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It is always interesting to know
what became of persons with whom one has been associated, in any
of the business or social relations of life, but especially so
when they have been comrades in dangers and trials such as a soldier
must endure. There is a tie that unites each to the other, that
can never be broken and cannot be explained. The men that we have
touched elbows with on the march or in line of battle, become
in a certain sense a part of our own experience, a part of our
own life, and cannot be cast aside or obliterated from memory.
No matter how far they may be separated from us, or what changes
or misunderstandings may occur we will find ourselves very frequently
wondering where they are, what they are doing, and how they are
prospering. We feel this drive to know the whereabouts and the
welfare of our comrades all the more as the years roll by; because
as age creeps on, memory creeps back and we live in the past more
than in the present.
I have tried to keep trace of the comrades who belong to Co. E
12th Indiana but many of them have been lost sight of in the mad
rush for houses and fortunes in the great west. For such a place
is reserved in this journal so that if I ever do hear from or
of them it can be recorded.
Capt. Henry Hubler was elected in organization of the company
was promoted to Major, by election August 7, 1861 as noted on
page 51 and as such was mustered out of service at Washington
D.C. May 19, 1862. His health was considerably impaired by the
rough campaign in the spring of 1862 and was never restored. He
continued to grow weaker each season until soon after the war
closed, when he died at his home at Warsaw, Ind. in October 1865.
George W. Scott who was mustered in as 2nd Corporal had
formerly been Sheriff of Kosciusko Co. and was a man of some ability
and education. He was mustered out as a Corporal, on discharge
at Washington returned home and after a few months rest, reenlisted
in the ____ Ind. Inf. and served through the war. Returning home
he settled in Whitley Co. Ind. and died at Columbia City, Ind.
in 1873 or '74.
Andrew P. Gallagher who was elected 1st Lieutenant was
mustered out of service in that rank with the company at Washington
D.C. May 19th 1862. Returning to Warsaw, he enlisted under Lt.
Leslie in Co. C 4th Ind. Cav. and when that company was organized,
he was made 2nd Lieutenant by fraudulent votes. On the promotion
of Capt. Leslie to the rank of Major, Gallagher was commissioned
Captain and was mustered as such May 13th 1863. While stationed
at N. Orleans, La. he contracted a foul disease in July 1864 which
compelled him to go to the hospital at Chattanauga about the 2nd
of October 1864. He left the hospital and was ordered to the Regiment
in December, but never reported. His case was reported in full
to the War Department and he was dismissed [from] the service
by order of the Secretary of War about the 9th of April 1865.
At about that time he returned to Warsaw, wearing a Major's shoulder
straps, and claiming to have been promoted to that rank in the
Regular Army. Nothing definite was known of his whereabouts for
some ten to twelve years, when it was stated that his wife, whom
he had abandoned, had procured a divorce, and that he was again
married and was living at some point in Ohio, I believe at or
near Van Wert. The last report received was that he had died there
in 1888 or '89.
Thomas L. F. Hubler the Captain's youngest child, was not
quite 10 years old when he was mustered into the service as Drummer.
He, however, stood the service well and was one of the most expert
drummers in the army of the Potomac. On being discharged 19th
May 1862 he returned home, and again enlisted in the 12th Regiment
when reorganized for three years service, and was with it in all
of its marches and battles to the close of the war. He can justly
claim the honor of being the youngest veteran in the Army; most
of those claiming that distinction having been older at the date
of enlistment, than Tommy was when discharged. He learned the
printing business after the war. Tommy was born at Ft. Wayne,
Ind. Oct. 9th 1851.
Reuben Williams who was elected 2nd Lieutenant on the organization
of the company, was promoted to the rank of Captain, by election,
Aug. 7, 1861. He was taken prisoner at Dam No. 4 on the Potomac
Dec. 11, 1861 and reported back to the company March 24th 1862.
Was mustered out with the company at Washington May 19th 1862
and in returning home immediately began the work of reorganizing
the regiment for 3 years service. He was commissioned Lieut. Col.
of the Regiment and accompanied it into Kentucky, when in the
disastrous battle at Richmond Col. Link was killed and Williams
with a large number of men, was again taken prisoner about the
1st of Sept. 1862. On being released he was promoted to Colonel
of the 12th and proceeded to Holly Springs, Miss. where he happened
to be at the time of the disgraceful surrender of that post ___
Dec. 1862, making the third time he had been in the hands of the
enemy during the year. On being released he took command of his
regiment, in Logan's Div. 15th Corps. taking part in the siege
of Vicksburg and all the subsequent marches and battles of that
celebrated Corps. During a greater portion of the time he commanded
a Brigade under Gen. Logan (1st Brigade, 4th Division, 15th army
Corps) and was finally commissioned Brigadier General of Volunteers.
After the march to the sea and the grand review at Washington
he returned home and again took editorial control of the Northern
Indianian at Warsaw. After being elected Clerk of Kosciusko County
twice, serving eight years in all, he removed to Fort Wayne, Ind.
as part owner and managing editor of the Daily Gazette. He had
not been there long, however, when he was appointed 4th Auditor
of the Treasury and removed to Washington D.C. This did not suit
him and he soon after resigned, returned to Warsaw and repurchased
his old paper the Northern Indianian, starting the Daily Times
in connection with it in 1882. A year or two later the Northern
Indianian was consolidated with the Warsaw Republican, under the
name of Indianian Republican; Williams and Hossler being the proprietors
and publishers. Mr. Hossler died in '93 whereupon the General's
eldest son secured Mr. Hossler's interest and became a partner
of his father. Subsequently another son, Logan H. was taken into
the firm of R. Williams & Sons. On the 15th January 1905 the
General returning from Indianapolis in the evening stepped from
the car at Warsaw seemingly in a dazed condition and wandered
out to Winona Park where he was found by a dog belonging to a
friend, which attracted his master's attention to the unconscious
form and the General was taken to his home, where he died at 1
o'clock A.M. January 15, 1905 aged 73 years 9 months. He was born
in Tiffin Ohio August 16, 1831.
James F. McGuire who was appointed 1st Sergeant of the
organization was a veteran of the Mexican War, and a splendid
soldier, but was not able to control his appetite for drink at
all times. This led to his being reduced to the ranks on the 5th
of June '61. He was well liked and when Capt. Hubler was promoted
to Major and 2nd Lieut. Williams was elected Captain, McGuire
was the choice of the company for 2nd Lieut and he was elected
by a good majority, but by a little underhanded work, the vote
of the Company was set aside and A. S. Milice received the commission.
After that McGuire seemed to feel but little interest in the company.
He discharged his duties without a word of complaint and would
volunteer his services, whenever he would hear others complain,
but while his duty was always well done, it was in a mechanical
way. There was none of the old time life and spirit about it.
When Ashby attacked Dam No 4 on the 11th of Dec 1861, McGuire
was the first man to volunteer to accompany Capt. Williams to
the south side of the river and was with the Captain taken prisoner
and confined in Libby Prison at Richmond, Va. nearly three months.
The inhuman treatment he received then completely undermined his
health and when he was exchanged, he returned to Warsaw hoping
that a few days out and home nursing would enable him to again
report for duty. But the work that was begun in Libby was soon
completed and on the 20th of April 1862 the sad news was received
that Private James F. McGuire of Co. E had died at his home in
Warsaw, Ind. of the disease that was contracted in the loathsome
prison at Richmond. A neat monument in the cemetery at Warsaw,
erected by his comrades now perpetuates his memory; while in the
hearts of each of them there is, and always be a thrill of sorrow,
when they think of "Poor Jim".
