Eau Claire County, Wisconsin - Chapter 15: Spanish-American War, 1914 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 15: Spanish-American War

All through the month of April the people of the nation watched the gathering war clouds with deep concern. With all others of the National Guard of the country, the members of E Company were particularly close observers of developments, and as day by day went by the feeling became more certain war would result. The Armory, then situated at the corner of First avenue and Ann street, facing on the Chippewa river, was open every evening and the rendezvous of the men of the company.

"Captain J. M. Ballard, Eau Claire, Wis. Assemble all men enrolled at Armory ready to entrain at 10:30 a. m., Omaha. Bring all extra property, one day's rations. By Command of the Governor,

Many men were in the Armory when the call was received and immediately were dispatched to carry the word to all other members of the company. It was a busy night and by eight o'clock on the morning of the 28th the company was assembled at its Armory ready to take up the march to the depot.

Captain Ballard had been advised by General Boardman several days before, the maximum strength of volunteer companies was fixed at 101 and the minimum at 89. These figures included officers. Instructions had been given, however, not to enlist over 65 men in the National Guard Company.

All business in the city was practically suspended. At ten o'clock banks, stores and factories closed. Shortly after ten the company left the Armory and began the march to the Omaha Station. An immense cheering assembly greeted the men as, in heavy marching order, in column of fours, they moved out onto First avenue. An escort column was made up as follows :

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From Armory to the depot was one grand ovation. At the depot it was estimated fully half of the people of Eau Claire had assembled. The troop train from Hudson did not arrive until 11:15 and the company immediately boarded the car assigned to them. Plentiful lunches had been provided by the Grand Army and the Women's Relief Corps. Carnations and roses from the ladies decorated the blue uniform of every soldier. Ninety-seven men and officers were on the company roll.

Among those who accompanied the troop train from Eau Claire were Captain Charles H. Henry, a veteran of the War of the Rebellion ; Harrj^ M. Atkinson, editor of the Leader, and Professor M. S. Frawley of the Eau Claire High School.

Harry Atkinson was determined to enlist. He had, for a short period several years before, been a member of the Guard. His brother, Percy C, had already enlisted, but it required long argument on the part of Captain Ballard, Captain Henry, Professor Frawley and others to convince Harry his first duty was to remain with his paper. He only gave up when assured should a second call come, he would be permitted to go.

In Captain Ballard's Company were a number of high school boys, among them members of the spring graduating class. The graduation essays of several of the young soldiers were then in the hands of Professor Frawley. At frequent intervals throughout the day the professor would take out these essays and gaze at them with tear-dimraed eyes.

It was a bright sunny day and at every village and city along the route the troops received an ovation. Madison was reached late in the afternoon. There were assembled thousands of students and citizens. Several state officers boarded the train to extend their greetings, among them being the noted newspaper correspondent, Hon. Gilbert E. Vandercook, then Assistant Secretary of State, and Hon. Sewall A. Peterson, State Treasurer, a former officer of H Company. Nels Nelson, a University stu- dent, had served an enlistment with E Company. He boarded the Eau Claire car to bid his former comrades goodbye, but soon changed his mind and announced to his classmates on the platform he was going on with the company. He finished his course at Madison after the war.

The Wisconsin troops were mobilized at the State Fair Grounds, near Milwaukee, the camp being named "Camp Harvey," in honor of the War Governor, Louis P. Harvey, drowned April 19, 1862, at Pittsburg Landing, in the Tennessee river, while on a visit to the wounded Wisconsin soldiers at Shiloh.

Sometime after dark the train reached the camp and was met at the depot by Governor Scofield, General Boardman, Colonel Patton and Colonel Ginty. The trotting horse stables were assigned to Colonel Moore's Third Infantry, and to these quarters the troops from the northwest were conducted. The writer of this sketch recalls the trip in the darkness with Governor Scofield as a guide, from the station to the Administration Building, where the Governor had established his military headquarters. Lanterns were few and the night dark, but the companies moved without confusion to the quarters.

The large roomy box stalls had been plentifully supplied with fresh straw and the tired men were glad to roll themselves in their blankets and seek rest in these improvised barracks.

From this point on, the war history of the company becomes intermingled with that of the other companies of the regiment. The history of the regiment will be given with such additions as pertain particularly to the Eau Claire Company.

A few days after the regiment arrived at Camp Harvey, Congress passed a law accepting National Guard Organizations as they had existed in the states and the Battalion Adjutants were ordered into the camp.

Immediately on arrival of the regiment at Camp Harvey, Colonel Moore looked about for a regimental headquarters. Be tween the barracks occupied by his men and the race track, under a spreading tree (not a chestnut) was the blacksmith shop, where the trotters, the former occupants of the barracks, had their shoes adjusted. This being the only available building, was quickly converted into the headquarters of the Third Infantry.

The morning of April 29 opened cold and raw. Throughout the stay of the troops at Camp Harvey the weather was uncomfortably cold. The men sleeping in the barracks or box stalls, being well supplied with straw, did not suffer greatly from cold during the nights, but those officers who had been supplied with tents would get up in the morning chilled through and through. The dressing room facilities at this camp, while perhaps suitable for the former occupants of the barracks, were not exactly convenient for the young soldiers, but they made the best of it. Going across the race track from quarters they would break the ice on the brook and make their toilets, talking and laughing even with chattering teeth.

The period at Camp Harvey was full of excitement and uncertainty. Tlie air was charged with rumors of battles fought and orders to the front. It was fully expected the Wisconsin regiments would be rushed into Cuba. Governor Scofield made every effort to prepare the men properly for service. He looked with no enthusiasm upon war and much deplored it, although heartily endorsing the course of President McKinley. He had made a brilliant record for himself in the War of the Rebellion and received promotion to the rank of Major for gallantry on the field of Gettysburg. He knew what war meant.

The troops were, immediately on arrival at Camp Harvey, put on the regular army ration. To this the Governor, however, insisted there should be added milk and butter. He said the great dairy state of Wisconsin could well afford to supply her soldiers with these articles while they were still in the state; that there would be time enough later for them to do without.

A change in the personnel of the regimental staff took place during the period the regiment was in preparation for muster in. Captain George A. Ludington, who had for so many years served faithfully and well as Regimental Quartermaster, owing to his physical condition was rejected by the surgeons. Charles R. "Williams for some years had been in charge of Camp Douglas Reservation and held the rank of Captain in the Quai-tei-master 's Department. He was transferred to the regiment as Quartermaster, and Captain Ludington became depot Quartermaster at Camp Douglas. Captain Williams came to the regiment splendidly equipped owing to his familiarity with the supply departments of the army and proved to be a most efScient officer.

Another change in the staff occurred at this time. Lieutenant E. B. Farr, of Eau Claire, was rejected by the surgeons and Marshall Cousins, then Regimental Sergeant Major, was conunissionecl as Battalion Adjutant and assigned to the First Battalion, commanded by Major George. Tliis position had been offered to Lieutenant Cousins in 1895, but he had declined it in order to find a place as a commissioned officer for Lieutenant Farr.

May 1 was the first Sunday in the camp and the newspapers of Milwaukee estimated 60,000 visitors passed through the grounds. Daily during the time the troops were at Camp Harvey thousands of citizens visited the camp. Monday morning, May 2, the camp was aroused at an early hour by the cry of the newsboys annouucing Dewey's great victory at Manilla, "and many Spaniards killed." Cheer after cheer went up from the young soldiers and the chilly sunrise temperature was forgotten.

Active preparations were going on night and day to complete the organization and to fully and completely prepare the troops for active service. Lieutenant Colonel Tildeu, Deputy Surgeon General of the United States Army, organized and swore the Regimental Surgeons as Government Examining Surgeons, and on May 5 the examination of officers and men was begun. A few of the Eau Claire boys failed to pass this physical examination. Several of them, on being informed by the kindly Dr. Tilden they could not be mustered in, could not restrain the tears.

Wednesday, May 11, 1898, was an eventful day in the history of the soldiers of the Third Infantry, as well as of Wisconsin. For on this day at 1:30 o'clock, Captain William L. Buck, of

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Shortly after noon Captain Buck entered regimental headquarters, formerly the blacksmith shop, where he found Lieutenant Cousins on duty. The headquarters' rolls were in readiness and Captain Buck asked they be immediately signed by the officers of the field and staff, handing a pen to the Lieutenant. That officer, however, suggested Colonel Moore be given the honor of first signing the oath as a soldier of the United States. Pollowing Colonel Moore, the Lieutenant signed and became the second to muster. After the headquarters had been mustered, one by one the companies were taken up, the roll called and in an impressive manner the men, with uncovered heads, took the oath as United States Volunteer Soldiers. ]\Iany spectators witnessed this interesting ceremony.

Muster-In Roll

The above is a list of officers and men who were mustered into the United States Volunteer Infantry May 11. 1898, by W. L. Buck, Captain U. S. A. When the orders came for volunteers, it called for three officers and 101 men. Company E left Eau Claire, Wis., April 28, 1898, with three officers and 99 men, for Camp Harvey. Before the time for mustering in, an order was issued reducing each company to 84 officers and men, the surplus being sent home. After ai'riving at Camp Thomas an order came to increase company to 106 officers and men. Following is a list of same :

Richard Hollen, LeRoy Binder, William Myre, S. Edward Bostwick, 0. Olson, J. Frederick, Floyd Jones, William A. Schwahn, J. A. Cooper, J. B. Noble, Lieutenant E. Bart Farr. Most of these men were rejected owing to being under weight.

