are expected to-day or
to-morrow.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-Oenei-aL
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 193, Part 2.]
MuRFREESBOROUGH, March 30, 1863, 1.30 a. m.
Major-Qeneral Burnside :
Hearty greeting and welcome.
Want to know if you can't take the line of the Cumberland, or
put a strong force at Tompkins ville? Have best assurance at-
tainable, from constant papers to and fro to the East Tennessee
Valley, that no substantial infantry or large cavalry force passed
from our front into Kentucky.
What can and will you do to enter East Tennessee?
Yours truly,
W. S. ROSECRANS.
Headquarters, Department op the Ohio,
Cincinnati, March 30, 1863.
MaJOR-GeNERAL RoSECRANS, MuRFREESBOROUGH, TbNN.
Many thanks for your very cordial greeting. I am glad to be
nearer to you, and will certainly do all in my power to co-oper-
ate with you. My troops are arriving, and by to-morrow I will
be able to telegraph more definitely.
I shall occupy the line of the Cumberland as soon as possible,
and hope to pass into East Tennessee.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-Ocneral Commanding Department Ohio.
At two in the morning we again came to a halt, this time at
Columbus, Ohio. Here we found refreshments for the regiment
all ready and awaiting us. But the boys having been royally en-
tertained by the girls all along the route since leaving Pittsburg,
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 87
had lost their appetite for plain rations, and had stretched them-
selves out for the balance of the night and would not respond.
It was at once evident that the regiment needed rest more than
rations, and our colonel taking in the situation, after a brief halt
signaled to pass along. In the meantime nice soft bread was
quietly passed along the cars, and all who wished had an oppor-
tunity before we started on to lay in a liberal supply, while can-
teens were filled with coffee by applying at the depot alongside
the train.
At seven a. m., March 31st, we passed through Xenia, at which
place we halted long enough to rub our eyes, wash up, and look
about us.
Starting from here at ten, we arrived at the town of Morrow,
where, owing to a smash-up ahead of us, we remained until five,
when, again moving along, we entered the City of Cincinnati at
seven o'clock in the evening. After a delay of an hour we left
the cars and marched to the Fifth Street market, where supper
was in readiness and waiting. As we marched through the
streets buildings were illuminated, the citizens manifesting the
greatest enthusiasm, as cheer upon cheer greeted us, all along
the march. At nine in the evening, after partaking of a most
bountiful collation, we took up our line of march to the ferry.
Steaming across the Ohio River to Covington, we disembarked,
and at eleven o'clock turned in for the balance of the night, oc-
cupying the floor of an old dilapidated shed near the railroad
depot. We were now on Kentucky soil! No fancy ration
awaited the soldier here and the endeavor of the colonel the next
morning to provide a collation for the raiment proved unsuc-
cessful. We remained here until one p. m., at which time, a
train of cars having been provided, we embarked and were soon
hurrying on en route for Lexington. But instead of the very
comfortable passenger coach up to this time provided, we found
ourselves scurrying along in freight and cattle cars.
Passing through the town of Belmont, we arrived in Lexing-
ton at nine o'clock in the evening. Here we learned that we had
arrived at the end of our journey by rail, taking up our quarters
for the night in the cars and about the depot.
Wednesday, April 1st, we turned out at an early hour, kindled
fires, made coffee, and took a soldier's breakfast. The raiment
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88 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
was not called upon to fall in until half-past eight. In the mean-
time many of us took the opportunity to visit the grave and
monument of Henry Clay, which could be seen in the cemetery
a short distance from the depot. The monument is an imposing
structure, and upon the top of the tall shaft stands a statue
bearing a faithful likeness of this remarkable man. His grave
was about forty rods north of the monument. There were no
stones to mark the spot, as his remains were undoubtedly soon
to be removed to the vault prepared for them at the base of the
monument.
We also visited the place alloted for the burial of the soldiers.
Here in this cemetery an eminence well defined, rising above the
surrounding grounds, from the apex of which a most perfect
grade had been established on all sides for quite a distance,
downward and outward, — ^here upon this eminence a large num-
ber of Union soldiers had found their last resting-place. The
graves were arranged in circles, the first circle enclosing a space
at the summit of the eminence twenty feet in diameter, with the
foot of the grave against this centre space. The second row of
graves was outside this centre circle but following the same out-
line, and so on. There were several circles already completed.
The centre space was reserved, as giving ample room for the
erection of an imposing monument at some future time. Of
sculpture there were many fine specimens in this cemetery, the
monuments being Numerous and remarkably fine in design and
finish.
At 8.30 we were called upon to fall in, and immediately there-
after marched to our encampment. This was arranged for us
upon the Fair grounds three-quarters of a mile distant from the
city. The situation was all that could be desired, and here amid
a grove of black walnuts and maples, on elevated ground com-
manding a fine view of the surrounding country, we estab-
lished our camp. The Ashland estate, well known as the resi-
dence of Henry Clay, was but one mile distant from us.
Thursday, April 2d, the writer, with a comrade, started out on
a visit to this celebrated estate. Just before reaching the house
we came upon two children, a boy and girl, the boy twelve and
the girl ten or thereabouts. Upon approaching them we noticed
in the features of each a striking resemblance to the man whose
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 89
memory we held in reverence, and, upon making inquiry of them,
learned they were grandchildren of Henry Clay. We learned
later, that their father, James Clay, was a bitter secessionist,
and absent in the interest of the Confederates, while his family
were occupying the homestead. It was a very warm, pleasant
day. and the family, which consisted of the mother and two other
younger children, were busying themselves about the premises
and looking at the men employed, at the time of our visit, pre-
paring the garden for planting.
The wife of James Clay was apparently about thirty years of
age, of medium height, with dark eyes and hair and of dark com-
plexion,— a remarkably fine looking woman. Her countenance
bore the unmistakable traces of grief and sorrow, to be expected
under the circumstances. We had a talk with one of the men
employed, respecting the family. He pointed out the house oc-
cupied by him situated upon the estate, rented to him the year
before by Mrs. Clay. He claimed to be a Union man and thought
it best she should so understand it before he occupied the house.
Upon informing her, all she had to say was that she rented the
house for the money. Whether her husband's course was ap-
proved by her or not he could not ascertain as she kept her own
counsel.
We were allowed the privilege of looking about the grounds.
We learned that the house occupied by the elder Clay had been
removed, giving way to another built upon the same site. There
had been no alterations made in the numerous outbuildings, but
the house was an imposing structure of brick with freestone
trimmings, modern in style, and somewhat elaborate in design
and finish, overshadowed by trees of large growth. The lawn
was very spacious, and around the outer edge was a carriage
road, and upon either side of this a row of trees, hemlocks, firs,
and black walnuts, principally of large size as a rule. Scattered
about the lawn were a variety of trees of smaller growth. Along-
side the carriage road were a few neglected flower beds, while in
the carriage house a somewhat antiquated vehicle could be seen,
formerly owned and utilized by Henry Clay.
Leaving this historic locality, on our return to camp we passed
the residence and grounds of John Clay, a part of the estate on
more elevated ground, some one-third of a mile from the home-
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90 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
stead, and took the opportunity of visiting his stables, and see-
ing the horses, he being reputed the owner of some of the finest
in the state. We fi>und the stables easy of access, several col-
ored men being in charge, and willing to show us about This
John Clay, a son also of Henry Clay, well known among horsemen
throughout the country, had a race course of his own for speed-
ing his horses, and made a specialty of raising horses and mules.
The horses we saw were the finest owned by him, were all trained
for running, and held records not surpassed the world over.
Returning from the stables, our appetites by this time having
become sharpened, we inquired of one of the colored men if he
could find us something to eat. He took us up to the house and
asked the colored inmates of the kitchen if they could do any-
thing for us in the line of rations. They said that Mr. Clay was
sick and unable to attend to our wants. However, a johnnycake
of large proportions, some twelve inches in diameter, in sight
upon the range, already done to a turn, and smoking hot, engaged
our attention, and it was willingly passed over to us by our col-
ored friends, much to our delight.
From here, returning to camp, we halted to watch the antics
of a herd of young mules belonging to Clay, just turned loose
from the stable, and which were capering around at a break-
neck rate, demonstrating absolute proof against damage by falls,
kicks, collisions, or otherwise. That the cow jumped over the
moon at the time the dish ran away with the spoon we always
thought to be extremely doubtful, but that a mule might have
accomplished the feat would, after this exhibit, have been ac-
cepted by us without question.
Quite a number of our boys having expressed a desire to visit
the city the following Sunday and attend divine service, were
granted permission.
Accordingly, Sunday, the 5th, at the appointed hour, some two
hundred and fifty of the regiment fell into line, and, marching
into the city, directing their course towards one of the churches,
were ushered in and duly seated. Looking over the congregation
who eyed us askance, instead of the frank open countenance
denoting pleasure and an assurance of cordial greeting at close
of service, it was at once evident that we had landed ourselves in
a veritable hotbed of secession, or had entered a house so divided
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Lieut. Muxson H. Najac.
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RHODE ISLAND YOLUNTBBBS 91
in their feelings towards ns, according as the sentiment of union
or disunion predominated, that neither dared assert itself. The
preacher also appeared to be under restraint, ignoring our pres-
ence altogether, lest he might commit himself.
In the sermon that followed no allusion was made to us, as to
when, how, or for what purpose we came among them. To the
goodly number of Christians, earnest workers in our ranks, this
condition of affairs, when the good work of the Church was nulli-
fied through political ill-feeling, — ^this exhibition was extremely
mortifying. For them, in such an atmosphere, the inspiration
sought through religious zeal and fervor would not develop.
While the ungodly in our ranks, of which a few at least may
be found in all organizations, who had been prevailed upon to
listen to the Gospel call, and enlarge their acquaintance with
the Kentuckians, instead of the cordial greeting hoped for, and
the expected exhortation by the preacher to repent and flee from
the wrath to come, fall in with the overtures of mercy, and as
good soldiers in the cause of the Union also enlist under the ban-
ner of Christianity, and, with Christ for their Captain, as more
perfect soldiers fight for the redemption of all mankind, etc.,
etc, great was their astonishment that no words of encourage-
ment or approbation were offered them as soldiers of the Union,
no words of condolence for what they had already suffered in
the cause, no warnings to flee from the wrath, no invitation to
tall in, etc., etc., but, on the other hand, the congregation, as
a rule, held themselves aloof and all appearances indicated us as
most undesirable, unwelcome interlopers.
Monday, the 6th, we signed the pay roll, and the next day were
paid in full up to March 1st.
Although located in a land famous as abounding in all things
for the most perfect development of horse flesh particularly, and
a correspondingly abundant supply of all the good things tend-
ing to satisfy the appetite of man, not forgetting the famous
Kentucky whisky, or the prime tobacco, both of which we sam-
pled in Baltimore; notwithstanding all this, up to this time,
while here, in this land of plenty for the citizens, as soldiers we
found ourselves most uncomfortably short along the line of ra-
tions, and no way out, except through organized raid, by pur-
chase or otherwise, upon the storehouses in the near-by city.
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92 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Without proceeding to extreme measures, prompted by neces-
sity, as a last resort, supplies finally came to hand, and also at
about the same time, April 7th, we received marching orders,
and, on the following morning, at about eight o'clock, broke camp
and started on our march accompanied by other regiments of
our brigade who had journeyed along with us from Newport
News, and encamping in our neighborhood had contributed as
comrades to our profit and pleasure, while on our excursions
about and around this somewhat famous locality ; and, as misCTj
likes company, had suffered with us the gnawing pangs of hun-
ger, and shared with us the big johnnycake from Clay's kitchen,
— a veritable oasis in this desert of shortage.
Passing through the city and taking the highway^ a broad
thoroughfare running in a southeasterly direction almost or
quite as straight as the crow flies, after a very severe march of
twenty-two miles, we encamped two miles south of the town of
Winchester at half-past seven in the evening. This was a hard
day^s march for the First Brigade and the hardest the Twelfth
Regiment was called upon to make during its period of service.
It was an exceptionally warm day for early April, too early to
lay aside our winter outfit, the weight of which added greatly to
our discomfort. The grateful shade along our line of march was
wanting, — no rows of trees to break the rays of the sun, which
were with us from start to almost finish. This tlioroughfare,
straight and broad as a turnpike, was undei^oing macadamiza
tion.
Soon after leaving the city we came upon the broken stone,
the first course extending perhaps a quarter of a mile, after
which a stretch comparatively smooth, and so alternating from
smoothness accompanied by clouds of dust to the roughly broken
stone, where relieved of the dust, we underwent broiling as the
sun poured its rays upon these stretches of macadam gridirons.
The heated road, the uncertain tread, developed blistering feet
The heavy knapsack heavier grew.
With blinking eyes the frequent look ahead
Saw no relief at hand.
The same continuous, interminable stretch
Of dust and stone.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 93
Men, exhausted, dropped from the ranks to pick their way at
slower gait, and upon our arrival at the camping ground assigned,
twenty-two miles from our starting point in the morning, not
more than a quarter of the entire brigade had proved themselves
equal to the undertaking; the balance, having while on the way
taken a furlough without time limit, coming in later, while two
OP three days elapsed before all the boys were finally accounted
for. The Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Regiment, assigned to pro-
vost duty in Lexington, was left behind, and escaped the experi-
ence accorded the rest of this brigade, which comprised the Sixth
New Hampshire, the Seventh and Twelfth Rhode Island, and the
Second Maryland.
In the absence of General Nagle, the command of the brigade
was assumed temporarily by Colonel GriflSn of the Sixth New
Hampshire, the senior officer and hero of this extraordinary
march, forced upon us when in poor condition, from inadequate
rations, while in and about the fair grounds at Lexington.
Although forcing ourselves along this highway from Lexing-
ton to Winchester, under such very unfavorable conditions, we
could not withhold our tribute to this beautiful section of the
country, which resembled one immense park, extending from
Liexington, situated in the centre of Fayette, to Winchester, the
centre of Clark County. Groves of beautiful trees alternated at
intervals of perhaps a quarter of a mile with the broad area un-
der cultivation, where, here and there, the stately forest tree still
held place and usefulness; while the surface of the ground, de-
void of bushes, briers, or noxious weeds, covered with grass, the
incoming growth of early spring, presented for miles a finish to
the broad acres on every hand ; while here and there also, amid
the beautiful scenery and surroundings, the farmer's home, the
typical homestead, the mecca of present and future generations,
completed the picture. Nothing to be compared with this, the
hill and dale, the magnificent forest growth, the rolling plain,
the clear, grassy surface of the ground, like a well-kept lawn,
the unmistakable signs denoting great fertility of soil, a rare
combination. Nothing approaching this did we find in all our
travels. Doubtless no spot or place the wide world over could
be found surpassing this, the far-famed blue grass region of Ken-
tucky;
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94 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
The ground assigned for our "camp near Winchester'' was sit-
uated in a grove located where we had every convenience neces-
sary, including wood, water, and plenty of grass upon which to
roll and tumble while recuperating from the effect of our march
from Lexington. The trees in this grove were perhaps forty
feet apart on an average, consisting of maple, cherry, black wal-
nut and the common shell-bark, of large size as a rule. The
grounds were kept very clean, and no debris allowed to accu-
mulate.
Here at this camp we had "brigade guard mounting." The
brigade band would take position and strike up at precisely nine
A. M., and, as we watched the movements of the guard as they ap-
proached simultaneously from their respective regiments to take
the place assigned them, we were impressed with the beauty of
the scene. The guard approaching take their place and the
music ceases; the camp guard upon the right of the line with
nothing but gun and equipment, the picket upon the left with
canteen, haversack and blanket in addition. The line arriving
at formation, the sergeant-major who arranges it, makes a "pre-
sent" to the commanding officer, and immediately takes his place
upon the left, after which the order is given, "Front!" Upon
this, the commissioned officers march twelve paces in front of the
line, the sergeants eight and the corporals four. The officer in
command advances and gives special instruction to all the officers
in person. He then returns to his position and gives the order,
"Officers and non-commissioned officers, about face!" "Inspect
your guards!" The lieutenants inspect the front rank, the ser-
geants the rear, while the band plays during inspection. Inspec-
tion over, the music ceases and the officers return to their places
in line. Then from the commanding officer comes the order,
"Troop beat off!" at which the band commences playing a slow
march, and, coming to the front, proceeds the length of the line.
After going through the manoeuvres bringing them to an "about
face," they return playing a quickstep, and take their former
position. Then the order, "By platoons! right wheel! march!"
Immediately upon the completion of the half-wheel which brings
them from line of battle into column, the order is given, "Pass
in review! column forward! guide right! march!" The band
again strikes up, the first platoon make a left half-wheel, and
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 95
march forward preceded by the band. The other platoons com-
ing up, wheel upon the same spot as the first. After marching
forward a certain distance, another left half-wheel is made.
Marching straight forward from this, they pass the officer of the
day, who takes position directly in front of the centre of the
line. As before moving, the officer in command of the guard had
placed himself upon the right of the first platoon and directed
the movement of the column. As each platoon passes in front
of the officer of the day, the officers in charge of their respective
-platoons, come to a "present," salute, and pass on, — the camp
^ard to the relief of the old guard, the picket to place assigned,
— ^the band ceases playing, and the review ends.
This brigade guard mounting is a most impressive and impos-
ing spectacle.
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Series 1, Vol. XXin, Page 242, Part 2.]
Cincinnati, Ohio, April 15, 1863.
Maj.-Gbn. H. W. Hallbck, Oeneralin-Chief :
The enemy attempted to cross the Cumberland at Robertsport
last night, but retreated as soon as our forces made their ap-
pearance.
All quiet this morning.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major Oeneral.
Cincinnati, April 15, 1863.
Gbn. Willcox, Lexington, Ky. :
In the absence of more definite information from Wolford, the
disposition of the troops can remain as they are for the present.
If it should prove that the enemy have really crossed in force,
you must concentrate our forces at a point where we can meet
them. The forces at Lebanon are held in readiness to co-operate
with Carter at a moment's notice. It may become necessary for
us to move the whole of Sturgis's division down to Richmond.
If the emergency arises, give such orders as you may deem neces-
sary, and you will be sustained. Keep your operators on the
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96 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
alert, and instruct yonr officers in the advance to send you fre-
quent reports which you can transmit to the headquarters. I
cannot believe that the enemy is crossing in a force equal to
what we can concentrate to meet them.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
MajorOeneral Commanding Department.
Thursday, the 16th, at five p. m., we again received marching
orders, with instruction to "pack knapsacks'' and be ready to
march immediately. At six we struck tents, and in half an hour
were marching, in company with the rest of our brigade, in the
direction of Boonsboro, and, after a short march of five
miles, encamped for the night on the heights overlooking the val-
ley of the Kentucky River.
As we were about to cross the river at Boonsboro, our
thoughts turned towards that remarkable man from whom this
settlement derived its name. For, on the banks of the Delaware,
at Bristol, Pennsylvania, the 11th of February, 1735, a child was
born, inheriting from his parents a constitution insuring longev-
ity, a frame fitted for the long career of toil and exertion which
awaited him. At the age of three his parents removed to Read-
ing, Pennsylvania, then a frontier settlement, where the conversa-
tions of his childhood were the strateg;^' of the savage. At an
early age we find that young Boone, the subject of this sketch,
had acquired a reputation among his people for acts of skill and
courage, fitting him for leadership. In this frontier school he
had sprung at once to superior scholarship. The rifle was, in his
hand, unerring as the bow of Robin Hood. He learned lessons
of the snow and the leaves and the moss, and to detect with
quick eye the tread of foot, — to rival the sagacity of the hound,
the cunning of the Indian warrior. At eighteen he is with his
father's family among the mountains in western North Carolina,
about the year 1753. With Braddock, Washington was learning
the art of war, while Daniel Boone was learning to be the mas-
ter in another strife, and to accomplish results following upon
the victories won, and peace established, to which Washington
gave his strength.
On the 7th of June, 1769, six men, weary and way-worn, wound
their way up the steep side of a rugged mountain in the wilder-
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Capt. William E. Hubbard.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 97
ness of Kentucky. The leader of the party was of foil size, with
a hardy, robust frame, and keen, piercing, hazel eyes that glanced
with quickness at every object as they passed on ; now cast for-
ward in the direction they were traveling for signs of an old
trail, and in the same moment directed askance into the dense
thicket, or into the deep ravine, as if watching some concealed
enemy. The reader will recognize in this man the pioneer Boone
and his companions.
Early in May, 1770, we find him alone, exploring this section
of Kentucky, the sole survivor of his party, the only one escap-
ing the attack of the wily savage, who in him — their superior in
all their artful cunning and strategy — in him they had found
their master. Returning to civilization, he lays before his coun-
trymen the wonderfully beautiful country, the white man's op-
portunity! The hunter's paradise! Early in 1775 we find him
at the head of an organized company of men well armed, on an
exi>edition to the Kentucky River for the purpose of survey and
settlement.
On the 22d day of March, having arrived within fifteen miles
of where we were now encamped, they were attacked by the sav-
ages ; three days later they were again attacked, and in the two
encounters lost four men killed and four wounded. Hastening
to the river, they selected a site for their fortress, and on the 1st
day of April commenced erecting a stockade fort, which was
called Boonsboro. The Indians, stung to madness that white
people should erect buildings on their hunting grounds, repeated
their attack without success, for, on the 14th of June, the works
were so far completed as to afford adequate defence. The fort
having been completed, Boone left the men to guard it, and pre-
pare ground for a crop, while he returned for his family, his wife
and daughters being the first white women that ever stood on
the banks of the Kentucky River.
Owing to delay while crossing the river, we remained in camp
until ten a. m. The cavalry accompanying us commenced cross-
ing early in the morning, and, at ten, the Twelfth were ordered
to fall in. After a march of a mile, we arrived upon the edge of
the river at the place of crossing in time to see the last of the
cavalry pass over.
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98 HISTOEY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
The river at point of crossing was perhaps five or six hundred
feet in width and the conveniences for overcoming this obstacle
were two scows or pontoons on each of which forty men could
be taken over at once, and so shaped that our teams could be
driven on or oflf at either end. The river was comparatively shal-
low at this place, and the mode of propelling was by pushing
with poles. Some of the teams, consisting of a government
wagon and foi^r mules each, were in readiness and crossed with
our regiment. This was accomplished by driving one of the
teams on the scow, while the remaining space was taken up by
the soldiers. The scow was poled across, the team was driven
oflf, and the balance of the cargo disposed of. The method
adopted by the driver of mule teams, sitting upon the near wheel
mule, using one rein and vociferating loudly in language under-
stood only by the mule and himself, was, by most of our boys,
looked upon as something quite incomprehensible. These scows
were hardly wide enough to accommodate the wheels of the wag-
ons, and it required no little degree of skill to drive on and oflf
without accident. While driving one of the teams oflf, the near
wheel mule was crowded oflf the scow, throwing his rider head
and ears under water. The man upon gaining the surface was
soon ashore, and the mule, after floundering awhile, secured a
foothold, and the wagon was drawn oflf and on its way. The next
that crossed, the driver, hoping to profit by the misfortunes of
his predecessor, dismounted and attempted to lead his team off.
This time the mules again crowding one another, over goes one
of them into the stream. This looked like a desperate case of
broken legs and death by drowning. However, after some little
effort, the mule was loosed from its harness, the wagon drawn
off, and, through the combined efforts of half a dozen men, the
unlucky mule was finally drawn from the river and ready again
for business. Ours was the third company across, and passing
up the bank we continued on half a mile and rested there until
the balance of our regiment came up.
The Kentucky River at this place is bounded upon either side
by a range of hills, akin to mountains. As we approached the
river many novel and interesting features presented themselves,
reminding us of our first experience in mountainous regions.
From our camp where we passed the night upon the height, the
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 99
road to the ferry wound along the sides of the hills and through
ravines; and in this way the river was gained by gradual and
easy descent. As we left camp the beautiful fields, the green
hills, the grassy vales disappeared, giving place to rough, precipi-
tous hills, whose rocky sides presented a striking contrast to the
scenes we left behind. As we neared the river, upon the opposite
side to the left, was a ledge of limestone several hundred feet in
length, rising from the surface of the water some two or three
hundred feet, nearly or quite perpendicular; its surface, with
the exception of a few seams and crevasses, smooth and white
as finished marble, resembling the wall of some great fortress.
This was an object grand and picturesque, an impressive and
imposing exhibit of nature's handiwork. The river rolling slug-
gishly along, deeply imbedded in the hills, could not be discerned
until we were almost upon its very edge.
Approaching the river from our encampment upon the north-
ern heights we came upon two or three small houses nestling un-
der the bluff close by the water with barely arable ground enough
adjoining to make a small garden spot for the occupants. Upon
the opposite side we found more buildings, and, in the immediate
vicinity of the ferry, considerable land under cultivation. Here,
also, upon the southern bank of the river we were shown the spot
where Boone built his fortress. We also filled our canteens from
Boone's spring, so called in honor of the old hero, a large pool
of water some ten feet in diameter, partly filled with broken
stone and leaves from the tall, scattering trees overshadowing
it; and, as we took a draught from its clear waters, we thought
how often he had visited the self-same spot, and wondered at
the courage and perseverance of the man, who, while exploring
this country, was deprived of his associates, but still faithful to
his trust continued his work alone, surrounded by hostile Indi-
ans, relying upon his thorough knowledge of Indian method, and
manoeuvre, to counteract efforts put forth for his destruction.
That he was prepared, ordained, and protected by an overruling
Providence, for this special work in the interests of humanity,
we believe, as we render homage to the ability, the unswerving
fidelity and the undaunted bravery of the famous Kentucky pio-
neer.
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100 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
We halted here one hour, when, the balance of our regiment
joining us, we began the slow and toilsome work of ascending
the hills. It was a very warm day, and, though halting often,
the march was a tedious one. Before reaching the top, we halted
for the rest of the brigade to come up. This was about two p. m.
Again falling in, we soon reached the summit of the hill and
emerged once more into a country beautiful as the one we had
left behind us. At the junction of the river road with the Lex-
ington and Richmond pike we halted again, and rested for two
hours. At this place General Nagle and staff passed in ad-
vance of us and arranged for our encampment at night. The
grounds assigned were about three miles from our halting-place,
and four from Richmond. At six p. m., while on our way, the
Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry passed us, begrimed with dust and
dirt, and looking like the war-worn veterans they really were.
Their experience had been mostly with the guerillas that infested
this state, and whom they fought with a vengeance born of long
suffering through their depredations.
Saturday, the 18th, at seven in the morning we were again in
line and upon the march, passing through Richmond at ten, and
at eleven a. m. broke ranks on our camping ground two miles be-
yond. Upon this ground and vicinity, Aug. 30, 1862, the bat-
tle of Richmond was fought, in which engagement our soldiers
were defeated, losing one hundred and fifty killed and three hun-
dred and fifty wounded. The trees about here, on every hand,
bore marks of the struggle which ensued. Many of the branches
were torn off, and in the trunk of one large cherry tree I counted
seven ball holes. It was a desperate struggle against odds, the
enemy outnumbering us four to one.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 238, Part 2.]
Headquarters, Department of the Ohio,
April 14, 1863.
Gen. WiLiiCOX, Lexington, Ky. :
The following orders have just been sent to Gen. Wright:
"Carter confirms the report that the enemy were at Columbia
last night. Move your cavalry force from Lebanon on Columbia
via Campbellsville to co-operate with Carter's force from Hus-
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RHODE ISLAND YOLUNTBEBS 101
tonville to Columbia. Let the commanding oflScer keep his
scouts well out, to avoid being surprised^ in case the enemy
should be moving with his whole force on Lebanon. Hold the
infantry force at Lebanon, and all the forces at Glasgow ready
to move at a moment's notice, with three days* provisions. Send
me frequent reports, and tell Carter to send full information of
the movements of the enemy."
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-General Commanding Department of the Ohio.
Correspondence of Providence Journal..
Twelfth Regiment R. I. Vols.,
Near Winchester, Ky.,
April 16, 1863.
When the soldier takes up his musket and enters the field he is
no longer supposed to be master of his own movements, nor able
to tell in the morning on what spot of ground he will rest his
weary limbs at night.
But if any one had predicted at Camp Stevens, in October last,
that the Twelfth Regiment would twice cross Long Bridge, pitch
its tents on Arlington Heights, and at Fairfax Seminary per-
form a march of 80 miles down the eastern shore of the Poto-
mac, cross to Acquia Creek, and march to the disastrous field of
Fredericksburg, pass two months in shelter tents in the dead of
winter at Falmouth, do picket duty on the Rappahannock, em-
bark again at Acquia Creek and sail down the Potomac, and pass
the very spot that witnessed the exploits of the Mei^Hmac and
the Monitor^ spend a month in pleasant recreation at Newport
News, sail the length of Chesapeake Bay, thence across the Al-
leghanies into the heart of old Kentucky, a distance of 1,000
miles, to encamp in a grassy grove near the home of Henry Clay;
such a person would have been pronounced a false prophet, and
in danger of finding lodgings in that spacious building near See-
konk River, provided for people of dilapidated intellect.
Yet such is a brief outline of our short, though somewhat
eventful experience.
Our first stopping place in this state was Lexington, one of the
oldest and most wealthy towns in Kentucky. . . .
Our march to Winchester was performed in one day, a distance
of 23 miles, over a macadamized road, through a most rich, and
beautiful country.
There were no forests, and the only wood to be seen standing
was in groves or woodland pastures.
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102 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Broad farms stretched out to the right and left, adorned by
grand old farmhouses, and noble herds of cattle, of the best
breeds, horses, mules, and the Southdown sheep, were to be seen
upon the hills, and the whole presented a picture of abundance
that was rare and gratifying.
One of the boys brought in an unexploded shell picked up in
the vicinity of our camp; an unreliable messenger failing to de-
liver according to contract when sent upon its murderous errand
eight months before.
Just after our arrival two peddlers, or sutlers, commenced
visiting us, and, in the absence of competition, charged exorbi-
tant prices for their wares. One of the specialties offered for
sale under the name of cider, — a solution manufactured to order,
at short notice, from vinegar, molasses and water, although a
most miserable, unsatisfactory beverage, — was in great demand.
By ignoring the sense of taste, and drawing largely upon the
imagination, a small measure of satisfaction was discernible in
the vacant eye and sickly smile of those able to conquer a rebel-
lious stomach while pouring into it this vinegrous wish-wash.
One day seeing a larger number than usual around one of these
teams, the writer joined the crowd, found the owner busy selling
oranges at ten cents apiece and his so-called cider at ten cents
a glass. And while he, the owner, delivered from the front of
the wagon, the soldiers unbeknown to him had tapped a barrel
in the rear and were doing a brisk business filling canteens. The
owner soon discovered this new method of supplying the Army
of the Cumberland and loudly remonstrated against this free
distribution of his assets, emphasizing his remark by a vigorous
application of his horsewhip, whereupon his wagon was at once
upset and his groceries confiscated.
Knowing the other peddler was in camp with a wagon load of
gingerbread — the price of which was twenty-five cents for three
pieces, each about the size of a large cracker — and realizing that
the boys had united for lower rates, the writer moved over to-
wards his place of business in time to see his bread cart in vio-
lent convulsions, from the effects of which the contents of said
cart were thrown in all directions, and disappeared as if by
magic. The cart recovering from this attack of the shakes, the
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Lieut. Francisco M. Balix)u.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 103
driver mounted his seat, and, with an angry snort, whipped up
and drove off.
A complaint at headquarters elicited no sympathy ; but an as-
surance that fair dealing with the boys would be appreciated and
respected, brought our quondam merchants again into the field,
when lower rates soon brought about good trade and mutual
good feeling.
How often at home, when with the toil and care incident upon
the life of those who "earn their bread by the sweat of the brow,"
have we, as Saturday night approached, and with it the labors of
the week were to cease, looked forward to a day of rest! A
thousand miles from home, the plough exchanged for the sword,
the spade for the rifie, in the face of a desperate enemy, this rule
had no application. True the Sabbath came as at home, but un-
fortunately was "more honored in the breach than the observ-
ance," and appeared to be a day especially appointed by our
military commanders for fighting and marching.
The writer will now quote concerning the Eleventh Rhode Is-
land, who preceded us to the front in '62, and the conclusions
arrived at by the comrades after a few weeks' experience in the
service.
The writer regrets that he is unable to ascertain to whom we
are indebted for this paper which we adopt as setting forth our
own conclusions, namely :
"We had learned the wholesome lesson that the individual sol-
dier moves in an infinitesimally small orbit; and that his im-
portance is an unappreciable element in the events he witnesses.
At home he had relations of more or less complexity with soci-
ety and the State. Here he was cut oflf from all possibility of
exerting large influences, and stood to his neighbor in no deeper
relation than that of file leader. To cover square was his duty
to his fellow man. The raw recruit had been marched into a
field and told he might sleep there that night. He had found
that this was easy to do and that it did not give him an asthma
or an infiuenza. This increased his self-respect. It was a
manly, soldierly feat to scorn a roof, and sleep under the stars
and the falling dews. He had lain in the dust and dirt, and had
learned that it is not so really bad as unbecoming. The recruit
had not merely entered into new hardships, he had gotten rid of
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104 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
innumerable old ones. With a minimum of responsibility to
bear, no forethought to exercise, no need to use his accumulated
knowledge, he gives his mental faculties a genuine vacation, and
exults in the development of his bodily strength and endurance.
As the cold season advanced, shifts by which comfort is secured,
even by dwellers in tents, in a country abounding in rain and
mud, . . .
"The neighboring woods yielded the material for stockading
the tents and for building huts, which, well plastered with the
adhesive *sacred,' were proof against water, air and light."
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIH, Page 306, Part 2.J
Headquarters, District of Central Kentucky,
Lexington, Ky., May 1st, 1863.
To Brig.-Gen. Sturgis^ Commanding Second Division, Ninth
Army Cot-ps^ Winchester^ Ky. :
General: The general commanding directs that you concen-
trate your whole division at a point on the Richmond and Crab
Orchard road where it crosses Paint Lick.
You will choose the route by which the Second Brigade will
march to the point indicated.
NICHOLAS BOWEN,
Assistant Adjt.Qm. and Chief of Staff.
We received marching orders Saturday, May 2d, and were to
be in readiness the following morning, at which time we pulled
into line regardless of the storm evidently about to open upon us,
and at eight o'clock were on our way.
It commenced raining slightly before we left camp, and, after
our first rest outside of Richmond, at ten, it commenced in earn-
est. We hurried on and at one p. m. encamped at Paint Lick
Creek, having marched a distance of thirteen miles in four hours.
Part of the time while on this march the rain poured in torrents,
and we reached camp thoroughly soaked.
Correspondence of the Providence Evening Bulletin.
May 26, 1863.
. . . It was called Paint Lick from the fact that the Indi-
ans were accustomed to paint the trees that border the little
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 105
stream which separated Madison from Garrard counties, for the
purpose of attracting the buffalo and deer within reach of their
rifles.
The brigade encamped upon the high banks of the river.
8oon after our arrival the sun came out, the clouds disap-
peared and we had a pleasant afternoon. It was quite warm.
Our clothing dried rapidly as we leisurely erected our tents,
while the ground assigned on the side of a hill, with steep grade
towards the west, also quickly dried off, upon which, the oppor-
tunity to roll upon the grass and enjoy the flood of sunlight now
poured upon us was duly appreciated.
Our camp was situated on the highway running from Rich-
mond to Lancaster, and was about midway between the two
places. It was evident our stay here would be short, as the
usual care in laying out camp was not observed , our tents being
pitched in all conceivable ways. Our general established his
quarters some twenty rods east of us, close alongside a small
chapel or church. This edifice had been recently built, was
small^ and very much resembled a modern New England school-
house.
From the time of our arrival here, commencing the next day
and continuing up to Saturday, the 9th, considerable rain fell;
all of which time we were enveloped in clouds and fog. But re-
gardless of the unpleasant weather prevailing, our general and
his staff were honored by frequent visits from the fair ones of
Richmond^ whose acquaintance they formed during our sojourn
among them. They came in groups of half a dozen or so. The
band would be called upon to entertain the fair visitors, who,
with our officers, upon the green in front of the chapel, would
engage in the mazy dance and "trip the light, fantastic toe.''
OFFICIAL RECOBDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Pages 339, 340, Part 2.
Lexington, May 18, 1863. Time, 10.15.
Ma job-Gen. Burn side:
Following just received from Somerset:
The following information received last night from scouts and
others: Morgan and Pegram with cavalry force 5,000 to 6,000;
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106 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
(John B.) Palmer infantry force 2,500, with Buckner also com-
ing from East Tennessee to join in invasion of Kentucky. Rebels
report their forces at 16,000. Our scouts say not more than
10,000, and they say they are coming for supplies and must have
them. The river will soon be fordable. It can be crossed now
at points, so they can concentrate at some place and cross with-
out much trouble.
I will increase the guard and watch them closely.
(Signed,) CABTER,
to O. B. WiLLCOX,
Brigadier-General.
May 18, 1863.
Replying to Gen. Carter, Somerset:
There is a division of our troops at Lancaster under General
Sturgis.
In case of emergency this division can advance to support you.
O. B. WILLCOX,
Brigadier-General.
Sunday, the 10th, at three o'clock in the morning, we again
received orders to march. At eight, the brigade was moving in
the direction of Lancaster, encamping early in the afternoon
upon elevated ground within one-half mile of the village, — a sit-
uation commanding a view of the country for miles around.
Correspondence Evening Buu-etin.
May 26, 1863.
. . . We went into camp upon the summit of a hill, to the
northeast of Lancaster, in a fine meadow of more than 100 acres.
The farm upon which we are encamped is the property of a
rebel who has gone South to join his friends, taking with him his
personal prope.'ty. . . . The mansion house upon it was
burned a few weeks since. . . . The town contains two
churches and about 800 inhabitants.
On the afternoon of May 18th each member of the regiment
was called to his orderly sergeant's tent and presented with a
pair of white gloves, with instructions that when called upon
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(\\PT. James H. Allkn.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 107
for dress parade to equip himself with these gloves, reported
as the gift of H. S. Patterson, our sutler.
Much interest was manifested about this time as to when our
term of service would expire. One of our men claiming his time
as np, and eager to find out when the regiment would start for
home, took it upon himself to sound the colonel, and thus ad-
dressed him:
"Well, colonel, I suppose my time is out?" "Well," says Col-
onel Browne, "what are you going to do about it? Are you go-
ing home now or are you going to wait for the rest of the boys?"
The fellow saying "I think I will go home with the rest of the
boys," retired somewhat chop-fallen and reported to his com-
rades, who had followed him up at convenient distance, and over-
heard the conversation, that he found the old colonel ip one of
Mb blanked contrary fits and could get nothing out of him, —
the blanked son of a gun.
May 20th, at dress parade, our adjutant read to us the fare-
well address of General Nagle, who had resigned his command
and was about to return home. He was suffering from affection
of the heart (so it was said) and found himself unable longer
to continue in the field. He was to leave us the 21st, and ex-
tended an invitation to all to call on him.
Precisely at sunset the brigade band commenced playing in
front of his quarters, and in a short time a good portion of the
brigade had assembled to hear the parting words of the general.
We found him sitting in front of his tent, rising occasionally to
salute the officers as they came in groups from the different regi-
ments. The band played a few selections, when the general, ris-
ing, addressed the officers, and, taking each by the hand, bade
them adieu. Turning to the soldiers he made a short speech,
bidding them also farewell, and invited all to come forward who
chose, as he would be pleased to shake hands with all; upon
which, many of the boys availed themselves of the privilege. The
band meanwhile rendered the old-time familiar air: "Home Sweet
Home," at the conclusion of which, we retired to our quarters.
Colonel Griffin, of the Sixth New Hampshire, the aforesaid
hero of our march from Lexington to Winchester, succeeded
General Nagle as commander of our brigade. The enemy whom
this brigade were endeavoring to look after were now consoli-
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108 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
dating on the Cumberland River, — occupying the south bank, and
were closely watched by our forces. Some few days before thej
had contrived to throw a detachment across. This brought on
an engagement in which they were repulsed and driven back.
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Serieg 1, Vol. XXIII, Pages 362, 363, Part 2.]
Lexington, May 25, 1863, 8.30 a. m.
General Burnside:
The following just received from Somerset :
I have just been advised that the rebels crossed the river at the
mouth of Fishing Creek this morning and are now engaging the
guards of the First Kentucky Cavalry who are stationed th»e-
Have sent re-enforcements. Will keep you informed as soon as
I can obtain particulars. I have fears for the safety of the river
guards below that point.
(Signed,) GEN. CARTER,
to O. B. WiLixrox,
Brig.Oen,
To Maj.-Gen. Burnside:
The following from Somerset:
Your dispatch with General Burnside's received. Have just
heard from Colonel Kautz at mouth of Fishing Creek. The en-
emy were driven across the river by a company of the Forty-fifth
Ohio, Captain Scott, who captured a captain, lieutenant, and
sergeant. Colonel Kautz was moving towards Mill Springs.
Unless rebels have crossed below Mill Springs, there is no consid-
erable force this side of the river. I have scouts towards James-
town and seventeen miles up the Cumberland, t have no idea
of falling back.
GEN. CARTER,
to O. B. Wirxcox,
Brig,-Geii.
We were under marching orders at the time, and were held in
readiness to move at once; but it was not found necessary to
call on us.
May 22d, however, at nine p. m., we received orders, and, at
seven the next morning, the First Brigade was on the march,
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 109
followed closely by the Second. Taking the Somerset road we
were soon established in all the privileges and comforts of a
march on a hot day along a very dry and dusty thoroughfare.
At eleven, we halted for dinner, having marched nine miles.
Again underway, after a rest until 2.30 p. m., at four we en-
camped near Crab Orchard, twelve miles from our late camp
near Lancaster.
Upon our marching from Lancaster, one of our comrades,
whom we supposed, from his intercourse with our oflScers, might
know our destination, took it upon himself to inform us that we
were to march but three or four miles, and were to encamp in an
oak grove. The spot had been selected by our general, — a most
beautiful situation, abounding in excellent springs of water, and
in the immediate vicinity of a river; an admirable place for bath-
ing.
It was a very warm day and the highway was dry and dusty,
making our march unusually severe; and, instead of the oak
grove, but four miles distant, with all its beautiful surroundings,
we made a march of twelve miles, as hereinbefore stated, and
found ourselves at last located in a thicket of briers, one and
one-half miles north of the village of Crab Orchard, — a spot de-
void of everything green, if we except blackberry bushes and pen-
nyroyal, and abounding in all manner of creeping things.
The evening of the 35th information having been received that
the enemy were in the neighborhood and might make a raid in
our direction, we were ordered to be on the alert. Company I
was detailed for extra picket duty and all precaution taken
against attack.
At six o'clock on the afternoon of the 26th, our regiment moved
forward one-half mile beyond the village to the support of the
Second New York battery, which had taken position the night
before in a field commanding the Mount Vernon and Somerset
roads which form a junction at this place. Here we again en-
camped.
June 1st we received orders to put ourselves in light marching
condition, and hold ourselves in readiness to move at short no-
tice. Accordingly, all boxes and barrels available were put to
use, and overcoats and all other superfluous luggage was packed
and sent to the rear.
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110 HISTORY OP THE TWBMTH REGIMENT
Many of the boys (the expiration of whose term of service was
near at hand) were hoping to escape the dangers of another en-
gagement, but events now transpiring indicated that an oppor-
tunity to resist the advance of the enemy would soon materialize.
At dress parade, June 3d, our colonel addressed the regiment,
informing them that in all probability they would soon have a
chance to meet the enemy on a fair field. He hoped to have the
privilege of leading them again, and had no doubt they would ac-
quit themselves with credit and return home an honor to the
state they represented.
In a short speech of ten minutes, or thereabouts, we were all
impressed with the certainty of a conflict near at hand.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIU, Page 384, Part 2.]
War Department, Washington, June 3, 1863, 11 a. m.
Major-Gen. Burnside, Lexington, Ky.:
You will immediately dispatch 8,000 men to General Grant at
Vicksburg. Should it be found that General Grant will not re-
quire them, they will be stopped on the way or returned to you
as early as possible.
Concentrate your remaining forces as much as you can. I
think there is no fear of an advance upon Kentucky at present.
H. W. HALLECK,
Oenerat-in-Chief.
June 4th, early in the evening, we received orders to be in
readiness the following morning at 4.30; each man to be pro-
vided with sixty rounds of ammunition and eight days' rations.
At five o'clock the next morning the regiment was in line, and,
in fifteen minutes, was passing through the village of Crab Or-
chard, taking the Lancaster road, accompanied by the rest of the
brigade.
At ten A. M., when within one mile of Lancaster, we turned
aside and halted. Here it became generally known that we were
to march to Nicholasville in hot haste, there to find transporta-
tion to some point as yet unknown to us.
Various were the surmises as to where we were to go. We
soon became convinced that the First Brigade was to report at
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Lieut. (iEorge Bucklin.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBB8 111
Vicksburg. Then the question arose, — would the Twelfth con-
tinue with them? At 2.30 p. m. we were ordered into line again;
passed through Lancaster, and, at seven, arrived at Camp Dick
Robinson, having marched twenty-one miles. Here we encamped
for the night. The appearance of the sky betokening rain, many
of us took pains to pitch our tents. This, together with making
coffee and taking a soldier's lunch, occupied our time until ten
o'clock. About this time we turned in to gain what little rest
we could before reveille, which was ordered at four in the morn-
ing.
At the appointed hour the roll of drums announced our sleep-
ing hours as over. Turning out in haste, we had hardly time to
dispatch our rations and pack up before we were called into line.
At half past four we were on our way again, and, at seven, ap-
proaching the Kentucky River, we entered Pleasant Valley.
Here the scenery became most wild and picturesque, and, as we
crossed the river at Hickman's Bridge, the grandeur of the scen-
ery impressed us beyond any we had ever witnessed. Mountains
towered above us in all directions. The bridge, a fine structure,
built in 1836, was perhaps two hundred feet in length, and
spanned the Kentucky some sixty feet above its waters.
After emerging from this defile, and when within one mile of
Nicholasville, Colonel Griffin received a dispatch detaching us
from the brigade, with orders for Colonel Browne to report in
another direction.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Pages 400, 401, Part 2.]
MuNFOBDViLLE, Juue 8, 1863, 10 P. M.
Major-Gbn. Burnsidb:
Have just received a dispatch from Sturgis, transmitting
cipher dispatch to him from Carter, which he could not translate.
The following to him and reply, will explain itself :
Have just heard that Morgan crossed the river at Burksville
on Saturday, with from nine to thirteen regiments. Do not know
the direction he took after leaving Jamestown. He may move
in the direction of Somerset as rebel prisoners have stated such
was the intention. The First Tennessee will be directed to look
out for our trains. The infantry regiments left Stanford this
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112 HISTOEY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
marning with batteries. Will it not be better to hold the whole
force for a day or two before sending to Mount Vernon? If
necessary, will send them to-morrow or whenever you may direct.
Report says that two regiments are left at Monti cello.
Please answer.
S. P. CARTER,
Bfig.-C^en,
OFFICIAL RECORDS,
[Seriei 1, Vol. XXHI, Page 440, Part 2.]
mubfrebsborough, juuc 20, 1863.
General Hartsuff:
Morgan is reported 'nine miles from Lebanon (Tennessee),
probably on his way into Kentucky. His forces reported 4,000
and one battery.
W. S. ROSENCRANS,
Major-General.
At this time we were the advance regiment. We immediately
came to a halt, and, as the brigade passed by, gave each regiment
three parting cheers, and commenced retracing our steps. After
marching one-half mile or so, we turned aside to a grove or park
alongside the thoroughfare where we passed the night. At five
the next morning we were ordered into line, and, on the tenth
day of June encamped in Somerset, having marched in six con-
secutive days over one hundred miles, under a broiling sun, heav-
ily laden with rations and ammunition beyond the regular equip-
ment of the soldier; finding ourselves at last twenty-eight miles
from Crab Orchard, the place from whence we started June 4th.
Our encampment was located in a grove one-quarter of a mile
west of the village, on ground occupied by Zollicoflfer in 1861.
Here he prepared to make a stand against the forces sent to repel
him. Trenches were in evidence, and large, noble trees (felled
at the time) lay scattered about the grounds. His fate was de-
cided at Mill Springs Jan. 20, 1862. Boone reports, concerning
this section of the country between the Cumberland and Green
Rivers, while on an exploring expedition with his brother in 1770
and 1771, of observing numerous "sink holes" or depressions,
a feature peculiar to a cavernous, limestone country, produced
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Capt. John P. Abdott.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 118
by the action of the waters, causing the earth to sink after heavy
rains.
Here at Somerset, we had a notable illustration of this phe-
nomenon, the significance of which furnished food for reflection
while contributing largely to our comfort and cleanliness. Di-
rectly below our camp, some three hundred yards distant, a stroll
over the green, grassy slope, at easy grade, brought us to the
bottom of one of these depressions, — a fertile, grassy level area
of some two or three acres. This basin, or depression, was some-
what oval in shape, while a stream of water, with banks well de-
fined, zigzagged its way along its centre. This, a stream of con-
siderable volume, issued from an opening, or well-defined arch-
way, at the foot of a precipitous, rocky bluff at the head of this
basin, and, after coursing its way along the length of this level,
fertile bottom, entered another opening at the foot of another
rocky bluff or precipice, — a duplicate of the one from which it
issued, and disappeared from view.
This "rock-ribbed" subterranean stream leaving for a few brief
moments its imprisoned walls ministered to the wants of man
and beast in no small measure. Nowhere could purer, finer
water be found than that which tumbles, cold and clear, over the
rock and broken rolling stone from out this "rock-ribbed," black-
mouthed cavern at Somerset. Imagination calls to mind the
rock which Moses smote.
Retrospection also brings to view again the buffalo, the deer,
and all the varied hosts of animal life abounding in this most
favored country, i)resent here, around this fount of waters, hold-
ing their supremacy against the wily savage, but yielding in turn
before the advance of civilization.
The timid deer now seldom seen, abounded here,
Where thousands roamed, unscared.
No more the hills resound with beating hoof,
The bisons* heavy charge.
Alas, not one is left! All, all are gone
Before the onward march and greed of man.
Here at Somerset much of our time was taken up trying to
keep clear of the flies, which swarmed about our camp. It was
extremely warm during our stay, and the great swarms disport-
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114 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
ing themselves while disputing possession with us over our camp-
ing ground clearly indicated (with all due respect to the trim
little village of Somerset) this place as headquarters for flies.
Doubtless the opportunities afforded here, at Somerset, to
feed on the delris and choice bits contributed by the Union and
rebel soldiers frequently encamped in turn here, was duly noticed
and appreciated, resulting in the development of enormous
swarms of the largest, fiercest and most vigorous flies that could
be found anywhere on the American continent.
June 20th, at noon, we received marching orders again, and,
at four p. M.^ encamped on the heights which form the banks of
the Cumberland River, in the immediate vicinity of StigalFs
Ferry, seven miles from Somerset.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 440, Part 2.]
Somerset, Ky., June 20, 1863, 2.05 a. m.
Gen. Hartsufp :
Dispatch received. Will start 1,000 mounted men under Col-
onel Eautz by six a. m. towards Jamestown, supported by regi-
ment of infantry and a battery.
CARTER.
Somerset, June 20, 1863.
Gen. Sturgis:
The news I receive through scouts from East Tennessee are so
conflicting that I am at a loss to know what the rebel force is.
One puts it down as 7,000 to 8,000, another puts the maximum
estimate at 20,000.
General Buckner passed up towards Big Creek Gap last Fri-
day. He stated at a house on the way that he was coming into
Kentucky. On Wednesday the force of Pegram was at and in
vicinity of Travisville.
A force under Colonel Kautz left for that place at six this
morning.
CARTER,
Brig.'Oenef'al.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 115
Ordered into line again the following morning, we commenced
onr return march to Somerset, arriving there at one p. m. Halt-
ing nntil three, we then took up our line of march for James-
town, whither we had been ordered.
We encamped for the night on Logan's Old Fields, where the
battle of Mill Springs was fought Jan. 20, 1862. This place is
distant from Somerset nine miles, which made our day's march
sixteen miles. Here we found the Thirty-second Kentucky
(Lieutenant-Colonel Morrow), who had started from Somerset
in advance of us, and who were to be our companions at James-
town,— the two regiments under the command of Colonel
Browne, of our regiment, the senior officer.
At five, the following morning, the Thirty-second took the lead,
followed immediately by the Twelfth. We reached Shady Creek
at eight p. m.^ where we encamped, having made a march of six-
teen miles over the roughest road conceivable. At twelve m., the
next day, we passed through Jamestown and encamped in the
immediate vicinity, having marched ten miles.
OFFICIAL BEC0BD8.
[Series 1, VoL XXIII, Page 468, Part 2.]
June 26, 1863.
Gen. Hartsuff, LfCwington, Ky.
The following has just been received from Louisville:
LouisviLirB, June 26, 1863.
General Burnside:
J. T. Bramlette telegraphs from Columbia that Morgan's
whole force is at Burkesville but on the opposite side of the river.
Grigsby's regiment is certainly there. Twenty of them were
in Burkesville yesterday. Pegram's men are dismounted. The
river is fordable. Bramlette regards this as perfectly reliable,
having obtained his information from a gentleman who was at
Burkesville yesterday and saw the rebels there.
Number of the enemy not ascertained.
Very respectfully,
A. C. SEMPLE,
Assistant Adjt.-Oen.
A. E. Burnside,
Maj.-Oen.
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116 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 679, Part 1.]
Lexington, July 1, 1863, 6.55 p. m.
(Received 7.30 p. m.)
Gen. Burnsidb:
Just received dispatch from Judah, who is at Tompkinsville.
The enemy is nearly opposite Burkesville, from 5,000 to 7,000.
They probably intend advancing by two routes. The present
disposition of his (Judah's) force is better than at Burkesville.
which, if occupied, must be with his entire division, leaving en-
emy free to cross anywhere after river fails.
From GEO. L. HARTSUFF,
Major-OeneraL
June 24th our teams started for Lebanon, sixty miles distant,
to prQCure supplies, and it soon became evident that we were not
to remain idle here. Our scouts reported the enemy massing in
force on the southern bank of the Cumberland; clearly indicat-
ing their purpose to cross the river at some point apparently,
as yet, not determined on; possibly in our immediate neighbor-
hood.
A large force was sent out three miles on the road towards
Ck)lumbia, where a rude fort was constructed and garrisoned
under the supervision of our colonel. Detachments were sent
also in other directions to fell trees and otherwise obstruct the
roads, and all things were made ready to give the enemy a warm
reception.
In the meantime, it becoming known that our assailants were
composed largely, or wholly, of cavalry and mounted infantry,
indicated that which was very soon made manifest, namely, that
John H. Morgan was again at the head of affairs in our imme-
diate front, and resolved, apparently with largely augmented
numbers, to eclipse his former record of 1862. Later on we
learned that arrangements had been made for General Buckner
to co-operate by a rapid movement of his command from East
Tennessee across the Kentucky line, joining forces with Morgan,
Louisville being the objective point.
It was our good fortune not to be brought between "the upi)er
and nether millstone," as this arrangement most certainly im-
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Lieut. Gkorge F. Bickneij>.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 117
plied, if Rosencrans, by engaging Buckner's attention, had not
prevented him from carrying out his part of the programme.
June 28th Colonel Wolford's famous cavalry regiment, six
hnndred strong, with the Second and Seventh Ohio regiments,
mounted infantry under Colonel Kautz, having been pushed for-
ward rapidly to our support, arrived, after which there was con-
stant reconnoisance and occasional skirmishing with Morgan's
advance. Heavi' pickets were kept out constantly, and with
mneh anxiety we awaited the arrival of our supply teams, now
overdue. Our rations were giving out, and, adding to our dis-
comfort, it rained constantly every day, occasionally pouring in
torrents.
Owing to the heavy, continuous rainfall, the Cumberland River
was extremely high and unfordable, while bridges spanning the
tributary rivers were carried away, accounting, in a measure,
for the non-arrival of our supplies, as we learned later. The
inconvenience arising from short rations and heavy weather, we
must consider as small items compared with what might have
been the result involving the Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island
Volunteers, if pleasant days and a fordable river had made it
possible for the enemy to have effected a crossing at an earlier
date.
The heavy rainfall delayed the advance of Morgan, who, hav-
ing finally succeeded in securing transportation by means of flat
and ferry boats, on the 2d of July pushed his entire force across
the river at and near Burkesville, some fifteen or twenty miles
distant from Jamestown, and, after an engagement with Hobson
at Marrowbone, quickly took direction for Columbia, which place
he occupied July 3d.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, VoL XXIII, Page 679, Part 1.]
Marrowbone, July 3, 18G3, 12.30 p. m.,
Via Glasgow, July 4, 1.45, p. m.
(jen. Hartsuff, Lexington, Ky.:
An attempt to force General Hobson's position was made yes-
terday by two commands of cavalry; one consisting of four regi-
ments, about 1,500 to 1,800 in the aggregate, on the two flanks.
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118 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
the other counted 970 strong, following up the Ninth Kentucky
Cavalry on the direct road from Burkesville, and charging it up
to the main camp. Our loss, 20 killed, wounded and missing.
From evidence consisting of empt}* saddles, his loss was greater
than our own. It is certain that the enemy on this side of the
river is 3,000 strong. It is probably that he is more than 4,000
strong from other evidences deemed reliable, but not positive.
The enemy crossed on flat and ferry boats.
H. M. JUDAH.
(Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps.)
[Forwarded to Burnside.]
Owing to the bad condition of the telegraph line a message
which should have reached Colonel Wolford the evening of July
2d ordering him to reach Columbia in advance of Morgan did
not arrive until the afternoon of July 3d, thus enabling Morgan
to occupy Columbia with very little opposition, and, being
thoroughly equipped for continued rapid movement, after an en-
gagement at Green River bridge, or Tebbs Bend, July 4th, we
find him, July 5th, at Lebanon.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 683, Part 1.]
Mabrowbonb^ July 3, 1863, 2.45 p. u.
To Gen. Hartsufp:
Evidence within the hour is positive that the rebel mounted
force of from 1,500 or 2,000 have gone towards Columbia. Not
knowing what disposition of Carter's forces, if any, have been
made in that direction, I have ordered Shackelford immediately,
by a shorter route than that upon the map, to proceed to Col-
umbia. I have added the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry to his com-
mand.
Shackelford will have a force of 1,800 men.
H. M. JUDAH.
July 3, 8 p. M.
The development of the past two hours verifies my conjecture
and justifies the movements.
The Eighth Kentucky Cavalry has been in Burkesville. No
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 119
enemy in front. Hobson's brigade I have ordered to follow up
Shackelford.
Morgan's whole force, from 4,000 to 5,000, has advanced to-
wards Columbia.
JUDAH.
From this place our supply teams, having left a few days
before en route for Jamestown by way of Columbia, laden with
the much needed supplies for our regiment, came somewhat near
discharging their freight at Columbia directly into the hands of
Morgan's cavalry. They had passed Green River bridge and
were hurrying along and had nearly reached Columbia before
they were aware of the impending danger, being apprised of
which, they rapidly turned about, recrossed Green River, where,
meeting a force of thirty men from the Seventh Ohio Cavalry,
Captain J. P. Higley commanding, sent from Lebanon to protect
them, they concluded to make a stand until morning. In the
course of the night the bridge was carried away by high water,
caused by the heavy rain, obliging them to reach Jamestown by a
circuitous route, crossing the river at a ford some twenty miles
to the north. At a place near Newsville, July 3d, when within
ten miles of our camp at Jamestown, they were attacked by &
detachment of Morgan's cavalry. The guard, equal to the emerg-
ency, dashed among them with great fury, repulsing them, kill-
ing two, wounding two, and capturing three, without any loss
CD our part.
OFFICIAL BFC0RD8.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 681, Part l.J
Lexington, July 4, 1863, 11 a. m.
Gbn. Buensidk :
Morgan is reported in Columbia with two brigades and six
pieces of artillery. . . . News of Morgan being in Columbia
comes from Lieut.-Col. Adams through Carter and is undoubt-
edly correct. He must have got ahead of Shackelford. . . .
Have not heard from Judah since yesterday. His dispositions
then were as follows:
Shackelford with 1,800 cavalry on his way to Columbia by a
shorter road than Morgan; 800 cavalry on the way to Greens-
burg; portions of Hobson's infantry on direct road from Mar-
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120 HISTOEY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
rowbone to Columbia; . . . 1,400 cavalry from Jamestown
would have been ahead of Morgan but telegraph line worked
badlv so that dispatches sent to Carter yesterday, only reached
him this morning. ... If the enemy leave before we arrive
it will be a stern chase after him.
GEO. L. HARTSUFF,
Maj.-General.
The same day, shortly thereafter, our supply teams arrived
in Jamestown, much excited over their encounter with the en-
emy ; all unanimous in bestowing great praise on Captain Higley
and his men, through whose efforts they were enabled to finally
land in camp at Jamestown, present the welcome rations to anx-
ious, hungry comrades, and relate to eager listeners the hair-
raising experience encountered by flood and field, along the high-
ways and byways of Kentucky.
Meanwhile we were expecting to be attacked and were twice
called into line.
July 4th at an early hour in the morning, an artillery salute
from the First Kentucky Cavalry in commemoration of "the day
we celebrate," caused quite a commotion throughout our camp.
The roar of artillery close at hand followed by the beating of
the "long roll" from our drummers, resulting from our failure to
interpret aright the cause of this uproar, brought the regiment
into line, and to an immediate assignment of position to resist
attack.
Our situation here at "Jimtown" would seem to debar us from
an observance of the 4th of July in a manner necessitating a
waste of ammunition, but Colonel Wolford's famous regiment of
Kentuckians could not forego the opportunity to emphasize their
loyalty and hurl defiance at Morgan's approaching columns.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIIT, Page 685. Parti.]
Somerset, July 4, 1863.
Majob-General Habtsuff :
Dispatches from Colonel Wolford are this morning received.
One hundred of his force sent to Columbia under Capt. Carter,
First Kentucky Cavalry, met near that place what they supposed
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTISBRS 121
to be a regiment of rebels, and were repulsed and driven back to
Columbia. Our men had occupied the Court House, and, at last
accounts, were engaged with the enemy. Re-enforcements from
(^olonel Wolford were close at hand. Captain Carter was se-
verely wounded, and several men lost. The train on its way
from Lebanon was attacked near Newsville. Captain J. P. Hig-
ley of Seventh Ohio Cavalry, commanded the escort of thirty
men. He repulsed the rebels, killed 2, wounded 2 and captured
3 without any loss on our part. Rebel prisoners state that Mor-
gan's whole force, amounting to 10 regiments, crossed at Burkes-
ville.
CARTER,
Brig.-Oen, Commanding Ist Brig., 1st Div., 23d Army Corps.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1. Vol. XXIII, Page 686, Part 1.]
Somerset, July 4, 1863.
Maj.-Gex. Hartsuff:
Have just heard from Colonel Wolford at Jamestown. He re-
ports his force had returned from Columbia with loss of 2 killed
and 6 slightly wounded. Captain Carter's wound mortal ; 6 reb-
els were killed and some 15 wounded. Morgan with 3,000 to
4.000 men and six pieces passed through Columbia last night
going in direction of Lebanon.
Colonel Wolford will pursue to-night.
I have no news from Tjexington since 8.30 a. m., and nothing
north of Columbia in regard to rebel movements.
S. r. CARTER,
Brigadier-General.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 692 Part 1.]
Cincinnati, July 5, 1863.
General Haetsuff :
Following just received :
Lebanon, 9 p. m.
Rebels attacked this post about seven a. m.. Colonel Hanson,
commanding post, fought them six hours. Most of his command
taken prisoners, 5 killed on our side. Re-enforcements arrived
about two o'clock, and rebels left as soon as they arrived, taking
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122 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
road to Springfield. Colonel Hanson was paroled. Rebels de-
stroyed depot, telegraph office and about ten private dwellings,
robbed stores and killed one woman; Morgan's command con-
sisting of two brigades and two full batteries.
Operator.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major Qeneral.
Meantime information reached Jamestown that Morgan had
avoided us, and, with his whole force, estimated at four or five
thousand strong, was already in Columbia. Nothing now re-
mained for troops along the Cumberland but to give chase.
The cavalry and mounted infantry were already away in hot
pursuit, with Morgan a day in advance of them, while we were
ordered to return to Somerset; upon which the stores were put
aboard the teams, and, on the morning of the 5th, at nine o'clock,
we took up our line of march. It was a very warm, sultry day,
and the roads were in bad condition owing to the heavy rains,
making our march extremely difficult. The importance of mov-
ing as rapidly as possible possessed the whole regiment while
floundering through the mud, while the temptation to lighten
the weary back of its heavy burden resulted in a somewhat gen-
eral unloading of tents and blankets along the highway ; at the
same time relieving their minds concerning the object of this
move, the d d Morgan, and the whole d d catalogue of
rebels, in language more forcible than elegant.
We arrived at Russell's Spring in due time, making a halt
there until four p. m. We had twenty-five prisoners with us to
be delivered here, of which we were glad to be relieved.
At four we started, at which time it commenced to rain, keep-
ing it up until dark. Much of the time it poured in torrents^
but we made a march of eight miles with only two halts of five
minutes each, and at dark encamped one mile from Shady Creek,
soaked to the skin. It was not found possible for our supply
team to keep pace over the very rough roads where alternate
sections of mud and rock made progress well-nigh impossible.
