MILITARY RECORD.
OUTAGAMIE county contained among its first settlers men who had served in the War of 1812 and perhaps men who had suffered in the cause of the Colonies during the Revolution. Appropriate mention of them will be found elsewhere in this volume. It is quite certain that soldiers who served in the War with Mexico afterward settled in this county. The militia of both Brown and Outagamie counties was kept organized in early years pursuant to law.
In 1845 in the designation of the militia of Brown county, the following concerning the present Outagamie county was ordered: “Fifth Company District, designated Company E, commencing at private claim No. 37, and running thence to include town 21, range 19 on the east side; thence crossing the Fox river on the south line of private claim No. 2 west by said river, Grand Kakalin; thence running to the south line of the late Major McKesson’s farm; elections to be held at Chauncey Gilbert’s residence. Sixth Company District, designated Company F, comprising the remainder of the town of Kakalin on both sides of the Fox river not included in the Fifth district; elections to be held at George W. Lawe’s residence. Seventh Company District, designated Company G, commencing on the north line of private claim No. 6, west side of Fox river, running thence down said river and bay including the Oneida and Lower Duck Creek settlements; elections to be held at the usual place in Howard for holding town meetings. At this time Samuel Ryan was colonel of Brown county militia and George I. Wallace was adjutant.
The issue of the Crescent, March 15, 1856, contained a notice that an independent company was being formed in Appleton. No further information was given and the company seems to have been abandoned before completion. In February, 1858, the city of Appleton reported to the adjutant general a militia force of 437 men; the city of Green Bay had only 354. “A Military Company. — Several of our patriotic fellow citizens are engaged in the formation of a military company in this city. Another company of light infantry is about to be formed in the town of Centre in this county.” — (Crescent, July 24, 1858).
“We understand that about forty of the students of Lawrence University have organized themselves into a military company by choosing Prof. Pletschke captain and Prof. Pomeroy first lieutenant. The uniforms and necessary equipment have been sent for and will probably be here within a few days. With such officers we think the company cannot fail to prove a complete success.” — (Crescent, November 24, 1860.)
In January, 1861, a bill introduced in the state legislature provided for placing the state on a war footing. It was provided that six regiments of infantry each consisting of ten companies of 100 men each and two batteries of artillery should be organized from the state militia. The failure of the peace commission in February, 1861, to reach a satisfactory conclusion was deplored in this county by many of the best citizens. “Legally the American Union stands firm as a rock; practically the United States of America no longer exist. Even now a convention of many states is in session to form a Southern independent confederacy. The die is cast. With the failure of the peace congress we abandon all hope for the preservation of the American Union.” — (Crescent, February 16, 1861).
“The Inaugural Message. — This document is before our readers. We frankly confess that as an entirety we are highly pleased with it. It is a manly and patriotic rising above the prejudices, partialities and sentiments of the party which elected him that commands our warmest approbation. The high constitutional ground taken in favor of a faithful enforcement of all the compromises of the constitution and the laws of the American Union, if followed out in practice, will insure to President Lincoln’s administration the hearty support of the democracy of the Northwest. At the same time we can not shut our eyes to the fact that it will array against him the bulk of the republican party of this state if they are true to their past provisions and predilections. President Lincoln enters upon the discharge of his duties with our warmest wishes for the success of his administration and our most ardent hope that he may succeed in uniting our dissevered nation into a happy, prosperous and contented people without war, bloodshed or civil commotion.” — (Crescent, March 9, 1861).
“Union Guards. — All able-bodied persons between the ages of 18 and 45 who have not already enrolled their names and are willing to stand by the Union and the constitution, are invited to hand in their names at the office of the clerk of the board of supervisors without delay. — Thomas N. Armstrong, Samuel Ryan, Jr., Thomas McGillan, committee, March 30, 1861.” — (Crescent). “The organization of the company of Union Guards in our city is progressing finely. Already about 25 names are enrolled and everything bids fair for the full quota.” — (Crescent, April 13, 1861).
As soon as the news was received that Fort Sumter had fallen a call signed by 150 citizens of Appleton, democrats and republicans alike, was circulated for a meeting to voice the sentiments of this community. The call was couched in the following language:
“THE UNION FOREVER!
RALLY FOR THE UNION!
Citizens of the Republic; lovers of your country all who love liberty and hate tyranny; all who have in your veins a drop of the old revolutionary blood or who have adopted United States as their home, come together tonight at Adkins Hall. Treason has already shown itself at our very capital; has seized upon the nation’s defences and taken possession of her arms and munitions of war; has insulted and trampled upon her flag, the star spangled banner; and contemplates the destruction of the Union; come then and with word and deed assist in restricting this anarchy. God will protect the right.”
“Pursuant to the foregoing call an immense concourse of people crowded Adkins Hall at an early hour and organized. His Honor, Mayor Bateman, was chosen president. Over thirty vice-presidents were chosen, each ward having its share, and eight secretaries. The object of the meeting having been stated by Mr. Bateman, Colonel Ryan was loudly called for and came forward and made an earnest appeal on behalf of the Union and urged a hearty support of the government. Colonel Ryan announced that he expected soon, like Bouck, Bragg, Larrabee, Hobart, Atwood and others, to be enrolled as a defender of his country in the tented field. Judge Jewett came forward and delivered a stirring speech in favor of preservation of our government. Professor Mason emphatically a man of peace responded to the call and placed himself side by side with the defenders of the country. The venerable Chauncey Kellogg made a brief but spirited definition of his latitude and longitude, and like all the other national democrats avowed his willingness to lay aside all partisan predilections and uphold the national honor. The Star Spangled Banner was then sung by the crowd with great enthusiasm and afterwards played by the band who added much to the pleasure of the evening by their excellent music. A band got up by the boys, the nucleus of a company of candidates, attracted much attention and applause. T. R. Hudd then came forward amidst the wildest enthusiasm and delivered an eloquent and powerful speech. He was followed by Capt. T. C. Dunn, who brought down the house with his earnest invocation for the right. Professor Pomeroy was for immediate military organization and immediate work. Prof. J. M. Phinney was so wrought up that his feelings could scarcely be restrained. Every patriotic allusion made by him roused the loudest applause imaginable. Yankee Doodle was played by the two bands. Rev. Mr. Himebaugh, a scion of the revolution, as well as a man of peace, delivered a feasible exposition of Christian duty in the trying scenes now impending. Judge Aiken made one of the best speeches of the evening; although past his prime he was ready to shoulder his musket at once. A. L. Smith responded briefly ‘For the Union, Now and Forever!’ George H. Marston delivered an earnest and emphatic speech full of patriotism, A long series of resolutions was adopted, among which was the following:
” ‘Resolved, that we, the Union-loving people of the city of Appleton, hereby pledge our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor in defense of the rights and liberties of the United States of America; that we deem it our privilege as well as our bounded duty to uphold the pure principles of our republican government; to maintain the rights of each citizen in person and property; to uphold our banner, the Stars and Stripes, against all opposition, come from what quarter it may; to stand by and support the legally constituted authorities in all lawful efforts; to disarm and punish treason and vindicate our national honor; and to this end we will, if necessary, sacrifice all our temporal prospects so that we may leave to posterity unsullied and undebased the flag which has waved in the battle and in the breeze with every star shining forth on its folds in all its native brilliancy and every state true to the records of the past; that we pledge ourselves to take care of the families of those who go forth to battle for the Union; to treasure up the memories of those who fall in defense of the best system of government human wisdom has ever devised and in all laudable ways to use our efforts to sustain the government in this great and unexpected crisis; that we recommend to the city council to take such measures as in their wisdom and patriotism shall be deemed expedient to provide for the necessities of the families dependent on those of our fellow citizens who may enlist to fight the battles of their country.’ ” — (Crescent, April 27, 1861.)
The Crescent of April 27, further said, “For years we have borne aloft our standard sheet, the stars and stripes, upheld the Union, the constitution and the enforcement of the laws and kept step to the music of the Union. For years we have watched an earnest, active and unceasing warfare against all who have dared raise hand or voice in opposition to our glorious system of government, its principles or laws, its sympathies or antipathies, and today when treason stalks abroad in the land and the ‘love of many has waxen cold,’ when all that is hateful and repulsive unites to tear down the fabric baptized in the blood of the martyrs of the revolution and substitute a military or foreign despotism or anarchy and mob rule, we feel called upon by the most patriotic qualities to nail our colors to the mast and reiterate our unending devotion to the American Union. Partisanship for the time being must sink. ‘Our country, may she ever be right, but right or wrong, our country.’ Ardent in our democracy, unending in our hostility to every form of tyranny over the mind of man, earnest in discountenancing corruption in all public positions, generous in according to each and all the rights and privileges of person and property guaranteed by the constitution, we can not do less than give to the administration our hearty support in all lawful efforts to crush treason and vindicate national honor; and although we may not endorse all the measures or financial policy of the President and his constitutional advisers, we will sink the partisan in the patriot and, if need be, buckle on our armor and march forth to battle for the right.” * * * “The war feeling here is constantly on the increase. Every day the postoffice is thronged for hours with an eager multitude waiting for the latest news. No less than three or four military companies are either formed or in process of formation and the sentiment of the people is almost unanimous in favor of sustaining the government.” * * * “There have been two volunteer companies organized in our city this week. One of these companies is called the Appleton Guards and will be ready soon for the call to arms. The majority are young men and if called into service will give a good account of themselves. Quite a large number of our citizens escorted two young men to the cars Monday last who were bound for the battlefield. One belongs to the Neenah company; the other to one in Oshkosh. The procession formed on College avenue about half past two and with two bands proceeded to the depot.”
In April, 1861, Dr. H. R. Merriman issued a notice in the Motor and Crescent tendering his professional services to all the families of volunteers of Appleton free of charge. T. G. Reed, who was a cripple, offered a bounty of $10 for an able-bodied recruit for the ranks of the Appleton Guards.
In April, a company called the “Silver Greys” and composed of persons over the age of 45 years, was formed at Appleton to act as a home guard and, if need be, as a reserve corps to take the field if necessary.
“The forces of the Confederate States have attacked Fort Sumter; they fired the first gun and are alone responsible for the civil war in which we are now engaged.” — (Motor, April 18, 1861.) * * * “To those wishing to volunteer. An opportunity will be given all who wish to volunteer by calling upon either T. R. Hudd, Peter Dane or S. Curtis Mower. Now is the time to enlist in the righteous work of defending your country. Fill up the ranks.” — (Motor, April 25, 1861.) * * * “Off for the Wars. — Two volunteers, Lewis Schintz and Henry Cole. were escorted to the cars on Saturday afternoon by a large procession of our citizens headed by the full brass band and the stars and stripes accompanied by the Young America Martial Band.” (Same). * * * “Appleton Volunteers. — There have been two volunteer companies organized in our city this week. One is called the Appleton Guards. The election of officers of this company resulted in the choice of an old Wide-Awake captain, Ernest F. Pletschke for captain; T. R. Hudd, first lieutenant; Joseph H. Marston, second lieutenant; Henry Turner, third lieutenant.” — ( Same.)
In the first company were the following men: T. R. Hudd, J. W. Carhart, Jr., S. Ryan, Jr., W. C. Cook, J. H. Marston, P. E. Dane, W. H. Patten. J. A. Watrous, J. H. Nugent, G. W. White, W. T. Gurnee, R. W. Webb, W. S. West, W. Leonard, E. H. Ely, D. O. Mar, T. C. Dunn, Kelly Randall, A. J. Atwell, P. V. Smith, R. Woodland, R. Law, F. E. Edgarton, J. D. Pierce, S. C. Mower, H. D. Ryan, J. A. Fletcher, J. S. Carr, J. W. Sercomb, G. N. Fairfield, H. Turner, Chas. Russell, W. A. Dillon, C. B. VanDoozer, W. S. Brown, A. A. Shepherd. C. L. Fay, C. Driscoll, P. Steenis, Thomas Wallace, S. Eggleston, O. W. Pond, B. F. Gary, W. Lansing, E. G. Jackson, E. F. Pletschke.
“Military Company. — The Appleton Silver Greys met to organize and elect officers April 26, L. L. Hulce was elected captain; B. K. Seaman, first lieutenant; M. D. McGrath, second lieutenant. This company is composed of men over 45 years of age. The company now numbers 55 men enrolled.” — (Motor, May 2, 1861.)
“Four patriotic young men from the town of Shiocton have volunteered in the Appleton Light Infantry. Good for Shiocton.” — (Same.)
“The Appleton Light Infantry is now drilling daily under the efficient commandership of Captain Pletschke, assisted by Lieutenants Hudd, Marston and Turner. The company is fast filling up and will soon be full. They are a fine set of man and will give a good account of themselves in case of service.” — (Crescent, May 4, 1861.) * * * “The ladies of Appleton who may be desirous to show their love of country and zeal to do something to contribute to the necessity of such volunteers as may go out from us, by way of preparation of bandages, lint, etc., are notified that a committee of ladies have been appointed to confer on that subject and that due notice of their arrangements will be given from the several pulpits of the city on the following Sabbath.” — (Same.)
“Something should be done in the city to provide for the families of those of our citizens who expect to enlist for the war. It cannot be expected that men will leave their families totally unprovided for even if they are patriotic. Who will make a move in this matter?” — (Crescent, May 6, 1861.)
“The Union Guards, a permanent company, is to assemble af the court house next Saturday, May 18, at two o’clock p. m. All who wish to become members as well as all who will volunteer for actual service should send in their names in case they cannot be present in person. Our editor intends to have a crack company ready for actual service by the time the fall campaign commences and hopes those who will serve under him will be on hand, or, if that is not possible, send in their names at that time.” — (Crescent, May 11, 1861.)
Early in May a beautiful Union flag was raised over the barrel factory amid the cheers of about 200 persons who had assembled. Captain Dunn delivered a stirring speech when the flag was flung to the breeze. The band which was present played the Star Spangled Banner. Rev. F. B. Doe also addressed the audience and was followed by Rev. Louis Dael. Mr. O’Hara was specially called out and delivered a ringing and loyal speech.
“Raising of the American Flag Over the Catholic Church. — At the close of a stirring appeal in behalf of the Union Rev. Louis Dael of the Catholic Church in this city gave notice that the American flag would be raised over the church on the Wednesday following. Wednesday was a beautiful day and at an early hour the church was thronged and after high mass the congregation repaired to the open air where a platform had been erected. At a signal given a beautiful flag was run up on the steeple of the church amidst the cheers of the assembled hundreds. The Rev. Louis Dael then delivered an eloquent and patriotic speech.” — (Crescent.) The following are extracts from his speech: “The flag we have just raised on the top of our steeple is a testimonial of the patriotism and devotedness of the Catholics of this city to the flag of their beloved and adopted country and of the noble example of our Catholic forefathers. Like them we are ready to bleed and die in its defense. Never during the whole war of the Revolution for our independence did we hear of a Catholic coward or of a Catholic traitor; neither shall it be now. When the Protestant General Gates fled from the battlefield of Camden with the Protestant militia of North Carolina and Virginia, who but the Catholics stood firm at their posts and fought and died with the brave old Catholic hero De Kalb? Let us never forget the example which those noble Catholic heroes with their Catholic armies have left us, such as Rochambeau, DeGrasse, De Kalb, Pulaski, Lafayette, Kosciusco, when engaged in the death struggle for our independence.” His remarks were received with great applause and the Appleton band discoursed the Star Spangled Banner. Samuel Ryan, Jr., John Jewett, Jr., W. S. Warner, C. A. Hamer, Charles Aiken and Thomas N. Armstrong addressed the people in favor of sustaining the government and their remarks were interspersed with music. At the close of this meeting Rev. Father Dael returned thanks to the numerous Protestants who were present and urged all to forget party and sect and save the country.
“All who wish to engage in actual service should send in their names either to the Appleton Light Infantry under Capt. E. F.Pletschke or the Appleton Invincibles under Capt. S. Ryan, Jr.” — (Motor, May 9, 1861.)
“About the middle of May the officers elect of the Appleton Light Infantry were as follows: Ernst F. Pletschke, captain; T. R. Hudd, lieutenant; Joseph H. Marston, ensign. “To the energy of Lieutenant Hudd the company is indebted for the promptness with which the governor has acknowledged their claims in furnishing them with commissioned officers. They are being drilled and exhibit marked proficiency in the training of the soldier. They require some additional names to fill up their ranks.” — (Crescent, May 16, 1861.)
