TRIBUTE PAID TO FAST FALLING RANKS OF NORTHERN SOLDIERS, Gratiot County, Michigan *****Copying of the files within by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged. This message must appear on all copied files. Commercial copying must have permission.***** Articles donated by Hal Smith from an uncle's scrapbook, taken from local unknown newspaper. Transcribed in Oct. 1997 by Chris Zahn Thirty-One Civil War Veterans Left in Gratiot County _____________ TRIBUTE PAID TO FAST FALLING RANKS OF NORTHERN SOLDIERS _____________ Interesting Events Are Recalled As Reporters Interview These Old Veterans- Eight of Those Left Were Wounded in Action- Many Active in Spite of Age ___________________ Because Memorial Day is the one day of the year set aside to remember those who fought or gave their lives in American wars it is fitting that we pause at this time to pay tribute to the fast depleting ranks of Civil War veterans in Gratiot county. With only thirty-one veterans left in the county it will be but a few short years before all members of the G.A.R. will have passed to the Great Beyond. According to the individual histories given below eight of the remaining soldiers were wounded in action. One relates his experiences encountered while he was serving as a prisoner. Others tell with enthusiasm how they talked with President Lincoln and one relates how he was guarding the theatre the night that Lincoln was shot and joined in the search for Booth. Below are individual sketches of each veteran together with their pictures which are arranged in alphabetical order. ALEX ALFORD - Elm Hall Alexander Alfred, the only colored Civil war veteran in the county, lives southeast of Elm Hall. He was in four different battles during the war and had a number of harrowing experiences. He was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1845, and when thirteen years old came to Michigan and settled at Ithaca. After the war broke out he enlisted, as soon as he was old enough, in the first Michigan Volunteer Colored Troop, Company J). He was in many small skirmishes and was in four different battles in Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. After he was honorably discharged he returned to Ithaca where he stayed until about 27 years ago when he moved on the farm near Elm Hall. [handwritten notes: Died June 21, 1932, age 87 years] JOHN BECKWITH - Perrinton The subject of this short sketch was born Feb. 28, 1851, in Michigan where he has spent most of his life. He enlisted at the age of 13 years on Sept. 15, 1864, for a period of three years being mustered in on Sept. 20, 1864. While not seeing much chance for the hardest part of the war, the spirit he showed told where his heart was. While in service Mr. Beckwith was in Tennesse, Alabama and Texas. He was mustered out at Victory, Texas, May 25, 1866, when he came back to Michigan. He has lived in and around Perrinton for the past 42 years. He and his son live [alone]. Mr. Beckwith was 79 years old last February. Perrinton is proud to have two of the old soldiers still with them and hope they may live a good many happy years yet. [handwritten notes: died November, 1939, age 88 years, 8 mo., 21 days] WILLIAM BOLTZ - Alma William Boltz was born one of a family of twelve, October 26, 1849, in Huntington, Pa. When he was a small boy his family moved to Ohio where they remained until 1873 when they moved to Michigan and settled in North Shade township. He was married in 1871 to Louise Newell at Wood county, Ohio, and to this union were born six children, three of whom are living: Mrs. Mattie Everwing of Lansing, Mrs. Florence Dennis of Lansing and Mrs. Velma O'Connor of Alma, and with whom Mr. Boltz makes his home. He served in the army from March 1, 1864, until July 27, 1865. During this period of time he took part in four engagements under General Sherman. He relates of tramping for 10 days and 10 nights and of shells bursting all around him and killing three of his comrades during the battle at Kenesaw Mountain, Georgia. In this battle he himself was wounded and was removed to the hospital, No. 8, at Nashville, Tenn. In recalling these scenes to mind he made the remark, "Oh I would hate to have to live my life over again." Mr. Boltz has made Alma his home since 1893 and during the years past has worked at several trades, mason work, carpenter and cobbler. His wife died June 29, 1927, and his daughter and husband have made their home with him since that date. Although 81 years of age, Mr. Boltz is still active and able to work in his garden at his home on Mill street. ANDREW CROOKS - Alma Andrew Crooks was born September 6, 1840, at Beaver county, Pa. His boyhood days were spent at this place. He enlisted at Pittsburg, Pa., in August 1862, and was in Company D, 149. When his company reached Washington they acted as guards at the hospitals, etc. The first battle he was engaged in was Chancellorsville. After this battle they went back to their camp at Belle Plain. It was during the battle of Gettysburg, July 1st, that he was wounded and he laughingly makes the remark while relating to this incident, "You've had only two legs while I've had eleven." He was trying to help carry his friend from the battlefield when he was wounded. His comrades left both of them on the battlefield and it was only because he had a bright new cover on his empty water canteen and one of the Johnnies came along and traded with him for a canteen full of water, that he and his comrade were kept alive until they were removed from the battlefield to hospitals. His friend died of his wounds but he was moved from hospital to hospital. July 20 he was taken to the General hospital and in September he was removed to the Pittsburg hospital. While there he obtained permission to take a course in bookkeeping. He tells of the trip from Pittsburg to Philadelphia, where he went to get his "new" leg. The train he was on was in a wreck and several persons in the car just ahead of him were killed. He went to Chester, May 1st, and remained there until he was discharged in July. After the war he went back to his old home in Pennsylvania where he attended school for about three months. The following year he taught school in Clinton, Pa., and after the school term he journeyed