Friday, October 23, 2009

Surnames Just for the Fun Of It.

The title of this page states just what it is all about ( Fun ) I had no subject matter in mind when I started this page. I just thought it would be (Fun) to go through my index’s and pick a few names that looked interesting to me. The information on many of these names is just a outline and there is much information on them? This page was (Fun) to do and I hope you will find a ancestor here and find the information every helpful.

Important note. I have thousands of names at this site, when asking about a name from this page or any other pages at this site, please give the ( Title of the page ), for without it I may not be able to help you. My address can be found in my profile.
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Alpheus Roberts, was from Pennsylvania was a 2nd., Lieutenant of the Light Artillery, was put on the appointment list for the troops to be raised by virtue of an act, entitled “An act to raise, for a limited time, an additional military force,” passed on the 12th., day of April, 1808. He died in New Orleans on August 27, 1809.

Born about 1785-86, in Plainfield, Sullivan, New Hampshire, father was Perley Roberts, mother was Hannah Kimball.
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William Lithgow, was from Virginia, was a cadet out of west point and appointed Ensign of the 2nd., infantry in November 1807, was then promoted to 2nd., Lieutenant of the 2nd., infantry. Died on June 19, 1809, at New Orleans.
Note. He was on the military death list as being a Ensign of the 1st., infantry, he must of died before taking his commission.
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John C. Carter, was from Virginia, was appointed Ensign in February of 1807. He was a 2nd., Lieutenant of the 2nd., infantry when he died on April 2, 1809, place unknown.
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Robert Watson, was from North Carolina, was appointed to Ensign of infantry in July of 1809. Death list states he was a Ensign of the 3rd., infantry, died at Point Coupee, date unknown.
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John T. Bentley, was from New Jersey, was a Captain of the 6th., infantry, was appointed Captain in May of 1808, died on October 20, 1809, at New Orleans.

1810, The petition of Rachael Sturgis, praying that provision may be made for the maintenance and education of the three orphan children of John T. Bentley, formerly a captain in the sixth regiment of infantry, who died in service in the year 1808?, whilst under the command of general Wilkinson, in the vicinity of New Orleans.
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Army Contractors, 1819.

1. Sterrett Ramsay, Contracted for Post Carlisle and Post Baltimore.
2. Jesse Smith, Contracted for Sackett’s Harbor.
3. Charles Bullock, Contracted for Fort Hawkins.
4. George Cooper, Contracted for Post New York.
5. Ralph Parker, Contracted for Post Niagara.
6. Jonathan Allen, Contracted for Post Boston.
7. Izra Smith, Contracted for Post Plattsburg.
8. William Hill, Contracted for Post Detroit and Pittsburg.
9. Cyrus W. Murray, Contracted for Post Norfolk.
10. Camillus Griffith, Contracted for Post Philadelphia.
11. Moses Bliss, Contracted for Post Springfield Massachusetts.
12. Bosson Cowden & co. and George Bates, Contracted for Post New Port Kentucky.
13. H. A. Fay, Contracted for Post Albany.
14. James Johnson, Contracted for Post New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Natchitoches, Arkansas and St. Louis Missouri.

Note. There is no information on these names they were places here for those that have family stories that say he had contracted for the army and you couldn’t find proof. I can however tell you what he contracted for, if there is a need for it.

Military affairs Vol. 1. P. 848-851.
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Campbell Smith, served as “Judge Marshal and Advocate General to the legion of the United States,” from the 16th of Judy, 1794, until the 13th of July, 1796; and as an extra aid-de camp to Brigadier General Wilkinson, from the 12th of August until the 5th of December in the same year 1794, and from the 16th of January, in the year 1796, until the 31st of December following. He had not been paid for this service.
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Mr. John Donnelson is the nephew of General Jackson wife.
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West Point, November 26, 1818.

A charge preferred against Captain John Bliss, of the sixth regiment of the United States infantry.

CHARGE. Un-officer like and un-gentleman like conduct.

Specification 1st. In this, that he, the said Captain John Bliss, of the sixth regiment United States infantry, did, on or about the 26th of October, 1818, without the least possible provocation, throw stones at several of the cadets of the Military Academy; which conduct produced the effect of rendering him less respectable as a commanding officer, and wounded deeply the feelings of those under his command.

Specification 2d. In this, that he, the said Captain John Bliss, of the sixth regiment United States infantry, did, on or about the 15th day of October, 1818, maltreat cadet Westwood Lacey, of his command, by violently throwing him off the railings of the south barracks of the cadets.

Specification 3d. In this that he, the said Captain .John Bliss, of the sixth regiment United States infantry, did, on or about the 14th day of October, 1818, order from his quarters, in an insulting tone and menacing manner, and, without allowing time ‘for the obedience of this order, seize and thrust out of his room cadet James T. Worthington, of his command.

Specification 4th. In this, that he, the said. Captain John Bliss, of the sixth regiment United States’ infantry, did, on or about the 22d day of November, 1818, whilst on battalion drill, in the presence of the corps of cadets, seize by the collar, jerk out of the ranks, and publicly damn, cadet Edward L. Nicholson, of his command.

WEST POINT, November 24, 1818.

We do hereby certify, on honor, that, on or about the 26th of October, 1818, Captain John Bliss, without the least possible provocation, did throw stones at us, and at several other cadets of the Military Academy.
P. McCORMICK,
D. MONIAC.

WEST POINT, November 24, 1818.

I do certify, on honor, that Captain Bliss did., on Sunday the 22d of November, 1818, whilst on battalion drill, seize me by the collar, jerk me violently out of the ranks, and shake me for some time. When I asked him if this was the manner in which I should be used? he said “Yes, God damn you.”
E. L. NICHOLSON.

WEST POINT, November 24, 1818.

I, Westwood Lacey, a cadet of the United States’ Military Academy, do hereby certify, on honor, that, on or about the 15th day of October, 1818, I was sitting on the railing of the south barracks, at which time Captain John Bliss; of the 6th regiment of the United States infantry, commandant of the corps of cadets, passed me, and on getting behind me, violently pushed me off: I had not saluted him; but I had barely sufficient time to do so: and that in any other manner than this I had not given him the slightest provocation.
W. A. Lacey.

WEST POINT, November 24, 1818.

I certify, on honor, that Captain John Bliss did, on the morning of the 14th of November, order me from his quarters in an insulting manner, and with menacing gestures, and, without having given me time to obey his orders, he violently seized and thrust me out of his room.
JAMES T. WORTHINGTON, Cadet.
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Farnifold Green, enlisted in the navy as a midshipman in 1822, service until the 7th of December, 1827, when he was cashiered by the sentence of a court-martial, held at Philadelphia.
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William Jacocks.
1829.
William Jacocks, enlisted in the army on January 1, 1813, as a musician for the term of five years in a company of bombardiers commanded by Lieutenant Horace C. Story; that he faithfully served until the expiration of his enlistment, when he was honorably discharged.
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John Balthrope.
1830.
John Balthrope, is the author of an improved axle-tree and of an improved gun-carriage, which, for all practical purposes, are superior to those which are in use either in the United States or in Europe; he therefore asks that his improvements may be adopted in our service.
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James D. Cobb.
1829.
James D. Cobb, states that on the 21st of July, 1813, he was a first lieutenant in the regiment of light artillery, and stationed at Greenbush, in the State of New. By an order of Colonel S. Lamed, then commanding the cantonment at that place, a military tribunal, denominated a general court-martial, was assembled for the trial of such prisoners as should be brought before it. Before this court the he was arraigned upon certain charges preferred against him by Colonel Lamed, tried, condemned, and sentenced to be cashiered.
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Greenlief Dearborn.
1829.
Captain Greenlief Dearborn, was of the artillery and was transferred to the infantry.
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Dudley Digges.
1829.
Fort Washington is situated upon part of Warberton Manor, and that the United States derive title to this part from the late Thomas A. Digges, of Prince George’s county, Maryland. But it also appears from the same source, that Thomas A. Digges derives title to the whole of Warberton Manor from the last will and testament of his ancestor, Charles Digges, bearing date on the 28th of January, 1742, which most evidently did not intend to convey, nor did it convey, to Thomas A. Digges any greater interest than a life estate in the premises, and that Dudley Digges was entitled to the inheritance from the moment of his death. Dudley Digges had, at the date of that deed, no knowledge of his legal claim to this property. Dudley Dgges now claims the grounds adjacent to the forts which have long since been improved and occupied for the purposes of the government. Dudley Digges now has a suits against the occupiers of his property at and near Fort Washington.
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Gates Hoit.
1830.
Gates Hoit, was a spy in the late war but was never paid.
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Joseph Eaton.
1830.
Joseph Eaton, was a assistant surgeon and station to Fort Preble,
in Maine.
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Daniel Johnson.
1830.
Daniel Johnson, in 1800 became a apprentice to the then superintendent of the United States armory at Harper’s Ferry, to learn the trade of an armorer, from the date of his indentures until he should attain the age of 21 years; that he was entitled, under his indentures, to board, clothing, and lodging, and a certain portion of education, and, at the expiration of his service, to two suits of clothes he remained during the whole period of his apprenticeship, the duties of which he diligently and faithfully performed, without the benefit of any education, and without receiving the two suits of clothes to which he was entitled.
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The following men state they lost private property in the fire and destruction of Fort Delaware.

