From the time of the existence of Williams as a distinct county until the commencepent of the war with Mexico in 1846, the martial spirit of the people had become nearly extinct, and that war did not greatly revive this sentiment, as the first requisition upon Ohio was only for three regiments, and Gov. Bartley found himself greatly embarrassed by a tender of the services of several times the number called for. A recruiting station for the Fifteenth United States Infantry was opened at Defiance, where Company B, of that regiment, rendezvoused and was organized. Although the muster-roll of the company could not be found, still it is quite certain that some ten or twelve boys from what is now Williams County joined this company and regiment, and went to Mexico. The officers of Company B were Daniel Chase, Captain ; Mr. Goodloe, First Lieutenant ; J. W. Wiley, Second Lieutenant. The following constitute the remnant of Mexican war soldiers, now residents of Williams County : Jacob Ryan, Third Regiment, Col. Curtis—enlisted in Wayne County,

Ohio. Peter Brown, Fourth Regiment, Col. Charles H. Brough, Cincinnati. ---Houk, Third Regiment, Col. Curtis, and in the company of Capt. Thomas H. Ford, Mansfield. Henry Good, in the same company and regiment ; enlisted in Mansfield. Wyland, Rev. William Taylor, F. S. Bradley. The Christian names of two cannot be positively given, and neither can the company or regiment in which they served ; but each one of the above seven claims residence in Williams County.

Prior to the war with Mexico, a more or less nominal militia organization was effected and carried on in Williams County, and annual musters were enjoyed by large and motley crowds, intent more on frolic and roystering than improvement in military discipline. And thus a system that had been so popular and efficient during the old Indian wars on the frontier, and directly after the close of the war of 1812-15, had loosened its hold upon the public mind during a protracted period of profound peace. The cities and larger towns of the State were the only places where military drill was appreciated, and where strict discipline and military pride at, tained a proficiency nearly equal to that which prevailed in the regular army. In Williams County, there were the usual musters, and several townships formed independent companies. Bryan had an artillery squad, and secured from the State a brass field-piece.

During the latter part of 1860, and the early part of 1861, the warmest interest of the citizens of the county was centered upon the important political events and changes that were overshadowing the country with dire and ominous import. All felt the coming storm, and many accurately predicted' the prolonged and dreadful results of the impending struggle. The Leader, though mild throughout and hopeful that war Might be averted, was loyal to the core, and endeavored to reconcile those political antagonisms which threatened the safety of the Union. All the better citizens of both parties were united upon the question of maintaining the administration of Mr. Lincoln and upholding the constitution and the laws. As yet the all-important question of slavery had not been seriously considered as to its total obliteration ; and all those bitter sentiments which were to array one section of the North against the other almost to the extent of open war, were yet unengendered and unfelt, and the county as a whole were united and hopefully tranquil.

dread were changed to certainty and concern, the most intense excitement everywhere prevailed. All former political antagonisms were glady relinquished, and a unity in upholding the administration became as firm and widespread as the most inveterate Abolitionist had dared to dream: The first reports depopulated the rural districts, suspended all agricultural and other pursuits, and flooded the towns, telegraph offices and news stations with vast crowds of excited, indignant and determined citizens. There was not a town of any consequence in the county where indignant mass-meetings were not held, and invincible determinations of loyalty are not manifested. The Leader of Thursday, April 18, 1861, published the following accounts :

The Bryan Court House was filled on Tuesday evening with men of all parties, and quite a delegation of ladies. The object of the meeting was to ascertain the amount of patriotism in the men of this section—how many would fight if necessary, and to listen to speeches from our leading citizens. The meeting was organized by calling B. H. Fisher, Esq., to the chair. I. R. Sherwood was chosen Secretary. The choir, composed of Prof. Cordly, Prof. Ruggles, Mr. Wilcox, Miss Ruggles and Miss Flora Crall, sang a national air. On motion of Col. F. M. Case, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Case, Plummer and Mallory, was appointed to draft resolutions. A. M. Pratt was called out. His speech was brief and to the point, and embodied the sentiments of every true-hearted man and woman present. He stated that there were only two sides to this question—that the issue was made up— we were either for the Government or against it, and, for his part, he was for it until the American Flag should again float triumphantly from every foot of American territory. Mr. Pratt was frequently interrupted by cheers, the enthusiasm was so intense. The Bryan Brass Band next played a national air. Mr. Case, as Chairman on Resolutions, re- ported as follows :

WHEREAS, The liberties of our common country are in danger, and our flag has been deliberately stricken down by traitors within our borders, who openly and unblushingly avow their intention to overturn the Government ; Therefore,

Resolved, That we ignore party differences and party ties, and give our hearty and un- divided support to our Government—rally as one man to our country's flag, and never-let it trail in dishonor—unite to crush the rebellion in our borders, and restore peace and prosperity to our people.

The following additional resolution, offered by Mr. Pratt, was unanimously adopted :

Resolved, That in our opinion the Legislature of Ohio ought to make an appropriation of $5,000,000, and provide for raising a force of 50,000 troops to aid in sustaining the Na- tional Government.

The resolutions as amended were unanimously adopted. W. A. Smith, Esq., being loudly called for, responded in a brief speech. The band then played Yankee Doodle. Judge Dobbs was next called out. He was not only in favor of suppressing the rebellion, but of hanging the traitors. The following speakers were afterward called out : Hon. S. E. Blakeslee, Mr. Pollett, Dr. Graser and Mr. Carnahan. The Chairman also delivered a speech. The utmost harmony and good feeling prevailed. The choir closed with a national air, which was loudly cheered—and so, in fact, was every speaker who addressed the meeting. From the indications in Bryan, Williams County can send one thousand good, strong men to defend the liberties of our country. Everybody is brimful of patriotism.

The citizens of Bryan and vicinity arc earnestly requested to meet in the M. E. Church, Monday evening, April 29, to make definite arrangements for the care of such families as may have been left destitute by such of our fellow-citizens as have volunteered their services in support of the American Flag.

At the call of the President for volunteers to crush out treason and enforce the laws, the gallant sons of Williams County have nobly responded. True, there are a few who refuse to aid the Government with-muscle or money—there were Tories in the Revolution and a Judas even among the disciples of Christ—but the great heart of the people beats high for freedom and the perpetuity of the grandest system of constitutional government the world has ever known. Last Thursday [April 18]. Gen. Steedman and Mr. Bassett, of Toledo, came to this place and held a war meeting. B. H. Fisher was authorized to form a company at this place, and Col. E. D. Bradley [who had served in the war with Mexico], one at Stryker. On Saturday [April 20], the volunteers of this, place were sworn In and elected B. H. Fisher, Captain ; E. J. Evans, First Lieutenant ; E. M. Deuchar, Second Lieutenant; Henry Gilbert, Third Lieutenant. At 4 o'clock P. M., the ladies of Bryan presented Capt. Fisher a beautiful silk banner. In a few hours a second company of nearly one hundred men was formed. On Thursday [April 18], the first company of one hundred and twelve men took the cars for Toledo. The company at Stryker, commanded by E. D. Bradley, is said to contain one hundred and seventy men. Over $2,600 have been subscribed to aid the volunteers and support their families.

In the same issue appeared an anonymous communication suggesting that township clerks should keep a careful record of all volunteers for future history, as the pending war was to be a memorable and stupendous one. It is worthy to note, at this juncture, that had the suggestion of this unknown correspondent been heeded, the material for a much better war history of the county than is presented on these pages would have beet preserved, and could now be used. There were two companies from the county in the three months' service, both serving in the Fourteenth Regiment. The following were the companies and officers : The company raised at Bryan, but containing men from all portions of the county— Captain, B. H. Fisher; First Lieutenant, Edwin J. Evans ; Second Lieutenant, E. M. Deuchar. The company raised at Stryker, but containing men from all parts of the county—Captain, E. D. Bradley ; First Lieutenant, Amos L. Bradley ; Second Lieutenant. D. S. Tallerday. The second company raised at Bryan was organized before the 9th of May, by the election of William Stough, Captain ; J. W. Pollock, First Lieutenant ; H. C. Long, Second Lieutenant. Public war meetings were held at Stryker, Edgerton, Pioneer and Bryan, immediately after the fall of Sumter. While the other villages of the county were thoroughly aroused, no public meetings, so far as now known, were held. Stryker was the first to respond in this respect, which she did on the evening of Monday, April 15. C. L. Chase and Col. Bradley spoke to a large, loyal and en-

thusiastic assemblage. While the Stryker and the Bryan companies were the only completed organizations from the county in the three months service, they were not` the only troops, as some twenty or thirty boys residing in the northern part joined Michigan regiments, others went into Indiana, and still others sought military organizations south and east. Not less than sixty boys thus found means to serve their country outside the county limits. Counting these and the two companies in the Fourteenth with the excess of men over one hundred, which they had, it will be seen that nearly three hundred men from the county were in the three months' service. How many enlisted under the call of May 3, for 42,031 men, cannot be learned, though doubtless there were a few.

