CHAPTER XXI.
The Seventh joins Grant's army. — The
battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, and Ringgold.
After remaining for some time at Bridgeport, the regiment was ordered to the vicinity of Lookout Mountain. It marched to the little village of Wahatcha, at the base of this mountain, and went into camp. It remained, however, but a short time, and then returned to Bridgeport, where it went into permanent camp.
Late in the fall, General Grant had perfected his arrangements to attack the rebel stronghold on Lookout Mountain; and, as a preparatory measure, his vast army was concentrated in the vicinity of Chattanooga. An immense quantity of stores had been gathered, while garrisons were placed at points to be held for the purpose of keeping up communication with the army after its advance. Early in November, the Seventh left its quarters in Alabama, and joined the grand army.
On the 24th of November, the army was set in motion. The Seventh passed up the northern slope of the mountain, and crossing Lookout Creek, formed in line of battle. It now steadily advanced, arriving at the rebel camp to find it in the hands of our men. But desultory firing was kept up by the rebel sharpshooters concealed in the timber and behind rocks on the summit of the mountain. The regiment was now ordered on picket. Passing around to the east side of the mountain, it was fired upon by the enemy; but owing to their being entirely hidden from view by the dense fog that had settled over the combatants, it did not return the fire, but secured a safe harbor behind rocks and trees. This fire was kept up for nearly two hours, with a loss to the regiment of only four men wounded. Before night the regiment was relieved from duty and marched to the rear, bivouacking in a peach orchard.
About ten A.M. of the 25th, it moved down the opposite side of the mountain, and passing through a small valley, soon reached Mission Ridge. Without halting, the command moved steadily up this mountain, and on arriving on its summit, found that the rebels had fled. Passing into another valley, it bivouacked for the night. On the 26th, the command moved to the vicinity of Pigeon Mountain, where it remained till the following day. Early on the morning of the 27th, it moved on to Ringgold, Georgia, where it found the enemy securely posted on Taylor's Ridge. On arriving in this town, the brigade was ordered to scale the mountain. It was formed on the railroad, in two lines of battle; the second line being ordered to preserve a distance of one hundred yards. Two Pennsylvania regiments formed the first line, and the Sixty-sixth and Seventh Ohio the second line; the Seventh being on the left. The enemy soon discovered the intention of our troops, and made his dispositions to meet the attack by extending his right. As soon as the advance began, the enemy opened fire. Arriving at the foot of the hill, the first line halted to return the fire, and the second line passed through. The Seventh now moved into a ravine, where it was exposed to a terrible fire from the front and both flanks, but it pressed on without firing a shot. Arriving almost on the crest of the hill, the fire became too effective for even these gallant veterans to withstand, and the line gave way, fighting as it went. In this manner, the surviving few reached the foot of the hill.
This engagement was short, but terrible in its results to the regiment. It may be said that with this struggle its star of glory began to fade—its pride and spirit were broken. But one officer escaped uninjured, while many were killed. The number of men in the action was two hundred and six, of whom fourteen was killed and forty-nine wounded.
For what purpose this handful of men were ordered to storm the enemy's position on the hill has never been explained. There was no artillery used to cover the assault, without which it was impossible to carry the position with such a force, and hazardous to attempt it with any. Within a short distance there was a large amount of artillery, which could have been placed in position, after which Taylor's Ridge would have been untenable by the enemy. On seeing such dispositions being made, he would probably have anticipated the movement, and fled without firing a gun. But thus far Hooker and his almost invincible corps had carried every thing before them. This success seemed to bring with it a contempt for the rebel soldiers, which finally resulted in the great disaster at Taylor's Ridge. A good general will resist the influences growing out of success, and not be led by these to undertake impossibilities, and by such rashness endanger that which he has already gained. It requires greater self-control to resist the temptations following victory, than to overcome the demoralizing influences of defeat. Victory must never elate a general, while defeat must never depress him.
After this battle, an unsuccessful attempt was made to get the regiment ordered home. But the response of Halleck, to a similar application, made after the battle of Cedar Mountain, was reiterated. "No!" said the old warrior; "not so long as there is a lame drummer-boy left; not if you will send us a whole new regiment in place of this handful. We know these men—they are just such as we want." This compliment, from an officer who was in command of all of the armies of the United States, was worth many a hard march, as well as battle.
The following is a list of the killed and wounded in the three battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, and Taylor's Ridge:
Killed.—Colonel W. R. Creighton; Lieutenant-Colonel O. J. Crane; Adjutant Moris Baxter; second-lieutenants, Isaac C. Jones and Joseph Cryne; sergeants, J. C. Corlet, William Van Wye; corporals, Alfred Austin, W. H. Bennett; privates, C. F. King, C. E. Wall, D. P. Wood, J. L. Fish, Thomas Sweet, Oliver Grinels, Lawrence Remmel, H. Hanson, J. H. Merrill, William Pfuel.
Wounded.—Captains, W. D. Braden, Samuel McClelland; first-lieutenants, George A. McKay, George D. Lockwood; second-lieutenants, D. H. Brown, E. H. Bohm, H. N. Spencer, Christian Nesper; sergeants, M. M. Cutler, John Gardner, L. Wilson, Isaac Stratton, Elmore Hemkston; corporals, James W. Raymond, E. V. Nash, John Baptee, C. Glendenning, Hiram Deeds, Thomas Dowse, George Spencer, William Senfert, J. E. Hine, W. H. Petton, J. H. Cleverton, H. C. Hunt, M. H. Sheldon, John Phillips, W. O. Barnes, M. Fitzgerald, J. Tuttle, George Eikler, W. J. Lowrie, H. O. Pixley, W. H. Johnson, John Bergin, W. Wise, H. B. Pownell, J. N. Hall, V. Reynolds, R. White, H. Wright, R. D. Gates, Otis Martin, Joseph Kincaid, W. O. Johnson, J. Decker, J. Hall, C. Cowden, D. F. Dow, George Mandall, H. Fezer, George Raynette, L. Habbig, John Schwinck, Joseph Rowe, C. Deitz.
The following were wounded at Lookout Mountain:
John H. Galvin, M. C. Stone, M. W. Bartlett, James A. Garrison, Louis Owen, A. Gordon.
CHAPTER XXII.
The advance towards
Atlanta. — Skirmishing. — Homeward
march. — Its reception. — Muster
out.
The series of successes in the vicinity of Chattanooga made Grant a lieutenant-general, and gave Sherman the command of the armies in Tennessee. Preparations were now made to press back the forces marshalled in rebellion at all points. Early in the spring the ball was opened in the East by Lieutenant-General Grant in person, while in the West the indomitable Sherman set his invincible army in motion towards the very heart of the so-called Confederacy. The advance was sounded, and the Union hosts pressed onward.
By sunset on the 17th of May the Seventh Regiment reached Calhoun, and on the 19th the vicinity of Cassville, where it hastily threw up some breastworks; but after two hours was ordered forward in line of battle. On the 23d it passed through the latter village, across the railroad, and at four P.M., arrived on the banks of the Etawa River; and after fording the stream, bivouacked for the night. On the 25th it took the advance of the entire column, and deployed seven companies as skirmishers. The march of these companies was very toilsome, and their progress correspondingly slow. Near Pumpkin Vine Creek the advance was fired upon by the enemy's pickets, and a sharp skirmish ensued. During this time the enemy attempted to destroy the bridge over the creek, but were driven back by the regiment; when it immediately crossed, and took possession of a commanding hill.