Overcoming obstacles at last, almost insurmountable, they finally
put in an appearance, and, at nine o'clock, on the morning of the
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBES 123
6th, we again took up our line of march, and, after covering a dis-
tance of eleven miles, halted for the night, reaching Somerset
the next day, July 7th, at seven o'clock in the evening.
The next day, July 8th, Morgan, with his whole force, suc-
ceeded in crossing the Ohio River at Brandenburg, landing in
Indiana below Louisville at a point distant from Somerset one
hundred miles northwest. General Hobson, who held position
at Tompkinsville at the time Morgan crossed the Cumberland at
Burkesville on the morning of July 4th, gave chase, arriving at
Lebanon, Kentucky, July 6th, at 1.30 p. m., soon after which.
Colonel Wolford, from Somerset, arriving, General Hobson, as-
suming command of the combined force numbering 2,500 cavalry
and mounted infantry, left in hot haste by way of Springfield,
Bardstown and Brandenburg, arriving in Brandenburg in time
to see one of the transports, which had set Morgan and his men
across the Ohio River, in flames and hear their shouts of tri-
umph. Hobson was twenty-four hours in obtaining transporta-
tion to cross, when the pursuit was resumed.
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 702, Part 1.]
July 7, 1863.
Gen. Hartsupp, Camp Nelson, Ky.:
The following has just been received from General Boyle:
LouisviiXE, July 7, 1863, 6.30 p. m.
General Hobson with eight regiments of cavalry and mounted
infantry is at Shepherdsville in pursuit of Morgan, pressing him
close. Morgan has gone towards Elizabethtown or Branden-
burg. I send boat with 300 men to Brandenburg. I have an-
swered Hobson, by your authority, to pursue Morgan to the ex-
tremity of endurance of his horses and men. Morgan has suf-
fered much in loss of oflBicers and men. He is robbing all citizens
and prisoners of money.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-Oenerah
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124 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Cincinnati, July 8, 1863.
Gen. Boyle^ Louismlle, Ky. :
The following has just been received from New Albany : Mor-
gan's force, from 3,000 to 5,000 strong, have crossed the river at
Brandenburg. They captured one gun, 50 Home Guards, and
killed 4. A boat has just come up for re-enforcements.
This is reliable.
Thomas W. Fry,
Surgeon U. 8. Army.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-GeneraL
On the afternoon of July 8th, while Morgan was crossing
the Ohio River, with Hobson and Wolford at his heels, one hun-
dred miles away to the northwest, the T\^^elfth Rhode Island
Regiment at Somerset was called into line, and at five p. m.
turned our faces to the north, to speedily lessen the distance
gained by Hobson, Wolford and Morgan, as we marched again
for Hickman's Bridge by way of Crab Orchard and Stanford.
Marched six miles and halted for the night. July 9th marched
twenty-two miles, reaching Crab Orchard at eight p. m. The
next day passed through Stanford, and halted for dinner one
mile from the village at eleven a. m.
Here our colonel was informed that he could give his regiment
a ride on the supply train which was all ready for Hickman's
Bridge. Our colonel gladly accepted the offer, and in one-half
hour we were aboard and on our way, much to the relief of weary
backs and blistering feet. The train made a halt at Dick River
where we dismounted and encamped.
The next day, July 11th, at one p. m., we dismounted at Hick-
man's Bridge, marched up the steep incline leading from the
river, and at two p m. halted for further orders. Here we re-
mained until the following morning, when, receiving orders to
report in Cincinnati, we marched to Nicholasville, boarded the
train, and the same night, at eleven o'clock, arrived in Covington.
On the 13th, at seven a. m., we crossed the Ohio, and, stacking
arms in front of the Fifth Street Market House, and with the
generous collation and entertainment provided us on the evening
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Lieut. Henry M. Tillixghast.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 125
of March 30th at the same place still fresh in memory, we waited
the call for breakfast. Here we learned that the omnipresent
Morgan was within a few miles of the city and advancing; mar-
tial law was to take eflfect in the city at ten a. m.; companies
were arming and organizing; that Hobson and Wolford, now
only a few miles away, were rapidly pushing Morgan in our di-
rection, and that we had arrived just in time to assist in saving
the city from the assault of the enemy.
After partaking of a most generous collation at the Fifth
Street Market House, we lined up, took our arms, and, taking di-
rection up Vine Street, at its junction with a road at Mount Au-
burn, on elevated ground overlooking the city and the country
for many miles around, on the afternoon of July 13th, we estab-
lished our camp, which, on the same evening, the redoubtable
John H. illuminated by the burning of bridges, railroad trains,
etc., the flames from which were plainly visible, the points of
destruction being only a few miles away.
Concerning the destruction of property, horse stealing, etc.,
the writer will quote from General Shackelford, who writes:
"Our pursuit was much retarded by the enemy burning all the
bridges in our front. He had every advantage. Morgan's sys-
tem of horse stealing was perfect. He would dispatch men from
the head of each regiment, on each side of the road, to go five
miles into the country, seizing every horse, and then fall in at
the rear of the column. In this way, he swept the country for
ten miles of all the horses. His depredations on the property of
citizens, his recklessness of the rights and lives of the people,
while traveling in these two states (Indiana and Ohio) is with-
out a parallel in war."
Here in Cincinnati our meagre marching rations of maggoty
bacon gave way to a bountiful supply of the choicest hams cooked
to a turn; while the relay of sharp carving knives at hand indi-
cated a decided change in the commissary department. It is
needless to say that when the command was given to charge on
these hams, every man was present, no stragglers reported. Sub-
sequent engagements failed to dislodge these hams, which were
strongly entrenched and continually re-enforced.
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126 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
OFFICIAL BEC0BD8.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 634, Part 1.]
Cincinnati, Ohio, July 20, 1863.
I telegraphed you on the 17th that our forces were closing
around Morgan with a fair prospect of finally capturing or de-
stroying the entire force.
During the last three days he has been trying to cross the river
between Marietta and Portsmouth, but our forces have been
harassing him, and, up to the last advices, we have captured more
than half of his force, all of his artillery, destroyed all his wagon
trains, and killed some 200. Among the prisoners are Basil
[W.] Duke, Colonel Dick [R. C] Morgan (brother of the gen-
eral), and some 48 commissioned officers. His command is com-
pletely broken up and scattered, and constantly surrendering in
small bodies. Not over 20 or 30 have succeeded in crossing the
river thus far. We hope to capture the whole remaining force
within the next twenty-four hours.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-General Commanding.
Maj.-Gex. H. W. Halleck, General-in-Chief.
(Copy to Governor Tod, Columbus, Ohio.)
OFFICIAL RECORDS.
[Series 1, Vol. XXIII, Page 636, Part 1.]
Cincinnati, Ohio, July 26, 1863.
The following just received at the headquarters from General
Shackelford :
Headquarters, U. S. Forces,
In the Field, three miles south cf New Lisbon, via Salineville. — 3.80 p. m.
By the blessing of Almighty God, I have succeeded in captur-
ing General John H. Morgan, Colonel Cluke and the balance of
the command, amounting to about 400 prisoners. I will start
with Morgan and staff in first train for Cincinnati, and await
the general's order for transportation for the balance.
I have given directions for the return of the command.
A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-General.
Maj.-Gen. H. W. Halleck,
General-inrChief.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 127
Information coming in from day to day now gave assurance
that our cavalry and mounted infantry had now caught up with
Morgan, whose only hope of escape, with even a portion of his
command was to recross the Ohio and make good his retreat by
way of West Virginia. His inability to accomplish this, after
persistent effort, resulted in the capture of himself and entire
force; the last turn of the screw, the grand finale, taking place
July 26th in Columbiana County, three miles south of New Lis-
bon, twelve miles north of the Ohio River, and distant east-north-
east from Cincinnati two hundred and twenty miles.
In the meantime, while these events were transpiring, and all
apprehension of danger to Cincinnati from Morgan past, we were
relieved, and, at seven a. m., Sunday, July 19th, we left for Rhode
Island, where, on the 29th day of July, 1863, we were mustered
out of the service of the United States.
Before setting aside our record of Wolford and Kautz, with
whom we were associated at Jamestown, on the Cumberland, and
who were foremost in pursuit of Morgan from start to finish, we
will quote from a letter of General Shackelford concerning them,
wherein he writes:
"The noble, true and gallant Wolford, who was in the entire
pursuit, is one of the coolest, bravest and most efficient officers
in the army ; and he fairly won, by his untiring energy, promo-
tion at the hands of the Government."
Colonel Kautz is also spoken of as ^^deserving the gratitude of
the whole country for his courage and gallantry."
Correspondence Providence Journal^
From the Cincinnati Gazette, July 20, 1863.
A Musical Regiment.
In the Twelfth Rhode Island Regiment which was camped last
week on Vine Street Hill, near the Methodist Church, were many
capital singers. Thursday evening, after "dress parade," that
beautiful and touching hymn, "Nearer, my God, to thee," was
sung by a portion of the regiment in a style seldom excelled by
any choir or congregation.
Wednesday evening, on invitatioti, a large number of the men
of the regiment attended the prayer and social meeting in the
vestry of the church; the exercises being conducted by a local
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128 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Methodist minister of Providence, Rev. Charles M. Winchester,
lieutenant in Company C.
The singing, chiefly conducted by the soldiers, was appropri-
ate, earnest, methodical and hearty. Several of the soldiers also
spoke.
Thursday evening, a wish having been generally expressed that
there should be a purely social meeting of the Mt. Auburn peo-
ple and soldiers, the main audience room of the church was
thrown open, and, by eight o'clock, it was comfortably filled.
Private Dearth, an organist of Bristol, R. I., presided with the
ease and skill of an adept at the melodion, and, after the singing
of one or two pieces from the "Oriola," an introductory speech
was made by Mr. House of the Christian Advocate, followed by
appropriate addresses from A. F. Perry, Esq., Lieutenant Win-
chester, George F. Davis, and Judge Taft.
In the course of his remarks Mr. Perry said, that though
"Rhode Island" was little in square miles, she was big in patri-
otic hearts.
Three days after the first call of the President, she had a body
of military at Washington. She had two regiments, and her
Governor, at the great Bull Run fight, and her regiments, or ar-
tillery— 14 of the former, and ten of the latter — ^were to be found
in almost every section of the Union. Wherever a battle was
fought, ask for a Rhode Island regiment, and the answer was,
"Here."
Roger Williams was driven from Massachusetts because he did
not recognize the right of the civil magistrate to interfere in the
right of religious belief. There is no liberty of speech, or free-
dom of action where there is no religious toleration ; and we are
to-night not so much to sing "the spirit of John Brown is
marching on," as we are to sing the older one, "the spirit of Roger
Williams is marching on.''
The speech was just such an one as Mr. Perry can make, earn-
est, compact, thoughtful, eloquent, and adjusted to the time and
place. It was repeatedly enthusiastically applauded, and Lieu-
tenant Winchester, at the close, said he had come away from
home and learned more about Rhode Island, than he had learned
at home. In the audience was Captain Oliver Hazard Perry, of
Company H, a descendant of the former Lake Erie Commodore
Perry, and, though he was urged to make a speech, he gracefully
declined the honor.
At ten o'clock, with the singing of "The Star Spangled Ban-
ner," the citizens and the boys, dispersed; all apparently well
pleased with the entertainment, and the acquaintanceship
formed.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 129
The particulars of our journey from Cincinnati, together with
our reception in Providence, we copy from the Providence Even-
ing Press, of July 22d, at the conclusion of which is appended the
order which General Burnside, in appreciation of our services,
upon our leaving his department, issued to the regiment:
Return of the Twelfth Regiment.
This noble regiment returned home to-day from its arduous
and protracted service at the seat of war. The unusual amount
of hardship and exposure to which it has been subjected, the im-
portant duties which it has performed, and the heavy losses it
has sustained in the defense of its country, made it highly appro-
priate that it should be received with demonstrations expressive
of the popular interest in all that concerns our brave soldiers.
The record of this regiment will compare favorably with that
of any nine months' regiment during the war. In addition to
long and frequent marches, they have spent seven months of
their time at the front, in the face of danger, and where the du-
ties imposed upon them have taxed their every energy to the
utmost.
The regiment left Cincinnati on Sunday morning and pro-
ceeded to Dunkirk by rail, on the Erie Railroad, and thence to
New York, where they arrived at eleven o'clock yesterday morn-
ing. They started about one o'clock for Providence, on the
steamer Commodore, arriving about four o'clock, a short distance
below Nayatt, where they anchored. They came up to the city
shortly afterwards, and landed about seven o'clock.
A salute was fired by the Marine Artillery. The Fourth and
Sixth Regiments, Rhode Island Militia, were drawn up on Bene-
fit Street to receive the returning veterans, and loudly cheered
them as they passed through the open lines. A crowd of expect-
ant friends who had assembled at the Point, immediately
gathered around the gallant boys, and the short halt was im-
proved in the interchange of greetings.
About eight o'clock the line of march was formed in the follow-
ing order :
AifSRiCAN Brass Band.
Drum Corps.
Section of Marine Artillery.
Sixth Regiment R. I. M., Col. James H. Armington.
Drum Corps.
Fourth Regiment R. I. M., Col. Nelson Viall.
9
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130 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Drum Corps.
Twelfth Regiment R. L V., Col. George H. Browne.
Lieut. Col. James Shaw, Jr., Maj. Cyrus G. Dyer.
Adjutant Matthew N. Chappell.
CO. B, Capt. James M. Longstbeet.
LiEUTS. Albert W. Delanah and Chables A. Winchester.
CO. I, Capt. Geobge A. Spink.
LiEUTS. MuNSON H. Najac and John H. Weaves.
CO. F, Capt. William E. Hubbard.
LiEUTS. William II. King and Francisco M. Ballou.
CO. K, Capt. Oscar Lapham.
LiEUTS. Edmund W. Fales and Charles H. Potter.
CO. E, (Color Company.)
Capt. John J. Phillips.
LiEUTS. Luther Cole and Edward V. Westcott.
CO. D, Capt, John P. Abbott.
LiEUTS. George H. Tabor and Henry M. Tillinguast.
CO. H, Capt. Oliver H. Perry.
LiEUTS. Arnold Salisbury and J. N. Williams.
CO. A, Capt. Christopher H. Alexander.
LiEUTS. Edward F. Bacon and Joseph C. Whiting, Jr.
CO. G, Capt. William C. Rogers.
LiEUTS. James A. Bowen and Fenner Peckham, Jr.
CO. C, Capt. James H. Allen.
LiEUTS. George Bucklin and Beriah Browning.
Quartermaster John L. Clarke.
Surgeon Benoni Carpenter.
Assist. Surgeon Samuel M. Fletcher.
Chaplain S. W. Field.
Rear guard of twenty men detailed from all the companieii.
The procession marched over the usual route to Exchange
Place, where the men stacked arms, and universal handshaking
was the order of the day. The streets were lined with people.
Flags were hung out all along the line of march; handkerchiefs
were waving everywhere, and bouquets and wreaths were scat-
tered with a liberal hand. The regiments doing escort duty
turned out with very full ranks, and made a most effective dem-
onstration. A fine collation, served by L. A. Humphreys, was
provided for the troops in Howard Hall. There were eight ta-
bles running the entire length of the room, neatly spread with
most acceptable fare, presenting a most cheerful and inviting ap-
pearance.
The officers of the regiments were entertained upon the plat-
form ; about two thousand plates were laid, and all three of the
regiments were amply provided for.
The Rev. Dr. Swain, of the Sixth Regiment, invoked a blessing
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Capt. Oliver H. Perry.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 131
upon the repast, after which his Excellency Governor Smith,
came forward, and, in a very happy manner, welcomed the regi-
ment back to the State, and thanked them for the services they
had rendered in the field.
Colonel Browne responded substantially as follows :
"In my own behalf, and that of the oflScers and soldiers under
my command, I thank you for the kind manner in which you
have been pleased to speak of us. Next to the approbation of
our own conscience, we prize most highly the approbation of
those we love. That approbation we enjoy. To the utmost of
our ability since we left the State we have endeavored to uphold
her honor, and to labor for the suppression of the Rebellion. We
prize this reception as an evidence of your approval. Your
words of praise show that our services have not been unmarked.
Still it may be well for one to advert briefly to some facts in our
history as a regiment.
"We have traveled over three thousand five hundred miles, five
hundred of which has been on foot, literally carrying the houses
we lived in, the provisions on which we were to subsist for six
and even eight days, and the arms with which we were to defend
ourselves and oppose the enemy.
"On the field of Fredericksburg one hundred and nine of my
brave men were lost to my command. Afterwards when pesti-
lence stalked through our camp, and, amid hardships and priva-
tion, one hundred and twenty more were swept away in three
short weeks, — not all, indeed, to the silent grave, since a few
still linger in hospitals.
"But through the constant efforts of my officers to preserve
cleanliness and discipline in camp, we are happy in bringing back
to our friends to-day over seven hundred of those who marched
with me to the banks of the Rappahannock.
"Our duties have been of the most varied kind. But through
them all the uniform kindness of the State has at all times
watched over us. While we were in camp, where pestilence as-
sailed us and want made us suffer, your good ship Elizabeth and-
Helen brought us much needed supplies, and, if your bounty
burdened our backs, it certainly lightened our hearts and cheered
us on the weary march.
"Let me, in conclusion, congratulate you, the officers who sur-
round you, and all our citizens, that we arrive at home at a time
when everything is so cheering and prosperous. Gentlemen, .
. . you will see this country a reunited country, a mighty na-
tion whose arms will be more a shield for every citizen than was
ever Rome in her proudest days."
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132 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
At the conclusion of the collation, the military were dismissed.
The Twelfth Regiment was ordered to re-afisemble in this city on
Wednesday next at ten o'clock.
Headquarters, Department of the Ohio,
Cincinnati, Ohio, July 17, 1863.
General Orders, )
No. 115. j
On the departure of the Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Vol
unteers, at the expiration of their term of enlistment, the com-
manding general wishes to express his regret at taking leave of
soldiers who, in their brief service, have become veterans. After
passing through experiences of great hardship and danger, thev
will return with the proud satisfaction that in the ranks of their
country's defenders, the reputation of their State has not suf-
fered in their hands.
BY COMMAND OP MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE.
LEWIS RICHMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-Oeneral.
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PART SECOND
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A Narrative of the Twelfth Rhode Island
Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War from
January 8, 1863, to July 17 1863.
COMPILBD BT
COL. DANIEL R. BALLOU,
Fbom Lkttbbs of Gbn. James Shaw, Jr.
James Shaw, in., of Providence, R. I., having been commis-
sioned lieutenant-colonel of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteer
Infantry on the 31st of December, 1862, was mustered in as such
on the fifth day of January, 1863, at Providence. He joined the
regiment near Falmouth, Va., on the 8th.
The regiment had been encamped with the Ninth Corps across
the river from Fredericksburg since the battle early in Decem-
ber. The men were enduring great discomfort, if not actual suf-
fering, for want of adequate shelter from the midwinter winds
and storms that swept down from the north. Many of the men
were without blankets, which had been lost during the fight, and
had only shelter tents to protect them from the cold and storms.
When the weather was mild or it rained the clayey soil was one
sea of mud inside as well as outside of the rude shelters which
had been improvised out of shelter tents, boughs and cracker
boxes.
An abstract from a letter written by a New York officer in the
corps of Sigel dated at Stafford Court House, Va., December
19th, well describes the situation of the entire army during that
winter.
... "Our one tent is a pig-sty. Four of us sleep and six
of us eat and write in it. We have nothing either in our one
stove inside or on the little space outside that can be called a
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136 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
fire. The wood is all green pine. The smoke hangs to the ground
and there is no wind to blow off what comes from a whole divi-
sion crowded into an acre or two of land. Everybody is crying.
Everybody is cross. ... It is hard to get water, and such a
thing as a good wash is unknown. . . . Everybody in camp
has a cold. . . . Our Dutch doctor has been drunk for two
days and is in arrest . . . and there is no delicacy or com-
fort to be found the whole country through; . . . mud is
everywhere.''
A correspondent writing from the regiment at Newport News
thus described the situation of the camp of the Twelfth near
Falmouth :
"At the last camp near Falmouth, which the boys call "Camp
between life and death," we got but little to eat that did us any
good, lived in mud, water and smoke, until we were so poor and
black that could Wendell Phillips have seen Us, he would have
found (the poor black man of the Union army) a good theme for
his eloquence and benevolence. Coming up out of that "Valley
and the shadow of death," and pitching our tents here in this
land "flowing with milk and honey," . . . and an abundance
of army supplies from Uncle Sam, it has taken nearly all our
time to renew our wasted bodies and revive our drooping spirits,
that we may be prepared for the duties that await us."
With all these discomforts and deprivations the men had come
to accept the situation resignedly, if not with a degree of cheer-
fulness as the common lot of a soldier's experience.
Amid such depressing surroundings Ijieutenant-Oolonel Shaw
found the raiment ; but oflBcers and men received him with a cor-
dial welcome.
Quartermaster-General George Lewis Cooke, who came on to
Washington with us as acting lieutenant-colonel, left the regi-
ment in November at Fairfax Seminary and returned home, since
which time the vacancy had been unfilled.
The regiment had been so much on the move that there had
been but little opportunity for drill, in which it was somewhat
deficient. The boys had heard of Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw's
coming and that he was a strict disciplinarian. Many of the
boys hailed his coming on this account with much satisfaction,
while others, chafing against all discipline, were prepared to
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 137
disljke him. It was soon evident after Lieutenant-Colonel
Shaw's arrival that the regiment was going to be brought up
to the proper fighting standard, let the bovs like it or not.
It was at the request of Colonel Browne that Lieutenant-
Colonel Shaw assumed the duty of bringing the regiment up
to an efficient standard as a fighting machine. There was a good
deal of kicking around the camp-fires, a deal of pretty harsh
criticism expressed in undertones, as to the unfeeling and severe
treatment to which the boys were being subjected. But all
hands, aside from the shirks, finally came to understand that
this same unwelcome discipline was their only safeguard in the
stem business of war.
Each day now had its round of picket duty along the banks of
the Bappahannock or of company or battalion drill.
On the 20th of January there were signs of some general move-
ment by the great army which for many weeks had lain passively
along those heights like some monster creature with a vast body,
and many limbs and feet. First it lifts its head and puts for-
ward a foot, then slowly another and another until its great body
is raised from the ground upon which it rested. Then it slowly
moves forward one foot after another until its vast bulk is in
motion. So all day long, regiments, brigades, and divisions, the
feet of this great army were moving, while other feet were await-
ing their turn. Colonel Browne, during the day, called at Gen-
eral Burnside's headquarters. He returned saying: "The army
is in motion and the regiment will soon receive its orders." All
the morning there could be seen a long line of troops moving,
along a road up the river about a mile in the rear of the camp of
the Twelfth. At two o'clock in the afternoon the regiment re-
ceived orders from General Burnside saying : "The army of the
Potomac will soon meet the enemy and strike a fatal blow."
At about ten o'clock on the evening of that day the order came
to be ready to move at four o'clock the next morning, the 21st.
At 6.30 on the evening of the 20th it began to rain, and soon the
storm developed into a raging tempest. At two a m. an order
was received, dated 20th, 8.30 p. m., directing the regiment not to
move if the rain should continue. The next day the storm was
unabated, the rain falling in torrents, and the monster battle-
^ant^ the Army of the Potomac, or so much of it as had got in
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188 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
motion the day before, was floundering helplessly and hopelessly
in a sea of mud.
On the 23d the troops, artillery and baggage wagcms, were
slowly toiling through the mud back into camp, which they at
length reached, and thus this mailed monster of war settled back
in his lair. Had the weather been propitious Franklin and
Hooker would have crossed the river and attacked the right flank
of Lee's army, while Sumner's grand division would have crossed
at Falmouth and attacked the enemy in the rear as Franklin and
Hooker doubled him up. The general opinion of the army was
that this movement would have been successful and opened the
road to Richmond.
On January 26th the order of General Burnside was read on
dress parade, announcing the transfer, in pursuance of the order
of President Lincoln, of the command of the Army of the Poto-
mac to Major^General Hooker. It also read :
"The short time he has directed your movements has not
been fruitful of victory, nor any considerable advancement of
our lines, but it has again demonstrated an amount of courage,
patience and endurance that under more favorable circumstances
would have accomplished great results.'' He at the same time
expressed especial regret at parting with the Ninth Corps, his
old and tried command.
General Burnside had been unfortunate in succeeding to
the command of the Army of the Potomac at a time when
it was honeycombed by political intrigue, and insubordina-
tion was rife among its general officers. In his last movement he
could not compete with the elements, and was obliged to yield to
the inevitable. The impartial historian will, in the future, when
the true history of the war is written, as it will be, cause the
record to show a full and complete vindication of these unsuc-
cessful campaigns of this much censured commander of the Army
of the Potomac.
President Lincoln, in his address to the Army of the Potomac
after the battle of Fredericksburg, said: "Although you were
not successful, the attempt was not an error nor the failure an
accident."
The weather was at times exceedingly cold. Many of the men
were frost-bitten, and one man in the Seventh Regiment got out
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Lieut. Arnold F. Salisbury.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 139
upon the company street, during a very cold night and was
found the next morning frozen to death. Very many of the men
having only little shelter tents for protection, were forced to
crawl into them in very cold or stormy weather and under cover
of their blankets keep themselves as comfortable as possible.
The men were buoyed up by the hope that these discomforts and
sufferings could not last always. Just when the situation seemed
the very darkest and most hopeless, deliverance was near at
hand. On February 6th an order was received from headquar-
ters for the Ninth Army Corps to move as soon as possible to
Acquia Creek and report to General Dix at Fortress Monroe.
Rumor had it that Bumside had been assigned to a new depart-
ment, including North and South Carolina, and that the Twelfth,
with the rest of the Ninth Corps were bound for Newbern or
Hilton Head.
About this time new rifles and equipments were received and
distributed among the men under the direction of Lieutenant-
Colonel Shaw.
On the 8th of February the Ninth Corps was beginning to
move on the way to Acquia Creek to take passage down the Po-
tomac for Fortress Monroe. The Twelfth was the last regiment
of the division to which it was attached to move, having received
its orders at one p. m.^ February 9th. At three p. m. the regi-
ment had broken camp and was off for the station, but not until
seven p. m.' were the men aboard the train, which was made up of
box-freight cars which were crowded to their fullest capacity in-
side and on top. The men inside were in mortal fear that the
roofs which bent and creaked from the pressure of the great
loads would collapse and crush them, and those on top were as
fearful of being precipitated through the roofs.
At Acquia Creek it was found that the long-expected schooner
from Providence laden with supplies for the Rhode Island boys
had just arrived. Mr. Manchester, the supercargo, was ordered
to follow to Fortress Monroe and deliver to the Rhode Island
organizations of the Ninth Corps their share of the cargo, and
then return and deliver the balance to the organizations remain-
ing in the Army of the Potomac. Her consignment consisted of
^niit and vegetables, which were thrice welcome after a long-
continued diet of hard-tack and salt meats.
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140 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
At ten p. M., of the 9th, the raiment embarked on board the
steamers Meta/tnora and Juniata, which swung into the stream
and anchored over night. The next day, the 10th, the steam^v
were running down the Potomac headed for Fortress Monroe.
After a pleasant but uneventful trip, the steamers rounded the
fort and anchored inside, the Rip Baps laying off our stem quar-
ters at four o'clock in the morning of the 11th. At nine a. m. it
received orders to steam up to Newport News, which was the
first knowledge the command had of its destination. It arrived
at twelve noon of the 11th of February and the men disembarked,
and that afternoon the camp was laid out and the men, although
having only their shelter tents and blankets, made themselves
as comfortable as possible in their new home, thankful that they
had escaped from the disgusting ooze and mud of Falmouth.
This was an ideal camping-ground on the shores of the mag-
nificently broad expanse of the waters of Hampton Roads at the
mouth of the James River. It is a broad plateau of light, sandy
soil, standing well up from the water, landlocked from the nortli
winds and having a mild temperature. In the balmy, bracing
air and changed conditions, the deprivations and sufferings of
"Camp Mud" became almost a forgotten memory. Here the men
received their share of the schooner's cargo of fruits and vege-
tables, which they very much enjoyed after their prolonged fast-
ing. To these rations were now also added in generous supply
the delicious oysters of these waters, which could be procured at
a very small cost. Either oysters stewed, oysters fried, oysters
roasted, or oysters as big as your hand, on the half-shell, graced
the daily bill of fare. "A" tents for the men and wall tents for
officers were shortly supplied, and the camp through the thought-
ful interest of Colonel Browne, soon took on an air both of com-
fort and permanence.
Colonel Browne took almost a fatherly interest in the welfare
of his men. He was solicitous both of their health and personal
comfort and endeared himself to all, both officers and men, by
his watchful care of them.
A correspondent of one of the Providence papers, writing from
the regiment, said :
"Colonel Browne continues to merit and receive the affection
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 141
and respect of both officers and men, and conld he know all the
hearts of his regiment, he wonld have enough to cheer him in all
his endeavors for our good/'
Under the direction of Lieutenant-Ck)lonel Shaw, company and
battalion drill formed a considerable portion of the daily routine,
in which both officers and men made rapid progress and profi-
ciency. These duties, with brigade drill and picket service, kept the
men busy most of the time. On February 25th the Ninth Corps was
reviewed by General Dix, and General Smith commanding the
corps. Colonel Griffin, of the Ninth New Hampshire, acting
brigadier-general, commanded the brigade to which the Twelfth
was attached, with General Nagle in command of the division.
There were in all from fifteen to eighteen thousand men, and
fifty pieces of artillery in line by batteries, the infantry in line
by battalion in mass. It was an impressively magnificent spec-
tacle, as Generals Dix and Smith and their staffs came riding
down the line, the brilliant retinue receiving an accession of the
general and staff commanding each division as its front was
passed, the bands playing "Hail to the Chief." After the entire
line had been passed, the reviewing generals and their staffs rode
around to the rear taking their posts on the right. Then the
great machine of blood and muscle changed direction by the left
flank, and in column in mass marched in review.
There had been considerable sickness among the men of the
Twelfth since the battle of Fredericksburg, mainly typhoid fever.
There were twelve deaths between January and the 25th of Feb-
ruary. The wonder is, with the unsanitary conditions at Fal-
mouth, the exposures and the character of the food and water,
that the sickness and mortality were not much greater.
On the 26th of February Sergeant Babcock, of New Shoreham,
a member of Company D, died of typhoid fever, and another man
was very low and not expected to survive. Three men in all died
of typhoid fever at Newport News, contracted doubtless in the
camp at Falmouth. There was little other sickness in the camp
at Newport News aside from the measles. The regiment was
credited with maintaining the best camp in the brigade, and offi-
cer and men received many compliments from brigade and divi-
sion inspectors.
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142 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
During Colonel Browne's absence in Washington on leave,
Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw being left in command, adopted a sys-
tem of prizes, as rewards to men for cleanliness of clothing,
equipments and muskets, and also to the best and second-best
companies in the regiment measured by a like standard of neat-
ness. The plan was at once fruitful in creating a spirit of emu-
lation and rivalry among the men. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw, in
speaking of the results of this plan, said : "No men now dare to
come on duty dirty, and 1 have about one hundred muskets that
can't be beat by any command. I will have them all so."
On the 13tli of March a rumor reached camp, which proved
true, that the I^nion forces at Suffolk had been attacked by the
rebels. The Third Division, to which the Fourth Rhode Island
Infantry was attached, was ordered to proceed at once to Suf-
folk, which it did, and where it remained for some time.
During the encampment at Newport News, Lieutenant-Colonel
Shaw procured and caused to be distributed among the com-
panies a number of foot-balls and checker-boards for the recrea-
tion of the men, which were much appreciated, and which served
to break the somewhat dreary monotony of camp life. On the
13th of March swords were presented to both Capt. William H.
Hubbard and Lieut. Francisco M. Ballon, of Company F.
After more than a month spent in this delightful camp, during
which time the men of the entire army corps recuperated both
their spirits and energies, the order came to the regiment on the
17th of March to be ready to move at a moment's notice with two
days' cooked rations in haversacks. It was rumored through
the camp that the Union forces on the Black water in Suffolk,
Va., had met with a reverse, and that the division to which the
Twelfth was attached was to be sent to re-enforce them. The
next day, however, the order of yesterday to prepare rations wa«
countermanded and nothing more was heard about Suffolk or the
Blackwater.
On the 21st, however, the command again received orders to
move with hve days' rations as soon as transports should arrive,
but no information was communicated as to its destination. In-
formation having been received in the meantime, however, that
Burnside had been assigned to the command of the Department
of the Ohio, the men guessed, and quite rightly, too, that the
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BHODB ISLAND V0LUNTBBB8 148
Ninth Ck)rps was to go to that department. On the 25th^ at six
p. M._, the order came to strike tents, and, in a few moments, the
dehris of our camp, which had been gathered together and util-
ized to make the quarters of officers and men comfortable, was
piled up and fired and great tongues of flame were lighting up
the heavens, and the men, with three hearty cheers, turned their
backs with just a sigh of regret upon the charred and blackened
remnants of the camp. The regiment, together with baggage
and horses, except one company, B, which was embarked on the
steamer Swan with the Seventh Rhode Island Infantry, were
placed on board the steamer Long Island, The steamers got
under way at about two o'clock in the morning and ran up Chesa-
peake Bay, arriving at Baltimore at 7.30 o'clock p. m. of the same
day. There being no cars ready to receive the men, they were
held on board till the next morning, the 27th. The regiment was
marched across the city to the station of the Northern Central
Railroad, where the men stacked arms to await the train that
was to take them over the mountains to Cincinnati, to report to
General Bumside, whose headquarters were at the Burnett
House. Now the soldier is an exceedingly social individual, if
he is a fighting man, and he at once sought the society of such
persons living in the immediate neighborhood as were disposed
to dispense hospitality for a consideration, with the result that
the social natures of very many of the boys had become somewhat
overwrought before the cars arrived to receive them. They
were, however, a very amiable body of men, although their lan-
guage was more expressive and forceful than polite. Everybody
kept good-natured, and, by 12.30 p. m., all were on board and off
for their far away destination.
The route lay over the Pennsylvania Railroad by way of Har-
risburg, Altoona, and Pittsburg. With the exception of a dis-
abled engine at Cockeysville, seventeen miles out of Baltimore,
there were no accidents. The ride over the Alleghanies was an
enjoyable diversion for all who had not enjoyed the privilege of
seeing mountain scenery. The engineering features of the road
winding up and down the mountain side, together with the fa-
mous horse-shoe loop, were, in those days, a wonderful exhibition
of engineering skill, but in these later days of advanced engineer-
ing art this piece of construction attracts but little attention, al-
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144 HISTORY OP THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
though the scenic features of these mountains will ev^ remain
picturesquely beautiful and grand to look upon. The raiment
reached Pittsburg at 11.30 o-clock p. m.^ March 29th, and officers
and men upon their arrival were met by representatives of the
citizens of the town and invited to a collation at the City Hall,
a courtesy extended to all the troops passing through their city.
It was a pretty late hour for dinner, but all were hungry and did
ample justice to the bountiful supply of good things placed be-
fore them, not forgetting to express appreciative acknowledg-
ment of the patriotic hospitality of Pittsburg's loyal men and
women. The men were marched back to the station, but no train
being ready to receive them, and, although it was extremely cold,
the men wrapped themselves in their blankets and laid down in
the station and outside on the platform, and, wearied by the long
journey and loss of sleep, were soon in the land of dreams; but
they were up and off early in the morning. Company A, Capt.
Christopher H. Alexander and a part of Company C in charge of
Lieut. Daniel R. Ballon, were left behind for want of transporta-
tion, to come on later with their commands and the stragglers.
The regiment arrived in Cincinnati at about eight o'clock p. m.
March 30th, being received with demonstrations of applause by
the populance, who crowded the streets through which it passed.
The men were furnished with a good supper, after which, headed
by the brigade band, they marched through the streets receiving
an ovation from the vast crowds of men, women and children
who crowded the sidewalks. When it passed the headquarters
of Burnside, the men gave three times three rousing cheers for
their old commander and continued on to the river, which was
crossed on ferryboats over to Covington on the Kentucky side.
No cars being ready for its transportation, the men camped in
the station until morning. At eleven o'clock the next morning,
April 1st, Company A and part of Company C, together with the
stragglers left behind at Pittsburg, having arrived, the men
boarded the cars for Lexington, where they arrived at 9.15 that
morning, remaining over night in the train. The next morning
the raiment was marched through the town out to the Fair
Grounds about a mile distant. Camp was located, the men put
up their shelter tents, and, in short order, things took on a com-
fortable and homelike appearance. The weather was damp and
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 145
cold and very many had contracted colds from which they were
suffering more or less.
Ashland, the home of Henry Clay, conld be seen through the
trees a quarter of a mile away, and, looming above the buildings
of the town, in the cemetery beyond, his statue, surmounting a
noble shaft of Kentucky marble. The regiment enjoyed a rest of
nearly a week in this delightful camp.
On April 6th the command received orders to move the next
day to Winchester, about twenty-two miles distant, which took
us through a portion of the famous "Blue Grass" region. At
about nine o'clock the next morning the regiment swung out of
camp on what proved to be a very exhausting march. The way
led over a macadam road. It was a warm day and before the
first spurt was over nearly every man had blistered feet, and
some of them were raw and bleeding. When the colonel and
staff reached Winchester there was scarcely a corporal's guard in
the column. The men came straggling in all through the night,
and some did not reach camp until the next morning. It was
cruel to push men who had done no marching for five months, to
do in one day what could just as well have been done in two. It
was a beautiful country through which the regiment marched;
one literally flowing with milk and honey. The men lived on the
fat of the land while here. These Kentucky farmers were good
livers and the cooking was excellent. There were some good
Union men about here and some secesh. The colonel and staff
boarded with one of the latter, who had two sons in the rebel
army. He did not say much himself but fed his boarders roy-
ally.
Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw, as brigade officer of the day, estab-
lished picket lines while in camp here. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw
evinced a soldierly instinct as well as interest in all that apper-
tained to the practical duties of the service. He had won the
respect and confidence of men and officers, both as a disciplinarian
and a good friend of the men.
A correspondent of the regiment wrote from Newport News to
the Providence Press concerning him as follows :
"Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw has taken the boys by storm, and
even now, although but a short time with us, is beloved by all,
10
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146 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
and he may well have an honest pride, while we rejoice in the
fact that we have about as good a lieutenant-colonel as can be
found."
On the afternoon of April 17th, while the regiment was on bat-
talion drill, the order came to move with three days' rations and
no baggage. Promptly at six p. m. the regiment had struck tents
and were ready to move. This promptness secured it the right
of the line, and, pursuant to orders, the column filed out into
the road and swung along the Boonsboro pike en route for Rich-
mond beyond the Kentucky River, and, at about 8,45 o'clock p. m.,
went into camp about one-half mile from the river. The officers
and men wrapped themselves in their blankets and lay down be-
neath the warm April sky to pleasant dreams of home and loved
ones. At five o'clock in the morning reveille was spunded, and,
after roll call, fires were started, coffee was made, breakfast
eaten, and the column was reported ready to move. Here a de-
tachment of cavalry and a battery passed on the way to cross the
river. At eleven a. m. the command received orders to move to
the Mver and cross the ferry over to Boonsboro, the scene of
Boone's famous race with the Indians and his jump into the
river. The approach to the river is wild and picturesque. The
river lay at the foot of a precipitous wooded bluff, which con-
veyed the impression of a mountain gorge. The road zigzagged
down to the river's bank. The other side was rolling land, the
ascent from the river being quite slight. The crossing was slow
and tedious, there being but two small scows to take the men
and horses across. It took two and a half hours to cross. After
crossing the column again formed and moved to the Lexington
and Richmond pike, and thence two miles towards Richmond
and again bivouacked for the night. The next morning, the 18th,
the column again moved and went into camp at eleven o'clock
A. M, in a beautiful grove about one and one-half miles frwn
Richmond. The country through which we passed was a fine
farming land. The fields were green, the peach-trees were
putting forth their blossoms, and the weather June-like. It was
reported from headquarters that there was no enemy this side of
Cumberland Gap. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw was ordered to re-
port at headquarters as field officer of the day, and was ordered,
although no enemy was present, to post pickets, which he did.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 147
The inspector-general of the brigade commenced a tour of inspec-
tion here and the lieutenant-colonel as judge accompanied him.
Upon inspection of the Twelfth the inspecting officer paid the
command a high compliment, saying : "If the rest of the brigade
looked anywhere near as well as the Twelfth, 1 should be very
well satisfied." Chaplain Field, who was left behind at Win-
chester, ill, joined us at Richmond fully restored to health.
On May 2d Colonel Browne brought from division headquar-
ters an order from General Sturgis to move the next morning,
Sunday, to Paint Lick Creek, about twelve miles southwest from
Richmond. It was said that we should soon get out of this beau-
tiful land into a rougher country.
General Nagle resigned while here by reason of heart trouble,
and Colonel Griffin, of the Sixth New Hampshire, an accom-
plished and brave volunteer officer, was appointed in his place.
The only black mark set down against him was the forced march
he gave the boys from Lexington to Winchester.
On Saturday evening at brigade dress parade about a dozen
ambulances filled with the representatives of Richmond's four
hundred or less, were driven up and alighted in front of the color
line opposite the band and witnessed the parade. After the pa-
rade was dismissed the officers were summoned and introduced
to the ladies, and then, accompanied by the ladies, all repaired
to the general's headquarters, where refreshments were dis-
pensed. Invitations were extended by the ladies to those so
fortunate as to be introduced, to attend a hop in the evening to
be given by the ladies of Richmond. It was a very delightful
function. The officers made many very pleasant acquaintances
and found the ladies intelligent, refined, and beautiful ; many of
them well educated, having traveled extensively in foreign lands.
The next morning, Sunday, May 3d, the command moved out
of camp at about eight o'clock in a rainstorm, and marched
through the town receiving the good-byes of the lady acquaint-
ances of the evening before, who had assembled at the gates of
their homes to see their soldier friends off. The rain consider-
ately held up during this very pleasurable demonstration. The
men, contrary to what the people had been led to expect from
the Yankee soldiers, had been so orderly and well-behaved that
they had won the respect and confidence of the people, and there
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148 HISTORY OP THE TWBLFTH REGIMENT
was a general expression of regret at their departure. The men
were delighted with the country, and the young officers were evi-
dently in love with the girls and the older ones were not un
moved. Many of them as they marched away wore in their lapels
violets or lilies of the valley. As the column left the town the
rain began to fall again and continued to pour in heavy showers,
with intermittent glimpses of sun, until the regiment reached its
destination about two o'clock p. m. As the regiment left Rich-
mond the country grew more rugged and heavily wooded. The
scenery was picturesque, with here and there a farmhouse nes-
tled among fruit trees, and fine looking cattle feeding in the
meadows; and, in the background of the picture, at a distance,
the Cumberland range of mountains. The brigade was accom-
panied by Dureirs battery of Pennsylvania artillery, and a Ken-
tucky cavalry regiment. A camp was again established in a
pleasant spot, but endeavors to settle down to duty didn't seem
to succeed as usual. Young officers, and old married ones, had
a far-away look in their eyes, "sighed like a furnace," as Shake-
speare has it, and didn't seem happy. The next evening at dress
parade all the ladies in the vicinity came over to see the show.
One old married officer, it was said, "hitched on to a sunbonnet
with a pair of bright eyes and rosy lips underneath it and walked
over to headquarters, while another gay old deceiver attached
himself to a slick-riding habit, and cavorted off in the direction
of the inviting shade of a neighboring tree." On the following
morning the spirits of those gay cavaliers who had won favor in
the eyes of Richmond's fair daughters were greatly revived bj-
their appearance in camp, bringing with them loads of dainties
and substantials for a picnic. All had a jolly day of it dancing*
chatting and eating until the declining sun admonished the
charming visitors that they must return. When they started for
home they accepted the escort of a number of officers, who took
seats in the carriages, leading their horses with which to return
to camp, but who did not return till a late hour in the evening.
It is related of one graceless fellow that, writing home to his
confiding wife an account of the affair, said : "It is quite pleas-
ant to see a lady's face once more; even my wife's would be bet-
ter than none,"
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i ■ *
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Capt. C. Henry Alexander.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 149
On the 6th and 7th the regiment experienced the discomfort
of an old-fashioned northeast rainstorm. It was cold and un-
comfortable, and the men cooped np in their shelter tents or hud-
dling around the cook's fire to keep warm, had many a thought
of home and its comforts.
The Second Brigade of the division joined the First Brigade,
to which the Twelfth was attached, on the 10th of May at Paint
Lick Creek.
On Sunday morning, May the 11th, orders were received to
proceed to Lancaster, and at eight o'clock both brigades broke
camp and set out for their destination, about twelve miles dis-
tant, which they reached at about two o'clock in the afternoon,
and went into camp. On the way a dispatch reached the com-
mand that General Dix had taken Richmond and that the Stars
and Stripes were floating over the rebel capital. The regiment
went into camp on elevated ground overlooking a picturesque
country for twenty miles around. Soon after another dispatch
came, confirming the capture of Richmond, which news excited
demonstrations of great enthusiasm and joy.
Thus it was that rumors of defeats and victories were fre-
quently reaching the army in the field to encourage or dispirit
them for the moment. Soldiers learned at length to place but
little confidence in these rumors unless officially confirmed. The
court-martial, of which Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw had been a
member since the regiment reached Kentucky, was dissolved
at this place, but almost immediately an order was issued
from headquarters appointing him on another. Lieutenant-
Colonel Shaw had served in this capacity almost continuously
since he joined the regiment near Falmouth, Va. Colonel
Browne suffered an attack of bilious fever at this camp, and
Major Dyer was laid up some days by an abscess. Neither was
seriously ill, and both seemed likely to be out soon. The ra-
tions had been, while on the marches, mainly hard-tack and
salt pork, but eggs, chickens and turkeys were procurable at
quite reasonable prices by those who were fortunate enough to
have any greenbacks. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw, while out with
the regiment at this camp on battalion drill, had a very narrow
escape from a serious injury. He was mounted on Major Dyer's
horse, his own being lame, and had just given a command to the
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150 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
regiment when the horse, without any warning whatever, reared,
turned slightly and fell over backward upon the colonel. For-
tunately the horse twisted a little in falling and the colonel
caught the weight of the blow on his left leg and arm. Happilv
no bones were broken, although his leg and arm were badly con-
tused, but from which, with careful treatment, he recovered in
a few days. On Friday evening, the 21st, orders were again read
to move the next morning at 6.30 o'clock. Reveille was sounded
at about 4.30 o'clock the next morning, and, at the appointed
time, the column filed out of camp and started on its march. The
command halted within about two miles of Crab Orchard
Springs and thirteen miles from Lancaster, and went into camp.
On the 25th the regiment moved about one mile beyond the
town to support Romer's New York Battery, the Second Brigade,
to which it was attached, having moved on to Stanford. The
Twelfth was now encamped at the forks of the road leading to
Somerset and Mount Vernon. The Seventh Rhode Island were
just in its rear ; the Sixth New Hampshire near our last camp on
the other side of the town, and the Ninth New Hampshire was
still at Lancaster, having been ordered to remain in consequence
of a smallpox case, until it could be determined as to whether
other cases might follow. The Forty-eighth Pennsylvania was
at Lexington, where they had been since the corps arrived in
Kentucky.
Yesterday, the 26th, the Union forces drove back the rebels at
Mile Creek, where they attempted to cross. On the 27th the
rebels were heard of as far up as Liberty. The regiment was
then ordered to be ready to go to the support of the Second Brig-
ade at Stanford, but the story proved to be false, and the order
was thereupon countermanded.
It now began to look as if the Twelfth might before long have
an opportunity of paying its compliments to the enemy. Owing,
however, to the frequent movements from point to point, both
the officers and men became quite indifferent as to when or where
they were ordered to go, and there was little guessing as to where
the command would be ordered next.
Major Dyer, who had been laid up in the hospital at Lancaster
in consequence of a painful abscess, resumed duty too soon on
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 151
the march to Crab Orchard. He insisted on riding his horse
against the advice of Colonel Browne, and, in so doing, greatly
aggravated his malady. He was incapacitated to continue on
duty and entered the hospital, and was finally sent on to the
hospital in Lexington, where he remained to the end of the regi-
ment's enlistment, his ailment having developed into a fistula.
Colonel Browne, when the regiment reached Crab Orchard
had quite recovered from his ailment. On the evening of the
24th, Captain Longstreet, of Company B, received information
of the death of his wife, which was a terrible blow to him. This
news cast a gloom over the entire regiment, as he was an officer
who was very much respected by both officers and men and very
much beloved by his company. Crab Orchard Springs was for-
merly a fashionable watering-place. The waters of the springs
are impregnated with sulphur, iron, and salt, and are clear and
cold.
The Fifty-first New York was detached here from the Second
Brigade of the division and sent to Stanford, and the balance
moved their camp to the other side of the town. Whither the
regiment would next move depended upon the movements of the
enemy on the other side of the Cumberland River in Tennessee.
Good news was then coming from General Grant in his siege of
Vicksburg, and the question with the command was whether the
enemy in our front would risk a raid into Kentucky, or go to the
assistance of Bragg anticipating the fall of Vicksburg.
On the 30th of May Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw went to Stan-
ford to sit on the court-martial, and, on the 3d of June, while he
was absent, the entire division under General Sturgis received
orders to move with eight days' rations and with limited baggage.
The court-martial was relieved on the 3d, and officers were noti-
fied that the brigade at Crab Orchard would move the next morn-
ing. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw reached Lancaster the next morn-
ing, the 4th, about nine o'clock. Colonel Browne came up soon after
and reported the brigade resting about a mile back. The entire
division had been ordered back to Lexington. The paymaster
appeared at Lancaster, much to the relief as well as delight of
officers and men, who were getting pretty hardup.
The regiment reached Camp Dick Robinson that evening after
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152 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
a march of about twenty-two miles, and halted for the night.
The weather was exceedingly hot and the men being in heavy
marching order, suffered greatly. The next morning, the 5th,
the command broke camp and advanced to Hickman's Bridge,
over the Kentucky River, and crossing moved on towards Nich-
olasville. The heat was increasing and the roads were very
dusty. The general found that the men were getting exhausted
and could march no longer and maintain the integrity of the cqH-
umn. The Seventh Rhode Island filed into a lot where the pay-
master joined them and commenced to pay the men. The
Twelfth moved on a few rods looking for a favorable place to
rest until towards evening, before a further advance. It had
moved along but a few rods when an orderly rode up with an
order for the Twelfth Rhode Island to return to Hickman's
Bridge. But the men were too fatigued and overcome by the
great heat to return then, and filed into a grove in rear of the
Seventh and pitched their tents. This order severed the connec-
tion of the Twelfth with both the brigade and division. Both
(Officers and men parted with much regret from the organizations
in the division, having made very many pleasant acquaintances
with the men composing them.
General Sturgis, lately in command of the division, was placed
in command of the Department of Central Kentucky, and, at
about four p. m., on the 5th of June, the Twelfth was ordered to
report to General Carter at Somerset. The next morning the
regiment started on a movement back through Lancaster to
Stanford, and from thence to Somerset near the Cumberland
River, a distance of sixty-three miles. The regiment had cov-
ered thirty-five miles during the past two days, the 4th and 5th
of June. The rest of the division had gone, as rumor had it, to
Vicksburg, which was afterwards verified. The Seventh Rhode
Island joined General Grant's army before Vicksburg and par-
ticipated in the memorable siege which resulted in the surrender
of that stronghold on the following 4th of July.
The Twelfth reached Camp Dick Robinson at sunset on the
6th of June, and went into camp for the night. The heat was
excessive and the dust almost suffocating on the march h«re.
We met Battery D here in command of Capt. William B. Rhodes
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 153
on their way to join the division on its way to Vicksburg, but at
I^xington it was detached and ordered to return to Hickman's
Bridge,
The next morning, Sunday, the 7th, the regiment set out on its
march and passed through Lancaster at about nine a. m., and
reached Dick River about eleven o'clock a. m., and went into
camp for the day. Moved the next morning at five o'clock and
halted for dinner on the top of the mountain in Hall's Gap, in-
tending to remain here until three o'clock p. m. and then advance
about five miles and go into camp for the night. But at about
two p. M. an orderly rode up with a dispatch, saying that the
rebels had crossed the river and were in force at Liberty, some
ten miles distant, and with orders for the regiment to go for-
ward to the support of Crawford's battery of East Tennessee,
stationed at Waynesboro. The men were hastily formed into
line and moved out on the march to the above named place. It
reached its destination, having covered a distance of twenty-two
miles, and went into camp near the above mentioned battery.
Pickets were thrown out and everything put in readiness to fall
in at a moment's notice.
On the next morning of Tuesday, the 9th, the regiment moved
at about six o'clock with the battery in advance. The command
halted for dinner at a farmhouse after a march of about nine
miles. The houses in the mountain section were rudely con-
structed of logs and mud and contained the most primitive fur-
nishings. The women all chewed tobacco, dipped and smoked
pipes, and babies at every farmhouse were almost as abundant
as chickens. The doctor relates that he saw five persons riding
one horse; the mother, one before, one behind, one at her breast,
and one in embryo. The country where the Union forces were
now operating was rugged and the forests dense and of heavy
growth. The roads were corduroy, which were maintained by
the government, and over which all supplies were hauled for the
army.
At three p. m. the column moved again, and about eight p. m.
reached camp at Somerset. Every man answered roll call when
the regiment halted after marching one hundred miles in six
days. The oiHcers reported at once to General Carter, telling
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164 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
him how far the regiment had marched. Captain Crawford, a
West Pointer and in command of the East Tennessee battery
which the Twelfth had been ordered to support, paid the regi-
ment a very flattering compliment by adding, "Yes, and better
marching I never saw, they keep all together, no straggling.''
The regiment was moved the next morning to the other side of
the town, where a camp was established. The report of the reb-
els at Liberty proved to be an exaggeration. The rebels, how-
ever, were active in this section and some fighting was going on
every day. Yesterday, the 9th, the Union forces drove their
pickets eight miles beyond Monticello. The men were in good
health, not a sick man in the command, but many were very foot-
sore.
On the 18th of June the regiment received marching orders
with ten days' rations, and to be ready to move the next morning,
the 19th, but not to strike tents till further notice. Weather
was extremely hot, but relief came in a thunderstorm. The reb-
els were in front of us and it looked as though we were now go-
ing to have some hot work.
On the 20th, at eleven o'clock a. m., received orders to move
to Stigalls Ferry, on the Cumberland River, six miles distant.
Several commands had gone that way early in the day and were
last heard from beyond Monticello. We were now receiving con-
flicting rumors of the presence of the enemy. Received orders
here at Stigalls Ferry at about nine o'clock a. m., June 2l8t, or-
dering return of regiment to Somerset. At 10.30 o'clock a. m.
the regiment was moving towards its destination, arriving at
1.30 p. M. At 3.30 p. M. the regiment was moving towards James-
town, whither it had been ordered, thirty-five miles distant. A
battalion of the Thirty-second Kentucky Infantry was placed
under command of Colonel Browne, which accompanied the rai-
ment. The command reached Jamestown about noon of June
24th and camped near the town. A cold northeast rainstorm
overtook the regiment here. Aside from the discomfort of the
heavy rain, which continued for about ten days, the temperature
was quite refreshing after the past two weeks and more of in-
tense heat. The march from Somerset to Jamestown was
through the woods, with here and there a clearing and a roughly
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 155
bnilt log hut, generally containing but one room, which served as
bedroom, living room, and kitchen, for families of man and wife
and half a dozen or more children. Razor-backed, sharp-snouted
pigs pan wild in the woods. Big snakes ran across the road, now
and then, as the column marched along. Many of them were
killed by the men, and among them was one rattlesnake about
four feet in length and having fourteen rattles. The natives,
when asked concerning the state of the roads further on, would
invariably say: "Right smart good roads for wagons." Such
abominable roads man never saw. They were well-nigh . im-
passable on horseback. Sometimes the officers had to dismount
and lead their horses down or up the steep lifelines, as a misstep
would have thrown them down precipices two hundred feet deep.
The pioneer corps preceded the teams and did what they could
to help them along. The quartermaster of the regiment, on be-
ing asked afterwards how he got along, said : "Oh, I borrowed
a ladder for the mules to climb up on, and they pulled the wag-
ons up after them." The wagons were overturned a number of
times and were several times unloaded and the freight was car-
ried by the men to the tops of the hills and loaded again. The
boys got quite used to this rough experience. Yesterday, Mon-
day, the 23d, the men having marched twenty miles were heard
to say as they went into camp, that they hadn't got much to do
to-morrow, only ten miles more. They called this campaign,
"The expedition for the survey of Kentucky.''
The end of the term of enlistment was now fast approaching,
and the regiment was a hundred miles away from any railroad
over which it could be transported on its way home. The latest
joke among the men was that "Bumside, having lost the run of
the Twelfth in its wanderings up and down the state, had sent
out a dozen mounted scouts to hunt them up, but that the trot-
ters had four days the start and the scouts could not catch up.''
The rainstorm continued until the morning of the 28th of June,
when it cleared up again. The little army was this morning re-
enforced by Colonel Wolford's regiment, the First Kentucky Cav-
alry, so that the men felt quite equal to any emergency that
might arise. Without cavalry Morgan's guerillas could raid
all round the command, and nothing could be done unless they
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156 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH BEGIMBNT
made a direct attack. Now our troops were all right for attack
or defence. The rivers and creeks were so swollen from the re-*
cent heavy rains, that they were quite impassable; but in a few
days they were again in normal condition for the passage of
troops at the fords.
Wolford's cavalry was a unique body of men, characteristic of
this Western country, bold, independent, and intrepid, and hav-
ing so little regard for the regulation tactics, that a few com-
mands of their own invention answered every purpose in the
nature of their service in this border warfare. They were ubi-
quitous in their movements and ever on the alert. Many anec-
dotes were current of their eccentricities, enterprise, and cour-
age. They knew every road, mountain trail, and path in the
country. They would go home when they liked, but were al-
ways around when there was a fight. It was said that Colonel
Wolford, being in Washington, met two of his men on the street
and said, "Hello, boys! what are you doing here?" To which
they replied, "Out on a bit of a scout, colonel." The colonel had
but two commands in manoeuvering his regiment, namely:
"Scatter out and huddle up!" and "Go up there, boys, and clean
them out!*' "And," as they say, "the rebels have to get up and
git."
Colonel Wolford, commander of the First Kentucky Cavalry,
was a man of unique individuality, but a natural product of the
characteristic social conditions of the rural sections of the
state in which he was born and reared. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw
thus describes Colonel Wolford in a letter to his wife from James-
town : "Colonel Wolford, of the First Kentucky Cavalry, sliares my
bed at the hotel. He is quite a stout man ; wears one of his shoulder
straps upside down. He sits here on the bed spitting on the
carpet in Western style. He is an able lawyer and a very smart
man. He don't believe in red tape, and won't submit to it. He
never drinks a drop. It is said of him that he used to drive up
to the Court House in an ox team, go in before the court and
argue a difficult case, and when the hearing was concluded get
on his team and drive home. He is also an entertaining man
and possessed of much humor."
The force at this T)lace was further re enforced on the after-
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 157
noon of the 28th by the arrival of the Second Ohio Cavalry, the
Seventh Ohio Infantry and a light battery. These furnished ns
troops sufficient to clean out any rebel force in this country.
On the 29th the mail containing letters of the men was cap-
tured by the rebels. On that day, about four p. m., the rebels
made a demonstration on the Columbia road, about two and a
half miles from camp. The rebels were in force at Berksville,
Creelsborough and Columbia about five thousand strong. Lieu-
tenant Colonel Shaw was talking with Colonel Wolford on the
tavern steps, when one of the outer pickets dashed up saying,
"Our pickets have been attacked and want re-enforcements," and
that the enemy were advancing on the Columbia road two and a
half miles distant. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw hastened to camp
and reported to Colonel Browne. The long roll was sounded, and
in five minutes the men were in line ready to move. The cavalry
seemed to rise up from every bush and the artillery was thunder-
ing along the road towards the enemy. The men of the Twelfth
were in high spirits ; even the sick ones seized their guns and fell
into the ranks. But two men of the entire regiment were absent.
The attacking force did not prove to be large and Captain Wol-
ford, a brother of the colonel, met them and captured six or
seven, killed one and routed the rest. Colonel Wolford expected
the entire rebel force would move down upon us over several
roads. The regiment was under arms for three or four hours,
until the affair quieted down, and then broke ranks and turned
in for the night. Had the rebels made an attack upon us before
Wolford's cavalry arrived, the boys might now have suffered the
misfortune of frogging it down in Dixie.
Soon after the arrival of the regiment at Jamestown, being
short of rations, the quartermaster started for Columbia with a
wagon train for supplies, but, on arriving there, found none and
crossed Green River and went on to Lebanon, where he obtained
them and started back. He recrossed the river, and, when within
four miles of Columbia, he heard that there was a rebel force
there and immediately turned the train round and recrossed the
river. The next morning the bridge over the river was for-
tunately carried away, which insured his immediate safety.
When the quartermaster left camp with his wagon train it rained
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158 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
and continued to rain for seven days and nights, so that the
streams became badly swollen. Constant skirmishing was going
on between the Union cavalry and the enemy. A guard was
sent to the quartermaster with orders for him to come in by way
of Neatsville.
On the 3d the pickets were fired upon by a small force of reb-
els which went off towards Neatsville. Soon after a dispatch
was received from the supply train saying : "Attacked by a su-
perior force, send re-enforcements." Two hundred men of Wol-
ford's cavalry were dispatched at once, one hundred to Neats-
ville, and one hundred to Columbia. The force sent to Columbia
was attacked by superior numbers and had a captain mortally
wounded and one other man badly wounded, but managed to
hold its ground. Several of the enemy were killed and some
prisoners were taken. The guard of twenty-eight men with the
train, whipped sixty-five rebs, took several prisoners and wounded
two. The train got into camp all right last night, July 3d.
This morning, the 4th, the cavalry sent to Columbia returned.
Two brigades of the enemy have passed through that place to
Lebanon. They numbered between three and four thousand
men. The enemy's command were all cavalry, and there was lit-
tle that infantry could do, except in case of an attack. As they
moved rapidly from point to point, unless there was cavalry in
sufficient numbers to hold them in check or drive them back across
the Cumberland River, there was danger of their raiding the ri<4
blue grass country, and even of extending their raid across the
Ohio and capturing Cincinnati. In fact, the people in those sec-
tions were much disturbed as Lee's army, which was already
fighting the great battle of the war on Pennsylvania soil, had
lately been marching through the fertile fields of that state to
the great concern, if not terror, of the country and of the gov-
ernment at Washington. Orders for our return home had been
received some days before, but the situation of affairs was such
that the order had been countermanded. It had been intended
to celebrate the 4th of July at Jamestown, but, at an early hour
on the morning of that day, Captain Spink, of Company I, ap-
peared at headquarters and reported that Colonel Wolf ord had
just informed him that Morgan was crossing at Creelsborough,
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBEBS 159
Creassy Creek and Columbia- The lieutenant-colonel being in
command in consequence of the illness of Colonel Browne, who
was confined to his tent from an attack of dysentery, immedi-
ately took steps to be in readiness for an order to move, by call-
ing the captains together for the purpose of notifying them of
the situation, and to direct them to arouse the cooks and cause
coffee to be prepared for the men, and then get them up as speed-
ily as possible, so that they might go into action with full stom-
achs. As it is said that the way to a man's best nature is
through his stomach, so it may be said that the best stimulant to
a soldier's fighting qualities is through a well-filled one.
Before, however, the captains could be assembled, four artil-
lery shots suddenly burst forth in quick succession near the
camp, breaking upon our startled senses in the stillness of the
early morning like crashes of thunder.
The order of: "Fall in!" was hurriedly given in the certain
belief that the enemy was upon us. Almost instantly the men
sprang into line, many turning out of sick beds, but, almost in
the same breath, it was discovered, to the infinite disgust of offi-
cers and men, that our comrades of the First Kentucky Cavalry
were firing a Fourth of July salute.
In the meantime Colonel Wolford had learned, through his
scout, that Morgan had gone around us. He therefore with all
speed started after him, after having directed the infantry of
his command (the Twelfth Rhode Island and Thirty-second Ken-
tucky) to remain until further orders, saying: "It is useless
for infantry to chase cavalry."
On the morning of the 5th the regiment was ordered to return
to Somerset, and immediately struck camp and moved at 9.30
o'clock A. M. The day was excessively hot, with a violent thun-
derstorm in the afternoon. The regiment halted at about eight
o'clock in the evening for the night. It had rained in torrents
and left the road in bad condition. The wagon train was far back
in the rear. Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw, accompanied by the boss
teamer, rode back to find them. It was so dark that they could
not see the horses they rode. The teamer announced, as they
were groping along in this impenetrable darkness, that he smelled
rattlesnakes. It was not an assuring announcement in view of
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160 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
the imminent possibility at least, of being thrown from the
horses among a large assortment of these venomous reptiles.
The teams were at length found about seven miles in the rear,
stuck in the mud up to the hubs of the wheels. No guard could
be found. A company of the Thirty-second Kentucky Infantry
had been detailed as guard and when found later were all fast
asleep. It was now eleven o'clock in the evening and Lieutenant-
Colonel Shaw crawled into one of the teams and went to sleep. He
remained there until about three in the morning, and then routed
the men out, got them started, and then returned to the regi-
ment, which moved at nine oVlock that morning. It halted for
dinner at eleven and waited for the wagon train to come up. The
regiment had twenty-two rebel prisoners, among them one Cap-
tain Morgan reported captured at Green River.