Early in the morning of this eventful day the citizens of Bryan and vicinity were aroused from their slumbers by the thunder of the guns of the Bryan Union Artillery. A great meeting had been advertised, and distinguished and eloquent speakers were to be present to fly the American eagle higher than it had ever been permitted to soar before, which is saying multum in parvo. The Centre Guards came in early, headed by the Williams Centre Band, and followed by long lines of wagons, carriages, men and women on horseback, and eager and dust-begrimmed pedestrians. Large delegations, thoroughly organized and marshaled, came from almost every township in the county, headed with martial music which strangely kindled those grand sentiments of loyalty and patriotism that find resting-place in the breast of every true American citizen. Capt. Stough's Pulaski Company, the West Buffalo Zouaves, the Fountain City Blues and Capt. Blakeslee's Mounted Rangers, were present with fife and dram and banner and escutcheon. A large procession was formed and marched through the principal streets with all the pomp and ceremony of military display and out west to the grove, where, with popular patriotic music, the orator of the day, Rev. Mr. Raffensberger, entertained the vast assemblage in a long and eloquent address on the issues of the war. Soldiers were present in military dress—at home on furlough from the army in Western Virginia—and were regarded by all as the heroes of the day, and were lionized by young and old. Toasts were read and responded to, amidst the rattle of musketry and the deep thunder of the cannon. Over 5,000 people were present. After a splendid and enjoyable day by all parties, the crowd dispensed to their homes.

On the evening of the 26th of July, news was received from Toledo that the Bryan and Stryker companies of the Fourteenth Regiment would

be at home that night. Upon the arrival of the Bryan company at 10 o'clock P. M., they were met at the depot by the entire town, and much of the surrounding country. The cannon had been fired at intervals all the evening to apprise the citizens of the rural districts that they were wanted at Bryan. The boys were received back from war with intense enthusiasm, tremendous cheers, and universal and protracted rejoicing. The next day, Friday, they wer, formally received by the citizens. Rev. P. L. Harper delivered the welcoming address, and Capt. Fisher, the response, in which was embodied a very interesting account of the military experience of Company C, the Bryan boys. A long table, the entire length of the court house, was loaded, to the verge of breaking down, with the choicest food that could be made or procured, and the returned boys were invited to partake at will and to any extent. Ample justice was done to the tempting viands.

The Leader of August 1 contained a notice from the officers of Company C, soliciting the names of volunteers for a new company, which was to be raised in the county. When the news of the call of the President of August 4, for 300,000 men, was received, the enlistment of men received new life and impulse. E. J. Evans and E. M. Deuchar opened recruiting offices at Bryan, and at other places in the county. C. W. Skinner, of West Unity, began raising men for the cavalry service, as did also 0. G. Doughton, of Pulaski. A. F. Ely, about the middle of August, was authorized to enlist men at West Unity for the Thirty-eighth. Infantry. A recruiting office was also opened at Stryker, one at Pioneer, one at Edgerton, and one at Montpelier, for the same regiment. Notwithstandt ing the bad reports that came from the army of the failure on the part of the Government to pay its troops as promptly as desired, and as the boys had a right to expect, and also of the terrible ravages of camp fever and other dreadful diseases, the enlistment of men went rapidly on. Within about one month, four full companies were raised and dispatched to Defi- ance to become a part of the Thirty-eighth Regiment. During the same period, there was raised a full company by Charles Skinner and others, for the Third Cavalry. Besides these, some fifty men left the county and joined companies raised in surrounding counties and States, thus making an estimated total raised in little over one month, counting about eighty men to a company, of over four hundred volunteers. The boys of Com- pany C, of the Fourteenth, three months' men, were paid $37.38 each in August, in addition to the first month's pay. This served to encourage the enlistment. The recruiting was done usually under the stimulus of a big war meeting, where eloquent orators delivered stirring addresses, and

beautiful women with irresistible pleadings passed around the fatal enlistment roll. Every town and almost every schoolhouse was thus transformed into recruiting stations. The Leader, of August 29, contained the following :

There is quite a. military spirit now in this county. War meetings are being in different localities, and companies are organizing for the war. A company of over one hundred men will leave here for Camp Trimble on Monday next, and we understand that other companies will go from this county. Col: Bradley is now confident that he will have a regiment, as he has over seven hundred men enrolled. So much for energy, military knowledge, and gentlemanly demeanor. We understand that his regiment is destined for Missouri. With such men in the field, rebellion will stand but a slim chance.

One of the companies raised at Bryan for the Thirty-eighth left for Defiance as early as the 2d of September. They went in private conveyance with banners flying and drums beating. About twenty of the company were from Jefferson and twenty-five from Centre, Charles G Greenwood, Captain. On the following Thursday, the Pulaski company, William Stough, Captain, left for Defiance. The day before their departure, they were given a splendid dinner and a fine silk banner. So twenty of the men were from Pioneer. They passed through Bryan in twenty-two wagons. At this time, the cavalry company destined for the Third Cavalry was almost completed. The Leader of September 12 contained the following:

Williams County has furnished more volunteers for the war than any other county in Ohio in proportion to population. We have a population a little short of seventeen thousand, and have furnished about six hundred and seventy-five men. Foot the matter up and see how nobly Ohio would stand in this cause, if every county should furnish men in proportion to Williams County. We have not quite so much land as some counties, but we beat them all in patriotism.

Capt. McQuilkin's company left Bryan September 10, and, at the same time, part of a company from West Unity went with them, the design being, if possible, to unite the two, but the scheme did not succeed., In October, Lieuts. Evans and Long opened recruiting offices at Bryan

and elsewhere in the county for the Sixty-seventh Regiment, as it was- thought, but really for the Sixty-eighth. H. J. Hunter also recruited fo

During the winter of 1861-62, but little was done in the way of raising men for the war. A few recruits for the old regiments left, but no attempt was made to raise and organize full companies. It was thought, during the spring of 1862, that not less than seven hundred and fifty Men had been furnished by the county for the war. Lieuts. Bates and Archer. recruited a company in the spring for the One Hundred and Eleventh, Parts of other companies were raised at the same time, making a total raised during the spring of some two hundred men. By May, nearly

eight hundred men had left the county for the war, about one-fourth of all the men liable to military duty. The following tabular statement shows the condition of the enlistment, etc., in the county prior to August 22, 1862:

TOWNSHIPS	Enlisted for three years or for the war, prior to July 2, 1862	Number now in the service	Number died in the service	Number discharged from the service	Enlisted subsequent to July 2, 1862, and prior to August 22, 1862	Total number enlisted for three years	Total number subject to be drafted
Springfield	120	88	6	26	21	141	328
Pulaski	152	121	11	20	35	187	495
Centre	50	88	2	15	23	73	290
St. Joseph	61	58	6	2	19	80	242
Florence	45	35	6	4	12	57	240
Superior	67	52	15	2	1	68	263
Jefferson	62	49	4	9	27	89	292
Brady	71	69	2	...	50	121	294
Mill Creek	27	19	4	4	34	61	167
Madison	57	84	14	9	12	69	186
Bridgewater	36	28	8	2	10	46	171
North west	58	43	9	6	22	80	212
Total	806	624	86	107	266	1072	3175

The above table must not be regarded as wholly free from mistakes, though the errors, if any, are small. Capt. Archer's company, for the One Hundred and Eleventh, left the county August 26, 1862. Abont this time, the draft became an absorbing question, as it was seen that the county would not be likely to furnish its quotas. The County Commissioners some time before this had begun to offer liberal bounties to volun- teers, which had the effect of greatly stimulating enlistments. The county boulty, the State bounty and the National bounty of land, etc., did much to clear the county from the draft. In addition to this, each township raised by private subscription large amounts to be used for the same purpose. In August, 1862, out of the 3,175 men enrolled in the county, about nine hundred had made application for exemption from the draft. Prior to September 4, 327 certificates of exemption were issued. Under the call of the President of August 4, 1862, for 300,000 men, the following table was prepared and published in the Leader of September 25 :