Generals Hooker and Geary, with staff and body-guard, had moved forward with the skirmish-line, and sometimes in advance even of this. On one of the latter occasions the body-guard was fired upon, and the three reserve companies of the Seventh were ordered to their relief.
The advance of the enemy was now held in check until the other regiments of the brigade came up, when he was dispersed.
In this skirmish, one man was killed and eight wounded. At this point the command threw up some breastworks, where it remained until six P.M., when it advanced in line of battle. In this movement the regiment became hotly engaged, losing three killed and fifteen wounded. One of the enemy's shell exploding in the ranks, occasioned the loss of eight men. On the 28th and the previous night, considerable skirmishing was kept up in front of the line of intrenchments, as well as some sharp artillery firing; which, however, did very little damage. These pieces were soon silenced by a New York battery. All day and night of the 30th the regiment was engaged in sharp skirmishing; but one man, however, was injured, and he severely. On the 2d of June it moved forward to Allatoona, Georgia, where it built breastworks, and went into camp.
Here it remained for some time, when its term of service having expired, it hastened its steps homeward; thus severing the connecting link between it and the army. The members of this veteran regiment now felt that they were no longer soldiers: that, although they retained the organization and uniform of a regiment, they were private citizens hastening to enjoy home and friends, from which they had been so long separated. They marched with joyous hearts, and yet there was sadness present with this happiness. Many a comrade was left behind, never to return. Fresh graves marked its line of march from Chattanooga to Georgia. Friends and kindred were sleeping beneath these green mounds, and they could not pass them by, in this homeward march, without a tear of regret.
Following the line of the railroad, the regiment finally halted and awaited transportation. When this was furnished, it went to Nashville by railroad, at which place it embarked on steamers and started down the Cumberland River. Arriving in the vicinity of Harpeth Shoals, it was fired on by guerrillas, and two men wounded. Both officers and men were desirous of landing and punishing this band of outlaws for their insolence, but could not prevail on the captain of the boat to permit it.
Arriving in the Ohio River, Sergeant Trembly fell from the boat and was drowned. This was a sad occurrence. He had served faithfully during the service of the regiment; and now, on the eve of being mustered out, he lost his life by accident. The boat was stopped, and efforts made to rescue him, but without success.
When the regiment reached Cincinnati, the Fifth Ohio had already arrived. The city being about to give an ovation to this gallant regiment, the Seventh was invited to take part in it, by partaking of the hospitality of the city. This demonstration, in honor of the two regiments, was eminently fitting, for they were united by the ties of long fellowship. From the very first they had been brigaded together. The history of the one was the history of the other. They had marched, bivouacked, and fought side by side. Each prized the honor and renown of the other not less than its own. The city of Cincinnati, in thus extending its hospitality to the Seventh Regiment, did much credit to itself. The friends of the regiment will remember this magnanimous conduct, while the members of the regiment will keep green the memory of the gallant Fifth.
The following is from the Cleveland Herald, of the 11th of June:
"On Saturday afternoon, soon after the evening papers had been issued, a dispatch was received, announcing that the Seventh Ohio had but just left Cincinnati, and would not arrive in Cleveland until about seven o'clock Sunday morning. Bulletins to this effect were at once printed, and distributed through the city; but a large crowd of persons, not aware of this fact, came down to watch the arrival of the evening train, on which the Seventh was supposed to be coming.
"On Sunday morning the population of the city were early astir, and by seven o'clock a large and continually increasing crowd had assembled in and around the depot. The police, in full uniform, marched down to the depot, and were followed by the old members of the Seventh, bearing the second regimental flag, the first having been deposited in the State-house at Columbus.
"At seven o'clock the ringing of the fire-bells announced the approach of the time for the arrival of the train; and about half-past seven o'clock a salute from the guns, manned by the Brooklyn Artillery, and run down to the bluff at the foot of Water-street, announced the arrival of the train.
"As it moved into the depot it was received with cheers by the assembled crowd; and the war-worn veterans were soon out of the cars, and surrounded by anxious and joyful friends. Shouts of welcome, hearty hand-shaking, embraces and kisses, were showered upon the sun-browned soldiers. Many of the scenes were very affecting. In one place a young wife, whose husband had left for the field just after their marriage, hung with clinging embrace on her returned brave, and her moist eyes sought his with unutterable affection, her hands trembling with excess of joy. In another, an old man, with both hands grasped in those of his son, mingled smiles of joy over his returned boy, with tears of sorrow for the one who had laid down his life for his country. Mothers clung to sons, sisters to brothers, wives to husbands, and some little children climbed up for a father's embrace.
"The number all told, men and officers, of those who returned, was two hundred and forty-five. These were the remnants of nearly eleven hundred men, who left Camp Dennison three years ago, on the reorganization of the regiment. The whole number of the regiment is five hundred and one, of whom the remainder were recruited at various times, and their term of service not expired. Sixty of these were left in Sherman's army; the rest are scattered in every direction, from the James River to Atlanta. The greater part of those whose term of service has not expired are to be consolidated with the same class in the Fifth Ohio, which fought by its side in many a bloody fray, and which is to retain its number. The slightly wounded were brought up with the regiment, the more seriously wounded being left in different hospitals.
"The following is the present organization of the Seventh:
"Lieutenant-colonel, Sam. McClelland; surgeon, Dr. Bellows; assistant surgeon, Dr. Ferguson; Captain Wilcox, Company E; Captain Kreiger, Company K; Captain Clark, Company B; Captain Howe, Company A; Captain Braden, Company G; Captain Davis, Company C, taken prisoner in last fight; Captain Nesper, Company H; Captain McKay, Company F; Captain Lockwood, Company D; Lieutenant Bohm, commanding Company I; quartermaster, S. D. Loomis.
"The regiment left Chattanooga with the Fifth Ohio; but parted company on the way, the Fifth having left their arms behind them, and were therefore compelled to come by railroad, no unarmed troops being allowed to come by the river. The Seventh came up the Cumberland and Ohio rivers by steamboats, and were fired on by guerrillas on the way. One man was lost, Sergeant Trembly, of Company C, about thirty miles below Cincinnati. He was on the guards of the steamer cleaning his gun, when he fell overboard. The boat was stopped, and efforts made to save him; but he was carried away by the current and drowned.
"On reaching Cincinnati, they were ordered to Columbus to be mustered out; but when the train got to Columbus, they were ordered to go on to this city to be paid, and mustered out.
"After leaving the cars, and the greetings of friends were ended, the men were marched to one part of the depot, and given a chance to wash themselves. They were then conducted to tables set along the north wing of the depot, where a hot breakfast had been provided by Wheeler and Russel, on the order of the military committee. Rev. Mr. Goodrich invoked the blessing.
"A number of ladies were on hand, who supplied the soldiers bountifully with strawberries, after the more substantial part of the feast was concluded.