to Louisville, Kentucky, at which place he kept books for three years. In the fall of 1870 he, with his brother, Thomas, went to Gilman, Illinois, where they opened a general store which they owned for 25 years. Mr. Crooks was married March, 1871, to Margaret Armstrong of Louisville, Kentucky, and to this union were born four children, three of whom are living: W.A. Crooks of Chicago, Illinois, Robert Crooks of Dallas, Oregon, and Harry Mead Crooks, president of Alma College, and with whom Mr. Crooks makes his home. After the death of his wife in 1900 he returned to Pennsylvania where he spent six years. In 1906 he went to Oregon where he remained ten years, coming to Alma in 1916 where he has made his home since that date. Despite his 90 years, Mr. Crooks enjoys real good health and never misses a Relief Corp dinner. [handwritten note: Died April 20, 1934; age 93 years] EMERSON COURTRIGHT - Ithaca Emerson Courtright, residing on West South street, Ithaca, saw much active service in the Civil war. He participated in many engagements, among them being the battle of the Wilderness, Yellow Tavern, Falling Waters, the second battle of Bull Run, etc. He, however, was very fortunate in that he escaped with but two slight wounds, one a sabre cut in the face and the other a gun shot that grazed the back of his head. Ninety years ago Mr. Courtright was born in New York state. After coming to Michigan when a lad of 16, he lived first in Barry and Jackson counties before coming to Gratiot which has been his home for more than 60 years. Mr. Courtright is now in very feeble health. His wife died about two years ago. They had no children and have no near relatives. GEORGE DAILY - St. Louis George Daily was born in Dexter, N.Y., March 2, 1846. When 7 years old he came to Michigan and attended school in the town of Eastmansville. His father was a Marine Navy Sargeant and died in the service. Mr. George Daily enlisted in the navy in 1864 and served on the Flag ship of the East Gulf Squadron, cruising and watching blockade runners on the coast of Florida and Tampa Bay. The squadron had headquarters at Key West, before the close of the war, he sailed on the schooner "Two Sisters" which picked up men, women and children refugees along the coast of Florida and took them to Cedar Keyes which afforded them a place of safety. After they had taken an oath of allegiance not to fight against the Union, the government provided them with food and clothing and places to live in until after the war. They were then put on their own resources. The 3rd regiment district, Washington, D.C., composed of negroes and white officers, were doing duty at Cedar Keyes, the negro refugees were allowed to build l'almatto huts on the back of the island from where the whites were sheltered. Mr. Daily was discharged from Philadelphia June 28, 1865, then sailed on the Great Lakes on a freighter that carried grain, lumber and iron ore from Marquette to Cleveland until 1876. That year he was married to Miss Jennie Slater of Toledo. To this union five children were born, only two of whom are living: Mrs. Minnie Simmons of Detroit and Mrs. Madge Sha of Pasadena, California. He has lived retired since 1919, living in Florida 6 years and St. Louis for the past 5 years. [handwritten note: Died April 5, 1934, age 88 years] CLARENCE K. FOX - Breckenridge Clarence K. Fox was born in Steuber county, New York, in 1845, and came to Ingham county when 8 years old, staying there until 3 years later when he moved to Gratiot county in 1857, where he has since resided. Most of his life was spent on the farm about 3 miles north east of Breckenridge later moving to town when unable to longer work his farm. He was married to Miss Maggie Hubbard and was the father of two sons, Wm. B. of Bethany township and A.L. Fox of Breckenridge. Mrs. Fox died when the boys were young and Mr. Fox was again married to Mrs. Husted of Breckenridge, and they have a very pleasant home in town. He enlisted in the 3rd Michigan Cavalry, Company M, Feb. 29, 1864, when 18 years old. He first was sent to St. Louis, Missouri, where he spent one month in camp, later going to Durall Bluff, Arkansas, where he spent a year, then in New Orleans 1 month and another month in Mobile, Alabama. Then marched through the country to Baton Rouge when peace was declared. He was transferred to San Antonia, Texas, where he spent nearly a year and was mustered out in the spring of 1866, Feb. 12th. Mr. Fox then came to Jackson where he got his final discharge. Most of the time in Arkansas was spent in outside picketing where they had a good many skirmishes with the gorillas. Once while out foraging, he was surrounded by gorillas and separated from the rest of his company and they supposing him captured, went back to camp and reported him dead. He later went back to camp alone and surprised them. [handwritten note: Died 31 July 1932] H.J. FELL - Newark Township Henry J. Fell, a farmer residing in Newark township, saw 3 years service in the Civl war, enlisting in Ohio in Company B, 55th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Shortly after his return from service Mr. Fell was married to Miss Elizabeth T. Maurer and in the fall of the next year, 1866, they came from Seneca county, Ohio, to Gratiot county to reside. They located on the farm in Newark which is still the home of Mr. Fell. The birthplace of Mr. Fell was Byron, Germany, in 1841. When he was six years of age the family came to this country settling in Seneca county, Ohio, where he grew to young manhood and enlisted in the service of his country. The sons and daughters of Mr. Fell, who are now living, are William S. of Newark, Mrs. Clarence Cornell of Ithaca and Mrs. Orin Lehner of North Star township. The mother died in 1892 and nearly two years later Mr. Fell was married to Mrs. Phoebe of Vassar. Despite his busy life on the farm Mr. Fell has always taken an active interest in local affairs and at different times he has been elected to offices of responsibility and trust. GEORGE FULKERSON - Alma George Russell Fulkerson, author and writer, whose poems and prose were published in the Tecumseh Herald and Milan Dealer 60 years ago, was born in Washtenaw county, Saline township, Michigan, March 19, 1941. He attended school