Officers of the regular army assisting in the organization and muster of the Wisconsin troops were Lieutenant Frank M. Caldwell of the Seventh Cavalry. Lieutenant Caldwell went to West Point from Oshkosh and took a warm personal interest in Wisconsin. He was on an inspection tour of the Wisconsin companies when the call came and he was directed to report at Camp Harvey. He was detailed as Post Quartermaster and Commissary. When the Fourth Regiment was organized Lieutenant Caldwell was commissioned as Lieutenant Colonel and rendered valuable and able service with that regiment.

Captain William L. Buck, Thirteenth Infantry, was the chief mustering officer. Captain Buck had several years previous to the war served a detail as United States inspector with the Wisconsin troops.

A very popular oiBcer paid a visit to the regiment unofficially. Captain Phillip Reade. It was under Phil Reade's instruction the first rifle practice was had at Camp Douglas. This was the subject in which Captain Reade was greatly interested and the Wisconsin men quickly partook of his enthusiasm. He had a personal acquaintance, through the close contact on the range, of many officers and enlisted men, and has always been exceedingly popular with the Wisconsin Guard. Several years ago he retired as a Brigadier General.

The medical department of the army was represented by Lieutenant Colonel Henry R. Tilton, Deputy Surgeon General of the army. He called to his assistance Dr. Ladd, of Milwaukee, and Dr. Reynolds, of Geneva. These three distinguished surgeons arranged for and supervised the physical examination of the troops previous to their acceptance by the Federal Government.

Two interesting events occurred during the period the regiment was in Camp Harvey. One of these was the marriage of Sumner P. Bartlett and Miss Olga Arnold, one of Eau Claire's beautiful daughters.

During the period the regiment was at Camp Harvey many friends from home visited E Company. Among them may be mentioned General Michael Griffin, Captain C. H. Henry, Major William P. Bartlett, Captain John Kelley, John C. Fennessey, John F. Roberts, Captain Chris Schlosser, Mayor S. S. Kepler, D. A. Cameron, Aldermen - Hugh J. Forest, J. H. Young, Frank Gregoire, Martin Severson, John H. Fleming, M. S. Beecher, Charles S. Lee, N. J. Mclutyre, Chief of Police John Higgins, William K. Atkinson and wife, Harry M. Atkinson, Florence Atkinson, Miss Clara Zwickey, Mrs. Thomas Hutchinson, Mrs. J. M. Ballard, Mi-s. II. L. Whittier, Mrs. Henry Cousins and Miss Mary Cousins. Other welcome visitors were George B. Early, of Chippewa Falls, and Lieutenant Governor Emil Baensch.

This subject cannot be passed without special reference to the visit of Miss Vera I. Moore, daughter of Colonel Moore. For a long period Miss Moore had been known as "The daughter of the regiment," and annually encamped with the regiment, for which she felt the same love, admiration and pride as her worthy father.

The Volunteer Organization

The organization in Wisconsin regiments differed in a few respects from the organization under the United States laws. The Wisconsin regiments had regularly appointed Quartermasters with rank of Captain, and also had regularly appointed Battalion Adjutants with rank of First Lieutenant, mounted, and Battalion Sergeants Major. In the regular service these positions were tilled by detail of line officers.

General Charles King, some years previous to the war, had recommended to the Governor and Legislature the passage of a law making these positions permanent ones, and Marshall Cousins, when a member of the Legislature, had prepared and secured the passage of such a law. On the reorganization of the army, following the Spanish-American War, the Federal laws were amended and now closely follow the Wisconsin regulations of that day.

As previously stated, the Battalion Adjutants and Battalion Sergeants Major were not included in the first call, but a few days after the call Congress enacted a law accepting the organizations as they had existed in the states, and those affected were ordered into camp. In the Wisconsin establishments the Regimental Adjutant and Regimental Quartermaster held the rank of Captain. Assistant Surgeons also held rank of Captain. When these officers were mustered into the United States service, however, their rank was reduced to First Lieutenant.

When the call was made, Marshall Cousins, of Eau Claire, went into the camp as Regimental Sergeant Major, which position he had held for several years. On the rejection of Lieutenant Farr by the Surgeons, the Sergeant Major was commissioned Battalion Adjutant with rank of First Lieutenant, and assigned to the First Battalion, commanded by Major Thomas Jefferson George, of Menomonie. Samuel E. Grout, of Eau Claire, was the Battalion Sergeant Major.

Assignment To Battalions

In the State organization the regiment was divided into three battalions, and companies were grouped on geographical lines as far as possible. They took their numerical designations from the rank of their Majors. The same assignments and designations continued in the United States service, as follows:

May 13 formal orders were received for the regiment to move on Saturday, May 14. Their designation was Camp Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga. Friday was spent in packing up and saying good-bye to friends. Saturday morning bright and early the camp was astir and baggage hauled to the train. At 3:30 o'clock the first section pulled out. The regiment moved in three sections. Colonel Moore, Major George and Major Kircheis, respectively, in charge of sections. In the second section, under Major George, were about five hundred men, being companies of B, C, E, H, I and M. Chicago was reached after dark and some time passed in switching in and about the stock yards. It was well along in the night before the train pulled away for the Southland.

Sunday morning dawned on the regiment making its way through Indiana. At every station the troops were greeted by large crowds. The season was well advanced over that of Wisconsin. The ladies were out in summer frocks and bright colors. The grass was green and foliage well out. Leaving Indiana the regiment passed through Kentucky and into Tennessee. At Nashville they found Quartermaster Sergeant Ludington awaiting them. He had left the first section and reported a pleasing compliment paid the regiment by an officer of the regular army. For some time the first section stood in the Nashville depot. After they had pulled out an officer of the army, noticing Sergeant Ludington, inquired of him what regiment had just pulled out. The Sergeant reported it was the Third Wisconsin, to which the officer replied, "No, it was some regular army regiment. No volunteer regiment carried itself as the regiment which just left." The Sergeant, however, convinced him it was the Third Wisconsin.

Monday morning. May 16, tlie regiment found itself in Chattanooga and after several hours on the road reached Lytic, the detraining station for Camp Thomas. Between Chattanooga and Lytle they had their first view of Lookout Mountain. The First Battalion under Major George was quickly vmder way after detraining and was conducted by a guide to the Kelley Field, where they were instructed to await the arrival of the remainder of the regiment. While the battalion was resting on the field they first met their Brigade Commander, General Andrew S. Burt. The General, alone and dismounted, came out from under the shade and approached Lieutenant Cousins. He wore a plain service uniform, showing considerable wear, and was close up to the Battalion Adjutant before that officer discovered the stars on the shoulder straps. The General hardly waited for the formal salute, but stepped forward and extended his hand, introducing himself, remarked, "Possibly the order has not yet reached you, but I have the lionor to be your Brigade Commander. My name is Burt."

General Andrew S. Burt had for many years been Colonel of the 25th Infantry, colored, and had made a soldierly, welldisciplined body of men out of that regiment. He was one of the first officers in the regular service promoted to Brigadier General of Volunteers. He had a long and splendid record and the Third Infantry of Wisconsin was pleased to be assigned to his brigade. General Burt also expressed pleasure at having the Wisconsin men assigned to him.

Grounds for the camp were assigned to the regiment just oft' the Kelley Field. Streets were mapped out, all facing north. Baggage was very late in arriving and many of the companies were unable to put up their tents before night fall. Major George's tent and that of his Adjutant were but a few feet from the monument of the First Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, where they did severe fighting on September 23, 1863. There were other monuments in all directions.

The camp was very well shaded and ground level. The Kelley Field, just to the west of the camp, furnished fine opportunity for drilling and parade. There were also fine grounds to the east of the camp in the woods, and here the battalion drilled during the stay at Camp Thomas in the battle exercises.

On Tuesday evening the 17th, the Third put on evening parade on the historical Kelley Field and the exercises attracted a number of spectators.

The regiment began daily drills, but during the mid-day hours, ten to four o'clock, owing to the heat, to which the men were unaccustomed, Colonel Moore ordered a general rest.

Friday, May 20, unwelcome news reached the regiment that General Burt, to whom they had become much attached, had been transferred and ordered to Tampa. The command of the brigade devolved upon Colonel C. B. Hunt, of the First Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

Sunday, May 22, occurred the first death in the regiment, that of Private Charles Eck, of E Company. He had been reported sick on Saturday and died at 4:20 Sunday morning. Captain Ballard was with him at the time of his death. The body was removed during the day and later interred in the National Cemetery at Chattanooga. Private Eck was one of those who had joined the company at the call for troops and his death was deeply regretted by all his comrades.

Monday, May 23, a division review was held in the morning. Fifty-four hundred men passed the reviewing officer. The Third Wisconsin and the Sixteenth Pennsylvania were pronounced the best appearing regiments.

Wednesday, May 25, a battle exercise was held. The division took part in the exercise. The first battalion of the Third marched to Snodgrass Hill, where they took post, and later under orders fell back towards McFarlane's Gap. This was the ground over which Wisconsin troops fought in September, 1863. Evening parade was before General James II. Wilson, who reviewed the regiment following parade.

