64th New York Infantry Regiment's Civil War Newspaper Clippings
THE ROLL OF HONOR.
" Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori."
HENRY VAN AERNAM FULLER,
Captain of company F, 64th regiment, New York Infantry Volunteers, leading his command, (in a charge of the Second Corps, at the battle of Gettysburg, after breaking the first and second rebel lines of battle, in the attack upon the third line,) was struck by a bullet in the breast, which passed out at the shoulder, causing his death in a few moments on the 2d July, 1863.
Captain Fuller was the oldest son of Benjamin and Ann V. A. Fuller, was born in Little Valley, New York, February 16, 1841. In 1860 he was married to Miss Ada C., adopted daughter of Dr. Lyman Twomley.
When the call for three years' troops was made, young Fuller felt impelled to obey the summons of his country, and in August, 1861, he enlisted as a private; upon the organization of his company he was selected as Orderly Sergeant, and upon the muster of the 64th N. Y. Vol. into the United States service, he was elected by the voice of his comrades, and commissioned, by Gov. Morgan second Lieutenant December 13, 1861. On the 23d July, 1862, he was promoted to First Lieutenant; and in January 1863, he was commissioned, by Gov. Seymour, as Captain, with rank from December 30, 1862.
Colonel D. G. Bingham on the 1st of January, 1863 (three vacant captaincy's existing in the 64th N. Y. V.) wrote to Governor Seymour recommending Lieut. FULLER'S promotion as Captain, saying that, he was "a young man of good education and intelligence; has served as Lieutenant since the organization of the regiment; acting at different times as 2nd and 1st Lieut., and commandant of company and Adjutant; and has been constantly with his regiment. He has been in all the battles in which his regiment has been engaged, viz (besides the Siege of Yorktown) Fair-Oaks, Gains-Mill, Peach-Orchard, Savage's-Station, White-Oaks-Swamp, Malvern-Hill, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, besides several skirmishes; and has, in all, displayed a gallantry and intrepidity deserving reward. For these and other minor considerations, which I might detail, I hope your Excellency will favorably consider this application."
To the above generous testimonial, which does honor to Col. Bingham as a commander and honest man, Hon. R. E. Fenton, the distinguished Representative of the District (whence the regiment came) in Congress,—the soldier's constant counsellor and friend, and in whose career, conduct and advancement, he has ever evinced the most earnest solicitude and pride,—wrote Governor Seymour that, "I know young Fuller, and it affords me pleasure to say, he is an accomplished young man, and a most deserving officer. In the service for more than fifteen months, he has, by his devotion and gallant acts, fairly earned this additional honor; and I beg to join in the request that your Excellency confer upon him a Captain's commission. I know of no young man in whose promotion I feel a deeper interest...to say that, both the forego…
It is due for .... ing recommendations were penned, and presented to Governor Seymour by another warm personal friend of young Fuller's, without his solicitation or knowledge. The case was so strongly and earnestly written and personally prosecuted, as to arrest the attention and enlist the favor of the Governor, that he promptly conferred the Captaincy. It is no impropriety, now, to add, that, soon after (a vacancy then supposed to exist) the Governor decided to further promote young Fuller to a Lieut. Colonelcy.
To the battles already named, in which Captain Fuller participated, with the heroically renowned 64th regiment, there is to be added the three days battles of Chancellorsville, just two months preceeding the battle of Gettysburg. In all the battles and skirmishes named, he led his command with the most undaunted courage. As the carnage wore on and the leaden hail increased, and the rebel demons became more furious, so rose the spirit, and daring, and energy of the soldier; raising his sword, he would cheer on his men to "boldly meet the foemen; there is no more danger to yourselves with an unfaltering front, a sharp eye, and a quick hand upon the matchlock, than in cowardice! Besides, boys, we are fighting for the Right, for Liberty, and for our Country!"
It is a singular fact that Capt. Fuller was never wounded in any engagement but in that in which his life was sacrificed. He never had a "leave-of-absence" until January last, when he asked for 20 days, and Maj.-Gen. Hancock gave him 25. He was never on the "sicklist," until after the return from the "ill-fated Peninsula campaign," he was ordered to the hospital by the Surgeon at Arlington Heights. While there, learning that the army (and his regiment) were moving up the Potomac, he deserted the hospital, overtook his regiment six miles above this city, marched with it, participated in the great battle of Antietam, and asked no favors of the Surgeon.
Captain Fuller possessed the confidence of his superior officers. When General Caldwell commanded the brigade to which the 64th was attached, he stated to the writer of this paper that "he knew young Fuller well, that he regarded him as a talented young man, and one of the live and accomplished officers of his command: was pleased to learn of his promotion, as well deserved and honorably earned; and hoped to learn of his further advancement." Captain Fuller was endowed with superior mental force; possessed a fine, manly person; a handsome, pale, intellectual face, clear, grey eyes, brown hair; was six feet in height, erect and dignified in his movements. He was of pleasing address, and an interesting and forcible writer, as he was an engaging conversationalist and speaker. Had he survived the war, it was his intention to have devoted himself to the study and profession of Law. I believe that he would have proved a very able jurist, and a most eloquent advocate. His education was obtained in those great American institutions—the COMMON SCHOOLS—with a few terms in the Fredonia and Randolph Academies. At home, or in the camp, he was a lover of books of the higher class, and a devotee of the great poets.
