26th Wisconsin
Infantry Regiment
RosterBattles involving 26th InfantryAssignments for 26th Infantry- Organized on Sep 17 1862 at Camp Sigel, Milwaukee, WI
- Enlistment term: 3 years
- Mustered out on Jun 17 1865 at Milwaukee, WI
Available statistics for total numbers of men listed as:
- Enlisted or commissioned: 1102
- Transferred in: 1
- Killed or died of wounds (Officers): 12
- Killed or died of wounds (Enlisted men): 176
- Died of disease (Enlisted men): 77
- Prisoner of war: 103
- Died while prisoner of war: 17
- Disabled: 143
- Missing: 3
- Deserted: 28
- Discharged: 108
- Mustered out: 351
- Transferred out: 212
Historical notes and Reports:
Twenty-sixth Infantry
WISCONSIN
(3-YEARS)
Twenty-sixth Infantry. -- Cols., William H. Jacobs, Frederick C. Winkler, Lieut.-Cols., Charles Lehman, Hans Boebel, Frederick C. Winkler, Francis Lackner; Majs., Philip Horwitz, Henry Baetz, Frederick C. Winkler, Francis Lackner, John W. Fuchs.
This was a German regiment, organized at Camp Siegel, Milwaukee, mustered in, Sept. 17, 1862, and left the state on Oct. 6. It joined the 11th army corps at Fairfax Court House, Va., and was attached to the 2nd brigade, 3rd division.
It joined the movement toward the Rappahannock in December, went into camp at Stafford Court House, and then was on drill, guard and picket duty until April. It participated at Chancellorsville in May, 1863, being posted on a ridge in an open field with its right wholly uncovered, where it and the 119th N. Y., both under fire for the first time, were savagely attacked by superior numbers. The men fought like veterans until both flanks were doubled up and only fell back when destruction or capture was inevitable. The regiment lost 177 in killed, wounded, and prisoners in the two days' contest.
It was engaged at Gettysburg under the temporary command of Gen. Schurz. Ewell's corps, far out-numbering Schurz's command, bore down upon it with terrible fury, forcing it back, although the men fought like demons for every inch, until a point was reached where the line could be reformed. On the second day the regiment became hotly engaged and was compelled to fall back, which it did in good order, contesting the way as on the previous day, and later acted as rear-guard in the retreat to Cemetery Hill. Its losses during the battle were 210 killed, wounded, prisoners and missing.
At Missionary Ridge the regiment was in reserve the first day and in the front line against skirmishers on the second. In the beginning of the Atlanta campaign its brigade had the advance at Resaca, was engaged at Dallas; took position before Kennesaw Mountain and had several sharp engagements in that vicinity.
At Peachtree Creek it was under a terrific enfilading fire from a body of the enemy concealed in a thick wood, and repelled at the same time an assault from the front. Col. Wood, commanding the brigade, said: ''The brunt of the enemy's attack fell upon it, the brave, skillful and determined manner in which it met this attack * * * and drove back the enemy could not be excelled by the troops in this or any other army.''
The regiment was in the front line before Atlanta during the greater part of the siege and was in many skirmishes and reconnaissances. On the march to the sea it charged and carried the enemy's works 10 miles from Savannah, for which it received the compliments of its commanders. It was in the engagement at Averasboro, was in line of battle at Bentonville, supporting the 14th corps, and at the close of the campaign of the Carolinas marched to Richmond.
It participated in the grand review at Washington. In an official communication, Gen. Coggswell, brigade commander, stated that it was ''one of the finest military organizations in the service.''
It was mustered out at Washington June 13, 1865. Its original strength was 1,002; gain by recruits 86; substitutes, 1; total, 1,089. Loss by death, 254; desertion, 31; transfer, 125; discharge, 232; mustered out, 447.
Source: The Union Army, vol. 4, p. 61
Gettysburg after battle report:
Report of Col. William H. Jacobs, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry.
Warrenton Junction, Va., July 28, 1863.
Sir: Pursuant to your order, I hereby respectfully submit a report of the part taken by my regiment in the late battle of Gettysburg, as stated to me by officers of the regiment, I myself having been absent on sick leave at the time.
About 2 p. m. on July 1, the regiment arrived with the rest of your command at the village of Gettysburg, and was ordered at once to the front. The position assigned it by you was the extreme right of the brigade. The regiment was furiously attacked by vastly superior numbers, but held its own until ordered by you to retreat, when a retreat in good order was effected.
The regiment suffered very severely in this engagement. The loss in officers is as follows: Lieut.-Col. Boebel, severely wounded; Maj. Baetz, wounded; Adjutant Wallber, taken prisoner; 4 line officers killed, 9 line officers wounded, and 1 line officer taken prisoner.
The loss of enlisted men is an aggregate of 200 killed, wounded, and missing.
At about 4 o'clock the regiment rallied on Cemetery Hill, and was ordered behind the stone fence.
During the artillery fire of July 2 and 3, the regiment suffered no loss.
The behavior of both officers and men was, so far as I can learn, exemplary. I can state nothing special for the praise of individuals.
Lieut.-Col. Boebel commanded the regiment during the engagement on July 1. After its arrival on Cemetery Hill, Capt. Fuchs took command until July 4, when I arrived, and resumed command.
I remain, sir, your obedient servant,
W. H. JACOBS,
Col., Comdg. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteers.
Col. W. Krzyzanowski,
Comdg. Second Brigade, Third Division.