May 27 the regiment was vaccinated from the Colonel down and many sore arms were the result for some days. Some of the men, after passing the surgeons themselves, found much amusement in watching the others wliile the surgeons were performing their task upon them. Sonu^ nu'u would walk up without a flinch or change of expression and smile while the virus was being applied. Others showed the greatest concern and several fainted.

May 28, through the Chattanooga papers, the pleasing information reached the regiment that their long-time friend, Captain Charles King, had been named by President McKinley for Brigadier General of Volunteers. Major George's battalion Avired him their congratulations. This day was taken up with a tiresome, thorough inspection of equipment. Late in the afternoon General Charles R. Boardman arrived from Jacksonville. He represented Governor Seofield and presented new commissions made out on parchment. The regiment paraded before him. He was much pleased with the inspections reports on the Wisconsin troops.

On Monday, May 30, the regiment assembled about the First Wisconsin monument at 10:30 and held Memorial day services. Addresses were made by Colonel Moore and the Chaplain. Never before did the men of the regiment so fully appreciate the meaning of the day. On this historical spot the First Wisconsin and the Tenth Wisconsin, on September 19 and 20, 1863, rendered valiant service for the Union cause. The Tenth "Wisconsin monument shows a full-size figure of a soldier made to represent the brave Lieutenant Colonel John A. Ely, whose regiment was driven back across the ground now occupied by the Third Infantry camp to the LaFayette road beyond the old Kelley Field. Colonel Ely fell at daybreak on September 20. Out of the 240 men of the Tenth Infantry engaged, the total loss was 211 killed and wounded.

June 1 a rumor reached the camp the Third would in all probability be ordered to the Philippines, but nothing further was heard concerning such an order. Several years afterwards it was learned it had been seriously considered by the authorities and it was probably only a rule established many years previously by a division commander that prevented the Tliird from going to the Philippines in General King's brigade.

Had battalion drill on June 2, Captain Ballard of E Company commanded. He was the senior captain of the battalion as well as of the regiment, and at frequent intervals during the absence or sickness of Major George Captain Ballard was in command. He was fully competent to handle the battalion and reflected credit not only upon himself but his company.

On June 3, Colonel Moore was in command of the brigade owing to the absence of Colonel Culver, of the Fifth Illinois, and Colonel Hunt, of Ohio. The brigade was reviewed by Colonel Moore in the evening.

Large detail from the regiment engaged June 8 and 9 in building bath houses. Captain Hommel, of A Company, took charge of this work and made the plans, and by the use of canvas partitions a very serviceable row of bath houses was erected in the woods east of the camp. The pipes supplying the water to the baths were placed very near the surface of the ground and the hot sun heated the water to a point where it was scalding when the showers were turned on. However the baths were exceedingly popular and served their purpose well.

June 9 orders were received to recruit the companies to 106 men and a Lieutenant from each battalion and a noncommissioned officer from each company were detailed to go to the home stations for this purpose. Lieutenant Hiram Nye, First Lieutenant C Company, Hudson, went from the First Battalion, together with Sergeants Horace L. Whittier, of E Company, Eau Claire ; Milton F. Swant, of H Company, Menomonie ; Charles

On the 11th a division review was hold. The Third Wisconsin was the first regiment to pass and had the opportunity of seeing the other regiments march by.

On June 15 an order came from headquarters directing that a Lieutenant from each company not already represented at home stations be sent on recruiting service at once. Lieutenant Cochrane, of E Company, was sent on this duty to Eau Claire. On this day General O. H. Ernest assumed command of the brigade. The Third is in the First Brigade, First Division, First Army Corps. Colonel Hunt, of the First Ohio, had been in command since the departure of General Burt.

Sunday, June 26, orders were received to prepare to move at once. Twelve regiments, it was announced, would probably go. The First Kentucky was dropped from the First Brigade and the Eighth Massachusetts took its place.

This day arrived the E Company recruits. The names appear elsewhere in this article, following the names of the original muster roll. The rookies were given a hearty welcome by the veterans of the company.

Independence Day was a day of rush and uncertainty. It opened with a salute by the Ohio battery in honor of the birth of the nation. The regimental commissary had gone to the depot at live o'clock to draw travel rations in accordance with orders. There the commissary found orders which directed the issue be withheld until three o'clock. In the meantime the regiment was breaking camp and preparing for the march to the trains. Shortly after three came an order directing the remaking of the camp and putting up of tents. It had been expected the regiment would march to Ringgold at eight in the evening. It was a disgusted and tired regiment at sundown.

Early July 5 the commissary again reported for rations and after hours of delay the travel ration was issued. Again came the order to pack up and march to Ringgold. At three o'clock the regiment swung into the road for the twelve-mile march to the waiting trains.

The recruits who joined in June had not been fully equipped or drilled and were left behind. They numbered about twenty in each company, or two hundred and forty in all. Major George, of the First Battalion, was left in command of the recruits and Captain Ballard, of E Company, commanded the battalion. Among other officers left behind was the popular, able and soldierly First Lieutenant of I Company, William H. Smith. Major Jeff and Billy Smith, as they were popularly called by their fellow officers, with tear-dimmed eyes watched the departure of the regiment.

The march led through a beautiful country and the regiment was heartily greeted by the wayside, excepting in one instance. In this ease an unreconstructed rebel paraded his premises with an old musket over his shoulder, shouting threats of destruction upon the marching column. At one point a group of pretty girls came out with buckets of cooling drinks for officers and men. Ringgold was reached about dark and the regiment quickly entrained in three sections and was away for the coast.

Wednesday morning found the trains in Atlanta and all that day they were traveling from Atlanta to the sea. The train service was slow and a number of breakdowns of the engines occurred. It was not until the morning of Friday, July 7, the regiment reached Charleston. After considerable delay the Third was assigned to its barracks, which were the old warehouses on the docks, and into these they quickly moved. From the docks could be seen Fort Sumter, and two torpedo boats were anchored but a few rods from the docks. Down the bay were two recently captured Spanish prizes. On Friday, July 8, the day following arrival, the regiment marched through the city to Marion Square and there held evening parade just back of the heroic statue of John C. Calhoun and between the statue and the South Carolina Military Academy. This academy had been an institution of learning previous to the Civil War and when Charleston fell was taken by the Federal troops, who maintained a large garrison there for several years.

The people and officials of Charleston extended a hearty welcome to the troops. Every courtesy was shown them. Merchants sold the soldiers at cost price. Committees of ladies visited the organizations with a view to giving attention to the sick. They advised the city hospitals would care for those men the surgeons thought needed such care. The mayor of Charleston supplied each regiment with one thousand pounds of ice daily. Many invitations from citizens to officers and men for meals were extended. All clubs were thrown open to ofiScers. The people of Charleston did what they could to make the stay of the troops pleasant and comfortable.

Thursday, July 14, came the news of the surrender of Santiago. "When the regiment left Camp Thomas it was intended to rush it through to Santiago for the reinforcement of General Shafter, who had called for additional troops. In the meantime, however, General Miles had gone into Santiago and quickly brought the Spaniards to terms. It was now announced the Third would go to Puerto Rico in an expedition under command of General Miles. The work of loading began on the 13th, and officers slept on board that night. Throughout the night a large force was engaged in coaling and loading. Ma.ior George and Lieutenant Smith, with the recruits left at Camp Thomas, arrived and were given a hearty welcome. Lieutenant Smith at once took command of the Superior Company, it having been without officers for several days. Captain Newton and Lieutenant Swift both being sick in the hospital.

On the morning of the l-4th, orders came to unload. The same condition of indecision appeared to prevail as just before the regiment left Camp Thomas. A fire in the hold of the vessel during the day burned a part of the bedding rolls belonging to officers, but did no other damage.

On Satui'day, July Hi, tlu' n-onnent was ordered out for one of the |H-;irti<M- iiiai-i'hcs which m-rasioned so much comment in the Wisconsin papers, ^lany meii fell out during the march and some were very ill after being taken back, to the barracks. The day was particularly hot and very few of the men were properly prepared for a long march. Some had eaten little or no breakfasts and for some distance the line of march lay through tlie city.

Another sucli march was taken on Monday, the 18th, over a different route, and while some men fell out the number was not as great as on Saturday. On Monday's marcli the column crossed a long bridge, which swayed, and the motion caused several men to become sick.

These marches caused much criticism in Wisconsin and the brigade and division commanders were severely censured. Governor Scofield demanded an investigation by the war department.

marches under worse conditions, without a man falling out or grumbling. Had these marches been made to meet an enemythere would have been no falling out. As it was, the men were heartily tired of the indecision and uncertainty as to movements. They were anxious to be in Spanish territory. Time and time again had the boat been loaded and then unloaded. Just before the march began, a rumor came the regiment was to go up the coast several miles and go into a bivouac camp for a couple of weeks. The disappointment, and the failure to properly prepare themselves for the march were largely responsible for the unfortunate results.

On the 19th again they were loading. Men worked all night of the 18th-19th, loading the transportation into Transport No. 21. About five o'clock on the 20th the men were ordered aboard the Obdam. This was a freighter which had been purchased by the government. Its official title was "Transport No. 30, Quartermaster's Department, U. S. A." It was illy fitted for carrying a large body of men. All the afternoon thousands of citizens had been crowding the dock and at six o'clock the Obdam pushed off, the regimental band playing national airs and men and citizens wildly cheei-ing. Just beyond Sumter anchor was dropped for the night.