His father, mother, two brothers and a sister: his young and amiable wife, and infant son, survive him to lament the early death of one of the best of men—to inherit the noble examples, and manly virtues, and heroic deeds, and fame of one of the bravest defenders of his country's Liberties! No one, outside the sacred family could have possessed the confidence, or knew and appreciated the high and honorable qualities of Captain Henry V. Fuller, more than the writer of this grateful tribute to his memory. I knew him thoroughly for twelve years as an honest boy, and an upright man. He was incapable of dissimulation; and he scorned a base action. Few knew him but to respect him;—and many old and young friends will mingle their sorrowful thoughts with the stricken household of the departed Hero. His brother, Benjamin, served two years in the famous 37th N. Y.; and his uncle, Dr. H. Van Aernam, is the distinguished Surgeon of the 154th N. Y. V.
As a soldier he comprehended his duties, and performed them regardless of personal comfort. Conscientious, strict and just to the brave men of his command, he never asked them to confront danger where he was not willing to lead. If men ever inspired respect, courage and enthusiasm among their fellows, the subject of this notice did, and his comrades loved him with unstinted devotion. In the camp, their wants and their rights were scrupulously attended to; on the battle-field, none were more bold, or brave, or gallant. At Gettysburgh on the fatal day, might he not have said to his daring followers:
"If you fight against your country's foes,
Your country's fat shall pay your pains the hire;
If you do fight in safeguard of your wives,
Your wives shall welcome home the conquerors;
If you do free your children from the sword,
Your children's children quit it in your age.
Then, in the name of God, and all these rights,
Advance your standards, draw your willing swords:
For me, the ransom of my bold attempt
Shall be this cold corpse on the earth's cold face!"
John Manley.
Washington, D. C., July 10, 1863.
LOSSES IN THE 64TH N. Y. V.
We have received from Col. D. G. Bingham, of the 64th New York, the following list of killed, wounded and missing in his Regiment. The letter was accompanied by a long and interesting account of the battle of Gettysburg, which from a lack of time and space, we are unable at this time to publish. It may be found on the 1st page of our next paper.
List of Casualties in the 64th Reg't N. Y. Vols., 4th Brigade, 1st Division, 2d Corps, Army of the Potomac, at the Battle of Gettysburg, Pa., July 2, 1863.
Col. D. G. Bingham, left hip, slight.
Maj. L. W. Bradly, left arm and right side, slight.
Adj't J. M. Petitt, left side of face, severe.
Serg't-Maj. Joseph Savage, right shoulder, amputated.
COMPANY A.—KILLED.
Private Clayton A. Gardner.
WOUNDED.
1st Lieut. James J. Meservy, right leg, severe.
1st Serg't E. P. McCutchen, head, slight.
Serg't J. A. Darby, right leg, severe.
Corp'l G. W. Van Vlack, right breast, slight.
Private A. Reaggles, right leg, severe.
" P. Boardway, head, slight.
" B. H. Smith, right thigh severe, and left hand slight, released prisoner.
MISSING.
Corporals H. H. Darby and E. W. Prosser.
COMPANY B.—KILLED.
Private Alfred Lane, shot through breast.
" Stephen Curtis.
WOUNDED.
Capt. R. R. Crowley, left leg, severe.
Serg't Lyman Dean, back, slight.
Corp'l Chauncey McCoon, color bearer, left thigh, severe.
Corp'l Albert Marsh, left thigh, slight.
Private Andrus Franklin, left leg, severe.
“ Wm. H. Geary, left side, slight.
" Newell C. Morgan, right thigh, severe.
" Orrin Wait, right leg, severe.
" Tenny L. Walsh, right thigh, severe.
" Eben Willard, right leg, severe.
PRISONERS AND PROBABLY WOUNDED.
Corp'l Barnet Mosher, Private Jas. Boyden.
MISSING.
Corp'1 Lemuel Owen.
COMPANY C.—WOUNDED.
Serg't Joseph Charlesworth, head, slight.
Corp'l Wm. Van Atter. ankle, slight.
Private Leroy Shippy, right hand, severe.
" Rudolph Gregory, right arm, slight.
COMPANY D.—KILLED.
1st Lieut. Alfred H. Lewis, shot through lungs.
Corp'l E, Stone, color bearer, shot through body and leg.
Private L. Carpenter, spent ball bruise on side.
" F. H. Howard, shot through breast.
WOUNDED.
Corp'l A. Adams, left hand, slight.
Private C. B. Crenk, right leg, slight.
" L. Millspaugh, right arm, severe.
" J. Peters, right hand, slight.
" J. Ray, right thigh, severe.
MISSING.
Privates, A. J. Banister, W. B. Persons, W. M. Starkweather.
COMPANY E.—KILLED.
Private E. Cadwell, shot through lungs.
" W. Owen, shot through head and breast.
WOUNDED.
1st Serg't. E. Shepherd, breast severe, prisoner.
Serg't J. Taylor, left shoulder, slight.
Serg't L. Fountain, neck, slight.
Corp'l W. Dudley, right thigh, dangerous, amputated.
" T. Caldwell, abdomen, slight.
" B. Orcutt, right hand, severe.
" F. Lewis, head, slight.
Color Corp'l A. Empy, right thigh and hand, slight.
Private W. Gunnuny, shoulder, severe.
" D. Pollay, neck, slight.
" J. Salisbury, neck, mortal, died July 5.
MISSING.
Corp'l H. Dumond.
COMPANY F.—KILLED.