Series I. Vol. 27. Part I. Reports. Serial No. 43
Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick C. Winkler, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGT. WISCONSIN VOL. INFANTRY, Atlanta, Ga., September 25, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor herewith to submit the following report of operations of my regiment during the last campaign:
On the morning of May 2 we set out with 417 muskets and marched that day to Gordon's Mills. May 4, marched to Pleasant Grove, some four miles south of Ringold. May 6, marched to Leet's farm. May 7, crossed Taylor's Ridge, over a very rugged road, passed through Gordon's Springs, and camped at night in Dogwood Valley, about three miles from Buzzard Roost. May 8, started about noon on a reconnaissance to Buzzard Roost where we first met the enemy. A skirmish ensued and was continued till night and resumed the next morning. Here Lieut. Juenger and First Sergeant Stollberg were wounded. May 9, returned to Dogwood Valley and went into camp. May 11, we started again at daylight and marched into Snake Creek Gap. Halted shortly after noon and were all put to work improving the road through the gap. May 12, marched forward several miles and halted. May 13, marched several miles and formed in order of battle near Resaca; skirmishing commenced abut noon; we were left in reserve through the afternoon; took a position in the front line at night. May 14, remained in same position, with skirmishers out in front. The fire between the skirmishers became at times quite active, and we lost that day 1 man killed and 3 wounded. About midnight we were relieved and taken to the rear, where we slept till daylight. Shortly after marched to the extreme left of our army where dispositions for battle were soon made. The Twenty-sixth was formed on the right of the brigade in the front line and ordered to take a hill in its immediate front. Skirmishers were thrown out, and, supported by the main body of the regiment, soon succeeded to drive the rebel skirmishers out of a light breast-work they had thrown up on top of a hill, and we gained its brow. The rest of the brigade soon joined us on the left. Here we halted some time. The rebels' main line of fortifications was on a ridge nearly parallel to the one we occupied, and separated from it by a valley very densely covered by a young growth of pines. We moved forward again, drove the rebel skirmishers back info their works, and pressed on to an assault. The fire of canister and musketry that met us was terrific, the rebels' works proved very difficult of access, and the density of the forest made the preservation of a serried line impossible, so that although the works were actually gained in some places, the assault as a whole proved unsuccessful. We drew back into the valley, reformed the line, and attempted another assault, but again in vain. Orders were then given to fall back to the first hill, and there the regiment was collected. The rebels made a desperate charge to regain this position but were completely repulsed. The regiment lost in this Hay's action Lieut. Christian Phillip and 5 men killed and 40 wounded. After dark we were relieved by other troops and allowed to rest a short distance to the rear. May 16, the rebels having evacuated Resaca during the night, we started in pursuit about 10 a. m., marched southwesterly, crossed the Connesauga on a log bridge, and arrived after dark at Field's Mill, on the Coosawattee River, which we crossed in a ferry boat and then halted. About 1 p. m. 17th set out in a southwesterly course and rested that night about two miles west of Calhoun; 18th, started at 5 a. m., and marched south. About the middle of the afternoon our advance encountered rebel skirmishers supported by a section of artillery. One regiment of the brigade was deployed as skirmishers and the Twenty-sixth marched in line of battle in their support. We advanced slowly, and at night halted and slept on our arms. The next morning we pressed forward again, our brigade going due south on a reconnaissance; toward noon came in sight of a large body of rebels. Our brigade being alone we withdrew to a slight eminence and there awaited the enemy, but he made no attack. After several hours had elapsed we moved forward again toward Cassville, the Twenty-sixth in advance, Companies A and G deployed as skirmishers. We bad gone about half a mile when our skirmishers became engaged and quite a brisk skirmish ensued, in which the rebels were driven back and retired into the hills around Cassville. Toward evening, our corps having concentrated, we moved against Cassville in order of battle. Here quite a fight between the skirmishers and artillery of the hostile forces took place, continuing till long after dark. Our regiment was in second line and suffered no loss. The action over, we were taken about a mile to the rear and there encamped till May 23, when we set out again at 4 a. m. and marched southwesterly, crossed the Etowah River on a pontoon bridge in the afternoon, and soon after halted. 24th, marched to Burnt Hickory. Shortly after 8 a. m. May 25 we started from Burnt Hickory and marched southward, crossed Pumpkin Vine Creek, and continued our march through a very rough country, hills and woods. Near New Hope Church we came upon our Second Division, who had intrenched themselves. Dispositions for battle were made, and about 4 p. m. our brigade moved forward on the extreme left of the line, the Twenty-sixth being in second line. We moved forward with but little opposition nearly a mile, then came to a ravine which was commanded by an opposite hill, which the rebels held in force With infantry and artillery. The brigade was still pressed forward, and here a very severe conflict ensued. The rebels' fire was very rapid and, owing to their advantageous position, far more effective than ours. The Seventy-third Ohio, in the front line to our left, being very hotly pressed, we moved to its support and soon after relieved it and took our place in the front line. The battle continued with great fierceness for about an hour longer, when, as darkness set in, both parties ceased firing. We held that position till after midnight, when we were taken to the rear. Our casualties this day were 5 men killed, 1 officer and 31 men wounded, and 2 men missing. It being found that the enemy occupied a strongly intrenched position, our army also took position and intrenched. We were held in reserve till the 27th of May, when we took position in the front line of works, where we remained till evening of the 30th, our pickets in front constantly skirmishing with those of the enemy, whereby I man was killed. The evening of the 30th we were relieved and retired to the second line. June 1, our corps was relieved by the Fifteenth, and we marched toward the left. June 2, continued our march, and toward evening took position in support of troops of the Twenty-third Corps, who were skirmishing in our front. June 3, pushed forward again several miles. June 6, marched southward again and about noon struck the rebel lines. Here we again intrenched a strong line near that of the enemy, and the long rains which ensued kept us there till June 15, when we pressed forward again, the rebels having evacuated their lines running over Pine Knob toward Lost Mountain. We pressed forward cautiously, the advance engaged in heavy skirmishing. The enemy had only retreated about two miles to a very strong position well intrenched near Golgotha Church. We pushed close up to his works under a heavy skirmish and artillery tire. Our brigade was in reserve and exposed only to the latter. Two men of the regiment were wounded by a shell. The ground gained was held and the front line intrenched during the night. June 16, took position in front line. The rebels evacuated that night. Our