1. Major B. K. Pierce, one hundred and ninety dollars.
2. Captain John L. Gardner, thirteen hundred dollars.
3. Lieutenant Harvey Brown, four hundred dollars.
4. Lieutenant Charles Ward, six hundred and forty dollars.
5. Assistant Surgeon Alfred W. Elwes, three hundred dollars.
6. Sutler John Parley, eighteen hundred dollars.
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Joshua Shaw.
1831.
Joshua Shaw, of Pennsylvania, is the inventor of a new method of discharging cannon by means of a lock acting on a primer of percussion or fulminating powder, for which he has obtained letters of patent.
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Benjamin S. Smoot & Dennison Darling.
1831.
Benjamin S. Smoot, of Mobile, Alabama, was a sutler to the second regiment of the United States infantry from the year 1809 to 1815, and that he, with his partner in business, Dennison Darling, erected, in the year 1812, at Fort Bowyer, a storehouse, thirty-five feet long and eighteen feet wide, one story and a half high, on the approach of the British land and naval forces at that place in 1814, the property was ordered to be destroyed.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

The Crew Of Many Ships, Civil War.

This page contains many names of men who were crew members of different ships. These names came from Battle reports, general reports &c., and arrest statements. These men were of the Union and Confederate States. Many of these names will have additional information on them. If you see a name of interest just let me know and I will look him up.

Important note. I have thousands of names at this site, when asking about a name from this page or any other pages at this site, please give the ( Title of the page ), for without it I may not be able to help you. My address can be found in my profile.
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English bark Empress.

These men were part of the crew of the English bark Empress captured by the U. S. sloop Vincennes while running the blockade at the Northeast Pass of the Mississippi and conveyed to New York. U. S. Marshal Murray, of New York, informed the Secretary of State of the arrival of the crew of the Empress and that they were in his custody December 19, 1861. An order was issued from the Department of State dated December 28, 1861, directing Marshal Murray to release Cuthbert and his companions.

1. William Cuthbert.
2. James Hopkinson.
3. William Jones.
4. Michael O'Brien.
5. William Sanger.
6. George Watt.
7. Arthur Wardle.
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Harvey Birch.

1. William Henry Nelson.
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Privateer Sumter.

1. Henry Spencer, Englishman ages thirty-eighth years.
2. John Davison, Scotchman aged twenty-five.
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Privateer Petrel.

These men were part of the crew of the privateer Petrel captured by the U. S. frigate Saint Lawrence and brought into the port of Philadelphia August 8, 1861. Dearing in company with the balance of the crew was taken to Fort Lafayette February 5, 1862, where they remained until February 15, when in conformity with the order of the War Department of the preceding day they was transferred to the charge of that Department.

1. John W. Dearing.
2. A. C. Delahay
3. William Bryan.
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The following are the officers and men of the Seventh Missouri Volunteer Infantry composing the volunteer crew of the steamer Tigress, April 1863.

1.George Britton, citizen pilot.
2. Sergt. W. T. Followell, Company E, Seventh Missouri, SECOND pilot.
3. Captain P. D. Toomer, Company H, Seventh Missouri, chief engineer.
4. Lieutenant A. P. Cindel, Company D, Seventh Missouri, first assistant engineer.
5. Sergt. Robert H. Menagh, Company K, Seventh Missouri, SECOND assistant engineer.
6. Lieutenant D. W. McBridge, Company F, Seventh Missouri, mate.
7. Lieutenant Henry Smith, Company E, Seventh Missouri, SECOND mate.
8. Crew (Seventh Missouri Infantry.)
9. Sergt. J. Fitzgerald, Company B.
10. Private John Ward, Company B.
11. Private Barney Brady, Company B.
12. Private Daniel Ryan, Company B.
13. Private Henry Ische, Company C.
14. Sergt. Michael Whealan, Company D.
15. Private Nathaniel Hurst, Company E.
16. Private Buford Mullins, Company E.
17. Private William Barnett, Company E.
18. Private Thomas O'Donnell, Company E.
19. Private James Kelly, Company E.
20. Sergt. E. L. Graham, Company F.
21. Sergt. Robert H. Flavell, Company F.
22. Private Dennis McCarty, Company F.
23. Private George Riffle, Company F.
24. Private Henry O'Neil, Company F.
25. Private W. E. Pickerell, Company G.
26. Private James P. Green, Company G.
27. Private John J. Fail, Company G.
28. Private I. N. Kimberlin, Company G.
29. Sergt. Joseph A. Bowman, Company H.
30. Corpl. Patrick Flanagan, Company H.
31. Private James McGuire, Company H.
32. Private George H. Fairbanks, Company H.
33. Private Eugene Sullivan, Company H.
34. Private Alexander D. Leal, Company H.
35. Corpl. Calvin Hess, Company I.
36. Private John Ingle, Company I.
37. Private Jeremiah Fitzgerald, Company I.
38. Private Patrick O'Neil, Company I.
39. Sergt. J. P. Reed, Company K.
40. Private Thomas Evans, Company K.
41. Private E. H. Cannon, Company K.
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Here is a list of men from three different ships.

1. Walter W. Smith, prize master schooner Enchantress, of brig Jeff. Davis.
2. Daniel Mullings, of Enchantress and of the Jeff. Davis.
3. E. Rochford, schooner Enchantress and brig Jeff. Davis.
4. Thomas Quigley, one of the prize crew of the schooner Enchantress.
5. William Perry, captain of Petrel.
6. Rich. M. Harvey, first lieutenant of Petrel.
7. Colin Campbell, second lieutenant of schooner Petrel.
8. Thomas Woods, seaman of Petrel.
9. John G. S. Tucket, seaman of Petrel.
10. John Mack seaman of Petrel.
11. J. N. Morgan, steward of Petrel.
12. Henry Mills, seaman of Petrel.
13. George Hawkins, seaman of Petrel.
14. Edward Murphy, seaman of Petrel.
15. Hugh Monaghan, landsman of Petrel.
16. Robert (his x mark) Barnet, mate of Petrel.
17. Richard R. Jeffers, seaman of Petrel.
18. John Cronin, seaman of Petrel.
19. Geo. H. Roberts, seaman of Petrel.
20. Michael Dooling, landsman of Petrel.
21. C. H. Marriott, ordinary seaman of Petrel.
22. John C. (his x mark) Cunningham, seaman of Petrel.
23. Frank A] boy of Petrel.
24. Wm. (his x mark) Brain, cook of Petrel.
25. H. Oltmans, cook of Petrel.
26. John M. Dearing, seaman of Petrel.
27. George Sawden, seaman of Petrel.
28. Wm. H. (his x mark) Hazlehurst, seaman of Petrel.
29. Daniel (his x mark) Courney, second cook of Petrel.
30. Henry A. Rowan, seaman of Petrel.
31. Edward Flynn, seaman of Petrel.
32. A. C. Delahay, seaman of Petrel.
33. John H. Edwards, seaman of Petrel.
34. George S. Harrison, seaman of Petrel.
35. A. C. Williams, seaman of Petrel.
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Steamer Salvor.

1. This man Charles Butler was mate of the steamer Salvor and was captured with that vessel while endeavoring to run the blockade near Tortugas October 14, 1861, by the U. S. steamer Keystone State. The Salvor was taken to Philadelphia by a prize crew and Butler was committed to Fort Lafayette. Butler claimed to be a subject of Denmark, and for the purpose of ascertaining the facts of his nationality he was by order of the Secretary of State released from Fort Lafayette January 8, 1862, and was placed in the custody of U. S. Marshal Murray, of New York.

2. William J. Browning, first engineer on board the steamer Salvor, was captured with that vessel while endeavoring to run the blockade about twenty miles south of Tortugas October 14, 1861 by the U. S. steamer Keystone State, Captain Scott commanding. The Salvor was taken to Philadelphia by a prize crew and Browning was transferred to Fort Lafayette. December 14, 1861, an order was issued from the Department of State to Lieutenant Colonel Martin Burke, commanding at Fort Lafayette, to release Browning on his taking the oath of allegiance, &c. He was accordingly released December 17, 1861.

3. George McNabb was assistant engineer of the steamer Salvor and was captured with that vessel while attempting to run the blockade about twenty miles south of Tortugas, October 14, 1861, by the U. S. steamer Keystone State. The Salvor was taken to Philadelphia by a prize crew and McNabb was committed to Fort Lafayette. He was released December 17, 1861, by order of the Secretary of State on taking the oath of allegiance.