Capt. Henry V. Fuller, shot through right lung.
WOUNDED.
1st Lieut. J. A. Manley, left arm, slight.
1st Serg't H. H. French, right breast and shoulder, amputated at shoulder joint.
Serg't S. E. Preston, left arm, severe.
Corp'l T. J. Zibble, color bearer, head, slight.
Corp'l Wm. Moore, right hip, severe.
" B. Hopper, right hip, severe.
Private W. B. Primmer, left thigh, severe.
PRISONER.
Corp'l E. Russell.
MISSING.
Corp'l Lyman Jeffords. Privates, George Whipple,
Cassius M. Ellis, John D. Watkins.
COMPANY G.—KILLED.
1st Lieut. Willis G. Babcock, shot through lungs.
Private Charles H. Burns, shot through head.
WOUNDED.
Serg't D. C. Huntoon, right shoulder and chin, slight.
Corp'l James F. Caton, left shoulder, dangerous.
Private Nicholas Herbig, right arm, slight.
" George Murshull, left knee, severe, ampu'ted.
" James Powell, knee.
" Oscar Shay, leg.
" Rowland Ormsby, right thigh, amputated.
" Lewis S. Healy, right cheek, severe, paroled prisoner.
COMPANY H.—WOUNDED.
2d Lieut. R. F. Lincoln, right thigh, slight.
Serg't H. Presher, left thigh, severe.
Private M. Knuppenburg, left leg, severe.
COMPANY I.—KILLED.
1st Lieut. Ira S. Thurber, shot through hand & breast.
WOUNDED.
Serg't Wm. Speaker, left ankle, severe, amputated.
Corp'l Charles Alason, left wrist, severe.
Private George S. Smith, left thigh, dangerous.
" Delos M. Norwood, right ankle, severe.
" John Mullison, head, severe.
" Thomas, leg, slight.
MISSING.
Private Orrin Barnes.
COMPANY K.—KILLED.
Private Morris Keno.
WOUNDED.
1st Lieut. Charles Soule, left hand, slight.
1st Serg't Daniel T. Wood, right arm, severe.
Serg't Simeon M. Ingraham, left hand, severe.
Corp'l Philo W. Sanders, left thigh, severe, paroled prisoner.
Private Alfred W. Dye, left shoulder, dangerous.
SUMMARY
Killed. Officers, 3, Enlisted men 11
Wounded. " 8, " " 61
Prisoners and Missing " -, " " 15
11 87
Total number Casualties, 98.
The following is the list of killed and wounded in Co. E, 64th Reg't:
Killed.—Wm. E. Owen, C. A. Caldwell.
Wounded.—Serg'ts E. H. Shepherd, Joseph Taylor, L. D. Fountain; Corp'ls W. D. Dudley, S. F. Colwell, C. B. Orcutt, F. M. Lewis, A. Empy; Privates W. H. Ganoung, David Pollay and J. Salisbury, since died.
Missing—Corp'l H. K.Dumond.
Capt. WM. GLENNY.
The 64th Regiment at the Battle of Gettysburgh.—Capt. H. V. Fuller—
Lieuts. Lewis and Babcock Killed!
Col. D. G. Bingham, of the 64th Regiment, writes us under date of July 19, last, from Baltimore, referring us to the New York papers for a list of the casualties in the 64th Reg't, at the battle of Gettysburgh. Col. B., however, begs to put upon record his sorrow and grief for the loss of three of his line officers--Capt. H. V. Fuller, Lieuts. Lewis and Babcock, and we mournfully afford him space to do so. He says:
" The loss of these three officers killed (Capt. Fuller, Lieut. Lewis and Lieut. Babcock) will be to the regiment irreparable. No more gallant soul winged its flight from the battlefield than that of Capt. Fuller. A more gallant spirit never went into battle. To see him in the heat and excitement of a charge, handsome as an Apollo, cheering on his men, throwing the whole of his ardent soul into every gesture, one was convinced, that to him the smoke and dust of battle were as the breath of life. Young, ardent, impetuous and impulsive, generous and open hearted to a fault, possessed of all those unselfish and magnanimous qualities which make up the character of a true soldier, he was the idol of his company and beloved by his Regiment. Lieut. Lewis, commanding Co. D, and recommended for its Captain, was a man of sterling worth and integrity of character. Quiet and modest in demeanor; at all times cool, collected and undemonstrative, his acquaintance was not as easily formed or his confidence gained, as one more impulsive, but whoever once became fairly conversant with his character, ever after regarded him with feelings of the highest respect. His judgment was sound and reliable, his courage undoubted, his opinions well weighed and considered, and rarely or never changed after being delivered. He had a native dignity, a natural aptitude for command, in fact was one of the few who are born to command. Firm and unyielding, but kind, considerate and rigidly impartial in the government of his company, his men loved and esteemed him, and his every command was cheerfully and unhesitatingly obeyed. Punishments were unknown in his company. It is a great consolation to me to feel that I was able to gratify, in an important matter, his last expressed wish. Lieut. Babcock was a very promising young officer, an accomplished tactician and close military student. These three officers had passed unscathed through all the battles which the regiment had been engaged, (10 general engagements and several skirmishes) to fall together in this. They were firm friends in life and in death were not separated. The above is not to be regarded as a eulogy for the occasion, but a sincere and heartfelt testimonial to the worth and qualities of these offices. They had risen rapidly, (the last two from the ranks,) recommended each time for meritorious conduct, particularly set forth. They had been tried in many ordeals and out from each fire the gold came the more purified."