Eleven companies of the Third traveled on the Obdam. one company being detached and sent on No. 21 with the transportation. The officers' horses were carried on the Obdam. General Wilson and staff traveled with the Third and General Ernst and staff with the Second, which was on the "Grand Duchess." Early on the morning of July 21 the Charleston bar was crossed and the troops were on their way to Puerto Rico.

July 25 land was sighted in the afternoon about four o'clock. It was expected to meet a warship at this point. None, however, was in sight. At dark all lights were ordered out and the Obdam cruised at half speed in a circle throughout the night. During the night, out of the darkness, came "The Wasp." Great consternation and fright was caused by her searchlight being suddenly thrown on the boat. She had come up with all lights out and discovered tke Obdam before the lookout on that boat knew another boat was anywhere about. The searchlight came through the blackness like a shaft of fire.

ehiue looked decidedly grim in the morning light. She wore lier battle garb of bluish-gray paint and was stripped for action. Cxuided by the Columbia, the Obdam made its way into the beautiful, tranquil harbor. Here a glorious view unfolded itself to the interested soldiers. They were not allowed to disembark and after an interval again steamed out into deeper water, where they came to anchor. The Massachusetts, in all her grim glory, lay but a few rods away.

At daylight, July 28, Thursday, the naval vessels and transports were on their way to Ponce. Accompanying the Obdam were the Massachusetts and the cruisers Gloucester and Dixie. Orders were given to disembark and the Third Infantry was given the honor of leading the way. The shallow harbor made it necessary to use lighters and the ships were anchored at a considerable distance from the shore. Major George, First Battalion, was given the lead, and Captain Ballard, with E Company, entered the first lighter, which was slowly propelled towards the shore. The men were in readiness to fight for a landing. As the ships came to anchor they were surrounded by small boats containing natives cheering for the "Americanos," hut on the dock could be seen many men in uniform. These, from the ships, resembled soldiers. It was found later, however, they were members of the Ponce fire department. Their red shirts made them very conspicuous. They were there to welcome and not repel. Captain Ballard landed without resistance and was directed by General Miles, who had run in ahead of the lighter in a launch, to take immediate possession of the custom house. The other companies were disembarked as rapidly as possible. Before landing of the troops the civil authorities, through the foreign representatives, had surrendered the city to the naval officers. The gai'rison had withdrawn and was fleeing down the military road in the direction of Coamo. The story of the surrender and the lauding of the troops is told in the La Nueva Era, a newspaper published at Ponce, in the issue of July 30, ]898. The paper was printed principally in the Spanish language, but a few columns gave the account of the landing of the troops in English, and it is quoted herewith:

"On the 27th inst., at 2 p. m., a fleet approaching the port was signalled from the signal hill, and truly from all the roofs and points of vantage of the city could be seen three ships nearing our harbor at great speed, of which two were apparently transports and the other a tug. It did not take them long to come into port and anchor. After a while a boat was seen to leave the side of one of the ships bearing a white flag, reached the shore shortly afterwards with an officer, who on landing bent his steps to the captain of the port's office in search of the military commander of the town, for M'hom he had a despatch.

"The captain of the port answered him that he had no military jurisdiction and sent for the military commander, residing up town here, to take delivery of the despatch brought by said officer. At about this time a small volunteer force got into position near the custom house, and the two companies of the regulars, which on the first alarm of the approach of the American fleet had been ordered to the port, were stationed on the road leading from here to the harbor. With the latter forces came the late military commander of this district. Colonel Sanmartin.

"On the latter being informed that there was an Amei-ican officer bearing, under flag of truce, a despatch for him, he replied that without direct authority from the governor general he could not receive it. On getting this reply the American officer informed the captain of the port that he would give half an hour's grace for the military commander to come and take delivery of the despatch.

"In the meantime Sanmartin bad come up town and liad a conference with the governor genei-al by wire, laying before him the state of affairs. But as the hour fixed by the American officer was drawing to its close, and he threatened to return on board with the despatch inidelivered, two members of the counsular body - Messrs. F. M. Toro, British vice consul, and P. J. Rosaly, vice consul of the Netherlands - went down to the port together with our mayor - Mr. R. U. Colom - and one of our citizens - Mr. P. J. Fournier - with the object of requesting an extension of the time fixed by the officer to await the reply of the governor general.

"It seems that the latter "s answer to the military commander was that he should do his duty ; by which, we suppose, he implied that resistance should be made, in spite of the immense superiority of the invading forces and of the fleet, which, by this time, had increased by the arrival of several vessels more. As the American commander grew impatient at the non-return of the first boat sent ashore, they sent another, bringing two officers and a squad of soldiers, who bore with them the American flag and two rockets for signalling, we presume, in case of need. Said officers with the squad and flag advanced as far as the very door of captain of the port's office; but the British vice consul requested that the soldiers should witlidraw to the seashore, the officer with Old Glory, etc., remaining, however, at the door of the building. The consular and other officers entered the building. They were there received by the captain of the port, who, by the way, was dressed in a soiled white drill suit without any insignia to denote his rank. The German vice consul - Mr. H. C. Fritze - joined his colleagues of England and the Netherlands in their good offices in the matter, together with the American merchant, Mr. Lucas Valliviese.

"Said consuls began to work to bring about the surrender of the town (which had been demanded at discretion), in their desire to avoid bloodshed and damage to the town, as the Spanish forces were insignificant, compared with tliose of the United States and besides the Spaniards having no defensive works or artillery to answer the fire of the fleet. At about 10 p. m. it was rumored that an armistice had been arranged, in virtue of which the Spanish forces would evacuate the town and that the American troops would not laud within a stipulated time to allow the former forces to get well on their way to Aibonito. It was reported that this arrangement was firm and the people began to treat more freely about the peaceful solution of the conflict. But unhappily their joy was of short duration as - about 1 a. m. - it began to be noised about that the governor general had deposed the military commander, Sanmartin, ordering him to give up the command to the lieutenant-colonel of the Civil Guards, instructing the latter to offer resistance to the invading forces.

"On this becoming known the alarm was great among all classes, and the exodus to the neighboring country, which had already begun in the afternoon and evening, was immense, approaching nearly to a panic. But the vice consuls continued their labors to obtain that the armistice arranged with Colonel Sanmartin by them should be respected and kept in good faith, and the representative of England and Germany protested against its being broken and brought to bear on the negotiations all the weight that their nations represent.

"The lieutenant-colonel of the Civil Guard, on his part, seeing the impossibility of resistance to the powerful fleet of the enemy, which had been reinforced by several ships more, with the means he had at his disposal, decided at length to evacuate the town, retiring with all the forces under his command, by the road leading to the interior of the island.

"As soon as this decision was arrived at the retreat began, but not before attempting to set fire to the railroad station, in which they only succeeded in burning a few cars. But even after the retreat there was anxiety among the inhabitants, as it was reported that the powder magazine of the barracks would be blown up before the Spaniards left the town definitely ; we arc happy to say that this did not happen.

"The town was left in charge of the local first brigade, who undertook the duty of keeping order, but their services were not called upon that night, nor have been since, as not the slightest disturbance has taken place. Ponce gave proofs of its good sense as usual. At daybreak the next morning a half dozen men of the American forces hoisted the Stars and Stripes on the custom house together with the headquarters' flag of the commander in chief. Later the flag was unfurled over the town hall.

"The lauding of the troops began and were distributed about in accordance with instructions of the American commanders. The people welcomed the American forces as liberators and friends and with the greatest demonstrations of joy and heartiness.

"The commander of the expeditionary forces decided that the municipal and judicial authorities should remain at their post as well as the local police and the employees of the custom house, which latter is in charge of Colonel Hill, appointed inspector of the port and customs. The American troops have entered this town with the greatest order and are fraternizing with the people. Said troops later relieved the firemen at guard duty at the city prison and other places.

"The political prisoners have been set at liberty and among them our friends, Messrs. Santiago Geraldino, Rudolfo Figueroa, Jose Hilaria Roche and others. We heartily congratulate them all. The inhabitants that had gone into the country have gradually begun to return to town, in which the greatest order prevails.

"At the town hall there took place an incident worthy of mention. Mr. Figueroa, who had been just set free, went up to the Seasions hall and unslinging the portrait of the queen regent with the king and the crown which overtopped them, attempted to throw them over the balcony, saying : ' There go the remnants of Spanish domination. ' But an American officer who was present interfered in a friendly, way, requesting that said picture and crown should be given him as a historical niemento of the occasion, which request was immediately granted."

Notice. "To this office has been brought a hat belonging to one of the guards of the army at present in the city. It is marked R. J. Bilie, Fort Wingate, N. M. We hold same at the disposal of said guard."

After landing, the troops were surrounded by frantic natives, shouting, laughing, waving flags and crying "Viva Americanos! Viva Americanos!"

An orderly from General Roy Stone, of the army, reported a short time after Major George had landed, to that officer, with a message from General Stone requesting a detail be sent to him at the railway depot in the city. The orderly reported General Stone, with two or three staif officers and orderlies, had gone into the city and found the Spaniards had evacuated. The Genei-al desired the escort for which he sent to accompany a train he was making up to proceed to Yauco. Before leaving, contrary to pledges given the authorities, the Spanish troops had attempted to burn the depot and rolling stock and disable the locomotives. The fire department had saved the depot and most of the ears. Mechanics soon made the locomotives available for use.