4. Donald McKay was captured from on board the steamer Salvor while attempting to run the blockade some twenty miles south of Tortugas by Captain Scott, commanding U. S. steamer Keystone State, on the 14th of October, 1861. McKay, a boy fifteen years of age, was the son of the owner and master of the Salvor, which vessel contained a cargo of contraband and other goods. He was brought to Philadelphia by a prize crew on board the Salvor and sent to Fort Lafayette where he remained February 15, 1862, when in accordance with an order from the War Department of the preceding day he was transferred to the charge of that Department.
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The Bark M. S. Perry.

1. Francisco Menendez, captain of the bark M. S. Perry or Salvor, was captured by the Keystone State, Captain Scott commanding, on the 14th of October, 1861, about twenty miles south of Tortugas. The Perry was attempting to run the blockade with the British flag flying and with a cargo of contraband and other goods. Menendez was brought in with the prize to the port of Philadelphia and forwarded to Fort Lafayette He was released February 3, 1862, by order of the Secretary of State, having given in his evidence before the prize court at Philadelphia.

2. This person [Hunter Semple] was one of the crew of the bark M. S. Perry which was captured by the U. S. steamer Keystone State October 14, 1861, south of Tortugas while attempting to run the blockade with contraband goods. He was brought in with the prize vessel to the port of Philadelphia and sent to Fort Lafayette. The said Hunter Semple was released by ortary of State February 3, 1862, having given his evidence before the prize commissioners.
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1. Thomas Quigley, He was one of the prize crew placed by the privateer Jeff. Davis on the schooner Enchantress

2. Richard Lewis, he was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.

3. Frank Albor, he was one of the crew of the rebel privateer Petrel.

4. Austin C. Williams, He was one of the crew of the rebel privateer Petrel.

5. Hugh Monagrow, he was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.

6. Robert Barret, he was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.

7. Thomas A. Brookbanks, he was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.

8. John W. Dearing, was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.

9. A. C. Delahay, was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.

10. William Bryan, was one of the crew of the privateer Petrel.
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The Royal Yacht.

1. Thomas Chubb
2. H. N. Duble*
3. Ira G. Rogers
4. Ambrose Snow
5. Joseph F. Frisbee
6. John E. Davidson*
*Could have been just passengers.
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The Bark Texan.

1863.

Captain Thomas E. Wolfe
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The privateer schooner Savannah.

1861.

Captain T. H. Baker
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He brig Joseph, Horace.

W. Bridges, was the mate.
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The brig Cuba.

James J. Babbage, was the mate.
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The schooner Venus.

Peter Hanson.
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The schooner Lida.

1. J. Q. A. Bulter, was the master.
2. Henry Sutter
3. Arthur McAbey
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The English bark Empress.

1. Michael O'Brien.
2. William Sanger.
3. William Jones.
4. James Hopkinson.
5. Arthur Wardle.
6. William Cuthbert.
7. George Watt.
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OFFICERS OF THE RAM TENNESSEE.

Admiral F. Buchanan; Commander J. D. Johnston; First Lieutenant and Executive Officer William L. Bradford; Lieutenant A. D. Wharton; Lieutenant E. J. McDermett; Masters H. W. Perrin and J. R. Demahy; Fleet Surg. D. B. Conrad, Asst. Surg. R. C. Bowles, First Lieutenant Marine Corps D. G. Raney; First Assistant Engineer G. D. Lining; Pilot A. T. post; Second Assistant Engineer J. C. O'Connell; Second Assistant Engineer John Hayes; Boatswain John McCredie; Gunner H. L. Smith; THIRD Assistant Engineers William Rogers, Oscar Benson, and William B. Patterson; Master's Mates, M. J. Beebee, R. M. Carter, W. S. Forrest, Paymaster's Clerk J. H. Cohen.
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The privateer Petrel.

1. John Mack, a native of Ireland.
2. John Cronin.
3. Edward Murphy.
4. Hugh Monaghan.
5.Thomas Woods.
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U. S. STEAMER SAN JACINTO.

1. Captain CHARLES WILKES.
2. J. B. HOUSTON, Second Assistant Engineer.
3. GEORGE W. HALL, Third Assistant Engineer.
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The C. S. steamer Savannah.

Captain Thomas W. Brent, C. S. Navy, commanding.
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The Taconey.

1. C. W. Reed, captain.
2. E. H. Brown, second officer.
3. J. E. Dillips, master's mate.
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The steamer Fanny.

1. John M. Morison, Captain.
2. George K. Ridgely, mate.
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The U. S. tug-boat Fox.

1. John Walker, Captain.
2. Martin B. Woolfley, engineer.
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The Queen of the West.

1. W. E. Taylor, first assistant engineer.
2. Henry S. Duncan, third master.
3. S. Edison, second master.
4. James W. Foster, carpenter.
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Captain J. T. Morrill, commanded the steamer Osceola.

Steam-boat Philo Parsons & Island Queen.

There has been a lot written about the Steamer Philo Parsons and the Island Queen, so much so that there is not much to add, so I will not try. I thought it would be best for those who were there to tell their own story.

The Philo Parsons.

The Philo Parsons is a side-wheel steamer of 222 tons, built in 1861, and is worth about $16,00. She is owned principally by Mr. Fox, who resided on North Bass Island. She runs regularly between Detroit and Sandusky, leaving the former place at 8 a. m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Friday, and the latter at the same hour on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. She stopped regularly at Malden, on the Canada shore, when signaled. Her other regular stopping places were the three Bass Islands and Kelly's Island, all within twenty miles of Sandusky.

The Island Queen.

The Island Queen is a side-wheel steamer of 173 tons, and valued at $12,000. She is owned on Kelly's Island. She runs regularly from the Bass Islands to Sandusky every morning, stopping at Kelley's Island, and returns to the Bass Island every afternoon.
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James Denison.

Steam boat Philo Parsons.

James Denison, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that he is twenty-eight years of age, and is engineer of the steam-boat Philo Parsons. Deponent further saith, that he was on board said vessel on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky on the 19th day of September, A. D. 1864; that said steam-boat left the dock at Detroit about 8 o'clock in the morning, with about thirty-five passengers on board. The boat, after stopping at Sandwich and Malden, and taking other passengers, put out into Lake Erie for Sandusky. After we left Kelly's Island, and about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, I was in the fireman's room. I heard a noise on the boat and came out on deck. I then heard a man, armed with a revolver, call to Campbell, the wheelman, who was then ascending from the main deck to the upper deck, to stop and go down in the fire-hold. Campbell did not stop, and the man then fired at him, but did not hit him.

There were eight or nine others, armed with revolvers, on the main deck, yelling and driving most of the passengers down into the fire-hold. After most of them were driven below they put down the hatches and put a lot of iron on the top. All the crew of the main deck, except the fireman and myself, were driven below. I was ordered to work the engine just as they wanted me to. The boat was then steered out into the lake in a northeasterly direction. After running about eight or nine miles, they put her about and came back to Middle Bass Island, having previously inquired of me if I had wood enough to run seven or eight hours, to which I replied that I had not. They made fast to the dock at Middle Bass Island. I heard them fire five or six shots, but could not tell what they fired at. They then commenced wording up, with the assistance of some of the crew, whom they had released from the fire-hold.

While so engaged the steamer Island Queen came alongside. I heard them firing again shortly after, but did not know till afterward that the engineer was wounded. They then drove all the passengers on to the Parsons, and put them into the fire-hold with the rest. I heard them then parole some of the passengers and soldiers on board that they would not fight against the Southern Confederacy until exchanged. Besides those they put into the fire-hold, they put a good many, including several ladies, ashore. The Parsons then started out with the Island Queen in tow; and after taking her beyond Ballast Island they scuttled her, and she sank.

After leaving her we ran beyond Mardlehead Light about two miles, and then turned back and ran for Detroit River. A little above Malden the life-boat was sent ashore, loaded with stuff taken from the boat. At Fighting Island, all of the passengers and crew, except three of the latter, were sent ashore in two boat-loads. This was about 8 o'clock in the morning. We then ran up to Sandwich and made fast to the dock. They then took a piano, three looking-glasses, and an easy chair out of the boat. They then cut the injection pipes and left her to sink, and all came off the boat. They appeared to be under the command of a man they called captain.
JAMES DENISON.

Michael Campbell.

Steam boat Philo Parsons.

Michael Campbell, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that he is twenty-one years old and wheelman of the steam-boat Philo Parsons. Deponent further saith, that he was on board said steamer on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky on Monday, September 19, 1864, and that the following circumstances took place, as nearly as deponent can recollect: The boat left the dock at Detroit at 8 a. m., with from twenty-five to thirty passengers on board. I saw one man, whom I afterward recognized as the ringleader of the band, come over on the ferry-boat from Windsor about half an hour before the Parsons started with another man, another of the pirates.

He then saw the captain and asked him to stop at Sandwich and Malden, as there were some more men to get aboard there. The boat did not generally stop at Sandwich unless there were passengers there. I saw five others get on board at Sandwich. I heard the man who got on board at Detroit inquire of those who got on board at Sandwich "where the rest of them were." One of them replied that "they did not come." About fifteen more got on at Malden. I observed nothing suspicious until after dinner. One of the men who came on board at Detroit spoke to me twice during the forenoon, asked me some questions about the course I was steering, the distance to the island, and borrowed my glass to look around with. Just after dinner I observed two of them on the pilot-house, two on the wheel-house, and two aft on the hurricane-deck.

