Lorain City (part 27 of 77)

In concluding the history of the press in Lorain county, the writer acknowledges the obligations he is under to various persons who have aided him in obtaining the desired information, and especially to President J. H. Fairchild, and W. H. Pearce, editor of the News, who have kindly furnished most of the data relating to the twelve different publications in Oberlin.

Summary

From the foregoing, it will be seen that there have been thirty-three different publications issued in this county during the past fifty years, viz: Sixteen in Elyria, twelve in Oberlin, two in Wellington, two in Lorain, and one in Amherst. At this time, there are seven weekly papers and one semi-monthly published in the county, viz: Two in Elyria, two weeklies and one semi-monthly in Oberlin, one in Wellington, and one in Lorain.

Chapter Xiv

The present '' Lorain County Agricultural Society was organized in the year 1846. Previous to this time shows for stock, etc., had been held in Elyria and Oberlin. As early as 1833 a stock show was held east of the Beebe House, on the site of Ely park. At this show sixty dollars was awarded as premium upon cattle, horses and articles of various kinds. How many of these exhibitions were held previous to the organization of the present society, the writer cannot ascertain. 'There must have been several. In October, 1845, a show was held in Oberlin, and it appears by President Kinney's report, that there had been previous meetings of a like nature. This organization seems to have been carried on by the citizens of Oberlin and its vicinity, and Mr. Kinney's report refers to the assistance given by the president and professors of Oberlin college. At this meeting a plowing match was held, cattle and other stock competing for premiums. The chairman of committee on plowing was Prof. Cowles. The names of the other committees are before me, but no report of their awards. The report was to appear the following week - so says The People's Press, October 1, 1845. In the evening at half-past six o'clock a meeting was held in the chapel, and short speeches were delivered by several gentlemen, among them Dr. Townshend, President Mahan, Prof. Fairchild (now president), and Prof. Cowles. Songs had been prepared by Tutor Hodge, and the music was pronounced exccllent.

Whatever had been done by Elyria or Oberlin previous to 1846, no doubt partially paved the way for the organization formed under the act of the legislature for the encouragement of agriculture, February 27, 1846. Dr. N.S. Townshend, then of Elyria, now professor of agriculture, etc., in '*The Ohio State University," probably did more to get farmers and others together and organize a meeting which eventually resulted in the formation of the present society, than any other individual. The proceedings of the agricultural meeting held at Elyria, Lorain county, Ohio, on Wednesday, April 29, 1846, are reported as follows:

On motion of A. H. Redington, and after remarks by Hon. D. T. Baldwin, Dr. Hubbard and others, it. was resolved to proceed :mmediately to the organization of a county society, in accordance with the rules and regulations recommended by the State board of agriculture. On motion of Joel Tiffany, Esq., an enrollment was made, to ascertain if a sufficient number of persons desirous of associating themselves as a@ county agricultural society were present, and if a sufficient sum could be raised to meet the provision of the act. Whereupon fifty-eight names were enrolled, and eighty dollars subscribed. Agreeable to the recommendation of the nominating committee, the following gentlemen were unanimously elected, and now constitute the board of directors: Joseph Swift, president; Daniel B. Kinney, vice-president; Artemas Beebe, treasurer; A. H. Redington, secretary; Henry Tracy, George Sibley, Edwin Byington, D. T. Baldwin, T. W. Osborn, managers.

On motion, the above coinmittees were instructed to make all possible exertion, immediately, and report in person or by letter at the first meeting of the board of directors.

It was voted that the board of directors meet at the court house, in Elyria, on Wednesday, the 13th of May, at 11 o'clock a. m., to determine the subjects and rates of premiums, and transact such other business as may be necessary. Adjourned sine die.

N. S. TowNsHEND, Secretary. Proceedings of the meting of board of directors of the Lorain county agricu.cural society, May 13, 1846: Resolved, That this society have an exhibition and fair at Elyria, on Wednesday, September 30, 1846.

Resolved, That premiuns be awarded upon the following articles: The several amounts to be determined at the next meeting of the board, when the amount of funds at the control of the society shall be ascertained.

Resolved, The ladies of this county be invited to manufacture useful articles, to be donated to this society, and that they hold a fair in the afternoon and evening of the day of the exhibition, and that all citizens be requested to briug choice specimens of fruit and flowers, manufactured articles, and be offered for sale at the ladies' fair, for the benefit of the society.

According to previous notice, meeting at Oberlin, on' Tuesday, August 20, 1846. At this meeting, a long list of committee men were appointed. It was also decided, to offer premium for herds of cattle, not less than fifteen head, owned by one farmer - first, second, third, fourth and fifth best. The best flock of sheep, not less than twenty-five head - first, second, third, fourth and fifth best. Then comes a list of awards, at the first fair, September 30. Amount of premiums awarded, one hundred and seventeen dollars.

A report of the proceedings of the society, and statement of the prospect of the crops, as required by law, was made out, and forwarded to N. P. Johnson, the appointed delegate by the society, to the annual meeting of the State board, at Columbus.

It is very evident that, in the early days of the society, the managers were men, deeply interested, and yery zealous in the work of establishing this, now, prosperous society. The constitution prepared

Art. 1. The officers of the society shall consist of a president, vicepresident, secrétary, treasurer, and five managers, who, together, shall constitute a board of directors, for the general management of the affairs of the society. They shall be elected annually, by the members of the society, and hold their offices till their successors are appointed.

Art. 4. Alist of articles for which premiums are to be awarded by the society, must be published in a newspaper, or in handbills, at least one month previous to the day of the exhibition.

Arr. 5. All articles offered for premiums must be, owned by the persons offering the same, or by members of their family. Products of the soil, and manufactured articles, must be produced or manufactured within the county, agricultural implements excepted.

Art. 6. Awarding committees, of three persons each, shall be annually appointed by the directors of the society, for judging the different classes of articles offered in competition, and awarding premiums for the same.

Art. 7. Awarding committees must conform to the provisions of the law in requiring competitors for premiums on crops, and other improvements, tofurnish full and correct statements of the process, and expense of culture and production, etc. 4

Art. 8. Competitors for premiums on crops shall be required to have the ground and its produce accurately measured, by not less than two disinterested persons,, whose statement shall be in writing and verified by affidavit.

Art. 9, Premiums on grain, and grass crops, shall not be awarded for less than one acre, and on root crops for not less than one-fourth of an acre. The whole quantity produced on the amouut of land specified shall be measured or weighed. Root crops to be estimated by weight, divested of the tops, sixty pounds to be considered a bushel; and grain crops to be measured or weighed according to the usual standards. The rules in relation to other crops, and productions, to bé agreed on by the directors of the society.

Art. 10. The annual exhibition of the society shall be held at some period between the first day of September and the first of November. The premiums on crops can be awarded ata later period, if thought best.

Second. All articles drawing the first premium at a' previous fair, cannot compete for a premium on the same article until the second year after.

Fourth. The board of directors shall, at their annual meeting in January in each year, appoint a corresponding secretary, who shall hold his office for one year, and until his successor shall be appointed.

Having given nearly a full report of the transactions of the society during its first year, which could not be very well curtailed, to present the transactions of the society clearly to the public, throughout the ensuing years only a carefully-condensed sketch can be given, or this article will be entirely too long. During the year 1847, it will be seen that the society made an effort to place before the citizens of Lorain county the claims for, and advantages arising from, the organization, by appointing able men to deliver lectures in

President, Joseph Swift; Vice President, D, B. Kinney; John H. Faxon, Treasurer, and A. H. Redington, Secretary. Edwin Byington, H. C. Safford, W. N. Race, A. W Whitney, and Benjamin C. Perkins, Managers.

Dr. N.S. Townshend, for Elyria, Carlisle, Eaton, Columbia, Ridgeville, Avon and Sheffield; Prof. J. Dascomb, for Grafton, La Grange, Penfield, Huntington, Wellington and Pittsfield; Professor J. H. Fairchild, for Black River, Amherst, Brownhelm, Henrietta, Camden, Brighton and Rochester.

At the next meeting, May 4, the time was fixed to hold the second annual fair at Elyria, October 6 and 7%. It was resolved to award premiums on a longer list of articles, - increasing the amount of one hundred and thirty-five dollars. The different awarding committees were appointed. The first day of the fair was occupied by the committees examining stock and other articles. A large

The plowing match took place in the forenoon of the second day, after which the members of the socie'y met in the court 'house and the following persons were elected officers for the ensuing year:

Joseph Swift, president; D. B. Kinney, vice president; J. H. Faxon, treasurer, and A. HI. Redington, secretary; delegate to State board convention at Columbus, December, 1847, N. P. Johnson.

After the reports of committees and awarding of premiums, it is said that a very excellent and appropriate address was given by Dr. E. W. Hubbard, who had been previously invited to address the society.

Best cultivated farm, Joseph Swift, Henrietta; second best, Alonzo Gaston, Russia; third best, P. Sheppard, Henrietta. Best plowing, Ed. Matchem, Pittsfield; second best, William Reed, same town.

The first premium was awarded to Alonzo Gaston for best cultivated farm; second to N. Jackson; third to A. H. Redington. The old officers were re-elected. James Dascomb was appointed delegate to State board convention at Columbus.

It appears that James Dascomb did not go to Columbus, the report being forwarded to Dr. Townshend, who presented it at the convention, at Columbus in December.

The fourth annual fair, held at Elyria, was a success. The first day being, as usual, for the examination of stock, etc.; the second, to plowing match; and afternoon of that, to election of officers, and other business. lected for the ensuing year:

The fifth annual fair was held at Oberlin, September 26, 1850. At this fair, higher premiums were offered; the premium on best cultivated farm was raised from five to eight dollars, and others in proportion. EK. Clark, best cultivated farm; A. Gaston, second. The same president and vice-president were elected, and A. H. Redington made secretary and treasurer.