Major George directed Captain Ballard to detail a Lieutenant and seventeen men from his company to proceed to the station and report to General Stone. The detail was made up as follows :

The city of Yauco had been in possession of American troops for several days. None of the enemy were encountered on the trip. The train proceeded with caution, but found efforts to destroy the track had failed.

A sensational and fabulous story was sent back from the island of the capture of Yauco by this detachment of E Company, and many of the men were greatly annoyed that such a story should have been published.

About noon Major George, witli Companies 11, Captain Ohnstad, and I, Captain Newton, marched into the city and took possession of the barracks. This was a very fine building, built of concrete, located in a plaza, and was capable of housing a regiment. It had been occupied up to five o'clock on the morning of the 28th, by the 25th Infantry of the Spanish Army. Everything in the barracks was in confusion. In the officers' quarters clothing and articles of personal property were strewn about everywhere. Evidently they had picked out the valuables but abandoned all else in their haste to get a change of air. The coiirtyard was surrounded by a high stone wall. A ladder against this wall showed that some had departed by this route rather than to lose the time to go around by the gate. Before leaving they had set fire to the magazine, which stood in one corner of the courtyard, but a detachment of the fire department had extinguished this blaze.

In the office of the Commandant, Adjutant Cousins found, among other papers, a communication written in Spanish, addressed to the commanders of detachments at other points, giving the plan for the defense of the islands. It was intended all troops should, after a resistance, gradually drop back, avoiding decisive engagements, but retard the American advances as much as possible until San Juan was reached. Here they proposed to annihilate Uncle Sam's men. This communication was forwarded by Major George to General Wilson.

A large number of machetes and other weapons were found in the barracks, together with ammunition. Some of this ammunition created comment, as the balls appeared to be brass jacketed. A considerable quantity of rations was also captured. The hard bread was a great contrast to that in use by the Americans. It was made up in round disks about the size of an American pie and five-eighths inch in thickness. To all appearances it made an excellent food and certainly looked appetizing, being nicely browned.

H and I Companies remained at the barracks for several days. C Company, of Major George's battalion, was on outposts to the west of the city. E Company was left at the port. Colonel Moore, with other companies of the regiment, established a camp north of the city on the road leading towards San Juan.

The road from the port to the city is along a beautiful highway. On both sides the luxuriant growth of tropical vegetation appealed to the eye. In all directions could be seen the flags of France, England, Holland and other European countries. A celebration was quickly organized by the citizens.

To show their pleasure many engaged in festooning trees and the streets with strips of paper. These strips were put up in goodly-sized rolls and the rolls could be throwai over tree branches and across streets. In many of the yards foliage was largely concealed by this form of decoration.

Most of the places of business in the city were closed and the windows protected by heavy wooden shutters. Many of the merchants and wealthier class had sent the ladies and children out of the city, expecting bombardment and a battle between the Spanish troops and the Americans for possession. The

Spaniards, for a long time, had industriously circulated reports of the villainies committed by the American soldiers and many of the natives stood in fear of the treatment they might receive. This feeling of fear quickly passed.

Porto Rico

The island of Porto Rico was discovered in 1493 and from that day until 1898 was under Spanish rule. It is one hundred and eight miles in length and about forty miles wide. It is a most healthful and delightful country, with mountain ranges and many streams. In area it is about thirty-six hundred square miles and the population in 1898 was computed at 800,000. It is fourth in rank, according to size, of the Greater Antilles group, but in prosperity and density of population it is first. The white population was claimed to outnumber the black. In few of the tropical islands was this the case. The commercial capital and largest city is Ponce, situated three miles inland from the port of the same name on the southern coast. The city rests on a rich plain, sui'roiuided by gardens and plantations. There are hot springs in the vicinity which are much frequented by invalids. At the port are extensive depots where products from tlie interior are stored for shipment. There were no docks and sliips were loaded and imloaded by means of lighters. The last enumeration gave to Ponce the population of 37,545, while San Juan, the capital on the north coast, had a population of 23,414. In Ponce are a number of fine buildings, among them being a town hall, theater, two churches, the Charity and the Women's Asylum, the barracks, the Cuban House and the market. The road connecting the city and the port was a beautiful promenade.

Besides Ponce and San Juan, the largest towns were Arecibo, 30,000; Utuado, 31,000; Mayaguez, 28,000; San German, 20,000; Yaueo, 25,000; Juana Diaz, 21,000; and there were reported to be ten other towns with population of 15,000 or over. Nearly half the population lived in the larger towns, where there were many fine residences.

Porto Rico had been more lightly touched by Spanish rule than other provinces. Internal improvements had been inaugurated. There were nearly one hundred and fifty miles of railroad. This Avas narrow gauge and skirted about the coast. A system of particularly fine military roads connected Ponce and San Juan with some of the other larger cities.

In times of peace the island abounded in sugar, coffee, tobacco, honey, wax and fruits. A large part of the trade had been with the United States. The entire island is said to be rich in natural resources and very healthful.

The capital, San Juan, was the best fortified city of Porto Rico, occupying there the relative position that Havana occupied in Cuba. When General Miles started on his expedition the expectation was it would effect a landing at Fajardo, on the northeastern coast. After this ostensible purpose had been well published the convoys and transports changed their course, swung around the east of the island and suddenly arrived off the harbor of Guanica on the southwestern coast at daylight on the morning of July 25.

A small Spanish garrison in a blockhouse on the beach was utterly surprised when Commander Wainwright, of the Gloucester, ran into the beautiful little harbor and opened fire with small guns. The Spaniards attempted to reply, but were soon driven off and a party of marines landed and hoisted the American flag over the blockhouse, the stars and stripes taking the place of the flag of Spain, which was first raised 405 years before. No Americans were injured, but the Spanish lost several killed and wounded. The 3,500 troops of this expedition were landed in the forenoon without difficulty. The Guanica harbor is the best in the island. East of Guanica are the towns Yauco and Ponce, the former not more than five miles distance and connected with Ponce by railroad.

Marching on Yauco on the 26th, there was a skirmish with the enemy in which the Americans had four men wounded and the Spaniards lost sixteen killed and wounded. When General Miles' troops entered Yauco they were received with enthusiasm and joy, not unmixed, however, with some anxiety. The Alcalde, or Mayor, Francisco Megia, had issued in advance of the troops, a proclamation which accepted annexation to the United States as an accomplished fact: '

Citizens: Today the citizens of Porto Rico assist in one of her most beautiful festivals. The sun of America shines upon our mountains and valleys this day of July, 1898. It is a day of glorious remembrance for each son of this beloved isle, because for the first time there waves over it the flag of the Stars, planted in the name of the government of the United States of America by the Major General of tlie American army, General Miles.

God of the just, giveu back to the bosom of our mother America, in whose waters nature placed us as people of America. To her we are given back, in the name of her government, by General Miles, and we must send her our most expressive salutation of generous affection through our conduct toward the valiant troops represented by distinguished officers and commanded by the illustrious General Miles.

Yauco, Porto Rico, United States of America. The 29th, 30th and 31st of Jidy were passed quietly. Men and officers alike, when opportunity offered, were looking about the historic old city and viewing with great interest the mountains in which lay the enemy.

Before daylight on the morning of August 1, E Company, wliich had been relieved from duty at the customs house by General Miles, went on outpost. Adjutant Cousins this day made an arrest of a private of the 16th Pennsylvania Regiment, whom he found trying to pass a worthless Confederate due bill for $300.00 on a merchant. The culprit was turned over to the Provost Marshal, who happened to be his own company commander. The prisoner attempted to bribe the Adjutant by offering to give him the due bill. This incident is mentioned, as later it became a matter of considerable official agitation. The man came from a prominent family and was one of the leaders in Y. M. C. A. and Sunday school work when home. His regimental commander. Colonel Hulings, of the 16th Pennsylvania, and even an officer superior in rank to him, at different intei'- views suggested Adjutant Cousins withdraw his chafges against the prisoner. This the Adjutant would not do, as the man, when first arrested, had claimed to be a Wisconsin man.

During the stay in the Ponce camp the old Springfield rifles with which the regiment were equipped at the time of their muster into the volunteer service, were replaced by the new Krag. This was a magazine rifle and entirely unfamiliar to most of the men. It is a far superior rifle to the old Springfield, being lighter, equipped with magazine, and more powerful.

Second Lieutenant John E. Barron was taken sick during the stay at Ponce and left in hospital when the command marched into the interior. Later he came on to Coamo, but after a few days was sent with other sick soldiers back to Ponce, and did not again join the company until the return to Eau Claire.

On Sunday, August 7, at 7 a. m., the regiment marched towards the interior along the San Juan road. This is a beautiful macadamized road. There are several hundred miles of such roads on the island. They are known as the military roads and were built and kept in repair by the Government. The regiment passed through the city of Juana Diaz about noon. The Mayor met Colonel Moore outside of the city, extending a welcome to the American troops and made the request the band play during passage through the city. An enthusiastic welcome was extended by the citizens. At three o'clock the regiment went into camp, having marched about twelve miles. This camp was about five miles from the enemy's lines. On August 8, men were given an opportunity for a little practice with the new rifles. At noon the regiment, in light marching order, advanced about three miles and again went into camp. All extra baggage, together with the sick, were left behind, with the band as a guard.

Camp was made in front of Coama, within striking distance of the Spanish troops. K Company, of Tomah, Captain Warren, was put on outpost to the front.