in the Hammon District, 4-1/2 miles south of Saline. In this school he made a special study of English Literature. At the age of twenty he commenced the study of law, under Delcate Norris of Ypsilanti, and after two years he attended lectures in the Law Department of the University of Michigan. He enlisted in the 14th Michigan Infantry in 1862, and went with his regiment to St. Louis and then on to Pittsburg, taking part in the battle fought there which resulted in the defeat of Johnson's Army and a decided victory for the Union forces under General Grant. From Pittsburg he was sent to Detroit with several of his comrades who were unable to do further duty on account of sickness. In the fall of 1864 he enlisted in the 30th Michigan Infantry as Orderly Sargeant, and served until June 10, 1865, at which time he was appointed Second Lieutenant, which office he held until the close of war, June 30, 1865. After his return home he was connected with the law firm of Alfred A. Miller of Adrian, Michigan, and made a specialty of Prosecuting Pension claims for his comrades of the Civil war. Sixteen years ago he became a member of the Michigan Soldiers Home, establishing an office in the Thompson home on Court Street. While in this home he wrote a number of poems which were much appreciated by members of the Home. Mr. Fukerson came to Alma in 1924, and is living at 626 Hannah avenue in peace and comfort. He awaits the bugle call that will summon him to that last encampment to greet the dear ones that have gone before. FRANCIS M. FREAR - St. Louis Francis M. Frear was born May 12, 1843, in Simco, Ont. When 6 years of age he came to Michigan with his parents and lived on a farm in Jackson county and was educated at Grass Lake. When 19 years of age, he enlisted in Company K, 1st Regment, United States Sharpshooters and served 3 years. He took part in a number of serious battles and campaigns, including Yorktown, the Peninsular campaign under General McLellan, and Battle of Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness and Spottsylvania. On June 4, 1864 at the Battle of Cold Harbor, he was wounded on the head and was in the hospital for some time. When he recovered he rejoined his regiment in front of Petersburg at the time of the capture of the Weldon railroad. He was mustered out of the service at Petersburg, Virginia, March 16, 1865. Returning to Jackson county, Michigan, in the winter of '65, he later located in Gratiot county and worked in the lumber camps. In June, 1866, he returned to Jackson county where he farmed and did carpenter work for 2 years, attending school during the winter months. He spent the year of 1869 in Osceola county. On Dec. 24, 1869, he was married to Miss Frances E. Reeves of Lyons, Ionia county, Michigan. In 1870 Mr. Frear, with his wife, came to Gratiot county and purchased a farm containing 153 acres which he now occupies. He has been Highway Commissioner of Pine River Twp. for 2 terms and served as constable and school director of his district. Mr. and Mrs. Frear were the parents of five children, 3 sons and two daughters, three of whom are living at the present time: Mrs. Lydia Osborn, Mrs. Frankie Holmes and Floyd Frear, all of St. Louis. Mr. Frear belongs to the Union Veteran Union and is also a member of the F.&A.M. Fraternity. As a business man and citizen he is highly esteemed and is one of the representative men of Pine River. Mr. Frear tells the following incident. He and his chum were out foraging and got a sheep which was strictly against orders. As they were returning to the camp with it, near a bend in the road, they met their Lieutenant Colonel who said, "Boys what have you got and where did you get it?" We were sure badly frightened. He was a Swiss and very cross looking and, of course, we could not say anything. He said, "Oh, you bought it, I suppose." He got some nice mutton steak for his supper. [handwritten note: died 16 February 1931; 86 yrs, 9 mo. 4 days] ALONZO GRUESBECK - Ithaca Alonzo Gruesbeck still takes an active interest in life despite his advanced age of 92. At present, with Mrs. Gruesbeck, he is with a daughter in Eaton Rapids. Mr. Gruesbeck is a veteran of the Civil war, having given four years' service to his country. A peculiar coincidence in connection with his service is that his father, Harmon Gruesbeck, was also a soldier but neither was aware that the other had enlisted until they hapened to meet on the battlefield. Discharged at the close of the war, Mr. Gruesbeck had fought for the United States four years and received but one wound, having had one finger partly shot off. He enlisted in Ohio, Company H, 6th Michigan Heavy Artillery. Last August Mr. and Mrs. Gruesbeck celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary and present at the gathering were all of the eight sons and daughters born to them. Since then their eldest child has died. The other members of the family are: George Gruesbeck of Lafayette, W.P. Gruesbeck of Breckenridge, Mrs. Fred Kellogg of North Star, Mrs. Joseph Sawyer of Lansing, Marion Gruesbeck and Mrs. Mary Pease of New York and Mrs. Alice DePew of Eaton Rapids. [Hendwritten note: died 17 April, 1933, age 94 yrs, 6 mo. 23 days] ROBERT GLADSTONE - St. Louis Robert Gladstone was born June 5, 1844, in Oakland county. He enlisted in Company I, 27th Infantry Dec. 19, 1863, at North Star, Michigan, for 3 years. The first battle he fought in was the Wilderness, May 5-6, 1864. He was wounded in action at Spottsylvania Va., May 12, 1864, when a bullet lodged in his right shoulder. He was taken to St. Mary's Hospital, Detroit, and was admitted to Harper hospital Oct. 13, 1864. He was honorably discharged at Detroit May 23, 1865, and returned to North Star, where he was married to Amanda Garver of that village on June 26, 1870. They lived on a farm where they lived until 1892 when they came to St. Louis. To this union was born 7 children, 5 of whom are living; William Gladstone of Hastings, Ralph of Battle Creek, Mrs. Earl O'Donnell of Detroit, Mrs. Edna Ayers of Wall Lake and Mrs. Vesta Lutz of St. Louis. Mr. Gladstone tells an amusing little story that happened while he was in the war. One night he was placed on guard near a house where the officers were sleeping. Suddenly he heard