MILITARY: Civil War History and Rosters; Polk County, Iowa 

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I hope you find this information of value in your genealogy research.
Marion John Rice, mjrice@dakotacom.net 
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NOTE:  For more information on Polk County, Iowa 
       Please visit the Polk County, IAGenWeb page  
       at http://iagenweb.org/polk/
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"The History of Polk County, Iowa" 
published by the Union Historical Company, Birdsall, Williams & Co. 1880.  


Civil War Information
536 - HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
CHAPTER X.
POLK COUNTY IN THE WAR.
The census of 1860 showed that Polk county at that time 
had a total population of 11,625. There were at that time in 
the county about 2,500 voters. The number of men who 
volunteered in the War of the Rebellion from Polk county 
amounted to 1,500, or more than ten percent of the entire 
population and more than fifty per cent of the number of 
voters. In giving the number of soldiers who enlisted from the 
county those credited in the Adjutant-General's reports alone 
are counted. There were in addition to these a number of 
drafted men and a good many who enlisted when absent 
from home, and counting these the number of men entering 
the service of their country from Polk county could not have 
been far from 2,000. Of this number two hundred and eighty 
lost their lives either from wounds received in battle, or 
sickness contracted in camp and on the march. At the 
outbreak of this war Polk county was in the full tide of activity 
and prosperity. 
 
Her material resources were being rapidly developed and all 
the various brandies of business and the learned professions 
were keeping pace in the front ranks of progress. The people 
were just recovering from the financial crisis of 1857, and 
those who had toiled in the land during those times which 
tried men's souls had begun to see the dawning of better 
days. Immediately surrounded by the noise of industry and 
the continuous hum of business they heard little and 
believed less of the rumored plots and plans of those who 
lived to grow rich from the toil and sweat of others, and 
whose leading branch of trade was the traffic in souls and 
bodies of men. But still the war was upon them, and the 
thundering of cannon at the very gates of the National 
Capital soon broke the spell of busy peace, and they soon 
passed from a serious contemplation of the possibility of war 
to the realization of its actual presence and the duties which 
the issues of the day made incumbent upon them as loyal 
citizens of the Union. Fort Sumter was fired upon April 12, 
1861, and on the 15th of the same month the President 
issued the following proclamation:
"WHEREAS, The laws of the United States have been and 
are now opposed in several States by combinations too 
powerful to be suppressed in an ordinary way, I therefore 
call upon the militia of the several States of the Union, to the 
aggregate number of 75,000, to suppress the said 
combination and execute the laws. I appeal to all loyal 
citizens for State aid in this effort to maintain the laws, 
integrity, National Union, perpetuity of popular government, 
and redress wrongs long enough endured. "The first service 
assigned forces will probably be to repossess forts, places, 
and property which have been seized from the Union. The 
utmost care should be taken, consistent with our object, to 
avoid devastation, destruction and interference with property 
of peaceable citizens in any part of the country, and I hereby 
command persons commanding the aforesaid combinations 
to disperse within twenty days from date. "I hereby convene 
both houses of Congress for the 4th day of July next,
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 537
to determine upon measures for the public safety as its 
interests may demand. 
ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
"President of the United States."
"By W. H. SEWARD, 
" Secretary of State."
Of this call for volunteers, only one regiment was required to 
fill the quota of Iowa. The proclamation of Governor 
Kirkwood calling for this regiment was issued at Iowa City, 
April 17th. The men of Iowa sprang to arms as one man, and 
hundreds of volunteers were offered whom the State did not 
need. The first company enlisted in Polk county was 
company D, of the Second Iowa infantry. The commanding 
officers of this company were M. M. Crocker, N. W. Mills, N. 
L. Dykeman and Edgar Ensign and these men were 
principally active in the work of recruiting and organizing the 
company. The company was enrolled in May, 1861, and the 
first important engagement in which it took part was the 
attack on Fort Donelson, in which engagement Nathan W. 
Doty and Theodore G. Weeks were killed. Captain Crocker 
was promoted from one rank to another until he finally 
became Major-General Crocker which position in the army 
he occupied in the summer of 1865, when he died of disease 
at Washington City. Lieutenant Mills was promoted from one 
rank to another till he became, Colonel Mills, and while in 
command of the regiment at the battle of Corinth received a 
wound from the effects of which he died October 12,1862.
The second company raised in Polk county was company E, 
of the Fourth Iowa infantry. It was mustered into the United 
States service in August, 1861. The first officers of the 
company were H. H. Griffiths, W. S. Simmons, and Isaac 
Whicher, who were chiefly instrumental in the enlistment of 
the company. Polk county was well represented in the Tenth 
Iowa infantry. The first regimental officers, chaplain and 
surgeons were from this county, and three companies, A, B 
and G were recruited here.
Company B of the Fifteenth infantry, company F of the 
Sixteenth infantry, company B of the Seventeenth infantry, 
companies B and I of the Thirty-ninth infantry, company F of 
the Forty-seventh infantry, company D of the Second cavalry 
and one or two batteries were made up of volunteers from 
Polk county. The Twenty-third regiment of infantry was very 
largely made up of volunteers from Polk county, and the first 
regimental officers were Polk county men. It was mustered 
into the service September 19, 1862.
SOLDIERS' REUNION.
In August, 1870, occurred the great reunion in Des Moines. 
Adjutant General Baker directed the affair, and it is 
estimated that there were seventy five thousand people 
present including thirty thousand soldiers. Gen. Sherman 
was the most distinguished visitor from abroad. The soldiers 
encamped by companies and regiments as they did while in
538 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
active service, the vacant city lots east of the State Capitol 
being used for camping ground. The different Iowa 
regiments were organized under their respective 
commanders and marched through the streets, making a 
very imposing and warlike exhibition. During the continuation 
of the reunion it is estimated that there were consumed by 
the soldiers, one hundred and seven beeves and four 
hundred and ninety-eight barrels of coffee. In September, 
1875, the annual reunion of the Army of the Tennessee took 
place at Des Moines. President Grant, Secretary Belknap 
and General Sherman were present. The city was profusely 
decorated, Court Avenue, Walnut and Fourth streets were 
especially decorated for the occasion. On the second day of 
the reunion the children of the public schools were 
assembled at the opera house and an address delivered by 
President Grant.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF
The society for the relief of soldiers' families was organized 
in December, 1864. Mayor Leas was Chairman and H. L. 
Whitman Secretary. A committee representing the several 
wards of Des Moines was constituted of the following named 
persons: H. L. Whitman, G. W. Cleveland, Hoyt Sherman, G. 
Washburn, I. M. Chamberlain, Mrs. Frank Butler, M. P. 
Turner, Mrs. Wm. Galbraith, J. M. Chamberlain, W. D. 
Wilson, H. L. Whitman and C. C. Howell were appointed a 
committee to report some systematic plan of action. A 
business meeting for the purpose of electing officers was 
held on the Seventeenth of December. The following officers 
were elected President, Mayor Leas; Vice-Presidents, T. K. 
Brooks and A. B. Woodbury, Secretary, William Duane 
Wilson. It was agreed to hold a festival in aid of the soldiers, 
on the thirty-first of December, and committees were 
appointed to secure donations and make arrangements. The 
festival occurred at the time specified, and the net proceeds 
amounted to the sum of four thousand, two hundred and 
forty-five dollars and twenty eight cents, and from an exhibit, 
made in December, 1865, it appeared that there were raised 
by the society during the one year of its existence, the sum 
of seven thousand, two hundred and sixty-one dollars and 
thirty-five cents.
It must not be supposed, however, that this was all that was 
contributed in the county in aid of the soldiers and their 
families. Individuals, local organizations and churches 
contributed frequently from the very beginning of the war, 
and so great was the liberality displayed by the people at 
home, in the county that much suffering was alleviated and 
great hardships averted.
The following record of the regiments, companies and 
soldiers recruited in Polk county has been compiled from the 
Adjutant-General's report.
SECOND INFANTRY.
Polk county has the proud distinction of having been 
represented in the noble, heroic, battle-scarred Second 
Iowa, whose name and fame will live so long as the State 
exists or the nation lives. It was the first regi-
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 539
ment of three years' men raised in the State. It was 
organized early in May, 1861,with Samuel R. Curtis as 
colonel, who was immediately promoted to major-general. A 
complete history of its participation in the war for the Nation's 
life would fill a volume. It had six colonels, two of whom were 
killed, one promoted to major-general and two to brigadier-
generals. It was in the following engagements, and its battle-
torn banners suspended in the State arsenal, tell the story of 
its prowess:
During 1861 and a part of 1862, it served in Missouri. It was 
at Fort Donelson during the memorable engagements of the 
fourteenth and fifteenth of February, 1862, the regiment won 
it highest renown, when, as a forlorn hope, it made what was 
undoubtedly the most gallant, reckless and successful 
charge of the whole war. Fighting had been going on all the 
forenoon of the fifteenth, and the Federal forces were losing 
ground. The key to the rebel position lay on the crest of a 
steep hill whose sides were obstructed by dense thicket. In 
front of the earth works of the crest, about one hundred 
yards distance, was a formidable abatis; to pass which an 
assaulting column must break its line and move by the flank 
in two divisions. Between the abatis and breastworks were 
no obstructions. Unless these earthworks could be taken, 
Federal success was futile. The tender of the "forlorn hope" 
was made to several regiments and, declined, when it 
reached Col. J. M. Tuttle, of the Second.
"Colonel, will you take those works ?" asked Gen. Smith 
"Support me promptly, and in twenty minutes I will go in." 
 
He went in. Dividing his regiment, he, with the left wing, 
began to scale the hillside. The abatis was reached by slow 
and toilsome tread, and not a gun was fired, but scarcely 
was the abatis passed and the gallant boys got into line, 
when the concentrated fire of three rebel regiments belched 
upon them, and at the first fire, of the gallant three hundred, 
one hundred and fifty went down. With a heroism of 
desperation the fragment closed up its shattered ranks and 
pushed on, and before them two rebel regiments quailed and 
fled, save a few who bit the dust from bayonet thrusts. A 
Mississippi regiment still remained, but the other column of 
the Second coming up put them also to flight. The key of the 
rebel position was taken. Fifteen thousand prisoners, a large 
quantity of ordnance stores, and other property was the 
result of the victory. The commander-in-chief and every 
division commander who were in this fight were made major-
generals, and every brigade commander, a brigadier. The 
Second Iowa, therefore, made Grant, Smith, McClernand 
and Wallace major-generals. Lanman and ten others 
brigadiers. It broke the line of the enemy's defenses, 
extending from Bowling Green to Columbus; forced Johnson 
to evacuate Bowling Green; captured Buckner, and 
frightened Pillow into flight from Donelson; compelled Polk to 
evacuate Columbus on the Mississippi, and opened the 
whole country south of the Memphis and Charleston railroad. 
Glorious old regimental What marvel that it was given the 
post of honor in the Army of the Tennessee! 
 
Shiloh, April 6th and 7th. 
 
Advance on Corinth, August 10th to 29th. 
 