The main military road from Ponce to San Juan, along which the brigade had been advancing, becomes quite tortuous before reaching Coamo, but has a general northeasterly direction entering the town. About two miles from Coamo it is joined by the road from Santa Isabel, an excellent macadamized highway. Before its junction with the Santa Isabel road it crosses, by an arch of masonry, a deep gorge with very precipitous sides.

The town lies upon a plateau on the right bank of the Coamo river and well above its level, surrounded by high hills. It is in the foothills of the main ridge of the island, and the surrounding country is rough. According to the best information obtainable it was occiipied by about 400 Spanish troops well intrenched, and resistance was expected. A small blockhouse of corrugated iron on the Santa Isabel road was occupied by an infantry outpost, which had frequently fired upon our reconnoitering parties. The exact location of the other defenses was not known.

A trail had been discovered practicable for infantry, by which a force leaving the main road well to the southwest of Coamo could, by a wide detour, reach the road again in rear of the town.

The main body of the brigade, consisting of the Third Wisconsin Infantry (Colonel Moore), the Second Wisconsin Infantry (Colonel Born), Battery F, Third United States Artillery

(Captain Potts) aud Battery B, Fourth United States Artillery (Captain Anderson), the two batteries being under the command of Major J. M. Lancaster, Fourth Artillery, was in camp about two miles nearer Coamo, to which camp it had advanced that day.

The division commander was present with the troops and directed their movements. With a view to capturing the garrison, he directed that one regiment he sent by the mountain trail above mentioned to the rear of the town, and that the front attack be deferred until this regiment could reach its position.

The Sixteenth Pennsylvania Infantry was selected for the turning movement. It left its camp, 650 strong, at 5:15 p. m., August 8, and under the guidance of Lieutenant Colonel Biddle, marched six miles and then went into bivouac. At 6 a. m., August 9, the two other regiments of the brigade and four guns of Captain Anderson's battery left their camps to take position for the front advance upon the town.

The Third Wisconsin Infantry, 788 strong, was sent to the right, with orders to cross the Coamo river and advance on the Santa Isabel road until the latter should reach the river, then to leave the road and advance up the left bank of the river. While it was moving to its position, fire was opened upon the blockhouse with the four guns of Captain Anderson's battery.

An advance on the city by any other route than the pikes is next to impossible. Three roads lead into the city, one from the southwest, connecting with Ponce ; one from the northeast, connecting with San Juan, and the Santa Isabel road from the south. These were all military turnpikes, and streams were crossed by substantial iron and cement bridges, or, in ease of smaller streams, reinforced cement bridges.

K Company, Captain Warren, had been on outpost throughout the night. K, together Avith G Company, Captain Abraham, was now posted on the high hills commanding the San Juan road and had a full view of the block house and the city.

At four o'clock in the morning a silent reveille was had. The companies fell in and in light marching order, with only rifles and belts, haversacks with one day's rations, and ponchos, the regiment moved out to the position it was to occupy on the firing line.

As the regiment advanced, Companies G and K were left behind on outpost duty. A Company, Captain Ilommel, was guarding the city of Juana Diaz and this left only nine com- panies in the field. The Third Battalion, Major Richards, with his two remaining companies, D, Captain Turner, and F, Captain Lee, was assigned to lead the advance. Following him came Major Kircheis, with three companies of the Second Battalion, B, Captain Sehultz, M, Captain Peck, and L, Captain McCoy. The advance began at 6 :30 and at 7 :05 the first shell from Lancaster's Battery was fired. At the third shot the gunners had the range and the block house was set on fire. With the advance began the opening fire by the enemy. The deep tropical grass almost concealed the Americans from view. The regiment followed closely the skirmish line. The opening by the battery started a lively battle. When the block house was fired by the shells the Spanish retreated along the road back into the city. Major Richards advanced the skirmishers towards the east and reached the range of hills on which the Spanish outpost was stationed. The Spaniards were firing thick and fast on the advancing men, but little could be done towards returning the fire with small arms on account of the long, heavy grass. The troops were advancing all along the line and met with many natural obstacles, sucli as ravines, heavy growth of underbrush and other obstructions. The cactus hedges caused more anxiety than the whistling Spanish bullets. The line was still advancing when infantry fire from the north was heard, making known the Sixteenth Pennsylvania were engaged with the enemy north of Coamo. Between the Third Wisconsin and the town was tlie Coamo river. On the south side, where the regiment was deployed, the bank was almost perpendicular. Colonel Moore directed Lieutenant Holway and Lieutenant Cousins to make effort to find a place where the column could pass down in order to ford the river. After considerable search these officers found a place where a path or opening down the bluif had been made. This could only be used by lowering one's self by clinging to grape vines. The signal was passed back to the regiment and the men came down the grape vine ladder one at a time. Lieutenants Holway and Cousins had moved on, forded the river and struck a trail leading toward the military road. Soon after fording the stream a barb wire barrier obstructed the trail. While engaged in cutting through this barrier, Lieutenant Cousins was wounded. Colonel Moore had just come up and ordered him carried to the rear. An emergency dressing was applied by Sergeant Major Grout, and he proceeded with the column. While the wound was painful it was not serious.

the military road was reached and then marched into the city. Before reaeliing the city, natives came out to meet them and it was learned the Spanish troops had passed through the town and been engaged by the Pennsylvania men on the outskirts north of the city. The troops were given an enthusiastic and frantic welcome by the excited natives, and the Third Infantry flag was soon flying over the city iiall. The Spaniards had made entrenchments in many of the streets by ditching and sand bags. In some cases iron water and sewer pipes had been used.

The citizens had been on short rations for some days. The Spaniards had swept the whole country for food stuff and those from the rural districts had been afraid to bring provisions into the toMU for over a week. Stores were closed and many of the merchants and business men, with their families, had fled the town.

When the Spanish troops were driven from their blockliouse and entrenchments by the Wisconsin men, they retreated through the city and out onto the turnpike leading towards San Juan. Here they walked into the range of the Sixteenth Pennsylvania and a sharp, decisive battle occurred. The Spanish commander, Major Marlinez, made a brave effort to hold his position. He recklessly dashed up and down the Spanish lines, and finally fell, shot several times. As far as can be learned the Spanish loss was six killed, twelve wounded and one hundred and fifty prisoners. Some one hundred and thirty-five Spanish escaped to the hills, but later some of them were captured.

After a short rest in the city the regiment marched about a mile on the San Juan road and there went into camp. It was necessary to hold a large bridge four miles further up the road. Major Kircheis, with Companies D, Captain Turner, F, Captain Lee, L, Captain McCoy, and M, Captain Peek, was detailed for this outpost duty and at once marched to his position. An outpost was establislied at a point south of Aibonito Pass. The pass is where the military road goes over the Sierra Del Sur Mountains. On three hills, commanding the military road, the Spanish troops were thoroughly entrenched. Major Kircheis placed outposts in the hills covering the Spanish positions.

August 12 Lancaster's Battery was ordered to the front to shell the enemy's works. The infantry could not have taken the works by assault, owing to the deep ravines and steep hills. In order to get a position for firing, the artillery was compelled to come out into full view of the Spanish works on the crest of the mountains. The Spanish artillery fired on the battery as it was advanced up the road, but with little effect. Later the Spanish gunners directed their fire towards the Wisconsin troops. One shell burst in the midst of L Company, killing Corporal Oscar R. Swanson and Private Fred Vought, and wounding Corporal Yanke and Private Buntz.

A few moments later the Spani.sh again opened on Lancaster 's men and held them under a heavy fire. Owing to their better position the Spaniards could fire upon the Wisconsin line with small arms, but the elevation made the small arms fire of the Americans ineffective. The fire of Lancaster's guns was well directed and Spanish infantry could be seen leaving their positions and retiring to stronger works in the rear.

At length the Spanish guns became silent and the battery moved further up the road with F Company as support. They had advanced but a short way when they encountered a storm of rifle bullets from the infantry and shells from the big guns, and were compelled to fall back. The Spanish Infantry had left their entrenchment and concealed themselves in a banana field where it was almost impossible to discern them. This ended the direct attack on Aibonito Pass.

It had been disclosed the Spanish position was such it could not be carried by a direct attack, and General James II. Wilson, commanding the division, directed an attack be made by going through the mountains. A mule pack train was assigned to the Third for carrying ammunition and rations and the command was ordered to prepare to take a trail up through the mountains, drive the enemy out of Aibonito and capture the pass and the city.

On the evening of August 12, Colonel Moore called his officers together and informed them of the work laid out for them on the next day. All appreciated the movement would be a hard one and probably result in considerable loss. Colonel Moore spoke of the honor conferred upon the regiment by General Wilson in designating it to lead the advance. To Major George and his battalion he assigned the honor of opening the way. Captain Ballard, E, and Captain Kinney, of C Company, were designated by Major George to lead the advance, with Companies I and H in support and reserve. Just before the officers' meeting was dismissed Colonel Moore suggested all write letters home. Saturday, August 13, everything was made ready for the advance on Aibonito. The regiment was in column of fours on the road and was waiting only for the pack train to form. Officers in charge of the train reported they would be in position within five minutes, but before the five minutes had passed, a staff officer froTU headquarters directed Colonel Jloore to withhold the march until further orders. The regiment was held in readiness to move at any moment. At about 2:30 came information of the signing of the protocol and that further movement was suspended for the time being.