"As soon as the men had been properly fed and refreshed, they fell into line, and proceeded through Water and Superior streets to the front of the government buildings, where the formal reception was to take place. The procession was headed by the police, followed by a brass band, and by the military committee, members of the council, and city officers. The old members of the Seventh, with the second flag of the regiment, tattered and torn, immediately preceded the bronzed veterans, who, fully armed, and bearing their last flag, rent with a hailstorm of hostile bullets, marched with proud steps through the streets they had left three years and three months since. Carriages followed with the sick and wounded who were unable to march. The procession was accompanied with a throng of people, and crowds lined the streets, whilst flags fluttered in all directions.
"On reaching the front of the government building, the regiment was drawn up in double line, and Prosecuting-Attorney Grannis, in the absence of Mayor Senter, addressed the regiment, in behalf of the corporation and citizens, as follows:
"Soldiers of the Seventh Ohio—The people of the city of Cleveland welcome you home. More than three years ago, you went forth with full ranks—more than a thousand strong. To-day a little remnant returns to receive the greetings of friends, and to mingle again with society, as was your wont in times gone by. But this is not all. You, and those who went with you, whether present here to-day or absent, whether among the living or the dead, shall be held forever in grateful remembrance.
"We witnessed your departure with pride, not unmingled with sorrow. We did not regret that the men of the glorious Seventh had gone out to fight against a brutal and insolent foe, or fear that any member of it would ever fail to do his whole duty in the perilous ridges of the battle; but we did know that your departure was attended with many sacrifices;—that you would be exposed to cold, fatigue, and hunger; would suffer from disease, from honorable wounds, and in loathsome prisons; and that many a noble form would bite the dust. We knew that these things must needs be, that the nation might live. The half was not told us. It did not enter into our hearts to believe what you would suffer and what you would accomplish. Upon almost every battle-field, from Cross Lanes to Dalton, the glorious banner of the Seventh has been in the van of the battle. We have watched your course with painful interest. After every battle, came the intelligence that your regiment had fought bravely, and had come out with thinned ranks.
"You have the grand consolation of knowing that the victories of Gettysburg, of Lookout Mountain, of Ringgold, and of Resaca, were not won without your aid. To have been in any one of those desperate conflicts, is glory enough for any man. The record you have made will seem almost like a tale of fiction. We have often had tidings of you, but such as would not cause our cheeks to tingle with shame. It was never said of the Seventh Ohio that it faltered in battle, that it failed to do its whole duty. You have been faithful, uncomplaining, and heroic. These things have not been accomplished without painful sacrifices. How painful, let the honorable scars many will carry to their graves answer. How painful, let this begrimed and tattered flag answer. How painful, these thinned ranks will answer. Your gallant colonel and lieutenant-colonel came home before you. Not as we could have wished them to come, but wearing the habiliments which all must wear; and now they lie yonder, and their graves are still wet with the tears of their mourning countrymen.
"Not so fortunate many of your countrymen, for they lie in unknown seclusion, but not in unhonored graves. We will not mourn these dead as those who die without hope, for their names shall be honored, so long as liberty is prized among men.
"It is an honor to be engaged in this conflict, which those who share it should fully prize; and those who have been engaged in it have shown a self-sacrificing devotion to duty, seldom excelled. It is a conflict in favor of liberty against treason and traitors; against a desperate and implacable foe, fighting with desperate energy, that fraud, oppression, and crime may stalk abroad in daylight.
"Let us hope that the final overthrow of rebellion is at hand; that soon our soldiers may all return home, with—
"On concluding, Mr. Grannis introduced Governor Brough, who also addressed the regiment. He said in substance as follows:
"Men of the Seventh Ohio—I know you are anxious to turn from this public to private greetings, to clasp friends and acquaintances in your hands and hearts. Under these circumstances I have not the courage to detain you. I will not read the glorious record of your achievements, for it would keep you so long. It is not necessary. We know your record in all its glory, but not, like you, in all its pain. A little over three years ago, on a Sabbath morning, you left Cleveland. Now, on a Sabbath morning, you return to us. That Sabbath was hallowed, by the purpose with which you went forth. This Sabbath is rendered sacred, by the joy with which you are welcomed back to us.
"On behalf of the State, I am here to give you a cordial greeting on your return. For the people of Cleveland, no formal greeting is necessary. In the crowd that gather around you, you can read the cordial welcome, that needs no words to express it.
"The Spartan mother, who sent her son to battle, bade him to return with his shield in honor, or on his shield in death. You have returned with your shields, and with honor reflected from them on you. But let us not forget that many have come home on their shields. We cannot forget those that, on another Sabbath morning, came home, and were received by the city in the weeds of mourning.
"We welcome you back, not only because you are back, but because you have reflected honor on your State. Standing, as I do, in the position of father of all of the regiments of the State, it will not do for me to discriminate; but I will say, that no regiment has returned to the bosom of the State, and none remains to come after it, that will bring back a more glorious record than the gallant old Seventh.
"There is no need to tell you what the lesson of this war is. You have learned it in many a weary march, and on many a field of carnage. None know better than you, that there are but two ways possible for the termination of this war. One is an inglorious peace and disgraceful submission, and the other is to completely crush the military power of the rebellion. There is no other way; and he who goes about on street-corners, and talks about a peace short of one or the other of these alternatives, is either grossly ignorant or intentionally attempting to deceive. More than that, no one knows better than yourselves, that to secure a lasting peace, when the military power of the rebellion is crushed, the cause of this infernal rebellion itself must be thoroughly wiped out. You have been taught that in many a fiery lesson, and know it to be a truth.
"There are gallant men and brave generals in the army laboring to reach this end; and we have confidence that their efforts will be crowned with success. God grant that it may be so. I had almost said that God and Grant will make it so.
"But I will detain you no longer. There is another greeting awaiting you in your homes—a greeting that no other eyes should witness. To that sacred and precious greeting I remit you."
The regiment now marched off to Camp Cleveland, escorted by the old members of the Seventh.
The men were given a brief furlough, after which preparations were made to be mustered out.
On the 4th of July, a grand ovation was given to the regiment, in connection with the Eighth Ohio; in fact, while the regiment remained in Cleveland, it was one continued ovation. The citizens vied with each other, in caring for and honoring the old Seventh. It seemed as if they could not do enough. These brave men will not soon forget the anxious care bestowed upon them by the citizens of Cleveland, during this closing period of their career in the service of their country.
After remaining for a brief period in camp, the regiment was mustered out; and after kindly farewells had been exchanged, each member departed for his home, from which he had been so long absent in protecting a Government that he loved from the ruthless touch of treason and slavery.
When the regiment entered the field, it numbered more than a thousand men. As these began to dwindle away by the shock of battle and the ravages of disease, new members came in, until we find nearly fourteen hundred men on the rolls, exclusive of three months' men: the latter would swell the number to about eighteen hundred men. Of the former, over six hundred were killed and wounded—the killed alone amounting to about one hundred and thirty. One hundred and upwards died from disease; while more than six hundred were discharged on account of disability arising from various causes. Many of those who were on the rolls at the time the regiment was mustered out were disabled for life, and were only retained for the want of an opportunity to be discharged. The whole number of able-bodied officers and men returning with the regiment was only two hundred and forty-five, leaving upwards of eleven hundred dead and disabled.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
BRIGADIER-GENERAL E. B. TYLER.[3]
E. B. Tyler entered the service as colonel of the Seventh. He brought with him some little military experience, having been a brigadier-general of militia before the rebellion broke out.
