TRANSCRIBED BY FRED TURK, ST. PAUL, MN.
Article #18__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 12, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
THE GERMAN REGIMENT
The officers of the proposed
German Regiment, we understood last night, had received their commissions,
they were as follows: Wm. H. Jacobs, Colonel: Captain Chas. Lehman, Lieut,
Colonel; Phillip Horwitz, Major: Ph. J. Schlosser, Adjutant.
Article #19__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 13, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
"GERMAN AMERICANS" FOR GEN. SIGEL'S COMMAND.
All are invited, without
regard to nationality, to serve under that gallant commander. F.
C. Winkler, Francis Lackner, Chas. Doerflinger,
Louis C. Heide and others are combining their efforts to raise a first
rate company. Fall in for the army of Virginia!
Article #20__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 14, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
Col. W.H. Jacobs
Our fellow citizen, Mr.
Jacobs, is designated by the Governor as the probable Colonel of the Twenty-sixth
(Sigel) regiment. He is a well-known citizen and an old resident, a German,
perfectly acquainted with the English language, a banker and business man,
long and favorably known to our mercantile community, a democrat in the
days of party, and now a loyal man, heart and soul for the Government,
and for the vigorous prosecution and early close of the war. He holds now
the office of Clerk of the Circuit and County Courts, to which he was elected
over a very popular man, and has discharged the duties of that post in
a manner, to which it is compliment enough to say that he well fills Mrl
Keenan's place.
Colonel Jacobs is an
educated gentleman, of unusual ability and industry, and although not a
soldier by profession, is capable of becoming one as soon as any person
we know of. There was no doubt of his re-election to the lucrative office
he now holds, and his acceptance of the military rank will be no small
evidence of patriotism. It would have been more agreeable to some of our
friends, if a man of approved military skill with other requisite qualification,
could have been found to lead the Sigel regiment, but in the absence of
such a one, all agree that a better man that Mr. Jacobs could not be found.
Lieut. Col. Lehman, Major
Horwitz, and Adjutant Schlosser are excellent men for the positions. The
officers of the Sigel regiment are worthy of a command, and according to
our information from their recruiting stations, will not have to wait long
for it. Success to the Sigel regiment! May they only be equal to their
illustrious name!
Article #21__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 14, 1862. Page 1, Col 4
Military Items-...Recruiting appointments for the Twenty-sixth Regiment to:
Franz Landa, W. Smith, H. T. Mack, L. W. Vizay, L. Pelosi, W. Noss,
L. Stiren, C. Kuppel, J. Orth, A. Jacobson, H. Hendricks, W. S. Bruno,
H. Horsch, C. Seifert, Chas. Schotto, L. Bashow, C. Loober, F. Koemer,
O. Schabert, Martin C. Meyer, A. F. Mudler, and Christian
Sarnow.
W. A. Smith of Barton, Ed. Marsh of Oak Grove, John B. Anderson,
Rubicon, R.C. Dewitt of Sheboygen Falls, John J. Brown of Sheboygen....
For the Twenty-sixth Regiment, to Julius Wechselburg, J. Luebke, and A. Hensee of Milwaukee.
Article #22__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 15, 1862. Page 1, Col 4
WAR MEETING-NINTH WARD
A large and enthusiastic
meeting was held Wednesday evening at Reinel's Hall in the Ninth Ward.
Mr. P. Zeigler presided, and eloquent speeches were made by Messrs. Fred.
Winkler, Chas. Schroeder, B. Domschcke, H. Spaan and others, both in the
German and Dutch languages.
Some $500 was subscribed
for a Ninth Ward War fund. A committee of ten was appointed to raise additional
funds, and are actively at work for that purpose. One man, Joseph Ammann,
having no money, gave his best cow, worth $40, for the benefit of the fund,
and the committee will sell it to-day.
We learn that the Hollanders of that Ward are starting a company,
and had a meeting last night.
Article #23__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 16, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
(Ed. note: Granville was incorporated into Milwaukee in 1957 and is in the extreme northwest corner of Milwaukee.)
War Meeting at Granville.
Article #24__________________________________________________________________________
Granville, Aug. 14, 1862.
The people of Granville
met on the evening of the 14th inst., to raise men and means to aid in
filling the recent requisition of the President for more troops.
The meeting was organized by calling Dr. Krak to the Chair, as President,
Jason Reynolds, Vice-President, and Thomas O'Neil, as Secretary.
On a call from the Chair, Charles Larken, Esq, took the stand.
On a call from the meeting John Stark took the stand. The speaker
addressed the meeting in English and German, and was frequintly interrupted
by rounds of applause.
On a call from the crowd, Mr. Hundhasen took the stand and spoke
in German.
On a call from the Chair Mr. Spangenberg took the stand. The Speaker,
in soul-stirring words, appealed to his countrymen to come forward and
fill up the Sigel Regiment.
On a call from the Chair, Mr. Stunded took the stand. The speaker
concluded amid three cheers.
On a call from Mr. Hasse the Sutervisors of the Town, the committee
appointed to collect money, was called on to report.
Dr. C. Krak, President
J. Reynolds, Vice-President
M. O'Neil, Secretary
* Although the Milwaukee Sentinel article which precedes identifies the Town of Granville in northwestern Milwaukee County as the place of the meeting described, the individuals mentioned all lived in the Town of Greenfield twelve miles to the south, which was evidently the place of the meeting.
Article #25__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 16, 1862. Page 1, Col 3
Military Items.
...Issued recruiting appointments to Milton Ewen of Fond du Lac;
Julius Meisswinkle, S. Frienger, H. Boebel, Stephen Ward, H. T. Ruckert,
C. Olson, J. T. Seeman, T. Buckner, F. C. Winkler, J. W. Rohn, C. Hummel,
H. J. Berringer, J. Shenrich.
...Dr. F. Huebschman, of Milwaukee, as Surgeon of the Twenty-sixth
Regiment.
...As Second Lieutenants in the Twenty-sixth Regiment, F. C. Walker,
H. Boebel, W. A. Smith,, and J. Fuchs, of Columbus.
Article #26__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 19, 1862. Page 1, Col 4
New and Old Regiments.
HEADQUARTERS STATE OF WISCONSIN,
ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Article #27__________________________________________________________________________
August 12, 1862.
General Order No. 17:
I.-The new regiments now organizing in this state, above the Twenty-fifth,
will be numbered respectively from the twenty-sixth to the thirty-seventh
inclusive, and if not completed by the twenty-second of this month, the
incomplete regiments will be consolidated, and the superfluous officers
mustered out.
The deficiency to make up the quota of the State under the call
for three hundred thousand men, then existing will be drafted.
II.-The bounty paid to volunteers in these new regiments, will cease after the twenty-first inst. Volunteers to fill up old regiments, will be received and paid the bounty and advance pay until the first day of September. If the old regiments should not be filled by the first day of September, a special draft will be made for the deficiency.
By order of the Commander-in-Chief.
A. Gaylord,
Adjutant General Wisconsin.
Article #28__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 19, 1862. Page 1, Col 7
MILWAUKEE GUARD- J. P. Seeman, the well known business man in the Second Ward, Is now raising a company for the Twenty-sixth (Sigel) Regiment. Last night he had thirty men, which, considering that he only commenced yesterday, is doing remarkably well. We feel assured that this will be a desirable company, and we have only to call attention to its formation to ensure its rapid filling up.
Article #29__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 19, 1862. Page 1, Col 7
The German Turners of this city, in a meeting held last Saturday night, passed a resolution that every member who is able and does not enlist, shall be expelled from this society.
Article #30__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 20, 1862. Page 1, Col 1
The New Soldiers.
Says the Springfield Journal:
"It is generally believed
that the troops now being recruited in the Northern States will not be
likely to see much fighting in the South before cold weather-late in the
fall or in the winter. They will be sent to Maryland, Western Virginia
and other places where garrison duty is now being performed, and there
take the places of disciplined regiments now wanted in the field. If enough
fresh troops were now ready to take the garrisoned places not within reach
of the rebels, so that the whole of the disciplined forces could join the
army in the field, there is no doubt Richmond would soon fall.
For the first six months
that regiments now recruiting are in the service, they will have a sort
of holiday work to perform, and it is to be hoped that the rebellion may
be subdued without ever calling them to the field-indeed, many predict
that it will. Still the new recruits will receive the pay and all the bounties
incident to the service, the same as though they were in the front ranks
and fighting the hottest battles. If the war should end before Christmas,
the men who now enlist could make a good thing, and most of them would
earn far better wages than they could get at home, besides having an opportunity
to see something of the Border States, the National Capital and soldier
life."
Article #31__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 20, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
Barton, Washington Co.-A friend writes us from Barton as follows:
"A deep interest is felt for the war in this town. Funds are being
raised for volunteers, amounting now, I learn, to some $1,200. $900 was
pledged in half an hour last Saturday evening, at a meeting of the citizens.
It is hoped the quota of men from this town will be made up by the 22d
by volunteers.
(Editor's note: Company G in the 26th Regiment was made up of men from the Barton/ West Bend area)
Article #32__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 20, 1862. Page 1, Col 4
Military Items-Commissions have been issued to....Wm. H. Jacobs as Colonel, Chas. Lehmann as Lieutenant Colonel, and Philip Horwitz as Major of Twenty-sixth Regt.
Article #33__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 21, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
Parade.-The Twenty-sixth Regiment, mustering 400 men, paraded through several of the principal streets yesterday, headed by an excellent band of music. Quite a number of the men have already received their uniforms.
Article #34__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 21, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
The Chamber of Commerce yesterday voted to present a flag to the 26th (Sigel) Regiment. A subscription was also taken up to present volunteers joining Capt. Seeman's Company, in that regiment, with an extra bounty.
Article #35__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 22, 1862. Page 1, Col 7
Bernard Domschcke yesterday joined Capt. Seeman's company, 26th Regiment, as a private. (Probably Company C-ed.) Mr. Domschcke has long been a prominent man among the Germans of this community and is known throughout the country as one of the ablest of our German writers. He sets a good example.
Article #36__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 26, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
The Twenty-fourth Regiment went into camp at Camp Sigel yesterday.
The Twenty-sixth paraded in the morning through East Water street,
headed by their excellent band.
Article #37__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 1, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
AT WORK-Passing by the Turner's Hall on Friday, we were attracted by the noise of marching in the building, and looked in. We found Major Horwitz there, engaged in drilling the non-commissioned officers of the 26th Regiment. They were being put through all the maneuvers of marching, so that they may be able to drill their men promptly. We understand that they drill thus in a body every day, and that the commissioned officers are also drilled in a similar manner, at a different hour. This is as it should be, though we have not noticed the practice with other of our regiments. The Germans are striving evidently to beat the Twenty-fourth if possible.
Article #38__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 6, 1862. Page 1, Col 4
State Military Items.-Commissions have been issued to-
William George, F.C. Winkler, J.P. Seeman, August Ligowsky, A. Kettler,
Han Boebel, Franz Landa and Luie Pelosi, as Captains; Christian Sarnow,
Wm. E. Huttman, John W. Fuchs, August Schneler, Charles W. Newkirch, and
Joseph Wedig, as First Lieutenants; and A. F. Mulier, Francis Sucker, B.
Domschcke, Charles Vocke, John F. Hogan, Edward Karl, H.A. Berninger, and
William S. Bruns, as Second Lieuts. Twenty-Sixth Regiment.
Article #39__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 9, 1862. Page 1, Col 1
THE INDIAN WAR.
FULL PARTICULARS OF THE CAMPAIGN!
From our Special Reporter.
Article #40__________________________________________________________________________
CEDARBURG, Sept. 5, 1862.
In company with the forces
sent to the aid of the inhabitants of that region, we arrived this morning
about five o'clock, after a forced march of several hours. Our artillery
was left at Milwaukee, and a detachment of ten men was left at Humbolt
as a reserve.
A place, well calculated
for defense, was selected by our commanding officer, pickets thrown out,
and a provost marshals guard appointed, about ten o'clock. Every precaution
was taken, against surprise, a fine corn field was posted on our right,
and a slough, with two dead hogs in it, on our left. As the men were very
much exhausted, they were allowed to sleep on their arms for an hour. From
the midst of this delightful slumber, we were awakened by an alarm and
discovered that several persons had straggles into camp. Our commander,
anxious to gain information, took them into his tent, and commenced to
interrogate them.
How far is Cedarburg?
Yaw.
Have you seen any Injuns?
Yaw.
Who is in command of the enemy?
Yaw!
How many houses have they burned?
Yaw!
After thus gleaning a
vast deal of important information necessary to determine the future to
determine the future operations of the company, the fugitives were ordered
outside of our lines.
At twelve o'clock, hearing
that the enemy were in force about fifty miles to the north, our commanding
officer issued the following
PROCLAMATION.
Whereas, The Constitution
guarantees to every man his life, his liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,
and,
Whereas, The slaughter of white people is undoubtedly the pursuit
of happiness to the red man, Therefore, let it be understood by our red
brothers of this vicinity, that we come among them in no spirit of retaliation
or revenge, but simply to conserve the interests of the Constitution, and
to preserve the unity of sentiment among all classes, so essential to the
perpetuity of this glorious Union
(Signed,)
CAPT. JINKS,
Commanding Fort Cedarburg.
Immediately after the
issue of this patriotic conservative proclamation, several hundred other
farmers came into camp and reported that the town of Cedarburg was burnt
to the ground, and all the men, women and children slaughtered in cold
blood, and the savages were then engaged in eating their victims.
On the receipt of this
startling news, our commander commenced to throw up intrenchments. Later,
our pickets were driven in by a cow, and some light skirmishing was done
on our left by a detachment of three men and a dog, with a farmer who refused
to hear the proclamation read, and said he did'nt care a d--m for the Indians.
The expression of these disloyal sentiments would have met with the severest
punishment had not our commanding officer been taken with the typhoid fever
and gone home on parole. The next officer in rank on taking command, issued
the following:
ADDRESS.
Soldiers, we have done
wonders. You have marched thirty miles in the mud, and had no lager!
You have covered yourselves
with glory and manure.
The time has now arrived
for action. The enemy are before us.
Wisconsin expects every
man to do his duty.
The announcement of a
vigorous policy inspired the men with new courage, and before another hour
an advance movement was made of several miles.
A reconnaissance in force
was made two miles to the north of Cedarburg-where important intelligence
of the whereabouts and intentions of the enemy was obtained. It was found
that he was on the left bank of a creek, armed with a rifle and fishpole,
and was well intrenched.
On the receipt of this
news our commanding officer, with his accustomed promptitude in emergencies,
ordered a halt and commenced to fortify his position. By five o'clock,
we were surrounded by works which were pronounced impregnable.
Farmers continued to
pour in and confirm the burning of Cedarburg. Several workmen in a potatoe
field were captured by our pickets and brought in. They also gave valuable
information. They said ten Indians were marching on Wauwatosa, and that
an overwhelming force of sixteen warriors had taken and desolated Port
Washington. They attributed the troubles entirely to the Abolitionists.
Thereupon our commanding officer issued another address, advising the Governor
to hang Booth, and censuring Horace Greeley in well merited terms. The
command then fell back to their original entrenchments, and several of
the men went into hospital. Late in the day it was reported that the enemy
had been seen loading his gun, and heavy firing was heard in the direction
of Cedarburg. A pontoon bridge was thrown across a wet cow-patch on our
left and a sudden and brilliantly executed descent was made upon a pigsty!
MIDNIGHT.-
Sharp firing called the
command to arms just now. Fresh reports came in that the enemy were preparing
to storm our works. He had been seen to crawl out of his hole on his hands
and knees. Skirmishers were immediately thrown out and a dispatch sent
to Milwaukee for siege guns. About daybreak, he was distinctly seen approaching
on his hands and knees.
When within about ten
yards the order to charge bayonets was given, and our noble fellows, with
a shout that rose the welkin, dashed forward. There was a moment of intense
excitement; the glittering steel shone above the fray, and then the shout
of victory went up, and the day was ours. But now the enemy unexpectedly
executed a sudden movement, and fell back on our entrenchments, from behind
which he put his finger at his nose, and raised the terrible war whoop.
As the scattered column
slowly formed for another charge, a large delegation of American citizens
waited upon our commanding officer, and politely wanted to know what the
devil he was raising a row about there for.
Our officer waved them
away, and dashed forward, waving his arms.
Just as he was about
to scale the intrenchments, the enemy hit him a swab in the eye, and he
fell back in good order.
I write this amid surgeons
and general disorder, Our command has fallen back ten miles nearer Milwaukee,
and sent for reinforcements.