In May the governor in his message recommended the legislature to appropriate $1,000,000 to be used in bringing into immediate and active camp service six regiments in addition to the number already called out and to place the state on a complete war footing. Besides his recommendation for small arms he included for the regiments going into the field six rifled cannon. It was announced late in May that Capt. S. C. Hamilton was about to be appointed colonel of the Third Wisconsin Regiment. He was a graduate of West Point, had served in Mexico and was a. thoroughly competent and gallant officer. It was anounced late in May, 1861, that unless the citizens made definite provision to care for the families of soldiers during their absence many of the best men would refuse to take the field.
In the latter part of May the Union citizens of Greenville to the number of over 300 raised a flag pole 72 feet long and ran up the Stars and Stripes. Father Dael delivered the address on that occasion. A few days later another was raised over the Catholic Church in Centre town and Rev. Dael likewise delivered a speech on that occasion. A National hymn was sung by the church choir. Numerous banners were thrown to the breeze in all parts of the county at this time. S. Leonard Martin formerly a student at Lawrence University but for several years past a cadet at West Point, May, 1861, went into the Union service as drill master at Washington, D. C.
“The Appleton Light infantry corps, a new military company recently formed, is being nightly drilled under the efficient command of Professor Pomeroy. He has had considerable military experience and exhibits it in the thorough, prompt manner of his drill. Some fifty-three names are already enrolled.” — ( Crescent, May, 1861.)
Early in June Capt. Pletschke received the following communication from the Adjutant General’s office: “Madison, June 4, 1861.
“Capt. Ernst F. Pletschke, Dear Sir: — Yours of May 31, is before me. In reply I have to say that there is no doubt you will be called upon within ten days. You will therefore keep your company fully ready to be mustered into service as we shall not be able to give much time after the call.
“Very respectfully, William L. Utley, Adjutant-General.”
“Captain Ryan of the Crescent has raised a company of volunteers for the war. He was in the Mexican Campaign.”-(Keewaunee Enterprise.) “Our editor is known as Major Ryan instead of Captain and was not in the Mexican campaign.” — (Crescent, June 8, 1861.) Capt. Samuel Ryan was chosen commander of the Appleton Invincibles. He issued the call in June for volunteers, and his company began to fill.
In June Lieutenant Hammond of the Fourth Regiment visited Appleton to secure recruits for a regimental band. The Third Regiment was encamped at Fond du Lac. It was composed of the following companies: Watertown Rifles — Captain Gibbs; Dane County Guards — Captain Hawley; Waupun Light Guards — Captain Flood; Williamstown Union Rifles — Captain Hammer; Scott’s Volunteers — Captain Scott; Neenah Guards — Captain Hubbard; Schullsburg Light Guards — Captain Vandergrift.; La Fayette Rifles — Captain Whitman; Wisconsin Guards — Captain Limbocker. The regiment was busily engaged in drilling and getting ready for the field. The Fourth Wisconsin Regiment was ready late in June, 1861. By the last of June two regiments had left Wisconsin for the field. Bovina was credited with having sent the following volunteers by the last of June, 1861: L. W. Eggleston; H. S. Torrey; I. Harrington; M. Torrey; W. G. Baker; and others. So many men connected with the sawmill at that point left for the front that the operations of that industry were stopped temporarily.
“There is no party now. We are all Union men. All for the support of the Government and the Constitution and the Law. Such is in substance the siren strain we hear day by day proceeding from those who have labored earnestly and zealously to break down Democracy, enthrone nullification theories, and establish in power a factional and anti-national political party. There is no indication on the part of our opponents that they desire or intend to meet us halt way in dropping party. Even in our petty city and county meetings upon all occasions there is the strongest disposition exhibited to rule and govern at this very time as partisans which has been seen since the first organization of the city, until it has come to be a matter of commnon remark that the republicans are bound to rule with a rod of iron. ‘There is no party!’ Why, even the clergy of Appleton with the solitary exception of the Rev. Louis Dael, the priest of the Catholic church in the Third ward of this city, have as yet made no allusions to the death of Stephen A. Douglas. Let us gather on the battlefield to put down treason. More than two-thirds of the companies who have already enlisted for the war are of our own political faith, and whether ten or fifteen regiments go from Wisconsin, the proportion will not be less. We advise Democrats to observe and organize. Democracy is the hope of the nation.” –(Crescent, June 15, 1861). “Our editor is gone again crazy about military affairs and therefore all shortcomings will be overlooked. It is but just to say that he has been devoting the most of his time to military matters since April last and that he entertains full confidence that the secessionists will all be cleaned out before the 4th of March next.” — (Crescent, June 22, 1861).
“To the Friends of Freedom in Appleton. — We the undersigned chiefs of the Oneidas in view of the fact that some of our ancestors aided in the achievement of the liberty of this country, costing them their lives and a desire to perpetuate the celebration of the Fourth of July in a patriotic way, we make an appeal to you, to donate us a flag to be raised on that day. We make this appeal; first, because we do not feel able to purchase the material to make one; and, second, because there are none of our people that know how to make one if we had the material. In conclusion we would say that in case of necessity we are ready to stand by your side and die, too, if need be, that the ‘star spangled banner may wave o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.’
“Departure of Volunteers. — About twenty of the volunteers left town yesterday for Chicago to join the regiment there. They are a robust appearing set of boys. Another thirty of the boys went to Fond du Lac to see about getting into Captain Bragg’s company. The most of them will return today. A large concourse of citizens were at the depot to witness their departure. The Appleton Light Infantry Company disbanded Thursday evening.” — (Crescent, June 29, 1861).
The names of the volunteers who left early in July, 1861, were as follows: Joseph H. Marston, E. G. Jackson, J. A. Watrous, C. D. Elliott, W. H. Patton, L. L. White, George W. White, J. F. Parkhurst, A. J. Atwell, George H. Phelps, R. D. Woodland, W. R. Fish, Jacob Fay, Peter Steiner, W. A. Dillon, Henry Broker, James Whitworth, Frank Lambert, Isaac B. Finch, Francis Delaglese, J. Harrington, John Geisber, Holly Van de Bogart, George Jesse, Louis Nichols, Dennis Mar, Ransom Law, William Frazier, George Eggleston, Cornelius Dunham, John Sanborn, Alonzo P. Gifford, A. J. Gifford, W. Darling, Nathan Torrey, Samuel Torrey, Jacob Deiner, Louis Eggleston, William Sprout, Henry Dunn, and H. Garfield.
“Mr. Editor:-I see it going the rounds of the papers that the Appleton Light Infantry failed to report themselves ready for service. It should be borne in mind that our company was originally placed in the Seventh Regiment, but was transferred to the Fifth, and short notice given to muster in. The time was extended to — Tuesday the 25th to report, on which day we lacked a few men; but Wednesday morning I telegraphed to Madison from Oshkosh that the company was full and ready to be mustered. The next morning I received the following reply:
‘A. B. Jackson: — Too late, another company ordered in, very sorry. W. H. Utley, Adjutant General.’ I ask the publication of the above as a matter of justice to us. A. B. Jackson.” — (Crescent, July 6, 1861).
“Our Volunteers. — It of course is well known that the Appleton Light Infantry Company has been disbanded when they numbered seventy-five men. If the business had been attended to as it should instead of sending over sixty men to Bragg’s company and to Chicago, we should have our own company in camp. After the disbandment the above number of boys determined to do something; they called a meeting and agreed to follow Lieutenant Marston wherever he should lead. A proposition was made to join Bragg’s regiment at Fond du Lac, which was accepted by about forty-one, on condition that their lieutenant should retain his commission. On Friday when they were to leave, the ladies of Appleton got them up a dinner of good things in the basement of the Methodist Episcopal church. They were escorted to the cars by a large concourse of our people although it was but a preparatory departure, as they were to return next day. They were received in Bragg’s regiment and cordially welcomed by a neat speech by Captain Bragg. On Saturday they returned with mingled expressions of satisfaction and pleasure caused by their reception and success at Fond du Lac. On Sunday morning Lieutenant Marston marched a number of volunteers to the Methodist Episcopal church where Rev. P. S. Bennett preached to them in a helpful manner. At the close of the sermon the proposition was made to furnish every soldier with a copy of the bible or testament and an arrangement was provided to carry this into effect. On Monday morning all was hurry and bustle preparatory to the ceremonies in the park. Soon after noon the crowd commenced assembling at Mr. Smith’s park, and by one o’clock about one thousand persons had gathered. On the Saturday previous the ladies had met at the residence of P. H. Smith and prepared packages containing towels, pins, needles, thread, etc., for their convenience. At the park the ladies assembled in a line, each armed with a big bouquet and a package and the men were marched to the head of the column of ladies, halted and listened to a song by the Misses Merriman, after which President Mason made a few appropriate remarks encouraging them in the noble cause in which they were about to be engaged. The ladies then offered the bouquets and packages, after which the bible presentation took place. Lieutenant Marston made a neat little speech on receiving a beautiful copy. The men then filed into line, preceded by the music, followed by the ladies, clergy, common council and citizens generally and marched to the cars, where, on behalf of the citizens of Appleton, Rev. D. H. Cooley made them a neat farewell speech which was responded to by Lieutenant Marston on behalf of his men in evincing a determination that the confidence reposed in them should never be forfeited by any actions of theirs. Over the scene of parting let us draw a veil. They are too sacred for this place. With cheer upon cheer, the warm hearted clasp of the hand, the heartfelt goodbye, the God bless you, the cheerful wish of victory and safe return and now “All aboard,” the shriek of the iron horse and they are gone, and with them go the prayers of many a warm heart for their success and speedy return. And now we bid the Appleton volunteers Godspeed, and may victory attend their career.” — (Crescent, July 6, 1861).
“The Appleton Light Infantry was allowed a few days to fill up but at the expiration of the time lacked only twelve or fifteen men. Afterwards they filled up before they were thrown out, but it proved too late. The company was thrown out, consequently it disbanded. Immediately on this being known recruiting officers were here to engage the men for other companies. About 30, mostly from Oconto and the pineries, who had volunteered here, went with a recruiting officer to Chicago or Alton to enlist. The remainder, nearly forty of the Appleton boys, had volunteered in Captain Bragg’s company, at Fond du Lac, in the Sixth Regiment where they also went on Friday and enrolled. J. H. Marston was the choice of the boys for first lieutenant.” — (Motor, July 4, 1861).
A fine pole, 80 feet high was raised at Tompkin’s Corners, Greenville, June 28, 1861. On the stars and stripes run aloft was the word “Union” in large letters. Speeches were made by L. E. Darling, J. Pringle, T. W. Morse and others. At the conclusion of the speaking a bountiful feast was spread for all by Mr. Tompkins.
Samuel Ryan, Jr., continued his call for volunteers for several weeks in the Crescent. It was announced that the Appleton Invincibles which he commanded would not be called into service before the middle of August or after harvest, but it was designed that the muster roll should be completed at once. Every group of men who took the field from this county contrived to send in letters describing fully their experiences in camp and their preparations for the field. When these soldier boys, many of whom were but little over eighteen years old, undertook to advise President Lincoln and his cabinet how to conduct the war, the Crescent called a halt on their assumption of superior wisdom. Late in June the citizens of Dale town raised a Union flag pole 105 feet high and ran up the Stars and Stripes immediately thereafter. Attached to the flag was a streamer bearing these words: “Young’s Corner and the Union.” A large crowd, was present and speeches were made by several residents.
In July, Henry Pomeroy, professor of engineering in Lawrence University, issued a statement to the effect that after harvest more volunteers would be called for and that it was his wish to form a company at this point for the field, which should be a credit to the county and the state. He asked that names would be sent in at once.
Early in July, Captain Loy’s company of the Oconto river drivers passed through Appleton en route for Camp Randall. They were a stout, splendid set of looking men and were designed to form a sappers and miners corps. Nearly the. whole of Appleton including its band turned out to escort them to the cars. Early in July the Outagamie county boys in Bragg’s Rifles went into camp at Camp Randall, Madison.
“The volunteers have gone, the bank failure has passed into history, the comet has become a regular inhabitant, and the special order of the day is the Lake Superior road.” — (Crescent, July 6, 1861).
“Ten or more of our brave boys have gone to their country’s call as musicians for the Sixth Regiment. They left on Thursday last at the close of the commencement exercises. Their names are: H. R. Merriman, W. C. Cooke, R. H. Randall, Leigh Randall, Mike Moore, E. Fuller, Jr., Z. Patton, M. D. McGrath, E. R. Franklin and Mr. Rodemaker. These with those of our musicians who have left before will make a total of fifteen. We would like to hear from a town of Wisconsin that has furnished an equal number of musicians.” — ( Crescent, July 27, 1861).
The defeat at Bull Run opened the eyes of the citizens of this county and caused them to realize that they had commenced a war that was destined to be severe and last much longer than they anticipated. Several boys from this county were in that battle and soon their letters delineating the horrors of the panic and retreat of the Federal forces were received. However, disastrous as it was, it left the volunteers nerved so that in future battles,the result was often different.
Late in July the Sixth Regiment left Camp Randall and started east for Washington, D. C. They were ordered there in consequence of the battle of Bull Run.
About the middle of July, 1861, the citizens of Appleton gave a grand amateur concert for the benefit of the Appleton volunteers. The concert was in every way a complete success both as to singing and pecuniary standpoints. The Baptist church was filled to overflowing. One of the interesting features was a musical tribute to Ellsworth. Mrs. Dr. Himebaugh and the Misses Merriman were the singers and Mrs. Robert Smith presided at the piano, while Dr. Douglas played the flute. The proceeds were about $60.
The concert was repeated a few nights later for the purpose of procuring means to purchase a sword for Lieutenant Marston. The cause brought out a large crowd and the amount realized was about $36, which was sufficient for the purpose.
During July and August the volunteers who had previously left Appleton returned occasionally with interesting stories of their camp life. Some fault was found that Lieutenant Marston was made second instead of first lieutenant upon joining Bragg’s Rifles at Fond du Lac in July.
In August it was announced by Captain Ryan that he desired to increase his company the Appleton Invincibles to 130 men and he accordingly called for additional enlistments to reach that limit. Congress increased the wages of the soldiers, the state gave $5 to their families and Appleton agreed to support the families of volunteers during their absence. All these points were urged to secure enlistments. In August the volunteers who had enlisted for three months returned and were received with great enthusiasm by the city. William Taylor of Captain Bouck’s company was probably from Shiocton, was captured at Bull Run, was heard from early in August and was then in prison at Richmond, Virginia, and well treated. The Sixth Wisconsin Regiment upon leaving Camp Randall in July were marched to Camp Cutler near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where they were held to be in readiness to join the Army of the Potomac when their services should be needed. In August the Ninth Regiment was being rapidly formed. Henry Pomeroy of Appleton was prominently mentioned in connection with the colonelcy of that regiment. He was a practical military man, a thorough disciplinarian, and in every way worthy and competent for the position.
“The Crescent, it appears to us, is not disposed to take a very patriotic view of the duties of a good citizen in the present crisis. Any just criticism upon its leader of last week would have to be couched in very plain terms; and we have to confess that we are sick and tired of being compelled to employ harsh language in the direction of that paper. As fast as it is frightened out of one flagrancy it seems determined to rush into a dozen new ones with a relish peculiarly its own. Its present hobby, stripped of all verbiage amounts to an invocation of Civil War here at the North in case the extinction of slavery should become a probable result of the present war for the Union. It ignores all genuine love of country in its anxiety to get off a little partisan bile. Probably it con-siders the evident necessity for General Fremont’s recent proclamation a mere tissue of Black Republican fanaticism and sophistry! All this may be very pleasant in the eyes of Governor Seymour or some other party prophet; but we greatly doubt its acceptability to the people of this community including the members of its own party. The above is exactly what we do not like to say. Nothing but duty compels its reluctant utterance. Partisanship run mad — treason if necessary to back it up — are not the hobbies on which to ride a successful paper, as we fear the Crescent will discover to its sorrow and disgrace if it prove inveterate in its present bent of reaching the extreme end of its rope.” — (Motor, September 12, 1861).
Early in September Professor Pomeroy of Appleton was commissioned captain and began actively to recruit his company. By the 7th of September he had over sixty men enrolled and the prospect was excellent for its early completion. As fast as men were enlisted and reported they were given board at the National Hotel in the First ward.
La.te in September Captain Pomeroy left Appleton with over thirty men, the first detachment of his company. They were destined for Daniel’s cavalry regiment then in camp at Ripon. There was not much ceremony upon their departure, but the friends of the departing volunteers gathered and bade them a last goodbye. Captain Pomeroy designed to return at once to secure the remainder of his company.
On September 28 a war meeting was called at Shiocton at the store of W. G. Jordan. Nearly the whole town turned out to this meeting. George E. Edmonds of Shawano delivered a ringing patriotic speech and was followed in a similar strain by H. G. Curtis. Quite a number of recruits were secured. Outagamie County Union Regulars, No. 1, of Bovina were organized, October 5. This organization started with a large membership. The steamer Eagle came down from Shawano about this time with a squad of volunteers on board.