At this fair, diplomas were offered quite liberally instead of money for premiums. The fair is said to have passed off satisfactorily to most parties. 'The election resulted as follows:

At a meeting of the board, held at Oberlin, August 3, 1852, the committee previously appointed to solicit subscriptions to aid the society reported as follows:

O. S. Wadsworth reported fifty-two dollars, on condition that the next fair be held in Wellington. A. W. Whitney made an adverse report for Pittsfield. The members from Oberlin and Elyria being absent, it was voted to hold the next fair at Wellington. At a later hour N. B. Gates reported one hundred dollars, pledged by citizens of Elyria, on condition that the fair be held in that place. On motion of O. S. Wadsworth, it was voted to rescind the resolution for holding the fair at Wellington, and that the next fair be held in Elyria on Wednesday and Thursday, 6th and 7th of October, 1852.

A committee of four were appointed to make necessary arrangements for holding the fair at Elyria, and were authorized to make expenditures to an amount not exceeding one hundred dollars, and not exceeding the amount paid into the treasury by donations by the citizens of Elyria in making an enclosure, pens, buildings, etc., necessary for the convenience of said fair. N. B. Gates, Edwin Byington, G. G. Washburn and EK. W. Hubbard were made said committee. It was decided to appropriate fifty dollars more from the fund, provided the said committee fence in grounds so that an admission fee can be collected.

N. B. Gates was requested to act.as marshal, with power to choose his assistants. The above committee were to procure a suitable person to deliver the annual address.

This seventh fair was a great success. The premium list was extended and stock somewhat classified. The ladies exhibited a.long list of articles, both of domestic and ornamental use, and were awarded liberal premiums.

The eighth annual fair was held at Elyria and more liberal premiums were offered. On cattle the amount to be awarded was seventy-five dollars and nine copies of Ohio Farmer. On horses, fifty-three dollars and two Ohio Farmers. Fine arts, flowers and fruits were largely represented at this fair. There was a long list of unenumerated articles. In this class a premium was awarded to Fordice Miller, a cripple, for skill in

After hearing reports from committees from Elyria and Oberlin, the board took into consideration the subject of locating the county fair for the next ten years.

On motion of E. Matchem, that the Lorain county fair be located at Oberlin, in the township of Russia, for the next ten years, the question being called, and the yeas and nays demanded, resulted as follows:

The following were appointed a committee of arrangements, to procure and enclose grounds, erect suitable buildings, and other necessary fixtures, dig a well, and superintend next fair: N. B. Gates, H. C. Safford, E. Byington, A. Beebe, A. H. Redington.

Resolved, That the committee of arrangements draw on the treasurer for one hundred and fifty dollars, to be expended in fitting up the fair grounds. Adjourned.

The ninth annual fair was a success. Being a full show, every department was well represented, and there was a large attendance. Among the noticeable offerings at this fair were three premiums for ladies' horsemanship: First, silver cake basket; second, ladies' riding hat; third, gold pencil. The successful competitors being Miss Arys Terrell, first; Miss Sophia Perry, second; Mrs. L. 8. Jenkins, third.

The next annual fair was held on the 3d, 4th and 5th of October. One hundred and thirty dollars had been expended in improving the grounds. Previous to. this fair, very few, and it is questionable if any, pure bred cattle had been exhibited, with the exception of Aston and Humphrey's Herefords.

During this year Leman Ely, Esq., purchased seyeral '* Werd-Book " short-horns - the bull,:Sir Humphrey, 974, and a fine cow and heifer bred by Reber & Kutz, Fairfield county, Ohio. These animals made a good showing and were admired by the visitors. Also, the lamented Chas, Arthur Ely had purchased a fine herd of pure Devon cattle. These, too, were on exhibition, and were of great excellence.

Probably Ohio has not exhibited finer specimens of the Devon up to this day. The fine old bull, the "Duke of Devon," was, in every point, a first-class animal. E. Matchem exnibited Devons, and owned some thoroughbreds. This fair is reported as being ahead of that of any previous fair. There was also a full field of ladies contending for the premiums offered for their skill in horsemanship, both for riding and driving.

Morehouse, silver spoons; third, Miss Sophia Perry, silver butter knife; fourth, Miss Wooster, salt spoons. For driving, first, Mrs. Helm, gold chain; second, Mrs. J. Manville, gold locket; third, Mrs. G. E. Nichols, gold pencil; fourth, Miss Wooster, gold studs. October 5, 1855, officers elected for ensuing year:

The constitution of the Lorain county agricultural society was revised at a meeting of the members of socicty held at Elyria, February 7, 1856. We have not space to give it as revised.

Alonzo Gaston took first on best cultivated farm; Pitt W. Hall, second; D. B. Kinney, third. Principal exhibitors in short-horns and Herefords, Louis & Woolton, Hoyle, Redington, Mills and Wadsworth. In Devons, C. A. Ely, Matechem, Hamlin and Rhodes. Horses, DeWitt, Howe, Nichols, Webster, Vincent, Panybow, Smith; C. A. Ely, matched horses.

The twelfth annual fair was held October 6, 7, and 8, 1857. This fair was peculiar for the arrangement of the cattle classes. First class included Short- Horns, Devons, Herefords, Alderneys, and Ayrshires, with three premiums to each age, from three years and upwards, down to acalf. In sweepstakes, there were also three premiums, as in the regular class, a thing unprecedented - there being the second committee; and it was amusing, to sce the same animals come in competition, and witness many of the previous awards reversed. 'There was a large amount of grumbling by some of the exhibitors. The show of cattle was poor, and there were a few well bred animals. The committee on sweepstakes was A. Beebe, Sr., R. Baker, and C. Wheeler. The award on bulls: A. Redington's Gov. Morrow, 543, first; C. A. Ely's Duke of 'Devon, second; S. ©. Hoyle's, third, the Duke being third in class, and a Hereford second, Redington's first. The cows 372 and over, were good.

This classification was quite unsatisfactory to stock men, generally, and was never repeated thereafter. The ladies' horsemanship resulted in

The thirteenth annual fair was held October 5, 6, and 7, 1858. The premium list had been extended, and every department full} the attendance large, and receipts good. Grounds had become too small to accommodate so large a gathering. This year an addition was made to the short horn cattle, R. Baker having purchased the bull Gen. Havelock, 2900, and three females, all "'herd book pedigrees," and Dr. N. S. Townshend had, also, purchased several animals of the same breed; the latter taking first premium on his bull, '' Prince Albert," and the former first on his cow, 'Harriet 2d," by Sir Humphrey, 974. There was, at this fair, a large field of ladies, mounted,

The fourteenth annual fair was held September 27, 28, and 29, 1859. The heavy rain on the first day kept away many exhibitors, with their stock, ete., also, visitors. Financially, sufficient was made to meet necessary expenses attending the fair, proper. At this fair, an addition was made to the cattle department, by D. A. Stocking having purchased several thoroughbred short horns, and some high grades. These were on exhibition, and having been fattened on the blue grass regions, were in high flesh, and attracted the attention of many, especially those who had not been in the habit of seeing high fed animals.

The fifteenth annual fair was well attended, and financially a success. 'There were but two entries of farms, and only one premium awarded, and that to A. Gaston, twenty dollars. Many premiums were lowered, and quite a number of second premiums struck off the list - all on grain samples and garden vegetables. This injured the show in these classes, those tables being badly supplied, and quite a feeling of dissatisfaction was expressed by many exhibitors. By cutting off so many premiums, the expenses were reduced, so that at the end of the year the society had a balance of about eight dollars in the treasury. This was the last year that a premium was offered for plowing.

The election of officers did not take place on the last day of the fair in 1860, owing to a regulation issued by the Ohio State Board of Agriculture, that all county agricultural societies shali hold the annual meeting for the election of officers, etc., sometime in January; consequently the old board held over, and at the call of the president the meeting was ordered for January 7, 1861, when the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:

For president, N. B. Gates; vice president, J. Swift, Jr; secretary and treasurer, P. A. Bishop; directors, R. Baker, Joshua Boynton, Alonzo Gaston, D. A. Stocking, and William H. Root.

The sixteenth fair was held September 25-28 inclu- This fair had many things to contend with. A 'fast day" had been proclaimed by President Lincoln, which occurred on the first day of the fair, and a continual rain the following day and also up to noon of the third day; in consequence a fourth day was added. Notwithstanding these disasters the receipts were ahead of any previous year.

The board came together and revised the premium list, made the usual arrangements for holding the annual fair, but by some of the disasters of the war and the gloom pervading the whole north, the board was called to meet in August, and at that meeting it was decided not to hold a fair during that year.

The annual meeting was held January 14, 1863. At this meeting it was voted that all persons to be entitled to yote for officers shall first pay the sum of one dollar into the treasury of the society. 'The election of officers was postponed until January 31, 1863, to which time the society adjourned.

A vote was passed te enlarge the fair grounds, if ground could be had adjoining. The board met September 12, and appointed N. B. Gates a committee to fit up the grounds, and that a sum not exceeding two hundred and seventy-five dollars be appropriated for that purpose.

The eighteenth annual fair was held October 6 to 9, 1863, 'I'he show was excellent; horses, cattle and sheep very numerous; a large attendance of visitors. The last day was fixed for the extra trotting and all kinds of amusements, which had first been introduced in 1861, by D. A. Stocking. This arrangement was not unanimously desired, and was attended with considerable discussion; but it was decided to give the day to the purpose of amusing a certain lass contrary, I think, to the objects for which county agricultural societies were organized.

Resolved, 'That the Lorain county agricultural society hold a meeting on the second Monday in December of each year, to decide on premiums for field crops, and to complete any unfinished business relating to the previous fair.