Hurry them up.
Article #41______________________________________________________________________________
SPECIAL.
Sept 9, 1862. Page 1, Col 1
An unprovoked and Unjustifiable Outrage
Yesterday afternoon, a
detachment of men from the Sigel Regiment, numbering from one to two hundred,
led by the Lt. Colonel Lehman, appeared in front of the Sentinel office,
where they drew up in line, when some fifteen or twenty-five, with the
Lieutenant Colonel still at their head, entered the editorial room, then
occupied only by Mr. Wheeler, the Local editor, who the Lieutenant Colonel
approached in a threatening manner, demanding whether he was the author
of certain articles in the paper, referring to the Indian scare in Ozaukee
county. Mr. Wheeler attempted to explain, and walked to the file of papers
for the purpose of having the offensive article or passages pointed out,
and while in that position was struck and knocked over by the Lieutenant
Colonel, and struck at by one or two other inferior officers in the crowd.
The crowd in the office,
some of whom were armed with clubs, then went out, joined the balance of
the company, and after hoots and yells departed. Any person who has read
the articles in question will of course have seen that there was nothing
in them in the least degree properly offensive to any person. They were
simply amusing burlesques on the late unfounded panic with reference to
the Indians, with nothing whatever personal in their character. So far
as any cause making a justification or even a provocation for the assault
in question was concerned, there was none.
To bring a company of
some 200 men, to detail 15 or 20 to enter the office, and then for this
Lieutenant Colonel, weighing some 200 pounds, more or less, to assault
a man half his size, after waiting until that man got into a position where
he had hem at disadvantage, is conduct it is not necessary for us to characterize
in an individual professing to be a soldier.-The thing has a deeper significance
than this.
We have in this case
an officer in the State and United States service, taking the men under
his command, and actually leading them to the violation of laws-to the
commission of mob violence-the officer himself being the chief offender.
It is a case which demands the attention of the authorities. Nothing could
be more unprovoked and causeless than this mob violence on this occasion,
and it inevitably leads to the conclusion, that life, property, nor anything
else is safe in the circumstance. There is a universal sentiment of indignation
in the city, in consequence of it, and the Governor will not only be justified
by popular sentiment in making such an example of these offenders as will
prevent a repetition of such conduct, but he is required and expected to
do it. It is felt to be absolutely necessary for the safety of the persons
and property of the city that he should do it.
Article #42__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 10, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
The Last Exhibition of the Mob Spirit in Milwaukee.
On the eighth day of September,
Lieut. Colonel Lehman, of the Twenty-sixth (Sigel) Regiment, ordered two
companies of that regiment to assemble and report themselves on Market
Square, at 2 o'clock, to be in readiness to march to the office of the
Milwaukee Sentinel, to demand redress or satisfaction for certain articles
which appeared in this paper, and which it was alleged reflected upon the
regiment. In obedience to the commands of the officer, the companies were
assembled, and were led to the Sentinel Office, in front of which they
were stationed in martial array as a guard, and a detachment with clubs
in their hands wee placed at the door to prevent egress. This Lieut. Col.
Lehman then entered-followed by a dozen officers-the editorial rooms, occupied
by the Local Editor alone.
This Lieutenant Colonel
then and there, backed by his officers and men, did, without provocation
and with force of arms, assault and beat the gentleman employed to act
as our local editor. The blow was given in the very act of the editor to
make an explanation. It was given by this Lieutenant Colonel, Lehman, who
announced his entrance with an oath and enforced his physical authority
with blasphemous vituperation, foaming at the mouth, gesticulating wildly,
and threatening destruction to the office, while several of those who were
with him (especially on Lieutenant Berninger) cried "Kill him," "hit him,"
&c, and would listen to no explanation, and would hear no reply to
their bullying threats. This United States officer, having wreaked his
vengeance upon our editor, marched his men from the editorial rooms, and
when on the walk ordered the entire force to give three cheers-which went
up as a sad signal of another unprovoked and inexcusable outrage by a mob
led by a coward and a bully.
The assault came formally
before the civil authorities yesterday morning, on a complaint sworn out
by our local editor. After a patient hearing of all the facts in the case,
(and no witnesses were examined for defense except the Lieutenant Colonel
himself;) after the manner and measure of the attack were recounted and
corroborated, the court fined the defendant five dollars and costs! To
which astounding fact we wish to call the attention of the people of Milwaukee.
Judge Mallory assumes in this decision that a military commander can march
a company to our doors, place a guard at our threshold, and take the law
into his own hands upon the slightest provocation, assault and beat an
editor; violate the very sanctity of private citizens' places of abode
or business-overcome all who do not agree with him in views or sentiments-provided
he pays to the City and County of Milwaukee five dollars and costs.
Does the Judge of the
Municipal Court regard this as a common street row? Is he entirely oblivious
of the fact that the issue involves a tremendous principle? Does this Judge
know that the social element in this city exists upon a volcanic basis
which has given forth flames and swallowed up lives time and again because
the civil authorities were too weak or too pusillanimous to sacrifice votes
and party influence to the good of the community?
Judge Mallory says to
the Sentinel office, by this decision, "you are liable at any moment to
have your editors mobbed, your doors barricaded and the great principles
of law and order and freedom of the press trampled out by a military mob,
if it will pay five dollars and costs to this court. Judge Mallory has
given us assurance from his judicial seat that we cannot depend upon the
court for protection.
He forces us back upon
the fundamental principle, that if assaulted and we would defend ourselves,
we must take the law in our own hands-in which case it is only proper to
say to all bullies and ruffians who shall attempt to make an assault upon
this office, or its editors hereafter, that the only examination of the
case that will be held in the premises, will be a post mortem examination.
If a carte blanche is to be given to all who dissent from our views, to
forcibly enter our establishment and knock down our editors, we shall know
how to deal with them.
In reference to the Twenty-sixth
regiment, it is only just to say that the large body of the men composing
it,
together with the gentlemanly Colonel, denounce the outrage. When the information
of the assault was brought to the companies in camp on Monday, they expressed
their surprise and indignation in unequivocal terms. We have been waited
upon by officers and privates in great numbers, all of whom desired us
to place the blame and odium where they properly belonged.
The feeling in the community
at large is one of indignation, so much so that active measures were taken
at once to bring the whole matter before the proper military authorities.
Article #43__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 11, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
What It Was Mr. Wheeler had said about Lehman we do not know; but if he asserted that he was wholly unfit to fill the position of an officer, of even the lowest grade, in the service of the United States, he spoke the truth. No man who will wantonly break the law, is a fit person to entrust with the duty of enforcing it.-Chicago Post.
Article #44__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 11, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
Mr. Editor:-
I presume you had good
reasons for omitting the report of the trial of Lieut. Col. Lehman for
assault, but in not giving a report of the case you failed to do justice
to the young gentleman who conducted the proceedings, Mr. Mason G. Smith.
He avoided all personal allusions that were unnecessary, and touched boldly
and unmistakeably at the principles at issue. He referred to the helpless
condition of the country, when confidence in our officers is destroyed;
spoke of the importance of men obeying the laws who were themselves appointed
the conserve them; alluded to the outrage as one inflicted upon the community
and upon one of the finest regiments yet organized in the State and he
asked the court to make the fine as heavy as the law allowed, that the
people of Milwaukee might see that military despotism could not exist here
while the civil authorities were acknowledged.
You will pardon me for
attempting to give imperfectly what I remember of his ideas, but the appeal
to the court was remarked by those who heard it to be well timed and eminently
sound.
Looker On.
Milwaukee, September 10th.
Article #45__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 15, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
The Wheeler Case.-
We have until now said
nothing about the assault of Lieut. Col. Lehman on Wheeler of the Sentinel,
because Mr. Wheeler had not only not defended the liberty of the press,
in the Melms case, (in the attack made upon us, and in an instance, to
when we were entirely innocent, as has been proven,) but even ridiculed
the same. We were silent from generosity, because we did not wish to appear
bitter. Now the Governor has intervened, and we must take notice of the
matter. If Lieut. Col. Lehman had asked Mr. Wheeler to give the Cedarburg
detachment satisfaction, Mr. Wheeler would most likely have addressed the
troops in the street, and begged pardon for any even fancied wrong. This
would have been the better way. But when the assault had been committed
on Wheeler, a judicial satisfaction ought to have been given by the Judge,
who already in three press cases, when we had to suffer attacks under aggravating
circumstances, on account of misunderstood "Humor", put the five at less
than $5, at $3. If he had put the five at $25, (which Mr. Lehman would
have readily paid,) Justice would have been satisfied. But he fined him
only $5. And then the Daily Life is right when saying that the Judge is
thus sanctioning such acts. The Judge is the cause of the Governor being
asked for judicial equalization. And the Governor has ordered Mr. Lehman
under suspension to be arrested and tried, for having caused military authority
to come in conflict with civil authority. The remaining officers who had
a part in the affair, have also been brought under arrest, until otherwise
ordered. The non-commissioned officers and privates are to receive extra
guard duty as punishment. The Governor might, perhaps, have acted milder;
but out of this affair the Municipal Court, which otherwise is very costly,
will receive its sentence of death; thatis, it will be abolished by the
next session of our Legislature, and the old Police Court which is fully
sufficient, will be reinstated; and the elections for the legislature will
be made accordingly. The Municipal Court is so terribly independent, so
unappealable, that its Judge appears as an absolute sovereign. It is time
that this Zwing Uri was broken. We need a Court to appeal to in minor cases.-Milwaukee
Phoenix.
A Keen Rebuke.-The order
of the Adjutant General, issued by the direction of the Governor, in relation
to the recent shameful assault by Lt. Col Lehman of the 26th regiment,
upon one of the editors of the Milwaukee Sentinel, will be found in another
column. It is a scathing but merited rebuke to a dunder-head in shoulders
straps. He is placed under arrest, suspended from this command, and his
disgrace published to his regiment and the world.
If the police judge in Milwaukee who adjudged the contemptible fine
of five dollars as the punishment for such an outrage, were also suspended,
the ends of justice would be better subserved.-Madison Journal.
Col. Lehman, for his
cowardly conduct, will no doubt be promptly removed by Gov. Salomon. This
sort of outrage should be summarily punished, and Judge Mallory should
be ashamed of himself for imposing so slight a penalty for the commission
of so gross an outrage. The people of Milwaukee owe it to themselves that
the fellow should be dealt with in the manner in which he deserves.-Whitewater
Register.
Article #46__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 16, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
Gen. Sigel and the Board of Aldermen.
The following resolution
complimentary of Gen. Franz Sigel, were offered last evening in the Board
of Aldermen, by W. K. Wilson, member from the Sixth Ward, and passed with
but one dissenting vote:
Resolved, That among the gallant defenders of our Union who have
by their fearlessness and military science, not only saved its cause in
adversity, but have advanced its standards when success seemed impossible,
we recognize none as the emperor of Major General Sigel. In combats when
he was far outnumbered, he has baffled the foe, and when obliged to retreat,
he has done so like a soldier, and without unnecessary loss-. These facts,
now become a part of our history, demonstrate him to be the active soldier
and accomplished strategist whom the country demands as the leader of its
armies.
Resolved, That the Mayor
be, and he is hereby requested to sign and the Clerk instructed to affix
the seal of the city to the above resolutions, and that the same be forwarded
the Major General Franz Sigel.
__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 16, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
Adjutant General's Office
Madison, Wis, Sept. 10, 1862.
General Order No. 28.
I. The Governor having been advised of a recent disgraceful disturbance of the public peace, at the office of the "Daily Sentinel," Milwaukee, on the 8th September, 1862, including a personal assault upon a private citizen, committed by a portion of the 26th Regt. Wis. Vols., under the immediate command of Lieut. Col. Lehmann of said regiment, desires to express thus publicly his disapprobation of such conduct as subversive of all disciplined, and sending to bring the military and civil power into conflict. No military officer is authorized by virtue of his command of volunteer troops to take on hand the business of redressing real or fancied wrongs and insults.
II. The wrongs referred to in the previous section cannot be allowed to go without some further mark of disapprobation than the publication of a General Order, and it is therefore ordered
1st. That Lieut. Col. Lehman be immediately placed under arrest,
and suspended from command until further orders.
2d. That all commissioned officers engaged in the said disturbance,
be placed under arrest until further orders.
3d. That all non-commissioned officers and privates who shall upon
investigation be found to have been so engaged, be punished by extra guard
duty or in such other manner as shall be deemed sufficient by the Colonel
Commanding.
III. Col. W.H.Jacobs, commanding Twenty-sixth Regiment, is hereby charged with the execution of this order, and will immediately investigate the matter and report to this office.
IV. This order will be read to the regiment at the first General Parade after its receipt, by the Colonel Commanding.
By order of the Commander-in-Chief .
Aug. Gaylord,
Adjutant General.
The Daily Life, speaking of the recent assault upon the Sentinel
office says:
"It is sufficient to
give the facts in this flagrant transaction to excite a virtuous indignation
against all participants therein. But the worst remains to be told. The
assaulting party was brought before Judge Mallory, of the Municipal Court,
on Tuesday, and after a hearing, was mulcted in a fine of five dollars
and costs! Thus had this judicial officer, in effect, affixed his solemn
sanction to the outrage, and proclaimed the price at which its repetition
may be attempted.
Gov. Salomon should in
not event allow this transaction to pass unheeded by him, but by every
consideration of honor and regard for personal rights should dismiss this
Lehman from the service. His conduct is unworthy of a military officer,
or even of a respectable bully, and we cannot afford to send him where
his loose principles or hasty temper may be instrumental in fomenting quarrels
and bringing lasting disgrace upon the army."
It will be seen that
the governor has taken prompt action in the matter of Lieut. Col. Lehman.
The general order provided for the punishment of the offenders, and states
that such conduct is subversive of all discipline, and tending to bring
the military and civil power into conflict. From all that we know of the
Governor by his previous acts, this prompt notice of the case was to be
expected. Lehman, we understand, has been under arrest since Tuesday, by
order of Colonel Jacobs.
Article #47__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 17, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
Lieutenant Colonel Lehman,
of the Twenty-sixth, or Sigel regiment, who was placed under arrest and
deprived of his command for assaulting the Local Editor of the Sentinel
has been released, we understand, and reinstated. It seems Captain Trowbridge
repaired to the camp to muster in the men some days ago, and was informed
that the men were not ready to take the oath. Several whole companies said
their Lieutenant Colonel was under arrest for what was in reality no crime
at all, and they had concluded to wait a while before swearing into the
service, and see the termination of the matter! How much this demonstration
had to do with his release we don't pretend to say, but certain it is he
was at liberty soon after!-News of yesterday.
The above, we are authorized
to state by Captain Trowbridge, is erroneous in every statement. Lieut.
Col. Lehman had not been released; Captain Trowbridge did not go to camp
several days ago to muster in the regiment, and several whole companies
did not object or say a word against being mustered in. The regiment was
not ready to be mustered in on Monday; it was ready yesterday, but the
storm interfered with the ceremony.
We would suggest to the
News that the regiment has already suffered enough by the foolishness of
its Lieut. Colonel, and any attempt to throw further odium on what will
be a crack regiment, by publishing false statements regarding the insubordination
of "whole companies" is unjust.
__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 17, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
The complaint against
Judge Mallory in the Lehman case comes only from those who had no word
of disapproval to utter when Daniel's regiment was conducting a series
of mobs against respectable citizens with impunity.-Daily News.
They do, do they. How
is this from the La Crosse Democrat.
"Outrage.-Lieut. Col. Lehman, of the Sigel regiment, was before
the Municipal Court of Milwaukee, and fined five dollars for assaulting
the local editor the Sentinel. Lehman called at the office with fifty brother
to punish the editor for a fancied joke and done it. The judge who imposed
such a fine for so uncalled for violation of law and order must have the
same idea of justice as a drunken Indian has of Moore's Lallah Rooke or
Scotts Lady of the Lake. The Governor very rightly has suspended Lehman
from command, and ordered the other loafers who assisted him under arrest.
We will not insult Lehman by calling him a gentleman- it would suggest
he knew something."
Article #48__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 18, 1862. Page 1, Col 3
An order appears in the Madison Journal , which we give elsewhere, dated September eleventh (six days ago,) ordering the release of Col. Lehman and other officers of the Twenty-Sixth regiment from arrest, for the riotous demonstrations made by them. We presume the date of the order is a mistake, otherwise there is something a little mixed in the whole matter.
__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 18, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
Headquarters State of Wisconsin,
Adjutant General's Office,
Madison, Sept. 11, 1862.
General Order No. 29.