Officers and men alike were much disappointed. They liad made ready again for a movement which was cancelled. Later in the afternoon, to give the men something to do, Colonel Moore marched up the road some half a mile and established a new camp, where tlie regiment remained for several weeks.

On August 31, Wednesday, occurred the death of George Edwards, Quartermaster Sergeant of H Company, Menomonie. Sergeant Edwards had formerly been a member of E Company and had many friends among the Eau Claire boys.

The month of September was spent in the camp just north of Coamo. There was little happening of a nature to stimulate activity and much sickness developed. Colonel Moore and the medical department made every effort to keep the camp sanitary and officers looked closely after the habits of their men with a view to preventing illness. The lack of something to do induced homesickness and the malaria and typhoid quickly followed. The following table is taken from Captain Emanuel Rossiter's story of I Company. The figures, while not official, were gathered from reliable sources and are approximately correct:

Officers and men were afflicted alike. For several weeks the number of officers available for duty was reduced to such a point that Lieutenant Cousins, acting regimental adjutant, and Lieutenant Smith, of I Company, who had been placed in command of P Company, alternated on serving as officer of the day. This detail was in addition to their other duties and there was no officer of the guard. Colonel Moore wished to help out by taking his regular turn as officer of the day, but this the two Lieutenants

On September 3, Father Sherman, a Jesuit priest, a son of CTeneral William T. Sherman, paid the regiment a visit and was entertained at the officer's mess. He was an old friend of the Third, having visited at the Camp Douglas Reservation.

On September 9 a second member of E Company passed to the great beyond. Corporal Sumner P. Bartlett died in the hospital at one o'clock in the morning. He had been taken to the hospital several days before. Corporal Bartlett had been a member of the company when it was first organized, but had been out of the service for several years when President McKinley sounded the call to the colors. He was a good soldier and popular with his officers and comrades. At four o'clock in the afternoon of the day of his death his remains were conveyed to the government cemetery, where they were deposited with military honors. In addition to members of his own company several men of other companies attended tlie services, showing his cheerful disposition and nature had made for him friends among the men from other towns.

Sergeant Major McCall was discharged by order of the War Department on September 10, and Colonel Moore at once appointed Samuel E. Grout of Eau Claire to that position. He had been Battalion Sergeant Major of Major George's battalion and in addition to that duty had acted as Commissary Sergeant a large part of the time. The appointment of Sergeant Grout was a most deserving recognition of his able and conscientious services. When the call came for troops in April he was attending the medical department of the University of Minnesota and came on to Camp Harvey from there. He lacked but a year of completing his course biit was informed by the faculty leave would be granted him and every opportunity given on his return to complete his studies. Sergeant Grout was of great assistance to the surgeons in their work and his spare time was put in at the hospital or among the sick in cjuarters. His appointment as Sergeant Major was a popular one with the men. who liad for him love, admiration and respect. He is at present practicing his profession in Alabama and has built up a tine practice and reputation.

On Sunday, September 11, just after noonday mess, came a telegram from General Brooke at a point on the northern coast, advising a terrible hurricane was coming towards Coamo. This news broke the monotony of the life the regiment was leading.

All hands turned tlieir eye« iu the direction of the north and waited with calmness the possible destruction. If the hurricane was coming they would have to take it on open ground, as the camp was not provided with cyclone cellars. Nothing, liowever, occurred, further than a brisk wind and heavy shower.

On the 13th, guard details were reduced to 22 non-commissioned officers and 69 privates. For some days 24 non-commissioned officers and 93 privates had been required. Twenty-seven men were detailed for duty at hospitals to assist the regular hospital corps of men in caring for the sick.

September 19, the regiment received pay and Major M. R. Doyan had a long and busy day. His money, mostly in crisp new bills, was carried in three iron chests. The amount he carried was one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars.

Tuesday, September 20, notice was received of the third death in E Company, that of Pi-ivate Dwight C. Brace, which occurred in the hospital at Ponce on September 17. Private Brace was highly esteemed by his officers and comrades. Frequently he had attended to paper work in the company. He possessed considerable talent as a caricaturist, handling the jiencil or crayon with much skill.

Adjutant Cousins, in response to a request from the Secretary of War, cabled the strength of the regiment for duty on this day was 617. In this list B and A Companies rank first, with 68 and 67 men, respectively, and F and L Companies last with 36 and 37, respectively.

September 23 a detail of ten men from E Company was sent to Barranquitas, a small town about nine miles as the crow flies from Coamo. By road it is a little longer. This detachment was there until October 17, and had an interesting tour of duty. Corporal Atkinson recalls many pleasant hours spent in the company of an old school master from whom he heard many interesting stories and traditions of the island.

This news worked a miracle with those who were on the siek report. Many men suffering from malaria and who could scarcely more than walk pulled themselves together and reported to their company commanders they were again fit for service. Later in the day came the disappointing news the order had been rescinded, but on September 30 orders were again issued to prepare for the march. Adjutant Cousins cabled the War Department the strength of the regiment was 534 on this date.

Sunday morning, October 2, the regiment was on military road, advancing on San Juan. About ten-thirty the column passed through Aibonito Pass. This was where the Spaniards had expected to make their stand and it was at this point the regiment lost men in August. The sick of the regiment were left behind at Coamo with Major George in command. He was also placed in command of the sick of the Sixteenth Pennsylvania and of the battery.

The animals of the command were spared as much as possible owing to lack of proper forage. No oats had been issued for some days and no hay. Horses and mules alike had to feed on corn and freshly cut grass. This forage was much too heating for the laboi'S they had to perform. Many of the mounted officers walked a good part of the distance to save their horses. Thirty bull teams had been issued to the regiment on September 29 and these were used to help out the mules. The march was along the finely constructed military road and beautiful scenery was disclosed as the column wound in and about the mountain side.

October 3 the regiment was again on the march. The health and spirits of the men were revived by the movement and the scheduled day's mareli was covered before noon. The men requested their captains to ask Colonel Moore to continue the march and this request was granted. The regiment covered two days' scheduled march in one. About seven-thirty in the morning the column crossed over the divide. The camp was made a mile and one-half north of Cayey in a field covered with a beautiful turf, but soft and wet owing to the severe rains.

October 6, very much to the disgust of the command, orders came directing the regiment to turn back and march to Ponce. Over one-half of the distance from Ponce to San Juan had been covered and the road to San Juan was down grade. Reveille was sounded at four o'clock and in a heavy rain the camp was broken and march begun. Nearly all the way to Aibonito the rain came down. Canvas was in such condition it could not be used. Adjutant Cousins took possession of the old barracks, a large wooden building, and under this covering the regiment passed the night.

On the 7th the march was continued to Coarao and buildings were again used here. October 8, marched from Coamo to Juan Diaz. On the 9th, Sunday, the regiment reached Ponce. For the first time in many days there was no rain. Four rivers were forded with difficulty owing to flooded condition. The regiment moved into the already made camp of the Nineteenth Regular Infantry. They had been withdrawn to the barracks. The canvas was new and tents provided with floors. The camp was beautifully located on the bank of tlie river about two miles from Ponce.

General Guy V. Henry was in command at Ponce and on the 11th paid the regiment a visit. He came entirely alone, not even an oi-derly accompanying him, and insisted on holding his own horse while at regimental headquarters. He impressed the Wisconsin officers most favorably. He showed great interest in the welfare and comfort of the regiment. General Henry had a high reputation as a soldier and his face bore the scars of Indian campaigning.

October 12, Surgeon Major John B. Edwards was taken to the officer's hospital in Ponce from a severe attack of typhoid. He had a long siege of the fever and the regiment came home without him. It was many days after the regiment had sailed before the nurses dared to tell him he had been left behind.

October 16, Senator Thomas B. Mills, of Superior, Wis., made the camp happy by his arrival. He had many personal friends in the Eau Claire Company, who joined with the men from Superior in extending to him a welcome.

On the 20th this order was revoked and the Chester assigned. The Chester was a better boat for officers, but not as well equipped for carrying the men. Colonel Moore registered a vigorous protest with General Henry, which resulted in the order being rescinded and the Manitoba again assigned.

Tuesday, October 18, was "Occupation Day," and the citizens of the city held a grand celebration. Frank Dana's Third Infantry band, together with three other military bands and the troops quartered in the city, joined in the festivities.

York had disembarked and were held at the port for several days before going into camp on ground to the west of the camp occupied by the Third Wisconsin. It developed afterwards the men of the regiment, of the 19th infantry and of the regular artillery had devoted their attention to filling the New Yorkers with all kinds of tales of dangers. The New Yorkers had been led to believe they were in constant danger of being sprung upon from ambush and cut to pieces. In the early hours of the night a dummy figure had been set outside the 47th guard line. It had been so arranged long cords would make movements of the legs and arms. Between three and four o'clock a sentry got sight of this figure and challenged, and, receiving no reply, he fired. The sentry on adjoining post came up, challenged and fired. Then came the Corporal, who challenged and fired; following him was the relief and at length the entire guard. The firing awoke Colonel Moore and Adjutant Cousins. Supposing something was wrong in the camp of the 47th, either an attack by guerrillas or a mutiny. Jack Hood, of the band, was directed to sound the long roll, and no man living could sound it better than Jack.