The annual meeting for the election of officers, ete., was held January 27, 1866. This being a meeting at which-action must be taken with regard to a regulation of the State board of agriculture, viz:

"That county societies shall fix the time for holding the annual meeting sometime in January, and then keep to such time; and also shall decide on the number of persons they with to constitute a board of directors - the number not to be less than eight individuals, and as many more as the society may wish."

Resolved, That the board of managers of the society shall consist of eight members, to conform to the rules of the State board, and that we proceed to elect the sume by Lallot; and those elected, cast lots for the longer or shorter term, The result was as follows, after casting lots, viz: Parks Foster, Wm. A. Braman, R. Baker aud L. F. Parkes, one year; Joshua Worcester, Bradford Race, T.S. Metcalf and M. H. Cunningham, two years.

A resolution passed instructing the president to appoint a committee of three, to proceed to Wellington and confer with the Union agricultura] society, at their annual meeting, to ascertain whether they have any desire to unite with the county society, and report to the board forthwith. The chair appointed on said committee, Messrs. Parks Foster, T. 8. Metcalf and R. Baker.

1. Resolved, That the Lorain county agricultural society take steps to purchase land for fair grounds, and that as near the county seat as practicable.

- 2. Resolved, That so soon as the board of managers can select a proper site, they are authorized to purchase not less than fifteen acres of land, to be deeded to the society for the use of said society.

3, Resolved, That the President appoint one or mure members in each township of the county, to solicit subscriptions in the several townships, and report on the first Saturday in April, 1866.

' 4, Resolved, That the president request the county commissioners (to the full extent of the power vested in them) to appropriate of the county funds toward purchasing and fitting up proper grounds for the use of our county agricultural society, and that he report on the first Saturday in April, 1866.

Land for fair grounds was finally purchased of Heman Ely in 1867, being lots one hundred and twelve and one hundred and thirteen west of river, being eighteen and five-hundredths acres of land, at one hundred and fifty dollars per acre. A cash payment of five hundred dollars was made. Election of officers resulted as follows:

Voted, that the society employ an agent to solicit subscriptions. Mr. J. H. Boynton was appointed such agent. At this meeting it was again voted, that the commissioners be requested to appropriate funds to the equal amount raised by the society. R. Baker offered the following resolution, which was discussed and adopted:

"Resolved, That we will not admit to the fair grounds any side shows, swings, auctions, or intoxivating drinks, during the days of the annual exhibitions."

January 26, 1867, the new board was organized, and elected T. S. Metcalf secretary and treasurer for the ensuing year. It was decided to remove the buildings from the old fair grounds to the new grounds immediately. The buildings were taken down early in the week and a ''Bee" called on Saturday, and the old buildings were moved across the river. At this meeting it was (for the first time) voted, that the secretary and treasurer be paid for his services the past year.

Bids for furnishing lumber for the fair grounds were opened at a meeting of board held February 16, 1867. The bids varied from eighteen dollars per thousand to twenty-three dollars per thousand. The board decided to have oak posts and pine boards for fences. Hiram Woodward furnished a part of oak posts at eighteen dollars per thousand. 'The grounds were graded, and the "trotting ring" constructed, under the superintendence of D. A. Stocking.

During the summer, wells were dug, the fence and suitable buildings, offices, and stalls for horses and cattle, pens for sheep and swine were all fixed up and put in good shape at a cost of $3,928.96. Wm. A. Braman, who was the president of the society, deserves the good wishes and gratifications of the society for his indefatigable labors during this summer, in superintending the arrangement, and fitting up these new grounds, which were presented to the public, at the exhibition, in a shape not only satisfactory to the exhibitors and the society, but an ornament to Lorain county. All visitors pronounced this, the twenty-second, the best exhibition and the largest fair ever held by the society, up to this date.

for their proximity to the village. The new bridge - having been erected during the summer, made the transit from the city to the grounds all that could be d_sired.

During this year, additional expense was incurred by rounding off corners of track, and in putting up a large dining hall, at a cost of $1,017.48.

The twenty-fourth annual fair was held October 5, 6,7 and 8. The first and second days were rainy and cold. The morning of the third was bright and clear, and the grounds were packed with visitors, and an immense crowd on the Jast day made the fair financially a success.

In August of this year, an excursion to Put-in-Bay Island was enjoyed by the society. A special train on the L. 8. road conveyed passengers to Vermillion, where the party embarked on the steamer '' Reindeer." A very pleasant time was had.

The annual fair (twenty-fifth) was fixed for October, but the Northern Ohio fair association being organized, they fixed to hold their fair on our days. The Lorain county fair was changed to September 20 and following days. In August of this year, the society allowed their grounds to be used for a horse or trotting fair. Many attended this that were not disposed to turn out again at the September fair. This, with the novelty and excitement of attending the large fair to be held at Cleveland in October, greatly influenced the people against attending our county fair. The show was never better, but visitors not so numerous as at the two previous fairs.

This year, a new "floral hall" was erected, at a cost of twelve hundred dollars. This was greatly needed, there not being room in the old hall; neither was it fitted up in proper shape for ladies to arrange and display their handiwork to the best advantage. This year an other excursion was made to the island, the boats ''Fieris" and ''Gen. Grant" being chartered for the purpose. This was an enjoyable and profitable undertaking. All passed off in good order, and there were realized for the treasury, three hundred and twenty dollars.

The twenty-sixth annual fair came off September 19, 20, 21, and 22. More entries than at any other fair heretofore. Attendance quite large. Premiums actually paid this year, fifteen hundred dollars. It cannot be maintained that, the Northern Ohio: fair lessened the attendance at Lorain county fair. Never in the history of our society, did all parties seem so harmonious and enthusiastic, as at this fair. The new hall, with the well arranged, and equally well manufactured articles, from domestic, ornamental, floral and fine arts, made a display that had never been equalled in the history of the Lorain county agricultural society. The hall was crowded all the time. Expressions of delight were continually heard, and the board of directors were very grateful for the helping hand of the ladies of Elyria, and the county, who made their display so attractive, which gave a finish to the exhibition, which its predecessors never had.

It had been a subject of considerable talk: "' Why cannot the agricultural society do something more than hold its fair, and meet once a year, to elect officers?" a question always timely, and very important. Ata meeting, held January 27, 1872, R. Baker (who had previously read an address) moved a resolution, which was unanimously adopted:

"That, hereafter, the rule of the Lorain county agricultural society, at the annual meetings, shall be to meet at ten o'clock a.m. That, after the reading of the secretary and treasurer's reports, short papers and addresses, on matters pertaining to the society, shall be in order, That the 'election of officers shall take place at 1 o'clock p. m., after which, discussion shall be resumed."

On motion of ex-president Gates, it was voted that the board call on the Gommissioners-of the county, and again request them to make an appropriation from the county funds, to relieve the society of its indebtedness. In support of this resolution, Col. Gates made quite an extended speech. On motion, his speech was ordered printed. The board met and appointed

Geo. P. Metcalf, secretary; and C. W. Johnston, treasurer. Mr. Johnston refused to serve, and Jay Terrell was appointed treasurer for the ensuing year.

March 4, 1872, the board met, and a resolution was adopted, asking the following persons to act as a committee to solicit donations of money, to be applied toward liquidating the present indebtedness of said socicty. 'The conditions upon which said subscribers are to pay their subscriptions, are: that the committee secure, pledged for said purposes, the sum of $2000.00. The men selected for the several townships, commenced the work, headed by J. H. Boynton, Esq., who himself subscribed seventy-five dollars, he being assigned Elyria and Oberlin. The amount, by the next annual meeting, was nearly all promised, but the fire in March, 1863, destroyed the lists, with books, and other documents, of the society; after which, the persons who had subscribed, and promised to advance the cash as soon as the two thousand dollars were all promised, could never be prevailed upon to come forward and pay the various sums. Had they done this, the debt would have been lifted in 1863.

The third annual picnic and excursion was held at the opening of the T. C. V. Railroad. Three steamers were chartered for the occasion, viz: the ''Evening Star," ''Ferris," and 'Sarah Van Epps." All were ready to take on passengers at the mouth of Black river, before and on the arrival of the train from the south. Quite a number went from Elyria and vicinity, but the crowd by railroad was immense. The ''Rerris" was ordered to touch at Vermillion, to take on one hundred and thirty passengers, but she neglected to enter, and the ''Star" having a full load could not. Consequently, the '"Van Epps" being the last to set off, and President Mills being aboard of her, it was decided for her to call at Vermillion, for which the captain demanded extra pay, she not being chartered to enter that port. The two former boats made good heading and landed the passengers in good time, but the '"'Van Epps," was away back many miles. After spending an enjoyable time on the island - though the pleasure of many was greatly marred by the nonarrival of the other boat, - the two boats left in due season. Being with the commander of the ''Evening Star" he called my attention to a boat just -going into port on the north side of the island, which he claimed was the ''Sarah Van Epps." They landed, and commenced the return. None of the passengers happened to die of old age, but they did not get to Black River till nearly two o'clock, a. m., of next day. This was hard on those who had to stay over at Black River. The train could not go without the balance of her passengers. This made confusion, and spoiled the day's enjoyment. The ''Van Epps" was a poor sailor, and worse yet, it was proved afterwards, that she was unseaworthy at the time. This was kept back from our excellent secretary, who chartered her at the eleventh hour. Notwithstanding, the society gained eight hundred and eighty-four dollars by the excursion.

The twenty-seventh annual fair was held September 17; 18, 19, and 20. The entries were full, but the second and third days, rain was falling incessantly. The grounds were miserable. The board, on the third day, decided to hold open on the fifth day. The fourth day opened fine, and continued all through the two days. <A large attendance each day, so that the society was saved from loss.