On the report of Col. W. H. Jacobs, commanding the Twenty-sixth Regiment, required in General Order No. 28, representing the part taken by Lieut. Col. Lehman and other officers and men of said Regiment on the occasion referred to in said order, the acknowledgment of wrong by said Lieut. Colonel; a petition from therty-two officers of the Regiment representing their great need of his services; and the fact appearing that the other officers and men were present on said occasion by his orders, but taking no further part, it is hereby ordered:
I. That the officers placed under arrest by virtue of said order No. 28, be dischrged from said arrest after a reprimand from the commanding officer of the Regiment, which shall express to them the great wrong they have done, and the expectation of the Commander-in-Chief that, by their good conduct hereafter, they will efface the stain which they have cast upon themselves and their regiment.
By order of the Commander-in-Chief.
Aug. Gaylord,
Adjutant General.
__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 18, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
THE TWENTY SIXTH- The Twenty sixth Regiment was yesterday mustered into service by Capt. Trowbridge, U.S. Mustering Officer. The boys had rather a hard time of it, the rain pouring down during the process, which occupied some three hours. Very few were rejected, and the regiment numbers probably 1,050 men. The boys are in good health and spirits. The heavy rains trouble them a little in their leaky barracks.
__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 18, 1862. Page 2, Col 2
Carrie Mann announces in the West Bend Post that her husband, Jacob
F. Mann, (the editor,) and her brother, Charles D. Waldo, (assistant editor),
having both gone to war to fight the battles of our country, then she will
"run" the paper to the best of her ability until they return.
Who is there will not wish Mrs. Mann the best success?
Article #49__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 23, 1862. Page 1, Col 7
A party of soldiers (some fifteen or twenty) from the Twenty-sixth Regiment, got into a row about three o'clock on Sunday morning on East Water Street, and were severely handled by a couple of hackmen, who after knocking down several of the soldiers, got upon their vehicles and made off in double-quick.
Article #50__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 26, 1862. Page 2, Col 3
The Milwaukee News has
been detected in another of its characteristic falsehoods and mercilessly
exposed by the stern logic of facts.
In a recent issue it
stated that a number of the companies of this regiment to which Lieut.
Col. Lehman was attached, had espoused his cause, and when Capt. Trowbridge
came to muster the regiment they refused to be sworn until he was released,
which was accordingly done- That a secession sheet like the News should
advocate the cause of a cowardly bully is not to be wondered at, but its
falsehood was contrtadicted before it had time to accomplish even the questionable
advantage that is sometimes desired from that style of argument. Captain
Trowbridge authorized the evening papers to contradict the whole statement.
The men belonging to the regiment will hardly thank the News for thus making
it appear that they desire to spare the disgrace of their cowardly officer
by sustaining him in his bullying blackguardism- Manitowoc Tribune.
Article #51__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 29, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
Presentation.-
We see by the German
papers that Lieut. Domschke, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, has been presented
by his friends with a handsome sword.
Lieut. Domschke was the
editor of the Herold and enlisted as a private. Sword presentations have
got to be every day occurrences, but we know of none so worthy to receive
a testimonial of this kind as Mr. Domschke. He will use it as he has always
used his pen, vigorously and fearlessly for freedom, and in support of
law.
__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 29, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
SOLDIERS ABOUT LOOSE-
We have been informed
by several policemen, and by others who were at the fire on Friday night,
on West Water Street, that a Lieutenant from the Twenty-sixth Regiment
was very conspicuous there, rushing about with a drawn sword, ordering
people indiscriminately and brandishing his weapon in a dangerous and ludicrous
manner.
At a dance on Saturday
night at Birchard's hall, there were several men from the same regiment,
and some kind of a disturbance being made in the hall, the police undertook
to make an arrest and were interfered with by a squad of soldiers with
muskets. One policeman was cut in the head by a stone thrown by one of
them.
We are informed by the Station Keeper that a squad of men armed,
came to the station on Saturday night and demanded the release of one of
their men, and when informed by the Station Keeper that he would not release
him, the officer in command of the squad said he supposed the civil law
was suspended and that martial law was in force.
The sooner this mistake
is corrected in this city the better for all of us.
Article #52__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 1, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT- The 26th (Sigel) Regiment received orders yesterday to march next Monday. They go direct to Washington. On Thursday the Regimental flag will be presented, and on Saturday a street parade will take place.
Article #53__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 3, 1862. Page 1, Col 7
Presented With a Horse.-Major
Horwitz, of the Twenty-Sixth regiment, was yesterday presented with a noble
horse, by his numerous friends in Milwaukee. The animal, a splendid black
one, cost two hundred dollars, and is now known in camp as "General Taylor."
Mr. Ed. Kahn, who made
the presentation speech, did so in the following appropriate remarks:
Major Phillip Horwitz.-
Sir.-Some of your personal
friends, among the Israelites of this city, desire to present you with
a horse. They wish you to accept it as a token of their personal respect
and esteem, and of their best wishes for your success and honor in the
defence of your country, its constitution, and government.
May this noble animal
bear you only to victory. In battle, may "his neck be clothed with thunder,"
and when peace shall be restored, may he bear you back, in safety, to rejoice
with us, over rebellion crushed, liberty triumphant, and the people, once
more, prosperous and happy.
As the organ of these,
your personal friends, I tender to you my sincere regards, and ask your
acceptance of this, their gift, the horse "General Taylor."
Ed. Kahn.
Article #54__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 4, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
Flag Presentation to the 26th Regiment
The flag prepared by the Chamber of Commerce for the 26th Regiment will be presented at 2:00 by George Allen Esq. It is understood that there will be a street parade and the flag will be presented in front of Newhall House. The Regiment departs Monday for Washington.
Article #55__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 6, 1862. Page 1, Col 3
FLAG PRESENTATION TO THE 26TH REGIMENT
The Twenty-sixth (Sigel)
Regiment, Col. Jacobs, was presented on Saturday with a magnificent set
of regimental colors, by the Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce.
The regiment marched
down from their camp at 2 o'clock, and the presentation took place in front
of the Newhall House-Mr. George Allen, on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce,
making the following remarks:
SPEECH OF GEO. W. ALLEN
Col. Jacobs and Officers and Soldiers of the Sigel Twenty-sixth
Regiment:
That patriotic body, the
Chamber of Commerce of this city, has deputed me to present to you, on
this occasion, your State colors. More interest pertains to this occasion
than ordinarily attends those of a kindred character.
Yes go forth to unite
with the thousands and the hundreds of thousands of other men, in common
efforts to preserve the government of our common country. You are to unite
your efforts with theirs in solving the great problem whether a representative
government can be preserved when attacked by powerful force-whether a government
founded by the people and existing by the people, has vitality enough and
force enough to withstand the shock of those arrayed against it-whether
there be vitality enough in a people, thus possessing and being the government,
to rise up and protect that government, assailed by a foreign or a domestic
foe.
Your own position as
a regiment is interesting and peculiar. You were born in another and distant
land. You bid adieu to the groves and the green fields and beautiful hills
of your native land, and came here by choice to cast in your fortunes with
the first of those who were to this manor born.
With effections thus
divided- lingering memories of a distant nativity- of its green groves-
of its living and loved kindred- then struggle in your hearts while you
behold the present and future of your adopted land. How much greater the
homage that should be paid to your loyalty than to those who go forth to
the battle who were to the manor born! Before leaving your native hills
and fields, you had heard of the great trans-Atlantic Republic. The civil
and religious freedom there enjoyed. you had heard of its free and powerful
government- among the greatest in the family of nations. you choose to
cast in your lot with the nation and its people. You came here and found
a great nation- great in all the elements of national greatness- you found
it a united, a happy, and a prosperous nation. How changed - in an evil
hour red ambition resolved upon its destruction. True to the instincts
of your hearts- true to the instincts of yourselves and the great body
of humanity, you have come forward in this dark hour and offered the sacrifice
of your time, your labors, and if need be, your lives, to the course of
protecting and defending our common heritage.
You go forth to fight
under the banners of the gallant Sigel. Of all the names that have arisen
on the field since the commencement of this war, none shines out with a
brighter luster than that of General Franz Sigel. It is not reported that
he has yet met with a failure or with disaster. Skillful in all his combinations
and all his moments ements, success has ever perched upon his banners.
Overborne by numbers he may have been but always saved his command in a
manner that commanded the admiration of his country and the world. No adverse
criticism has yet been passed upon any of his actions in the field, a fact
that renders complaints by words powerless.
At the battle of Pea
Ridge, it is stated that the enemy determined to take the life of Sigel-
that they selected twelve sharpshooters for that purpose- and though he
was surrounded and compelled to cut his way through, yet came out untouched.
The favored and protected of Heaven, he was reserved for other and greater
services to hes adopted country.
You requested of the
Chamber of Commerce that it should inscribe upon the folds of this flag,
that it was presented by the Chamber of Commerce of the city of Milwaukee.
The Chamber has departed from your request. It has placed an engraved plate
upon its staff, thus rescinding your request. But it has left its ample
folds free, to be inscribed with the names of the victories that your heroic
deeds shall render immortal!
Go forth, then, to this holy war, under this banner. You go from
us- for you are of us. Most of you are our citizens, our neighbors, and
our friends. A city 's eyes will follow you- a city's prayers will ascend
unto Him with whom are the issues of life, that in the day of battle, when
bracing up bravely amidst the tempest of fire an the storm of leaden hail,
His shield may be around you, and that you may return, crowned with the
victor's wreath, to those homes and firesides you have known and loved
so well.
Mr. S. T. Hooker, on handing this flag to the regiment, said:
Officers and Men of the Twenty-sixth (Sigel) Regiment, Wisconsin
Volunteers.
in behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, I present you with this banner.
May the Almighty God preserve and protect you, and all who fight under
its folds and lead you on to victory, granting that we may be here to welcome
you on your return, with your Banner filled with the records of your victories.
Col. Jacobs replied as follows:
GENTLEMEN:-
in accepting at your
hands this beautiful emblem, in behold of the regiment I have the honor
to command, allow me to express to you my heart-felt gratitude which I
know to be shared by every soldier here, for your appropriate gift. Coming
from the Chamber of Commerce, it speaks to us the patriotism and sincere
solicitation for our welfare, of the community. For it is through the Chamber
of Commerce that the patriotic sentiment of the people finds utterance,
in deeds of kindest benevolence for the soldier in the field. We thank
the good people of Milwaukee for the universal kindness shown us. We heartily
thank you, gentlemen of the Chamber of Commerce, for this the latest and
I may say to us the dearest manifestation of that kindness. For what is
there dearer to the soldier's heart than the flag under which he fights?
And where among the nations of the earth is there another flag that represents
principles so dear to man; so intimately interwoven with the problem of
constitutional liberty, as the standard under which we rally? My friends,
words are as nothing- verbal professions of little value- We hope and trust
that the opportunity will be offered us when we may show by deeds that
we are worthy of the mark of esteem with which you honor us to-day. When
amid the flash of musketry and the roar of cannon, it shall be our proud
duty to carry this noble emblem of liberty with strong arms, and unquailing
hearts, high above the din of battle, "onward and upward and true to the
line." Gentlemen, the best wishes of the regiment are yours.
Three cheers were then
given for the Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce and for Franz Sigel, and the
Regiment formed into line and marched back.
The appearance of the
men elicited considerable surprise. Their efficiency in drill, their discipline,
and their uniformity of appearance being remarkable, and all were lauded
loudly.
Major Horwitz, and Dr.
Heubschman, both thorough officers, were conspicuous, with the Colonel,
and were noticeable for their soldierly bearing and promptness. Altogether
the regiment created a decidedly favorable impression, and it was generally
remarked that it was the best drilled and best appearing body of men that
has yet left the State.
Article #56__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 7, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
DEPARTURE OF THE TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT
The Twenty-sixth (Sigel)
Regiment received orders last week to leave yesterday for Washington. Pursuant
to these orders, the regiment left camp yesterday about half-past ten,
and took the line of march down Prospect street to Division, from Division
to East Water, and thence to the Lake Shore Depot.
On Market Square the regiment was halted in front of the St. Charles
and furnished with refreshments by kind and thoughtful friends.
From an early hour our
streets were thronged with citizens whom on the appearance of the regiment,
greeted it with cheers, waving of handkerchiefs, and hearty Godspeeds.
The regiment, marching in fine order, made a splendid appearance, and well
deserved the applause and enthusiasm which met it everywhere along the
march. Few regiments of such strong, stalwart and brave men have left this
state. The hopes and prayers of every earnest man will go with them.
At the depot there were
the usual scenes of leave-taking. There was scarcely a dry eye in the immense
throng.. Wives, mothers and sisters pressed forward to give their last
blessing and receive the last fond farewell from those whom they cherished
in their hearts. We noticed one lady whose grief was touching. She had
lost two sons in the war, and the third and last son was now going. May
God spare her only son to cherish and protect her in her declining years.
The regiment goes via
Chicago, Cleveland and Elmira, over the Michigan Southern and New York
& Erie roads, taking the same route as the Fourth Wisconsin did. God
give its brave souls strength and courage to help on the good cause. The
following is the regimental roster.
Colonel- W.H. Jacobs.
Lieutenant Colonel- Charles Lehman,
Major- Ph. Horwitz.
Adjutant- P.F. Jobleson
Quartermaster- F.W Hundhausen.
Surgeon- Dr. Huebschmann
First Assistant Surgeon- Dr. Fricke
Second Assistant Surgeon- Dr. Van Vaart
Company A- Flying Rangers.
Wm. George, Captain;Christian Sarnow, First Lieutenant; Aug. F.
Mueller, Second Lieut.
Company B- German Americans
Fred. C. Winkler, Capt; William F. Huttman, First Lieut; F. Lackner,
Second Lieut.
Company C- Milwaukee Guards
S.P. Seemann, Captain; W.J. Fuchs, First Lieut; B. Domschke, Second
Lieut.
Company D- Solomon Rifles
A, Ligousky, Capt; Aug. Schueler, First Lieut.; Chas. Ottilie, Second
Lieut.
Company E- Fond du Lac Turner Company
Anton Kettler, Captain; Chas. W. Neukirch, First Lieut.; John F,
Hagen, Second Lieut.
Company F- Lake Shore Rifles
H. Baetz, Capt.; Chas. Pizzala, First Lieut., A. Walber, Second
Lieut.
Company G- Washington Rifles
J.F. Mann, Capt.; Wm. Smith, First Lieut.; J. Meisswinkel, Second
Lieut.
Company H- Second Ward Guard
H. Boebel, Capt.; J. Wedig, First Lieut.; Chas. Vocke, Second Lieut.
Company I- Wenze Guard
F. Landa, Capt.; H. Berninger, First Lieut.; J. Orth, Second Lieut.
Company K- Sigel Guard
L. Pelosi, Capt.; S. Heipp, First Lieut., Ed. Carl, Second Lieut.
ARRIVAL OF THE TWENTY-SIXTH REG'T AT CHICAGO- The Twenty-Sixth Regiment,
which left Milwaukee on Monday at 1 o'clock P.M., arrived in Chicago about
8 P.M.- They formed in line and marched to the Union Depot, where the men
were served with some hot coffee and luncheon, by the Southern Michigan
folk. Satiated as Chicago is with military displays, the passage of the
Twenty-Sixth through the streets attracted considerable attention, and
the precision of their marching was commented on favorably.
The officers were invited to a splendid supper served up at the
Tremont House.
The regiment left Chicago between 9 and 10 P.M.
Article #57__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 8, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
SAD INDEED- The Drum Major of the Twenty-sixth Regiment, we learn, was the recipient of news on the day that the regiment left Milwaukee of the sudden death by accident of a brother, who was also a member of the Twenty-sixth, and whose wife was at the camp on Monday morning, unaware of what had happened until the facts were communicated by Major Luther. A sad stroke this, to fall at such a moment, too. The brother, it seems, was sent on Sunday to attend a sick mother, and fell into a stream near Cedarburg and was drowned.
Article #58__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 9, 1862. Page 2, Col 4
THE TWENTY-SIXTH AND ITS TRAVELS- We learn by telegraph from Dunkirk last evening, that the Twenty-sixth Regiment arrived there at 12:15, and left at 3 A. M. - The officers were served with supper and other necessary refreshments in the depot dining saloon, and the men were regaled with coffee outside. They left Dunkirk in the best of spirits, with renewed determination to "fight mit Sigel." (Dunkirk is probably Dunkirk, In., NE of Muncie-Ed.)