Corinth, October 3d and 4th. On the afternoon of the 3d in 
the fierce encounter at " White House," Colonel Baker was 
mortally wounded. On the 4th the day dawned with but little 
hope for the Union army at Corinth. On every side our lines 
had been forced back and the enemy held the outer 
defenses. The final issue would quickly come. Soon after 
daylight, the
540 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
enemy began to advance from all points, but the Iowa boys 
stood like a rock. Despairing of success in that way, the 
enemy massed their forces on the south side, and, with a 
yell and a double quick, dashed into the town Three Iowa 
regiments, the Second, Seventh and Seventeenth, sprang to 
the rescue, and, with a terrific yell of defiance, charged upon 
them and drove them back in utter rout, and thus repelled 
the final assault of the enemy at Corinth. It was in this final 
charge Lieutenant-colonel N. W. Mills received a mortal 
wound. Springing to the front of his regiment, he snatched 
their battle-flag from the color-guard and rushed to the onset 
directly in the face of the enemy. He was shot in the foot by 
a musket ball, which entered at the toe and lodged in the 
heel. A few days after he was attacked with lock jaw, which 
terminated his life. Just before his death he wrote (for he 
could not speak) "To die as a member of the Second Iowa is 
glory enough for me." He was promoted to the colonelcy of 
his regiment, although he did not live until his commission 
reached him. He was a brilliant, gallant, officer. 
 
Little Bear Creek, Ala., November 28, where an engagement 
with the enemy under Gen. Roddy was lead. 
Town Creek, Ala., April, 1863, where Roddy was met again. 
 
Resaca. Ga., May 13th and 15th, 1863, when the place was 
evacuated by the enemy. 
 
Rome Cross Roads, Ga., May 16, 1864, where the regiment 
was deployed as skirmishers on the left of the line. 
 
Dallas, Ga., May 27, 28, 29, 1864, where the regiment 
established and entrenched the most advanced line of the 
army and maintained it against desperate assaults. 
 
Kenesaw Mountain, June 10th to 30th, 1864, where the 
regiment took active part in the siege. 
 
Nick-a jack Creek, Ga., July 4, 1864, where on the right of 
the skirmish line of the Sixteenth army-corps, the regiment 
lead a fight in the afternoon and evening. 
 
At Atlanta, July 20, to August 27, 1864, on the 22d of July 
the regiment was actively engaged holding a position 
between the two batteries of the division and protected by 
light breastworks. It captured one stand of colors and a 
number of prisoners. On the 4th of August, while 
establishing the picket line of the division, it lead a heavy 
skirmish. It was also actively engaged during the whole 
siege of that city. 
 
Jonesboro, Ga., August 30, 1864. While supporting 
Kilpatrick's cavalry, the Second, with the Seventh Iowa, had 
a severe tilt with the enemy and repulsed them. 
 
Eden Station, Ga., December 7, 1864. The regiment was the 
first sent across the pontoon bridge over the Great Ogechee 
river, laid for the Army of the Tennessee, and, meeting the 
enemy, skirmished for a mile, when, coming upon a 
barricade, assaulted it, drove the enemy and occupied the 
station. 
 
Little Ogechee, Ga., December 10 to 20, 1864. In the 
operations along this river the regiment was actively 
engaged. 
 
Savannah, Ga., December 21, 1864. The regiment was in 
line and entered the city with the corps on that day. 
 
Columbia, S. C., February 15 and 16. In the operations 
which resulted in the capture of this city, the regiment played 
an important part. 
 
Lynch's Creek, S. C., February 15, 1865. The regiment being 
in advance
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 541
of the division and corps, was forced to ford this creek, 
three-fourths of a mile wide. While crossing it was attacked 
by the enemy's cavalry, and for three hours there was a 
lively contest, but other regiments and artillery coming up, 
the enemy was driven away. 
 
Goldsboro, N. C., March 24 to April 10, 1865. The regiment 
now turned face northward in the grand triumphal march to 
Washington, and as a special mark of honor was placed in 
front and was the first of the grand old Army of the 
Tennessee to enter the city. 
 
The regiment was mustered in at Keokuk, May 27, 1861, 
and mustered out at Louisville, Ky., July 12, 1865. Under the 
call of 1861-'62, 1,263 men were enlisted in the regiment; on 
the 31st of December, 1863, the strength of the regiment in 
officers and men was 568. By special orders of May 21, 
1864, the regiment was reorganized, the non-veterans 
mustered out and the veterans consolidated with the 
veterans of the Third, November 8, 1864, as the Second 
Veterans. 
 
The casualties during the war were: 
Officers-Killed, 8; died, 8; discharged, 3; wounded, 27; 
resigned, 31. Total, 74. 
Privates-Killed, 73; died, 169; discharged, 359; wounded, 
294. Total 880. 
 
Polk county was represented on the staff, to wit: 
Noe W. Mills, lieutenant-colonel, promoted from company 
C.; Marcellus M. Crocker, major; promoted to lieutenant-
colonel; George L. Godfrey, adjutant; Edward L. Marsh, 
sergeant-major; Samuel H. Lunt, sergeant-major; Jared 
Warner, commissary-sergeant; John Lynde, commissary 
sergeant; Ephriam P. Davis, hospital-steward; George W. 
Lyon, hospital-steward.
COMPANY D.*
Marcellus M. Crocker, captain; promoted to major May 31, 
1861; to lieutenant-colonel Sept. 6, 1861; to colonel 
Thirteenth infantry, Oct. 30, 1861; to brigadier-general 
November 29, 1862. 
N. S. Dykeman, first lieutenant; appointed first lieutenant in 
regular army July 4, 1861. 
Noe W. Mills, second lieutenant; promoted to captain June 
1, 1861; to lieutenant-colonel June 22, 1862 ; to colonel 
October 8, 1862; wounded at Corinth October 4, 1862; died 
of wounds at Corinth October 12,1862. 
Samuel H. Lunt, first sergeant; promoted to sergeant-major 
June 13,1861; to first lieutenant July 31, 1861; resigned 
December 5, 1861. 
Edgar T. Ensign, second sergeant; promoted to second 
lieutenant June 1, 1861; to first lieutenant December 5;1861; 
to captain June 22, 1862; to major Ninth cavalry October 9, 
1863; wounded at Donelson February 18, 1862. 
Hiram C. Cook, third sergeant; promoted to second 
sergeant June 13, 1861; died of congestion of brain at 
Hartford, Connecticut, March 25, 1862, effect of sunstroke. 
Edwin Mitchell, fourth sergeant; promoted to third sergeant 
June 1, 1862; discharged July 16, 1864. 
George L. Godfrey, fifth sergeant, promoted to fourth 
sergeant, June 1st, 1861; to second lieutenant December 
5th, 1861; to first lieutenant June 22d, 1862; to adjutant June 
22d, 1862; to lieutenant-colonel, First Alabama cav- 
 
*Enlisted May 4, 1861 unless otherwise stated.
542 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
alry October 18th, 1863. At this point the record of this 
gallant and brave soldier drops out of the record of Iowa 
patriots. When Sherman's forces had got well into the South, 
a regiment of brave Union men was formed in Alabama, and 
Adjutant Godfrey was assigned to it as lieutenant-colonel 
and subsequently promoted to colonel. They were a noble 
body of men, who not only took their own lives in their 
hands, but also staked that of their own kith and kin at home, 
and all the prosperity, they possessed. The incendiary torch, 
and the assassin's knife or shot-gun wreaked a rapid 
vengeance on all these noble patriots left behind them. The 
regiment operated with Sherman's army through the 
Carolinas. Col. Godfrey was selected to bear important 
dispatches from Gen. Sherman to the rebel General 
Johnson, after Lee's surrender. Arriving at Wade Hampton's 
headquarters that General refused to permit him to pass 
through his lines to Johnson's army headquarters. " All right," 
replied Col. Godfrey, " I will return and report the matter to 
Gen. Sherman." Hampton offered to send the dispatches to 
Johnson, but he failed to catch the Colonel in that way. " My 
orders were to deliver the dispatches to Gen. Hampton," said 
Colonel Godfrey; " I propose to do so." He then called an 
adjutant to accompany the Colonel to Johnson's 
headquarters, but the Colonel fell back on his dignity and 
army etiquette, and refused to accept any officer below his 
own rank as escort. A staff officer was finally sent with him. 
He also was the bearer of the dispatches from Gen. Grant to 
Gen. Johnson, proposing the place of meeting between the 
two generals for the arrangements of the final surrender of 
the Confederate army and the Confederacy, and he was 
present at the consultation. When the Confederacy "busted" 
he was near Raleigh, North Carolina. Wade Hampton, who 
had occupied that city, moved out and sent word to Col. 
Godfrey that he might enter the city and protect. the 
government and its citizens. The Colonel selecting a few of 
his staff officers and several line officers, started in advance 
of the column, at the solicitation of the governor of the State, 
mayor of the city, and prominent citizens, to prepare the way 
and also to hoist the stars and stripes over the State house. 
As they were riding through the streets they were fired upon 
by a band of desperadoes, who had broken loose from 
Hampton's army. Col. Godfrey gave the order to catch the 
devils if they could, but they all escaped except one, and 
when the regiment entered the State house yard, the 
assassin was swinging from the limb of a tree. Entering the 
State house, the Colonel found the janitor, an antiquated 
negro, who was nearly white with fright: "Uncle Sam," said 
the Colonel, " Where are the flags?" " I dunno, massa, 
'spects deys all toted off," replied the negro. " The Yanks are 
here," said the Colonel, " the rebs are all gone, and we want 
the flags; hunt them up." "Well," said the negro, " I reckon 
you'll find suthin' in dat ar' box," pointing to a long narrow 
box. "Well, open it quick," said the Colonel. The old negro 
hustled about, with a broad grin on his face, opened the box, 
and enclosed therein were twenty-one Union flags, which 
had been captured, and several tattered and torn rebel flags. 
The Union flags were, by the Colonel, quickly spread along 
the fence about the State house to greet the Union
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 543
column. It was while at Raleigh the preparations were made 
for the march to Washington for the grand review. The 
Colonel's regiment cared more for home and friends than the 
review, and desired to return to Huntsville, Alabama, and be 
mustered out at once. They had received tidings of friends 
assassinated, homes burned, and they were anxious to 
know the worst, and gather together their scattered families. 
Gen. Sherman protested against the movement as a 
dangerous one, as the march would be through the enemy's 
country, through which the Union army had just passed. The 
Colonel determined to go with the men who had served so 
nobly and faithfully, and the regiment marched across the 
country to Huntsville without molestation. There they were 
paroled and sent to their homes, and the Colonel was 
mustered out Oct. 26, 1865. He, therefore, was not present 
at the grand review at Washington; failed to receive his 
brevet-brigadier-general's commission, and little silver star 
as a badge of honor and promotion. Col. Godfrey was 
wounded at Ft. Donelson, Feb. 14th, 1862. At the battle of 
Corinth he received special mention for his coolness and 
bravery; one horse was shot dead under him, and a second, 
a favorite animal, was knocked down. The Colonel left him 
1ying flat on the earth, supposing he was a dead equine, but 
what was his surprise soon after, as he was passing along 
the line encouraging his men, to see his pet horse following 
him. 
 