The Wolf River Rifles was a company raised at Oshkosh in October. It was finally concluded to unite that company with the Appleton Invincibles and thus form a company fully up to the standard in numbers. This was finally done. The Wolf Rifles came to Appleton accompanied by a military band and were received by a large crowd at the depot. They were warmly welcomed, formed a gay procession and marched uptown to the inspiring strains of martial music and flying flags. The place was alive with people to see this fine body of men. On Sunday they listened to an able sermon in the Congregational church by Mr. Doe and in the evening attended the Catholic church in the Third ward where they were favored with a rousing, patriotic sermon by Father Dael, who earnestly endeavored to impress them with the responsibility of the hour and the necessity of their sacrificing themselves if necessary for their country. The next day they began drilling under Captain Hallam of Oshkosh who had been engaged for that purpose. Having joined the Invincibles the following officers were chosen: Captain, Samuel Ryan, Jr.; first lieutenant, Welcome Hyde; second lieutenant, W. N. Brydge. By night sixty-four men were sworn into service, and it was expected now the company would soon be filled. During this time Captain Pomeroy was constantly adding to his company and everything indicated that it would be ready before winter set in.
In October the ladies of Appleton and vicinity organized and prepared to collect funds and goods for the Outagamie county boys who were members of Bragg’s Rifles. They perfected their organization and during the winter managed to forward many boxes of goods and supplies which were fully appreciated by the worn soldiers on the field .
It was announced late in October that Captain Ryan’s company would be filled in a few days; it lacked only a few men at that date . Late in October about twenty German soldiers belonging to a Green Bay company passed through Appleton on their way to join the Ninth Regiment at Milwaukee .
Dennis Mar, an Appleton boy, was connected with Colonel Mulligan’s famous Chicago command that fought so desperately at Lexington, Missouri, in 1861. He received several wounds but not enough to disable him. He returned to Appleton in October and was welcomed by a large crowd in Adkins Hall. Many volunteers were in the audience that received him. The painful news was received about the middle of October, 1861, of the death of Capt. E. F . Pletschke, who died at Louisville, Kentucky, from the effects of a relapse of typhoid fever. He was formerly German professor in Lawrence University and otherwise prominent. His command joined Hecker’s Regiment, where he was tendered a captaincy. He left a widow and one daughter in this county. His funeral services were largely attended at the College chapel. President R. Z. Mason delivered the funeral sermon .
Early in November, Samuel Ryan, Jr., Welcome Hyde and W. H. Brydge received their commissions as captain and lieutenants of the Wolf River Rifles. They intended to go into camp about the middle of November. J. H. Hart who had been connected with the band of the Second Regiment returned to Appleton early in November, 1861. He participated in the battle of Bull Run, and on that occasion took a severe cold which settled into rheumatism and disabled him to such an extent that he was forced to leave the service .
The ladies of Appleton in response to the request of the United States Sanitary Commission organized in November, 1861, and prepared to assist the sick and wounded soldiers ih the fields and hospitals. Their organization was called Florence Nightingale Union Society. They secured the use of Odd Fellows Hall and began making the necessary articles. Almost the entire adult female population of Appleton joined this society. The Appleton Florence Nightingale Association in two weeks during November, collected and prepared an immense quantity of supplies for the sick and wounded soldiers. They worked under the direction of a sanitary committee .
In November, 1861, it was announced that an Indian Regiment would be raised in this state. Steps to secure volunteers in the Oneida Reservation of this county were taken at once. Recruiting officers were also at Green Bay, Fond du Lac and other cities in the state. The proposed captain of the company was Louis Hendrick, who had been attending Lawrence University .
In the issue of November 16, 1881, of the Crescent Samuel Ryan, Jr., editor of that sheet, said farewell to the people of the county and started with his command for the field. In his absence the paper was managed by James Ryan and Henry Ryan .
“The Wolf River Rifles, Captain Ryan’s company, left town yesterday afternoon on board the Fanny Fisk bound for camp at Fond du Lac. The company leaving so soon before we went to press we have had little time to make anything but mere mention of the fact; and although the people of Appleton nearly as a whole have kept aloof from assistance in filling up the ranks of this the only full or nearly full company and have disgraced their manhood by this course, yet we feel proud to say that at least some of our citizens have hearts remaining in their breasts who have done all in their power to have at least one full company in the war from Appleton.About fifty of the company went to camp leaving yet quite a number in town who will join them hereafter. There are also a number in Shawano visiting friends who will also join the company immediately. The captain on behalf of his company made a few pointed remarks which were neatly replied to by A. B. Jackson.” — (Crescent, November 16, 1861). A number of prominent citizens, in order to have revenge on Captain Ryan for former grievances, discouraged enlistments in his company, but he succeeded in making an excellent showing .
Col. Samuel Ryan of Neenah was a veteran soldier of the war of 1812 and was in the famed Chesapeake-Shannon Naval engagement. He resided previous to 1861 thirty-four years in Wisconsin, having come to Green Bay in 1827. He was at this date seventy-three years old, and frequently walked during the summer of 1861 from Menasha to Appleton to visit his relatives there, one of whom was his son Sam. Ryan, Jr .
“Two sons of James McCormack of this city have joined the Neenah Company and are now in camp at Madison. Mrs. McCormack will probably go directly to St. Louis as nurse to the sick and wounded within a few days. There is patriotism.” — (Crescent, November 21, 1881) .
“Wolf River Rifles — We are ashamed to hear that there is danger of the disbandment of this fine company owing to the lack of recruits. It is quite possible that those who have taken such special and persistent (as well as disgraceful) pains to decry and sneer down this laudable undertaking may have the finger of scorn they were so free to point, pointed back at them forever as the cowardly traitors to their country they are! It is expedient that the city of Appleton should be forthwith relieved of the brand of ineffable shame and infamy put upon her by such ingrates and cowards. And we hope this lovely city will be relieved of their infernal presence as soon as possible. Let some kind of decency be shown hereafter in the way of both raising and providing for recruits.” — (Motor, November 28, 1861).
Late in November, 1861, notice was given volunteers, who had been sworn into the Wolf River Rifles and had not reported to present themselves at once at the National Hotel in Appleton and be prepared to join the company at Fond du Lac. The best citizens of Appleton were making strenuous efforts to fill up Captain Ryan’s company. A large number of those who were previously enrolled failed to report, leaving the company short some thirty men. The effort now being made gave the assurance that the company would soon have its full quota .
In December, Capt. Henry Pomeroy on behalf of his company then established at Calmp Harvey, Kenosha, thanked the citizens of Appleton and vicinity for the large quantity of bedding, clothing and provisions sent them at that point. This was one of the many splendid deeds of the Florence Nightingale Society of Appleton .
This month another attempt to raise a company for the war altogether from Outagamie county was commenced. Welcome Hyde and D. J. Quimby were commissioned captain and first lieutenant to raise a company for the Seventeenth Regiment. They came to Appleton and here and elsewhere in the county published notices calling for volunteers for this company. It grew rapidly from the start and many joined it during December .
At this time the common council of Appleton at the regular meeting rescinded the ordinance passed during the summer, which appropriated $1,000 for the benefit of the families of volunteers.The reason for this act was as follows: When the appropriation was made it was presumed that the county board would relieve the city or assist it by a liberal appropriation for the same purpose and also reimburse the city for large amounts already expended. This was believed to be nothing but fair. The county board, however, refused to assist, whereupon the council rescinded their previous appropriation. The city had already expended out of the city volunteer fund about $1,000. The county volunteer fund which would become available after January 1, 1862, amounted to about $2,000, and was to be placed in the hands of Dr. Byron Douglas, trustee for the county, under whom it was to be expended. The chairman and supervisor of each town was required to report the names of the wives of all volunteers to whom this fund should be paid.
It was announced late in December that the company of Captain Hyde was constantly receiving accessions of men and that it would soon be ready to go into quarters. Theodore Conkey was tendered the captaincy of a cavalry company destined for Colonel Bartow’s regiment; he accepted the same and commenced work in earnest to fill its ranks.
“The cavalry company Capt. Conkey undertook to raise is already full. Appleton is at length honored as she deserves to be. The company is composed of picked men and will probably be unsurpassed by any in the Union.” — (Motor, January 2, 1862) .
By January 11, 1862, Captain Conkey had secured 60 men whom he took to Janesville to join Colonel Bartow’s regiment. His company was known in this county as the Appleton Dragoons. Captain Conkey succeeded in securing a large squad of men for his company from Oconto, the agreement being that Conkey should be captain, and that Oconto should have first and second lieutenants and that the non-commissioned officers should be equally divided. The Oconto boys called the company Northwestern Dragoons instead of Appleton Dragoons.
Capt. N. Paine of Company G located at Camp Harvey, Kenosha, acknowledged the receipt of 200 magazines and books in January, 1862, from the people of Appleton, for which the company returned thanks.
By January Captain Hyde’s comnpany numbered nearly 80 men who were being drilled daily at Appleton. They were pronounced one of the best drilled companies ever seen in this county. It seemed easier at this time to secure enlistments than at any previous period. Late in January enlistments for the Nineteenth Independent regiment were being made at New London. The recruits were intended for a company commanded by E. P. Perry who had previously served in the Second Wisconsin regiment in the army of the Potomac. In January there were some half dozen recruiting officers in Appleton; the new calls for volunteers stimulated the enlistments .
Captain Hyde’s company known as the Doran Guards joined the Seventeenth Wisconsin regiment and numbered at the start about 83 men mostly from Outagamie county. They were located at Camp Randall late in February. He soon had a total of 100 men which constituted a fine company. The Motor and Crescent of February, 1862, voiced the general feeling of joy here over the surrender of Fort Donelson and the capture of 12,000 rebel prisoners. This was really the first great Federal victory and occasioned unbounded rejoicing in this community.
In February a recruiting office for the Twelfth regiment, United States Infantry was opened at the Crescent hotel by Sergeant Ross. Volunteers began immediately to enlist in his regiment. Many preferred the United States regular service to the volunteer service. They seemed to have more confidence in the officers. Late in February, 1862, Captain Mayer of the regular army was here for the purpose of receiving and mustering into the service recruits which were secured by Sergeant Ross. The officers of Captain Hyde’s company were as follows: Welcome Hyde, captain; Rollan Crane, first lieutenant; J. E. Richards, second lieutenant. This was reported as one of the best companies raised in this state. It was rumored early in March that the company would be sent to Chicago to guard the rebel prisoners confined in Camp Douglas. In February Captain Perry at New London was still securing volunteers and at this time had large squads of men already enlisted. Samuel Ryan, Jr., secured a position in Colonel Barstow’s cavalry regiment at Janesville .
Late in March, 1862, Captain Conkey and sixty of his volunteers arrived in Appleton on a short visit preparatory to their final departure to the field. They were received at the station with great ceremony and in royal style. Captain Conkey at this time called for sixteen more men. He lacked that number of having the required quota.
Several soldiers from this county were in the Tenth Wisconsin regiment located near Huntsville, Alabama, early in April, 1862. The citizens of Appleton presented Captain Conkey of Company I, Third Wisconsin Cavalry, with a beautiful sword. John Jewett, Jr., made the presentation speech to which the captain responded in touching terms .
In the spring within a few weeks’ time the ladies’ society filled five large boxes with supplies and forwarded them to Milwaukee to be taken to the front. The boxes contained sheeting, pillow cases, towels, sox, shirts, handkerchiefs, underclothing, linens, coats, trousers, bed-ticks, wine, preserves, jelly, dried fruit, starch and other similar articles. These articles were taken to the battlefields of Pittsburg Landing, Fort Scott, etc .
The death of several volunteers from this county was reported during the summer of 1862, due to wounds received in the many battles or to diseases in the no less deadly camps. Upon the receipt of the news of the battle of Pittsburg Landing about the middle of April, the Crescent in connection with other newspapers of the state published a memorial article entitled “Wisconsin’s Noble Dead” encircled with heavy black border as a token of the grief of the state for the many Wisconsin boys who lost their lives on that bloody field .
In July the governor divided the state into recruiting districts .
Outagamie county was included in the Fourth district. This division was made for convenience in reporting after having enlisted. Wisconsin at this time was called upon for five additional regiments as soon as they could be raised. This roused the people of Outagamie county to redouble action .
In July Engineer Bentley of the Northwestern railroad was commissioned to raise a company and thereupon called for volunteers at Appleton. It was understood his call extended to railroad employes only. The railroad company generously gave $5,000 in order to make this step successful. Captain Jewett and others held war meetings daily throughout the towns of the county to secure volunteers. He visited nearly every neighborhood in the county often calling the citizens together in schoolhouses and managed to secure quite a large number of recruits .
The working committee appointed at the large war meeting held late in July, passed the following resolution: That a committee of three be appointed to recommend the county board of supervisors to make appropriation for bounty to volunteers for the war. The committee selected were Doctor Douglas, A. B. Jackson and R. R. Bateman; later Captain Spaulding was added to the committee. This committee decided to meet every Tuesday evening until the quota of the county was full.
“Mass Meeting in Support of the Government. — A mass meeting of all loyal citizens who are ready to give to the government a hearty support to the utmost extent of the resources of the nation in maintaining the present war to the end, in suppressing the rebellion and especially the putting into the field in the shortest possible time our share of the new troops called by the President and of encouraging the employment of all means which the law of a civilized war permit in weakening and overcoming our enemies, is called to be held at Adkins’ hall at Appleton on Monday evening, July 28, 1862:
Previous to the above call a large assemblage of citizens gathered in Adkins’ hall and were called to order by Judge Jewett who nominated Mayor Johnston chairman of the meeting. James Ryan was chosen secretary. The chairman briefly stated that the object of the meeting was to assist Captain Jewett to raise a company of men for the Twenty-first Regiment. Captain Jewett then explained more fully his plans of carrying out his object. Speeches were delivered by A. B. Jackson, H. W. White and Colonel Sweet. After various propositions were discussed it was decided to appoint a committee of five to consider the expediency of having the county or city offer a bounty for volunteers. This committee consisted of A. B. Jackson, T. R. Hudd, J. S. Buck, Captain Spaulding and John Ryan. A permanent finance and working war committee for each of the three wards of the city was decided upon. The following committee was thereupon appointed:
City-at-large, Captain Spaulding, chairman. First ward — R. B. Bateman, C. O. Tichenor and Thomas Hanna; Second ward — George R. Wood, Doctor Douglas and Doctor Tompkins; Third ward — G. I. Brewster, J. M. Barker and Z. Patton; Fourth ward — A. B. Jackson, B. K. Seaman and Peter Van Leshant. On motion the meeting adjourned to reassemble the following Saturday .
“Our Country Calls!” — President Lincoln has issued another call for 300,000 tnen to serve for nine months unless sooner discharged. They are required by the fifteenth of August and unless the former call for 300,000 men is filled by that date, drafting will take place to secure the number needed. Let the people come up as one man and give help to the government. Let men rally from the various woodlands, from the farms and workshops, from the counter and desk, from the forge and office, and from the schoolhouse. Let the law come! The government says let there be no laggards. Let the women also hear. They have a mission before them. Let them in every town and neighborhood organize volunteer relief societies for the assistance, not only of our absent brothers, but for the care and maintenance of the families of the absent husbands. Let the ladies of our woodland home attend to this matter. Let missionary contributions and all other deeds of generosity in peaceful times go to the shades until the war is closed.” — (Crescent, August, 1862) .
Volunteers receive $100 United States bounty and $25 as soon as mustered in the service. Drafted privates receive but $11 per month. Nothing more. Will you hesitate longer? Shall our cause be now abolished when peace is just ready to dawn upon us? Must the harrowing deeds of our fathers come to naught? Shall the coming generations point the finger of contempt upon so-called friends of the Union? Shall the cries of our wounded and dying brothers be unheeded? May heaven forbid. — Crescent, August 9, 1862) .
Dr. M. A. Mosher, formerly of Appleton, became assistant surgeon of the Twentieth Regiment. The town of Hortonville in August, 1862, pledged ten recruits for Captain Jewett’s company and agreed to give them a special bounty of $50 each. This splendid and patriotic act was favorably commented upon by the local newspapers. It put a spur in the ribs of every other town in the county .