Article #59__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 17, 1862. Page 1, Col 6
TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT- We learn from one of our citizens just returned from Washington that the Twenty-sixth (Sigel) Regiment was in fine condition and encamped under the guns of Fort Corcoran. The regiment was under marching orders to report itself at Fairfax, for the purpose of joining Sigel's corps, on Wednesday of this week.
Article #60__________________________________________________________________________
Nov 9, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
Our company in the Twenty-sixth
regiment gave 90 democratic and 9 republican votes. Did the other companies
vote? If not, why?-Madison Patriot
Yes, other companies
did vote; one at least giving a unanimous vote for Brown, and the regiment
giving a majority the same way. Is it not possible for the Patriot and
other democratic sheets to exhibit common honesty with reference to the
soldiers' vote? If not, why?
Article #61__________________________________________________________________________
Nov 26, 1862. Page 2, Col 4
FROM SIGEL'S ARMY
The retreat from Gainsville to Fairfax Court House- A Panic amongst
the New Regiments- The Twenty-Sixth Wisconsin abandon their Tents- are
sent back for Them.
Correspondence of the New York Times.
Headquarters Eleventh Army Corps
Fairfax Court House, Nov 18, 1862.
The headquarters of the
Eleventh Army Corps were transferred from Gainesville to this place, to-day.
The main portion of the Army of the Potomac having swept down Bull Run
Valley, and halted a week at Warrenton, has again taken up its line of
march southward, and by this time is well on its way to a field where immediate
and more active operations are anticipated. The army, as a whole, was never
in better fighting trim that now, and is eager to meet and crush the enemy.
The rebel leaders, with their usual cunning, have managed to keep up such
a display of troops along the passes leading into the Shenandoah Valley,
as to render the detention of a corps at this point, to look after them,
a matter of necessity. Jackson is now, as he ever has been, the great bugbear
to those who manage the Union army. It is very generally believed that
he has at least 40,000 men, with whom he is ready, at the first convenient
opportunity, to pounce upon Washington. To guard against the possibility
of such a movement being successful, one of the best disciplined and best
generaled corps of the Union army has been held in reserve.
So confident were many
of the commanders of the different posts that the rebels were to make an
immediate advance in that direction, that the falling back was not the
most orderly. The Eighty-sixth New York, stationed near New Baltimore,
destroyed about $1000 worth of provisions. The Twenty-sixth Wisconsin abandoned
a large number of tents and muskets. Gen. Sigel, when he heard of this,
ordered the regiment, accompanied by a sufficient force, to return, and,
if possible, obtain the abandoned property.- Some property was also necessarily
left at Thoroughfare Gap, owing to the order to move being so sudden, that
there was not time to order forward sufficient means for transporting everything.
The property was subsequently sent for. There seem, also, to have been
a slight panic at this place; for one individual burned a number of swords
and some other property. The panic, too must have reached Washington, for
by direction from the headquarters of the War Telegraph, the wire was removed
between Fairfax Station and this place, and also, between this place and
Centreville; there, unfortunately, most of the poles were cut down. These
will have to be replaced again. The consequence of all this haste or mismanagement
is, we are to-night not in telegraphic communication with any point.
No one, who has not been
in the front with the army can conceive of the activity and boldness of
the rebels, especially when the army or any portion of it is about to fall
back, or in any movement abandon a position. If it is a town occupied,
armed rebels invariably march into one side, while our rear-guard is leaving
at the other; they seem to spring up like Roderick Dhu's men, on both flanks
and rear. Such was the case at Warrenton and all other places recently
abandoned. I happened to be at New Baltimore last night, and had some opportunity
of judging of the boldness of the rebels. The place was evacuated this
morning. Last night, while all not on guard were preparing for rest, a
small rebel force came in and captured one of our pickets, consisting of
four men, within two hundred rods of the commanding officer's quarters.
At about the same time, another of our pickets captured Major Harris and
three other rebel officers.
Early in the night I
found it necessary to cross alone from Catlett's Station to New Baltimore,
and it was with the greatest difficulty that I kept out of the enemy's
clutches- having dodged in the dark no less than four different parties
of armed rebels. The section through which I passed was really within our
lines, though it was not twelve hours later. I mention these little details,
that your readers may know some of the difficulties our commanding officers
have to encounter in the prosecution of this war. The fact is, our lines
are always filled with traitors- it seems next to impossible to prevent
it; they profess to be neutral so long as it is necessary to do so, and
therefore are generally permitted to remain within the lines.- These men
know of any contemplated movement of the army quite as soon as outsiders,
and the moment the movement is commenced, they are ready to draw their
arms from the places of concealment and fall upon all stragglers- a class
of soldiers who are far too numerous in the Union army.
Gen. Sigel has taken
for his headquarters the house occupied by him when here before the move
to Gainesville. Col. Robinson has resumed his arduous duties as Provost-Marshal
in the same place as before, and as soon as the telegraph is in order,
Fairfax Court-house will again resume to its busy appearance....
__________________________________________________________________________
Sat Nov 26, 1862. Page 1, Col 2
One company in the Twenty-sixth
regiment gave 90 democratic and 2 republican votes. Did the other companies
vote? If not, why?-Madison Patriot.
Yes, other companies
did vote; one at least giving aunanimous vote for Brown and the regiment
giving a majority th same way. Is it not possible for the Patriot and other
dimocratic sheets to exhibit common honesty with reference to the soldiers'
vote? "If not, why?"
Article #62__________________________________________________________________________
Dec 4, 1862. Page 1, Col 5
The Twenty -Sixth Wisconsin Vindicated-Letter from Gen. Sigel to
Gov. Salomon.
Gov. Salomon has received the following letter from General Sigel,
correcting a foul slander upon the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin, which appeared
on the New York papers:
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH CORPS,
Army of the Potomac,
Fairfax C.H., Va, Nov. 27, 1862.
To His Excellency, Gov. Salomon, Madison, Wis:
DEAR SIR:-Probably you will have read in one of our papers, that
"a Wisconsin regiment" did not behave well on the withdrawal of our forces
from Thoroughfare Gap, by throwing away their arms and burning their tents.
Although I am sure that you have more confidence in the valor and discipline
of the noble Twenty-sixth (the only regiment of Wisconsin soldiers attached
the this corps), than to believe such a scandalous report, I think it nevertheless
my duty to say, that the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin was not at Thoroughfare
Gap, when we marched from there to Centerville, and that the whole story
about throwing away arms and burning tents is a most malicious and infamous
misrepresentation and lie, brought up by some treacherous scoundrel, who
should be regarded and held up before the public as an official rebel agent
and sensation st.
It affords me pleasure to say, that the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin is
in the best spirits, and, by constant exercise and drill, in excellent
health.
With the greatest respect, yours truly,
F. Sigel, Maj. Gen.
Article #63__________________________________________________________________________
Jan 3, 1863. Page 1, Col 5
THE BARRACKS AT CAMP SIGEL DESTROYED BY FIRE
Two Soldiers Burned to Death.
About 1 o'clock yesterday morning. a fire was discovered in one of
the buildings at Camp Sigel, and in less than half an hour all of the barracks
occupied by the soldiers were burned to the ground. The barracks were occupied
by the Twenty-seventh Regiment, Col. Kruz. There were quarters for ten
companies, but as the Twenty-seventh has only nine companies, nine only
were occupied. The door to this room was kept locked. When the guard discovered
the fire the whole of the room was in a blaze and the door open, so that
it must have been the work of an incendiary. The alarm was immediately
given, but the wind was high, and the building being very dry and filled
with soldiers bunks, which contained straw, burned like so much tinder.
The fire spread rapidly and filled the whole barracks with flame and smoke
almost in a moment. The soldiers blinded and suffocating with the smoke
made their way out, some dressed, but a great number only partially so.
Two of the soldiers were burned to death. Another was badly burned but
is expected to recover.
The two men burned to death were new recruits, and not yet mustered
into the service. One man was named V. Bronsma, and belonged to Capt. Hubbard's
company. He was a substitute and had only been in camp a few days. He was
a married man. The other belonged to Capt. Marschuer's company, and was
named James West. He was a new recruit and had enlisted under the assumed
name of Mason. He was burned while trying to escape. He was rescued by
two of his fellow soldiers after being terribly scorched, and carried to
the hospital. He died a few hours later. Just before his death he said
his real name was West. We could not ascertain the name of the man who
was badly burned. He belonged to Capt. Corneliesen's company. The two men
who were burned to death are reported to have gone to bed drunk. One of
them was waked and pulled out of bed by his chum but he went back again,
not seeming to appreciate the danger. As the flames were upon them his
chum left him.
Many of the soldiers had carpet bags and small trunks containing
their private property. Nearly all of them were lost. Those who got out
with their wearing apparel, were fortunate. Some escaped without boots
and others without hat or coat. As a storm of rain came up shortly after
the fire, the soldiers suffered a great deal before morning.
A large number of knapsacks, cartridge boxes, canteens, about 150
rifles, about 40 stoves, etc., etc., wereconsumed by the fire. A large
portion of the Quartermaster and Commissary stores were destroyed, including
some new tents just received. Some of the stores, however, were saved through
the persistent efforts of Quartermaster Shafter, who got his hands badly
burned while engaged in the dangerous work.
The barracks destroyed consisted of five large frame buildings constructed
together. They were occupied as sleeping quarters and mess rooms. A few
small buildings on the west side, occupied by commissioned officers, were
burned; those on the east side were saved. The buildings on the south side,
occupied by commissioned officers, were burned; those on the east side
were saved. The buildings on the south side, occupied by the field and
staff officers were also saved. The loss to the regiment is a severe one
and it will be some time before it can be remedied. But the loss of property
is nothing compared with the sad loss of life. The two soldiers died a
death far more horrible than could be conceived of on the bloodiest of
battle fields.
Yesterday morning the regiment, about 800 strong, marched to Camp
Washburn, where the soldiers will find comparatively comfortable quarters.
Article #64__________________________________________________________________________
Jan 5, 1863. Page 1, Col 5
The Twenty-Seventh Regiment.-In the recent conflagration at Camp Sigel the Twenty-seventh Regiment lost its hospital, together with all the hospital supplies. There is nothing left to contribute to the comfort of the sick soldiers. Their cots, sheets, and other comforts are all gone. Will not some of our Milwaukee ladies do something for the sick in the Twenty-seventh Regiment? Contributions can be left at Morton's drug store, near the Post Office, or at the rooms of the Soldiers' Aid Society.
Article #65__________________________________________________________________________
Jan 8, 1863. Page 1, Col 3
MILITARY ITEMS-...Sergeant Major Peter Fernekes as Second Lieut., Co. I, Twenty-Sixth Regiment...Second Lieut. B. Domschcke as First Lieut., and Robert Muller as Second Lieut. Co. C, Twenty Sixth Regiment. First Lieut. Charles Pizzala as Capt. Co. G, Twenty-Sixth Regiment.'
Article #66__________________________________________________________________________
Jan 27, 1863. Page 1, Col 5
Letter from General Sigel
General Sigel has transmitted to the Common Council of this city the letter appended, in response to resolutions complimentary to himself, adopted by that body, on motion of Hon. W.K. Wilson, one of its members-The original letter is on file in the office of the Council:-
HEADQUARTERS GRAND RESERVE DIVISION
ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Stafford C.H., Va., January 16, 1863.
Hon. Horace Chase, Mayor of the City of Milwaukee, Wis:
DEAR SIR:-The resolutions of the Common Council of Milwaukee, expressing
the generous confidence of that body in my behalf, were duly received,
but the multiplicity of my duties has prevented an earlier acknowledgment.
Allow me at this late day to say, that such an expression from your
honorable body is more honor that I can appropriate to myself. I have endeavored
to do my duty as a citizen and a soldier, but have accomplished less than
my heart has desired. The brave men who have served under me deserve the
highest inconimms for their devotion and courage, and since they necessarily
share all the credit that may be attributed to me, cannot shrink from the
responsibilities which those generous expressions of confidence involve.
Accept, therefore, and please present to the Common Council, my
hearty thanks for the expressions of regard and confidence contained in
those resolutions, and believe me to be
Gratefully and truly,
F. SIGEL, Maj. Gen. U.S. Vols.
Article #67__________________________________________________________________________
Mar 8, 1863. Page 1, Col 5
CHARLES THIEME, a member of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, committed suicide, by shooting himself through the head, in the camp of the regiment somewhere on the Potomac.
Article #68__________________________________________________________________________
Mar 12, 1863. Page 2, Col 3
Occasion of Sigel's Resignation.
The Washington correspondent of the Chicago Tribune gives the following
explanation of Sigel's reported resignation:
"Gen. Carl Schurz has urged the President not to accept Gen. Sigel's
resignation. Yet it is difficult to perceive how he can avoid doing so,
since, if I am correctly informed, he has taken issue with his superiors
on a point on which they cannot yield without loss of self-respect. When
the grand divisions having been abolished by Gen. Hooker, Gen. Sigel became
only a corps commander again, he asked to be relieved or to be assigned
a larger command. "We have done the best we can for you," was the reply
of the Government, "and now we expect you to do the best you can for us."
Whereupon Gen. Sigel tendered his resignation. I do not know what view
others may take; but I cannot help thinking this action akin to that of
Gen. Fremont when Gen. Pope was put over his head. The aggravation in the
latter case would seem to be at least equally great, and yet the people,
and even Fremont's best friends, considered his course unwise and uncalled
for. True soldiers are like Tennyson's six hundred at Balaklava:
"Theirs not to reason why,
Theirs not to make reply,
Theirs but to do or die."
Article #69__________________________________________________________________________
Mar 18, 1863. Page 1, Col 4
WHEREABOUTS OF THE TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT.-Dr. Hundhausen inform us
that this Regiment is located at Stafford Court House, instead of Fairfax,
as we had it in our item yesterday morning. He also assures us that the
resolutions signed by Col. Jacobs and other officers, which gave the Milwaukee
Copperheads so much distress, a short time ago, were most heartily endorsed
by the entire Regiment, which hates traitors aboveboard whether found North
or South. The Dr. says he is, and always has been, a staunch Democrat,
but he is nor of the Copperhead variety by any means. The story which has
been put afloat that the Regiment is reduced to 200 or 300 men, he pronounces
utterly false, there being almost as many fit for duty as when it left
the State.
It gives us sincere pleasure to take by the hand so warm a patriot
as Dr. H., and when he takes his leave, a week hence, for his post of duty
again, we know he will carry the good will and best wishes of all lovers
of their country here, to his brave comrades in the field, both officers
and men.
Article #70__________________________________________________________________________
Apr 7, 1863. Page 1, Col 5
FROM THE TWENTY SIXTH WISCONSIN REGIMENT
Since my last correspondence , none but pleasant occurrences came
to pass. Everything goes on improving, the weather and the roads, the dispositions
of the army; even the administration seems to be endowed with a better
spirit, and with a new enthusiasm, I may almost say, a certainty of victory,
we long for the approaching Spring campaign. Hooker is full of energy,
and gaining the general confidence. Our cavalry performed some daring tricks,
and promises to be of use hereafter. Besides, our infantry and artillery,
if led well, are superior to that of the enemy, and with a cheerful heart
the patriot may contemplate the future- it dawns.
It is expected that the next months will become the bloodiest of
the whole war, as they also may possible be the last. On both sides, fighting
will be done with the rage of desperation. Blood will flow in streams,
and many a one of our young regiment will also have to sacrifice his life,
but not in vain. We shall be victorious, in spite of all impediments, in
defiance of all the efforts of your true friends (?) of the North. The
army of the North will gain the victory for the good cause, and the contemptible
slaveholding oligarchy will have to submit. But is it not a pity that already
we should have so far succeeded in meanness and demoralization, that we
are offended at being obliged to share the fruits of our sanguinary efforts
with our Northern Friends. (?) When a soldier, in a stormy night, lies
cowering near his picket fire, wrapped up in his torn and tattered cloak,
trying in vain to warm his cold limbs, or to dry his wet feet, AN INFINITE
BITTERNESS MUST FILL HIS HEART when he reflects that those of whom he expected
aid and comfort, are mocking him and calling him by the name of hireling;
that he , when misfortune has made him a cripple, shall, on returning home,
be derided and insulted, instead of being gratefully received with open
arms, and relieved from his sad fate!- Nevertheless, the soldier does not
forget that at this moment he is the only pillar of the country, that all
who yet care for liberty, equality, , in short, for the Union, cling to
him as the last anchor of hope, and his courage, his zeal increases with
danger. He knows very well that under present circumstances, his personal
welfare (I will not say his security) is closely allied with the welfare
and success of the Union. All that is sacred to man, the love of fatherland,
liberty, his personal honor, incites him to the fulfillment of his duty,
and he that yet wavered, now stands as firm as a rock.