Jared A. Warner, first corporal, appointed commissary-
sergeant July 15, 1861; appointed wagon- master; 
discharged by special order at St. Louis. 
David M. Sells, second corporal; transferred to second 
lieutenant U. S. marines, Sept. 10 1861. 
Edward L. Marsh, third corporal; promoted to fifth sergeant 
June 1, 1861; to fourth sergeant December 5, 1861; to 
second lieutenant, December 5, 1861; to sergeant major 
June 22, 1862; to first lieutenant June 25, 1862; to captain 
October 29,1863; resigned May 23, 1864. 
Robert Allen, Jr., fourth corporal, appointed second 
lieutenant, and subsequently first lieutenant First U. S. 
cavalry; died of wounds. 
Nathan W. Doty, fifth sergeant; promoted to second 
sergeant July 16,1861; killed at Donelson February 15, 
1862. 
Leonard B. Houston, seventh corporal; discharged for 
promotion to captain Company A, Twenty-third infantry. 
Andrew Slatten, eighth corporal; reduced to ranks at his 
own request May 28, 1862; died at St. Louis, April 18, 1862, 
from wounds received at Donelson. 
Philo L. Case, musician.
PRIVATES.
Ayers, Samuel A., discharged at St. Louis December 19, 
1861. 
*Ayres, Henry O., promoted to fourth corporal January 1, 
1862; wounded at Corinth; veteranized first corporal. 
*Barnett, John. 
Barrie, Win. W. 
Bennett, Robert A. died May 6, 1862, at St. Louis. 
Bitting, William H. 
Bird, William K., discharged August 9, 1861. 
Browne, John H., discharged to accept commission as 
second lieutenant Seventeenth infantry
543a
March 13, 1862. 
* Veteranized December 23, 1863.
544 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY
*Brown, Harvey, wounded at Corinth October 4, 1862. 
Burbridge, James W. 
Callender, William. 
Childs, George H., discharged December 19, 1861. 
*Christy, Win. D. 
*Cooper, Joseph, wounded at Fort Donelson February 15, 
1862. 
Davis, Ephriam P., promoted to hospital steward; 
transferred to same position in Tenth infantry. 
Davis, Will. L., promoted to eighth corporal October 3,1861; 
to fourth sergeant July 1, 1862; veteranized as second 
lieutenant. 
Davis James. 
Dickerson, John A., promoted to first corporal July 16,1861; 
reduced to ranks October 17, 1862. 
Dreher, Peter, wounded at Donelson, February 15, 1862. 
Estle, William, discharged October 6, 1861. 
Fales, Philetus. 
Fern, Dwight E., mustered out November 22, 1862. 
*Ferguson, John N.; veteranized as third corporal. 
Fleming, John A. 
*Gillett, Philip D., promoted to third corporal October 3, 
1861; to third sergeant September 1,1862; veteranized as 
first sergeant. 
Goodrich, Arthur, wounded at Corinth October 3, 1862. 
Gordnier, John, promoted to second corporal October 
3,1861; wounded at Donelson February 15, 1862. 
Greene, George W., discharged April 23, 1863. 
Hayden, Joseph S., wounded at Donelson February 15, 
1862; discharged for wounds June 38,1862. 
Haskell, Joseph, discharged April 2, 1862. 
Houghton, Douglas S., discharged as minor by U. S. 
District Court September 15, 1861. 
Hoxie, W. H., promoted to captain 17th infantry March 
25,1862. 
Jones, Asbury C., discharged May 4, 1862. 
Jones,.Tarpley T. 
*Kinsey, Win. A. 
Lamoreaux, Charles H. 
Lowe, Carlton, transferred to Second U. S. artillery as 
second lieutenant November 13, 1861. 
Looby, John H., discharged for promotion September 22, 
1862. 
Lyon, George W., promoted to hospital steward May 1, 
1862. 
Lynde, John, promoted to fifth corporal July 16,1862; to 
commissary-sergeant May. 1, 1862; to second lieutenant 
June 23, 1862; served also as chief of ambulance corps 
second division Sixteenth Army Corps; resigned May 26, 
1864. 
Mattern, Jacob H., discharged March 5, 1863. 
McKelvogue, John [reported also Hugh], discharged 
February 6, 1862. 
*McCollam, Isaac, veteranized as fourth corporal. 
"Mason, Will. B., killed at Atlanta, August 15, 1864. 
Moles, Jacob M., promoted to sixth corporal March 1, 1862; 
killed at Corinth October 4, 1862.
544a
Morehead, Jacob. 
Nagle, Jno. N., wounded at Donelson February 15, 1862; 
discharged for wounds July 11, 1862. 
Nims, Albert H., wounded at Donelson February 15, 1862. 
Painter, Joshua C. 
*Price, John. 
Ragan, Will., promoted to third corporal July 16,1862; to fifth 
sergeant March 1, 1862; discharged for promotion 
September 26, 1862; wounded at Donelson February 15, 
1862. 
*Riddle, William, wounded at Corinth October 3, 1862; 
transferred to United States navy. 
Rush, Austin B., transferred to regular army for promotion.
* Veteranized December 23, 1863.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 545
Robbins, James. 
Scott, Erastus, discharged April 18, 1862. 
Smith, Philander, wounded at Corinth October 4, 1862, 
discharged April 3, 1863. 
Stewart, Calvin C., discharged June 3, 1862. 
*Swem, Wm. A. 
Warnock, Newton. 
Watson, John H., transferred to company D, Thirteenth 
infantry, November 7, 1861. 
Wheeler, John, discharged February 1, 1862. 
Whitmer, Samuel, promoted to fifth corporal March 1, 1862; 
to fifth sergeant September 3, 1862. 
Wylie, William D., discharged April 30,1862; subsequently 
appointed hospital steward U.S. army. 
Yant, David, wounded at Donelson February 15, 1862. 
Fount, Enoch J., discharged July 29,1862. 
Young, Armin, discharged August 19, 1861. 
*Zelle, Godfrey, veteranized as 2d corporal.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS, 1861.
Brubaker, John C., November 21 discharged December 3, 
1862. 
Brady, Casper S., November 21 wounded at Donelson 
February 18; died of wounds on the Des Moines River, April 
30, 1862. 
Birch, Thos. S. November 23 died August 8, 1862. 
*Chrystal, Benjamin F., December 16. 
Cree, Theodore G., wounded at Donelson February 16, 
1862 discharged for wounds June 13, 1862. 
*Chrystal, James A., December 16; captured at Corinth 
October 4, 1862; veteranized as wagoner. 
Greene, Win. B., August 1 discharged December 19, 1861. 
Houston, Win. L., November 20 discharged July 29, 1862. 
Lott, W., November 20. 
Lasell, William J., November 27 discharged February 1, 
11362. 
*Nagle, Thomas, November 20 veteranized as second 
sergeant. 
Sharp, John, November 20 discharged November 1862. 
Williams, John Z., wounded at Donelson February 15, 
1862; discharged October 19, 1862. 
Weeks, Theodore G., killed at Donelson February 15, 1862.
ADDITIONAL TO VETERANS, 1864.
Cassins, Joseph, January 21. 
Cassins,James, January 21. 
Cole, Henry, January 16, 1865; company unknown. 
Gray, George B., September 29. 
Hunt, Zaccheus, December23, 1863.
545a
Read, Andrew W., December 21, 1863. 
Jones, Anderson, January 21, 1865; company unknown.
COMPANY B.
Clark, David II., May 6, 1861; discharged October 13, 1862. 
*Veteranized December 23, 1863.
546 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
FOURTH INFANTRY.
This regiment went to Jefferson Barracks, August 9, 1861, 
and on the 24th moved to Rolla, Missouri. January 21, 
following, it joined the army of the Southwest, under General 
Curtis, and for thirty months following it was in continuous 
active service. It was never assigned to post duty. Arriving at 
Helena, Arkansas, on the 14th of July, 1862, it remained 
there until December 22, when it moved to Chicasaw Bayou, 
where it took part in the battles of the 28th an 29th; and at 
Arkansas Post, January 10th and 11th, 1863; then returned 
to Young's Point, opposite Vicksburg, where it remained until 
April 2d, when it moved 150 miles up the Mississippi river to 
Greenville; thence on the Deer Creek valley raid; thence 
back to Milliken's Bend, from where it started on the active 
campaign against Vicksburg, on the 2d of May, via Jackson, 
arriving at Vicksburg May 18th, and at once engaging in the 
memorable siege. July 14th it started for Jackson, and 
participated in the battle there on the 16th, and returned to 
the rear of Vicksburg on the 29th, where it remained until 
September 22, when it moved to Memphis, and at once set 
out on the campaign to northern Georgia, to Chattanooga, 
where it arrived after a tedious and weary march, November 
23. It next took part in the battle in the clouds, on Lookout 
Mountain, and was the first to plant the Stars and Stripes on 
the crest of the mountain and on the 25th at Missionary 
Ridge. It fought again at Ringgold on the 27th. December 3d 
the regiment went into camp at Bridgeport, Alabama; thence 
it moved to Woodville, where it remained until February 26th, 
when it came home on a veteran furlough. In April it returned 
to the field, and started on the campaign against Atlanta. 
After the fall of Atlanta the regiment went with Sherman after 
Hood, thence in his "March to the Sea"; thence in the 
Carolina campaign, participating in the battles of Columbia, 
South Carolina, and Bentonsville, North Carolina. From 
Goldsboro the regiment moved to Raleigh; thence to 
Richmond and Washington, where it took part in the grand 
review. From Washington it was sent to Louisville, where it 
performed provost duty until July 23, 1865, when it was 
mustered out; sent to Davenport and discharged September 
3d. When mustered in it numbered one thousand men. 
Three hundred were added. When mustered out there were 
less than four hundred. Of the one thousand absent at the 
final roll call, the majority had fallen on battle fields from Pea 
Ridge to Columbia; some had been discharged for wounds 
in battle; some were starved to death in southern prison 
pens. The regiment fought in over thirty battles, and met the 
enemy in eight different rebel States, but was never 
repulsed. It marched over five thousand miles. It was a 
glorious old regiment.
Polk county was represented in companies E, and H. From 
the organization of company E to its discharge, 141 names 
were on its roll. Ten were killed in battle or died of wounds; 
twenty-eight were wounded in battle; one drowned; two 
accidentally killed; thirteen died of disease; three were 
starved to death in rebel prison pens; nineteen were 
discharged for disability and three for wounds; eight were 
mustered out under general orders, and fourteen at the end 
of the three years' term; seven deserted; ten were 
transferred, four to veteran reserve corps, one to regimental 
staff, one to marine brigade, four to commissions in other 
departments; two resigned;.
Note: Page 547 is a drawing of Wm. H. Merritt and 548 is 
blank.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 549
one officer mustered out under general orders; thus leaving 
but forty-eight men to be mustered out. Captain Simmons 
was the only original officer who remained with the company 
from muster in to muster out, and one of only four who were 
with the regiment from first to last. 
 