skirmishers pressed forward at daylight, driving the enemy's, and then our battalion soon followed. The rebel skirmishers opposite those of the Twenty-sixth once attempted to make a stand, but they pressed forward impetuously, drove them off, and captured a battle-flag from them. At Noyes' Creek the enemy was again found in force and intrenched, and we in turn halted and intrenched. On the morning of the 19th this position was found to be evacuated, and we advanced once more with difficulty, crossed several creeks very much swollen in consequence of the late heavy rains, and came upon the enemy's skirmishers again. In the afternoon our brigade was formed in one line, the Twenty-sixth on the right, and sent forward into a wood. Having gone some distance we came to an open field commanded by a wooded hill held by rebel skirmishers. Here we were ordered to halt while our skirmishers engaged those of the enemy. Thus the afternoon passed. We lost 1 man killed and 4 wounded. After dark we were withdrawn to the rear of entrenchments, which had mean time been thrown up by the other brigades. This was in front of the rebel position near Kenesaw Mountain. June 22, our brigade was again formed in line of battle and marched forward. The rebels had thrown up a line of rifle-pits along the hill they held the 19th, and occupied them by a very strong skirmish line, which our skirmishers were unable to dislodge. We were then ordered to advance upon them in line. We had to cross an open field under a destructive fire, then charged upon the pits and took them, but soon found that they were commanded by the main line of the enemy's works. The portion held by our regiment was particularly exposed, but it had to be held, and we managed to throw up some breast-works, which, when finished, afforded us some protection. Our loss was very heavy, 9 men killed and 30 wounded. At night we were relieved and marched some distance to the right. June 23, marched to the right as far as the Powder Springs road, in rear of the line, then marched along that road as close as we could up to the rebel position, there took position and intrenched. Here we remained, with constant skirmishing between the pickets, till July 3; had 2 men wounded. We were so close to the rebel skirmishers that they fired into our lines with ease, and there was no place of safety except close to the breast-works.
July 3, the enemy being on the retreat again, we followed; found the enemy again strongly intrenched, and halted. July 4, made a short reconnaissance to find the position of Twenty-third Army Corps in the forenoon; moved some distance to the right in the afternoon to connect with that corps. July 5, the enemy having abandoned his works on the Nickajack Creek, we advanced again to within a few miles of the Chattahoochee. July 6, marched toward the left a couple of miles, and went into camp in a pleasant wood about two miles from the river and within eyesight of the domes of Atlanta. Here we enjoyed a brief period of rest. At 1 p. m. July 17 we broke camp, and toward evening crossed the river a little above the railroad crossing. July 18, marched to Buck Head and remained there 19th. July 20, we marched south from Buck Head, and shortly before noon crossed Peach Tree Creek; then formed in line and halted for a rest at the foot of a hill which ran along our front nearly parallel to our line. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, deployed as skirmishers in front of our division, had driven the rebel skirmishers from this hill, and also another similar hill beyond it, and now held the latter. We had been in this position several hours, when it was reported that the enemy was advancing in lines of battle, and the increased rapidity of fire on the skirmish line corroborated the report. Our brigade was at this time formed in two lines, the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Regt. in front line on the right, the Twentieth Connecticut on the left, two regiments, Seventy-third and Fifty-fifth Ohio, in second line. We took arms at once and waited impatiently for the order to advance. The order came, and we moved forward simultaneously with the brigade on our right. We gained the first hill just as our skirmishers were falling back from the second. We moved forward still, and had just gained a shallow ravine covered with bushes between the two hills when the enemy appeared in strong line of battle at a fence running along the brow of the hill in our front. As the two lines were within easy musket-range of each other, the battle commenced at once with great fierceness. The Twentieth Connecticut had not advanced with us. The Fourth Corps, still pushed to the left, which did occupy all advanced position at the time of the approach of the enemy, had fallen back to its breast-works, so that we were now on the extreme left of the line. In our front the field was open, but some sixty yards from our left there was a dense forest. Of this the enemy availed themselves, and came upon our flank in strong force, opening an enfilading fire upon us, while at the same time the line in front came nearer and nearer, until the two lines were in many places less than a rod apart. For a time the conflict was desperate. I took every man who could be spared on the right to re-enforce the left. At last the enemy broke and fled. We pursued him on his very heels to the top of the hill, captured the regimental flag of the Thirty-third Mississippi, and leaving Col. Drake, of that regiment, and 34 others dead, and at least double that number severely wounded, behind us, and cutting off the retreat of forty others, who surrendered afterward to the second line. Arriving on the top of the hill, we were again met by a heavy volley from the woods on our left, to which we replied with vigor. After some fifteen minutes the Twentieth Connecticut came up and took position on our left, and some time after the Seventy-third Ohio came up to take our place, and we were permitted to go some forty yards to the rear. Our ammunition had been entirely expended, and during the last half hour we had used that of the killed and wounded rebels lying on the field. The intense heat of the sun, added to the heat of the contest, had utterly exhausted the men, and when the excitement was over quite a number fell into a swoon. We secured besides the flag 5 officers' swords of the Thirty-third Mississippi. This regiment, we ascertained from the wounded, numbered nearly 400 effective men. We went into action with 260 muskets. Our casualties were Capt.'s Seeman and Mueller killed, Capt. Steinmeyer and Lieut. Wollmer wounded, 7 enlisted men killed and 34 wounded. July 21, we remained on the battle-field, which was about half a mile from a strong line of fortifications held in force by the enemy. The enemy's sharpshooters continued to shoot into our line, and killed 1 man of Company K. July 22, it was found that the enemy had abandoned his first line of works, and we moved forward and took position near the main defense of Atlanta. July 23, moved about half a mile to the right to relieve a brigade of our First Division near the railroad, and remained till 29th, being daily much exposed to rebel artillery fire, by which 2 men were wounded the 27th. July 29, our division left this position and marched to the extreme right of the army. August 2, moved back again nearly to our former position, and next day relieved Fourteenth Corps in the front line. In this position we remained to the 25th day of August. We advanced our lines three successive times, strongly intrenching at each advance, and were constantly exposed to bullets from the rebel picket-line, whereby we lost 2 men killed and 2 wounded. In the night of 25th of July we withdrew from our breast-works and marched to Turner's Ferry; there took position and intrenched.