I am decided in my opinion that nothing has more contributed towards
awakening the true spirit, the enthusiasm in the army than the outbreaking
treason at the North. Every one involuntary calls to his mind such from
the circle of his acquaintances at home, who might be denominated by the
name of "Copperheads" and what does he find? Oh! I do not like to go into
personalities, but it is certain that every man not yet entirely fallen
and hardened turns with wrath and disgust from such men, and their bad
cause. One is actively reminded of the old Spartans, who made the slaves
drunk, and then let them reel about the streets, in order that the youth
should early acquire a disgust of drunkenness. We thank you Mssrs. traitor
for the "frightening example" you gave us. You also have sacrificed yourself
to your country, but certainly in a peculiar manner. Till now the soldier
saw treason and traitors on the battle field alone; he saw the traitors
bravely advance with fixed bayonet, and he could not refuse him his esteem
although regretting his blind madness. But now, praised be the Gods, he
has seen the real traitor without the "lion's skin" and he is thoroughly
cured of all regard for him.
A political party can only be judged by the few prominent leading
individuals; their opinion is also the opinion of their followers, the
wishes of these the others perform. Should we judge of the peace party
accordingly, the question arises at once: "Is it possible that these men
ever intend to do good?" While every one, that knows somewhat of the past
of the leading stars of these "Peace Democrats" answers this question in
the negative, the faction howls into our ears the word "peace".
Obtained by means of our arms, peace is the glorious aim the patriot
strives for, the much wished for end of bloody combats the wearied soldier
longs for the regeneration of the Union, the beginning of her everlasting
happy continuance. That peace however the peace party can and will procure
for us is the beginning of everlasting reproach, disgraceful oppression,
and as a necessary consequence, an eternal dissention.
Such is the general view of the soldiers here. But if I should assert, that there are no soldiers who think differently; that there is no grumbling, complaining, abusing, letters received at home would give me the lie. In the Army as everywhere, the opinion of the ignorant, uneducated is determined by success only. If our Army is victorious, then our cause is a glorious one, and an immense patriotism takes hold of the masses. But if we are met by misfortune, if we are repulsed, we become discouraged, and the whole story is nothing but humbug! Yes, many among us there are, whose patriotism is solely dependant upon the quantity of the rations, the regular appearance of the paymaster, etc. When but lately one of the Regiment did not receive at the proper time the bread-basket he ordered, he gave vent to his dignified heart, after a long string of abusive expressions, to the exclamation: "And is one to sacrifice his life for such a land?" But a patriotic Sergeant gave him his own bread-basket, amidst the loud laughter of the bystanders, remarking at the same time, that on account of such a fiddle-faddle the Union should not be ruined. The opinions of such men however, if on the whole it may be considered an opinion, are not and can not be decisive. The disposition of the Army rests alone in the spirit that prevails with the thinking, educated portion of the soldiers and the officers. If this portion is imbibed with the right spirit, then all the bearing of ill will from abroad cannot demoralize the Army.
A Soldier of the 26th Regiment
Stafford Court House, March 29, 1863.
Article #71__________________________________________________________________________
Apr 11, 1863. Page 2, Col 2
FROM THE TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT.
Correspondence of the Sentinel.
IN CAMP NEAR STAFFORD COURT-HOUSE, VA.
March 31, 1863
EDITORS SENTINEL: It is now about six months ago that the Twenty-sixth
Regiment passed down East Water Street, on its way to Virginia. In all
that time, I have not seen even its name mentioned in the Sentinel, although
the regiment is composed almost entirely of Milwaukee citizens of the very
best class, and is entitled, on that account, to some sympathy from our
readers. I am well aware that there went with us at that time several officers,
who were very obnoxious to you and had brought the whole regiment into
bad repute, (although I cannot see why we all should suffer for their misdeeds.)
but now, when those officers have left us, or rather have been sent away,
why should we not again be received into your favor? The leading one of
those miscreants was allowed to remain in the regiment, only because he
was considered superior military talent, and indeed, when we came into
the field, we found that he would make a most excellent Corporal, whose
squad would always have the most polished buttons, clean coats, and neatly
trimmed whiskers; but alas! when it came to drilling a regiment he was
found to be sorely deficient . His superiors were cruel enough to "resign"
him on account of so unimportant a matter. So with the other officers of
the same stripe.
But it is not my intention to write about the Twenty-sixth in particular,
were it so, I might tell you, that it is considered the best regiment in
Sigel's corps, that when it passed in review before Major General Hooker
lately he told Gen. Sigel that it was one of the finest regiments in the
Potomac army, that it is an acknowledged fact that the camps are never
more secure than as when the Twenty-sixth is doing picket duty, and in
short, with all other Wisconsin regiments, it is an honor to the State
it came from.
But in an impending crisis like the present, where the fate of the
country depends upon the events of the next few days, it is improper and
unjust to speak of matters of less importance, and which are not in some
degree calculated to support the cause of freedom. I do not possess vanity
enough to think that this correspondence will in any way influence the
opinion of any individual, but I claim that every work from the army giving
a positive assurance that its sympathies are not with the "Copperheads",
that it is not "demoralized", but willing and anxious to fight, is a blow
to northern treachery and a stroke for freedom. Hence these lines.
The soldier's heart must be filled with shame and mortification
when he contrasts the opinion in which he was held at the time of his enlisting
with that which is expressed of him now. Six months of constant hardship
and of perpetual danger have changed the "patriot", the "grave defender
of our liberty," into a "base hireling, an outlaw who ought not to be allowed
to vote," a "culprit," who supports the administration at all hazards,
and threatens destruction to slavery and its supporters north and south.
We are ashamed, not of Copperheads, for of that class of people we never
were proud, but of the loyal part of our northern friends, who allow those
vipers to dart their poisonous tongues at us. We insist that if the soil
had not been very fertile, if the opposition had not been very weak and
undecided, they would never have dared to show themselves so openly.
I am, however, willing to admit that the army, and especially that
of the Potomac, is not altogether free from blame. It contained at one
time, soon after the battle of Fredericksburg, a number of malcontents;
there was a great deal of grumbling done, and it seemed to be on a fair
way to demoralization. This was of course greatly magnified by the disloyal
northern press; and those who had so long been waiting for and opportunity
to aid the rebels by showing their sympathy for their cause, thought their
time had come, and Jeff Davis had his supporters in the North.
But no class of men ever committed a greater error, than did those
very same "Copperheads,"; when they suspected the army of disloyalty, or
which is the same thing, as being for peace under all circumstances. Misused
as they had been, over one-tenth of their number uselessly slaughtered
in one battle, their pay witheld for months, the lamentations of their
distressed families constantly filling their ears, they themselves subjected
to all kinds of useless and almost intolerable hardships, the soldiers
never for one moment flinched from their firm purpose to do everything
they could do to restore the Union.-That they were dissatisfied when they
heard that another attempt to reduce Fredericksburg in the most unfavorable
season of the your was to be made, when the Administration seemed wholly
at a loss what to do, and all their sacrifices seem to be in vain is but
too natural and only those can see disloyalty and demoralization in it
who actually wish for the same.
Dissatisfaction and despair, however, give way to new hope and confidence,
whin we behold the changes that have been wrought by a few months in the
army so far as its efficiency and spirit is concerned. While then everything
was against us, so is now everything in our favor; yes, even the Administration
seems to be inspired with new vigor. The more the army sees of Hooker,
the greater is its confidence in hem, the more Hooker sees of his "demoralized"
army, the greater must be his pride to fead it triumphantly against the
foe. He knows only one way and that is the straight way to victory. No
"digging," no "strategy," no "anaconda"- But battle and victory.
Seeing, of late, that our energetic and determined friends in the
north are so few in number, while of enemies we have so many, we are convinced
that our own future welfare and happiness has become ultimately connected
with the success of the cause in which we are now engaged. In this perilous
hour, when so many desert the good cause, we feel the great duty to support
it, cost it what it may, and with the danger our strength increased. The
Union army is more than a match for traitors both north and south, as this
summer's campaign will decisively show, and although we have the determination
and power to restore the Union, even though the whole north join with the
south in its treasonable undertaking, yet we hope that the loyal part of
the northern population may soon be aroused by the imminent danger which
threatens them and us, and take vigorous measures to ward it off
TWENTY-SIXTH
Article #72__________________________________________________________________________
Apr 15, 1863. Page 1, Col 2
THE VOTE OF THE ARMY
Almost Unanimous for Dixon
TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT-Col Jacobs, Stafford C. H.
Dixon Cothren Maj Co. B 35 8 I 8 47 7 J.B.V.(Many other regiments' results were reported. The voting was for Chief Justice. FJT, Mar 21, 1994.)
Article #73__________________________________________________________________________
May 9, 1863. Page 4, Col 1
Names of Wisconsin Wounded.
Washington, May 7.
The following names of Wisconsin soldiers are among the list of wounded in the late battles:
...26th Regiment- Co. I, C. Bickmer; Co. K, Henry Brenzder; Co. E, John Masgaroigy; Co. B, Henry Hink, Wm. Hoeblang; Co. G, A J Fullerton, Martin Abbott; Co. H, Fred.Covey; Co. C, Peter Bunkard; Co D, J Mower; Co I, V. Lastafka; Co. K, F. Sunshine, Juan Saltz, Christian Kelztadt, Fred Steinshoff, K. Marshbrauch, John Adsmer...
Article #74__________________________________________________________________________
May 23, 1863. Page 1, Col 3
Killed and Wounded of the Wisconsin Regiments.
We find the following names of killed and wounded of Wisconsin Regiments, in the late Chicago exchanges:
TWENTY SIXTH WISCONSIN.
Killed.- August Rost, co A; Theodore Rosnig, co A; Aug Schmid co
A; Wm Hansberg, co A; Jacob Gruder, co A; Raymund Kiefer, co A; Aug Tolxmann,
co B; Lewis Droes, co D; Corp M Thienvaechter, co E; Sergt Christ Schmidt,
co F; Wm Vogt, co F; Corp Jacob Weinand, co G; Corp Henry Gunther, co G;
Wm Aubalt, co H; Guisette Barbiere co H; Winzel Gottfried, co H; Corp Muehlhaupt
co E.
Wounded.- Gotthold Jaenig, co A; August Beitz, co A; Corp Chas Casper,
co B; Fred Liebold, co B; Aug Kuke, co B, severely; Capt Chas Newkirch,
co E; Capt Chas Pizzala, co G; 2nd Lt. Adolph Cordier, co F; Wm Lauer,
co B severely; Henry Fink, co B; Chas Von Dran, co B, severely; Aug Moldenbaur,
co B; Aug Sharpe, co B, slightly; H Herman, co C, severely; John Saur,
co C, severely; Lewis Manly, co C, slightly; A Sprangling, co C; T Wever,
co C; D Webb, co C, severely; C Miner, co C, severely; Corp Jmo Mower,
co D, severely; Corp Geo Gross, co D; Henrich Etsper, co D; Peter Lersch,
co D, severely; Nicolas Rasmuhen, co D; Lieut Robt Muller, co G; Edam Fulong,
co D; Lieut H Rhnth, co C; Corp Daniel Tube, co F; Sergt J Muhal, co C;
Wm Moefling, co F; Corp H Urich, co C, slight; Fred Puls, co F; Corp D
Schuly, co C; Wenzel Herman Roehr, co F; Corp Chas Grasse, co H; Fredrich
Voss, co F; Erasmus Ball, co H; Jos Braumeister; Henry Keineck, co H; Sergt
M Blenkar, co G; Conrad Roth, co H; Corp John Guenther, co G; Henry Walsh,
co H; Corp A Fullerton, co G; Michael Wagener, co H; Martin Abbott, co
G; Frederick Warner, co H; Richard Daily, co G; Fritz Distler, co G; Peter
Dellenbach, co G; Charles Frenz, co G; Henry Miller, co G; Peter Ripplinger,
co G; Kilsam Schuepp, co G; Martin Stroupp, co G; Fritz Schaefer, co G;
John Schmidt, co G; Franz Zinsdorf, co G; Matthias Zoegar, co G; Serg Christian
Harsch, co H; Serg Jacob Nytes, co H; John Adam Zinke, co H; Philip Zimmermann,
co H; Cor Fisher, co I; C Beckman, co H; William Beatz, co I; C Behupe,
co I; C Beckman, co I; Wm Beatz, co I; C Behupe, co I G Braun, co I; P
Dwechaske, co I; J Gram, co I; C Hamschuth, co I; T Ners, co I; J B Schmidt,
co I; Capt A Scheuler, co K; Lieut Derflinger, co K; H Groqe, co K.
FIFTH WISCONSIN....
__________________________________________________________________________
May 23, 1863. Page 1, Col 3
THE TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT AT CHANCELLORVILLE
The reckless statements of an irresponsible correspondent branded
all the regiments in the Eleventh Army Corps with cowardice at the battle
of Chancellorville. We now know that at least one of those regiments, in
whose honor we feel a peculiar interest, fought as bravely as any troops
in the field. We allude to our Twenty-sixth, Col. Jacobs, of whose gallantry
we have already spoken, but take pleasure in presenting the following detailed
account of their conduct which was furnished to the News:
"When the battle commenced the 26th regiment was stationed alone
on the extreme northwest of Howard's army corps,
facing the west. The 58th New York regiment was on their left, and the
only regiment near the the 26th. Devin's division was located further south
and west. It was this division which was first attacked by Jackson. It
gave way and was driven pell mell from the field. It poured in the rear,
a stream of broken regiments and panic-stricken men. In a moment more the
26th Wisconsin and 58th New york were surrounded on three sides by the
enemy. The latter regiment precipitately fled. The 26th stood its ground
alone until it lost two hundred men, when it retired in good order. For
a while this regiment alone stood the shock of Jackson's attack. Bullets
poured down upon it like hail. There were not a hundred men in the regiment
who were not hit in body or clothes by rebel balls. Col. Jacobs had his
horse shot under him and was struck by a spent ball; a ball went through
the Major's coat; the adjutant's horse was shot, and one quarter of the
regiment was either killed of wounded and left on the field. The fate of
the regiment would have been much worse had the enemy fired any other but
round balls. All the facts are substantiated by the statements of its officers."
They are corroborated by the official report of the General commanding
the brigade to which the 26th belonged, in which that regiment is especially
commended for its bravery.
Article #75__________________________________________________________________________
Fri May 29, 1863. Page 1, Col 4
Casualties in the Twenty-Sixth Regiment.
HEAD-QRS. 26TH REGIMENT WISCONSIN VOLS.,
NEAR BROOKS STATION MAY 21, 1863.
To His Excellency, the Governor of Wisconsin:-I have the honor to hand you enclosed, a report of the casualties in this regiment after the late battle at Chancellorsville, Va., on the 2d day of May last. Those reported as missing have been mostly taken prisoners by the rebels. From private sources I learn that many of our men taken prisoners have been paroled, and are now at the camp parole near Annapolis, Md. The larger portion of our wounded are in the division hospital, near Brooks' Station, Va.
I am very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
Albert Wallber,
Acting Adj't 26th Regiment.
STAFF
Sergeant Major Hugo Carstenjen, killed.
OFFICERS
1st Lieut. Robert Mueller, company C, Milwaukee, on leave, wounded
in arm; 2d Lieut. Henry Rauth, C, taken prisoner; Captain Charles Neukirch,
E, died at Washington of wounds; 2d Lieert. Adolf Cordier, F, Brooks' Station,
Va., wounded in leg; Capt. Charles Pizzala, G, killed in action; Capt.
Aug. Schueler, K, had leg amputated, near Chancellorsville, and died; 1st
Lieut, Charles Doerflinger, K, wounded in leg; 2d Lieut. Henry Greve, K,
severely wounded, two shots in leg.
ENLISTED MEN.
Corp. Geo. Andrecht, company A, missing; August Rost, A, missing;
Theodore Koenig, A, missing; Aug. Schmid, A, prisoner; Gotthold Jaenig,
A, missing; Aug. Baty, A, slightly wounded; Wm. Maetzold, A, prisoner;
Jacob Grunder, A, Brooks' Station, Va., in hospital, wounded in head; Raymund
Kiefer, A, missing; First Sergeant, B. Meyer, B, Brooks' Station hospital,
wounded in breast; Sergeant John Grundke, B, Brooks' Station hospital,
wounded in leg- slight; Corp. Charles Casper, B, missing; Friedrich Siebold,
B, do; Aug. Kulke, B, died of wounds in hospital at Brooks' Station; Wm.
