Buffalo County, Wisconsin - The whole text, 1888 (part 11 of 13)

Concordia at Alma. There may have been attempts at founding a singing society in this place before 1863, for I could name a few enthusiastic devotees to this noble pursuit who were citizens of the place several years previous, but in that year the teacher of the public school, a Mr. Weisshaupt, became the leader and an organization was effected. Mr. Weisshaupt was a Swiss and if I am not mistaken, came from a stock, that had akeady given evidence of particular fitness for the task he undertook. I am not informed of the number of singers or active, nor of that of passive members, who did not sing. After Mr. Weisshaupt's departure I remember but one leader, who was also the teacher of the public school, Mr. Bubeck. Whatever may have been his faults, he was certainly an accomplished musician, and fully qualified for his position in the Concordia. After him Hon. John A. Tester assumed the leadership, which he has held with a few intermissions ever since. The choir consisted of male voices only for a long time, but' in after years, when the young ladies of the place had grown up, and some of them had acquired considerable skill and taste in music a so-called mixed choir was organized, consisting of soprano and alto, which are female, and tenor and bass, which are male voices. The leadership of this choir was for some time divided between Mr. Tester and Dr. George Seller, who also is a great enthusiast. In 1877 the Concordia underwent a total reorganization. A formal act of association was entered into September 14th, and recorded in Vol. I of Corporations pages 35 and 36. Forthwith the building of a hall was undertaken, which was finished the same season and formally dedicated on the 2d day of December. It was a small unpreten- itious structure, which after a few years was considered iasufficient .and inconvenient, but the members of the society of that time will remember with pleasure, if not with regret, the good nature and sociable disposition of the entertainments held in it. But ambition is never satisfied, -and so a new hall was l)uilt, the little house sold to the schooldistrict for a Kindergarten, or rather a primary department. After it had. been found too small and otherwise unfit for that purpose, and after the building of the new scboolhouse was finished, it was sold to John Buehler, sr., and a basement story added thereto, and is now inhabited by Theodore Buehler,Esq. During the winter of 1881-82 some members began to agitate for the building of a larger hall, which also meant an extension of the operations of the society in the direction of dramatical performances and other exhibitions, a consolidation with the Turner society, (though no such existed) and probably with the Shooting Society. As usual Mr. Chas. Schaettle, senior, was the moving spirit in the matter, and his views were extensive and liberal. It must be confessed that he was always liberal enough in the support of this and almost every other society of the kind. Yet it can not be denied, that his calculations were always woefully short of actual expenses, and realization about as much short of his expectations. Admitting the several defects of the old hall, the question is even now pertinent, whether it would not have been wiser to endure them a few years longer, than to go over head and heels into debt. The pretense of fostering German national customs and sociability by transplanting them into larger quarters has not by any means been realized. The financial condition of the society may be its own private affair, but to destroy the harmony among the members of a well organized and contented society by taking away its accustomed place of meeting, and offering a splendid receptacle, in which no one feeis at home, may still be open to advertence by those who were members before that event and might still be willing to do their share towards the pretended object of the society, if the old conditions had prevailed. The society was never intended to be a money-making institution, and as much as we admire the splendid financial talents of some men, we can not suppress a candid wish that they might be employed in some other enterprise, in which we wish them the most gratifying success. But to come back from reflection to facts and history it must be remembered that the extension of the quarters brought with them an extension of views and an elaboration of a new constitution. The building was raised in due time and dedicated during the month of December. There was a large attendance of citizens and visitors among the latter former members of the society. Everything was yet rather unfinished and it required still considerable sums for fitting up a suitable stage and rendering the lower story of the building habitable. The hall itself is actually a large one, and the several dependencies as bar-rooms, cloakroom, galleries, are convenient enough, and quite a crowd can be accommodated and entertained. The stage is ample and acoustically well placed, which means that words spoken upon it can distinctly be heard in any part of the hall. The objects of the society have been already referred to, and it is to be conceded that they are in general carried out as far as singing, instrumental music, theatricals and kindred performances are concerned. The male choir still exists, as also the mixed one, and their performances are always creditable, and sometimes exceptionally good. I am conversant enough with the general workings of such institutions to appreciate thoroughly the manifold difficulties that have to be overcome by the director and instructor of fne choirs, and the sacrifices of time and comfort required of him and the other members - of the choirs, and those who are occasionally called upon for assistance. Their exertions are so much more disinterested, as they have to paj' a monthly assessment of twenty-five cents, and at all performances in which they do not take any special part, have also to pay for admission. Of the financial success I can not say anything beyond what has been above indicated, as I am not a member of this society. At present there is a janitor with his family living in the lower story, and one of the large rooms has been fitted up as a supper room for the occasion of balls and festivals held by other societies in the building. The upper part, under the roof, which formerly served as a supper room is now fitted up as lodge rooms and occupied for meetings of the Knights of Pythias and the local post of the Grand Army of the Republic. The number of actual members is stated at 33, of which some are Of the passive denomination. To give a list of the members of this society would require to do the same for every other society, which, requiring too much space, is out of the question; to name some and omit others might seem partial. Besides these considerations it must be remembered that absolute correctness is not very easily obtained, as I know now from experience. In the above sketch it was impossible to go into all the details and to record occurrences, which may have had a transient or individual interest, but which did not materially influence the geneial course of events. The next society in point of time and proximity of location is the

Its original organization'may fall into nearly the same period as that of the Concordia, although I think that some of the older members of the Arion were al first, and at odd times members of the Concordia. It was at the time when I became a member of it in 1870, a numerous society, the members of which resided in the towns of Alma, Nelson and Belvidere, and some of them at the village of Alma. Its first recorded meeting was held in 1868.

The central point of interest was in Mill Creek, where the meetings for practice in singing were held every Sunday, if the weather permitted the assembling of a complete choir. The.- locality of the meetinge was sometimes the schoolhouse of District No. 2 of the Town of Alma, sometimes the house of Jacob Wald, and sometimes in the open air in the neighborhood. These meetings were notable for the cordiality of intercourse among the members, and a general spirit of conviviality distinguished especially the monthly meetings which were at that time held at the house of some member who had invited the society to a visit. This latter practice was after a while abandoned, but otherwise there were no preceptible changes in the meetings. At present the society is remarkable for the advanced age of some of the members, of whom J. Thomas Lanigga is 74, Jacob Leonhardy 74, and Jacob Wald over 61 years of age. A number of other members are over fifty and others very near to the half century station. There is also a number of younger members, who seems to enjoy the company of their seniors quite well.. The old veterans , named are still active members, and as enthusiastic as ever, and very frequently forget the failings of old age in their enthusiasm. The society is also remarkable for its adherence to popular songs, and its abstinence from attempts of producing more artificial pieces, thus avoiding those stilted performances, which are very seldom satisfactory, but are ahvavs a source of useless squandering of time, and often of dissatisfaction among the members. In a measure the society is compelled to this course, because of the comparatively small number of members and of meetings.

Another commendable feature of this society is the chance of the members to get good books from its library, which, however is not \ery extensive, and ought to be replenished. Considering that the members are all farmers, laborers and mechanics, for whom the only leisure time occurs on Sunday, it is truly surprising that the society could so long exist and prosper. The singing is under the direction of Mr. Gottfried Huber since 1870 or before that time, and a very efficient and judicious director he is, beloved and respected by the members of the society. The number of members is 35, of whom twelve are active or singing members, though the choir sometimes musters more than that many. Whatever i.jay be the cause, the very appearance of the choir of this - society has never failed to produce attention, and their performance has always elicited the merited applause.

The members, of whom I certainly know every one personally and perhaps intimately were largely seceders from the Concordia, and it surprised me that the leading spirits were usually of those, who did not appear to be refractory, when in that society. There seems to have been no very close association, and when one of the leading members, Mr. Lutzi Meili was called by circumstances to other parts of the country, the society dissolved, probably in a forfnal way, and the books, musical in thier contents, were turned over to the Arion, the society next preceding. During its existence it was devoted to vocal and instrumental music, affording opportunity of instruction to some, especially the younger, members. Germania Society of Fountain City.

This society is a combination of the Turners, Sharpshooters and Singers of the place into one body, the principle of sociability underlying the combination. Reference to the Turners and Sharpshooters will be found in the preceding parts of this chapter. The part to be treated of would then be the ''Singing Society," or rather "Singing Section " of the Germania. But a few words about the origin and practical convenience of the \ combination are not out of place. As in other places, there existed the societies named above, each separate, but members of one were frequently member of one or both of the others, either active or passive. This was a somewhat embarassing position in some cases, and at any rate cost more than necessary, and it was easy enough to convince any one that by uniting expenses might be lessened and results made more satisfactory. Hence the three societies united, and, consisting almost entirely of Germans, naturally adopted the name of Germania. This was done on the 26th day of May 1872, the 14th anniversary of the founding of the Turner Society. The society was incorporated September 14th, 1872.

It consists at present of 60 meiubers, and Chnst. Florin is president, Chas. R. Bechmann Treasurer of it, the post of Secretary being temporarily vacant. I am not informed as to the doings of the Singing Section at present, but during the first ten years it seems to have been quite active.