TOWNSHIPS	Enrolled	Required	Furnished	Draft
Jefferson	292	117	80	37
Brady	294	118	121	0
Mill Creek	167	67	57	10
Northwest	212	85	74	11
Pulaski	495	198	167	81
St. Joseph	242	97	78	19
Centre	290	116	58	57
Springfield	323	129	114	14
Florence	240	96	53	43
Superior	263	105	68	87
Madison	186	74	60	14
Bridgewater	171	68	44	28
Total	3175	1270	974	296

Great efforts were made to rid the county of the draft, but so great had been the drain by voluntary action that the raising of the quota was slow and tedious work. For weeks it seemed almost at a standstill. At last, on the 1st and 2d of October, 1862, A. M. Pratt, Draft Commissioner, made the following draft : Springfield, 11 ; Mill Creek, 9 ; Madison, 12 ; Jefferson, 27 ; Superior, 20 ; Bridgewater, 19 ; Northwest, 9 ; Florence, 38 ; Centre, 46 ; St. Joseph, 17 ; Pulaski, 15. Total, 223. There were really 224 men drafted ; the extra man cannot be accounted for. Fourteen of the drafted men went into the Tenth Cavalry, and thirty-seven into the Thirty-eighth Infantry. Mr. Pratt had been commissioned as drafting officer August 23, 1862. In the fall of 1862, Lieut. W. A. Keyes was authorized to recruit for the Tenth Cavalry; he opened offices at Bryan and Pioneer; the number of men he secured could not be learned, though probably some fifteen or twenty.

On the 21st of October, 1861, the Governor of the State appointed the following men to constitute the County Military Committee: Jacob Youse, Chairman ; B. H. Fisher, John S. Cannon, Isaac R. Sherwood, M. B. Plummer, S. E. Blakeslee, George W. Finch, Orson Bates and G. A. Barnes. A. M. Pratt was a member of the military committee of the Tenth District. The county committee, immediately after its appointment, divided the county into military sub-districts to correspond with the townships, and appointed sub-committees for each. Under the management and influence of these committees, the enlistment of men, the tender and payment of bounty, the care of soldiers' families, and the general oversight of military affairs of the county were conducted. Almost every public assemblage was under the auspices of these committees. For weeks

during the fall of 1862, war meetings for the enlistment of men were had in almost every schoolhouse. But still the county had much to undergo before the war was to terminate.

A very large Union war meeting was held at Bryan, March 21, 1863, on which occasion Hon. J. M. Ashley was the orator in the afternoon, and Charles Kent and S. A. Raymond, orators in the evening. A week later, the first Union League of the county was formed at Bryan with the following officers : John Will, President ; James Pollett, of Pulaski, D. Morrow, of Centre, J. P. Marsh, of Jefferson, J. C. Hart, of Springfield, Horatio Gilbert, of Superior, William Letcher, of Brady, W. F. Kelsey, of Madison, William Gillis, of Florence, and D. J. Long, of St. Joseph, Vice Presidents (the other townships were then not represented in the League); William H. Lockhart, Recording Secretary ; J. A. Simon Corresponding Secretary ; J. N. Howe, Treasurer. Subordinate leagues were organized in almost every township. It became the fashion to secure distinguished speakers from abroad to address the citizens under the auspices of the leagues. A large war meeting was held at West Unity in May, 1863, at which time Hon. Mr. Ashley and Rev. A. Hollington addressed the citizens.

It was during the year 1863, that the Knights of the Golden Circle, and other disloyal organizations, began to make their first appearance in the county. Prior to this, no concerted action in opposition to the prosecution of the war had been seen in the county, though there were many who expressed themselves of the candid opinion that the administration of Mr. Lincoln had no right to interfere with the institution of slavery, or in any way continue a war with that question as its sole object. There were men in the county who publicly stated that they were bitterly opposed to the war, if its continuation intended the obliteration of slavery within the States. They believed in the divine institution of slavery. This seems strange to us now, but after all it is not to be wondered at. When the great majority of people in the South believed that the white man had the moral right to enslave his black brother, what can be said of those in the North who believed the same thing ? It is useless to recriminate for error's of the judgment. At times during the war, bitter animosities were engendered by differences growing out of the questions involved. On one occasion, a citizen, who had put on a copper breastpin, was assaulted by Maj. Greenwood who tore the pin from his bosom and confiscated it. Much ill feeling resulted from this act. On another occasion, at a Union war meeting in a schoolhouse about four miles west

of Montpelier, a lady appeared in the audience wearing a finely ornamented butternut breastpin. A resolute Union girl present spied disloyal emblem, whereupon she seized it, and, after a brief struggle, during which time the air seemed filled with articles of feminine apparel, she carried it off in triumph. An account of this scene having reached the boys in the army, they sent the Union girl $5 in greenbacks with their, warmest expressions of approval of her loyal conduct. Many other instances of a similar character might be narrated, if space permitted.

In May, 1863, the Democrats of Bryan and vicinity held a rousing meeting at Bryan. Distinguished speakers were present, and a large pole (hickory) was raised, and a maipificent national banner, 20x30 feet, was run up amid great enthusiasm and applause. Early in June they had another "big day," on which occasion John J. Hootman, Rev. M. Cheney and Dr. Q. H. Graser, delivered speeches, the latter speaking in German. All the speakers opposed the continuation of the war as regards any interference with slavery. It was noticed by the editor of the Leader that a delegation of citizens from Bridgewater Township carried a banner which had eleven stars in a field of white. The editor thought the flag a very significant one. About a week later, the Republicans of the county met at Bryan to elect delegates to the State Convention at Columbus. The largest crowd ever in Bryan up to that time assembled, there being pres- ent, as estimated by various parties, from six thousand to eight thousand people. The Republicans had endeavored to excel in numbers, loyalty, enthusiasm, etc., the Democratic meeting of the week before. Centre Township, in fifty wagons, came in early in the morning, headed by the Centre Brass Band. A very tall flag pole was raised early in the morning, and a fine flag was soon flying from its top. A long delegation arrived from St. Joseph under J. 0. Rose, Marshal, headed with martial music, and consisting of a group of horsemen, followed by a long line cif wagons, carriages and pedestrians. The townships of Northwest, Bridgewater, Madison, Florence, Superior and Jefferson, concentrated at West Jefferson, formed a procession of over three hundred teams and marched down to Bryan, headed by the Bryan Band, which had gone up for the pur- pose of marching down with them. Capt. 0. 0. Kelsea was Chief Marshal of the day, and Capt. William Stough, Lieut. J. H. Long, Dr. A. L. Snyder, M. P. Mason, E. L. Richardson and L. M. Boothman, Assistant Marshals. A fine delegation of over one hundred teams arrived from Brady, Springfield and Mill Creek. The various fragments were united, and the whole procession, consisting of over six hundred teams, marched through the pnncipal streets amid the wildegt, enthusiasm. Hundreds of banners

with all sorts of loyal devices and mottoes were carried, and the procession was led by two six-horse wagons, each containing thirty-four girls dressed in white and ornamented with floweryand national colors. Bryan had never before witnessed a pageant so brilliant and imposing. Dr. H. A. Ensign was President of the Day. The usual ceremonies on such occatsions were enjoyed. John R. Osborn delivered a short speech, and was followed by Hon. John L. Greene, who enchained the vast audience for over two hours with his eloquence.

Capt. Andrew Newman began recruiting for the Thirty-eighth in June, 1863. In this month, Edgerton sent out a company commanded by Capt. Wood, for the six months' service, the first in hwestern Ohio raised for that department.. In July, Lewis Geaugue, Levi Noble and Frank Elder, commenced recruiting for Maj. McQuilkin's battalion. Capt. Stough, Thomas Yates, John Carnahan, Capt. J. H. Palmer, James Beechler and Lieut. T. B. Hanna, also began recruiting for the two companies that were to be raised in the county. These men were for the six months' service under the call of June 15, for 100,000 men. Rousing war meetings were again held in all parts of the county. In August, 1863, a Ladies' Union League was organized at Bryan, Mrs. L. A. Eckes being President. If similar organizations were formed in other parts of the county, such fact is not known to the writer. The following adverttisement appeared in the Leader about this time :

Two brave, gay and festive young soldiers, who have lately been marching through mud and rain after Skedaddle Bragg, have become mud-bound near the mountains, and hence have got the blues. So, accordingly, they challenge Uncle Sam's fair nieces to write on love, fun and the consequences, as they are bound after the Union of States is secured to settle down in the Union with some fair girl who is noble and true.