When General McClellan was about to make his advance into Western Virginia, he selected Tyler to lead the way, on account of his thorough acquaintance with that wild region, he having been engaged in purchasing furs from the people for many years. During the entire summer he was kept well out to the front. He was finally given a brigade, with which to assist General Cox in driving General Wise from the valley. He moved as far as Somerville, in the very heart of the enemy's country, and was soon after in the skirmish of Cross Lanes. From this time, during the remainder of his stay in the department, he was in command at Charleston, in the Kanawha Valley. In the winter following, he was ordered to Kelley's department, where he was again given a brigade, with which he did good service on the outposts. We next find him at the battle of Winchester, where he commanded a brigade. It was his command that charged the battery, for which it acquired so much renown. His conduct at this battle won him a star. He now served with his command in the Valley, accompanying it to the Rappahannock and back. After which he commanded the forces in the battle of Port Republic. His conduct in this engagement is above criticism. No general could have made better dispositions than he, and no one would have met with better success. Defeat was certain; and all that the best generalship could do, was to save barely a remnant of the command. It is a wonder that any artillery was saved. He gained much reputation in his command for the manner in which he acquitted himself in this battle. He soon after left his old brigade, and finally took command of a Pennsylvania brigade, which he led in the battle of Fredericksburg, in December, 1862. He had acquired a fine reputation with Governor Curtin, and his conduct in this battle confirmed it. The spring following he was assigned to a command in Baltimore, under General Schenck. At the time of the raid on Washington, in the summer of 1864, he was at the front. During an engagement he became separated from his command, and only escaped by dint of hard riding. After remaining concealed for some days, he escaped, and returned in safety to our lines. After this campaign he returned to Baltimore, where he is at the present time stationed.
BREVET BRIG.-GEN. J. S. CASEMENT.
J. S. Casement came into the regiment as major, and was just the man for the place. The regiment needed a practical, common-sense sort of a man, and it found him in the person of Jack Casement. Many of his previous years had been spent in the construction of railroads. In this he had not a superior in the United States. He is of small stature, but of iron frame; and for endurance has few equals. He will shoulder and walk off under a load that would make the most athletic tremble. He has probably superintended the laying of as much track as any man of his age.
On joining the regiment, the major at once made himself useful in looking after matters for the comfort of the command, that really belonged to no one to look to, and yet, when attended to, went far to improve the condition of the men. He rapidly acquired a knowledge of military tactics, which was afterwards to fit him for a leader. This was not difficult for him to do, for he made it a practical study. He was always on duty when the occasion required it. This habit of promptness he acquired while working large parties of men, and it never left him during his service. During the long marches in Western Virginia, he was ever watchful as to how matters were going on in the rear; and while other mounted officers were riding leisurely along, he was ever watchful of the train, as well as all other matters connected with the easy movement of the command. Arriving in camp, he made it his business to see that all was snug. At the affair at Cross Lanes he conducted himself with such gallantry as to endear him to the entire regiment. He rode over that fatal field as calm and collected as on drill. When his superior officers had escaped, he organized the balance of the command, and then commenced that memorable march over the hills and mountains, through the valleys and over the streams, of that wild waste. It was finally crowned with success, and the regiment felt proud of its major; and the Western Reserve felt proud, too, that they had sent so brave a man to serve with so brave a regiment. He now did his duty, until we find the regiment in the East, and in its expedition to Blue's Gap, Major Casement at its head. Just before reaching the fortifications, he made a speech. Said he: "Boys, you've not got much of a daddy, but with such as you have, I want you to go for those rebels." And they did go for them in earnest. It seems the boys did not object to the character of the "daddy." He now went with the regiment to Winchester, where he was engaged in that battle. He sat on his horse where the bullets were flying thickest, and seemed to be a stranger to fear. When the battle was nearly over, followed by a few men, he took possession of a piece of artillery, and held it until the close of the action. In the evening succeeding the battle, he found that ten rifle-bullets had passed through the cape of his coat on the left side, near to his arm.
Major Casement accompanied the regiment on its march up the Valley, making himself useful in the way of constructing bridges and roads. On arriving at Falmouth, on the Rappahannock, he tendered his resignation, which being accepted, he returned to his home. All missed the merry laugh, as well as the merry jokes, of the ever happy major.
He was not long permitted to enjoy home, however, as in the following summer he was made colonel of the One Hundred and Third Ohio Regiment, and immediately after left for the field. His regiment was ordered to Kentucky, in which department he served until Sherman's triumphant march on Atlanta, when he joined him, and soon after commanded a brigade. In this campaign he distinguished himself. After Sherman left for Savannah, Casement commanded a brigade in Thomas' army. At the battle of Franklin, which followed, he conducted himself in such a brilliant manner as to win a star by brevet. He now took part in the pursuit of the disorganized forces of Hood, and when it ceased, went to Wilmington, North Carolina, with the corps of General Schofield, where he has since remained.
The career of this dashing officer has been one of usefulness, and his numerous friends, as well as the entire country, appreciate his services.
BRIGADIER JOHN W. SPRAGUE.[4]
General Sprague entered the service as captain of Company E. He immediately gained a high character as an officer, both for his fine military bearing and gentlemanly deportment. His company was first in discipline, and during the time he was in command not one of his men was under arrest. His influence was such, that they seldom disobeyed an order. They regarded their captain as a fit person to lead them—one whose example was worthy of imitation.
During the trying marches in Western Virginia, Captain Sprague was ever at his post to encourage and cheer his men. A few days previous to the Cross Lanes affair, he was given a leave of absence; and soon after leaving for his home, he was taken prisoner by the enemy's cavalry. He remained in prison about a year, suffering all the hardships that the imagination can picture. When he was released, his hair had become gray, and his every appearance was indicative of great suffering. On his return, he was immediately commissioned colonel of the Sixty-third Ohio Regiment, and very soon after entered the field. From this time on he did gallant service in the armies of the West. His great military talent was at last acknowledged, and his vast services rewarded by conferring on him a star. He is now serving in the West.
LIEUT.-COL. SAMUEL McCLELLAND.
The subject of this sketch is a native of Ireland. He was born in 1829. While in his youth, his parents emigrated to this country, landing at Philadelphia, from whence they went to Pittsburgh. Remaining here for a short time, they removed to Youngstown, Ohio, where they have since resided.
He entered the service as first-lieutenant of Company I, and was at once active in the discharge of his duty. He accompanied the regiment to Western Virginia, where he took part in all the hard marches that followed. At the affair of Cross Lanes, he demonstrated, by his gallantry, the fact of the possession of great military talent; for he was brave, prudent, and skilful. Up to the battle of Winchester, he was with the regiment in every march and skirmish. At this battle he commanded a company, and had the honor of opening the battle, and sustaining it for a few minutes, till other companies formed on his flanks.
He was engaged in the following battles and skirmishes, which embrace every one in which the regiment was engaged: Cross Lanes, Winchester, Port Republic, Cedar Mountain, Antietam, Dumfries, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, and Taylor's Ridge. The various skirmishes and battles during the march of Sherman to Marietta, are to be added to this list. At the battle of Winchester he was slightly wounded in the head, but remained on the field, against the urgent solicitations of his friends, until the close of the engagement. At the battle of Taylor's Ridge he was severely wounded in the leg. He now returned to his home, but remained but a short time, rejoining his command before he was entirely recovered.