What causes led to the founding of this organization ih November 1882, I am not informed of, but being acquainted with most of the members, and aware that they are still members of the Germania, it would seem that some dissatisfaction at either the conduct, or the neglect of the singing in the latter society was at the bottom of the new departure. I think that the 15 members of this new society are all enthusiastic devotees of the noble art, and know that they have made very creditable progress in it. Christ. Florin is the President and Henry Roettiger, jr., the Secretary of this society, which meets for practice about twice a week usually in Feigl's hall. J. L. Utermoehl was the instructor during his stay at Fountain City.

This society was organized annng the Germans of the Waumandee Valley as early as 1861. It is supposed to be chartered, or to have been so, when Hon. C. Moser, jr., was a member of the Legislature, which was in 1868 and '69, but there seems to be some doubt about it. It holds meetings every first Sunday of each month. The purpose of this society is the entertainment and general mental improvement of the members, discussion of important topics of local, political and general importance and interest. Those inclined to do so form a singing club, for their own amusement and for social purposes. It has a library of 321 volumes, containing works of most of the prominent German authors, especially of the past, a very commendable feature of any similar society. There are at present 20 members, but I think that formerly there were more. President is Charles Hohmann, Treasurer JohnFarner, Secretary and Libuuian, Charks Kirchner. It is to be wished that similar societies were formed in every locality which affords an opportunity for it. They are not only of benefit for the present, but also for the rising generation, both by affording a chance for instruction and by creating habits of reflection and mental recreation.

This society was organized somewhat after the model of the next preceding one in 1877 and incorporated in 1878. A majority of the older members used to belong to the Harmonic, but as they all resided in the Little Waumandee Valley and could come to the meetings of that society only by traveling a distance of eight miles or more, they found it more advantageous to have a society of their own. They named it Frohsinn, which means merriment, hilarity, or good humor, things which never fail to be duly cultivated among the members, at their meetings. It must not, however, be supposed that they did not make preparations for serious things, as they have a small library containing some good books. At the time when Mr. Julius Otto resided in Little Waumandee the society contained a considerable singing club of which he was the director, so that during that time it might be considered a singing society. Since his removal to Alma this has changed, and a term of languishing seems to have overcome the society. It contains at presentj20 members. Franz Schieche is Secretary and Librarian. Howard Library Association of Gilmanton.

Ofgthis society I took occasion to speak in the chapter on Education, but have since sending that chapter to the printer received further or at least fuller information which is given as follows:

The_ founder of the association was Mr. Sidney Howard. It organized in 1866, has prosperously continued ever since, and counts 164 members, with a library of 1630 volumes. These are mostly standard works of science, travel and fiction, The condi.

tions of membership are an age of at least 16 years and a recommendation from som other members. Points of management are: Quarterly meetings, and sale of the reading for ensuing quarter, and annual election of officers, who do not receive any compensation for their services. For this information I am indebted to Mr. Alexander Lees, who has been for years, and is at present, the secretary and librarian of the association. Necessary repetition in this notice of what was said before will be pardoned.

Pioneer Societies

They are sometimes called "Old Settlers' Clubs." It is very natural that those, who have born the hardships and deprivations of the original settlement, should feel kindly inclined towards each other, and like old soldiers, should feel a desire to fight over the battles in remembrance. Almost every jieighborhood in our western countrj' contains people of that sort, who in these better times remember those obstacles, which had to be, and are now, overcome, and also remember the neighborly feelings, which existed when mutual dependence was more forcibly felt than now. It is for them a regular treat to gather those still surviving at a festival for the rehearsing of old time experiences, and to renew the old ties so often formed under circumstances of trial and adversity. Then, too, the ranks are sadly thinned and soon there will be none left of the old pioneers, who found a wilderness without roads and bridges, and to whose perseverance -and indomitable industry more than to anything else we owe the improvements of which we are apt to be proud, and which go so far to make our lives so easy and comfortable. Not that every thing is now perfect, but what a contrast to how it was thirty years ago!

I think that Hon. Orlando Brown is President and Mr. Frary the Secretary of this organization, and they hold their annual festival some time in Spring every year. There may be, or have been, similar associations 'in other towns, but I am not informed of any of them, There was once a meeting of " Old Settlers" at Fountain City, but I am not aware of any permanent organization resulting therefrom. If I should have made a misstatement in regard to this matter, I beg pardon, but it would indeed be strange if on my extensive and often repeated excursions through this count}', and from reading weekly all the papers printed in it, I should have remained ignorant of a movement, which has my my sympathy, and in which I might be expected to participate! as I am one of the "Old Settlers" myself.

There is one kind of societies, of whose activity, I have certainly read much, although I never had the pleasure of witnessing it. These are the

Base Ball Clubs

Such clubs are and have been for some time in different localities, in Alma, on Beef Slough, at Nelson, at Gilmanton and at Mondovi, perhaps also at Modena. I remember that one or the other of them played at County fairs, but once in my presence, and I had really forgotten that, when I wrote the above. Having not the profound understanding necessary to an enjoyment of this exhibition of gymnastics the reader will pardon the shortness of this notice.

It would have been gratifying to me, if I had had more explicit information of some of the societies mentioned in this chapter, but the collection of such information has proved a slow and unsatisfactory operation, so that in man}' cases I have been glad to content myself with what I knew and what I got. So much more I am obliged to those who have furnished materials especially John Buehler, sen., Peter Ibach, Christ. Florin, Chas. Kirchner and others.

Secret Societies

SECRET SOCIETIES. The adjective "secret" is applied to such societies, as prescribe certain ceremonies in the initiation and advancement of members to established degrees, have signs of recognition, symbols of membership and degrees, and meetings hy closed doors, to which none but the initiated, or'those who are going to be, are admitted. All of them have some kind of ritual, designed for occasions to which it may be applicable within the lodge or at public occasions, especially at the burial of a member. The model of this ritual is that, wliich in the course of time has been accumulated in the order of Free Masons, but it is modified in each society to suit times and circumstances. On public occasions the members appear in Regalia, 'if the ritual or a resolution of the lodge requires them to do "so. The aim and general tendency of these secret societies, though not publicly expressed, is not so much a secret, and may be 'stated to'be brotherly love, mutual assistance in case of necessity and general benevolence. Old superstitions, formerly entertained against Free Masons especially', have been dissipated by the light of education in latter times,, and have probably never struck very deep roots in this country, at least not since the days of "Salem Witchcraft." By the time it became possible to organize secret'societies in our county the Anti-Mason movement had also died'out, and so there was among the great majority of the people no objection to the existence of such societies, or to joining the same. That I have not joined myself, must not be construed into an objection to'have others join. All of these societies claim an ancient origin, but as long as this origin does not manifest itself by antediluvian principles or practices, there can be no reasonable objection to the claim. The enumeration will be given, as near as known, in a chronological order, more however, with regard to their introduction into this county, than to other points.

Free And Accepted Masons

Alma Lodge No. 184 Meets on the 1st and 3d Saturday of each month at Masonic Hall in Boehme's Block. The lodge was organized and chartered June

12th 1872. It has forty members. John Buesch is W. M. and John Burgess Secretar}'. To the latter I am indebted for particulars given. Most of the members reside here, a few reside out of town, in Modena and other places. This is the only lodge of Free Masons in this county, though Masons in good standing in the order are living in different parts, who are probably members of other lodges.

Independent Oedee Of Odd Fellows

It was founded, organized and chartered on the 8th day of March 1878. It has now 67 members and its officers are: L. Bramstedt, N. G,; J. L. Utermoehl, V. G.; H. Friedel, Secretary; F. H. Bitter, Treasurer. It is the latter to whom I am indebted for particulars.

Their official name, if I am not mistaken, is "Patrons of Husbandr}%" and ladies are entitled to membership. Lodges of this order were quite numerous throughout the county, but of late they have not manifested any public activity. In the times of their flourishing they had organizators, of whom Jas. Imrie, Esq., of Misha Mokwa was a prominent one. Granger Halls are in the towns of Canton and Glencoe. Stores under the control of the order there are none. Within only a few years I noticed that some members received goods, for instance fencing wire, through some general agency. Not knowing to whom to apply for further information, I could not do more than mention what I knew from remembrance.

Of this order there are three lodges in the county. In chronological order of organization these lodges are as follows.- Fountain City Lodge No. 13.

Probably organized in 1877. Owing to a failure to report, no further particulars can be given except that Peter Schwoebel is Master Workman and J. J. Senn Recorder. A report was promised by a prominent member, but failing to be received in time, I had to proceed as above.

ing received any response, I can but repeat the public advertisement, according to which they naeet on every Monday evening at Wy man's Hall. W. W. Wyman is Master Workman and Ryland Southworth, Recorder.

Alma Lodge, No. 52. It was organized on the I4th of January, 1879, and has now 70 members, who meet on every second and fourth Thursday in each month. Master Workman, G. M. Reinhardt, Recorder Joseph Schlumpf, who furnished particulars here given in regard to this and the two other lodges.

Grand Army Op The Republic

This organization consists entirely of veterans of the late war for the Union. No other persons are admitted. There are two posts of this organization in the county, which, of course, belong to the Department of Wisconsin. The following are the posts: Fimian Post No. 196, at Alma.

It was organized or mustered in May 1885. Its roster contains 41 names. Of these two are names of deceased comrades, one of a discharged one. Of the 38 remaining there are four of Comp. H. 6th Reg,, 8 of the 9th Reg., 2 of the 17th, 3 of the 25th, 4 of the 48th, 3 of the 50th, Wisconsin Infantry, the others of different other regiments and military organizations. Post Commander is Hon. Robert Lees, Adjutant Gerh. Gesell, Surgeon Dr. N. McVey. The post has issued a printed roster.