The regiment started the next morning, the 6th, and reached
Fishing Creek at about one o'clock p. m., four miles from Somer-
set, where it arrived at about five o'clock in the evening. Col-
onel Browne had gone on ahead of the column, and, on its ar-
rival, formed it on the old camp-ground and announced to the
men the glorious news of the surrender to Grant of Vicksburg,
the defeat of Lee at Gettysburg, and the defeat of Morgan in all
his attempts to raid Kentucky and his probable capture before
he could get out of the state. This news, with the further in-
formation that the regiment was to start for home on the day af-
ter to-morrow, evoked cheer after cheer, which made the old
woods ring.
The next day was spent in clearing up and getting the teams
ready for the homeward march.
At about five o'clock in the morning of the 8th of July, the
regiment moved from Somerset on its march to Nicholasville, ad-
vanced about five miles and went into camp for the night. The
next morning it started at five o'clock and marched twenty-three
miles to Crab Orchard and camped on the old ground recently
occupied by the Seventh Rhode Island. The next morning it ad-
vanced to one mile beyond Stanford, and there placed the men
on an empty wagon train of sixty-three teams returning to Hick-
man's Bridge, which brought them through to Dick River, where
the regiment went into camp for the night. That night at about
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EHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBES 161
ten o'clock, a dispatch reached the regiment from Lancaster that
the rebels were at Grab Orchard in force. The command had re-
ceived, during the past months, so many false reports of the pres-
ence of the enemy, that this information made but little impres-
sion, although pickets were thrown out, after which the men and
oflScers not on duty, turned in and slept peacefully, dreaming
only of home and dear ones, by whom they were soon to be
greeted.
The regiment on the next morning again broke camp and
started off, the men jubilant that this was the last march in the
heat and dust of "way down in Old Kentucky/'
Nicholasville, the railroad terminus where the men were to take
the cars for Cincinnati, was but five miles away. This distance
was soon covered. Although weary, dust-laden and foot-sore, all
was forgotten as the oflScers and men entered the cars and sped
on their way. Reaching Lexington there was a wait of an hour
or two to load the baggage, which had been left here to await our
return. The train then proceeded to Covington, arriving at
eleven o'clock p. m. The train was held up about one mile from
town, and the regiment was detained there till morning, when it
ran into the station, where the men alighted, crossed the river
to Cincinnati, and marched up to the Fifth Street market, where
they stacked arms and waited till noon for breakfast.
The citizens were in a great state of excitement, in fact, to use
a common expression, "scared to death." To men who had been
racing up and down the state for the past three months trying
to have a brush with the enemy, this excitement and fear seemed
rather laughable than serious. Martial law had, however, been
declared, and, in consideration of the excitement induced by a
threatened raid of Morgan and his men. General Burnside re-
quested the regiment to remain for a few days until the excited
condition of the public mind should quiet down. To this request
the regiment, as a whole, willingly acceded. Only a few at-
tempted to make any trouble, but after they slept on it there was
no more kicking. The regiment was taken into camp on the edge
of the town, in a suburb that was called Mount Auburn.
The officers and men were at once made the lions of the day.
Invitations to dinners, to teas and to receptions, came in such
11
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162 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
volume that it was quite impossible to accept or attend them
all. The regiment held the keys and the freedom of the city.
The best citizens of the town threw their do(H*8 wide open and
dispensed the most generous hospitality. '^Bhode Island" wbs
the countersign that admitted them wherever they wanted to go
or to whatever they wanted.
At about eleven o'clock of the evening of the 16th of July,
an order was received from General Burnside to be ready to
move at a moment's notice, as a part of Morgan's forces had got
separated from his main body, and the Twelfth might be needed
to head them off. The regiment, however, was not called upon.
The scare was now practically over, and the regiment being no
longer needed, it took its departure amid demonstrations of
good-will from the populace who gathered on the streets to see
it off on its way to the shores of loved Narragansett, to home
and dear ones.
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LiKUT. Daniel R. Ballou.
(From a recent pic|ure.)
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Reminiscences of the Twelfth Rhode Island
Volunteer Infantry from its Organization
TO THE RECROSSING OF THE RAPPAHANNOCK
AFTER THE BATTLE OF FREDERICKSBURG.
BSAD AT THB BbUNION OF THE BbOIMBNT AUO. 1, 1893.
By col. DANIEL R BALLOU.
On the 2d of July, 1862, after the disastrous campaign of Gen-
eral MeClellan on the Peninsula, President Lincoln issued a call
for three hundred thousand men to serve for a period of nine
months.
The Twelfth, together with the Eleventh Rhode Island Volun-
teers, were recruited within the following sixty days, during the
unfortunate campaign of General Pope, in Northern Virginia,
which resulted in the invasion of Maryland by the Confederates
under General Lee and a threatened attack upon the National
Capitol. This was one of the darkest periods of the Rebellion.
The wave of intense patriotism which had swept over the country
in the earlier days of the war, rallying thousands to the defence
of their country, had greatly subsided, and now the stem and
cruel realities of dreadful war confronted the people. The
theatre of military operations had also greatly broadened, and
the losses in the great battles of the Peninsula, and around
Washington, had been frightful. The demand, therefore, taking
into account the aggressive movements of the rebels, was urgent
for more men to increase the fighting strength of the Union
armies. It was under these peculiar and trying circumstances
that the Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers was re-
cruited. This regiment had an eventful experience. It was kept
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164 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
at the front during nearly its entire term of service, and waa
almost constantly on the move, thus earning the unique sobriquet
of the "Trotting Twelfth."
The regiment before it had been fairly instructed in company
drill, was sent into action where veterans might well have hesi-
tated to go. Nobly did it attest its patriotism and valor on the
bloody and shot-torn approaches to the bristling heights above
Fredericksburg, where it left one hundred and nine of its heroic
members either dead or wounded. Its survivors are justly proud
of its history, although upon its pages are recorded the story of
its valor upon but a single battlefield, and although upon the
folds of its war-stained colors is inscribed only the name of
"Fredericksburg." It was through this terrible baptism of fire
and crashing shot that its members inherited the right to be
known as "veterans." Before returning, after the expiration of
the regiment's term of service, General Burnside, commanding
the Department of the Ohio, issued the following complimentary
order, which affirms their claim to the proud title of veterans:
"On the departure of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers at
the expiration of their term of enlistment, the commanding gen-
eral wishes to express his regret at taking leave of soldiers who,
in their brief service, have become veterans. After passing
through experiences of great hardship and danger, they will re-
turn with the proud satisfaction that in the ranks of their coun-
try's defenders the reputation of their State has not suffered at
their hands."
The Twelfth was in many respects a unique regiment. It was
recruited mainly from among the rural districts of the State.
It was composed largely of farmers and mechanics, with a large
sprinkling of men of mature years.
To very many of us who had never been out into the great
world beyond the narrow boundaries of our little State, and
whose excursions had been limited to an occasional visit to Provi-
dence, to take our best girl to the circus, or to Newport, to eat
blue eggs and drink egg-nog on the traditional "Lection" day,
the seat of war was to our inexperienced knowledge of the wwld,
an unexplored country. To many of us the question of whether
we would enlist in the service of our country and enter into the
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 165
perils and dangers incident to a state of war, was one of solemn
import, and one which was decided only after most serious and
weighty consideration. We discussed it with our kindred and
associates in the light of patriotism and duty, and finally placed
our names on the enlistment rolls with the strange yet proud
feeling that now we belonged to our country, and that our lives
were henceforth, if need be, at its disposal. I enlisted in Bur-
rillville where my father then resided, and the same roll bears
the names of the chivalrous Lieut. Stephen M. Hopkins, who fell
mortally wounded at Fredericksburg, and of Capt. Oscar Lap-
ham, who has since risen to distinction in public life.
The first instructions my company received in the school of the
soldier was by the late lamented Capt. James Allen, of Company
C. His trials must have been great, for a more awkward squad
has rarely been mustered than this company of country bump-
kins, who had no more idea of the discipline necessary for a sol-
dier than the unbroken colts that sniflfed the free air of their na-
tive green hills. But they were willing learners and soon mas-
tered the rudimentary company movements. A few weeks of
drill and then we were transferred to Camp Stevens, on Dexter
Training Ground, where we were for the first time brought under
the restraints of military discipline. We camped the first night
in an old lumber shed facing the northerly side of the Training
Field with the hard floor for our bed. We experienced many
nights afterwards when we looked back to this night's lodging
as comfortable if not luxurious. There wasn't much sleeping
that night. The more thoughtless ones turned night into day
with jesting and hilarious fun, while the more thoughtful ones
yielded their minds to sober reflections. The next day, or the
one after that, the company was assigned to tent quarters in the
camp, and was thereafter designated as Company K, with Lieu-
tenant Fales, of Newport, in command. I recall Lieutenant
Fales as a clean-cut soldierly appearing fellow, a little stiff and
reserved to our unmilitary eyes, but an eflBcient and intelligent
oflScer. The day came for exchanging our civilian dress for the
uniform of Uncle Sam. I well remember after the exchange we
were ordered into line, I think for inspection, and I was found
Btill clad in civilian trousers. A man, also in civilian's dress.
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166 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
f
reprimanded me with considerable severity for my breach of dis-
cipline. I was very indignant at the time, that he should, with-
out being in uniform himself, take such liberties, but I smothered
my resentment, and, contrary to my custom on occasions of per-
sonal criticism, wisely refrained from making any remarks. On
being relieved from duty, however, I made becoming haste to
substitute the conventional blue for the old friends that served
as the only remaining link between the old life and the new. A
few weeks in camp to familiarize the men with the duties and
discipline of the soldier, and then late in October the order came
to break camp and move to the front Then there were sad and
affectionate partings with dear ones; the final hand-shakes with
kindred and friends; a great heart-throb, then eyes were turned
resolutely to the front, and away we marched from home and
native State to throw ourselves into the flaming vortex of dread-
ful war.
I shall never forget the varied and multifarious contents of
that knapsack which I bore away upon my shoulders, bending
under its great weight as did the ancient Atlas, bearing the round
earth upon his back. If the fair Southland, whose sunlit plains,
whose picturesque valleys, and whose blossoming hillsides have
been torn and rent by the iron heel of destructive war, could
yield their vast stores of merchandise dropped by reluctant
hands from the overburdened shoulders of the Union soldiers as
they swept back and forth over them, they would furnish a
boundless if not an interesting exhibit for a world's fair.
One by one with painful heart twinges, I let go of my treas-
ured store in the transforming experiences of the exhausting
march, and they were swallowed up in the great maw of the hun-
gry earth. Haversacks groaned with the rich dainties which
loving hands had prepared, and were eaten with moistened eyes
as we sped onward toward the mighty hosts battling for a na-
tion's life.
As we approached Baltimore, our eyes were greets by the
first evidences of the great struggle which was convulsing the
civilized world. Squads of bluecoats were bivouacked at fre-
quent intervals along the line of the railroad over which we were
passing, apprising us that we were in an unfriendly country.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 167
We reached Baltimore in the evening and camped on the floor
of the station. We arose the next morning, and, after an elabo-
rate toilet, which consisted of mbbing our eyes and mnning our
fingers through our hair, — there were no bald heads in those
days — we partook of a bountiful breakfast which had been gen-
erously provided for us, and then fell into line. The colonel en-
joined us to be upon our good behavior, . . . informing us
that he was going to march us through the aristocratic quarters
of the town and around Monument Square. Beautiful women
peered disdainfully at us from behind richly-curtained windows,
but no other indignities were offered us as we stepped proudly
along to the tap of the drum. We reached Washington late in
the afternoon and camped for the night beneath the shadow of
the north wing of the Capitol, near a spot which had been occu-
pied by workmen in preparing the marble for its construction.
With what wonder and reverent admiration my young eyes gazed
upon this magnificent structure, in whose grand proportions is
typified the majesty, the dignity, and the power of the nation,
whose life our comrades, almost in sight of its majestic dome,
were bravely fighting to preserve. I wandered, with a feeling of
mingled awe and admiration, through its magnificent halls and
impo. ing corridors. I stood upon its classic portico, where Ab-
raham Lincoln stood and took the oath of his exalted office. My
spirit bent low at the recollection of the other grand men who
had within these lordly walls shaped and directed a great na-
tion's destiny. From across the Potomac this majestic pile glo-
rifies the landscape for miles around, by its colossal proportions,
its architectural symmetry and its regal magnificence. I have
stood for hours under a strange spell of fascination, feasting my
senses upon its stately outlines. I never tired of the noble pic-
ture, which is indelibly photographed upon the tablets of my
memory. The following day, refreshed by our first night's rest
with the twinkling stars and the bending skies our only shelter,
we crossed Long Bridge, and, filing to the right, pitched our
tents in Camp Chase, on the sacred soil of Virginia.
Our canvas houses were scarcely set in order when a violent
storm of wind and rain set in, which subjected us for forty-eight
hours or more to much inconvenience and discomfort. We tar-
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168 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
pied here but a short time, and then moved on to Fairfax Bern-
inary and pitched our tents on the grounds of a stately mansion
overlooking the blue waters of the Potomac and the city of Alex-
andria. We spent several weeks here doing picket duty and -per-
fecting the regiment in battalion and company drill. The boys
soon found out that the colonel was not essentially a tactician,
nor did he make any pretence to that accomplishment. The sur-
vivors of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers hold in grateful
remembrance his fatherly watchfulness and care, and his earnest
and untiring efforts to keep the men well-fed and comfortably
clad. They also retain a lively recollection of his coolness and
courage in action. You will pardon me if I refer to a character-
istic incident which illustrates his inaptitude for the intricacies
of military manoeuvres. I recall particularly a battalion drill.
The regiment had been brought to a halt in line of battle and at
order arms, when the colonel called out: "Attention! Bat-
talion ! Forward ! Guide centre ! March !" the line was thrown
into confusion. Some of the companies moved forward dragging
their muskets after them, while others remained stationary in
their places. He quickly saw his mistake and cried out in his
characteristic way : "Oh ! what have I done now !" and gave the
order to "Shoulder Arms!" and "As you were!" It was no re-
flection upon the intelligence of the man that he lacked in tactical
aptitude, any more than it is for one to lack the faculty of be-
coming a graceful dancer or a successful musician. I recall a
humorous incident which occurred in camp at Fairfax Seminary,
which, after the lapse of over forty years, excites a lively sense
of the ridiculous. It was a dismal, drizzling morning in Novem-
ber. There had been just enough rain to soften up the clayey
soil, and render it slippery and of uncertain footing for either
man or beast. The colonel's horse was brought round to his tent
by an orderly, and soon he emerged clad in a long rubber coat,
with a hat of the same material, and booted and spurred, his
sabre clanking on the ground as he strode along. He vaulted
into the saddle as nimbly as his extra clothing and accoutrements
would permit. Gently putting spurs to his horse he started off
down the hill on a fairly brisk trot, when suddenly the horse
stumbled and the colonel slid quickly if not gracefully over his
head, and with a painful expression of hopeless uncertainty in
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBERS 169
his eyes as to which end up the earth would receive his descend-
ing anatomy, he involuntarily sat down with impressive empha-
sis in the softly yielding unctuous mud. He rose with some dif-
ficulty from his involuntary seat and pulled himself together, at
the same time expressing his disgust in good set terms, more
Hudibrasian than for ears polite, and then quickly disappeared
behind the flys of his tent, where he remained during the rest of
the day. Just below our camp was that of the Thirteenth New
Hampshire Volunteers, in which typhoid fever was epidemic.
The men were fine types of strong, well-developed physique, sug-
gestive of the rugged rock-ribbed hills of their native state. But
this terrible scourge swept through their ranks reaping a far
more deadly harvest than the wild havoc of battle. Not a day
passed that did not witness a corporal's guard bearing some
stricken comrade to his humble grave down the hillside. Ah!
what sadly impressive spectacles were these simple soldier's
burials. A poor boy, the hope and dependence of some widowed
mother, . . . dwelling among the peaceful scenes of the
farm, beyond whose surrounding hills the loved one had never
before wandered. He feels the lurking poison firing the channels
of his blood and mounting to his brain. His wandering fancy
bears him back to home and familiar scenes, and from his parched
lips falls that sweetest of all words ... of either tongue or
pen, "Mother." Then the struggling spirit is freed and strong
men, softened by that magic word, weep and tenderly fold his
nerveless arms across the dumb pulseless breast. Then the rude
bier, the uncoffined dead wrapped in the nation's flag, the cor-
poral's guard with arms reversed, the muffled drum-beat, and the
sharp volley, and the dead soldier is left alone in his humbla
grave. 1 have witnessed the grand and imposing obsequies of the
illustrious dead, I have seen their bodies consigned to the grave
amid the thunder of cannon and the pealing notes of the bugle
and the trumpet, but my eyes have never beheld any pageant so
heart-touching or so impressive as the simple ceremony of a sol-
dier's burial.
Early in December the order came to move, but whither no one
knew. The soldier is never told. It is his duty to obey, never
to ask questions. He is but a puppet, and when the string is
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170 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
pulled in the great game of war, he moves in quick response.
Some said the regiment was going back to Washington to do pro-
vost duty, others said we were going to do guard duty in the
forts around Washington. But all the time the giants of war
were gathering their forces down on the Rappahannock, for a
great and deadly struggle, . . . and thitherward . . .
on the checkerboard of the great martial game we were to be
moved. Tents were struck, baggage was loaded onto the wag-
ons, and rations issued for a long march. We were soon swing-
ing along towards Washington, and, at dusk, were paBsing un-
der the giant shadow of the national Capitol. We filed along
beyond the city and camped for the night. The next morning
we were up bright and early, and, after a breakfast of hard-tack,
bacon, and coffee, were off again, tramping down through East-
ern Maryland. It was evident now that our service was not to
be in or about Washington. The orders to the men were to re-
spect private property. But the squeal of the pig after night-
fall down in that country was something fearful. Whether their
pigships understood by instinct the great perils incident to the
presence of a hungry soldier, I know not, but certain it is that
when these protesting squeals subsided they were quickly fol-
lowed by a subdued gurgling sound, and, directly, the atmosphere
of the camp become redolent with . . . the appetizing odors
of fried or roast pig meat. Sometimes the crisp evening air
would be disturbed by suppressed squeaks and flutterings, such
as follow the unerring grasp of the wary "coon,'' upon the cluck-
ing apparatus of the unsuspecting chicken, roosting in the lower
branches of some convenient tree. It became noticeable very
soon that these nocturnal manifestations were invariably fol-
lowed by savory fried chicken "a la Maryland."
The officers assumed an air of grave concern as though puz-
zled by the mysterious sounds, but ate with unaffected relish,
both flesh and fowl as it turned up at the mess, and no questions
asked.
Our rations, save as some unfortunate razor-back, or imprudent
chicken came our way, were the regulation hard-tack and salted
meat. Our digestions were good in those days and there were no
torpid livers to vex our spirits or turn the bright objects of our
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEBRS 171
visions to sickly yellow. Our march through Maryland was un-
eventful save as it introduced us to the discomforts of a soldier's
life.
1 recall, however, having been in command of the rear guard
one day, when one of the men climbed into a baggage wagon, and,
protected by its friendly shelter, gave himself up to the enjoy-
ment of a comfortable day's ride. This was hardly in accord-
ance, as I thought, with a becoming military discipline and I or-
dered him to resume his place with the squad. He declined to
obey, and I then directed the men to dislodge him, which they
did without ceremony. Incensed by this action he made a
vicious lunge at me with his fixed bayonet, which would have
impaled me against the steep bank which rose perpendicularly
behind me had I not parried his thrust with my sword. I imme-
diately placed him under arrest, but he begged so hard that upon
his promise to perform his duties without further trouble I re-
leased him. I made no report of his insubordination, not desir-
ing to make serious trouble for the fellow.
In the following April, after we had gone into camp at Lex-
ington, Ky., Colonel Browne, having in some way heard of the
affair, called me to task for not having preferred charges against
the man. I tried to excuse the affair, but he insisted, and I
framed some charges and handed them in. They did not suit
him, however, and he referred them back to be recast. Before I
had time to reframe them the regiment moved and the
affair was not again brought to my attention. A number of years
after I was one day standing in the stable of the old Woonsocket
Hotel, at Woonsocket, when I was rudely accosted by a half-
drunken fellow, whom I did not recognize at the moment, who
assured me in terms more emphatic than polite that it was his
intention to give me "a d d licking." I inquired, with as
much calmness and unconcern as the threatening aspect of the
situation would permit, the reason for his hostile demonstration.
He replied with frank and unequivocal directness, "For making
me get down out of that baggage wagon when the old Twelfth
went through Maryland.'' I at once recalled the incident and
recognized the same vicious look that gleamed from his eyes when
he made the murderous lunge at me. I endeavored to hold a
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172 HISTOEY OF THE TWELFTH EBGIMBNT
parley with him, urging that had I been disposed I might have
had him court-martialed for assaulting an officer and he would
have been severely punished. He declined to take that view of
the matter and continued to advance in a threatening maimer.
Not caring to incur a collision with him I executed a flank move-
ment and retreated without indecent haste to the friendly shelter
of the hotel. Thus I at length suffered the penalty for relaxing
military discipline. I am persuaded that had I caused him to be
punished he would have respected me all the more.
At last the regiment in its weary march through Maryland, ar-
rived at dreary, desolate, God-forsaken Port Tobacco. If the
poor persecuted Siberian exile runs up against any place in his
hopeless journey to that prison land that equals Port Tobacco
in dismal loneliness and wind-swept desolateness, as it seemed to
me on that day, he is indeed to be pitied. The discomforts of the
bleak, cold and cheerless passage across the Potomac to Acquia
Creek, and the inexpressible agony of that night in Camp Smoke,
are undying memories. Another day's march and we are swal-
lowed up in the embattled hosts of the great Army of the Poto-
mac. On this last day's march I was hungry as I had never been
before, having had no fresh meat for several days. I picked up
on the way a fresh beef bone; a little meat remained on it. I
broke it up, and, with a little hard-tack, bacon, and water, made
a stew which I ate with infinite relish. We were beginning to
learn the practical side of a soldier's life. What a strange, be-
wildering sight to my young eyes were the barbaric scenes of war
that lay spread out before me. A vast city of tented streets
with outlying suburbs of white- winged dwellings; long lines of
armed men moving with measured step; smart aides and order-
lies hurrying hither and thither; generals in full uniform at-
tended by brilliantly mounted staffs galloping among the troops.
I was confused and stunned by the ten thousand Babel sounds
that broke upon my unaccustomed ears. There were the pealing
bugle notes, the rattling drum-beats and the screaming fife, the
inspiring strains of martial music, the hoarse cries of command,
the neighing of horses and the indescribable, inexpressible, un-
earthly, distressing discords of the braying mule. Here we
pitched our shelter tents, and, crawling beneath them, stretched
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 173
our weary bodies upon the damp ground and slept aa peacefully
as though we were in our beds at home instead of being amid
these strange scenes and sounds. On the morrow we woke to
And that this vast multitude about us, together with ourselves,
now busy to break camp, will soon be fashioned into a mighty
engine to be hurled against the frowning heights across the river
that flows peacefully at their feet. The Twelfth, but two months
in the service, undisciplined, and unfamiliar with drill, are to
join these veterans of a score of hard-fought battles, in a bloody
struggle with the determined foe that awaits our coming. Then
every man, as he became conscious of the impending struggle,
calmly resolved to do his duty. Many were the prayers that were
uttered, for no man could tell what might be his fate. With the
early dawn all was activity. There was hurrying to and fro,
and, when the morning sun rose behind the fleeing night, his ear-
liest rays were reflected in corruscating splendor from the bur-
nished arms and accoutrements of the marshalled hosts. All
day long the serried ranks of this vast host stood calmly await-
ing the signal to advance on their mission of carnage and death.
It was a grandly imposing spectacle, these thronging, bristling
regiments, brigades, and divisions, with their battle-stained, shot-
torn colors drooping in the soft, hazy air of that mild December
morning. As far as the eye could reach to the front and to the
rear, to the right and to the left, was one continuous forest of
glistening bayonets. All day long they stood listening for the
word of command, but none came, and back to camp with the
lengthening shadows of approaching night the long, dark lines
filed, each man of this vast array, to the very spot he had left in
the morning. All again stretched themselves upon the ground
to sleep, many of them ... for the la«t time on earth.
On the following morning, as the light of the dawning day
came flashing through the brooding mists, a booming gun signals
the opening fray. Suddenly more than a hundred guns belch
forth the volleying thunders of the merciless cannonade. Now
this mighty engine of human hands and feet and throbbing hearts
terrible with banners and breathing destruction and death, be-
gins its advance. Onward it moves, with firm step and deter-
mined aspect. Amid a fierce storm of shrieking shells and crash-
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174 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
ing shot it reaches the bluff which overlooks the river; down itB
steep side it calmly and steadily moves forward, then across the
pontoon bridges and up into the deserted streets of the be-
leagured city. I well remember as we passed the Phillips Honse,
occupied by General Bumside for his headquarters, of seeing
Major-General Sumner commanding the Bight Grand Division
of the Army of the Potomac, before Fredericksburg. He was
mounted and wore the full dress uniform of his rank. His whi-
tened locks flowed in graceful waves from beneath his cap and
were gently lifted on the mild breeze. To my eyes he presented
an attractive and impressive picture of ripened manhood and
soldierly dignity.
When our regiment reached the brow of the bluff, where the
descent begins leading to the river's brink, there it had its first
introduction to the fiendish screech of flying missiles. Many of
the men involuntarily dipped their heads as the frightful sounds
fell upon their unaccustomed ears. I dropped so that my finger
tips penetrated the yielding earth. The colonel, observing this,
cried out in his quaint way, "Don't do that, boys! You can't
dodge them things!" Assured by this consoling information, I
braced up and brought my head and shoulders to a proper eleva-
tion. That same afternoon as the colonel and his staff were
seated upon their horses in the rear of a brick building engaged
in a pleasant chat, a solid shot or shell struck the roof above,
bringing down a shower of shingles upon them. The colonel, to
the great amusement of the large number of the boys who wit-
nessed the scene, threw himself down upon the neck of his horse,
but, suddenly recalling his reprimand of the morning, he ex-
claimed, as he resumed an upright position, "Well, they do make
a fellow dodge a little, don't they?"
We soon got so accustomed to these yelling, shrieking demons,
which were continually flying over our heads, that we scarcely
noticed them unless they fell or exploded near us. That night,
with our arms within easy reach, we disposed ourselves along the
sidewalks and in the streets, and, wrapped in our blankets, slept
aJ9 soundly and restfully as though in our beds at home. The
enemy's batteries and our own ceased firing after the curtains
of night were drawn. The stars came trooping forth thickly
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 175
studding the clear-arching heavens with familiar and friendly ra-
diance, and the stillness and calmness of tranquil repose fell
upon the tumultuous scenes of the closing day. The shadows of
night settled down upon the ghastly tokens and horrors of war
and mercifully hid them from sight. There was nothing to de-
note that two great armies were hovering near, ready to spring
at each other's throats in a deadly struggle, save the noiseless
tread of the vigilant sentinels who kept faithful vigil between
them and the gleaming camp-fires on the frowning heights above.
The next morning many of the boys found their way into the
houses which had been hastily abandoned before the bombard-
ment of the city. It was a sad reflection, the thought that de-
fenceless women and children, the aged and infirm, driven from
these homes of comfort and refinement in the inclement winter
months, were wandering in the rear of Lee's army, perhaps with-
out shelter and without sufficient food, while those whom they
looked upon as their deadliest enemies were ransacking their
dwelling-places and profaning their household gods. I entered
one house; there were the children's playthings scattered about
the rooms which a few hours before had rung with innocent
childish prattle; and lying about with an air of social refinement
and unconventional freedom, were books and music, and the
thousand and one objects that beautify and adorn the refined
home. Ah ! what a monster of cruelty is war ! It not only tram-
ples with an iron hoof upon human life, but it desecrates and de-
stroys home, the most sacred object of human creation. It sti-
fles human sympathy, blunts the moral sensibilities and revels in
the pitiful wails of anguish and despair that rise in ceaseless
and harrowing volume from its merciless inhumanity. To my
mind the spectacle of the disfigured, shot-torn corpses which lay
unburied and festering in the streets, or the carnage and
slaughter which was witnessed on the field of battle, bespoke a
less cruel hand than the desolation of firesides and the anguish
and despair of human hearts, for these are the real inhumanities
of dreadful war. I looked around for some trifling memento of
this Southern home that would not encumber me to take away.
I felt confident then that after a few days of hard fighting the
army would triumphantly enter Richmond, from which place I
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176 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
could enclose my memento in a letter and send it home. I picked
up this thing and that thing, dropping each for something that
seemed more appropriate, as a child drops one plaything for one
more attractive, and finally left the house with a small ring of
white wax beads. During the morning of the day the regiment
went into the fight, I saw a regiment in spic and span uniform,
their arms and equipments glistening in the sunshine, filing down
the bluff on the other side of the river, headed by a band, which
was saucily trumpeting the familiar air of "Bully for You."
When the band had about reached the pontoon bridge its inspir-
ing strains being doubtless plainly heard by the rebels on the
heights above, two shells came screeching and shrieking over onr
heads with defiant accompaniment to the music, and struck in
the midst of the column just on the brow of the bluff. There was
a puff of smoke, and, when it rose, the long dark line of the regi-
ment had disappeared under the convenient protection of a neigh-
boring ravine. An ambulance was driven rapidly up to the scene
of the catastrophe, the shattered bodies of the dead and wounded
were gathered into it, and then it was driven quickly away.
Frightful as was the spectacle there was in it a touch of humor
that excited a laugh among those who witnessed it. Thus does
familiarity with danger render the human mind less sensible to
its consequences, while the mind's susceptibility to outward im-
pressions is sigularly adjusted to surrounding circumstances and
objects.
At length it came our turn to go into action. I take it we all
experienced substantially the same sensations when the colonel
gave the order to move forward. He remarked, as a sort of com-
forting assurance, that we were to march on to the field in line
of battle, as we would be under fire directly and it would not be
so effective as it would be if we advanced in columns. When the
order was given there came a slightly choking sensation in the
throat, a quicker pulsing of the heart and a perceptible tremor
of the nerves, induced by an apprehension of danger. Then each
man summoned all his resolution, and, tightening his gra^ upon
his arms, the regiment pushed up the steep bank as it rose from
the river's side, and out across an open field in full view of the
enemy's works on Marye's Heights.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 177
^^ Behold in awful march and dread array
The long extended squadrons shape their way
Death in approaching, terrible imparts
An anxious horror to the bravest hearts.
Yet do their beating breasts demand the strife '
And thirst of glory quells the loye of life ^^
Here our ears first caught the vicious "zip" of the Minie ball.
As we advanced across this open field we could plainly see the
rebel lines rise from their entrenchments and pour their murder-
ous volleys into the columns of our brave comrades, which reeled
and staggered under the withering storm; but again and again,
with a sublime courage, the Union patriots closed up their shat-
tered ranks, and, steadying their decimated lines, hurled them-
selves vdth undaunted spirit against the impr^nable stronghold
of their defiant foes.
The regiment finally reached a high board fence which de-
scribed a right angle facing our front. The regiment swung
around this angle, bringing the two companies, B and Q, to the
left of the angle, and the remaining companies to the right, so
that they were concealed from each other. The order was given
to the men to lie down behind the fence as a protection from the
fire of the enemy's batteries to which we were exposed. The left
of the two companies B and G rested on the famous railroad cut.
While we lay there a shell struck a knoll in front of us and
picochetted through the fence, cutting off the left leg of Private
George W. Austin, of South Kingstown, just above the knee and
as clean as though it had been severed with a knife. He died on
the field. It was the first casualty that I witnessed, and, at the
sight of the terrible wound and the blood, all turned pale, and,
as for myself, with a nervous impulse I plunged my hands deeply
into the soft yielding soil. For some unaccountable cause the
order to advance was not communicated to the left, and, being
concealed from the main body of the regiment by the fence,
the men were not aware of the movement, so that companies
B and G became detached. As soon as the mistake was discov-
ered Captains Longstreet and Rogers held a hasty consultation
and decided to file to the left down into the railroad cut. The
order was given, and, as we began to move, an officer sprang up
12
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178 HISTOBY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
the steep bank and cried out, "For God's sake don't go in there ;
yon will be cut to pieces I" We halted a moment, and, while I
stood within two or three feet of Captain Rogers, holding a hasty
consultation as to which way we should move, a spent shell from
our own batteries passed between us and fell harmlessly a few-
feet beyond. This indicated that our own troops were in peril,
as well from our own guns as from those of the enemy. We
found our way into the railroad cut, but at what point has be-
come by the lapse of years so vague a recollection that I cannot
recall it. Fortunately, as I recall the event, the enemy's fire had
somewhat slackened, and we lost no men that 1 am aware of.
While we were moving through the railroad cut, our attention
was attracted by loud cries of "Come right up here I Come on!
Come on!" and other exclamations which could not be heard
above the clamor and roar of the battle. Standing on the blu-
est point of the steep bank, which rose almost perpendicularly
to a height of at least fifty feet, and in full view, I should judge,
of the entire rebel army, was Sergt.-Maj. Charley Potter, wildly
gesticulating, . . . slashing the air with his sword and hal-
looing at the top of his voice. I expected every moment to see
him tumble into our midst a shot-torn mangled corpse. But
whether, out of admiration for his boldness and audacity, the
enemy spared him, or because of some impending charge by our
troops upon their works, he was unnoticed, it is quite impossible
to say. It was a humorous episode in the terrible tragedy that
was being enacted around us. We measured with our eyes the
precipitous bank and deemed it unwise to attempt to scale it.
We passed along to the end of the cut and filed to the left out
upon the battlefield amid windrows of dead and wounded, the air
all about us in tremulous agitation from the hissing, crashing,
moaning, shrieking and fluttering missiles of death. The battle
has b^n described so many times that any description of mine
would only mar the symmetry of the story with which you are
all familiar.
All day long the surging tide of the patriot hosts beat against
those fateful heights. Such valor has rarely been witnessed in
all the terrible experiences of war. When the darkness of wel-
come night settled down upon that blood-stained field, seventy-
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 179
five hundred dead and wounded comrades lay concealed in the
sheltering gloom. The shattered ranks of the great Army of the
Potomac, undaunted and unconquerable in spirit, lie down be-
side its heroic dead, and, clinching their arms with a firm and
resolute grasp, await with watchful eyes for the coming dawn.
They will be ready on the morrow to storm those frowning
heights and avenge the blood of their slain comrades.
The chivalrous commander of the Army of the Potomac, his
great heart breaking with grief because of the fearful slaughter
of the day, declares to his assembled generals his purpose to lead
his own Ninth Corps the next morning in a charge upon the rebel
works on Marye's Heights. His generals disapprove his heroic
resolve as too hazardous, urging that the enemy's position was
so far impregnable that an assault would result in a useless sac-
rifice of human lives. To this advice he reluctantly accedes.
Through the next day and into the following night the Union
lines sullenly maintain a threatening front. But under the
friendly shelter of the gathering shadows of nightfall this great
army confined in the pent-up streets of Fredericksburg and with
a deep-fiowing river at its back, turns its battle-stained columns
towards the opposite bank and noiselessly as phantoms they van-
ish in the deepning gloom, and when the glorious god of day
mounts his golden chariot on the morrow, they are safely back
at their old camp, and the battle of Fredericksburg has passed
into the web and woof of a great nation's history.
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Reminiscences of the Twelfth Rhode Island Vol-
unteers—From Falmouth to Kentucky.
Bead at thb Bbuniok of thb RBancBifT Auo. 6, 1896.
By col. DANIEL R. BALLOU.
The withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac across the Rappa-
hannock to its old camping ground, after its disastrous experi-
ences under the bristling heights of Fredericksburg, was followed
by great hardship and suffering among the troops, which the
soldiers of the Twelfth shared in common with the rest of their
comrades-in-arms.
During the excitement of the fight many of the men had
thoughtlessly thrown away their blankets and shelter tents, and
when they found their way back to camp were without any pro-
tection from the piercing wintry blasts that swept over the
"sacred soil" after the great battle.
This extreme cold was succeeded later on by warmer weather
and rains which transformed the camp and surrounding country
into one vast slough of sticky, viscid mud, in which men and
beasts floundered in inextricable desperation. Added to the dis-
comforts incident to these conditions, and which made them less
endurable, was the feeling of disappointment and chagrin, min-
gled with sorrow, that pervaded the army in consequence of its
bloody failure to dislodge the enemy in the late battle. The en-
emy still defiantly held the frowning heights, against whose steel-
girt base the life-tide of seventy-five hundred slain and wounded
heroes broke in great crested waves, dashing their crimson i^ray
far up the embattled slopes.
The great heart of the nation well-nigh lost hope in this tCT-
rible trial, but it at length gathered inspiration and courage
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" 5
'f. s
0 ^
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TWELFTH RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 181
from the intrepid spirit and sublime conrage always displayed
by the magnificent Army of the Potomac, no less in times of dis-
aster like this than in the hour of victory.
Six months later its unflinching heroism and unfaltering faith
were rewarded by a glorious triumph on the historic field of Get-
tysburg and at Vicksburg.
The survivors of the gallant old Twelfth are honored in having
shared the perils and hardships of that midwinter campaign
along the banks of the Rappahannock.
What a strange panorama of mingled scenes of comedy and
tragedy, of pathetic helplessness and ineffable disgust was pre-
sented by a great army, invested with all the panoply and trap-
pings of war; its men, horses, guns and baggage teams, flounder-
ing in inextricable confusion in the indescribable mud of "Old
Virginny.'* How full of agony must have been the heart of our
dear old Bumside, as he looked out over his great army on that
memorable 22d of January, staggering beneath the pelting rain
that poured in pitiless torrents from the overburdened clouds.
You will recall the return to camp after this unsuccessful at-
tempt and the long days of patient submission to surrounding
discomforts and discouragements.
At length, on the 8th of February following, there came an
order for the Ninth Corps to move. On the following day the
boys packed their knapsacks, and, with a sigh of relief, turned
their backs upon the miseries of "Camp Mud." The discomforts
experienced here had their bright side. Mutual sufferings bring
men closer together and intensify and strengthen their friend-
^ips, so that while the men felt no regret at departing from
these scenes, many of them carried away in their hearts a deeper
and holier sentiment of brotherly love than they had ever before
experienced. The regiment boarded the train on the afternoon
of the 9th and ran down to Acquia Creek, where they embarked
on the steamers Metacomet and Juniata, which at once hauled
into the stream, and the next morning stood down the river
bound for Newport News. The schooner Elizabeth and Helen
laden with stores from home for the Rhode Island boys, lay off
Acquia Creek, as the regiment embarked. Colonel Browne put
out to her in a boat and secured a few apples, which he caused
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182 HISTOBY OF THE TWELFTH BBQIMBNT
to be distributed among the r^ment. These were keenly rel-
ished by the men, who had had but few, if any, vegetables or fruit
for many weeks. On the 11th of February, after a pleasant pas-
sage, the regiment was landed at Newport News, where they
went into camp along with the rest of the Ninth Corps. Objects
of great interest greeted the eager eyes of the men as the steam-
ers neared the great gateway of Hampton Roads. On the right,
the frowning battlements of Fortress Monroe, bristling with their
mighty armament of huge guns, whose grewsome jaws were wide
open to hurl destructive bolts at any approaching enemy. On
the left, the famous Rip-Raps, an incompleted fortress, which
served as a place of confinement for military prisoners. Further
along to the left was the mouth of Elizabeth River, and a few
miles up the stream, nestling along its bank, the fair city of Nor-
folk, and just across, the Portsmouth Navy Yard, where the fa-
mous ram, Merrimac, was fitted out. These places, but lately in
the possession of the enemy, were now sheltered by the Stars and
Stripes which floated undisturbed above them.
What a magnificent bay, — ^rather a great inland, landlocked
sea, — ^breaks on the vision as the steamers round old Point CJom-
fort, and head up this grand waterway. As far away to the
westward as the eye can reach, one vainly searches for the month
of the James River, until the bright blue waters merge in the
gracefully bending sky. Here, on the broad, deep bosom of an
unruffled sea, can fioat the navies of the world. Who can snm
up the future possibilities of American progress and resources,
and not picture countless fie6ts laden with the commerce of an
empire, serenely riding at a safe anchorage within this harbor of
refuge. Opposite the camp of the Twelfth are the crushed and
sunken hulks of the Congress and Cumherlandy silent witnesses
of the destructive power of the Confederate ironclad MerritntMc,
Out on these now peaceful waters was enacted the grandest
drama in naval warfare the world has ever seen.
The fight between the Monitor, that strangely invincible crea-
tion of the great Ericsson, and the MerrimaCy convulsed the civil-
ized world, and wrought a sweeping revolution in the naval archi-
tecture of the great powers of the earth. There seemed to be
the hand of Providence in this dramatic event. Had the Merri-
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 183
fHOC reached the open sea, Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia,
and New York, would have been at the mercy of this Titanic le-
viathan. No event during the war caused greater consternation
than the expected appearance of this terrible ironclad monster.
Secretary Stanton predicted that she would come up the Potomac
and drop shells into the Capitol and White House. Who can
contemplate without a shudder the disastrous results which
might have followed. But the little Monitor, with its cheese-box
turret, was completed just in the nick of time. She appeared at
the scene of conflict, not early enough to save those grand old
frigates, whose splendid architecture preserved in surviving
ships, are now the unique relics of a past age, but just early
enough to prevent the escape of this ironclad engine of destruc-
tion, and the fatal consequences which must have followed.
The camp of the Twelfth was pleasantly located some distance
back from the camp which overlooks the Roads, and, as soon as
the quartermaster could get a requisition honored, "A" tents
were distributed and the men were comfortably housed. The
time was occupied with company, battalion, and brigade drill,
the regiment performing its part of picket duty. On the 25th
day of February the corps was reviewed by General Dix. The
discipline of the regiment in drill was now under the direction of
Lieut.-Col. James Shaw, Jr., lately assigned to that position.
Under his eflScient instruction the raiment made rapid progress
in this important feature of the service. Oysters and other shell-
fish abounded in these waters, so that the men were able to add
to their army rations these luxuries, of which they had for many
months been deprived.
Those who could procure passes availed themselves of the op-
portunity to visit Fortress Monroe and Norfolk, on which occa-
sion paper collars and an extra shine were in order. There were
few incidents of an exciting nature to break the monotony of
camp life. Occasionally the boys would cast a searching glance
in the direction of the gunboat patrolling off the mouth of the
James as if they would like to see another ironclad steamer come
down and have a brush with the Monitor.
It was a common saying in the regiment that when the sutler
got along it was about time for orders to move. The truth of
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184 HISTOBY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
it did not fail in our experience at Newport News. Dnring the
last days of the camp Uncle Horace turned up with his stores of
condensed milk, tobacco, and other luxuries, at sight of which
the average soldier is always ready for a prompt and uncondi-
tional surrender of his loose change.
You all remember Horace Patterson. His beaming, full-orbed
face reminded one of Dickens's "Pickwick." He lacked Pick-
wick's oratorical powers, and his indifference to money matters,
— ^but he had about him an air of benignity and childlike inno-
cence which were the crowning attractions of that immortal
character. Underneath his guileless exterior ran a strong cur-
rent of Yankee shrewdness, but unfortunately for him, like Mo-
Clellan, he was too slow. There was considerable excitement in
camp when Horace arrived, and when he commenced the erec-
tion, under the direction of the colonel, of a log house in which
to display his wares, everybody was sure that the completion of
the structure would be the signal for breaking camp, and so it
was. The colonel took a great interest in the building of this
structure. He bossed the job, and in so doing earned the sobri-
quet among the boys of "She."
As I recollect. Uncle Horace had scarcely set up his wares for
sale before the regiment broke camp and was off for Kentucky.
I bear the old man has recently passed away at our Soldiers'
Home at the advanced age of eighty-four, and that his last days
were shrouded in the gloom and bitterness of poverty. On the
night of the 5th of March, while encamped at Newport ^ews,
Company F received a social call from a large delegation of the
Forty-eighth Pennsylvania. The guests being of a playful dis-
position, brought along with them a unique assortment of clubs
and stones, through the medium of which they demonstrated by
way of emphasis their arrival. Company F had among its mem-
bership a large number who were well versed in the requirements
of hospitality on a social occasion of this character, and accord-
ingly a self-constituted committee of the whole was quickly or-
ganized, who, waiving all formalities, received their visitors with
such overwhelming and unexpected fervency that they retired
at an early hour bearing many conspicuous marks of the
unstinted entertainment of which they had been the recipi-
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KHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 185
ents. A few of the departing guests, owing to the singular en-
thusiasm and confusion incident to their sudden leave-taking,
not to be outdone in politeness, returned to make more formal
adieus, which were of so noisy and hilarious a character as to in-
vite the presence of Captain Hubbard and the lieutenant-colonel,
who rendered valuable assistance in winding up the honors of
the occasion, which were largely with Company F.
On the 25th of March, 1863, marching orders were received,
and, on the evening of the 26th, tents were struck, and, in a few
moments, the orderly camp of a great army was one wide ocean
of disorder and desolation. Great bonfires of boxes and camp
debris were started, and the air was suddenly filled with flame
and smoke. At eleven o'clock, pursuant to orders, the men
quickly fell in and the regiment marched to the landing, and
aboard the steamer Long Island, bound for Baltimore. After a
pleasant and uneventful passage, the steamer reached a landing
on the evening of the 27th, but the regiment was detained aboard
until the following morning. At six o'clock the next morning
the regiment disembarked, and, forming on the wharf, was
marched through the city to the station from whence the men
were to be transported to the Department of the Ohio. Public
sentiment in Baltimore had evidently undergone a change since
we passed through it on our way to the front six months before.
The regiment was warmly and enthusiastically received all along
the line of march, and the boys, under the impulse of the moment,
forgave the scornful reception they had received from the proud
beauties of the Monument city on our former visit. Permission
had been given on the march through the city, — or no attempt
was made to restrain the men, — to leave the ranks, and, at the
end of the hour or thereabouts it took to reach the station, the
veteran Ninth Corps of the Army of the Potomac, which had
fought at Antietam and at Fredericksburg, was on a grand
spree in Baltimore. All along the line of march were groups
of old soldiers, with just enough of tanglefoot down to feel
good, spinning yams to the gaping crowd of their personal
exploits and hairbreadth escapes. When the various com-
mands reached the station it was only with a handful of
men. The ranks were as depleted as though they had just
been through a great battle. Then the scattered fugitives had to
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186 HISTOEY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
be drummed together, which was done, but not without some
difficulty. Ambulances and stretchers might have been used
with advantage, and it is no serious reflection upon the boys to
say this. If any men ever had an excuse for a little overindul-
gence, they had one. Let it not be laid up against them that
after undergoing so much suffering and hardship, incurring so
many dangers upon the battlefield and in other places of peril
in defence of their country, they yielded to this temptation.
Everybody was good-natured, and, with the exception of a little
firing in the air to remind the populace that the boys were around,
there was no manifestation of disorder. It was one o'clock in
the afternoon before the last man was aboard the train. If
pandemonium was ever let loose, this was the time and the occa-
sion. If Johnny reb had run across us on this trip he would
have had the picnic of his life. It was late into the night when,
tired out and exhausted by their incessant and vociferous lung
exercises, quiet at length settled down upon the boys and
they fell asleep. At one o'clock in the afternoon of the next day,
we reached Altoona, where we received rations of hot coffee and
white bread and then commenced the ascent of the picturesque
Alleghany Mountains. Crossing the Alleghanies was a very en-
joyable experience for very many of us. The scenery was de-
lightful, but to many of us the triumphs of engineering skill that
had overcome the natural obstacles to the construction of a rail-
road over these steep ascents and across mountain chasms ex-
cited quite as much wonder in our minds. At midnight we
reached Pittsburg, and a half-hour later we partook of what may
properly be called an early breakfast, which was kindly provided
for us at the City Hall. We then returned to the station, and,
wrapping our blankets around us, lay down in the open train-
shed and snatched what sleep we could during the rest of the
night. The next morning at nine o'clock the regiment was off
en route for Cincinnati. Comrade Alexander, then lieutenant,
and afterwards captain, and myself, were left behind to bring up
the stragglers, which we did in fine style, but not without much
vexatious experience in procuring rations and transportation.
Comrade Alexander was equal to all the emergencies, as we have
ever found him to be, not only during his service, but on all oc-
casions since. We joined the command with our detachment,
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Lieut. Fenner H. Peckham, Jr.
(Prom a recent picture.)
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 187
as I recollect, at Covington, Ky. An incident occurred after the
regiment crossed the river into Covington that threatened serious
consequences to some of our men as well as the colonel. A crowd
of soldiers got into a fray among themselves, in which bayonets
were being freely used. The colonel, observing the row, fear-
lessly threw himself with drawn sabre between the infuriated
combatants as Othello, with sword in hand, threw himself upon
his lieutenants engaged in unseemly brawl in the streets of Ven-
ice. He commanded them to disperse, but they were in no mood
to be interfered with. A colonel, was, for the moment, of no
more consequence than a common soldier. The situation was
looking quite serious for him, when some of our men observing
his perilous situation rushed in, and, with some risk of personal
violence, extricated him from the mob. Without further ad-
venture we reached Lexington on the evening of the 31st of
March, and camped in the cars and about the railroad station.
The most prominent object that attracted our attention as day-
light revealed our surroundings, was a tall shaft of white mar-
ble, as 1 recollect, in the cemetery hard by, surmounted by a
colossal statue of Kentucky's great statesman, Henry Clay.
Lexington was the home of this great man, the idol of the peo-
ple, whose death was mourned as the death of no other Ameri-
can has ever been, save, perhaps, Washington and Lincoln. I
stood by his grave, upon which the snows of but ten winters
had fallen, and wondered whether his great influence, which
would have surely been thrown on the side of the Union, would
have been sufficiently potent to have averted this terrible war.
It was to his persuasive words and commanding eloquence that
the passions of men on the great issue of slavery were more than
once allayed, and the dread arbitrament of war averted. How
strangely inconsistent is nearly all human action ! At that very
moment, as I reverently stood by the great commoner's grave, his
son, James Clay, whose wife and children occupied the ancestral
home at the opposite side of the town, familiar to his country-
men as Ashland, was fighting to destroy the government his illus-
trious father had done so much to develop and maintain.
During the day the regiment was marched through the town
to a beautiful grove of beaches, walnuts and maples, just beyond
the fair grounds. On the thick carpet of grass, which abounds
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188 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
in both grove and meadow of this fruitful garden spot of the
country, and beneath the refreshing shade of the grand old trees,
we pitched our tents.
From the camp can be plainly seen amid the sylvan back-
ground beyond the town, the majestic statue of Henry Clay,
standing in stately repose upon the lofty apex of the aspiring
shaft that rises conspicuously above the house tops and sur-
rounding trees, while to the right, a half-mile away, one catches
glimpses through the rifts in the budding foliage of the impos-
ing outlines of the present Claj mansion.
Late in the afternoon, just as the boys had finished pitching
the tents and putting their canvas houses in order, a horseman
was seen approaching from the direction of the town. He was
clad in semi-military dress and wore a regulation cap. He was
mounted on a dark-bay Kentucky thoroughbred, as graceful in
motion, and as symmetrical of limb as a wild antelope, and his
rider was none the less shapely in figure or comely in pose. As
the beautiful animal came prancing and cavorting into camp,
there was such a harmony in the figures and motions of both
man and beast that one was instinctively led to believe that the
fabled centaur was not a myth after all.
Colonel Browne stepped out and extended a welcome, and in-
troduced the distinguished appearing stranger to the boys who
had gathered about him, as "Gen. Leslie Coombs, the lifelong
friend of Henry Clay.'* He gracefully saluted by raising his cap,
while his restive steed daintily pawed the ground. The colonel
then invited the general to address us, a large portion of the
regiment having by this time been attracted to the spot. Doffing
his cap he poured forth an impassioned torrent of what might be
termed wild, woolly west eloquence. It was lavishly punctuated
with expressive swear words in condemnation of the rebels, and
in glorification of the Union and the National flag. He enjoined
us, with grandiloquent vehemence, not to rest in oar efforts until
we had driven every one of the blank rebels from Kentuck\* and
Tennessee into the great Mississippi, and not to cease driving
them until they were all strangled in its turbid waters. As an
exhibition of rhetorical gymnastics I am fully persuaded it was
a howling success. General Coombs had been a man of corn-
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEBBS 189
manding ability and of great influence in his native state. He
must have been a man of clever intellect to have enjoyed the
friendship and confidence of the great Kentucky statesman. He
married a daughter of the founder of the manufacturing village
of Manville^ in this State.
We tarried here in this delightful camp but a week, and, just
as we were beginning to live like civilized beings, we were again
ordered to move. On Wednesday morning, April the 8th, the
brigade broke camp, and, in heavy marching order, started for
Winchester, nearly thirty miles away, as I was told, although
CJomrade Grant, in his interesting little history entitled The Fly-
ing Regiment, says, "it was but twenty-two miles.*' Whatever
the distance may have been, it was a terribly exhausting march.
It was an excessively hot day and our route of march lay over
a macadamized roadbed, dusty and with the sharp edges of em-
bedded stones projecting from the hard surface. The men had
done no marching to speak of in six months. They had not
marched far before they began to grow foot-sore, many fell outj
overcome by the heat and dust, which rose in suffocating clouds.
It was to every intent and purpose a forced march without any
sufficient cause for thus taxing the energies of the men. Owing
to the absence of General Nagle, Colonel Griffin, of the Sixth
New Hampshire, as senior officer, succeeded to the command.
What can have been his motive, I cannot, to this day, understand.
As I look back and recall the sufferings of the men on that march
I cannot but think it was an act of cruelty. Had an emergency
existed which required the men to be at a given place at a given
time, they would have cheerfully undergone any hardship to have
reached the position. Captain Allen and myself, so spent that
we could hardly get one foot before the other, as the twilight
was giving way to darkness, looked about us and found we had
no command. Seeing a house near by we concluded we would,
at the risk of being court-martialed, spend the night there, if
they would take us in. We found the people hospitably inclined.
They gave us a good supper and a good sweet bed to sleep in. We
arose early in the morning, partook of an inviting breakfast and
hurried to camp, which was fortunately not far away, in a beau-
tiful grove just beyond Winchester, much like the one we had
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190 ^ HISTOBY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
left in Lexington. We found the people very hospitable about
here, and a strong Union sentiment pervading the community.
The country through which we had marched waa a portion of the
far-famed blue grass region. It is truly a country flowing with
milk and honey. We lived on the fat of the land, — I mean those
who had the wherewithal to buy. The rations supplied by the
quartermaster's department were the same old pork and hard-
tack, which forms the soldier's chief bill of fare.
If I relate to you the experiences of one of the lieutenants of
the regiment with Kentucky greased lightning, I pray you "Tell
it not in Oath, and publish it not in the streets of Ae^elon."
Confident that you will treat it as a family secret, I will relate
something of the experiences of this victim to the stealthy po-
tency of Kentucky's favorite if not famous product.
This lieutenant, among whose raven locks were then mingled
no silver threads^ and whose eyes required no aid from the op-
tician's skill, having been detailed on picket duty, was posted
out on the Boonesboro road, about two miles from the camp
near Winchester. Late in the evening the lieutenant, who
was on the alert to discover any lurking enemy, hearing a
suspicious noise over the fence on the opposite side of the
road, called the attention of the guard to it, who, after
listening a moment, declared that he was mistaken, that
there was nothing there more than some stray razor-back. But
presently the quick ear of the lieutenant caught the cautious foot-
fall of some one approaching and called upon the guard to chal-
lenge, whereupon, through the fence, came these words, in a
scared, faint voice: "Dars only one ob us Marsa!" The lieu-
tenant ordered him to get right over the fence, which he did in
double-quick time. Much to the joy of the boys he had a basket
well-laden with delicious fried chicken, baked chicken, biscuits
spread with sweet rosy butter, pies, cakes, and, snugly sand-
wiched in between these appetizing good things, was a quart bot-
tle of rich, amber-colored liquid, which is at once the joy and
pride of the native dwellers in the Blue Grass regions of Ken-
tucky.
It is hardly necessary to add that the lieutenant as a military
precaution to avoid demoralization among his command, at once
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 191
took steps to confiscate the commissary stores, but generously
I)ermitted the men to take possession of the eatables.
The darkey was suitably rewarded and departed into the thick
darkness of the night, the whites of his eyes and teeth only being
visible as he turned his sable face towards the men and joyously
cried: "Good night, Marsa!"
The lieutenant, chilled by the cold night wind and impatient
to sample the subtle contents of his treasure, drew the cork and
took a long and hearty pull at the inspiration contained therein.
He could feel its seductive influence spreading through his veins
and mounting in exhilarating volume to his brain. He ceased to
wonder that the Blue Grass country is the elysium of the true-
born Kentuckian. At break of day he took another gentle pull,
and, before he returned to camp, the other one seemed so
delicious in flavor, so transporting, and so entirely free from the
crude harshness which we are told characterizes the ordinary
tanglefoot, that, unsuspectingly, he raised the insidious enemy
of human hopes and ambitions, and, gluing his lips to the con-
venient aperture provided therefor, permitted the subtle fluid, to
the music of its unctuous gurgle, to trickle in titillating volume
down his thirsty esophagus, and flood the vacant regions of his
inner man.
He returned to camp with his command but he did not march.
His feet, like Mercury's, were winged. They spurned the sor-
did earth. He was borne in an ecstasy of delicious enchantment
among the clouds. He alighted in camp and was dismissed with
the command. Having been on duty during the previous night
he was entitled to a day off, but he was in no mood for further
recreation. He was beginning to feel that temporary retirement
was the most appropriate condition to assume that he might pre-
pare for the recoil of the electric motor with which he had un-
suspectingly monkeyed. It is a very grand and a very impres-
sive spectacle to behold the lightnings leaping and flashing among
the clouds, but one needs to be extremely cautious how he loads
up with bottled extract of trolley wire thunderbolts. It is said
that death does not result from an electrical discharge, but that
it only causes a suspension of animation, while there are unau-
thenticated traditions that Kentuckians have, in the use of their
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192 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
native beverage, relapsed into semiriinconsciouBness, yet the
record is overburdened with instances of inhabitants of this de-
lectable country becoming so charged as to become a flaming
lightning stroke. Our lieutenant suffered nothing more serious
than a head some sizes larger than he was accustomed to wear.
Between the throbbing aches, incident to a head suddenly en-
larged to such proportions, he lapsed into serious reflections upon
the vanities and vexations of human things, and then and there
resolved that under no circumstances would he again be induced
to fool round Kentucky greased lightning.
As on former occasions, just as we had become wonted to our
camp and its surroundings, and had formed pleasant acquaint-
ances among the people, the inexorable decrees of war ordered us
to move on. On the evening of the 16th of April we struck tents
and swung down the Boonsboro road en route for Richmond.
We crossed the Kentucky River at a ferry near the home of Dan-
iel Boone, the intrepid hunter and pioneer settler of early Ken-
tucky days. The banks of the Kentucky River at this point are
a deep mountain gorge. We had been passing through a delight-
ful section, without any appearance of a mountainous country,
when we suddenly came upon the edge of a mighty canon or
gorge, extending many hundreds of feet down to where the river
flowed silently along in the shadows of its precipitous sides. The
road zigzagged down to the ferry so that it was of comparativdy
easy descent. Here were two old-fashioned fiatboats or scows,
which were used for ferrying the troops over. These were pro-
pelled across by men pushing with long poles against the bottom
of the river which was quite shallow at this point. In disem-
barking the teams, a number ^ of horses and mules and some of
their drivers fell overboard, to the great amusement of the men.
After toiling up the cliff, which was less precipitous than on the
opposite side, we struck out into the same beautiful country as
that through which we had passed on the other side of the river.
The air was fragrant with the perfume of pestch blossoms and
the freshness of verdure-clad meadows and of expanding foliage.
We reached Richmond on the morning of the 18th, and encamped
in another beautiful grove of giant trees, two miles from the
town. The ground was thickly carpeted with the indigenous
blue grass of the country.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 193
On this ground was fought, in the August previous, the battle
of Bichmond, in which our forces, under Generals Mason and
Craft, were defeated by the Confederates under Kirby Smith.
The Union forces lost 200 killed, 250 wounded, and 2,000 prison-
ers. The Confederates lost 250 killed and 500 wounded. They
outnumbered our troops four to one. The trees and fences bore
the marks of the battle, and, in the cemetery near by the grave-
stones were thickly spattered with the marks of bullets.
Here my narrative ends, and I leave it to others to chronicle
the wearisome marches and countermarches under a burning
Kentucky sun, the ceaseless vigils and the hot pursuits after the
wily Morgan, and finally the return, after nearly a year's absence
of active service, to your homes and familiar scenes.
The regiment may well be proud of its record. It was in al-
most constant service during its nine months and more in the field.
It traveled over 3,500 miles, 500 of which were on foot When it
marched from home it numbered near a thousand men. It re-
turned with about seven hundred of that number. It lost in
killed and through wounds and disease, quite two hundred and
fifty men.
In closing, I will, with your permission, read the following
verses which I clipped from the Evening Press of July 22, 1863,
and entitled :
Wbloomb to thb Twelfth Rhode Island Voluntbebs.
Hail I gallant Twelfth I ye soldiers true I
With happy hearts we welcome you I
Once more we greet our friends so dear,
Whose presence many a heart will cheer.
Your flag still waves ! O, flaunt it high !
The flag by which to stand and die I
The dangers brayed, our cause sustained,
The people^s honor ye have gained.
Full many a toilsome march ye bore,
With scanty rations oft your store ;
But on, still on, till night brought rest,
' Then sought repose on earth^s cold breast.
For all the toils and dangers past.
Ye shall receive reward at last;
Peace sits enthroned above each grave,
Where sleeps in death a soldier brave.
13
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194 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
A prayer for those who mourn to-day
For those whom death has borne away;
Whose loved one fell in bloody strife,
Where many a hero gave his life.
May they find comfort now in Him
Who bids us hope when faith grows dim
Tho* o'er their homes a gloom is cast,
They'll meet again in Heaven at last
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PART THIRD
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i '
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Lieut. Charles M. Winchester.
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Memories and Memoranda of the Twelfth Rhode
Island Regiment in General and
Company B in Particular.
By the rev. CHARLES M. WINCHESTER,
First Ssaokakt, Sbconb Lubutbnaict, and Clerk of Compaht B., anb
SFKGIAL CORBB8POKDEMT OF THB PbOYIDBNCB '' EyBNINO PBBSS," UlTDBR
THB EDITOaiAI. MANAOEMENT OF HON. AND ReY. SxDNBT DeAN.
Being cordially invited to render some aid in preparing the
history of our glorious "Trotting Twelfth" it was far easier to
consent than to do the work, for after forty years have come and
gone since the regiment was mustered out time has made such
changes that one knows hardly how or where to begin or when to
leave off. CJonsequently, the title I have selected gives me a sort
of roving commission and much liberty.
If the personal pronoun I is used frequently it must be under-
stood as being used of necessity, and not in the sense of "Big
I and little you.'' . . .
Recruiting op Company B.
When the call to arms to save the country rose with clarion
voice that startled the whole North, the writer was bookkeeper
and clerk in a grain and shipping house in Providence and also
pastor of the South Providence (now St. Paul's) Methodist Epis-
copal Church. By holding these two positions he was sometimes
called "the priest-clerk" by his friends from the Emerald Island.
One Sunday afternoon when the recruits were being raised that
made up our regiment, I startled the whole congr^ation, then
assembled in the hall, by making a few remarks on the need of
patriotic men for the salvation of our glorious country in her
hour of peril, closing with considerable earnestness by saying:
"Boys, let's go; I'll go with you."
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198 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
The next day, James M. Longstreet, afterwards captain of
Company B, and myself, pitched a tent, close to the preaching
place, and soon enrolled nearly all the young men of that vicin-
ity who were capable of bearing arms. Albert W. Delanahy
afterwards lieutenant, soon joined us and rendered valuable aid
in inducing his friends to go with us. Shall I ever forget how
the mothers of some of those boys came to me with hearts full
of patriotism and maternal love, and committed their boys to
the minister's care, exacting a promise that I would watch over
them.
The confidence thus exhibited was such that after all these
years the memory of it moves deeply those God-given fountains
of tenderness which means so much that although felt cannot
be expressed. . . .
After we had gleaned well our field and gathered a fine body
of young men, a few more were needed to fill the company, and
the number necessary was furnished from South Kingstown —
several of them great brawny six-footers — steady, strong, and
true, easily took the right of ibfi line, so that in a regiment
made of the best material, Ck>mpany B was equal to the general
average, and that is saying much for when one of the Twelfth
thinks of his comrades, from our really great Col. Geoi^ H.
Browne — all along the line of 1,040 men — ^the make-up was equal
to any regiment that ever followed the Stars and Stripes, whose
glory has now gone around the world, sometimes making its
stripes felt, never losing, but continually adding stars to its field
of heavenly blue.
Looking backward after all these years, I am confirmed in my
opinion that three better men never officered a company than
Captain James M. Longstreet and Lieutenants Oscar Lapham
and Albert W. Delanah, who had the oversight of Company B in
such good form as to win the love and confidence of all.