Thompson Holt was mustered into service as Fifer, served
for a short time "principal musician" and was mustered
out with the Company at Washington May 19th 1862. A letter from
Chaplain M. D. Gage to the Indianian Dec. 29th '06 states that
he met Thompson Holt a short time previously. He was an inmate
of the Soldiers Home near Sun telli (?) 18 miles from Los Angeles,
California.
Noah W. Holt served as a private and at times as Bass Drummer
for the reg't while the company remained in the service. Was mustered
out May 19th 1862. He was living at Manchester, Mich. in Jan'y
1890.
Moore E. Thorne who was appointed 2nd Sergeant was a Veteran
of the Mexican War. He was a very reliable soldier. Always prompt
to discharge his duty, and do it thoroughly. He very seldom complained
of being sick, or asked to be excused from duty, and when the
company was mustered out at Washington D.C. seemed to be in perfect
health and capable of performing many more years of hard service.
He returned to his former home in Ohio when discharged, and I
have never been able to obtain any certain intelligence concerning
him. From some source I learned that he had enlisted in an Ohio
Regiment, which is very probable but how long he served or in
what capacity I never learned. He died in Ohio about the time
the war closed.
Charles M. Davis who was appointed 3rd Sergeant on the
organization of the company was one of the jolliest, light-hearted
boys in the service. He was not one of the boisterous kind, but
seemed to just bubble over with good natured fun. Every man in
the company liked Charley; they could not help it. During the
long march from Williamsport to Warrenton Junction, and the horrible
exposure to which we were subjected, he contracted a heavy cold,
and was sent to the Hospital on our arrival in Washington. Here
on the 19th day of May 1862, almost at the hour the company was
discharged, he was mustered out by the Great Commander, sincerely
mourned by every member of the company. His remains were brought
home and his last resting place is marked by the handsome monument
erected by the company.
Andrew S. Milice who was mustered into service as 4th Sergeant,
had been elected 3rd Lieutenant when the company was first organized,
but that grade having been abolished, he was appointed 4th Sergeant
and so mustered. His election to the first class was made the
grounds in which he was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant vice Williams
promoted to Captain, notwithstanding the fact that a large majority
of the company had voted for McGuire and against him. He was not
popular with the majority of the men, although he was a fairly
good officer. During Capt. Williams absence, the men gave their
allegiance to Lieut. Milice, rather than to Gallagher, but he
had a style about him that repelled rather than won, and yielded
a reluctant obedience to his orders. He was mustered out at Washington,
with the Company, as 2nd Lieutenant, and on returning home took
an active part in recruiting a company for the 74th Regiment.
On organization of the company he was chosen as 1st Lieutenant,
and was promoted to Captain of Co. A when Capt. C. W. Chapman
was commissioned Col. With the experience he had gained in the
12th he became a very efficient officer and was quite popular
with his men. In the battle at Chickamauga, he received a severe
wound in the shoulder, which came very near proving fatal, and
disabled him from further service. Returning home he engaged in
the book and stationary business and after several unsuccessful
efforts was nominated and elected Recorder of Kosciusko County,
Ind. This office, he held, I believe, eight years and the monies
placed him on his feet, financially. He became quite prominent
in Odd Fellowship in Indiana and held some important offices in
the military portion of that Order. In 1891, he went to California
and invested money in a fruit farm or orange grove at Riverside.
Edward L. Barlow served as a private until about the 1st
of Nov. '61 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May 19th 1862
as 6th Corporal. Reenlisted in the 74th Ind. Inf. and served until
close of the war. He lived at Goshen Ind. when last heard from
in Aug. '91 (also Sept. 1905). He located at Leesburg after the
war closed and a few years later removed to Goshen.
Francis M. Conklin was mustered out as private with the
company at Washington D.C. May 19th 1862. Was living in Missouri
when last heard from, in 1868. He reenlisted in Co. F, 12th Ind.
Inf. when it was reorganized and served through the war. Lived
in Missouri from '68 to '72, then went to Redfield, Spink Co.
So. Dakota where he was living and prospering in Dec. '92.
Benjamin W. Mankin was mustered into service as 1st Corporal,
was a splendid specimen of manhood, standing six feet four inches
in height and well proportioned. The only trouble with him was
that he was unruly, did not like to submit to control, and was
a little bit inclined to be quarrelsome. He would absent himself
from camp without leave and was insolent to his superior officers
when reprimanded. His example had a bad effect on the discipline
of the men. This led to his being ordered to the ranks, on the
4th of June '61, but he made such fair promises that the order
was revoked. He did very well for a while; but about the 1st of
August again became obstreperous and when reprimanded became abrasive
and was ordered to the ranks and John Deardorff appointed to fill
the vacancy. It was this that led to the fight mentioned on page
63 [this book page 48] after which "Jack" was not inclined
to be so quarrelsome. He was really a good soldier and a clever
good hearted comrade. Full of fun and fire; he seemed to be unable
to control his spirits or to submit to the strict rules of camp.
On being discharged at Washington as a private he returned home
and reenlisted with Capt. Williams in the reorganized 12th, was
appointed Sergeant and served to the close of the war. During
the Atlanta campaign he performed some very daring acts and was
very highly spoken of by his officers as a gallant dashing soldier.
I lost trace of him for several years, but finally met him in
Fort Wayne, Ind. in 1876. He was at that time a Conductor on the
Grand Rapids and Indiana R. R. In Sept. 1886 he was living at
Butler, Ind. in poor health. In Oct. '91 was at reunion of company
at Warsaw.
Martin J. Crum was mustered out with the company May 19th
1862. He again entered the service, I believe as a substitute
for some wealthy man who had been drafted and got home safe at
the close of the war. I have heard nothing concerning him since.
He was living at Sawyer, Kans. in March 1888 '97 Aug. '99 1901
Sept. 1903.
Henry Clayton who was mustered into service 3rd Corporal
was a veteran of the Mexican War and was decidedly "a character".
He was conscientious in discharge of every duty and very sensitive
to ridicule or censure. This subjected him to many annoyances
in the way of sly jokes, which owing to his peculiar disposition
were either misunderstood or not appreciated. It was for resenting
some prank that had been played on him, by some of the boys, while
on duty, that the captain censured him on the 18th of May '61.
Clayton took this to heart so seriously that he at once "resigned
his commission" and became a high private. As he was a very
reliable, clear-headed man, he was frequently detailed as acting
corporal while on picket duty and was generally placed in charge
of one of the more important posts. He was mustered out of service
as a private at Washington D.C. May 19th 1862 and returning home,
again enlisted in the 74th Ind. Inf. In the battle at Chickamauga,
he had one of his feet shot off and was discharged. Returning
to Warsaw, he has continued to earn a livelihood by "working
around" assisted by the pension received from [the] government.