It was organized or mustered in July 14, 1883. Its roster consists of 37 names. Post Commander is W. W. Wyman, Adjutant and Surgeon Dr. Chas. Hebard. I am obliged to the Post Com" mander for particulars.

Temperance Societies

These have probably been more numerous at some times previously, but I can only report what I know of. St. PatricVs Total Abstinence Society of Waumandee and Glencoe. It was organized March 5th, 1872, is not chartered, but admitted into the Catholic Total Abstinence Union of Wisconsin. It bears on its banner theinscription: St. P. T. A. S. of Waumandee and Glencoe. There are, all told, about 65 members. M. L. Tierney of Waumandee is President, M- J, Cashel of Glencoe, Vice.

Sechet Societies Independent Order Of Good Templars

Sunshine Lodge No. 125, at Alma. It was organized Aug. 4th, 1887, and contains 35 charter members. G. M. Miles is Chief Templar and J. B. Glover Secretary. Particulars obtained in an interview with the Secretary.

Knights Of Pythias

It was organized in 1882 with 20, but now has 65 members, and meets every Saturday evening at 7:30. L. A. Merritt, C. C, W. L. Houser, K. R. and S. To the latter thanks are due for particulars.

Organized and chartered March 23, 1886. Number of members: A. Williams, C. C, Dr. N. McVey, K. R. and S. Meetings every Thursday evening in their Castle Hall in Concordia Block. Particulars furnished by the K. R. and S. Thanks!

This finishes the chapter on Secret Societies. My obligations to those who furnished material to it, have been expressed, and I only regret that in some cases I was left to the meagre information Qf public advertisements.

If in the above enumeration any society has been omitted, I am inclined to think, that is so "secret" that "a fellow can't find out," you know!

Crime

It may well be doubted whether a discussion of the causes of crime should find a place in a local history, and the omission of it is, therefore, excusable. That everywhere, where mankind dwells, crime also would be presf-nt among the many, is an experience, which, though not very flattering to our pride, must be admitted. There is, however, a difference of its quantity and quality, that is in the number of criminals and the gravity of the offences. As it would not be judicious, and perhaps would be impossible, to relate in any book all the events occuring even in a very limited territory, so it would be, injudicious, to relate all the circumstances and events connected with violations of law, that are considered criminal, be they actual crimes or minor misdemeanors. Some people have a theory, that criminals and other offenders and their misdeeds should be held up as frightful examples, so as to scare others into morality. But success in that method of moral education is more than doubtful, and it might even be asserted, that the effect of such exhibitions is rather depraving than eleVating, although some people might feel as the Pharisee: "O, Lord, I thank thee, that I am not like these." During the thirty-three years, which have elapsed since tke organization of this county no very startling crime, which in its details and in its conception and execution showed a very marked degree of depravity and lawlessness, has been committed. Detailed relation of circumstances of such crimes, as were committed, or of which people have been accused, would, therefore, in no instance be very interesting, and I should refuse it for the following reasons: v

1. Persons merely accused, or even indicted, but who were, for an insufficiency of proof, or because they really were innocent, released from processes of law, may well claim to be let alone about circumstances, which unfortunately had incriminated them and for which they had to suffer, perhaps unjustly.

3. The crimes of which the law has taken coghizance in this county, were, in some important cases, committed in the heat of passion, or under erroneous impressions, that became the ultimate cause which animatecl the offenders, who sincerely repented after having come to a clear conception of the wrong thfey had committed. Such people have, aside from punishment meted out'tdthem, their conscientious regrets, which need not be aggravated. I have, therefore, concluded to give merely general statistics, or rather a tabulary enumeration of the more important crimes, which were objects of proceedings in the circuit court. F'or this table I am indebted to my young friend Edward Lees, jr., who was a short time ago deputy clerk of the circuit court, and is a lawyer by profession.

Names Of Offenses

To go into an analysis of this table is for reasons alleged not practicable, but a reference to the first item may be made in the remark that the judgment in the only comriction for murder was reversed at a second trial in the case, and the culprit convicted for manslaughter.

population was over 10,000, with a more than usual floating population for about the same period, which was larger from 1868 to about ten years later, than even at present. A part of this floating population is justly chargeable with some of the crimes of the character of violence. I have no statistics on ha.nd to make comparisons with places of about the same population, but as I think that the showing is on the whole favorable, it can be ascribed in part to the absence of large cities in which there is a chance for congregating of criminals, either for activity or concealment. It must also be observed that the number of law-suits of all kinds in the courts of Justices of the Peace and in Circuit Court has greatlydecreased in the course of time, and that criminal proceedings follow in proportion.

Public Charity

The growth of any comraunity in pupulation can not be separated from a comparative growth of claims upon public charity. The influx of persons who eventually become a charge upon a town can not always, or but seldom, be prevented. Nor does the law furnish sufficient safe-guards against those who squander their means foolishly while they are yet able to obtain such means b}'- labor. There are, also, some people " everywhere who do not perceptibly, squander anything, but yet are always poor and finally become dependent. Yet it could not be said that our towns are very heavih' taxed for the maintenance of dependent persons. The county has to come to the assistance of towns for the maintenance of such paupers as are not legal residents of any towns, and it is quite natural that the two principal places on the river and on the railroad. Alma and Fountain City should figure prominently in such accounts as relate to the relief and other disposition of transient paupers.

The most deplorable objects of public or private charity are those, who are those persons, who on account of mental aberation, want of hearing and of speech, of eye-sight, or of mental capacity, are unable to maintain themselves. The state census of 1885 gives the following list of such persons for this county: Insane, 15.

This table may be correct, with the exception of the last item. The city of Alma has to contribute to the maintenance of one person, who is, if not absolutely idiotic, yet too weak minded to be left to his own care.

As I have not the means of comparing the present number of insane persons and the proportion they bear to the population, with former proportions of the same kind, I will compare our situation in this respect to that of other localities in this state.

Brown County, in which the city of Green Bay is located has according to the census 36,921 inhabitants, or about 2i times as many as our county.

In regard to unfortunate persons there are Insane 90, or comparatively 2f times as many as in our county; Deaf and Dumb there are 32, Blind 16, Idiotic 9, while of the three latter classes we have none at all. Our situation is therefore much better than that of Brown Oounty. In the adjoining county of Trempealeau the population is 19,112 or about one-fifth in excess of ours. There are reported Insane 23, Deaf and Dumb 15, Blind 5, and Idiotic 8.

Whether there are all of the insane now in the asylums provided by the state, or any of those reported in 1885 have since been declared as restored to reason, I can not tell. Incurable cases have been returned to their families, but how many, I can not find any authority for telling. I do not share the apprehension of those who insist that insanity is on the increase, nor do I consider the organization of county asylums a necessity. It might even be questioned, whether it would be judicious under any circumstances.

SOLDIERS. Among our fellow citizens we have not a few who have served their native or adopted country in wars which it had to wage with foreign or domestic enemies. The only war against a foreign enemy within the memory of the older people of the present time, was the war with Mexico, which commenced with the battle of Palo Alto, on the 8th of May, 1847, the declaration of war following it on the 11th of that month, and virtually ended at the surrender of the city of Mexico September 14th of the same year, although the treaty of peace was not concluded until the. 2d day of February, 1848.

Soldiers Of The Mexican War

Caspar Wild. (See Pioneers). Geo. Gall, of Lincoln. Franz Freisheim, at Alma. Decsased are: Joseph Berni. (See Pioneers). Samuel Hefti died 1885.

These are all I have ever met and heard of, and probably all that there have been, but if there should be, or have been, any others, it is certainly not irom any intention that their names are here omitted.

Soldiers Of The Late War

This is the designation of the State Census. These" soldiers, all, or most of them, volunteers, may for the purpose of this book be divided into two distinct classes.

When, after the firing on ii'ort Sumpter by the Rebels, and the formal secession of most of the Southern states, it became apparent to every citizen that the Union could only be preserved by the force of arms,oand when President Lincoln issued his call for 75,000 volunteers, patriotic enthusiasm rose to the highest pitch, and four times as many men were actually enrolled within a few days. After the disaster of the first Bull Run fight, the enthusiasm, which had been somewhat subdued by the slow preparations for the campaign, rose higher than ever, add the determination to put down the rebellion assumed the practical form of heavy enlistments in all parts of the loyal states. When after a struggle of four years the war was over and the armies had disbanded, and peaceful pursuits taken up by those who survived it, the usual intermingling of people from all states extended to those who had during the times of the war remained in the regiments in which they enlisted, and which were distinguished by the names of the states in which they were organized, so that after a short time soldiers of the Eastern states emigrated to the West, and some from the West went to the East or to other places. Hence we have a considerable number in this county who served like our own men, and frequently side by side with them, and who have settled among us since the war. The same patriotism, the same faithful service, the same sufferings, belong to the credit of all oi' them alike, and the distinction between the two classes above named does not imply any preference between them. Those who were furnished by this county, either by enlistment or by draft, however, had been among us before the war, and they themselves, as many as returned, have lived or do yet live, and thej', and those who never returned, have relations living among us. But more will be said about them in the proper place.