The annual meeting was held January 25, 1873, at ten o'clock, a.m. After treasurer's report, President Mills made his annualaddress. Papers and discussion by R. Baker, N. B. Gates, L. M. Pounds, William A, Braman, D. A. Stocking, and W. W. Aldrich. Adjourned to 14, p. m., when a paper was read by H. H. Poppleton, and further discussion. The election resulted as follows:

Ata subsequent meeting it was voted to have a pienic on the fair grounds, on the fourth of July, horse trot, exhibition of new fire engine and a speech from Governor Noyes, or Prof. Monroe. The latter gave the address at the appointed time, which was listened to by a large number of persons. All were greatly pleased, and expressed satisfaction.

On August 20, the annual excursion on the lake and picnic at river came off. The fine steamer ''Northwest" was chartered. The trip on the lake was enjoyed by all; but this large boat was too costly, and the receipts did not meet expenses.

The annnal fair was held September 16 to19. The early part of the season was very dry; grass suffered by grasshoppers being so numerous; fruits mostly a failure, so that some departments of the exhibition were not equal to some previous years. But the display was fair. The receipts at this fair exceeded any previous one, the total being two thousand four hundred and ten dollars and twenty-six cents; about seven hundred dollars cleared from the fair proper.

At the annual meeting held January 31, the president gave his annual address, secretary and treasurer their reports; also other addresses and discussion followed. It was also voted, to hold the annual fairs for the future but three days instead of four days.

Election of officers, the rules being suspended, to elect by ballot. R. Baker was unanimously elected president for the ensuing year; also L. M. Pounds, vice-president, in like manner. The new board organized by appointing J. C. Hill, treasurer, and E. G. Johnson, secretary.

An arrangement was made for an excursion to the coal fields, which came off August 21. The profits of this excursion amounted to one hundred and ninetynine dollars and sixty-three cents in cash, also a great amount of pleasure.

The twenty-ninth annual fair was held September 30 to October 2. The fair was well attended, and the exhibition hardly up to the average of the two or three previous years. The total receipts from fair was two thousand two hundred and eighty-one dollars.

The annual meeting was held in the town hall, Elyria, January 30th, 1875. Secretary and treasurer's reports; president's annual address; essays by T. 8. Metcalf, Wm. A. Braman; address by Prof. N. 8. Townshend, of the ''Ohio State University," and discussion by several others. D, A. Stocking condemned the practice of trotting- horses for money, claiming that the money could be put to a better advantage by offering larger premiums on cattle and horses for all purposes. his gratified and greatly amused the convention, that the veteran horseman should give such good and sound advice, and, if acted would better meet the requirements of the act providing for the organization of county agricultural societies. The election resulted, as follows:

This year an excursion to Niagara Falls was made August 19th. This was gotten up at considerable expense. Arrangement was made to accommodate all by starting cars from Wellington, Vermillion and Norwalk. When the train left Cleveland there was a respectable party. The train was conducted by one of the most experienced of the Lake Shore's able conductors, and we arrived at the falls nearly on time. The party had nearly six hours to view the falls from the different points. President Braman had previously been to Niagara and procured tickets at the lowest prices, and made every arrangement as favorable for the excursionists as possible. Never was greater enthusiasm manifested by any party than by the Lorain visitors. The day was fine and all that could be wished. The clear profits were upwards of one thousand dollars. Though a large crowd took advantage of this trip, others were sorry they did not go; and a second trip was had, which proved very enjoyable to those who went, though not many dollars were added to the treasury; but, as no loss was sustained, all passed off pleasantly. The society being so deeply in debt, the excursion was very beneficial and created a determination to lift the debt as soon as possible. Consequently it was not to be wondered at that the zeal so manifest over the trip.to Niagara should be continued to make the fair next year a great success. Every department was full and some overflowing. -A larger crowd visited the grounds than had in any previous year in the history of the society. Old and young of both sexes were thoroughly aroused to make such a display as should be a credit to old Lorain. Consequently the receipts were ahead of any other fair, being two thousand four hundred and sixty-eight dollars and seventy-three cents. This was fifty-eight dollars more than in 1873. 'Taking this year all in all, so far as the finances are concerned, it was the greatest success the Lorain county agricultural society had ever witnessed. But before another year was to be entered upon, our much respected and efficient president was to suffer a long and painful illness - brought even to death's door. All who knew him, as did the agricultural board, passed many anxious days, almost hoping against hope. But the good Providence saw fit to restore him, and, as we gathered at the annual meeting of 1876, our society and his many friends had bright hopes of his speedy recovery. On that 29th day of January, 1876, W. A. Braman, though confined to his room and scarcely out of danger, was unanimously, for the sixth time, elected president for the ensuing year, and N. B. Gates vice-president. At this meeting Vice-President Gates presided and made the annual address. Papers were read by R. Baker, D. A. Stocking, and discussed by several others. A resolution was also adopted, to present President Braman with a suitable gold watch and chain, as a token of respect and appreciation of his services to the society, and for his indefatigable exertions during the past successful year, which was accordingly done.

This being centennial year, it was decided to hold a celebration on the fair grounds on July the 4th. The board decided to erect a ''log cabin" on the grounds on that day - members of the society having been requested to send in a log each, and be on hand were on hand, and the building commenced, but a regular deluge set in early in the day, and prevented itscompletion. Every possible arrangement was made to secure a day of pleasure and profit for the multitude.. A large procession was formed, and paraded the streets of Elyria. Almost every trade in the county was represented, and manufacturing going on, while the procession was marching, the rain coming down all the time, and greatly marring the proceedings. In the afternoon, Hon. W. W. Boynton read a carefully prepared address, being the early history of Lorain county. The Judge delivered it in his easy and happy style; a large concourse of people were attentive listeners, all expressing themselves as highly gratified, and gave the Judge a rousing vote of thanks for his able production. Fortunately, the rain ceased previous to che address, but the inclement weather prevented the carrying out of the full programme.

The unfinished cabin was finished at an early day - a residence being greatly needed for the keeper of the grounds. This cabin adds to the value of the property, it being a substantial building, made very comfortable for a family. Mr. S. Rawson, a faithful overseer of the grounds, occupies the house.

The fair of this centennial year was not expected to compare favorably with that of 1875, so many having given their time in attending the exhibition at Philadelphia, could not afford to give attention to the Lorain exhibition as they otherwise would have done. Several, who generally exhibited largely, were at the centennial during our fair. The receipts were upwards of two thousand dollars, though not quite sufficient to cover all the expenses of the year, including those of the fourth of July. Quite an amount was incurred in fitting up the cabin, viz: two hundred and twenty dollars. The value of the house was five hundred dollars at least. :

At the annual meeting, Jannary 21, 1877, President Braman gave the annual address; secretary and treasurer's reports followed. Papers were read by N. L. Cotton, N. B. Gates and R. Baker; discussed by others.

The society of this year gave another excursion to Niagara Falls, August 21, which passed off satisfactorily to all parties. Upwards of three hundred and fifty dollars were added to the treasury. These excursions have been a great help in reducing the society's indebtedness. Three years ago the amount of debts was three thousand three hundred dollars, which is now reduced to seven hundred and fifty dollars.

The thirty-second annual fair was held September 19, 20 and 21. The show was scarcely. up to those of a few years past, though quite creditable; the receipts were two thousand two hundred and twenty dollars. The premiums paid amounted to one thousand one hundred and thirty-nine dollars, leaving a good balance in the treasury.

The annual meeting of 1878 was held January 26, President Mills in the chair. The secretary and treasurer gave his report. The president delivered the annual address. N. L. Cotton read a paper on "'winter care of stock;" N. B. Gates, on ''what I know about farming;" and R. Baker, on '' the best breed of cattle for Lorain county." Some discussion followed. A motion was made by R. Baker that a report of the transactions of the Lorain county agricultural society be published annually, in pamphlet form. After considerable discussion, the motion was laid on the table for one year. The election of officers resulted in re-electing mechanic arts was well filled. Vegetables-and apples made a splendid show, being, not only very numerous, but of large size and excellent quality. The ladies' departments, in floral hall, were well filled up with useful and ornamental articles, fine arts, ete. Miss Washburne, the assistant superintendent, showed her skill, in arranging the articles so tastefully. The hall was crowded each day with the ladies, who were unwilling to leave the building until they had examined every article. The decorations made by the young ladies, previous to the exhibition, were highly appreciated by the visitors. The receipts at this fair amounted to two thousand, two hundred and thirty-six dollars. It was quite clear to the board of directors that, ere the annual meeting of 1879, the society would be free from this long and heavy burden of indebtedness. A plan was suggested, to ask all favorable to the association, to subscribe one dollar, This was done, and more than was sufficient for the purpose was raised, leaving, at the annual meeting of the board, December 28, 1878, a cash balance, in the hands of the treasurer, of fifty dollars and twentyfive cents. Some further receipts and payments since that date, leave the account, at this day, January 26, 1879, viz: twenty-four dollars and twenty-five cents in the treasury.

At the thirty-fourth annual meeting, held January 26, 1879, the secretary and treasurer presented his report. President Mills read his annual address, which contains a list of payments, made on land contracts, from the purchase, in 1867, up to taking possession of the deed. The address of President Mills gave the greatest satisfaction. After the president's address, a discussion followed.

C.S. Mills, president; John W. Hart, vice president; directors for two years, Freeman Parmely, H. Moores, Ed. Hance, and William W. Penfield; for one year, (per J. W. Hart, vice president) H. M. Axtell, Those holding over, S. B. Dudley, R. Baker, and H. E. Corning. The present board appointed F. G. Johnson, secretary and treasurer for the ensuing year.

After the election, papers were read by R. Baker on ''the necessity of a better system of husbandry; " William A. Braman (claimed by the writer to be) "a paper without a subject," and N. B. Gates presented a paper, in part, and finished with his accustomed offhand remarks respecting farming in Connecticut, ete. To the society was sent, by a member of the legislature, for distribution, some seventy copies of the "'Ohio State Board of Agriculture Reports."