In August, 1863, all the militia of the county capable of bearing arms were formed into the First Regiment, O. O. Kelsea, Colonel ; Second Regiment, George Helwig, Colonel ; and Third Battalion, P. W. Norris, Lieutenant Colonel. These organizations were only partly perfected ; they were the means, however, of preparing the way for the more rapid enlistment of men to fill the county's subsequent quotas. An enormous, mass-meeting was held at Bryan in September, 1863, Hons. John A,. Bingham, of Ohio, and George W. Julian, of Indiana, being the speakers.

Political questions in the county, during the autumn of 1868, ran fever-heat. Meetings were held everywhere, and speakers of all degrees loyalty, eloquence and intelligence, thundered their sentiments and those of their party from every public building. Churches, where erst were heard the humble prayers and simple songs of worshipers, were transform into halls of political enthusiasm, where wrathful utterances and enduring animosities were exchanged. There was as much excitement in the county during the latter part of 1863, is there was during the Presidential campaign of 1864.

The call of President Lincoln, (Fetober 17, 1863, for 300,000 three years' men stimulated anew the enlistment. John W. Pollock began recruiting for the Thirty-eighth ; William Stough for the Ninth Cavalry; J. P. Caldwell and C. H. Everhard, also for the Ninth Cavalry. The county did not respond properly to its quota under the call, and the 10th of March, 1864, was fixed for the draft. The quota of the county under the call of June 15, 1863, for 100,000 six months' men, and the call of October 17, 1863, for 300,000 three years' men, was as follows : Spring- field, 26; Brady, 21; Jefferson, 22; Centre, 23; Pulaski, 50; St. Joseph, 22; Florence, 20; Northwest, 21 ; ,Bridgewater, 17; Superior, 21; Madison, 19; Mill Creek, 16. On the 11th of February, 1864, the county lacked sixty-seven men of filling its quota, but as this number was considerably reduced before March 10, the draft was postponed to April 15, at which time the county had entirely freed itself by enlistment. At this time, the offers of bounty from the county, from individuals, and from the State and Nation, were very enticing, the total footing up to about $500 for each volunteer. In May, 1864, the only company from the county in the 100-days' service left Pioneer under the command of Capt. Richard Gaudern. The call of the President, July 18, 1864, for 500,000 men, was responded to by the opening of enlistment offices in all portions of the county. On the 11th of August, 1864, there was yet due from the county under all previous calls the following number of men: Springfield, 7; Brady, 39; Jefferson, 40; Centre, 41; St. Joseph, 49; Florence, 27; Northwest, 39; Superior, 41; Bridgewater, 32; Madison, 31; Mill Creek, 29; Pulaski, 0. Total, 375. It should be noted at this point that, during the enlistment of men under previous calls, many had come from distant portions of the county and had joined the companies raised at Bryan and Stryker, and, instead of giving their real residence, they carelessly permitted their names to go on the muster rolls as residents of those towns. It will thus be seen that Pulaski and Springfield Townships were wrongly credited with volunteers, from the other town-

ships". This, late in the year 1864, occasioned much bitterness in the county, as will be seen farther along. In August, 1864; W. E. Kintigh began raising men for the war. Other offices were opened, but the county could not free itself, and on the 26th of September, the following draft was made upon the county at Toledo : Jefferson, 40 ; Centre, 38 ; St. Joseph, 42 ; Florence, 24 ; Superior, 40 ; Northwest, 36 ; Bridgewater, 30; Mill Creek, 16. The other townships had filled their quotas (partly as above stated) and were free. John Kent was Provost Marshal of the Tenth District, and Capt. E. J. Evans, Deputy. A week later, the drafted men (the most of them) left for Toledo, quite a disturbance occurring at the depot on the occasion of their departure.

The Presidential campaign of 1864 was spirited, and left a lasting impression upon the mind. Each party thoroughly organized for the struggle which was to decide the question of continuing the war. Meetings were held every week, clubs were formed, and torch-light processions paraded nightly with martial music, banners and intense enthusiasm. When the election returns finally came in, and the country stood pledged to quell the rebellion at all hazards and at any cost, the feeling among . loyal men rose to mountainous heights, and only found vent in long-continued rejoicings and jubilees. After this, the county took a new start in the direction of speedily crushing the rebellion. In November, 1864, a supplementary draft was made upon the county at Toledo, to supply the deficiency of exempted men and men who had deserted (a few) under the draft of September 26. The following is the draft : Centre, 10 Florence, 12 ; St. Joseph, 22 ; Jefferson, 14 ; and Northwest, 12. The quota of the county under the call of December 19, 1864, for 300,000 one, two and three years' men was as follows: Springfield, 10 ; Brady, 21 ; Jefferson, 22 ; Centre, 18 ; Pulaski, 0 ; St. Joseph, 14 ; Florence, 21 ; Northwest, 23 ; Superior, 28 ; Bridgewater, 27 ; Madison, 23 ; Mill Creek, 15. At this time, the question of the " veteran credits " began to create much bitterness and interest. Pulaski and Springfield Townships had been wrongly credited with veterans from other townships who had carelessly given Bryan and Stryker as their residences at the time of enlistment' or, perhaps, when they were " veteranized." The other townships put in their claims for men or money as follows, each man being valued at $200, the bounty necessary to secure volunteers : Pulaski owed Bridgewater three men or $600 ; Madison two men or $400 ; Centre ten men or $2,000 ; Jefferson sixteen men or $3,200 ; and Superior eleven men or $2,200. Springfield owed Bridgewater three men or $600 ; Madison three men or $600 ; Florence four men or $800 ; and Mill Creek

four men or $800. The military committee of the county were asked to correct the error, but they either could not or would not; at least, did not. The county papers were for weeks filled with long, wrathful letters, pro and con, on the question ; but nothing was done to correct the trouble. The termination of the war ended the vexing question. At the time a mass convention was held by the aggrieved townships at Montpelier to consider the question, and the following petition was sent to the Governor of Ohio :

To His Excellency, John Brough, Governor of Ohio : The undersigned citizens of Williams County, Ohio, would respectfully represent that on the 4th of February, 1865, a mass convention was held at Montpelier in said county, attended by citizens of nine townships, and that at that convention, among the business transacted, as will appear from a report of the proceedings herewith transmitted to your Excellency, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:

Resolved, That though we do not by this act proclaim as our belief that there are not among the military committee of the county men who are willing to do justice and to deal impartially with the whole county; yet, as a whole, the committee have not the confidence of the people of these townships, and we shall hail with pleasure the day when the way shall be made clear for the re-organization of that body.

That since the adoption of the foregoing resolution by said convention, the members of the military committee, who are therein referred to, have, by their persistent refusal or neglect to resign the positions they occupy, continued to disregard the will of the people so clearly and unmistakably expressed. Your petitioners, therefore, pray that your Excellency may appoint instead another military committee for this county, and that the members of the same may be fairly distributed among the different townships of the same.

No response to this petition came from the Governor, and the early termination of the war obliterated the conditions requiring one.

On the 31st of October, 1861, in response to the first calls for sanitary aid from Western Virginia, the ladies of Bryan, pursuant to notice, met at the court house for the purposevof taking some definite action in accord- ance with the suggestions of the Governor of Ohio for the formation of ladies' aid societies. A long, excellent series of resolutions was adopted. Mrs. M. Blinkley was made President ; Mary Anderson, Vice President;, Mrs. A. M. Pratt, Secretary ; Mrs. S. J. Moon, Treasur4r ; Mrs. W. Keck, Mrs. W. A. Stevens, Mrs. Alvin Spencer, Mrs. Fisher, Mrs. Allen and Miss Fulton, Directresses ; Mrs. I. R. Sherwood, Mrs. Jacob Youse, Mrs. Walt, Mrs. James Bell, Miss Pike, Miss Delia Crall and Miss Laura Cunningham, Executive Committee. The following subordinate commit- tees were also appointed: West Jefferson, Mrs. Dr. Omo and Mrs. J. Gilbert ; West Unity, Mrs. G. H. Pierce and Mrs. Letcher ; Mill Creek, Mrs. E. G. Denman and Mrs. T. Landon ; Pioneer, Mrs. Dr. Gaudern and Miss Rogers ; Montpelier, Mrs. Dr. Snyder and Mrs. Platt ; Stryker,