Polk county was represented on the staff, to-wit: James A. 
Williamson, colonel; Alexander Shaw, assistant-surgeon; 
Washington G. Dunan, commissary-sergeant; David 
Beach, assistant-surgeon; John E. Sell, adjutant.
COMPANY E
*Henry H. Griffiths, captain; transferred May 14, 1862, to 
command First Iowa battery. 
*Wilmer S. Simmons, first lieutenant; promoted captain May 
15, 1862. 
Isaac Whicher, second lieutenant; resigned October 16, 
1862. 
*John E. Sells, first sergeant; commissioned captain, but 
declined; promoted first lieutenant May 15, 1862; to adjutant 
September 12, 1862; mustered out April 6, 1865. 
Charles S. Stark, second sergeant. 
Edward W. Barnum, third sergeant; killed at Pea Ridge 
March 7,1862. 
*Sheldon C. Treat, fourth sergeant; promoted to first 
sergeant May 15, 1862; to second lieutenant, October 16, 
1862; veteranized as first lieutenant January 4, 1864. 
James A. Moore, fifth sergeant; drowned August 21,1861, 
at Hannibal, Mo. , 
Washington G. Dunan, first appointed commissary 
sergeant October 16, 1861. 
James W. Wilson, second corporal; promoted to third 
sergeant March 8, 1862; wounded May 19, 1863, at 
Vicksburg; transferred to veteran reserve corps January, 
1864. 
John C. Jameson, fourth corporal; promoted to third 
corporal October 10, 1861. 
*Richard W. Ross, fifth corporal; promoted to fourth 
corporal October 10, 1861; to third corporal May 15, 1862; to 
fifth sergeant September 20, 1862; veteranized as second 
lieutenant January 4, 1864. 
William A. Hunt, sixth corporal; wounded November 25, 
1863 at Missionary Ridge, Ga.; discharged January 1864.
PRIVATES.
Alderman, Joseph P. 
Barcus, Ira, discharged September 20, 1861. 
*Barlow, Stephen C. 
Beck, James, wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862. 
Bell, Jeptha W., wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862; died 
of wounds March 9, 1862. 
Case, Girard M. C., died July 1, 1862, at Jacksonport, Ark., 
Of accidental wounds. 
Clary, Isaac, wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862. 
Clary, Vachiel. 
*Carter, John A., veteranized as corporal January 1, 1864. 
Cornish, Hiram D., killed at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862. 
*Crow, Benjamin, captured at Claysville Ala., March 14, 
1864; died, September 10, 1864, in Andersonville prison.
549a 
 
Enlisted July 15, 1861, unless otherwise stated. 
*Veteranized January 1, 1864
550 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
Castellin, Thomas (Costello), captured at Gaines' Landing, 
Miss.; December 24, 1862. 
Danforth, Andrew J. 
*Davis, Andrew S., veteranized as corporal January 1, 
1864. 
Dixon, John, discharged November 24, 1862. 
*Doughty, Lucien B. 
*Fisher, Jefferson K. 
*Foster, Martin, wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862. 
*Gaudy, Felix T., promoted to fifth sergeant March 14, 1862; 
veteranized as third sergeant January 1, 1864. 
Gentle, George, wounded at Chickasaw Bayou, Mississippi, 
December 29, 1862; captured at Claysville, Alabama, March 
14. 1864; died August 8, 1864 in Andersonville rebel prison. 
*Greene, Chas. W., wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862; 
veteranized as corporal. 
Guthrie, Michael. 
Heart, Daniel B., discharged June 18, 1862. 
Houser, Geo. L. 
*Kelly, Oliver P., wounded at Kenesaw Mountain Georgia, 
June 27, 1864; died June 28, 1864, of wounds. 
King, Michael, wounded at Chickasaw Bayou, Mississippi, 
December 29, 1862; transferred to invalid corps. 
Kesler, Jacob Y., discharged November 28, 1862. 
*Lacy, Henry D., veteranized as corporal. 
*Lewis, John. 
*McNulty, Robert, wounded at Kenesaw Mountain August 
1, 1864; discharged January 2, 1865 of wounds. 
Mott, James A., wounded at Vicksburg May 20, 1863; died 
June 23, 1863 of wounds. 
Needham, James M. ( W), died January 4, 1862 at Rolla, 
Missouri. 
Plummer, Asa L. 
Pritchard, William, died December 1, 1862 at Helena, 
Arkansas. 
*Robinson, Augustus R., promoted to eighth corporal 
September 20, 1862; veteranized as first sergeant January 
1, 1864; transferred to Second United States volunteers as 
second lieutenant. 
Smith, William, transferred to Marine Corps January 3, 
1863. 
Stumbach, Abraham. 
*West, Edwin R. 
Woodruff, Joseph H., discharged September 20, 1861.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS
Bonine, John M., November 18; Promoted to seventh 
corporal as J. Bonnie. 
Barrett, Henry A., wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862; 
died April 12, 1862, of wounds, at Cassville, Missouri. 
Billsland, Reuben P. (R.), died January 19, 1863, on 
hospital boat Die Vernon. 
*Veteranized January 1, 1864.
550a
Brisbine, Edward T., promoted to fifth corporal September 
20, 1862. 
Hinman, Jeremiah, wounded at Pea Ridge March 7, 1862; 
discharged June 24, 1862. [Reported also Hennan.] 
McKean, Cornelius. 
McFee, John II., transferred to veteran reserve corps 
January, 1864. 
Newell, Andrew J. 
*Simms, George C. 
Lewis, James, December 23, 1863; company unknown. 
Crow, John S. (L.), March 21,1864; died on hospital train 
February 28; 1865; company unknown. 
Black, Climpson, March 19, 1864; company unknown. 
Halstead, David H., March 23,1864; company unknown. 
Marsh, Jesse, March 19, 1864; company unknown.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 551
Mason, Francis E., March 30, 1864; company unknown. 
Robinson, John H., March 15,1864; company unknown. 
Smith, Thomas E.; company unknown. 
Van Horn, William. 
Atkins, Samuel M., March 30,1864; company unknown. 
Aultman, Oliver S., March 23,1864; company unknown.
COMPANY F.
Allmay (Alloway), Benjamin, September 16, 1862; died 
January 8, 1863, at White River, Arkansas. 
Brinson (Brimson), David A., September 16, 1862; died 
February 7, 1863, at Young's Point, Louisiana. 
Brinson (Brimson), Thomas, September 16, 1862; 
discharged February 7, 1863. 
Bruce, John R., September 16, 1862. 
Brinson (Brimson), William, September 16, 1862. 
Canon, John J., August 21, 1862; discharged June 12, 
1863. 
Canon, Joshua H., July 1, 1861; discharged September 20, 
1864.
TENTH INFANTRY.
Clary, H. C., September 16, 1862. 
Crone, Theodore F., September 15, 1862. 
Dorence (Dorrance), Alexander P., September 15, 1862; 
killed May 19, 1863, at Walnut Hill, Mississippi. 
Jessup, Isaac, August 15, 1862; transferred to invalid corps 
April 28, 1864. 
Kenkennon (Kinkenman), Nathan W., August 15, 1862; 
[reported also Knickannon] transferred to invalid corps April 
28, 1864. 
Lawrence, Perry, September 16, 1862. 
Moore, Anderson, September 16, 1862; wounded 
December 29, 1862, at Chickasaw Bayou, Mis- sissippi; 
discharged June 16, 1863. 
Osborn, Philip, September 16,1862; died February 
22,1863, at Young's Point. Louisiana. 
Ray, Isaac, September 16, 1862. 
Scott, John W., September 15,1862; died March 10, 1863, 
at Young's Point, Louisiana. 
Widener, James, September 15, 1862. 
Stewart, James W., January 16, 1865. 
Stewart, John G., January 9, 1865.
This regiment was organized at Camp Fremont, Iowa City, in 
August 1861. It was mustered into service September 6, 
1861, embarked September 24th for St. Louis, arriving on 
the 27th, where it was armed, clothed and equipped. 
October 1st it moved to Cape Girardeau, to aid in
551a
protecting that point from the menaced attack of Pillow and 
Hardee. November 12 it moved to Bird's Point, where it did 
scouting, general and picket duty until March 4, 1862, when 
it moved to New Madrid. While at Bird's Point the loss from 
exposure and measles was ninety-six. It took active part in 
the capture of New Madrid, on March 13th and 14th, which, 
with a brilliant movement on Tiptonville, April 7th and 8th, 
resulted in capturing the force of Island No. 10, of about six 
thousand prisoners. April 10th it moved with the army of the 
Mississippi to Pittsburg Landing, disembarking at Hamburg, 
April 21st where it served in Pope's command during the 
siege of Corinth, on the left of the army. After the surrender 
of Corinth, it pursued the enemy to Boonville, when it 
returned and remained in camp, at Corinth and Jacinto, until 
September 18th, when it was ordered to engage General 
Price, then supposed to be near Iuka, which was a disas-
552 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
trous blunder for the regiment and brigade. The pursuit of 
the enemy on the 20th, the bloody battle of Corinth, October 
3d and 4th, and the pursuit of the rebels to and beyond the 
Hatchie, form the next chapter in their history. November 
22d it moved to Moscow, Tennessee, where it joined Grant's 
march down the Mobile and Ohio railroad; December 22d it 
marched, with its division, from Lumpkin's Mill, Mississippi, to 
Memphis as guard of a provision train, which completed, the 
regiment went to White Station, where it passed the winter 
guarding the railroad. March 4th it joined the Yazoo Pass 
expedition, which was abandoned after an unsuccessful 
effort of several weeks to get in the rear of Vicksburg by a 
flank movement. It was a tedious and perilous expedition. It 
next joined in the Vicksburg campaign, commencing at 
Milliken's Bend, and terminating in the fall of Vicksburg., It 
was in reserve at the battle of Port Gibson; at the battle of 
Raymond, May 15, it was in the second line; on the 14th 
fought at Jackson, driving the enemy. On the 16th, at 
Champion's Hill, the enemy was met in force, the Tenth 
being on the left of the brigade, exposed to heavy flank 
movement and murderous fire of the enemy. Out of 1,300 
engaged of the brigade, 500 were killed; the Tenth lost thirty-
four killed and 124 wounded, which attests the obstinacy 
with which the brigade held its grounds and turned the tide of 
battle. On the 19th of May the regiment took its position in 
the line, in front of Vicksburg, where it remained until June 
22d, when it was moved to Black river, where it remained till 
the fall of Vicksburg, when it was sent to Jackson, 
Mississippi, in pursuit of Johnson; returned to Vicksburg, 
July 19th. September 29th the division was ordered to 
Memphis to Join Sherman's march to Chattanooga, leaving 
Memphis, October 10th, and arriving at Chattanooga 
November 19th, after a march of thirty-two days. On the 25th 
the Tenth was a part of the heroic force who stormed 
Mission Ridge, and earned a noble record. This, and the 
battle at Champion's Hill, are regarded as the hardest 
battles, fought by this regiment. December 4th the regiment 
moved to Larkinsville, Alabama, thence to Huntsville, arriving 
January 9th, 1864. February 1st the regiment re-enlisted as 
veterans, and remained at Huntsville, making sorties with 
Roddy's cavalry until June 15th, when it started north on a 
veteran furlough. In July it returned to the front, arriving at 
Kingston, Georgia, August 1st. While here it was transferred 
to the second brigade. September 28th, the non-veterans 
were mustered out, the regiment was filled up, and then 
joined Sherman's march to Savannah. January 19th, the 
regiment was moved from Savannah into South Carolina, 
and joined the expedition on Columbia, thence to Goldsboro, 
entering the latter city August 22d, after severe fighting, 
having marched five hundred miles from Savannah in an 
inclement season of the year. Many of the soldiers were 
nearly naked and without shoes, but all were contented and 
joyous, satisfied in the consciousness of duty done. The 
regiment traveled eight thousand,. one hundred and 
seventy-five miles, served in ten States of the Confederacy, 
and fought in eighteen pitched battles besides numerous 
skirmishes. Up to the battle of Mission Ridge, not a man had 
been taken prisoner on a battlefield. The regiment was 
mustered out as veterans at Little Rock, Arkansas, August 
15, 1865, having served months beyond their term of 
enlistment, and for which they received high commendation 
from the department.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 553
Polk county was represented in companies A, B, D, F, G, H 
and K. It was also represented in the staff and field officers, 
to wit: 
 