With regard to the first class I must remark, that the list has been made up from a diligent research in the appendix to the census of 1885,, entitled: "Enumeration of Soldiers and Sailors of the Late War, residing in Wisconsin June 20, 1885." As in this enumeration, name, rank, company, regiment and state or vessel are given, but the postoffice omitted, since in most cases it appeared to be unnecessary. The enumeration in the census is by no means complete, and I know at least one omission, and there may be more, in the city of Alma. If, therefore, any name should be missing, in viy list, it is highly probable that it will not be found in the enumeration of the census, or if found there, the postofiice of the soldier is not in this county, in which case I could not always decide, whether he lived in this or in P&pin or Trempealeau County.

State Or Vessel

It is now over two j'ears since the census, from which the above table was made up, has been taken. Some of those who are named in this list have moved away, one I know to have died, but I concluded to adhere to the authority I had selected, and not to notice individual accidents. I have stated above that I searched that census very carefully, and not only once. The appendix which contains the names of the soldiers consists of 383 full pages, each containing about 80 names, or something over 30,000 in all, hence it is quite excusable if in picking out 77, one or another may be overlooked.

It has in the chapter on Political History been related, how, during a period of about six, years the political ideas of the people of Wisconsin had undergone a decided change, which was manifest in the election of 1856, when Fremont carried the state by a considerable majority. This change was still more decided in I860 when the state cast its vote for Lincoln with an increased majority of popular vote. Everybody expected some hostile demonstrations, but no one in the northern states could or would believe, that the southern states had for years been preparing for the separation from the Union. To see the southern states almost supreme in Congress and in the Government, people had become accustomed, and even the criminal negligence of Buchanan's administration, during which the means of resistance were diminished, and those of aggression placed almost at the disposition of the expected aggressors, had for some time aroused no very profound suspicion. The Democratic party was devoted to the South though the greater part of it did neither wish for a disruption of the Union, nor did it really expect it.

In our state the Breckenridge ticket received so very few votes that the general loyalty of the party could hardly be impeached on that account. After the inauguration- of President Lincoln the Douglas wing of the party in the North largely Imitated their leader in acquiescing in the result of the election, and- in supporting the legal government. The Republicans, although not wishing for war, were determined to maintain the government, to which they had elected the head in Mr. Lincoln. As yet the anti-slavery element in the party was not predominant, and although excitement ran high when South Carolina and other southern states passed ordinances of secession, and in February organized the new government of the Confederate States of America, and seized upon the forts and important posts within their territory, made the garrisons prisoners, it was yet uncertain whether they would not finally recede* from their position and quiet would once more be restored. But when it was found necessary that the newly elected president should exercise all possible precaution on his journey to the place to which the loyal people had elected him, when on the 12th of April fire was opened upon Fort Surapter, the only post of defence in Charleston Harbor, and the place had to be surrendered, the call of the President for 75,000 volunteers for the defence of the National Capital found a response so enthusiastic, so patriotic, that enlistments were at once begun in every part of the land. The attack of an armed mob on Massachusetts regiments passing through Baltimore, when the first blood was shed in the war of the Rebellion, the surprise of the arsenal a-t Harper's- Ferry by Confederate troops, and other portents, roused the people of the North to a clear perception of the danger, and to a fierce determination to punish the offenders, and to save at all hazards and expense the government and the Union. In our county, which had then a population of only 4,000, the sentiment was as strong as anj' where, and Republicans and Democrats alike thronged to enlistment. By June 1st Comp. H of the 6th Regiment of Wisconsin Volunteers was organized, and went to the rendezvous at Camp Randall on June 25th. During the time of enlistment of that company two ol my brothers went, on the 5th of May, to Milwaukee, where the}' entered Comp. C of the fifth regiment. After the answer to the first call of the president for volunteers, there was a rumor that no more troops would be needed or accepted. The battle. of Bull Run June 21st, however, verified the prediction of those who had deplored the short-sighted policy of the government, and were for a rapid demonstration of the full strength of the country. But this does not concern the county of Buffalo in particular, and the reader is referred to the history of those regiments in which a considerable number of men from our county served.

The war had begun, and for four years the patriotic spirit of the people of the North supplied men and money for a vigorous prosecution of it. Our county did not perhaps distinguish itsel above others, but, after all, only a few men had to be drafted, perhaps none would have been due, if the county had at the time received credit for all who enlisted from it. It may be well in connection with this to revert to the fact that many of those whose home was in this county, were credited to La Crosse County, because they enlisted at La Crosse, others were credited to Pepin County for the same reason, but it was not at the time known, and could hardlj- be remedied. Out of this circumstance a difficulty arose for me in making up the lists of those actually furnished from, but not always credited to, Buffalo County. Fortunately I could in most cases decide from personal acquaintance what was true, but in some cases, when this acquaintance had never existed, or become dulled in the course of time, the decision was by no means easy. The lists of soldiers to which this is an introduction, have been made up from the Roster of Wisconsin Volunteers, Vol. I., which contains the Cavalry, the Artillery and the .first fifteen regiments of Infantry. Beyond that I had to rely on what chance furnished, as I asked those who had served in the diSerent regiments of which I knew that some of our men had served in. That this is a satisfactory method of ascertaining the desired information, I will not maintain, but after a correspondence with the Adjutant General's Office of this state, I was convinced, that the second volume of the roster would not appear in time for being used in the compilation of this work, and then I turned -to such sources as v/ere available. For any deficiency in such records, this must be a sufficient explanation, which must not be regarded as a mere excuse. Concerning the' history of the different regiments, in which men from this county served I wish to say that it will be given, in abbreviated form, for any regiment in which the number from this county was considerable enough, to make it worth while. To give the history at any length, of a regiment in which only two or three men from this county were enrolled, can not reasonably be expected, although I have been at the -trouble and expense to procure the Adjutant General's Report of 1865, a work formerly scattered broadcast over the whole state, but now only procurable at considerable expense, and by mere chance at that. This report contains the military history of each regiment as far as then known, but it is rather profuse than reliable and withal an awkward compilation, often contradicting in the tables of those killed in action and lost by wounds and disease what had been stated in the narrative.. At best I could only give what I got, and this must be my excuse for those possible and even probable errors and omissions that attentive examination may discover. I have in the arrangement" been following the examples of the "Roster" published by State Authority.

First Regiment Wisconsin Cavalry

The regiment was mustered into United States Service May 8th, 1862, Col. Edw. Daniels commanding. It served principally in the West, and part of it went after Jefferson Davis, when he was a fugitive, on which occasion there was a collision with the Fourth Michigan Cavalry, who captured the train and Mr. Davis. Regiment mustered out July 19th, 1865.

History of the Regiment. It was organized under supervision of Col. C. C. Washburn and mustered in from Dec. 3, 1861, until March 12, 1862, came to St. Louis March 26, and took quarters at Benton Bari'acks, where the men were mounted and equipped. Came to Jefferson City, Mo., May 19, to Springfield, Mo., on the 28th. Prom there the 2d and 3d batallions went with Gen. Curtis through Arkansas and arrived at Helena July 12th, where they remained until the end of January 1863, when they moved to Memphis, Tenn., and remained there until the middle of June. They then moved down to Vick-.- burg, went with Sherman's Expedition to Jackson, Miss., returned to Black River, moved to Redboue Church and in April to Vicksburg.

The first bataUion remained in Missouri until Sept. 1864 when they joined the other batallion at Vicksburg. It was stationed at different points in the neighborhood of Rollaand Springfield. The whole regiment remained at Vicksburg until Nov. 4th, when they w^nt on an expedition to Graine's Landing, Ark., returning on the 10th. They took part in an expedition against the Mississippi Central R. R. thirty miles of which were destroyed, besides the large bridge across Big Black River and buildings stores and cotton. Returning by Benton they marched to Yazoo City, and a detachment had a fight with rebels, where 6 men were killed, 9 wounded and 25 missing. The regiment returned to camp at Vicksburg Dec. 6th, embarked on the 8tli for Memphis, Tenn. On the 21st they went with Gen. Grierson on an expedition, during which long stretches of the Mobile and Ohio R. R., immense stores, cars and bridges were destroyed, the rebels defeated at Egypt Station and many prisoners captured, of whom the Second Wisconsin Cavalry took charge as a provost-guard. The expedition then turned towards the Mississippi Central R. ,R., where at Winona Station many locomotives and other rolling stock, as well as stores were destroyed, and the regiment returned to Vicksburg, Jan. 13, 1865, thence on short expedition into Louisiana and Arkansas, and after return one of several days to Ripley, Miss, A detachment of 330 men was sent under command of Maj. De Forrest to Grenada, Miss., as a garrison.

On June 15th the balance of the regiment moved by Mississippi and Red River to Alexandria, La., where thej* were joined by Maj. De Forrest's detachment July 6th. From this ^Aetce they marched across the country to Hempstead, Tex., where they arrived Aug. 26th, and proceeded October 30th to Austin, Texas, where they arrived Nov. 4th, were mustered out Nov. 15th, and thence started for home on the 17th, marching one hundred miles on foot to Benham and proceeding thence by rail and steamer, arriving at Madison December 11th. and were paid off and disbanded on the 14th. After the promotion of C. C. Washburn to Major Genera], Col. Thomas Stevens of Dodgeville commanded the regiment, but seems to have been lacking in that spirit of independence necessary for the protection of his men, who complained bitterl}' about the unnecessary rigor, with which they were treated by some martinets of the regular army during their stay in Texas, Gen. Custer, for instance, who disregarded the rights of the men to receive their discharge. This caused a complaint to be made to Governor James T. Lewis, which resulted in the mustering out of the regiment. Cavalry service is notoriously arduous, and the drill and other rigors exacted at Hempsted were entirely superfluous and simply the result of Westpoint arrogance.