About 4 o'clock, and just after we left Kelly's Island, as I was standing in the saloon, I heard a shot, a yell, and then another shot. I then ran onto the main deck, and saw a man run after the fireman with a cocked revolver in his hand, shouting to him to go down the main hatch, or he would shoot him. The fireman escaped, and the man turned to me and made the same order. I hold him to "go to hell," and he shot at me, the ball passing between my legs as I was ascending from the main to the upper deck. On reaching the upper deck I saw five others with revolvers in their hands driving the passengers forward and detaining them. They then ordered them back to the cabin, commanded them to give up their arms, and searched some of them. From the cabin they were driven down to the main deck and down the fire-hold.

I was driven down with them. Soon one whom they called colonel came and inquired up to thrown over the cargo of pig-iron. They then asked me if I could fetch her back the same way she came. I told them I could; went to the wheel-house and turned her back. She had been running during the excitement for perhaps half an hour in the same course she was running when the outbreak occurred. They inquired where I could get wood, and on my replying that it could be obtained at Middle Bass Island, they ordered me to steer there. We reached there about dark and laid alongside the wharf. they fired two or three shots there at the owner of the wood and two other men who were standing on the dock, and refuse to help unpitying wood on board. The captain of the boat, who was on shore at the island that day, came down when he heard the shorts fired, and was seized and put into the cabin.

The steamer Island Queen soon came alongside. They made a rush for her at once. She was seized, and the passengers driven on board the Parsons. The Queen was then taken in tow, and both boats started for Sandusky. About half was between Middle Bass and Kelly's Island they let go of the Queen; told me they scuttled her, and I saw no more of her. When opposite Marblehead Light I told the one who they called colonel that it was dangerous to run into Sandusky Bay by night. He told me if I thought I could not get in then not to try it, as he did not want to get aground. I told him the channel was too narrow. He then called his men forward, conversed with them a few minutes, and then came and told me to head the boat for Malden.

They told me that everything they met on the was up they were going to destroy. They established a regular watch on deck, and I turned the boat toward Malden. We saw but one vessel near to us as we went up; they told me to go alongside of her, and then asked what waters she was in. When I told him she was in British waters, they said they would not touch her. We reached Malden between 4 and 5 in the morning. About three miles above that place two of the men took one of the Island Queen's yawl-boats, filled her with plunder, and went ashore. They told me to keep as near as possible to the British shore. They took all their plunder, piled it aft, sent ashore all the crew and the captain and engineer of the Queen at Fighting Island, and kept on toward Detroit.

We stopped at Sandwich; made fast to the dock. The rebels put ashore their plunder, including piano, morrows, chairs, and trunks and bed clothes. Heard one of them say that if no one else would go he would take the boat across the river and burn her. They would not do this; but took the engineer below and made him cut the injection pipes for the purpose of sinking the boat. One of them then told me to come over that evening to Windsor, as they were going to have a great spree there. I said probably I would, but did not go. The colonel then came to me, remarked that I had been faithful to them, and he would make me a present. He handed me a half dozen spoons and eight silver forks. Said he had no money. The engineer and I started for Windsor; some of the party were before and some behind us, each with his load of booty. They were all young men, between twenty and thirty, and all armed with two revolvers and an ax.
MICHAEL CAMPBELL.

Sylvester F. Atwood.

Steam-boat Philo Parsons.

Sylvester F. Atwood, being duly sworn, saith, that he is fifty-eight years of age, a sailor by occupation, and master of the steamer Philo Parsons; was on board on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky on Monday last. Just after we left the dock the clerk informed me there was a man on board who wonted me to stop at Sandwich to take on some of his friends there. I saw this man, and asked him why he did not bring his friends to Detroit. He replied that one was lame, and could not well cross the ferry, and remarked it was not out of my way to stop. I stooped there, saw six or eight persons on the dock, and should judge four or five men came on board. One of them, a young man, walked lame, but soon revolved from it.

The man who spoke to me about stopping at Sandwich was a stout, thick-set man, about twenty-five years old, a little under medium height; wore British clothes, and was apparently Scotch or English. In going down the river he spoke to me about stopping at Malden; said that there would be some men to get on there; that there was a party going to Kelly's Island to fish and have a time. I touched at Malden, and I should think twenty men got on board, all young men except one, who told me afterward he was a surgeon. I could not see whether they brought anything with them or not, as I was on the upper deck. I thought most of them appeared to be Southerners or Northern refugees.

Nothing particular occurred to my knowledge going down, except that ten or twelve of them kept constantly on the upper deck. I left the boat at Middle Bass Island, where I reside. I do so as often as once a week. The boat went on, and I saw nothing more of her until a little after 7. I did not see her coming in, but a little boy came running up very much frightened; said that they were shooting there and killing his father; and said the Parsons had come. I immediately started for the dock; saw a number of men running about there; went up and asked them what in hell was up. Three or four pistols were at once pointed at me, and I was ordered aboard the boat. I refused to go, and replied that I was captain of that boat myself. Two of them shoved me onto the plank,and I walked aboard. They followed me to the cabin, and I saw the crew and passengers sitting there guarded by men with pistols.

I asked Mr. Ashley, the clerk, what it all meant; and he replied that the boat was seized by the rebels, and there was no use resisting. Pretty soon one of them, the oldest man of the party, invited me to sit down beside him; and on my asking him what it all meant, replied that he could not tell me; that he was a surgeon in the Confederate Army; that it was an unpleasant affair to me, but he had his duty to perform; that I had better take the thing cool, and that I should not be hurt. I requested permission to go and see my wife, pledging my honor that I would return; but he refused. I then asked to see the captain, and he said he would introduce me to him, and that the captain wished to see me. He said he thought I'd get my boat again. About this time I heard the whistle of the Island Queen. I heard the order, "as many as could be spared from the cabin, come this way."

The Queen came alongside, and a rush was made for her. I soon saw the passengers of the Queen passing on to out boat, under the direction of the rebels, and our cabin was soon filed with them. This man who came on board at Detroit stood at the door, ordered the passengers to come out, three at a time, under guard, and to be put into the hold. Most of the men were sent below in this manner; the women and children, and a few of the men were left in the cabin with me. The commander soon came along, and the surgeon introduced me to him. He said he wished to see me alone.

We went forward to my room. He asked me to pledge my word I would not leave the island in twenty-four hours, unless my boat came back; said he wanted me to go ashore and take charge of them; said he did not want me on board. It was then 8 o'clock, and a bright moonlight. I told him I wished to take some of my clothes; but he said I need not, as the room would not be disturbed. I gathered up a coat and a few little articles, and went ashore with the ladies. I took my house full, and made them comfortable. I soon after went toward the dock; saw other passengers coming off the boat; and the boats both left in about half an hour, the Parsons towing the Queen. I watched them till they passed Ballast Island; and about one and a half or two miles beyond there they parted with the Queen. The Queen soon after drifted out of sight.

In the conversation with the campaign he said he should probably burn the Queen; and that my boat I should get again. They wanted to get rid of the Queen. I begged that the passengers might be sent ashore. I saw the boat pass up again about 1 o'clock, running very fast. When I next saw the boat she had been nearly stripped of furniture; a portion of it was returned on Saturday night. I should judge there were twenty-five pirates, who came on at Detroit, Sandwich, and Malden. They were most of them armed with two revolvers, and many of them with hand-axes.
S. F. ATWOOD.

Walter O. Ashley.

Steam boat Philo Parsons.

Walter O. Ashley, being duly sworn, saith, that he is twenty-eight years of age, and is clerk and part owner of the steamer Philo Parsons. Deponent further saith, that he was on said steamer on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky on Monday last. On the evening before, about 8 o'clock, a young man, about twenty-five years old -evidently Scotch or English, stout, thick-set, a little below medium height, dressed in English clothes, very light hair, very thin, light-colored beard - with the address of a gentleman, came on board the boat, called me by name; said he and a party of friends were going to take a pleasure trip to Kelly's Island in the morning, and wished the boat to stop at Sandwich and take on his friends, one of them, being lame, did not like to come up.

I told him if he would be at Detroit in the morning himself to let me know if the men were going the boat would stop and take them. I told him further that they could take no baggage, as there was no custom-house on Kelly's Island. The steamer Philo Parsons left Detroit on the morning of September 19, at 8 a. m., with about forty passengers. Immediately after leaving Detroit this same young man, whom I had frequently seen before, came to me, and calling me by name, said there were four passengers who wanted to take the boat at Sandwich, a small town on the Canadian side of the river, some three miles below Detroit. I reported the same to Captain Atwood, and he stopped and took them on. They said when they came on board taht they were taking a little pleasure trip, and intended to stop at Kelly's Island.