Laer, B, Brooks' Station hospital, wounded in knee; Wm. Juderjahn, B, prisoner;
Henry Fink, B, wounded in arm and missing; Aug. Polymann, B, killed in
action; Charles Van Drar, B, Brooks' Station hospital, wounded in breast,
severely; Henry Distelhorst, B, missing; Henry Hilger, B, Brooks' Station
hospital, wounded in back and shoulder; Sergt. J. Michel, C, wounded and
missing; Corp. H. Urich, C, Brook'sStation hospital, slightly wounded;
Corp. D. Steinly, C, general hospital, Washington, severely wounded; Corp.
Aug. J. Neuhlhaupt, Brook's Station hospital, wounded in arm and leg; T.
Beres, C, Brook's Station hospital, wounded slightly; H. Heerman, C, Brook's
Station hospital, left knee and four arm wounded, three shots; John Lauer,
C, Brook's Station hospital, severly wounded; Souis Manley, C, missing
and wounded; A. Sprangler, C, missing; Dominic Weiss, C, Brook's Station
hospital, wounded in shoulder, arm and foot; C. Weller, C, Brook's Station
hospital, wounded slightly; H. Bigalke, C, Brook's Station hospital, wounded;
Charles Boje, C, do; Herman Mueller, C, do; M. Fritz, C, missing; Mathias
Seiger, C, Brook's Station hospital, wounded; C. Kruger, C, missing; I.
Suttinger, C, prisoner; Gottfr Luther, C, wounded slightly; Corp. John
Mower, D , 3 wounds, severely; Corp. G. Gross, D, killed in action; Corp.
Fred Kuttler, D, wounded in right leg; Lewis Dross, D, killed in action;
Henry Risner, D, with regiment, wounded slightly in face; Adam Fueling,
D, prisoner; Franz Kropf, D, do; Peter Lersch, D, 3 wounds severely; Niels
Rasmussen, D, wounded; H. Swartz, D, killed in action; Fred Thiele, D,
died of wounds in the field; Franz Knabil, D, wounded slightly; Diedrich
Ahlers, D, wounded in leg; Corp. Chr. Wiukelman, E, killed in action; Corp.
Moritz Fuch, E, do; Fred Kefer, E, slightly wounded; Henry Wagner, E, do;
Aug. Luedke, E, missing; Fred Hanson, E, wounded; Anton Ewins, E, do; Lorenz
Burg, E, missing; Henry Flamang, E, wounded in hip; Jacob Klies, E, missing;
Michael Thuernaachter, I, killed in action;l Carl Beutnel, E, wounded;
Friedrich Laxkow, E, missing; Jutin Oatertag, E, slightly wounded; Ernest
Rietz, E, missing; Wm. Rosenthal,E, wounded in abdomen; Wm. Stange, E,
wounded in head; John Workowitch, E, missing; Julius Stern, E, wounded
in foot; Sergt. Christian Schmid, F, killed in action; Corp. David Taube,
F, wounded in leg; Wm. Vogt, F, wounded; Wm Hoefling, F, slightly wounded;
Fred Tuls, F, wounded in knee; Wenzel Joura, F, wounded; Herman Roehr,
F, missing; Fred Voss, F, missing; Joseph Ivachiusthal, F, wound in leg;
Christoph Burkhard, F, wounded in arm and side; Joseph bBraureiter, F,
missing; Joachim Schultz, F, missing; Aug. Koinke, F, wounded in nose and
ear; Joseph Koenig, F, missing; Aug. Peikerha, F, missing; Aug. donath,
F, missing; Fritz Zurmjclen, F, prisoner; Sergt. Henry Blenker, G, wounded
in breast; Corp. Jacob Weinand, G, killed; Corp. Henry Gunther, G, killed;
Corp. John Ganther, G, missing; 1st Sergt. Wm. Salzer, G, wounded and prisoner;
Corp. George Rusch, G, killed; Andrew Fullerton, G, slightly wounded; Martin
Abbott, G, prisoner; Richard Daily, G, wounded in hips anddied in hospital
of his wounds; Franz Distler, G, missing; Andress Stebanns, G, missing;
Peter Deflenbach, G, wounded in back; Charles Frenz, G, slightly wounded;
Henry Miller, G, slightly wounded; Peter Ripplinger, G, slightly wounded;
Killian Schroepf, G, killed; Mathias Strupp, G, wounded; Fritz Schaefer,
G, John Schmid, G, killed; Franz Zilsdorf, G, killed; Mathias Zoeger, G,
wounded in knee; Henry Allen, G, prisoner; Jacob Dixbeimer, G, killed;
George Emmett, G, wound in leg; Jacob Knobel, do, wounded in shoulder and
leg; Jacob Lauermann, G, missing; John Meery, G, severly wounded; Emerson
Smith, G, prisoner; Joseph Steinmetz, G, killed; Peter Ullgroelig, G, wounded;
John Vetter, G, leg amputated and died; Christian Naarsch, H, slightly
wounded; Jacob Nyter, H, do; Charles Grasse, Corp., H, do; Wm. Anhalt,
A, prisoner; Guiseppe Barbiere, H, prisoner; Erasmus Bull, H, slightly
wounded; Wenzel Gottfried, H, killed; Jacob Hartmann, H, missing; Fred
Jung, H, missing; Henry Reincke, H, slightly wounded; Conrad Roth, H, wounded
in shoulder; Henry Welsh, H, slightly wounded; Michael Wagner, H, do; Fred
Werner, H, killed; Adam Zinke, H, do; Phil. Zimmerman, H, missing; John
Rosenbauer, H, prisoner; Henry Bremser, H, wounded; Sergeant G. Waechter,
H. missing; Serg't Chr. Crusius, prisoner; Corp. Aug. Koege, H, wounded
in face; Corp. H. Fischer, H, slightly wounded; C. Beckman, H, wounded;
Wm. Beatz, H, missing; C. Behnke, H, severely wounded; G. Braun, H, do;
P. Droorschacheck, H, missing; I. Groff, H, wounded in ribs; C. Kamschulte,
H, prisoner; Henry Ranke, H, wounded; F. Nero, H, arm amputated; T. B.
Schmid, H, missing; Charles Jacoby, H, do; W. Lastofka, I, do; W. Lehman,
I, do; I. Law, I, killed; Chas. Leehy, I, wounded in both legs; I. Stollenwork,
I, died of wounds; Serg. Fred. Koerner, K, wounded in leg; Corp. Julirs
Theuruh, K, missing; Corp. Hugo Koerner, K, Severely wounded; Corp. Chas.
Dill, K, wounded in face; Corp. Henry Diehs, K, foot badly wounded; Corp.
Joseph Zenger, K, missing; Jacob Judermaner, K, killed; Fred. Steinhoff,
K, missing; Wm. Franko, K, missing; John Stiewens, K, wounded in hand;
Fred. Muller, K, Missing; Fred. Sonnenschein, K, severely wounded; Albert
Mosbach, K, missing; Jacob Haman, K, wounded; Christoph Hellstab, K, missing;
Ludwig Scheper, K, wounded in foot; Conrad Knopp, K, wounded in thigh;
Aug. Fleck, K, killed; Phil. Lutznis, K, slightly wounded; Kavid Hetzel,
K, slightly wounded; Robert Becker, K, missing; Henry Baumgartin, K, Prisoner;
Peter Burkhard, K, wounded; Martyin Mangold, K, killed; Christian Matzkl,
K, wounded; Bernhard Ort, K, missing; Michael Rausch, K, missing; Fred.
Roell, K, missing; John Leity, K, wounded; Anthony Baartsch, K, prisoner.
RECAPITULATION OF ENLISTED MEN.
Wounded................................................99
Killed.................................................27
Missing and prisoners..................................65
Total..................................................171
Article #76__________________________________________________________________________
June 1, 1863. Page 1, Col 3
Gen. Schurz and the Correspondents- A Milwaukee Man Explains.
(From the New York Times)
HEADQUARTERS, THIRD DIVISION, ELEVENTH CORPS, MAY 19, 1863.
Maj. Gen. Hiiker, Commanding Army of the Potomac:
GENERAL: -Some time ago you issued and order requiring newspaper reporters to sign their letters with their full names, so as to make them responsible for the correctness of these reports. This would seem to give us a claim to redress, in case of a peculiar grievance.
Mr. -------, of the New York ----, and Mr Crounse, of the New York Times, persistently assert that it was my division which, in the action of May 2d, was the first to give way; that it threw itself flying upon the rest of the corps and demoralized it. The ----"s corresponcence speaks only of Schurz's men. I am willing to bear what blame justly attaches to my division; but I insist, and you know it well, that Gen. Divins' division occupied the front on the quints of attack, and that Gen. Divins' division threw itself upon mine, demoralizing my men, preventing my regiments, by their impetuous rush, from changing front, and deploying at the right time. It is most unjust that I should have to bear the responsibility for the conduct of a whole corps, only one-third of which was under my command.
I would also respectfully observe that the measureless abuse and insult which is heaped upon the Eleventh corps by the whole army and the Press, produces a state of mind among the soldiers, which is apt to demoralize them more than a defeat.
In view of these things, I would respectfully ask for justice at your hands in the form of such measures against the above-named newspaper reporters as the above-mentioned order seems to contemplate.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
(Signed,) C. Schurz,
Major-General Commanding Division.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Camp near Falmouth, Va., May 11, 1863.
OFFICIAL: (Signed,) S. Williams,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Copy.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, MAY 11, 1863.
Mr. L. L. Crounse, Correspondent New York Times:
SIR: I have the honor herewith to transmit a copy of a communication
which has been addressed to the Commanding General, under date of the 9th
inst., by Major-general Schurz, setting forth that in your published account
of the recent battle near Chancellorsville you have done his division injustice.
The Commanding General expects that you will promtly correct, and
in a public manner, the misstatements to which Gen. Schurz invites attention.
I am, sir, very respectfully your obedient servant, S. Williams,
(Signed.) Asst. Adjt. Gen.
Thus admonished, Mr. Crounse proceeds to say that it was not the Division of Gen. Schurz, but that of Gen. Divens which broke and precipitated in the manner stated by the former. Gen. Schurz is thus relieved of the imputations cast upon him and his Division.
Article #77__________________________________________________________________________
June 5, 1863. Page 2, Col 1
The Second and Twenty-Sixth Wisconsin
CORRESPONDENCE OF THE SENTINEL. CAMP STONEMAN'S SWITCH. May 29, 1863.
EDITOR SENTINEL:- Having something to say to the friends of the above
regiments, at home, in relation to their "late doings," I therefore communicate
through the columns of your widely circulated journal.
I visited the Second yesterday , and found them in a state of "rest,"
they, with the brigade, having but lately returned from a six days' expedition
"down stream," bringing back with them a large supply of contrabands mounted
on mules and horsed, also some prisoners, among them a rebel Lieutenant
Colonel. The extent of their march, I learn, was about 150 miles- the weather
at times extremely hot. On their return trip they travelled some days thirty-five
miles, and on the last day made twenty miles before dinner. The consequence
was that I found them slowly recovering from the effects of great fatigue,
the result of their hot and weary tramp. The regiment was under command
of Lieut. Col. Stevens.
The part taken by the "Iron Brigade" in the late fighting on the
Rappahannock has already been noted in the State papers, yet probably a
few statements in reference to the affair at the crossing on the left,
and the part taken by the Second, would not be out of place in this connection.
It was on the A.M. of the 29th ult. when the crossing was effected.
The 6th Wisconsin and the 24th Michigan crossed below the line of rifle
pits together, intending to attack the enemy of their right flank. Meantime,
a squad of fourteen men, under Captain Converse and Lieutenant Clarke,
of Company A 2d, had shoved over the stream in one of the pontoon boats
dragged down the hill and launched by Companies B and E, under cover of
the regimental fire at the rebels beyond. This boat-load landed directly
in front of the rifle-pits, which were about one hundred yards off, and
while the 6th were forming, about thirty yards below, the boys of the 2d
rushed forward as skirmishers, others as they crossed falling in. But the
"greybacks" began to skedaddle, and the rifle-pits were soon taken. Several
members were prominent in capturing prisoners, among them, Corporal Jas.
Daniels and private Jno. Mason, who rushed quickly over the plain and headed
off a number of the runaways. The bridges were then laid, and a general
crossing took place. The boys were then employed in digging rifle-pits
beyond, using for the purpose tin plates and wooden shovels, with which
miserable tools I understand they made substantial ones. They left this
point on the 2d last, and appeared at Chancellorville, on the right, early
on the morning of the 3d, while the battle was raging, but did not become
engaged.
In this connection I wish to state that the brigade looks as tough
as ever, although considerably reduced in numbers, especially the 2d Regiment,
which latter is not to be wondered at, considering that they have been
in the service two years, and have participated in many hard-fought engagements,
besides various skirmishers, and marched many long and weary miles. Besides
that, they have not been recruited up to any great extent.
And it is not strange, therefore, that this Brigade in which also
is the 19th Indiana and 24th Michigan, should think that certain nine months
Pennsylvania and New Jersey troops, now gone home, were treating them rather
unfairly, by endeavoring to rob them of their well earned title of "Iron
Brigade," which was earned by them at Gainsville, where they alone kept
a much larger force of the enemy at bay. In fact, so stubborn were the
"black hats" on that occasion, that Jackson himself made the remark afterwards,
in the presence of a sharpshooter who was taken prisoner the next day,
that it was impossible that one brigad could keep back his whole Division,
and refused to credit the story told him by a member of the 7th, also a
prisoner. The Pennsylvania troops are good men, and so are the "Jerseys"
and in proof of their bravery, do not need to adopt a title given to the
western men by Gen. Gibbon, and endorsed by General McClellan: "Let well
enough alone," is a motto the Western men think they might adopt.
I would like to say a few words in reference to an officer in the
2d, well known in Dodge County. Captain Converse of Col A has received
notice of a transfer to the Invalid Corps, on account of disability caused
by wounds received in the second Bull Fun, and he probably will not take
and active part for some time to come, at least, in the future movements
of his regiment. The Captain, however much he may regret leaving his company,
may rest assured that his previous conduct, while on the battle-field,
has been such as to gain for him the good wishes of his company, and the
highest consideration of the officers of his regiment. In this last affair,
on the left at the rifle-pits, the Captain was one of the first to cross
the river, helping heartily to push the boat over, and although obliged
to leave the field through sheer exhaustion, after the affair was all over,
yet did he suffer none in the estimation of his friends in consequence.
On the contrary, great praise was awarded to him for the manly manner in
which he acted during the whole affair, although known to be "unfit for
duty."
A few words about the 26th, and I am done. It is with pleasure that
I learned from good authority that the Brigade of the 11th Corps, of which
this regiment is a part, did all in their power to check the advance of
the enemy at the fight of May 2d, who came pouncing on them so suddenly
that the 26th became nearly surrounded, but fighting savagely, according
to a General's account, they clubbed in many instances the advancing foe,
and kept up the combat until ordered back the third time. They then fell
back.
Respectfully, S.S.
Article #78__________________________________________________________________________
June 23, 1863. Page 1, Col 2
MILITARY APPOINTMENTS
26th Reg.-Adolph Hensel as 1st Lieut. Co. B, vice Huttman discharged.
Article #79__________________________________________________________________________
July 13, 1863. Page 1, Col 5
TAKEN PRISONER--We learn through Mr. Coleman, of the Atlas, that Mr. Domschcke, formerly associated with him in the publication of that paper, and who was a Lieutenant in the 26th Regiment, was taken prisoner during the recent battles in Pennsylvania.
Article #80__________________________________________________________________________
July 31, 1863. Page 2, Col 1
The Wisconsin Regiments East
Washington, July 23, 1863
DEAR SIR: I arrived here last Saturday night ...by way of the army.
I came up with the Army near Williamsport, just as Gen. L. made his escape.
I visited the 2d, 3d, 6th, and 7th regiments, and also met some of the
officers of the 26th Regiment. I left the army on Saturday last at 2 o'clock
p.m. crossing at Berlin into Virginia. The regiments from Wisconsin are
in good condition, what there is left of them. The 2d had 54 muskets in
the field, the 6th about (??), the 7th a little over (??), the 5th about
400, the 3d about 300, and the 26th less than 300. Quite a number of the
26th were taken prisoners at Gettysburg. The 2d, 6th, and 7th are very
desirous of going to Wisconsin to recruit their thin ranks by drafted men,
and, if necessary to assist in enforcing the draft. If hard fighting and
enduring courage and patriotism entitle a man or regiment to a furlough
to recuperate and build itself up anew, most certainly is the old 2d Regiment
entitled to receive from the Government the privilege of returning to Wisconsin
and assist in enforcing the draft, if need be, and fill up its reduced
ranks by enlisted or drafted men.