While in the East he was made captain of Company H, and after the battle of Taylor's Ridge, lieutenant-colonel. He now took command of the regiment; leading it through the arduous campaign of Sherman, as far as Marietta, in which service he won a fine reputation for ability as an officer. He was known and recognized throughout the army as the fighting colonel. At the above place, the old Seventh turned its steps homeward, commanded by Colonel McClelland, who had the proud satisfaction of leading the regiment into Cleveland, to do which the lamented Creighton was ever ambitious.
When encamped in the city, he set himself industriously at work preparing the regiment to be mustered out; which was done in due time.
McClelland was one of the few officers who were ever at their post. He was brave, active, and zealous, a good officer in every particular. His kindness and good feeling towards his fellow-soldiers won him many friends. His family have suffered severe loss, two brave brothers having died in battle. During all this affliction he has remained true to his country, his patriotism never growing cold for a moment.
MAJOR FREDERICK A. SEYMOUR.
The subject of this sketch came into the regiment as captain of Company G, having organized the company immediately after the first call for troops. He had seen a good deal of service in the militia of his native State, which was of great assistance to him in this new position. When the regiment was organized for the three-years' service, he was elected to his old position, which was an indication of the esteem his company had for him.
During the terrible campaign among the mountains of Western Virginia, his health became very much impaired; till just previous to the affair at Cross Lanes, he was compelled to leave his command and seek to restore it in his home. Therefore he was not in that skirmish. He soon after returned, but after reaching the Shenandoah Valley his health again failed him, and he once more sought to restore it by returning to his home. While he was absent the battle of Winchester was fought, and he therefore did not take part in the engagement.
He now accompanied the regiment in its march up the Shenandoah River, across the Blue Ridge, and back again to Front Royal; and from thence to Port Republic. In the battle fought at the latter place he was conspicuous for bravery. During that well-contested action be contributed all that lay in his power towards winning a victory. But valor alone cannot win a battle; numbers combined with it can only accomplish that. This was his first experience under fire; but he stood up to the work like a veteran; being second to none in deeds of daring.
Soon after this action he was engaged in the battle of Cedar Mountain, where he more than sustained the reputation acquired at Port Republic. This was a terrible battle, and every officer and private who fought there became a hero.
From this time forward the writer has no knowledge of his services, beyond the fact that he was promoted to major; which position he filled till some time in the fall of 1863, when he resigned, and returned to his home. It can be truly said that, wherever Major Seymour was placed, he endeavored to do his duty. Among his fellow-soldiers he had many friends, and he will always be remembered as a kind-hearted gentleman.
SURGEON FRANCIS SALTER.
Francis Salter entered the service as assistant surgeon of the Seventh Regiment; and on the resignation of Surgeon Cushing, was appointed surgeon. He held this position until the latter part of 1862, when he was made a medical director, and assigned to the staff of General Crooks. As a surgeon, he hardly had a superior in the service. His services were of great value in the hospitals, as he had had a long experience in those of England, his native country. He has remained in the service from the beginning of the war; and during that long period has alleviated the suffering of many a soldier.
C. J. BELLOWS.
The subject of this sketch was appointed surgeon of the regiment, from the position of assistant in the Fifth Ohio. Before entering the service he was enjoying a good practice in Northern Ohio, in which he had acquired a good reputation. While with the regiment he was much esteemed, by reason of his ability as a surgeon, as well as for his kind and courteous behavior.
G. E. DENIG.
On the appointment of Francis Salter to the post of surgeon, the subject of this sketch was made assistant. While with the regiment he was attentive to his duties, and always kind and obliging to those seeking medical aid. He many times acted as surgeon of the regiment; and on such occasions was always prompt in the discharge of his duty.
FREDERICK T. BROWN, D.D.
The subject of this sketch was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, of respectable and pious parents. His father was a wealthy merchant, and therefore gave his son a liberal education. After arriving at a proper age, he was sent to Princeton College, New Jersey, where he graduated. He early developed those Christian qualities which he has possessed in such an eminent degree during the whole course of his life. He was born to be a minister. At an early age his mind took a lasting hold upon religious truths; and it has never relaxed its energies in that direction for a single moment. He has gone on doing good from a child, his usefulness only increasing as his mind developed its powers. He has been a close student of theology during his whole life; and it is doing no discredit to others to say, that in this respect he has hardly a peer in the United States. He graduated at the Theological Seminaries at Princeton, New Jersey, and Geneva, Switzerland.
The Westminster Church, of Cleveland, Ohio, was organized by him; and in the course of his nine years' labor with it, increased from a small congregation to one of the most respectable religious societies of the city. He was pastor of this church at the breaking out of the rebellion.
While the Seventh Regiment was at Camp Dennison, he paid it a visit by request of some of the officers, and was immediately chosen its chaplain, there being but few dissenting voices. Immediately returning to his home, he tendered his resignation to his church, which, however, was not accepted; but in its stead, he was voted a leave of absence, which he accepted, but refusing to draw pay during the time. He joined the regiment early in July, while it was in Western Virginia, and at once entered upon his duties.
While here, he preached a sermon in one of the churches—to the rebel as well as Union people of the town—which was noted for the powerful arguments used against the position occupied by the South in relation to the Federal Government. This effort made him many friends in the village. He afterwards had a large influence over its people, being often invited to their homes. On such occasions he was received with a hearty welcome; although he never neglected an opportunity to reprove them for the opinions cherished by them.
While at Glenville, Gilmer County, he carried a message to General Cox, whose forces were somewhere on the banks of the Kanawha River. This has already been mentioned; but as it was an enterprise attended with much danger, we here copy a detailed account of it.
About the 15th day of July, Colonel Tyler, feeling it important to open communication with General Cox's forces on the Kanawha, determined to send a messenger with unwritten dispatches across the country through the enemy's lines; and as our chaplain could more readily be spared than any other member of the regiment deemed fitting to undertake the enterprise, the expedition was proposed to him. He accepted it willingly, though well aware of its difficulties and dangers. Colonel Tyler suggested to him to go in the character of a merchant or trader, so that, if arrested by roving guerillas or any of Wise's patrols, he could say he was on business to Gauley Bridge, or some other place. But he declined adopting the suggestion, as involving a possible lie, and asked to be left to his own resources.
Hastily divesting himself of every tell-tale mark of name, residence, or connection with the service, mounted on a blooded mare, captured from some guerrillas a few days before, and taking no rations but a bunch of cigars, an hour after receiving the order he started. It was a ride of a hundred and twenty miles through the enemy's country, by highways, and by-ways, and no ways at all, nearly half of it at night, sometimes alone, full of adventures, amusing and otherwise, and involving some narrow escapes from the enemy, but completely successful.