On the morning of September 2 we detailed two officers and seventy men as part of a reconnoitering party, which that day entered the city of Atlanta. In the afternoon sent another similar detail, who proceeded to Atlanta. September 4, took the balance of the regiment to Atlanta, where we now encamp.
Of the battles of Resaca and Peach Tree Creek I have heretofore made my separate official reports (Not Found), to which I beg leave to refer for a more minute account of the part taken therein by my regiment.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRED. C. WINKLER,
Lieut. Col., Comdg. Twenty-sixth Regt. Wis. Vol. Infty.
Capt. C. H. YOUNG,
A. A. A. G., 3d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
PAGE 463-73 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L.
[Series I. Vol. 38. Part II, Reports. Serial No. 73.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick C. Winker, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations September 4-December 21.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIX WISCONSIN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Savannah, Ga., December 24, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations, required by circular of 23d instant:
Having pitched camp in Atlanta the 4th of September, my regiment remained there in peace and quiet till October 8, when, pursuant to orders received the night before I marched it to the Chattachoochee railroad bridge, there reporting to Col. F. C. Smith, commanding post. Here we detained as part of the garrison until November 14, when, having the day previous contributed our quarter of a mile destruction to the railroad between and that city, we marched to Atlanta with Col. Smith, and were there ordered to join our own [brigade] again, which we did. November 15, we started from Atlanta about 10 a. m., and that day and ensuing night wended in rear of a laboring wagon train to Stone Mountain. November 16, marched to Rock Bridge and crossed Yellow River. About 10 a. m. November 18 arrived at Social Circle, and there commenced destroying railroad. We worked in different places; destroyed in all about half a mile's length. November 19, arrived at Madison and again destroyed a short piece of road immediately adjacent to the town, perhaps 250 or 300 yards. November 22, we arrived to Milledgeville. November 26, at Sandersville. November 27, at Davisborough. November 29, crossed the Ogeechee and marched through Louisville.
December 6, arrived at Springfield, and on the 10th in front of Savannah, where we took position. The next day the brigade was advanced and my regiment placed on the extreme left of the line. December 12, I was ordered to take my regiment to the right of the brigade and there take position between the Savannah and Charleston and Central Railroads, relieving the troops of the Fourteenth Corps then there. This I did, and there remained somewhat exposed to rebel shot and shell, but without sustaining a casualty, till December 21, when we entered the city of Savannah without opposition.
We captured on the march about one dozen mules and three horses.
As to the amount of provisions foraged, it is impossible to make an estimate; but I can safely say that from the time that we left Rock Bridge until we arrived in the vicinity of Springfield, two men and a pack-mule from each company, sent out daily, brought in sufficient to subsist the command wholly.
The regiment enjoyed the best health throughout the campaign. The ambulance with the regiment was but little used. Two men were with the division hospital ambulances a portion of the time, but there are none of those present with this army in hospital now.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRED C. WINKLER,
Lieut. Col., Cmdg. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteers.
Capt. C. H. YOUNG,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. PAGE 352-92
[Series I. Vol. 44. Serial No. 92.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick C. Winkler, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations January 16-March 24.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH WISCONSIN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Near Goldsborough, N. C., March 25, 1865.
CAPT.: In compliance with circular from brigade headquarters, I have the honor to report the following operations of my regiment since January 16 instant:
On that day we were camped on Hardee's farm, in Beaufort District, S. C., near the city of Savannah, Ga. The brigade starting for Hardeeville that day, we were left as part of a guard for a supply train then loading. On the 18th we marched as a convoy to this train to Hardeeville, S. C., there rejoined the brigade, and went into camp, where we remained till January 29, when we started for Robertsville, which place we reached about noon the 30th ultimo.
Here we found two days' more rest, and then on the morning of February 2, communication with the rear being severed, entered upon the long march. On the morning of the 3d we passed through Lawtonville, and the evening of the 4th camped near Allendale. Here my first forage party came in, bringing an abundance of supplies. We continued our march without interruption; on the morning of the 6th crossed the Big Salkehatchie at Buford's Bridge. The 7th, crossed Little Salkehatchie at Dowling's Mills, and in the evening reached the railroad about one mile east of Graham's Turnout. Worked at the destruction of the railroad west of Graham's on the 8th. On the 9th we marched west to a couple of miles beyond Blackville, and worked vigorously at the destruction of the railroad till night. The 10th, we marched to White Pond and continued the same work, leaving off at night at the Thirty-third Mile Post from Augusta. The next day left the railroad and resumed our march northward. The 12th, crossed the South Fork of the Edisto, on the 13th the North Fork, and on the 16th came in sight of the capital of South Carolina. Thence marching westward a piece on the 17th, we crossed the Saluda on the 18th, and Broad River the 20th. Passed through Winnsborough the 21st and arrived on the banks of the Catawba River the 22d and crossed on a pontoon bridge the same night. On the 26th we arrived at Hanging Rock, where remained the next day.