Before leaving for the South, Hon. and Rev. Sidney Dean,
editor of the Providence Evening Press, asked me to favor him
with news of the regiment, which I tried to do, and the letters,
although somewhat crude in style, were eagerly read by the
friends at home, and with almost equal interest by the regiment
when the papers reached us, as they were mailed to us every
day, 00 that sometimes, when the mail caught up with us, we
had enough to fill a peck measure, and all found plenty of
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEBRS 199
readers. A word about the pen name under which I wrote may
be interesting. Coming into the world in a very rural district in
New Hampshire, my good parents generously gave all their
twelve children three names each. Possibly to inspire me with
genius, they fashioned my middle name after a great painter
(of houses), Minick. So when I wrote my first war letter I
signed it with my middle name, but the typesetter made it read
Minnick, so after that I signed it that way, since the correspond-
ent, by any name, was looked up to as a sort of saint, especially
when the mail brought the Press, which was free for the use of
the whole blessed regiment. Had I known as much of news-
pax>ers as I do now, I would easily have arranged for several
papers to be sent daily to each company.
The Providence Evening Press ceased to exist some years ago,
and, as I had no copies of the letters, I was without any material
save a memory somewhat out of repair. Recently, however, my
son Henry found the files of the Press in the Journal office, and
to the Journal people for their courtesy, and to Comrade Pardon
E. Tillinghast, who had the letters copied and tyi)ewritten, I am
under great obligations.
After a brief camp experience on Dexter Training Ground
the time came to say "Good-bye.'' Since the war many of us
learned to sing a new song: "We'll never say good-bye in
Heaven"; but when the Twelfth left for the seat of war there
were many good-byes said that will last till the meeting with
the loved ones, "Over there, just over there." Fathers, mothers,
brothers, sisters, wives, and sweethearts pressed the hand and
kissed tear-washed faces, and embraced the dear forms that
were "more precious than gold tried in the fire," and then the
fast-rushing train bore us away. The first exciting experience,
as I remember it, was when we marched through Baltimore.
Proudly we bore ourselves, keeping such step as regulars might
well envy, desiring to show at our best, that the reputation of
"Little Rhody" might receive new lustre by our conduct.
November, 1862, found us in Camp Casey, near Fairfax Sem-
inary, Va., named after General Silas Casey, commanding our
division of the Ninth Army Corps. The location was a charm-
ing one, with a landscape of uncommon beauty, with hill and
dale and running brook, and, beyond all, our eyes could see the
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200 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
Potomac, whose waters had been many times reddened with the
patriotic blood of heroes as grand as any country ever knew.
Directly in front of our camp, a little more than a mile dis-
tant, was the city of Alexandria, where, when treason first
showed its hydra-head, gallant Ellsworth, in command of the
Zouave column, fell a noble martyr to freedom. We had many
fine singers in the regiment, and, viewing the place where he
gave his all for his country, we joined with heart and voice in
the grand chorus of the song :
Ellswobth^s Avbnobbs.
^^ Strike, freemen, for the Union,
Sheathe your swords no more,
While in arms remains a traitor,
On Columbians shore."
At Gamp Casey we had our first regular post office, with good
Chaplain Field as postmaster and Willie Clarke assistant. They
often handled seven hundred or more pieces of mail in a day.
While encamped here, in company with a certain quartermas-
ter-sergeant I spent a Saturday night at a genuine fancy (col-
ored) dress ball. It was held in a regular "Uncle Tom's Cabin."
Seated on a table in one corner of the room was a fine specimeii
of the Southern contraband, and such music as he sawed out of
that old fiddle made you cry and laugh all at one time. Some
twenty or more of the swell belles and beaux — ^the ladies, at
least some of them, had gay calico dresses cut decollete, and the
gentlemen — ^well, I won't undertake to describe them, but I
think they were in evening dress. The dancing, — ^how they did
break it down. I remember the words and music of one of the
songs they sang, keeping time with hands, feet, heads, every-
thing. It went like this :
'' Row Mr. Caney, row,
Row Mr. Caney, row,
Er-row, er-row,
Row Mr. Caney, row."
It was simply great, and never to be forgotten. Imagine the
feelings, if you can, that came over me years after as, in an
entertainment in New York city, some "burnt cork" artists
danced a real "Virginny'* breakdown and sang:
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RHODE ISLAND V0LUNTEEB8 201
** Row Mr. Oaney, row,
Er-row, er-row."
FroDi the ridiculous to the sublime is not far, and the next
day being Sunday, in the evening we attended a prayer-meeting
in the same cabin. It was more ridiculous than sublime^ at
least one part of it. After the leading spirits had exercised
their gifts, exhorted and testified, there was a long pause. When
it got pretty tedious, one of the queerest specimens of the de-
scendants of Ham imaginable rose to the occasion and delivered
himself of this chunk of wisdom: ^^If I 'fessed what some of
you 'fess I would say something; but as I don't 'fess nothing,
I won't say nothing." It came as near making me "snicker" as
when on a certain occasion at an anniversary of a temperance
society at home, where the good-souled but ignorant chaplain
(a white brother) prayed *'Lord bless us on this Second Anni-
versity," as he warmed up. Again and again he prayed, each
time more fervently, about the "Second Anniversity." A friend
of my boyhood, now an honored citizen of Providence, who was
with me that night in meeting, smiled till he cried. He will
laugh and cry again at this recital of the long time ago.
Did anything ever go straighter to our hearts than the first
funeral in the r^ment? George E. Richardson, of CJompany
B, a good boy, a genial comrade, son of fond parents, fell a vic-
tim to fever, and his dear spirit went to the God who gave it.
We formed the funeral procession and marched slowly and sadly
to the tune "Buoying Waters," played by one or more fifes, while
the snare drum, muffled, sounded more doleful than any sound
that ever filled our ears. On to a quiet resting-place, where a
Rrave had been prepared, we bore George, and, after a few words
and a prayer by the chaplain, we lowered him into the lonely
grave to sleep alone, with only the angels to keep watch. The
march back to camp to the rollicking tune, "The girl I left be-
hind me," jarred harshly on our nerves, but we soon learned that
we were following a custom intended to make us forget, if pos-
sible, the sadness, which is bad enough at home, surrounded with
the loved ones, but is more intense when in the enemy's country.
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202 history of the twelfth regiment
Fredericksburg.
Passing over many interesting events, let me take my readers
to camp in front of Fredericksburg. It is December, 1862. We
are on a hill that slopes gently to the Rappahannock, and across
the little stream is soon to be a slaughter almost unparalleled
for its extent and the ferocity with which both sides vnll combat
for cherished principles — the North for union, the South for
state rights and secession.
After forty years, it is well that both sides see in each other
heroic devotion, according to the light of each. Had we of the
Twelfth been bom south of Mason and Dixon's line, our view-
point would have been as the large majority of the South found
theirs.
Dec. 12, 1862, we were in readiness to cross the pontoon
bridges, which were completed only the day before, owing to
the delay in forwarding them from Washington caused by a
misunderstanding as to who was to attend to the shipment of
boats and material necessary. General Burnside and his subor-
dinate officers agreed that had the pontoons arrived sooner, the
well-laid plans would have secured a great victory instead of
the awful defeat, for had our army been able to get on the south
side of the Rappahannock before Lee concentrated the CJonfed-
erate forces there, we should have had no trouble in securing
control of the city and Marye's Hill. The laying of the three
pontoons at the front of the city, and two where Franklin was
to cross two miles below, cost the Union army three hundred
brave men. Many of our comrades may not have heard of the
gallantry of a little Michigan drummer boy in connection with
the building of the pontoon bridges. His name was Robert H.
Hendershot He was twelve years old. On the 11th day of
December, 1862, when volunteers were called for to cross the
river in the open pontoon boats to drive back the Mississippi
sharpshooters who made it impossible for the engineers to finish
the pontoons, slinging his drum over his back, this little
patriot volunteered, and jumped into one of the boats. His
captain ordered him back, saying, "You are too small for such
work." "May 1 help push off the boat?'' said Robert. "'Yes,"
said the captain, and, clinging to the boat he let it drag him
across the stream. Many of the men in the boat were killed,
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 203
and, as the brave boy climbed the bank, his drum was torn to
pieces by a piece of shell. Undaunted he seized a musket be-
longing to one of his dead companions and fought bravely with
the rest of the survivors, who drove the sharpshooters from cover
and captured nearly one hundred of them.
Bnrnside gave the boy great honor, and the New York Tribune
Association gave him a splendid new drum, and the proprietor
of Eastman's Business College at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., gave him
a home and a fine education.
While waiting for our turn to come to cross, we saw a regi-
ment march on to the bridge, with flying colors, its band play-
ing. When they neared the middle of the bridge a shower of
shot and shell from the batteries on Marye's Hill sent them
across the bridge "double-quick,'^ the band meanwhile forgetting
to finish the tune.
Since coming to Middletown, I learned that the regiment re-
ferred to was the glorious One Hundred and Twenty-fourth New
York ("Orange Blossoms"), and in the more than twenty-five
years that I have met those comrades in Grand Army of the Re-
public and other veteran associations, and on Memorial Days,
the warm side of my heart for veterans in general has encircled
more firmly the "Orange Blossoms" in particular.
The Twelfth crossed the pontoons in good form, and we had
only just reached the other side when we saw the first dead
rebels lying on the bank in their faded coats of gray. It was a
gruesome sight, but war is not a pleasure excursion, as we soon
found out in the death-trap set for us by our gallant and in-
trepid foe. General Lee. Once in the streets of Fredericksburg,
we discovered what work of destruction our batteries on Stafford
Heights had wrought, for, on the previous day, our Burnside
had ordered them to open fire on the city, and batter it down if
necessary in order to make way for us to cross. More than
one hundred great cannon had fired fifty rounds each, shattering
many fine buildings and setting the city on fire in several places.
The ruins were still smoking, the streets were filled with hastily
removed furniture and merchandise of every kind. The inhabi-
tants had fied, the desola'tion was complete. But for the stern
necessities of war, the thoughts of those broken-up homes, with
all that such thoughts embraced, would be indeed heartbreaking.
But a soldier's business is obedience, and no time or space must
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204 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH EBGIMENT
be given to pity for our enemies, till they are subdued or we are
defeated.
We slept that night on the stone sidewalks of Fredericksburg,
on which there was a slight covering of snow, expecting that
any moment we might be roused from our sweet dreams of home
to try conclusions with eighty thousand of the choice sons of
the South, who, added to the fact that they occupied an almost
impregnable position, realized that behind them were all the
loved of earth calling for protection. Under all the circum-
stances, although we of the North counted one hundred thousand
under Sumner, Franklin, and Hooker, so great were the odds
against us that it was in reality as if the Confederates had ten
men to our one.
On the morning of the 13th our raiment was formed in line
of battle in one of the principal streets of the city, with orders
to advance in as good order as possible through dooryards and
cross-streets until we were outside the limits, then to pro-
tect ourselves under banks or behind fences or whatever
shelter we could find until we received orders to advance
to the battlefield directly in front of us. The order was
strictly obeyed, and the Twelfth marched with promptness
unsurpassed by old regulars as near the the place desig-
nated as the many obstacles would permit. I well remem-
ber, as we went through the old railroad bed, how the guns on
the hill threw shot and shell, pieces of railroad iron, and "any
old thing," with a carelessness that we little relished. A shot
struck the haversack of one of the big six-footers just behind me
at the right of Company B, emptying all the rations on the
ground and saving the comrade's life at the same time. As we
marched steadily on, 1 heard him remark, without a quiver in
his deep-toned voice, "I wish you'd leave me some of my hard-
tack."
We got outside the city at last, but when the order to advance
was given, only a few companies knew anything of the fact, the
regimental line being broken. Learning that the right of the
regiment had advanced, Captains Longstreet and Rogers held a
consultation, and decided that to advance farther in that direc-
tion would only be throwing their men's lives away to no pur-
pose, and so ordered us to lie d^/wn under cover of a slight bank.
Here 1 saw some of the most sad scenes of my whole life; over
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS
205
US and falling all around us was a perfect storm of shot, shell,
bullets, shell, bullets, and railroad iron, screeching, screaming,
whizzing, tearing the ground and wounding, maiming, and kill-
ing many, who, unable to fire a musket, were good targets for
the enemy's engines of destruction. Just as we reached this
spot. Gen. Thomas Francis Meagher, at the head of his brigade,
composed chiefly of Irish regiments, rushed by like a hurricane
let loose, and I heard the brave general, with voice like one "mad
clear through," shout above the noise of the battle, "Go in, toys,
a/nd give 'em helir
Time after time did this enthusiastic leader of the boys who
sang "Wearing of the Green," hurl his famous regiments against
the force of rebels at the stone wall without success, until two-
thirds of his men covered the field, wounded, bleeding, dying. . . .
Some idea of the position occupied by the portion of the
Twelfth who were under fire but could not return it, may be
gathered when I saw that all about us were mingled the dead
the dying. One poor fellow lay just beside me with one arm
shot nearly off. Such agony as he endured ! He begged for *
water to quench the burning thirst which seemed as if taking
his very life. Thank God, my canteen was not empty, and I put
it to his lips and for a brief time gave him a little rest. Brave
men came from the field wounded, seeking a place of shelter,
and when near us a rebel shot or shell would strike them to
the earth, shattered and mangled beyond recognition. I saw
one wounded comrade here trying to find a place of safety, when
a ball struck him, and as he fell I heard him cry: "Oh, God!
Some one take care of my wife and children !"
A great general once said, "War is Hell !" The experience of
Dec. 13, 1862, confirms me in his statement.
Ab night came on we found our way back to the city street,
where we had lain on our arms the previous night. That any of
us were left to tell the story was not the fault of the Confed-
erates on Marye's Hill, for they speeded the parting with a tor-
nado of shot and shell, not forgetting the chunks of iron rails,
that made a whizzing noise not yet forgotten.
We did not exactly "beat a hasty retreat," but we did not
take any more time than needful to get out of such careless use
of firearms. It was at this time that, among others, Billy
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206 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Mason, of Company B, received a mortal wound. He was cjuv
ried to the hospital, and we were never able to find a trace of
him afterwards. Poor Billy! He was full of fun, and bubbled
over with quaint sayings like this:
^ ^ John me mon, me money^s all gone
Me purse hangs on the breer.
And if thee don't give me me mony again,
lUl hit the box on the ear."
I have often thought of the thousands of brave men who, like
Billy Mason, died at such a time as he, when the army was de-
feated and retreating, with no opportunity to learn when they
died or where they were buried. I often feel like remembering
with special tenderness of thought :
'* Those comrades, who sleep, we know not where,
Who died we know not when.
Their loved ones for them watch and wait.
From early mom till evening late.
So let us strew their memory dear
With fragrant bloom each passing year.
At last, some time we know not when.
We hoi>e to greet them all, and then.
The when the where of the long past,
Will turn to joy for aye to last.^'
The night of the 15th of December found the men of the
Twelfth in a field with shovels and picks, throwing up breast-
works within a few feet of the Confederate pickets. We con-
fidently expected in the morning to try again to take Marye's
Hill if we died in the attempt, as thousands of our comrades
had done in the first attack. So much were we in the dark as
to the future, or even the present, that a large part of the army
had crossed the river before we or our foe knew of it When at last
we ceased to dig, by orders from our officers, the command came to
^'Fall in !" and make as little noise as possible in marching. So, fix-
ing our tin cups and plates so they would not make their usual
music, we marched silently away, we knew not whither, till we
found ourselves on the pontoons returning to the place from
whence we came, glad enough to get out of such a death-trap.
The Twelfth was, as I remember, the last regiment of infantry
to recross the pontoons in the centre.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 207
For several weeks we were in the vicinity of Fredericksburg,
doing picket duty, marching and camping in mud until many
were sick. Nearly all were black and poor in body, and
wretched generally.
The name given by some of our boys, "Camp between life and
dearth," was so appropriate that my readers will be as glad as
we were to leave that miserable experience behind and skip
over to
Newport News.
Here we had a most delightful camp, "beautiful for situa-
tion," and the joy of every Rhode Islander's heart, for the ocean
was near and the salt-laden breezes smelled of oysters, clams,
and home, sweet home.
With such a location, plenty of first-class rations, and com-
fortable quarters, our spirits soon revived and health came again
to the sick, and it was not long before there was a great im-
provement in drill, discipline, and general appearance. It
would be hard to find a better arranged or more perfect camp
than that enjoyed by our regiment.
Here we b^an to get well acquainted with our new lieutenant-
colonel, James Shaw, Jr. If there ever was a better oflQcer than
he, more capable, whole-souled and genial in every way, it has
not been our lot to find him. A fine drillmaster, good disciplina-
rian, a perfect gentleman, no wonder we all loved him and felt
inspired by his presence.
April 1, 1863, found our regiment on board the steamer Long
Island, that is to say, all except Company B, which, for want
of room, was on the steamer Swan, in company with the Seventh
Bhode Island, all bound for Baltimore, and from thence where
marching orders might assign us.
We broke camp the previous day and embarked on the boats
in the evening, and the moonlight sail was delightful, for a sol-
dier's life is not all sad and dreary. Chesapeake Bay is a lovely
body of water, almost equaling dear old Narragansett, the un-
rivaled. Reaching Baltimore, we were ordered to take the
Pennsylvania Railroad to Cincinnati, Ohio, then to cross the
Ohio River into Kentucky.
After a brief camp at Lexington, we left that town April 8th,
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208 HISTOEY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
and from nine o'clock in the morning till snnset we "hoofed" it
twenty-three miles to Winchester, where we were glad to camp
"any old way," for we were a weary lot in a strange land. This
bright little city was called the "Little Massachusetts," on ac-
count of the strong Union sentiments of the people. What's in
a name, anyway? Well, my dear mother had twelve Winches-
ters. Three of us enlisted and went, and I used to say that if
all the girls had been boys and old enough to go, every motha^'s
son of them would have enlisted. From this place I sent to the
Press a small rebel flag captured by Lieutenant Bacon under
romantic circumstances, the truth of which I do not guarantee,
but rumor said at the time that the gallant lieutenant was at
the home of one of those beautiful girls for which Kentucky has
always been noted, ostensibly to get a square meal, when, seeing
the secesh flag, he demanded its surrender. "Agreed," said the
girl, "if you will take me with it." The lieutenant promised,
but the rest of the romance this writer never learned. Our cam-
paign in Kentucky took us to what seemed like the jumping-off
place, the city of Jamestown, where we arrived June 23d. The
citizens called it "Jimtown," and by that name we soon learned
to call it.
Time would fail me if I attempted to do justice to the beauti-
ful scenery through which we passed, or to mention in detail the
experiences in Somerset, Richmond, Crab Orchard, Nicholas-
ville, Hickman's Bridge, "Paint Lick Creek," Lancaster, Stan-
ford, and many other interesting places.
I must not forget to mention the fact that when we reached
Somerset, Tuesday, June 8th, we had "trotted" more than one
hundred miles in the six days in heavy marching order, and five
minutes after reaching camp at roll call every man of the regi-
ment was present, but of the sore feet and lame l^s my readers
may form their own conclusions. A map of our journeyings in
Kentucky would be a small edition of that of the children of
Israel on their way to the promised land. Seven Jerseymen,
friends and brethren of mine, visited me last summer, and, for
my entertainment, they sang this expressive refrain:
'* They rambled up,
And they rambled down,
They rambled,
They rambled."
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBB8 209
All were fine singers, and, queer as the words were, it was so
melodious that I often find it running through my brain.
So the Twelfth B^ment in old Eentuck :
Rambled up, and
Rambled down and
Rambled back again,
over the same roads. But the endless variety of beautiful sights
from the Blue Grass region on over the Cumberland Mountains
and through lovely valleys and by cooling streams, together with
ezi>eriences gained and acquaintances formed, brings up in mem-
ory a picture that moves as if set to a pleasant melody.
From "Jimtown" we moved back again by easy stages (on
foot) and reached Cincinnati, Ohio, Monday, July 13th. About
noon we did justice to a great lunch furnished by the patriotic
citizens, and, about three p. m.^ we formed in line, and with great
joy marched, as we supposed, for the depot to take the train for
home. But you can easily imagine our surprise when we found
ourselves traveling up the Mount Auburn road, and just on top
of the hill filing to the right into an open field evidently going
Into camp. Did any of the boys call somewhat angrily to any
passing officer: "Time's out! Time's outl*' Well, I should
smile! However, when, in a few minutes, our beloved General
Burnside appeared on the scene and explained that our presence
was required for a few days until the militia could be organized
for the safety of the city, we all took in the situation and set-
tled down to business with our accustomed cheerfulness.
As Morgan was said to be making a pleasure excursion through
Ohio, we really prayed that his royal highness, "horse, foot, and
dragoon,'' might come our way, for we had blood in our eyes for
the man that had led us such a hot chase, over hill and dale,
without even a sight of his beautiful black horses. But he never
came near, so we enjoyed a beautiful camp and made many
choice friends, who vied with each other in providing for our
comfort and entertainment.
Some of us will never forget the hospitality of Rev. Erwin
House and his wife. More delightful, genial, Christian people
one can never wish to meet. Years after the war was over,
Brother House, being in New York city on business, journeyed
to Providence to make me a short visit. Our acquaintance con-
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210 HISTOBY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
tinued till one day I was startled with grief at the sad news
that Rev. Erwin House fell dead as he was ascending the stain
to his room where he was employed in the Methodist Bixjk Con-
cern, Cincinnati, Ohio. A few years later, being in Cincinnati.
I went over to Mount Auburn, and there in the very house where
we had been entertained in war-time, met Mrs. House, sad and
lonely without him whom her soul loved, but cheered with the
hope of the great reunion "In the sweet bye-and-bye."
When the excitement of Morgan's raid was over, we broke our
last camp at Mount Auburn, and the swift iron horse hurried
us home, where we arrived in due time and were received with
a perfect ovation. It was a proud and happy day as we marched
up the crowded streets thronged with patriotic citizens, and
among them saw the forms of those we loved most and best.
If that home-coming was glorious, as it surely was, what will
it be when
^^ We^l all gather home in the morning,
At the sound of the great jubilee,
WeMl all gather home in the morning,
What a gathering that will be.''
Notes.
Here's to the health of our barber. Was there ever a whiter
man of any race than Mr. Jefferson?
Here's to Drum-Major Parker, genial, jolly, and, like Ben Weet,
who, when sneered at as "only a drummer," said, "Didn't I dram
well?" So we may add, yes, and made all the drummers and
flfers "come to time."
Here's to the sutler. How could we ever have lived or died
without him? By the way, that reminds me of a little incident.
One day, after the paymaster had visited us, we were sitting
about the camp-fire and one said, "I have sent ten dollars home."
Another said, "I have sent twenty dollars home." A young fel-
low whom we will call Bomeo sat there glum, and some one said,
"Well, Bomeo, have you sent your money home?" "Yes, to its
long home," drawled Bomeo. The sutler had got evwy cent of it.
Here's to a certain company cook. I enlisted him myself; he
was generally very obliging and well up in his business. Judge
of my surprise when I found him one day down in "Old Virginny"
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 211
lying flat on his back ; it was near dinner-time, and no preparation
made for a blessed thing to eat. I went to him and with a voice
of flrst sergeant authority said, "H., get up and get dinner."
Then spoke this cooking man and said, '^I can't, orderly; I'm
dead." There he lay all that day and part of the next, dead
enough, till a soldier who had been to Fortress Monroe returned,
and, stooping down^ put a tiny box into the hands of the dead
cook, who had life enough left to get a little pill into his mouth,
when he sprang to his feet and said, "What will you have, order-
ly?" and at once resumed connection with this mundane sphere
and attended to his duty with great cheerfulness and opium-
induced zeal.
Now I must make one or two confessions. I have been an
open enemy to the "Indian weed" all my life, but — don't tell it
out loud — I carried a pipe (a small briarwood one) with
some tobacco in my pocket all through our campaigning.
You see it waa this way: There were a few boys that some-
how were so improvident that they were always "short,"
and, as the pipe and smoke was their "best holt," I added
to their comfort by bearing my cross as aforesaid and lending
the necessary articles to enable them to make a smokehouse of
their mouth and nose.
Who put the pack of cards in good Chaplain Field's pocket?
We were, as I remember, at a railroad station waiting for a train.
Some wicked soldier took out a pack of cards and said, "Put these
in the chaplain's pocket." It was very easily accomplished, and
the innocent look of astonishment that spread over the worthy
chaplain's face when later he put his hand in his pocket for his
handkerchief, and drew out instead, "kings," "queens," "jacks,"
^*aces," "deuces," "ten-spots," and the whole outfit, makes me
smile even now as I, like G. W., rise to remark, "I did it," but
meant no harm, for our good chaplain was worthy of all honor.
Here's to Theodore A. Manchester. What a good boy he used
to be in South Providence! What a fine tent-mate he was!
What a good comrade he has proved himself, for he "saved the
day" for me. You see, in General Lyon Post, Grand Army of
the Republic, where I have been honored with being chaplain,
adjutant, and commander, one comrade has for many years in-
sisted that the writer of these notes was the only survivor of the
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212 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BSGIMBNT
Twelfth Rhode Island. So join with me in my great joy of hav-
ing Theodore for my guest at a meeting of Post No. 266, and
listening, with many others, to a most interesting speech, in
which he demonstrated that there wa* at lea»t one other sur-
vivor of the Twelfth, and that he could make a speech of no mean
order.
Here's to Beriah G. Browning. He rests from his labors, but
I must pay him this tribute: He was one of the truest friends
I have ever known, and we were clerks in the same store fifty
years ago. He was a great practical jiAer, and here's one he
played on me. We both went to an old-fashioned singing-school
taught by Seth Sumner, and he was a good teacher. Well, of
course, we all went with the girls, for they were the life of the
school. I went with a fair maid a little older than myself, and
after awhile volunteered to find her a good husband, having in
mind an excellent young man of the right age. So one evening
I called at her residence, and with me went her future husband.
As he and I sat in the parlor waiting for the young lady to enter,
a gentleman strode into the room, and, approaching me, said:
"Is this Mr. W ?" I pleaded guilty to the "soft impeach-
ment," whereupon he said, ''You leave/' and motioned me to the
door. I tried to ask for an explanation, but seeing the size of
his boots, "I staid not on the order of my going," but accepted
his invitation and went, dumbfounded at such unexpected and
unmerited treatment. It makes me laugh till I cry to think of it
even now. After a while it came out. The dear girl showed
me some verses in the splendid and to me well-known hand-
writing of my friend Browning. Her father found them in her
singing-school book and accused me of being the author. They
were the well-known lines of Longfellow, where he says:
*^ She^s got a bosom white as snow,
Take care, beware ; she's fooling thee ;
She knows Just how much 'Us best to show.
Take care, beware ; she's fooling thee.''
After awhile explanations followed. My friend married the
girl and made her a fljrst-class husband. It was a healing balm
to my wounded pride to be the reputed author, for even a shcM^
time, of lines written by one of our greatest American poets.
As for Browning, it never ruffled a hair between him and me,
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 213
and when we both went in the Twelfth we were mutually glad
for such companionship.
Oh ! the father of the girl learned his mistake, but his daughter
said he was too proud ever to acknowledge an error, and I was
of that mould never to hold a grudge, and so this little true story
illumines the pages of our history.
Here's to the rebs that stole the mail-bag that had my lieuten-
ant's commission in it. By that act they did me out of between
one and two hundred dollars that would come very handy to
buy copies of this book for my brothers and sisters, children and
grandchildren, the list of such now numbering twenty!
When our time of service as a regiment was ended and we
were mustered out, how readily we conformed to the new condi-
tions! Some of us returned to our former positions, some to
equally good or better ones, and it is not too much to say that,
all in all, the men that made up the Twelfth Rhode Island have
been a credit to their home State and the country at large, and
have received their due share of public and private honors. It
is the hope and belief of the writer that in our country, to
which we gave our best service, we shall continue to be in the
future, as in the past, so loyal, so true, so patriotic and so faith-
ful to every duty, that when the silent messenger chills the warm
heart's blood, now so full of good cheer, we may lie down to rest
with peace in our souls toward God and all mankind, to await
the soon-coming summons to "Fall in!" for the grand review,
where war shall be no more.
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PERSONAL REMINISCENCES.
By THEODORE A. MANCHESTER.
A BOY of seventeen, a soldier in the greatest war of modem
times!
In September, 1862, I enlisted, signing the roll in a tent pre-
sided over by Charles M. Winchester and Albert W. Delanah,
who subsequently became respectively, orderly sergeant and sec-
ond lieutenant, and still later second and first lieutenants of
Company B, Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers, of
which I became a member.
Fully one-third of Company B were under twenty years of age.
Parents' consent was a prerequisite to the enlistment of minors,
and I well remember the struggle I had to get my father's con-
sent. I only obtained it through the intercession of my dear old
grandmother.
The life in Camp Stevens, on Dexter Training Ground, was to
me so strange that no incident passed unnoticed. Tossing men
in blankets and other kinds of ^'horse play," and the thousand
and one things that men released from the restraints of home life
indulged in, were generally looked upon by me from a safe dis-
tance.
The days were crowded full of action. After being a short
time in camp I learned to run the guard, and every evening when
not on duty I was at home until late at night.
Entering camp at midnight was a different performance, how-
ever, from going out. We stealthily entered from between build-
ings on the west of the camp, and were generally over the line
before the guard was aware of our presence; but we were always
promptly chased to our quarters, and when the pursuing guard
(from the guardhouse) arrived at our tent, everything was quiet
and we were all fast asleep.
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Theodore A. Manchester.
(From a recent picture.)
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 216
Those pleasant autumn days in camp were enjoyed by the
young soldiers in a rational way, as they, as a rule, had come
from good homes and had not acquired the deliberate recklessness
of older men. We then little dreamed of the long, weary
marches, where exhausted men fell by the wayside, or toiled on
with grim faces and set teeth, with blistered feet and shoulders
galled by knapsacks and heavy muskets.
The day when we were mustered into "Uncle Sam's'' service
rain fell in torrents, and Company B was assembled in the loft
of a stable. Two or three boys were thrown out as being too
young. I was in the rear rank, and, as the mustering officer was
passing, he halted, looked at me, started on, and, hesitating,
turned for a second look. I never wavered from "eyes straight
to the front," and he finally walked on, apparently satisfied that
I was all right.
I well remember the first time I was detailed for guard duty.
My beat was near the cookhouse, and, when the officer of the
guard. Lieutenant Lapham, of Company B, made the rounds that
night, he was in more danger of being bayoneted by the young
soldier who was determined to do his full duty than he probably
imagined.
1 was in the trenches one day near our camp, doing my part in
throwing up some breastworks, when Lewis J. Matteson, of Com-
pany B, had a pick driven through his hand by Charles H. An-
drews, of the same company. We were very much crowded in the
trench, and when Matteson threw back his hand the pick came
down and was driven through the hand, taking a piece off of the
handle of the shovel, the point of the pick being driven into the
wood fully half an inch. That severe wound kept him from tak-
ing part in the battle of Fredericksburg.
On one occasion the raiment was on picket duty, when my
beat extended down a hill to a little stream which crossed the
beat near its end. At one time, when I came down to the stream,
I failed to find the picket who should have met me there. I lis-
tened intently and detected a sound as of some one snoring, and,
by following the direction thereof, I found this picket propped
up against a tree, fast asleep. I awoke him, but, owing to his
extreme weariness, I had to repeat the operation several times
before we were relieved.
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216 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBOIMENT
One night when on picket duty, an advance post had been sent
out from the main body and I happened to be with this detach-
ment. There was a good deal of noise being made by the trains
on the railroad a short distance away in our front, when word
came back to us that guerillas were at work near the railroad,
and I was detailed to carry word to that eflfect back to the grand
guard, which was encamped about a mile in our rear. I did not
relish the work, but started. Did I keep in the middle of the
road and scan every foot of the way? Well, I should say I did.
The night was dark and the road little more than a cart-path.
When I approached the little stream that at one point crossed the
road, I heard its murmurip? long before I reached it, and was
a long time making up my mind just what the noise was. I ap-
proached it stealthily and at last concluded it was safe to proceed.
I had my musket ready, hammer thrown back to full cock, and
woe betide any living thing that might have been unfortunate
enough to cross my path during that lonely walk. I reached the
grand guard at last, made my report and returned to my post
without a mishap. To one whose life had been spent in a city,
that tramp along the lonely country road, under the circum-
stances, was anything but a pleasure trip.
Company B had many musical comrades and the evenings were
passed pleasantly in song, and the time at Oamp Casey was thus
relieved of the monotony attendant on camp life. I knew little
of what was being done in other companies of the regiment, as
I kept to quarters very closelv. The first day of December we
were on the march through Washington and across Eastern
Branch to Uniontown, where we lay down with only our blankets
iPor shelter. An old soldier had said to me, "Take oflf your shoes
when you get under your blanket and you will never have cold
feet." I followed his advice then and ever after, and found it
the better plan. When I awoke the morning was beautifully
bright and clear, and the dome of the Capitol, a short distance
away, was glistening in the sunlight. White frost covered all
exposed objects, and, melting under the influence of a warm sun,
our blankets were soon wet, which added weight to the load we
were obliged to carry.
Company B was in its regular position on the left of the line
during the march of the second day. There had been some loss
of distance and some straggling, and, at dusk, a small party, of
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BHODD ISLAND VOLUNTBERS 217
which I was one, came to an estate on the left of the road, where
the hedges were afire, whether by the act of some vandal or by
accident I did not know. The women of the place were all down
near the road, highly excited and nervously crying and wringing
their hands, b^ging our men to extinguish the fire before it
reached the buildings. Company B was badly broken up, and
I, personally, did not see what assistance I could render, so hur-
ried on to join the main body of the regiment. It was a sad
scene, and one which 1 have lived over in my mind many, many
times since that night in Maryland. When we encamped in the
snow, on Friday evening, we were wet and covered with mud.
The march of the day had been fearfully trying. Besides the
rain and snow that fell to wet us and add pounds of extra weight
for us to carry, the road was churned into a sea of mud, and the
left of the line had "all that was coming to them." Company
B was in the woods, where the brush had been cut and lay to the
depth of several inches. We scraped the snow from the brush
and started a fire. Bice was put on to boil by our company
cooks, and, having no salt, "salt horse" was put into the kettles
with it, thus furnishing seasoning for the rice.
Towards midnight the weather became very cold and the full
moon was shining from a cloudless sky. The surface of the wet
snow was an ice crust at the time, and I, in company with several
of my comrades, was prowling about a short distance from camp,
when we came across a persimmon tree in the cattle enclosure of
a farmer. The tree was loaded with the ripe and frozen fruit.
We filled our haversacks and went back to camp and crawled
between our blankets. The next morning, under the influence of
our camp-fire, the fruit Iiad softened into a solid mass, losing all
semblance of individual form, and besmearing the lining of our
haversacks with the brown and sticky substance. I ate my fill
and have never hankered for persimmons since.
1 shall never forget the cold and discomfort of that afternoon
at Liverpool Landing. The orders were "not to forage on the
loyal citizens of Maryland," and the order was obeyed until pa-
tience ceased to be a virtue, when the boys "made a break" for the
fences, and we soon had a fire of rails as large as an ordinary
cottage. Company B crossed the river on a coal barge which
was towed to Acquia Creek landing by a small steamer. The
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218 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
wind which swept down the river was as keen as the edge of a
knife, and, when we arrived at the landing, I was thoroughly
chilled. The night was very dark and we stumbled along the
road to that camp of horrors, afterwards known as '^Can^
Smoke/'
Two days' marching from here brought us to our camp on the
snow-covered ground near Fredericksburg. The next morning
we marched out a mile from camp and lay on our arms all day
while the city and the rebel works beyond were being shelled.
That morning I, for the first time, saw a wounded man just from
the front. He was on an artillery caisson which had come to
the rear for ammunition. A shot or shell had passed between
his body and left arm, tearing a great hole in his side and the
fiesh from his arm. A stretcher was hastily taken from an am-
bulance and the wounded man laid on the clean white canvas,
which in an instant was crimson with his blood. I well remem-
ber with what horror I viewed the transformation, and with
soberness, akin to fear, I thought of what the future might have
in store for me. I thought of home and the dear ones there, and
a great pity for them, rather than for myself, came over me at the
possibility of such a mishap. Friday morning a ration of
whiskey was issued to the men. The young soldiers, who did not
drink whiskey, were urgently solicited to draw their ration,
which in most instances they did and some obtained more than
was good for them.
That day we entered the city, and, as we marched down the ra-
vine near the Lacy House, the Confederate shells were cutting
the branches from the trees under which we were marching in
column of fours, and they were raining down upon us as we were
making our way through the ravine which opened upon the river.
"Head of column to the right," was the order, and, after a short
distance along the edge of the river to the left, we were on the
pontoon bridge and crossing the river.
While lying on the street facing the river many exciting inci-
dents occurred. One was when a shell came screaming over the
bluflP and two men of the Sixth New Hampshire swung out of
line, with a half step to the rear, as it hurled itself ( fortunately
without exploding), just where they stood.
I watched the soldiers fishing boxes of tobacco out of the
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 219
riyer, and, breaking them open, distributing the contents among
the men.
At one time a regiment, in colnmn of fours, with its field officers
mounted, was seen marching toward the brink of the steep bluff
across the river, as if making for the pontoon bridge beneath
them. A band at their head was playing the air of one of the
popular songs of the day, whose refrain was, "Bully for you!
bully for you!*' At the instant the right of the regiment reached
the very crest of the hill a shell from the Ck)nfederate works went
screeching over the river and fell in the midst of the first com-
pany. Almost in the twinkling of an eye it seemed to me, of
that* long line there was not a man in sight, except five human
forms that lay stretched upon the ground, where but a moment
before had been the proudly marching r^ment. As if by magic,
there flashed along our line, the expressed belief, "That is the
Eleventh Rhode Island." But being denied, the impression pre-
vailed that it was the Eleventh New Hampshire. I so believed
until one evening, years afterwards, when I was relating the in-
cident before a reunion of the New Hampshire veterans, when a
gentleman from Manchester, N. H., Jenkins by name, got upon
his feet and holding his maimed right hand said: "This is the
effect of that shell falling in the ranks of the Sixth New Hamp-
shire." His brother, a member of the same regiment, but at that
time chief of police of Manchester, also told the same story from
his point of view.
A battery off to our right, opposite Falmouth, had our range,
but apparently could not depress their pieces enough to harm us.
We would watch the hill, and, seeing a puff of smoke, in an in-
stant would hear the report of the gun, and then the shell would
go screaming over our heads. We lay low until the shell went
over and then would straighten up again. Captain Longstreet
was pacing back and forth on an exposed place on the highest
ground, in plain view of Cobb's men, who were in the sunken road
behind the stone wall in front of Marye's Heights. It was here
I received a crushing blow on the head which staggered me. I
imagined some clumsy fellow had stumbled and as he fell threw
his musket from his shoulder, striking me on the head. When I
collected myself and looked around, the nearest man to me, ex-
cept the two dead men at my feet, was not within six or eight
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220 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
feet. I picked my cap from the ground, where it had fallen, and
found a bullet hole through it My hair was very heavy and
thick and I imagine the bullet, coming at the propw angle,
glanced from it, thus saving me from a bad scalp wound, if
nothing more serious. A step onto lower ground, which I had
taken at that instant, had been an important factor in saving
me from death by a bullet through the head. It was one of those
"close calls" that I had seen many instances of that day.
One member of Company B had a bullet strike the lower cor-
ner of his haversack, tearing the corner off and breaking in its
course the comer of every hard-tack but the last, against which
it stopped and fell flattened to the ground. A wound in the
groin would have been the result if the haversack had not been
hanging partially in front of him. When he heard the bullet
strike, his face was ashen pale, and he imagined he was wounded
until I indicated the bullet at his feet. He picked the bullet up
and soon recovered from his fright.
As we neared the stone wall, Meagher's men of the "Irish
Brigade" were coming out, singly and in small groups. The
ground was strewn with their dead and wounded. The bat-
teries from summit to base of Marye's Hill were sending grape
and canister into our ranks, and the riflemen, behind the stone
wall, were sweeping the plain, across which our men were swarm-
ing. The Twelfth Rhode Island left some of their men among
the dead of the "Irish Brigade" at this point.
As we were coming out, just at dusk, we were crossing an open
space, when Bill Mason, of B Company, was struck in the groin
by a bullet. I was near him and will ever remember the sound
that bullet made as it struck him. A hole in his overcoat in-
dicated where it had entered his body. We helped him off the
field, leaving him at one of the improvised hospitals in the city.
He has never been seen or heard from since, and is, undoubtedly,
one of the thirteen thousand unknown dead who sleep their last
sleep in the Fredericksburg National Cemetery.
The night was dark and the Confederates were sending shell
down the streets that led from the direction of their works to the
river. The army was in confusion and the Twelfth Regiment
was, for the time being, hopelessly scattered. I found a few of
the men, but I don't remember where I slept that night While
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RHODE ISLAND V0LUNTBBB8 221
making coffee, a shell strpck in the centre of the little camp^fire^
scattering tin cups and blazing embers, while the men simply
^'tcent/' taking no thought on the order of their going. For-
tanatelj, the shell did not explode and no one was injured.
Sunday, the 14th, was cloudy and foggy. I went out to the edge
of the town and looked over the field. Several Union regiments
were lying in the depressions out of sight of the Confederates.
The day passed quietly except for the noise from the continuous
line of ambulances along the streets leading to the bridges,
carrying our wounded over the river. I found a friend from the
Seventh Rhode Island lying in one of the churches, with a bullet
wound in the cheek. A broken jaw and loss of teeth was the
immediate result of the wound, while consumption and death a
few years later was the final. After the war I saw very much
of him. He was an Englishman, but was naturalized, and served
in the army while his health lasted. I never heard one word of
complaint from him in reference to his adopted country, and he
was very proud of his record in the army of the Union.
Monday night, I, with several companions, slept in the base-
ment of one of the dwellings that fronted on Princess Ann Street.
We had beans and pork for supper. We invited several officers
in to our feast.
When the regiment moved out onto the field that night we
were overlooked. I remember two of the party were from Com-
pany B and two were from Company D. Tuesday morning I
was awakened by some one rushing down stairs from the street
floor, and in an excited manner shouting: ''The army has evac-
uated the city and rebel cavalry is in front of the house I" One
of the men who had been with us during the night gathered his
clothes and shoes in his arms and rushed out of the basement
door towards the river. Most of the party, however, stopped
long enough to dress, for, as in my own case, they felt it would
be better to be fully dressed if we were to receive callers. We
had no time for breakfast that morning. When we started out
we found the morning damp and disagreeable. Rain had fallen
during the night and the mud was very much in evidence. We
hurried through the yard, and, by way of a vacant lot, to the
street back of the house. My companion stopped to take a
blanket off a knapsack marked "Fifty-ninth New York." As we
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222 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH RBOIMBNT
passed through on our way to the street, citizens were seen here
and there, with their heads out of the open windows, watching
the few soldiers who were straggling toward the pontoon bridges.
I only remember one of my companions of that night being with
me at this time. As we stepped upon the pontoon bridge, we
saw Chaplain Field on the bridge a short distance ahead of us.
The engineers had just commenced to take up the planking of the
bridge, and if we had been a few minutes later we should have
experienced some difficulty in crossing. We found the regiment
at or near the old camp. It was raining at the time and we were
covered with mud. I don't remember when we broke our fast,
but it could hardly have been much before noon. That was the
only time during our service that I was away from the regiment
for so long a time without leave.
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Edward F. Gurry.
(From a recent picture.)
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REMINISCENCES.
By EDWARD F. GURRY.
Comrade Eh>wABD F. Queey, who was severely wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, relates his experience as follows:
"I crossed the river with the *bojs' on the 12th of December
and went into action on the 13th. I was wounded early in the
engagement, just after coming out of the 'Railroad Cut/ and
again in the afternoon while lying on the battlefield.
"I little exi)ected to leave the field alive, and that I was for-
tunate in doing so I only too fully realize. One can imagine my
feelings as I lay there during the night of the 13th and all of
the following day, with the dead and dying around me; and, to
make my situation more distressing, a cold, drizzling rain came on
during the night of the 13th, followed by much colder weather.
"My clothes, saturated with the rain and blood, greatly aggra-
vated my wounds, which became much more painful, while the
increasing bitter cold added also to my misery. On the after-
noon of the 13th a Pennsylvania regiment made a charge across
the field, but was forced back with heavy loss, literally cut to
pieces. I recognized them as Pennsylvanians from the well-
known 'Buck Tails' worn in their hats.
''As I was lying almost directly in their path, during a cessa-
tion of Confederate firing, I put forth all my remaining strength
and managed to crawl outside their line of advance and to a
more sheltered locality before they came upon me. Here I rested
until taken off the field. The spot, I remember, was but a short
distance from the historic 'Brick House.'
"During the action, the major of the Pennsylvania regiment
referred to was killed and fell a short distance from me. On
Sunday, the 14th, early in the evening, I noticed some of the
members of his r^ment crawling near me in search of their
major. Finding him dead, they gathered up his equipments, and.
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224 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
as they were about to leave, I made my presence known, obeerr*
ing which they rolled me upon their stretcher and I was taken
from the field.
''This undertaking was fraught with great difficulty and dan-
ger, as my rescuers had to practically crawl away, dragging me
between them, as the rebel bullets could still be heard around ns
when any noise or movement in our vicinity attracted their at-
tention.
"We were enabled to finally reach the city, from which place
I was later brought across the river and carried to Mount
Pleasant Hospital, Washington, D. C. I remained in the hos-
pital two months, cared for by the kind Sisters of Mercy, whom
I shall ever hold in grateful remembrance, about the end of
which time I was relieved of a bullet which had lain in my thigh
since that eventful 13th of December, 1862.
"I was then transferred to Portsmouth Grove, Rhode Island,
remaining there until the regiment was mustered out, after which
I remained at home six months. I then returned to Washington
and was in the Government service until 1866. I recall the ex-
citement in Washington on the night that Lincoln was assas-
sinated, and also the trial and hanging of Captain Wirz at the
'Old Capitol Prison,' being present at his execution."
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Theodore F. Dexter.
(From a recent picture.)
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A PERSONAL REMINISCENCE
Bt THEODORE F. DEXTER.
On June 23, 1863, the Twelfth Rhode Island Regiment arrived
at a place called ^^Jimtown," in Kentucky, after marching from
Bomerset. The rations were all gone, and, on the next morning,
the 24th, I was detailed to go with a wagon-train for new sup-
plies of rations and forage for the teams. The train was in charge
of our quartermaster, John L. Clarke, and consisted of seven
six-mule teams of our own regiment and four six-mule teams
of the Thirty-second Kentucky, making eleven teams in all, with
the quartermaster and wagon master mounted on horses. Our
orders were to go to a place called Columbia, about twenty miles
away, through a rough and wooded country. When we reached
the town, we found that the post quartermaster's stores had all
been removed some few days before. Our quartermaster had
orders in case no rations could be obtained here, to go on some
forty miles further to a place called Lebanon, where there
was a large depot for government rations. Our quartermaster
made some inquiries as to the nature of the country and also as
to a place to park the teams at night. Such a place he found
about four miles farther on the road. Here we parked the teams,
and a man named Merrill, on whose farm we were encamped,
agreed to get us supper. The party consisted of just fourteen
persons, the quartermaster, wagon master, eleven teamsters, and
the cook, whose name I cannot recall, but who belonged to Com-
pany D, of Newport, and who, I think, came from Block Island.
Our wagon master, James Whipple, was a butcher by trade,
and^ on the night before, he had, with the assistance of some of
the teamsters, killed one of the so-called razor-backed hogs,
which, not having had time to cook, he had hung from the top
of one of the wagons. Quartermaster Clarke told Mr. Merrill
that all he need provide for our supper was some hot biscuit and
15
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226 BISTORT OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
coffee, for the boys had some rabbits that they had killed, and,
if he would fry them, it would be all the meat they wanted.
Well ! If you could have seen Mr. Merrill and his family open
their eyes when our men carried in a whole ham to be sliced and
fried! There was a laugh all around, and Mr. Merrill thought
it was a "pretty large-sized rabbit that had a hind-quarter large
enough to feed fourteen men." We had a good supp^ and all
seemed to enjoy the joke.
We slept in the wagons at night and in the morning got a good
start for Lebanon, which was thirty-six miles away, through a
rough and wooded country. We arrived at about eight o'clock
in the evening and parked the teams a short distance outside of
the town. Our quartermaster reported immediately to the post
quartermaster and showed his requisition for eight days' rations
for one thousand men and forage for the teams. The post quar-
termaster inquired how much of an escort he had, and, when he
was told that there was none, he was greatly surprised that we
had succeeded in coming sixty miles through a guerilla country
without being molested. He said we would not get back, but
would be "gobbled up," and, as events turned out, he came near
being correct, for the country through which we had come was
full of John Morgan's guerillas, who were there to plunder and
steal. After taking care of my team, I went down to the town
with another teamster and had supper there in a hotel, paying
one dollar — ^my last dollar — for the same.
I slept in the wagon during the night and got some coffee and
bacon for breakfast. Then the work of loading the teams
with rations b^an. They consisted of pork, bacon, rice, hominy,
salt junk, hard bread, coffee, molasses, sugar, beans, etc., and
hay and oats for the animals.
By the middle of the afternoon we started on our return trip,
and, after going about twelve miles, we parked the teams for the
night and rolled up in our blankets under the wagons. After
a good start in the morning, we arrived in the middle of the
afternoon at Green River, about twenty-four miles from camp
and four miles from Columbia. Here was a temporary bridge
in place of the regular bridge which had been destroyed by the
rebels. About two hundred men, under command of Ck>lonel
Moore, of an Iowa regiment, guarded this. We crossed and pro-
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 227
ceeded about three-fourths of a mile, when we stopped to feed
the mules. While we were here, the report came that Morgan's
men were in Columbia and were coming down the road we were
on. Everyone that had anything that he did not want confis-
cated was hustling for all he waa worth to get it out of sight
and hide it in the nearby woods. The owner of a variety store
beside the road was very busy in this occupation. 1 rather
laughed at his timidity, for I did not think there was any danger,
but the quartermaster was told that the best thing he could do
was to get back over the bridge, and the commander of the Iowa
troops would do the best he could to protect the train. The
quartermaster, accordingly, gave the order to go back. It was a
down grade, and the way the mules ran with the loaded wagons
pushing them along was surprising. Sometimes they stumbled,
but they had a knack of righting themselves, so we did not stop
till we got across the bridge and parked the teams, to await de-
velopments. Colonel Moore sent a detachment of men to Colum-
bia, and they cleaned the guerillas out. As it was then night,
however, we did not move at once, but expected to get an early
start in the morning and go through to camp.
I should have said that it had rained every day since we
started, and a heavy shower had fallen during the night, so that
the riveip was greatly swollen, and was, in fact, in the condition
of a freshet. The bridge, rather a weak concern, was only a
temporary structure, whose uprights were made of trees cut in
the woods. Scantlings and girders were nailed from one to an-
other of these to steady them, and, on the girders, planks were
laid crosswise. The driftwood collected here, and the water,
rushing along, formed a sort of gorge. In the morning it had
the appearance of a rainbow, and, seemingly, it was not safe for
anyone to cross, much less eleven six-mule teams, loaded to their
full capacity. We sat on the bank watching the driftwood come
down, and about nine o'clock the bridge trembled and gave way.
There we were, twenty-four miles from camp, with Green River
between us and the regiment, and the bridge gone. Bather a
dubious outlook, especially as we had no one that knew the coun-
try, which, as we knew, was full of rebels. Our quartermaster
saw that something must be done to inform Colonel Browne of
our situation, so he arranged with Colonel Moore to send a man
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228 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
in a rebel uniform across on a raft to try to reach the regiment
and report to the colonel. The raft was built quite a way up
stream, and the cook, who was the Block Island man before re-
ferred to, boarded it and pushed out into the stream. Finally,
he landed on the other side, about half a mile below the starting-
point. That it took some nerve and sand to go through a guerilla
country twenty-four miles, disguised in a rebel uniform, is put-
ting it mildly. However, he accomplished the feat, after running
some very narrow chances of being captured.
On Monday and Tuesday, while he was gone, we saddled the
mules and rode back into the country and traded government
rations for eggs and milk, etc. Tuesday afternoon there arrived
an escort of thirty-five men, under command of Captain Higley,
of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, with maps and directions. We
were to go back and up the river to a place called Neatsville,
where there was a fording-place. We started next morning, and,
after thirty-five miles of the roughest traveling I have ever done,
arrived at Neatsville. This took us two days. The road was a
mere cart-path through the woods, and in some places we had to
chain the wheels and all hold on to the wagons to keep them
from tipping over. After fording the river, we parked the teams
and went in bathing.
We got up early in the morning, and, after a breakfaat of hard-
tack and coffee, we hitched up the teams and started. Just be-
fore we reached the main cart-path, we met a man with a tip-cart
and a yoke of oxen. Our quartermaster was surprised to see
him so early in the morning, as it was hardly sunrise. He asked
the man where he was going and what he had in his cart. The
man said he was going to "Jimtown," where there were Union
soldiers, and, a» the next day was the Fourth of July, he was
going to give the boys a picnic. He had been all around the
neighborhood, and all the Union people had contributed. Some
had given pies, others doughnuts, cookies, cake, etc.; in fact, he
had a whole cart-load of good things. Our quartermaster had
quite a talk with him and asked him for information in regard
to the road, etc. He started along and we followed about fifteen
minutes later. We had not gone far when the quartermaster
came alongside of my team, which led the train, and said, "Thede,
I am on the wrong road." He thought he should have taken the
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBEBS 2^29
path to the left, instead of the one to the right After a con-
sultation with Captain Higley, it waa decided that the only thing
to do was to keep on till we came to an opening large enough for
ns to turn around in. We were then at the foot of a mountain,
and there was just room enough for the teams to wriggle in be-
tween the stones. However, we finally reached the top and
found an open space. We could see that cavalry had been here
the night before. Of course, this did not look right, especially
as the indications pointed to quite a party of them. The teams
were turned around, and we started back down the mountain
till we came to the right road. We finally got straightened out
all right on the right path and were going along at a good pace
to make up for lost time, when we suddenly met a company of
guerillas, who were going to Neatsville to get horses and such
other things as their sympathizers had collected. They ran into
our advance guard, and I think they were more surprised than
we were, for they did not know whether they had struck a regi-
ment of cavalry or not. Their commander. Captain Salter, who
was captured said that if he had known we were a wagon train
he would have attacked the rear at the same time, and thus, by
preventing Captain Higley from consolidating his men, made it
more diflBcult to protect us. As it was, there was quite a skir-
mish. The rear guard was notified, and came to the front with
their carbines and seven-shooters. They chained the rebels im-
mediately, and made it so hot for the guerillas that they broke
and retreated, some to the woods, others along the road. As a
result, we captured five prisoners, one of whom was wounded,
who was put into my wagon. He had been shot in the cheek and
made a great fuss because we did not have a surgeon to dress
his wound. 1 told him it would have served him right if he had
been killed, for they had attacked us, meaning to kill or cap-
ture us and destroy our train. We had orders to move on and
keep closed up, for it was expected that the guerillas would make
another attack. They did so, about half a mile farther on at the
top of a hill. But the guard charged them again, and they scat-
tered. One was wounded, and he, with another, who stayed to
assist him, was taken prisoner. As I have before said, the
guerillas were coming along the road to go to Neatsville, and be-
fore they met us they had come across the man with the ox-cart
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280 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BEOIMBNT
full of ''good things." He had not told them about our train,
or else they would not have been so surprised when they met us.
Afl it was, they had cleaned the old man out of all his sweet-
meats. The road where they retreated was strewed with
pies, cakes, cookies, etc., for nearly half a mile. The pris-
oners whom we had taken said they had sixty men and
expected re-enforcements before night. About noon Captain
Higley thought it best to send a messenger ahead to camp
for re-enforcements. He did so, and some fifty of Colcmel
Wolford's cavalry met us about Ave or six miles from the
regiment, all of them just crazy for a flght. They scoured
all around that afternoon and the next day, and took twenty-
eight more prisoners, making thirty-five in all. Colonel Browne
had charge of the prisoners, and we had them on our return trip,
which took a week more. The last we saw of them was at Stan-
ford, where there was a rebel prison.
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•"....1
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Walter A. Scott.
(From a recent picture.)
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REMINISCENCES.
Bt WALTER A. SCOTT.
Although the battle of Fredericksburg was replete with
many historically important incidents, to me it is most remem-
bered because of two happenings of a purely personal nature.
In the early morning hours of the 11th of December, 1862, while
the artillery coming from all directions was taking position on
the heights to support the crossing of the army, I with others,
was looking for Rhode Island batteries as they passed. While
«o engaged I heard some one inquiring for me and was overjoyed
to meet my father, who was in Hazard's Battery B. He grasped
my hand and asked about my health and for news from home.
This meeting was all too brief as he was obliged by duty to
leave hurriedly and rejoin his command. Two days later, in the
evening after the battle, one of his comrades came to me with
the information that he had been severely wounded and desired
to see me. I obtained permission to go to him, but was too late,
as he had been moved across the river, and a few days later was
sent forward to Washington. Our meeting was thus postponed
until our return to Rhode Island, he disabled by the two wounds
received in action, I safe and sound, and both with the terrible
experiences of that eventful 13th of December, 1862, on the dis-
astrous field of Fredericksburg, indelibly impressed on our mem-
oriea>
1 At this iMtttle BatUrj B. known m Hasard*f Rbode iBlAnd Batterj, f oni^bt brarely ander
% hot fln In front of the i tone mJl at the foot of Xarye*! Heights, losing sixteen men
voonded (sereral of whem snbseqnentlj died from their wounds); twelre batterj horses
were shot, slso the horses of Captain Hasard and Lieutenants Bloodgood and Milne.
General Goneh who commanded the Second Corps in this action in his ofllcial report says :
** While Homphreys was at work, Getty's dirlsion of Willcox's corps was ordered about
three o'clock to the charge on oar left by the nnflnished railroad. I conld see the men were
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232 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH ELEOIMBNT
As I have already said, there are many incidents connected
with that battle the recollections of which can never be forgot-
ten, but none that has made such a vivid impression upon my
mind as the one I am now about to relate : On the morning of
the 11th of December, 1862, our regiment was formed in line on
Stafford's Heights, opposite Fredericksburg. We were in light
marching order, our blankets and shelter tents rolled and dung
about our shoulders, with three days' rations and extra ammuni-
tion, and waiting for the pontoon bridges to be laid to enable na
to cross the river to the city. We had been in line for hon«
while the batteries near us were shelling the city and trying to
dislodge the sharpshooters opposing the engineers who were lay-
ing the bridges. It became tiresome to me and I longed to more
about, although strict orders had been given that no one should
leave the ranks a^ we were likely to move at any moment A
short time previous an old schoolmate, from the Fourth Regi-
ment Rhode Island Volunteers, had visited me and invited me
over to a little feast they were preparing. Thoughts of this and
the irksomeness of standing idle at last overcame me. I was ii
the rear rank, and, watching a time when none of the offieew
were looking, I asked a comrade to hold my musket for me while
I stepped out of the ranks for a few minutes. He, being older,
bein^ dreadfully cut up, although they had not advanced as far aa my men. I determined
to send a battery upon the plain to shell the line that was doinf^ them so much harm, so
I ordered an aide to tell Captain Morgan (chief of artiUery of the Second Corps), to eend a
battery across the canal and plant it near the Brick House. Mofi^an came to me and asid:
* My God ! General ! You will lose your i^ns, a battery cannot lire there ! ' My reply vea :
' Then it can die there ! I would rather lose my guns than so many of my man ; put them in.*
Hazard's Battery B, First Regiment Rhode Island Light Artillery, was the one to be
sacriflced.
*' Without a murmur, Captain Hazard dashed, with his six twelre-poonders, into the street,
oyer the bridge, and, getting into action on the left of the road, opened fire with a rapidity
which well seired my purpose, to hearten our men lying down in front, and create in the
mind of the enemy the expectation of a new assault, which would draw their Are aad
reliCTe the pressure on the Ninth Corps.
*' The right section of Hazard's battery under Lieut. G. W. Adams, a cool and capahli
officer, is still further adranced in the road in line of the Brick House. Three nnmber
ones are struck down in quick succession, at the muzzle of the guns, but still the pieces
were serred in that perilous place as steadily as if at a reriew.
*'Men never fought more gallantly. When General Hooker returned to the field be
ordered Frank's battery (G, First New York,) to the ridge on Haaard's left in support. Bat
this last effort did not last long. Never before, I believe, was artiUery so tu advanced in
plain sig^t without cover against an intrenched enemy. The object of the daring enterprise
was accomplished, and the guns were ultimately withdrawn without the loss of a siafle
piece, and Battery B, First Regiment Rhode Island Light Artillery, Oapt. John O. Heard
commanding, was placed upon record."
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RHODB ISLAND YOLUNTBBBS 238
cautioned me not to go too far. I managed to get away un-
noticed by any of my officers and made the trip of about half a
mile to where the Fourth Rhode Island was encamped. They
had been on picket duty the night previous and were relieved
from duty for the day. As I had expected, I found a number
of my old acquaintances who were delightel to see me, and who
treated me royally. The feast, I found, consisted of boiled rice,
molasses and cofifee, and no one but a hungry soldier can under-
stand how good that meal tasted to me. The time passed so
pleasantly that it was some time before I realized that I had
been away longer than was safe. It was fast growing dark, and
so bidding my friends good-bye, I hurried back to join my com-
pany. The thought then came to me like a flash — what if the
company had moved across the river and gone into action? How
was I to join them, and, failing to do so, would I be reported as
absent without leave at roll call? Possibly I would be reported
as a deserter and court-martialled for deserting in the face of
the enemy. How could I explain my disobedience of orders?
I had acted on the impulse of the moment in leaving my regi-
ment, not thinking of disobeying orders or the consequences
which might result from my thoughtlessness. The mental an-
guish I endured until I found our regiment was the most ter-
rible of my war-time experiences. I hurried back as rapidly as
possible, but the way was difficult. It had grown dark and I
could not recognize anything familiar. The regiments that had
covered the field early in the day had gone. Very few troops
were about, only a few stragglers here and there. No one I met
could give me any definite information as to where I could find
my regiment. One party said all the troops had crossed the
river, which information frightened me still more. In the dark-
ness I was partially lost and unable to locate the direction of
our camp. The only thing I could do was to find the camp we
bad left in the morning. As our extra baggage, knapsacks, etc.,
were left under camp guard, I knew I would find friends there.
Aifter a search of nearly an hour I at last found the Twelfth.
It had been ordered back to our old camp at about dusk as only
a part of the army crossed the river that day. To say that I
was glad to again be with my company but feebly expresses my
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284 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
feelings. I had come to a full realization of what might have
been my punishment had I failed to be present at roll call. My
comrade with whom I had left my muetket gave me a severe le^
ture for disobeying orders. This experience taught me to obey
orders implicitly and to never leave my company whai mider
orders^, without permission, a lesson which I never forgot dur-
ing the rest of my service.
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PART FOURTH
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Quartermaster-Sergt. Pardon E. Tilt^inghast.
(From a recent picture.)
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REMINISCENCES OF SERVICE WITH THE TWELFTH
RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS.
By pardon E. TILLINGHAST.
Thb months of July, August, September, and October of 1862,
were stirring times in Rhode Island, — ^and in fact throughout the
entire North. The vigorous onward movement of our army to-
wards Richmond, which had been long and frequently promised,
was still deferred. The decisive victory won by the Union forces
over Lee's army at Malvern Hill at great cost, which, in the
judgment of every officer in the Army of the Potomac save one,
and he the chief, should have been immediately followed by a
determined advance towards the rebel stronghold, which was
only about a day's march distant, was supplemented by the now
somewhat stereotyped order to "fall back,'* thus presenting the
not altogether inspiring military spectacle of a victorious army
running away from its defeated and thoroughly demoralized
enemy.
General Pope's campaign in Northern Virginia, inaugurated
with a great flourish of trumpets, had resulted disastrously ; the
rebel army was greatly encouraged by the inactivity and the va-
cillating conduct of their opponents, and had commenced a vigor-
ous aggressive movement. The National capital was again in
imminent peril, causing a feverish excitement throughout the
country; Baltimore and Cincinnati were seriously threatened,
and a great crisis was evidently at hand. Vigorous measures
must be adopted at once, or our boasted Republic would soon be
a thing of the past.
The President, in view of the great emergency, had ordered
drafts, amounting in the aggregate to six hundred thousand men,
one-half thereof for three years and the other half for nine
months, the latter to be drawn from the enrolled militia; and the
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288 HISTORY OF THO TWELFTH BBQIMBNT
utmost activity everywhere prevailed in connection with the rais-
ingy equipping and forwarding of this va«t army of recmita.
Bhode Island was thoroughly alive to the occasion, determined
not to be outdone by any of her sister states in meeting this new
and pressing demand upon her loyalty and her resources; and
meeting it, too, if possible, without resort to a draft, which, of
course was obnoxious to the sentiments of the people. In order
to promote enlistments, the stores in some places were closed
at three p. m. each day; war meetings were held every evening
and the greatest enthusiasm was manifested. The whole
State seemed to be one vast recruiting camp, and all the
people, both male and female, to be engaged in the business.
For it should ever be remembered, to the praise of the women of
Bhode Island, that they were fully as loyal and as devoted to
our country's cause during the Rebellion, as were the men; and
that in very many cases they suffered and sacrificed quite as
much at home, though in different ways, as did their husbandi
and sons and brothers in the field.