Truly yours, &c.,
D. G. BINGHAM.
CASUALTIES IN THE SIXTY-FOURTH NEW YORK.
The following is a list of casualties in the 64th N. Y. Regiment, 4th Brigade, 1st Division, 2d Corp, army of the Potomac, at the battle of Gettysburg, Pa., July 2d, 1863:
Colonel D. G. Bingham, left hip, slight.
Major L. W. Bradley, left arm, right side, slight.
Adjutant J. M. Pettit, left side and face, severe.
Sergt.-Maj. Joseph Savage, right shoulder, amput'd.
COMPANY A.
KILLED.
Clayton A. Gardner.
WOUNDED,
First-Lieut. James J. Miservey, right leg, severe.
First-Sergeant E. P. McCutchen, head, slight.
Sergeant J. A. Darby, right leg, severe.
Corp. Geo. Van Vlack, right breast, slight.
Private A. Reaggles, right leg, severe.
Private P. Bvardway, head, slight.
Private B. H. Smith, right thigh, severe, and left hand, slight. Released prisoner.
MISSING.
Corporal H. H. Darby.
Corporal E. W. Prosser.
COMPANY B.
KILLED.
Alfred Lane, shot through the breast.
Stephen Curtis.
WOUNDED.
Capt. R. R. Crowley, left leg, severe.
Sergt. Lyman Dean, back, slight.
Corp. C. McKoon, color-bearer, left thigh, severe.
Corp. Albert Marsh, left thigh, slight.
Andrus Franklin, left leg, severe.
William H. Geary, left side, slight.
Newell C. Morgan, right thigh, severe.
Orrin Wait, right leg, severe.
Tenny L. Walsh, right thigh, severe.
Eben. Willard, right leg, severe.
PRISONERS AND PROBABLY WOUNDED.
Corporal Barnet Mosher. James Boyden.
MISSING.
Corporal Samuel Owen.
COMPANY C.
WOUNDED.
Sergeant Joseph Charlesworth, head, slight.
Corporal William Van Alter, ankle, slight.
Leroy Shippery, right hand, severe.
Rudolph Gregory, right arm, slight.
COMPANY D.
KILLED.
1st Lieut. Alfred H. Lewis, shot through lungs.
Corp. E. Stone, color-bearer, shot thro' body and leg.
L. Carpenter, spent ball, bruise on side.
F. H. Howard, shot through breast.
WOUNDED.
Corp. A. Adams, left hand, slight.
C. B. Cronk, right leg, slight.
L. Millspaugh, right arm, severe.
J. Peters, right hand, slight.
J. Ray, right thigh, severe.
MISSING.
A. J. Bannister. W. B. Persons.
W. M. Starkweather.
COMPANY E.
KILLED.
E. Cadwell, shot through lungs.
W. Owen, shot through head and breast.
WOUNDED.
1st Sergt. E. Shepherd, breast, severe—prisoner.
Sergt. J. Taylor, left shoulder, slight,
Sergt. L. Fountain, neck, slight.
Corp. W. Dudley, right thigh, dangerous, amput'ed.
Corp. T. Caldwell, abdomen, slight.
Corp. B. Orcott, right hand, severe.
Corp. F. Lewis, head, slight.
Color Corp. A. Empy, right thigh and hand, slight.
W. Ganung, shoulder, severe.
D. Pollay, neck, slight.
J. Salisbury, neck, mortal, died July 5, 1863.
MISSING.
Corp. H. Dumond.
COMPANY F.
KILLED.
Capt. Henry V. Fuller, shot through the Right lung.
WOUNDED.
First Lieut, John A. Manley, left arm, slight.
First Sergt, H. H. French, right breast and shoulder, amputated at shoulder joint.
Sergt, S. E. Preston, left arm, severe.
Corp. T, J. Zibble, color bearer, head slight.
Corp. Wm. Moore, right hip, severe.
Corp. B. Hopper, right hip, severe.
W. B. Primmer, left thigh, severe.
PRISONER.
Corp. Lyman Jeffords.
Geo. Whipple.
Cassus M. Ellis.
John D. Watkins.
COMPANY G.
KILLED.
1st Lieut. Willis G. Babcock, shot through lungs.
Private Charles H. Burns, shot through the head.
WOUNDED.
Sergt.D. C. Huntoon, right shoulder and chin, slight.
Corp. James F. Caton, left shoulder, dangerous.
Nicholas Herbis, right arm slight.
Geo. Marshall, left knee, amputated.
James Powell, knee.
Oscar Shay, leg.
Rowland Ormsby, right thigh amputated.
Lewis S. Hoaly, right cheek, severe; paroled prisoner.
COMPANY H.
WOUNDED.
2d Lieut, Richard F. Lincoln, right thigh, slight.
Sergt. H. Presher, left thigh, severe.
M. Knuppenburg, left leg, severe.
COMPANY I.
KILLED.
1st Sergt. Ira S. Thurber, shot through hand and breast.
WOUNDED.
Sergt. Wm. Spraker, left ankle, severe, amputated.
Corp, Chas. Mason, left wrist, severe.
George S. Smith, left thigh dangerous.
Delos M. Norwood, head, severe.
John Mullison, head, severe.
Thomas Manning, leg, slight.
MISSING.
Orrin Barnes.
COMPANY K.
KILLED.
Morris Keno.
WOUNDED.