All the baggage they had was a small hand-satchel. At Malden, twenty miles down the river on the Canada side, where the boat stops regularly, there were about twenty men came on board and took passage for Sandusky. As it had been quite common of late to take on nearly that number of passengers at this pint nearly every trip - most of them being skedaddlers from the State of Ohio, and getting starved out in Canada and returning home - I at once set the party down as a lot of skedaddlers returning home. A large old fashioned trunk, tied up with ropes, constituted the baggage of the party. Everything went off quietly during the day. The boat stopped at a number of the islands, taking on quiet a number of passengers. Captain Atwood stooped off the boat at Middle Bass Island, where he resides. Shortly after leaving Kelly's Island, between the island and Sandusky, I was standing in front of my office, when four of the party came up to me, and drawing revolvers, leveled them, and said if I offered any resistance I was a dead man.

At the same time the old black trunk flew open, and in less time than it takes to write it the whole gang of about thirty-five were armed to the teeth with revolvers, hatchets, &c. I then told them that they apparently had the strongest party, and guessed I should have to surrender. They then stationed two men to watch me, the remainder rushing into the cabin and threatening to shoot any one that offered any resistance. There was a large number of ladies on board, who were very much frightened. The boat wa then headed down the lake for about an hour; then turned around and ran to Middle Bass Island. While lying there the steamer Island Queen came alongside and was instantly seized. Quite a number of shots were fired, and a number were struck with hatchets, but I think no one was killed. The passengers of both boats were then put ashore, and a portion of the baggage. After taking what money I had, they requested me to go ashore. They allowed me to take my private property, but none of the books or papers belonging to the boat.

The boats were then started out in the lake, the Parsons towing the Queen a short distance into the lake and then let her go adrift. From observations at Kelly's Island next morning, the Queen was supposed to be seen ashore on Middle Island. After putting off the passengers at Middle Bass Island, the Philo Parsons headed for Sandusky and was gone about four hours. She afterward returned under a full head of steam, and after passing Middle Bass headed for Malden, Canada, and steering in that direction as long as she could be seen.

The crew of both boats were retained and made to do the bidding of the parties in possession. I heard the captain of the gang say that he would place myself and the passengers where we could give no information until morning, and before that time their work would be completed. He said it was their intention to run to the mouth of Sandusky Bay, and if they received the proper signals it was their intention to run in, attack the U. S. steamer Michigan lying off Johnson's Island, and then release their friends imprisoned at that place. The men who got on board at Sandwich appeared to be English gentlemen; all well dressed in English clothes; two wearing kid gloves; inquired about the grapes and wines on the islands, and were sociable with the passengers. Think these four were Southerners dressed in English costume to disguise themselves. The party which came on at malden had nothing to do with those that came on at Sandwich, and did not appear to recognize them. Their clothes were worn, some of them ragged, and all had apparently seen hard service. The trunk was brought on by two of the hardest looking of the crowd. Nearly all paid their fare singly in greenbacks.

On arriving at Kelly's Island I remarked to the Sandwich party that I supposed they were going to get off there. Just then three or four men came to the gangway from the dock, and speaking to the Sankwich party said, "We have concluded to go to Sandusky." One of that party said, "We will go with you," and all came aboard. The Kelly-Island party proved to be a part of the same band. After the seizure the boat was steered down the lake directly away from their course to Sandusky, and in plain sight of Johnson's Island and the steamer Michigan. Some of them seemed to wish to burn the Parsons, others did not. This Scotchman I have spoken of said the boat would burn, or he would die. He seemed to be a ringleader, and bent upon all the destruction possible. He said he had been lieutenant in the navy, but did not say what navy; others also told me so.

He took charge of the deck, and seemed well versed in the business. They said part belonged to John Morgan's band, and one was named Morgan. There were about twenty-five unarmed soldiers on board the Island Queen when she was taken-returned 100-days' men from Ohio, going to Toledo to be mustered out. They were not under command of an officer. The engineer of the Island Queen resisted, and was instantly shot, but not killed. The number of our men, including crew, at the time the Parsons was captured, did not exceed thirty-five. The trunks of passengers were not generally plundered; most of it was sent ashore at Middle Bass Island. The cargo of thirty tons pig-iron, some furniture, and tobacco, was thrown overboard. I saw fire-balls of hemp, which the porter told me he was ordered to make - some to burn the Parsons, and some to burn Mr. Ives' house, on Grosse Isle.
W. O. ASHLEY.

De Witt C. Nichols.

Steamer Philo Parsons.


De Witt C. Nichols, of Middle Bass Island, in the State of Ohio, mate or pilot of the steam-boat Philo Parsons, plying between Detroit and Sandusky, maketh oath and saith, that on Monday, the 19th day of September instant, he was on board the said boat, and acting in said capacity, from about 8 a. m. on said day, when said boat started from Detroit for Sandusky, until the capture of said boat, as hereinafter mentioned. Said boat was stopped and took in passengers as follows: At Sandwich, Canada West, four passengers; at Malden, twenty to twenty-five passengers, with luggage, especially one corded pine box, which seemed heavy; at North Bass, a few passengers, who seemed to belong to that island, where the owner of said boat resides; at Put in Bay, some passengers; at Middle Bas, at Kelly's Island, several passengers, leaving said island at 4 p. m. About three-quarters of a mile, and from fifteen to twenty minutes after leaving Kelly's Island (deponent being then at the pilot-house, on the hurricane-deck, and in charge of the ship, the captain having gone ashore for the night at Middle Bass), and the ship being on her straight course for Sandusky, the said Philo Parsons met and passed the Island Queen, passing at about twenty rods distance; passed her in the usual way, and without any communication or signal, private or otherwise, being exchanged to deponent's knowledge.

Immediately after passing her, and deponent being still at the pilot-house, he was accosted by one of the passengers - a man about five feet eight or ten inches high, fair complexion, brown hair, no side whiskers or mustache, wearing Kossuth hat, and apparently thirty years of age, who appeared afterward to be the chief of the party who seized said boat as hereinafter mentioned. He presented himself suddenly before deponent, and asked, "Are you captain of this boat?" To which deponent replied, "No, sir; I am mate." He then asked, "You have charge of her at present, have you not?" Deponent replied, "Yes, sir." He then said, "Will you step back here for a minute? I want to talk to you." Deponent then walked aft with him to near the smokestack, on the hurricane-deck. He then said: "I am a Confederate officer. There are thirty of us, well armed. I seize this boat, and take you as a prisoner. You must pilot the boat as I direct you, and" - pulling a revolver out of his pocket and showing it to deponent - "here are the tools to make you. Run down and lie off the harbor" - meaning the harbor of Sandusky, then about twelve miles distant.

Deponent then sat down on top of the pilot-house, an armed man being placed beside him by the said chief - who seemed to go by the name of Captain Bell - to keep guard over deponent. The said boat was then kept by said Bell's directions a little to the east of the true course for Sandusky, and run so for about eight miles, until a good view into the harbor at about eight miles, until a good view into the harbor at about eight miles distant from the bar, near Cedar Point, was obtained. It was then about 5 p. m., and the U. S. vessel Michigan was plainly visible, and many questions were asked of deponent by said guard in relation to said Michigan and her position within the harbor.

After having examined the harbor thus, said Bell ascertained by inquiry from deponent that there was not fuel enough to take the boat very far, and that it was not usual to have more on board than enough to run the boat from the Bass Islands to Sandusky and back. Thereupon, and after some conversation among themselves, they ordered the wheelman to turn back for wood, and they accordingly reached the wording station at Middle Bass between 7 and 8 p. m., and did not transmit orders to the wheelman through deponent after having so put about, but gave him direct orders, permitting deponent to remain in the cabin until after the seizure of the Island Queen, as hereinafter mentioned. About half an hour after reaching said wording station, the Island Queen came alongside to land freight and passengers, and was boarded by said Bell's party, and her passengers, except the women and children, put down into the hold of the Parsons. But before leaving said station, all except the captain, clear, and engineer of the Island Queen, deponent, the wheelman, and some others of the crew of the Parsons, were allowed to go on shore on engaging not to speak of what had occurred for a certain length of time.

After leaving Middle Bass the second time, and having the Island Queen in tow, they shaped a course for Sandusky, and when between Ballast Island and Kelly's Island they cut off the Island Queen, and said they had cut her pipes, so that she would sink. Immediately after this, all said persons excepted above, except the engineer and wheelman of the Parsons, were ordered into the hold; and deponent saw nothing more until, after hearing said boat foul something (which deponent afterward learned was the in closure of a fish-pond off Middle Bass Island), deponent was ordered on deck. On reaching the deck deponent found said vessel off Middle Bass Island, on her second return from off Sandusky harbor; and while below deponent was told by the engineer that they ran about two or three miles beyond marblehead on the straight course to Sandusky; but deponent heard nothing, and can conjecture nothing as to the reason for the said second return form off Sandusky harbor.