Colonel Bragg, of the Sixth Wisconsin is here, and will probably
leave to-morrow for Wisconsin on sick leave. Colonel Allen, of the Eighth
Regiment, ...here, on his way to his regiment, but I fear that he will
not be able to go for the ...as the old wound in his right arm, which he
received at Antietam, has broken out again and will prevent him for the
present from doing duty in the field.
I desire, and hereby state, that on my last visit to Gettysburg,
I took with me five boxes of hospital stores, which the Baltimore and Ohio
Railroad Company and the Northern Central Railroad Company very kindly
passed over their respective roads free of charge.
I shall either go or send Mr. Taylor up to Gettysburg the last of
this week to look after and see that our Wisconsin soldiers are well cared
and provided for, and will send to you a statement of their condition,
and also the condition of those in the Baltimore hospitals. There are no
wounded soldiers in the hospitals in this city that were wounded at Gettysburg.
Very respectfully, Your obd't servant,
W.Y. Selleck
Sec'y Soldiers' Aid Society
Article #81__________________________________________________________________________
Nov 12, 1863. Page 4, Col 1
FROM CHATTANOOGA
Washington, Nov. 10
Special to the Tribune-From Chattanooga we learn that an expedition
of the 143d N.Y. and 26th Wisconsin, of Gen. Shurz' Division, 11th Corps,
under Lieut Col. Asmesser, went up Branch Railroad, from Shellmound, to
Gordon's coal mines, and recaptured a locomotive and two freight cars.
The Railroad on the south side of the Tennessee is again opened
as far as Running Waters, and transportation gained for supplies.
Article #82__________________________________________________________________________
Jan 11, 1864. Page 1, Col 5
It was stated that Col. Jacobs was about to enter into copartnership
with Ex-Gov Salomon in the law business. The Governor desires us to correct
this statement, as he intends to resume the legal profession in connection
with his old partner, Winfield Smith, Esq.-Their card can be found in our
advertising columns to-day.
Col. Javobs has resigned his commission on account of private affairs
which fully justify him in doing so. In Howard's whole corps there is not
a truer or a braver officer than Col. Jacobs.
Article #83__________________________________________________________________________
Jan 28, 1864. Page 1, Col 5
MILITARY MATTERS IN MILWAUKEE.- A good many improvements in quarters
for troops and additions to the amount of accommodations are being made
at Camps Sigel and Washburn under the supervision of Col. Fred. Meyer,
Q. M. General of this Department, and Capt. I. N. Mason, A. Q. M., both
of whom are as able and upright officers as need be.
New barracks are to be erected at Camp Sigel, on North Point, which
is hereafter to be called Camp Reno, in memory of the brave officer who
fell at Antietam. The barracks will consist of one building for each company
of a regiment, and in addition to these, quarters for officers. The buildings
are to be 25 feet by 85, with frames for berths along either side. It is
expected that they will be completed within three weeks. The ground is
leased from Col. Geo. H. Walker, who was obliged to rent it from the State
for that purpose-the State having lease of the land which does not expire
until sometime next summer.
Considerable improvements are going on, or already completed, at
Camp Washburn. The Sixth, Fourteenth and ThirtyFifth regiments will be
quartered at Camp Washburn, while the Thirtieth goes over to Camp Reno.
The Seventh and two batteries go to Racine.- Doubtless other regiments
will rendezvous here when they return to the State. In fact, our streets
bid fair to be sprinkled pretty liberally with blue coats for some time
to come.
Article #84__________________________________________________________________________
May 9, 1864. Page 1, Col 2
CASUALTIES LISTED
Twenty-sixth Regiment- First Lt. William Steinmeyer as Captain, Co. E vice Fernekes, resigned; 1st Sergeant Casper Buechler a 1st Lt. Co. E, vice Steinmeyer, promoted.
Article #85__________________________________________________________________________
May 31, 1864. Page 1, Col 5
Losses of the 26th Regiment at Resaca.
The following is a complete list of the losses of this regiment in the battles at Resaca, on the 14th and 15th of May:
KILLED.
Company K- 1st Lieut Christian Phillipp.
Company H- Sergt. Chas. Wickersberg.
Company C- Julius Suttinger.
Company B- Albert Johns.
Company F- Michael Hagner.
WOUNDED.
Company A- 1st Sergt. August Nitschke, head, slightly; Herman Opitz, left foot, slightly; Theodor Koling, side, severely.
Company B-Sergeant Chas. Heinreich, foot, slightly; Corp. Charles Lanfer, slight; F. Seibold, left arm, slight; Wm. Jaeger, left leg fractured; Phillip Liebenstein, left arm, slight; M. Petchbacher, left foot, slight; Theodor Maasch, finger, slight.
Company C- Corp. Geo. Schule, head, slight; Anton Rinke, right arm fractured, Henry Sledgrist, slight; Henry Urich, lost fore finger left hand; Adam Huest, left hand.
Company D-Corp. Frank Snurtzeck, right leg, slight; Edward Kehrein, finger left hand.
Company E- Corp. Nicholas Jenner, left leg, slight; August Kuehn, right arm and left hand, slight; C. Schaefe, right hand, slight.
Article #86__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 11, 1864. Page 1, Col 2
More Losses of the 26th Regiment
The following list of additional losses to the 26th Regiment in the battle near Dallas, Ga., May 25th, is furnished us by Major Winkler, commanding.
Company B- Wounded, Ferd. Hubner, left arm; Adam Truss, right havd; Charles Jaeger, left let; August Ninow, thigh; Bernard Kucklan, side; John Weisenback, left shoulder.
Company C- Killed, Edw. Sanger. Wounded, John Christen, right leg; John Sauer, above the ewe; T. Shaefer, right leg amputated.
Company E- Lieut. Fred Korner, flesh wound in both legs; Sergt. Phillip Phipp, slightly; Corp. Franz Devin, right foot; Corp. M. Schneider, slightly: privates Paul Stuizel, in leg; Genry Warner, through shoulder; George Krause, in head, died in hospital on the 28th; Fred. Lankow, in leg; Charles Stier, in leg; Fred. Zirber, in arm; Sam Precheld, left shoulder; F. Obike, in arm.
Company G- Killed, Robert Templeton and Emerson Smith. Wounded, Cyrus Schaefer, slightly; Charles Hafeman, Wm. Sevi and Geo. Dellenback, all slightly. Missing, Fred Dreisler.
Company H- Wounded, private Henry Boehler.
Company I- Wounded, Rudolph Laive. Missing Chauncey Leckey and John Schwebads.
Company K- Killed, Jacob Klind and Fred Rueli. Wounded, Sergt. Henry Nolt, hand. Milling, Sergt. Fred Laich, probably prisoner.
Killed May 29th, Richard Krause, Co. E, while on outpost.
Total-Killed, 6; wounded, 1 officer and 29 men; missing, 4.
Article #87__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 13, 1864. Page 1, Col 4
PROMOTIONS LISTED
Twenty-sixth Regiment-First Sgt. Andrew J. Fullerton as First Lt. Company F, vice Phillips, killed.
Article #88__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 15, 1864. Page 1, Col 2
Gen. Schurz
There has been various paragraphs floating through the newspapers
recently referring to the whereabouts and employment of Gen. Schurz, none
of which, however, seem to have any truth according to the following from
the Nashville Times, which we suppose to be reliable. Referring to the
story that Gen. Schurz was put in command of an invalid barracks at Nashville,
his predecessor being a Captain, the Times says:
"There is not a word of truth in it. Gen S. left his command in
the army of the Cumberland in consequence of the consolidation of the 11th
and 12th corps, and reported to Gen. Sherman, who would have given him
an active command in the field, if one had been open. unwilling to be idle
while waiting, Gen. Schurz, by order of Gen. Sherman, undertook the formation
of a large camp of instruction, consisting of a very considerable number
of new three year troops, then coming from the northern States. This body
of troops was intended to from the nucleus of a large reserve force to
be organized here. As it became necessary to scatter these regiments upon
a long line of railroad, Gen. S. has again reported for orders, and is
now waiting for a new command, just as a good many Generals, who are among
the Louisvelle Journal's favorites, have done before him.
He is therefore, neither appointed to the command of a convalescent
camp, nor was his predecessor a Captain, inasmuch as he himself formed
the camp of instruction and had no predecessor at all."
Article #89__________________________________________________________________________
July 28, 1864. Page 1, Col 1
Sherman's Great Fight.
In the exceedingly graphic and able account of the recent great battle before Atlanta, which we copy from the Cincinnati Gazette, it will be seen that some of our Wisconsin regiments bore a prominent and honorable part. The 21st and its gallant commander, Col. Hobart, and the 22d, commanded by Lt. Col. Bloodgood, are especially mentioned in the Gazette's account. The correspondent of the Cincinnati Commercial states that our 10th Regiment lost fifty men, which is quite a loss for a regiment so much reduced in numbers. The losses of the 26th, as given in to-day's paper, indicate that it was in an exposed position. The 24th lost few men comparatively.
Article #90__________________________________________________________________________
Aug 17, 1864. Page 1, Col 2
Official Compliment to the 26th Wisconsin
The following official testimonial to the fighting qualities of our 26th Regiment will be read with interest by the numerous friends of the regiment in this city and elsewhere. We do not see how language more flattering could have been used, and we doubt not that the encomiums of the brigade commander were richly deserved.
HEADQUARTERS 3D BRIG, 3D DIV,26TH A.C.
NEAR ATLANTA, GA.,AUG 6, 1864.
Lt. Col. F. Winkler, Commanding 26th Wis. Vols
COLONEL:- I have the honor to forward to you an extract from the
official report of Col. Ward, commanding this brigade, of the battle of
Peach Tree Creek, July 20th, 1864:
..."Where all behaved well, it may be regarded as invidious to call
attention to individuals, yet it seems to me that I cannot discharge my
whole duty in this report without pointing out for especial commendation
the conduct of the 26th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and its brave and
able commander. The position of this regiment in the line was such that
the brunt of the attack on this brigade fell upon it. The brave, skillful
and determinate manner in which it met this attack, rolled back the onset,
pressed forward in a counter charge and drove back the enemy, could not
be excelled by the troops in this or any other army, and is worthy of the
highest commendation and praise. It is to be hoped that such conduct will
be held up as an example for others, and will meet the appropriate reward.
I am, Colonel, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
C.H. Young,
Capt. and A.A.A.G.
Article #91__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 2, 1864. Page 4, Col 3
EVENING DISPATCHES
FROM MADISON
Special dispatch to the Sentinel
Madison, Sept 1
A letter received late states that the 26th, 37th, and 38th Wis. regiments were all engaged in the recent fighting south of Petersburg on the Weldon railroad....
Article #92__________________________________________________________________________
Sept 10, 1864. Page 1, Col 5
FROM DIXIE. A letter received from Captain Adam Grant, of the 19th Wisconsin who was taken prisoner before Petersburg on July 1st, states that he is in Savannah, Georgia. He also states that Captain Willie Collins of the 19th, and Captain Domschcke of the 26th, are there. They are all treated well but are restless to be exchanged.
Article #93__________________________________________________________________________
Oct 25, 1864. Page 1, Col 5
Assault Upon Col. Hans Boebel.-The Herold learns that an assault was committed upon Hans Boebel, late Lieut. Colonel of the 26th Regiment, on Wednesday last, by a certain druggist on Third street. Col. Boebel is a helpless cripple, having lost a leg at Gettysburg, and can walk only with the help of crutches. Such an assault is dastardly in the extreme, no matter how great the provocation. What this provocation was the Herold does not inform us, but says Mr. Boebel was struck down, and would have been more shamefully abused but for the interference of others. We see no record of this at the police court, where a complaint should certainly have been lodged by the assaulted party.
Article #94__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 17, 1865. Page 1, Col 4
PROGRAMME FOR THE Reception of the 26th Reg't Wis Vols.
(German Regiment)
The Regiment on its arrival, will be escorted to the Fair building
on Main Street, where refreshments will be ready for them, and where the
first welcome will be tendered to them by their friends and the public.
After this a procession will be formed on Main street, under the
direction of the Marshal of the Day, Gen. Philip Best, to march thence
to Turner's Hall, on Fourth Street, which will be richly decorated for
the occasion, where the Regiment will be officially received and entertained
by the German population, and where they will be welcomed by addresses
in the German language by ex-Governor Edward Salomon, and by Messrs. Moritz
Schoeffler and Bernard Domschke.
The procession, with its right wing extending north from the Newhall
House, will be formed in the following order:
Bach's Band,
Led by Drum-MajorJohn Spoerl
The Marshal of the Day,
And his Assistants on horse back,
The Milwaukee Turn Verein
The Milwaukee Sharpshooters Union.
The Milwaukee Liederkranz,
And other 8 cle les.
The Mayor and City Officers.
Civil and Military Officers and the Orators,
In Carriages.
Two Companies U.S. Veteran Reserve Corps,
Second Music Band.
The Citizens' Committee of Reception,
Former Members of the Regiment,
The 26th Regiment,
Commanded by Colonel Fred. C. Winkler,
Artillery,
Citizens and Relatives of the Soldiers.
In this order the procession will march through some of the principal
streets to Turner's Hall, where the different Companies will be conducted
to the seats prepared for them at the festive board, whereupon the procession
will be dismissed.
The exact time and hour of the arrival of the Regiment not being
known yet, the citizens will be notified of their arrival by signal gun-shots.
__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 17, 1865. Page 1, Col 6
The 22nd and 26th Wisconsin Regiments
WASHINGTON, June 12.
EDITOR SENTINEL-The 22nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry leave this city to-morrow evening for Milwaukee, via Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, and the Grand Haven and Milwaukee route to the latter city, where they will probably arrive on Saturday or Sunday. The 26th Wisconsin is being mustered out to-day, and will probably accompany us.
Your obedient servant,
Thomas Hatchard
Surgeon, 22d Wis. Vol.
Article #95__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 19, 1865. Page 1, Col 3
Reception of the Twenty-sixth Regiment
Our German citizens determined, on the arrival of the Twenty-sixth Regiment, to give it such a welcome as should testify Their high appreciation of its gallant services in the cause of civil liberty. Accordingly, on the arrival of the Grand Haven boat, on Saturday, the Turners, Leiderkrans, and other civic societies were on hand at the dock, with cannon, bands, and a military escort from Camp Reno, to receive and conduct them through the city. The Regiment was marched to the Fair, building, where they partook of the dinner prepared by Gen. H. E. Paine. The procession was then formed, with its right wing extending north from the Newhall House, in the following order:
Bach's Band,
Led by Drum-MajorJohn Spoerl
The Marshal of the Day,
And his Assistants on horse back,
The Milwaukee Turn Verein
The Milwaukee Sharpshooters Union.
The Milwaukee Liederkranz,
And other 8 cle les.
The Mayor and City Officers.
Civil and Military Officers and the Orators,
In Carriages.
Two Companies U.S. Veteran Reserve Corps,
Second Music Band.
The Citizens' Committee of Reception,
Former Members of the Regiment,
The 26th Regiment,
Commanded by Colonel Fred. C. Winkler,
Artillery,
Citizens and Relatives of the Soldiers.
In this order the procession marched through some of the principal
streets to Turner's Hall, where the different companies were seated at
tables spread with a splendid banquet, and attended by the lady friends
of the soldiers. The hall and tables were beautifully decorated with evergreen
wreaths and festoons, flags and flowers, and the galleries were crowded
with ladies. Across the street in front of the hall was a splendid triumphal
arch, surmounted with flags and trimmed with evergreens, and a bevy of
Halo girls dressed in white stood on a raised platform, on either side,
waving their handkerchiefs in welcome.
After the Regiment has partaken of the banquet, ex-Governor Salomen
was introduced, and welcomed the officers and men in an eloquent speech
in German, which was frequently and vociferously applauded. The Regiment
goes into Camp Washburn previous to its final discharge.
We give the following brief record of its history since its organization:
The Twenty-sixth regiment, composed almost exclusively of Germans,
was recruited principally during the month of August, 1862. The several
companies were ordered to rendezvous on the 5th of September at Camp Sigel,
Milwaukee, where the regimental organization was effected, under the superintendence
of Col. Wm. Jacobs, and the regiment mustered into the U.S. service on
the 17th. They remained in camp until the 6th of October, when they left
the State for service in the field. Upon their arrival in Washington they
went into camp on Arlington Heights, whence they marched on the 15th to
Fairfax Court House, fifteen miles distant. At this place they were assigned
to the Second Brigade, Third Division, Eleventh Army Corps, and were occupied
constantly in drill and picket duty until the 2d of November, when the
regiment accompanied the march of the division by way of Centreville to
Thoroughfare Gap, where they encamped on the following day. On the 7th
they marched through the Gap to New Baltimore, and thence on the 9th to
Gainesville, where they remained in the performance of picket duty until
the 18th, at which date they returned to camp at Centreville.
