The Milwaukee Sentinel Articles Concerning the 26th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment

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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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….
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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___________________________