In 1889 or '90 he was discovered by a son, a child by his first
wife. It seems his wife had died in Ohio, before Clayton came
to Indiana; the child had been cared for by relatives, who soon
lost track of the father; and he, in turn, by some means was led
to believe the child was dead. The boy had been taken to Kansas
where he grew up, and when the war broke out, like his father
had enlisted. They had actually served in the same Brigade for
several months. At the close of the rebellion young Clayton had
returned to Kansas, married and built up a good home and was in
common parlance, "in easy circumstances". Seeing his
father's name in some newspaper, led to inquiries which resulted
in a meeting between father and son after a separation of some
thirty-five years, during which each thought the other dead. A
comfortable home was at once offered to the old veteran where
he would be free from care and would only have to work as he would
feel in the humor, but it seems the old man is sensitive on that
point, also, and prefers being "his own man". Probably
there is a desire to live out his days among his old army comrades
and have them consign his maimed body to its last resting place,
when he receives his "Final Discharge". His son died
from an old wound at Leesburg Ind. in February 1890. Henry Clayton
died at his home in Leesburg on Sunday night July 24th 1898, aged
about eighty-nine years.
Robert S. Richhart who on the organization of the company
was elected Ensign was mustered into service as 4th Corporal,
the rank of Ensign having been abolished. He continued to perform
the duties of Corporal until the attack on Dam No 4, December
11th 1861 when he volunteered to accompany Captain Williams across
the Potomac to ascertain the enemy's whereabouts and probable
intentions. Like the others in the party, he learned this by being
taken prisoner and hurried of to Richmond, where he remained an
unwilling guest at the "Hotel Libby" nearly three months.
I can't say just why it was, but "Rob" never seemed
to care to visit that "pleasure resort" again. He reported
to the company on the 24th of March 1862 and was mustered out
of service 17th May at Washington D.C. On returning home, he rested
for a short time and then again enlisted in the 7th Indiana Cavalry.
He had not been long with that command when he received a Recruiting
Commission and returned home where he recruited a company for
the 12th Indiana Cavalry. A Captain of this company he served
to the close of the war. "Rob" distinguished himself
on one occasion when he met and defeated in a fair fight, a superior
force of the enemy. His Colonel stated that it was Capt. Richhart's
personal daring and cool courage that undoubtedly won the fight.
Both sides were dismounted; the enemy approaching confident of
victory; when their commander came face to face with Richhart
who at about ten paces, ordered him to halt and surrender. The
reply was a shot from the rebel revolver, which grazed Rob's head
and staggered him. Instantly Rob's revolver returned the compliment
and it became a duel between the commanders. Both were a little
wild at first but about the fourth shot "Rob" became
more deliberate and grazed his opponent, making him nervous. The
fifth shot was a "crease" and the rebel's were wild.
With one charge in his revolver Rob began to advance and his antagonist
lost his presence of mind and retreated, his force following him.
During the duel, the Colonel said, there was a cessation of hostilities
between the forces, all eyes being centered on the two officers
who seemed determined to settle the affair between themselves.
And they did. Sometime after the war closed Richhart was appointed
to the Railway Mail Service; and after being some time in that
capacity was appointed to a clerkship in the Pension Bureau at
Washington. He was promoted to Special Examiner and assigned to
a large district, but under the Cleveland administration was retired
for offensive partisanship. In 1891 he was again appointed to
a clerkship in the Pension office. June 4 '96 City Clerk at Palouse,
Wash.
E. Anderson Andrews who was a private throughout his time
of service in Company E was a little bit wild and full of fun,
but was obedient and always reliable when on duty. After his discharge
at Washington, he returned home and soon reenlisted in the 12th
Indiana Infantry, in which he served until the war closed as 1st
Lieutenant of Co. D. He then completed his education graduating
from the University at Greencastle, Ind. after which he became
a minister in the M E Church. A few years later he was called
to a professorship in a College under the auspices of that denomination
in Oregon. (He was President of Williametta M E College, Oregon)
His health being impaired, he took a vacation and spent a few
weeks among his old friends and comrades in and near Warsaw in
'78. Returning to his duties the sad news soon came back that
Rev. Anderson Andrews was dead. His death occurred at Evanston,
Illinois August 14th 1884 after a lingering illness.
Beannah T. Birt served as a private from date of enrollment
to discharge at Washington. He had a wholesome dread of camp or
guard duties, and would shirk them at all times, if possible;
but no one could accuse him of cowardice or attempting to avoid
duty when there was danger in it. He reenlisted in the 12th when
it was reorganized and accompanied the Regiment to some where
near Atlanta, where he disappeared and was, I believe, reported
as a deserter. The next authentic news received concerning him
was as a soldier in the Regular Army on the western frontier,
where he was either killed by the Indians or froze to death while
on a scout in 1866 or '67. He was reported missing and subsequently
his body was found near the trail over which the scouting part
had passed.
George E. Birt served as a private until mustered out at
Washington D. C. May 19th 1862. Returning home he settled at Larwill
in Whitley Co. Ind. where he was living in good health when last
heard from.
Daniel H. Burkett who was enrolled on the 24th April 1861
was mustered out with the company May 19th 1862.
Jacob Brumbaugh who was enrolled on the 25th of April 1861
was an innocent sort of Dutchman, who probably intended to do
what was right but lacked judgement. On the 19th of July when
the Regiment was paid off by the state, and ordered east, he received
permission to go home to arrange his affairs for a longer absence.
He had no furlough, but a leave of absence granted by the Captain
for a few days and possibly approved by Col. Wallace, with the
understanding that Jacob would return in ten days or might remain
a few days longer if necessary, but would be seen to meet the
company at Indianapolis if it left Evansville before his leave
expired. Nothing was heard from Brumbaugh until the 31st when
at or near Harper's Ferry a letter was received by the "Orderly"
dated at Milford Ind. in which Jacob set forth the reasons why
he could not return (see page 50)[this book page 39]. Of course
there was only one course to pursue and that was to report him
as a "Deserter". When Capt. Williams returned home that
fall on recruiting service Brumbaugh very carefully kept out of
his way, while he was near Milford. It was a very clear case of
deliberate desertion. Time passed and I heard nothing from Brumbaugh
until about the 2nd of January 1891 when a letter was received
from Wm. C. Reiff, Adj. Pollock Post, No. 42, Marion Kansas asking
me to recall the circumstances in reference to this case, stating
that Jacob claimed that he had written to me to have transportation
sent him but received no reply, that he had written several times
to the same effect and asked for either transportation or a discharge,
but no response reached him. To this letter I responded giving
the facts as recorded. I next received a letter from Comrade Reiff
on the 29th of January '91, asking for all of the particulars
and saying that Jacob stoutly maintained his innocence of the
crime of deliberate intention to desert. To this I replied giving
the particulars of enlistment, muster into state service and transfer
to U.S. Service and also of his deliberate desertion, as acknowledged
in his letter, which had been quoted and which was written on
the 24th of July, only five days after he left camp, stating why
he could not return to the company. This letter I happened
to have on file with my own, and I considered it a confirmation
of the deliberate intention to desert at the date it was written,
if not on the day he left camp. Deserted 8 Aug '61.
Abraham S. Black was enrolled on the 29th of April 1861.
He was a very quiet young man and gave promise of being a model
soldier. About the 18th or 19th of June he was sent to the Regimental
Hospital near Evansville, Ind. where he died on the 23rd, being
the first death in the company and the first of a long list from
Kosciusko County.
Harmon Beeson enrolled at the first meeting, was reported
sick May 25th and was discharged June 3rd '61 on Surgeon's certificate
of disability. When the regiment was reorganized in 1862, he again
enlisted, and was killed in the battle at Richmond, Ky. the same
year.