1st Lieut. Charles Soule, left hand, slight.
1st Sergt. Daniel T. Wood, right arm severe.
Sergt. Simeon M. Ingraham, left hand, severe.
Corp. Philo W. Sanders, left thigh, severe, paroled prisoner.
Alfred W. Dye, left shoulder dangerous.
SUMMARY.
Officers. Enlisted men.
Killed 3 11
Wounded 8 61
Prisoners and missing 0 15
Total 11 87
Total number of casualties ...... 98
The above list is as nearly accurate as it can be made at present. Most of the missing are wounded and prisoners, undoubtedly, and not so badly wounded as to prevent their being sent away. Some of the missing may yet be in hospitals of other corps.
The regiment went into action near the Sugar Loaf, on our left, on the ground where the enemy had made the most desperate efforts to breast our lines. The 3d and 5th Corps had already fought over the same ground, when the 1st Division 2d Corps was brought up to relieve the 5th, and made the last desperate charge which closed the battle of Thursday.
D. G. BINGHAM, Colonel 64th Regt.
THE SIXTY-FOURTH REGIMENT.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD.
Gettysburg, Pa., July 15, 1863.
Please publish the enclosed list of casualties of the Sixty-fourth regiment New York Volunteers, for the benefit of the friends and relatives of the killed and wounded. The men are from different parts of the State, and their families cannot be reached by the local presses. It has not been possible to send a complete list till now, and much anxiety and suffering is caused by publishing inaccurate lists very soon after the battle. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. G. BINGHAM,
Colonel Sixty-fourth Regiment New York Volunteers.
LIST OF CASUALTIES IN THE SIXTY-FOURTH REGIMENT NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, FOURTH BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, AT THER BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG. PA.,
JULY 2, 1863:
Colonel D. G. Bingham, left hip, slightly.
Major L. W. Bradley, left arm and right side, slightly.
Adjutant J. M. Pettit, left side of face, severely.
Sergeant-major Jos. Savage, right shoulder, amputated.
COMPANY A--
Killed--Clayton A. Gardner.
Wounded—
First Lieutenant Jas. J. Meservy, right leg, severely;
First Sergeant E. P. McCutchen, head, slightly;
Sergeant J. A. Darby, right leg, severely;
Corporal G. W. Van Vlack, right breast, slightly;
A. Reaggles, right leg, severely;
P. Boardway, head, slightly;
B. H. Smith, right thigh severely, and left hand, slightly--released prisoner.
Missing--
Corporal H. H. Darby, and Corporal E. W. Prosser, Co. C.
COMPANY B.--
Killed--Alfred Lane, shot through the breast;
Stephen Curtis.
Wounded--Captain R. E. Crowley, left leg, severely;
Sergeant Lyman Dean, back, slightly;
Corporal Chauncey McKoon, color bearer, left thigh, severely;
Corporal Albert Marsh, left thigh, slightly;
Andrus Franklin, left leg, severely;
W. H. Geary, left side, slightly;
Newell C. Morgan, right thigh, severely;
Orrin Wait, right leg, severely;
Tenny L. Walsh, right leg, severely;
Eben Willard, right leg, severely.
Prisoners, and probably wounded—
Corporal Barnet Mosher and James Boyden.
Missing—
Corporal Lemuel Owen.
COMPANY C.—
Wounded—
Sergeant Joseph Charlesworth, head, slightly;
Corporal William Van Alter, ankle, slightly;
Leroy Shippey, right hand, severely;
Rudolph Gregory, right arm, slightly.
COMPANY D—
KIlled--
First Lieutenant Alfred H. Lewis shot through lungs;
Corporal Edmund Stone, Jr., color bearer, shot through body and leg;
Levi Carpenter spent ball bruise on side;
Frank Howard, shot through breast.
Wounded—
Corporal A. Adams, left hand, slightly
C. B. Cronk, right leg, slightly;
L. Millspaugh, right arm, severely;
J. Peters, right hand, slightly;
James Ray, right thigh, severely.
Missing--
A. J. Banister, W. B. Persons, W. M. Starkweather. .
COMPANY E.—
Killed--
E. Cadwell, shot through lung;
W. Owen, shot through bead and breast.
Wounded--
First Sergeant E. Shephard, breast, severely—a prisoner;
Sergeant J. Taylor, right shoulder, slightly;
Sergeant L. Fountain, neck, slightly;
Corporal W. Dudley, right thigh, dangerously—amputated;
Corporal T. Caldwell, abdomen, slightly;
Corporal B. Orcutt, right hand, severely;
Corporal F. Lewis, head, slightly;
Color Corporal A. Empy, right thigh and hand, slightly;
W. Garning, shoulder, severely;
D. Pollay, neck, slightly; J. Salisbury, neck, mortally—died July 5,1863.
Missing--
Corporal H. Dumond.
COMPANY F—
Killed--Captain Henry V. Fuller, shot through right lung.
Wounded—
First Lieutenant J. A. Manley, left arm, slightly:
First Sergeant B. H. French, right breast, and shoulder amputated at joint:
Sergeant S. E. Preston, left arm, severely;
Corporal T. J. Zibble, color bearer, head, slightly;
Corpora! Wm. Moore, right hip, severely;
Corporal B. Hopper, right hip, severely;
W. B. Trimmer, left thigh, severely.
Prisoner—
Corporal E. Russell.
Missing—
Corporal Lyman Jeffords, George Whipple, C. M. Ellis, John D. Watkins.