In such a state of public feeling, what could I, a young un-
married man, do consistently with a fair amount of self-respect
but enlist? Evidently nothing; and so I left the teacher's desk
and enlisted as a private in Company C, Eleventh Bhode Island
Volunteers, under Capt. Charles W. Thrasher. I was detailed
for service in the quartermaster's department under Lieut. John
L. Clarke, and shortly after was transferred with him (I never
knew why) to the Twelfth, and was appointed by Colonel Browne
to the oflBce of quartermaster-sergeant.
Camp Stevens, in Providence, was a lively place during the
latter part of September and the first part of October, 1862.
The Eleventh and Twelfth regiments were both encamped there
together during a part of this time, preparatory to their de-
parture for the seat of war. The former left on Monday, Octo-
ber 6th, and the latter on Tuesday, October 21st.
The Twelfth Regiment was composed mainly of good Bhode
Island material, and was officered by intelligent, patriotic, and
brave-hearted men. There were representatives from nearly all
of the ordinary walks and callings of life, thus furnishing the
command with facilities for almost any emergency; and it was
proverbial that whatever could be done by anybody could be
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEBBS 239
done by some one in this regiment. The officers and the privates
were well-disposed towards each other; there was a prevalent
spirit of prompt obedience to orders; and, in general, a manifest
disposition on the part of all to make themselves useful and ser-
viceable both to the Oovernment and to each other.
A journey of seventy-seven hours from Providence, partly by
rail, partly by water, and partly on foot, brought this newly-
formed regiment to Camp Chase, which was situated across the
Potomac from Washington, in the neighborhood of Arlington
Heights. The work of pitching our tents was at once commenced
and rapidly pushed forward. But before it was completed, a
violent storm of wind and rain broke upon us which continued
for nearly two days without intermission. And such a storm!
I think I never saw the like before or since. It did not simply
rain, but it came down in great broad sheets of water; it poured;
it came in great gusts. And then the wind — ^it whirled, it roared,
it got upon its giant l^s and fairly howled with rage as the
weary hours of that first night in camp wore away.
And such a sorry sight as that camp presented the next morn-
ing was not calculated to promote one's military enthusiasm, to
say the least. Many of the tents, all of which had been hastily
erected, had been blown down during the night, and the drenched
and shivering inmates were wandering about in search of shelter
or assistance in again erecting their uncertain habitations. Bag-
gage and camp equipage were scattered in all directions, and
confusion held high carnival generally. As if this were not
enough for beginners, we were also treated to our first install-
ment of Virginia mud, which covered the entire surface of the
ground to a depth of two or three inches. No description of this
unique article, however, is necessary here. It is perhaps need-
less to say that our first impressions of a soldier's life in the
"Sunny South" wei*e not altogether favorable.
But this storm^ like all others, came to an end, and the bright,
warm sunshine, together with the diligence of many busy hands,
soon repaired most of the damage; so that the regiment was able
to appear on brigade review in gallant style, on Tuesday, the
28th of October, the fourth day after our arrival, before the ven-
erable Oeneral Casey, in whose division it had been brigaded.
One week was the length of our stay at Camp Chase, at the
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240 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
end of which brief period we folded our tents and made a ^^Sab-
bath Day's journey," although somewhat longer than that pe^
mitted by the Jewish economy on that sacred day, to Fairfax
Seminary. ( I may remark in passing that perhaps not the most
scrupulous regard was had by most of the commanders who con-
ducted the operations of our armies, either to the Jewish or
Christian economy concerning the Sabbath day.) This proved
to be a charming location, indeed. The land was high, overlook-
ing the broad Potomac for a long distance; the city of Alex-
andria situated two miles to the south, was in full view, while in
the distance on our left was the magnificent dome of the Capitol
at Washington. The land sloped in a broad, undulating sweep
towards the Potomac in front of us ; the large and dignified brick
buildings of Fairfax Seminary, then used as a hoi^ital, w^re
situated just to the north, in the rear, surrounded by a stately
grove of trees (which, sad to say, speedily succumbed to the
soldier's axe) ; several fine country residences were scattered
about in the immediate vicinity, evidently the recent homes of
af9uence and luxury, but now abandoned to the tender m«*cies of
strangers in arms, being used mainly by general and field officers,
with their staffs, for headquarters. And although their owners
were rebels fighting against the Government, I must, neverthe-
less, confess to a strong feeling of sympathy which I then had for
them, and thousands like them, in the untold and untellable dis-
tress, privation, and suffering which they and their families must
have experienced in being driven as exiles from their homes and
firesides, their property appropriated to the use of their enemies,
and what they, in the main, honestly considered their inalienable
rights, taken from them. But such is and will continue to be
the fate of war.
Regiments of soldiers were on every side of us. A few rods in
front was the Fifteenth Connecticut, Colonel Wright; in the rear
was the Thirteenth New Hampshire, Colonel Stevens; on the
right the Twenty-seventh New Jersey, Colonel Mindil; and cm
the left a stalwart regiment of "six footers" from Maine; while
for a mile or more in all directions little else was visible but
camps of soldiers. Truly this was a "tented field." Everything
about our new camp, which was named Camp Casey, was soon
put in the best of order, cleanliness and good order being prime
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 241
TirtueB with Colonel Browne, and always being strenuously in-
sisted on.
One company was detailed each jday at first for picket duty
on the long line at the front near Cloud's Mills, which was about
five miles distant; but subsequently the entire regiment per-
formed this duty for twenty-four hours at a time, alternating
with the other regiments of the brigade. The regiment was dili-
gently perfecting itself in the manual of arms, and a military
air and bearing were everywhere apparent. We had now com-
menced soldiering in good earnest. My principal duties, under
the direction of the quartermaster, were to see that the commis-
sary department was kept constantly supplied with everything in
the way of subsistence which the army r^ulations allowed.
Washington and Alexandria were the great reservoirs of these
supplies, and to one or the other of these places I went three or
four times a week, accompanied by two or more four-mule teams,
with which to haul the stores to camp. The great army bakery
was in the basement of the Capitol building, whither we went
for our supply of bread. And I think I do not exaggerate by
saying that I have seen a line of army wagons half a mile or
more in length, each awaiting its turn to be filled with the nice
brown loaves. I need hardly say that after leaving the vicinity
of Washington we bade an enforced good-bye to soft bread.
On one of my journeys to Alexandria after getting my teams
loaded with rations, I took a stroll about the somewhat an-
tiquated city, visiting places of interest, amongst which was the
Marshall House, where the brave Colonel Ellsworth met his ter-
rible fate, and from which house the entire banisters of the
stairs which he ascended in going to the roof to haul down a
rebel flag, had been carried away piecemeal by visitors, as memen-
toes of the tragic event. Other parts of the building had also
been sadly mutilated for the same purpose. But the Stars and
Stripes had permanently supplanted the rebel flag hauled down
by the lamented Ellsworth, and were proudly floating from that
now historic building.
I also visited another place of interest, but with what different
feelings I will not attempt to relate. It was a large block which
bore the following prominent sign : "Price, Birch & Co., Deal-
ers IN Slaves.^' Connected with it was a huge pen to hold the
16
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242 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH BBOIMBNT
slaves, and an auction block from which thousands doubtless had
been bought and sold. But for this establishment and what it
represented, neither the tragic scene at the Marshall House nor
the gigantic military operations then going on from one end of
the country to the other, would ever have been witnessed.
I was also mail-carrier for the regiment to and from the post
office in Alexandria, and was always cheerfully received on my
return with a heavy mail; for amongst the chief delights of a
soldier was a letter from home. As there was no salary attached
to this branch of the mail service I was not accused of offensive
partisanship, but permitted to hold the office to the end of my
term of enlistment.
Nov. 27, 1862, was recognized by us as Thanksgiving Day, al-
though the turkey, without which no Yankee can properly ob-
serve the day, was conspicuous only by its absence. The usual
amusements of the occasion, however, including a sack race be-
tween two men, each enveloped in a bedsack drawn up and tied
under his chin, were engaged in and greatly enjoyed. The gov-
ernor's proclamation was read by Chaplain Field, and appropri-
ate religious services were conducted by him in front of head-
quarters.
As it had been currently rumored for some time that Camp
Casey was to be our winter quarters, the boys had taken great
pains to make their habitations as snug and cosy as possible for
the rapidly approaching cold weather. The non-commissioned
staff, of which I was a member, appropriated to their use a roof-
less negro hut in the rear of the stately old mansion house which
was occupied by the colonel and staff for headquarters, and by
using the fly of a large tent for a roof, and otherwise improving
it, we converted it into very comfortable quarters, anticipating
quite a jolly time therein during the winter. The mess consisted
of Sergt.-Maj. Daniel R. Ballon, subsequently promoted to the
office of lieutenant before the regiment left Fairfax Seminary;
Commissary Sergt. Amasa F. Eddy; Quartermaster's Clerk
Erastus Richardson; the quartermaster sergeant, and William,
the colored boy.
But alas for all plans which have no firmer base than rumors
in the army. For the regiment had no more than fully settled
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 243
down to housAeeping for the winter, when, on Sunday, Novem-
ber 30th, orders were received that Colonel Wright's brigade, of
which the Twelfth Rhode Island was a part, wonld move to the
trout the next day at twelve o'clock. As to their destination, no
one knew save Colonel Browne, if indeed he did, and, as a matter
of conrse, speculations and conjectures of all sorts were freely
indulged in. "Shelter tents" were issued at once, the men were
ordered to provide themselves with three days' cooked rations
and have everything in readiness to move promptly at the ap-
pointed time. Truly, "there was hurrying to and fro, and gather-
ing in hot haste," each one busily making ready for his unknown
journey. There was but very little grumbling about leaving our
nicely arranged camp and beautiful situation, although we had
but very recently received what seemed to be almost a positive
promise that these should be our winter quarters.
The baggage was reduced to the lowest marching standard,
and the men ordered to take nothing in their knapsacks except
what they actually needed. The consequence was that a large
portion of their "traps'' had to be left behind, and, judging from
the number of oflScers' trunks which I shipped to Rhode Island
after the regiment left, I doubt not that more dress uniforms
adorned the wardrobes at home than their owners in the field.
Such things look exceedingly nice on dress parade or review, but
they are not altogether useful on a forced march or in a fight.
The hour of departure having arrived, the companies marched
from their several streets, the regimental line was formed, and
all was in readiness for a move. I must confess to an almost
overwhelming feeling of loneliness as I saw the long soldierly
column moving off, led by the splendid band of the Thirteenth
New Hampshire, for amongst other things I thought it quite
probable that before I should again see them, their ranks might
be thinned by the terrible shock of battle. And so, alas! they
were. But having received orders from the colonel to remain in
charge of the camp, which remained as before, except that its
occupants were gone, the tents being all left standing, I had no
alternative but to obey. About seventy men were left in the
camp, all of whom, with the exception of the quartermaster's
clerk and myself, were on the sick list. Truly this was "a sick
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244 HISTORY OF THO TWBLFTH REGIMENT
house with no doctor/' for the surgeon and each of his assistants
had gone forward with the regiment. We were cheered, how-
ever, just at evening by the return of our kind-hearted assistant
surgeon^ Dr. Prosper E. Hutchinson, now long since gone to
his reward, who was sent back to remain with the sick ones until
they should be able to join their comrades. The clerk and my-
self now appropriated the colonel's somewhat luxurious quarters
to our use, and, as we had plenty of provisions and a good cook,
there was no occasion for us to 'complain of our fate.
The fourth day after the regiment left, winter set in in good
earnest. Snow fell to the depth of several inches, and the
weather was bitterly cold and severe. I contrasted my com-
fortable quarters, as I sat by a blazing wood fire at night, with
those of my comrades huddled in shelter tents and shivering from
cold, somewhere on their tedious march to the front, and heartily
pitied, while I could not alleviate, their condition. With the aid
of some of the convalescents I struck the tents, turned over the
camp stores and equipage, except a small part which was to go
forward to the quartermaster's department in Washington, set-
tled my accounts with the Government, and, through the kind-
ness of the quartermaster of the One Hundred and Eleventh New
York, who loaned me the use of his teams, hauled the balance of
the baggage to Alexandria, placed it on board a boat for Acquia
Creek, and, on the 17th of December, took leave of Gamp Casey,
and with thirteen men went forward to join my regiment
It was found encamped near General Sumner's headquarters on
the heights opposite Fredericksburg, which place I learned it
reached after a week's march from Camp Casey, traveling up-
wards of sixty miles — part of the time through the mud, and
part thereof through the snow and over the frozen ground. My
friend. Captain Lapham, who experienced the hardships of this
never-to-be-forgotten march, has vividly described it in his ad-
mirable paper on the Twelfth Rhode Island.
The terrible battle of Fredericksburg had been fought three
days before my arrival at Falmouth, and I knew of it only from
others and from the fearful havoc which it had made in the ranks
of my comrades, upwards of one-fifth of the entire regiment hav-
ing been either killed, wounded, or found missing at the close of
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BHODO ISLAND TOIiUNTBBRS 245
that sanguinary contest. The part taken by the gallant Twelfth
has also been graphically portrayed in the paper just referred to,
by one who took an honorable part therein, and it would be pre-
sumption in me to attempt a word in addition.
The great Army of the Potomac, now upwards of one hundred
thousand strong, was stretched along the eastern bank of the
Rappahannock from Falmouth southward to, and including, Gen-
eral Franklin's division, and for miles there was but little space
between the regimental camps of this mighty host. Our picket
line was on the left bank of the river, while that of the enemy
was on the right in plain sight, and for the most part the two
lines were within reach of each other's rifles. But there was lit-
tle firing done, it seeming to be tacitly understood that their
principal business was to mutually watch, instead of shoot, each
other. Anxious to see how rebels in arms looked, I rode the
length of our picket line and inspected them as best I could, from
this tolerably safe distance, and became satisfied that a nearer
approach was undesirable.
Our base of supplies was Acquia Creek, about fifteen miles in
our rear, towards Washington, and thither I had to frequently
go for our subsistence. The trains to this place were daily laden
with the sick and wounded on their way to the great hospitals in
and around Washington. And some of the sights that I saw in
connection with the removal of our poor, maimed, sick and dying
soldiers, shortly after the terrible battle, would be too painful to
relate. I do not mean that they were not as well treated and as
kindly cared for as was practicable under the circumstances, but
that from their great numbers, the inadequate means for handling
them, and the distance over which they had to be transported in
crowded box cars and filthy steamboats before much could be
done for them, it was impossible but that their sufferings in many
cases should be of the most aggravated character.
Our situation while in front of Fredericksburg was anything
but comfortable. The men lived in all sorts of rudely con-
structed cabins, bough-houses and even subterranean huts, having
no tents save the miserable misnamed shelter tents, which were
used only as roofs for the conglomerate structures which their
ingenuity had devised. The fireplaces were made of logs ce-
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246 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
mented and plastered with mud, and the chimneys mainly with
empty barrels set on top of each other (the heads being first
knocked out), and they also cemented together and plastered
with mnd. This Virginia mud, when thoroughly dried by tiie
fire, is almost as hard as common brick. The water which we
had to use and drink here was simply execrable, I don't think it
was so bad as that in the Cove Basin, but it had a very similar
appearance. Each little spring and rivulet was eagerly sought
and constantly used by continual streams of soldiers, necessarily
keeping them in a perturbed and more or less filthy condition;
and, besides, it was impossible that some portion of the vast
amount of offal accumulating from this great army should not
find its way into these sources of our water supply. This was
specially so when, as frequently happened, several regiments were
encamped on the same little stream. Much sickness was caused
during our uncomfortable stay here by this detestable water.
On the 16th of January, 1863, we received marching orders,
but were directed to remain in camp, simply holding ourselves in
readiness to move at short notice. The line of march of the Right
Grand Division commenced on January 19th and was continued
through the 20th. Regiment after regiment, followed by long
strings of batteries, continued to move directly past our camp
all day long, going to the right. Another great battle was sup-
posed to be imminent. But alas for human plans ; whether made
by great generals or by persons unknown, to fame, they are ex-
ceedingly liable to be thwarted. On the afternoon of the 20th
a cold northeast storm of wind, snow, sleet and rain came
on and continued with increasing force for more than thirty-six
hours, which necessarily put an end to the strategic movement of
General Bumside, for the roads became utterly impassable for
the artillery, and practically so for all military purposes. After
floundering about in the clayey mire for three days, the brave fel-
lows came tramping back, weary and thoroughly disgusted, and
again took up their abode in their wretched old quarters. Onr
gallant General Bumside was now relieved of the command of
the great Army of the Potomac, and General Hooker appointed
to succeed him.
On the afternoon of February 9th, we broke camp and took the
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 247
cars for Acqnia Creek, en route fop Fortress Monroe, as was sup-
posed, but really for Newport News. There was hilarious rejoic-
ing on all hands at the prospect of at last getting away from our
abominable quarters. The huts were set on fire; bonfires were
made from the great piles of combustible debris which had ac-
cumulated during the winter ; the rude barns which had sheltered
our horses and mules added to the conflagration, and for an hour
or 80 before embarking we held high carnival amidst the smoking
mins of "Camp Misery." At Acquia Creek we went on board
the transport steamers Metamora and Juniatay and the next
morning steamed down the broad Potomac.
The agreeable change of situation, together with the pleasant
sail, were very invigorating, and the men seemed almost to forget
that they were soldiers, and to imagine themselves on some holi-
day excursion. Arriving off Fortress Monroe at four a. m. of the
second day out, we awaited orders from General Dix, which be-
ing received we proceeded to Newport News and disembarked.
We had at last got beyond Virginia mud, though still in Virginia,
the soil at this place being light and sandy, and the ground for
miles almost as level as Dexter Training Ground.
The schooner Elizabeth and Helen from Providence, which we
had long been expecting, arrived about the same time. She
brought a little more than three hundred boxes from friends at
home for our regiment, and our portion of the cargo of vegetables
was about ninety barrels. So that, altogether, we had a "right
smart heap" of the good things from home. The contents of the
boxes being largely of a very perishable nature, were considerably
damaged on account of having been so long on the journey. But
we made the best of it, and enjoyed the unpacking of those boxes
quite as much, without doubt, as our friends at home did the
packing. Nothing could have been more beneficial to us than
the generous supply of vegetables which we received, having sub-
sisted mainly on salt meats and hard-tack while at Fredericks-
burg.
"A" tents were here issued to the companies; everything was
cheerful and tidy about the camp, and we seemed to be living in
a new world. My duties called me to Fortress Monroe nearly
every day, which gave me a delightful little sail, together with
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248 HISTORY or thi twblfth rbqimemt
charming scenery and plenty of work. The scene of the exciting
and unequal contest between the Merrimac and the Ctmberh^,
in Hampton Boads in March, 1862, was immediately in front ol
us; and about a mile from the shore, in the direction of Norfolk,
could be seen a portion of the masts of the latter, emerging from
the water.
After a stay of precisely six weeks at Newport News, during
which time nothing of very great importance transpired in llie
Ninth Army Corps, all of which were encamped at this delightful
place, the Second Brigade, of which the Twelfth was a part, wm
ordered to the far-oflP city of Lexington, Ky. Our regiment at
once embarked on the steamer Long Island for Baltimore, whence
we were to ge by rail to the West. Some of the scenes on board
that steamer at night were ludicrous in the extreme. I have
heard of one's ^'hair standing seven ways for Sunday," of things
being ''at sixes and sev^is," and ''all heads and points," but I
must aver that the packing of the men on that boat exceeded
anything I had ever seen in the way of mixing up human beings.
They bestowed themselves in every conceivable position. It was
almost an impossibility to go three steps without causing some
one to cry out, "Keep off from me!" or, "O, my fingers!" an oath
generally preceding the expression, just for the sake of making it
emphatic. The head of a soldier might frequently be seen mixed
in with the feet of two or three of his immediate neighbors. And
in one case I discovered two men lying directly under one of the
horses, fast asleep. I soon ascertained, however, that they had
been imbibing too freely of poor whiskey, and that therefore th«e
was probably little immediate danger from their situation.
A sail of sixteen hours brought us to Baltimore, and a ride of
three hundred and forty miles over the Pennsylvania Railroad
took us to Pittsburg, Penn., where we arrived at twelve o'clock
on Saturday night, March 28th, tired and hungry. To our great
joy we were immediately invited into the large and beautifully
decorated hall occupied by the Soldiers' Belief Society, where
we found a splendid supper awaiting us. There were twelve ta-
bles, each running the entire length of the hall, each arranged to
accommodate one hundred men, and all richly laden with an
abundance of delicious food and fruit. Compliments were few
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBR8 * 249
and exceedingly brief, but the rattle of crockery and knives and
forks was long and continuous. The Seventh Rhode Island was
in the hail at the same time, and you may be assured that Little
Bhody showed an unbroken front here, as she had already done
under more trying circumstances elsewhere. Suspended from
the front of the platform was the following in large letters:
*TiTTSBUBG Welcomes Heb Country's Defenders/' while under-
neath this was ^'BoANOEB, Nbwbbrn, Fredericksburg, Burnsidb,
and the Ninth Army CJorps."
After the sumptuous repast was ended, Colonel Browne
stepped upon the platform, and, in a few appropriate and feeling
remarks, returned his thanks to the citizens of Pittsburg for
their hospitality to the soldiers of Rhode Island, and closed by
proposing three cheers for our benefactors, which were given
with a roar that seemed almost to raise the roof. We then
marched out to make room for others that were waiting, the re-
mainder of our brigade being near by. One of the waiters, who,
I was informed, was the daughter of one of the first citizens of
the city, told me that this hall had not been closed night or day
for more than a week, and that every soldier who had passed
through the city for a long time had partaken of their bounty if
he chose to do so. Nearly five thousand had been fed during the
past twelve hours, and still there was an abundance.
At ten A. M. we took the cars for Cincinnati, which we reached
after a pleasant ride of about four hundred miles through the
most delightful section of country we had yet seen. We almost
imagined ourselves making one of ^Terham's Qrand Excursions
to the West." Everywhere along the route we met with tokens
of welcome and encouragement. White handkerchiefs fluttered
from ten thousand fair hands, while the Stars and Stripes were
displayed "from cottage, hall and tower,'' in great profusion. At
Steubenville, Ohio, I should judge the inhabitants were nearly
all at the depot on our arrival, where they greeted us with cheer
upon cheer, besides innumerable expressions of loyalty and good
will. Five long trains of cars, containing the five regiments of
our brigades, kept within a short distance of each other during
this entire journey, and when the forward train stopped, the
others would come up within a few rods of each other, thus con-
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250 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
stituting an almost unbroken train for about two miles. The
impromptu foraging parties that emerged from each of thoae
trains whenever they came to a brief halt, it is unnecesgary to
describe to veterans.
The brigade received a perfect ovation at Cincinnati. The
streets were crowded with the enthusiastic populace, many build-
ings were brilliantly illuminated, and the entire conduct of the
people proved most conclusively that the Union sentiment here
was dominant. While passing along one of the streets oar regi-
ment was treated to a perfect shower of nice white handker-
chiefs, which were thrown from the windows of a large brick
block by a company of ladies. Each of these souvenirs was deli-
cately perfumed and bore the name of the fair donor. We were
also treated to another supper here, which, had we not fared so
very sumptuously at Pittsburg, would have been pronounced the
ne plus ultra of feasts. After eating till we could eat no more,
a fresh supply was brought on with which to fill our empty haver-
sacks for the remainder of the journey.
I was busily occupied all night, in company with a squad of
men, in transferring the baggage across the river to Covington
in ferryboats, and loading it on board the train which was to
convey us to Lexington, which city we reached the following day,
having been six days on the journey from Nev^port News. We
encamped on the State Fair Grounds, west of the city, a spacious
and charming location, adorned with elegant shade trees, and
surrounded with the stately suburban residences of some of the
chivalry of Kentucky. You may perhaps infer that we were
somewhat influenced by our aristocratic surroundings when I
inform you that while here our firewood consisted mainly of
black-walnut, the ordinary fence-rails in that vicinity being com-
posed of that material.
The Sunday following our arrival here, the regiment was vis-
ited and briefly addressed by the venerable Gen. Leslie Coombs,
of Kentucky, that staunch and lifelong enemy of secession, who
was a friend and old acquaintance of Colonel Browne. His tall
and manly form, his long, flowing white hair, and his stately
bearing, together with his stirring and patriotic remarks in favor
of the preservation of the Union and the vigorous prosecution of
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 251
the war, made an impression upon my mind that I shall never
forget.
After a week's sojourn here, our brigade turned its face south-
ward and commenced what subsequently proved to be a long
series of marches back and forth across the state, protecting ex-
posed points and preparing for a probable meeting with the reb-
els either under General Breckinridge or General Morgan, who
were constantly menacing the southern borders of the state.
And besides, the mountainous districts thereof were infested with
marauding bands, mainly under the general direction of Morgan,
who were carrying on a guerilla warfare both against the Union-
ists of the state, who constituted a majority of all the people, and
also against the Union forces stationed there, thus keeping the
citizens in a constant state of anxiety and trepidation. The pil-
laging and murdering of the peaceable and inoffensive citizens
of that would-be loyal State by these organized bands of ruffians,
constitute, to my mind, one of the darkest pictures of our civil
war.
Twenty-two miles over a macadamized road, through the cele-
brated "Blue Grass" region, brought us to Winchester, a pleas-
ant inland village in Clarke County, where we were allowed to
remain for the full period of eight days. Our next stopping
place was at Richmond, a very inviting post-village of about fif-
teen hundred inhabitants in Madison County, twenty miles south
of Winchester. This march, which occupied two days, took us
through some of the most picturesque natural scenery to be found
in the state, including Boonesboro, the scene of Daniel Boone^s
famous exploits with the Indians, at which place the entire brig-
ade crossed the Kentucky River in a common scow which would
hold only fifty men at a time. This delayed us for at least half
a day, so that we had a good view of the wild surroundings.
I must here relate a personal incident. After arriving at Rich-
mond I was sent back to Winchester to bring forward some
stores and supplies which had been necessarily left there. Our
teams had not arrived from Covington, and I was detained for
three days awaiting their appearance. I was stopping at the
house of one Mr. Bush, a well-to-do planter, whose acquaintance
I had made while the regiment was encamped there. On the
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252 HISTORT OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
third night of my stay with him I was suddenly aroused from a
sound sleep at one o'clock by two soldiers who had ^tered my
room, and who immediately confronted me, one with a drawn
sword, and the other with a revolver, which he held in one hand,
and a lighted candle in the other. They said nothing, except to
caution me that any attempt to move from my present position
would be at the peril of my life. One of them commenced U
search my clothes, while the other stood guard over me, holding
his glistening revolver uncomfortably near my head. I thought
my hour had probably come, taking it for granted that the mei
were rebel soldiers and had taken advantage of my isolated sit-
uation to first rob and then dispatch me. But I finally mustered
courage enough to ask them their business as politely as I knew
how, and was promptly informed, greatly to my surprise, that I
was a rebel spy and their prisoner and that they were Unicm sol-
diers sent there to arrest me. I at once felt relieved, knowing
that I could readily establish my identity, and furthermore that
I was tolerably safe anyway in the hands of Union soldiers. Mr.
Bush, who had followed them into the room in his night-clothes,
immediately assured them that I was not a rebel spy, or even a
rebel, but a member of the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers, and
manifested considerable indignation that he should even be soa-
pected of harboring rebel spies. Some papers and letters in mj
pockets supported the testimony of my host, and, after consider-
able time spent in examining them, my brave ( ?) captors con-
cluded that I was not the man they were looking for, and left me
without so much as an apology for their mistake, to ponder upon
my deceitful appearance. I learned the next day that two rebel
spies had in fact been prowling about the neighborhood for sev-
eral days, and that these officers (for such they were) had been
searching for them.
A week at Richmond, three days at Paint Lick Creek, a tribu-
tary of the Ohio, a week at Lancaster, and on we go, still
southward, till we reach Crab Orchard, a Kentucky watering
place of considerable note, where we remained for ten days. It
was not every brigade that was allowed to spend this length of
time at a fashionable Southern watering place during the sultry
days of June, at the expense of the Government.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 253
Instead of proceeding still further southward^ as had been ex-
pected, we were here suddenly ordered to execute a "right about
face," and retrace our steps to Nicholasville, a point twelve miles
0onth of Lexington, where it was understood we were to take the
cars eti route for the far-oflP city of Vicksburg, where we were to
assist General Grant in the siege against that rebel stronghold.
This was not encouraging news to soldiers whose term of enlist-
ment would expire in a little more than thirty days. Back we
went, however, through the dust and heat, making the distance
in two long days, the boys frequently rallying each other on the
march with the remarks: "It's all in the nine months, boys;"
and, "Why did you come for a soldier?"
Just as we got in sight of Nicholasville anoth^ surprise
awaited us. One of the general's aids came dashing up to Col-
onel Browne with orders detaching his regiment from the brigade
and directing him to report to General Carter at Somerset, more
than seventy miles away, without delay. Half of this distance
lay directly back over the route we had just traveled. This was,
indeed, provoking. But we were soldiers, and had learned that
our first and principal duty waa prompt and unquestioning obedi-
ence to orders. So we bade good-bye to the other regiments of
our brigade by giving three hearty cheers for each an they
marched past us on their long journey to the West, and imme-
diately turned our faces southward again and started for Somer-
set.
It then being nearly sunset, we bivouacked for the night as
soon as we came to a convenient place, and resumed our back-
ward march at daylight the next morning. The First Tennessee
Battery and a regiment of mounted infantry soon joined us, and
in company with them we reached Somerset, having gone by the
way of Camp Dick Robinson and Hall's Gap, after a four days'
march. In six successive days we had marched one hundred
miles. And what was somewhat remarkable, we went into camp
at the end of this time with not a man left behind.
After a stay of ten days at Somerset, during which time our
base of supplies was at Stanford, thirty-three miles away, and
could only be reached by our mule teams, we moved down to
the Cumberland River, where we encamped on a high and
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254 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
precipitous bluff overlooking the river and the rugged moim-
tainous scenery for a long distance. A brief rest and on, on we
went again, bivouacking for a night on the battlefield of Mill
Springs, where General Zollicoffer met his fate; climbing the
mountains with our heavily laden mule teams, building bridgeSf
constructing roads, and making but slow progress over the rough-
est country that I ever saw. Several of my teams were capsized
and rolled down a steep embankment, mules, drivers and all;
others got mired in swamps, and it was with the greatest diffi-
culty that they were ever extricated; but we pulled ourselves
along in one way and another over a distance of thirty miles of
this sort of country, and finally reached Jamestown (popularly
known as "Jimtovm''), on the southern border of Kentucky, on
the twenty-third day of June, which place proved to be the end
of our journey southward.
Colonel Wolford's famous cavalry regiment, six hundred
strong, — ^the most dare-devil set of fellows, probably, in the Union
service, — together with two mounted regiments of infantry, here
joined us and everything was made ready for a brush with the
rebels, which was daily expected. General Morgan being reported
just in front of us with a large force. On the 29th of June our
pickets were suddenly attacked and driven in by the enemy, caus-
ing the greatest excitement in camp. The long roll was instantly
sounded; the men rushed to their companies with all possible
speed ; the regiment was formed in line of battle at a double-quick
by Lieutenant-Colonel Shaw, and all was ready for the fray.
Company A, Captain Alexander, and Company C, Captain All«i,
had been previously stationed about half a mile in front on a
road leading south towards the Cumberland River, where they
had felled trees and erected a sort of rude barricade called Fort
Alexander, in honor of the captain in command, which position
they continued to hold.
The battery took a position on the Columbus road, on which
the enemy was approaching ; the other regiments were just in the
rear, while Wolford's cavalry went forward on a keen run, their
famous commander being at least a hundred yards in front of
his men when he passed our regiment, presenting, in connection
with his headlong followers, a scene of the wildest excitement.
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EHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBESS 255
He speedily came in contact with the enemy, — whose particular
object at this time was the captare of our battery, — drove them
back without bringing on a general engagement, captured a score
or more of prisoners, and so thoroughly routed and scattered the
enemy by his bold and vigorous dash, that they made no further
attempt to dispute the possession of this antiquated town with
our forces until the morning of the Fourth of July following.
Our quartermaster's train, however, was attacked two days
later, on its way from Green River, whither it had been for sup-
plies, by a guerilla band of about fifty men ; but as the train was
guarded by a company of mounted infantry from the Seventh
Ohio, the attack was repulsed after a vigorous contest, with some
loss on both sides, and our provisions and quartermaster arrived
in camp unharmed the next day, to the great joy of the regiment,
who were nearly out of supplies.
On the 3d of July a battle was fought near Lebanon, which
was a short distance to the north of us, between a portion of Gen-
eral Carter's forces and those under General Morgan, in which
quite a number were killed and several wounded.
We commenced the celebration of the glorious Fourth by form-
ing in line of battle with alacrity at half-past three a. m., our
pickets having been again driven in, and the rebels seeming deter-
mined to have a bout with us before we left Kentucky* And I
think our men would as soon have fought as not on this occasion,
being tired of the constant annoyance, and ready to prove to Ken-
tucky bushwhackers what kind of stuflf they were made of. But,
fortunately for both sides doubtless, the rebels remained out-
side of "Jimtown," and our forces remained inside, resting on
their arms all day, and momentarily expecting an attack, which,
however, was not made. And on the 5th of July, General Carter
moved his forces northward ; first to Somerset, and then to Stan-
ford, our base of supplies, which he continued to hold. Somer-
set was again reached after three days of the most difficult march-
ing we had ever experienced, a heavy rainstorm being in progress
most of the time, rendering the movement of the artillery and
heavy-laden army wagons well-nigh impossible. With ten mules
on one team, and two industrious swearers to drive them, I was
only able to make a distance of two rods through the mire in the
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266 HISTORY OF THE TWBUTH BEGIMENT
space of one whole hour, on one occasion during the first daj of
this march, which, by the way, was on Sunday.
Of course the army could move no faster than the wagon train
on this march, as the rebels were immediately in our rear, ready
to pounce upon us if a good opportunity was ofifered.
Eight days of continuous marching, most of the time over the
same route we had traveled twice, and some of it three times be-
fore, and we were again at Nicholasville, where our regiment took
the cars for Cincinnati by the way of Lexington. Our term of
service had expired, but at the request of our greatly beloved
General Burnside, we remained at Cincinnati for a week to assist
in protecting that much frightened city from the raids of the
somewhat ubiquitous General Morgan, who had preceded us frcnn
^'Jimtown" to that more populous and inviting community. An-
other journey of a thousand miles — not, however, on foot — and
the Twelfth Regiment was again at home.
Memorial of George H. Browne.
[Late Colonel of the Twelfth Regiment.]
By pardon E. TIIXINGHAST.
CoL. George H. Browne departed this life at Providence on
the 27th day of September, A. D. 1885, in the sixty-eighth year
of his age, sincerely lamented by all who knew him. He was a
Rhode Islander by birth and education ; thoroughly imbued with
the history and traditions of the State, and always identified him-
self with its best interests. Conservative, candid and outsp<dcen,
and an excellent judge of human nature, he was not easily de-
ceived or led to do an unwise or even an injudicious act. To say
that he was a wise, prudent and thoroughly conscientious man,
is but to voice the common sentiment of all those who knew him.
Since September of 1862, I have known Colonel Browne well,
and been honored by his constant friendship. During the period
of his service in the army, my duties brought me in almost daily
contact with him; I was one of his mess during our Kentucky
campaign, and had the opportunity to study his character and
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BBODB ISLAND V0LUNTBBE8 257
habits with deliberation; while since the war I have known him
in the walks of private, professional and political life. And for
stalwart manliness, transparent honesty and tme nobility of
character, I can unhesitatingly say that I have not known his
superior.
As the commanding 6fflcer of the Twelfth R^ment, he at once
inspired both the confidence and love of his men. His utmost
energies were continually put forth for the efficiency and useful-
ness of his command, while his efforts for the personal welfare
of each individual member thereof were proverbial. Indeed, in
the latter respect he seemed more like a kind father. watching
over the welfare of his children, than a cold military commander
issuing the stern edicts of war. It was his daily habit to go
about the camp and personally inspect the same, frequentiy mak-
ing his appearance in the tents and huts of the privates as well
as in the quarters of the officers, for the purpose of ascertaining
their condition as to cleanliness and comfort; inquiring after
the wants of the men; visiting the hospital and speaking words
of hope and good cheer to those who were sick, and in many other
ways seeking to minister to the welfare of his command. A sin-
gle instance of his unselfish devotion to the good of his men illus-
trates this characteristic.
On Sunday, May 3, 1863, his r^ment marched from Richmond,
Kentucky, to Paint Lick Creek, a distance of twelve miles,
through a drenching rain. Many of the men had become foot-
sore or otherwise disabled by reason of the great amount of
marching they had recently done, and some of these became un-
able to complete the journey ; whereupon. Colonel Browne, lieu-
tenant-Colonel Shaw, and other field officers, gave up their horses
to the use of these disabled ones, and themselves tramped with
the men through the mud and rain for a good part of this dis-
tance.
Colonel Browne was a brave man. He faced the guns of the
enemy at Fredericksburg where the battle waxed hottest, with as
much apparent coolness as though simply facing his regiment on
dress parade. A ball pierced his mantle; ''the noise of battle
hurtled in the air," and death-dealing missiles were flying thick
about him, but he neither wavered nor blanched. Wherever his
17
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258 HISTOBY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
regiment was ordered to go, thither he promptly went in front of
it, inspiring his followers with conrage both by his genuine hero-
ism and his manly words of cheer.
His bravery, however, was not of the ostentatious or noisy sort
It was more like the current of a still but deep-flowing river,
which moves calmly but steadily onward, irresistibly drawing to
itself, and unconsciously controlling all the lesser streams about
it. He never paraded his virtues before his fellow-men, or posed
as a hero or statesman for public applause. Indeed, he utterly
scorned all attempts made by others for the sake of notoriety and
position as vulgar and unworthy. He admired, however, and
honestly won, the fame which follows generous and noble deeds,
and not that which .is sought after by the demagogue and the
charlatan. He was notably considerate and courteous in his
treatment of his subordinates in office, never seeming to comr
mand, while in fact exercising the most perfect control.
Colonel Browne retained an abiding interest in the men of his
regiment to the day of his death. His greetings to them on the
street, in the marts of trade, and especially at their annual re-
unions, were always warm and hearty. A single incident will
serve to illustrate his interest in their welfare. Meeting me one
day last winter on Westminster Street, he said: "Judge, Fve
got some good news to tell you,^^ and invited me to step into a
bookstore which he was then passing, while he should reveal it.
"Do you remember Sergeant , of Company ?" said he,
his face all aglow with that expression of happiness which was
peculiar to him. "Yes, colonel, I do; what about him?" "Why,
he's been out West, and by diligence and skill in a profitable busi-
ness which he there engaged in, first as clerk and subsequently as
one of the firm, and now as the manager thereof, has actually
made his fortune, and is to-day a rich and highly respected man.
And he came to see me the other day and told me all about it."
And then with much enthusiasm and honest pride in his manner,
said: "/«n't that good news from one of our toysV Had this
sergeant been his own son, he could hardly have manifested more
joy in his prosperity.
His private benefactions to several of his men who had long
been in indigent circumstances, are known and remembered by
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 259
Him who said : ^'Inasmuch bb ye have done it unto one of the
least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me/'
There was no circumlocution or ambiguity in Colonel Browne's
methods. Whatever he had to do, he went about in a direct and
business-like way, and prosecuted it to completion in the same
straightforward manner. He had none of the arts or tricks of
the demagogue, and was utterly incapable of double-dealing or
hypocrisy. And no man whom I have ever known, more thor-
oughly detested these base qualities in others. He had no pa-
tience with shams or subterfuges of any sort whatsoever, and did
not hesitate to frown upon them with indignation whenever and
wherever they appeared. If diplomacy has been correctly defined
as being the art of concealing one's thoughts in his language, he
never would have made a successful diplomat ; for he always said
just what he meant, and always meant just what he said.
Colonel Browne's abilities, both natural and acquired, were of
a high order. He had a broad, vigorous and well-balanced mind,
which had been thoroughly trained and disciplined to habits of
logical and exact reasoning, and a power of analysis which led
him to correct conclusions with almost mathematical certainty.
He was not a superficial thinker, but always insisted on laying
bare the very roots of the matter under consideration, and then
gradually working upwards to natural and legitimate conclu-
sions. His processes of reasoning were inductive rather than
dogmatic. With such a mind, so constituted and developed, he
was eminently fitted for positions of trust and responsibility,
whether private or public, which fact the citizens both of his
native town and State were not slow to learn and appreciate.
As a legislator he was diligent, prudent and conservative, pos-
sessing the courage of his convictions, always exerting a large
and salutary influence by his candor, integrity and good judg-
ment, and readily won the confidence and esteem of his associ-
ates. Public office was with him a public trust, to be adminis-
tered with strictest fidelity and care.
In his chosen profession, in which the strength of his vigorous
manhood was spent, he attained eminence and preferment, being
a recognized leader of the bar of this State for many years be-
fore his death. A safe and able counselor, an ingenuous and
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260 HISTORY OF THE TWBLITTH BBGIMBNT
convincing advocate and an honorable opponent, he brought to
the practice of his profession those qualities which insure suc-
cess. Quibbles and quirks and barren technicalities were an
abomination to him as a foundation upon which to base an action
or a defense. Like Solon, ^^who built his commonweal on equitVs
wide base," so he built his legal structures on the broad princi-
ples of justice, truth and right
In 1874 he was elected to the high and honorable office of chief
justice of the Supreme Court of this State by a l^slature com-
posed mainly of his political opponents, a monumental tribute to
his int^rity, learning and ability. He declined the office, how-
ever, and remained in the profession which he had dignified and
honored to the day of his death.
As a private citizen he was a man of unimpeachable character,
generous impulses, and high and noble purposes. His life was
pure and unostentatious, and his manner frank and undii^ised.
Let us ever cherish his memory, and strive to emulate his virtues.
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Capt. Oscar Lapham.
(B^rom a recent picture.)
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Recollections of Service in the Twelfth Regi-
ment Rhode Island Volunteers.
By OAPT. OSCAR LAPHAM.
This regiment was recruited in the sumn^er of 1862 under tke
call of the President for volunteers for nine months. The dis-
asters of the Peninsula, the defeat and scattering of Pope's army
in Virginia, and the Union victory at Antietam, had followed
each other in rapid succession, and it was evident that the vet-
erans of the Army of the Potomac would all be required in the
great struggle with Lee, about to take place somewhere in North-
em Virginia,
It was, therefore, commonly supposed that the nine months'
troops would be stationed in the defences about Washington,
while the older troops, with a few rapid and masterly move-
ments, proceeded to capture Lee's army, which had thus far re-
fused to surrender, either in the Chickahominy swamps, in the
valleys of the Blue Bidge, or among the hills of Maryland.
Instead, however, of luxuriating in comfortable quarters in
sight of the dome of the Capitol, and dining on beefsteak and
fried eggs, and going regularly to sleep every night in comfort-
able beds, surrounded by peaceable friends, our valiant regiment
had, before Christmas of that year, crossed and recrossed Long
Bridge, picketed miles of rough country in the neighborhood of
Clouds Mills, marched in mud, rain and snowstorms down
through Maryland from Washington to Port Tobacco, crossed
the Potomac Biver in transports in bitter cold from Liverpool
Landing to Acquia Creek, marched thence to Falmouth on the
Bappahannock, crossed that stream on pontoon bridges under
an artillery fire, and participated in one of the most furious, dis-
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262 HI8T0BY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
astrous and bloody battles of the war ; it had helped to cover the
rear of the retreating army on a dark and rainy night in Decem-
ber, and, while the Christmas hearths at home glowed with glad-
ness and warmth^ had begun the struggle with winter in the open
field with salt pork and hard-tack for food, and shelter tents, or
huts of earth walls and a cloth roof for houses.
Taking leave of Virginia in the last days of March in the fol-
lowing year, we entered upon entirely different scenes and du-
ties, and engaged for the next four months in ceaseless activity
upon a new and most interesting field. Transported by rail
from Newport News, Virginia, to Cincinnati, and thence to Lex-
ington, Kentucky, we began a march southward, at first through
a beautiful, fertile country, and later, entering a broken, barren
and mountainous region and over precipitous roads, pausing at
last on the north bank of the Cumberland River, near the line
of Tennessee.
The regiment was collected from various parts of the State
and assembled on Dexter Training Ground, in Providence, where
it was encamped several weeks to be organized and drilled. The
weather was fine, and the camp was gay with visitors daily, the
dress parade especially being extensively patronized. Here was
the first taste of camp life and military discipline.
Late in the afternoon of Oct. 21, 1862, under command of Col.
George H. Browne, we embarked on the train for New York, tak-
ing the cars at Olneyville. It was a scene of much excitement
I was ordered to take a detachment and establish a guard at
the place of embarkation, to hold the crowd back from the cars
and prevent their filling the train. Friends and relatives of the
boys begged for one more farewell; mothers and sisters and
wives were in tears. But the hour had struck, the die was cast;
the solid ranks moved steadily down through the throng within
the impassable line, and a thousand more lives were committed
to the chances of war. There was too much of novelty in our
new situation, and too much anticipation of what was before us,
to give room for any prolonged regrets on our part There was
just enough of mystery and uncertainty in what was before us
to make us anxious for its development. Later on there were
times when our curiosity was more than satisfied. When we en-
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 263
countered the gennine reality we fonnd occasions when our in-
terest in the proceedings took a different turn, and we would
willingly have left our share to other hands, if we could have
done so with equal honor.
The journey to Washington was long and tedious, and we were
not x>€rmitted even the cheer and hospitality which greeted all
troops passing through Philadelphia to the front. Our route
took us by way of Harrisburg, with many long stops. Our boys
even here did not forget their opportunities, as an occasional
quack of a duck from the gloom of some car plainly attested.
They took naturally to the situation with an alacrity quite as-
tonishing for new recruits with so short a military experience.
We encamped for a night in Washington near the Capitol, and
next day moved up Pennsylvania Avenue and Fourteenth Street,
across Long Bridge, to Camp Chase, in the red dirt of Virginia,
near Arlington Heights. Here exposure, cold rains, and lying
on^ the ground in Sibley tents, b^an to tell on many constitu-
tions, and the hollow and feeble coughs of the poor fellows all
over the grounds in the dead silence of the night, told plainly
of the presence of that invisible enemy that destroys more ar-
mies than shot and shell.
We soon moved from here southward to Fairfax Seminary, and
encamped on a fine southern slope overlooking the city of Alex-
andria. We were now attached to the brigade commanded by
Col. D. R. Wright, of New Haven, Conn., in the first brigade of
the division of General Casey. The brigade was composed, be-
sides ourselves, of the Fifteenth Connecticut, Colonel Wright's
regiment, the Thirteenth New Hampshire, Colonel Stevens, and
the Twenty-seventh New Jersey, Colonel Mindil. This brigade
was employed in picketing beyond Clouds Mills, one regiment
being sent out at a time, and remaining on duty twenty-four
hours.
At this camp, Colonel Browne began to give attention to sani-
tary regulations, which he vigorously enforced throughout our
term of service, often overseeing in person the details of the
work. The men entrusted to his care were not to be permitted
to suffer in health or efficiency from their own ignorance or care-
lessness. This matter of cleanliness and good order in the com-
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264 HISTOKT OF THB TWBUrTH RBGIMBNT
pany streets, tents, about the cook-house, and all around the
various camps established from time to time, became somewhat
l^ter the subject of the most assiduous attention and rivalry
among the several companies, and one to which I may refer
again.
We had been at Fairfax Seminary but a few days when I re-
ceived orders from Colonel Browne to report at brigade head-
quarters to Colonel Wright, commanding the brigade, for duty
as aide on his personal staff. I put on my best clothes and re-
ported to what seemed to me a most tremendous and awe-inspir-
ing presence; but I had learned one principle of military duty
and etiquette, and that was, when in the presence of supmor
officers to stand erect and say nothing, take my orders in silence,
salute and retire. And this I rigidly adhered to.
The brigade headquarters at Fairfax Seminary were in the
house of Bishop Johns, of Virginia. We found some very com-
fortable furniture and good beds, and a splendid library adorned
the walls. The grounds were el^ant, and all the appointments
first-class.
There was a capital set at headquarters. Lieutenant Penrose,
of the regular army, was chief of staff, — a wiry, restless fellow,
chafing for a battle, thoroughly acquainted with every detail of
the service, for he was bom in the army and knew nothing else.
A tireless and fearless rider, he led me many a ride from morn-
ing till night without leaving the saddle, over bogs and corduroy
roads, through swamps and brush and forest ; but I had trained
and rowed in the University boat crew, and was ready for any
scramble, however rough.
There was the brigade surgeon, Dr. Holcombe, of Connecticut,
— tall and rugged, bluff and vigorous. One night, going through
Maryland, the doctor and some more of us were looking about
for a place to sleep. We got into a little cottage and occupied
the parlor. By common consent we assigned the sofa for the
doctor, while the rest stretched on the floor. This sofa happened
to be very narrow, and rounded up resolutely in the middle, and
it was covered with very slippery hair-cloth. The doctor got
ready to be very comfortable after a tedious day's march, and,
wrapped in his blankets, stretched his long frame upon this little
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BHODB ISLAND V0LUNTBBB8 265
sofa. Presently came a grunt of displeasure, then he grew more
restless, and, as we were just settling down to sleep, the doctor
bounded off the sofa with an oath, declaring he would rather
sleep lengthwise on a bologna sausage than stay on that sofa.
There was the chaplain^ who never turned his back on a good
meal, and never came nearer profanity than to say "Condemn
it;" the brigade quartermaster from Connecticut, a first-rate
fellow; a little chap named Van Saun, from New Jers^, who
was a clerk, had a great fancy for negro delineation, and in-
formed me he had belonged to more than one minstrel troupe.
General Casey, commander of the division, occasionally came
over from his headquarters in Washington, with a large and
brilliant staff, to inspect the picket line, in which we joined,
coming back to Colonel Wright's quarters to dinner. There
was a handsome spread on the bishop's mahogany dining-table
on those days, served in courses, and much high converse, for
our Colonel Wright was an able lawyer, our chaplain had writ-
ten for the magazines, and several of General Casey's staff were
West Pointers.
This was transpiring in the beautiful November days, — the
weather was fine, the rebels at a safe distance, the scenery
picturesque. There stretched the noble and historic Potomac;
the bluffs on the shores and eminences in all directions were
covered with forts and flying the Stars and Stripes; the city of
Alexandria lay below us; the pomp of war on every hand. It
was all strangely new. The very color of the mud seemed for the
time a characteristic of aristoratic Virginia, a coat of arms as
it were, for it was none of your common gray stuff, but that rich
brick color which is the crowning glory of all our new houses,
and its sticking qualities were simply wonderful. The Novem-
ber haze hung over river and fort and forest, and there was
plenty of mildly exciting service to keep the blood active and the
appetite keen.
On the first day of December I was returning from Washing-
ton, and met the brigade en route to join the Army of the Poto-
mac at Fredericksburg. We passed over Long Bridge and down
along the river by the navy yard, across the East Branch, and
stopped fw the night just outside Uniontown. Continuing
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266 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
down the left bank of the Potomac, the next night found os near
Piscataway, which we passed the next morning, halting the
third night near another Uniontown, which consiisted of cross-
roads and one small shanty.
Two days more brought us to our last bivouac before beginning
to cross the river to Acquia Creek. It had snowed all the
afternoon, covering the ground, and the men had to pass the
night on that ground under their shelter tents, which they had
carried on their backs. It seemed to me a most serious situa-
tion, and in the evening, as soon as my duties would permit, I
went in the greatest anxiety to investigate their wretched plight.
To my surprise all hands were gay and jolly, and as comfortable
as need be. There was plenty of wood, and rousing fires burn-
ing all about; the snow was brushed away, and the little tents
set up around the fires; hot coffee and rations from the haver-
sacks were passing around, and altogether it was a bright and
lively scene, teeming with real comfort.
The next morning I was sent forward to find the landing.
It was on a point of land made by a sharp bend of the river to
the left, and was exposed to bleak winds. The brigade was
moved down to this point and began to cross, as near as I can
remember, about noon. It was a slow process, owing to lack of
transportation, and night was upon us with two regiments still
to cross. Meanwhile the cold had increased, and it became
absolutely necessary to provide fires. All the way down through
Maryland the most scrupulous attention had been paid to the
protection of private property, and, with the exception of some
individual pilfering, nothing had been taken. Now, on this cold
plain, there were some large piles of dry fence rails, which, as
the cold increased and the night approached, became the subject
of earnest consideration among the shivering officers. The
thing was argued pro and con, the constitutional lawyers being
still scrupulous, but their compunctions decreasing in direct
ratio to the increase of the cold. The result was in accordance
with human nature under such circumstances — there were sood
long lines of blazing fires upon the plain, and the boys were safe
from further suffering. Night fell ; our regiment had gone over,
but there were still two other regiments of the brigade huddled
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 267
around the fires, and it was uncertain whether the transport
wonld retnm that night or not. Colonel Wright, who was still
suffering from an injury he had received some weeks before, de-
cided there was no need of his remaining longer, and asked some
one of his staff to volunteer to stay to look ont for the remaining
regiments, whether they crossed that night or slept on the hither
shore. I said I would accept that duty, and as the evening wore
away and no transport appearing, I called the officers 'together
for a council as to where they would pass the night. There was
a sidehill near by sheltered from the wind and covered with
evergreens, but also covered with snow. The choice was between
that location and the present, which had the advantage of the
blazing fires. They decided to remain where they were, and I
started to ride back over rough, frozen ground, covered with
ice and snow, to headquarters. My horse here cast a shoe, and
I was obliged to dismount and lead him all the way, about two
miles, back to quarters.
The next day was as severe as the preceding, and I was left to
see the last remnants of baggage, etc., across, and did not land
at Acquia Creek till after dark. I was entirely alone, and had
no information whatever in what direction the brigade had gone.
There were plenty of soldiers' quarters and storehouses all
about, but nobody knew anything about the location of our
troops. So many thousands of troops were moving^ that no-
body took particular note of anything so small as a brigade of
a few thousand men. Supperless and cold, dreary and lone-
some, I cast about me for somewhere to pass that dreadful night.
Acres of canal boats and scows and transports filled the river,
and the best I could do was to get on board a transport, and
going below try to find a place as much sheltered from the wind
as possible. Here I passed the night, or what remained of it,
upon a plank, without so much as a blanket, with mules stamp-
ing and braying overhead, making one of the most uncomfortable
nights in my existence.
The next morning, after some exploration, I found our brigade
some two miles out, on a rough sidehill, in the snow, with fires
made of pine boughs. The smoke from these fires was blinding,
and every soldier of the Twelfth Regiment knows what "Camp
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268 HISTOBY OF THE TWELFTH RBQIMBNT
Smoke" means. Thinking it about time for breakfast, I looked
around to see what I could lay my hands on. I found Captain
Longstreet, of Company B, who was my captain. He had a
little chunk of salt pork and a handful of crumbs in the bottom
of a cracker box ; there didn't seem to be any convenient way of
cooking the pork, and so I devoured it raw, with the help of the
cracker crumbs.
Lying here three days, we had orders to move on towards Pal-
mouth, and came up with the Army of the Potomac, which
stretched some miles up and down the Rappahannock, oppomte
Fredericksburg. This was on the evening of December 10, 1862,
three days before the battle of Fredericksburg. Here we found
that our brigade was to be a brigade no more, but the various
raiments were to be sent to strengthen other organizations in
the Ninth Army Corps, our lot falling with the First Brigade,
General Nagle, Second Division. That night I found the
Fourth Rhode Island, and supped with my old classmate, Capt
Edward P. Brown. During the night I heard the rumbling of
the pontoon bridges as they were being transported over the
frozen ground to the river. Weeks before, in the pleasant No-
vember weather, I had seen these same pontoons floating quietly
down the Potomac before we left Fairfax Seminary, and their
whereabouts had been a subject of anxious speculation ever since
Burnside had arrived at Fredericksburg. About four o'clock in
the morning the boom of cannon from the direction of the river
suggested some serious thoughts. That morning I reported to
Colonel Browne, who sent me to my company as first lieutenant
under Captain Longstreet. Thousands of troops were drawn
out upon the plains under arms, ready to cross into Fredericks-
burg as soon as the pontoon bridges could be laid. Heavy can-
nonading went on all day for the purpose of clearing the opposite
shore of rebel sharpshooters preparatory to laying the pontoons.
We lay here all day, and here the first man I had seen wounded
in battle was brought back from towards the river.
The cannonade ceased at night and stillness settled down over
that vast army, and during^ the silent watches I could hear the
clocks in the church towers of the city tolling out the hours. It
had seemed to me for weeks past that we were almost outside
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 269
the pale of civilization. Living in open fields, seldom entering
a habitable place, the total absence of ordinary comforts, biv-
ouacking amidst snow-banks, and, above all, the apj^arent dis-
r^ard and cheapness of human life, had served to create and
intensify this feeling, bnt the sound of those bells, exactly as I
had heard them a thousand times at home, renewed with strange
intensity the recollection of all the peace and comfort and friend-
ship which I had left behind, and for a time had almost forgot-
ten.
The next day, December 12th, we were under arms, and we
could soon see that the army was in motion towards the river,
and at length it came our turn. We filed out into the road and
marched down towards the river and Fredericksburg. The city
extends down to the water's edge and backward up sloping
ground. Behind the city is a plain of some extent, and beyond
this Marye's Heights, which are about parallel with the river.
On these heights the enemy was posted. The river on our side
iB e^irted by a steep bluff approaching almost to the river bank.
On this bluff, and directly opposite the city, is the Lacy House,
a fine old mansion which had been surrounded with elegant
grounds and trees, all of which were now in ruins. Our artillery
was posted for a long distance up and down this bluff, and
commanded the entire city and the enemy's works on Marye's
Heights. A lively, cannonade was going on across the valley,
and, as we were filing down through a gully or defile just above
the Lacy House, to reach the pontoon bridge, a shell from the
enemy went through the branches of a tree over our heads. As
I was stepping upon the bridge I met and shook hands with a
college classmate, Gamaliel Lyman Dwight, who was an officer
in a Rhode Island battery. Troops, horses and artillery were
crowding up to this little bridge, the top of which seemed only
a few inches from the surface of the water, narrow and without
railings, a floating structure held in position by anchors. It
seemed a frail thing to support an army, but it served the pur-
pose well.
Prom the moment I entered that city until I got out of it, I
felt a d^ree of helplessness and restraint, like a man with his
hands tied, such as I think I never experienced anywhere else.
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270 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
Thousands upon thousands of soldiers were huddled and crowded
in the streets; the city seemed packed with men, and all in a po-
sition where they could apparently do little or nothing to defend
themselves against attack. It seemed to me entirely within the
power of General Lee to have thrown the army into utter con-
fusion and rout if he had seen fit to drop a few hundred shells
into that crowded mass. As it was, he contented himself for
that day with shelling our troops as they approached the river,
and endeavoring to destroy the pontoons by dropping shells
upon them. The location of the bridges, although not visible to
the rebels, was easily enough determined by the direction taken
by our troops to reach them, the bluff over which we approached
the river being in perfectly plain sight from the rebel position.
In the course of the day they got the ranges so well that in one
instance a regiment of infantry coming over the bluff by the
flank was struck and some of the men evidently killed, breaking
up the regiment quite badly. At the same time, a short distance
above, along the bluff, was a long line of spectators in dark citi-
zens' clothes who had come to witness the battle from what they
had evidently supposed was a pretty safe distance. The break-
ing up of that line of dark-coated citizens was something mag-
ical ; it vanished like a flock of blackbirds.
Later in .the day a regiment of cavalry, moving also by the
flank, came slowly over the bluff to descend to the bridge exactly
over the spot where the infantry regiment had passed. Again
a shell struck almost in the same spot and exploded. The only
notice taken of the occurrence was a slight swerve of the line to
one side; not a man left his place except those prostrated by the
shot; the line moved on as steadily and majestically as if on
parade. And so all day long troops poured over the bluff down
into the city and thronged its streets, until the whole place
seemed one vast hive of armed men.
The city itself seemed to me to be about the size of Woon-
socket, and this comparison was settled upon as correct, between
Captain Hubbard, of Company F, who was himself a native of
Woonsocket, and myself. There were several churches, at least
one printing oiQce, and many fine residences. It seemed singu-
lar to me how little damage the cannonade of the previous day
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RHODE ISLAND 70LUNTBBBS 271
had done to the town. Here and there a shot had passed
through a building, bnt there was nothing that looked like de-
straction. Fine dwellings, richly furnished throughout, bearing
every evidence of recent occupation, were all about us, and it ap-
peared that the whole population, engaged in their usual voca-
tions, had suddenly been expelled from their homes, leaving al-
most everything behind them, probably for want of transporta-
tion. This devoted city had suddenly found itself between two
mighty armies as in a vise. Nothing but instant flight remained
before those forces should close upon each other, and so the pop-
ulation, only a day or two before, taking of their possessions
what little they could carry in their hands, poured out upon the
roads leading from the city towards Richmond, and found shelter
where they could, giving up their homes to the fortunes of war.
One family of colored people we did And who remained through
the cannonade. They said they preferred their chances with the
shot and shell to going south farther into the realm of slavery.
A cannon ball went through their little house, but they were
alive and unharmed, and cooked a johnny-cake for us.
I had a ubiquitous little darkey boy for a servant, he came
to me not long after we reached our position in one of the streets
in the city, and inquired whether I would like some griddlecakes.
The little rascal had plundered the flour barrel in a dwelling
near by, and had got his fire and griddle in the yard, prepared
to dispense refreshments to all comers.
The next morning, December iSth, opened with a heavy fog
enveloping the city and much of the valley. As everybody
knows, the position of the Confederates back of Fredericksburg
was a commanding one, being on an eminence and approached
from the city, first over a plain, and then up along a steep ac-
clivity. It is also well known that General Franklin was in
position some three miles below Fredericksburg, where the
ground in front of him was less difficult, and that Franklin, from
his position, was to co-operate with the force that lay in Fred-
ericksburg. The fog delayed operations until well into the
morning, but finally began to lift, and we heard firing back of
the city, in the direction of Marye's Heights. Soon troops be-
gan to move out, aides went dashing through the streets with
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272 HISTORY OF THE TWBLFTH BBOIMBNT
orders, one command after another gathered itself up and moved
off, but from onr position in a street running parallel with the
river, no observations eonld be had of the operations. In the
meantime artillery fire had begun on both sides, and, although
the enemy appeared to studiously avoid firing upon any part of
the city, and directed their attention to our guns posted on the
bluff across the river, yet occasionally a shell fell short and came
uncomfortably near. One dropped on a roof near by, and
seemed to glance off and pass over our heads. This was one of
the disagreeable situations, — to be penned up between the houses,
unable to see anywhere in particular or to do anything whatever,
and feel yourself under fire, and liable to be cut down like a dog,
was extremely disturbing. I can't really say that 1 felt so very
much better when I saw a mounted officer ride up to General
Nagle, commanding our brigade, and saw the instant bustle of
preparation, mounting in haste and galloping to different parts
of the line. We were under way at once, and soon found our-
selves outside the city, and marching in line of battle toward the
field of action. We at once came under fire, and suddenly one
of the privates in my company dropped to the ground, writhing
as in great agony. I felt very sorry for the poor fellow, but
could not stop to care for him. I think I directed some one to
look after him. It turned out afterwards that the fellow waa
safe and sound, unharmed by any rebel bullet He had evidently
made up his mind to continue so, and adhered to his resolution
with great fortitude.
We advanced across the plain in line of battle at doubleijuiek
until we reached rising ground and came to a steep bank afford-
ing protection from infantry fire, and here we were halted and
ordered to lie down for a short rest. Our artillery, from its posi-
tion on the bluff across the river, was shelling the heights in
front of us, their shots passing over our heads, and the rebel bat-
teries replying ; hence we were under a sort of canopy, although
not one suggestive of the utmost protection, especially when an
occasional shot from our guns fell short and dropped upon the
intervening ground.
The scene was grand in the extreme. The roar of the cannon-
ade, the hurtling of shells through the air, the rattle of musketry
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 273
fire in our front, the shouts of officers and men, the rapid move-
ments of large bodies of troops to be seen in various directions,
and the playing of numberless military bands, all blended in the
uproar. Victory seemed certain, and the more so because we
heard the advancing Are of Franklin far to our left, which gave
the almost certain assurance that he would soon flank the works
in our front, and from a far better vantage ground unite with us
in driving the enemy from the height.
Here a mishap occurred to the left of our line which was a
never-ending source of regret. The bank behind which T^e were
sheltered presented an angle to our line, so that the two com-
panies on the left were hidden from the others in that position,
my company (B) being on the extreme left. I spoke to the com-
pany commander next on our right to watch carefully when the
raiment moved, so that we should not get broken off from the
rest of the line. There was a ravine pretty close to our left
which necessitated moving to the right as we advanced. Cap-
tain Longstreet and myself were reconnoitering the lay of the
land along this ravine for a few moments, and meanwhile a shell
from the enemy had struck our line near where it broke around
the angle, taking off a leg of one of the men and causing some
confusion. Receiving no notice of the movements of the main
part of the regiment, which was around the bend, I looked for
it, and found it had moved on to the right, leaving the two left
companies broken off. Ck)lonel Browne was at the time practi-
cally without a field ofKcer to help him, and, as I believe, did not
know of the configuration of the ground at the left. Major Dyer
had been incapacitated for further service by a fragment of a
shell, and we were left without any knowledge as to what part
of the field we were destined. We immediately pressed forward
in the direction supposed to have been taken by the rest of the
r^ment until we entered a railroad cut. We found our right
had just preceded us over this ground. The cut here was along
a sidehill with scarcely any bank on the side as we entered, but
a high bank in front of us. This high bank was a partial shelter
from the fire, but only partial, as it ran obliquely to the line of
the enemy's works. We found a Maryland regiment in this cut
that refused to stir. There was a brigadier in full uniform, ex-
18
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274 HiSTOBT or thb twei^tth bboimbnt
horting with all the eloquence he could command, but to no pur-
pose, so far as I saw. I afterwards learned that our orders
were, on leaving the city, to follow this regiment.
