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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by
Pat Dietrich
dietrich@centuryinter.net
DATE: July 27, 1998
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On July 14, 1863 a company of volunteer militia for state defense
called the Kelleys Island Home Guard was formed.  This consisted of 52
privates and 17 officers and non-coms.  William True, was named as 1st
corporal.  The reason that this company was formed is that in 1863, rumors of
rebel activities in Canada and threats of raids from that direction by bands
of southern sympathizers led by rebel officers kept the island people in a 
more or less anxious state.

Daily Commercial Register, Sandusky, Ohio - July 13, 1864

     The remains of our friend, Charles Mitchell, Co. K, 130th O.N.G., who 
died at City Point, Va., July 2nd, arrived here on the ISLAND QUEEN, Friday 
evening, July 8th.  They were taken to Kelley's Hall to remain over night.  
Saturday morning he was interred at the cememtery.  The Episcopal burial 
service was read by Mrs. J. Kelley, and a hymn sung at the grave.  On Sunday 
the Rev. Mr. McCune preached his funeral sermon.  (Charles is buried next to 
Hattie True, with the same stone, on Kelley's Island.  Hattie True was a 
sister to Sarah wife of Charles.)

     Mr. Mitchell moved to this place with wife about three years ago from 
the State of Maine.  He was one of those social, happy, and truly honorable 
men who are ever welcome to all social circles, and most deeply do we feel 
the great loss and we have sustained in his death.  He did not enlist as a 
soldier as a matter of choice, but purely as a duty which he owed his 
country; yet few went more cheerfully.  His comrades write that his death has 
cast a gloom over the company which will be long felt.  Everyone supposed he 
was getting along well with the measles, until within an hour or two of his 
death.  That his wife and remaining relatives may take consolation in the 
remembrance of his many virtues is the sincere wish of a friend.  E. H.