Deponent was desired to pilot said boat for Detroit River, and did so. On entering the said river said Bell pointed out certain vessels to deponent, and inquired what waters they were in; and being informed that they were in Canadian waters, remarked that it was a good thing for them that they were, otherwise that they would have boarded them. They there inquired for one Ives, a banker residing at Grosse Isle, and said it it had not been so late they would have robbed him; and desired deponent, as it was so late, to take the boat up the British channel. Deponent piloted said boat accordingly until reaching the head of remained until taken off to Ecorse by a small boat, getting on board the Pearl at Ecorse, and stopping at Sandwich.

He there was the Parsons, and took possession of her, and sent word by the captain of the Pearl to Detroit of what had happened. Deponent saith that the second in command of sid party was a man of middle stature, apparently about thirty years of age, wore a small mustache, and no other whiskers or beard; fair complexion, sandy-haired; wore a woolen cap, with a net peak; spoke with a Scotch accent, as well as deponent can judge; and appeared to understand the details of the engine fixings. The whole party were young men except one, who called himself a surgeon, and were generally fair-complexioned and rather full-bodied men. Two of said party left the said boat in a small boat belonging to the Island Queen, after having passed Malden, the Patrons being slowed for that purpose; and deponent saw them shape their course for a point about a mile north of Malden, where there is a mile kiln. Deponent was robbed by said party of clothes and other effects which he could not replace for $200.
De Witt C. Nichols.

Henry Haines.

Steamer Island Queen.

Henry Haines deposes and says, that he is engineer of the Island Queen, a steamer running regularly from Sandusky to Kelly's Island and the Bass Islands. The boat left Sandusky last Monday at 3 p. m., her usual hour, for Kelly's Island. As we were nearing Kelly's Island we met the Parsons, about a mile from Kelly's Island, and seemingly bound for Sandusky. After passing us she turned to the east, went down the lake, and turned and came back again, and then steered her course for Middle Bass, where she arrived before us, and was lying at the dock. We came alongside of her, and men came on the Island Queen from her. I was in the engine room attending to the working of the engine. I heard some one exclaim, "Shoot the son of a bitch," and was immediately shot, the ball passing my nose and through my left cheek.

The bell rang, and I stopped the engine, and came out on deck. I there met two men, one of them bearing a globe lantern lit, and a revolver, and the other armed with two revolvers. This latter one asked me what was the matter with me. This was about 8 p. m. He passed me on board of the Parsons, saying to the man on guard at the gangway of the Parsons, "This is one of our prisoners." Mr. Woolford, a passenger on the Island Queen, and a prisoner on the Parsons, told the men who passed me on board the Parsons, that I was the engineer of the Island Queen, and should be permitted to remain on board the Island Queen to take care of the boilers. I was thereupon put back on the Island Queen, with a guard over me.

One of the capturing party, who was called Captain Morgan, asked me where the valves were. I showed him the pony pipe in the hold, and he thereupon chopped it off. He then took a big sledge hammer and broke the big cock off the side of the boat and let the water in. Captain Morgan was aided by the man who stood guard over me, and they then passed me a second time on board the Parsons. Before this pipe was cut the guard had asked me how I was going to vote. I told him that I was going to vote for "Old Abe." He asked me what McClellan's chances were, and I replied that I thought he had none. After placing me on the Parsons they took the Island Queen in tow, towed her about five miles toward Kelly's Island, and then let go of her. We were then placed in the hold, and the capturing party seemed to be deliberating as to whether they should attack the Michigan. The boat was kept on her course to the mouth of the bay. She was then turned and went back toward Detroit, and I was landed with other men on Fighting Island.
Henry x Haines
His mark.

Monday, October 19, 2009

The 52nd. Pennsylvania Volunteers, "Boat Infantry."

The following men of the 52nd Pennsylvania Infantry Volunteers, were in the assault on Johnson Island in Charleston Harbor on July 3, 1864, they were known as the “Boat infantry.” There were 20, boats in all, men were asigned to each boat but just before the attack it was found some of the them were unuseable and the men were reassigned to other boats. For this reason some boat numbers will be missing.

I named as many names as the reports allowed and not all of the men of the “Boat infantry,” are named. Most of men that commanded the boats give a report, if you find a ancestor here and would like to read what part his boat took in the attack drop me a line and I will see that you receive it.

Important note. I have thousands of names at this site, when asking about a name from this page or any other pages at this site, please give the ( Title of the page ), for without it I may not be able to help you. My address can be found in my profile.
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Major Thomas B. Jayne, Fifty-second Pennsylvania Infantry

The boat infantry, (pontoons and metallic).

Major Thomas B. Jayne, mustered in October 11, 1861, Promoted from Captain, Company B, to Major, January 9, 1864; mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

1. Boat No 1., First Lieutenant Norman P. Farr commanding, mustered in October 11, 1861, 1st. Lieutenant, Promoted from Corporal to Sergeant; to 2d Lt., June 13, 1863; to 1st Lt., January 9, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

2. Boat No. 2., Captain Treat B. Camp, Co. F., mustered in September 21, 1861, Promoted from 1st Lieut. to Captain, October 22, 1863; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

3. Boat No. 3., Lieutenant-Colonel Jno. Conyngham, F & S., mustered in September 28, 1861, Promoted from Major to Lt. Colonel, January 9, 1864; to Colonel, June 3, 1865; mustered out with Regiment, July 12, 1865.

4. Boat No. 4., First Lieutenant James G. Stevens., Co. H., mustered in September 19, 1861, Promoted from 2d to 1st Lt, November 13, 1863; captured July 3, 1864; died at Blakeley, Luzerne County, Pa, April 7, 1865.

5. Boat No. 5., commanded by Captain Harry H. Jenks, Captain, Co. I., mustered in August 22, 1861, Promoted from 1st Lt. to Captain, November 1, 1863; absent, on detached duty, at muster out

6. Boat No. 6., First Lieutenant Thomas E. Evans, Co. I., mustered in September 23, 1861, Promoted from Corporal to Sergeant, February 5, 1862; to 1st Sergeant, September 2, 1862; to 1st Lt, March 25, 1864; captured July 3, 1864; nmustered out by General Order, May 6, 1865.

7. Boat No. 7., Captain W. S. Chatham, Company C., mustered in September 12, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

8. Boat No. 8., First Lieutenant William V. Hollingsworth, Company C., mustered in October 17., 1861, Promoted from Corporal to Sergeant, August 5, 1862; to 1st Sergeant, October 24, 1863; to 1st Lt, November 22, 1863; discharged October 11, 1864.

9. Boat No. 9., Captain John B. Fish, Company H., mustered in August 31, 1861, Promoted from 1st Lieut. to Captain, July 1, 1863; mustered out, January 27, 1865, expiration of term.

10. Boat No. 10., Captain Hannibal D. Weed, Company E., mustered in October 29, 1861
Promoted from Sergeant to 1st Sergeant, May 21, 1862; to Captain, December 21, 1863; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

11. Boat No. 11., Lieutenant David Moses, Company K., mustered in November 4, 1861, Promoted from Sergeant to 2d Lieutenant, November 5, 1862; mustered out, April 30, 1865, expiration of term.

12. Boat No. 12., Sergeant Willard Samson, Company K., Sergeant Samson, Company K., musrered in November 4, 1861, Promoted from Sergeant to 1st Sergeant, November 4, 1862; mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

13. Boat No. 13., Sergeant Charles R. Kenyon, Company E., mustered in October 29, 1861, Promoted from 1st Sergeant to 1st Lt, October 1, 1864; commissioned Captain, Company G, June 1, 1865, not mustered; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

14., Boat No. 14., Captain Nath. W. Pierson, Company G., mustered in August 15, 1861, Promoted from Adjutant to Captain. May 19, 1863; mustered out, January 27. 1865, expiration of term.

15. Boat No. 15., Second Lieutenant Philo M. Burr, Company B., mustered in October 11, 1861, Promoted from 1st Sergeant to 2d Lt., January 9, 1864; commissioned Captain Company C, June 1, 1865, not mustered; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

16. Boat No. 16., Robert W. Bannatyne, Co. B., mustered in October 1, 1861, Promoted from 1st Sergeant to 2d Lt., September 27, 1862; to 1st Lt., March 31, 1863; to Captain, January 9, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

17. Boat No. 17 being the boat assigned to me; 40 artillerists, Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, which were assigned to Nos.18 and 19, Captain Churchill and Lieutenant Bible; Colonel Hoyt having a light boat, No. 20.

The following are the names of the cockswains and oarsmen of the different boats: No. 1, Lieutenant Norman P. Farr commanding, all of Fifty-second except the cockswain; cockswain, Sergt. Robert Bennett, One hundred and twenty-seventh New York Volunteers.

Crew of Boat No. 1.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Oarsmen, Private, Thomas Cassiday, Company A., mustered in September 23, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Co,, July 15, 1865.

2. Jonas Miller, private, Company A., mustered in September 5, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

3. Thomas Ray, private, Company A., mustered in August 20, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, June 25, 1865; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865;Vet.