Miss Chase and Mis. C. Blinn ; Centre, Mrs. G. H. Tomlinson and Mrs. -`` . J. Dillman ; Edgerton, Mrs. Terpening and Mrs. J. S. Stough ; Florence, Miss Sarah Webb and Mrs. Palmer ; Northwest, Mrs. Dr. Bates and Mrs. C. Peck ; Pulaski, Mrs. Henry Newman and Mrs. Gleason. The various committees committees began immediate and active work. It has been the pleasure of the writer of this chapter, during the past few years, to examine critically the war history of various counties in Ohio and Indiana, but in all such experience no county was found to have done more with its aid societies than Williams. From the organization of the above society until the close of the war the good work went constantly on. During the autumn and winter of 1861, several boxes of supplies were sent to Western Virginia. In April, 1862, when the news of the battle of Pittsburg Landing reached the county, Dr. John Long, D. M. Crall and Capt. Fisher were appointed a committee to go to the assistance of the boys with three huge, hastily-prepared boxes of hospital supplies and delicacies, and over $200 in money. Dr. Long was permitted to pass the lines to the army, but the others were compelled to return. Aid societies were established in all parts of the county, though unfortunately but little can be stated regarding them, as no published accounts could be found. Mrs. George Helwig was President of the society at Edgerton, and Mrs. C. Farnham, Secretary. During the entire war, lectures were constantly &livered by home and foreign talent, and the proceeds were contributed to the fund of the aid society. Mrs. Dr. Gaudern was Secretary of the society at Pioneer. Mite societies were organized, private subscriptions were solicited, and other means used to increase the funds. The central society was at Bryan and branch societies in every township in the county.

From the 31st of October, 1861, to the 1st of January, 1863, the fol- lowing supplies were sent from Bryan alone : One hundred and forty- eight cotton sheets, 15 flannel sheets, 224 shirts, 40 blankets, quilts and comforters, 72 pillows and cushions, 280 pillow cases, 66 towels, 20 hand- kerchiefs, 20 bed racks, 234 pairs of socks, 9 pairs mittens, 17 dressing gowns, 25 pounds of soap, 118 cans of fruit, 13 quarts of wine, 24 pounds of prunes, 25 pounds of dried beef, 50 pounds of dried fruit, 1 barrel of onions, 1 barrel of dry toast, 1 barrel of eggs, 2 kegs of pickles, 1 dozen boxes condiments, and many other miscellaneous and useful articles. The officers elected in January, 1863, for one year, were: Mrs. T. H. Blaker, President ; Mrs. John Bryan, Vice President. The Treasurer reported the following cash accounts for the first six months :

The total cash receipts, for the year 1862 (partly included above), were $404.58, and the total cash expenditures, $214.10. In December, Dr. Garver conducted a gift enterprise which netted $145 for the society. The officers of the society for 1864, were : Mrs. Emily Youse, President, Mrs. John Ryan, Vice President ; Mrs. A. M. Pratt, Secretary ; Mrs. A. A. Allen, Treasurer ; Mrs. John Will, Knitting Directress ; Mrs. E. Evans and Mrs. J. Welker, Sewing Directresses ; Mrs. Parks, Mrs. Garver and Mrs. Park, Finance Conimittee. Officers were re-appointed annually, and the cash and supply receipts continued during the war to come in a about the above rate. During the war, the county expended fully $1,200 for hospital supplies alone. Taking into account the enormous shipments of clothing and cloth of all kinds, the great number of boxes and barrels of provisions, and the vast supplies of delicacies that were sent out, it is certain the ladies of Williams County sent $5,000 in money and supplies' into the field.

The receipt of the news of the surrender of the army of Gen. Lee to Gen. Grant, at 4:30 P. M., April 9, 1865, was received with intense and universal rejoicing. Public meetings were held everywhere, that the citizens might have the opportunity of mingling their congratulations, and

publicly expressing their joy at the successful suppression of the rebellion and the maintenance of the Union of the States.

The 14th of April was fixed by Gov. Brough as a day of public thanksgiving. But in the midst of the festivities, the news of the assassination of President Lincoln was received, and the sentiments of all loyal citizens underwent a sickening revulsion. Scores of men and women burst into tears of sorrow, as if they had lost their nearest and dearest friend. The county paper contained the following :

We have no heart to-day to write of the great rejoicing of our people, which took place less than a week ago. Sudden and overwhelming grief overhangs the Nation to-day, and our unbounded rejoicing is turned into deepest sorrow. In our last issue, we gave the proceedings of a meeting of our citizens held to make arrangements to observe Friday last as a day of general rejoicing—in obe- dience to the request of Gov. Brough—over the recent glorious victories to the Union arms, and the cheering prospects of speedy and permanent peace. We venture to say that no other village of the size of Bryan did so nobly in the way of rejoicing on that day. It is true, we had no big gun by which to demonstrate our joy, but all other joyful manifestations were resorted to. Bells were rung, .flags were unfurled to the breeze, and all the principal business places were closed during most of the clay. At 10:30 A. M., religious services were held in the M. E. Church, where an able and thrilling sermon was preached by Rev. Mr. SACKETT. The house was well filled with our best citizens, who were deep- ly interested in the service. At 2 P. M., the M. E. Church was again filled to overflowing, and speeches were made by the following gentlemen, as they were introduced by Mr. E. FOSTER, President of the meeting : Capt. B. H. Fisher, A. M. Pratt, Esq., Rev. Nat. Crary, Hon. S. E. Blakeslee and S. N. Owen, Esq.

We have not time and space to notice the speeches of thegentlemen as they deserve. The day passed, and night came with its bonfires and other manifes- tations of joy. And thus ended our day of jubilee. But what a change came over the spirit of every patriot the next morning when the sad and thrilling intelligence of the horrible tragedy at Washington—the inhuman butchery of our beloved President and the Secretary of State—was sent with lightning speed over the wires, to all parts of the country. What greater calamity could we as a Nation be called to mourn ? None but sheer traitors could refrain from expressing sorrow at the death of so great and noble a man as President LINCOLN; and especially at the manner in which it was brought about. All rejoicing among our loyal people was turned into deepest sorrow, and every token of a jubilant spirit was exchanged for signs of mourning. Yesterday, being the funeral day of our late and lamented President, and the whole nation being invited to take a participative share in the ceremonials at Washington, by engag- ing in religious services in their respective places of worship, our citizens in an appropriate manner paid their tributes of respect to the illustrious President and patriot. Again the places of business were generally closed, but instead of flags floating high in the breeze they were at half-mast, and other signals of mourning hung from the buildings throughout town. At 11 o'clock A. M., services were held in the M. E. Church, and at 12, noon, the Baptist Church was filled to overflowing: and anothersermonfrom Rev. S. H. Alderman was listened to, the Revs. L. D. Robinson and W. S. Wright assisting in the services.

A very large meeting was held at the M. E. Church in Stryker, to pay proper tribute to the life, character and services of the murdered President. Rev. J. R. Colgan delivered a very eloquent and touching address. The character of the meeting was then changed an opportunity to give the citizens a portunity of publicly expressing their sentiments and sorrow. Col. E. D. Bradley was made Chairman ; M. D. L. Buel, Secretary ; Dr. E. P. Willard, W. R. Babcock, Rev. J. R. Colgan, Messrs. Kitzmiller and Breckinridge, Committee on Resolutions ; M. D. L. Buel, Committee on Publication. Col. Bradley delivered a long, brilliant address. Other meetings were held throughout the county, though no facts regarding them could be learned.

During the summer months of 1865, the soldiers returned from the war, and were met with open arms and throbbing hearts by loved ones and friends. They were usually received with formal ceremony. The flag they had carried through so many bloody campaigns was returned to the citizens who had presented it to the brave boys before they went away, so proud and valiant, four years before. Fine swords or other elegant presents were given to those who had done some specially distinguished service. Many a boy who had gone away so bright and brave was left iris a patriot's grave far down in the Sunny South. Some were brought home' and buried by loving friends. Their graves may be seen in the county's cemeteries, where the sod and shrubs and flowers are yet kept as bright and fresh as the spirits that were gladly given for the nation's preservation. It may be said that the citizens of the county usually observe Decoration Day. The heroes must not be forgotten.

It is next to impossible to give the name of every regiment that contained men from the county, as many boys went to other States and counties to enlist. The Fourteenth Infantry in the three months' service contained two companies from Williams, the names of the officers appearing some pages back. The Thirty-eighth contained four companies of Williams County boys : Company A—Charles Greenwood, Captain ; C. M. Gilbert, First Lieutenant ; Daniel Tressler, Second Lieutenant. Company C—D. S. Tallerday, Captain ; W. E. Kintigh, First Lieutenant; Joseph Wagstaff, Second Lieutenant. Company E—Robert McQuilkin, Captain ; E. M. Deuchar, First Lieutenant ; A. W. Burgoyne, Second Lieutenant. Company H—William Stough, Captain ; Andrew Newman, First Lieutenant ; Peter V. Fulton, Second Lieutenant. In the Sixty-eighth was Company K—Edwin J. Evans, Captain ; J. H.