The new call for volunteers in August, the act of Hortonville, the entreaties of the papers and the appeals of orators stimulated to fever heat the war feeling of this county. It was announced that two full companies would probably have to be raised in Outagamie and Shawano counties. It was stated that Captain Jewett when in Dale endeavoring to enlist volunteers was promised an appropriation by that town of $50 bounty for each man who should enlist to the credit of the town. A meeting held in Dale passed a resolution asking the county board to appropriate a bounty of $50 for each man necessary to clear the county from the draft. At this time many of the boys, young men and middle aged men of the county began to enlist as never before. In one evening in Dale, early in August, nine present were sworn into the service at one time by Captain Jewett. War meetings in Appleton asked the county board to offer a bounty of $50 for each volunteer and to provide for the families of all volunteers who should take the field. At these meetings brilliant war speeches were delivered. Rev. Louis Dael, the Catholic priest, was called out and delivered his usual brilliant, eloquent and loyal speech. He explained that Catholics were bound by their religion to sustain the government as well as their religion. He said, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God that which belongs to God.” He said that Lincoln was constitutionally elected and must be supported. He advised Catholics to volunteer for the government and said: “What God has joined together let no rebellion put asunder.” Thomas F. Seymour delivered a long eloquent speech. Others who delivered short addresses were Hogan, Bennett, Davies, Doctor Bogan, Joseph McGillan and Van Doosen. It was resolved that the ladies of Appleton should meet in the college chapel to organize a society to aid the families of volunteers and to revive and support the courage and spirit of ’76. Dr. Douglas handed a circular to the president of the meeting showing that several of the county supervisors agreed to vote for a special tax sufficient to support the families of each volunteer while he was absent in the field. Agreeable to the call the ladies of Appleton met in the College chapel about the middle of August and duly organized a soldiers’ aid society. The meeting was called to order by President Mason who introduced Rev. Robert B. Doe who addressed the assemblage of ladies. The ladies’ society elected the following officers: Mrs. Mason, president; Miss Snow, vice-president; Mrs. Miller, treasurer; Mrs. Doe, secretary; and Mrs. E. Edgarton, assistant secretary. The following names were added to the membership of the society: Mesdames James Ryan, William S. Warner, L. B. White, Parish, Richmond, Hanchett, A. M. Fenne, F. J. Jackson, P. H. Smith, J. A. Brewster, Mary Ming, J. E. Batena, A. B. Jackson, J. M. Burch, M. A. Ketchum, C. J. Pettibone, A. Warner, E. Beach, Tichenor, E. Phelps, Adkins, M. Hart, Foster, Jas. M. Hutchinson, Dong, J. Stephens, Mansfield, J. Phinney, Robinson, Roberts, Elkins, Miss Annie B. Sherwood, Adrrie E. White, R. Conkey, Ella Phinney, Florence Edgarton, Hattie C. Knox, Marie Pettibone, Kate Peabody, F. E. Spencer, Kate Tibbits, S. E. Edgarton, Earl Parmelee Waite, Eleanor Robertson, Emmie Elkins .
About the middle of August, a young man on horseback at Appleton was bantered to enlist. He said he would do so if he could sell his horse. “How much do you want?” “One hundred dollars.” In a few minutes twenty different individuals paid $5 each for the horse. The young man was promptly sworn in .
The ladies’ society agreed to have oversight of the families and children of soldiers who might need aid. A visiting committee for that purpose was duly appointed. This committee consisted of Mrs. Hanchett, Mrs. Hamer, Mrs. Phinney, Mrs. Parish, Mrs. Spencer, Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Ketchum. Another committee was appointed to endeavor to increase the membership of the society .
It was announced in August, 1862, that the quota of men necessary to clear this county was 507. The county already was credited with 236. It was now realized that a mistake was made in the early months of the war when fully 100 volunteers from this county went elsewhere to enlist and were credited to other localities. The two companies of Captain Jewett and Captain McGillan were nearly completed and the raising of these two would reduce the number required to about 91 men. These must be raised, it was announced, or a draft would take place. By August, 1862, seven men from the Crescent alone had volunteered for the war. One of the stores in Appleton lost six men by enlistment and was compelled to secure amateurs to take their places. Several of the factories lost so many men as to cripple their operations. A young man while escorting a young lady home asked her if he should volunteer. “Certainly,” was her reply, “you have nothing to keep you here. Go. If my father should ask me to volunteer I would do so.”
Iin August, Capt. Theodore Conkey was mentioned prominently in connection with the colonelcy of one of the new regiments. Thus far Major Pomeroy was the only field officer from Outagamie county. Captain Jewett’s company was reported filled by the middle of August. His command was assigned to the Twenty-first regiment. The Crescent said: “We can and will brag of this company. A finer set of boys and good fellows never left this city. They are substantial, independent, able-bodied men and will reflect honor on old Outagamie wherever they may be placed. We will warrant that this will be the crack company of the regiment.”
At the adjourned war meeting held Friday, August 15, in the College chapel, Mayor Johnston presided. Captain Jewett was called for and came upon the stage amid thunders of applause. He congratulated Appleton and the county upon having filled his company to 130 volunteers within so short a time. He hoped that the people would now fill just as splendidly the company of Captain McGillan. Father Dael the favorite orator of Appleton was called for and delivered one of his fiery and eloquent addresses. Captain Spaulding announced that he was authorized to offer $10 extra to each of the first ten recruits. Doctor Douglas said he was authorized to make the same offer for the next ten. Rev. James Anderson delievered a rousing speech addressed largely to the fathers, mothers and sisters. He said it was their duty to give their sons to the war. He appealed to the young men of Jewett’s company to stand firm and shoot as many rebels as they could. Charles Atkins delivered a strong speech and urged them to sustain the government. Mr. Enos of Watertown being present was called on and spoke in favor of enlistments and of assisting the prosecution of the war. At this stage of the proceedings Senator Hudd arrived from Shawano and brought the news that he brought some twenty more men for Captain Jewett’s company. “Wisconsin has been called on for an additional 590 men. This will add about 80 men to our county, additional to the 291 on the previous calls, making in all about 371 men for us to furnish in all. We ought to raise this quota without a draft. Shall it be done? This town with its few men will of course suffer most by draft. Enlist by all means.” — (Crescent, August 23, 1882.) Late in August the sheriff and his deputies were busily engaged in complying with the recent enrollment order. As soon as it was ready it was posted up for public inspection .
“Banner Company. — For men of stamina, for everything that goes to make up a company of men of which the locality may well boast and be proud of we claim that Captain Jewett’s boys should have the palm of the Twenty-first regiment.” — (Crescent, August 23, 1862.)
During the last two weeks in August, Captain Wood assisted by several others was busily engaged trying to raise another company. Captain McGillan was compelled to surrender his commission owing to his failure to secure the number of men necessary to fill his company. It was no fault of his. He turned over what he had to Capt. John R. Wood who later obtained the twenty men from Shawano county. This gave them a fair start and the enlistment thereafter was rapid. Dr. Tompkins was appointed examining surgeon for this company under the law requirements. George H .Myers was appointed draft commissioner .
August 30 Captain Wood’s company consisted of 91 men all of whom had been sworn in. This was rapid enlistment and showed how earnestly the people had worked. Like the volunteers of Captain Jewett’s company, those of Captain Wood’s were the best to be had in this section of the state, but this did not clear the county of draft. Steps to raise still another company were taken and the committees of the war societies again made strenuous efforts to fill the quota. A war meeting held in Little Chute was addressed by T R. Hudd. That town voted an extra bounty of $50 for each one who would enlist. This was absolutely a town measure. Barracks were erected at the new fair grounds and there for a time the volunteers were quartered prior to their departure for the field. Dr. S. L. Fuller of Appleton was commissioned assistant surgeon of the Twenty-first regiment. In Captain Jewett’s company were forty men from Appleton, thirteen from Grand Chute, eight from Freedom, ten from Ellington, eight from Hortonia, five from Bovina, two from Liberty, nine from Greenville, four from Maple Creek, one each from Center, Dale, Black Creek and Oconto county. In Captain Wood’s company were eight men from Appleton, twenty from Dale, eleven from Greenville, nine from Hortonia, four from Bovina, three from Grand Chute, three from Kaukauna, two from Center, two from Ellington, three from Osborn, one from Freedom, five from Oshkosh, three from Caledonia and eighteen from Shawano county.
Early in September the Ladies’ Relief Society performed the herculean task of preparing an immense box filled with lint, jellies, preserves, etc., for Company D of the Twenty-first regiment, Jewett’s company. In addition many blankets were procured for Wood’s company to meet the emergency until their wants were supplied by the government. In September, 1862, severe suffering was endured here by the families of volunteers, showing they had been neglected. A case was cited in the First ward which, it was said, was calculated to “wring tears from the most hardened.” The Crescent asked: “How can it be expected that men will go to war when their families are required to endure such privations?” Samuel Ryan, Jr., who entered the service independently, was promoted to a lieutenancy early in September, 1862. It was stated that the town of Liberty had sent fifteen men to the war. As the largest vote ever polled in that town was only thirty-four, the number enlisted was nearly half of the voters and probably more than half of the able-bodied men. It was stated that Liberty was rightly named .
Early in September the students of the university organized a home guard ostensibly for drilling purposes; J. P. Cross was chosen captain. The company previously formed by the citizens as a home guard was dissolved or at least disappeared. By September Captain Jewett’s company prepared to leave Appleton and go into camp at Oshkosh. Just before the train left he formed his men in line and marched to the cars, accompanied by almost the whole town. Arriving at the depot the men were drawn up in line and were addressed by several of the citizens, to which the captain responded. This was one of those agonizing moments when dear friends were required to part, perhaps never to meet again. Many tears were shed and sad goodbyes were spoken. The volunteers entered the cars and were whirled off to scenes of war. At Neenah another company joined them, bound for the same place. Both companies received a tremendous ovation when they reached Oshkosh .
In September attempts were made to revive the home guards, but the attempt failed. At one of the meetings Lieutenant Young asked permission to make a few remarks. He thereupon lashed the citizens without mercy for their lack of spirit and patriotism. In September came the news that several boys from this county were wounded in the severe battles fought in Maryland, Pennsylvania .and Kentucky .
Early in September news was received that Indians were killing old and young, burning buildings, etc., in the vicinity of Morristown, and were marching swiftly south on their campaign of butchery. The whole of Outagamie county was in a blaze of excitement at once. Families began to arrive at Kaukauna and Appleton and three volunteers were dispatched northward to learn the facts. The volunteers returned next day and reported the sensational stories without foundation. They further reported the whole country panic stricken and houses deserted. Sentinels posted here and there ran wild on seeing the scouts approach, thinking them Indians. It was estimated that the number who left their homes and flocked to Kaukauna, Appleton, Little Chute, Green Bay and Depere was fully 400. It was stated that if half a dozen Indians had come suddenly into either of these villages while the scare lasted, they could have captured them easily with scarcely a fight. After it was over everybody laughed heartily at the “Big Indian Scare.”
“The president has issued a proclamation emancipating all the slaves in the disloyal states on the first of January next and protecting such slaves in their freedom. He also renews his proposition that the people of the United States shall pay for the slaves of all disloyal states which may accept emancipation, such slaves to be colonized in Central America.” This is another epoch in the war which has been forced upon the president by the abolitionists of the North. It is unnecessary for us to discuss the errors of this measure, as Mr. Lincoln assumes to exercise his position and power irrespective of all objections. It seems to us as though it will only give aid and comfort to the enemy without accomplishing any good results. We understand by this that our government is of itself incapable of putting down the present rebellion; that this is a virtual recognition of the so-called confederate states of America. How it will be received by the Union and the South we cannot determine. If it brings disaster upon our men who are now nobly battling for the Union, the constitution and the enforcement of the laws, then we can say with clean hands we have done our duty.” — (Crescent, September 27, 1862.)
Late in September a beautiful sword was presented to Captain Wood by the citizens of Appleton. A speech was made upon the presentation and responded to by Captain Wood. The company left for Oshkosh late in September. D. J. Quimby, formerly of the Seventeenth regiment, was second lieutenant of Wood’s company .It was proposed in September that the state should issue bonds to the’amount of $250,000 to provide a fund from which $5 per month should be paid to families of volunteers throughout the state. This measure was favored generally by the citizens of Outagamie county; it soon became a law .
In October the farmers of the town of Dale assembled and raised $131 in a few hours with which to purchase a fine sword for Lieutenant William Young of Company I, Thirty-second regiment. In October came news of the death of several Outagamie county volunteers at the battle of Perryville, Kentucky. Among them were Richard Baker, George Chute, Park B. Elliott, William Wicher and others. During October the ladies of Appleton made great efforts to raise supplies of all kinds for the suffering soldiers on the field and in the hospitals. They sent away many boxes filled with delicacies and clothing of all kinds. The Crescent asked in October, 1862, why it was that families of volunteers in Appleton had not received the $5 per month for over five months which had been awarded them under the state law. Winter was approaching and many were more or less destitute, and it was demanded that this neglect should be immediately remedied. Captain Wood’s company were called the Outagamie Tigers. The officers elected in September were as follows: George Wood, captain; William Young, first lieutenant; D. K. Quimby, second lieutenant. They became Company I of the regiment and numbered ninety-eight men .
It was announced about the middle of October that the draft was soon to take place in Outagamie county. The citizens again made extra efforts to raise the required number of volunteers. William S. Warner, independent candidate for district attorney, came out with an announcement in October that if elected he would give half of the salary of his office so long as the war continued to the relief of soldiers’ families. He stated that such amount would be retained by the county board and expended under their supervision .
In October, Mrs. L. A. Williams, widow, whose only son was wounded at Perryville, left here for the army to serve as a nurse in Kentucky and elsewhere. Upon her departure the citizens made up a purse of $27 ,which was presented to her. There was much complaint in Outagamie county because the county bounty was given only to married men. Many young men were induced to enlist upon the promise of receiving this bounty. They were thus disappointed and naturally and justly complained .
During the late fall recruiting continued in this county. Sergeant Perry of the Seventeenth Regiment was here enlisting men for Captain Hyde’s company. The Crescent made the announcement November 1, for the benefit of the absent soldiers, that their families in this vicinity were being cared for by the ladies and the citizens. The ladies particularly were doing all in their power to assist such families .
The following list was prepared and published October 4, 1862, and embraced all residents between the ages of eighteen and forty-five years:
The county not securing the ninety-nine men required by the tenth of November, the draft commissioner, George H. Myers, assisted by the sheriff and other officials, drafted the full number in this county. Nine were drafted in Buchanan, eighteen in Center, seven in Ellington, twelve in Freedom, thirty-three in Greenville, twelve in Kaukauna, four in Maple Creek and four in Osborn, and enough elsewhere to make in all ninety-nine. These men were required to furnish substitutes or to report at Milwaukee according to orders .
The draft in Outagamie county for ninety-nine men was announced to take place November 10, 1862, unless the quota was filled by that date. It bore hardest on Greenville, where thirty-three men were to be conscripted. Drafted men were allowed twenty days in which to procure substitutes. They were ordered to report at Milwaukee.
Immediately afterward George H. Myers, commissioner, ordered all the drafted men to return home, but to report at Appleton the following Wednesday. These men were not required to go at that date, but it was necessary for them to report in order to comply with certain preliminary requirements of the department.There was no thought of resistance to the draft .
“Tremendous Excitement: — Drafted Greenvillians take Appleton! On Wednesday last, agreeable to the notice of Commissioner Myers, seven wagons loaded with drafted men from Greenville, with flags waving in the breeze and a band of music, came into town to report for duty. They rode through some of the principal streets, stopping in front of our office and favored the Crescent with three rousing cheers, for which we tendered our thanks. Mutual good feeling prevailed among that entire democratic body. How do you feel, Mr. Voter? On Thursday evening our citizens gave them a supper at the Crescent hotel. After a bountiful repast Commissioner Myers made a few appropriate remarks, after which Captain Marston and Captain Steffens detailed their experiences in the field, which were exceedingly interesting.” — (Crescent, November 29, 1862.)
James Gilmore was appointed general agent for the distribution of supplies intended for soldiers’ families late in 1862. He was thus authorized by the county board. The Ladies’ Aid Society co-operated with him in this labor. Loads of wood, potatoes, flour and meat were welcomed by the agent and the Ladies’ Aid Society for the soldiers’ families .
In November, 1862, the county board levied a volunteer bounty tax of $9,000. When the tax was collected the county treasurer was authorized to pay the same upon the order of those persons entitled to the bounty. The county tax previous to this was $5,000 .This raised the total tax to $14,000, but even those figures, it was expected, might be increased. County orders at that time were worth about 90 cents on the dollar .
The citizens of this county heard with intense regret of the death of Captain John Jewett, Jr., of Company D, Twenty-first Wisconsin Regiment. He was so well known here that it seemed as if a relative of everybody was removed. He participated in the battle of Perryville, but immediately afterward was taken with a fever, which finally caused his death. He was thirty-five years old and a native of Maine. His body arrived late in November and the elaborate and touching funeral took place in the college chapel under the auspices of the Masons. The college chapel was literally packed with people from the city and neighboring towns. Masonic delegations from Neenah and Menasha were present and the Odd Fellows also took part in the proceedings. President Mason delivered the funeral sermon .