Resumed our journey on the 28th and arrived at Chesterfield March 3, and to the Great Pedee, near Sneedsborough, N. C., on the 4th, where we remained the 5th. On this day 1 officer and 10 enlisted men, part of a forage party engaged in grinding corn at a mill, were captured by a rebel cavalry force disguised as Union foragers. March 6, marched to Cheraw and there crossed the Great Pedee the ensuing night. The 10th we got across a series of swamps and the Lumber River and reached the city of Fayetteville the 11th; we moved through the city and across the Cape Fear the 13th. Went on a reconnaissance to Black River the 14th and marched northward on the Raleigh plank road the 15th. Continued this march on the 16th, but soon came upon the enemy and became engaged in a hot skirmish, which continued till night, the enemy being driven from two lines of lighter works to his main line of breast-works. The regiment lost in this skirmish 2 officers killed, 5 enlisted men killed, and 10 wounded. The next day, the enemy having left, we marched over his works to Averasborough, where my regiment took position on the Smithfield road. The 18th, changed our route to the eastward and crossed Black River. In the afternoon of the 19th we came upon the enemy in force, troops in advance of us being already fighting. We were first formed as a reserve in rear of the First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, but soon moved with the brigade to the right of that division. Advancing in line, the brigade soon met the enemy and a severe engagement ensued, which continued till dark, when the enemy withdrew, leaving his dead on the field.
My regiment was in the second line throughout the engagement; gave no fire and received but a light one at the hands of the enemy, by which 1 enlisted man was killed and 4 wounded. The next morning we moved back to our first position; in the afternoon moved to the left flank and there intrenched. On the morning of the 21st moved out in support of the picket-line to reconnoiter the enemy's picket-line, and returned to camp. In the afternoon broke camp and marched back to our first reserve position. Starting thence on the 22d we crossed the Neuse River on the 23d and arrived at Goldsborough on the 24th.
Of the amount of provisions taken from the country it is very difficult to form an estimate, even approximately accurate. From the 4th of February till the 4th of March, when we reached the Great Pedee, our foragers provided us with an abundance of supplies, so that we could well have dispensed with even the small quantities of hard bread that were issued, and had accumulated a respectable quantity of meat and meal. After that we procured enough, in addition to our savings, to give each man a good ration every day. The whole amount taken from the country may be about as follows: Eight hundred pounds of wheat flour, 4,000 pounds of corn meal, 550 bushels of sweet potatoes, 13,000 pounds of meat, 900 pounds of lard, 150 pounds of dried fruit. How much forage the pack animals, forage animals, and animals proper in the regiment consumed and destroyed, it is still more difficult to tell, but I should put it at about 1,200 bushels of corn. My foragers destroyed about 300 bales of cotton.
Casualties (Nominal list (omitted) shows 2 officers and 6 men killed, 15 men
wounded, and 1 officer and 10 men prisoners.)
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
FRED. C. WINKLER,
Lieut. Col., Cmdg. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteers.
Capt. H. G. H. TARR,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
Report of Maj. Francis Lackner, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations January 24-25.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGT. WISCONSIN VOLS., Hardeeville, S. C., January 26, 1865.
CAPT.: Pursuant to orders received from the general commanding, I assumed the command of a scouting party of 115 men on the 24th instant, and starting from this place at 8.30 a.m. pursued the Augusta road toward Robertsville. At a point about two miles beyond Purysburg we began to find the road obstructed, a tree being felled across the same every fifteen to twenty feet. We found these obstructions wherever the sides of the road are wooded up to Kirk's house, and at several places beyond. The road is bad; some portions of it we found under water and others miry. About one mile beyond Ennis' Cross-Roads (Bradham's) we encountered a rebel picket-post of about twenty-five men, belonging, as I was informed, to Wheeler's command. Leaving the advance to engage them in front, I sent a party of twenty-five dismounted men through the swamps on the right of the road, with instructions to strike the road again at a point in rear of the enemy. Before they could strike the road, however, the enemy fled and we pursued them for about three miles, occasionally exchanging shots with them. I was informed that there are some 300 to 500 of Wheeler's men at Robertsville, and other squads of the same number at various points farther up the road. Toward evening we returned to Ennis' Cross-roads, where I had left forty men to guard the rear, and camped there for the night. The next morning (25th) we proceeded on the Sister's Ferry road to Grahamville without meeting the enemy. This road is unobstructed, dry, and in good condition. At Grahamville we were met by some of Gen. Foster's cavalry. At 12 m. we left Grahamville, marching for camp on the Charleston and Purysburg road. The great swamp bridges at Ferebeeville we found temporarily repaired for us by the pioneers of the Third Division, and after crossing the same we continued on the main road for about four miles, when I left the main road with the men of the First and Third Brigades and proceeded to camp on a side road. The men of the Second Brigade continued on the main road to Purysburg. We reached our camps at Hardeeville at 5 p.m. We saw a number of cattle, sheep, and hogs on the road, but found forage for animals scarce. The Charleston road, as far as I went on it, is unobstructed, but in places very miry and almost impassable, especially for teams.
We suffered no casualties.
I have the honor, captain, to remain, your obedient servant,
FRANCIS LACKNER,
Maj. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry.
Capt. JOHN SPEED,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LIX.] THE CAMPAIGN OF THE CAROLINAS. PAGE 843-98
[Series I. Vol. 47. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 98.]
Twenty-sixth Infantry
WISCONSIN
(3-YEARS)
Twenty-sixth Infantry. -- Cols., William H. Jacobs, Frederick C. Winkler, Lieut.-Cols., Charles Lehman, Hans Boebel, Frederick C. Winkler, Francis Lackner; Majs., Philip Horwitz, Henry Baetz, Frederick C. Winkler, Francis Lackner, John W. Fuchs.
This was a German regiment, organized at Camp Siegel, Milwaukee, mustered in, Sept. 17, 1862, and left the state on Oct. 6. It joined the 11th army corps at Fairfax Court House, Va., and was attached to the 2nd brigade, 3rd division.