The history of the society is here given from its organization up to the thirty-fourth annual meeting, 1879. . To have given all the details would have encroached too much on the pages of this county history. Sufficient is included to give a correct idea of its progress, the many difficulties the early officers had to contend with, and the determined zeal manifested by them. Much is missing on account of the loss of important papers consumed by the fire of 1873. Itis to be regretted that the names of persons, and the amounts subscribed by them, for the fitting up of the new grounds in 1867 cannot be inserted, the list being also burnt up. But, to the credit of many let it be recorded, that individuals gave liberally, from twenty-five to fifty. dollars, and also donated a part, and in many cases the whole of the premiums awarded to them in 1867 and 1868, some waiting over a year for their premium money. It will be admitted by many readers of this history that many of the members subscribed all, or more, than they were able. Many of the enterprising farmers of the county appreciate the benefits derived through this organization. It must be conceded that through the influence of this society, the agriculture, etc., of the county has been improved to such a degree that the wealth of the county, by way of live stock and improved culture, is vastly greater than it otherwise would have been. It will be disputed by none that this society has been the means of vast improvement in the breeds of stock, and of great benefit to agriculture and the mechanic arts. The farmers raise better cattle, horses, sheep, and swine, while the number, variety, and quality of manufactured articles are far in advance of what they would have been but for this organization. It has imparted a healthy stimulus to every branch of industry.

The dairying interests of the county are being developed. Dairymen, having excellent breeds of cattle to select from, are endeavoring to use those that will make the best return, by way of milk, cheese and butter. The county is noted as producing the finest quality of cheese, and the richest and sweetest butter of any county in the State. Im the opinion of the most thoughtful, it would have been better had the society conformed to the requirements of the act, passed in 1846, for the encouragement of agriculture, etc. For years, the society offered inducements for improved plowing. The last contest for best plowing was in 1860. Here was the first great mistake. Also, encouragement was given for the best cultivated farm. This was dropped in 1863. The offering made for the best crops of grain, etc., have been discontinued since 1873. All these, I think, should have been continued, and should have formed a prominent part in the premiums offered by the society. But, notwithstanding all these shortcomings, we find, by the reports of various county societies, of Ohio, sent in to the State board of agriculture, at the convention of 1879, that Lorain stands nearly at par with the best, and, in some matters, takes the lead.

The society was fortunate in selecting the present location; the grounds being beautifully situated, and, have become valuable, by increasing from two thousand seven hundred and seven dollars and fifty cents, to upwards of twenty thousand dollars. In the year 1873 previous to the panic, it wasclaimed that the grounds could be sold for twenty-five thousand dollars. There may be larger county fair grounds in the State, but none better located, or grounds better adapted for holding a county exhibition. And now, the debt being removed, improved and more appropriate buildings can shortly be erected, and the organization will be in such a position that every member will, not only appreciate, but be proud of it, and, in the next decade, it will become more efficient, and, consequently, more useful and beneficial to the agriculturists, horticulturists, mechanics and stock raisers of Lorain county.

Lorain In The Rebellion

All remember the early days of 1861. Sumter had fallen; the Southern Confederacy was formed; the South, with stolen munitions of war, and stolen money, had organized a formidable army; secession was unmistakably resolved upon. So appalling were these events, that the North stood awhile paralyzed and awe stricken. Then came our President's call for seventy-five thousand men. Everywhere throughout the Northern States there was a hearty response - nowhere was it heartier than upon the Reserve of Northern Ohio. Lorain took a gallant part in this first outburst of northern patriotism; and during the entire period of the war, there was no time when she was found faithless to duty. Wherever danger lurked thickest, there we find the Lorain boys. Many, very many never returned; their lives went out as a sacrifice. They died the noblest deaths for their country, and beneath the skies of the sunny South, where the groves of the magnolia and the orange shed an undying perfume - the spot, perhaps, unmarked and unknown - they ''sleep the sleep that knows no waking."

"Rest on, embalmed and sainted dead, Dear as the blood ye gave; No traitor's footsteps e'er shall tread The herbage o'er your grave; Nor shall your glory be forgot While Fame her record keeps,

«'«The real heroes of this war are the great, brave, patient, nameless people.' It is to their service through these varied scenes that we now gladly turn. The victory was not won through generalship - it is a libel on the word to say that generalship delayed for four years the success of twenty-five millions in conflict with ten millions, or required a million mén in the closing campaigns to defeat a hundred thousand; it was won by the sacrifices, the heroism, the sufferings and the death of the men in the ranks. Their story we now seek totell. It will not be picturesque or attractive, but full of dry details of fruitless fighting, of tedious marches, of heroic endurance, of patience, and of weariness. Even such was the life they led for us; and its record, we are firmly persuaded, will never cease to be cherished by their grateful countrymen."

But let us not forget to pay a tribute of gratitude and just praise to the noble and heroic women of Lorain county, for their labors of affection and mercy during these weary, gloomy days. Their generous, loving hearts sent forth pitying tears and prayers for the safety of loved ones, and the preservation of the Union. While fair hands, many of them unused to labor, were occupied in preparing comforts for the well, dainties for the sick, necessaries for the wounded, and cheer for all, noble and self-sacrificing women all over the North formed themselves into aid societies, the good results of which can hardly be over-estimated. arly and late these angels of mercy toiled and gathered, forwarding boxes of everything needed by the soldier. Yet, could the senders have seen the tears of joy which often greeted its reception, they would have felt amply compensated.

The historical sketches of the organizations following are from the very valuable work, ''Ohio in the War," by Whitelaw Reid. We have spent considerable time at the office of the adjutant-gencral, at Columbus, in procuring records. Many muster-rolls are incomplete, or missing altogether; those of the three-months' men especially are nearly all destroyed. In cases where less than full companies of men report for muster, the column on the muster roll, headed 'where enrolled," will be filled with the place of rendezvous - for instance, the greater part of the soldiers from north-eastern Ohio rendezyoused at Camp Taylor, near Cleveland. They are so recorded at the office of the adjutant-general, and no reference whatever is made to the county in which they resided when enlistment occurred. We have, by correspendence with ex-company officers, endeavored to obtain the name of every citizen of Lorain county who was a soldier of the rebellion, and if omissions occur, the boys" will, we trust, be charitable, believing that we have done all that circumstances would allow.

Seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry

The first rebel gun fired at Fort Sumter was the signal for the assemblage of this regiment, and its echo had scarcely died out in the North ere this regiment was in camp. It was made up entirely in Northern Ohio, went into camp near Cleveland, Ohio, and was mustered into the United States service on April 30, 1861. John 8. Casement, of Painesville, was its first major. He resigned after a time, and assisted in raising other organizations. He ascended the steps of promotion until, we believe, he was brigadier-general when he left the service. At the expiration of the term of service for which they were mustered, the regiment re-enlisted, almost to a man, for three years; and on-June 26, 1861, it started for the field to take part in the opening of the campaign in Western Virginia, and on the following day first set; foot on rebel soil, near Benwood. They marched along the line of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad to Clarksburg and went into camp. Here a beautiful stand of coloys was presented to the regiment by

Captain Schulte, in behalf of the ''Social Turnverein," of Cleveland, June 29. The regiment made its first march fully equipped. The day was oppressively hot, and before one mile had been laboriously overcome, many valuable and useful articles, supposed to be absolutely indispensable, had become an intolerable burden; at three miles, when a halt was ordered, the men went deliberately to work reducing their baggage. Blankets, dress uniforms, books, under-clothing, and every article that could possibly be dispensed with, were emptied on the ground and left there. This march terminated at Weston. After doing considerwble marching, the regiment reached Cross Lanes on the 16th of August; and it was here, on the 25th of the same month, that they had their first fight, which proved a disastrous affair; the regiment being obliged to retreat, although they held their position for some time against overwhelming numbers. 'Their loss was one hundred and twenty in killed, wounded and prisoners. The next battle was at Winchester, March 23. At three o'clock p.m. the battle began in earnest and raged furiously until dark, resulting in suecess to the Union army. Again at Port Republic the "Seventh" fought splendidly and effectively. Here, with less than three thousand muskets, ''Stonewall" Jackson's force of fourteen thousand rebel troops were held at bay for five hours. 'The Union forces were, however, obliged finally to retreat. On August 9, at Oedar Mountain, the regiment was again at the front and engaged in a fieree hand-to-hand conflict. Of the three hundred men engaged in the '"'Seventh" only one hundred escapéd unhurt. Their next battle was at Antietam, but it would require a volume to tell of wll the fighting this regiment did. On Saturday, June 24, 1864, the regiment took its departure for Cleveland, where it was mustered out of the service on the 8th day of July following, having served a little more than three years. During that time eighteen hundred men had served in it, and when mustered out there were but two hundred and forty men remaining to bring home their colors, pierced by the shot and shell of more than a score of battles.

The Eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry

was originally organized as a three months' regiment under the first call of the President, most of the companies haying been enlisted between the 16th and 22d days of April, 1861, and all of them arriving at Camp Taylor, Cleveland, as early as April 29.

On the 2d of May, all the companies having been mustered into the service, the regiment was ordered to Camp Dennison, where it arrived on the 3d, during a drenching rain, and many of the men, for the first time in their lives, slept in the open air, with only a soldier's blanket for floor, roof, walls and bed clothes. The regimental organization was here completed by the appointment of the field and staff officers.

service; but it soon became evident that the troops at this camp would not be sent to the field as three months' men, and an effort was made to re-enlist the regiment fcr three years. To this every company responded except Company I, and the regiment of nine companies was mustered into the service for three years, on the 22d, 25th and 26th of June.