4. Daniel W. or David W. Turner, private, Company A., mustered in August 28, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

5. Sergeant. Nelson B. Hedden, Co. A., mustered in August 27, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

6. Sergeant. Irwin E. Finch, Co. A., mustered in August 16, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

7. Sergeant. John S. Linn, Co. A., mustered in September 2, 1861, Promoted from Corporal to Sergeant, September 1, 1862; to 1st Sergeant, September 15, 1864; mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

8. Corporal Thomas W. Aregood, Co. A., mustered in September 24, 1861, Promoted from Corporal to Sergeant, November 6, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

9. James B. Russell, private, Co. A., mustered in September 2, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

10. Peter Allabach, private, Co. A., mustered in September 2, 1861, Promoted from Corporal to Sergeant, June 25, 1865; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

11. Solomon W. Taylor, private, Co. A., mustered in October 14, 1861, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet, Promoted to Corporal.

12. Henry Barnes, private, Co. A., mustered in September 2, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

13. John Brown, private, Co. A., mustered in October 15, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

14. James Brown, private, Co. A., mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

15. Francis E. Carman, private, Co. A., mustered in September 9, 1861, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

16. George B. Carey, private, Co. A., mustered in September 17, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

17. James Countrymen, private, Co. A., mustered in September 17, 1863, Drafted; died at Morris Island, S. C., November 24, 1864.

18. Lewis Cilfris, private, Co. A., mustered in September 23, 1863, Drafted; died at Morris Island, S. C., November 13, 1864.

19. William Cilfris, private, Co. A., mustered in September 23, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

20. William T. Delzell, private, Co. A., mustered in September 23, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

21. George S. Dash, private, Co. A., mustered in March 14, 1864, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865

22. Frederick H. Deicil, private, Co. A., not found on roster.

23. Samuel Everett, private, Co. A., mustered in October 15, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

24. Frederick Grumm, private, Co. A., mustered in October 14, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

25. George Greenawalt, private, Co. A., mustered in March 14, 1864, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

26. John Huntsman, private, Co. A., mustered in October 8, 1861, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

27. Henry Hopes, private, Co. A., mustered in November 9, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

28. William Hypher, private, Co. A., mustered in November 6, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

29. Michael Keef, private, Co. A., mustered in August 16, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term

30. Daniel Learch, private, Co. A., mustered in October 15, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

31. F. S. Lape, private, Co. A., mustered in October 15, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

32. Henry S. Mash, private, Co. A., mustered in September 16, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, November 6, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

33. Thomas M‘Garle, private, Co. A., mustered in October 8, 1861, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

34. William L. Millham, private, Co. A., mustered in March 28, 1862, Mustered out, May 5, 1865, expiration of term.

35. Nelson P. Morgan, private, Co. A., mustered in September 23, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

36. John F. Miller, private, Co. A., mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

37 Albert J. Meeker, private, Co. A., mustered in March 31, 1864, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

38. George S. Peirce, private, Co. A., mustered in March 21, 1864, Mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

39. Lorin D. Rozell, private, Co. A., mustered in September 7, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, November 6, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

40. Patrick Riter, private, Co. A., mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865.

41. William Simons, private, Co. A., mustered in September 16, 1861, Discharged June 15, 1865, to accept promotion in 104th regiment U. S. Colored Troops.

42. John M. Taylor, private, Co. A., mustered in May 5, 1862, Mustered out, May 25, 1865, expiration of term.

43. John R. Wiley, private, Co. A., mustered in September 9, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, May 1, 1865; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865;Vet.

44. Ezra O. West, private, Co. A., mustered in September 23, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, November 6, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

45. Freeman Souder, private, Co. A., mustered in August 28, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, May 1, 1865; mustered out with Company, July 15, 1865; Vet.

Crew of Boat No. 6.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Jonathan Davis, Company I, private, mustered in September 23, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

2. Oarsmen, Albert Seneff, private, Company I, mustered in September 23, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

3. Oarsmen, Jeremiah James, Company I, private, mustered in September 23, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

4. Oarsmen, Michael Cadden, Company I, private, mustered in September 23, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

5. Oarsmen, Richard Davis, Company I., private Co. I., mustered in September 23, 1861, Promoted from private. to Sergeant, November 1, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

Crew of Boat No. 7.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, William W. Archer, sergeant Company H., mustered in November 4, 1861, Commissioned 2d Lt, June 4, 1865, not mustered; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

2. Oarsmen, Peter Weaver, private, Company H., mustered in November 4, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

3. Oarsmen, Philitus Snedicor, private, Company H., mustered in November 4, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

4. Oarsmen, William James, private, Company H., mustered in November 4, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

5. Oarsmen, Peter Connelly, private, Company H, mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

Crew of Boat No. 8.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Private Michael O'Neil, private, Company H, mustered in September 29, 1863, Drafted; absent, sick, at muster out.

2. Oarsmen, John G. La France, private, Company H, mustered in November 4, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

3. Oarsmen, John E. Perry, private, Company H, mustered in September 23, 1862, Discharged by General Order, June 24, 1865.

4. Oarsmen, Charles Wagner, Corporal, Company H, mustered in July 28, 1863, Drafted; promoted to Corporal, March 1, 1865; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

5. Oarsmen, Martin Groner, private, Company H, September 30, 1863, Drafted; discharged by General Order, June 7, 1865.

Crew of Boat No. 9.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Sidney B. Weed, private, Company E, mustered in October 29, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

2. Oarsmen, Joseph L. White, private, Company E, mustered in February 29, 1864, Mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

3. Oarsmen, Ezra O. Smith, private, Company E, mustered in October 29, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, May 15, 1865; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

4. Oarsmen, Peter L. Vrooman, private, Company E, mustered in October 29, 1861, Mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet

5. Oarsmen, Alfred D. Finney, private Company E, mustered in October 29, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, November 15, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

Crew of Boat No. 10.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Corporal. Alva Dolph, Company K, mustered in November 4, 1861, Promoted to Sergeant, November 5, 1864; to 1st. Sergeant, June 3, 1865; commissioned 2d Lieut., June 4, 1865; not mustered; mustered out with company, July 12, 1865; Vet.


2. Oarsmen, Tryal Styles, private, mustered in July 27, 1863, Drafted; Promoted to Corporal, December 31, 1864; mustered out with company, July 12, 1865; Vet

3. Oarsmen Edmund Jones, private, Company K, mustered in November 4, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864; expiration of term.

4. Oarsmen Andrew Scutt, private, Company K, mustered in November 4, 1861, Mustered out with company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

5. Oarsmen Charles Rubeck, private, Company K, mustered in November 3, 1862, Promoted to Sergeant, November 5, 1864; mustered out with company, July 12, 1865.

Crew of Boat No. 13.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Corporal, Henry C. Mott, Company G, mustered in November 4, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, June 18, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

2. oarsmen, George Mack, private, Company G, mustered in October 8, 1862, Mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

3. oarsmen, William Long, private, Company G, mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 19 1865.

4. oarsmen, Henry Rummerfield, private, Company G, mustered in November 4, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, November 6, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

Crew of Boat No. 14.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Corporal. William H. Robbins, Company G, mustered in November 4, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, January 1, 1864; mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

2. Oarsmen, Alamanza De Camp, private, Company G, mustered in October 24, 1862, Mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

3. Oarsmen, John Welch, private Company G, mustered in October 15, 1863, Drafted; deserted November 1, 1864.

4. Oarsmen, William Carroll, private, Company G, mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

5. Oarsmen, Edward H. Davis, private, Company G, mustered in November 12, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

Crew of Boat No. 14.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1.Cockswain, Private James Sweeney, Company B., mustered in September 23, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

2. Oarsmen, Jonathan Jones, private Company B., mustered in October 1l, 1861, Mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

3. Oarsmen, Joseph B. Maxwell, private Company B., mustered in October 11, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

4. Oarsmen, Jacob W. Sharp, private Company B., mustered in November 24, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

5. Oarsmen, Charles Livingston, private, Company B, mustered in September 24, 1863, Drafted; discharged by General Order, July 7, 1865.

Crew of Boat No. 17.

Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

1. Cockswain, Private George H. Titus, Company B, mustered in October 11, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

2. Oarsmen, John H. Riker, privates Company B, mustered in March 14, 1864, Absent, sick, at muster out.

3. Oarsmen, William H. Kishpaugh, privates Company B, mustered in October 11, 1861, Promoted to Corporal, November 6, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865; Vet.

4. Oarsmen, John F. Miller, privates Company B, mustered in October, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

5. Oarsmen, Leander C. Low, also known by George L. Low, privates Company B, mustered in October 11, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.
------------------------------------------

Captain Robert W. Bannatyne, Fifty-second Pennsylvania Infantry.

Boat No. 16 boat.

His boat was known as beach boat, in the line of attack as No. 16 boat, third division, which was commanded by Major Thomas B. Jayne, of Fifty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers.

Boats Crew:

1. Robert W. Bannatyne, Co. B., mustered in October 1, 1861, Promoted from 1st Sergeant to 2d Lt., September 27, 1862; to 1st Lt., March 31, 1863; to Captain, January 9, 1864; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

2. John J. Culberson, Co. B., Cockswain, mustered in September 24, 1863, as a private, Drafted; died at Morris Island, South Carolina, November 23, 1864.