Nathaniel McCalla, major; promoted from captain, company 
A. 
J. O. Skinner, assistant surgeon; commissioned August 19, 
1862. 
William J. Hanger, drum major; promoted from private, 
company A. 
William H. Purdy, chief-musician; mustered out at Bird's 
Point, February 26, 1862. 
Charles Fox, chief musician; mustered out at Bird's Point, 
February 26, 1862. 
Samuel Noble, second musician; mustered out at Bird's 
Point, February 26, 1862. 
A. C. Bausman, third musician; mustered out at Bird's Point, 
February 26, 1862. 
John W. Warner, third musician; mustered out February 26, 
1862. 
Frank Estabrook, third musician; mustered out February 26, 
1862.
COMPANY A
Nathaniel McCalla, captain; promoted to major January 
25,1862; wounded at Mission Ridge November 25, 1863; 
commissioned lieutenant-colonel, Aug. 20, 1864; 
commission revoked by the Governor, Jan. 25, 1865; 
mustered out as major, December 27, 1864. 
Charles J. Clark, first lieutenant; resigned December 3, 
1861. 
Josiah Hopkins, second lieutenant; resigned June 27, 
1862. 
Hezekiah Van Dorn, first sergeant; promoted to first 
lieutenant July 1, 1862; mustered out January 16, 1865. 
William J. Harney, second sergeant. 
John O. Sullivan, third sergeant. 
John Y. Hanna, fourth sergeant; promoted to first lieutenant 
December 4, 1861; resigned June 26, 1862. 
Ebenezer E. Howe, promoted to first lieutenant January 
17,1865; commissioned captain August 7,1865; mustered 
out as first lieutenant; veteranized as sergeant. 
John D. Kellison, first corporal; wounded October 4, 1862, 
at Corinth, Mississippi. 
Edward W. Burley, second corporal. 
Jonathan J. Wright, third corporal; wounded at Cox Bridge, 
North Carolina, March 20, 1865; veteranized as corporal. 
Thomas A Spencer, fourth corporal; veteranized as 
corporal. 
Peter B. Miahler, fifth corporal; discharged at expiration of 
term; died at Baltimore, Md., on his way home. 
John Rutherford, sixth corporal; veteranized as corporal. 
George Bader, eighth corporal; wounded at Vicksburg May 
22, 1863; veteranized as corporal. 
William J. Hanger, musician; promoted to drum major; 
discharged March 20, 1863. 
Theodore B. Smith, musician; veteranized as musician.
PRIVATES
553a
Baker, John, wounded May 22,1863, at Vicksburg. 
*Bard, George W. 
Bean, Stephen S., promoted to corporal; killed at 
Champion's Hill May 16, 1863. 
Byram, Adam. 
Courtney, George W., died August 4, 1862, at Clear Creek, 
Missouri. 
* Corey, Cassias M. C. D.; Crabtree, Matthew,discharged 
March 25, 1863.
554 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
*Cox, Clark. 
Dinwiddie, Simon E., died July 19, 1862, at Farmington, 
Mississippi. 
*Downs, Frederick, wounded at Iuka September 19, 1862. 
Elliott, Abraham. 
*English, Arthur. 
Fletcher, Gideon E., died May 26, 1862, at Polk City, Iowa. 
Hawkins, Andrew 
Bader, Henry. 
*Hammond, John R., wounded May. 22, 1863, at 
Vicksburg. 
Hammond, Amos F., wounded May 26, 1862, at 
Farmington, Miss. 
*Hellums, Frank M. 
Henderson, Joshua, discharged January 26, 1862. 
Horner, William. 
Ingersoll, Daniel W. 
Jones, David. 
Lewis, James, died January 3, 1863, at Columbus, 
Kentucky. 
McDowell, Elliott, wounded May 22, 1863, at Vicksburg . 
*Meekins, William P., promoted to fourth sergeant 
September 6,1861; to second lieutenant July 1, 1862; 
wounded at Champion's Hill May 16, 1863; mustered out 
December 26, 1864. 
*Miller, Jonathan R., discharged June 28,1865. 
Murray, Caswell, died February 10, 1862, at Brooklyn, 
Iowa. 
Murray, Thomas, killed at Vicksburg May 31, 1863. 
Murray, Andrew, wounded at Champion' s Hill May 16, 
1863, died May 22, 1863, of wounds. 
Nussbaum, Martin Y., discharged February 25, 1863. 
Nussbaum, Isaac J., killed May 16, 1863, at Champion's 
Hill. 
Nussbaum, John L. 
Palmer, Lewis H. 
Patterson, Thomas. 
Pierce, Thomas J., discharged November, 15, 1863. 
Pierce, Elijah L., discharged December 5, 1862. 
Pollock, Robert R. 
*Richardson, Edwin. 
*Richards, Davis. 
Reed, Simon. 
Roe, John. 
Rohr, Robert H., wounded at Vicksburg, May 22, 1863. 
Rule, John T., captured at Brownsville, Mississippi, October 
9,1863;. died in Andersonville prison May 7, 1864. 
*Russell, John. 
Smith, John E., promoted to fife-major; reduced to ranks 
November 1, 1861; discharged April 14, 1862. 
Stephen, John. 
Spencer, Wm., died at Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 
November 23,1861.
554a
*Swin, Wm. G., veteranized as first sergeant; discharged as 
first lieutenant. 
Terrill, Lemuel, wounded at Corinth, October 4, 1862; died 
October 1863, in Polk county. 
Townsend, Caleb, discharged August 13, 1862. 
*Wheeler, Thomas. 
*Wright, John W., discharged May 22,1863; re-enlisted as 
veteran in company B.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS.
McDowell, Palmer, October 1; from First Missouri cavalry.. 
Murray, Wm.,.November 30. 
Cockeral, Frank, December 1. 
Mosier, Cross O., December 10; captured at Brownsville, 
Mississippi, October 9,1863. 
Curl, Hiram F. M, December 17, transferred to invalid corps 
August 1, 1863. 
*Hanna, Simon B., veteranized as sergeant. 
Fletcher, Isaac, December 12; killed at Champion's Hill May 
16, 1863. 
*Mercer, Edward W., December 10. 
Hanman, Wm. W., discharged September 8, 1862. 
*Bunyan, Wm. T.
*Veteranized February 1, 1864.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 555
Rohr, Jacob, September 11, 1862. 
Bard, John, September 17, 1862; wounded at Vicksburg 
May 22, 1863; died August 7, 1863. 
Murray, Larkin, September 11,1862. 
Edwards, Edward, September 11, 1862. 
Hoy, Thomas H., September 12, 1862; wounded at 
Champion's Hill May 16, 1863; transferred to invalid corps 
December 29, 1863. 
Fosdick, Leroy, September 12, 1862. 
Harvey, Geo. W., September 11, 1865; died November 1, 
1862, at Davenport. 
Elliott, William, February 27, 1864. 
Skidmore, George, December 1, 1863; died October 4, 
1864, at Kingston, Georgia.
COMPANY B.#
Geo. M. Bentley, first lieutenant; resigned April 26, 1862. 
*John O. McClure, third corporal; veteranized as fourth 
sergeant February 1, 1864. 
*John W. Wright, fourth corporal; promoted to second 
lieutenant February 24, 1863; wounded at Champion's Hill 
May 16, 1863; captured at Missionary Ridge November 25, 
1863; mustered out January 13, 1865. 
Ephraim Pierson, fifth corporal.
PRIVATES.
Boyd, Robert H., discharged December 27,1862. 
*Case, William. 
Davis, Jacob K., wounded at Champion's Hill May 16, 1863; 
died June 13, 1863, of wounds. 
Fink, John F., died at Mound City, Illinois, October 27, 1861. 
*Hargis, Stephen M., veteranized as corporal. 
*Kenworthy, Steele, veteranized as first lieutenant. 
Keeney, John (Kenney), died May 23, 1863, at Milliken's 
Bend Louisiana. 
Manbeck, Isaiah. 
Reed, Thomas H., promoted to corporal; filled at Corinth 
October 4, 1862. 
Spence, Absalom, died December 11,1861, at Mound City, 
Illinois. 
Hanton, Wm. H., died December 25, 1861, at Bird's Point, 
Missouri. 
Shepherd, Robert H. 
Steels, William, discharged October 1, 1862. 
Taylor, John (Jehu) C., discharged January 5, 1863. 
Updegraph, Jerome, wounded at Champion's Hill May 16, 
1863; died July 19, 1863, of wounds, at Memphis.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS.
555a
Fisher, Isaac, discharged June 7, 1862. 
Kenworthy, Bruce, joined from company K. 
Lang, Daniel R., joined from company K; discharged March 
11, 1863. 
Means, James M., discharged October 25, 1862. 
 