On the 9th day of July, 1861, the regiment left Camp Dennison for Grafton, Virginia, and on the 12th arrived at West Union, Preston county, Va., on the summit of the Alleghany mountains where they are crossed by the Great Western Turnpike, ana along which Garnett's rebel army was then being rapidly «riven by McClellan's troops.

For some weeks after this the regiment was stationed at various places among the mountains and along the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, during which time it suffered severely from typhoid fever; at one time over three hundred men were in hospital, and some thirty-four deaths resulted from the fever in a short time. On the 24th of September the regiment participated in an attack on Romney. At the ''Hanging Rock" it was exposed to a severe fire, and lost several men in killed'and a number wounded. The regiment again participated in an attack on Romney, October 24; which, being evacuated by the enemy, was occupied by the troops under General Kelley until January 12, 1862. The next fight was at Blue Gap. In January the troops were removed to Patterson's Creek, and the following month to Pawpaw Tunnel. On February 14 the Eighth participated in a brisk fight at Bloomey Gap, in which Colonel Baldwin, with his staff and a part of his command, were captured. General Lander died March 2, and shortly after the division moved to the Shenandoah Valley, where General Shields took command. On March 22, the outposts at Winchester were attacked by Ashby and General Shields severely wounded. The next day the battle of Winchester was fought. But few of the troops had ever been under fire, and none of them, as then organized, in any serious engagements. Colonel Kimball commanded, and made his arrangements to whip Stonewall Jackson, who had arrived during the night. The battle was one of the most severe of the war. Jackson, towards evening, attempted to turn our right fiank, but was met by Tyler's brigade in front, when Colonel Kimball threw several regiments on his right flank, and, after a desperate fight, which in some instances was hand to hand, the enemy was routed and driven furiously from the field. The regiment followed the enemy up the valley, skirmishing at Woodstock, Mount Jackson, Edinburgh and New Market; thence it joined McDowell at Fredericks- ~ burg. Here it remained a few days and was ordered back to the valley again. In the meantime Banks had executed one of those retrograde movements for which he became eminently conspicuous ere the close of the war.

The Potomac was crossed at Chain Rridge, and the march through Maryland commenced, which ended in the battles of South Mountain and Antietam. Near Reedyville the whole army was massed by the morning of September 16, and a furious artillery duel commenced. One of the first of the enemy's shots killed W. W. Farmer, a color-sergeant of the Highth. This cannonade lasted all day. The next day the battle of Antietam was fought. The second corps crossed the river and occupied the center of the line. It did effective work that day.

In the terrible battle of Fredericksburg, on December 13, the Kighth formed the right wing of the forlorn hope. At the battle of Chancellorsville, beginning April 28, 1863, the Eighth was almost constantly under fire for four days, and yet its loss was only two killed and eleven wounded. 'The brigade was at this time, and subsequently, commanded by General Carroll.

No further active service was had until the Gettysburg campaign. In that battle the regiment bore a conspicuous part, capturing three stands of colors. After the escape of Lee's army across the Potomac, the Eighth marched with the army to the Rapidan; but we have not space to record all the fighting done by the regiment; suffice it to say, that, from this date until June 25, 1864, when its term of service expired, and the little squad, who numbered but seventy-two officers and men, fit for duty, were taken from the trenches before Petersburg and returned to Ohio for muster out, they were almost constantly in active service of the severest character.

Twenty-Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry

At the commencement of the war it was organized and ofticered as follows: Colonel, William §. Rosgecrans; Licutenant-colonel, Stanley Matthews; Major, Rutherford B. Hayes.

The position of these officers has been quite different since those days - in fact, too well known to need repetition. Under command of Colonel E. P. Scammon, the Twenty-third went into active service in West Virginia, meeting with the new and exciting events common to inexperienced soldiers, which were almost forgotten amid the sterner and sad realities of active warfare.

The regiment participated in the battles of Carnifex Ferry, Virginia, September 10, 1861; Giles Courthouse, May 10, 1862; and had the honor of opening the battle of South Mountain, September 14, 1862, where it lost thirty-three men killed and eighty third Ohio and Twelfth and Twenty-third North Carolina - Companies B on each side - were directly engaged with each other. The Twenty-third, under command of Lieutenant-colonel Hayes, was in the advance on that day. It was ordered at an early hour to advance up the mountain and attack the enemy. From behind stone walls the enemy poured a destructive fire into the Federal ranks at very short range. 'he command of the Twenty-third fell upon Major Comly after Lieutenant-colonel Hayes was wounded, the latter again making his appearance on the field, with his wound half dressed, and fought, against the remonstrances of the whole command, until carried off. Near the close of the day at Antietam a change was made by the division to which the Twenty-third belonged, and it was exposed to a large force of the enemy posted in a cornfield in the rear of the left. Its colors were shot down, and at the same time a feint was made in its front. The colors were planted on a new line at right angles with its former front, and the regiment formed a line in the new direction, and opened fire twpon the enemy, who retired. The division withdrew, but no order reached the Twenty-third, and it remained on the field until the division commander returned and ordered it to the rear. The Twenty-third assisted in heading off Morgan's command at Buffington's Island, and then returned to Charlestown, West Virginia, and afterwards joined General Crook's forces for a raid on the Virginia and Tennessee railroad. May 9, 1864, the T'wentythird fought at Cloyd Mountain. The enemy occupied the first crest of the mountain, defended by artillery and rudely-constructed breastworks. The hill was steep, thickly wooded, and difficult of ascent, and skirted by a stream of water two or three feet deep. At the word of command the regiment advanced across the stream to the foot of the mountain, under a heavy fire of musketry and 'artillery, without returning the fire of the enemy. A furious assault was made upon the enemy's works, carrying them, with two pieces of artillery. The struggle at the guns was of the fiercest description. The Confederate artillerymen attempted to reload their pieces when the Federal line was not more than ten paces distant. The Twenty-third was with Hunter in the attack on Lynchburg, and in numerous skirmishes and battles in the Shenandoah valley. At Winchester, July 24, 1864, it lost one hundred and fifty-three men. At the battle of .Opequan, September 19, Hayes' brigade had the extreme right of the infantry. Moving forward under fire, the brigade came upon a deep slough, forty or fifty yards wide, and nearly waist-deep, with soft mud at the bottom, overgrown with a thick bed of moss. It seemed impossible to get through it, and the whole line was staggered for a moment. Just then Colonel Hayes plunged in with his horse, and under a shower of bullets and shells he rode, waded, and dragged his way through - the first man over. The %'wenty-third was ordered by the right flank over the slough. At the same place men were suffocated and drowned; still the regiment plunged through, re-formed, charged forward again, driving the enemy. The division commander was wounded, leaving Colonel Hayes in command. He was everywhere exposing himself as usual; men were falling all around him, but he rode through it all as though he had a charmed life. No reinforcements, as promised; something must be done to stop the fire that is cutting the force so terribly. Selecting some Saxony rifles in the Twenty-third, pieces of seventy-one calibre, with a range of twelve hundred yards, Lieutenant McBride was ordered forward with them to kill the enemy's artillery horses, in plain sight. At the first shot a horse drops, immediately another is killed, and a panic seems to seize the artillerymen, and they commence limbering up. The infantry take the alarm, and a few commence running from the intrenchments, and the cavalry, which had been hovering upon the flanks, swept down upon the enemy, capturing them by regiments, and the battle was at an end. The Twenty-third fought at North Mountain, September 20, 1864, and at Cedar Creek, October 19 - a day that is a household word throughout the land. The Twenty-third was mustered out on the 26th day of July, 1865, at Cumberland, Maryland, and was paid and disbanded at Camp Taylor, Cleveland, Ohio.

Forty-First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry

Immediately after the battle of Bull Run, a number of the citizens of Cleveland, Ohio, set about raising a regiment, and the result of their labors was the Forty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which Captain William B. Hazen, Eighth United States Infantry, was appointed colonel. The camp of rendezvous was established near Cleveland. By the first of September, a large number of men were in camp, and the work of instruction had commenced. An officers' school was instituted, and the strictest discipline enforced, and, by the time the regiment was mustered as complete, on the 31st of October, 1861, the officers and men understood their duties well, and were quite proficient in drill. On November 6, the regiment 'moved, by rail, to Camp Dennison,. where it was supplied with arms. These consisted of the Greenwood rifle, a weapon nearly useless, and soon discarded by the government. After a week at Camp Dennison, the regiment proceeded to Gallipolis, taking steamer from Cincinnati.

A few raiding excursions, from this point into Virginia, was the only relief from daily drills, and in the latter part of the month, the regiment was ordered to Louisville, and reported to General Buell, then organizing the army of Ohio. The Forty-first became a part of the Fifteenth brigade, Nelson's division, and, during the winter, remained at Camp Wickliffe, Kentucky. Here, the Forty-first was made the nucleus of a new brigade, (the Nineteenth), to which were assigned the Forty-sixth and Forty-seventh Indiana,

On the 14th of February, 1862, Nelson's division marched to West Point, which was reached after a severe march of three days. Here, the two Indiana regiments were sent to Grant. Nelson embarked on transports for the Tennessee river, and arrived at Nashville on the 27th of February, 1862. About the middle of March, the regiment moved with the army to Savannah, on the Tennessee river, arriving within two miles of that point, the Saturday preceding the battle of Pittsburg Landing. Heavy firing was heard on the morning of the 6th of April, and, at one o'clock, p. m., after being supplied with rations and ammunition, the regiment moved for Pittsburg Landing, one company, (G), being left to guard the camp and garrison equipage. At five o'clock, the troops arrived opposite the battle-field, and Hazen's brigade was the second to cross the river. The regiment lay, that night, on the field, in the driving rain, among the dead and wounded, and, at day-light, moved forward in its first engagement.