Samuel Boughter who was mustered in as a private, was appointed
Corporal, May 18th 1861 vice Clayton, resigned. Served
in that capacity to 30th Sept. when he was promoted to Sergeant
vice Millice, promoted. Was mustered out as 3rd Sergeant
at Washington, May 19th, 1862. Returning home, he again enlisted
in the 12th Regiment when reorganized, was promoted to Captain
and served to the close of the war. He entered the service of
the Cincinnati, Wabash and Michigan Railway Co., while they were
building the road, first on a construction train, then as conductor
on a freight train, and for several years has been one of their
most efficient and trusted Passenger Conductors.
John Deardorff served as a private till about the 1st of
August 1861, when he was promoted to first Corporal, vice
Mankin, reduced to the ranks. He was mustered out with the company
at Washington May 19th 1862, returned home and reenlisted in the
44th Ind. Inf. and was promoted to 1st Lieutenant before the war
closed. He then returned home, and with the tide of emigration
drifted off to the far west. He was located in Dakotah when last
heard from. Later he was at Tacoma, Wash. At Soldiers Home, Leavenworth,
Kans. in fall of '97. Capt. in 44th.
Isaac M. Cowic served as a private until mustered out May
19th 1862. He returned home completely broken down in health and
died at Warsaw, August 29, 1877.
George Deardorff, a quiet, steady, reliable man served
as private from muster in to Sept. 30th 1861, when he was promoted
to Corporal vice Boughter promoted, and was mustered out
as 4th Corporal May 19th 1862. Nothing further was heard of him
until the following letter from the Coroner at Tacoma, Wash. was
published. From this it will be seen that another brave man was
"mustered out" far from home and friends and was not
even accorded a soldier's funeral.
Tacoma, Wash., February 25, 1895.
Postmaster, Warsaw, Ind.:
There recently died in this city, a man by the name of George Deardorff, who had papers on his person from which we infer that he was an old soldier from your county. His papers showed him to be a member of Company E, Twelfth Indiana Infantry; also that he enlisted a second time at Cincinnati, in the navy, and served on board the Tuscumbia. Do any of the old soldiers of that company remember him, and feel sufficiently interested to let me hear from them on the subject. There was formerly in this city a man by the name of John Deardorff, who was also a member of the same company and regiment, and who was a member of Custer Post, G.A.R. of this city. He was a larger man than George, and from their photos they looked much alike. Were they brothers? We endeavored to get Deardorff buried by the G.A.R. Post, but that organization declined to take action in the matter. Any information from members of the G.A.R. or veterans, will be gladly received. The deceased was given as good a burial as his purse would permit $10.
Respectfully yours,
C. M. Pierce, M. D., Coroner.
George H. Dentzer as good a soldier as was in the service
did his whole duty as a private and was mustered out as such May
19th 1862. On his return home he reenlisted in the ___ Regiment
and served to the close of the war. He was living at Abilene Kansas
in Dec. 1886.
Presley G. Frarey "Old Haversack" was a "high
private in the rear ranks" while serving in Co. E and served
the regiment and Army of the Potomac generally a sole proprietor
of the greatest show on earth. When mustered out on the 19th of
May 1862 he returned home and reenlisted in the 44th Ind. Inf.
where it is said, he was promoted to a Lieutenancy and was dismissed
for cowardice. I do not believe the report, because it was said
to have originated with him. I have heard him tell how fast and
far he raced from Stone River and I think from my knowledge of
the man there was too much devil in him to make a coward of. He
is a member of the G.A.R. at Warsaw and would have to show a clean
record to get there, so I think his cowardice was after the character
of his show, aimed at somebody else. He served in the 44th to
the close of the war. About 1896 his health failed. He died at
his home in Warsaw, Ind. on Saturday evening, April 28th 1900.
Austin C. Funk served as private until mustered out May
19th 1862. He reenlisted in Co. C 4th Cavalry in August 1862 and
remained with it as Bugler till mustered for pay Oct. 31st '62
when he refused to muster, claiming that he had not taken the
oath or been mustered in. The Captain permitted him to go home
and had his name stricken from the rolls; whereas he should have
been reported as a deserter. I believe he did serve a few months
in another regiment, but it could not have been for long. He has
been a candidate for some county office ever since the war, and
through family and political influence finally succeeded in being
elected and reelected Auditor of Kosciusko County. Since writing
the above I have seen a statement that Austin reenlisted and served
through the war as 1st Lieut.
Selah J. Griffin was enrolled at the first meeting and
served as a private until mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19th 1862. On his return to Warsaw he reenlisted in the ___ Regiment
and was killed in action at __.
George W. Hissong was enrolled as a private April 27th
1861 and served as such to the 1st of November, when on the recruits
joining the company he was appointed 5th Corporal, and was mustered
out as such at Washington D.C. May 18th '62. On returning home
he reenlisted in Co. C 4th Ind. Cav'y and was appointed 1st duty
sergeant. He was subsequently promoted to 1st Sergeant and was
commissioned 2nd Lieut. but was not mustered. In the absence of
Lt. Hemphill he usually commanded the company. He was again promoted
to 1st Lieut. but was not mustered until in 1886 or '87 the act
of June 1884 enabled him to have his muster corrected and draw
the pay to which he was entitled. He was a splendid officer and
was highly respected in the regiment. He is engaged in the Photograph
business at La Grange, Ind.
William S. Hemphill enlisted on the 11th of April 1861,
but like many others was not reported by the committee previous
to the meeting on the 22nd. Was mustered in as a private. Appointed
Company Clerk May 7th. On the 6th of June was promoted to 1st
Sergeant vice McGuire reduced to the ranks. Examined and
made a plat of the roads, ravines and landmarks south of the Potomac
from Dam No. 4 towards Shepherdstown and west several miles 16th
of Oct. '61 and directed several scouting excursions, subsequently.
It was the knowledge of the country, paths and ravines gained
by him and carefully noted that enabled the scouting parties,
sent over to slip through the fingers of Ashby's men, on several
occasions. On being mustered out at Washington D.C. May 19th,
he visited his old home in Pennsylvania for a short time and then
returned to Warsaw where he assisted Dr. Leslie in recruiting
Co. C 4th Ind. Cavalry. At the election of Co. officers he had
a majority of the legal votes for 2nd Lieut. but was defrauded
of that office by a stuffed ballot. Was then appointed and mustered
into service as 1st Sergeant and owing to inexperience of Commissioned
Officers had almost exclusive command of the company until the
capitulation of Vicksburg. Served as Lieutenant from 1st March
1863 and commanded the Co. at Champion's Hill, Black River Bridge
and Vicksburg. At the close of the siege, worn out with hard service,
exposure and sickness, was sent north to hospital to die.
Was commissioned 1st Lieutenant June 1, 1863, but commission was
sent to regiment and could not be mustered. Partially recovering
his health demanded and obtained his discharge from hospital and
rejoined his company in Western Louisiana. Was detached from the
company and assigned to duty as A. A. A. General on the Staff
of Chief of Cavalry, Department of the Gulf Nov. 20, 1863. Accompanied
the General to New Orleans to prepare for Spring Campaign and
then to the field on the Red River campaign, in March 1864. Was
in every battle of that expedition and received the thanks of
the Chief of Cavalry on the field, on four different occasions,
"For gallant and efficient service". Returned to New
Orleans and was assigned to duty in the Office of Chief of Cav'y
restoring the records of the Cavalry force and completing the
Reports.