Sixth Batteey Of Light Artillery

William W. Wyman, of Mondovi. The battery organized by the name' of "Buena Vista Artillery" under the direction of Capt. Henry Dillon, and was mustered into service at Camp Utley, Racine, Oct. 2d, 1861. It served at Island No. 10 in charge of a siege battery, and afterwards on Tennessee River, at Corinth, afterwards in the Vicksburg campaign, etc. As Mr. Wyman was discharged Nov. 18th, 1862, he did not participate in further actions and movements. The battery was mustered out at Madison, Wis., July 18th, 1865,

First Regiment Of Infantry

In this regiment only two men from this county served, viz: Michael Bandli, Priv., Co. H, and A-. E, Pecso, of whom the company is not named, and whose name after a diligent research was not found in the roster, which is presumable evidence that he was reported in the wrong regiment in the "Enumeration" of the census. Mr. Bandli, of whom the roster makes "Bentley," was a drafted man, joined the regiment Nov. 18, 1863, and was transferred to Comp. D, 21st regiment. The first regiment was originally a three months regiment, but was, after the expiration of its term of service, mustered in as a three years' organization Oct. 19, 1861. During the time of Mr. Bandli's presence with it, the regiment was stationed at and near Chatanooga and vicinity. Of the 21st regiment I have to say that about the time he joined it, it was engaged in the Atlanta campaign, then marched with Sherman to the sea, and partook in the further movements of his army. The 21st was mustered out June 17, 1865.

Third Regiment Of Infantry

Schlossstein, Jacob, do. All of these men were drafted, and joined the regiment during August and September 1864. Some of them went with the regiment on the march to the sea and with Sherman's army to the end of the war, while others remained in Tennessee under Gen. Thomas. They were mustered out in July 1865.

Fifth Regiment Of Infantry

The two in Com p. C. were my brothers. They left Buffalo City, May 5th, for Milwaukee, having personal objections to serving under Capt. J. F. Hauser, who was then organizing Comp. H. of the 6th regiment. They joined the Turner Company being Company C, and the color company of the regiment. Charles was wounded by a shot in the knee at Williamsburg, May 5th, 1862, and died at Fort Monroe, May 31st. Joseph went went through the Peninsular Campaign, was removed to the hospital in York, Pennsylvania, reported convalescent, came to Convalescent Camp near Alexandria, Virginia, was exposed to frost without sufficient protection, relapsed into Ms former malad}^, dysentery, was in Alexandria Seminary Hospital, then in West Philadelphia Hospital, where he died February 6th, 1863, not yet 23 years old. Henry Glasspole probably enlisted at Eau Claire, Menomonee or Durand.

But the names of the men, said to be from Waumandee, enrolled in reorganized Company E were a genuine surprise to me. Such names, I dare say, were never found in that town, and they need no more attention than has been bestowed upon them.

Sixth Regiment Op Infantry

Carl Roloff, Private, Comp. D. He was a drafted man from Belvidere. With regard to the latter, I have to remark, that he entered the sixth regiment Nov. 16, 1864, at a time when of the original company H but very few, if any remained in the regiment. The roster says that he was wounded at Five Forks, Va., in the neighborhood of Petersburg, and that he was absent wounded at the Muster-Out of the regiment. He is not in the register of those who died of wounds, in the Adj. Gen. Report of 1865, and in fact has never returned.

The several companies composing the sixth regiment were ordered to rendezvous at Camp Randall about the 25th of June, 1861, and the regimental organization effected under the direction of Col. Lysander Cutler, It was mustered into United States service July 12th, and left for the field on the 28th of the same month, under orders to proceed to Harrisburg, Penn., where they remained until August 3d, going then to Baltimore, Md., thence to Washington on the 7th, where they encamped on Meridian -

Hill, and joined the command of Gen. Rufus King of Milwaukee, which has since become justly celebrated under the name of the ^^Iron Brigade of the West." Prom that time until Gen. Grant's movement against Richmond in 1864 they remained in the "Iron Brigade," and it is sometimes difficult to find the particulars of the actions of the single regiments in the brigade. For a history of the Iron Brigade there is no room in this book. It occupies in the report of the Adjutant General of 1865 the pages from 51 to 73, inclusive, some of them in nonpareil. Originally the brigade consisted of the following regiments: Fifth Wisconsin, Sixth Wisconsin and Nineteenth Indiana, to which the Second Wisconsin was joined in a short time. The Fifth Wisconsin was soon detached from it, and at the arrival of the Seventh Wisconsin that regiment was added to the brigade.

Actions And Time

This was more than one half of the regiment. During this time Comp. H was still in organization and had to bear its proportionate share of the losses. On the 20th of October, 1862, the Twenty-fourth Michigan was added to the Iron Brigade. After the promotion of General King to the command of a division Col. Cutler commanded the brigade, then Gen. Gibbon and after him Gen. Meredith. December 31, 1863, two hundred and twentyseven of the Sixth Regiment re-enlisted and were sent home on veteran furlough by Jan. 7th, 1864, rejoining the regiment February 28th. In the organization of the army for the summer cam- paign of 1864 the Iron Brigade was assigned to position as the First Brigade, Fourth division, Fifth army corps, and during that campaign was commanded b,y Gen. Cutler, formerly Colonel of the Sixth Wisconsin, the regiment being commanded by Col. Bragg. The regiment participated in all the principal actions of the campaign, after which it took position on the left of Petersburg towards the Weldon railroad. The veterans of Comp. H had been transferred to other companies. The regiment participated in the final capture of Petersburg and Richmond, and the pursuit of the Army of Virginia until its final surrender. After the grand parade at Washington the regiment was sent to Louisville, Ky., where they were mustered out on the J4th of July, 1865, and returned to Madison on the 16th. Long as this history has grown it is but a brief sketch of what the regiment performed in the service of the Union. Of the 67 enumerated above as volunteers in Comp. H from this county, five- were killed in action, four died of wounds, and two of disease.

Seventh Regiment Of Infantry Eighth Regiment Of Infantry

captured by an Indian on Flambeau River, a tributary of the Chippewa. The Indian sold it, and it was made a present to the company, which was enlisted principally in Eau Claire. He remained perched above the colors fastened by a chain, with the regiment for three years. In action he showed the highest interest and excitement, often jumping up and down, spreading his pinions, and uttering his wild eagle screams. At the battle of Corinth a ball cut the eagle's chain and he flew off over the enemi'es, but returned in time to accompany the regiment on its re' treat, and found his perch in the middle of the melee. In the fall 1864, about three years after marching out, the eagle, who had been named " Old Abe," in honor of President Lincoln, was by the veterans of the regiment taken home on furlough, and then presented to Governor Lewis for the state of Wisconsin. His photograph being sold at the Sanitary Fair in Chicago, at 25 cents a piece, resulted in the receipt of $10,000 or more which were expended for the benefit of soldiers in different ways. The eagle was kept for a number of years at the capitol in Madison, but some years ago he died, probably from some mismanagement in feeding. This company was at first commanded by John E. Perkins who died of wounds received at Farmington, Miss., when the command reverted to 1st Lieut. Victor Wolf, who kept it to the end of the service. I should not have mentioned this, but for the circumstance that neither J. E. Perkins nor any other captain of this regiment is reported as having died of wounds by the Adj. Gen. Report, nor does the sagacious "Roster" give any account how V. Wolf all at once became captain of the company, as he is not in the list of 1st Lieutenants of the same. A shining example, each case, of the superior reliability of public documents.

The Eighth Wisconsin went from this state to St. Louis, Mo., being the first Wisconsin Regiment to arrive at that place, and the " Eagle " was the sensation of the event. The field of service for the regiment was in the West, in Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, at Corinth and at Vicksburg and in the latter time at New Orleans and Mobile, in Alabama, where they were discharged when in caaip at Uniontown, mustered out at Demopolis, Ala., Sept. 5, and returned to Madison Sept 13, 1865.

Ninth Regiment Of Infantry Reorganized Regiment

In the above enumeration I did not wish to repeat any name merely because of a transfer to another company, hence I entered only new names in the reorganized companies. As to rank I gave the highest attained, it being understood that the intermediate ranks were passed through.