3. Nathaniel Josling, Co. B., oarsmen, mustered in March 14, 1864, as a private, Mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865

4. John G. Gilmartin, Co. B., private, mustered in October 29, 1863, Drafted; mustered out with Company, July 12, 1865.

5. Daven't. Shoemaker, Co. B., private, mustered in October 11, 1861, Mustered out, November 5, 1864, expiration of term.

6. Giles R. Wilcox, Co. B., private mustered in March 3, 1862, Mustered out, March 18, 1865, expiration of term.

There were 28, in all, but these are the only names stated.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Captain George W. Ashby.


First I would like to thank Jack McConnell of Vintagephotosrus for allowing me to use his photo’s of George W. Ashby. Mr. McConnell had this to say about the Photo’s: The one thing I find interesting about the image showing him as a civilian is the photographer backstamp Lawrence Kansas. is that as you know Lawrence massacre accrued in 1863. We can date this CDV using the U. S. rev. stamp c1860-1866 since this is the time frame when the U. S. government used these rev. stamps to create rev. $$ for the U. S. government. So now I am trying to find out if Ashby was involved with pursuit of the outlaws that took part in the Lawrence massacre since he enlisted in 1862 and was in the area when this event took place and was in the union army. the one thing not clear on is why the second image has a photographer stamp from Iowa? If you have anymore info or suggestions let me know thanks jack.

If you have a answer to his questions, or are just interested in these type of photo’s his company Vintagephotosrus can be found on line or if you wish he can be reached at the following: vintagephotosrus@earthlink.net

Note. All these photo's can be enlarged by pushing on them.

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Updated October 28, 2009.



Jack McConnell Of Vintagephotosrus sent another photo of George W. Ashby it too was taken in Iowa. Mr. McConnell states that all photographers were required to collect a revenue tax for every photo image sold from their studios. The revenue stamps were required on photographs sold in the U. S., from 1864-1866, this was a taxation system to pay for the war against the Confederacy. Mr. McConnell also notes that this photograph was hand canceled with a fountain pen by the photographer by using his entails ( P. H. W.), this was required by the U. S. Government, it was to show that the stamp and been used and was canceled. McConnell also says to note that the photographers used the backs of the C.V. D. photo’s as advertising, as this photographer did here, which this photo shows that he not only took photographs but he was a dentist, artist and druggist, watchmaker and jeweler which Mr. McConnell thinks is quite unigue.
-----------------------------
Birth: unknown Death: 1898.
Ashby George W.; CO. D, 12th KANSAS INFANTRY G. W. Ashby was Captain of a company in the 12th Kansas Infantry and served three years. Captain Ashby was commander of the old G. A. R. Post, and was a candidate for Mayor once. He was a good officer in the army, a loyal soldier and as a citizen was jovial, friendly and was well respected. Residence Prairie City KS; Enlisted on 9/25/1862 as a Captain. On 9/25/1862 he was commissioned into "D" Co. KS 12th Infantry He Resigned on 5/29/1865 at Arkansas died 4/20/1898 in Oaklahoma Federal Pension Information: He applied for a pension on 8/2/1890 from the state of KS application # 871,224 His Widow (Agnes C Ashby) applied for a pension on 1/11/1900 from the state of OK application # 711,385

G. W. ASHBY Apr. 20, 1898.

Mr. Shirley, of Buffalo, Wilson county, brings the news that G.W. Ashby was buried in the cemetery at that place last Sunday. No particulars concerning his death are reported, only that he died in Oklahoma. G. W. Ashby was Captain of a company in the 12th Kansas Infantry and served three years. He lived in Chanute a good many years. He owned for several years and improved the old Hawkins place south of town, now owned by Mr. Henry, and planted all those trees that have grown so large. He became involved in debt, in making his improvements and exchanged his little fruit farm, that had just began to bear, for dwelling property on South Junction Street where he lived for several years.

After moving to town he went into the furniture business on West Fourth Street with S. J. Hatcher. Captain Ashby was commander of the old G. A. R. Post, and was a candidate for Mayor once. He was a good officer in the army, a loyal soldier and as a citizen was jovial, friendly and was well respected. If there was any acid in the Captain’s system none of it ever worked out. He was commander at the time Dobbs and the Post played the Spy of Atlanta. He was enthusiastic in his activity in helping to reproduce on the stage the events of the civil war in which he had taken part in reality. The old soldiers and settlers of Chanute all knew him and will have no recollection of that acquaintance to jar their kindness for his memory.

It is said that every one makes the world better by coming into it and that they make it still better when they leave it. This may be true, yet it is open to serious doubt. Coming into the world is a matter of no particular importance to the world only to those directly interested, but how the new comer pass out is always a question more or less serious. “Going out of the world is a different thing altogether. Some people leave it, but leave no lingering regrets, while others die and leave many wishing that they could have staid longer. Captain Ashby was one of those frictionless characters that make the world a more congenial place to live. As his country stands trembling on the verge of another bloody conflict the Captain crosses the dark sea to join his comrades on the other shore.

Mr. Ashby had a lest one daughter and this was said about her on her death.

Sarah Frances Ashby Neff was born in La Doga, Ind., to Captain G.W. and Martha Ashby, on October 15, 1853. She came with her parents to Franklin Co., Kansas in 1858, settling at Prairie City. In 1870 she came with her father and grandparents, Thompson Ashby and wife, to Wilson county, living one mile east of Buffalo, afterwards making her home with her father in Chanute, Kansas. She lived in the state of Kansas 78 years. She was married to Omer P. Neff on October 24, 1876 at Iola, Kansas and lived on a farm six miles southwest of Buffalo, moving to Buffalo in 1888. She was a resident of Wilson county about sixty-six years.

Her father, Captain George W. Ashby was prominent in the early affairs of Clifton twp. and Mrs. Neff and her husband took a great interest in the building of the community of Buffalo and vicinity. Ashby Avenue in Chanute was named after Mrs. Neff’s father, Captain G. W. Ashby. Mrs. Neff was baptized into the Christian church when 18 years of age. Surviving Mrs. Neff are her seven children: Meta A. White, Buffalo: Eli A. Neff, Pittsburgh, Pa. Alice M. Jones, San Diego, Calif.; Omer Lee Neff, Palo Alto, Calif.; Nancy A. Neff, Buffalo; George S. Neff, Kansas City, Mo.; and Hattie Bernice Carter, Crescenta, Calif.; also six grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. C.O. Wilson, pastor of the Fredonia Christian church Wednesday afternoon at Buffalo. Burial was in the Buffalo cemetery. Burial - 29 Apr 1936, Buffalo Cemetery, Buffalo, Wilson Co. KS
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Updated December 12, 2009.


It was in November, when Jack McConnell had sent me a new photo of George W. Ashby, and I thought it couldn’t get much better. Well I was wrong, I have just received a letter from him and he told he had two more and had this to say;

“I went back to that antique shop to check out what they had new. found another Ashby image along with a soldier with the num 11 on hat. Do you want a scan of this other Ashby image to add to your site? also ill send you a scan of the soldier. it came along with the other Ashby album I was told so I am guessing it was 11th regiment maybe you might know more and can help Let me know if you want a scan image and backside this time only has a rev stamp w cancel date 3-1865. so this image was taken just before the war was over, nice we have image before he joined and later in the army than another towards the end.”

Well I couldn’t believe my luck, I wrote back and told him I would be glad to have them, well a few days later he wrote back and had this to say;

“I hope you had a nice thanksgiving. yes that other cdv image of Ashby has some foxing on front but oh well. RE: The 11th, is the on the soldiers cap, is all I know about him the unique thing is this soldier has long hair style, dating the image using the type of cdv mount c1862 its an early mount and early large mount with large image of the soldier. so ill would like to see what you think of this guy and let me know.”

Well after a few week the photo’s finely came, he told me the reason why they were a little late in coming;

“I had to get back down to antique shop where I bought these images. to buy another image of Ashby when he was not in the army, I have enclosed a view of this as well. also where can I get more info on his family, due to I bought a stack of all of the rest of the cdv’s and appears we have a view of his dad and brother and I think his hole family. I am waiting for the store owner to bring me the empty cdv album these all came in so I can try to recreate the album back to its original state, I am hoping that within this album there will be some written info, not sure I don’t have album yet and owners not sure. Looking to hear from you, appears Ashby family was in Kansas and ended up after the war in Wisconsin? can you confirm? But I am sure all 33 cdv images are of the Ashby family. need some help if you can. anymore info on the Ashby family? also enclosed is the other view of him and the civil war soldier from the 11th hope you can get me some info on him as well. thanks jack.”

Well I was unable find any more information on the family or the soldier of the 11th, So Mr. McConnell and I are hoping some of you readers or members of the Ashby family well have some information to share with us, Mr. McConnell well be glad to hear from one and all. He can be reached at the following:


Mr. Jack McConnell.
vintagephotosrus@earthlink.net