An order from the War Department, relieving him from staff duty
to report to his company was suspended at the solicitation of
Gen. Arnold, Chief of Cavalry who stated that "no other officer
in the Department had such a thorough knowledge of the condition
of the Cavalry force of the Department prior to the loss of the
Records, or is capable of making the necessary reports and restoring
the Records. His services at present are indispensable."
In September 1864 his work of restoring the lost Records and assisting
in the reorganization of the Cavalry force of that Department
having been completed, he was relieved from staff duty and ordered
to his regiment.
On arriving at Indianapolis Gov. Morton selected him to examine
into the threatened draft troubles in the Northern part of the
State pledging him any force that might be deemed necessary to
sustain the Draft Commissions at Fort Wayne or else where. This
mission performed and duly reported, he was temporarily assigned
to duty with Gen. Carrington, Commanding the Draft Rendezvous.
This duty soon became irksome and he asked to be relieved and
permitted to report to his Regiment. After frequent urging the
request was granted and he proceeded to Nashville, Tenn., where
several days were spent trying to learn the whereabouts of the
4th Ind. Cav. and he finally discovered that they had just passed
through the city dismounted. Hastening back to Louisville, Ky.
he found the regiment and was at once assigned to the command
of his company. Remounted, armed and equipped they started for
Nashville, to report to Gen. Thomas, but at Bowling Green were
ordered to intercept the Lyon raid. That accomplished they proceeded
to Nashville and thence to Chickasaw, Alabama and in March 1865
accompanied Gen. Wilson on his famous raid through the heart of
the Confederacy.
Lieut. H. commanded his company all through this campaign and
on the 1st of April was selected to lead a very hazardous expedition
to open communication with Gen. Croxton's Brigade. On this expedition
he met and defeated two detachments of the enemy, greatly superior
in numbers, and with his little band of 27 men charged through
a large force of rebels at Scottsville, releasing 32 of Croxton's
men who had been captured by the enemy. Mounting these men on
horses, captured from the rebels and arming them in the same way
he sent them to report to Gen. McCook, while he pursued his way
toward Gen. Croxton's supposed position, only to find himself
at dusk in the center of Gen. Jackson's Division. Here he learned
that Gen Croxton had been defeated and was moving rapidly north
and east with a strong rebel force in pursuit and that it would
be madness to try to overtake him.
Surrounded by the enemy as he was, it became necessary for him
to extricate his little force from the trap in which they were
caught. This he did by a bold dash, without losing a man, and
taking with him two prisoners from Gen. Jackson's camp, retired
slowly until met by the 2nd and 4th Ind. Cavalry, who on the arrival
of the released prisoners in camp were sent out to support or
relieve him. They arrived just in time to meet Jackson's Division
of Forrest's Corps and a running fight was kept up, back to the
Cahawba river, when the bridge was burned and further pursuit
by Jackson prevented. Lieut. Hemphill was promoted to Captain
vice Gallagher, dismissed April 9th 1865 and was mustered
out of service at Nashville, Tenn. as a 1st Lieutenant July 3rd
1865.
Returning to Warsaw, he soon found an opening in his old profession
"Bookkeeping" and after straightening out the books
of a commercial house was employed in the county auditor's office
and Treasurer's Office about two years. Then back to the old house
which was doing a heavy business in general merchandise, produce
commission and merchant milling. His health having been badly
shattered in the service soon compelled him to abandon business
for awhile and he then accepted a position as agent and solicitor
for the leading paper of his county. Here his training as a Bookkeeper
came into play, and he originated a form peculiarly adapted to
the printing business. Having by his efforts on the road increased
the business of the office five fold, he was taken off the road
and placed in charge of the books and business in the office,
where he remained until July 1875 when the office was sold out
and the Fort Wayne Daily & Weekly Gazette was purchased. He
accompanied his old employers to Fort Wayne as Bookkeeper and
business manager and remained with them one year, or until they
sold the office.
He remained with the new proprietors six months to the close of
the year. During this time, which was one of great political excitement,
the editor, who was new to the business, became a little mixed
on two or three occasions. The trouble was explained to Capt.
H. who wrote out his views on the subject, to assist the editor
if possible, in his treatment of the questions at issue. Instead
of taking these view as a guide, in whole or in part, in preparing
his notice, the editor inserted them as editorials without addition
or comment. The articles attracted attention and favorable comment
and one Mr. Hossler, one of the old proprietors, congratulating
the editor on the hit he had made, the gentleman disclaimed the
credit and told him who was the author. Mr. Hossler, who was about
to start a new paper at Warsaw, at once offered his old bookkeeper
a liberal salary to take editorial charge of it. The paper was
started January 1, 1877 and was a success from the start. It was
the first paper in the state to announce the platform "Free
from personal abuse" and adhere to it. The paper soon became
popular as a home paper and at the close of two years had secured
the largest circulation of any county paper in the state.
In his enfeebled health, the editorial work, to which almost every
moment was given, was too severe and toward the close of the fifth
year in 1881 Capt. H. was completely prostrated; bronchial hemorrhage
set in, and he was compelled to abandon the work he delighted
in and seek relief life itself, in the bracing, healing air of
Colorado. Here after twenty five years patient waiting, he was
at last enabled to have his musters corrected and his rank in
the army established and to recover the pay that was due him.
With his small pension and the little he can earn at labor to
which he is unaccustomed, he tries to "keep the wolf from
the door" until the Grand Commander shall order his final
discharge.
Daniel W. Hamlin was enrolled at the first meeting April
19th 1861 and served as a private through his term which ended
May 19th 1862. He was an enthusiastic soldier, but his health
was not very good. on the 21st of October he went home on sick
leave, reporting back about the 2nd of November. From that time
until mustered out he was usually on duty. Returning home he was
soon at work recruiting a company (E) for the 138th Regiment and
went to the front again as its Captain. He served through the
war, receiving a severe wound in the leg, for which he was granted
a pension. Returning home he engaged in the mercantile business,
coupled with the lumber trade. After spending a few years in that
business he was elected to the Office of Sheriff of Kosciusko
County and filled that office two terms. He was then engaged in
general trade for some time and finally went to California, locating
some place near Los Angeles. He died at his home in California,
July 7th 1891. His residence was at Covina, near Los Angeles.
He had been elected Auditor of that county in 1888.
Samuel R. Hamlin enlisted with his brother D. W. on the
19th of April and served as private until mustered out May 19th
1862. Returning home, I believe, he again enlisted with his brother
and served to the close of the war. After the war closed he was
associated with Dan'l W. [Hamlin] in business at Etna Green, and
has remained there prospering in business and respected by his
neighbors, as a business man and a true friend. His reenlistment
was in Co. F in the 74th Ind. Inf.
David H. Hubler was enrolled April 19th 1861 and mustered
out May 19th 1862. About one half of his term of service was spent
as the Major's private servant. He was unreliable and of a malicious
disposition; bold, or brazen and treacherous. On returning home
he again enlisted as a private in Co. C 4th Ind. Cavalry and at
once became a member of a gang of roughs who terrorized the company
until Capt. Leslie shot one of them. Hubler was finally sent up
the Mississippi river from ___ to the hospital___ and never reported
for duty again. As no report of his discharge was received, he
was supposed to have deserted. He returned to his home in Kosciusko
County claiming to have his discharge, but it is doubtful.