It joined the movement toward the Rappahannock in December, went into camp at Stafford Court House, and then was on drill, guard and picket duty until April. It participated at Chancellorsville in May, 1863, being posted on a ridge in an open field with its right wholly uncovered, where it and the 119th N. Y., both under fire for the first time, were savagely attacked by superior numbers. The men fought like veterans until both flanks were doubled up and only fell back when destruction or capture was inevitable. The regiment lost 177 in killed, wounded, and prisoners in the two days' contest.
It was engaged at Gettysburg under the temporary command of Gen. Schurz. Ewell's corps, far out-numbering Schurz's command, bore down upon it with terrible fury, forcing it back, although the men fought like demons for every inch, until a point was reached where the line could be reformed. On the second day the regiment became hotly engaged and was compelled to fall back, which it did in good order, contesting the way as on the previous day, and later acted as rear-guard in the retreat to Cemetery Hill. Its losses during the battle were 210 killed, wounded, prisoners and missing.
At Missionary Ridge the regiment was in reserve the first day and in the front line against skirmishers on the second. In the beginning of the Atlanta campaign its brigade had the advance at Resaca, was engaged at Dallas; took position before Kennesaw Mountain and had several sharp engagements in that vicinity.
At Peachtree Creek it was under a terrific enfilading fire from a body of the enemy concealed in a thick wood, and repelled at the same time an assault from the front. Col. Wood, commanding the brigade, said: ''The brunt of the enemy's attack fell upon it, the brave, skillful and determined manner in which it met this attack * * * and drove back the enemy could not be excelled by the troops in this or any other army.''
The regiment was in the front line before Atlanta during the greater part of the siege and was in many skirmishes and reconnaissances. On the march to the sea it charged and carried the enemy's works 10 miles from Savannah, for which it received the compliments of its commanders. It was in the engagement at Averasboro, was in line of battle at Bentonville, supporting the 14th corps, and at the close of the campaign of the Carolinas marched to Richmond.
It participated in the grand review at Washington. In an official communication, Gen. Coggswell, brigade commander, stated that it was ''one of the finest military organizations in the service.''
It was mustered out at Washington June 13, 1865. Its original strength was 1,002; gain by recruits 86; substitutes, 1; total, 1,089. Loss by death, 254; desertion, 31; transfer, 125; discharge, 232; mustered out, 447.
Source: The Union Army, vol. 4, p. 61
Gettysburg after battle report:
Report of Col. William H. Jacobs, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry.
Warrenton Junction, Va., July 28, 1863.
Sir: Pursuant to your order, I hereby respectfully submit a report of the part taken by my regiment in the late battle of Gettysburg, as stated to me by officers of the regiment, I myself having been absent on sick leave at the time.
About 2 p. m. on July 1, the regiment arrived with the rest of your command at the village of Gettysburg, and was ordered at once to the front. The position assigned it by you was the extreme right of the brigade. The regiment was furiously attacked by vastly superior numbers, but held its own until ordered by you to retreat, when a retreat in good order was effected.
The regiment suffered very severely in this engagement. The loss in officers is as follows: Lieut.-Col. Boebel, severely wounded; Maj. Baetz, wounded; Adjutant Wallber, taken prisoner; 4 line officers killed, 9 line officers wounded, and 1 line officer taken prisoner.
The loss of enlisted men is an aggregate of 200 killed, wounded, and missing.
At about 4 o'clock the regiment rallied on Cemetery Hill, and was ordered behind the stone fence.
During the artillery fire of July 2 and 3, the regiment suffered no loss.
The behavior of both officers and men was, so far as I can learn, exemplary. I can state nothing special for the praise of individuals.
Lieut.-Col. Boebel commanded the regiment during the engagement on July 1. After its arrival on Cemetery Hill, Capt. Fuchs took command until July 4, when I arrived, and resumed command.
I remain, sir, your obedient servant,
W. H. JACOBS,
Col., Comdg. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteers.
Col. W. Krzyzanowski,
Comdg. Second Brigade, Third Division.