Long, First Lieutenant ; J. F. Cosgro, Second Lieutenant. In the One Hundredth was Company C—Henry Gilbert, Captain; George Rings, First Lieutenant ; B. F. Ewers, Second Lieutenant. In the One Hundred and Eleventh was the company commanded by Albert A. Archer, Captain ; Rufus Bates, First Lieutenant ; Samuel Smith, Second Lieutenant. In the One Hundred and Forty-second was Company D—Richard Gaudern, Captain ; Andrew Irwin, First Lieutenant. In the 'Third Cavalry was Company K—Charles W. Skinner, Captain ; William Maxwell, First Lieutenant ; S. J. Hansey, Second Lieutenant. In the Ninth Cavalry was Company H—William Stough, Captain ; I. P. Caldwell, First Lieutenant ; S. B. Woodmanse, Second Lieutenant. As many as a dozen. other regiments contained men from the county. The writer, after care- ful estimate, would fix the number of men in the war from Williams County at about fourteen hundred. This is certainly an excellent showing for so small a county.

The following sketches of the regiments which contained a considerable number of men from the county will prove of interest to the citizens of the county. They were compiled from Reid's "Ohio in the War," and are substantially correct :

The Fourteenth, in the three months' service, contained the two "companies mentioned from Williams County, and was organized at Toledo. In three days, it was ready for the field, and in twelve days after the fall of Sumter it moved from Toledo to Camp Taylor, Cleveland, where it was drilled and the organization completed. On the 18th of May, 1861, it was transferred from the State to the General Government. On the 22d, it received its arms at Columbus, then moved to Zanesville, Marietta and Parkersburg, Va., at which latter place its first services were required in protecting bridges from the torch of the enemy. On the 29th, Clarksburg was reached, where trains were put to running for supplies. On the 2d of June, the march from Webster to Phillipi (thirteen miles) was made on a dismal rainy night to surprise 2,000 rebel cavalry, upon whom an artillery fire was poured at daybreak. The rebels scattered, leaving their stores in the hands of the national forces. Four Union men were wounded. Camp was formed near Phillipi, whence various expeditions against guerrilla bands, and to protect Government property, were made amidst great suffering and privation. Early in June, the rebels began fortifying Laurel Hill, and the national troops threw up works at Bealington. The enemy in several cavalry charges were handsomely repulsed. The enemy finally

retreated, and were closely pressed. They made a stand at Carrick’s Ford, and poured a heavy fire upon the Fourteenth, as the latter came up, but after a short conflict the rebels fled precipitously, throwing away everything that would impede their progress. More than thirty well-laden wagons, one piece of artillery, three stands of colors and 250 prisoners were captured. Soon after this, the regiment returned home, the term of service having expired. They were greeted all along the route home by crowds of grateful people.

The Thirty-eighth was organized at Defiance, Ohio, September, 1861 under the call for 300,000 men for three years. On tliv 22d, it was transferred to Camp Dennison, Columbus, where it was armed, equipped and partially drilled, and, in October, was sent into the field in Kentucky. It encamped first at Nicholasville, but, two week's later, was ordered on forced march of sixty miles to the relief of Wild Cat, Ky., where it are rived October 19. It pursued the enemy on several occasions, lied,' finally, took up winter quarters at Somerset, Ky., though it did not re- . main idle. The winter of 1861-62, was very sickly for the regiment, and soon less than three hundred of the 990 men were fit for duty. In March, it moved to Nashville, and, a little later, on the campaign through Middle Tennessee. In April and May, it participated in the siege of Corinth ; then pursued Beauregard to Booneville ; returned and camped near Corinth ; marched, in June, to Tuscumbia, Ala., and, in August, to Winchester, Tenn. During this period, the regiment participated in various'. Reconnaissances. A party of eighty men of the regiment made a forced march of seventy-two miles, capturing Tracy city, destroying valuable stores and returning without the loss of a man in less than twenty-four hours. The regiment was in the terrible march from Chattanooga to the Ohio River. In September, the regiment fought at Chaplin's Hills, and afterward campaigned in Kentucky, going into camp October 27 at Roll- ing Forks, Ky. Here recruits were received, quite a number from Williams County, and then the Arch to Nashville was made. In November and December, 1862, it guarded railroads between Gallatin and Nashvine ; but, in December, took part in the campaign which terminated in the bloody battle of Stone River, where the regiment fought with the loss of a few men, going into camp after the battle, near the city, where it remained until March, 1863, when it moved to Triune, and built Fort Phelps. During the summer of 1863, it took part in the Tullahoma campaign, and, in August, moved with the center corps over the Cumberland Mountains, crossed the Tennessee at Shellmound, and moved over Lookout and Raccoon Mountains to Lookout Valley, where immediate prepare,

tions were made for battle. The Thirty-eighth, under a special order of Gen. Thomas, was charged with the' ransit to Chattanooga of the train of the whole army. The regiment thus escaped the bloody battle of Chickamauga. At the assault on Mission Ridge, the Thirty-eighth was on the extreme left, and though the fire from the rebel batteries was hot and terrific, it moved up, up to the very summit, loosing seven killed and forty-one wounded. It pursued the enemy to Ringgold, Ga., then returned to Chattanooga, where it " veteranized," and was furloughed home. The Williams County boys were received with banquets, speeches, toasts and great enthusiasm and rejoicing, and, at the expiration of the furlough, reported at Ringgold, Ga., where recruits were received, and the depleted ranks raised to 741 men. In May, 1864, it skirmished briskly at Buzzard Roost Gap, and at its fortifications nearly, in the rear of Resaca, where several men were killed and wounded. It took an active part in the siege of Kenesaw; moved in July to the Chattahoochie River, fortifying and skirmishing ; established on the 22d of July the picket line of the Fourteenth Army Corps near Atlanta, and, early in August, moved to Utoy Creek, where Companies A, C and K charged the enemy's skirmish line, forced it back with the. loss of nine men killed and forty-two wounded out of 120 men engaged. Companies A and C were from Williams County. After various expeditions, the regiment, with its brigade (Este's), assaulted the enemy's works at Jonesboro, where it fought desperately, suffering the appalling loss of forty-two killed and 108 wounded out of 360 engaged. The color-bearer, O. P. Randall, was shot dead, as was also his successor, Corp. Baird. The third, Corp. Strawser, fell severely wounded, and the fourth, Corp. Donsey, bore the flag to the enemy's works, though suffering a slight wound. Corp. Brookes, the fifth bearer, received five balls through his clothing. The dead were buried on a little knoll near the battle-field., At Atlanta, those who had not " veternanized" were discharged. After pursuing Hood a portion of the way back, the regiment rejoined the Union forces at Atlanta, and marched with Sherman to the sea. It did provost duty at Milledgeville, destroyed the bridge across the Big Ogeechee, marching forty-four miles to do it, and reaching camp at 12 o'clock at night. On the 21st of December, 1864, the regiment went into camp near Savannah, where 200 drafted men and substitutes were received. It participated in the campaign of the Carolinas without events of serious importance; it moved to Richmond, to Alexandria, to Washington, D. C., and to Louisville, Ky., where, on the 12th of July, 1865, it was mustered out, the discharge taking place at Cleveland on the 22d of the same month.