Oliver Hubler whose proper name is Oliver Putt enlisted
under the former name and would have been a good soldier under
favorable circumstances; but he had been raised in ignorance,
could neither read nor write, was bull-headed and a fit subject
for the vicious to work upon. By these, he was easily persuaded
to acts of insubordination and that those who would advise him
for his good did so from bad motives. Oliver was one of the men
who volunteered to go with the Captain across the Potomac Dec.
11, 1861 and was captured with the rest. The stubborn fight he
made on that occasion showed that he had the right kind of spirit
in him. He was exchanged and reported for duty March 24th 1862
and was mustered out May 19th 1862. Returning home he again enlisted
in Co. C 4th Ind. Cavalry and again was surrounded by evil advisers.
In April 1863 he was again taken prisoner at Richmond, La. and
was absent about four months. After that he never seemed quite
as bold in action. He served through the Wilson raid and was sent
to the Hospital at Nashville, Tenn. when he received his discharge
June 29th 1865. He was living in Michigan when last heard from.
A report in the Indianian (Warsaw) December 1st 1898 says "Oliver
Hubler was killed, while walking on the Railroad at Benton Harbor,
Mich. on Monday evening last week (Nov. 21st). The weather was
cold and he had his coat collar turned up about his ears and did
not hear the approaching train."
Alonzo H. Hubbard was enrolled April 19th 1861 and served
as a private until mustered out at Washington May 19th 1862. He
was a quiet well-behaved young man, who won the confidence of
all. He reenlisted in the 12th Regiment, and was promoted to a
Lieutenancy (First) in Company F of that Reg't. Served through
the war and then located at Lexington, Ky. Was in the soldier's
Home at Leavenworth, Kansas January 24th '93 employed as Lecturer.
Was there Aug 17, '97. Death announced in Indianian of April 21,
1904, date not given, died at the Home.
Lemuel Hazzard was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861 and
was a private until mustered out May 19th 1862. He was one of
the men that was captured with Capt. Williams at Dam No. 4, Dec.
11th 1861 and lodged in Libby prison, Richmond for some months.
On being released he reported direct to the company at Bunker
Hill Mills, Va. March 9th 1862 and was "on hand" for
duty, from that date. On returning to Warsaw he again enlisted
in the reorganized 12th Regt. and was identified with that command
to the close of the war when he was mustered out as a Captain
Co. I. "Lem" was undoubtedly a good soldier. Spare built,
tough and hardy; cool and courageous, with dash enough for any
emergency. He was highly esteemed by his superiors and also by
his men. He went to Missouri soon after the war closed, but occasionally
visits his old home and comrades at Warsaw, Ind. His residence
was, at last report, at Williamsburg, Kansas. At Cabool, Mo. publishing
a paper in May '94. Died at Kansas City, Mo. of Paresis March
1, 1904.
Thomas Immel was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861 and
was mustered out at Washington May 19th 1862. But little is known
of his subsequent life or services, further than that he again
enlisted in the 74th Regiment, in which he was a Lieutenant, and
that he was killed in action. His reported death was a mistake.
He came through safe and went to Missouri, where all trace of
him was lost. In 1883 he returned to Indiana and located at Monoquet,
Kosciusko Co. Indiana.
Benjamin F. James was enrolled April 19th 1861 and mustered
out May 19th 1862. "Ben" was a reliable man in every
sense of the word. He re-enlisted in the 129th Regiment and served
to the close of the war. Was mustered out as Captain of his Company.
On returning home he settled down quietly on his farm near Oswego,
Ind. where he lives in comfort, honored and respected by all who
know him.
William L. Matthews was among the first to enlist but was
not reported until the 22nd of April 1861. He served his time
and was mustered out with the Company May 19th 1862. On returning
home he did not reenlist, but was caught by the first draft and
sent to the ___ Regiment where he did good honest service until
mustered out. Returning home he taught school for some time and
was then selected as County Superintendent of Schools, serving
in that capacity for several years. He devoted all his time to
educational matters. He finally started west, and in December
1890 was Pros. Att'y of Grant co. Nebraska. Hyannis, Neb. William
L. Matthews, while filling his fourth term in this office, died
very suddenly of heart disease, on Sunday evening December 31,
1899.
Oscar Metz was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861 and mustered
out at Washington D. C. May 19th 1862. He reenlisted and served
to the close of the war. Was living at Rochester when last heard
from.
Peter Messner a Bavarian, was enrolled on the 22nd of April
1861 and was mustered out at Washington May 19, 1862. Have no
further record. Was living near Etna Green, Ind. when last heard
from in May, 1891. Died Nov. 7th 1904, aged 73 years.
Samuel McClary was enrolled April 19th 1861 and discharged
at Pleasant Valley, Md. Aug 9th 1861. Have no further record.
Think he is dead.
John Metternich was enrolled April 22nd 1861 and mustered
out at Washington May 19th 1862. He was a small man, brave as
the bravest and an admirable soldier. After a short rest he reenlisted
in the 48th Ind. Inf. and served faithfully to the close of the
war. Like thousands of other brave men, his health was shattered
by exposure and hardship and he died at his home in Leesburg,
Ind. soon after he returned home.
Ephraim Middleton was enrolled at the first meeting April
19th 1861 and was mustered out with the company at Washington
D.C. May 19, '63. On returning home he reenlisted in the 44th
Ind. Inf. and was killed in the battle at Stone River.
James M. Nicely was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861. He was a willing soldier but his health failed and he
was discharged at Pleasant Valley, Md. August 9th 1861. He was
living at or near Columbia City, Ind. when last heard from. At
Warsaw in Sept. 1900.
Reson N. Poulson was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D. C. May 19, 1862.
Was living in Michigan when last heard from. At White Halls Jan.
'93. Poor health. Died at that place August 22, 1894 of Bright's
disease and dropsy age 56 years.
Joseph Riley was enrolled at the first meeting April 19,
1861 and was mustered out at Washington may 19, 1862. He reenlisted
in the 74th Ind. Inf. and served through the war. He died at Pierceton,
Ind. in Oct. 1888.
Orlando Rankins was enrolled on the 29th of April 1861
and was mustered out at Washington May 19, 1862. If he again enlisted
I have no record of it. He died at his home in Milford, Ind. January
31, 1890. Reenlisted in 74th.
Marshall H. Parks was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861 and was "On his Taps" when mustered for inspection.
Was mustered out May 19, 1862. Returned home and immediately reenlisted
in the 12th of which Regiment he, in a short time became Adjutant.
He was a very efficient officer, brave and reliable. On his return
home, he became somewhat erratic in business, but finally married
and settled down, finding congenial employment in the county and
city offices, where as an accountant his services were appreciated.
He died of disease at his home in Warsaw, Ind. March 5, 1889.
Stillman G. Robbins was enrolled April 19, 1861 and was
one of the men that was taken prisoner with the Captain at Dam
No 4 December 11, 1861. He reported back with the Captain March
24, 1862 and was mustered out with the company May 19th '62. Returning
home he reenlisted in Co. C 4th Ind. Cavalry and was elected Brevet
2nd Lieutenant. On that grade being abolished, he was mustered
out at Youngs Point, La. in March 1863 and returning home, again
enlisted in the 7th Cav'y. He was living at or near Columbia City,
Ind. where last heard from.