a noice and someone coming through the brush. He thought the enemy was sneaking upon them and got his gun when he saw two great eyes looking at him and discovered it was nothing but a goat. Although Mr. Gladstone was supposed to stay on guard only until midnight, officers found him still at his post in the morning. The relief man had failed to arrive at midnight. [handwritten note: Died Feb. 28, 1938, age 94] LEVI HAAS - North Star Levi Haas was born November 17, 1839, at North Umberland, Pa. He enlisted with 6th Pennsylvania volunteers, Company B, at Selin Grove on July 17, 1861, at the age of 22 years and was honorably discharged at Harrisburg, Pa. on July 17, 1864, after serving three years. He was in several battles, among them were the battles at Drainsville, Mine Run, Wilderness and Fredericksburg. It was during the battle at Fredericksburg that he was shot through the thigh and was sent to a hospital at Washington where he remained for about 3 months. It was during his stay at this hospital that he had the pleasure of shaking hands and talking with President Lincoln. The battle at Wilderness, during May, 1863, was a fierce one and lasted for 3 days. The first day a shot struck Mr. Haas' gun, cutting it in 2 pieces. He dropped it and picked up a dead comrade's and went on fighting, later being wounded and sent to a hospital in Philadelphia, Pa., where he was for about 1 month. Mr. Haas tells of being sent out with a comrade to watch after the battle at Bethata Church, Virginia, and among the dead and wounded was General Ransom of the Rebel army dying. He begged for water and Mr. Haas gave it to him and stayed by him until he died. After the war, Mr. Haas went to Fulton county, Ohio, to visit a brother and while there he met Miss Lucina Borton, a school teacher, and they were married in 1869. In 1876, they moved to Hamilton township, Michigan, where they resided until 1893, when they moved to Clinton county. Here they remained about 12 years until they came back to Gratiot and located in North Star township where the homestead now is. Twelve children were born of this union of which three were dead, and also Mrs. Haas, who died Feb. 1, 1925. Those living are: Mrs. Martha Derby, Mrs. Minnie Kinney, Mrs. Bina Mathews, Mrs. Eva Brink, Mrs. Luella Foster, Miss Cora Haas, Allen, Charley and Landis Haas. Mr. Haas is in his 91st year and makes his home with his son, Chas. He has very good health and a wonderful memory, and is still able to work, such as splitting wood and making garden. [handwritten note: Died 16 February 1931: 91 years, 3 mo. 1 day] OSCAR I. HUNT - Sumner Oscar I. Hunt was born at Cambridge, Lenawee county, Michigan, Nov. 15, 1844. Having his father and two brothers in the war and because his mother had died a few years before, he enlised in Company A, 7th Michigan Cavalry Sept. 13, 1862, at the age of 16. Then the Custer Brigade was formed with General Custer in command, Mr. Hunt went with him through several battles. Then a part of the bridgade was taken across the plains to quell an indian outbreak. At the close of that disturbance, they returned to Fort Leavensworth. Most of the soldiers were sent from there to Jackson, Michigan, where they were mustered out and payed off. Mr. Hunt tells of two instances that happened during the war: One was Cleopatha's raid on Richmond. The cavalry was surprised in the night by the enemy. Mr. Hunt managed to get his horse, saddle, gun, and a slice of bacon as large as his two fingers. He lived on this slice of bacon for three days and two nights, then he had a good meal. Another time when he had not had anything to eat for two days he got away from the cavalry and went down a narrow road until he came to a little cabin where a white and colored woman lived. He asked the colored woman if she had anything to eat. She said, "Nothing but green peas, sir." He told her to bring him some so she gave him a large bowl of green cooked peas. He looked at them for a while then said, "Well, I might as well die now as later," so he ate them. He received a better meal later in the day. Mr. Hunt resides at his home in Sumner and is very active at the age of 85 years, and receives pleasure in driving his own car. [Handwritten note: Died Nov. 18, 1931, 87 yrs of age] GEORGE KIRBY - St. Louis George Kirby was born Nov. 11, 1840, in Morgan county, Ohio. At the age of 21 he joined the army on Sept. 20, 1861, enlisting in company 8th, 17th of Ohio, 1st brigade, 3rd Division, 14th Corps. He was under the command of General Thos. most of the time. He was in all the principal battles of the South, his company being stationed at Raleigh, N. Carolina, when General Lee surrendered. They went through Richmond, W. Virginia, Washington City, then to Louisville, Kentucky, where he got his discharge July 16, 1865. He returned to Morgan county, Ohio, and was married to Nancy VanHorn. Eight children were born to this union, two boys, Jas. and Glen, who live in Lansing, and six girls, Mrs. Lily Rusk, McConsville, Ohio, Mrs. Florence Jacobs, Midland county, Mrs. Mary Fordyce, Shepherd, and Mrs. Almadie Rounzoin, Morgan county, Ohio. Mr. Kirby lived in Cleveland for some time before coming to Michigan and while there worked for and supported this family on 50 cents per day. They moved to Michigan in 1900 and lived on a farm in Isabella county near Shepherd. Mr. Kirby was not injured in the war but lost his left arm enroute on a hunting trip to Mississippi Dec. 3, 1870. While getting off the boat at Fayetteville, Ind., his gun slipped causing it to discharge and shattering his arm so badly that he was taken to the hotel and an army surgeon, who happened to be passing through the town, stopped at the hotel and amputated his arm and cared for the wound. Mr. Kirby stated that the government gave him $12 about 20 years after he was in the service for which he was very thankful. This, he said, did him so much good at that time, even more so than what he received later. Mr. Kirby thinks this is the greatest and best administration at Washington we have every had. Abraham Lincoln was the first president he voted for and Herbert Hoover the last. [handwritten note: Died April, 1931] L. B. LONGWELL - St. Louis Langdon B. Longwell was born Dec 30, 1845, in Upper