The Forty-first was on the right of Nelson's division, and, when the rebels were discovered to be advancing, Hazen's brigade was ordered to charge. The Forty-first was placed in the front line, and advanced steadily, through a dense thicket of undergrowth, and, emerging in the more open ground, was saluted with a murderous fire. The line still advanced, checked the approaching rebels, drove them back beyond their fortifications, and captured their guns. Three officers and three men, who, at different times, carried the colors in the charge, were shot down, either killed or wounded, and, of the three hundred and seventythree who entered the engagement, one hundred and forty-one were either killed or wounded, and this, too, in the space of half an hour.

The night after the battle, Hazen's brigade, as an outlying force, occupied the Tan Bark road, upon the left of the army. 'The regiment occupied a miserable camp on the field of battle, surrounded by the half buried bodies of men and horses, until the army moved on Corinth. The regiment suffered very much from exposure, during the march, and in the operations immediately following. The Forty-first was with Buell's army, on its march to Louisville, moying, day after day, over dirty roads, with short rations and water scarce, until, nearly exhausted, ragged and dirty, it entered Louisville, on the West Point road, and encamped, for a three days' rest. On the 2d of October, the regiment. marched against Bragg. At the battle of. Perryville, its duties were, principally, skirmishing. .

December 26, the Forty-first, with the army, moved on Murfreesboro. At midnight, on the 30th, the regiment took position in the first line, facing Cowan's house, and from this time, until the cessation of hostilities, was actively engaged. Of the four hundred

January, 10, 1863, the regiment moved to Reedyville, where it remained, in comparative quiet, until the 24th of the following June, when the command moved to Tullahoma; but, that place being evacuated before they reached it, the troops returned to Manchester, and went into camp.

Tents were struck on the 15th of August, and the command moved toward Chattanooga. The morning of the 19th of September found the regiment again on the bank of the Chickamauga, near Gordon's Mills. About nine o'clock, a. m., the battle commenced, and, at one o'clock, p. m., Palmer's division, (in which the Forty-first was), went into the fight, attacking in echelon by brigades, Hazen's brigade being the first echelon. The regiment advanced rapidly, over an open field, toastrip of woods. After holding the position two hours, and, during the time, losing a hundred men, the regiment was withdrawn. They were immediately moved to the assistance of General VanCleve. They were continually under fire, and, at last, the brigade was formed in columns, by regiments, and advancing, one after the other, delivered its volley into the dense masses of the rebels, who reeled and fell back. This was the last fighting on Chickamauga. The next day was spent on Mission Ridge, and, the following night, the regiment retired to Chattanooga.

In the re-organization of the army, Hazen's brigade was composed of the First, Forty-first, and Ninetythird Ohio, Fifth Kentucky and Sixth Indiana, and was assigned to the fourth army corps, Major-general Gordon Granger, commanding.

At three o'clock in the morning of October 27, fifty-two pontoons, bearing Hazen's brigade, pushed out silently from Chattanooga, and floated down the river. ' In half an hour's time, the leading pontoons were passing in front of the enemy's pickets on the bank, a hundred feet above. 'T'he conversation of the rebels could be distinctly heard, but their attention was not once directed to the twelve hundred silent enemies floating past, within pistol shot. Just as the first pontoon arrived opposite its landing, it was discovered; but the landing was effected, the pickets driven in, and the hill gained. When the morning haze cleared away, the rebels on Lookout saw the hills beneath them, commanding two roads to Bridgeport, covered with blue-coats, in a position from which they

At noon, on the 23d of November, the brigade was ordered to fall in, for a reconnoissance. The brigade advanced briskly, driving the enemy's skirmishers into a dense undergrowth, on a small ridge, between Chattanooga and Mission Ridge. The line followed, and received a heavy fire. Nothing could be seen; but it was too hot a fire to bear quietly. Colonel Wiley ordered the regiment to charge, and orders from

Hazen, at the same time, directed the taking of th® line on the hill. The Forty-first delivered a volley, trusting to fortune for its effect, then dashed forward through the thicket, through the balls, up to, and into the rebel works, capturing the colors of the Twenty-eighth Alabamba regiment. In this, its severest, engagemement, the Forty-first was associated with the Ninety-third Ohio, which shared fully the danger and honor of the fight. The position was held without trouble, and was known as Orchard Knob. Soon after the fight, Generals Grant, Thomas and others passed along the new line, when Thomas, looking at the ground within fifty paces of the rebel works, where the fight had been fiercest, and, where lay the horses of Colonel Willey and Lieutenant-colonel Kimberley, called for the officers of the regiment, and said to Colonel Willey: '' Colonel, I want you to express to your men my thanks for their splendid conduct this afternoon. It was a gallant thing, Colonel - a very gallant thing." That, from General Thomas, was better than an hour's speech from any other man.

On the 25th, Hazen's brigade moved across the valley from Orchard Knob to Mission Ridge, under a heavy artillery fire; and, at' the foot of the ridge, a dash was made and the enemies' works captured. The troops were here exposed to canister and musketry, and to remain was impossible: so they advanced up the steep hill, swept by an enfilading fire of artillery; up they went, and when near the top, the fire of the Forty-first was directed to the batteries on the right. The rebels retired, and, with acheer, the line occupied the works on the ridge. A squad of the Forty-first seized a battery almost before the rebels were away from it, turned it to the right, and discharged it directly along the summit of the ridge, where the enemy in front of Newton's division still stubbornly held out; and, as the shells went skimming along in front of and among them, the rebels turned and fled. Eighteen captured pieces of artillery graced General Hazen's headquarters that night, of which the Fortyfirst and Ninty-third could fairly claim six as their trophies, while the former also captured a battle-flag. The losses were severe. One hundred and fifteen of the Forty-first, most of them in the fight of the 23d had fallen.

After resting scarcely long enough to bury the dead, the regiment moved with its corps for Knoxville. Supplies had been scarce, and, before the march was half accomplished, two-thirds of the men were walking over the frozen ground bare-footed; but with their feet wrapped up in sheep-skins and cow-hides they journeyed on, and finally reached Clinch Mountain, twenty miles above Knoxville. Here the regiment re-enlisted, one hundred and eighty out of one hundred and eighty-eight becoming veterans, and on the 5th of January, 1864, started for Chattanooga, and reached Cleveland, Ohio, on the 2d of February.

and was placed in a battalion with the First Ohio, Lieutenant-colonel Kimberly commanding. At Rocky Face Ridge the battalion was complimented for its steadiness under a galling fire, and at Resaca it gained a crest within seventy-five yards of the enemies' main line, and effectually preyented the use of his artillery. At Dallas, on May 26, the Forty-first lost one hundred and eighty men out of two hundred and sixty. During subsequent movements the regiment was engaged at Peach Tree creek, before Atlanta, in the movement against Hood, in December, where it did noble work; it participated in the pursuit of Hood, and finally rested at Huntsville, Alabama.

In June, 1865, the corps embarked at Nashville for Texas. Near Cairo the steamer collided with a gunboat, and sunk ina few minutes, with all the regimental and company papers and most of the personal property of the officers and men. Fortunately no lives were lost. In Texas the regiment was stationed near San Antonio until November, when it was ordered to be mustered out. It reached Columbus, Ohio, about the middle of the month, and was discharged on the 26th of November, 1865, after four years and one month's service.

Forty-Second Regiment Ohio Infantry

The Forty-Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry was organized at Camp Chase, near Columbus, Ohio. Companies A, B, C, and D, were mustered into the service September 25, 1861; company E, October 30; company F, November 12; and companies G, H, I, and K, November 26, at which time the organization was completed.

McLaughlin's squadron of Ohio Cavalry, proceeded to Green Creek. Another advance was made December 31, and on the night of January 7, 1862, the whole command encamped within three miles of Paintyille. The next morning five companies, under command of Lieutenant-colonel Sheldon took possession of the village. On the evening of the same day Colonel Garfield took the Forty-second and two companies of the Fourteenth Kentucky, and advanced against Marshall's fortified position, about three miles south of Paintville village. Arriving at about nine o'clock, p. m. they found the works evacuated, and everything valuable either carried away or destroyed; marching all night, they reached Paintville a little after daylight.

About noon on the 9th, Colonel Garfield, with eleven hundred infantry from the Forty-second Ohio, and other regiments, and about six hundred cavalry started in pursuit of Marshall, and about nine o'clock in the evening the advance was fired upon by Marshall's pickets, on the summit of Abbott's Hill. Garfield took possession of the hill, bivouacked for the night and the next morning continued the pursuit, overtaking the enemy at the forks of Middle Creek, three miles southwest of Prestonburg. Marshall's force consisted of about three thousand five hundred men, infantry and cavalry, with three piece' of artillery. Major Pardee, with four hundred men, was sent across Middle Creek to attack Marshall directly in front, and Lieutenant-colonel Monroe (Twenty-second Kentucky) was directed to attack on Marshall's right flank. The fight at once opened with considerable spirit, and Pardee and Monroe became hotly engaged with a force four times as large as their own. They held their ground with great obstinacy and bravery until reinforcements reached the field, when the enemy commenced to fall back. The National forces slept upon their arms, and at early dawn a reconnoissance disclosed the fact that Marshall had burned his stores and fled, leaving a portion of his dead upon the field. From this date, for a considerable time, the regiment was engaged in several expeditions against guerrillas.