William J. Rauch was enrolled on the 29th of April 1861
and was mustered out with the company May 19th 1862. He died at
his home near Warsaw.
James O. Rea was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861 and was
mustered out with the company May 19th 1862. Was living at Leesburg,
Ind. when last heard from. Was living in Illinois in June 1878.
Reenlisted in the 12th. Wounded at Dalton, Ga. Was at Dayton Soldiers
Home Nov. 1904.
Thomas Rockwell was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861
and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May 19th 1862. He reenlisted
in the 12th Regiment and was killed at Atlanta.
Elias Southerly was enrolled April 22nd 1861 and was an
obedient reliable soldier. In the night march to Rappahannock
Station April 18, 1862 he was severely ruptured while assisting
the artillery out of a swamp of quick sand. He was excused from
duty and was mustered out with the company, unfit for further
service. Was living near Oswego, LaBette Co., Kansas in 1889.
Alfred W. Scott was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861
and was mustered out at Washington May 19, 1862. He reenlisted
in the 12th Regiment and served through the war, and died at home
in 1872 or '73 of disease contracted in the service.
Henry J. Shorb was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861 and
mustered out with the company on May 19th 1862.
Abram L. Shaver was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861 and was mustered out with the company May 19, 1862. He
reenlisted in the Regiment and died of disease in the service
in South Carolina.
John A. Sanderson was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861
and mustered out with the company May 19th 1862. He suffered some
from the exposure in March and April, but not seriously. Was living
at Leesburg, Ind. when last heard from.
William H. Sparrow was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861
and was appointed Wagoner when the company took the field. He
was a pleasant comrade and reliable man in every respect. Was
mustered out with the company May 19th 1862. Reenlisted and served
to the close of the war. Was living at Bourbon, Ind. at last report.
Living at Parsons, Kansas in '94 and 1906. Was in 59th Regt.
Oliver Sloane was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861 and
mustered out with the company at Washington D.C. May 19th 1862.
He reenlisted in the 12th Regiment and served to the close of
the war. Living near Warsaw, Ind.
Joel Strieby was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861 and
mustered out at Washington D.C. May 19th 1862. He was a fine looking
man, and a model soldier. When the draft was made he received
a handsome sum to go as a substitute for some man who did not
relish gun-powder, and served in the ___ Regiment to the close
of the war. He was living near Syracuse, Ind. when last heard
from. At Calhoun, Mo. in fall of '97.
Samuel C. Swank was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861
and was mustered out with the company May 19th 1862.
Edward H. Webster was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861.
He was a bright, intelligent soldier and was promoted to 4th Sergeant
about the 1st of November after the recruits reported for duty.
He was mustered out with the company May 19th 1862; returned home
and reenlisted in the reorganized 12th Regiment. Served through
the war, and was mustered out of service as Captain of his company.
Returning home, he remained but a short time; then started west
and located at Kansas City, Mo. which was just beginning to attract
attention. He made a lucky investment in real estate and grew
up with the city, becoming one of the leading business men of
the city. He enjoys a comfortable fortune and the full confidence
of the people and has filled many important places of trust and
honor.
Aaron M. Wagner was enrolled April 19th 1861 and mustered
out with the company May 19th 1862.
Wilson H. Walton was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861.
Served as a private until the recruits reported, when he was promoted
to 7th Corporal about the 1st of November. Was mustered out as
Corporal May 19th 1862. He reenlisted in Co. C 4th Ind. Cav. Was
reported as living at Kansas City. In Mich. '95. Living and prospering
on old home farm near Warsaw in Sept. 1900.
Henry S. Westcott was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861. He was one of the jolliest men in the company, always
ready for fun or duty. He was taken prisoner with Capt. Williams
at Dam No. 4 December 11, 1861 and returned to duty with him March
24th 1862. Having been appointed 8th Corporal about the 1st of
November 1861 he was mustered out as such May 19th 1862. On his
return home he at once reenlisted in the reorganized 12th Regt
and was made a Lieutenant. He died in September 1862 of wounds
received in the battle at Richmond, Ky.
Seth J. Wells was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861 and
mustered out with the company at Washington D.C. May 19, 1862.
The next thing heard of him was just before the attack on Vicksburg
in May 1863 where he was serving as a Lieutenant in an Illinois
Regiment. Have never heard from him since.
Samuel A. Winters was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861
and mustered out with the company May 19th 1862. On returning
home he again enlisted in the 74th Regiment and was killed in
the battle at Chickamaunga Sept. 19th 1863.
Edmond Wertenberger was enrolled on the 19th of April 1861
and was mustered out with the company May 19th 1862. He emigrated
to Texas just after peace was established. In Barracks No. 2 in
National Military Home, Ohio Oct. 24, '98. He was one of the few
men who was always ready for duty.
James S. Wheeler was enrolled at the first meeting on April
19, 1861 and was mustered out with the company May 19, 1862. He
again enlisted in the 44th Regiment and became a Lieutenant. Serving
to the close of the war, he returned home, finished his education
and became a minister in the Baptist Church. He went west and
for a time bid fare to recover his health; but the disease was
too deeply seated and he returned to his home in Warsaw where
he died, January 4, 1882.
James H. Weaver was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861
and was mustered out with the company May 19, 1862. He reenlisted
in the 12th Regiment and was killed in action at Atlanta, Ga.
2nd Lieutenant.
Wm. Wade Whittaker was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861 and mustered out with the company May 19, 1862. He again
enlisted and served through the war, and died at home of disease
contracted in the service.
Orrin Watts was enrolled on the 1st day of May 1861 and
was mustered out with the company May 19, 1862. He was living
at Leesburg, Ind. when last heard from. Was living at Butler,
Ind. in Jan'y '90. Goshen, Ind. June '93.
Thomas C. Lessig was enrolled at the first meeting April
19, 1861 but was taken down with lung fever and was unable to
accompany the company to Indianapolis. When Beeson was discharged
Lessig was notified by mail and reported for muster June 8, 1861.
He remained with the company, a faithful soldier, until mustered
out May 19, 1862. His health had not been fully restored and the
experience on picket duty followed by the long march and inclement
weather in March and April 1862 laid the foundation of the disease
of which he died at home.
William E. Rousseau was enrolled on the 22nd of April 1861
and went with the company to Indianapolis, but when the company
was mustered in for one year, he refused to go and returned home.
Having arranged his affairs, he enlisted as a recruit when Capt.
Williams went home on that service, and reported for duty at Dam
No. 4 [on] Oct. 29th. He was mustered out May 19, 1862 and returning
home again went to the front with the reorganized 12th but whether
as a soldier or as Col. Williams servant, I am unable to state.
After the war, he drove train for several years and was found
dead in his stable, his horse having kicked him to death, while
he was grooming it July 11, 1886.
Thomas J. Anderson joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4 Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19, 1862. He reenlisted in the 12th. Was Captain of Co. D. Died
January 2nd '65 in Warsaw of camp disease.
Joseph S. Baker joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4 Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19, 1862. On returning home he engaged in the mercantile business.
Some years later he was elected and served one or two terms as
County Auditor and from the experience acquired during his term,
by the building of the Kosciusko County Court House became a contractor
for similar buildings. He resides at Warsaw, Ind.