Participating in the movement of the Eleventh Corps to reinforce
the army under Gen. Burnside, who was then preparing for the assault upon
Fredericksburg, they left Centreville on the 9th of December, and marching
in very unfavorable weather by way of Dumfries and Stafford Court House,
arrived on the 14th at Falmouth, on the Rappahannock river, opposite Fredericksburg.
On the 17th they withdrew nine miles to Stafford Court House, where winter
quarters were erected, and the regiment remained until the 19th of January,
1863, when orders were received to move to Beriah Church. They returned
on the 4th of February to Stafford Court House, near which place they again
erected winter quarters, and were occupied in acquiring thorough knowledge
of drill and discipline, with the usual routine of picket and fatigue duty
until the opening of the spring campaign.
In the general movement of the army under the direction of Gen.
Hooker, they broke camp on the 27th of April, and arrived on the following
day at Kelly's Ford, on the Rappahannock. They crossed the river at Midnight,
and continuing the march on the 29th, crossed the Rapidan at Germania Ford,
arriving at Locust Grove, near Chancellorville, early on the following
morning. The Eleventh Corps, to which they were attached, here formed the
extreme right of the army of the Potomac, and on the 1st of May the regiment
was posted in the second line, which was placed in position to repel the
expected attack of the enemy on our right. Early next morning their brigade
was withdrawn from this position, and formed in line to protect the flank
of the army, at right angles with the main line, and somewhat retired from
the extreme right. The Twenty-sixth took position in the first line, in
an open space, about seventy-five yards from the heavy timber in their
front, in which was deployed a heavy line of skirmishers. At five in the
afternoon, the enemy in heavy force commenced a furious assault at this
point, his line extending so as to attack simultaneously our right and
rear. The skirmishers were at once driven in or captured by the rapid advance
of the enemy, and the troops on the extreme right of our main line having
given way, the rebels advanced directly upon the position held by the Twenty-sixth
Wisconsin, with a New York regiment. Although suffering severely from the
enemy's fire, these two regiments gallantly held the position, until there
was danger of being surrounded, when they were ordered to retreat, and
withdrew about a mile, leaving nearly two hundred of their number on the
field.
On the morning of the 3d they were placed in position on the left
of the army near the United States Fordk where a portion of the regiment
was engaged as skirmishers during the day, without loss, and next morning
they changed position to the right, remaining until the 6th, when they
re-crossed the Rappahannock and returned to camp near Stafford Court House.
During this disastrous movement, the regiment had lost thirty-seven killed,
one hundred and seventeen wounded, twenty taken prisoner and three missing.
On the 16th, camp was removed to the vicinity of Brooks' Station, on the
Fredericksburg railroad, where they remained until called upon to participate
in the general movement of the army of the Potomac to meet and turn back
the rebel invasion of Maryland and Pennsylvania.
They left Brooks Station on the 12th of June, and proceeding by
way of Catlette's Station and Centreville, encamped near the Potomac on
the 17th. The movement was resumed on the 24th, when they crossed the river
at Edward's Ferry, and marching through Middletown, Frederick, and Emmettsburg,
arrived on the morning of the 1st of July, at Gettysburg, Penn. About noon
they took position in the second line of battle of their division, which
was deployed in a wheat field a short distance northwest of the town, occupying
the extreme right of our line. After a delay of half an hour in this position,
the order was given to move forward. The first line had just reached a
strip of timber two hundred yards in advance, when it was assaulted in
great fury by a superior force of the enemy, and gave way in disorder,
falling back through the second line, which was immediately pressed forward,
the Twenty-sixth deploying into line of battle about one hundred yards
from the rapidly advancing enemy. They were at once hotly engaged, and
after sustaining the position with great gallantry for a short time against
the overwhelming force of the enemy in their front, they were ordered to
withdraw. Acting as rear guard to the retreating column, they fell back
through the town to Cemetery Hill, on which they went into position behind
a low stone wall, and remained without being again engaged, during the
following day. In this celebrated battle the losses of the regiment were,
forty-one killed, one hundred and thirty-seven wounded, twenty-six prisoners,
and six missing; but four officers escaped unhurt. On the morning of the
4th, the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin, with another regiment, effected a reconnaissance
to the eastward of Cemetary Hill, and having discovered that the enemy
had retreated, returned to camp, bringing in a number of prisoners. Next
morning they were put in motion on the track of the retreating rebels,
and proceeding by way of Emmettsburg and Middleton, crossed the Katoctin
mountains on the 7th, and pressed forward on the following day to Boonsboro,
where, the enemy had attacked our cavalry under Gen. Kilpatrick.
On the 12th, they occupied position in front of the enemy, between
Funkstown and Hagerstown, following him thence on the 14th to Williamsport,
where the pursuit was abandoned, and the regiment commenced the return
march to Virginia on the following day. They crossed the Potomac on the
19th, and proceeded by slow marched through the Loudon valley, encamped
on the 25th at Warrenton Junction, Va., the Orange & Alexandria railroad.
They were stationed at this place, engaged in picket and patrol duty, with
occasional short expeditions through the through the surrounding country
until the 17th of September, when the brigade was removed to Rappahannock
Station. At this place they took the cars on the 25th and proceeding by
way of Indianapolis, Louisville and Nashville, Tenn., joined the Army of
the Cumberland on the 2d of October at Bridgeport, Ala., where they went
into camp. Late on the evening of the 9th they left Bridgeport by rail,
arriving on the following morning at the tunnel near Cowan, Tenn., where
a party of raiders had previously succeeded in overpowering the guard and
obstructing the track. Having removed the obstructions and thoroughly patrolled
the vicinity without finding the enemy, they returned to Bridgeport in
the evening, where they were constantly occupied in fatigue duty, with
frequent reconnoitering expeditions in the vicinity until the 27th, when
the Eleventh Corps was put in motion towards Chattanooga, Tenn. Crossing
the Tennessee river at Bridgeport, they marched along the line of the railroad,
and the following day took part in a skirmish with the enemy fear Brown's
Ferry. From this time the regiment was moved from point to point in the
Lookout Valley, occupied in picket and patrol duty, with labor on fortifications
until the 11th of November, when they went into camp.
On the 22d they marched with three days' rations and without knapsacks
to Chattanooga, and next day participated in the movement against the enemy
on Mission Ridge. During the first day's action, the regiment was held
in reserve as support to the first line. On the second day (24th) they
were temporarily detached from the brigade and taking position in the front
line, advanced against the enemy's skirmishers who were steadily forced
back during the day. Early on the 25th, they rejoined the brigade and marched
around Mission Ridge, taking position to guard against a flank attack,
on the extreme left of the army near Chicamauga creek, and next morning
started in pursuit of the enemy who had been driven from his position on
Mission Ridge. Following the line of the East Tennessee & Georgia railroad,
they marched by way of Charleston, Athens and Loudon, and arrived on the
5th of December at Little river, fifteen miles from Knoxville, where farther
pursuit was abandoned. The return march commenced on the 7th and the regiment
re-entered camp in Lookout Valley on the 17th.
During this short campaign they had sustained no losses at the hands
of the enemy, but the hardships they endured were unusually great. A number
of the men were destitute of blankets and at the conclusion of the march,
many had no shoes. Subsistence was gathered from the country through which
they passed and was frequently scanty and of inferior quality. They remained
at Lookout Valley until the 25th of January, 1865, when camp was removed
to Whiteside, Ala., Thirteen miles from Chattanooga, on the Nashville &
Chattanooga railroad. During the winter they were employed principally
in picket guard duty, occasionally furnishing heavy details for labor on
the railroads and fortifications.
On the 23d of April they marched to Lookout Valley, joining at that
place the Third Brigade, Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps, to which
they had been assigned in the organization of the army for the spring campaign..
Participating in the general movement of the army under Gen. Sherman they
left Lookout Valley on the 2d of May, and marching slowly by way of Taylor's
Ridge and Gordon's Springs, bivouacked, on the 7th, in Dogwood Valley.
Next morning they marched on reconnaissance to Buzzard Roost, three miles
distant, where they first encountered the enemy. A skirmish ensued which
continued till dark, the Twenty-sixth losing two men wounded. They returned
on the 9th to Dogwood Valley, from which the forward movement was resumed
on the 11th, and passing through Snake Creek Gap, the regiment took position
on the 13th, before the enemy's entrenchments at Reseca. Skirmishing was
sustained from noon until dark, when the regiment was placed in front line
of battle and bivouacked for the night. Next morning skirmishers were pushed
forward, and the position was held during the day, with a loss of three
killed and one wounded. They were relieved at midnight, and after a short
rest, marched, on the morning of the 15th, to the extreme left of the army,
where dispositions were made for the assault.
The Twenty-sixth was placed on the front line on the right of the
brigade, and ordered to take a hill in front. Skirmishers were thrown forward,
and supported by the main body of the regiment, succeeded in driving the
rebel skirmishers from the breastworks, and occupied the position. The
enemy's main line of fortifications was situated on a ridge parallel to
that which they now occupied, and separated from it by a narrow valley,
covers with a dense growth of young pines. Shortly afterwards they again
advanced, forcing the enemy's skirmishers back to his works, and pressed
forward to the assault. The enemy's fire was very destructive, and the
works proved very difficult of access. The dense timber rendered it impossible
to preserve a compact line, so that although the works were actually gained
in some places, the general assault proved unsuccessful. The troops reformed
in the valley and again advanced to the assault, but with the same result.
The order was given to fall back to the first ridge, where the regiment
reassembled and repulsed the enemy's attempt to retake the position. The
casualties during the day were six killed and forty wounded. The rebels
having evacuated Resaca during the night, they marched in pursuit the next
morning. They crossed the Coosawattee river in the evening, and marching
in a southwesterly direction, by way of Calhoun, encountered the enemy
on the 19th near Carsville. The enemy was driven to his main works, and
the regiment encamped before the place, until the 23d, when they were again
put in motion to the southward, and crossing the Etowah river, pressed
forward next day to "Burnt Hickory."
On the 25th of May they took part in the battle near Dallas. In
this action our regiment sustained a loss of five killed, thirty-two wounded,
and two missing. It was found that the enemy's position was too strong
to be carried by assault, and entrenchments were built, in which they were
employed in fatigue and siege duty, until the 1st of June, when they accompanied
the movement of their corps towards the left. They pressed slowly forward,
as the enemy retreated on their front, and on the 3rd, occupied a position
in front of the rebel entrenchments on Pine Knob. In this vicinity they
remained until the 15th, when they again moved forward, following the course
of the enemy, who had evacuated Pine Knob during the previous night, and
occupied position two miles southward. On the night of the 16th, the enemy
again withdrew, closely followed next morning by our forces. In a skirmish
with his rear guard the Twenty-sixth captured a battle flag, and on the
19th took position in out works before the rebel position on Kenesaw Mountain.
On the 22d. the brigade was ordered forward, and after a severe action
in which our regiment lost nine killed and thirty wounded, captured the
enemy's line of rifle pits in their front. Next day, they moved to the
right and occupied position on the Powder Spring road, which they retained
under and incessant fire, until the 3d of July, when they again followed
the line of the retreating enemy to Nickajack Creek. On the 5th they were
again in motion to the southward, and encamped next day, two miles from
the Chattahoochee river, where they were allowed a few day's rest.
They crossed the Chattahoochee on the 17th, and pressing slowly
forward towards Atlanta participated on the 20th in the battle of Peach
Tree Creek. Shortly after the battle commenced, the troops on their left
retired , from which time the regiment occupied the extreme left of the
line. In a dense wood, sixty yards to the left, the enemy had established
a body of troops, who opened a severe enfilading fire on our lines as his
forces advanced in front. Under these circumstances, the position was gallantly
held until the attacking force in front broke and fled in confusion, closely
pursued by our victorious troops. The Twenty-sixth captured the battle
flag of the Thirty-third Mississippi, together with forty prisoners of
that regiment, whose retreat they had intercepted. The loss of the regiment
was nine killed and thirty six wounded, and having expended all their ammunition,
they were relieved by fresh troops. The following finds an appropriate
place in their record: "Where all behaved well, it may be regarded as invidious
to call attention to individuals, yet it seems to me that I cannot discharge
my whole duty in this report without pointing out for especial commendation,
the conduct of the 26th Wis. Vol. Infantry, and its brave and able commander.
The position of this regiment in the line was such that the brunt of the
attack on this brigade fell upon it. The brave, skillful and determined
manner in which it met the attack, rolled back the onset and pressed forward
in a counter charge and drove back the enemy, could not be excelled by
the troops in this or any other army, and is worthy of the highest commendation
and praise. It is to be hoped that such conduct will be held up as and
example for others, and will meet its appropriate reward." (from the official
report of the brigade commander).
During the 21st they remained on the battle field half a mile from
the enemy's first line of fortifications, which he abandoned during the
night, and on the following day the Twenty-sixth moved forward, taking
position near the main defenses of Atlanta. On the 3d of August they were
placed in the front line, which they occupied, constantly engaged in siege
and fatigue duty, until the evening of the 25th, when they silently withdrew
from the trenches, and marched in a westerly direction to Turner's Ferry,
on the Chattahoochee, where a pontoon bridge was thrown across the river,
and fortifications built to defend the ferry. Here they remained until
the 4th of September, when they entered Atlanta upon the retreat of the
enemy's forces. Since the fall of Atlanta the regiment has participated
in most of the engagements of Sherman's march from that place to Savannah,
and thence to Bentonville, and has never given its friends, of the State
from which it went, cause to blush for its action in the field. Its battle
flags, tattered and hanging in shreds to their staffs, are worthy a place
in the archives of Wisconsin, side by side, with the proudest records of
our military history, and the Fatherland may well rejoice at the unflinching
bravery and devoted courage of the German regiment, the 26th Wisconsin.
__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 19, 1865. Page 1, Col 6
Committee of Reception-The Chamber of Comerce , Saturday, appointed
the following gentlemen a committee to wait on returning regiments, and
see that they are properly received:
J.J. Tallmadge, Gen. J.C. Starkweather, Hon. Edward Salomon, Edward
Sanderson, R.P. Elmore, John Nasro, O.H. Waldo, George W. Allen.
The committee have made the following arrangements for the reception
of the regiments:
Three guns will be fired when the boats heave in sight with the
returning regiments and batteries. As they enter the harbor a salute of
thirteen guns will be fired, and the bells rung. In order that all may
know of the arrival, and turn out and give a cordial welcome to the returning
heroes
Article #96__________________________________________________________________________
Jun 19, 1865. Page 1, Col 6
Another man shot-At the reception of the 26th Regiment, on Saturday
afternoon, a paroled prisoner from Camp Reno, named Legget, who was assisting
in firing the salute, had an arm blown off and his face badly burned by
a premature discharge of the gun he was loading. If we cannot have a reception
without killing or maiming a man, the firing of salutes had better be stopped.
We call attention to the communications of Geo, Godfrey in this morning's
paper upon this subject, and will say that we prefer the result of his
practice to the theory which sacrifices a valuable life or maim a man whenever
it is put in practice.
Approximately Jun 19, 1865. Page 1, Col 6 (Copied from the Madison
Capitol Times)
Return of the 26th Wisconsin.
The 26th Wisconsin regiment, German, mainly raised in Milwaukee,
returned and was received in that city on Saturday afternoon. A fine reception
was given them, the German societies all turning out to bid the war-worn
veterans welcome. The reception address was delivered by Ggen. H. E. Paine.
Subsequently Ex-Gov. Salomon welcomed them in the German language. Addresses
were also made by M. Schoeffler, and B. Domschke, Col. Winkler responding
in behalf of the regiment.
The 26th left the State in October, 1862. It was in the battles
of Chancellorville and Gettysburg. Transferred to the West in September,
1863, it has served with Sherman in the great campaign against Atlanta,
and in the triumphant march through the heart of the rebellion. About 270
men return with the organization.
The present roster of the Regiment is as follows:
Colonel-F. C. Winkler.
Lieut Colonel-Francis Lackner.
Major-J.H. Juchs.
Surgeon-S. Vander Voort.
Adjutant-G. H. Jones.
Quartermaster-Adolph Hensel.