It was announced in December that volunteer’s wives and families could secure from Madison the bounty of $5 per month which had been allowed them. This was not much but it greatly aided the families of soldiers throughout the state .
The bloody battle of Fredericksburg in December was particularly noticed by the citizens of this county. Many comments were made upon the gallantry of the Federal troops and upon the fact that they were unwisely handled. A complimentary oyster supper was given by the citizens to Captain Marston and Captain Steffens at the Crescent Hotel early in December. It was a merry occasion, with fun and jests and responses to toasts. Captain Marston made an eloquent response to the toast, “The Iron Brigade.”
Company I of the Third Wisconsin Cavalry under Captain Conkey, had severe experiences with the guerillas and rebel soldiers in Arkansas late in 1862 and early in 1863. In one engagement where the company fought four times their number six members of the company were killed and many wounded. Father Mignault, chaplain of the Seventeenth Regiment, returned to Appleton in January, 1863. He was captured by guerillas, but upon learning his mission they had treated him courteously and released him .
Samuel Ryan, Jr., former editor of the Crescent,returned to Appleton in January. He enlisted as a private, was promoted to quartermaster sergeant and served as such until severely injured by having a heavy weight fall on him. He returned to recuperate. In April county volunteer orders were worth ninety cents on the dollar. In the spring Captain Conkey returned and prepared to secure twelve or fifteen recruits for his command. In April and May the great battle on the Rappahannock attracted the attention of the citizens of this county. It was seen that the Federal army was at last taking the initiative, and high hopes were entertained that success would crown the efforts .
The Soldiers’ Aid society met regularly in Adkins hall. Mrs. M. B. Doe was secretary of the society in the spring of 1863. In May the society called for sanitary stores to be used in filling large boxes which were to be sent to the soldiers in the hospitals. There were potatoes, onions, fish, horseradish, pickles, dried fruits, shirts, sheets, pillow slips, drawers, stockings, handkerchiefs, etc. The citizens responded to the call and soon a large box was sent on its way southward.
The Crescent in 1863, like all democratic journals in the north denounced the courtmartial of Vallandigham, and declared that the treatment he received was an outrage upon the constitution of the United States. That paper also at this time spoke in the highest terms of Stonewall Jackson, who had recently died. It gave a full account of the treatment of Vallandingham, and held up his example as an act of tyranny that should not be borne .
In June the Crescent contained the notice of the suspension of the Chicago Times by the order of General Burnside. It denied having ever endorsed the sentiments of the Times, but had objected vigorously to the suppression of free speech and a free press. “Undoubtedly the attempt will be made to suspend the Appleton Crescent because it dares to denounce the acts and measures of the puerile administration at Washington.” — (Crescent, June 6, 1863.)
“Free Speech at Home. — The students of Lawrence University were permitted by the faculty to have and maintain two societies .These societies met once in each week and entertained the citizens with public exhibitions. They had a large exhibition last evening, at which time free speech was suppressed by the official action of the society. It seems a suspicion arose in the minds of some of the 3 abolition members that some Democratic addresses might be delivered. Immediately an extra session was convened, when a motion was passed that no disloyal or copperhead sentiments should be allowed. Copperhead is the abolition name for Democracy.” (Crescent, June, 1863.)
“One of Fifty. — A student of the college educational school the other day said that he was one of fifty to mob the Crescent office .He had better wait until he gets out of infantile squares before he commits such noble deeds of daring. If he is spilin’ for a fight there is a big chance of distinguishing himself in the nigger regiment.” — (Crescent, June 6, 1863.)
At a special meeting held July 10, the following officers were chosen for the Ladies’ Aid society for the coming year: Mrs. L. A. Williams, president; Mrs. M. A. Foster, vice-president; Mrs. M. M. Davis, treasurer; Mrs. R. P. Harriman, assistant treasurer; Mrs. H. Pomeroy, secretary; Mrs. E. P. Humphreys, assistant secretary. The, following committee was chosen to visit soldiers’ families: First ward — Mrs. C. Prescott and Mrs. F. J. Jackson; Second ward — Mrs, C. Aiken and Mrs. J. M. Phinney; Third ward –Mrs. Sam Ryan, Jr., and Mrs. C. M. Tompkins; Fourth ward — Mrs. N. Richmond and Mrs. C. Ketchum. This was the Ladies’ Soldiers’ Aid society of Appleton. The committee of gentlemen whose duty it was to visit: soldiers’ families were as follows: TibbitsJackson , Dr. M. M. Davis, J. W. Carhart, Jr., J. W. Hutchinson, J. M. Stebbins, C. G. Adkins, Samuel Iyan, Jr., E. C. Goff, Anson Ballard, James Ryan, Francis Hammond and E. R. Humphrey .
The gallant action of the Sixth Wisconsin Regiment in the bloody battle of July was noted by the local papers and spoken of in the highest and most eloquent terms. Many boys from this part of the country were either killed or wounded, for which all sorrowed and lamented. Captain Martin’s company covered itself with glory in the various engagements of this memorable month .
The Crescent said July 25: “We believe that the only legal method of raising troops for the Federal government is through the state authorities or by volunteering in the regular army. The government authorities may open recruiting offices at every street corner if they choose and solicit volunteer soldiers, but we are unable to perceive wherein they derive their power to force anyone into the army except by ipse dixit rule.” In July the enrollment of Appleton was shown to be 451; Samuel Ryan, Jr., was enrolling officer .
“Vicksburg. — The capture of this rebel city is a Grant-ed victory. We class it as a western triumph, as all the privates were from the west and Grant was from Illinois. P. S. — Port Hudson surendered on the eighth with 7,000 prisoners.” — (Crescent, July 18, 1863.) The news of the capture of Vicksburg and of other Federal successes was received here with great joy. A spontaneous jollification of all varieties of politics and creeds occurred. Fireworks were let off and all the people testified to their joy at the news .
On the Fourth of July, 1863, the Ladies’ Sanitary society through their dinner, ice cream, etc., netted $82 for sick and wounded soldiers. Judge Collins of Menasha donated to the society $25, being the proceeds of his address, thus raising the total that day for sick and wounded soldiers and their families to $107. At this meeting the ladies adopted the following resolutions: That the thanks of this society are tendered to Judge Collins of Menasha for his generous gift of $25 on the Fourth of July for the benefit of sick and wounded soldiers; that we thank the men and women of this section of the county for their aid on short notice in raising over $100 above expenses at our impromptu festival of July Fourth; and that we earnestly desire still larger donations for the benefit of the brave boys who peril life, limb and health for the protection of this nation. It was indignantly stated at this time that of all the six large boxes of supplies sent from this city, only one was received by the soldiers. Inquiries concerning this state of affairs were instituted to find where the fault rested .
In July, S. P, Ming of Appleton was appointed provost marshal for Outagamie county. About the middle of July the newspapers published full accounts of the terrible draft riot in New York City . The local papers denounced the affair in strong terms. At this time the Crescent was a vigorous advocate of the peace measures then advanced and favored by the Democratic party, and was particularly vindictive and savage in its remarks concerning abolitionism and the alleged unlawful acts of the administration. That paper said: “What wonder is it that those who advocate Democratic principles come under the political subjection of the present abolition Lincoln administration. party”!
In July there were formed in this county several draft insurance associations. These organizations were formed to insure their members against being obliged to take the field even though they should be drafted. The associations agreed to furnish substitutes upon the payment of so much money. The amount usually demanded was $25 and this sum insured a man from being compelled to take the field. The town of Greenville organized the first association of the kind in the country. Farmers and others formed such organizations, each contributing $25, and out of the fund thus accumulated was paid a sufficient amount for substitutes to free each member from the service. “Draft Association. — See the call for the meeting Saturday evening for the formation of the Mutual Protective Association against the hardships of the draft. Let all turn out.” — (Crescent, August, 1863.) “The Draft. — All citizens of Appleton belonging to the first class liable to the draft are requested to meet at Adkins hall at 8 o’clock p. m., Saturday, August 15, 1863.” At this time the people of the several towns of the county were requested to prepare a full list of men who had gone from those towns to the war, and leave the same at the county treasurer’s office .
In July the following men were elected honorary members of the Ladies’ Sanitary association of Appleton: Mayor Johnston, President Mason, and Reverends Doe, Anderson, Cooley, Palmer, Himebaugh and Dael. In August the newspapers published the full enrollment lists of the entire county.
The famous Iron Brigade consisted of the following regiments: Second, Sixth and Seventh Wisconsin and Nineteenth Indiana. This brigade went into the battle of Gettysburg 1,350 strong, after that engagement it numbered only 425, losing thus in killed, wounded and prisoners two-thirds of its entire strength. Less than two years before this brigade was nearly 4,000 strong, now only a little over 400 answered to the roll call .
About the middle of August, Governor Salmon granted the twenty days’ extension for the counties to raise their quotas by volunteering before the draft would be ordered. Extra efforts were made in this county to raise more volunteers, although few were secured .
In August 15, 1863, the Germans of Appleton organized the Appleton Draft Association. Its purpose was to guard against the hardships of the approaching draft. The fee was fixed at $50. A large number joined this association. Efforts were made generally to clear the county of the approaching draft. Apparently the citizens were waiting for the state authorities to do as they pleased. They continued to form draft insurance associations and took less interest in the progress of the war than at any other time. In the city of Appleton the number enrolled in the first draft was 350. This would require a draft of 70 men. To this was added about 35 to cover exemptions, so it was seen that about 105 men would be drafted in Appleton .
In August, 1863, the Crescent said that Appleton, which had a population in 1860 of a little over 2,600, had furnished the following volunteers for the war: First ward, 49; Second ward, 91; Third ward, 31; Fourth ward, 14; total, 185. The Sanitary society of Chicago at this time called for assistance from the Appleton Aid society. Accordingly a meeting was called to be held in Adkins hall, August 21. for the purpose of raising funds for another box of hospital stores. The society but a short time before forwarded from Appleton a box of clothing, bedding, dried fruits, pickles, etc., valued at $29. F.P. Bingham, a sutler in the Army of the Potomac, was attacked by the rebels in 1863, was captured, lost his entire train of stores and supplies, but succeeded in escaping, though fired upon twice. He was a permanent resident of this county .
During the summer and fall of 1863 those who favored the Union cause formed what became known as Union Leagues throughout Outagamie county. They held meetings in secret and, as is now well known, were organized for the purpose of preventing any local resistance to war measures. In Appleton was a lodge consisting of more than 100 members. In October, when Senator Doolittle was advertised to speak in Adkins hall, they met and prepared to prevent any attempt to break up the meeting .
The Appleton German Draft association held regular meetings. Its president was George Kriess. At the second meeting in September, 1863, the following amendment to the constitution was adopted: “That any person belonging to the so-called Union League shall not be accepted to membership in the society, and in case there are any such belonging their names shall be stricken from the lists.” The Crescent said: “This action of the organization is but meet and right. Union Leaguers are supposed to be valiant warriors, ready and willing to die (?) for their country, and it would be criminal to tempt them from their patriotic stand.”
Late in September the Ladies’ Soldiers’ Aid society announced that during the fair they would serve refreshments in Adkins hall and also on the grounds. All were urgently solicited to come forward and assist this worthy object. Subscriptions of cash were also called for. The society was doing everything in its power to assist in the magnificent work of the Wisconsin Sanitary commission. Late in September the Congregational Sunday school of Appleton raised $85 to be used in furnishing soldiers with reading matter. Rev. H. H. Benson, formerly of Appleton, preached at the Ministerial convention held in the Congregational church late in September, 1863. The Soldiers’ Aid festival held by the ladies’ society late in September realized $120. The ladies had already raised over $250 worth of supplies and were busily engaged in securing additional quantities. Farmers were asked to supply farm produce of every description for this purpose. The ladies planned to furnish lunches during the county fair early in October.
In October, Captain Wood called for recruits for the Thirty-second Regiment and in a short time collected quite a squad, among which were several Union Leaguers. The Soldiers’ Aid society thanked the citizens of Appleton and Freedom and other surrounding towns for their liberal donations to that society during the county fair. The proceeds in money and provisions amounted to over $82. A lady from Chicago came to Appleton and organized a Ladies’ Union League, which was designed to co-operate in all the proceedings and movements of the male Union League clubs in this county .
In October came the news that President Lincoln had called for 300,000 more volunteers to be raised by January 5, 1864, or a draft would be made to fill the deficiency. They were required to enlist for three years or during the war. The Crescent said: “Is not this call for men by volunteering a full confession of the utter failure of the conscription act, the pet scheme of abolitionists? Is it not a vindication of the position assumed by Governor Seymour in his letter to the President, so jeered at by the abolitionists?”
Late in November, 1863, the draft for this congresisonal district commenced at Green Bay. John Bateman, a blind man, was secured to draw out the tickets. W. H. P. Bogan, James McGillan and J. J. Steffen, county supervisors, were appointed to superintend the draft for Outagamie county. The following number were to be drafted: Appleton, 81; Grand Chute, 14; Greenville, 23; Dale, 11; Hortonia, 14; Bovina and Ellington together, 24; Liberty and Maple Creek together, 10; Osborn and Black Creek, 6; Freedom, 15; Kaukauna, 31; Buchanan, 8. It was announced that the next draft would take place January 5, and that a total of 158 men would be drafted as follows: Osborn, 2; Black Creek, 1; Freedom, 9; Kaukauna, 18; Buchanan, 4; Grand Chute, 8; Appleton, 48; Center, 14; Bovina, 3; Ellington, 11; Greenville, 14; Dale, 11; Hortonia, 9; Liberty, 3; Maple Grove, 3. Among the prominent men drafted in Appleton were ex-Senator T. R. Hudd, Assemblyman-elect George Kreiss, George I. Brewster, proprietor of the barrel factory; C. P. Richmond, of the Appleton paper mills, and some half-dozen others. There were two draft associations in Appleton in November, 1863. Only five were drafted out of these two societies .
In November, 1863, Captain C. R. Merrill, provost marshal of the fifth district, called for volunteers and stated that the following bounties would be paid for recruits who enlisted for three years: One month’s pay in advance and premium, in installments, all amounting to $402. That amount was to be paid to a veteran volunteer. For new recruits not veterans the amount of bounty was $302. It was announced that all the bounties would be immediately paid after enlistment, even if the war should end at once. It was further announced that in case of the death of a soldier the bounty would be paid to his legal heirs .
During November, Captain Wood, of the Thirty-second Regiment, continued securing recruits in considerable numbers. By the middle of the month he had enlisted twenty men. He announced that he would accept 300 volunteers and give them the benefit of the highest bounty. On Thanksgiving day, 1863, the Congregational society at the close of the sermon contributed $154 for the benefit of soldiers’ families. Of this amount David Smith of the City Bank gave $100. Rev. Mr. Doe preached the Thanksgiving sermon. E. R. Beach, teacher in the Second ward of Appleton, was drafted, and soon after was appointed captain of a negro regiment in Illinois .
Early in December, Captain Wood sent off a squad of about one dozen men, whom he had secured for his regiment. The farmers were solicited to bring forward flour, wood and provisions for soldiers’ families at Appleton and elsewhere in the county. Late in December a Juvenile Soldiers’ Aid society was organized and an entertainment was given in Adkins building, which realized about $75 .
By the first of January, 1864, Captain Conkey had enlisted almost 100 men since his return, and was busy in recruiting others. Lieutenant Williamson of the First Cavalry secured eight men late in December and forwarded them to Madison. Captain Wood took six or eight men to Madison about the same time. It was reported early in January that the county board would be asked to appropriate $15,000 more to be used as bounty to clear the county from the draft. By January 23 Captain Conkey had raised 107 recruits, whom he took to Madison during that month. It was announced about the middle of January, 1864, that the town of Buchanan had filled her quota and thus would be free from the approaching draft. William Lamure brought in the recruits and turned them over to the enrolling officers. The citizens of Buchanan organized and raised a subscription and paid to each recruit $50 additional to the usual bounty. It was the first town to clear itself from the draft of 1864 .
In January the towns throughout the county began to offer substantial bounties for volunteers to fill their quotas under the recent call. Dale offered $185; Hortonia, $200; and Center and Freedoml from $150 to $200 .