The Sixty-eighth rendezvoused at Camp Latta; Napoleon, in November, 1861, and spent the succeeding winter pleasantly there. In the latter part of January, 1862, it moved to Camp Chase, and in the middle of February to Fort Donelson, Tenn., where it was assigned to Gen. C. F. Smith's division, and skirmished on the left of the lines during both days battles. After a few other operations, it moved about the middle of March to Pittsburg Landing, where bad weather, bad water and rations reduced the regiment from 1,000 men to less than 250. At battle of Pittsburg Landing, it guarded ordnance and supply trains. During the operations around Corinth, it was constantly engaged in build" bridges, roads and intrenchments, and, after the evacuation, guarded road lines and bridges. It fought at Iuka and Metamora, and was complimented in general orders for gallantry.' It moved with the attempted expedition to penetrate Mississippi to Vieksburg, and then returned to Memphis. In the spring of 1863, it worked on various canals in Louisiana, and, on the 10th of April, was moved to Milliken's Bend, where, for a time, it worked on military roads. On the 23d, it began to march around Vicksburg, crossing swamps, bayous and swollen streams, and reaching the Mississippi at Grand Gulf May 1, 1863, by a forced march ; it fought at Thompson's Hill, and subsequently at Raymond,. Jackson, Champion Hills and Big Black. Men were lost at each place, the most at Champion Hills. It fought in the rear of Vicksburg, and participated in the assault on Fort Hill on the 22d. It supplied the trenches, furnished sharpshooters, and formed part of the army of observation near Big Black. On the 12th of July, it fought at Jackson, and afterward guarded 600 prisoners to Vicksburg. In October, it skirmished at Bogue Chitta Creek, and, in February, 1864, fought at Baker's Creek. Just before this, it " veteranized," and soon after returned home, where it was received with all the "pomp and circumstance of glorious war." In May, it returned to Cairo, where it was joined by 300 recruits, and on the 10th of June reached Sherman's army at Acworth, Ga. During the remainder of the Atlanta campaign, the Sixty-eighth was almost constantly under fire, being on the advance sixty-five days. It fought at Kenesaw, Nicojack, Atlanta, July 22d and 28th, Jonesboro and Lovejoy. Its fight of the 22d was very heavy. It was sandwiched between two heavy detachments of rebel infantry, but by gallantry and good leadership eluded the enemy and joined its brigade, which was found hotly engaged. At one time the brigade was almost surrounded, the rebels assailing from several points. After long, bard fighting, the Union lines were charged in splendid style by a long array of rebels with muskets at a "right shoulder shift." They were met with a terrific fire from the

brigade, volley after volley being poured into them until the ground was strewn with their dead and the remainder were repulsed. The Sixty- eighth pursued Hood, but soon returned and moved with Sherman to the sea. It engaged the Georgia militia at the crossing of the Oconee, but otherwise had an uneventful transit to Savannah, where it arrived on the 10th of December, 1864. After a short delay, it moved on the Carolina campaign. Upon arriving at Goldsboro, forty-two men were barefooted, thirty-six bare-headed, and two hundred and sixty wearing some article& of citizens' clothes. It moved via Washington, D. C., to Louisville, Ky., whence, on the 10th of July, it was ordered to Cleveland for payment and discharge. This took place on the 18th of July, 1865.

The One Hundredth was organized at Toledo in July and August, 1862, and was mustered into service on the 1st of September. On the 8th, it moved to the defense of Cincinnati, and on the 9th took position on Covington Heights. A month later it moved to Lexington, Ky., and on the 1st of December to Richmond, Ky. It worked on fortifications until December 26, when it moved to Danville, and on the 3d of January, 1863, to Frankfort. Near the last of February, it marched to Lexington, thence to Crab Orchard, Mount Vernon, Somerset, and various other points. It finally moved to Knoxville, whence a detachment was sent to the Virginia State Line to guard the railroad. This portion, numbering two hundred and fifty, was captured and sent to Richmond, Va. Large numbers of them afterward died of starvation and exposure. The regiment participated in the defense of Knoxville, and, after active duty in East Tennessee, moved in the spring of 1864 to Tunnel Hill, Ga., and joined Gen. Sherman. It participated in the Atlanta campaign, fighting in almost every battle. On the 6th of August, it assaulted the rebel work in front of Atlanta, suffering a loss of 103 men killed and wounded out of 300 engaged. Thirty-six men were killed on the field, and eight more died from wounds within the next thirty days. This frightful loss has scarcely a parallel in the annals of the war. The Colonel was disabled for life. The regiment joined the pursuit of Hood, participated in the desperate battles of Franklin and Nashville, and finally moved to Wilmington, N. C., where it was actively engaged. It moved from Goldsboro to Raleigh with Sherman, thence to Greensboro, and thence to Cleveland, Ohio, where it was mustered out July 1, 1865, having served two years and ten months. It lost during its term of service 65 men killed in action ; 142 wounded ; 27 died of wounds ; 108 died of disease ; 325 were captured by the enemy, and 85 died in rebel prisons. It fought in the battles of Lenoir Station, Knoxville, Rocky Face Ridge, Resaca,

Dallas, Etowah Creek, Atlanta, Columbus, Franklin, Nashville, Creek and Wilmington. It was one of the' most gallant regiments Ohio, or in the war. Its record is its proudest and grandest monument

The One Hundred and Eleventh was organized in .August, 1862, and mustered in September 5 and 6. On the 11th, it took the field at Covington, Ky. In the same month, it drove the cavalry of Kirby Smith from Crittenden. On the 25th, it started on transports for Louisville. It skirmished at Frankfort, and some time later moved by rapid marches to Bowling Green, Ky., where it did garrison duty. It took part in the pursuit of John Morgan, and after his capture proceeded to Portsmouth, where it arrived July 18, thence to Kentucky. After various marches, expeditions, scouts and skirmishes, the regiment found itself, about the middle of October, confronted by Longstreet at Huff's Ferry. It charged with its brigade, and was successful, forcing the rebels back and losing a few men. At Loudon Creek, the regiment skirmished briskly with the Sixth South Carolina, and lost four killed and twelve wounded. The stand was made to protect Henshaw's Illinois Battery. At daylight on the morning of the 16th, Lieut. Norris and fifty-two men of Company B were captured while on picket. Thirty-six of these afterward died of starvation and exposure at Andersonville Prison, N. C. In the engagement at Campbell's Station, the regiment Was for six hours exposed to the artillery fire of two rebel batteries, though the loss was only eight, owing to the percussion shell used, which fell mainly in the rear. It moved to Knoxville, fighting on three separate occasions, and moving for three days without food, sleep or rest. At the siege of Knoxville, it lost six men killed and wounded. It skirmished at Blain's Cross Roads, Danville and Strawberry Plains, losing one man killed, January 21, 1864, at the latter place. It skirmished briskly at Morristown, March 14. On the last of April, it was moved to Charleston, marching 100 miles in four days. It participated in the Atlanta campaign, fighting at Buzzard's Roost, Rocky Face Mountain, Resaca, Kenesaw, Pine Mountain, Lost Mountain, Dallas, on the Chattahoochie, near Nicojack Creek, Decatur, Peach Tree Creek, siege of Atlanta and the skirmishes at Rough and Ready, Lovejoy Station and Utoy Creek. It started on the campaign with 380 men, and of this number lost in killed and wounded two hundred and twelve. It lost a few men at Stone Mountain, and then pursued Hood, skirmished at Cedar Bluffs, also at Rome, Ga., and moved to Resaca November 1, 1864. It skirmished at Columbia, and repulsed two charges of the enemy near Franklin. It reached Franklin on the morning of the 30th of November, and was immediately assigned a front rank on the left flank of

the Second Division, to the right of the Franklin Turnpike. It fought desperately on that eventful day, losing in this "hottest battle of the war" twenty-two men killed on the field and forty wounded out of the 180 men engaged. Many were killed by rebel bayonets. The contest, was so close, hot and terrific, that once the regimental flag was snatched from the color- bearer by a stalwart rebel, who was instantly shot dead. The loss of officers was so great, that a detail from other regiments was necessary to command the companies. The regiment fought gallantly both days at Nashville, and in a charge on the second day captured three rebel battle- flags and a large number of prisoners, losing seven killed and "fifteen wounded. It pursued Hood, and then moved to Cincinnati, Washington, D. C., and took ocean steamers for Fort Fisher to participate in the cam- paign of the Carolinas. Soon after this, it participated in the actions at Moseley's Hall and Goldsboro, and the capture of Fort Anderson. It was mustered out at Cleveland July 5, 1865. The regiment numbered 1,050 men when it entered the service, and received eighty-five recruits. Two hundred and thirty-four were discharged for disability, disease and wounds ; 200 died of disease contracted in the service; 252 were killed in battle or died of wounds, and 401 were mustered out. This was one of Ohio's best regiments.