In the darkness the men sprang into the ranks in all stages of dress and undress. Notwithstanding their haste, none forgot their rifles, belts and shoes. Some men were even thoughtful enough to strap on their wire cutters, thinking barb wire barriers might be encountered. The Adjutant, in the meantime, was trying to get in connection witli the 47th camp and about time firing died down there got the Adjutant of the 47th on the wire and offered Colonel Moore's assistance. This was respectfully but emphatically declined and no explanation given of the firing. After a reasonable interval the men were sent back to their tents. It was well along in the day before the cause of the disturbance was learned. It was not a safe subject to discuss with the 47th New York officers or men.

Friday, October 21, the command was up and astir at four a. ra., packing and making ready to take the transport. In good order transportation and regiment passed through the city and arrived at the port in ample season. By five p. ra. all were on board. The wagon tvanspoilalion was left behind by direction of the quartermaster's (Icpaiinwnt. The horses traveled with the regiment and the last ol' them were loaded about midnight. Tlie boat, however, did not steam out until the next morning, Saturday, it being contrary to the sailors' habit to sail on a Friday. At nine o'clock on Wednesday, the 26th, the Manitoba arrived off quarautiue New York harbor and anchored for the night. Early the next morning Colonel Moore directed Lieutenants Hohvay, Williams and Cousins to go ashore and report the regiment at the army headquarters. These officers arranged for the drawing of the warm clothing and the traveling, rations for the trip from New York to Wisconsin.

Later in the day of the 27th the Manitoba, having been passed by the quarantine officers and given a clean bill, steamed up to the docks at Wechawken. The boat was still in motion when Governor Scofield came down the dock, accompanied by Edward Mullen, and extended an official welcome. The Governor was heartily cheered by officers and men.

On the 28th, in three special trains, tlie regiment started for Wisconsin over the West Shore railway. Two sections of this train were pulled into Milwaukee, where the citizens of that city, on October 30, tendered all officers and men a banquet. The other section, carrying the companies from Eau Claire, Neillsville, Menoraonie, Hudson and Superior, pulled through from Chicago, and by night of October 31 all the companies were in their home towns.

A delegation from Eau Claire met the troop train before daylight. Among them were Captain Henry, Hon. William P. Bartlett and William K. Atkinson. Eau Claire was reached about 9 :30, and again at the Omaha station the men received an ovation from the people of Eau Claire.

On November 1 a furlough was granted to all men of the regiment and leave of absence to officers. During this furlough Dr. McDonald, army surgeon, visited the home station of all companies to ascertain the health of the command. Dr. McDonald was a favorite with officers and men. He had accompanied the regiment in its march up the mountains, returned with the command to Ponce, and accompanied the regiment to Wisconsin.

Lentil January it was not known what the Government would decide to do with the regiment. There were reports it might be sent to Philippines and other reports it might be put into some of the Western forts. Li the meantime Captain Ballard was busily engaged in preparing the company for muster out or return into active service. In late December the order came for mustering out and on January 6, 1899, Captain E. P. Andrus, of the army, arrived in Eau Claire and by midnight of that day E Company had been discharged from the volunteer service.

Private Charles Eck at Camp Thomas, May 22, 1898. Corporal Sxxmner P. Bartlett at Coamo, September 9, 1898. Private Dwight C. Brace at Ponce, September 17, 1898.

AU through the winter of 1898-1899 many of the men suffered from the effects of the campaign. Some of those who had malaria in their systems still feel the effects of it at times.

The State of Wisconsin at once set about the re-organization of the National Guard and companies in the volunteer service were given an opportunity to re-enter the guard. E Company, of the Third, was the only company in the State which failed to re-organize. Captain Ballard gave the company two opportunities, and on the second failure referred the matter to the Adjutant General, with the result that B Company, of the Fifth Infantry, was transferred to the Third Infantry as E Company. Captain Otto H. Kitz)nan commanded this company and extended an invitation to all the volunteers to enlist, and several of them did so. On the reorganization of the regiment, June 10, 1899, Captain Ballard was commissioned as Major and assigned to the Second Battalion, consisting of Companies C, E, H and I. Marshall Cousins was appointed Regimental Adjutant with rank of Captain, and Percy C. Atkinson was appointed Battalion Sergeant Major. On the creation of the office of battalion quartermaster and commissary, he was promoted to that position with rank of Second Lieutenant, and at a little later date was again promoted to Battalion Adjutant, with rank of First Lieutenant.

Major Ballard continued in the service until April 22, 1908, when he was discharged on account of ill health. The Major died October 15, 1909, and was interred with military honors in Forest Hill cemetery, Eau Claire. A number of the officers of the regiment from adjoining stations were present at the service. Following his retirement from active service a regimental order was issued making the announcement. This order is reproduced, as it gives a biographical sketch of the Major.

Headquarters Third Infantry

Announcement is hereby made of the retirement, after twenty years of continuous service, of Major Joseph M. Ballard, on April 22, 1908. For some weeks prior to this time his health had rapidly failed, to the sincere regret of his comrades and friends. Major Ballard's service in the military establishments of the State had been long and honorable, and gained for him a place of distinction and high regard in the hearts of all with whom he had come in contact.

Previous to his coming to Wisconsin he served in the "Worcester Continentals," C Company, Second Infantry, Volunteer Militia of Massachusetts. He became corporal in this company May 7, 1880, and Sergeant December 27, of the same year. A few years later he came to Wisconsin, and when the suggestion was made to organize a military company in his home city of Eau Claire, Joe Ballard was one of the first to respond to the call and became president of the civil organization formed to finance the new company. He was active in perfecting the organization. The company was organized in the summer of 1887 as an independent company, known as the "Griffin Rifles." He was commissioned First Lieutenant of the company November 14, 1887, having previous to that time served as First Sergeant. On April 20, 1888, the company was mustered into service of the State as E Company, and he was re-commissioned as First Lieutenant in the Wisconsin National Guard. He was promoted to Captain April 15, 1890, and as such entered the volunteer service of the United States May 11, 1898. He served throughout the Porto Rican campaign with credit and honor to his country, his regi- ment, his company and himself. E company, under his command, was the first to land at the Port of Ponce July 28, 1898, the day of the surrender of that city by the Spaniards. By direct verbal command of Lieutenant General Miles, Captain Ballard took possession of Government Buildings and threw a guard and patrol about the port. On August 9 he took part in the battle of Coamo.

He was mustered out with the regiment of January 6, 1899, and on the re-organization of the regiment he was commissioned Major, with rank from June 11, 1899, and commanded tlie Second Battalion from that date until his retirement, April 22, 1908.

He was always ready and always willing to do promptly and do well every task assigned to him. His cheerful disposition was contagious, and made many a march and bivouac more endurable.

A faithful friend, patriotic soldier, efficient officer, and brave man; to this, we, his comrades, bear testimony at the hour of his retirement. Maj' his future path be a pleasant one. By order of Colonel Holway.

Major Ballard was born February 18, 1853, at Gardiner, Me. His father was Augustus Ballard, a prominent and successful shipbuilder on the Kennebec river. For seven years he resided in Worcester, Mass., following his profession, that of druggist, and then removed to Chicago. November 19, 1883, he came to Eau Claire, buying a drug store from E. H. Playter. He was married April 25, 1883, to Miss Emily A. Browne, of Boston, who survived him and still resides in Eau Claire.

This sketch Avould not be complete without a reference to the Regimental and Battalion Commanders. Colonel Martin T. Moore commanded the regiment. He was born at Wauwatosa, Wis., August 9, 1847, and when scarcely fifteen years of age enlisted in E Company, 24th Infantry, Wisconsin Volunteers, August 5, 1862. On account of wounds received May 18, 1864, he was, in August of that year, assigned to duty with the Fifth United States Veteran Corps of Infantry. He was discharged as a Sergeant June 5, 1865. Colonel Moore's service in the National Guard of Wisconsin began August 14, 1878, as First Lieutenant of the La Crosse Light Guards. He became Captain August 22, 1879. Aided in the organization of the Third Battalion, W. N. G., of which he was the first and only Lieutenant Colonel, from organization. May 19, 1881, until disbandment early in 1883. On the organization of the Third Infantry he was commissioned its first Colonel, June 11, 1883, and remained such until mustered out of service, Januarj' 14, 1899. Colonel Moore died in La Crosse March 24, 1903.

The First Battalion, composed of Companies E of Eau Claire, H of Menomonie, C of Hudson and I of Superior, was commanded by another veteran of the Civil War, Major Thomas Jefferson George, who was born in Ohio, November 18, 1842, first enlisted May 8, 1861, and was discharged on account of sickness, by order of General Benjamin P. Butler, April 11, 1862. He served as First Lieutenant Wisconsin State Militia during the Indian disturbances, September, 1862, and was in the United States police service from 1863 to 1865. From January 11, 1877, to June 11, 1883, he was Captain of the Guard Company of Menomonie. On the latter date he was commissioned Major in the Third Infantry and remained as such until the final muster out of the regiment, January 14, 1899. Major George is living at Menomonie in good health and respected and loved by all. For Major George officers and men of Wisconsin National Guard entertain a warm and kindly sentiment.

Another officer, while not a member of the regiment, richly deserves mention in this sketch. Captain William A. Bethel, of the army, was Assistant Adjutant General on the staff of the brigade commander. He performed the trying duties of his position with intelligence, energy and tact and a mutual feeling of admiration soon sprang up between him and the Third Infantry. Officers and men alike felt free to go to Captain Bethel for information and instruction. Following the war he was ti*ansferred to the Judge Advocate General's Department and served a detail as instructor in military law at West Point. He now holds -the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.