An impromptu gathering of the citizens of Appleton was held in Adkins hall late in January for the purpose of forming a permanent war organization, the duty of which was to clear this city of the draft. J. S. Buck was elected. president, George I. Brewster secretary, Byron Douglas treasurer, and a soliciting committee was chosen. Contributions to the amount of $500 were secured at this meeting and an adjournment was taken to the succeeding Monday night. On that occasion the committee reported that a total of $1,200 had been subscribed. The Crescent stated that this sum was probably sufficient to clear Appleton, because the necessary men were already pledged a $50 bounty. At this time the Soldiers’ Aid society of Appleton passed the following resolution: “That in relieving the families of soldiers we do not feel that we are bestowing charity, but only giving what is justly due to those whose fathers, husbands, brothers and sons are, at the peril of their lives, defending their country.”
The town of Dale in February voted to levy a special tax of 8$3,600 for bounties to volunteers. It was announced that Greenville would hold an election within a few days to determine whether it should levy a tax of $4,000 for the same purpose. “Both these towns are Democratic strongholds; Appleton with a population of nearly 3,000, thus far has raised (under an immense pressure) in voluntary pledges nearly $1,400, but only about half of that amount has been paid in. Appleton gave 120 Republican majority last fall. Will our quota be filled by united effort on the part of the people or will disgrace attach to our hitherto fair name”? — (Crescent, February 13, 1864.)
About the middle of February the Soldiers’ Aid society at Appleton acknowledged the receipt of a valuable donation from William White. It was a large box filled with worsted goods, such as hoods, bonnets, sontags, nubias and various other articles and a considerable quantity of groceries, all intended for soldiers’ families .
The Act of February 10, 1864, of the legislature authorized towns, cities and incorporated villages to raise money by tax for the payment of bounties to volunteers in the service of the United States. It was under this act that the towns of Outagamie county voted such tax. The town of Kaukauna about the middle of February voted to raise a sufficient tax to pay a $200 bounty to fill her quota. Hortonia, late in February, voted a bounty of $200 to each volunteer necessary to fill her quota. It was noted late in February that Captain Conkey’s recruiting office was crowded with men who desired to enlist and secure the large bounties offered .
Immediately after the tax of $5,000 was voted in Appleton for bounties in 1864, Mr. Buck, city clerk, was sent to Madison, where he succeeded in securing forty men for $75 each and had them credited to Appleton .
At an election held in Appleton late in February, 1864, to vote on the question of raising $5,000 by taxation to clear the city from the draft, the following was the result: For the tax, 227 votes; against it, 42. The vote was small as a whole, but the majority in favor of the tax was sufficient. Dr. J. Sutherland was paid several fees for attending soldiers’ families. He was city physician at this time.
The call from the Soldiers’ Aid society for wood for soldiers’ families was responded to by Porter Ballard, Mr. Wing, H. Jones, Mr. Barnes, Mr. Patton, Francis Hammond, Jesse Ballard, Jared Lanphear, Mr. Cross, Mr. Bullock and many others from every town. The society formally thanked these men for the aid thus given. It was shown at the semi-annual meeting of the society, held January 12, 1864, that the cash receipts for the last six months amounted to $268.68, and the disbursements to $264.65. Of this amount $145 was sent through the Sanitary commission to the soldiers’ hospitals and the remainder was distributed to soldiers’ families. The society acknowledged the receipt of liberal contributions in provisions and clothing, the value of which was estimated at about $300 .
Under-sheriff Goff arrested four deserters from the Third Cavalry in February, 1864, and sent them under guard to Madison. Fifteen additional recruits were sent to Captain Conkey’s company from this county about the middle of February, 1864. Recruiting continued actively during the spring of 1864. Sergeant Carr secured twenty men in different parts of the county for Captain Conkey’s regiment .
At the session in March, 1864, of the common council the following proceedings were had: The mayor and clerk were directed to forward to Madison $2,700 bounty money agreed upon for thirty-six re-enlisted veterans of the Fourteenth Regiment. This was at the rate of $75 each. The county tax levied February 22, 1864, was appropriated to the demands of volunteers and veterans enlisting from Appleton. J. S. Buck, city clerk, was allowed an extra fee for his services in handling the special volunteer tax list. He was instructed to go to Green Bay and to Madison and secure the proper credits due the city of Appleton for persons in the service of the United States .
In March, 1864, the town of Greenville furnished a colored man toward filling its quota. It paid Sambo a bounty of $150. An act of the legislature, approved March 18, provided for the proper reception of volunteers upon their return from the army. Money to pay the expenses was appropriated by this act. In the spring of 1864, under the call for 100-day volunteers, the students of Lawrence University managed to raise quite a large number for the service. They went to Little Chute expecting to recruit additional volunteers, but for some reason were not well received. They called for a special meeting to be held in the college chapel in May to complete the company. By act approved March 8, the legislature allowed extra pay to Wisconsin soldiers in the service of the United States. This act revived previous laws on the same subject and allowed $5 per month to the families of volunteers.
On April 4, Lucius Failchild, secretary of state, issued a notice that the families of soldiers were entitled to the $5 per month extra pay for six months after their husbands’ death and that the widows of soldiers who had recently died were entitled to pensions .
Largely through the energy of City Clerk Buck, Appleton lacked only about eleven men to fill her entire quota by the last of April, 1864. When he began his exertions the city lacked twenty men. Further calls increased the quota to ninety-eight. Of the $5,000 voted a short time before for bounty, $4,000 was judiciously expended, leaving $1,000 still unappropriated .
Rev. F. B. Doe, pastor of the Congregational Church, offered to go as a private in the 100-day service, provided the congregation would continue his salary in order to support his family during his absence. On May 20 the company of 100-day men raised in Appleton and vicinity left for Milwaukee. They were a fine-looking set of young fellows, but the company was not quite filled. Calls for additional recruits were continued .
Through the efforts of Mr. Scott, the Ladies’ Aid society and the generosity generally of the citizens of Appleton, two large boxes containing $70 worth of comforts and supplies were sent to the soldiers in Libby prison, it having been announced that such supplies would be permitted to pass through the lines .
During May and June the Soldiers’ Aid society for about a month suspended operations owing to the prevailing sickness at Appleton and vicinity, but resumed their work for the soldiers late in June at the Adkins block. They issued a stirring call for assistance for both soldiers and their families. Mrs. L. A. Williams was president of the society at this date. In the summer of 1864 the women in Appleton, in common with those of other cities, pledged themselves to wear no article of foreign manufacture and to dispense entirely with foreign luxuries and gewgaws during the present war. The object was to devote every cent to the prosecution of the war and the protection of the soldiers’ families .
In June and July the proposition to erect a battle monument for the soldiers of Outagamie county was duly considered. It was proposed to erect the monument on a high point of land adjoining the river near Appleton, upon which should be inscribed the names of all citizens of the county killed or wounded in battle, also the names of those who otherwise died in the service of their country. Numerous sites were considered and the county board was asked to take the matter in charge .
It was proposed in July, 1864, to give the Iron Brigade a magnificent reception upon the appearance of the soldiers of that command here in a short time. Full preparation for the reception of those heroes was made .
In July came the call of the President for 500,000 more volunteers. The Crescent said: “It is strange, but true, that from all quarters of our state there is one universal feeling of dissatisfaction on account of this call. This dissatisfaction is expressed as decidedly by those who voted for and until within a few weeks vigorously upheld and defended the administration and its acts as by those who have distrusted and condemned it. Why this change? Why this universal gloom in farm house and city home? Because the people have settled down upon the conclusion that the management of the administration is criminal and venal to the last degree, and that hope can no longer be entertained of its power, even if it had the will, to suppress the rebellion. The last invasion demonstrated fully that Lincoln and his colleagues are unworthy to manage the affairs of a great nation. Can the people be blamed, therefore, for dreading a call to arms under such mistrust? Lincoln is plotting to overthrow all American Liberties and establish his firm enthronement in power. But the fiat has gone forth. The work of gathering in more men for the harvest of death can go on and on with no prospect of putting down the rebellion until this infamous administration is overthrown.” — (Crescent: July 23, 1864.)
“A draft of 500,000 has been ordered and a meeting of the exempt Loyal Leaguers is to be held with plans to make the leaders of the flock stop their disloyal opposition to the behests of the author of the Emancipation Proclamation. Every man in this state who voted for Lincoln and is subject to military duty, now that the administration is doing just what they have prayed, preached and screeched to have it do, in encouraging the war, has the audacity to complain because the widow maker proposes to take them from their families and leave their wives and children to experience the same care now bestowed upon the wives and children of the brave ones in the field.” — (Crescent, July 23, 1864.)
In July, Colonel John Hancock of Oshkosh became assistant provost marshal of Outagamie, Calumet and Winnebago counties. Late in July the soldiers of Company E, Sixth Wisconsin Regiment, who had re-enlisted, returned from the Iron Brigade and were fittingly received by the citizens of Appleton. They were met at the depot by the citizens, city officials and fire engine company and headed with a fife and drum corps, were escorted to the Johnston house, where they listened to an eloquent reception address by Senator Hudd. Later a ball in their honor was given. There were only six or eight of them alive at this time .
Quotas assigned under the call for 500,000 men, calculated January 31, 1864:
“Resisting the Draft. — Occasionally a person will be met who declares he will not go into the army in justice to his helpless family and that he will resist or fight first. If any one can conceive of a more foolish step in the premises we should like to hear from him. What can an inadequate, half-armed and unorganized force do to oppose well-drilled and well-armed men? Suppose one or one hundred should hide. Do you intend to stay hid all your life? Better die at once than live such a life as that. It is foolish to talk of resisting the draft by force of arms.” — (Crescent, September 3, 1864.)
On September 8, Captain J. H. Marston and W. H. Lanphear left for Madison with sufficient men to fill the quota of Appleton. “Anson Ballard is entitled to the everlasting thanks of all for his zeal, labor and sacrifice in raising funds even after he had provided himself with a substitute.” — (Crescent.)
It was announced late in September that the drafting in this district had already commenced at Green Bay, and that Appleton county would be reached late in that month. It was announced that three days’ grace would be given drafted men in which to report for examination and duty. At this time Buchanan and other towns were making desperate efforts to fill their quotas by enlistment. Captain Marston kept his recruiting office open, and men were obliged to enlist in order to secure the large bounty.
It was announced early in August that Appleton would be called upon to vote soon on the question of taxing the city $10,000 to be used in filling out the city quota under the recent call. The Crescent did not believe the proposition would carry and gave its reasons. Early in August W. H. Lanphear recruited quite a number of men for a company for the war. Men held off, waiting for the county to offer a bounty. The 100-day men raised in this county were sent to the Forty-first Wisconsin Regiment, near Memphis, where they were located late in July, 1864. They were employed in doing guard duty and in foraging for the army. Colonel Hook, deputy provost marshal, called together the chairmen of the different towns and city authorities and asked them to revise the roll of men liable to do military duty in their respective localities. They were instructed that the quotas must be based upon the enumeration as it stood July 1, as the appointment had already been made. The question arose at this time as to whether the county should try to fill its quota with volunteers or permit the draft to take its course. Very little was done to encourage enlistment. On the question of $10,000 county bounty for volunteers in August, the measure was carried by a handsome majority after a closely contested election. It was announced September 3 that the city quota of Appleton was full. Captain Marston enlisted in one week forty-one men and these, with the substitutes furnished by several of the citizens, almost or quite cleared Appleton from the draft .
At the election of August 9 the whole number of votes cast was 276. Those in favor of the tax of $10,000 were 155, against it 121 .
At the August meeting the following resolution was offered: That the mayor be authorized to issue city orders to the amount of $10,000 voted at the special election held August 9, 1884, for bounty for volunteers to fill the quota of the city on the call for 500,000 men, upon a receipt from the proper officers that the persons claiming the same were duly credited to the quota of the city, and that the amount of $200 be paid to each volunteer so credited. A motion to reduce the sum to $150 was lost. The original motion was then carried. A committee of three, consisting of Sanmual Ryan, Jr., E. B. Clark and J. S. Buck were appointed to co-operate with the council for the correction of the enrollment list. At a meeting of the enrolled men of Appleton held at the Firemen’s hall in September, it was unanimously resolved “that the thanks of this meeting be presented to Captain J. H. Marston for his kindness and efficiency in filling the quota on this city by procuring volunteers without expense for his services; and that the thanks of this association are hereby tendered to those of the exempt men of this city who have nobly aided us by their contributions and thus lessened the burden occasioned by the call for more men.”
Early in October the draft for this county occurred at Green Bay. The newspapers published a full list of the drafted men. The list was large and covered every town in the county. Appleton was exempt. Dale, Bovina and Buchanan came near filling their quotas by enlistment. Soon Appleton was full of drafted men and all prepared to report for duty according to law. The draft fell heavily and mercilessly upon the farmers of the county. Some localities were almost wholly stripped of able-bodied men, and women and children were compelled to enter the fields. The Crescent said: “What cares the vulgar boor who sits in the presidential chair, surrounded by his wicked parasites and ungodly counselors, for human suffering. His track is marked with blood. His very breath is as a pestilence. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are no longer vouchsafed to American citizens. Their homes and their wives and little ones are no longer secure to them. They exist only by the condescension of their masters, who regard not the laws of God or man, who have trampled their oaths in the dust and wantonly violated the constitution of the land and now make and unmake laws and obey and disregard them as they deem expedient. We believed four years ago that the election of Lincoln would break up the American nation. We avowed that belief at all times and in all places. We predicted financial distress, but we did not believe it possible that such a saturnalia of blood could be visited upon these people in a few short years nor that such woe and lamentation would visit nearly every fireside. The harvest of death is far from finished. Re-elect Lincoln and the gloom deepens into the fullness of despotism and the French reign of terror will be but a symbol of the awful villany and wrong which will be let loose upon those who dare to dispute or differ with tyranny. Elect McClellan and the dawn of a better day for freedom and right, union and peace, will burst upon the afflicted people of this nation.” — (Crescent, October 8, 1864.)
In October, 1864, came the call of the Northwestern Sanitary Commission that every person should contribute one day’s profit or one day’s income for the benefit of sick and wounded soldiers. The Appleton citizens already had an association which was an auxiliary of the United States Sanitary Commission. They appointed the following committee for operation in Appleton: C. G. Adkins, Capt. J. H. Marston, Capt. G. W. Spaulding, G. M. Robinson, Henry Foster, E. A. Miller, G. I. Brewster, C. Patton, W. F. Merrill, Mrs. Dr. Whittlesey, Mrs. Tibbets, Mrs. Adkins, Mrs. Bates, Mrs. Foster, Mrs. Pomeroy, Mrs. Seaman, Mrs. Dr. Davis, Mrs. H. W. White, Mrs. Fenno, Miss E. Sampson, Miss Katie and S. Tibbets, Miss M. Spaulding, Miss M. Hutchinson, Miss S. Davis, Miss I. Cross, Miss E. Bates and Miss Enos. Mrs. Pomeroy was secretary of the society at this time .
“Depopulated. — The towns of Grand Chute, Freedom, Osborn, Black Creek and Centre are now about depopulated of an arms bearing population. Another draft will not produce a dozen men from all those towns. The enlistments from the first three towns in 1864, if they had been credited thereto, would have filled their quota for the present call and another call in addition.” — (Crescent, October 8, 1864.)
In September Captain Robinson, of the First Cavalry, opened al recruiting office in Appleton and secured quite a number of men. The towns of Dale and Buchanan really filled their quotas, although they did not get their men into camp until after the draft of 1864. Enough men had volunteered in those two towns to fill their quotas, but a majority of them were credited elsewhere. Late in October, 1864, Captain Marston and Lieutenant Barns were still enlisting men in this county and paying large bounties. They issued notices showing how much better it was for men to enlist and secure the large bounty than to wait to be drafted .
In the fall Captain Conkey’s detachment of the Third Cavalry had a lively fight with the Pawnee Indians out west. One man was killed and two wounded; eleven Indians were killed. Several women and girls were employed in Brewster’s Stave Factory and elsewhere in Appleton to take the place of the men who had gone to the war. Women made one dollar a day or more; soldiers’ families were given preference. In November, Dr. S. L. Fuller, recently surgeon in the Twenty-first Regiment, and formerly a practitioner here, returned and resumed his practice in Appleton. His experience in the army as surgeon now becamle valuable to him and a benefit to the county. Late in December there was a supplementary draft in this district. The newspapers and speakers called attention to the fact that another draft would take place in January unless the quota. under the recent call was filled. The people, however, had grown indifferent apparently and little effort was made to meet the demand .