The One Hundred and Forty-second was organized at Camp Chase, and mustered in May 12, 1864. It moved to Martinsburg, Va., where it remained until the 19th, and then continued on to Washington, D. C., where it arrived on the 21st. It marched out to Fort Lyon, where the men were obliged to pass the night on the bare ground.. On the 5th of June the regiment was ordered to the front at White House Landing, on the Pamunkey River, much to the surprise of the men, though not to their dismay. It reached the Landing on the 9th at midnight, and encamped on the open field. The wounded from the battle of Cold Hart bor were being brought in, and the sight to the new, untried soldiers was sickening. At 4 o'clock the next morning, the regiment was ordered to guard a supply train through the wilderness to Gen. Grant's front. When this was accomplished, the regiment was ordered to report to Gen. Butler at Bermuda Hundred. When there, the troops were moved to Point of Rocks, five miles below Petersburg, thence out to the extreme national right about six miles. The tired boys were roused from their slumbers by the long roll, marched on the double quick to the rifle-pits, and ordered to destroy rebel earthworks, which-they did, though not witht out resistance from the enemy, who were driven from the field. Here, day after day, the regiment worked at building forts, guarding earth-

works, and performing severe picket and fatigue duty. Soon after this, the boys were ordered to Camp Chase via .Washington, D. C., and mustered out September 2, 1864. About fifty men were lost from disease: and exposure.

The Third Cavalry was organized in September, 1861, at Monroeville, Huron County. It moved to Camp Dennison January 14, 1862, and to Jeffersonville in February. On the 18th of March, it arrived at Nash- ville, Tenn., but left for Pittsburg Landing on the 29th. The first battalion was sent against Billle's rebel cavalry, who were driven from Lawrenceburg. A quantity of bacon was seized at Mt. Pleasant ; the enemy were driven back at Monterey ; a brisk skirmish was had with the enemy's lines at Corinth, in which the regiment was driven back, though twelve rebels were killed upon the ground. On the 27th of May, the enemy in force were routed on the Memphis Railroad, and four of them killed. The. regiment was divided here, but after various expeditions was re-united at Iuka and Tuscumbia. After occupying various positions and participating in numerous foraging and other expeditions and several skirmishes, the first battalion of the Third had a sharp engagement with the enemy at Munfordville, losing two killed and twelve wounded. The enemy lost thirty-eight killed and sixty wounded. In a severe attack on the enemy near Bardstown, the Third lost six men killed, twenty wounded and seventeen captured. After this, for several months detachments of the regiment were constantly engaged scouting and skirmishing with rebel guerrillas. Six men were killed and several wounded at Guntersville. From Nashville to Louisville, the Third formed portions of the rear guard of Buell's army, and skirmished almost daily with the enemy. It fought the enemy at Shelbyville on the way to Perryville and at Perryville.

On the 19th of October, a detachment sent to escort special couriers to Covington was completely surrounded by John Morgan's forces, and, after an obstinate resistance, forced to surrender. They were stripped of their valuables, dismounted, paroled and ordered to Camp Chase, Ohio. The remainder of the Third, after skirmishing several times with Morgan's forces, went into camp at Hartsville, Tenn. A detachment, after a twenty-six-mile chase, near Carthage, captured a train of valuable stores, killing three rebels and capturing seventeen. It skirmished with Morgan's forces near Lebanon, assisted in driving the rebels from Franklin, fought the second time at Franklin, engaged the enemy near Triune, and on the Wilkerson Turnpike skirmished Bragg's forces on the 29th of December and on the 30th, and at 2 o'clock in the morning of the 31st apprised the National troops of the advance of the enemy. Much of the Third Cavalry was thrown out as

skirmishers, but was driven by the rebels at 4 o'clock. After two hours of fighting, the whole right wing of the National troops was thrown back with severe loss, though when McCook's ammunition 'train was captured the second and third battalions of the Third charged the enemy, retook the train and captured 140 prisoners. On the afternoon of the 31st, the regiment lost in one charge of the enemy thirteen killed and many wounded. On the 1st of January, 1863, the Third was ordered to escort a train of 4,000 wagons to Nashville for supplies, and on the way had two desperate fights with the enemy, resulting in their repulse. After the battle of Stone River, the Third pursued the enemy, captured one of his trains, and then encamped at Murfreesboro. A detachment fought Morgan's guerrillas near Woodbury, losing severely in killed, wounded and prisoners. Another detachment was completely surrounded, ordered to surrender, but cut their way out and captured a number of prisoners. The regiment fought at Milton, Liberty, Readyville, Franklin, Auburn, Manchester, McMinnville, losing many killed and wounded. It fought at Elk River, at the Tennessee River, above Chattanooga, on the run for three days, at Lafayette and at Farmington, losing at the latter place two killed and twenty-three captured. January, 1864, the Third Cavalry re-enlisted, and were furloughed home. During this time, about 1,000 recruits were received, which raised the regiment to about 1,500 men. It took the field again in Tennessee; fought the rebels at Courtland, Ala., at Moulton, Ala., at Etowah, Kenesaw Mountain, Noonday Creek and at the crossing of the Chattahoochie River. It captured 400 factory girls at Roswell, Ga., who were sent through the lines by GA. Sherman. A severe fight was had at McAfee's Bridge, also at Peach Tree Creek, Decatur, and in the raids to Covington and Stone River. It participated in the Kilpatrick and the Stoneman raids around Atlanta, skirmished at Jonesboro, Lovejoy, and at Rome, Cartersville and Decatur in pursuit of Hood. It fought at Franklin and at Nashville, losing heavily, after which it pursued Hood into Alabama, and then participated in the Wilson raid, fighting at Selma, Montgomery, Macon and Griffin, and participated in the chase of Jeff Davis. After a few other movements and duties, the regiment was ordered to report at Nashville, Tenn., where it was mustered out and transferred to Camp Chase, Ohio, where, on the 14th of August, 1865, the men were paid and discharged.

The Ninth Cavalry rendezvoused at Zanesville, and though begun late in the year 1862, did not take the field until the 23d of April, 1863, when it was ordered to Lexington, Ky. At this time, the regiment was not a regiment—it was the First Battalion of the Ninth Cavalry, and con-

sisted of 300 effective men. Its first service was driving the rebel force out of Clay County. Here it remained skirmishing with the enemy until the 15th of June, when it, with nearly two thousand other troops, began the expedition which resulted in the capture of a strong rebel force at Pine Mountain Gap. The next morning, a severe skirmish with others of the enemy occurred, but the Gap—the objective point—was gained. It moved to Stanford, thence to Danville to cheek Gen. Morgan ; thence to Wild Cat to watch and embarrass the rebel Gen. Scott, with whom they had a running fight of ten days, living during the time chiefly on black- berries, which grew by the roadside. On August the 9th, moved to Glasgow, where it, with other cavalry, was organized into a brigade to cross the Cumberland Mountains, which was done amid great hardships, and Knoxville was taken and the battalion assigned guard duty around the suburbs. In November and December of this year, the regiment was recruited to the extent of two other battalions. After careful drilling, the battalions proceeded in February, 1864, to Nashville, where they were ordered to report for field duty at Athens, Ala., and while here were joined by the First Battalion, and all began watching the enemy along the Tennessee River. After various expeditions, forty-one of the men were captured, the greater number of whom were consigned to Anderson- ville Prison, where, eight months later, twenty-five had died of starvation and exposure. Lieut. Knapp succeeded in making his escape after two unsuccessful trials. He was pursued by bloodhounds on the third trial, but, with the help of a sagacious negro, effected his escape, and afterward joined the regiment at Savannah, Ga. Another battalion had frequent skirmishes with the enemy near Decatur, Ala. Seven hundred men of the Ninth, with other troops, were sent to destroy the Atlanta & West Point Railroad. This was done amidst numerous skirmishes with the enemy, whereby the Ninth lost twenty-six men, mainly captured while foraging. Gen. Sherman's lines were reached at Marietta, July 22. In the movements around Atlanta, the regiment divided into battalions, found active service in scouting, guarding and skirmishing. After the fall of Atlanta, the regiment, about seven hundred strong, marched to the sea with Sherman, fighting almost daily with the enemy, and quite severely at Waynesboro. It destroyed large quantities of stores and railroad property. It moved North through the Carolinas. A brisk skirmish was had at Barnwell and at Aiken. So many of the horses failed on the march, that a portion of the cavalry was organized into the "dismounted" command. On the night of March 9, 1865, Gen. Kilpatrick went into camp with the Third Brigade and the dismounted men about three miles in advance of the remainder of his command. Early on the morning of the 10th, a large force of rebels dashed into camp, capturing the wagons,

artillery and many of the officers and men. The excitement was intense, but the dismounted men rallied, opened a hot and destructive fire on the enemy, forcing them back, and recapturing all the stores, during which time twenty-five national and seventy-five rebel soldiers were killed. The man who accomplished this splendid result, who turned defeat into victory and won a Brigadier General star was none other than William • Stough, of Bryan, Ohio. The Ninth fought at Averysboro, Bentonville, Raleigh and Chapel Hill. After some guard duty, the regiment was mustered out at Columbus, Ohio, August 2, 1865.