Sandusky, Ohio. At the age of 16 he enlisted as a drummer boy with his father in Battery I, 1st Ill. Light Artillery and was in that service 6 months. After a year he again enlisted in the 12th Ohio Cavalry under Captain A.F. Dubois, and served in the cause of national unity 26 months. His first fight was at Shiloh, Tenn., and lasted 2 days; then the siege of Current which lasted 52 days. He was under fire 100 days in a number of small fights. He returned from the war without a scratch. The nearest he came to being wounded was during the fight at Saltville, Virginia, when the soldiers destroyed the salt wells. He heard a cannon ball crashing through the brush. He dropped to the ground or to use a soldiers term "grabbed a root and the ball passed about 3 feet above him. Thus he escaped and was honorably discharged in 1864 at Memphis, Tenn. He returned to Ohio and obtained employment in the railroad company's machine shops at Crestline. A few months later he got a job as carpenter and followed that vocation for 16 years. Coming to Gratiot county in Nov., 1869, he bought a small farm and made a specialty of fruit and beautiful flowers. He was married Jan. 29, 1867, to Miss Lorinda Barber of Bucyrus, Ohio. To this union was born 6 children, 4 of whom are living: Mrs. Jennie Ingersoll, Mrs. Elizabeth Pepple and Mrs. Lulu Atwater of St. Louis and Charles Longwell of Chicago. Mr. Longwell has been a faithful member of the Christian church for 40 years. He is also a member of the I.O.O.F. and the G.A.R. He tells a little war incident that happened in Lexington, Kentucky. He was an orderly at headquarters when the Brigadier Adjutant General, R.B. Smith, came to him and said, the telegraph line has been clipped between here and Richmond, and a dispatch must go through. Will you take it? He said he would and another orderly, Billy Bowen, was told to go with him. Each were armed with two navy revolvers and started out on horse back in the pouring rain making what headway they could between flashes of lightning. They reached Richmond, a distance of 32 miles, in safety and delivered their message to the regiment who were guarding the towns against the bushwackers. They were expecting a raid from Tom Morgan and wanted to get their regiment all together. Mr. Longwell's company of 40 soldiers were ordered to scout Winchester Pike. They had gone about 9 miles when they came across the picket post of 600 men. They charged on them, going right through their line and didn't give them a chance to fire a shot. After reporting to Captain Dubois, they returned to within 6 miles of Lexington and placed a picket post then they crossed to the Richmond Pike. After crossing they heard Morgan charge on the picket post and capture them. Mr. Longwell's company was ordered back to the city and as they go into the city they met Morgan with 3000 men and there had a skirmish and then fell back to the Fort. Morgan passed through the city and went to Cynthiana, Ky., where the brigade, led by General Bobman drove Morgan and his men out of Kentucky. [handwritten note: Died Oct. 11, 1932, age 89 yrs, 9 mo., 11 days] ABNER LETTS - Bannister Abner Letts, one of the two remaining Civil war veterans of Bannister, was born in New York state in 1843. He came to Michigan when less than five years old and at the age of 18 years enlisted for service in August, 1861, as a member of the Regiment of the 1st Volunteer Michigan Cavalry Company G. After serving his country for four years, he was mustered out on August 3, 1865, and came back to Michigan where he has lived in the vicinity of Bannister ever since. He was an active member of the Elsie Memorial Post for about 45 years and carried the flag in the Memorial Day Parade for 42 years. Mr. Letts is now 87 years old. JASPER NORTON - Elm Hall Jasper Norton of Elm Hall was born August 2, 1845, and when 16 years old enlisted in the Grand Army of the Republic at Grand Lodge. In 1864 he re-enlisted in Company D, 12th Michigan Infantry and served his country until February 15, 1866, when he was honorably discharged. He fought in the battle of White River at Camden, Arkansas and in a number of other skirmishes and it was during one of these battles that he was wounded. He married in 1871 to Martha Sullivan of Portland. In 1906 he was again married to O[ss]ie Hewes of Edmore and since then has lived in Gratiot county. Two children are living, a daughter at Traverse City and a son at Elm Hall. CHARLES PARKS - Bannister Charles Parks, 93 years of age and a member of the 14th Michigan Infantry, Company K, during the Civil war, is the only soldier living today in his company of 100 men. Although serving throughout a large portion of the war Mr. Parks was never injured. He was born in Clinton county, Michigan, on Feb. 18, 1837. For the past 37 years he has lived in Gratiot county. In 1874 he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Tiddy. Members of the family who are still living are: Lovina Hoover of Ithaca, Bertha Thomas, Floyd Parks and Harry Parks all of Bannister. [handwritten note: died April 1931, 94 years of age] KOSCIUSKO P. PEET - North Star Kosciusko P. Peet was born at Rochester, Lorain county, Ohio, Oct. 19th, 1843. He enlisted on August 29, 1864, with the 1st Ohio, Light Artillery in Company I, and was discharged on June 13, 1865. Although in the army for 10 months, Mr. Peet was never in a battle. On April 8, 1864, he was married to Miss Lydia M. Sage at Adrian, Michigan. In the year of 1867 they moved to Kent county, Michigan, and in 1876 to Lafayette township, Gratiot county, where Mr. Peet taught several terms of school. While a resident of Lafayette he was supervisor and also clerk, and in 1882 was elected sheriff of Gratiot county and in 1884 was re-elected by a large majority. Mr. and Mrs. Peet made their home in Ithaca for many years, but for the past few years have been residing in North Star. They have four children living, James O. of Muskegon, Charles D. of Chicago, Mrs. Retta Lee and Susie at home, also two sons deceased. Mr. Peet, who is 86 years of age, was confined to his home by sickness the past winter, but is now able to enjoy his daily walk. J. L. RICHARD - Perrinton The subject of this sketch was born in West Moreland county, Pennsylvania, July 7, 