This was purposed to be a German Regiment, and I found on its roster only one decidedly American name. The order for its organization was issued August 26, 186J , its rendezvous was Camp Sigel, Milwaukee, and it was mustered in Oct. 26th, under command of Col. afterwards Gen. Frederick Solomon of Milwaukee. They left for field service Jan. 22d, 1862, went by rail to Quincy, 111., crossed the river on the ice, marched to the St. Joseph and Hannibal R. R., and arrived on the 29th at Leavenworth Ks., also crossing the Missouri on the ice. They joined the " Southwestern Expedition," went to Port Scott, Ks., thence to Humbold,. thence to Shoal Creek Camp and to Baxterville. After some service in the Indian Territory and about the frontiers of Missouri and Kansas, which resulted in bringing the Cherokees and other Indians back to allegiance, and suffering greatly from the heat, the expedition und^r command of Col. Salomon (Col. Weir having been placed under arrest) returned July 11th to Ft. Scott. About the middle' of the month the expedition was placed under the command of Gen. Blunt, the Ninth in the First Brigade, which was commanded by Gen. Salomon, and moving through several counties in Missouri they encamped Sept. 22d at Sarcoxie, Jasper Co., Mo., where Col. Charles E. Salomon joined and took command cf the regiment. On the 29th of September a reconnoissance was undertaken in force against Newtonia which led to a battle, in which the enemy succeeded in capturing most of the infantry engaged. On a second attack on Newtonia the place was evacuated without resistance and the wounded prisoners recovered. From Newtonia they marched to Indian Creek, where they camped until Oct. 11, thence to Hazel Bottom and afterwards to Pea Ridge, Harmony Springs and to Maysville, Ark. Nov. 27th, the First division crossed the Ozark Mountains, to Rhea's Mills which were occupied and worked, They were in danger of being surprised and were ready to move on a moment's warning. They joined the divisionjat Crane's Hill, expecting a battle, when it was found out that the enemy had made a fiank move'ment on Rhea's Mills and the Ninth ordered back to protect the trains. In the nick of time Gen. Herron arrived from the North, checked the enemy's advance and the battle of Prairie Grove ensued. The regiment was ordered with the train to Fayetteville and back to the battlefield, but the hostile army had retreated. Rhea's Mills was again occupied and worked until Dec. 27, when the regiment went on a raid to Van Buren, during which they crossed Cove Creek thirty-nine times, and reached Van Buren late in the evening, returning in four days to Rhea's Mills and celebrating New Years day on Prairie Grove battlefield. The regiment was almost constantly on the march and finall3'' reached RoUa, proceeding thence to St. Louis where they went into Camp Gamble, July 8th, 1863. From St. Louis the regiment was transported to Helena, Ark., where it remained until Oct. 10, when it marched by Clarendon, Duvals Bluff and Brownsville to Little Eock, and went into camp. There it remained until the 3d of February, 186.4, when it moved southwards to co-operate with the Red River Expedition of Gen. Banks and Smith. The main event df this expedition was the battle of Jenkins' Ferry. This expedition, though giving proof of the good fighting quality of our troops,, was not successful and the regiment returned to camp at Little Rock. There it remained with the exception of some excursions one to Pine Blufif and Mount Elba, the other to Camden by steamer and return by land. The regiment had been under command of Lieut. Col. Jacobi since reorganization, and when he was promoted to'Provost Marshal General and Judge of Provost Court for the Department of Arkansas, the command reverted to Capt. Eckhart of Company A. The regiment was mustered out Jan. 30th, 1866,, at'Little Rock, reached Madison Feb. 12th, and was paid and disbanded on the 14th.

Tenth Regiment Of Infantry Twelfth Regiment Of Infantry

There were some of our men in this regiment but only by transfer from the 25th regiment, where the names of those I could find out will be enrolled.

Sixteenth Regiment Of Infantry

Lewis, John, 1st Lieutenant, Comp. H, is reported a resident of Mondovi 1885, but whether he belongs into this or the previouslist I can not say for sure.

Twenty-Fifth Regiment Of Infantry

joined the company at Moonville, Alabama, March 1864, and were after the mustering out of the original enlistment transferred to Comp. P, 3 2th Regiment:

At the request of Hon. J. W. DeGroff is inserted in the place of any further history of the Twenty-fifth Infantry the speech of Governor and General J. M. Rusk, held at the reunion of the regiment at Sparta, June 8th and 9th, 1887.

" Twenty-two years ago yesterday, our term of service in the "Union Army closed, and we were mustered out of the service of the United States. After the lapse of all these years, we meet to-day in our first re-union. I cannot describe to you my feelings in meeting the survivors of the gallant regiment with whom vay lot was cast during the war, many of whom I have not met since we were mustered out.

" The 25th regiment was recruited in 1862 in the counties of Buffalo, Pepin, Monroe, Juneau, La Crosse, Vernon, Richland and Grant, and went into camp one thousand and eighteen strong at La Crosse, September 4, 1862. We were ordered soon after our organization to report to General Pope at St, Paul, to aid in suppres sing Indian outbreaks in Minnesota. We were scattered throughout the state performing post duty till November, when we were ordered to assemble at Winona. A majority of the companies had three hundred miles to march to reach that place. On the 13th day of December, the last company arrived, and the regiment pro- ceeded to La Crosse, where we remained till the 18th, when we were ordered to Camp Randall, remaining at the latter place till February, 1863, when we were ordered to report to Caii'o for active duty. From thence the regiment went to Columbus, Ky., where it remained till the 31st of May; from there down the Mississippi, touching at Memphis. On the 2nd of June the regiment was ordered to Young's Point, and from thence to Chickasaw Bayou, up the Yazoo river to Satartia, Miss., leaving Satartia on the 6th, marching down the Yazoo river, making one of the most trying marches the regiment ever experienced. Nearly thirty miles were made in one day, in intense heat, many of the comrades being prostrated by sunstroke.

" The regiment went into camp at Haine's Bluff, but the camp was soon removed to Snyder's Bluff on the Yazoo river, forming the left of the line investing Vicksburg. We remained in this position till the 25th, when vi'e were ordered up the Mississippi, for the purpose of assistiag in the protection of the river fron; guerrillas, arriving on the 27th at a point below Greenville, Miss., where the cavalry accompanying us disembarked and crossed the country. From Greenville the regiment proceeded to Spanish Moss Bend, a few miles above, on the Arkansas side, at which place a steamer had been burned by guerrillas a few nights before. At this place, we disembarked and marched across the country about five miles, when we came upon the enemy's pickets. Here we drove the pickets, and pursued the enemy about four miles; we were ordered to return to our transport, re-embarking to return to Vicksburg. While on our way we received news that the enemy had attacked Lake Providence. The speed of the boat was increased, and the regiment arrived there just in time to save the place. At the garrison there were but six hundred Union troops under command of Gen. Reed. Ten thousand of the enemy were pressing upon this point. Gen. Reed's entire force was on the skirmish line, with no reserve force, when we landed. We immediately moved to his support, and the two gun boats accompanying our fleet at once shelled the enemy, who fell back in retreat. Returned to Snyder's Bluff next day, and resumed our position in the rear of Vicksburg, where we remained until after the capture of that city. It was while we lay at this sickly point for the Yazoo jjyer means the river of death - that so many of our brave boys succumbed to disease, At one time less than one hundred of the one thousand splendid men who had left their northern homee strong and able-bodied, were fit to report for duty. "On the 25th of July we proceeded up the river and went into camp at Helena, Ark. Here the regiment remained doing garrison duty, varied by frequent expeditions into the interior and dov/n the river, till the 29th of January, ^864, , when we re-embarked and proceeded down the Mississippi river again to Vicksburg, where we joined the celebrated Meridian raid, commanded by Gen. Sherman. Leaving Vicksburg on the 3d of February, we marched to Meridian, where we tore uj) the railroad track, and from there to Canton, Mississippi, a distance, of 275 miles, reaching there on the 26th. We left Canton on the 1st da}' of March, returning to Vicksburg via Livingstone, Brownsville and Big Black river. From thence up the Mississippi river to C'airo, up the Tennessee river to Cruriip's Landing, from thence to Waterloo, Ala., and marching thence via ^^Florence and Athens to Mooresville; next to Decatur, Ala., where we engaged the enemy and repulsed. Here the regiment remained doing garrison duty till May 1st, when we proceeded to Chattanooga by way of Huntsville, rejoining forces under Gen. Sherman. Marched by Gordon and Maddock^.Gaps, to a point near Resaca, Ga., where we were continually in front of the enemy until the 14th, when we were ordered to support Gen. Logan, whose column was giving away. Here, my comrades, you will recollect our first introduction to the 20th Iowa at the foot of the hill; we formed our lines in the rear of them, and charged over their depleted lines and drove the enemy from the crest of the hill. This was at 7 o'clock in the evening. The ofScial reports shl)w that there were two rebel brigades in our front firing at that portion of our line. The conflict lasted about two hours, in which our loss was twenty -seven. We held this position until Resaca was evacuated the next day, and Gen. Jo. Johnson in full retreat towards Atlanta. From this time till the capture of Atlanta, I think I may say, we were almost continually engaged with the enemy. It was one continual skirmish from Resaca to Atlanta. You will all recollect Adairsville, Lingston, VanWert and at Dallas, where we were three successive days and nights on the skirmish line. We then marched to Allatoona Pass, Pumpkin Vine CrFek. passing through. Apkworth, aod participated in break-

" The regiment will distinctly recollect the charge made in establishing our line when we were charged by the enemy in the night. Our loss in this action was fifteen. On the 17th ofJmie we advanced across the rebel works towards Kenesaw Mountain, establishing our position on the crest of the hill, throwing up a line of works. Here we remained, constantly exposed to the enemy's fire, till the morning of July 3, when we again resumed the march with the Army of the Tennessee, between Kenesaw and Lost Mountains, continually reaching out to the right, until we reached the Cattahoochee river, by the Sandtown road. Forded the river at Roswell Mills, and immediately advanced our lines through Decatur, encamping on the right of the Army of the Tennessee, within a mile of Atlanta. On the morning of the 2lst we were ordered, with the 2d brigade and a section of artillery, to move to Decatur to guard the flank and the trains.