Series I. Vol. 27. Part I. Reports. Serial No. 43
Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick C. Winkler, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGT. WISCONSIN VOL. INFANTRY, Atlanta, Ga., September 25, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor herewith to submit the following report of operations of my regiment during the last campaign:
On the morning of May 2 we set out with 417 muskets and marched that day to Gordon's Mills. May 4, marched to Pleasant Grove, some four miles south of Ringold. May 6, marched to Leet's farm. May 7, crossed Taylor's Ridge, over a very rugged road, passed through Gordon's Springs, and camped at night in Dogwood Valley, about three miles from Buzzard Roost. May 8, started about noon on a reconnaissance to Buzzard Roost where we first met the enemy. A skirmish ensued and was continued till night and resumed the next morning. Here Lieut. Juenger and First Sergeant Stollberg were wounded. May 9, returned to Dogwood Valley and went into camp. May 11, we started again at daylight and marched into Snake Creek Gap. Halted shortly after noon and were all put to work improving the road through the gap. May 12, marched forward several miles and halted. May 13, marched several miles and formed in order of battle near Resaca; skirmishing commenced abut noon; we were left in reserve through the afternoon; took a position in the front line at night. May 14, remained in same position, with skirmishers out in front. The fire between the skirmishers became at times quite active, and we lost that day 1 man killed and 3 wounded. About midnight we were relieved and taken to the rear, where we slept till daylight. Shortly after marched to the extreme left of our army where dispositions for battle were soon made. The Twenty-sixth was formed on the right of the brigade in the front line and ordered to take a hill in its immediate front. Skirmishers were thrown out, and, supported by the main body of the regiment, soon succeeded to drive the rebel skirmishers out of a light breast-work they had thrown up on top of a hill, and we gained its brow. The rest of the brigade soon joined us on the left. Here we halted some time. The rebels' main line of fortifications was on a ridge nearly parallel to the one we occupied, and separated from it by a valley very densely covered by a young growth of pines. We moved forward again, drove the rebel skirmishers back info their works, and pressed on to an assault. The fire of canister and musketry that met us was terrific, the rebels' works proved very difficult of access, and the density of the forest made the preservation of a serried line impossible, so that although the works were actually gained in some places, the assault as a whole proved unsuccessful. We drew back into the valley, reformed the line, and attempted another assault, but again in vain. Orders were then given to fall back to the first hill, and there the regiment was collected. The rebels made a desperate charge to regain this position but were completely repulsed. The regiment lost in this Hay's action Lieut. Christian Phillip and 5 men killed and 40 wounded. After dark we were relieved by other troops and allowed to rest a short distance to the rear. May 16, the rebels having evacuated Resaca during the night, we started in pursuit about 10 a. m., marched southwesterly, crossed the Connesauga on a log bridge, and arrived after dark at Field's Mill, on the Coosawattee River, which we crossed in a ferry boat and then halted. About 1 p. m. 17th set out in a southwesterly course and rested that night about two miles west of Calhoun; 18th, started at 5 a. m., and marched south. About the middle of the afternoon our advance encountered rebel skirmishers supported by a section of artillery. One regiment of the brigade was deployed as skirmishers and the Twenty-sixth marched in line of battle in their support. We advanced slowly, and at night halted and slept on our arms. The next morning we pressed forward again, our brigade going due south on a reconnaissance; toward noon came in sight of a large body of rebels. Our brigade being alone we withdrew to a slight eminence and there awaited the enemy, but he made no attack. After several hours had elapsed we moved forward again toward Cassville, the Twenty-sixth in advance, Companies A and G deployed as skirmishers. We bad gone about half a mile when our skirmishers became engaged and quite a brisk skirmish ensued, in which the rebels were driven back and retired into the hills around Cassville. Toward evening, our corps having concentrated, we moved against Cassville in order of battle. Here quite a fight between the skirmishers and artillery of the hostile forces took place, continuing till long after dark. Our regiment was in second line and suffered no loss. The action over, we were taken about a mile to the rear and there encamped till May 23, when we set out again at 4 a. m. and marched southwesterly, crossed the Etowah River on a pontoon bridge in the afternoon, and soon after halted. 24th, marched to Burnt Hickory. Shortly after 8 a. m. May 25 we started from Burnt Hickory and marched southward, crossed Pumpkin Vine Creek, and continued our march through a very rough country, hills and woods. Near New Hope Church we came upon our Second Division, who had intrenched themselves. Dispositions for battle were made, and about 4 p. m. our brigade moved forward on the extreme left of the line, the Twenty-sixth being in second line. We moved forward with but little opposition nearly a mile, then came to a ravine which was commanded by an opposite hill, which the rebels held in force With infantry and artillery. The brigade was still pressed forward, and here a very severe conflict ensued. The rebels' fire was very rapid and, owing to their advantageous position, far more effective than ours. The Seventy-third Ohio, in the front line to our left, being very hotly pressed, we moved to its support and soon after relieved it and took our place in the front line. The battle continued with great fierceness for about an hour longer, when, as darkness set in, both parties ceased firing. We held that position till after midnight, when we were taken to the rear. Our casualties this day were 5 men killed, 1 officer and 31 men wounded, and 2 men missing. It being found that the enemy occupied a strongly intrenched position, our army also took position and intrenched. We were held in reserve till the 27th of May, when we took position in the front line of works, where we remained till evening of the 30th, our pickets in front constantly skirmishing with those of the enemy, whereby I man was killed. The evening of the 30th we were relieved and retired to the second line. June 1, our corps was relieved by the Fifteenth, and we marched toward the left. June 2, continued our march, and toward evening took position in support of troops of the Twenty-third Corps, who were skirmishing in our front. June 3, pushed forward again several miles. June 6, marched southward again and about noon struck the rebel lines. Here we again intrenched a strong line near that of the enemy, and the long rains which ensued kept us there till June 15, when we pressed forward again, the rebels having evacuated their lines running over Pine Knob toward Lost Mountain. We pressed forward cautiously, the advance engaged in heavy skirmishing. The enemy had only retreated about two miles to a very strong position well intrenched near Golgotha Church. We pushed close up to his works under a heavy skirmish and artillery tire. Our brigade was in reserve and exposed only to the latter. Two men of the regiment were wounded by a shell. The ground gained was held and the front line intrenched during the night. June 16, took position in front line. The rebels evacuated that night. Our skirmishers pressed forward at daylight, driving the enemy's, and then our battalion soon followed. The rebel skirmishers opposite those of the Twenty-sixth once attempted to make a stand, but they pressed forward impetuously, drove them off, and captured a battle-flag from them. At Noyes' Creek the enemy was again found in force and intrenched, and we in turn halted and intrenched. On the morning of the 19th this position was found to be evacuated, and we advanced once more with difficulty, crossed several creeks very much swollen in consequence of the late heavy rains, and came upon the enemy's skirmishers again. In the afternoon our brigade was formed in one line, the Twenty-sixth on the right, and sent forward into a wood. Having gone some distance we came to an open field commanded by a wooded hill held by rebel skirmishers. Here we were ordered to halt while our skirmishers engaged those of the enemy. Thus the afternoon passed. We lost 1 man killed and 4 wounded. After dark we were withdrawn to the rear of entrenchments, which had mean time been thrown up by the other brigades. This was in front of the rebel position near Kenesaw Mountain. June 22, our brigade was again formed in line of battle and marched forward. The rebels had thrown up a line of rifle-pits along the hill they held the 19th, and occupied them by a very strong skirmish line, which our skirmishers were unable to dislodge. We were then ordered to advance upon them in line. We had to cross an open field under a destructive fire, then charged upon the pits and took them, but soon found that they were commanded by the main line of the enemy's works. The portion held by our regiment was particularly exposed, but it had to be held, and we managed to throw up some breast-works, which, when finished, afforded us some protection. Our loss was very heavy, 9 men killed and 30 wounded. At night we were relieved and marched some distance to the right. June 23, marched to the right as far as the Powder Springs road, in rear of the line, then marched along that road as close as we could up to the rebel position, there took position and intrenched. Here we remained, with constant skirmishing between the pickets, till July 3; had 2 men wounded. We were so close to the rebel skirmishers that they fired into our lines with ease, and there was no place of safety except close to the breast-works.