On the morning of the third day, at daylight, he struck the Kanawha, four miles below the mouth of the Pocotaligo; and there, for the first time, got word of General Cox, and learned that his camp was only four miles up the river. It was Sunday morning. He was soon at the general's quarters, and in the language of the chaplain himself, "received such a welcome as that genial man and accomplished Christian gentleman knows how to give." General Cox refused permission to him to return to us by the way he had come. He therefore remained with the general for the time; was with him at the capture of Charleston, and in the pursuit of Wise to Gauley Bridge, from whence he joined us again. Surviving members of the old Seventh will remember "the three times-three" cheers of each company in succession, as the chaplain rode along the line. We were on the march, a long distance from where he had left us, had not heard a word from him or of him, and had thought him lost; his arrival, safe and sound, coming from the direction of the enemy, was as one from the dead, or from Richmond.
At the battle of Cross Lanes he bore a gallant part, remaining with the command during the entire affair, and leaving only when all hope of saving the day had expired. He escaped, with others, through a gap in the enemy's lines, caused by well-directed volleys of musketry from the regiment. The same day he came into Gauley Bridge, after having rendered much service in bringing off the wagon-train. He soon after visited Cross Lanes, under a flag of truce, for the purpose of looking after our killed and wounded, as well as to learn the fate of those taken prisoners. While within the enemy's lines, he was treated civilly, but was refused the privilege of administering to the wounded, as well as visiting the prisoners. He therefore returned, without having accomplished, in the least degree, the object of his visit. The chaplain was soon after ordered to Charleston, where the scattered members of the Seventh had been collected.
While at this place he formed an agreeable acquaintance with many gentlemen of learning and ability, at whose houses he was a frequent visitor; and it may be truly said that on such occasions he added much to the fund of enjoyment.
While the regiment was at Charleston, a misunderstanding arose between the chaplain and Colonel Tyler, by reason of which the former felt it his duty to resign. His resignation was in due time accepted, and he was honorably mustered out of the service; the esteem and regrets of the entire command going with him to his home. While with the regiment his conduct had been above suspicion, and his sudden departure caused universal gloom.
Shortly after returning to his home in Cleveland, he was called to be pastor of a church at Georgetown, District of Columbia, which is both large and influential.
Not forgetting the cause of his country and her suffering soldiery, he is now engaged, in addition to his pastoral labors, in attending to the wants of the sick and wounded soldiers at the various hospitals in the vicinity of his home. Many a poor soldier of the republic will remember the words of consolation which have fallen on his ear from the lips of this devoted Christian.
In the personal appearance of Chaplain Brown, alone, there is a character. His light, fragile figure, erect and graceful carriage, strikes one as peculiarly fitting to his elegant, chaste, and mature intellect. He leaves an impression on the mind as lasting as it is positive. In his company the dark moments are lighted up. Generous and manly, he would distribute even his happiness among his fellows, were it possible. There are few men more companionable than he; and few ever won the love of their fellow-men equal to him. Endowed with rare conversational powers and a pleasing address, he always commands the attention of those around him. In public speaking, the first impression he makes upon the mind of the hearer is not such as would lead him to expect a flowery discourse; but as the speaker proceeds, it becomes evident that dry logic is not his only gift. His life is a constant reflection of truth. He takes a great grasp on eternal things; and lives greatly by seeking, as the one high aim of his studies, his labors, and his prayers, the supreme glory of God in the everlasting welfare of man. May such samples of Christian character be multiplied, till all the world has learned how great is God, and how great is goodness.
CHAPLAIN D. C. WRIGHT.
D. C. Wright was appointed chaplain during the winter of 1861. He reported to the regiment at Patterson's Creek, Virginia.
He was with the regiment at the battle of Winchester, where he rendered much assistance in caring for the wounded. He now followed the fortunes of the Seventh until its arrival at Port Republic, at which battle he served as aid to General Tyler. During the entire engagement he was much exposed, carrying dispatches in the most gallant style to different parts of the field. He was mentioned in the official reports for gallant conduct. After this battle he left for his home, and finally sent in his resignation, which was duly accepted.
Before the war broke out he was a minister of the Methodist Church, and acquired no little reputation as a revivalist preacher.
LIEUT.-COL. GILES W. SHURTLIFF.[5]
At the beginning of the rebellion, Giles W. Shurtliff was one of the teachers in the college at Oberlin. Immediately after the bombardment and capture of Fort Sumter, he organized a company, principally from among his pupils, and reported at Camp Taylor. He was with the regiment in its toilsome marches in Western Virginia, during which he was always at his post. During the affair at Cross Lanes he was taken prisoner, and now began those terrible hardships which no pen can describe, nor imagination picture. Prison life is a sort of living death,—a state of abeyance, where the mind is thrown back upon itself; where time, although passing, seems to stop, and the great world outside, to stand still. Through all this trial, and hardship, and misery, Colonel Shurtliff passed, without weakening his faith or his patriotism. He returned to his home, after more than a year's imprisonment, as firm in the support of the Government as ever. After allowing himself a short rest, he served in the Army of the Potomac on staff-duty; but was soon after made lieutenant-colonel of the Fifth United States Colored Infantry. He has since greatly distinguished himself in the numerous battles in the vicinity of Richmond. He is at the present time at his post, where he will probably remain until the rebellion is crushed, and the Government vindicated.
COLONEL ARTHUR T. WILCOX.
Arthur T. Wilcox is a native of Ohio, and entered the service as second-lieutenant of Company E. On the organization of the regiment for the three years' service, he was made a first-lieutenant, and assigned to the same company. He served with much credit in Western Virginia, until the Cross Lanes affair, when he was taken prisoner. He remained within the prison-walls of the enemy for more than a year, most of the time in Charleston, South Carolina, suffering every hardship; but coming out as true and pure a patriot as when he went in, he again joined his regiment, and was soon after made a captain. He now took part in all the battles of the West, in which the regiment was engaged,—Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Ringgold, and Sherman's battles in the march on Atlanta. He came home with the regiment, and was in due time mustered out. He was not, however, permitted to remain long at home, for, when new regiments were forming, he was made a colonel, and assigned to the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Regiment. He soon after joined his command, and was almost immediately ordered to the front. He joined General Thomas' forces, then falling back before the forces of General Hood. Arriving at Franklin, he was engaged in the bloody battle fought there, and greatly distinguished himself. He soon after arrived at Nashville with the army. The rebel army immediately advanced; and the two armies stood face to face, at the same time gathering strength for a desperate conflict. The Union army was triumphant, and the rebel hosts were beaten and demoralized. In this battle, Colonel Wilcox gained new laurels. He now took part in the pursuit of the scattered forces of Hood.
Every one who has fallen in company with Colonel Wilcox, will remember him as a genial friend and true gentleman. He has made many friends in the army as well as at home. He has chosen the law as a profession, and when "this cruel war is over" the writer wishes him the success his many virtues and talents merit.
LIEUT.-COL. JAMES T. STERLING.
James T. Sterling entered the service as first-lieutenant of Captain De Villiers' company. On the organization of the regiment for the three years' service, he was made captain. While at Camp Dennison he labored diligently to perfect his command in both drill and discipline; and when it entered the field it was second to none, so far as these essentials were concerned.
While in Western Virginia, Captain Sterling was on many scouts, in which service he showed great skill and bravery. Such adventures were very much to his liking.
In the affair at Cross Lanes he won the respect of all those who were witness to his coolness and daring. During the march to Charleston he made a good account of himself, being one of the most active in his labors, and among the wisest in his opinions.