T. R. Hudd stated in January, 1865, that he had succeeded in securing for Ellington, twenty-eight men who enlisted after having been drafted and were credited to towns in Fond du Lac county. The city treasurer was enjoined against proceeding in the collection of the bounty tax on the ground that the ordinance was worded to pay individuals for substitutes furnished instead of to pay for volunteers as contemplated by the bounty law. The petitioners who sought to enjoin were said to be those who had not paid their county tax, but this was denied. Mr. Coolbaugh of Oshkosh represented the petitioners and Mr. Myers, city attorney, represented the city. Many of the citizens of this city and vicinity in order to assist the Sanitary Commission invested quite extensively in tickets to the Grand Presentation Concert at Bryan Hall, Chicago, to be given January 21, 1865. Many drew trifling prizes in this venture and had the satisfaction of knowing besides, though laughed at, that they had assisted a good cause .
In January, 1865, the question of a tax to be offered by Appleton as volunteer bounty was considered and finally voted upon. The city board considered various amounts from $5,000 to $25,000, but finally settled on $8,000. This was submitted to the voters with the following result: For the tax 184; against the tax 88. Notice was given that another draft had been ordered and that those who wished to avoid it must either enlist or procure substitutes. J. H. Marston opened a recruiting office on College avenue, and offered the largest bounties obtainable. Veterans who had served two years could receive $400 by enlisting in General Hancock’s corps. There was considerable complaint in January from the soldiers in the field that they had received no pay for six months. They were therefore unable to send money home for their families, who received only the pittance of $5 per month from the state, which was insufficient to support several in a family .
The Crescent of January 7, 1865, said: “Shall Appleton fill its quota or be disgraced by suffering a draft? With the number of men called and an ordinary exercise of military care and honesty on the part of the war department the Rebellion will be crushed and the sacrifices and hardships ended. We ask that the men liable to the draft and others willing to help fill the quota meet Saturday evening to decide what they will do.”
In February, 1865, the Legislature legalized the proceedings of a special meeting held in Appleton, January 19, 1865, for the purpose of raising bounties for soldiers and authorized the collection of the required tax; not more than $200 was to be paid to each man .
In February, 1865, Rev. Samuel Fallows of the Methodist Church of Appleton, was commissioned colonel of the Forty-ninth Wisconsin Regiment. At this date G. L. Sterns was recruiting in Appleton for the Forty-ninth Regiment. Thomas Logan also called for recruits at this time for the Twenty-first Regiment .
The annual meeting of the Soldiers’ Aid Society was held January 10, 1865, and elected the following officers: Mrs. Alvin Foster, president; Mrs. S. H. Whittlesey, vice-president; Mrs. C. G. Adkins, treasurer; Mrs. Jackson Tibbits, assistant treasurer; Mrs. H. Pomeroy, secretary; Mrs. B. Douglas, assistant secretary; Misses Spaulding, Tibbits, Cross and Hutchinson were elected work committee for one year. Since October last the society had forwarded to the volunteers 18 barrels of potatoes; one-half barrel cabbage; one box containing 6 flannel shirts, 4 cotton shirts; some linen goods, 2 pairs of socks, 2 caps, 2 pair mittens and I roll of cotton. A box was also sent to the freedmen, containing about the same as the above. Several persons were publicly credited with having made valuable contributions. The members reported having collected a total of $372.51 and had paid out $233.49, leaving on hand $139.02 .
Upon the receipt of the news that Charleston, South Carolina, was occupied by the Federal Troups, a salute was fired late in February, 1865. The boys of the town were out in force and confiscated large quantities of boxes, barrels, waste wood, etc., for a huge bonfire. The draft was commenced in Green Bay about the first of March, 1865 .
No step aside from voting $8,000 bounty was taken by Appleton to avoid the draft in February, 1865; there were about 180 men enrolled subject to conscription. It was not known just what the quota would be, but it was estimated at about 60 men. The newspapers urged the citizens to show more interest and endeavor to avoid the draft. E. C. Goff succeeded in securing twenty recruits and Captain Marston ten more by March, 1865, to apply on the city quota. This left but twenty men to be furnished by the city. It was intimated that men could be secured if the bounty were duly offered. About the middle of March the draft in this county took place at Green Bay. The Crescent said: “Every town and village, Appleton excepted, in this county has had to raise men by draft during the past week. We presume the next call will be for the last dollar.” A full list of the drafted men was published in the local newspapers. The largest number was 42 men from Ellington; the next largest was 26 men from Greenville .
Late in March the glorious news arrived that Richmond had been captured from the rebels. The Crescent said: “Never since our residence here have we seen such a crazy, joyful company. The old gun was brought out and thundered the news; the bells rang out a joyful peal; flags floated in the breeze and excessive jollity reigned. At night everything went with looseness. Captain Marston had out his cavalry; the boys lighted the city with bonfires; the firemen paraded the streets with their machine to the music of fife and, drum and the streets and sidewalks were lined with a happy crowd who made merry until a late hour.”
The soldiers’ aid festival given by the ladies of Appleton late in March, 1885, was attended by a large crowd. The tables were loaded with tempting edibles. The ladies deserved and received great credit for this entertainment which realized about $120 .
By act of April, 1865, the proceedings of a special town meeting in the town of Kaukauna in paying bounties to soldiers and the action of the town officers in relation thereto, were legalized and made binding. The town took that action October 6, 1864. In April, Revs. F. B. Doe and D. H. Cooley of Appleton left for the army of the Potomac under the auspices of the Christian Commision. They were sent to minister to the spiritual needs of sick and wounded soldiers. “Still more glorious news! General Lee and His Army Captured! Bully for Sheridan! A telegram from Washington states that Little Phil has captured General Lee and his whole army with the exception of Jeff Davis and a few stragglers. The live boys of the Third ward celebrated the capture of Lee’s army on Saturday night by the booming of cannon and ringing of bells.”
It was decided in April that the men who enlisted in Ellington in the fall of 1884 and were credited elsewhere for bounties were finally credited to the town which paid them local bounties. At the time of the capture of Lee’s army the ladies of Appleton connected with the Christian Commission were still busily engaged in their rooms on Morrison street preparing lint, bandages, shirts, socks, drawers, handkerchiefs, etc., and other useful articles of clothing for the soldiers. The Soldiers’ Aid Society were still also doing excellent work. They prepared and sent to soldiers in the field early in April 200 bushels of potatoes. The society called for potatoes from the farmers, and from all directions they came in by the load. They also called for onions, cabbages which likewise came from all quarters .
The Crescent in April, 1885, has an account of the assassination of President Lincoln. “General mourning. All places of business are closed in Appleton today and the black hangings drape all in mourning. God save the country!” It was suggested that all the churches be draped in mourning and the common council make arrangements Monday evening for a day of mourning and eulogy and other memorial services .
The Crescent issued an extra bulletin describing the assassination of President Lincoln, and the attempted assassination of Seward and others. The issue of April 22, 1885, contained the following editorial: “We have not had the heart during the past week of gloom to discuss the customary topics of the day, or seek to interest our readers upon home matters. The horrible crime committed in Washington was not only a blow at individual life but was evidently intended to be destruction to the general government. No wonder that strong hearts have pulsated more rapidly than ever before! No wonder that every true American citizen has prayed that justice, stern and unrelenting, should speedily overtake the diabolical demon in human form whose cowardly blood coursed in assassin’s veins. We can conceive of no punishment known to slaves of barbarous nations which will be equal to the offense. When the foul fiends and their accomplices, if any, are taken, as in Heaven’s own good time they will be, justice can only make of them an example to deter others. * * * Abraham Lincoln has been one of the most marked men of this or any other age. Posterity alone can do justice to his determined integrity to public service. It has been our lot to differ with his administration upon many questions of national policy, and at times we have doubtless judged him incorrectly and spoken of him in terms of unmerited denunciation. We have judged him from our standard and by our prejudices against the jealouscies of unconscionable power, but we can say without reserve that we believe he was actuated in his career as the executive of a republic by the purely patriotic determination to save the union and re-establish the lawful supremacy of the government at all hazard and at all sacrifice. His mission is ended; his work is done.”
Immediately after the mayor’s inaugural address in April, 1865, Alderman Gilmore introduced a series of resolutions relative to the national calamity, setting apart the day of the funeral as a day of mourning in Appleton, requesting the mayor to deliver a eulogy on that occasion, and appointing a committee of fifteen citizens to make all necessary arrangements. The resolutions were unanimously adopted. On that occasion, April 19, the slow booming of cannon preceded the solemnity of the day. All places of business were closed, many not re-opening until the next morning. A slight shower at 10 o’clock threatened the proceedings but cleared up later and soon the streets were thronged with people. Many buildings were draped in mourning and black badges could be seen everywhere. At half past 10 o’clock the secret societies and benevolent associations assembled at Odd Fellows block and at 11 o’clock the bells began a solemn dirge which lasted one hour. Half hour guns were fired under the direction of the city marshal from 9 o’clock until 4 o’clock, p. m. About 11 o’clock the procession formed in three columns under J. H. Marston, Capt. C. H. West and A. Steffen. “The procession was the most imposing one ever seen in Appleton and the officers and committee are entitled to much credit for their labors.” — (Crescent.) Then with muffled drums, funeral bells and deep peals of the cannon the procession moved with slow and solemn steps to the college chapel where the special exercises were observed. The proceedings were as follows: Singing, reading of the scriptures by Rev. M. Himebaugh, prayer by Rev. P. S. Bennett, singing, eulogy by Hon. R. Z. Mason, singing, benediction by Rev. Father P. 0. Gridley. The eulogy delivered by Mayor Mason was an eloquent effort in every way creditable to his heart and genius. After the ceremonies the procession again formed and marched back to the corner of Appleton street and College avenue where it dispersed .
The ladies of Appleton organized a Soldiers’ Home society to assist in the erection of a building in this state for a home for soldiers. Mrs. J. Stephens was president. They issued formal calls for everybody so disposed to come forward and assist with money. The society designed to work through the organization at Milwaukee which had the plans of the state in hand. Of the society Mrs. J. Stephens was president, Mrs. A. Foster, vice-president, Mrs. G. A. England, secretary, Mrs. B. Douglas, treasurer. The society for some time met Wednesday evenings in the basement of the Methodist church. About the middle of May Mrs. Stephens and Mrs. Samuel Ryan, Jr., representing the Soldiers’ Home society of Appleton, went to Hortonville where they met a large gathering of ladies interested in that movement. A home society was formed there with 40 or 50 members and the ladies of Hortonville pledged themselves to do their full share for the laudable object. The wives and daughters of farmers became members and other towns in the county followed their good example .
The students of the university held an entertainment in May for the benefit of the sanitary fair to be held in Chicago. They gave tableaux and other exercises and managed to raise a considerable sum of money which was forwarded to Chicago .
“Our Outagamie Braves. — In 1860 this little county polled less than 1,900 votes and yet it is a fact worthy of everlasting commemoration that over 1,400 men went into the army from Outagamie county during the last four years to battle for the American union. No county in this or any other state can show a brighter record.” — (Crescent, May 20, 1865.)
In May the soldier boys began to arrive home. They came singly or in groups and were always welcomed by the citizens with feasting and stirring and praising addresses if they came in considerable numbers at once. But where they came singly they were later called together and formally welcomed home to their kindred. In September the society to procure funds for the Soldiers’ Home met and reported as follows: From membership fees, $24; occasional donations, $10.25; proceeds of festivals, $76.67; total $110.92. In addition many valuable articles were forwarded to the Milwaukee Fair to be sold for the same purpose. The Soldiers’ Home society of Hortonville raised $24. The town of Greenville contributed several valuable articles. The women of Appleton had conducted their crusade for nine weeks to raise funds for the Home .
A meeting of the discharged soldiers of Appleton was held at Barns’ Hall, December 30, 1865. Samuel Ryan, Jr., was chosen chairman and James A. Wolcott, secretary. After discussion, they passed resolutions appointing a committee of nine leading soldiers to draw up a petition to Congress asking that body to allow the soldiers of 1861-62 the same rate of government bounty that was paid to those who served under subsequent calls. The committee was instructed to solicit the co-operation of the United States Senators and members of the House from this state. The committee were as follows: M. D. McGrath; E. R. Knapp, L. Myron Kling, F. Nicolin, R. C. Brigg, Daniel E. Fisher, John O’Keefe, H. M. Jones and John Dey. A meeting of the old soldiers was held in December to investigate the question of bounty due them under the Act of Congress. During the summer and fall of 1865 all old soldiers were urged to organize for the purpose of obtaining from Congress an equalization of bounties as compared with volunteers who went into the army after they did. Such an organization was urged in Outagamie county. It was suggested that they meet on the second day of the county fair and fully organize for that purpose .
In March, 1866, a bill in the legislature to equalize bounties in Outagamie county was killed. It was the opinion of many that should it pass, it would open up a vast amount of legislation and litigation. Many contended that the state should reimburse the towns for the bounties paid. Col. Theodore Conkey of Appleton, late of the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, was appointed second lieutenant of the Seventeenth United States Cavalry in November, 1866. In March, 1867, a bill passed both houses of the legislature to provide for reimbursing taxes paid for bounty purposes for volunteers in the town of Dale during the Civil War .
Up to the last of April, 1868, although some half dozen claims for bounty against the city had been presented, among which were those of Dr. Randall, ex-Alderman Ming, Judge Samuel Ryan, Jr., and others, no action had been taken by the council except to postpone consideration of the matter. It was threatened at this date to take the whole matter into the courts for settlement .
Early in June, 1868, pursuant to the proclamation of Governor Fairchild, a large number of persons assembled and accompanied the old soldiers to the cemetery where, after an appropriate address from Lieut. George H. Myers and an eloquent prayer by Chaplain A. B. Randall, the graves of Appleton’s soldiers were decorated with spring flowers and evergreens. The oration of Geo. H. Myers was published in full in the papers. It was determined at this time to continue the custom annually thereafter. This was the first decoration .
Decoration Day in 1869 passed without any formal ceremony at Appleton. Many complained that the citizens showed so little interest over the graves of the old soldiers. Some wanted the ceremonies held on Sunday, but others thought it would be sacrilegious to do such a thing on the Lord’s day. The old soldiers, however, quietly went out and placed flowers and flags on the graves of their deceased comrades. On Decoration Day, 1870, the citizens and old soldiers assembled at the Waverly House, formed a procession, marched out to the cemetery, and decorated the graves of their comrades. The addresses were made by Rev. H. C. Dickinson and Rev. Mr. Haddock.
The Appleton Volunteer Company was formed in the spring of 1872. Judge Ryan appointed Capt. J. H. Marston to superintend the organization, as per the statute. Capt. H. Turner assisted. By the last of March, 65 were enrolled. This organization was soon abandoned .
The following is a list of the names of deceased soldiers buried at Appleton by 1866, who engaged in the Civil War and who were residents of Outagamie county:
The young men of the university, in the spring of 1879, took steps to form a military company, under the law providing for the formation of companies of National guards .
In July, 1881, a militia company was organized at Appleton, under the direction of Col. Samuel Ryan, mustering officer. This organization in September, numbered 48 men who were mustered in as a company of the Wisconsin National Guard, with J. H. Marston as captain, H. C. Sloan, first lieutenant and D. C. Pavey, second lieutenant. Col. Sam. Ryan was judge advocate; Dr. J. T. Reeve, surgeon and Rev. J. B. Andrews, chaplain. It became Company G, Second Wisconsin Regiment, National Guards, commanded by Col .S. L. Brasted of Fond du Lac .
“The Appleton Light Infantry has become badly demoralized during the past year. It has had enough different lieutenants since it was organized to make a small sized army.” — (Post, July 5, 1883.)
Early in February, 1884, the veterans of the Civil War assembled at the Temple of Honor hall and organized a post of the Grand Army of the Republic. Sam Ryan called the meeting to order and L. B. Raymond was present as mustering officer. The post was named George D. Eggleston Post, No. 133, and the first officers were J. H. Cook, commander; E. F. Decker, S. V. C.; William Wilson, J. V. C.; George W. White, Q. M.; A. M. Cole, adjutant . The first membership numbered about 33, and was as follows: F. E. Adsit, J. G. Brown, C. H. Brown, J. H. Cook, A. M. Cole, W. H. Chilson, Jesse Couch, J. B. Cary, E. F. Decker, C. L. Fay, G. Kirchner, Fred Gass, F. W. Hoefer, H. A. Jones, L. S. Knox, W. B. Kenyon, Denis Miedam, William Marsfield, M. D. McGrath, J. H. Marston, G. W. Noble, John O’Keefe, Philip Saxton, Charles P. Palmer, J. T. Reeve, R. J. Smalley, Oscar Sterling, William Wilson, G. W. White, E. Wing, L. H. Waldo, Samuel F. Wheeler and Thomas Kelly. The post first met in South Masonic Hall .