While advancing to the railroad cut we could hear Franklin
thundering far down to our left, and fancied by the sound that
his line was advancing, and we dashed ahead greatly encouraged
by this circumstance, although chagrined and disappointed at
our unfortunate separation from the rest of the regiment, and
still worse at being separated from our commander, scarcely
knowing what use to make of ourselves, except, if possible, to
reattach ourselves to the main part of the regiment. Halting a
few moments in the railroad cut for a breathing spell, after a
double-quick, we scrambled up the bank to go forward. We had
already been under quite a fire in reaching the railroad, but when
my head passed above the top of that bank it seemed to me there
was a perfect hurricane of lead howling, screeching and hissing
through the air. The ground was strewn with dead and
wounded and debris of all sorts, — ^haversacks, knapsadks, can-
teens and broken muskets. It seemed to me, as I stood up, that
the air above my head waa thick enough with lead to cut my fin-
ger off if I had held it up. I could compare it to nothing bat a
swarm of bees in the air. This, of course happened to be whoe
the fire concentrated. I saw nothing like it anywhere else that
day. I knew very well that a large proportion of all the flre of
musketry is too high to be dangerous. If I had not been com-
forted by that belief, acquired in previous reading, I would not
answer for my conduct as a soldier at that particular juncture.
Captain Longstreet, far in advance, reckless of himself, wav-
ing his sword and shouting "Forward !" was the very picture of
a hero. Too impetuous to wait the slower movements of the
company, he continued to charge forward, and it devolved upon
me to bring the company up the bank and take it over the ex-
posed ground directly in front. I made every man bend forward
and thus diminish the danger from rifle-balls, and I believe we
did not lose a man in crossing at this exposed point. We now
found ourselves on the sidehill that leads up to the crest The
fire slackened somewhat, and the irregularities of the ground
were suflScient to protect our men, and here we were astray on a
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RHODE ISLAND YOLUNTBEBS 275
battlefield endeavoring to find the main part of our command
without success. Anxious inquiries elicited no information, or
were unheeded. There was no enemy to be seen and nobody to
direct our fire, and we lay here through the mortal hours of that
day perfectly conscious that our army could accomplish nothiug
at this point, and notified by the retreating fire away to the left
that Franklin's movement was a failure. We knew that our
presence was of no use, but we remained, hoping for orders of
some kind, our men firing an occasional shot at the undiscover-
able enemy.
Towards sunset occurred a grand and thrilling military spec-
tacle. This was the charge of General Humphreys's division
from Hooker's command, which was the final effort of that day of
great efforts and great failures. Looking away to the right and
rear, I saw a division coming in on the double-quick, with their
muskets on the right shoulder, glistening in the declining sun.
As the head of the column reached the foot of this steep ascent,
it turned to the left and stretched itself along parallel to the
heights, faced to the front and halted. So deadly had been the
fire that day that scarcely a horse was to be seen on the field.
General Humphreys, however, sat upon his charger as the fire
redoubled upon his line. I ran down to near where the general
was preparing for the charge, and heard the orders to "Face to
the front and lie down!" He sat in the slanting rays of the
setting sun under the redoubled fire, coolly waiting for his men
to gain their breath for the final effort. Presently his sword
flashed in the air, and the orders, "Rise up — forward — ^guide
centre!" rang down the line, and that line of battle started up,
up the hill, wavering, undulating with men dropping, dropping,
and others staggering to the rear, until it was a broken and
ragged line. It stopped, and the final charge was over. Out of
four thousand men, nearly half fell in a quarter of an hour.
"Having lost," says General Humphreys, in his report, "as many
men as my orders required me to lose, I suspended the attack,
and directed that the men should hold for the advance line a
ditch which would afford shelter."
The unfortunate separation of the two left companies from
the rest of the line deprived us of the example and direction of a
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276 HI8T0BT OF THB TWBLPTH BBGIliONT
lion-hearted leader. Throughout the day, Colonel Browne stood
»«ct, disdaining shelter, observing the field and directing his
men. A shot passed through his cape, but left the wearer un-
harmed. LieuteQant Abbott seized the regimental colors and
planted them far in advance of the line. Color Sergeant De-
volve stood by, coolly saying, "You will probably fall in a few
moments, and I will be ready to take them." Lieutenant Briggs,
of Company A, was cut to pieces with Minie balls. Lieutenant
Hopkins, of Company I, was struck on the instep with a piece of
shell, and his foot was amputated. He was sent to a ho^ital
in Washington, and died there. He had been sick for several
days, and was too ill for duty the day of the fight, but his cap-
tain, a brave and ambitious officer, had been sent to a hospital
across the river several days before, and Hopkins refused to re-
linquish command of his company. A shell passed in front of
Lieut. Daniel R. Ballon, of Company C, so near his face as to
cause concussion. Blinded and dazed, he staggered back down
into the city and across the river. He was sent to the hospital,
where he was confined many weeks. A Minie ball tore through
the face of Lieutenant Lawton, of Company C, producing aa
ugly wound. Sergeant Pollard, of Company O, despairing of
regaining the main body, joined another regiment and shared its
fortunes, being wounded severely in the arm. He displayed
great gallantry, and was promoted for his bravery, receiving
honorable mention from the colonel whom he served that day.
The loss of the regiment in killed and wounded was one hundred
and nine, and ninety-five missing.
After nightfall we found ourselves together again in the city
in the position which we had left in the morning. Inquiring tor
the missing, my old schoolfellow and friend. Lieutenant Ballon,
was not to be found, and I returned to the field to look for him.
The night was dark, and all over the battle ground, from one
end to the other, lay the dead and wounded, the groans and cries
of the latter coming up from the darkness. The ambulance men
were bufi^ collecting the sufferers. They were carried in the
first place and laid in rows adjacent to a road that climbed the
hill from the city. The ambulances, one after another in a con-
tinuous line, came past, were loaded and driven back to the town.
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BHODB ISLAND V0LUNTBBR8 277
After a fmitless search, I mounted the box with the driver of an
ambulance and rode back. I then saw that there was apparently
a continuous line of these vehicles moving in a circle; as soon as
one had received its load, another was ready. The floors of all
the churches had been swept clean of the pews and converted into
hospitals; the surgeons, in ante-rooms and chancels, upon im-
provised tables, were amputating limbs and dressing wounds.
The next day (Sunday) was one of anxious expectation.
Huddled back into the streets and lanes of the city again, it
seemed almost a miracle that General Lee did not attempt the
rout of our army from his vantage ground above us and the river
at our back. There were rumors that General Burnside had re-
solved to range his Ninth Army Corps in column of regiments,
and, placing himself at the head, drive that column like a batter-
ing ram against the centre of the line on the heights, and break
it by sheer force of numbers and impetus, but the day passed
quietly, and so did the next. Meanwhile the ambulance men
were busy again, emptying the churches of the wounded and con-
veying them across the river.
Monday night came on, dark and cloudy. In the evening we
had orders to move. Proceeding up through the city towards
the heights again, on the outskirts, we were ordered to observe
the strictest silence; not a tin cup must rattle, not a loud word;
all orders were given in whispers. We took up a position within
a few rods of the rebel pickets with orders to hold that position
to the last man. The inky darkness and our extreme caution
alone shielded us from the attention of our friends, the enemy.
Having selected our ground. Colonel Browne sent for some
shovels to throw up earthworks, and posted a force in a brick
building on our flank. There not being shovels enough to go
round, I divided our company into reliefs, so as to accomplish
the nK>st possible. Those not employed for the time being, lay
on the ground to the rear.
While silently delving in the loamy soil, a rifle-shot in our
ranks broke the stillness, followed by a groan. A man on the
ground had carelessly discharged his piece and wounded a com-
rade. Now we were in for it; but no! Every man held his
breathy and all was quiet again. Suddenly a whispered or-
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278 HISTOBT OF THB TWBLPTH BBGIMBNT
dep pan down the line: "Drop your shovels'' — "get into
line" — "leave everything!" We filed down into the town. Hoe
and there the ruins of a burned building flickered and gmoal-
dered, but where were the legions that a few hours before peo-
pled the th<Mroughfares? That city was as deserted and siloit
as the tombs. We marched on through empty streets to the up-
per end of the town, down to the pontoon bridges, crossed over,
and the city was alone.
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r , ' - - ...
i
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Erastus Richardson.
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ROCKY POINT.
'VxBSKS Rbad Aug. 7, 1804, at thb Annual Rxunion op the Twelfth
Rhode Island Voluntebbs.
Bt. ERASTUS RICHARDSON.
At length the Twelfth Rhode Island "Trotters"
Have found the most delightful quarters,
And though all else seems out of joint
Lo, here we are at Rocky Point!
No more the orator and bard
Pay their respects to Beauregard,
Nor from the workshops and the farms
An outraged people rush to arms —
But from the conquered southern rebs
They turn their thoughts to "Gen." Debs,
And other cranks whose glittering shams
Disturb us at our feast of clams.
In peace we contemplate to-day
The scenes of Narragansett Bay.
Its merry parties floating down
From Providence to Newport town,
Its pleasure boats and yachting crews,
So difFerent from Newport News,
Make us forget with quickening blood
The shades of Falmouth and "Camp Mud."
Or, if our memories go back
To days of bacon and hard-tack,
When lions roared around the cupboard
(I mean the pets of Captain Hubbard),
And oyster patties, cakes and creams
Regaled us nightly — in our dreams.
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280 HI8T0BY or THE TWELFTH BBQIMBNT
With what delight do we recall
Frank Ballou's luxuriant banquet hall,
HiB beaming smile, his modest mien,
And his hospitable — canteen!
Indeed, this day to us so dear.
This Mecca sought from year to year.
Derives its charm from being when
We may trot out to view again
Our pranks and perils, joys and woes
And all, except our army clothes.
For these amid the dreadful strife
Were sacred and endowed with life.
And might solemnify the fun
That bubbles up in every one.
Aind yet this day, with all its joys^
Its chowder, clams, ice cream and noise,
Oan't hold a candle to the one
When Pardon seized a dreadful gun.
And I, with some destructive organ —
A pen, I think! — waited for Morgan,
Who came not to complete the trio.
But skipped from "Jimtown" to Ohio!
And on this day, so eloquent,
With wit and song and merriment.
No brighter is the laugh and joke
Than what rolled upward from ^'Gcunp Smoke,''
Where those who were inclined to laughter
Need have no fears of the hereafter!
Unless within the shades infernal
Exists the broomstick of the colonel !
Nor do we feel a whit more lucky
Than when we "frogged it" through Kentucky,
And with an appetite most hearty
Marched bravely into Cincinnati.
How Andrew, Amasa and I
Enjoyed that glorious victory,
Aind with what elegant bonhomie
The captain marched with Frank and "Tommy!"
Much of the latter I might sing.
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BHODB ISLAND V0LUNTBIIK8 281
But it would rob Lieutenant King
And many others of the glory
Of telling a side-splitting story !
But mingled with this scene of gladness
There is a twilight tinge of sadness.
O, who can mark the whitening hair.
The stooping form, the empty chair,
That meet our vision year by year,
Without the tribute of a tear?
And who of us, try as we may.
Do not anticipate the day
When one by one our comrades brave
Will have marched out beyond the grave.
And God's sad angel shall anoint
But two or three at Bocky Point !
But I must not in hours like these
Invoke such mournful reveries.
Though thirty years have rolled away
And some of you are bent and gray,
Tet there are scores before me still
With the same energy and will
As when they donned the suits of blue
And sought the front in '62 —
Scores who would greet with vigorous arms
Man's hostile blows, or woman's charms.
And who would cheerfully go hence
In our beloved flag's defense.
Were once again the traitor's hand
To spread destruction through the land! —
And our dear nation scattered o'er
There are a hundred thousand more
As resolute and brave as you —
Not only those who wore the blue,
But those who donned the suits of gray,
Who would march forth in proud array
To quench the horrors that will be
When law dissolves in anarchy!
But till the devil himself breaks loose
And fool-reformers kill the goose
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282 HI8T0BT or THB TWVLFTH BBOIMBNT
Whick daily lays the golden ^g,
Till tramps are not obliged to beg,
Loafers to work, nor thieres to steal,
And a Bellamio ^'Commonweal/'
Such as a Goxey, Debs and Swift
Explaterates about, shall lift
The i>oor and lowly from the ditch
And everybody shall be rich !
Until, in short, our footsteps tend
And reach that dreadful point — ^the end —
And every emblem of the free
Shall have been swept from land and sea,
There will be those who will delight
To bring to mind our matchless might.
And with what energy and will.
What neatness, dignity and skill
Rhode Island heroes could unjoint
The luscious clams of Bocky Point.
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The Lamentations of the Chaplain of the
Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers.
RxciTBD AT TEiB Anvuai. Rbunioh AT BooKT PoncT, Aue. 8, 1807.
By ERASTUS iUCHARDSON.
Wb have reached the time in life
When the trouble and the strife
That to newly married folks are incidental
Have completely passed away —
And we find ourselves to-day
In a sadder plight, both physical and mental!
All the wickedness and fun
And the dangers we have run
Are absorbed; sixteen to one, in tribulations.
This is then a fitting hour
(For the grapes are high and sour)
To enjoy ourselves with mournful lamentations,
To get out of sorts and fret
Of the tariff and the debt
And tell what we know about "an honest dollar!"
Like the Irishman's advice:
. "Av the dog is plagued wid lice
Yez should clip the crajrthur's tail furnist his collar!
Thus the basthe would be consoled
And be worth his weight in gold
And be able to deflnd us from our neighbors !"
And as I am free from sin
It is proper to begin
The beginning of my melancholy labors.
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I
284 HISTORY OP THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
II.
When yon fell in love with Kate
Tour anxiety was great
Leat yon might not have the Inck or plnck to get her.
Well, you got her, I am told,
And yonr woea increased fonrfold,
But the least to speak of this would be the better!
Ere your honeymoon was spent
Tou had joined the regiment
For your sweetheart was belligerent and plucky,
And you needed change of scene.
So you loaded your canteen
And proceeded from Rhode Island to Kentucky!
But the more you marched down South
Tou grew more down in the mouth.
For you found the South to be a dreadful dry land,
And your weary soul took wings
To the schooners and the things
And the girl you left behind you in Rhode Island!
To enumerate the woes
That you sufiFered, I suppose.
Would require a day or two of constant talking,
But you won enduring fame
And while doing so became
Most proficient in the manly art of walking!
O, how oft in that campaign
Did you warble the refrain :
'fWe'U be happy when the cruel war is over!"
But amidst your dreams of Kate
Tou could not anticipate
What came later in the days of honest Qrover!
But I must abstain from that!
Not for worlds would I combat
Whatsoever you have ever set your eye on !
And it will be wise to skip
Matters of the cup and lip
Appertaining to the recent scrap of Bryan!
Tribulation, care and strife
Have disturbed you all your life —
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RHODE ISLAND YOLUNTIBBS 285
Your bent forms, gray hairs and wrinkles plainly show it—
Bnt now, worst of all, alas!
It has grimly come to pass,
Yon must nndergo the regimental poet!
Ah, your struggles have been great
With the Johnnies and with Kate,
You have undergone much outwardly and iply,
But your conflict with the bard
Will be fruitless and as hard *
Ab some oflSce seekers suffer from McEinley !
III.
My habit, which some have called "rhyming,**
Began in my earliest youth.
And much has it helped me in climbing
The rugged approaches of Truth.
For Truth, though the sternest of Graces,
Oft yields on her summit sublime
Her tenderest smiles and embraces
To those who salute her in rhyme.
But the notes of the challenge must mingle
Alnd blend with the strains at her shrine.
For rhyme is not simply the jingle
Of words at the end of a line.
*Tis a chord in a chorus unbroken,
A volume of wisdom profound,
A something which doth not when spoken
Expire in a volume of sound.
Sometimes my poetical labors
Have been by my friends misconstrued
And caused me to be by my neighbors
Unjustly condemned and reviewed.
My poems — now don't go to frowning
And turn funny thoughts in your head! —
My poems are like those of Browning:
They seldom, if ever, are read!
And like the late laureate Tennyson,
And other great masters of song.
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286 HIBTORT OP THB TWELFTH BBGIMKNT
Will I and my friend, Mr. Denison,
Beach, Anally, wh^re we belong!
And now, having shown my credentials.
Still dripping with Parnassian dews,
I venture to give some essentials
To those who would flirt with the Muse:
IV.
Whenever you perpetrate verses
Beware of the newspaper chaps,
Or your ears may be tingled with curses
And your back with a rawhide, perhaps!
But when by the Muse you are smitten,
Brush up some forgotten old saw
And let none see what you have written
Save those who have been to the war!
Nor single the cook or the colonel.
But summon the boys to the feast
And, tipping the lads of the Journal,
Let the child of your brain be released —
Else into the dreadful waste basket
Your offspring be ruthlessly tossed —
And then — O, it pains me to ask it ! —
What will your relations have lost?
I used to make rhymes for the papers —
What sillier thing could one do?
But now my poetical capers
I hold to inflict upon you !
Thus, comrades, I stand up before you
And open my rhythmical mouth.
Believing that nothing could bore you.
Who outtramped the tramps of the South!
O Muse— thus I prudently query.
For even "the lions" look weary!
Bight here shall I stop and sit down?
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TWELFTH RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBEB 287
Or, like a late Rhode Island resident,
Who onght to have been the yice-president,
Continne and do it up Brown?
And if I accomplish what he did.
Or they did, I shall have succeeded
In dreaming a beautiful dream!
For all that I need at this minute,
To get myself very much "in it/'
Is simply a sensible theme.
Shall I sing of our trip through Virginny?
Of the captain's demure pickaninny?
Our Lexington circus — and such?
But the colonel would doubtless show feeling
And charge the poor minstrel with stealing
The thunder he prizes so much!
Or shall I slop over with knowledge
As one did last June at the college?
Ah^ then you would all stand aghast,
Or say, like the sensible Quaker :
"My friend, if thou art a shoemaker,
Keep silent, and stick to thy last!"
And as I am not a deep student
I think it would hardly be prudent
To deal with statistical "facts,"
For they, like a midsummer dickey,
Sometimes are provokingly sticky
When stiffened with shoemaker's wax!
Perhaps I might sing with sincerity
"The grand advance guard of prosperity !"
And close with a short epitaph:
"Here lie — alaa! don't you remember?
The promises made last November!
O pause, weary pilgrim, and laugh!"
But save for a gravestone to show it.
The old-fashioned work of the poet
Is not in demand nowadays.
For men have grown wise and more critical
In matters profound and political
And sneer at their grandfather's ways!
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888 HI0TOBY OF THB TWBLTTH BIOIMBNT
And being so very much wiser.
Ton do not require an adviser
To save yon from getting a fall ;
And having no need for repentance
Yon see not the odd-looking sentence
That gleams overhead on the wall!
Ton see not the sentence? Don't tell of it!
For that, my dear friends, is the "hell of it !"
Make haste to restore yonr lost sight!
Let the minstrel at once be invited,
For the poet and soldier nnited
Have often brought darkness to light!
The one on the ramparts undaunted.
The other with lips that have chanted
What fate on the ceiling hath penned.
And both, standing shoulder to shoulder.
May quicken faint hearts to be bolder
And ward oflP a terrible end !
VI.
But Truth will not her bounty yield
Unto a cold and barren field,
And it would ill become the Muse
To offer what you might refuse.
If you can patiently behold
A people's franchise bought and sold,
Or see, with an unrufSed brow.
The honest yeoman, cringe and bow,
And meekly bear the foulest wrong.
In vain would be the minstrel's song!
Ah, if you would your birthright sell.
Then you are on the brink of hell !
The fires that swept imperial Rome
Are lighted at your very home!
The tinkling rhyme and shallow jest
Can only reach your darkened breast.
A bit of bluster, fuss and brag
About the fathers and the flag,
Mixed up with Sunday school advice.
Will in your state of mind sufSce!
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BBODB ISLAND T0LUNTBBR8 289
VIL
But O, this most not, cannot be !
Fop even yet we may be free!
The pothouse boss and lisping dude
May now control the multitude —
But by and by, if God is just,
In Him we may in safety trust!
Then shall resound from spire to spire
The music of the poet's lyre.
And once again from sea to sea
A stricken nation will be free!
VIII.
But my medley is too long,
And my language is too strong.
I must therefore say a few words in apology !
For you must not sail away
Up the Narragansett Bay
Till your chaplain has repeated the doxology !
You are wicked! So was Job.
And he swore and tore his robe
And declared himself to be the worst of sinners.
Alnd in folly you are sunk !
But the sire of Ham got drunk^
And Bathsheba gladdened David's glorious dinners!
You are vain, and love to brag
Of your frogging with the flag!
But not more so than your comrades of the First,
For they boast of marching through
Pennsylvania Avenue
Without halting but four times to quench their thirst!
You are mean and full of spite.
And you are not over bright,
But you are far more angelic than the Journal.
For this strikes folks who are down
With the broom of granny Brown
And imagines that its crown is co-eternal!
19
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290 HISTORT OF THB TWELFTH BIOIliniT
So you see that, after all,
If our libertieB must fall
Unless Debs shall desolate these lovely quarters,
And with all the other shams
Shall appropriate the olams,
Nothing can disturb the Twelfth Rhode Island Trotto-s!
GOOD-BY.
Till now my going is deferred,
Although my song is sung,
Because I dread to speak the word
That trembles on my tongue.
It is the word which long ago,
When darkness filled the sky.
Ton murmured tenderly and low,
"Qood-by, sweetheart! good-by!"
But oft have you refrained to speak
That word, when bending &et
The closing eye, and pallid chedc
That love would light no more.
And waited till the muffled roll
Sent forth its mournful sigh,
And then the cry burst from your soul:
"Qood-by! comrade, good-by!"
I shrink to speak that which entwines
So closely round the heart
Because to use it in these lines
Implies that we must part.
But part we must ! and so the word,
Whatever it may imply,
Must from my trembling lips be heard :
Qood-by, my friends, good-by!
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"■»••
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Joseph W. Grant.
(In uniform as Captain of Rhode Island State Militia.)
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Face to Face with Time.
BbAD at tub TwBirriBTH RbUNION of THB TwBLFTH RhODB ISIiAJfO
YOLUHTBEBS, AT ObBSOBNT PaBK, AuO. 4, 1003.
By ERASTUS RICHARDSON.
I SAID that I could not be here,
But here I am ! It may appear
To those who in their early youth
Have seen a soldier stretch the truth.
That I myself had learned the game
While limping up the hill of fame.
Had I, indeed, like most of you,
A hundred thrilling scenes passed through;
Met danger in a thousand shapes.
And squeaked out of a million scrai>e8;
Perhaps at smoke talks and camp-fires
I might have been the king of liars!
But it so happened that I saw
But little of the cruel war.
A!nd when the cruel war was over
I came forth from a bed of clover.
True, I encountered, now and then,
The doughnuts of that best of men,
Composed of hard-tack, gudgeon grease,
And such like things. But when sweet peaoe
Dawned on the earth, he made amends.
And now we are the best of friends.
Often do I his home invade
And feast on ice cream, lemonade.
And doughnuts, too— that are not sham$^
And, best of all — Pawtuxet clams!
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292 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
And now from Past Commander Ballon,
Comrades and friends, I tnrn to yon,
And looking ronnd me I behold
That every one of yon is old;
To all the boys of '63
Old age has come — excepting me!
All now npon the npper shelf
Are sprawling ronnd — except myself!
Ah, well do I remember when
(We nsed to call him "Pardon*' then)
He was the centre of a gay
And lovely throng — ^bnt where are they?
I see him now a comrade nndge,
Als if I too — ^bnt he's no jndge;
For I am jnst as gay and hearty
As when we captnred Cincinnati,
And sweet as when — this is no joke —
We made onr toilets at "Camp Smoke."
I have allnded to the liars
Who congr^ate aronnd camp-flres,
Bnt they are harmless. All are pleased
To see a comrade slightly teased.
And watch the sparks that upward fly
Like rockets from a well told lie;
Nor do I shrink from the attack
Of enemies behind my back.
Bnt of all beings that exist
At which I always clench my flst.
Is that whose lies of gall and brass
Pill me with rage— a looking glass!
O, that would rise some Carrie Nation
To smash the mirrors of creation!
For this informs me that I, too.
Am quite as much played out as you.
Therefore, my friends, in very truth,
1 came here to renew my youth.
Or rather that I might defy
Time as he grimly hastens by.
He is all powerful, I know,
And when his scythe swings to and fro,
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BHODB ISLAND TOLUNTBBRa 29S
The flowers, so beantifnl and sweet,
Breathe out their lives beneath his feet
But there's a limit to his power.
He may cut (!own the lovely flower,
But yet its perfumes still may be
Preserved throughout eternity.
Beneath his touch our hair turns gray;
Our strength grows less from day to day;
But he is powerless to control
The flres that burn within our soul!
Back of the pale and wrinkled cheek.
Within the form palsied and weak,
fStill gleams, and will forever glow.
The flame that forty years ago
Moved men to march from crag to crag
Beneath our country's glorious flag.
But I must not, in feeble rhyme.
Say unkind things of Father Time!
For, after all, he is in truth.
The blessing of old age and youth.
To noble lives unto the end
He is indeed a kindly friend.
What being, if he had the power.
Would wish to stay the flying hour?
In joy or grief, hope or despair.
We all have faith that Time will bear
Us onward to some other scene
Of skies more golden, or serene.
Nor do we trust in him in vain,
Whatever our pleasure, or our pain;
Whether we gaze, with yearnings fond,
Into the past, or the beyond,
When our delights or griefs are past,
He brings to us sweet peace at last!
The halo round the golden hair.
The cloud above the vacant chair.
He blends and places in the sky.
To be a blessing by and by.
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294 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTU RBGIMBMT
Or weaves therefrom a veil of gold
To shield our hearts as we grow old.
Ah, not until old age appears
Are sanctified our smiles and tears!
Then, as onr narrowing band grows less,
With an increasing tenderness,
We fondly greet in very truth
The careworn comrades of onr yonth.
Thus Time now meets ns face to face
And holds ns in a fond embrace.
Therefore, my friends, from year to year.
It is onr duty to be here,
And come in spite of wind or weather.
For Time has bound us close together.
And, like an angel from above.
Has turned our comradeship to love.
Nay, more: We marched long years ago
Towards a brave and bitter foe,
But as we march towards the end
That foeman has become a friend.
The boys in blue and boys in grey
Are marching side by side to-day.
And all are led by Father Time
Towards a camping ground sublime.
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A Paper said to have been Found in the Ruins
OF A ONCE Proud and Magnificent Republic
Read at Woonbocket, R. I., on Mbmobial Day, 1886.
By ERASTUS RICHARDSON.
This was a favored land. Its founders, filled
With grand impulses, and whose bosoms thrilled
With deep and restless longings to be free,
Had songht its shores beyond a pathless sea,
And bnilt their hnmble homes on sterile soil.
Slowly the fields repaid their ceaseless toil,
Bnt still they labored on — for they were strong
In acts as well as words — ^nntil, ere long,
The wilderness, beneath their sturdy blows
B^an to bnd and blossom as the rose.
Then others came, impelled by like desires;
And noble children, worthy of their sires.
Were bom ; and they increased and multiplied.
And soon the tidings went forth far and wide:
That Heaven had fornished and divinely blest
A lefnge for the i>oor and the oppressed ;
A place where men as equals met; a place
Where titles were unknown ; where every race
And kindred might together meet and claim
A common brotherhood ; where wealth and fame
Were worthily bestowed; where honest toil
Beceived its due reward; and on whose soil
The tree of Liberty had taken root
And yielded unto all its sweetest fruit.
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296 HISTORY or the twbltth bboimint
Then, flodking to the shore from every land,
Game countless thousands. Cities, vast and grand,
And vielng in magnificence with those
That were the growth of centuries, arose.
As if by magic, where but yesterday
The wild beast slept, or hunted for its prey:
From hill to hill the hum of industry
And cheerful toil went forth ; and every sea
Was whitened by its sails. Nor this alone;
But every tyrant trembled on his throne,
And every patriot hailed with joy and pride
A people who the power of kings defied!
Ah, yes, it was a favored land! And why?
Whence was its glorious supremacy
O'er all the nations of the earth? Had fate.
Blind and capricious, nursed the infant state
Until it burst its swaddling clothes? Ah, no!
Its youth was full of grief, and sounds of woe
And lamentation ceased not, till, at length.
It stood before the world in all its strength.
Twice from the mother-land fierce foemen came;
And once a cruel war kindled a fiame
Of hate and passion in the souls of men.
And for a time it seemed that once again
The lamp of Freedom would withhold its light.
And all would roll back into deepest Night
But the stem virtues, which the sires instilled
Into their children's veins, yet lived, and thrilled
The very weakest with unwonted zeal;
Heroes came forth with hearts and nerves of steel
From every cottage — ^and, at length, once more.
The din of battle ceased from shore to shore.
No tongue can tell the wondrous joy that burned
In every breast, when to their homes returned
The war-worn heroes; never yet has pen
Described the glorious hopefulness, which then
Prevailed throughout a land redeemed and free;
And never will the songs of jubilee,
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RHODE ISLAND V0LUNTBBB8 297
Which then rang out in one grand hymn of praise,
Sound as they did in those triumphant days!
But none forgot the cost^ the dreadful cost
Of their redemption ! Like a blighting frost
That on autumnal nights marks on the plain
The blackened pathway of its icy train,
Grim War had swept across the smiling land
And left the shadow of its cruel hand.
And while that shadow, like a funeral pall
Hung o'er the cottage and the marble hall ;
While lived a mother, whose fond bosom yearned
For him who left her arms and ne'er returned;
Till every actor in that scene of gloom
Had passed beyond the portals of the tomb-
Yearly the comrades marched with mournful tread
To sprinkle flowers above their honored dead.
And gaze, while weeping o'er the sacred dust.
Into the future with unfaltering trust.
At last, war's gloomy shade became effaced.
And they who met as foes, as friends embraced.
The blighting fires of hate began to cease.
And when the chieftain, who had conquered peace,
Was by a stricken nation lain to rest,
A sweet forgetfulness filled every breast,
And round his tomb the friend and foeman stood,
Bound by the warmest ties of brotherhood.
Ah, this was then a favored land indeed i
Within its peaceful borders, every need
Of a free people seemed to be assured ;
Its vast and growing industries allured
Unto its shores the learned and the skilled
Of every clime; its granaries were filled
To overflowing; and from hour to hour
It grew in wealth, prosperity and power.
Nor were its victories confined alone
To warlike scenes, but far more brightly shone
Its glory in the peaceful realm of thought.
Wisely and well, its people had been taught
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298 HISTORY OP THE TWmiFTU REGIMENT
To cherish learning, and to dedicate
Temples thereto throughout their infant state.
And they had been rewarded. Ne'er before
So widely as to them, had Nature's door
Been drawn aside! 'Tis needless to rehearse
Their wond'rous works! — In marble and in verse
Will be preserved their memory sublime
To the remotest boundaries of time!
O, thrice and four times blessed are they, who fell
Ere yet rang out their country's funeral knell !
Who lived not to behold a tyrant's hand
Despoil and desecrate their fatherland !
O ye, who in some future age may read
The story of my country's ruin, heed
The warnings which from out her ashes rise
In sad and mounrful wailings, to the skies!
If Heaven has blessed you with a bounteous store,
Act not, as if to you alone the door
Of Paradise must on its hinges swing!
Touch not the toiler, either with the sting
Of condescension, or the cruel rod
Of tyranny ! But bend before your God
In deep humility and thankfulness ! —
Else, they,, to whom the fates have granted less.
Goaded to madness, will rise up and smite
You in their frenzied rage! Then, with delight
The fiends of hell will shriek, and over all.
Angels will sadly spread the funeral pall !
And, O ye toilers, if you are not slaves.
And o'er your homes the flag of freedom waves,
Think of your loved ones and your sainted sires.
Ere through the land you light the awful fires
'^t civil war! Be patient, and endure
3ur present ills, rather than seek to cure
lem by invoking from the powers below
lat which will sink you in the deepest woe!
idure the wrongs of selfishness and greed;
le bitter pangs of poverty and need ;
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RHODE ISLAND V0l<UNTBBB8 299
Aye, even death itself! — rather than fling
Away your only hope and refage! Cling
To that which can alone redeem and save
Yon from a fate more cmel than the grave !
And with yonr deepest indignation, spnm
Those who, in Freedom's name, would rob and bum
Her granaries, and overwhelm at last
Yonr fatherland with desolation vast !
• •••*••
Blessed be the state where rich and poor abide
By mntnal hopes and sympathies allied ;
Where capital and labor, hand in hand,
Work to one end to bless the smiling land ;
Where wealth is tainted not by crime or frand,
And honest toil receives its dne reward!
And blessed are they, who plant and prune their vines
Where Freedom's heavenly flame so brightly shines!
For they, when having marched with monmfal tread
To sprinkle flowers above their honored dead,
Shall gaze, while weeping o'er the sacred dnst,
Into the future with unfaltering trust !
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PART FIFTH
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PERSONAL SKETCHES.
COLONEL GEORGE HUNTINGTON BROWNE.
The following memoranda was kindly furnished me by Mr. Keyes D. Browne,
a son of Colonel Browne.]
OoL. Gbobob Huntinoton Browns was bom in Glocester, R. I.,
Jan. 6, 1818. On his father's side he is descended from the Rev.
Ghad Browne; on his mother's side from Jndge Samnel Hunting-
ton^ of Connecticut, one of the signers of the Declaration of In-
dei>endence; also from the Bowditch family of Massachusetts^
his mother's maiden name being Bowdish. His father died when
he was but eight years of age. Commenced teaching school when
he was fourteen years of age, teaching at different periods of
time, until he graduated from college. Fitted for collie at the
Classical Academies of Monson and Bolton, Mass. Entered
Brown University in 1836, and while there took a high rank in
mathematics, graduating in 1840. This graduating class had
many members who subsequently made a ^^name." Immediately
upon graduation, he commenced the study of the law in the office
of Hon. Samuel Y. Atwell, of Chepachet, R. I., and was subse-
quently admitted to the Rhode Island Bar, and practiced his pro-
fession in his native state until his demise. Represented, at dif-
ferent times, the town of Glocester in the Senate and the House
of Rhode Island, also served as chairman of the school board,
and secretary of the Manton Library Association of Glocester.
He served for eight years as United States district attorney for
the district of Rhode Island, during the administrations of Presi-
dents Pierce and Buchanan, and was one of the delegates from
Rhode Island to the noted Peace Convention which met just pre-
vious to the Civil War. Was elected and commissioned chief
justice of the Supreme Court of Rhode Island, but declined this
great honor. For thirty years he was a law partner of the late
Col. Nicholas Van Slyck, who was solicitor for the city of Provi-
dence for nearly twenty years. His ancestors on both his father's
and mother's side served in the War of the Revolution. Was a
member of the Rhode Island Historical Society, Bar Association,
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304 HI8T0BT OF THB TWELFTH BEQIMBNT
and Squantum Clnb. Was elected to Congress from the West-
em district of Rhode Island at the spring election of 18S1.
While in Congress was a member of the Committee on Priyileges
of Election, also served on other committees^ and while in Wash-
ington was tendered the position of Governor of the territory of
Arizona, but declined same.
Colonel Browne was twice married. His first wife was Mias
Danforth, of Williamstown, Mass., daughter of Hon. Keyes Dan-
forth, a member of the Oeneral Court of Massachusetts. His
first wife died in 1859. In 1864 he married a Mrs. Lidgerwood,
daughter of Judge Charles M. Baker, of Lake Geneva, Wis. She
survived him. He was survived also by two of his first wile's
children, viz. : Keyes D. Browne, of Ogden City, Utah, and Mrs.
J. Maus Bchermerhorn, of New York.
In politics he was always a Democrat. The last few years of
his life h^ remained the greats portion of the year in the city <rf
Providence, and attended the Unitarian Church at the comer of
Benevolent and Benefit Streets, while Drs. Staples and Slioer
were pastors. His funeral was held from this church, Drs. Greer
and Slicer officiating, his regiment marching at the head of the
cortege, from the church to Swan Point Cemet^y.
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JAMES SHAW, JR.
LiBUT.-CoL. Jambs Shaw, Jr., son of Gen. James and Eliza
Field (Godfrey) Shaw, was bom in Providence, R. I., Sq[>t. 25,
1830. His ancestors on his father's side came from Scotland.
His grandfather, Capt. James Shaw, was a well-known sea cap-
tain, and commanded vessels trading with the East Indies. On
the maternal side he is descended from the early settlers of Rhode
Island, among his ancestors being Roger Williams and six of
^'the twelve beloved friends and neighbors" with whom he divided
the land bought of Canonicus and Miantinomi, viz.: Stukelej
Westcott, William Arnold, John Greene, William Harris, William
Carpenter and Richard Waterman. General Shaw's great grand-
father on his mother's side was a Revolutionary soldier. HiB
father commanded the First Light Infantry from 1830 to 1835,
and ordered the firing on the mob in 1831, the first instance in
the country where a mob had been suppressed by the militia; was
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RHOfDE ISLAND VOI/UNTEEBS 305
active on the side of "law and order" dnring the "Dorr War,"
and was afterwards commander of the First Brigade Rhode Is-
land Militia.
Gen. James Shaw^ Jr., was educated in the public schools of
Providence, graduating from the High School in 1846. He was
an active member of the First Light Infantry from 1850 to 1857.
At the commencement of the Rebellion, being unable to go with
the First Regiment, he suggested to the citizens of the Sixth
Ward the formation of ward companies for the purpose of learn-
ing to drill. He was made first lieutenant and then captain of
the Sixth Ward Guards. This example was followed by every
ward in the city and every town in the State.
Owing to Captain Shaw's exertions a regiment was formed
from these companies and he was elected colonel. In the Spring
of 1862 the following dispatch was received from the Secretary
of War: "Enemy advancing on Washington; send every avail-
able man immediately," and Colonel Shaw was called on by the
governor to organize the Tenth Rhode Island Volunteers. In
thirty hours after the call a regiment was formed, armed, clothed,
equipped, and en route for Washington. Waiving the right to
the command, Colonel Shaw asked for one who had received a
military education for colonel, and took the lieutenant-colonelcy
May 26, 1862; was promoted to colonel August 6th of the same
year, and served in the defences of Washington. At the end of
three months the command was mustered out. He re-entered
the service Dec. 31, 1862, as lieutenant-colonel of the Twelfth
Rhode Island Volunteers, and served with the Ninth Army Corps
before Fredericksburg, Newport News, and in Kentucky.
When the Twelfth Regiment was mustered out he appeared
before "Casey's Board," and was the fifth out of seven hundred
examined to receive the grade of colonel, and was appointed Oct.
27, 1863, to the command of the Seventh United States Colored
Troops. He joined the regiment Nov. 12, 1863, in Maryland;
was post commander at Jacksonville, Fla.; commanded brigade
in the expedition to Cedar Creek and Camp Melton ; participated
in the battle on John's Island ; was commended for wisdom and
bravery in action ; returned to Virginia and moved on Richmond ;
he commanded First Brigade, Third Division, Tenth Army Corps,
Aug. 13 to 21, Aug. 25 to Sept. 25, and Oct. 25 to Dec. 4, 1864;
20
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806 HI8T0BT OF THB TWBUTH BBOIMBNT
commanded First Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-fifth Army
Corps, from its formation, Dec. 4, 1864, until it waa disbanded in
1866. Commanded Second Division, Twenty-fifth Army Corps,
Feb. 21 to March 13, 1865, and participated in the capture of
Petersburg and the triumph at Appomattox. He commanded
the sub-district of Victoria and Central District of Texas from
Feb. 21 to May 9, 1866, and was mustered out with his regiment
Nov. 16, 1866, bearing on his flag, by authority, the names of the
battles of Cedar Creek, Baldwin, Eingsland Boad, Fuzzel's Mills,
White Point, John's Island, Fort Gilmer, Darbytown Boad,
Armstrong's Mills, Petersburg, and Appomattox Court House.
General Shaw was brevetted brigadier-general for '^meritorious
services during the war," to date from March 13, 1865. The
record of this regiment of colored trooi>s forms a valuable and
brilliant page in the history of the war.
In August, 1870, General Shaw was appointed collector of cus-
toms of the port of Providence, B. I., and filled the office until
Feb. 1, 1879. He has been a member of the National Encamp-
ment of the Grand Army of the Bepublic from its organization,
and was chairman of the committee that prepared the rules, reg-
ulations, and ritual unanimously adopted by the Encampment at
Cincinnati in 1869. He is a member of the Massachusetts Conh
mandery of the Military Order of the Loyal L^on.
General Shaw married, Sept. 22, 1853, Elizabeth Williams,
daughter of James and Amanda (Potter) Fisher, of Pawtuxet,
B. I. They have had three children, — James, Walter Arnold
(died May 3, 1873), and Howard Armington (died Dec 22,
1894).
MAJOB CYBUS G. DYEB.
Major Cyeus G. Dybe was born in Providence, B. I., and was
graduated from the Providence High School in the class of 1846;
was commissioned first lieutenant and quartermaster First Bhode
Island Detached Militia, April 18, 1861; captain Company A,
Second Bhode Island Infantry, June 1, 1861; major Twelfth
Bhode Island Infantry, Oct. 10, 1862; mustered out July 29, 1863;
later was captain Twenty-sixth United States Colored Troops.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 307
SURGEON BENONI CARPENTER.
BsNONi CAaPBNTBB, M. D.^ wos bom in Rehobeth^ Mass., March
12y 1805, and was the son of Caleb and Hannah (George) Car-
penter. He attended the public schools of his native town in his
youth and pursued his preparatory studies for Brown University
under the tuition of Rev. Thomas Vernon, then a minister in Re-
hoboth. He entered that institution in the class of 1829. He
also attended the lectures of the Jefferson Medical College in
Philadelphia, where he received his diploma in March, 1832.
After leaving collie he immediately commenced the study of
medicine in Providence, with Dr. Usher Parsons. He soon
afterwards settled in Se^onk, Mass., in the practice of his
profession, and remained there till 1837, when he removed to
Pawtucket, which continued to be his residence to the end of his
life. He was a successful practitioner, and both in Massachu-
setts and Rhode Island was an active and progressive member
of the Medical Society. He was also an earnest champion of
temperance and of popular education.
Dr. Carpenter entered the service of his country in the Civil
War as surgeon of the Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, and
served with it during its term of service until its final muster
out. His son, Frank H. Carpenter, was hospital steward in this
regiment. He again entered the service as surgeon of the Four-
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored). He made his
headquarters with the Third Battalion of that regiment, at Camp
Parapet, La. Here, in addition to the duties of surgeon of the
post, he was appointed acting medical director and inspector of
the District of Carrolton in Louisiana. Lieutenant-Colonel Viall
pays this just tribute to Dr. Carpenter: "To Dr. Benoni Car-
penter, surgeon of the raiment, great credit was due for his skill-
ful and efficient efforts for the care of the sick." He was mus-
tered out with his regiment Oct. 2, 1865.
After the war he resumed the practice of his profession in
Pawtucket, R. I. He was for several years a member of the
school committee of the old town of Pawtucket, and served his
constituency in both branches of the General Assembly of Rhode
Island. He was a member of the Board of State Inspectors
from 1869 to 1877.
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808 HISTORY or THE TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
Dr. Carpenter was married in Jnne, 1833, to Miss Adelaide
Everett^ of Wrentham, Mass. By a mysterious dispensation of
Providence he and his wife died within a few days of each oth^.
His wife after a long illness died Nov. 17, 1877. Her funeral was
to have taken place on the Tuesday following. On the morning of
that day Dr. Carpenter appeared to be in his usual health, but
day Dr. Carpenter appeared to be in his usual health, but shortly
shortly after breakfast he was seized with a fit of apoplexy, and,
after breakfast he was seized with a fit of apoplexy, and, despite
despite the best of medical attendance, remained in an unconscious
state until the next morning (November 22d), when he died. The
funeral of his wife was postponed in consequence of his sudden
demise, and his six children — four sons and two daughters —
who were called together for the first time in twelve years by
the death of their mother, followed a few days later both of their
parents to the grave at the same time, the double funeral oc-
curring at the Congregational Church in Pawtucket, Nov. 23,
1877.
REV. SAMUEL WHEELER FIELD.
Chaplain Samuel Whbbleb Field, the son of David sad
Phebe Field, was born in North Yarmouth, Maine, April 28, 1813.
He was graduated from Colby University and Newton Theo-
li^cal Institution.
He married Aug. 26, 1840, Elizabeth Earl Horton, of Boston.
He served as pastor of the Baptist Church in Hallowell, Maine;
Methuen, Mass., and Providence, R. I.
He volunteered as chaplain of the Twelfth Rhode Island Vol-
unteers Oct. 15, 1862, and served in Virginia and Kentucky and
was mustered out with the regiment July 29, 1863.
He died Oct. 28, 1887.
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PART SIXTH
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ROSTER
OF THE
Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers.
JOHlf TUBKKB.
HxlfBT KnfG.
HELD AND STAFF.
Colonel.
OBORGB H. BROWNB.
lAeutenant'Colonel.
JAMBS SHAW, Jb.
Major.
CYRUS G. DYER.
AdjutantM.
Matthew N. Chappeix.
Quartermaater.
John L. Clabke.
Surgeon.
Benoni Cabfenteb.
Assistant Surgeons.
Samuel M. Fuetgooeb.
Chaplain.
Samitel W. Field.
OscAB Lafham.
Pbosfeb K. Hutchinson.
NOTB.^This Roster is a transcript from the Revised Edition of the Adjutant-General's
Report for 1866.
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312
HISTORY OF THB TWBLFTH BEQIMBNT
CaptaiM.
Edward S. Cheney* (Co. A.)
Christopher H. Aleuander, (Co. A.)
James M. Longstreet, (Co. B.)
James H. Allen, (Co. C.)
Gtoorge C. Almy, (Co. D.)
John P. Abbott, (Co. D.)
John J. Phillips, ((3o. E.)
William E. Hubbard, (Co. F.)
William C. Rogers, (Co. G.)
Oliver H. Perry, (CJo. H.)
Qeorge A. Spink, (Co. I.)
Oscar Lapham, (Co. K.)
First Lieutenants,
Richard A. Briggs, (Co. A.)
John Sanford Roberts, (Co. A.)
Cbristopher H. Alexanden (Ck>. A.)
Edward F. Bacon, (Co. A.)
Oscar Lapham, (Co. B.)
James M. Pendleton, (Co. B.)
Albert W. Delanah, (Co. B.)
Jules Macheret, (Co. C.)
Oeorge F. Bicknell, (Co. C.)
Oeorge Bucklln, (Co. C.)
William H. King, (Co. D.)
Qeorge H. Taber, (Co. D.)
Qeorge F. Bicknell, (Co. E.)
Christopher H. Alexander, (Co. E.)
Edward F. Bacon, (Co. B.)
Luther Cole, Jr., (Co. E.)
George F. Lawton, (CJo. F.)
William H. King, (Ck>. F.)
William C. Rogers, Co. G.)
Matthew N. Chappell, (Go. G.)
James A Bowen, (Co. G.)
Arnold F. Salisbury, (Ck). H.)
Stephen M. Hopkins, (Co. l.)
William H. King, (CJo. I.)
Munson H. Najac, (Co. I.)
Edmund W. Fkles, (Co. K.)
Second Lieutenants,
John Sanford Roberts, (Co. A.)
Edward F. Bacon, (Co. A.)
CJeorge Bucklin, (Co. A.)
Joseph C. Whiting, Jr., (Co. A.)
Albert W. Delanah, (CJo. B.)
Fenner H. Peckham, Jr., (Co. B.)
Charles M. Winchester, (Co. B.)
Matthew N. Chappell, (Co. C.)
John P. Abbott, (Co. C.)
Daniel R. Ballou, ((3o. C.)
Beriah G. Browning, (Co. C.)
Qeorge H. Taber, (Co. D.)
Luther Cole, Jr., (Co. E.)
Henry M. Tillinghast, (Co. D.)
Christopher H.NAlexander| (Co. E.)
Edward V. Westcott, ((3o. B.)
George Bucklin, (Co. F.)
Francisco M. Ballou, (Co. F.)
Edward P. Butts, (Co. G.)
Daniel R. Ballou, (Co. G.)
Joseph Pollard, (Co. G.)
Fenner H. Peckham, Jr., (Ck>. G.)
James A. Bowen, (O). H.)
George Bucklin, (Ck>. H.)
James A. Williams, (Co. H.)
Munson H. NaJac, (Co. L)
Fenner H. Peckham, Jr., (Co. I.)
John H. Weaver, (Co. L)
James M. Pendleton, (Co. K.)
Charles H. Potter, (Co. K.)
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Capt. William E. Hubbard.
(From a recent picture.)
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Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers.
Abbott, John P., Capt Oo. D; Res., Warren, R. L; Oct 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt. Maj. Mustered
out as Sgt. Maj. and mustered In as 2d Lt to date Nov. 4, 1862; Nov.
11, 1862» assigned as 2d Lt. to Co. C. Mustered out as 2d Lt and mus-
tered in as Capt to date Dec. 22, 1862. Assigned to Co. D.; June 16,
1863, resigned.
AoHisoN, Geobgb, Jb., 1st Sgt Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt; July
29, 1863, mustered out
AcHisoN, James, Priv. Co. A.; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
AoHisoN, WnuAM, Corp. Co. A.; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 22,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Jan. 26, 1863, until May, 1863; May 4, 1863, detached for senriod
in Invalid Corps, Finley Hospital, Washington, and so borne until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Adams, James B., Sgt. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nich-
olasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Adams, Joseph A., Corp. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. L; Sept 23,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June, 1863, sent to hospital
and borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Albebt, Chables H., Sgt. Co. G; Res., Tiyerton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; April
17, 1863, promoted Sgt. Borne on detached service at Nicholasvllle,
Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
AuBBO, Benjamin, Priv. Co. C; Res., Exeter, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital from Dec.
29, 1862, until Feb. 11, 1863, when he was discharged for disability at
Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
Albbo, Geobqe T., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. L; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Aldbioh, Joseph W., Drummer Co. E; Res., Warren, R. L; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Aldbioh, Moses B., Priv. Co. K; Res.. Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
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314 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
Au^XANDEB, Chbistopheb H., Capt Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; S^t
13, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 9, 1862, commis-
sioned 2d Lt. Co. E. Mustered out as 2d Lt and mustered in as Ist
Lt to date Dec. 24, 1862; Feb. 15, 1863, transferred to Co. A as Ist Lt
In command of Co.; April 17, 1863, commissioned Capt and mustered
in April 29, 1863. Borne on special duty on court-martial from June
29, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
AuLEN, Ambbosb L., Sergt Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Sept 30»
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.;
Feb. 7, 1863, promoted Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
AixBN, Benaqsb S., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
AiXEN, Oeobge H., Corp. Co. F.; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Allen, James H., Capt Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered, in; Oct 13, 1862, commissioned Capt
Borne on special duty as Provost Marshal at Jamestown from June
23, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Almt, Geobqe C, Capt Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 2, 1863, discharged on tender
of resignation.
Akbbusteb, Adolphus, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Akdebson, David, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 1, 186S,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
A]?DEB80N, James, Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nlcholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
AiTDEBsoN, James, Priv. Co. 1; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
Andbews, Chablss H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863. Rejoined the Reg't; July 29, 1863»
mustered out
Aitdbews, Jebemiah, Priv. Co. K; Res.. Scituate. R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Andbews, John F., Musician Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Akdbews, WniJAM A., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 10, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
AifOELL, Alfbed, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Anthony, Geobge R., Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
^^BDEAN, Thomas. See Thomas Ardeh.
Abdean, William. See William Arden.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 815
Abdbn, Thomas, PriY. Co. G; Res., Portsmouth, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NlcholasYille, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Abden, WnuAM. PriY. Co. O; Res., Tiverton, R. 1; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nlcholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
ABinrrr, Henby, Priv. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, ^i-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Abnold, Babton, Priv. Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, left at Camp Casey,
near Fairfax Seminary, Va., and borne as sick from that time until
March 9, 1863, when he returned from hospital and reported for duty;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
AiuvoLO, Geobge W., Sgt Co. I; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 8, 1862, died of fever at Fair-
fax Seminary.
Abnold, James H., Corp. Co. O; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 1, 1863, promoted Corp.
Borne on detached service at Nlcholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863,
until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Abivou), Lewis O. Jb., Corp. Co. I; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in eye at
the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., sent to General Hospital, Washing-
ton, D. C, and borne as absent sick until April 21, 1863, when he re-
turned from hospital; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Abnold, William H., Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg; Feb. 7,
1863, sent to hospital and borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Abhton, Stephen, Priv. Co. I; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept 12, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Atwood, Thomas, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Austin, Chables, Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 15,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Dec. 29, 1862, until April 20, 1863, when he was discharged for
disability at General Hospital.
Austin, Geoboe W., Priv. Co. K; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, killed at the
battle of Fredericksburg.
Austin, Joseph O., Priv. Co. F.; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as teamster from Nov. 2,
1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Austin, Stephen O., Priv. Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
June 4, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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816 HisToar or thi twblfth rbqimbnt
Baboook, Fsahoib B. H., Prlv. Ca G; Ree., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 25. 1S$2,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, on ammunition train.
Borne on detached seryice at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863,
until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Baboock, Samukl 1st Sgt Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 27, 1863, died of typhoid fever
at ResTt'l Ho^ital, Newport News, Va.
Babson, Bbastus W., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 1, 1862, detailed as RegTl
Armorer and so borne until May 28, 1863, when he returned to Ca;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Baohelless, Heitbt C, Sgt. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec., 1862, wounded in action and
borne as absent sick from Dec. 15, 1862, until March 14, 1863, when he
was discharged for disability from Lovell General Hospital, Ports-
mouth Grove, R. I.
Baoon, Edwabd p., 1st Lt Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as let Sgt
Mustered out as 1st Sgt. and mustered in as 2d Lt. to date Dec. 24.
1862. In command of Co. from Jan. 17, 1863, until Feb. 15. 1863.
Mustered out as 2d Lt and mustered in as 1st Lt to date March 2.
1863; March 7, 1863. assigned to Co. E; April 26, 1863, transferred to
Co. A as 1st Lt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Baqgett, Mabtin, Musician Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in. Borne as absent on furlou^ for
thirty days from March 15, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bagnall, Samuel, Priv. Co. E; Res.. Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bailet, Samuel, Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bailey, Thomas W., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 5, 1863, died in Reg'tl
Hospital at camp near Falmouth, Va.
Baujey. William, Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. L; Sept 28, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bakeb, Chables K., Priv. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept, Washington, D. C.
Bakeb, James M., Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. 1.; Sept. 11,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Balaam, James, Corp. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Ball, Augustus, Sgt Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1862, mustered out
Ball, Gbobge. Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I; Sept 22, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital at Wash-
ington, D. C, from Feb. 8, 1863, until April 4, 1863, when he was dis-
charged for disability at Washington, D. C.
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Lieut. Francisco M. Bai^lou.
(From a recent pictuie.;
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RHODB ISLAND V0LUNTBBR8 S17
Sall, Noah, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept. 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 26, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Baix, Theodosb B., Priv. Co. B; Res., New Shoreham, R. 1.; Oct 7, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in cheek
at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and sent to General Hospital;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Baix, WnxiAM, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham. R. 1.; Sept 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec., 1862, sent to General Hos-
pital at Washington, D. C, and borne as absent sick until March 19,
1863, when he was discharged for disability at Washington, D. C.
Baixou, Abhold B., Priv. Co. K; Res., BurrillYille, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
from that time until March 18, 1863, when he was discharged for
disability.
Ballou, Daniel R., 2d Lt Co. C; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv. Co. K;
Nov. 9, 1862, promoted Sgt. Maj. Mustered out as Sgt Maj. and mus-
tered in as 2d Lt to date Nov. 20, 1862; Nov. 29, 1862, assigned to Co.
G; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., sent
to hospital and borne as absent sick until Feb., 1863, when he returned
to Co.; Dec. 30, 1862, transferred to Co. C as 2d Lt.; April 25, 1863,
resigned.
Ballou, Fraivcisoo M., 2d Lt Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt;
Jan. 1, 1863, promoted 1st Sgt. Mustered out as 1st Sgt, and mus-
tered in as 2d Lt. April 30, 1863, to date March 7, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Babbage, Michaei*, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service as pro-
vost guard from Nov. 5, 1862, until Jan., 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Babbeb, Matthew S., Priv. Co. C; Res., Richmond, R. I.; Sept 14, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Babbeb, Whjjam E., Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 23,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Babden, Newell S., Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bablow, Wilijam F., Priv. Oo. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Babxtss, William H., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. L; Aug. 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Babntm, Isaac, Sgt Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Babbt, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., Smlthfleld, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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318 HISTORY OF THB TWBLFTH BDGIMENT
BAsnxTT, Jebemiah B., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Babton, William E., Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29» 1863, mustered out
Bassett, Chables H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 26. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bassett, William, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, trans-
ferred from the llth Reg't R. I. Inf. Borne as absent sick in hospital
at Washington from Dec. 29, 1862, until Jan. 3, 1863, when he was
discharged for disability.
Bateman, Nicholas S. See Nicholas S. Baton.
Baton, Nicholas S., Priv. Co. I; Res., Providence, R. L; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service with
supply train from March 14, 1863, until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Baxter, Daniel, Musician Co. G; Res., Phenix, R. I., Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nich-
olasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Belcher, Andrew M., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. 1.; Oct 2. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as clerk in Brig. Q. M.
Dept from Nov., 1862, until Jan., 1863; Feb., 1863, forage master and
so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bennett, Adams J., Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. 1.; Sept 26, 1862, st-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 30, 1863, died of disease in
hospital at Baltimore, Md.
Bennett, Allen H., Corp. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April 8, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
Bennett, Eli A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct. 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bennett, Israel H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bennett, Timothy, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Name not found on rolls of
War Dept as of Co. H, 12th R. I. Int Investigation fails to elicit
further information.
Bennett, Zephaniah, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. L; Sept
22, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in Union
Hospital, Philadelphia, from Dec. 1, 1862, until July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out
Bentlet, Albert H., Priv. Co. G; Ree., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, on ammuniticm train.
Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863,
until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Benton, Ephraim. See Ephraim Burton.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 319
Bewway, Paul, Priv. Co. K; Ree., Harrl8vlll«, R. 1.; Aug. 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 15, 1863, detached on ammu-
nition train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Berbt, Lewis, Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept. 19, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, left in hospital at Fairfax
Seminary, Va., and borne as absent sick from that time until Jan. 16,
1863, when he returned to duty; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BiCKEBTON, John, Priv. Co. H; Sept. 15, 1862, enrolled at Scituate, R. L;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on ammunition
train and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BiCKiTELL, Oeobge F., Ist Lt Co. C; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 1st Lt Co.
E; Dec. 30, 1862, transferred as 1st Lt to Co. 0. Borne as sick in
hospital from Feb. 10, 1863, until May 20, 1863, when he was dis-
charged for disability.
BisBEB, Joseph A., Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Sept. 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bishop, Mabtin Van Buben, Priv. Co. K; Res., Olocester, R. I.; Oct 4,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 7, 1863, died of
disease at Newport News, Va.
Blake, Lbonabd B., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Blakely, Joseph, Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Blanch ABD, Jebemiah, Priv. Oo. A; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Blanohabd, Joseph, Priv. Co. C; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence, R. I.
Blanghabd, Rupus K., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bliss, Gilbebt S., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Buss, Henby a., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April, 1863, assigned to Co. K;
April 25, 1863, transferred to Co. G. Borne on detached service at
NicholasviUe, Ky., from May, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
Bliss, Josiah E., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence, R. I.
Blount, Jubal, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. 1.; Sept 21, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BoEHNE, Chables F., Priv. Co. H; Sept. 27, 1862, enrolled at Hopkinton,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; May, 1863, on supply train; July 29,
1863, mustered out
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820 HISTORY OP THB TWELFTH BBGJMBNT
BoLSTia, Adihbb S., Wagoner Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept. 25. 1862^
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BooDB, Jxjuus, Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 10, 18«2»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Booth, William, Priv. Co. B; Oct 6, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. L;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital at Fort Wood,
N. Y., from Dec. 1, 1862, until Jan. 3, 1863, when he was discharged
for disability.
Booth, Whxl^m J., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
BoBDEiv, Julius. See Julius Boode.
Boss, Jonathan M., Priv. Co. H; Res., Smithfield, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Boss, Malachi a., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, «i-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BoswoRTH, Bdwaed T., Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept 29, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 23, 1863, appointed Cori>.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
BoswoBTH, WnjjAM C, Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BoTTOMLY, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BowDEN, John F., Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Jan. 24, 1863, until May 18, 1863, when he was discharged for disabil-
ity at Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
BowEN, James A., 1st Lt Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, st-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 2d Lt Co. H;
April 17, 1863, promoted 1st Lt.; April 26, 1863, assigned to Co. O.
Borne on detached service as provost guard at Nicholasville, Ky., from
April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BowEN, James M., Corp. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasviUe, Ky., from April 7, 1868, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
BowEN, Samuel L., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 17, 1868, detached with sup-
ply train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bowebs, John C, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept. as of Co. G, 12th R. I.
Inf.
Bowman, Charles B., Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 19. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick from that Ume until July, 1863; July 29, 1863.
mustered out
Bbady, Patrick, Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862, ennHled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 321
B&AiT, HiSAM, Priv. Co. D; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bran, Nathan, Priv. Co. D; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 26, 1863, until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Bbannan, Hugh. See Hugh Brennan.
BsAYMAN, David, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bsatton, Benjamin, Corp. Co. I; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 28, 1862, promoted Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbennan, Hugh, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital
from Dec. 1, 1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbigkebton, John. See John Bickerton.
BsiGGB, RiOHABD A., Ist Lt Co. A; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Oct 11, 1862,
commissioned and mustered in as 1st Lt to date Oct 10, 1862; Dec.
13, 1862, killed at the battle of Fredericksburg.
Bbioos, Samuxl, Priv. Co. O; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Button, Qbobqb, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept. 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbitton, Hknbt, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service as pro-
vost guard from Nov. 5, 1862, until Jan., 1863; May 11, 1863, detached
on supply train and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered
out
Bbovitn, Benjaion F., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded
at Fredericksburg; March 25, 1863, detached on ammunition train
and so borne until June 14, 1863, when he reported for duty; July 29,
1863, mustered out
BaawN, Daniel, Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in General Hospital
at Portsmouth Grove, R. I., from Dec. 15, 1862, until March 14, 1863,
when he was discharged for disability.
Bbown, Fbanois, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 1, 1862, detailed as chief
armorer; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, sent
to hospital and borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Brown, Fbedebick, Priv. Co. D; Res., North Kingstown, R. 1.; Oct 1, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
21
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822 HISTORY OF THB twhuth rbqiment
Bbown, Gbob<» a., PriY. Go. D; Rea., Newport, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, ea-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne ae sick in hospital from
Dec. 15, 1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbown, Gsobsb E., PriY. Co. A; Res., Smithileld, R. 1.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Fred-
ericksburg. Borne as sick in hospital from March 26, 1863, until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbowns, Qeobsb H., Col.; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, commis-
sioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on furlough for seYw days
from Feb. 27, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbowk, Geobob W., Priv. Co. K; Res., Bast ProYidence, R. I.; Sept 30.
1862, enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, nmstered in; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
Bbown, Hbbhan, PriY. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Prori-
dence, R. I.
Bbown, Isaac, Sgt. Co. G; Res., TiYerton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, sent to hospital; Feb. 12,
1863, discharged for disability from hospital at Fort Wood.
Bbown, John B., Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital ftom Feb. 7,
1868, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbown, Lewis, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbown, Otis L., Priv. Co. D; Res., Little Compton, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in ho^ital from
Nov. SO, 1862, until April 6, 1863, when he was discharged for dis-
ability at Washington, D. C.
Bbown, Thoicas W. D., Priv. Co. A; Res., Siast Greenwich, R. I.; Sept
20, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, sli^tly
wounded at Fredericksburg; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbown, Whuaic D., Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; S^?t. 6, 1862, ea-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
"Bbown, William H. H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862.
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbowning, Bebiah G., 2d. Lt Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 18,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.;
Jan. 1, 1868, promoted Ord. Sgt. and transferred to Co. G; April, 1863,
promoted 2d Lt; April 29, 1863, transferred as 2d Lt to Co. C; Jtily
29, 1863, mustered out
Bbtant, John, Priv. Co. I; Res., Cumberland, R. L ; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April 8, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as sick until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bbtant, Pebbt R., Priv. Co. H; Res., Charlestown, R. L; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. IS, 1862, mustered in. T^en prisoner at the battle
of Fredericksburg; Dec. 16, 1862, paroled, sent to AnaapoliSt MA.
and borne as absent in Parole Camp until July, 1863; July 29, 1861,
mustered out.