"On the morning of the 22d - my comrades, j'ou will all i*ecollect the 22d of July, th^ day MoPherson fell - the cavalry which had been occupying our flank was ordered to Augusta, leaving our flank exposed. The enemy being aware of this, moved rapidly around Lost Mountain, striking our army on the flank and rear It was about 11 o'clock when the battle in front of Atlanta opened. Soon McPherson, our grand leader, fell, and Gen. Logan succeeded to the command. Had we lost this battle, in my judgment it would have produced the most disastrous results of an}^ of the war. Here, Logan, the. greatest of volunteer generals, endeared himself to the hearts of the soldiers of the Army of the Tennessee. In this terrible conflict the 25th played its part. We occupied the extreme left of the line, covering the trains five miles from Atlanta. The enemy attacked us a little after noon, and continued the fight upon us till nearly five o'clock. Here the regiment's loss amounted to one-fourth of the whole number engaged. The list of casualties shows fifteen killed, fifty-seven wounded, twenty-five xiiissing, and three prisoners. After the war, and during my service in congress, I met Col. Price, a member of congress from Alabama, who commanded one of the rebel brigades in this fight, and when I told him we had less than a brigade of infantry and a company of artillery he could hardly believe it. He stated that when he attempted to cross around to the rear of Decatur, he met reinforce- ments in large numbers coming up from Roswell Mills. I informed him that it was only one regiment of our brigade, the 43d OhiOj under Col. Swain. He stated that two brigades of cavalry one brigade of infantry, and two companies of artillery formed the rebel forces at Decatur, and that had they known their superior numbers, would have captured the Union troops.

" On the 26th we passed from the left flank in the rear of the army to the extreme right, a distance of twenty-four miles. Again meeting the enemy on the 27th, in the evening, drove him from his position and took the crest of the hill fronting Atlanta, which we held under heavy fire during the battle of the 28th. On the 30th we moved a short distance to the right, where we remained until the 9th of August, when we advanced our line under heavy fire to a point within five hundred yards of the rebel lines, which position we held until the 26th, when we moved with the Army of the Tennessee in the rear of Atlanta, tearing up the rebel railroads at East.Point, and thence moved to Jonesboro, participating in the battle of Jonesbtiro, fought on the 31st, which gave us Atlanta.

"On the 2nd of September, we moved forward in pursuit of the enemy, at Lovejoy Station, but finding them in retreat, returned to Atlanta and went into camp. Thus ended the great battle, lasting nearly continuouslj'' from the 14th of May up to this time. The regiment remained at East Point, near Atlanta, until October 4th, when they again took up the march following the enemy towards Chattanooga, passing through Resaca and Snake Creek Gap to Rome, Ga. From Rome the regiment returned to Atlanta, where they remained till they started November 15th on the memorable march to the sea. Passed through McDonough, Montello, Gordon Junction, where we halted to tear up the track of the Milledgeville and Eastern Georgia Central R.R.,crossed the Oconee river at Millen, striking the railroad again at Marlow Station and were ordered to tear up the track. Again we encountered the enemy at Long Swamp and drove them back, pushing forward to Railroad Station No. 1, and continuing to follow them to within a few miles of Savannah, where we came upon their works.

''On the 10th of December, we forded the Ogeechee canal. Our position here was very much exposed, being within five hundred yards of the enemy's fortifications. The 25th was the first regiment formed, occupying the left of the line, and the remainder of_ the division formed on its right. Gen. Mower instructed me, as soon as the division was in line to charge on the enemy's worlds. Just as the line was formed, and we were waiting for the signal to make the charge, Gen. Sherman came across the canal on foot unaccompanied by anj^ of his staff. He approached me and inquired where Gen. Mower was, and I replied that the General was on the extreme right of the line. Gen. Sherman then asked me what my orders were. I informed him that I was ordered to charge the enemy's works as soon as the division was in line. He replied that Gen. Mower didn't understand him. Immediately I directed my orderly to notify Gen. Mower that Gen. Sherman was on the left of the line, and desired to see him. In a few minutes Gen. Mower rode up, and the following conversation occurred.

" Gen. Sherman rej)lied that he did not want the enemy dislodged from that position, and directed Mower to move his line as near as possible, and throw up a line of works, which was done and we remained under cover till night when we advanced our picket posts within two hundred yards of the rebel works, where we remained until next evening.

"The investigation made that night and the next day proved that had we made the charge there would have been but few here to-day to tell the story. No doubt the majority of us would have fallen in front of the abatis, where we would have been exposed to a murderous fire.

" On the evening of the 11th we were ordered to quietly abandon this position after building camp fires. Moving around to the right towards the Gulf Railroad, we here halted near Dillon's Bridge. On the morning of the 12th, we found our troops in possession of the Gulf Railroad, and during the day Gen. Hazen charged Fort McAllister and captured it. Our fleet was in sight, waiting to get to us with our mail and supplies, but owing to the torpedoes placed by the rebels in the river, it was impossible for the vessels to reach King's bridge, the place of arrival, for several days. My comrades, you will all recollect that it was at this time that we were all on equality with the mules - officers, men and animals all having the same rations issued to them of rice in the sheaf. On the 20th our fleet arrived at King's bridge and again we had a bountiful supply of rations Savannah was ours, and the famous march to the sea was ended. On the 3d of January, 1865, we marched through Savannah and embarked at Thunderbolt for Beaufort, South Carolina, where we encamped a few days before we started on the memorable march through the Carolina. On the 13th the march began, crossing the Pocataglio river, halting at Pocataglio a few days, when we again started on the march.

"On the 2nd of February we again encountered the enemy at River's bridge, on the Salkehatchie river. You will all remember the terrible swamp through which we charged on that occasion. . It was in that charge that Sergeants Tomlinson and Church fell, and Bugler Knudson had his head blown off by a cannon ball. The swamp was nearly impenetrable, so much so that Gen. Mower and his staff could not reach the front (^f his command We reached the Salkehatchie river, which was so deep and rapid that we could not make the crossing, and remained until dark. The next morning we pushed forward rapidly and made the crossing by chopping pine trees and piling tree upon tree, until the bridge was made upon which we crossed. We then charged through the swamp on the left of the road, up to within a few rods of the battery, when the enemy evacuated, leaving in our hands a great many prisoners and their artillery, thus making the crossing of this river complete and enabling us to make the successful march through the Carohnas. The enemy had made a stand at this river, protecting it for over forty miles, and here they expected to stop our march. All of the commands ot Sherman's army were attempting to cross this river at difierent'points, but our division was the first to make the crossing.

On the 6th of February we again started on the march. On the 9th we encountered the enemy in force at South Edisto river. Here we charged through a swamp which was very difficult and dislodged the enemy. On the Uth we resumed our march, passing through midway, on the Charlestown road and Augusta Railroad, crossing Roberts' swamp, through Orangeburg to a point opposite Columbia, camping on the grounds previously occupied as a rebel prison, which had been abandoned and our prisoners removed. On the 27th of February, we crossed the Bush and Broad rivers and entered Columbia, marching through the city to the ubur bs, where we went into camp. The next day was occupied in tearing up the railroad tracks, going into camp eight njiles east of Columbia in the evening. Here the regiment received orders to return to Cotunibia for dut}' as provost guards. We remained on duty till the 20Lh of February, when we again resumed the march northward on the Charleston and South Carolina Railroad, passing through Winnsboro and Wilkes Mills, reaching Cheraw on the evening of March 3d. Here the regiment was detailed as provost guard and remained on that duty two days.

On the 5th we crossed the great Pedee river, passed through Bennettsville, and on the 8th entered North Carolina. On the 11th passed through Fayetteville, and again encountered the enemy at Cape Fear river. On the 16th we passed through Blockersville, where we again engaged the enemy and routed thew; proceeded by way of Clinton and Dudley, to a jjoint on the Goldsboro & Fayetteville road, where the 25th was detached from its brigade and ordered to the support of Gen. Tillson's brigade. We moved to the left five miles, and joined Tillson's brigade, and participated in the last battle of Sherman's army at Bentonville, North Carolina. From Bentonville we moved to Goldsboro, reaching that point on the 23d, and going into camp. This closed a campaign of fiftytwo days through the Carolinas. Oa this campaign we only drew rations of coffee, sugar and salt. Fifteen days' rations of hardtack were issued to the various commands when they started. The remainder of the time we had to do the best we could. It was a feast or a famine. On the 10th of April we again started after Jo. Johnson, reaching Raleigh on the 14th. Here we received information that the rebel army had surrendered. We remained here till the 25th, when the news reached us that President Johnson had refused to ratify the terms of the surrender, and we were ordered the next day to move on the enemy, which we. did, but soon received word that they had surrendered unconditionally, a result which closed the war of the rebellion.

"On the 1st of May we started on our homeward march, passing through Richmond. At Fredericksburg, Gen. Sherman reviewed us. We reached Alexandria on the 23d and went into camp near the Potomac river.