He now followed the regiment to the East, where he engaged in all the marches and skirmishes which took place. At the battle of Winchester he commanded two companies; leading them into the hottest fire like a veteran. During the entire action he stood on the hill urging the men forward, regardless of the great danger to which he himself was exposed. He came through the battle, however, without a scratch, but with some holes in his clothing.
He now took part in the long chase of Jackson up the Valley, and from thence to Fredericksburg and back again; but was not in the battle of Port Republic, his company having been detailed for headquarters guard.
Very soon after this engagement he was made lieutenant-colonel of the One Hundred and Third Regiment, at that time about to be raised in the vicinity of Cleveland. He soon after reported to this regiment and was assigned to duty. He went with it to the field; but, after a limited period, was assigned the position of inspector-general on the staff of General Cox. He filled this position with much credit to himself, until early in the year 1864, when he resigned and returned to his home in Cleveland.
Colonel Sterling, as an officer, was much esteemed. As a companion, he was much admired. His easy manners and agreeable conversation gathered about him many friends. Every one regretted his departure from the Seventh; he had been with it through so many trials and dangers, that he was closely identified with it. His company thought well of him, and, therefore, his unexpected departure caused many regrets.
COLONEL JOEL F. ASPER.
Joel F. Asper was born in Huntington, Adams County, Pennsylvania, on the 20th day of April, 1822. When he was but five years old his father removed to Farmington, Ohio, by the slow process of a four-horse team and Pennsylvania wagon. The county of Trumbull was then but sparsely settled.
Until eighteen years of age he assisted his father in clearing a farm, at the same time attending a district school in winter. This is all the school education he ever had; all other education being acquired by his own exertion and application to study out of school.
Having a passion for reading and writing, he was led to study law. But previous to this, however, he commenced teaching a school in Southington, but, for some reason, left it after one month's experience. Early in the year 1842, we find him in the law-office of Crowell and Abel, at Warren, Ohio, and working for his board at the American Hotel.
In 1843, he carried the Western Reserve Chronicle through several townships, and during the entire year did not miss a trip.
In August, 1844, he was admitted to the bar, but remained with General Crowell till 1845, when he learned the daguerrean business, but not succeeding in this, in October following opened a law-office at Warren. His first year's practice netted him over four hundred dollars, and it increased from year to year.
In 1846 be was elected a justice of the peace, and in the following year was married to Miss Elizabeth Brown.
In 1847 he was elected prosecuting attorney. In 1849, was announced as one of the editors of the Western Reserve Chronicle; and wrote, during the campaign of that year, all of the leading political articles published in its columns. During the summer of 1848, Mr. Parker, proprietor of the paper, left for a pleasure excursion, and while absent, Mr. Asper, being left in charge, took ground against General Taylor. During this campaign he did much towards developing anti-slavery sentiments in the party. For this conduct he was denounced by the minority of his party. At this time he made a speech before a Whig convention, which is said to have been the best effort of his life. Carrying out these sentiments, he sustained Martin Van Buren for the presidency, and in the following year ran for prosecuting attorney on the Free-Soil ticket, but was defeated.
In 1850 he moved to Chardon, Ohio, and edited a Free-Soil paper until 1852, when, it proving a losing business, he returned to Warren, where he again commenced the practice of the law, which he continued until the breaking out of the rebellion, in 1861. He was among the first in Northern Ohio to tender a company to the Governor. It marched to camp on the 25th of April. He served in the regiment until March, 1863, when he was honorably mustered out of the United States service. During this time he took part in the affair of Cross Lanes and the battle of Winchester, in which last engagement he was severely wounded. After the Cross Lanes affair he accompanied a detachment of four hundred men to Charleston, rendering much assistance during the march. He was promoted to lieutenant-colonel during his service with the regiment, in which position he commanded the regiment in the retreat of Pope's army from the Rapidan.
On returning to Warren he opened an office, and in August organized the Fifty-first Regiment National Guards, and was elected its colonel.
When, in the spring of 1864, the corps was ordered into the field, his regiment was among the first to move. It went to Johnson's Island, and while there the noted John H. Morgan commenced a raid through Kentucky. To resist him, several militia regiments were ordered to the front; among them was the Fifty-first, now become the One Hundred and Seventy-first.
Arriving at Cincinnati, he reported to General Hobson, and was ordered to Keller's Bridge by train. Soon after getting off the cars, it was attacked by the enemy in overwhelming numbers. After a gallant fight of six hours, the brave little band of heroes was compelled to surrender. No regiment of new troops ever did better: it made itself a name which history will perpetuate.
The regiment was mustered out on the 20th of August, 1864. Asper now perfected his arrangements to move to Missouri, which he put into execution in October following. He is now engaged in the practice of law at Chillicothe, in the above State.
MAJOR W. R. STERLING.
The subject of this sketch entered the service as Captain of Company I. He carried with him some considerable military experience, having been connected with a company in his native State. He accompanied the regiment in its Western Virginia campaign, taking an honorable part in the affair at Cross Lanes. He was with the detachment in its march over the mountains to Charleston, during which he rendered great assistance, contributing largely towards bringing the command off in safety.
From Charleston he returned to his home on leave, but soon after returned to his command, accompanied by a number of recruits. He now took part in the various marches and skirmishes occurring in the mountain department of Eastern Virginia. He was not in the battles of Winchester or Port Republic; but was in all the marches occurring before and after those engagements. At the battle of Cedar Mountain he did yeoman's service. His company was led with such coolness and bravery, that many a rebel was made to bite the dust. He now remained with the regiment until General Hooker came to the command of the Army of the Potomac, when Captain Sterling was assigned a position on his staff. In this capacity he served until after the battle of Chancellorsville. A short time after this engagement he was taken prisoner by a roving band of rebels, and conveyed to Richmond, where he was for some time confined in prison. He was finally taken further south to another prison, from which, in the summer of 1864, he escaped; and after spending some time in the mountains, during which he suffered many hardships, finally joined the Union forces in Tennessee.
He was a brave and competent officer. While on Hooker's staff he was promoted to major.
MAJOR E. J. KREIGER.
The subject of this sketch is a native of Germany, and entered the service as a sergeant in a company composed of his fellow-countrymen. He very soon rose to the rank of lieutenant, and before the term of service of the regiment expired, to that of captain. He was in the following battles and skirmishes: Cross Lanes, Winchester, Port Republic, Cedar Mountain, Antietam, Dumfries, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Mission Ridge, Lookout Mountain, Ringgold, and in all the engagements in which his regiment took part in Sherman's march on Atlanta. No officer can show a prouder record. He was always with his command, and on all occasions showed great bravery and gallantry, as well as ability to command.
Immediately after the Seventh was mustered out, he was appointed major of the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Regiment, and left soon after for the field. He now added to the above glorious list of battles that of Franklin, where he fully sustained the honors that he gained while with the old Seventh. He is at the present time in General Thomas' army, where he will remain, if his life is spared, until the overthrow of the rebellion.
CAPTAIN J. B. MOLYNEAUX.
The subject of this sketch was born, January 1, 1840, at Ann Arbor, in the State of Michigan. At the age of four years his father removed to Penn Yan, New York, and soon after to Bath and Elmira, in the same State. In 1854, young Molyneaux went to Belville, Ohio, and commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Whitcomb. He remained for nearly a year, when, not liking the study, he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and entered the job-office of John Williston, where he learned the art of printing.