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BHODB ISLAND VOIiUNTBERS 323
Buck, Qboiob W., Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Oct. 8, 1862, enroUed;
Oct IS, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
BuoK, QEoaeE W., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 11. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne as on ammunition train
from March, 1868, until June, 1868; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Buck, John H., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 1 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital at Washington,
from Dec. 29, 1862, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
BuoKLUT, Oeobgb, Ist Lt Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 13, 1862, mus-
tered in; Oct 9, 1862, commissioned 2d Lt of Co. F. Borne as absent
sick from Jan., 1863, until March, 1863; March 7, 1863, transferred as
23 Lt to Co. A; June 2, 1863, transferred as 2d Lt to Co. H; June 3,
1863, promoted 1st Lt Mustered in as 1st Lt to date June 15, 1868,
and transferred as 1st Lt. to Co. C; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BucKLiN, Geoigb, Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and right foot amputa-
ted; Jan. 9, 1863, died from effects of wounds.
BuDDiNGTOK, JoHN, Prlv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Jan., 1863, until May 5, 1868, when he was discharged for disability-
at Portsmouth Grove Hospital.
BuNN, Gbobok, Priv. Co. C; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuiTTiiTG, WnxiAic, Priv. Co. B; Res., Fall River, BCass.; Sept. 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct IS, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBDioK, MosBS W., Priv. Co. H; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept. as of Co. H, 12th
R. L Inf.
BxTBDiOK, Obmuk R., Priv. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. L; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; March 25, 1863, detached on am-
munition train and so borne until June 14, 1863, when he reported for
duty; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
BxTBDiOK, TsoicAS B., Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBOBSS, Clabencs E., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. L; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBGBSS, Jbbeiciah, Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBGBSS, Jessb W. 1st Sgt Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. L; Sept 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. IS, 1862, wounded in side
and arm at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until Jan. 24, 1863, when he was discharged for
disability at Point Lookout Hospital, Md.
BxTBKB, Michael, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
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324 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBOIMBNT
BuBLmGAME, James E., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. 1.; Sept 7,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from March 27, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBUNGAicE, RicHABD, Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until May, 1863; May. 1863, detached on Invalid Corps
and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBNXTT, Chables G., Sgt. Co. D; Res., Newport R, I.; Sept 8, 1862, enr
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; March
23, 1863, appointed Sgt.; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded in leg at Fred-
ericksburg; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
BuBNS, Christopheb, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBNB Martin, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Oct 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence, R. I.
BuBNS, Mabtin, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, «i-
roUed; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, killed at the battle
of Fredericksburg.
BuBB, Henby S., Corp. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, en-
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BxTBB, NoBMAN G., Corp. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 20, 1863, appointed Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBBOws, Fbank, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuBTON, Ephbaim, Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R, I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 8, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BuTUEB, Job, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, enroUed;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mastered out
Butts, Edwabd P., 2d Lt. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 29, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 9, 1862, commissioned; Nov.
19, 1862, resigned.
Buxton, Amasa, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 10, 1863, died of disease at
Eckington Hospital, Washington, D. C.
Cadt, Chaeles T., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded In actlcm at
Fredericksburg and borne as absent sick in hospital until April, 1863;
April, 1863, detached for service in Invalid Corps and so borne until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cadt, Calvin L., Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. 1.; Sept 16, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted from (Sunp
Stevens, Providence. R. I.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 325
Cady, DAinsL W., Musician Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept. 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered In. Originally served as Priv.; July
29, 1868, mustered out.
Cady, Johw G., Priv. Go. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 29, 1862, sent to hospital and borne
as sick until March 31, 1863, when he was discharged for disability
from Lovell General Hospital,, Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
Gahoone, Alfbed p., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nich-
olasviUe, Ky.. from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out.
Cahoone, Alonzo, Priv. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 10, 1863, discharged for
disability at Newport News.
Cahoone, Chablbs H., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct. 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 25, 1862, died in U. S. Hos-
pital at Philadelphia.
Cahoone, Robert, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan,. 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
t^AixAHAN, Malachi, Prlv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Caixand, Bluah T., Priv. Co. E.; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Oaujoan, James. See James Cblligan.
Cameson, Donald, Priv. Co. H; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Oct. 11, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan., 1863, detached to Battery D,
iBt R. I. L. Art; July 12, 1863, returned to the 12th Reg't R. I. Inf.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Campbell, James E., Priv. Co. F; Res., Providnce, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Campbell, Thomas, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Campbell, Thomas, Priv. Co. H; Res.. Pawtucket. R. I.; Oct. 3. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Capbon, Asa, Priv. Co. F; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 31, 1862, deserted from camp near
Falmouth, Va.
Cabd, Geoboe W., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Cabd, Geobge W., Priv. Co. H; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 14, 1862, deserted.
Cabd, William, Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept. 8, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1682, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on ammu-
nition train and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
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826 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH RBOIMBNT
Cabew, John. See John Carey.
CAiycY, Benjamin F., Prlv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept. 28, 18€2. en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Cabey, John, Prlv. Co. H; Res., Natick, R. I.; Oct 10, 1862, enrolled; Oct
13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabt, Leandeb C, Prlv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
April, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabpenteb, Benoni, MaJ. and Surg. F. and S.; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.;
Oct 15, 1862, commissioned; Oct 15, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1883,
mustered out
Cabfbnteb, Frank H., Hob. Stew.; Res., Pawtucket, R. 1.; Oct, 18€t
enrolled; Oct, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabpenteb, William A., Prlv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R, I.; Oct 3, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until March 28, 1863, when he was discharged on ma-
geon's certificate from Mount Pleasant General Hospital.
Cabb, Caleb S., 1st Sgt. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862, en-'
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Mustered in as Sgt; March 1,
1863, appointed 1st Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Cabb, Henby, Priv. Co. Q; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on aetached service at Nicholaa-
vllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mut-
tered out.
Cabb, John T., Priv. Co. D; Res., Jamestown, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered In. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 8, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabb, William S., Prlv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered In; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabboll, Bbbnabd, Prlv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered In; March, 1863, detached with amma-
nltlon train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
Cabboll, Chables, Prlv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabboll, Hugh, Prlv. Co. I; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. 1.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded In hand at Fred«>
Icksburg, Va., and borne as sick In hospital from that time unti]
March 24, 1863, when he returned to duty; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Cabboll Joseph, Prlv. Co. I; Res., Portsmouth, R. I.; Sept 21, 1862, «-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; Oct 31, 1862, deserted; March 6,
1865, apprehended, tried by G. C. M. for desertion and conduct pre-
judicial to good order and military discipline, found guilty and pet-
manently assigned to Batt. B, let R. I. L. A. by S. O., dated May 27,
1865.
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RHODl ISLAND VOIiUNTBIBS 327
Casbou^ Pkrb, Priv. Co. I; S«pt 8, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.; Oct
13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, sent to General Hospital and borne
as absent sick nntll May, 1868; May, 12, 1868, detached on supply train
and so borne until June, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cabteb, Bbjujauis F., Priv,. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 4, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Caskt, Michael, Priv. Co. I; Sept 15, 1862, enrolled at Portsmouth, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in foot at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital until
May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Casbidt, John H., Priv. Co. H; Res., Smithfield, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Oastlbs, Fbank, Priv. Co. C; Res., ProTidence, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Caswell, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 5, 1863, died in Reg't'l Hospital, near
Falmouth, Va.
Cavanaugh, Nicholas, Priv Co I; Sept. 9, 1862, enrolled at Warwiclt,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Chace, Hsnbt L., Sgt Co. D; Res., Middletown, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Chatisb, Albert B., Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Chafes, James H., Priy. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until April, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Chahbebs, Chablbs H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Chamflin, Eusha W., Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept
5, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Chahpun, Stephen C, Priv. Co. Q; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept. 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 8, 1863, sent to hospital
and borne as sick until July 29, 1863, when he joined the company
and was mustered out
Champijn, Thohas D., Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept 8, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec., 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until March 20, 1863, when he was discharged
for disability at Washington, D. C.
Chappeex, a. Abolphub, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept. 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Chapfell, Matthew N., 1st Lieut and Adj.; Res., South Kingstown,
R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, commissioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Orig-
inally served as 2d Lt in Co. C; mustered out as 2d Lt and mus-
tered in as 1st Lt. to date Nov. 4, 1862; Nov., 1862, transferred to
Co. Q; April 29, 1863, transferred from Co. G and appointed Adj.
of the Regt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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328 HISTORT OF THB TWELFTH RBOIMENT
Chase, Fbank, Priv. Co. K; Sept 29, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, moB-
tered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Chase, William A., Priv. Co. A; Sept 27, 1862, enrolled at Providenoe,
R. I.; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. IS, 1862, wounded slightly at
Fredericksburg, Va.; Jan. 4, 1863, detached for service in luTalid
Corps, and so borne until June 18, 1863, when he reported for dutf ;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cheney, Bdwabd S., Capt Co. A; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept 19, 186t
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 11, 1862, commissioned;
Jan. 17, 1863. discharged.
Chester Albebt L., Priv. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, ea-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Chubch, Edwin B., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Chuboh WnuAH A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept. 28. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June, 5, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Clabk, Chables, Priv. Co. I; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled at Warwick* R L;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached for service with
supply train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Clabk, Chables A., Priv. Co. A; Sept 27, 1862, enrolled at Providence,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov., 1862, in ambulance corps.
Borne as sick in hospital at Washington, from Dec. 29, 1862, untfl
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Clabk, Chables P., Corp. Co. G; Res., Cbventry, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Kicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, untU July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Clabk, Clinton H., Priv. Co. C; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 15,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Clabk, Edwabd, Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. L; Oct 8, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 16, 1862, detailed as nurse in Regtl
Hospital, and so borne until Jan., 1863; Jan. 16, 1863, discharged on
surgeon's certificate at camp near Falmouth, Va.
Clabke, Henbt, Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, sent to General Hos-
pital, and borne as absent sick until March 28, 1863, when he was
discharged on surgeon's certificate.
Clabk, Jambs, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Clabke, John L., 1st Lt and Reg't'l Q. M.; Res., Cumberland* R. L; Oct
9, 1862, commissioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent
with leave for fifteen days from Feb. 27, 1863; July 29, 1868, mut-
tered out
Clabk, Lionel H., Corp. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 21,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 329
Clark, Willii.m H., Priv. Co. B; Oct. 3, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 31, 1862,
mustered In; Feb. 10, 1868, deserted from camp near Falmouth, Va.
Glabke, WiLUAif H., Priv. Co. G; Sept. 25, 1862, enrolled at Hopkinton,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasYiUe, Ky., from ApHl 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Clsmenoe, Stephen, Priv. Co. D; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec., 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until March 14, 1863, when he was discharged
for disability from Portsmouth Grove Hospital.
Clemmens, Stephen. See Stephen Clemence.
Clissold, Stephen, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded slightly
in head at Fredericksburg; Jan. 12, 1863, died in hospital near
Falmouth.
Clough, WnuAif, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1863, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in face at
the battle of Fredericksburg, and borne as absent sick in hospital
from that time until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Coffin, Aiaebt, Jb., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CoGOESHAix, S. Wildes, Sgt. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 7,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CoQGBSHAix, Thohas D., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 10,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service
at Kicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Cole, Alexandeb, Priv. Co. A; Sept. 25, 1862. enrolled at Providence,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, on ammunition train,
and so borne until June 14, 1863, when he reported for duty; July 29,
1863, mustered out
Oolb, Habvet M., Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Oct. 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in left
side at the battle of Fredericksburg and borne as absent sick in
hospital until March 16, 1863, when he was discharged for disability
from Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove. R. I.
OoLB, LuTHEB, Jb., Ist Lt Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 1st Sgt;
Feb. 19, 1863, commissioned as 2d Lt., and mustered in as such March
1, 1863; April 17, 1863, commissioned 1st Lt and mustered in as
such April 29, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cole, Stlvesteb, Wagoner Co. K; Sept 30, 1862, enrolled at Glocester,
R. I.; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
0>lligan, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, ihustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence. R. I.; arrested, and March 9, 1864, assigned to Go. A, 2d R. I.
Vols., to serve out term of service.
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830 HISTORY OF THB TWIBUTTH BBOIMENT I
CoiJJivs, Cbanston, PriY. Ck). O; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasvllle, Ky., from April 7. 1868, until July, 1868; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
Ck>L0BAN, John, Priv. Co. I; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled at Scitoate, R. L;
. Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Ck>LT0N, WniJAic. See William Cotton.
CoLViN, Chabues E., Corp. Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 23,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
CoLViN, William H., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasvllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
CoLvinxL, Moby, Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862, ^i-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct, 1862, detailed for duty in
hospital dept, and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
CoLWKLL, Ons P., Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April, 1863, detached as brigade
blacksmith, and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
CoifNELiM David O. See David O'Conn^l.
CJoNLT, Dakiel, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 1, 1862, sent to General
Hospital, Washington, D. C, and borne as absent sick until Dec. 25,
1862, when he died.
CoNNEiXT, Tebsy, PriVs Co. 1; Sept 8, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I-;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 5, 1863, died in Regt'l Hospital at
camp near Falmouth, Va.
CoNNOLY, Owen, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R, I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Investigation fails to elicit
further information.
Cook, Eusha, Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Cook, Hobaob W., Priv. Co. K; Res., Mapleville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded in
back at the battle of Fredericksburg and borne as sick in hospital from
Dec., 1862, until May, 1868; May, 1863, detached for service in In-
valid Corps, and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Cook, Johw M., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 6, 1863, discharged on sur-
geon's certificate from Finley Hospital, Washington, D. C.
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RHODB ISLAND V0LUNTEBB8 381
Cook, Saiadin, Corp. Co. F; Res., Camber land, R. I.; Oct. 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 24, 1863, promoted Corp.; July
29, 1868, mustered out.
CooK, TsoifAB, Priv. Co. 1; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept. 19, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CooFEB, Rensaiaeb, A., Corp. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Jan. 24, 1863, until April, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
COPEULND, Joseph, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept. 22,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted.
CoBNixL^ Joseph P., Sgt. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; April
26, 1863, promoted Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CoBBEN, Peteb, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action.
Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 7, 1863; until July, 1863; July
29, 1863, mustered out
CoBBiGAiT, Thohas, Prlv. Co. I; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 25, 1862, deserted from Camp Casey,
Va.
CoBT, Augustus, Priv. Co. B; Res,, North Kingstown, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862>
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
CoBBT, Benjamin. See Benjamin Carey.
CosET, Philip D., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. 1.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, sent to the U. S.
Hospital, Bedloe's Island and borne as absent sick until Jan. 3, 1863,
when he Joined the Regt. Borne on detached service at Nicholasville,
Ky., from April 7, 1868, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
COBY, John O., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nicholas-
ville, Ky., from April 7, 1868, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Cotton, William, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in neck*
at Fredericksburg and borne as sick in hospital until Jan. 22, 1868,
when he was discharged for disability at hospital in Washington,
©. C.
Covnj-, Thomas, Priv. Co. I; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Cbam, Iba, Corp. Co. C; Res., Johnston. R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 9, 1863, promoted Corp.; Dec. 13,
1862, wounded in foot at Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863, muster-
ed out.
Cbamm, John, Priv. Co. A; Sept 27, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. I.;
deserted prior to Nov. 17, 1862. Date not known.
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382 HISTORT OP THl TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
CBijn>ALL, Daniel A. Priv. Co. F; Res.. South Kingstown. R. 1.; Sept. 10,
1862. enrolled; Oct 18. 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862. wounded
slightly at Fredericksburg. Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 7,
1868, until April, 1863. when he died in hospital at Philadelphia, F«l
Cbahdall, W. Oscab. Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept.
80, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered
out.
CWMMENS, Patrick, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13. 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
May 23, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Oboson, Bebithabd, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18. 1862, «i-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863 musterea out
Cbowhx, Luthkb J., Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CuLLEN, John P., Sgt. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CuwNiNOHAM, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
OtJBBEN, Peivb. See Peter Corren.
OuBBT, Leandeb, Priv. Co. H; Oct 14, 1862, enrolled at North Kingstown,
R. I.; Oct 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted.
CuBTis, A. J., Priv. Co. F; Res., Scituate. R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 30, 1863, left sick at Pittsburg;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
CuBTis, Feank, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. 1.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
CuBns, Johnson A. See A. J. Curtis.
CuBns, Mabvin M., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 21, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Daily, Oeoboe, Priv. Co. I; Sept 12, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Damon, Luoixts, Priv. Co. H; Oct 10, 1862, enrolled at Hopkinton, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dabung, Albebt, Priv. Co. H; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dabling, Fbanois, Priv. Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered out
Dablino, Ibaao L., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered out
Dabling, WkLOOiac B., Priv. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DlBiiNG, William J., Corp. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, and borne as sick in hospital until March
16, 1863, when he was discharged for disability at Lovell General
Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBEBS 333
Davis Albebt C, Priv. Co. I; Sept. 16, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1863, detached to Battery D, Ist
R. I. Art, and so borne nntil July 12, 1863, when he returned to the
12th R. I. Vols.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Davis Jeffbet G., Sgt Co. K; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg; borne as sick in hospital from April 8,
1863, until July 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Davis, John A., Prlv. Co. D; Res., Little Compton, R. I.; Oct 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec, 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until April 20, 1863, when he returned ftom
hospital; May 12, 1863, detached on supply train, and so borne until
June, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Dbabth, John W., Musician Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. 1.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dklanah, Albert W., Ist Lt Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct. 10, 1862,
commissioned; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 2d
Lt; March 31, 1863, commissioned Ist Lt; April, 1863, mustered in;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Demobbo, John, Priv. Co. I; Sept 19, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, sent to hospital and borne as
absent sick until July, 1863; July 15, 1863, discharged at Louis-
vilFe, Ky., by reason of expiration of term of service.
DEiaoo, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Providence, R. I.;
arrested on or about Jan. 21, 1866, at R. I., as a deserter from Co. C,
12th R. I. Inf. Forwarded to Alexandria, Va., where he was tried
by G. C. M.; found guilty and sentenced; April 12, 1865, assigned to
Co. A, 2d R. I. Inf.; May 2, 1865, transferred to Co. I, 7th R. I. Inf.
Dennin, Bdwabd, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 21, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dennis, Joseph C, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Deflitoh, Jonathan, Priv. Co. G; Res., Portsmouth, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nlcholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
Devun, Abchibau), Priv. Co. H; Oct 4, 1862, enrolled at Olneyvllle, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Devun, Chabiss H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded
in arm at Fredericksburg and sent to hospital; rejoined the regiment
at Kentucky; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Devolve, Wabben N., Sgt. Co. G; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp. Co.
B; Jan. 1, 1863, transferred to Co. G as Color Sgt Borne on detached
service at NlcholasviUe, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
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334 HISTORY OF THB TWELTTH RBQIMBNT
DbWolf, Gboboe H.» PriY. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
ItexTEB, Theodobe F., PtIv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; May 10, 1863, detailed as team-
ster and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dickens, Daniel M. See Daniel McDick^i.
Dickinson, Obobgb L., Priv. Ca G; Res., Coventry, R. 1.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached serrice at
NicholasYille, Ky., from ApHl 7, 1868, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Dim AN, Gbobgc W., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June 21, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DiicMiCK, Olives W., Priv. Co. A; Oct. 2, 1862, enrolled at Providenea^
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dineoo John. See John Denico.
DiNGwrax, WnxiAM H., 1st Sgt Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt;
June 15, 1863, promoted 1st Sgt.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DoHSBTT, Daniel B., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; May 12, 1863, detached on supply
train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DoLAN, Peteb, Priv. Co. F; Res., Providence, R, I.; Sept 23, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863 mustered out
DoifAN, Joseph, Priv. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from ApHl 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863.
mustered out
Donnelly, Thomas, Corp. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sepc 8,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered evt
DooMAN, Joseph. See Joseph Doman.
DoBHAN, Joseph. See Joseph Doman.
DOBSAT John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1868, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1863, detached to Battery
D, 1st R. I. Art.; June 6, 1863, shot by a citizen at Camp Robtnson.
Ky., while on detached service.
DouQHEBTT, DANIEL B. Soo Dsulel B. Doherty.
Douglass, Geoboe H., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, ok-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Douglass, John D., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DowNSS John F., Sgt MaJ.; Res., Cranst^m, R. I.; Oct 11, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt Co. B; March
21, 1863, promoted Sgt MaJ.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DowNET, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Fall River, Mass.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Bftarch, 1863, detached on amauai-
tion train; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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BHODI IBLAJID VOLUNTlSntS
335
X»TU, Denhis, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Kingstown, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862,
MiroUed; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Dtftu, HuoH, Piiv. Ca C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
DoTix Jambs, Priv. Co. H; Sept 19, 1862, enroUed at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BoTU, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on ammunition
train; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DoTLB, William O., Priv. Co. D; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
roUed; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded in
ankle at Fredericksburg; July 29, 1868. mustered out
DBASE. AifDBBW a, Priv. Co. G; Res., Portsmouth. R. 1.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasviUe, Ky., from Aprtl 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Dbeqait, John H., Priv. Co. G; Res., Portsmouth, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862,
enroUed. Name not found on rolls of War Department as of Co. G,
12th, R. I. Inf.
Dbisooll Fbedebio a., Sgt Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 9, 1863, until May 18, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's
certificate at Providence, R. I.
Dbowub. WnxiAM A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 3, 1863, detached for ser-
vice in Ambulance Corps, and so borne until June 18, 1863, when he
returned to regiment; July 29. 1863, mustered out
DuFiBB, Jambs, Je., Sgt Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862. mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; March 20,
1863. promoted Sgt; July 29, 1863. mustered out
DuiTT, John C, Priv. Co. I; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 23, 1862. died in hospital near Fal-
mouth, Va., from wounds receiyed at the battle of Fredericksburg,
Dec. 13. 1862.
Dunrr, John, Priv. Co. I; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.; Oct
13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DuTTT, Peteb. See Peter Durfee.
DuiTT, Thomas, Priv. Co. B2; Res., Bristol. R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, ea-
rolled; Oct 13, 18b2, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DUNBAB. Fbbebobn C, Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1. 1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
DuNBAB. Robebt R., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 9, 1863, until July. 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Dunham, Joseph R.. Musician Co. B; Res., Cranston. R. I.; Sept. 20. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; Jan., 1863, detailed as nurse in
hospital, and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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836 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
DuNW, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Jan. 2€,«
1863, until March 20, 1863, when he was discharged for disability
from Finley General Hospital, Washington, D. C.
Dunk, Thomas D., Priv. CJo. B; Res., Cranston, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DuirwELL, William H., Priv. Co. H; Res., Bast Providence, R. I.; Oct 8,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1863, detached to
Battery D, Isc R. I. Art, and so borne until July 12, 1863, when he
returned to the 12th R. I. Vols.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DuBFEE, Peteb, Priv. Co. I; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, deserted.
DuBFEB, RiOHABD C, Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Aug. 21, 18I2»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, and borne as absent sick until April, 1863;
April 21, 1863, discharged for disability at Lovell General Hospital.
Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
DuxBUBY, Aabon, Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 4, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
DwTEB, WnjJAM, Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 25, 1863, detached for service on
ammunition train, and so borne until June 15, 1863, when he returned
to the regiment; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Dtbb, Ctbus G., Major. Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 10, 1862, commis^
sioned; mustered in to date Oct 17, 1862; Dec. 13, 1862, sli^tly
wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg. Borne as absent sick from
May 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 23, 1863, mustered out
Eastebbbooks Gabdneb, Priv. Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. 1.; Sept 26,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as Brig, teamster
from Nov., 1862, until Jan., 1863. Borne as sick in hospital from
Jan., 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
EcoLESTON John S., Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I; Oct 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
EOKEBSLEY, Peteb, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Eddt, Amasa F., Com. Sgt.; Res., Chepachet, R. I.; Oct 8, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Body, Hibam, Musician Co. C; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Dec 29,
1862, until March 7, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's ce^
tificate.
Bgoleston, Ebwin S., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slis^Uy wounded
in head at Fredericksburg; July 29, 1863, mustered out
BwGLiSH, Michael, Priv. Co. D; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action at
Fredericksburg, and borne as sick in hospital until May 6, 1863, when
he was discharged on surgeon's certificate at Providence, R. 1.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 337
SNGIJ8H, James, Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Oct. 8. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Essia, Jam£S S., PfIt. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasviUe, Ky., from Aprtl 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
iBtaks, Clinton O., Priv. Co. P; Res. Glocester, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fagan, Babney, Priv. Co. K; Res.. Burrillvllle, R. I.; Sept 21, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Faibbbotheb, Fbancis B., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 19,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on extra duty in
Brtg. bakery, from Feb. 3, 1863, until March, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
Faixb, Edmund W., 1st Lt Co. K; Res., Middletown, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 27, 1863, sent to hospital
at Baltimore, Md.; date of return not stated; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Fabnuet, Bli, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Oct 10, 1862,
enrolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as of Co. H, 12th
R. I. Inf.
Fabnum, Cybus a., Corp Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1868, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fabnum, Philip, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fabbab, James S., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. L; Oct 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Tauoett Samuel, Priv. Co. I; Res., Sept 10, 1862, enrolled at Warwick,
R. I., Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded at
the battle of Fredericksburg, and borne as absent sick until April 6,
1863, when he was discharged for disability at Washington, D. C.
Fat John, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Borne as sick in hospital from March 27,
1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fenneb, John A., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. 1.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June 18, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fenneb Russell, Priv. Co. B; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 25, 1863, detached on supply
train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Fenneb, Stebby, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept. 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Jan. 26, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
22
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838 HISTORY OP THB TWBLTTH BBGIMBNT
FteNLET, RoBEBT, Priv. Co. G; Oct. 7, 1862, enrolled at CranBtoii, R. L
Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 7, 186S» until May. 1863; May U»
1863, detached for service in Invalid Corps, and so borne until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fribt, JoHif. See John Friery.
FucLD, Samuel W., Chaplain. Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 15, 1862, com-
missioned; Oct. 15, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mastered out
Field, William F., Priv. Co. K; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled at Bast Provi-
dence, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13. 1862, wounded in
action. Borne as sick in hospital from Jan. 24, 1863, until March
12, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's certificate.
FiNNBT, Patrick, Jr., Priv. Co. I; Sept. 16, 1862, enrolled at Providence.
R. 1.; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 26, 1863, detached for service
on ammunition train, and so borne until May 10, 1863, when he
returned to Regt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fish, Isaac, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Oct 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1^62, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted.
FiSKE, Charles, Jr., Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence. R. I.; S^t
29, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
FnzPATRTiOK, Hugh, Priv. Co. C; Oct. 8, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. I.;
Feb. 28, 1863, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Flanagan, Miohael, Corp Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 1, 1863, promoted Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Flannigan, Dennis, Priv. Co. H; Res., Bast Greoiwich, R. I.; SegiL 22,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted.
Fleming, Richard, Priv. Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 7. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fletcher, Samuel M., Asst Surg.; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Oct 8, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv. Ga A;
Oct 13, 1862, detailed for duty in hospital, and so borne until May 6,
1863, when he was promoted Asst. Surg.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Foster, Jerrt B., Priv. Co. F; Res., Coventry, R. 1.; Sept. 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Foster, Lawton Priv. Co. O; Res., Hopkinton, R. L.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action,
sent to hospital and borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out
FowLBR, Oeorob, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providwice, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862.
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862. deserted.
FiANOis, Lorenzo H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Francis, Lucien B., Priv. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 20. 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Frankun, Cornelius, Priv. Co. H; Res., Natick, R. I.; Sept 22. 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEBRS 3S9
FEANKUiTf Oeobgb W., PtIv. CJo. F; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Oct 4. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on ammunition train from
March, 1863, until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Fbakkun, Squibb W., Priv. Co. A; Rea., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Fbeebobn, Qbobob, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Oct. 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fbeebobn, Obland, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec 13, 1862, severely wounded in
leg at Fredericksburg, and borne as absent sick in hospital until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fbibbt, John, Priv. Co. K; Sept 6, 1862, enrolled at Burrillville, R. I.;
Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
FuiXEB, Albebt, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept. 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent on fur-
lough for thirty dajrs from March 15, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
FuLLEB, Isaac, Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 17, 1863, detached on supply
train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
FuLiEB, James, Priv. Ca K; Res., Mapleville, R. I.; Sept. 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Oahan, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Oattlanb, John. See John Qartland.
Galen, Patbiok. See Patrick Gillien.
Oaixaghxb, James, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April 10, 1863, deserted from camp
near Lexington* Ky.
Oalughan, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Gannon, James H., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital
from March 27, 1863, until July, 1868; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Gabdnkb, Fbxdebiok a., Priv. Co. H; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 17, 1863, detailed as provost
guard, and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Oabdneb, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 16, 1862, detached for service in
Ambulance Corps and so borne until April, 1868. Borne as sick in
hospital from June 11, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Gabdnbb, Vinobnt, Priv. Co. K; Res., North Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 26,
1862, enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Gabdnkb, Whjjam H., Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. 1.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Gabbick, Michael, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Oct. 11, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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340 HISTORY OP THB TWBLETH RBGIMBNT
Qabtlaud, John, Corp. Co. C; Res., Proyidence, R. I.; Sept. 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Oavitt, Bbaovobd a., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached seryice at
NicholasTllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1861,
mustered out
Gelding, Austin. See* Austin Yelding.
Gebrabd, Riohabd, Priv. Co. B; Res., Warwick, R. I; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Gdtfobd, Russell, Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on duty in Ambulance
Corps from Nov. 17, 1862, until Dec. 1862. Borne as sick in hospital
from Dec. 29, 1862, until Feb. 20, 1863, when he died at Alexandria,
Va.
GnjLAN, Patrick. See Patrick Gillien.
GnxiEN, Patrick, Priv. Co. D; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GiLiiARTiN, Richard, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent on furlough
for twenty days from Dec. 22, 1862; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GiLMORB, George C, Sgt. Co. I; Sept 16, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the battle of
Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital from that time
until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
GnjiOT, Patrick, Priv. Co. I; Sept. 16, 1862, enrolled at Providence^ R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Gladding, Nathaniel, Corp. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov., 1862, in Ambulance Corps;
Dec., 1862, sent to hospital and borne as absent sick until Feb. 24»
1863, when he was discharged for disability.
Gleason, William, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Glines, Charles B., Corp Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 28, 18€2»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Glover, David, Corp. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June 15, 1863, promoted Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoDFRBT, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 22, 1862, discharged for dis-
abilitr.
GoDFRBT, Patrick, Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoFT, James F., Sgt. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; May 18, 186S,
appointed Sgt.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND VOLnNTBBBS 34 1
OoFFE, SiGOUBNET B.. Sgt Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; March
1, 1863, appointed Sgt; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded in chest at
Fredericksburg; July, 29, 1863, mustered out
Good, James J., Corp. Co. F; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; June 29, 1863, promoted Corp.; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Goodness, Peteb, Priv. Co. I; Sept. 16, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
GooDSPEED, Smith, Priv. Co. C; Res., Foster, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on ammunition train, from March,
1863, until June, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoBDOK, James, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket R. L; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoBHAM, Isaac, Sgt Co. C; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoBHAM William T., Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 9, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoBTON, Jacob, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 4, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 19, 1863, died at Mt. Pleasant Hos-
pital. D. C.
GoBTON, Jebbmiah K., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
GoxTLD, Fbedebiok C, Priv. Co. D; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 9,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Dec. 29, 1862, until May, 1868; May 6, 1863, detached for service
in Invalid Corps, and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
GoTTiD, Joseph W., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
June 18, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GoTTLD, RoBEBT, PHv. Co. D; Res., Middletown, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 8, 1863, until Feb. 14, 1863, when he died at Emory Hospital,
D. C.
Gbant, Joseph W., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Gbant, Joseph, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct. 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action
at Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital (left leg amputated), and
borne as absent sick until March 6, 1863, when he was discharged on
surgeon's certificate at Washington, D. C.
Gbat, Albebt, Priv. Co. D; Res., Little Compton, R. I.; Sept. 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec., 1862, brigade teamster.
Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. '8, 1863, until April 9, 1868, whan
he was discharged for disability at Washington, D. C.
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842 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
Gray, Chables H., Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Obay, Henby, CJorp Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862. enroUed;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded at Fred-
ericksburg. Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from
April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Gray, Whxiam H.. Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service from
March 14, 1863, until May, 1863; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Gbay, WnxiAM R., Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopklnton, R. I.; Sept 18. 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 30, 1862, until May, 1863; May 2, 1863, detached for service in
Invalid Corps; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Green, Benjamin, Priv. Co. E; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Green, Charles, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital at
Washington from Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863. mas-
tered out
Green, Clark, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 15, 1863, died in Odd FelloWs
Hall Hospital, Washington, D. C.
Green, Willard H., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, enr
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent with leave from
Nov. 3, 1862, until Dec, 1862; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Greene, Gboroe R., Corp. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action
at Fredericksburg and borne as absent sick in hospital until Jan.
22, 1863, when he reported for duty; March 25, 1863, detached for
service on ammunition train and so borne until June 14, 1863, when
he reported for duty; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Greene, Thomas M., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrtllville, R. I.; Aug. 26. 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action.
Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Gregory, Charles, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct. 9, 1862, est-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; May, 1863, on supply train; July
29, 1863, mustered out.
Gregson, 'I*homas a., Priv. Co. H; Sept. 22, 1862, enrolled at North Provi-
dence, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Grey, Albert. See Albert Gray.
Grey, Amasa, Jr., Priv. Co. D; Res., LitUe Compton. R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Grey, Charles H. See Charles H. Gray.
Grey, William R. See William R. Gray.
Grey, Wiluam H. See William H. Gray.
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EHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 343
CteiNKEix, Abnb, Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. L; Sept. 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 16, 1862, died from wounds
received in action at Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, 1862.
Gboss, Wilhabth, Priv. Co. K; Res., Portsmouth, R. L; April 15, 1868,
enrolled. Borne as sick in hospital from May 1, 1863, until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
QuKLLO, Henbt H., Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Sept 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Gthnan. William, Sgt. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1863, mustered in; March, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
QuBNEY, Edwabd F. See Edward F. Gurry.
GuBBY, ElDWABD F., PHv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 19. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862 wounded in action
at Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital, and borne as absent sfck
until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GusHEE, Nathaniel W., Sgt Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.;
March 20, 1863, appointed Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
GuTOTT, Gbobgb, Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Dec. 1,
1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hackett, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Habfield, Fbedebiok, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Hadfield, James, Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1, 1862, until March 9, 1863, when he returned to duty. Borne
on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hall, Lewis N; Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; June 18, 1863, sent to hospital
and borne as sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Haix, Stephen D., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 10, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Fred-
ericksburg, and borne as sick in hospital until May, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Haix, Theodore F., Priv. Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 20, 1862, deserted at Provi*
dence, R. I.
H^ifii^ John, Priv. Co. I; Sept 12, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
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844 HISTORY OF THE TWBLFTH BBOIMBNT
Hamil, Patrick B., Priv. Co. I; Sept 11, 1862, enrolled at ProWd6Qoe»
R. 1., Oct 18, 1862, mustered In; Dec. 18, 1862, wounded in action.
sent to hospital and borne as absent sick until May 18, 1863, when he
was discharged for disability from Lovell General Hospital, R. L
Hamilton, James H., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 18, 18S2,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hamilton, William, Priv. Co. F; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hamilton, William H., Musician Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept
22, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mns-
tered out
Handt, James H., Priv. Co. O; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Hanlet, Patbiok, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrlllville, R. I.; Aug. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Haedon, Bdwabd v., Priv. Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Habpeb, James, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I*; Oct 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital from
Nov. 1, 1862, until Jan. 7, 1863, when he was discharged for disability.
Habbinoton, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. 1.; Oct 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Haseis, William S., Priv. Co. A; Res., Fbeter, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, and borne as sick in hospital from that
time until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Habbt, Chabi£s B., Priv. Co. I; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; S^t 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1868, detached to Bat-
tery D, 1st R. I. Art., and so borne until July 12, 1863, when he re-
turned to the 12th R. I. Vols.; July 29, 1868, mustered oat
Hatch, Nicholas C, Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863 mustered out
Haevet, Chablss B. See Charles B. Harry.
Habvet, Stlvesteb N., Priv. Co. D; Res., South Kingstown, R. I; Sept
9, 1862, enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; March 24, 1868, de-
tached on ammunition train and so borne until J\ily, 1868; July 2f,
1868, mustered out
Hathaway, James, Priv. Co. O; Res., Tiverton, R. I; Sept. 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18, 1862, wounded in lee at
Fredericksburg and borne as sick in hospital until March 28, 18€2,
when he was discharged on surgeon's certificate.
Hates, Mabtin, Priv. Co. K; Res., Bast Providence, R. I.; S^t 80, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in aim
at Fredericksburg, and borne as absent sick in hospital until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 345
Hazabd, Daioel, Prlv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Hazard, Waitton W., Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. L; Sept. 15,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 16, 1863, detached for
duty as provost guard in 2d Div. 9th A. C. Borne as sick in hospital
from March 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hazabd, William A., Prlv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I; Sept. 9,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from March 30, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hazard, William R., Priy. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 10,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863. Rejoined the Reg't; July 29,
1863, mustered out
Head, Henry P., Priv. Co. D; Res., Little Compton, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1863, detached to Bat-
tery D. 1st R. 1. L. A., and so borne until July 12, 1863, when he re-
turned to the 12th R. I. Inf.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Healet, John J., Priv. Co. C; Res., Bast Oreenwith, R. 1.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
June 19, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
I^ErraRNAN, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Muster out roll of Co. dated July 29, 1863,
has remark "Not reported for muster out."
Heinze, Julius, Priv. Co. F; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct. 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Fred-
ericksburg, and borne as absent sick in hospital from that time until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Henrt, James, Priv. Co. B; Res., Fall River, Mass.; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Henrys, Charles C, Priv. Co. A; Res., Proyidence, R. I.; Sept. 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Dec. 1, 1862, until Dec. 17, 1862, when he was discharged for
disability at Washington, D. C.
Hibbert, Samuel, Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863 mustered out
fiiBBEBT, William, Priv. Co. H.; Oct 9, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply train and
so borne until May; July 29, 1863, mustered out
HioKS, AiJJSON P., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Higgins, Christopher, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; S^t 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec 29, 1862, sent to hos-
pital and borne as absent sick until Bftarch 16, 1868, when he was dis-
charged for disability from Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth
Grove, R. I.
HiNES, John. See John Hynes.
Hintzt, Julius. See Julius Heinze.
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846 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
HoAB, WiixiAM, Corp. Co. E.; Ree., Warren, R. 1.; Sept. 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 20, 1863, appointed Oorp*;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hodgson, William S., Prlv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on sunilr
train. Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky.., from April
7, 1863, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
HooG, James, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
HoLLowAT, HsNRT S., Priv. Co. G; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862;,.
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 19, 1862, detached for duty
in Ambulance Corps and so borne until April, 1863. Borne on de-
tached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
HoopEB, John W., Priv. Co. D.; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hopkins, Daniel A., Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; S^t 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
April 16, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hopkins, Stephen M., 1st Lt. Co. I; Res., Burrillville, R. 1.; Aug. 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at
the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and left foot amputated by reason
of wounds. Resigned and honorably discharged by S. O. dated Dec:
19, 1862.
Hopkins, Wiluam H.. Priv. Co. A; Res., Poster, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Feb.
8, 1863, until May, 1863; May, 1863, detached for service in invalid
Corps and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hobton, Albebt p., Priv. Co. C; Sept. 154, 1862, enrolled at Providence,
R. I.; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Hobton, Benjamin S., Priv. Co. C; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Sept 14, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital at
Washington, from Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mas-
tered out.
HosMANG, Fbank, Prlv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Houlihan, James, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 6, -1862,.
enrolled; Oct, 13 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
HowABD, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 8,
1863, until May 5, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's certi-
ficate.
HowABD, John B., Priv. Co. K; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded In
ankle at Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in ho^ital
from that time until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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* <
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Edwin H. Tillby.
(From a recent picture.)
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTSBRS 347
BowuLND, Chsi8toph£B W., PtIv. Co. A; Re«., East Greenwich, R. I.;
Sept 26, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 27, 1862,
commissioned 2d Lt. 6th R. I. Vols., and discharged Jan. 6, 1863, to
accept the same.
HoxiE, John, Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
HuBBABD, William E., Capt Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 22,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 9, 1862, commissioned;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hudson, Henbt J., Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 21, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 27, 1863, appointed Corp.
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Hudson, William M., Priv. Co. A; Res.. Providence, R. I.; Sept. 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
HuFFBiNG, Michael, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Hughes, Patbick, Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Hughes, William, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept. 20,
, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Hull, Alfred G., Priv. Co. B; Res., Jamestown, R. I.; Sept. 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Hull, Chaslbs, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. L; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hull, Henbt M., Priv. Co. B; Res., Jamestown, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Nov. 1, 1862, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Humphrey, Horatio M., Priv. Co. K; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Oct. 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 29, 1863, died in hospital
at Windmill >oint, Va.
Hunt, Hiram, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Hunt, Whjjam, Priv. Co. I; Sept. 11, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in face at the bat-
tle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick until July, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Huntington, Lester, Corp. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 10, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 26, 1862, died of disease at
Boston, Mass.
Hutchinson, Crawford, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 27,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Hutchinson, Prosper K., Ass't Surg.; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 20, 1862,
commissioned; Oct. 21, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick from Feb.,
1868, until April 15, 1863, when he resigned, and resignation was
accepted.
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348 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
HuTTEB, Thomas, Prlv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in ho^ital from
Feb. 8, 1863, until April 6, 1863, when he was discharged on sur-
geon's certificate.
Htde, James H., Prlv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Htnss Johw, Prlv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nicholas-
ville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July. 1863; July 29, 1863, mua-
tered out
Jenokes, Abnold a., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded by shell
at Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Jbnks, Jabez B., Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 18,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 21, 1863, died of
disease at. Newport News, Va.
.JEP8017, BowABD M., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Johnson, Caleb, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1, 1862, until March 23, 1863, when he Joined the Reg't Borne
on detached service at Nicholaaville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Johnson, Bbenezeb, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholaaville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863.
mustered out
Johnson, Bdwabd, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 4, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec 13, 1862, missing in action
at Fredericksburg, Va. Investigation fails to elicit further informar
Uon.
Johnson, Joseph, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April 9, 1863, deserted at Lexing-
ton; April 14, 1863, Joined from desertion. Co. muster out roll dated
July 29, 1863, reports him under arrest awaiting sentence of G. G. M.
Investigation fails to elicit further information.
Johnson, Thomas M., Priv. Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 23.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered
out
Johnson, William N., Priv. Co. G.; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct i, 1862, en-
rolled; March 14, 1863, discharged at York, Pa. Name not found
on rolls of War Dept as of Co. G, 12th R. I. Inf.
Johnson, Zina W., Sgt Co. B; Ree., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv.; June
15, 1863, promoted Sgt.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBEBS 349
;fON£S, IBWIK A., Priv. Co. I; Ree., Bast Greenwich, R. 1.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 29, 1862, sent to hospital
and borne as absent sick until March 6, 1863, when he was discharged
for disaoility.
JouBDAN, Job, Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital from
Jan. 26, 186B, until May, 1863; May, 1863, detached for senrice in
Invalid Corps and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered-
out.
Kaoin, Petbs, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kaoin, Patbigk, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 19,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly
wounded in arm at Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kahon, R. H., Priv. Co. G; May 5, 1863, discharged for disability at Gen-
eral Hospital. Name not found on rolls of War Dept. as of Co. G,
12th R. I. Inf. Investigation fails to elicit further information.
Kay, James, June 15, 1862, enrolled. Deserted Just before the organizar
tion was mustered in (Oct. 13, 1862); Dec., 1863, arrested and sent
to the 7th R. I. Inf. to serve out his time of enlistment; Feb. 8, 1864,
assigned to Co. B, 7th H. I. Inf.
Keaoh, Bdwabd F., Priv. Co. F; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct. 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Keeleb, John, Priv. Co. F; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct. 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Keeleb, Riohabd N., Priv. Co. F; Sept 23, 1862, enrolled at Glocester,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in wrist at
Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital until April 29,
1863, when he died of disease at Portsmouth Grove Hospital, R. I.
Keeuno, Wiixiam, Priv. Co. G; Sept. 10, 1862, enrolled at Tiverton, R. 1.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nicholas-
vllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Keith, Collins A., Corp. Co. K; Res., Burrillsville, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, appointed Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Keitino, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Kellooo, William H., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept. 22,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Missing since the battle
of Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 18, 1862. Investigation fails to elicit
further information.
Kellt, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept. 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1862, mustered out.
Kellt, John, Priv. Co. K; Aug. 23, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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350 HISTOBT OF THE TWELFTH BBGIMBNT
Kennedy, John T., Prlv. CJo. E; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kennidt, Thomas J., Corp. Co. H; Res., North ProTldence, R. I.; Sept
10, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 17, 186S, detached
as provost Euard, 2d Div. 9th A. C, and so borne until May, 18S3;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kennet, Thomas, Prtv. Ck). F; Res., Cumberland. R. L; Sept 4. 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kennt, Pabdon, Prlv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, enroUed;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kenton, John B., Corp. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 186i,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Kebneb, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; May, 1863, on supply train; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Kettle, John B. F., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nlcholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 186S,
mustered out
Kettle, Samuel S., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nlcholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
KiEBNAN, Garrett, Priv. Co. C; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled at Cranston,* R. I.
Borne on detached service from March 14, 1863, until May, 1863; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Kiernan, Thomas, Musician Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1863,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, musterea in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Killion, James H., Priv. Co. D; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence, R. 1.
Kimball, Martin F., Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Name not borne on subseciuent
rolls. Investigation fails to elicit further information.
Kimball, Moranda, Priv. Co. F; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until June, 1863; June, 1863, detached for service in
Invalid Corps and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863. mustered
out
KiMFTON, George H., Wagoner Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 8,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Kinder, Samuel, Jr., Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; May 12, 1868, detached on supply
train, and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
KiNE, Daniel, Prtv. Co. C; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, enroUed;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered o«t
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RHODE ISI^ND VOLUNTEBRS 851
Kino, EIliab, Corp. Co. D; Ree., Newport. R. 1.; Sept. 27, 1862. enrolled:
Oct. 13. 1862. mustered In. Borne as sick in hospital from Jan. 26.
1863. until July. 1863; July 29. 1863. mustered out.
King, HEWirT, Ass't Surg.; Res.. Apponaug. R. I.; Oct. 19. 1862. mustered
in; Oct 19, 1862. commissioned. Borne as sick in hospital from
April 9. 1863. until May. 1863; May 13, 1863, resigned and resigna-
tion accepted.
King. BIanuel, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston. R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862. enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital from
April 8. 1863. until May. 1863; July 29. 1863, mustered out.
King, William H., Priv. Co. B; Res.. Cranston, R. I.; Sept 29. 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
King, William H.. Ist Lt Co. F; Res.. Newport R. I.; Oct. 6. 1862. com-
missioned; Oct. 13. 1862. mustered in. Originally serred as 1st Lt
Co. D; Dec.. 1862. transferred to Co. I; March 7, 1868, assigned to
Co. F; July 29, 1863. mustered out.
Kingman, Oassandeb, Priv. Co. E; Res.. Bristol. R. I.; Sept 19. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1868, mustered out.
KiNNET, Thomas. See Thomas Kenney.
KiNNicuTT. Gboboe R.. Wagouor Co. B; Res.. Barrington, R. I.; Sept. 27,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13. 1862. mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered
out.
Kneoht, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept. 17. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 1863, detached to Battery D.
1st R. 1. Art. and so borne until July 12. 1863, when he returned to
the 12th Reg't R. I. Inf.; July 29. 1863, mustered out
Knight, Nehemiah R., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Nov. 19, 1862, detached for
service in Ambulance Corps, and so borne until April, 1863. Borne
on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7. 1863, until
July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Knowles, Mabtin v. B., Priv. Co. B; Res., Jamestown, R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Knowles, Stephen H., Priv. Co. K; Res., Glendale, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Lambebt, Joseph, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Lane, Alonzo D., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Lapham, Oboab, Capt Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Oct 10, 1862, com-
missioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 1st Lt
Co. B; Nov. 7, 1862, detached from regiment as A. D. C. to D. R.
Wright Col. commanding 1st Brig., Casey's Div.; Dec. 10, 1862, re-
turned to regiment; Dec. 27, 1862, appointed Adj.; March, 1863, ab-
sent on furlough; March 24, 1863, commissioned Capt.; April 15,
1863, mustered in and assigned to Co. K; June 29, 1868, detached for
duty as Judge Advocate on Court Martial at Jamestown; July 29,
1868, mustered out
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352 HISTORY OF THE TWHLFTH BBGIMBNT
Labayt, Pbdcst, Priv. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Labkin, a aw aft. G., Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopklnton, R. 1.; Sept. 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out.
Law, John, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, ouroUed;
Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Lawson, John, Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Missing since the battle of Frederick!-
burg, Va., Dec. 13, 1862. Investigation fails to elicit further infor-
mation.
Lawton, Geoboe F., Ist Lt Co. F; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept. 6. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in head
at Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital until Feb. 16,
1863, when he was honorably discharged for disability.
Leach, Busha S., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence. R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1868, until March 30, 1863, when he was discharged for disa-
bility at Washington.
Leach, Whuam R., Priv. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Lbonabd, Chablbs T., Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded
in shoulder at Fredericksburg, Va., and sent to hospital; May 18,
1863, detached on ammunition train and so borne until June, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Lewis, James G., Priv. Co. C; Res., Richmond, R. 1.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 28, 1863, died in regimental
hospital at Newport News.
LiBBX, Nelson P., Corp. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until May, 1863; June 29, 1863, appointed Corp.; July
29, 1863, mustered out.
Light, Ouveb, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862. wi-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Fred-
ericksburg, Va., sent to hospital (leg amputated) and borne as absent
sick until April 6, 1863, when he was discdiarged on surgeon's cer-
tificate at Providence.
LiNDSET, William H., Sgt', Maj.; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 22. 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 1st Sgt
Co. F; Jan. 1863, promoted Sgt MaJ. and transferred to Non. Com.
Staff; March 21, 1868 discharged per order.
Linn, Peter, Sgt. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; June 16,
1863, promoted Sgt.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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BHODB ISLAND T0I/UNTSBR8 353
LnfifKT, HE19BT, Priv. Co. G; Res., Newport, R, I.; Sept. 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasvllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1868; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
Ljttlefielo, Edwabd H., Priv., Ck>. D.; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept
27, 1862, enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hos-
pital from Feb. 8, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
LfTTLKiiKLD, Rat, Priv. Ck>. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Lavebmoeb, John F. See John F. Loramore.
LiOGK, Pabdon T., 1st Sgt Go. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 28,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt;
Feb., 1863, promoted Ist Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Loupes, Zkbulon, Priv. Co. I; Sept 15, 1862, enrolled at ^Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered otit
LoNGSTBEET, James M., Capt Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent on fur-
lough from June 2, 1863, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
LoEAicoBK John F., Corp. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
LovKLL, Enoch W., Musician Co. A; Res., Bast Qreenwich, R. I.; Sept
26, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
LowK, Bdwin, Sgt Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862, enrolled; '
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
LuTHSB, HiBAic, Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29 1863, mustered out
LxjTHEB, Bdwabd M., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; April 10, 1863, deserted; April
15, 1863, joined from desertion. In Military Prison at Cincinnati,
Ohio, awaiting sentence of G. C. M. at time of muster out Investi-
gation fails to elicit further information.
LXTTHKB, William H., Priv. C. K; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept 23,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered
out
Ltghton, Thomas, Priv. C6.F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Ltnoh, Mtohakt>, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Maohkbet, Jules, 1st Lt Co. C; Res., Boston, Mass.; Oct. 1, 1862, com-
missioned; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 25, 1862, resigned.
Maoombeb, Bdwabd A., Corp. Co. K; Res., BurriUville, R. I.; Aug. 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv.;
Nov. 1862, borne on duty in Ambulance Corps; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
28
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354 HISTORY OF THE TWBLiTTH BBGIMBNT
BiAOOMBEB, Gbomk E., Ist Sgt. Co. H; ReB., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 1/,
1862, enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Feb. 7, 1863, until April, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
BiAGiNN, John, Priv. Ck>. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
Malonet, Ck>BNELius, Priv. Co. 1; Sept. 19, 1862, enrolled at War-
wick, R. I.; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; June, 1863, in Pioneer Corps;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Manchester, Albebt H., Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport R. I.; S^t 25. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, mustered out
Manchesteb, Benjamin S., Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; S^t 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Name not found on rolls
of War Dept., Washington, as of Co. C, 12th R. I. Inf. InveetigaUon
fails to elicit further information.
Manchester, Gboboe B. S., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 27.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hos-
pital from Jan. 24, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered
out
Manchester, James, Priv. Co. D; Res., Portsmouth, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted at ProTi-
dence, R. I.
BiANCHESTER, Sanford H., PriY. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; S^t 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Manohester, Theodore A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Manchester, Wiixiam Horatio, Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept
20, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly
wounded at Fredericksburg, Va.; Li£.rch 25, 1863, detached for duty
on ammunition train, and so borne until April, 1863. Borne on de-
tached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863. until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Manchester, Whjjam Henrt, Corp. Co. G; Res., Newport* R. I.; Sept
24, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 1, 1863, promoted
Corp.; March, 1863, borne on duty on ammunition train. Borne oa
detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Manlt, Ltman a., Priv. Co. B.; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered out
Mann, Arthur. See Arthur Moan.
Mannt, Jeremiah, Priv. Co. I; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled at Providence,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered oat
Martin, Barnet F., Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. 1.; Sept 39, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital trcm
March 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND YOLUNTBBRS 355
BAabtin, Traixcib, Corp. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Oct. 1, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted at ProTl-
dence, R. I.
Mason, Jakes A., Prlv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Mason, John B., Corp. Co. A; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in action;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Mason, William, Priv. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, died of wounds
received at the battle of Fredericksburg. Va.
Mathewson, Albebt C, Priv. Co. H; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Mathewson, Alonzo, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence, R. I.
Mathewson, Chablbs H., Corp. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 21,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Mathewson, Ennis, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 25, 1862, detached for serv-
ice in Ambulance Corps and so borne until July. 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Mathewson, Hobaob, Musician Co. K; Aug. 28, 1862, enrolled at Bur-
rill vllle, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Mathewson, Phtt.tp; Priv. Co. K; Res., Qlocester, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 14, 1863, died at Convalescent
Hospital, Alexandria. Va.
Mathewson, Thomas C, Priv. Co. K; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Oct 6,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Dec. 29 1862, until March, 26, 1863, when he was discharged
for disability at Washington, D. C.
Matteson, Gbobge E., Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 15, 1862, detached for service
in Ambulance Corps and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Matteson, Qboboe H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Coventry, R. 1.; Sept. 15, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Mattison, Henbt C, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 16, 1863, detached as provost
guard and so borne until April, 1868. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasvllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Mattison, Jabed, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry. R. I.; Oct. 3, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. S,
1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863, Joined from hospital and was
mustered out
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356 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BEGIMENT
Mattsson, Lewis J., Priv. Co. B; Res., Craaston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Matteson, Robert P., Priv. Co. I; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1863, detached to Bat-
tery D, 1st R. I. Art, and so borne until July 12, 1868, when he re-
turned to the 12th R. I. Inf.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Mat, Edicond, Sgt. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Oct 3, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as absent sick in hospital from
Nov. 19, 1862, until March, 1863. Borne as sick from June 19, 186S.
until July; July 29. 1863, mustered out
Matbebbt, David S., Sgt. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Mustered in as Corp.; March 27»
1863, appointed Sgt; July 29. 1863 mustered out
Mathew, D. CAum, Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 2. 1862. en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered oat
Maymond, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 19. 1862. ett-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18. 1862, slightly wounded In
leg at Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McAnnioh, William, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 20
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McAnanlt, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862. en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War D^t as of Co. C, 12th R. L
Inf.
McAkthub, John, Priv. Co. I; Sept 19, 1862, enrolled at Warwick. R. 1.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 4, 1863, died at General Hospital.
Windmill Point, Va.
McBaiOE, Alamando, Priv. Co. F; Res.. Glocester, R. 1.; Sept 27, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered In; Dec. 29, 1862, sent to hospital
and borne as absent sick until March 8, 1863, when he was discharged
on surgeon's certificate at Baltimore, Md.
MoCabb, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket R. I.; Sept 29, 1862. en-
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; July 29. 1863 mastered oot
McCaffbet, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered out.
MoCanna, John, Priv. Co. 1; Res., Middletown, R. L; Sept. 10. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted.
McCanna, Patrick, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoCabnst, Edwasd, Priv. Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; S^t 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered In; March 28, 1863, deserted near
Altoona, Pa.
MoCabtan, John, Priv. Co. H; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled at Provldaice.
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoCabtht, John. See John McCartan.
MoCabtht, Michael, Priv. Co. H; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 26. 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 35T
McGabtht, Patbiok, Prtv. Co. H; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862,
moBtered in; Jan. 16, 1863, discharged for disability at camp near
Falmouth, Va.
MoGabtnt, Riohabd, Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McCavit, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862« mustered in; Nov. 5 1862, detached as provost
guard and so borne until Jan., 1863. Borne on supply train from
May 11, 1863, until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
HoCoixis, Chables, Priv. Co. G; Res., Portsmouth, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
MoCoMB, David, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 27 1868, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
McCoMB, Samuel, Priv. Co. D; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Oct. 3,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McCoBMiCfK, Patbiok, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoDebmot, Peteb, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. 1.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 5, 1862, detached as provost
guard and so borne until Jan., 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McDiCKEN, DAinEL, Fifer Co. F; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv. Co. A;
Oct 22, 1862, transferred to Co. F as fifer; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoDoNALD, Hugh, Priv. Co. I; Res., Phenix, R. I.; Sept. 19, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in shoulder at the
battle of l«Tedericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital from that
time until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McDonald, Patbick, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
MoGavit, James. See James McCavit
MoGee, Abthub, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
train and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McGke, Wiluam, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. 1.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McGetbic, Dominio, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Name not found on rolls of
War Dept as of Co. A, 12th R. I. Inf.
MoGetbick, John, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoGetbic, Patbick, Priv. Co. K; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McGieb, John F., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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858 HI8T0BT OF THE TWELFTH REGIMENT
McCovEBN, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
MoGoTEBN, Patrick, Corp. Co. C; Sept. 17, 1862, enrolled at Johnston,
R. I; March 9, 1863, promoted Corp.; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
MoGowAN, MicHAicL, Prlv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept 23. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoGiTiNNEBs, Michael, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from June 21, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MclNTYRE, John, Priv. Co. H; Oct 10, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted at Providence, R. 1.
McKelvet, John, Priv. Co. H; Res.. Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862. en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept, Washington, as of
Co, H, 12th Regt.. R, I. Inf.
McLaughlin, Michael, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept. 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 5, 1862, detached on service
as provost guard and so borne until Jan., 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out.
McMahon, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in foot at
Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital until March
12, 1863, when he was discharged for disability at Lovell General
Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R, I.
McMann, John. See John McMahon.
MoMann, Patrick, Priv. Co. I; Sept. 19, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McNbllt, John, Priv. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McNiNCH, WiLUAM. See William McAnnich.
McNuLTY, John, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McPeak, Thomas, Priv. Co. I; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled at Warwick. R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in foot at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
until March 24, 1863, when he was discharged for disability.
McQuAiD, Babnard, Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I; S^t 14,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at
the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hos-
pital from that time until May, 1863; May 20, 1863, detached for ser-
vice in Invalid Corps and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
McQuBENET, James, Priv. Co. E; Sept 18, 1862, enrolled at Warren, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McTwiGOAN, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
McVby, Felix, Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R, I.; Sept 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
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BHODB ISLAND T0LUNTB8R8 359
MoWiNCH, WnxiAM. See William McAnnich.
MErauBT, Mathew C, Priv. Ck). E; Rea.. Barrington, R. I.; Sept. 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 17, 1863, discharged on
surgeon's certificate at camp near Falmouth, Va.
MELvnxE, Qboboe, Priv. C6. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in leg at
the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
from that time until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Meltuxe, James, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in leg at
the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital from
that time until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Mebchaivt, Amaziah, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MnxEN, Babney, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as of Co. H, 12th R. 1.
Inf.
MnxEB, James M., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1, 1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MnJUEB, James W., Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket R- I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 7, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Muxes, Joseph, Priv. Co. I; Sept 19, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Mnj.KB, Lepbelet, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached for service
on supply train and so borne until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Muxes, Nathaniel L., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Sept 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Missing in action Dec.
13, 1862. Investigation fails to elicit further information.
MnxES, Samuel W., Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 25,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Jan. 24, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MnxEB, WnxiAM F., Corp. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; April 17, 1863, appointed Corp.
Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863,
until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
MnxiNGTON, Thomas, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in
shoulder at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in
hospital until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Mills, Alexandes, Priv. Co. I; Sept 16, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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360 BISTORT OF THB TWOLTTH RBGIMBNT
MiLWABD, Samuel, Priv. Go. I; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 18^2,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Marcli 27, 1868, sent to hospital
and borne as absent sick until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
MiNAHAN, John, Priv. Ck>. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MnncB, OiJvxB, Priv. Co. I; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.; Oct
13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded in leg at
Fredericksburg and borne as absent sick in hospital until July, 1861;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
BiiNKLEB, William, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. !•; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
MnvNiHAN, James, Priv. Co. B; Sept 26, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. L
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MncHELL David, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 28, 1863, died of disease at
regimental hospital, Newport News, Va.
Mitchell^ Jesse D., Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. L; Sept 28,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Feb., 1863, until March 6, 1863, when he died.
Mitchell, John R., Priv. Co. F; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 12,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, died of
wounds received in action at BYedericksburg, Va.
Mitchell, Pelbo, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
Mitchell, Richabd, Priv. Co. F; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Mitchell, Stephen D. W., Priv. Co. H; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 8, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 14, 1863, detached to Bat-
tery D, 1st R. I. Art, and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out.
Moan, Abthub, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Nov. 20, 1862, until Jan., 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoNAOHAN, CoBNELius, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MoNAGHAN, John. See John Monnagan.
MoNNAOAN, John, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862^
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, borne on duty on
ammunition train; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Moon, William, Priv. Co. D; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Oct. 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MooNST, Peteb, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
MooBE, Edmund, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, «•
foiled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered oat
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 361
MoBBis, AiAEBT, Prtv. Co. C; Rea., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 25, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 27, 1868, until July, 1863; July 20, 1868, mustered out.
IfowBT, David C, Priv. Co. P; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
HowBT, Obbn, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service from
March, 1868, until May, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
MowBT, Shadbaok O., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 21, 1863, discharged on
surgeon's certificate at Newport News, Va.
Mtjldoon, Hugh, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
M1TLLAI.T, John, Priv. Co. H; Sept 23, 1862, enrolled at North Providence,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; May, 1863, on supply train; July 29,
1868, mustered out
Mullen, Hugh, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 29, 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until March 14, 1863, when he was discharged on
surgeon's certificate from Portsmouth Qrove Hospital.
Mullen, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
MULVEY, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
MuNGEB, Felix, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
MuNBOE, Frrz E. W., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, en*
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Munboe, Qeobgb F., Priv. Co. C; Oct 13, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mus-
tered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Munboe, Whjjaic, Corp. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. 1.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Munboe, William H., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
MUBPHT, John, Priv. Co. H; Oct 11, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mus-
tered in; Jan. 16, 1863, discharged for disability at camp near Fal-
mouth, Va.
MUBBAT, John, Priv. Co. C; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863 mustered out
Mutton, Gbobob T., Corp. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Dec. 1,
1862, until Jan. 7, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's cer'
tificate at Columbian Hospital, Washington, D. C.
Mtebs, Samuel A., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept. 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, killed at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va.
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362 HISTORY or thb twblpth bbgimbnt
Najac, Munson H., 1st Lt. Ck). I; Re«., Providence. R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, com-
mlBsioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in Originally served as 2d lit;
Fel>. 19. 1863. promoted 1st Lt Mustered out as 2d Lt and mus-
tered in as 1st Lt to date from March 1. 1863; July 29. 1863. mustered
out
NATiiOB, Alfbmd Priv. Co. C; Res.. Johnston, R. L; Sept 23, 1862, esi-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Neff. Bdwik M.. Priv. Co. K; Oct 6. 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; Jan. 6. 1863, detailed as nurse in hospital
and so borne until July, 1863; July 29. 1863. mustered out
NswELL, John, Priv. Co. F; Res.. South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; Dec. 13. 1862, slightly wounded
in head at Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Newman, Chabucs, Corp. Co. F; Res.. Glocester. R. I.; Oct 1. 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; June 24, 1863, promoted Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Newman, Gboboe, Priv. Co. H; Oct 9, 1862, enrolled at Westerly, R. L;
Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Nichols Albebt C, Corp Co. G; Res.. Coventry, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; Jan. 1. 1863. promoted Corp. Borne
on detached service at Nicholasvllle, Ky^, from April 7, 1863. until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Nichols, Chables A., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. L; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in. Borne on daily duty with am-
munition train, from March 26. 1863. until April. 1863. Borne on
detached service at Nicholasville, Ky.. from April 7. 1863, until July,
1863; July 29. 1863. mustered out
Nichols, Charles E.. Priv. Co. A; Res.. East Greenwich. R. I.; Sept 22,
1862. enrolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862. slightly
wounded at Fredericksburg. Va.; March, 1863, detached on supply
train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Nichols, Geoboe H., Priv. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. L; Sept 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in. Borne on ammunition train from
March 25. 1863. until June 14. 1863, when he reported for duty;
July 29. 1863. mustered out
Nichols, Lucius P.. Corp. Co. C; Res., Providence. R. L; Oct 8, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Nichols, William F.. Corp. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862^
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in; Jan. 1. 1863, promoted C<Hrp.;
July 29. 1863, mustered out.