1844. His parents moved to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1846. They lived there until September, 1853, when they moved to Wood county, Ohio. Here he spent his boyhood days, until August 6th, 1862, when he enlisted in Company B, 111th O.V.I. under Captain Thomas A. Norris. His regiment was organized at Toledo, Ohio, Sept. 12, 1862, and immediately was sent to the front. He crossed the Ohio River at Cincinnati, Ohio, into Covington, Ky., and was put out on picket the first night. Kirby Smith, a rebel general, was reported to make an attack on Cincinatti, Ohio. This caused a great stir in Ohio and citizens from all over the state rushed to its defense. These were called the squirrel hunters. He has a rifle now in his possession which was used for that purpose. From Covington, Ky, the regiment marched to Louisville, Ky., and participated in the battle of Perryville, Ky., with Beuels army against the rebel General Bogg. From Perryville they marched to Frankfort, Ky., and from there to Bowling Green, Ky., where the regiment stayed from October until the following May. Then they broke camp and were on the go until August, when they left New Market, Ky., and crossed the Cumberland mountains and landed at London, Tenn. in Sept., 1863. On November 14, 1863, General Longstreet attacked General Burnsides forces at Loudon. On that date the regiment was engaged in combat with Longstreet forces for two days. Mr. Richard with others of his company was put out on picket on the night of Nov. 15 and during the night Burnsides forces left Lenon station and went to Knoxville, Tenn., and did not retrive the picket. On the morning of Nov. 16th, they were captured by the 6th South Caroline Palmeto sharpshooters. Mr. Richard with 51 privates and one officer were hurried to Atlanta Ga., and put in prison. From there they were taken to Richmond, Va., and from there to Bells Island Va. thence to Andersonville, Ga., "the hell hole of all hell holes" where his company nearly all died. Thirteen of the company were exchanged at Richmond which left 39 and out of the 39 only ten lived to get home. There are only three living today. Out of the company of 103 at its beginning, at the last reunion last October there were only four present to answer at roll call. The G.A.R. Post at Perrinton used to have 60 members, now only two are left, John Beckwith and John I. Richard of Perrinton. They are the only Civil war veterans in Fulton township now. Mr. Richard's most important deed that he thinks he did during his soldiering was the capture of a rebel spy, a First Lieutenant by the name of Samuel B. Davis. He turned him over to the Provost Guard at Columbus, Ohio, where he was court marshalled and sentenced to be shot on the 17th day of Feb., 1865. Just four days after his capture, however, he was reprieved by President Lincoln. Davis had two sisters, who lived in Baltimore, Maryland, who pleaded with Lincoln to save his life and his big heart listened to their cry. In the year 1870, Mr. Richard and family moved from Ohio to Newark township where he cleared a farm out of the virgin wilderness where he raised a family of two boys and three girls. He lived on the farm until 1892 when he moved to Perrinton and was engaged as assistant cashier of F.E. Durfee Bank. He remained there for 7 years and resigned and was appointed Postmaster which position he held 7 1/2 years and then resigned. He and his wife lived together 63 years. Should he live until July 7, 1930, he will be 86 years old. Mr. Richard came from fighting stock, his great-great-grandfather fought in the War of 1812, his grandfather in the Mexican war, and he had four brothers in the Civil war and 24 cousins and a number of second cousins in the Spanish-American war. He doesn't know how many in the World war and if it really was necessary, he says he would shoulder his rifle and still do what he could to defend the Stars and Stripes. [Handwritten note: died Aug. 10, 1936; 92 yrs - 1 mo. 5 days] DAVID STEVENSON - Ashley David Stevenson was born in Scotland January 8, 1842, but came with his parents to Macomb county, Michigan, when about 8 months of age. He made his home there although he was working in Canada at the time he enlisted with the 2nd New York Heavy Artillery Volunteers, Company C, 9th Regiment, at the age of 21, January 26, 1863. He remained a private until Nov. 9, 1864, when he was promoted Corporal and on March 8, 1865, he was promoted to Sargeant. He was under General Grant and Colonel Seward. Mr. Stevenson took part in 17 battles, some of which were as follows, as near as he could remember: Cold Harbor, June 11-12, 1864; Petersburg, June 16-18, 1864; Weldon R.R., June 21-22, 1864; Marrowday, July 9, 1864; Snickers Gap, August 15, 1864; Charleston, August 21, 1864; Winchester, Sept. 19, 1864; Fisher's Hill, Sept. 22, 1864; Cedar Creek, Oct. 14, 1864; Evacuation, Petersburg and Richmond, April 3, 1865; Sortors Creek, April 6, 1865; Surrender of Lee's Army, April 9, 1865; Danville, April 27, 1865. On July 19, 1865, he was transferred to Company I, 2nd New York Heavy Artillery, with only four of his former company left. He had one brother in the army who was confined in Libby prison for some time, dying soon after his release from effects of his long confinement there. Mr. Stevenson was mustered out and received his honorable discharge Sept. 29, 1865, but remained until Oct. 10 when he was paid in full and released. He then returned to his home in Macomb county. He was married to Lydia K. Hersey on July 4, 1869. In April, 1871, they set up housekeeping and home-making on their farm southwest of Ashley where they still live. About eight years ago Mr. Stevenson attended a convention of Old Soldiers in New York, but he has been confined to his bed now for the past seven years. Although hard of hearing his mind has been very clear, for until recently he could remember distinctly the places and dates of battles and many interesting incidents of the war. He was the oldest of a family of four children and is the only one living of his family. He was 88 years of age January 8, 1930. FRED SIMMONS - Ithaca Fred Simmons, one of the well-known Civil war veterans of Ithaca, served his country for one year and five months. Enlisting on