"On the 24th of May we crossed the Potomac into Washington and participated in the grand re\'iew. On the same day we went into camp at Crystal Springs, four miles from the National Capital) where we remained till the 7th of June, when we received our final muster out, and started for home, arriving at Madison, June IJ, 1865, twenty-two years ago, having marched over seven thousand miles and done service in fifteen difi'erent states. The regiment's loss was: killed and died of wounds, fifty-seven ; died of disease, four hundred and fourteen: a total of four hundred and seventy -one, which is the largest death roll of any regiment that left the state. 'This closes a brief but necessarily imperfect sketch of the service of the 25th Regiment. In every trying position in which it was placed, it did its duty. It was composed of patriotic men who cheerfully took up the burdens and dangers of war that the Union might be preserved. Their patriotism and valor are a part of the history of the war. I have no greater pride than to be able to sa}' that I was a member of that regiment. Twenty-two years ago we abandoned our guns and knapsacks and returned to our homes. Today, for the first time in twenty-two years, many of us meet and renew our friendship cemented by a three years' brotherhood in a glorious cause. I need not tell you, my comrades, how glad I am to greet you all to-day."

Foety-Eighth Regiment Of Infantey

The regiment was organized at Camp Washburn, Milwaukee, during February and Maach 1865, left on the 22d of March for Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Mo. From this place they were ordered to Paola, Ks. The eight companies forming the regiment were stationed at different points and were joined by companies I and K at Fort Scottj Ks., April 28th. The regiment was scattered in companies in that neighborhood, doing some fighting with guerillas and general service work, thence they^were ordered to Lawrence, Ks., in Augiist, and expected to be mustered out, as the war was over, but they were ordered to western frontier posts, company K to Fort Lyons, Colorado, then a territory. Their duties' were escorting mail and government trains, as protection against roving bands of Indians, garrison and fatigue duty. In December 1865 the mustering out of the regiment was commenced by ordering the nearest companies to march towards Leavenworth and Company K and C were, the last, mustered.out March 28th, at Madison.

The 50th regiment was organized a few days before the termination of active war. They were consequently detached for service in the western frontier forts, where they remained until their discharge which took place in June 1866.

The list of "Soldiers Furnished by Buffalo. County^" must close here. I have in the introduction called attention to the means, and the want of them, for compiling such a list reliably, and have but to say that I made the best use I could of existing opportunities. I have now to remark, that all these soldiers were, of course, early settlers of the county, and if the names of some of them do not appear on the list of "Early Settlers" while some do, it must not be attributed to any neglect or partiality on my part, but to favorable opportunity of learning particulars, which did not exist for all, but it will appear, that they received in this book their rightful place and title as "Defenders of their Country," which in my estimation is equivalent to the highest honor any history or historian can bestow.

A renewed and protracted revision of the Census List of "Soldiers of Late War" has led to the following additions to the "List of Soldiers'now residing in, but not furnished by Buffalo County ;''

List Of Early 8Ettlers List Op Early Settlers

LIST OP EARLY SETTLERS. There is a chapter on Early Settlers and Pioneers, in which reminiscences are given of the early times of this county, when it was quite young and just began to try standing on its own legs. In that chapter biograpliies of some of the pioneers were given,, but this practice can not be extended to every one, nor can the' enumeration of early settlers be indefinitely extended down to the present time. As the limit must be drawn somewhere, I set it down at the year 1865, which is about 25 years after the first known settlement, and 11 years after the actual organization of the county. It may be permissible to say something about the difficulties encountered in collecting the names and a few particulars with each, and the methods employed in this collection. Not a few of the older settlers have died, some without leaving families or relations , others have moved away to unknown places, and although they are not really forgotten, it is often impossible to learn anything of their birthplace, their precise time of settlement, their occupation or their present residence. It would at the first first glance appear very easy to collect the . names and desirable particulars of those who are alive and, still residing here, but in fact this was a difficult and often a provoking enterprise. It was impossible for, me or any one person , to make personal calls upon everybody, and in these times of universal education it might reasonably be supposed that a blank with the necessary suggestions would in most cases be filled out and returned, especially, as the purpose of this blank had . been explained in English and in German in the papers published in the county. Accordingly such blanks were sent out, sometimes with the request of depositing them at some store or office where their recipients would be sure to. call. This plan did but seldom work well, and other expedients had to be thought of. Some friends. were requested tojend their assjst^nce and L am upder obliga.tjprjs.to the foUpwing gentlemen in.tbie.matter:

Leonhard Fried, Gottlieb Bohri and Louis G. Barth of the Town of Cross, Martin Schulte of Buffalo, Geo. Schuster of Fountain City, Mayor Nic. Weinandy of Buffalo City, Mr. Geo. Harper of Waumandee, Christ. Kindschi of Montana, Allen H. De Groff and Erich Alme of Misha Mokwa; also to Geo. B. Gilke of Gilmanton, to Mrs. Claflin of the same town, and to W. W. Wyman, and Elder B. F. Morse of Mondovi.

Of course, I had a good opportunity for collecting material of this kind myself at Alma, and was assisted by an extensive personal acquaintance, and by the frequent visits of people from all parts of the county to the capital of it.

As above indicated, this list is not intended as a biographical sketch of each person entered in it, but as a record of those who happened to make their home in this county during the period of its incipiency and development, whether they are here yet, or have departed. There was in the blanks a call for "Other Kemarks," which have sometimes been made and oftener omitted. As the list must for obvious reasons assume a tabulary form, there will be a close uniformity in regard to the entries made in it. Remarks of some particular importance will be brought in an appendix, connected with the names of the persons having made such remarks.

With regard to the table itself it will be noticed that some abbreviations have been used, especially as to the name of countries that figure in the column of birthplaces. These abbreviations are frequently not omissions of letters, but of words for instance instead of "Grand Duchy of Baden" I shall say "Baden " instead of Kingdom of Prussia, Bavaria, Wuertemberg etc. only the name of the country will appear. With regard to Switzerland I prefer to give the name of the canton, abbreviated Cnt., with its name. The birthplace of Americans, if known, will be given by the name of the state, otherwise by United States. With regard to Germany I similarly prefer to give the name of the separate country or state, without its title, because the tittle is not used in common conversation for the country, but regularly for the monarch. The town, city or village, if reported, is inserted in the column, if not too long, but as it is the least interesting for the general reader, the omission will be pardoned. The same applies to the omission of the subdivisions of a country or state. The list of each of the above specitied classes will be followed by an " .4ppencita; "of particular remarks made by settlers, who have reported, and whose names appear in the class preceding the appendix.

Appendix

This Appendix is intended to contain Special Remarks made by settlers who have reported. Such remarks were solicited with the understanding that they should be short, and that I reserved the privilege of condensing and remodeling, or of leaving them out altogether. Of this privilege I intend to make but limited use and I suppose the authors of remarks will recognize them again when they see them in the book.

Some persons have expressed a desire that / should make these remarks, saying that 1 could do it better and knew all about it. I protest; for althougli I might know some points suitable for presentation, I do not mean to become responsible for the performance implied. What a nuin does not care to say himself, I do not care to say for him. The appendix will be arranged alphabetically.

Occupation

May; selected land in Sect. 16 T. 24 R. 10 and lives upon it yet. He says: "Lived on bread and milk the first two years. I bought (once) a loaf of bread in Alma, cut a hole in it and put in some butter, and started up Beef River. It lasted me until I got up to Farrington's. The first meal I ate at L. D. Farrington's. I asked him for something to eat, and he told me to go down to the house, he had some flour and water, and I could mix me up some cakes."

Hon. Orlando Brown says. "Came to Wisconsin 1842 with my father Walter Brown and family, lived for one and a half year at Elkhorn, Walworth Co. Indians, deer, wolves and other wild animals were plenty. May 1844 removed to the town of York, Dane Co., Wis., when there were but two families in that township. In 1852 made the overland journey to Oregon and California by oxtrain which consumed six months, returned with my father's family in 1854, and settled with them in La Crosse Co., Wis. In June 1855 I came with my brothers Harvey and Carlton and Grove Wood to Buffalo Co, The winters of l855-'56, and '56-'57 were

Harvey Brown, brother of Orlando, was born in the town of Naples, Ontario Co., N. Y., and settled in Buffalo Co. June 6th, 1855 in that part of the town of Naples, which is now the town of Mondovi. He always lived on his farm, where he died June 10, 1886.

John Clarke says: Came from Fond du Lac to erect the Steam Saw Mill for Bishop and Carpenter in April 1855. In 1857 and '58 in company with John Buehler put up the Fountain City flouring mill, grinding the first grain in the county in 1858. Established the City Agricultural Works in 1867-

Hon. Geo. Cowie, born in Lasswade, Co. of Midlothian, near Edinburg, Scotland, whose first occupation was mining, sailed 1848 from Glasgow to Pictou, Nova Scotia, went from there to Pottsville, Pa., 1849, thence to California by way of the Isthmus of Panama 1851, returned to Lonacening, Md., in 1853, from which place he went to Wisconsin 1855.

W. H. Gates came 1852 to Nelson's Landing, 1855 to Alma, was married to Miss Elizabeth Marti, February 23, 1856 and appointed postmaster the same year. He built the first house in the place 1855, and the same year J, A. Hunner, John Heinrich, Philipp Kraft, John R. Hurlburt and E. E. Heerman built their house.s the same year. The first stopping place was John Marty's, who came to Alma in 1851. The first sermon, (Methodist) was preached in 1856 in the dining room of the Alma House; the first wedding was Abraham Schmoker to Maria Haug, June 7th, 1866, Gates performing the ceremony. The first birth was a child of Mrs. Wengert, wife of the pioneer of that name.