NiLEs, Geoboe W.. Priv. Co. 1; Res.. Richmond, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
NiLEs, John C. Priv. Co. H; Sept 22. 1862. enrolled at North Providence,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; July 29. 1863. mustered out
Noon, Michael, Priv. Co. C; Sept 11, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTSBBS 363
Noon AN, James, Prlv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov., 1862, in Ambulance Corps;
Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded in head at Fredericksburg, Va.; July
29, 1863, mustered out
'NoBMiB, Thomas, Wagoner Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept. 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on ammunition train
from March, 1863, until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
KOBTHUP, Benjamin \v. C, Prlv. Co. I; Res., North Kingstown, R. I.;
Sept 15, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1862,
mustered out.
NOBTHTJP, John Jb., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
NoBTHXJP, Robert F., Priv. Co. C; Res., Exeter, R. i.; Sept. 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
NoBTHUP, WnxiAM H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. 1.; Sept 20, 1862»
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Nye, Qeoboe L., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Oatlbt, John R., Corp. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Oatly, Samuel, Priv. Co. E; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
O'Bbien, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded
in leg at Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
O'Bbien, James, Priv. Co. I; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va.,
and borne as absent sick in hospital until March 24, 1863, when he
returned to the regiment; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
O'CoNNELL, David, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
O'DoNNELL, Edwabd, Prlv. Co. H; Oct. 10, 1862, enrolled at Hopkinton,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 7, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until June, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Ogden, John. Priv. Co. G; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 30, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nicholas-
ville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Olney, Chables W., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
June 20, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
O'Neil, James, Jb., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
O'Neil, Patrick, Priv. Co. H; Sept 22, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
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864 HISTORY OP THB TWBLFTH BBGIMDNT
O'RiLCT, jKTFEBSoif, Wagoner, Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 20, 1S62.
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Nov., 1862, detached for serrioe
in Ambulance Ck>rps and so borne until July, 1868; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Osgood, Samuel, J., Priv. Co. D; Kes., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Owens, Fbedebio, Priv. Co. I; Oct 1, 1862, enrolled at East Qreenwich.
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June 4, 1868, sent to hospital and
borne as sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Owens, John, Priv. Co. I; Sept 11, 1862. enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Page, Chables H., Priv. Co. A; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov., 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Paine, Alvin H., Corp. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec, 1862, wounded in action
and Dome as sick in hospital until March 12, 1863, when he was dis-
charged for disability at Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Orove,
R. I.
Paine, Bbenezeb A. J., Priv. Co. C; Oct. 2, 1862, enrolled at Johnston,
R. I. Borne as sick in hospital at Washington D. C, from Feb. 7,
1863, until July 2, 1863, when he died.
Palmer, Amos, Priv. Co. G; Res.. Providence, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 30, 1862, detailed as nurse in
hospital and so borne until April, 1863. Borne as absent sick in hos-
pital from April 9, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Palmes, Thomas P., Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan., 1863, sent to hospital
and borne as absent sick until March 2, 1863, when he was furlou^ed
for thirty days; May 8, 1863, detached for service in Invalid Corps;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Pabdt, Henbt M., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Pabkeb, Alfred, Musician Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Transferred to N. C. S. as
drum major; March 1, 1863, retransf erred to Co. B; July 29. 1868,
mustered out
Pabkhubst, Chables R., Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 22,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862« wounded
(arm broken) at Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and borne as
absent sick until Jan. 6, 1863, when he was discharged for disability.
Pabtelow, Chables. Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 14, 1863, detached for ser-
vice on supply train and so borne until April, 1868. Borne on de-
tached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1868, until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 365
I>ATT, Geoboe W., Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept. 25,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 18, 1863, discharged
for disability at Washington^ D. C.
Patt, Lukx J., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863^ mustered out
Patt, Wuuam W. W., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. 1.; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Pattebson, John A. C, Priv. Co. F; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
April 8, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
FATinc, Alvin H. See Alvin H. Paine.
PATinc, George, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18, 1862, wounded in hand
at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hos-
pital until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Peabce, Ai/)nzo, Priv. Co. B., Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded at
the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and borne as absent
' sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Peabce, Henby W., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 8, 1863, died in RegTl
Hospital at camp near Falmouth, Va.
Peabob, William F., Musician Co. K; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service with
Co. G at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863;
July 29, 1868, mustered out
Fbok, H0BA.TI0 N., Priv. Go. E; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1, 1862, until March 10, 1863, when he returned to the regiment;
July 29, 1868, mustered out
Peok, Ashael a., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
PsoK, Peleo J., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; May 11, 1868, detached on supply
train and so borne until June, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Peckham, Feniteb H., Jb., 2d Lt Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; March
7, 1863, enrolled. Originally served as 2d Lt. Co. I; April 26, 1868,
transferred to Co. B; May 27, 1868, transferred to Co. G; July 29,
1868, mustered out
Pbokhah, Leandeb, Priv. Co. D; Res., Middletown, R. 1.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec., 1862, until March 10, 1868, when he was discharged for dis-
ability at Baltimore.
Pelky, David, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 29, 1862, until March, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Fklkt, I^bans, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; 7uly 29, 1868, mustered out.
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HI8T0BT or THE TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
Pkndleton, James M., Ist Lt. Co. B; Ree., Westerly, R. I.; Oct 9, IMS.
oommissioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as 2d
Lt Go. K. Mustered out as 2d Lt and mustered in as 1st Lt to date
from Dec. 25, 1862; Dec., 1862, transferred to Co. B as 1st Lt; Jan.
1, 1868. detached as A. D. C. to Gen. Nac^e; March 11, 1863, died of
disease at Westerly, R. I.
Pendleton, John P., Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, seyerely wounded
in shoulder at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent
sick in hospital until March 27, 1863, when he was discharged on sur-
geon's certificate.
Pebkins, John, Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Freder-
icksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick until Biay 13, 1863, when he
reported for duty from Patterson Park Hospital, Baltimore, Md.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Perkins, Thomas K., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Pebbt, Ouveb H., Capt Co. H. Enrolled at Providence, R. I.; Oct IS.
1862, commissioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 186S, mus-
tered out.
Phbtteplage, Amasa, Corp. Co. K; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Oct 8, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 28, 1862, deserted.
Phstteplaoe, James, Corp. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Phillips, James, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 21, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until May, 1863; May, 1863, detached for service in
Ambulance Corps and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Phillips, John J., Capt Co. E; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 10, 1862,
commissioned; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mastered
out
Phillips, Wujjam R., Priv. Co. K; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Aug., 1862, «l-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Pdeboe. See Pearce.
PiEBOE, Chablbs S., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered out
PnaoE, DuiEE J., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; SepL 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 19, 1863, detached on sarvloe
as provost guard and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1868, mus-
tered out
Peiboe, Gboboe C, Corp. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 20, 1868, i4»pointed Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
PiEBOE, John F., Sgt., Co. A; Res., Providence, R. L; Sept 30, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; Jaly
1, 1863, promoted Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBRS 367
PiEBOE, LuTHXB P., PfIy. Co. D; Rea., Little Compton, R. I.; Sept 11,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Feb. 8, 1868, until May, 1863; May 12, 1868, detached on supply
train and so borne until June, 1863; July 2d, 1863, mustered out.
PiEBSON, James, Musician Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Plaoe, Bdwabd B., FriY. Co. H; Sept. 17, 1862, enrolled at Scituate, R. L;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 19, 1862, deserted.
Place, Charus J., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 27, 1862, discharged for dis-
ability.
PuLGE, John T., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Pi^OE, WnxiAM H. H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
POLLABD, John, Priv. Co. B; Sept. 18, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 31, 1862, mus-
tered in; Jan. 16, 1863, detached to Battery D, 1st R. I. Art., and so
borne until July 10, 1863, when he returned to the 12th R. 1. Inf.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
PoLLABD, Joseph, 2d Lt Co. O; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Ist Sgt.;
Dec. 22, 1862, promoted 2d Lt. and mustered in ca such to date from
Dec. 24, 1862; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Fredericksburg, Va., sent to
hospital and borne as absent sick until Feb., 1863, when he returned
to duty. Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April
7, 1863, until May, 1863; May 23, 1863, resigned.
P0Mit)]a), Adam, Priv. Co. H; Sept 17, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; March, 1868, detached on supply train and
so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1^63, mustered out
Potter, Asahael S. Sgt., Co. A; Res., Providence, R. L; Oct 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
POTTEB, Charles H., 2d Lt Co. K; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt Co.
G; Nov. 27, 1862, promoted Sgt Maj. and mustered out as Sgt MaJ.
and mustered in as 2d Lt. to date from Dec. 22, 1862. Assigned to
Co. K. Promoted for gallant conduct at the battle of Fredericksburg,
Va.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
PomcR, Charles A., Sgt Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. L; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Potter, Bmort O., Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 27, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
l^OTTER, WiLUAM H. H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Potts, John, Priv. Co. A; Res., Coventry, R. L; Oct 3, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mastered out
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368 HISTORY OF THS TWELFTH RBGIMBNT
Pbat, Hkubt C, Priv. Co. B; ReB., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, ear
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on extra duty as teamster
from Dec., 1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
FUECE, Thomas, PriY. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in.* Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 8, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Pbbston, Joseph W., Priy. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 9, 1862, discharged on sur-
geon's certificate.
Pbsw, Chables H., Priv. Co. I; Sept 11, 18b2, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 26, 1862, detached for service on am-
munition train and so borne until May 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Fbiob, Fbank, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
PBonrr, James A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Pbosseb, William M., Sgt. Co. F; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept IS.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as
Priv. Promoted Corp.; Jan. 1, 1863, appointed Sgc; May, 1868, borne
on supply train; July 29, 1863, mustered out
PiTLLEN, Randall, 1st Sgt Co. D; Res., Newport, R. 1.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862 mustered in. Originally served as Sgt; March
1, 1863, appointed 1st Sgt; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Frederlcksbnrs.
Va. Borne as sick in hospital from June 18, 1863, until July, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Quill, HsxatT. See Henry Zuill.
QxTiNLAN, Michael, Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 23.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862,. severely
wounded in leg at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as
sick in hospital from that time until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Ragan, Patrick, Priv. Co. A; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 4, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Ramsden, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport. R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Randall, Charles X, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Randall, Cyrus S., Priv. Co. F; Res., Scltuate, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until April 29, 1863, when he was discharged for disa-
bility at Washington, D. C.
Ranet, John, Priv. Co. I; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled;
Jan. 14, 1863, detached to Battery D, 1st R. I. Art, and so borne until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Rathburn John„ Priv. Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. L; Sept 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered
out.
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BHODS ISLAND VOLUNTEERS
Hkadt, Patbiok, Priv. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Bii»>iNOTOi7, James, Corp. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasvlUe, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863.
mustered out.
Ro>DT, Bdwabd, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Rbddt WnjJAM, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
RxDiNG, WnjJAM, Priv. Co. G; Res., 'liverton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as of Co. G, 12th R. I.
Inf.
Rbqan, Jaices, Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. 1.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Name not found on rolls Oi Co. 0,
12th R. 1. Inf.
RxMnreroN, Ubnbt A., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 11, 1862,
enrcHled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served in Co. I; Nov.
26, 1862, transferred to Co. A; July 29, 1863, mustered out
RxMiNGTOiT, Joseph H., Musician Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Remington, Thomas E., Wagoner Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service
at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
RETNOum, Jason B., Priv., Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Retnolds, Miohael, Priv. Co. C; Res., Proviaence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as of Co. C, 12th
R. L i^-i:.
Rice, Ambbose B., Priv. Co. I; Sept 16, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Dec. 1,
1862, until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Rice, Bphbaim, Jb., Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept. 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Richardson, Ebastus, Priv. Co. F; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept
22, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached
service as Quartermaster's clerk from Oct 13, 1862, until Jan., 1863.
Borne as absent on furlough from Feb. 27, 1863, until May, 1863;
May, 1863, resumed duties as Quartermaster's clerk and so borne
until July; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
RiOHABDSON Geobge B., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 26, 1862, died of disease at
Fairfax Seminary.
RiCHABDSON, Walteb W., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, borne on am-
munition train; July 29, 1863, mustered out
24
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370 HISTORT OF THS TWDLFTH BBGIMBNT
Richie, Robebt, Corp. Co. C; Ree., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mastered in. Borne on detached serylce as
provost guard from Nov. 5, 1862, until Jan., 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out.
Richmond, Gboboe W., Prly. Co. E; Res., Barrington, R. L; Sept 24,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 16, 1863, died in Car-
yer Hospital, Washington, D. C, from wounds received at the battle
of Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, 1862.
Richmond, Samxtkl N., Sgt. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 23,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as
Corp.; Jan. 1, 1863, promoted Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Rnjk, James, Priv. Co. F; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Qept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
RiLET, Jeffebson O. See Jefterson CRiley.
RiiAT, James, Priv. Co. K; Res., BurriUviUe, B. I.; Aug. 23, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18, 1862, ankle dislocated by
shell at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick
in hospital until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Rmrr, Peteb, Priv. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
RiLET, SiMON, Priv. Co. K; Res., Pascoag, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
RrroHiE, David L., Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Roberts, Chables, Priv. Co. A; Sept 2, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. t.
Deserted prior to Nov. 17, 1862.
RoBEBTS, Oeoboe A., Jr., Corp. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. 1.; Sept
21, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Robebts, Henby H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 30, 1862, detached as Inrigade
wagoner. Borne on detached service as provost guard from Feb. 16,
1863, until May, 1863; June, 1863, borne as teamster; July 29, 1863.
mustered out
Robbbts, John Sandfobd, 1st Lt Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; S^t
14, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as
2d Lt; Dec. 24, 1862, promoted 1st Lt; Jan. 16, 1863, resigned.
Roitee, Eabl B., Priv. Co. E; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, musterea in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
RoFTEB, Eugene I., Priv. Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
RooEBS, Abneb, L., Priv. Co. O; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 80, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached servioe at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863.
mustered out.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBERS 371
RoQKBS, WujJAM C, Capt. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Sept. 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 9, 1862, commissioned 1st
' Lt. Mustered out as 1st Lt. and mustered in as Capt. to date from
Not. 4, 1862. Borne on detached service as provost marshal at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, untU July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
RouKDS, BzBA B., Priv. Co. A; Res., Poster, R. I.; Sept. 23, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
RowE, Chables, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as of Co. C, 12th R. I.
Inf.
Rtan, James, Priv. Co I; Sept. 10, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.; Oct
13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Ryan, Michael, Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Ryan, Wujjam A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 13, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862 mustered in. Borne on detached service as pro-
vost guard at Div. Hd. Qrs., from Feb. 18, 1863, until July, 1863;
July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Salisbury, .dJLONZO F., Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 11, 1863, died of disease in
regimental hospital at camp near Falmouth, Va.
Salibbuby Andbew J., Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Salibbuby, Arnold F., 1st Lt. Co. H; Oct. 13, 1862, commissioned; Oct.
17, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Salibbuby, Jebemiah, Priv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service as
brigade wagoner from Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out.
Salibbuby, William S., Corp. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept
22, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Salt, Thomas, Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sandebbon, Humphby, Priv. Co. G; Res., Portsmouth, R. 1.; Sept. 19,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 26, 1862, discharged
on surgeon's certificate from Fort Wood, N. Y.
Sandfobd Obobob I., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Saundebb, Joseph T., Priv. Co. A; Res., Westerly, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded
in hand at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and sent to hospital. Re-
joined the regiment; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
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872 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH BBOIMBNT
Satleb, Henry C, Priv. CJo. K; Res., BurrlUville, R. I.; Aug. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
SooTT, Benjamin F., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Scott, Blisha, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Jan. 24,
1863, until May 5, 1868, when he was discharged for disability at
Portsmoutn Gro^e Hospital.
Scott, Wal.teb A., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until April 20, 1863, when he reported for duty; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Scott, William P., Priy. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until May, 1868; May, 1863, detached to Invalid Corps
and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
SxEKELL, Apollos, Jb., Corp. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; S^t 29,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as
Priv.; May 11, 1863, detached on supply train, and so borne until
June, 1863; July 29, lb63, mustered out
Shain, EiUGENS M. See Eugene M. Thain.
Shaw, David, Priv. Co. O; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at Nicholas-
viUe, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered out
Shaw, Oboboe R., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, eor
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Shaw, James, Jr., Lt Col.; Dec. 31, 1862, commissioned. Mustered in to
date Jan. 5, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out; Oct 27. 1863, 99-
pointed Col. of the 7th U. S. Col. Troops and mustered in as such
Nov. 14, 1863. Bvt. Brig. Qen. for gallant and meritorious service,
to date March 13, 1865; Oct 13, 1866, mustered out
Sheen, Dennis, Priv. Co. O; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasviUe, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Sheldon, Henby L., Priv. Co. I; Sept. 15, 1862, enrolled ai Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Dec. 1,
1862, until March, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sheldon, John, Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct iS, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 8,
1863, until Feb. 25, 1863, when he died in hospital in Philadelphia.
Pa.
Shebman, Chables B., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Kicholasvllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
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BHODS ISLAND YOLUNTBBBS 373
Shebman, David, PtIy. Co. D; Res., Portsmouth, R. 1.; Sept 10, 18b2,
enroiied; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec 1, 1862, until April 20, 1863, when he returned to regiment; May
12, 1863, detached on supply train; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Sherman, Bijsha O., Sgt Co. I; Res. Cranston, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.;
July 29, 1862, mustered out
Sherman, James A., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Sherman John F., Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 28,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Sherman, Manly S., Priv. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept. as of Co. H, 12th
R. I. Inf.
Sherman, Simon G., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sherman, Thomas, Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. 1.; Sept. 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 23, 1863, appointed Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sherman, Wiixiam N., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in arm
at Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and borne as absent sick
until March 14, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's certi-
ficate.
Shipfee, James F., Priv. Co. I; Res., West Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; borne as sick in hospital
from Jan. 24 1863, until April 22, 1863, when he returned to the reg-
iment; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Shriar, Joseph, Priv. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 24,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Simmons, George W., Sgt. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded
in leg at Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital from that
time until March 5, 1863, when he was discharged for disability at
Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
Simmons, Isaac S., Jr., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. 1.; Sept 15, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Simmons, Samuel C, Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. 1.; Sept. 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1, 1862, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Simmons William E., Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. 1.; Sept. 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as brigade blacksmith
from April 28, 1863, until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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874 HI8T0RT OF THS TWELFTH REGIMENT
SiMHS, John, Priv. Co. H; Sept. 17, 1862, enrolled Providence, R. I.;
Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded in leg at
Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and borne as absent sick until
July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Slade, Gbobge, PriY. Go. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, ^irolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from April 8,
1868, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863^ mustered out
Slooum, Aubest a., Sgt. Co. O; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on duty in Ambulance
Corps from Nov. 4, 1862, until April, 1863. Borne on detached
service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Slooum, Ai£XIs, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Slocum, Bdmund D., Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Slocum, Judbon B., Priv. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Smith, Albert A., Priv. Co. B; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Smith, Benjamin P., Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Feb. 8, 1863, until March 10, 1863, when he died of diseaae at
Newport News, Va.
Smith, Chables B., Corp. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 23, 1862, en-
Mlled. Originally served as Priv.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Smith, Edson B., Priv. Co. G; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until April 20, 1863, when he was discharged
for disability.
Smith, Edwabd, Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Smith Francis, Priv. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg. Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
from that time until May 11, 1863, when he was returned to duty.
Muster out roll of Co. dated July 29, 1863, has remark "Not re-
ported for muster out" Investigation fails to elicit further infor-
mation.
Smith, Fbedbriok H., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in hand
at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital
until Feb., 1863. Considered a deserter from Feb. 28, 1868.
Smith, George, Priv. Co. D; Oct. 1, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 18, 1862, discharged on surgeon's
certificate at Fort Wood Hospital, N. Y.
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 375
Smith, Obobge F., Priy. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct. 1, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered In; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Smith, James, Prlv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Smith, James M., Prlv. Co. G; Res,, Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered iii. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Smith, Michael, Priv. Co. I; Sept 19, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded (left arm shot off)
at Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital from
that time until April 22, 1863, when he was discharged for disability
at Washington, D. C.
Smith, Moses A., Priv. Co. E; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Smith, Patbick, Priv. Co. I; Sept 10, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 1, 1862, deserted.
Smith, Tbbben^e, Corp. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 12, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv.
Borne on detached service from Feb., 1863, until April, 1863; July '^d,
1863, mustered out.
Smith, Theodobb H., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Smith, Thomas, Priv. Co. H; Oct 10, 1862, enrolled at Cranston, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Smith, Thomas P., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Smith, Wimjam R., Corp. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Priv.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Spaitlding, Ezra K., Priv. Co. K; Res., Pascoag, R. I.; Aug. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sfellagt, Michael, Corp. Co. I; Oct 4, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 1, 1863, appointed Corp.; July 29,
1868, mustered out.
Spencer, Edwabd W., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Spenceb, James L., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
.Spenceb, John T., Priv. Co. I; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept. 16,
1^62, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 29, 1863, discharged
for disability.
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876 HISTOBT OF THE TWBLFTH BOGIMBNT
SPEirccB Nathaniel, Prlv. Co. G; Ree., Portamouth, R. I.; Sept 17. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1S62, mustered in. Borne on detached eerrice at
NlcholasYlUe, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Spehoeb, William I., Ck>rp. Co. A; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept 30, 1882,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sfbnceb, WnxLAM C, PrlY. Co. I; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 10.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Sfkrby, Henby, PriY. Co. K; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Sept 24, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
SnuK, Geobge a., Capt Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 9, 1862, commissioned; July
29, 18'63, mustered out
Spin^, Geobge T., Priv. Co. A; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 12, 1863, died of
disease at Newport News, Va.
Spbague, Benjamin, Priy. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 23.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from March 26, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Spbague, Benjamin, 3d, Priy. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; S^t
29, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mus-
tered OUu
Spbague, Ciyilian, Priy. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept 20,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in, Dec. 13, 1862, killed at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va.
Spbaoxte, Sennaoa, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. 1.; Sept 20.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Spbingeb, Thomas, Priy. Co. G; Res., Tiyerton, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; borne on detached service at
Nicholasyille, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863.
mustered out.
Stapi£s, Joseph H., Priy. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct 3. 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detac^d service at
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Stabbs, Patbiok, Priy. Co. H; Oct 14, 1862, enrolled at Pawtucket R. I.;
Feb. 7, 1863, sent to hospital and borne as absent sick until July,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Stedman, Habbison, Priy. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 8,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Stetson, Geobge W. See George W. Stutson.
Stinal, Chables. See Charles Stindee.
Stindee, Chables, Priy. Co. H; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, deserted.
Stindel, Chables. See Charles Stindee.
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BHODB ISLAND yOLUNTBBBS 377
Stow, Lorenzo, Corp. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 8, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 16, 1868, died in regimental
hospital at camp near Falmouth, Va.
Strait, John T., Corp. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. 1.; Sept. 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Straight Oliver, Priy. Co. K; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 10,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 22, 1862, died in hos-
pital opposite Fredericksburg, Va.
Studdard, William. See William Suddard.
Studlet, James L., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Stutson, George W., Priv. Co. B; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 9, 1863, until June 3, 1863, when he was discharged on surgeon's
certificate.
Suddard, William, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13. 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
SuESMAN, Albert L., Corp. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13. 1862, mustered m; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Sullivan, Michael, Musician Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept. 18,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Sullivan, Timothy, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
SuTLiFF, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan., 1868, detached to Battery D,
1st R. I. Art., and so borne until July 12, 1863, when he returned to
the 12th R. I. Vols.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
SuTCLiFFE, Roger W., Priv. Co. A; Res.. East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct. 1,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862. wounded in
foot at the battle of Fredericksburg. Va., and borne as absent sick
in hospital until May, 1863; May 8, 1863, detached to Invalid Corps
and so borne until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out.
Sweet, Ansel L., Corp. Co. H; Res., North Providence. R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Sweet, Charles J., Sgt. Co. H; Res., Smithfleld, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
SwiacTLAND, James L., Jr.. Priv. Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 12,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
SwoBTLAND, Samuel M., Priv. Co. B; Res., Barnngton, R. I.; Sept 19,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Taber, George, Priv. Co. H; Res., Bzeter, R. I.; Sept. 24, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from Feb. 7,
1863, until May 20, 1863, when he was discharged for disability at
Philadelphia, Pa.
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878 HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH RBOIMBNT
Tabbb, Gesobgb H., 1st Lt. Go. D; Oct. 13, 1862, commissioned; Oct 1S»
1862, mustered In. Originally served as 2d Lt. Mustered out aa
2d Lt and mustered in as 1st Lt. to date from Dec. 25, 1862; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Tabes, Lemuel W., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. 1.; Sept 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
NicholasviUe, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868.
mustered out
Tatt, Peteb, Priv. Co. C; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept. 14, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Missing after the battle of Fredericks-
burg, Va., Dec. 13, 1862; March 25, 1863, discharged for disability.
Tanneb, Chables X, Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Taivneb, Clabk H., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 9, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
TAifNEB, WiLLLAU, Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. L; Oct 1, 1862,.
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until June 12, 1863, when he was discharged on sur-
geon's certificate.
Tattebsall, Rooeb, Corp. Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; June 15, 1863, promoted Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Tayeb, John W., Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. L; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Tatlob, Ctbus, Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13 1862, mustered in. Not borne on rolls of Co. subsequent to
muster-in.
Taylob, ELisha I., Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Tatlob, Isaac, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Taylob, Thomas R., Sb., Priv. Co. I; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept
12, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hos-
pital from Dec. 1, 1862, until May 25, 1863, when he was discharged
on surgeon's certificate at Washington, D. C.
Tatlob, Thomas R., J&, Priv. Co. I; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 10»
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital
from Dec. 1, 1862, until Jan. 13, 1863, when he was discharged on
surgeon's certificate.
Tatlob, William, Priv. Co. I; Sept 13, 1862, enrolled at Warwick, R. I.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
TENANT, EzBA A., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 2, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 17, 1863, detailed as provost
guard and so borne until May, 1863; J'uly 29, 1863, mustered out
Tetboe, Peteb, Priv. Co. C; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, enroUed;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
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RHODE ISLAND V0LUNTBBB8 379
Tew, Bbowning G., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, borne on ammunition
train. Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April
7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Tew, Busha G., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry. R. 1.; Sept 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July. 1863; July 29,
1863, mustered out.
Tew, jAifss, Priv. Co. I; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Sept. 15, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 29, 1862, sent to hospital at
Washington and borne as absent sick until Jan. 5, 1863, when he
died at Lincoln Hospital, Washington.
T^w, John W., Priv. Co. I; Res., Charlestown, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 8, 1863, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until May, 1863. Borne on detached service
with Invalid Corps from May, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out'
Thaiw, Eugene M., Sgt Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct 14, 1862, en-
rolled; Jan. 1, 1863, promoted Corp.; June 29, 1863, promoted Sergt.,
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Tbjle, Henby, Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Thomas, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. I.; Sept. 18. 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; June, 1863, borne as teamster;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Thompson, Andbew C, Sgt Co. C; Res.. Providence, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; Feb. 16, 1863. detached as
provost guard, 2d Div. 9th A. C. and so borne until May, 1863; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Thompson, Ltman, Priv. Co. K; Res.. Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Thobnton, Cybus M., Sgt. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.; April
V 1863, promoted Sgt; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Thobnton, John B., Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 15. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Thubbeb, Edmond J., Priv. Co. C; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in. Name not found on rolls of War
Dept. as of Co. C, 12th R. I. Inf. Investigation falls to elicit further
information.
Thubbeb, Samuel P., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Thubbeb, Stephen I., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 4. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded in side
at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., sent to hospital and borne as
absent sick until July. 1863; July 29« 1863, mustered out
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880 HISTORY or THB TWILTTH BBOIMBNT
TiBBiiTS, Horace W., Prlv. Co. G; Res., CJoventry, R. I.; Oct 4. 1862. en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached senrice at
Nicholasvllle, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29. 1863,
mustered out
TnxET, Edwin H.. Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 20. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
March 26, 1863. until July. 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
TiiixiNOHAST. Henby M.. 2d Lt. Co. D; Res., East Greenwich. R. I.; Origi-
nally served in Co. C, 4th Reg't; Dec. 12. 1862, commissioned 2d Lt
Co. D. 12th Reg't and assigned to this Co. Feb. 15. 1863; July 29.
1863, mustered out.
TnxiNOHAST, Isaac, Prlv. Co. A; Sept 27, 1862, enroUed at Providence,
R. I.; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in; Dec. 13. 1862, wounded severely in
shoulder and side at the battle of Fredericksburg. Va.. sent to hos-
pital and borne as absent sick until May. 1863. Borne on detached
service in Invalid Corps from May 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29.
1863, mustered out.
TnxiNOHAST, JOHI7 A.. Corp. Co. A; Res.. Exeter. R. I.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered out
TiLUNOHAST. Pabdon E.. Q. M. Sgt; Res., Pawtucket R. I.; Sept 13.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in; July 29, 1863. mustered
out
T^KHAH. Thomas. Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 20, 1862^
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; Jan.. 1863. died in hospital at
camp near Falmouth, Va.
ToicPKiNS, WiNTiELD S.. Corp. Co. E; Res., Warren. R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; July 29. 1863, mustered oat
TooMET. John, Prlv. Co. H; Res.. North Providence, R. 1.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 18. 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862. deserted.
Tost, Chablss. See Charles Tost.
TouBOEB. Gboboe R., Musician Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 29. IStt,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in; May 1, 1863 died of disease at
Richmond, Ky.
Ton]rrELix)T, Cassius. Priv. Co. K; Res., Pascoag, R. I.; Sept 17. 1862.
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne on supply train from
May 11, 1863, until June. 1863; July 29, 1863. mustered out
Tbaikeb, John. Corp. Co. H; Sept 18, 1862. enrolled at North Providence.
R. I.; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Tbaineb, Michael, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in; Feb. 6, 1863, discharged for dis-
ability.
Tbavebs, Fbanois, Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 2. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in. Borne on ammunition train from
March 26, 1863, until June 14, 1868, when he reported for duty; July
29, 1863, mustered out
Tripe, Samuel B., Corp. Co. F; Res., Glocester, R. 1.; Sept 30. 1862, «di-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; Feb. 8, 1863. promoted Corp.; July
29. 1868. mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEERS 381
TtrcKEB, William, Priv. Co. G; Res.. Providence, R. I.; Sept 24, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Tdbkeb, Chasles p., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Oct 3, 1862, en
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1868,
mustered out
TuBiiEB, John, 1st Lt and Adj., F and S; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 8, 1862»
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 25, 1862, resigned.
Ttucb, Bbbnezeb C, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 22, 1862»
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, borne on ammu-
nition train; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Ttleb, Henby O., Priv. Co. O; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville. Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July. 1868; July 29, 1868.
mustered out
T*TLEB, John H., Corp. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Vaughn, Albert A., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. L; Sept. 27,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862. mustered in; borne as sick in hospital
from Jan. 26, 1863, until April 20, 1863, when he reported for duty;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Vest, Henby B., Priv. Co. A; Res., North Kingstown, R. 1.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; Dec 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
from that time until March 22, 1863, when he was discharged on
surgeon's certificate.
ViOABB, John G., Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
until July. 1863; July 29, 1863. mustered out
ViOKSBY. RoBEBT M., Prlv. Co. G; Res.. Johnston, R. L; Sept. 30. 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862. mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville. Ky.. from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Wahueb, a. Fbank, Musician Co. I; Sept, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862,
mustered in. Originally served as Priv. Co. B; June 18, 1863, sent
to hospital and borne as absent sick until July, 1868, July 29. 1868,
mustered out.
Wahv. Stephen C, Priv. Co. G; Res.. Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Waksiield, Geobge, Priv. Co. K; Res., Glocester, R. L; Oct. 2. 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862. mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Waij>bon, Wujjam H., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol. R. I.; Sept 20. 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13. 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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382 HIBTOBY or THB TWELFTH BBQIMBNT
Walkxb» Hbkbt, PriY. Co. O; Res., Coventry, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mastered in; Dec. 18, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as sick in hospital until
March 81, 1868, when he was discharged on surgeon's certificate.
Walker, Ltsandcr B., Priy. Co. K; Res., Bast Providence, R. L; S^t
30, 1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mnstered
out.
Walsh, Michael, Jr., Priy. Co. H; Res., North Proyidence, R. L; Oct
8, 1862, enrolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as (tf Co.
H, 12th R. 1. Inf.
Ward, James, Priv. Co. E; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Wardwkll, James D., Jr., Priv. Co. E; Res., Bristol, R. I.; Oct 1, 1862.
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Waterman, Elisha P., Priv. Co. A; Res., Johnston, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Watson, Henry H., Priy. Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 29, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 9, 1863, until May, 1863, May 20, 1868, detached for senrice is
Inyalid Corps and so borne until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Watson, Lewis A., Wagoner Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 16, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital fran
Oct 15, 1862, until Jan., 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Weatherhead, Amasa, Priy. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 16.
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Weater, Oborob, Priy. Co. K; Aug. 26, 1862, enrolled at Burrillyille, R. I.;
Oct 18, 1862, mustered in. Furloughed for sixty days from Dec. 29,
1862. Borne as absent sick from Feb. 7, 1868, until June 5, 1863,
when he was discharged on surgeon's certificate from Bcklngtoii
Hospital.
Weaver, Oborob H., Priy. Co. I; Res., Coyentry, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862. en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 21, 1862, sent to hospital and
borne as absent sick until Jan., 1868; Jan. 15, 1863, detached to Bat-
tery D, 1st R. I. L. A., and borne as absent sick in hospital frmn
Jan. 25, 1863, until March 15, 1863, when he was discharged for dis-
ability.
WEAysR, John H., 2d Lt Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. I.; Sept 13, 1862, en*
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally seryed as 1st Sgt;
April 17, 1863, promoted 2d Lt Mustered out as 1st Sgt., April 80,
1863, and mustered in as 2d Lt to date April 26, 1868; July 29, 1863.
mustered out.
Weaver, Jonathan R., Sgt. Co. I; Res., Warwick, R. L; Sept 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Webb, Charles H., Priv. Co. I; Res., Johnston, R. L; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 12, 1868, died of disease
at Washington, D. C.
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BHODB ISLAND VOLUNTBBBS 383
Webb, Gbobob A., Prlv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept. 20, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan., 1868, detached to Battery D,
1st R. I. L. A., and so borne until July 12, 1868, when he returned to
the 12th R. I. Vols.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Webb, Thomas C, Corp. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept. 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Weedbn, Sahxtsl B., Corp Co. I; Res., Bast Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
Welch, James, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 2, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 18, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 21, 1862, deserted at Provi-
dence, R. I.
Welden, John, Prlv. Co. K; Res., Bast Providence, R. I.; Sept. 30, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. IZ, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital
until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
West, Geobob M., Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 28, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March, 1863, detached on supply
' train and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Westoott, Bowen, Musician Co. D; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Oct 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Westoott, Bdwabd V., 2d Lt Co. B; Res., Newport R. I.; Sept. 21, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt Co.
D; April 17, 1863, commissioned 2d Lt; April 26, 1863, assigned to
Co. B; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Whiffle, Abldn M., Sgt. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept 17,
1862, enrolled; Oct i3, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out.
Whiffle, Babton J., Corp. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 1, 1863, promoted Corp.; May
12, 1863, detached on supply train and so borne until June, 1863; July
29, 1863, mustered out.
Whiffle, Chables F., Sgt Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp.;
March 7, 1868, promoted Sgt; Jan., 1863, sent to hospital and borne
as absent sick until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Whiffix, Bdwabd M., Priv. Co. H; Res., North Providence, R. I.; Sept
19, 1862, enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 19, 1862, detailed
for duty in Ambulance Corps and so borne until April, 1863; July
29, 1863, mustered out.
Whiffle, Bdwin M. See Bdward M. Whipple.
Whiffle, James C, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 17, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as wagon master from
Oct 24, 1862, until July, 1868; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Whiffle, Jambs L., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
May 1, 1863, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
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884 HIBTOBT OF THB TWELFTH SXGIMENT
Whiffle, Lowbet, Prlv. C5o. H; Sept 15, 1862, enrolled at Scituate, R. I.;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29» 1868, mustered out
Whiffle, Ltman, Sgt. Co. F; Res., Camberland, R. I.; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Ck>rp.;
June 24, 1863, promoted Sgt.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Whiffu:, Nathaniel B., 1st Sgt Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 8,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt;
April 26, 1863, promoted 1st Sgt Borne as Brig, clerk from March
27, 1863, until April, 1863; July 29, 1868, mustered out
White, Anan, Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
White, Chbistofheb T., Corp. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; March 23, 1862, appointed Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
White, John H., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R. I.; Aug. 30, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
White, Pabdon B., Priv. Co. D; Res., Little Compton, R. L; Sept 11, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Feb. 16, 1863, detached as provost
guard and so borne until May, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
White, Wiixiah H., Corp. Co. I; Sept 16, 1862, enrolled at Providence,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Whiting, Joseph C, Jb., 2d Lt Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served at Sgt; Jan.
1, 1863, promoted Ist Sgt; May 23, 1863, commissioned 2d Lt; June
30, 1863, mustered in as 2d Lt to date June 2, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out
Whitino, Sahuel S., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 1,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely
wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent
sick in hospital until Jan. 15, 1863, when he died at Portsmouth Grove
Hospital from effects of wounds.
Whitman, Hibam, Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Sept 22, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Missing since the battle of
Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, 1862.
Whitman, Jasfeb C, Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence. R. I.; Oct 10, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at Fred-
ericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick in hospital until July, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
Whitmabsh, Leandeb F., Priv. Co. H; Sept 15, 1862, enrolled at North
Providence, R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
WiCKEs, William L., Priv. Co. A; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct 7, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, severely wounded
in thigh at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and borne as absent sick
in hospital until t April. 1863; April, 1863, detached for service in In-
valid Corps and so Dome until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Wight, Chables A., Sgt. Co. K; Res., Pascoag, R. I.; Aug. 22, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
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RHODB ISLAND VOLUNTEBHS 385
Wight. Wiixiam H. See William H. White.
WiLBUB, Edwasd J., Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 11, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct. 23, 1862, killed by accident on
railroad.
Wilbur, Samuel G., Prlv. Co. I; Res., Scituate, R. I.; Sept 16, 1862, en-
rolled. Borne as sick in hospital from April 17, 1868, until June,
1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Wilcox, Hobatio N., Priv. Co. G; Res., Tiverton, R. I.; Sept. 10, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service at
Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, unUl July, 1863; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Wilcox, William, Priv. Co. I; Res., Exeter, R. I.; Sept 15, 1862, enrolled;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 2, 1862, sent to hospital and borne as
absent sick until March 24, 1863, when he returned to regiment; July
29, 1863, mustered out.
WiLDEB, Fbank J., Priv. Co. A; Res., Foster, R. I.; Sept. 25, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Jan., 1863, sent to hospital, 2d Div.
9th A. C. A. of P., Windmill Point, Va., and borne as absent sick until
Jan. 26, 1868, when he died.
WnxETT, Peteb, Priv. Co. B; Res., Providence, R. I.; Sept. 26, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862,mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 7, 1863, until July, 1863. Rejoined the regiment; July 29, 1863,
mustered out.
Williams. Edwin P., Priv. Co. H; Sept 23, 1862, enrolled at North Provi-
dence, R. 1.; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; March 27, 1863, deserted.
Arrested and sent to the 7th R. I. Reg't to serve out term; Dec. 13,
1863, taken up on rolls of Co. C, 7th Reg't Records of the 7th R. I.
Inf. state that Edwin P. Williams was mustered out of Co. H, 12th
R. I. In^ Sept 20, 1864.
WnjJAMS, GiLB^BT O., Priv. Co. K; Res., Burrillville, R, I.; Aug. 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Nov. 1, 1862, detached for ser-
vice in Ambulance Corps and so borne until March, 1863; March 11,
1863, died of disease in hospital at Newport News, Va.
Williams, James A., 2d. Lt Co. H; Res., Pawtucket, R. 1.; Sept 24, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt.; June
3, 1863, promoted to 2d Lt. to date from June 1, 1863. Mustered in
as 2d Lt. to date from June 15, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Williams, Stephen, Priv. Co. D; Res., Newport, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Willis, Moses A.. Priv. Co. B; Res., Warren, R. I.; Sept 19, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
WiLMABTH, Jerry, Priv. Co. D; Oct 3, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. L;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, slightly wounded in hand at
Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
WiLMAETH, Joseph, 1st Sgt. Co. F; Sept. 25, 1862, enrolled at Cumberland,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt.; March 7,
1863, promoted 1st Sgt.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
25
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386 HISTORY OF THB TWELFTH REGIMENT
Wilson, Qeobge, Musician Co. F; Res., Hopkinton, R. I.; Sept. 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; Oct 14, deserted at Providenee^
R. I.
Wilson, William, 1st. Sgt Co. G; Sept 17, 1862, enrolled at Warwick,
R. I.; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Corp. Co. I;
Jan. 1, 1863, promoted Sgt and transferred to Co. G; April 17, 1863,
promoted 1st Sgt Borne on detached service at Nicholasville, Ky.,
from April 7, 1868, until July, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
WiNCHESTEB, Chables M., 2d Lt Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in. Originally served as Sgt;
May 29, 1863, commissioned 2d Lt and mustered in as such to date
June 15, 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out
WiNSLOW, Ambbosb, Priv. Co. K; Res., East Providence, R. I.; Sept 30,
1862, enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered
out
WiNSLow, Ferdinand, Priv. Co. B; Res., Barrington, R. I.; Sept 27, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; March 25, 1863, detached on am-
munition train and so borne until June 15, 1863, when he returned to
regiment; July 29, 1868, mustered out
Wood, George W., Priv. Co. A; Res., East Greenwich, R. I.; Oct 6, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 18, 1862, mustered in; Jan. 15, 1863, died of disease as
camp near Falmouth, Va.
Wood, Horace B., Priv. Co. G; Res., Coventry, R. I.; S^t 4, 1862, en-
rolled. Name not found on rolls of War Dept as of Co. G, 12th R. L
Inf.
Wood, John, Priv. Co. G; Res. Portsmouth, R. L; Sept 17, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 1, 1862, until July 29, 1863, when he Joined the regiment and was
mustered out
Wood, Phares, Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. L; Sept 16, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Woodbury, Charles H., Corp. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. L; Oct 10, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; May 1, 1862, promoted Corp.;
July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Woodward, Albert A., Sgt. Co. K; Res., Pascoag, R. I.; Aug. 21, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; Dec. 13, 1862, wounded at the
battle of Fredericksburg, Va.; July 29, 1863, mustered out
Worden, Wiujam D., Priv. Co. G; Res., Hopkinton, R. L; Sept 23, 1862,
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Feb. 8, 1863, until June 25, 1863, when he was discharged from insane
hospital by order.
Wright, John, Priv. Co. D; Res., New Shoreham, R. L; Sept 25, 1862.
enrolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne as sick in hospital from
Dec. 29, 1862, until April 3, 1863, when he was discharged for dis-
ability at Washington, D. C.
Wright, William H. See William H. White.
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RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTBEB8 387
Wtman, John K.. Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. I.; Oct. 11, 1862, en-
rallejd; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in. Borne on detached service as
provost guard 2d Div. 9th A. C. from Feb. 16, 1863, until May, 1863;
July 29, 1863, mustered out
YEii>iNG, Austin, Priv. Co. D; Oct. 7, 1862, enrolled at Providence, R. I.;
Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Yost, Chables, Priv. Co. B; Res., South Kingstown, R. I.; Sept 9, 1862,
enrolled; Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Young, Fkancis, Priv. Co. F; Res., Cumberland, R. I.; Sept 4, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
Young, William F., Priv. Co. B; Res., Cranston, R. I.; Sept 18, 1862, en-
rolled; Oct. 13, 1862, mustered in; July 29, 1863, mustered out
ZuiLL, Henby, Priv. Co. C; Res., Providence, R. 1.; Oct. 6, 1862, enrolled;
Oct 13, 1862, mustered in; June 19, 1863, sent to hospital and borne
as absent sick until July 1863; July 29, 1863, mustered out.
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Battle Fla« of the Twelfth Rhode Isl^vnd Volunteers.
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INDEX
Abbott, John P., Capt, 58, 130, 276.
Adams, George W., Lieut, 282.
Adams, Silas, Lieut-Col., 119.
Alexander, Christopher H., Capt,
58, 130, 144, 186, 254.
Allard, Thomas B., Col., 55, 56.
Allen, James H., Capt, 130, 165,
189, 254.
Andrews, Charles H., 215.
Andrews, Stephen H., Capt, 55.
Armington, James H., Col., 129.
Arnold, William, 305.
Arnold, William A., Capt, 50.
Austin, George W., 177.
Atwell, Samuel T., Hon., 303.
Babbitt John W., Col., 55, 56.
Babcock, Samuel, Sergt., 141.
Bacon, Edward F., Lieut, 58, 130,
208.
Baker, Charles M., Hon., 304.
Ballon, Daniel R., Lieut., 58, 135,
144, 163, 180, 242, 276, 292.
Ballou, Francisco M., Lieut, 78,
130, 142, 280.
Barksdale, William, Gen., 25, 46.
Belcher, Andrew M., 15, 78.
Beauregard, Pierre G. T., Gen., 279.
Berry, Nathaniel S., Gov., 19.
Bimey, David B., Gen., 53.
Bland, Elbert, Lieut-Col., 47.
Bliss, Zenas R., Col., 55, 56.
Bloodgood, Horace S., Lieut., 50,
231.
Boone, Daniel, 96, 99, 112, 192, 251.
Bowen, James A., Lieut., 130.
Bowen, Nicholas, 104.
Boyle, Jeremiah T., Gen., 123, 124.
Braddock, Edward, Gen., 96.
Brainard, Wesley, Capt, 27.
Bramlette, J. T., 153.
Breckinridge, John P., (Jen., 251.
Briggs, H. S., Gen., 42.
Briggs, Richard A., Lieut, 58, 276.
Brooks, W. T. H., Gen., 42.
Brown, D. Russell, Hon., 287.
Brown, Edward P., Capt, 268.
Brown, John, 128.
Browne, Chad, 303.
Browne, George H., Col., 6, 20, 38,
55, 56, 57, 58, 76, 107, 11, 115, 130,
131, 137, 140, 142, 147, 149, 161.
154, 157, 159. 160, 171, 181, 188,
198, 227, 230. 238, 239, 241, 243,
248, 250, 253. 256, 257, 258, 259,
262, 263, 264, 268, 273, 276, 277.
303, 304.
Browne, Keyes D., 304.
Browning, Beriah G., Lieut, 130,
212.
Browning, Robert 285.
Bryan, William, 284.
Buchanan, James, President, 303.
Buckley, William W., Capt, 55, 59.
Bucklin, George, Lieut., 58, 180.
Buckner, Simon B., Gen., 106, 114,
116, 117.
Burgess, Jesse W., Sergt., 58.
Bums, William W.. (Jen., 52.
Bumside, Ambrose E., Gen., 3, 21.
22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 33,
44, 45, 49, 51, 52, 53, 58, 69. 70,
72, 73, 81, 82, 86, 95, 96, 101, 105,
108, 110, 111, 115, 116, 118, 119.
122, 123, 124, 126. 129, 132, 137,
138, 139, 143, 161, 162, 164, 174,
181, 202, 203, 209, 246, 256, 277.
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390
HISTORY or THB TWBIJTH BBGIMK9V
Bush, Mr., 261, 262.
Cabell, Henry Coalter, Col.. 46, 46.
Caldwell, John C, Gen., 86.
Carpenter, Adelaide (Everett), 807.
Carpenter, Benoni, Surgeon, 130,
307, 308.
Carpenter, Caleb, 807.
Carpenter, Frank H., 307.
Carpenter, Hannah (George), 807.
Carpenter, William, 306.
Carter, Jesse M., Capt, 120, 121.
Carter, J. W., CJol., 46.
Carter, Samuel P., Gen., 96, 100,
101. 106, 108, 111, 112, 114, 118,
119, 120, 121. 162, 153, 263, 265.
Casey, Silas, Gen., 9, 10, 18, 199,
239, 263, 266, 805.
Chappell, Matthew N., Lieut, 130.
Cheney, Edward S., (3apt, 68.
Clark. William S.. Col., 66.
Clarke, John L., Lieut (Quarter-
master), 78, 80. 130, 226, 238.
Clarke. William H., 200.
Clay. Henry, 88, 89, 90, 101, 146,
187, 188.
Clay, James, 89, 187.
Clay, John, 89, 90.
Clarke, R. S., Col., 126.
Cleveland, Grover, President, 284.
Cobb, Thomas R., (Jen., 41, 46, 47,
48, 219.
Coffin, Carleton C. C, 27, 41.
Cole, Luther, Jr., Lieut, 58, 130.
Cook, B. F., Col., 47.
Cooke, Qeoxge Lewis, Gen., 186.
Coombs, Leslie, Gen.. 188, 250.
Couch, Darius N., (3en., 34, 87, 48,
50. 54, 73, 231.
Craft (General, 193.
Crawford, R. Clay, Capt.. 153, 164.
Cullum, George W., (Jen., 23, 26.
Cuthbert, G. B., Capt, 47.
Cutts, J. M., Capt, 58.
Danforth, Keyes, 304.
Davis, George F., 128.
Davis, Jefferson, 1.
Dean. Sidney, Hon.. 197, 198.
Dearth, John W., 128.
Delanah, Albert W., Lieut, 130»
198, 214.
Denison, Frederic, 286.
De Saussure, W. D., <3ol., 47.
De Russey, Gustavus A., 28.
De Valve, Warren N., Sergt, SS^
276.
Dexter, Theodore F., 226.
Dickenson, Ctoorge, Lieut, 37, 50»
64,' 66.
Dix, John A., (Jen., 73, 77, 80, 82»
139, 141, 149, 188, 247.
Doull, Alexander, Major, 50.
Duke, Basil W., (Jen., 126.
Durell, (Jeorge W., Capt, 148.
Dwight, Gamaliel L., Lieut, 269.
Dyer, Cyrus G., Major, 15, 57, 1S0»
149, 150, 273.
Eddy, Amasa F., (3omml6Bary
Sergt, 242.
Egan, John, Lieut, 66.
Ellsworth, EUmer E., (3ol., 200, 241.
Ericsson, John, 182.
Fales, Edmund W., Lieut, 130, 165.
Ferrero, Edward, (Jen., 36, 37, 38,
42, 54, 56, 66.
Field, David, 308.
Field, Edward, 4.
Field, Elizabeth (Earl), 808.
Field, Phebe, 308.
Field, Samuel W., Rev. ((Chaplain),
130, 147, 200, 211, 222, 242, 308.
Fiser, John C, Col., 46.
Fisher, Amanda (Potter), 306.
Fisher, James, 806.
Fletcher, Samuel M., Assistant
Surgeon, 130.
Frank, John D., C^pt, 61, 232.
Franklin, William B., G^., 24, 27„
34, 35, 41, 42, 43, 49, 60, 61, 52,
63, 59, 70, 138, 204, 245, 271, 273,
274, 275.
French, William H., (Jen., 34, 36,
41, 48, 44, 69.
Fry. Thomas W., Surgeon. 124.
Getty, (Jeorge W., (Jen., 42, 44, 64,
56, 231.
(Joddard, Robert H. L, (3ol., 63.
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INDEX
8»1
Ooggln, James M., Major, 46, 48.
Good, James J., Corp., 14.
Grant, Joseph W., 8, 189, 258.
Grant, Ulysses S., Gen., 86, 110,
161, 162, 160, 253.
Greene, John, 806.
Greer, David H., Dr., 804.
Griflin, Charles, Gen., 55.
Griffin, Simon G., Col., 66, 56, 98,
107, 111, 141, 147, 189.
Grigsby, J. Warren, Col., 116.
Gurry, Edward F., 228.
Hall, Norman J., Gen., 28.
Halleck, Henry W., Gen., 24, 80, 78,
82, 85, 95, 110, 126.
Hancock, Winfleld S., Gen., 34, 36,
41, 43, 44, 69.
Hanson, Charles S., Col., 121, 122.
Hardie, James A., Gen., 58.
Harriman, Walter, Col., 56.
Harris, William, 806.
Hartranft, John F., Gen., 66.
Hartsutr, George L., Gen., 112, 114,
116, 116, 117, 118, 120, 121, 128,
124.
Hays. William, Lleut.-Col., 28.
Hazard, John G., Capt, 50, 61, 281,
232.
Hendershot, Robert H., 202.
Higley, J. P., Capt, 119, 120, 121,
228, 229, 230.
Hobson, Edward H., Gen., 117, 119,
123, 124, 125.
Holcombe, Dr., 264.
Hooker, Joseph, Gen., 24, 27, 44,
55, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 187, 188, 204,
232, 246, 275.
Hopkins, Stephen M., Lieut., 58,
166, 276.
House, Brwin, Rev., 128, 209, 210.
Howard, Oliver C, Gen., 80, 42, 44.
Hubbard, William E., Capt, 58, 78,
130, 142, 186, 270, 279.
Humphreys, Andrew A., Gen., 42,
44, 51, 59, 231, 276.
Humphreys, Lewis H., 130.
Huntington, Samuel, Judge, 808.
Hunt, Henry J., Gen., 27, 49, 61.
Hutchins, Robert A., Capt, 66.
Hutchinson, Prosper K., Dr., 244.
Jackson, Thomas J., Qea,, 22.
Jenckes, Arnold A., 9.
Jenkins, N. H., 219.
Johns, Bishop, 264.
Judah, H. M., Gen., 116, 118, 119.
Kasserow, Capt, 50.
Kautz, Augustus V., Col., 108, 114,
117, 127.
Kelton, J. C, Col., 73.
Kennedy, J. D., Col., 47.
Kershaw, Joseph B., Gen., 47, 48.
Kimball, Moranda, 6.
Kimball, Nathan, Gen., 86, 43. '">
King, William H., Lieut, 180, 281.
Lapham, Oscar, Capt, 130, 165, 198,.
215, 244, 261.
Lawton, George F., Lieut., 58, 276.
Lee, Robert, Gen., 21, 22, 26, 28, 45»
59, 188, 158, 160, 163, 203, 237,.
261, 270, 277.
Lidgewood, Mrs., 804.
Lincoln, Abraham, President, 8, 71»
138, 168, 167, 224.
Lindsey, William H., Sergt.-Major,
6, 6.
Longfellow, Henry W., 212.
Longstreet, James, Gen., 22, 23, 85,
41, 42, 48, 69.
Longstreet, James M., Capt, 180,
161, 177, 198. 204, 219, 268, 278.
Lossing, Benson J., 43.
Luce, William H., Lieut-Col., 46.
Lydig, P. M., Capt, 52. 58.
Manchester, Theodore A., 211, 212,
214.
Mason, Rodney, Gen., 193.
Mason, William, 205, 206, 220.
Matteson, Lewis J., 215.
McClellan, George B., Gen., 4, 21,
168.
McKinley, William, President 285.
McLaws, Lafayette. Qen., 45, 46,
47.
McMillan, Robert, Col., 47, 48.
Meade, George G., Gen., 36, 36, 51,
52, 68, 69.
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392
HISTORY OF THB TWBUTTH BBGIMBMT
Merrill, Mr.. 226, 226.
Measher, Thomas F., Gen., 34, S6,
44, 205, 220.
Meigs, Montgomery C. Gen., 23.
Milne, Joseph S., Lieut., 60, 231.
Mlndll George, Col., 240, 263.
Monaghan, Cornelius, 6.
Moore, Colonel, 226, 227.
Morgan, Charles H., Col., 60.
Morgan, John H., Gen., 105, 111,
112, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120,
121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127,
155, 158. 159, 160, 161, 162, 193,
209, 210, 226, 227, 251, 264, 256,
256, 289.
Morgan, Richard C, Col., 126, 232.
Morrow, Thomas Z., Lleut-Col.,
115.
Nagle. James. Gen.. 24. 35. 37, 38,
42, 56, 56, 57, 68, 93, 100, 107, 141,
147, 189, 268, 272.
Najac, Munson H., .Lieut, 130.
Nance. James D., Col., 47.
Palmer, John B., Gen., 106.
Palmer, Oliver H., Col., 36.
Parke, John G.. Gen., 51.
Parker, Alfred, 210.
Patterson, Horace, 107, 184.
Peckham, Fenner H., Jr., Lieut, 130.
Pegram, John, Gen., 105, 114, 115.
Pendleton, James M., Lieut., 58.
Penrose, Lieut, 264.
Perkins, Augustus S., Capt., 27.
Perry, A. F., 128.
Perry, E. A., Gen., 25.
Perry, Oliver H., Commodore, 128.
Perry, Oliver H., Capt., 128, 130.
Phillips, Colonel, 46, 47.
Phillips. John J., Capt., 130.
Phillips, Wendell, 136.
Pierce, Franklin, President, 303.
Pollard, Joseph, Lieut.. 58. 276.
Pope, John, Gen., 163, 237. 261.
Potter, Charles H.. Lieut., 58, 130,
178.
Potter, Robert B., Gen., 54, 55.
Pitman. Joseph S., Lieut.-Col., 3.
Ransom, Robert, Gen., 35.
RaUlff, WlUlam, Lieut, 46.
Rhodes, William B., Capt, 152.
Roberts, John S., Lieut., 58.
Roemer, Jacob, Capt, 150.
Rogers, William C, Capt, 130, 177,
178, 204.
Rosecrans, William S., Gen., 86,
112, 117.
Richardson, Erastus, 242, 279, 283,
291, 295.
Richardson, George E., 201.
Richmond, Lewis, I4eut-Col., 72,
132.
Salter, Captain. 229.
Salisbury, Arnold, Lieut, 130.
Sayles, Welcome B., Col., 24.
Schermerhorn, J. Maus, Mrs., 304.
Scott, Ellas F., Capt, 108.
Scott, Walter A., 231.
Semple, A. C, Capt, 116.
Shackelford, James M., Gen., 119,
125, 126, 127.
Shaw, Elizabeth (WiUiams), S06.
Shaw, Howard A., 306.
Shaw, James (1st), Capt, 304.
Shaw, James, Gen, (2d), 304.
Shaw, James, Gen). (3d), 130, 136,
136, 137, 139, 141, 142, 146, 146,
149, 151, 156, 157, 159, 160. 183,
207, 254, 257, 304, 305, 306.
Shaw, James (4th), 306.
Shaw. Walter A., 306.
Sigel, Franz, Gten., 135.
Slgfried, Joshua K., Gfen., 65, 56.
Slicer, Thomas R., 304.
Smith, James T., (Sovemor, 131.
Smith, Klrby, (Jen., 193.
Smith, William F., Qen., 52, 63,
74, 141.
Sorrel, G. Moxley, Major, 47.
Spink, George A., (3apt, 130, 168.
Sprague, William, (Jovemor, 1.
Stackhouse, B. T., Capt, 47.
Staples, Carleton A., Rev., 304.
Stone, Edwin W., 4, 16.
Stoneman, Ctoorge, Gent., 36.
Stevens, A. F.. Col., 18, 19, 240. 26S.
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INDEX
393
Sturgis. Samuel D., Gen., 24, 34,
35. 37. 38. 41, 44, 64, 66, 67, 58,
69, 95, 104, 111, 114, 147, 161, 152.
Sumner, Edwin V., Gen., 23, 24, 27,
31, 32, 36, 41, 42, 43, 44, 49, 60,
62, 54, 59, 70, 73, 138, 204.
Sumner, Seth, 212.
Swain, Leonard, Rev., 130.
Sykes, George, Gen., 42.
Tabor, George H., Lieut., 58, 130.
Taft, Judge, 128.
Tennyson, Alfred, 285.
Thain, Eugene M., 9.
Thompson, Colonel. 28.
Thrasher, Charles W., Capt, 238.
TUlinghast, Henry M., Lieut, 130.
Tlllinghast, Pardon E., 199, 287,
256, 280, 292.
Tod, David, Governor. 126.
Townsend, Eugene D., Gen., 70.
Tompkins, Charles H., Gen., 49.
Tyler, Erastus B.^ Gen., 42.
Tyler, Robert o., Gen., 28. 49.
Twiggs, David E., Gen., 3.
Van Slyck, Nicholas. Col.. 304.
Vernon, Thomas. Rev., 307.
Viall, Nelson. Gen., 129, 307.
Washington, George, President, 96.
Waterman, Richard^ 305.
Waterman, Richard, Capt, 50, 194.
Weaver, John H., Lieut. 130.
West. Benjamin G.. Lieut, 210.
Westcott, Edward V., Lieut, 130.
Westcott, Stukely, 304.
Whiting, Joseph C, Jr., Lieut, 130.
Whipple, James, 226.
Willcox, Orlando B.. Gen., 24, 34,
43, 95, 100, 106, 108, 231.
Williams, James A., Lieut, 130.
Williams, Roger, 128, 304.
Winchester, Charles M., Lieut.,
128. 130, 197, 212. 214.
Winchester, Henry, 199.
Wirz, Henry, Capt., 224.
Wolford, Captain, 167.
Wolford, Frank, Col., 95, 117, 118,
120. 121, 123, 124, 125, 127, 156,
156, 157, 158, 159, 230, 254.
Wright, Dexter R., Col., 10, 13, 14,
18. 240, 243, 263, 264, 267.
Wright, Horatio G.. Gen., 81. 100.
Zook. Samuel K., Col., 36.
Zollicoffer. F. K., Gen.. 112. 254.
ORGANIZATIONS
Connecticut:
Fifteenth, 14. 15, 18, 240, 263.
First Artillery, 49.
Florida:
Eighth, 26.
Georgia:
Eighteenth, 46, 47.
Georgia, 46.
Phillips's Legion, 46, 47.
Sixteenth, 47.
Twenty-fourth, 24, 47.
Kentucky:
Eighth Cavalry, 118.
First Cavalry (Wolford's), 108,
117, 120, 155, 166, 159. 230. 264.
Fourteenth 'Cavalry, 100.
Ninth Cavalry, 118.
Twelfth Cavalry, 118.
Thirty-second, 116, 164, 159, 160.
Maryland:
Second. 35, 38 42, 66, 66, 67, 68,
93.
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894
HISTORY OF THB TWULFTH RBOIMBNT
First Battery, 61.
Nineteenth, 28.
Sixth, 8.
Thirty-flfth, 35, 42, 66.
Twentieth, 28, 29.
Twenty-eighth, 34.
Twenty-first. 36, 42, 66.
Michigan:
Seventh, 28, 29.
Mi8$iM$ippi:
Eighteenth, 26, 46.
Seventeenth, 26, 46.
Thirteenth, 25. 46.
Twenty-first, 26.
New HampiJUre:
Eleventh, 36, 42, 66, 219.
Ninth, 36, 38, 42, 56, 66, 160.
Sixth, 35, 37, 42, 66, 56, 93, 107,
147, 150, 218.
Thirteenth. 15, 18, 19, 169, 240,
243, 268.
New Jeney:
Thirteenth, 12.
Twenty-fifth, 18.
Twenty-seventh, 18, 240, 263.
New York:
Eighty-eighth, 84.
Fiftieth, 27.
Fifty-first, 36, 42, 64, 56.
Fifty-ninth, 221.
First Battery, 60, 61, 232.
Forty-second, 28.
One Hundred and Eleventh, 244.
One Hundred and Twenty-
fourth, 203.
Second Artillery, 60, 109, 160.
Sixty-ninth, 34.
Sixty-third, 34.
Ohio:
Forty-fifth, 108.
Second, 117.
Seventh, 117, 167.
Seventh Cavalry. 119, 121, 157,
228.
Pennsylvania:
Battery D (Dnrell's). 148.
Fifty-first, 36, 42, 56.
Forty-eighth, 35. 42, 66, 66, 81,
93, 160, 184.
One Hundred and Sixteenth, 84.
Rhode Island:
Eleventh, 4, 103, 168, 219, 288.
First Light Artillery, 50, 61, 64,
56, 69, 152, 281, 232.
Fourth, 232, 283, 268.
Fourteenth Heavy Artillery, 307.
Seventh, 21, 24, 36, 37, 42, 66, 66,
93, 138. 143, 150, 152, 160, 221,
249.
Tenth, 306.
South Carolina:
Eighth, 47.
Fifteenth. 47.
Second, 47.
Seventh, 47.
Third, 47.
Tennessee:
East Tennessee First Battalion
Artillery (CrawlOTd's Batr
tery), 158, 154, 258.
United Btates:
Fourth Artillery, 37, 60, 64, 66.
Twenty-sixth Infantry (Colored),
307.
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THB NEW YORK PUBUG UBRARY
RBPBRBNGB DBPARTMENT
This book is ondor no eirooautaaoos to h0
Uikon from tho Beildin^
form 4X9
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