February 1, 1854, in Company A of the 68th Ohio Volunteers, Mr. Simmons had many interesting experiences before the war came to a close. He served in a number of guard detachments and was later detailed as teamster, driving a six-mule team then a four- horse team in the 3rd Division, 17th Corps Supply. Mr. Simmons was born in Fulton county, Ohio, in 1843, the son of Thomas and Pernelia Simmons. He was married to Angeline Rodwell in 1867 and later came to Michigan to make their home. Coming into the midst of wilderness, Mr. Simmons settled on a tract of land 6 miles east of Ithaca on the St. Charles road. Here he gradually cleared away the timber until he had a fine farm of 80 acres, later buying more until he had 200 acres. He erected a number of fine buildings on the farm and made a great success as a farmer. In 1910 he sold the farm to Wm. Thomas for $20,000. He had paid only $10 an acre for the first 80 acres. At that time he came to the home on North street in Ithaca which he now occupies. Twelve children, six boys and six girles, have been born to this union, one daughter dying when 10 months old, and Roll last fall. Three of the daughters now live in California, Oral in Ohio, Harry in Lansing and the rest in Gratiot County. [Handwritten note: Died Nov. 11, 1931 - 88 yrs of age] RHYNARD SCHNEPP - Riverdale Rhynard Schnepp, the only remaining veteran of the Civil war, residing in Riverdale and one of the two or three members of the Elm Hall Post of the G.A.R., which survive out of a membership at one time of 150. Mr. Schnepp was born at Decator, Indiana, where he grew to manhood. At the age of 18 he enlisted for service in the Civil war at Van-Wert, Ohio, and went to Point Lookout, where he served for some time guarding the rebels, after which he received an honorable discharge. Mr. Schnepp came from Indiana to Michigan and settled in the Riverdale locality about fifty years ago. Mr. Schnepp has seen many of the hardships of the early days and has had his share to battle. His first wife died, leaving him with five young children. After struggling alone for some time he married Phoebe VanDenmark and three more children came into the home. At the birth of Maud, now Mrs. Claud Phelps, Phoebe passed away leaving Mr. Schnepp again to face the battle in which he won the victory, rearing them all to manhood and womanhood. All the children, except Clara who was Mrs. Charles Green, are living. Mr. Schnepp has been a hard worker all his life, and still with his advanced age, which, if he is spared until October 2, will be 83 years. He still works a large garden and enjoys fishing trips. For 22 years Mr. Schnepp has never missed the annual deer hunt and has most always been one of the lucky ones to bring home a deer. [Handwritten note: Died 6 June 1934; age 87 yrs, 8 mo. 4 days] SIMEON A. SPAULDING - Breckenridge Simeon Spaulding was born Sptember 5, 1847, in Leona, Jackson county, Michigan. He was quite young when his parents located in Ingham county, Michigan, where they lived a short time prior to re-moving to Shiawassee county. While living in the latter county Mr. Spaulding enlisted, Feb. 4, 1864, at the age of 16 years, in Company F, 9th Michigan Volunteer Infantry, with which regiment he served gallantly for 20 months, at the end of which time, the war being over, he returned to his home in Shiawassee county. Here he worked for 3 years at farm labor, then buying 40 acres in Woodhill township, Shiawassee county, where he lived until Mar. 1884. He then traded his farm for 80 acres in Lafayette township, Gratiot county, which was his home until about 2 years ago when he moved to Breckenridge. Mr. Spaulding has been married three times. His first wife was Lamyra Green of Shiawassee county, Michigan, by whom he had two children, Inez who died at the age of 20 months, and Hattie who died in Lafayette aged 18 years. Mr. Spaulding was married the second time in Sciota, Shiawassee county to Miss Eliza Hudson of that county, who died, leaving two children, Katie who died young and Martha E. who survives. Mr. Spaulding's third marriage took place in Saginaw county and was to Miss Margaret McDonald by whom he has had four children, the first two dying in infancy and Jeanne L. and Simeon A., Jr. surviving. Mr. Spaulding has held several political offices, being elected on the Republican ticket. He is a member of Billy C[ru]son Post, No. 347, Grand Army of the Republic. He has always been active in church work and is a valued member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Woodhill. He is also a member of the Masonic Lodge, No. 406, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No. 162, Breckenridge. WILLIAM STAHL - Ithaca William Stahl, 87 years of age, has a most unusual war record. He has drawn pay from Uncle Sam since August 12, 1861, this being the date of his enlistment in the Civil war with the 49th Ohio Infantry. Up to 1885 he drew a sodier's wage, since that time he has been a pensioner of the government. His 21st birthday was celebrated fighting in the battle of Resaca, Ga., on May 15, 1864. This was a 3-day engagement and in command of the United States forces was General Sherman and Johnston of the Confederates. Mr. Stahl is a most interesting war story teller. If he becomes a bit hazy about any happening he has only to refer to his diary. "Every night," said Mr. Stahl, "Or as often as I could, I always wrote and sent to my father what had happened during the day." He kept all these and when the war was over, I wrote them out in detail." He has carefully preserved the book and in it is recorded, in his own handwriting, his war record from day to day. Although he participated in 43 engagements, he came through unscathed. He saw comrades fall on every hand. The first man in the regiment to be shot happened to stand next to him, so close that Mr. Stahl stepped aside to avoid his falling against him. Mr. Stahl was born in Seneca county, Ohio, and was married there in 1866. Fifty years ago last October he came to Gratiot county to make his home, locating in Hamilton township. He purchased his present location on Maple street 42 years ago and at that time planted the trees that now front his place. Nine years afterward Mr. and Mrs. Stahl came to Ithaca to live and it