#Enlisted August 23, 1861, unless otherwise stated. 
*Veteranized February 1, 1864
Watts, John, joined from company K; discharged June 14, 
1862. 
Moore, Daniel, September 1, 1862. 
Dooley, Silas, January 10, 1865. 
Deets, Noah, January 13, 1865.
COMPANY D #
*Benj. F. Hanger, musician.
PRIVATES.
Fuller, John J., January 23, 1862; discharged January 22, 
1863. 
White, Elijah M. (or A.), wounded at Corinth October 4, 
1862. 
Becket, Luke, January 11,1865.
#Enlisted in 1861, unless otherwise stated.
556 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY
Gossard, Wm. A., April 1, 1862; wounded at Champion's 
Hill May 16, 1863. 
McKinney, Wm. B., February 11, 1862; wounded at 
Champion's Hill May 16, 1863. 
Stone [Stine], Noah F., September 3, 1862; died at 
Vicksburg August 24, 1863. 
Rhodes, Hiram, September 3, 1862. 
Pike, Andrew R., September 3,1862. 
Wiley, Robert, September 3, 1862; wounded at Champion's 
Hill May 16, 1863. 
Guthrie, James H., January 19, 1865. 
Harlow, Wm. H., January 14, 1865. 
Rhoades, Hugh, January 16,1865. 
Sharp, John, January 16, 1865: 
Toddy William.
COMPANY F.
Freel, John W., March 10, 1862; captured at Brownsville. 
Mississippi, October 12, 1863; died at Andersonville prison 
September 3, 1864. 
Lynch, Andrew J., March 17, 1862; wounded at Vicksburg 
May 22, 1863. 
Moore, Thomas R. [K.], March 17, 1862; wounded at 
Missionary Ridge November 25, 1863. 
Renuff, Benjamin, March 18, 1862; died at Milliken's Bend, 
Louisiana, August 11,1863. 
Williams, Albin, February 10,1862; [also reported Allen W.]
COMPANY G.
Reed, Donivan, March 10,1862, reported also Donithan, 
wounded at Corinth October 4, 1862; died November 4, 
1862, at Mound City, of wounds. 
Fox, Jacob, September 1,1862; died September 3, 1863, on 
steamer City of Memphis. 
Miles, Josiah, March 10, 1862; discharged Sept 12,1862. 
Thomas, Chas N., February 10, 1862. 
Ranney, Franklin E., September 1, 1869. 
Price, Henry N., September 1,1862; drowned at Milliken's 
Bend April 23, 1863. 
Miller, Henry A., September 1, 1862. 
Bean, Michael C., August 23, 1862. 
Drake, Oliver, August 25, 1862; discharged June 1, 1865. 
Kavanaugh, Ira, September 1, 1862; wounded at 
Champion's Hill May 16, 1863. 
Reed, William, August 25, 1862; wounded at Champion's 
Hill May 16, 1863. 
Shafer, James W., March 30, 1864. 
Shafer, John M., March 30, 1864.
COMPANY K
Robert Lusby, captain; wounded at Champion's Hill May 16, 
1863; promote to major August 20, 1863; not mustered; 
captain and acting adjutant-general July 21, 1864; died at 
Fort Summer, New Mexico, February 20, 1865.
556a
Julian Bausman, first sergeant; promoted to first lieutenant 
September 4, 1862; promoted to captain January, 1864; not 
mustered; mustered out as first lieutenant December 19, 
1864. 
Wm. S. Dunkle, first corporal; discharged October 25, 1862. 
*William. Rahnt, veteranized as first lieutenant; promoted to 
captain January 4, 1865. 
Jacob Horner, wagoner; discharged February 13, 1862.
PRIVATES
Anfenson, Ole. 
Brand, Martin V.
*Veteranized January 1, 1864. 
#Enlisted Oct. 1, 1861, unless otherwise stated.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 557
Bruner Wm. C., wounded at Corinth October 4, 1862; 
transferred to invalid corps September 15, 1863. 
*Baylies, Wm. C., veteranized as sergeant. 
Bell, Wm. A., wounded at Chattanooga November 25, 1863. 
Brown, Wm. C. [or F.] discharged April 23, 1862. 
Dinwiddie, Lewis F. 
Gill, John W. 
Long, Daniel R., transferred to company B September 28, 
1861; discharged March 11, 1863. 
Rommel, Henry A. 
Scudder, John M., discharged September 17, 1862. 
Watts, John, transferred to company B September 28, 
1861; discharged June 14, 1862.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS.
Hallaworth, Andrew, December 19; killed at Corinth 
October 4, 1862. 
Samples, Jesse, December 19. 
Iglan, Henry, December 18; died September 12, 1863, at St. 
Louis. 
Ivers, Joseph, December 19; wounded at Champion's Hill 
May 16, 1863; discharged August 14, 1863.
THIRTEENTH INFANTRY.
Solon, Charles, December 4. 
Adams, Allington, February 10, 1862. 
Dlllman, David B., February 18, 1862 discharged July 6, 
1863. 
*McRoberts, John, March 10, 1862. 
*Stevenson, Reuben B., March 6, 1862. 
Van Brunt, Henry M., February 10, 1862; captured at 
Chattanooga November 25, 1863; died March 3, 1864, in 
rebel prison at Richmond, VA. 
Whittaker, Burton M., February 10, 1862 [reported also 
Purtiamond M.]; died at Davenport June 25, 1864. 
Weekley, Merritt, February 22, 1862; died March 25, 1863, 
at Goldsboro, North Carolina. 
Surber, Christopher C., August 29, 1862; killed at 
Champion's Hill May 16, 1863. 
Riordon, Michael, April 15, 1861; wounded at Champion's 
Hill May 18, 1862. 
Williams, Jonathan, September 11, 1862; died October 25, 
1862, at Davenport. 
Dearinger, Jared, July 23, 1864; company unknown.
The Thirteenth infantry was organized in October 1861. Its 
first colonel was the gallant hero, Marcellus M. Crocker, who 
was rapidly promoted to brigadier-general. He led the 
regiment in but two battles, at Shiloh and Corinth. A more 
extended sketch of him appears elsewhere in this volume. At 
Shiloh he commanded the Iowa brigade, which was 
composed of the Eleventh, Thirteenth, Fifteenth and 
Sixteenth Regiments. He was a bold and able leader, and as 
a division commander had few if any superiors in this State. 
In 1863 that disease which consumes slowly
557a
but surely began to sap his vitality, and he came home on 
sick-leave. He again returned to the field after a short 
respite, but in the spring of 1864 he was compelled to retire, 
and he came home to die. 
 
The Thirteenth received its baptism of blood at Shiloh, April 
6, 1862, where for ten hours it was under the fire of the 
enemy, sustaining a loss of twenty-four killed, and one 
hundred and thirty-nine wounded; missing nine, 
Immediately after the battle of Shiloh, the Iowa brigade was 
organized, composed of the Eleventh, Thirteenth, Fifteenth 
and Sixteenth Iowa regi-
*Veteranized February 1, 1864.
558 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY
ments, and became one of the oldest and most distinguished 
brigades in the Army of the Tennessee. It was accorded the 
honor of once saving the entire Army of the Tennessee from 
a terrible defeat. The history of the Thirteenth is that of the 
noble old iron-breasted brigade. In the winter of 1862-3, the 
regiment with its brigade, returned from General Grant's 
march into central Mississippi, to Lafayette, Tennessee; and 
on the 22d of January, left for Young's Point, Louisiana, 
where the regiment worked hard on the celebrated 
Vicksburg canal, and until the following September its duties 
were fatiguing. On the 6th of May the enemy evacuated a 
point opposite Grand Gulf, and the Iowa brigade at once 
took possession, and until after the battles of Champion's Hill 
and Black River Bridge, Grand Gulf was held by the Iowa 
brigade, and was a base of supplies for Grant's army. At 
midnight on the 19th of May, the Iowa brigade was ordered 
back to Young's Point, by forced marches, and sent by boat 
to the assistance of Sherman up the Yazoo river, but it was 
not needed, and retraced its steps, arriving at the front on 
the 22d. On the 26th, the brigade was ordered out with 
McArthur's division, to disperse the enemy who were 
concentrating in the direction of Yazoo City and the upper 
Big Black, to move on Grant's rear. This march will be 
remembered by the Thirteenth as the hardest made by the 
regiment, unless that to Monroe, Louisiana, and one through 
the bottomless swamps of South Carolina, are excepted. It 
was in the heat of the southern summer sun, amid 
suffocating dust and at rapid pace, but it was not barren of 
results. The return march through Yazoo Valley resulted in 
the destruction of immense quantities of corn and cotton, 
and the addition of five thousand head of cattle, sheep and 
hogs to the commissariat of Grant's army. The autumn and 
most of the winter were spent by the Thirteenth at Vicksburg, 
and it was there the regiment re-enlisted as veterans, though 
it did not take its furlough until after the march to Meridian. 
The remainder of the history of the regiment is summed up 
in the noble record of the army, in the three unparalleled 
marches of General Sherman from Dalton to Atlanta; Atlanta 
to Savannah; Savannah to Goldsboro and Washington. The 
heroic act which gave the regiment a national reputation was 
at the capture of Columbia, South Carolina, on the 17th of 
February, 1865; Lieutenant-Colonel J. C. Kennedy placed 
the regimental colors on the capitol building. The regiment 
was mustered out at Louisville, Kentucky, July 21, 1865. The 
total causalities of the regiment were 542 enlisted men, and 
49 officers, or the largest of officers of any Iowa regiments 
except the Second, Sixth and Seventh.
COMPANY D.
Watson, John H., May 1st 1861; transferred from company 
D, second infantry, Nov. 7, 1861; promoted quartermaster-
sergeant Feb., 1862; promoted to first lieutenant, company 
F, Sept. 12, 1862.
COMPANY E
Baird, Stephen B., Oct. 21st, Hoss, Jacob Y., Oct. 15th. 
Lamb, James H., Oct. 16th, Lamb, John H., Oct. 16th. 
Penor, Win. H., Oct. 16th, Stewart, John, Oct. 29th.
558a
COMPANY F
Watson, John H., second lieutenant, from quartermaster-
sergeant; transferred from company D; wounded at Shiloh 
April 4 -6th, 1862; died at Pittsburg Landing April 9th, 1862. 
 
#Enlisted 1861, unless otherwise stated
HISTORY OF POLK OOUNTY. 559
FIFTEENTH INFANTRY.
This is one of the noblest regiments of the State, and to have 
been a member of it is honor enough for any soldier. Its 
history is long and eventful beyond the limits prescribed in 
this book. It was organized in February, 1862, mustered in 
March 14th, and joined Grant's army at Pittsburg Landing in 
April, where it went through its "bloody baptism," losing in 
two days over one-fourth its number. Briefly, its history may 
be summed up in nine divisions:
Pittsburg Landing-Battle of Shiloh.
Siege of Corinth-Summer and fall of 1862-Bolivar-Iuka-Battle 
of Corinth, October 3d and 4th-Pursuit of Rebels to Ripley-
Return to Corinth October 13th.
Winter Campaign, 1862-Grand Junction-Holly Springs-
Oxford- Abbeville-Yockena Station-Return to Lafayette-
Memphis Front of Vicksburg-Miliken's Bend-Providence-
Canal digging to connect the Mississippi with bayous Macon 
and Tensas.
Vicksburg Campaign-Miliken's Bend-Holmes' Plantation 
Grand Gulf-Haine's Bluff Warrenton-Mechanicsville 
Expedition Rear of Vicksburg-Black River Expedition-
Messenger's Ferry-Jackson-Return to Vicksburg.
Fall and Winter, 1863-4-Expedition to Monroe, La., in 
August; to Jackson in October; to Redbone in December; 
Meridian in February, 1864; Veteran furlough in March and 
April; thence to Huntsville, Alabama.
Summer Campaign of 1864-Huntsville - Decatur-Rome 
Ackworth-Sherman's March-Battles of Big Shanty, Noonday 
Creek, Brushy Mountain, Kenesaw, Nick-a-jack Creek, 
Atlanta, July 20 to 28 Jonesboro-Lovejoy-Atlanta.
Fall Campaign of 1864-Reconnoisance to Powder Springs 
Pursuit of Hood to Reseca Gaylesville-Marietta-March to the 
Sea Savannah, November and December, 1864.
Winter Campaign through the Carolinas-Beaufort-Battles of 
Garden Corner and Poctaligo, Jan. 14th; Salkahatchie, Feb. 
3d; Orangeburg, Feb. 12th; Columbus, Feb. 13; Fayetteville, 
March 11th; Bentonsville, March 20th; on to Goldsboro. This 
was one of the most arduous campaigns in the history of the 
regiment. It marches by night through swamps for hours, 
waist deep, amongst dense forests and snags, will never be 
forgotten. For its promptness and heroism it received the 
special commendation of commanding officers.
Closing Campaign-Northward to "finish the job "-Raleigh 
Review by Gen. Grant April 23d, Jones' Station-Surrender of 
Johnson March to Petersburg- Richmond- Washington- 
Louisville Muster out July 24th, 1865-Home again at 
Davenport July 29th.
Out of 1,763 men who were members of the regiment during 
its organization, 1,051 were absent, killed, died, or crippled 
for life; proof of valor, patriotism, and love of country. It 
suffered more casualties than any regiment sent from the 
State. It carried its battle-flag 7,898 miles, and it now hangs 
in the State arsenal, torn in shreds by leaden hail a 
cherished relic of heroic deeds. 
The regiment had three colonels: Hugh T. Reid, W. W. 
Belknap, pro-
560 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.
moted to brigadier-general, and J. M. Hedrick, promoted to 
brigadier general by brevet. General Belknap subsequently 
became Secretary of War, a just and marked recognition of 
the merits of this regiment. Polk County was represented in 
companies B and F, and on the staff to-wit: 
James H. Flynt, quartermaster-sergeant. Lucius Boudinot.
COMPANY B
Wilson T. Smith, captain, August 26. 
Adolphus G. Studer, first lieutenant; wounded at Shiloh, 
April 6, 1862; promoted captain May 24, 1862; resigned Jan. 
18, 1863. 
*Christain E. Landstrum, second lieutenant; promoted to 
first lieutenant May 24, 1862; to captain Jan. 19th, 1863; 
mustered out May 16, 1865. 
Henry Moreland, first sergeant; wounded at Shiloh, April 
6,1862; discharged Nov. 1, 1862. 
William Stanberry, fifth sergeant; died at Corinth, July 5, 
1862. 
Jacob L. Kelsey, Sept. 26, third corporal; promoted to 
second corporal July g, 1862; captured at Corinth. 
Rees Wilkins, fourth corporal November 1; promoted to 
second sergeant March 27, 1862; to second lieutenant May 
24, 1862; resigned December 16 [also reported Resin, W.). 
*Charles E. Harvey, fifth corporal, September 11; reduced 
to ranks October 18, 1862; wounded at Atlanta, Georgia, 
June 17, 1861. 
James H. Flint, sixth corporal, October 12; promoted to 
quartermaster-sergeant Sept 8, 1862. 
George L. Rees, seventh corporal, September 25; promoted 
to fourth sergeant September 15, 1862; died February 7, 
1863 at Vicksburg.
PRIVATES
Atmore, Elijah W., September 12; promoted to third 
corporal October 7,1862. 
Ballard, John, October 8; discharged October 17, 1862. 
*Boudinot, Wm. A., November 1; captured at Atlanta July 
22,1864. 
Beekman, Chas., October 11; died at Keokuk December 25, 
1861. 
Brazelton, Oliver P., October 22; discharged March 28, 
1862. 
Burge, Andrew J., December 24; died at Pittsburg Landing 
June 1, 1862. 
*Cannon, Wm. P., November 4; veteranized as corporal. 
Cross, Robert W., November 4; promoted to commissary-
sergeant, December 1, 1861; to quartermaster-sergeant. 
Twenty-third infantry, August 11, 1862. 
Curran, Robert, December 21; discharged February 6, 
1863. 
Conner, Leroy S., January 28, 1862; discharged, August 5, 
1863. 
Campbell, Milton, February 14. 
Close. Wm. L., March 1, 1862; died March, 1862, at 
Keokuk. 
*Dickey, Wm. A., October 11. 
Edmondson, Henry, Oct. 8; wounded at Shiloh, April 6, 
1862; discharged May 26,1862, for wounds. 
Elliott, Milton B., February 4,1852,
560a
*Fox, Columbus P., September 10; captured at Atlanta, 
Georgia, July 22, 1864. 
*Fisher, John, October 2; wounded at Atlanta August 22, 
1864. 
 