The arduous nature of the campaign, the exceedingly disagreeable weather, and the want of supplies, were disastrous to the health of the troops, and some eighty-five of the Forty-second died of disease. On June 18, this regiment led the advance, and was the first to plant the starry ensign on the stronghold of Cumberland Gap. When the regiment left the Gap it numbered seven hundred and fifty men, and while on the march there were issued to it two hundred and seventy-five pounds of flour, four hundred pounds of bacon, and two rations of fresh pork: the rest of the food consisted of corn grated down on tin plates and cooked upon them. 'The distance marched was two hundred and fifty miles. The weather was very dry and the men suffered for water. They were without shoes, and their clothing was ragged and filthy. The Forty-second lost but one man from all causes, and it was the only regiment that brought through its knapsacks and blankets. These proved of great service, as the men were compelled to camp at Portland, Jackson county, Ohio, two weeks before clothing, camp and garrison equipage could be furnished them. While at Portland the regiment received one hundred and three recruits, and at Memphis, whither it arrived on Noyember 28, sixty-five more. It had from time to time received a few, so that the whole number reached two hundred or more, and the regiment could turn out on parade nearly nine hundred men. Here the division was re-organized, and denominated the Ninth division, Thirteenth army corps.

On the 20th of December the Forty-second, with other troops, under General W. T. Sherman, embarked at Memphis, and proceeding down the river, landed at Johnston's plantation on the Yazoo. The Forty-second led the advance against the defences of Vicksburg on the 27th of December, and skirmished with the enemy until dark. The next morning the regiment resumed the attack, and by a charge, which was made with great spirit, succeeded in gaining possession of the woods, driving the Rebels into their works. About nine o'clock, .a. m., on the 29th, a charge was made, the Forty-second being on the extreme right of the assaulting column. The storm of shot and shell was terrific, but the regiment maintained its organization and came off the field in good order. An important victory foliowed, in January, 1863, being the assault upon and capture of Fort Hindman, Arkansas. In this the regiment led the advance. The spoils were seven thousand prisoners, all the guns and small arms, and a large quantity of stores. At Port Gibson the regiment had hot work, and sustained a heavier loss than any regiment in the corps. After the surrender of Vicksburg the regiment marched to Jackson and participated in the reduction of that place, and then returned to Vicksburg, where it remained until ordered to the Department of the Gulf. Companies A, B, C, and D, were mustered out at Camp Chase, Ohio, September 30, 1864. The remaining six companies were ordered to Duvall's Bluff, Arkansas. Companies EK and F were mustered out November 25, and the other four companies, December 2, 1864. One hundred and one men remained, whose term of service had not expired, and they were organized into a company and assigned to the Ninety-sixth Ohio.

Forty-Third Regiment Ohio Infantry

This regiment was organized at Camp Andrews, Mount Vernon, Ohio, February 7, 1862, and left its rendezvous for the front on the 21st of the same month. On the 26th of February, it reported to Brigadier-General John Pope, commanding the district of Mississippi, and was at once assigned to the Ohio brigade, composed of the Twenty-seventh, Thirtyninth, Forty-third and Sixty-third regiments, first division, army of the Mississippi.

It was but a few days before the regiment was introduced to active service, for in March, 1862, it was under fire at New Madrid, Missouri; and in all the operations against that post, it bore a prominent part, especially in its final bombardment and capture on the 13th and 14th of March. The loss of the regiment in killed and wounded was quite severe.

In the movements against Island No. 10, and the crossing of the Mississippi river in the face of the enemy, the Forty-third bore a conspicuous part, as it did also in the subsequent capture of the forces of General McCall, at Tiptonville, Tennessee. The next movement was against Fort Pillow. In all the operations of that campaign, the Forty-third bore its part. The actions of the 8th, 9th and 20th of May, may be particularly mentioned. At Corinth, the Forty-third was posted immediately on the left of Battery Robinett, and the Sixty-third on the right of the battery; and it is said these two regiments did more to save the day than any other organization engaged. The grand assault of the rebels was made at daylight on the 4th of October. They opened on Battery Robinett with artillery at about three hundred yards, and at

10 o'clock a. m., led by Colonel Rogers, of the Second Texas, moved forward to the assault. The Fortythird and Sixty-third Ohio stood firmly at their posts, and succeeded in staggering the assaulting column, and in hurling it back, at a time when our lines were broken and our troops were seen flying from every other part of the field. The opposing forces were but a few feet apart, and fought almost hand to hand, and men went down on both sides in great numbers. Colonel Smith fell mortally wounded at the first onset, while gallantly discharging his duty. Adjutant Heyl and Captain Spangler were killed at about the same moment. Captain 8. F. Timmons and Lieutenant S. McClaren, A. L. Howe and H. L. Prophet received honorable wounds. The casualties among the men were very severe. In a few minutes of fighting, over one-fourth of those engaged of the Forty-third were either killed or wounded. Colonel Smith died eight days after the battle. The next movement of the Forty-third was with Grant's army, at Oxford, Miss. In the campaign against Forrest, in West Tennessee, in the winter of 1862-63, and in General Dodge's raid in North Alabama, in April, the Fortythird was with General Sherman when he made his memorable march from Memphis to the relief of the army of the Cumberland.

In December, 1863, the regiment almost unanimously re-enlisted as veterans, and went home on a furlough of thirty days. Returning, the regiment assisted at the capture of Decatur, Alabama, and lay at this point until the opening of General Shermian's campaign against Atlanta. On the 1st of May, 1864, the command began the march for Chattanooga. On the 13th, it was engaged in the advance on Resaca, and suffered severely. At Dallas, the Forty-third took an important part; and in the advance on the enemy's position near Big Shanty, Company D, of the regiment, participated in a most brilliant charge of skirmishers, capturing a strong barricade from the

Immediately thereafter came the siege of Kenesaw, with its deadly skirmishing, its grand cannonading, and the disastrous repulse of the national forces on the 29th of June.

The Forty-third participated in the general movements of the corps until the advance of the army on Decatur, when it was detached to hold the bridge across the Chattahoochie. .This was successfully accomplished, and during the remainder of the Atlanta campaign, the Forty-third shared the trials and glories of the sixteenth Army Corps; and on the 4th and 7th of August, particularly, in advancing the national lines, won the thanks of Ransom, the division commander, by splendid and steady fighting. After the fall of Atlanta, the Forty-third enjoyed General Sherman's '*full month's rest." Ater this, the regiment participated in the chase after Hood, as far as Resaca, and then hurried back to join Sherman in his great ''march to the sea." Of this campaign, the history of one regiment is the history of all. It was a daily succession of easy marches, with little interruption, with plenty of forage for both man and best, and full of pleasant adventure. Savannah was reached and besieged. In this the Forty-third performed its full share of duty.

In January, 1865, the regiment moved to Beaufort, and directly afterward upon Pocotaligo, where it lay until the beginning of Sherman's march through the Carolinas. On the 2d of February, the Seventeenth Corps crossed Whippy swamp, and were soon confronting the enemy, who were strongly posted at River's Bridge. Here Colonel Swayne lost a leg by a shell. The regiment lost in him a brave and competent leader, who had been with it from its organization, and who had always shown the utmost devotion to its interests. The next day, the regiment received a baptism of fire, in a charge on a battery which commanded the bridge and the causeway approaching it. Down this narrow causeway the regiment rushed amid a storm of shot and shell, compelling the rebels to withdraw the battery and uncover the crossing. The war closing, the regiment went to Washington, and took part in the grand review; returning to Ohio, it was mustered out of service on the 13th of July, 1865.

Fifty-Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry

Recruiting for this regiment began in the latter part of the summer of 1861, the place of rendezvous being Camp Dennison, where the regiment was organized and drilled during the fall of 1861. The regiment went into the field on the 17th of February, 1862, with an aggregate of eight hundred and fifty men. It reached Paducah, Kentucky, February 20, and was

_assigned to a brigade in the division commanded by General Sherman. On the 6th of April, the regiment engaged in the battle of Pittsburg Landing, its position being on the extreme left of the army; but, on the second day, it was assigned a new position near the center of the line.

In the two days' fighting, the regiment sustained a loss of one hundred and ninety-eight men killed, wounded and missing. The regiment was next engaged upon the movement upon Corinth, and, upon the evacuation of that point, was among the first organized bodies to enter the town, and afterward performed provost duty there. During the summer, the regiment was engaged in several short expeditions. It was engaged in the assault on Chickasaw Bayou, December 28 and 29, with a loss of twenty killed and wounded. January 1, 1863, the regiment ascended the Mississippi and Arkansas rivers, and engaged in the assault and capture of Arkansas Post. On the

-6th of May, the regiment began its march to the rear of Vicksburg, by way of Grand Gulf, and was engaged in the battles of Champion Hills and Big Black Bridge. It was engaged in a general assault on the enemy's works, in the rear of Vicksburg, on the 19th and 22d of June, losing in the two engagements forty-seven killed and wounded. It was continually employed in skirmishing and fatigue duty during the siege of Vicksburg. After the fall of Vicksburg, the Fiftyfourth moved with the army upon Jackson, Mississippi, and was constantly engaged in skirmishing from the 9th to the 14th of July. It was engaged in the next day marched to the relief of the garrison at Knoxville, Tennessee. It went into winter quarters, January 12, 1864, at Larkinsville, Alabama.

The regiment was mustered into the service as a veteran organization on the 22d of January, and at once started to Ohio on furlough. Returning, it entered on the Atlanta campaign on the Ist of May. It participated in a general engagement at Resaca, and at Dallas, and in a severe skirmish at New Hope Church, June 6 and 7. It was in the general assault upon Kenesaw Mountain, June 27, losing twentyeight killed and wounded, and was in a battle on the east side of Atlanta, July 21 and 22, sustaining a loss of ninety-four killed, wounded and missing. The Fifty-fourth lost eight men killed and wounded at Ezra Chapel, July 28; and from the 29th of July to the 27th of August, it was almost continually engaged in skirmishing before Atlanta, was in the march to Savannah, and assisted in the capture of Fort McAllister, December 15th. It was closely engaged in the vicinity of Columbia, and participated in its last battle at Bentonsville, North Carolina, March 21, 1865. The regiment marched to Richmond, Virginia, and from thence to Washington City, where it engaged in the grand review of the western army. It was mustered out at Camp Dennison, Ohio, August 24, 1865.