The G. A. R. in 1884, gave a fine campfire on Seymour hill, in the Fourth ward, on which occasion 2,000 people assembled . Charles Bentley’s battery fired a salute and the old soldiers answered to roll call. Colonel Gray of Palmyra was the chief speaker; Judge Boyd, Major Mower, J. W. Bedell and others addressed the crowd. The Appleton Light Infantry was present in full uniform and sang “Marching Through Georgia.” The old soldiers drilled for the spectators. A fine supper was spread for all .
Francis Steffen Post No. 210, G. A. R., was reorganized early in January, 1889, and at the start had fifty-two members and the following officers: S. C. Torry, commander; H. Hunt and Dan Lamb, vice-commanders; Joseph Brooks, chaplain; N. Rideout, officer of the day; Frank Smith, quartermaster; Charles T. Buck, adjutant; Gustave Schwabs, surgeon; E. Kellogg, officer of the guard; Conrad Peters, sergeant major; H. Hough, quartermaster sergeant .
A Grand Army post was established at Kaukauna in February, 1889: Col. H. A. Frambach, commander; F. H. Mitchell, adjutant; D. J. Brothers, quartermaster .
Decoration Day in 1890 was celebrated by an immense gathering at Appleton, probably the best ever held thus far. Judge Cleveland was the principal orator. His speech was exceptionally beautiful and eloquent. A long poem by Mrs. Libbie C. Baer was read, one verse being as follows:
“Think of it! Think of it! Coming today
Laden with sweet-scented blossoms of May
Tenderly place them where grasses have grown
Over their faces and o’er the unknown;
Bend in deep reverence over each grave
Kissed by God’s sunshine or hid by his wave;
We loyally love them and claim them as ours,
With thoughts of remembrance, sweet as the flowers.”
In the autumn of 1890 the Appleton Zouaves, consisting at first of 53 men, was organized. For some time they assembled in Masonic Hall. C. F. Search was among the leaders of this company. They soon took possession of the old Appleton club rooms and used them for an armory .
The Council in 1895 endorsed the action of the county board to erect a soldiers’ monument and accordingly took steps to set apart a site for the same in City Park .
The commissioners for the Indigent Soldiers relief fund were D. J. Brothers, Jacob Kober and Alfred Galpin. On January 7, 1897, they distributed $662 to 86 recipients; in April, $559 to 83 ; and in October, $580 to 82. The amount apportioned for 1897 was $1,765.04 .
In February, 1898, the citizens were shocked upon receipt of the news that the Maine was blown up and sunk with appalling loss of life in Havana harbor. Soon afterward war talk was freely indulged on the streets and other public places. Nothing else was talked of at the armory. Major N. E. Morgan was ready, though he saw little more provocation now than there had been for three years. Reinhart Grupp a coal passer and an Appleton boy, was killed on the Maine .
General Weyler was first hung and then burned in effigy by the Ryan high school boys. The war spirit had possession of this city in April. Company G was ready for service. The medical examination of the company was held by Drs. Beveridge and Comerford. Of the 68 members 11 refused to volunteer; their places were immediately filled with ex-members. Joseph Metoxen, an Oneida Indian chief reported that he had two companies of 100 Indians each ready for the service. He offered also the Oneida Indian band of sixteen pieces for the army. Both companies were drilling, but as yet had no officers; wanted white officers. His nephew Jonas Metoxen was the famous full back of the Carlisle Indian football team.
A war meeting was held at the armory early in April, 1898, there being a large attendance; many fiery opinions for and against war were expressed. “The war party charged that the meeting had been called with the express purpose of securing the passage of a resolution for ‘peace at any price,’ while the peace party claimed that the meeting had been packed with people pledged to shout and vote for war at all hazards. There was no lack of speakers. Ralph Pomeroy introduced war-like resolutions and F. W. Harriman moved a milder substitute, but before either could be voted on the meeting adjourned.” Peter Thom served as chairman. Among the speakers were Captain Fuller, Ralph Pomeroy, Doctor Winslow, Sam Ryan, Major Lahee, Denis Hayes, William Kennedy, G. C . Jones, F. W. Harriman and Peter Thom. Generally, this meeting was regarded as premature. All this served to brighten up Company G .
The officers of Company G were H. E. Pomeroy, captain; M. S. Peerenboom, first lieutenant; W. H. Zuehlke, second lieutenant.
On April 29, 1898, at 3:15 a. m. the bells were rung and whistles blown throughout the city and everybody was roused from slumber. Captain Pomeroy had received orders to, have his company in readiness in the morning to move to the camp of mobilization. All volunteers were summoned to be ready and soon the armory was a busy scene. About 10 o’clock the order to fall in was given the 60 trained men and 40 recruits. About 10:15 o’clock all marched to the Northwestern depot and departed for Milwaukee “amidst the tears and cheers and followed with the fervent blessings of those who were left behind.”
Another military company was enlisted about the middle of May and was composed of young men anxious to get into the service. John Petersen and John Ross led this movement. About 70 men were enrolled by May 25 .
“The service at the Congregational Church Sunday night was one of the most stirring ever held in the city. It was a service that aroused the patriotism of every man, woman and child present to the keenest pitch. The edifice was handsomely draped in national colors. The audience was an inspiration. All the old veterans were present by special invitation and so were the various Relief Corps and the college cadets. The music was especially elaborate. Dr. John Faville’s theme was: ‘The Cost of Patroitism.’ ” — (Post, May 5, 1898.)
The thirty-second annual encampment of the Wisconsin department of the G. A. R. was held in Appleton in June, 1898. An immense crowd was present. All were formally welcomed by Mayor Erb. Ex-Governor Hoard replied. Department Commander E. B. Gray addressed the vast audience. The parade was grand and stirring in the extreme. Apparently all the school children of the city were in the parade, led by the old soldiers and the bands. Many distinguished soldiers were here. Charles H. Russell was elected the new commander .
The Second Regiment was mustered into the United States service at Camp Harvey, Milwaukee, on May 12, 1898, 1,130 men strong. It started from Milwaukee to Chicago, May 17. It was one of the first regiments ordered from there into foreign service. On July 21, it sailed from Charleston for Porto Rico August 9, it was in a skirmish at Coamo and started to cut off the retreat of the Spaniards. A destroyed bridge halted the column, and the officer commanding pronounced passage impossible; but a corporal and eight men of Co. G had crossed and then went on the road to a junction where they met troops sent by another road. Some other members of Company G crossed on the left and joined their companions at the junction of the roads. The cessation of hostilities came and stopped them at a time when sharp action was promised. On August 8, the regiment embarked for home, arriving at Milwaukee September 17, and home on the 18th .
Company G mustered out of the service with the following officers: Captain, Hugh E. Pomeroy; first lieutenant, Maurice S. Peerenboom; second lieutenant, Wm. H. Zuehlke; orderly sergeant, Harry R. Lee; quartermaster sergeant, Albert O. Hecht; sergeants: George Merkle, Clarence Peterman, Charles H. Vogel, Paul Ganzen. Corporals: Wm. A. Ross, T. B. Beveridge, Dudley Ryan, A. F. Peterson, Wm. Weaver, Arthur H. Jolliffe, Walter A. Ladwig, Ralph Pomeroy, George W. Raue, H. A. Schimberg, Herman F. Heckert, Joseph A. Forster. Three men had been transferred to the hospital corps, and the company lost four by death, Charles O. Baer, John Schuh, Otto Merkel and James H. Wallace, leaving the company 102 strong .
Fourteen recruits from Appleton, Fond du Lac and Oshkosh left for Chickamauga Park, June 22; four men from Appleton went in Company F of Oshkosh .
On September 18, 1898, after five months’ absence Company G returned to Appleton. The whole city turned out with intense joy and enthusiasm to welcome the “boys,” who arrived by train. As they poured from the cars and fell in line their ranks were invaded by women and children who were clasped to the hearts of the thin, worn, ragged, but overjoyed men. As they marched up the streets almost every man had clinging to him women and children until it seemed more like a suffragette parade than a march of troops; but all were happy as shown by their kisses, embraces, glad laughter and joyous tears; not all — there were a few sad faces for the boys who would never again be seen alive in Appleton .
Late in October, 1898, the citizens of Appleton publicly welcomed home Company G from the war. It was the biggest event of the kind ever undertaken in this city. The Woman’s Relief Corps added much to the success of the event at the armory. About twenty long tables loaded with choice eatables and buried in flowers filled the room. Invocation was pronounced by President Plantz. Maeder’s orchestra furnished the music. Dr. Faville was toastmaster and Dr. J. T. Reeve, chairman. Mayor Erb, Major N. E. Morgan, William Kennedy, Dr. Lummis, A. B: Whitman, Captain Pomeroy, H. D. Ryan, Rev. McCoy, Dr. Beveridge, Corporal Pomeroy, Henry Kreiss, H. W. Meyer and Judge Goodland addressed the audience — responded to toasts .
Memorial day, 1899, was duly celebrated at Black Creek under the auspices of the G. A. R. The school children of Black Creek and Bovina participated. A beautiful flag drill was a feature. Addresses were delivered by Rev. Newing, Otto Sweiger and Prof. Alexander Cance. Mr. Hogan gave a fine rendering of Superintendent Harvey’s memorial day address .
At the military fair in the armory, in December, 1900, Company G cleared nearly $1,200. Many prizes were given — piano, bedroom set, sewing machine, bicycle, gold watch, dinner set, etc. — 100 in all. A diamond ring was voted to a young lady .
A military fair at the armory for a week in November and December, 1901, cleared several hundred dollars for a new armory. One hundred prizes were awarded.
The Spanish War Veterans maintain Camp No. 3, in Appleton. Although the soldiers of that war were relatively few, and are now widely scattered, this camp has a solid membership and takes a prominent part in all patriotic functions .
Geo. D. Eggleston Post, No. 133, G. A. R., was instituted on January 1, 1884, by Department Commander Phillip Cheek, with the following officers: Commander, J. H. Cook; Senior Vice, E. F. Decker; Junior Vice, Wm. Wilson; Adjutant, A. Melvin Cole; Quartermaster, Geo. W. White; Officer of the Day, Geo. W. Huckins; Officer of the Guard, Philip Saxton. The following were also charter members: M. D. McGrath, R. J. Smalley, F. E. Adsit, W. B. Kenyon, E. Wing, G. W. Noble, Jesse Crouch, L. H: Waldo, J. G. Brown, L. S. Knox, G. Kirschner, A. M. Jones, Dennis Meidam, Fred Hoefer. The total enrollment is 339, and its present membership 109 .
Paul H. Beaulieu Post, No. 247, Kaukauna, Wis., was instituted February 22, 1889, by Department Commander A. G. Weissert, assisted by Capt. John M. Baer, of Appleton, with twenty-one members. The following were the first officers of the post: Commander, H. A. Frambaugh; Senior Vice, Thos. Reese; Junior Vice C. A. Walker; Quartermaster, David J. Brothers; Chaplain, J. H. Chamberlain; Officer of the Day, Albert Gates; Officer of the Guard, James Conway; Surgeon, G. M. Raught; Adjutant, T. H. Mitchell. The additional charter members were: A. A. Kirn, Peter Nettekoven, Abram Brower, E. Lown, Andrew Brower, Fred Lindauer, I. W. Acker, G. D. Kemp, James Hamilton, Herman Pauli, J. R. Phelps, Thos. Walsh. The total membership to date is 94, and the present membership is 21, just where the Post started 22 years ago. J. H. Chamberlain is commander and Nicholas Faust, adjutant. The Post is named for Paul H. Beaulieu, who enlisted in Company F, of the Thirty-second Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, September, 1862. He died of malaria, on October 14, 1883. He was the first soldier brought home to be buried at Kaukauna. He had been a writer of some ability on the Green Bay Advocate .
J. W. Appleton Post, No. 116, at Black Creek, is extinct. Francis Steffen Post, No. 210, instituted September 25, 1885, is located at Hortonville. John Granzo Post, No. 198, instituted June 24, 1885, still exists at Seymour .
There is a flourishing camp of the Sons of Veterans at Appleton, named for Dr. W. II. Chilson, a soldier who served nearly two years in Andersonville prison and lived a long and useful life afterwards in Appleton. The Woman’s Relief Corps have a strong organization in Appleton, with 134 members. There are also organizations at Kaukauna, Hortonville, Seymour and New London. The corps at Black Creek is extinct .
On November 16, 1901, Supervisor T. M. Kellogg, of Kaukauna, introduced a resolution requesting the county Board of Supervisors of Outagamie to take action looking towards the erection of a soldiers’ monument on the courthouse grounds at the expense of the county. The matter was referred to a committee consisting of Joseph Moyer, of Dale, C. B. Ballard of Grand Chute, and A. Brugger, of Kaukauna. On January 17, 1902, this committee reported advising that $7,000 be raised by taxation for that purpose, and that the question be submitted to a vote of the people at the spring election. The report was adopted and the matter went to a vote. Notwithstanding that the city of Appleton, casting nearly one-third of the total vote, supported the monument by 716 majority, the county rejected the monument by a majority of 1,108. So complete a defeat rendered any further attempt in that direction useless .
In 1907, George C. Jones began an agitation to have the public market removed from Market street, as it had become an eyesore and a nuisance in so public a quarter. He offered to secure the erection of a Soldiers’ monument, if the council would make suitable provision for it. In December, 1908, he started subscription papers for the purpose of raising $5,000 to build a monument, conditioned that “the common council shall remove the market and provide for the improvement of the street to make it suitable for this purpose and dedicate a site for its occupancy.” This was agreed to by the council. Mr. Jones was aided in soliciting subscriptions by I. N. Stewart. Such progress was made that about $3,000 was actually subscribed and enough more assured to make the project successful, when Albert W. Priest offered to erect the monument at his sole expense and devote at least $6,000 for that purpose and, when finished, give it to Geo. D. Eggleston Post, G. A. R., of Appleton .
On June 18, the Post accepted Mr. Priest’s offer and appointed a monument committee consisting of I. N. Stewart, chairman, James A. Wolcott, Hermann Heckert, David J. Ryan and Dr. A. W. Kanouse. Wolcott was then Post Commander and was succeeded by Heckert; when, in 1911, Ben. F. Brown became commander, he was added to the committee. The contract was let, after a competition of designs, to Cav. Prof. Gaetano Trentanove, of Florence, Italy, for $8,000 .
In June, 1909, the George D. Eggleston Post, G. A. R., received from A. W. Priest an offer to donate $6,000 for a soldiers’ monument, all details being left to the members of the post. Mr. Priest had two brothers in the service, one dying on the battlefield. He sympathized with the post in their efforts to secure a soldiers’ monument. The post formally accepted the splendid gift and took immediate steps to build the monument .
The bronze group of the soldiers’ monument arrived May 25, 1911; Signor Gaetano Trentanove, the sculptor. was here at that time. It was placed in position May 26. It was decided that Miss Aimee Baker, niece of the donor, should unveil the monument on Decoration day. The day was beautiful, the audience large and inspiring and the exercises grand. Mr. Priest briefly presented the beautiful group to the post, and was warmly thanked by Commander Brown. Mayor Canavan congratulated the city and the veterans and eulogized Mr. Priest for his noble generosity. Excellent music graced the occasion. All uncovered as Miss Baker disclosed the splendid monument. Bishop Fallows delivered the principal memorial address, a speech of unusual power, beauty and prophecy. Other exercises served to render this occasion a memorable one.
The granite block, with the inscriptions, for the soldiers’ monument, was put in place May, 10, 1911. On three sides are the following inscriptions:
“1861-1885. Dedicated to the memory of those who fought on land and sea to preserve under one flag the heritage bequeathed by our fathers to their posterity.”
“Presented to George D. Eggleston Post, No. 133, G. A. R., by Albert W. Priest, in remembrance of his brother, James E. Priest, Seventh Wisconsin Infantry; died in camp December 28, 1861.”
“Let us exalt patriotism and moderate our party contentions. Let those who would die for the flag on the field of battle give a better proof of their patriotism and a brighter glory to their country by promoting fraternity and justice.”
The report of the Indigent Soldiers’ Relief Commission late in 1905 showed that $3,406 was paid for the relief of old soldiers that year. In April, 1906, it was stated by the Post that 173 old soldiers were buried at Appleton; the number in Riverside was 139; while in St. Joseph’s and St. Mary’s were 17 each. In March, 1886, under the auspices of the G. A. R., General Prentiss of Shiloh fame lectured to an immense audience in the opera house on his experiences in that battle. Judge Ryan presided and excellent music added to the enjoyment. The General gave a graphic and eloquent description of that famous struggle. About the middle of June there arrived at Appleton 43 monuments for the soldiers of the county in the Civil and Spanish-American wars; the most of them were placed in Riverside Cemetery; they were furnished by the government.