COMPANY G—
Killed—
First Lieutenant Willis G. Babcock, shot through lungs;
Charles H. Barns, shot through head.
Wounded—
Sergeant D. C. Huntoon, right shoulder and chin, slightly;
Corporal James Caton, left shoulder, dangerously;
Nicholas Herbig, right arm, slightly
George Marshall, left knee, severely, amputated;
James Powell, knee;
Oscar Shay, leg;
Roland Ormsby, right thigh, amputated;
Lewis S. Healy, right cheek, severely, paroled prisoner.
COMPANY H—
Wounded-—
Second Lieutenant Richard F. Lincoln, right thigh, slightly;
Sergeant H Presher, left thigh, severely;
M. Knuppenburg, left leg, severely.
COMPANY I—
Killed—
First Sergeant Ira S. Thurber, shot through hand and breast.
Wounded—
Sergeant William Spraker, left ankle, severely, amputated;
Corporal Charles Mason, left wrist, severely;
George S. Smith, left thigh, dangerously;
Delos M. Norwood, right ankle, severely;
John Mullison, head, severely;
Thomas Manning, leg, slightly.
Missing--
Orvin Barnes.
COMPANY K—
Killed—
Morris Keno.
Wounded—
First Lieutenant Charles Soule, left hand, slightly;
First Sergeant Daniel T. Wood, right arm, severely:
Sergeant Simeon M. Ingraham, left hand, severely;
Philo W. Sanders, left thigh, severely—paroled prisoner:
Alfred W. Dye, left shoulder, dangerously.
SUMMARY,
Officers, Men.
Killed ................................. 3, 11
Wounded ............................8, 61
Prisoners and missing.......— 15
Total ................................. 11, 87
Aggregate loss 98.
The above list is as nearly accurate as it can be made out now. Most of the missing are wounded and prisoners undoubtedly, and not so badly wounded as to prevent their being sent away. Some of the missing may yet be in the hospitals of other corps. The regiment went into action near the Sugar Loaf, on our left, on the ground where the enemy had made the most desperate efforts to break our lines. The Third and Fifth corps had already fought over the same ground, when the First division, Second corps, was brought up to relieve the Fifth, and made the last desperate charge which closed the battle of Thursday.
D. G. Bingham, Colonel, Sixty-fourth New York.
OUR BRAVE DEAD.
Amid our rejoicings over the great victories recently won by our brave defenders and our thanksgivings to Him who has led them on to conquest, we are called upon to "weep, with those who weep." We have friends and neighbors who would be less than human did not their hearts bleed even while victory is crowning our arms; for that victory has been gained at the expense of the lives of those they love.—many a tear has been shed within the past week in this town over the returns that have come to us from the field of battle and of blood. Homer has lost at least five of her noble sons who went to fight for their country and for Freedom. The names of Clark Stickney, Willis G. Babcock, Charles F. Pratt, Morris I. Shattuck, and John B. Owen, will long by remembered and honored by the inhabitants of Homer. The two first had been for several years exemplary members of the Baptist Church. Those knew Babcock will readily concur with Maj. Bradley in his estimate of Willis’ character. Stickney was also a noble young man.—
He went to the war with the solemn conviction that his duty called him there. He was doubtless right. He closed his earthly career in the spot where he ought to have been found.
Pratt was in the 76th Regiment. While a student in our Academy he thought he became a christion. A few days before his death he asked one of his comrades in case of his decease to tell his parents that he was ready to meet his God. The above were three excellent young men who bade fair to be an honor to their parents and to our town. But He who gave them has called them to a higher service. With the other three we were less acquainted, but we believe them to have been of good moral character and they deserve a place of honor in our records. They have fallen on the field of glory. Their names will be linked with one of the proudest events in the march of Time.
HEADQUARTERS 64TH REGT, N. Y. V.,
BATTLE FIELD NEAR GETTYSBURG, PA.,
SUNDAY, July 5th. 1883.
SAMUEL BABCOCK, ESQ,—
Dear Sir: Yesterday was a sad day to us; we buried our dead. Your brave son Lieut. Willis G. Babcock has fought his last battle.—He sleeps by the side of a great rock covered by a running vine, just in front of our breast works. He was killed in battle July 2d. He was in the thickest of the fight, and to the very front in our charge. The last position of the enemy that we took was a rocky ledge of wood. During the time we held the ledge I saw Willis very active in directing them when and where to shoot. I saw him standing by the side of Sergeant Peterson of his company, tearing cartridges for the Sergeant. We had to abandon our advanced position and were followed up by the enemy under cover of a knoll and lost many. Willis was shot while we were falling back through a wheat field. He was shot through the right breast by a rifle ball. He fell about 6 P. M. That night the enemy held the field and the next day their sharpshooters kept us back.— On the morning of the 4th, I sent Captain Feapet out with a detail to look for the wounded and dead. They found the body of Willis; on his breast was pinned an envelope on which was written in a strange hand, Lieut. W. G. Babcock, 64th Regiment, N. Y. V. His sword, memorandum-book and purse were gone, but his clothing had not been disturbed. We buried him on the farm of George Weikert, back of his stone house. We put up a head board, cutting the name Lieut. W. G. Babcock, 64th N. Y. V. We made the best coffin we could of boards and rolled him in a blanket. On the top of his box coffin I placed a bent bayonet. We to-day built a fence around the grave. The loss of the 64th was great. I mourn with you the loss of your son. I loved him,—may God bless you.