Virgil M. Chaplin joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4 Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19, 1862. The exposure on the march from Dam No. 4 to Warrenton
Junction, Va. in March and April brought on a severe attack of
pneumonia from the effects of which he never fully recovered.
On his return home he graduated from a commercial college and
then engaged in business, but was compelled to seek a more active
outdoor life. Having abundant means, he has spent several years
in search of health in various portions of the country; spending
several seasons in California, but in 1890 he settled down at
Plymouth, Ind. He died at his sister's residence near Pierceton,
Ind. July 16, 1891 aged 51 years, 2 months and 15 days.
John A. Campfield joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4 Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington May 19,
1862. He reenlisted in the 12th Regiment when reorganized, but
no record of his services has been obtained. He died about the
time the war closed at Leesburg, Ind. Served as Hospital Steward
12th Ind. Inf.
Lewis B. Davis joined the company as a recruit at Dam No.
4 Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D. C. May 19,
1862. Have no further record of his case. Was living in Clay Co.
Ind. when last heard from.
Ephraim Foundling joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. Have no further record.
Martin Galbreath joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. Have no further record.
Joseph A. Goodman joined the company as a recruit, at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. Returning home, he again enlisted in Co. C, 4th
Ind. Cavalry and was made a Sergeant. He was taken prisoner at
Richmond, La. in April 1863 and was exchanged in August. Was with
the company in all of its marches, battles and skirmishes from
that time until the war closed; serving a good portion of the
time as 1st Sergeant. In consideration of his services he was
commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant just before he was mustered out
of service. He was a soldier tried on many fields and always to
be trusted. Some time after he returned home he located at North
Manchester, Ind. where he was living and prospering at last reports.
Elmer G. Harvey joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. He was living at Somerset, Ind. when last heard
from.
Henry H. Hubler joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington May
19, 1862. He was the Major's eldest son and had been with the
company, serving as a drummer without pay, nearly all the time
it had been in service, and had only gone home for a short visit,
when he was regularly enlisted. He again enlisted in the reorganized
12th Regt and served through the war, after which he went west
and died in the Black Hills.
Stephen G. Hamlin joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. He returned home and assisted in recruiting a company
for the ___ Regiment and was promoted to Captain. He died in the
service of wounds received in action.
Martin L. Lash joined the company as a recruit at Dam No.
4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D. C.
May 19, 1862.
Silas H. McAlpine joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.
C. May 19, 1862.
Nathan B. McConnell joined the company as a recruit at
Dam No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington
D.C. May 19, 1862. Did not reenlist, but settled down at Warsaw,
Ind. working at his trade (carpenter) where he is still living.
Solomon L. Mc. Milice joined the company as a recruit at
Dam No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington
D.C. May 19, 1862. He again entered the service in Co. A 74th
Ind. Infantry and served through the war having been promoted
to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. After his return home he remained
about Warsaw for some time; then married and went to the West.
He was living at Beatrice, Neb. at last report. Kansas City, Mo.
May '94. At Seattle, Wash. 1901.
Charles V. Pyle joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. Engaged in the drug business after he returned home
and some years later removed to Hiawatha, Kansas where he is still
living.
Edward Nichols joined the company as a recruit at Dam No.
4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19, 1862. He again enlisted in the ___ Regiment and served through
the war. He is living at Warsaw, Ind.
Austin M. Sanderson joined the company as a recruit at
Dam No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington
D.C. May 19, 1862. Did not reenlist. Was Justice of the Peace
for several years at Leesburg, Ind. Removed to Nebraska in '84
or '85. Lyndon, Kansas May 24, '98.
Samuel Sechrist joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. Did not re-enlist. Engaged in business as a brick
manufacturer and died of disease at Warsaw, Ind. May 27, 1886.
John Upsall joined for duty as a recruit at Dam No. 4,
Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19, 1862. Again enlisted in the ___ Regiment. Was at Vicksburg
and served through the war, after which he removed to Illinois
and engaged in the jewelry trade. He died there.
James H. Williams joined the company as a recruit at Dam
No. 4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C.
May 19, 1862. Am not certain that he did not re-enlist, but believe
he served for some time as Pay Master's Clerk and possibly as
a soldier. He was appointed to a Clerkship in the Postoffice Department
a few years after the war closed and died in Washington D.C. July
24, 1885.
Samuel W. Yohn joined the company as a recruit at Dam No.
4, Md. Oct. 29, 1861 and was mustered out at Washington D.C. May
19, 1862. "Sam" concluded, as he said, to "let
it stand at that", and after drifting around Washington for
some time, re-enlisted in the 1st Maryland and served for some
considerable time. He then returned home, where most of his time
and money was spent in and about the saloons. He was severely
injured by being stabbed in the back, by some drunken rowdy Dec.
28, 1877, which probably hastened his death, as he never recovered
fully from the shock to his system. He was taken to the Soldier's
Home at Dayton, Ohio July 1st 1881 and died there August 22, 1881.
He was a splendid mechanic and drunk or sober would not willfully
insult or injure any one. Strong drink had the mastery, but never
made him ugly in his disposition. Every body liked him and would
have saved him from himself if possible. ("Buckwheat"
was his name).
Dr. David Hazzard was recognized as a kind of honorary
member of the company in which [he] took so much interest. His
professional services while with the company were appreciated,
the men regarding him almost as a father. He died at a ripe old
age at Galesburg, Illinois Sept. 11, 1879 aged 79 years 1 month
and 14 days.
Joseph B. Dodge who took such an active part in recruiting
and organizing the company was quite prominent in political affairs
in Kosciusko County and in the state. He filled many important
county offices; that of County Treasurer about four years. On
his return from the trip he took to Harpers Ferry with the company
he recruited another company which was assigned to the 30th Regiment,
he going with it as Captain. On the organization of the regiment,
he became Lieutenant Colonel and when Col. Bass was killed in
action, he was promoted to Colonel and led the Regiment through
many bloody battles. Rev. A. Laing, of Joliet, Illinois who was
a member of the 30th Regiment says, "I do not hesitate to
say of Col. Dodge that he was the coolest man under fire that
I ever saw. His cheek did not flame with excitement nor blanch
with fear in deadly conflict. His voice had the same calm tone,
his step, the same measured tread, amid the iron hail and thunder
of artillery as it had at the quiet drill in camp." Col.
Dodge died at his home in Warsaw, Ind. July 7, 1891.
Col. Wm. H. Link re-entered the service as Colonel of the
reorganized 12th for three years service and was killed at Richmond,
Ky in Sept. 1862.
Lieutenant Col. George Humphrey a Mexican War veteran re-entered
the service as Colonel of the 88th Ind. Inf. which he organized.
After the war closed he returned to Ft. Wayne and was engaged
in manufacturing lumber doors and sash. He met with a serious
accident in his mills in '80 or '81 which probably shortened his
life. He died at Fort Wayne August 11, 1886.
The companies of the 12th Regiment were as follows: Co. A from
New Albany, The Bloodhounds; Co. B from Fortville, The
Fortville Rifles; Co. C from Madison, The Copperheads;
Co. D from Noblesville, Noblesville Guards; Co. E from
Warsaw, Kosciusko Guards; Co. F from Fort Wayne, The
Alerts; Co. G from Fort Wayne Mad Anthony Guards; Co.
H and Co. I from Marion, Co. K from Vernon Vernon Light Guards.
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