#Enlisted in 1861, unless otherwise stated. *Veteranized 
January 19, 1863.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 561
*Fennesty, Thos., October 8; captured at Atlanta July 22, 
1864. 
Fredergill, Christian, October 18. 
*Fisher, John S., November 1; wounded at Atlanta August 
23, 1864. 
Flemming, Samuel, November 6; promoted to musician; 
discharged June 18, 1862. 
Foster, Joel, November 6; discharged November 13, 1862. 
Fessler, John, November 6; discharged November 27, 
1862. 
Foster, Samuel, January 21, 1863; died at Vicksburg 
January 29, 1864. 
Green, Luther T., October 25; discharged June 16, 1862. 
Guthrie, John W., October 25; died at Keokuk May 21, 
1862. 
*Goodrell, Mancil C., January 29; promoted to fourth 
corporal August 4, 1862; transferred to marine brigade for 
promotion April 18, 1865. 
*Goodrell, Wm. H., January 31; promoted to fourth Corporal 
March 27, 1862; to fourth sergeant July 1, 1862; to first 
lieutenant, company F, September 14, 1862; to captain, 
company B, June 5, 1865, 
Ganus, John, February 1. 
Glenn, Franklin, February 14. 
*Hahnan, John, September 25. 
*Hudson Charles H., October 12. 
Hazen, Edward, October 30; transferred to company C, 
December 1, 1861; discharged May 9, 1852 [reported also 
Edward Hague. 
*Hardin, James, November 1; wounded at Atlanta August 
23, 1864. 
Johnson, Jonathan, February 4; transferred to company H 
March 1,1862; wounded at Shiloh April 6,1862; discharged 
July 3, 1862. 
*Lester, Geo. W., October 8. 
Lloyd, Calvin, September 26; died at St. Louis. 
*Lunt, Edward D., October 14; veteranized as corporal; 
captured at Atlanta, July 12, 1864. 
*Lyon, Robert, November 6; promoted to fifth sergeant 
August 26, 1864. 
Lenehan, Thomas, February 13, 1862; killed at Ezra 
Church, Georgia, July 28, 1864, 
Lyon, Thomas W., February 18, 1862. 
*Long, Charles, February 15, 1862; promoted to fifth 
corporal Angus t 26, 1864. 
Mathias, James H., October 15; died at Jackson, 
Tennessee, September 3, 1862. 
McCauley, James, October 11. 
Morgan, Anson D., promoted to third corporal August 1, 
1862; wounded at Corinth October 2, 1862; died of wounds 
October 6, 1862. 
Mardis, Samuel, January 20, 1862; died on steamboat 
hospital June 1, 1862. 
*Meek, Rueben, January 21, 1862; wounded May 1, 1862. 
Newland, Jasper N., January 16, 1862.; died of wounds at 
Montrey, Tennessee, July 1, 1862. 
Overmier, Amos, January 20, 1862; promoted to fifth 
corporal October 18, 1862; wounded May 1, 1862. 
Paine, John, September 14; wounded at Shiloh April 6, 
1862. 
Parsley, William H., October 5; transferred to company D, 
Seventeenth regiment. March 1, 1862. 
*Rayger, Thomas, October 18; wounded at Atlanta, July 21, 
1864. 
Roper, George W., October 15; discharged, November 23, 
1862.
561a
Skinner, Daniel J., January 16, 1862; wounded at Shiloh 
April 6, 1862; discharged December 4, 1862. 
Teal, Cornelius, September 14; discharged July 11,1862. 
Thomas, Loren S., October 30; discharged March 15,1863. 
Thornton, Thos. J., October 30; discharged November 
1862. 
 
*Veteranized January 19, 1863.
562 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY
Thompson, Amos, October 30. 
Taylor, Henry P., February 6, 1862; died at Keokuk March 
14, 1862. 
Wenzel, Conrad, September 9; killed at Shiloh April 6, 1862. 
Wilson, Thomas H., October 10; transferred to company H 
March 15, 1862, 
Waldo, William W., October 12; discharged October 1, 
1862. 
Williams, Lewis H., October 25; promoted to seventh 
corporal September 15, 1862. 
Winters, David K., January 29, 1862; wounded at Shiloh 
October 3, 1862; died October 19, 1862, at Mound City, 
Illinois. 
*Stram, David W., January 16, 1862 [also reported David M. 
Strain; promoted to fourth corporal, August 6, 1864. 
Stoughton, Benjamin F., February 16,1862; wounded at 
Shiloh April 6, 1862; died of wounds April 26, 1862, at 
Louisville, Kentucky.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS.
Benedict, Jason, January 4, 1864. 
Jones, Robert B., December 21, 1863. 
Parker, James M., January 5, 1864. 
Johnson, James F., March 22, 1864. 
Spotts, Franklin, October 3, 1864; died July 4, 1865, at 
Nashville. 
Stram, Wm. H., March 21, 1864. 
Wells, Levi, March 22, 1864; wounded at Atlanta July 23, 
1864. 
Blair, Andrew F., January 1, 1865. 
Hamilton, Joseph M., September 26, 1864. 
Powell, Elihu, September 28, 1864. 
Quinnett, Vandamon, September 28, 1864; discharged 
April 14, 1865.
COMPANY F.
William H. Goodrell, first lieutenant; commissioned 
September 14, 1862, from fourth sergeant company B, 
promoted to captain of company June 5, 1865.
COMPANY G.
Paul, Joseph H., March 22, 1864; wounded, date and place 
unknown. 
Mayes, James A., January 10, 1865; died at Beaufort, 
South Carolina, March 20, 1865. 
Sanders, Levi H., March 22, 1864. 
Farley, Matt, March 22, 1864.
COMPANY D
Harbor, James C., musician; January 10, 1862.
562a
Gilkey, William F., October 10, 1861; discharged at 
Jackson, Tennessee, date unknown. 
Hester, Levi R., October 10, 1861; killed at Iuka, September 
19, 1862. 
Hester, Stephen, October 10, 1861. 
Hester, Francis M., April 4, 1864; wounded at Nickajack 
creek July 21, 1864; discharged February 7, 1865, for 
wounds. 
Hurber, James S., January 10,1862. 
*Wright, George W., February 1, 1862. 
Chrisman, Lorenzo D., January 5; 1864; wounded at 
Nickajack creek July 21, 1864; discharged May 24, 1865. 
Adkerson, Willaby, January 1,1864; wounded at Nickajack 
creek July 21, 1864. 
Shearer, John R., January 5, 1864; wounded in 1864, date 
and place unknown. 
Pierce, Thomas G., December 31, 1863. 
Thos. G. Pierce, Sr., reported captured July 22, 1864, at 
Atlanta; discharged May 31, 1865 
Thos. G. Pierce, Jr., wounded July 21, 1864, at Nickajack 
creek; died
#Enlisted in 1861, unless otherwise stated. *Veteranized 
February 2, 1864.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 563
November 6, 1884, at Chattanooga; Date of enlistment not 
recorded.
COMPANY F#
Madison R. Laird, second sergeant, December 18; 
wounded at Iuka, September 19, 1889; promoted to first 
sergeant; to second lieutenant January 13, 1883; captured at 
Atlanta July 22, 1884; mustered out MAY 15, 1885. 
Ressler, William H., January 11, 1862; promoted to 
musician; discharged September 12, 1882. 
Alaway Thomas J., February 17, 1882; died at Vicksburg 
July 7, 1883. 
Devanlt, James C., January 27,1862; wounded at Shiloh 
April 6, 1862; captured at Atlanta July 22, 1864.
COMPANY K#
*John A Emery, fifth sergeant; wounded at Kenesaw 
Mountain June 27, 1864; captured at Atlanta, Georgia, July 
22, 1862. 
Ashley, James, March 1. 
Gulick; John (Galick), February 25; wounded; date and 
place unknown. 
Pierce, Andrew, February 5; discharged at Corinth; date not 
known. 
Redman, J. F., died at Bolivar, Tennessee, September 7, 
1868. 
*Woods, J. H., February 95. ' 
Weese, Charles, January 6, 1864; company unknown.
SEVENTEENTH INFANTRY
The seventeenth infantry rendezvoused at Keokuk, and was 
mustered into service April 16, 1862. It was composed of a 
fine body of men. It left St. Louis May 4, 1882, for the front, 
and was placed at the extreme left and in front of the army at 
Corinth on the evening of May 9th. After the close of the 
siege at Coriuth, the regiment joined the march to Boonville, 
Mississippi in pursuit of Beauregard. Returning, the regiment 
went into camp at Clear Springs and remained until August, 
when it moved to Jacinto, where it remained until the battle 
of Iuka. This was the first battle of the regiment, and for 
some manifestly unjust cause the regiment received the 
censure of General Rosecrans. Its luckless disaster was the 
result of somebody's blunder, for which the regiment was not 
responsible, but were the sufferers. Next came the battle of 
Corinth, where the regiment won high commendation from 
Rosecrans, who said it had amply atoned for the blunders of 
Iuka. In November the regiment joined Grant's campaign 
against Vicksburg, returning in December to Lumpkin's Mills, 
where it went into camp on the 24th. In this campaign the 
boys learned the sublime art of foraging, and it was said of 
them that they could "fall out," catch, kill and dress a hog, 
and get into line without losing "step". In February 1863, 
marched to Memphis, thence moved to the vicinity of 
Vicksburg, where for four months it endured arduous 
service. It next entered upon the Yazoo Pass expedition and 
shared the privations and trials of that foolish and 
unsuccessful move. May 13, 1862, it, with Seventeenth
563a
Army Corps, Seventh division, started for Jackson, where 
the regiment fought a hard fight and won the victory. On the 
14th the army started back to Vicksburg and on the 16th 
fought the memorable battle of Champion's Hill, where the 
Seventeenth and the Tenth Missouri, with
*Veteranized February 2, 1864 #Enlisted in 1861, unless 
otherwise stated.
564 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY
less than five hundred men, at a most critical juncture, 
turned the tide of battle and saved the Union army from a 
serious disaster. On the 20th it arrived in the rear of 
Vicksburg, where it remained until the fort was surrendered, 
During the siege of Vicksburg the regiment met its most 
serious loss at the blowing up of Fort Hill, the key to the 
rebel fortifications. The regiment was detailed to enter the 
crater of the exploded fort, where they were met by an 
overwhelming infuriated force armed with hand grenades. 
The slaughter was terrible; the killed and wounded being 
mutilated by the shells. From Vicksburg the regiment went to 
Chattanooga, and bivouacked under Lookout Mountain, on 
the 19th of July. It was not engaged in the battle at that point 
until the afternoon of the 25th, when it had one of its hardest 
fought battles. From Chattanooga it moved to Huntsville. 
Alabama, where it was stationed to protect the railroad in 
front of Sherman's army. At Tilton, on the line of the 
Chattanooga Railroad, the regiment was quartered in a 
blockhouse; and on the 13th of October, the rebels swooped 
down on them in force. A flag of truce was sent to the little 
garrison with orders, to surrender or no quarter would be 
given. Col. Archer replied: "Give my compliments to General 
Stuart and tell him if he wants my command to come and 
take it." "But," said the rebel officer, "we have thirteen 
thousand men, and can storm your works." "Can't help that," 
replied Archer, "we were put here to hold this place, and you 
can't have it 'till you blow as out." "I admire your pluck, but 
you haven't got a d-d bit of judgment," responded the rebel 
officer as he retired. In less than ten minutes no less than 
five thousand men besieged that block house, pouring shot 
and shell into it until the roof was torn off, and the timbers 
nearly gone, when further resistance being useless, and to 
save slaughter of his men, the white flag went up. As 
General Stuart came up, he remarked to Col. Archer: "Do 
you know you are fighting? Your obstinacy has given me a 
d----d sight of trouble, and detained me nearly a whole day." 
"That's just what I was put here for", replied Archer. 
 