Most respectfully yours,
L. W. Bradley,
Major Commanding 64th N. Y. V.
PAROLED PRISONERS.—The following list of prisoners we copy from the New York Times as having arrived at Annapolis, Maryland, Dec. 30, 1863. From the 64th, N. Y., are Sergt. C. Disbrow, G. W. Whipple, Corp. E. Russel and J. D. Watkins. From the 154th, N. Y., are Corp. P. Baxter and F. Easterly, all direct from Richmond.
GEN. CALDWELL’S BRIGADE - A BAND OF HEROS.
A letter from Bolivar Heights speaks in the following manner of the brigade of Gen. John C. Caldwell:
This brigade, one of the best in the service, and commanded by an able, brave and efficient General, has seen, perhaps, as much hard work as any other, and have been less noticed in the columns of the papers. Commencing at Yorktown, in all the battles of the Peninsula, they took an active part, and received from their Commanding General justly deserved ecomiums. In the battles of Fair Oaks, Peach Orchard, Savage Station, White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill, and Charles City Cross Roads, and more lately at the battle of Antietam, they took an active and conspicuous part, so much that the brigade, once numbering four thousand men, is now reduced to a little over twelve hundred men, although having five regiments attached to it.
In the battle of Antietam, and in the much-talked-of corn field where the slaughter was so great, they were in the thickest of it, and stood their ground like heroes, as they are. It was in this same corn field that they captured six Secession flags and took something over three hundred prisoners, among whom were eight commissioned officers. One of the colors captured was a North Carolina State flag, made of heavy blue silk, and upon it painted the coat of arms of the State. This was taken from the Fourteenth Regiment of that State. Another one taken was the old style seven-starred and seven-barred Confederate flag. Another a battle flag, upon which was inscribed Williamsburg and Fair Oaks —
These, together with three other battle flags, go to make up the number of the capture. The 64th Regiment is in Caldwell's Brigade.
Yours, &c.,
Capt. H. L. JONES, Co. B.
DEATH OF COL. BINGHAM.—Col. Daniel G. Bingham, late of the 64th Regiment, N. Y. Vols., died at the residence of Mr. Thwing, in Leroy, on Thursday afternoon, after along illness contracted in the service. At the breaking out of the rebellion he was residing at Ellicottville in Cattaraugus County, and when, in 1861, that Regiment was raised, he was commissioned Lieut.-Col. At Fair Oaks he was severely wounded and was shortly after promoted to the Colonelcy. At Chancellorville and Gettysburg he led his command and was slightly wounded in both actions. Immediately after the battle of Gettysburg, his disease, Consumption, manifested itself so decidedly that he was compelled to leave the field, temporarily, as he thought, but as it proved, forever. His comrades recognized and will always remember him as a brave, earnest and devoted soldier, and all his acquaintances knew him as a true man and gentleman. He persisted in doing duty in the field when physicians and friends advised him that he was becoming the victim of the fatal disease of which he died, and only bade farewell to his regiment when his physical strength forsook him. His loss is a heavy one to his command which greatly loved him and to his country which he nobly served.
LIEUT. COL. BRADEY:—It affords us great pleasure to be able to state that Major Bradley, who has just returned from the Army of the Potomac wounded, has received his commission as a Lieut. Colonel, to date from the 4th of May inst. This is as it should be. Colonel Bradley has shown himself a brave man-none more so. Hereafter give him the title he has so nobly won, Colonel Bradley.
MAJOR BRADLEY NOT DEAD.—We notice in the New York Herald of to-day that Major Bradley, of the 64th, was wounded and had arrived in Washington. How bad he is wounded does not appear. If he is not too badly wounded, we shall soon expect to see the hero home.
TIDINGS FROM MAJOR BRADLEY.—
We understand Mrs. Bradley received a letter from the Major this morning, announcing his safe arrival in Washington on the 16th.
He has received a severe flesh wound in the right arm, and expects to be able to come home in about a week. This is certainly good news, not only to his family, but his many warm friends in this city. We shall probably be able to publish more about the Major in our next.
P. S.—Since writing the above, we have been handed the following letter from the Major:
WASHINGTON, D. C., "METROPOLITAN,"
May 17, P. M. 1864.
Gents:—I am happy to be able to inform you that, receiving a severe gun-shot wound on the 12th inst., whilst charging on the enemy, in my right arm, just below the shoulder, severing the artery but not injuring the bone. I have been able to reach this city, (16th inst.) Receiving leave of absence, I had hoped to leave here the 19th inst., but am advised by Surgeon Bliss, late "Medical Director Kearney's Corps," now on duty in this city, not to so endanger myself, for fear of anticipated hemorrage, as is often the case on seventh day.
I cannot, in his opinion, safely leave prior to 21st, and he adds, "should not without a medical attendant," and there are none here available.
Please telegraph on receipt; care as above.
Please inform Mrs. B. that I am safe and doing well. Hope to be home within a week. Capt. Stranahan, of Connecticut, done me and my officers good service. My command had the honor to confront the "44th Va.," took their flag, after scaling rebel works, and killed their Colonel.
Fight commenced with 13 Commissioned officers—had three killed, one wounded, — missing and supposed dead—four wounded—two seriously—making eight out of 14 officers, killed and wounded. A great number of my non-commissioned officers and privates lost. I had the honor to have my position in front line, right of Brigade. Our Brigade was followed by the gallant "Irish Brigade."