was here that Mrs. Stahl passed away a year ago in April. He has two daughters, Mrs. George Clow of Ithaca and Mrs. George Goodhall of Hamilton. Mr. Stahl always took an active interest in the Moses Wisner post as long as it was in existance here. He mustered in it's 305th member, the late Morgan Snyder, father of Mrs. Elva Botroff. Speaking of his war record, Mr. Stahl said it was conceded at the time of his discharge Dec. 30, 1865, that from the time of his enlistment, Aug. 12, 1861, he had never once been absent from his command. [Handwritten note: Died 88 years of age] GEORGE VANDUSEN - Middleton George VanDusen, an aged resident of North Shade, is the only Civil war veteran in the vicinity of Middleton. He enlisted from Hubbardston, his boyhood home, in the fall of '64 and served 15 months, when he was honorably discharged. From his home at Hubbardston he joined the 3rd Michigan Infantry, and left by cattle train for Decatur, Alabama. During his sojourn he was housed in the Zollier Coffer house, a spacious rendezvous for soldiers at Nashville, Tenn. He was present at Murfreesboro Tenn. when General Hood made his raid. Mr. VanDusen was 83 in December. He, and his aged wife and daughter, Miss Carrie VanDusen, reside on the farm they purchased 55 years ago. An attractive, restful looking place of 40 acres. Although past 83 years of age he takes an active interest in the upkeep and improvement of his home and when the reporter called he was in his orchard trimming trees. He is the father of two daughters, Miss Carrie and Mrs. Charles Coryell of North Shade. Two sons died in infancy. The 60th wedding anniversary of the aged veteran and his wife was celebrated at their home July 4, 1928. Mr. VanDusen is a very pleasant man to converse with and enjoyed his reminiscences of early days. He laughingly told the reporter that "he was a private in the rear ranks." [Handwritten note: Died 1934] WILLIAM H. WEED - Breckenridge Henry H. Weed was born at Cuyanga, Geauga county, Ohio, August 31, 1842. He came to Michigan in April, 1851, and settled in Lawton, later moving to Eaton Rapids, Hillsdale county, and afterward coming to Gratiot county. Mr. Weed is the father of 11 children. He was married to Adeline Parrish Aug. 30, 1868, and to them were born 11 children all of which grew to manhood and womanhood and are an honor to their parents. One of the daughters, Hattie, passed away when a young lady, and his wife died in 1913, which has made it very lonesome for Mr. Weed as she was a very sweet, congenial companion and meant a great deal to him whose eye sight has failed so he cannot see to read, but is wonderfully active for his age and generally makes two trips a day to his son, Homer's place of business, winter and summer. He had a severe sick spell last winter, but has completely recovered from it. He enlisted July 21, 1862, in Company G, 20th Michigan Infantry, and went to Washington Sept. 1st where he joined the other forces and served during the rest of the war, 16 battles, but was never injured in any of them. Once while coming back from Mississippi in company with the 1st and 2nd Division of the Corps, while going up the river in nine boats, a group of Johnnies came out and shot at them, giving them a pretty warm reception, he related. At the battle of Spottsylvania, Mr. Weed's company got badly mixed up with the enemy and he captured a Johnnie prisoner, turning him over to the Corps headquarters. [Handwritten note: Died 29 June 1933, age 91] GEORGE WOOD - St. Louis Mr. Wood was born in the village of Black Rock, New York, in 1842. He received most of his education at Toronto, Canada. His father being a ship sawyer, he went to Canada to work on the buildings for the Provincial fair at Toronto. In 1861 he came to Michigan and worked on timber near Wheeler and enlisted in 1863. He was mustered into the U.S. service in 1864 in the 13th Michigan, Light Artillery and saw some real hard service. At one time he was not out of his saddle for several days. He was on picket near the Ford Theatre the night that Booth shot Lincoln and was also in the squad that accompanied the 16th N.Y. Cavalry detective sent from the regular squad at Washington to hunt Booth. Mr. Wood states that Booth did not break his ankle when he jumped from the box to the stage in the theatre after shooting Lincoln. Later, however, when he was riding up a hill in Washington and the rain was coming down in torrents, the horse slipped and fell on him, breaking his ankle and a man by the name of Dr. Mud took care of him. By the aid of Confederates he crossed the Potomac River just 20 minutes ahead of the detective squad. They found him after a few days hid in a barn and when he refused to surrender he was shot. When the detectives searched Mrs. Surratt's home he found the Rebel Majors suit that had been worn by Booth hid behind a panel in the wall. Booth was an actor and with Daniel DeForrest had taken part in the play, "Richard, the Third" many times in the Ford Theater. At Fort Stevens Mr. Wood met Abraham Lincoln who, at that time, had a narrow escape from being shot. Mr. Wood was working on a 100-lb. steel pilot long range seige gun when Lincoln came over to where he was and stooped over to look at the gun. Just as he drew back a rifle bullet whizzed by and struck on the swell of the muzzle and as it glanced off went through Mr. Wood's blouse. Lincoln asked if it had hit him and he said not it had just cut a button hole in his blouse. After a few other remarks Lincoln went on to talk with the other boys. Mr. Wood got his discharge July 6, 1865, and came to Saginaw where he worked for about 10 years. He was married in 1878 to Eva Taylor of Wells county, Indiana, and they came to Gratiot county and lived on a farm near Wheeler. They had six children, 5 of whom are living: Charles Wood of St. Louis, Lyman Wood of Lansing, Roy and Glen of Merrill and Mollie Wood at home. Mr. Wood came to St. Louis in 1894. Mrs. Wood passed away in 1928. [Handwritten note: Died 8 Sept. 1933, Fri., age 93] THOMAS J. WOOD - Wheeler Thomas Wm. Wood of Wheeler township was born in Ontario, Canada, on October 19, 1847, son of Charles and Jane Wood. When 8 years old he came with his parents......rest of article was missing from the file. Sorry.