In the winter of 1864 the regiment came north on veteran 
furlough, and returned to join Sherman at Goldsboro in his 
triumphal march to Washington. The regiment was mustered 
out at Louisville. Kentucky, July 25, 1864, and was the last of 
the veteran regiments.
Polk County was represented in companies B, D, F and K 
and on the staff to-wit: 
 
Edward J. McGorrisk, assistant surgeon, resigned and 
promoted November 5, 1882, to surgeon of Forty second 
infantry, which was transferred to Seventh cavalry, and Mr. 
McGorrisk was commissioned surgeon of Ninth infantry, 
January 4, I863.
COMPANY B#
William Hoxie, captain, March 25; promoted from private 
company D, Second infantry; resigned November 25, 1862. 
Rial Freeman, sixth corporal, February 25; promoted to third 
corporal; to second corporal; discharged, date and place 
unknown. 
Thomas H. Cassida, eighth corporal; promoted to fourth 
corporal; to third corporal; wounded at Champion's Hill, May 
16, 1863; discharged August 26, 1864.
# Enlisted in 1862, unless otherwise stated.
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 565
PRIVATES
*Alward, Benjamin P. 
Cassida, James R., March 9. 
Davis A. S., March 1 
Freeman, Malon, February 25; promoted to fifth corporal; 
wounded at Jackson, Mississippi, May 14, 1863. 
Hastings, Thomas, February 10; wounded at Farmington, 
Mississippi, (date unknown) captured at Bray's Station, 
Tennessee, date unknown. 
Highland, Henry H., March 10; wounded at Jackson, 
Mississippi, May 14 1863. 
Hardsaw, Daniel, March 10; wounded and captured at 
Jackson, Mississippi, May.14, 1863 
Hanks, Jarvis, March 21; wounded at Champion's Hill May 
16, 1863. 
*Hanks, DeWitt, March 10; wounded at Champion's Hill May 
16, 1863 
Johnson, John, March 5; discharged February 9, 1863. 
Kiser, Amos, March 8; killed at Jackson, Mississippi, May 
14, 1863 
*McCulloch, C. H. February 26. 
Merrill, William, February 10; discharged December 30 
1862. 
Phelps, Franklin P., January 26, from Company B, Fifteenth 
infantry 
Pursley, Wm. H., October 1; promoted to sixth corporal; 
discharged October 21, 1862. 
Rickabaugh, Wilson, February 11; died July _, 1862, at 
Farmington, Mississippi. 
Ragan, David S., March 22 
*Smith, Charles O., March 10; wounded at Iuka September 
19, 1862; promoted to third sergeant September 12, 1862, 
for bravery. 
Smith, Thomas H., March 22; wounded at Missionary Ridge 
November 25, 1863; died at New 
Albany, Indiana, December 13, 1864 
Wakefield, Francis M., February 25 died at Jefferson 
Barracks, Missouri, January 1, 1864.
ADDITIONAL ENLISTMENTS
Gipson, William, M., died April 23, 1864. 
Reese, S. T., April 18, 1862; promoted to second lieutenant; 
resigned June 20, 1862.
COMPANY F.
John H. Browne, second lieutenant; May 4, 1862, from 
private, company D, Second infantry; veteranized as captain 
June 3, 1863; captured at Ti1ton, Georgia, October 13, 
1864; mustered out March 16, 1885; wounded at Jackson; 
Mississippi, May 14, 1863.
COMPANY K.
J. W. M. Young; first corporal, April 7; died at Keokuk 
September 8, 1862. 
Franke, William, March 24; killed at Iuka September 19, 
1862 
Fullerton, John A., March 6; promoted to fifth corporal; 
wounded at Iuka September 19, 1862,
565a
Veteranized as sergeant March; 1864. 
Griffith, Selby S., February 7; discharged /September 2, 
1862. 
Gipson, William M., March 25; died at Keokuk April 23, 
1862. 
Kessler, Jacob, February 26; promoted to eighth corporal; 
discharged October 13, 1862. 
McCready, William, March 2; discharged September 2, 
1862. 
McCready, Martin F., March 6; wounded at Champion's Hill 
may 16, 1863; veteranized as corporal, March 10, 1864. 
Mull, Adam J., April 14. 
Mercer, William, March 25.
*Veteranized January 20, 1864 
#Enlisted in 1862 unless otherwise stated.
566 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY
Sanford, Abraham, March 25 discharged July 12, 1862. 
Sherman, Samuel, April 7; wounded at Champion's Hill May 
16, 1863; captured atTilton, Georgia, October 13, 1864. 
Thompson, Charles, April 7 discharged March 6, 1863. 
Wilson, Samuel W., March 21; wounded at Corinth October 
3, 1861; wounded at Jackson May 14, 1863; veteranized 
March 25, 1864. 
[Owing to the loss of records by capture of the regiment at 
Tilton, Georgia the list of casualities is incomplete]
EIGHTEENTH INFANTRY
The Eighteenth infantry regiment was organized under the 
call of July 4, 1862, for 300,000 men. It was mustered into 
the United States service, August 6, 1862, with a rank, and 
file of 860 men, John Edwards, colonel. On the 11th of 
August it started for the field. While it had not the prominent 
record of some Iowa regiments, it was none the less efficient 
in service, brave in action and prompt in duty. That it is not 
so notable is because there is less known of it. From the 
time it whipped and cleaned out the braggart Marmaduke at 
Springfield, Missouri, January 8, 1862, who attacked with at 
least 1,870 men, while the Eighteenth had only 500 men, on 
to the fight with Price, April 30, 1864, its conduct was such 
as to elicit high commendation from division commanders. It 
had the reputation of getting out of difficulties through 
smaller chances than few would have dared attempted. At 
Poison Spring was a notable instance, where the regiment 
got completely isolated and hemmed in on all sides by the 
enemy. It flocked together and wormed itself out, fighting rod 
by rod, scattering the enemy by charges, when it would 
reform and occupy the vacuum, and thus cut its way out and 
returned to Camden. In May, 1864, it returned to Fort Smith, 
Arkansas, having marched 780 miles over mountains, 
through swamps, subsisting on raw corn, wading days and 
nights through mud and water. At Fort Smith it remained 
during the summer and fall of 1864 making in the meantime 
several long and brilliant expeditions. February 26,1865, four 
companies were sent to Van Buren, Arkansas, for garrison 
duty until July 6, when the regiment was ordered to Little 
Rock for mustering out. July 21 it started for Davenport, 
where August 8, the men were discharged, having served 
three years and two days. The regiment marched 4, 160 
miles. Of the original number of the regiment but four 
hundred returned for muster out. Of the original officers but 
eight returned. Polk county was represented is companies G 
and L
COMPANY G.#
John H. Ruby, second lieutenant, July 7; promoted to 
captain October 22, 1863, but not mustered; discharged as 
second lieutenant December 19, 1863 and promoted to first 
lieutenant First Missouri colored regiment. 
Oran Kinsman, musician, July 17.
PRIVATES
566a
Estelle, William, July 10 discharged November 13, 1862. 
McCoy, William J., July 10 died February 19, 1863, at 
Springfield, Missouri.
COMPANY I.#
William Ragan, first lieutenant, July
#Enlisted in 1862, unless otherwise stated
HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 567
7 promoted to major May 12, 1865, but not mustered; 
mustered out as first lieutenant October 3, 1865. 
Charles M. Condon, fourth sergeant, July 12; promoted to 
quartermaster-sergeant; to second lieutenant; to first 
lieutenant May 12, 1865; commissioned captain May 12, 
1865, but mustered out as second lieutenant.
PRIVATES.
Brazelton, Jacob, July 10. 
Ellis, Jason L., July 24; died February 28, 1863, at 
Springfield, Mo. 
Gifford, Isaac, July 18. 
Garrett, John C., July 8. 
Lawson Jacob, July 21. 
Sharp, David, July 26; discharged March 14, 1863. 
Thornton, Nathan, July 10; died Sept. 21,1862, at Sedalia, 
Mo. 
Woodrow, Charles B., July 21.