Having a natural liking for military life, he joined the Light Guards, and afterwards the Sprague Cadets, of which he was appointed drill-master. On the first call for troops, he joined a company being raised by Captain De Villiers, as a private, being among the first to enroll his name. Soon after arriving in camp, he was appointed a sergeant, and, immediately after, drill-master for the non-commissioned officers of the regiment. On the three years' organization, he was unanimously chosen first-lieutenant by the vote of his company. He remained with this company during the earlier part of the campaign in Western Virginia, taking a gallant part in the affair of Cross Lanes, as also in the final march of Major Casement's detachment to Charleston. After this action, he was placed in command of Company E, which command he held until January, 1862, and then being relieved, only for the purpose of receiving the appointment of adjutant.
He took part in all the marches and skirmishes in both Western and Eastern Virginia. At the battle of Winchester, he was mentioned, in the official report of his colonel, for gallantry on the battle-field. At the battle of Port Republic, he won new laurels, being constantly under the enemy's fire. In the fearful struggle at Cedar Mountain, he particularly distinguished himself. He was, for a limited time, in command of the regiment, during which he extricated it from a position, where, under a less skilful leader, it would have been captured. In this gallant exploit, Molyneaux lost two horses, one of them being pierced by fourteen bullets.
In September, 1862, he was appointed captain, after having waived rank three times. This position he held until March, 1863, when, on account of wounds and ill-health, he was compelled to resign. In the mean time, he was with the regiment in all its marches, as well as the battle of Antietam and the affair at Dumfries.
On his return home he followed his occupation of a printer, until the governor's call for the National Guard, when he again entered the service as a captain. His regiment being stationed in the defences of Washington, he was placed in command of a fort, which was, a part of the time, garrisoned by several companies. After the expiration of his term of service, he returned to his home in Cleveland, and resumed his business.
CAPTAIN CHARLES A. WEED.
Charles A. Weed was born, March 30, 1840, in Lake County, Ohio. He enlisted in Captain John N. Dyer's company, on the 22d day of April, 1861. After its arrival in camp, he was made orderly-sergeant, in which capacity he developed fine military talent, such as led his company, at an early time, to look upon him as a proper person for promotion when a vacancy should occur. Therefore, on the final organization of the company for the three years' service, he was made a first-lieutenant. He was with the regiment during the entire Western Virginia campaign, taking part in the skirmish at Cross Lanes, in which he took command of the company after the death of Captain Dyer, which position he held until January, 1862, when he was relieved by an officer promoted to the captaincy by reason of superiority of rank. He was soon after made captain, February 5, 1862, and assigned to Company E.
He now took part in all the marches and skirmishes in Eastern Virginia, and also in the battle of Winchester, where he displayed great gallantry. After this battle, he commanded his company in the pursuit of Jackson to Harrisonburg, and in the toilsome march to Fredericksburg, and the return to Front Royal. He was now in the advance to Port Republic. In the battle which succeeded, he displayed great courage, as well as ability to command. He took part in the battle of Cedar Mountain and Antietam, and also in the skirmish at Dumfries. On the 22d of February, 1863, he resigned, and returned to his home.
There were few better officers in the regiment. He was prompt in the discharge of his duty, seldom questioning the propriety of an order emanating from a superior, but executing it at once. In his intercourse with his fellow-soldiers, he was frank and courteous, and all cherished the kindest feelings towards him.
CAPTAIN JUDSON N. CROSS.
The subject of this sketch is a native of Ohio. When the war broke out he was attending college at Oberlin, Ohio. He immediately enrolled himself in Captain Shurtliff's company, and was soon after made a first-lieutenant. He served with his company in Western Virginia, with much credit to himself and profit to his country. At the skirmish of Cross Lanes he was brave, and showed that he was competent to command. During the affair, he was severely wounded in the arm and taken prisoner. At the battle of Carnifex Ferry, which followed soon after, he was recaptured by the forces under General Rosecrans. Being unfit for service, he now went to his home, where it was thought he might recover sufficiently to rejoin his command. But after the expiration of some months, being still unable for service, he was ordered on recruiting service at Cleveland, Ohio. He was engaged in this work until the fall of 1862, when he was honorably mustered out of the service, on account of the unimproved condition of his wound. In the mean time, however, he had been promoted to a captaincy.
CAPTAIN JOHN F. SCHUTTE.
Entered the service as a lieutenant in Captain Wiseman's company, and on its organization for three years, was made its captain. He was with the regiment until just before its affair at Cross Lands, when, being on picket duty on the banks of the Gauley River, he imprudently crossed over, and after advancing some miles into the enemy's country, was fired upon by a body of cavalry, concealed in the bushes, and mortally wounded. After being taken to an old building close by, he was left, at his own request, and soon after expired. The rebels buried him on the spot. No braver officer ever entered the service. Had he lived, he would undoubtedly have distinguished himself.
At the time of his death, no officer had a better reputation. His company was somewhat difficult to manage, but while he was in command, it was not surpassed for discipline, and hardly equalled. He was kind to every one who did his duty, but when one of his men failed to do that, he came down upon him with a heavy hand.
His loss was deeply felt throughout the entire command. His company had recognized in him a leader, and they deplored his loss.
LIEUT. LOUIS G. DE FOREST.
Louis G. De Forest was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on the 9th of September, 1838. His youth was spent in the city schools, where he acquired a fair education. In 1853, at the age of fifteen years, he entered the store of N. E. Crittenden. It is a high compliment to his industry and business habits, that he has remained in his employ since that date, with the exception of the time that he spent in the military service.
Having a natural taste for military life, in 1859 he joined a company of Light Guards as a private, but soon rose to the positions of corporal, sergeant, and finally lieutenant. The latter position he filled with credit, until the rebellion broke out, when, on the organization of the Sprague Cadets, for three months' service, he hastened to enroll his name. He was soon made orderly sergeant, which position he held when the company went into camp. After the regiment arrived in Camp Dennison, he was elected a second-lieutenant of his company. And on its final organization for the three years' service, he was chosen its adjutant, by a vote of its officers, and soon after received his commission, with the rank of first-lieutenant.
He accompanied the regiment in its arduous Western Virginia campaign, and during the time Colonel Tyler commanded a brigade, he served as acting assistant adjutant-general. At the affair at Cross Lanes, he took a prominent as well as gallant part. He was among the number of those who made the march over the mountains to Elk River and Charleston.
He accompanied the regiment to Kelly's department, where he again acted as acting assistant adjutant-general to Colonel Tyler, serving in this capacity until his resignation, which took place in March.
When the National Guard was organized, he raised a company, and was made its captain. In this position he served during the one hundred days' campaign of this corps, being stationed in a fort in the vicinity of Washington.
Every one who came in connection with the Seventh Regiment will remember the stentorian voice and soldierly bearing of its first adjutant.
LIEUTENANT HALBERT B. CASE.
Halbert B. Case was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, May 3, 1838. His father being a farmer, he was bred to that occupation. At the age of sixteen years he entered the W. R. Seminary, at Farmington, Ohio, preparatory to entering college. After a year and a half spent in this institution of learning, he went to Oberlin, where he pursued his studies for more than three years, when, his health failing him, he was compelled to leave college.