Most Resp'y, your ob't Serv't,
L. W. BRADLEY,
" By a friend." Major 14th N. Y. Vols.
By Telegraph from Harewood Hospital,
Washington, May 19, 1864.
H. W. Dixon, Esq.--Major Bradley is on Washington at Metropolitan Hotel, wounded in right arm, doing well. Saw him last night.
Yours, &c., E. Cook Webb,
Ass't Surgeon U. S. A.
DEATH OF A VETERAN SOLDIER.—
Sergeant James F. Smith, Company I, 64th Regiment New York Volunteers, died in the Regimental Hospital near Kelly's. Ford, on or about the 20th ult. Sergeant Smith was one of the first men to enlist in this gallant Regiment, having been a member of Captain Renwick's Company from its organization. He has been in every battle in which that Regiment has served, was wounded at Fair Oaks, and has been at home on furlough but once during his more than two year's service in the field. He was a brave and faithful soldier, and leaves a wife and one child to mourn his loss.
WOUNDED SOLDIERS AT HOME.
Major BRADLEY, of the 64th Regiment, who was wounded in the right arm during the battle of the 12th inst., arrived at his home in this city last Saturday. His wound, though severe, is not serious. He expects to be able to join his Regiment in a short time. Young Coons, of Germantown, who was seriously wounded in the right arm during the first day's battle of the Wilderness, arrived home last Thursday, and there is a fair prospect that he will save his limb. Immediately after he received the wound, an Army Surgeon said the limb must be amputated in order to save his life. Coons resolutely objected to the butchering operation, and through the intercession of an officer of rank who knew him, he was allowed the alternative of submitting to amputation or being taken home. He preferred to come home, and on his arrival Dr. Whitbeck of this city was called to attend to his case. The wound, although very severe and long neglected, was properly dressed, and there is now every reason to believe that the limb will be saved unimpaired. Capt. Beekman, of Kinderhook, who was shot in the side at the same time Coons was wounded, has received permission to return home, and is daily expected. At last accounts he was in Washington, and his wound was not considered dangerous.
COLS. FAIRCHILD AND BROOKS.—These two well known officials, the former of the 89th., and the latter of the 64th. N. Y. Regiment will soon leave our city for the stirring scenes at the front. We believe Col. Fairchild left last night with several officers of his command for Annapolis, via New York City. Col. Brooks yet remains in town but will leave this week. We wish them long life and fair sailing.
OFF FOR THE WAR—Lieutenants Benjamin and Rood, 63d N. T. V., left this morning for the field. They took with them an elegant sword with equipments, as a present to their Col., from the officers and men of the 63d Regiment.
CAMP OF THE 64TH REGIMENT, N. Y. V.
Near the Chickahominy, Va.
June 5th, 1864.
Lucius Humphry—Sir:—
I find it my duty to inform you of the death of your son. William was killed yesterday by a rebel sharpshooter while on picket. Capt. Ketchum, chose a nice place to lay him, and Corporal Hyers and myself buried him this noon. He is buried under a large walnut tree, and his grave is marked. We feel sad for our comrade. He fell in his place like a good soldier. He was within four rods of the enemies works. He was in the fight all day the 3d, which was very hard, for our regiment suffered considerably, but not so much as others did. We have lost a comrade from our ranks who we dearly loved, and his friends at home will mourn his loss, but he has fallen with the rest his company in defence of his country and freedom.
Yours, Very Respectfully,
E. Lamhart, Corp.
64th, Regiment
.... any other result than the latter. By stating the fact the 64th occupy a nearer position to the rebel army than any other troops in the army of the Potomac, and with love to yourself and family, I remain as ever, your friend,
Capt. Wm. Glenny.
— P. S. I have forgotten to give you the casualties, which are as follows, since the opening of the campaign.
COMMISSIONED OFFICERS.
Killed, 3
Wounded, 6
Missing, 1
ENLISTED MEN.
Killed, 15
Wounded, 66
Missing, 14
Total, 105
We have present for duty about one hundred men, exclusive of cooks and musicians, about twenty in number.
Well, my friend Hutchinson, I have written much more than I anticipated, yet I have but little more than hinted at what I have seen and passed through. When I view the ground over, I cannot but feel that it is only by a special providence that my life has been spared. But many a noble patriot has fell paid as the price of victory his own hearts blood, and more has yet to be shed. And while the nation rejoices over our glorious victories, let them not forget the memory, widows, orphans and friends of our illustrious dead. Of Gen. Grant I have not yet spoken. Let it suffice for me to say, as soldiers, we believe in him. As to the future I will make no predictions. Judging from the past, it will not weary your patience to allow time to reveal the defeat or triumph of our armies. Of course we do not allow ourselves to think of ....
The loss in our regiment is not heavy.—Capt. Ketchum received a severe wound this morning, while on picket; he is now in the hospital and will, probably, be allowed to go home. We are all delighted with our new Major, Wm. Glenny, who is still in command. Though not in Petersburg, we are in sight of its church spires, which are in easy range of our artillery. I wish I was in sight of the church spires of Elmira for a few days, just long enough to get a good rest. These marches and constant fighting, night and day, tries a fellow's endurance. Some of our boys yield to the pressure, but as a general thing, braver or better soldiers cannot be found.
Write to me often. Give my love to the friends at home.
Your brother,
L. H. Fassett.
(Letter from Capt. Lewis H. Fassett).