July 3, the enemy being on the retreat again, we followed; found the enemy again strongly intrenched, and halted. July 4, made a short reconnaissance to find the position of Twenty-third Army Corps in the forenoon; moved some distance to the right in the afternoon to connect with that corps. July 5, the enemy having abandoned his works on the Nickajack Creek, we advanced again to within a few miles of the Chattahoochee. July 6, marched toward the left a couple of miles, and went into camp in a pleasant wood about two miles from the river and within eyesight of the domes of Atlanta. Here we enjoyed a brief period of rest. At 1 p. m. July 17 we broke camp, and toward evening crossed the river a little above the railroad crossing. July 18, marched to Buck Head and remained there 19th. July 20, we marched south from Buck Head, and shortly before noon crossed Peach Tree Creek; then formed in line and halted for a rest at the foot of a hill which ran along our front nearly parallel to our line. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, deployed as skirmishers in front of our division, had driven the rebel skirmishers from this hill, and also another similar hill beyond it, and now held the latter. We had been in this position several hours, when it was reported that the enemy was advancing in lines of battle, and the increased rapidity of fire on the skirmish line corroborated the report. Our brigade was at this time formed in two lines, the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Regt. in front line on the right, the Twentieth Connecticut on the left, two regiments, Seventy-third and Fifty-fifth Ohio, in second line. We took arms at once and waited impatiently for the order to advance. The order came, and we moved forward simultaneously with the brigade on our right. We gained the first hill just as our skirmishers were falling back from the second. We moved forward still, and had just gained a shallow ravine covered with bushes between the two hills when the enemy appeared in strong line of battle at a fence running along the brow of the hill in our front. As the two lines were within easy musket-range of each other, the battle commenced at once with great fierceness. The Twentieth Connecticut had not advanced with us. The Fourth Corps, still pushed to the left, which did occupy all advanced position at the time of the approach of the enemy, had fallen back to its breast-works, so that we were now on the extreme left of the line. In our front the field was open, but some sixty yards from our left there was a dense forest. Of this the enemy availed themselves, and came upon our flank in strong force, opening an enfilading fire upon us, while at the same time the line in front came nearer and nearer, until the two lines were in many places less than a rod apart. For a time the conflict was desperate. I took every man who could be spared on the right to re-enforce the left. At last the enemy broke and fled. We pursued him on his very heels to the top of the hill, captured the regimental flag of the Thirty-third Mississippi, and leaving Col. Drake, of that regiment, and 34 others dead, and at least double that number severely wounded, behind us, and cutting off the retreat of forty others, who surrendered afterward to the second line. Arriving on the top of the hill, we were again met by a heavy volley from the woods on our left, to which we replied with vigor. After some fifteen minutes the Twentieth Connecticut came up and took position on our left, and some time after the Seventy-third Ohio came up to take our place, and we were permitted to go some forty yards to the rear. Our ammunition had been entirely expended, and during the last half hour we had used that of the killed and wounded rebels lying on the field. The intense heat of the sun, added to the heat of the contest, had utterly exhausted the men, and when the excitement was over quite a number fell into a swoon. We secured besides the flag 5 officers' swords of the Thirty-third Mississippi. This regiment, we ascertained from the wounded, numbered nearly 400 effective men. We went into action with 260 muskets. Our casualties were Capt.'s Seeman and Mueller killed, Capt. Steinmeyer and Lieut. Wollmer wounded, 7 enlisted men killed and 34 wounded. July 21, we remained on the battle-field, which was about half a mile from a strong line of fortifications held in force by the enemy. The enemy's sharpshooters continued to shoot into our line, and killed 1 man of Company K. July 22, it was found that the enemy had abandoned his first line of works, and we moved forward and took position near the main defense of Atlanta. July 23, moved about half a mile to the right to relieve a brigade of our First Division near the railroad, and remained till 29th, being daily much exposed to rebel artillery fire, by which 2 men were wounded the 27th. July 29, our division left this position and marched to the extreme right of the army. August 2, moved back again nearly to our former position, and next day relieved Fourteenth Corps in the front line. In this position we remained to the 25th day of August. We advanced our lines three successive times, strongly intrenching at each advance, and were constantly exposed to bullets from the rebel picket-line, whereby we lost 2 men killed and 2 wounded. In the night of 25th of July we withdrew from our breast-works and marched to Turner's Ferry; there took position and intrenched.
On the morning of September 2 we detailed two officers and seventy men as part of a reconnoitering party, which that day entered the city of Atlanta. In the afternoon sent another similar detail, who proceeded to Atlanta. September 4, took the balance of the regiment to Atlanta, where we now encamp.
Of the battles of Resaca and Peach Tree Creek I have heretofore made my separate official reports (Not Found), to which I beg leave to refer for a more minute account of the part taken therein by my regiment.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRED. C. WINKLER,
Lieut. Col., Comdg. Twenty-sixth Regt. Wis. Vol. Infty.
Capt. C. H. YOUNG,
A. A. A. G., 3d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
PAGE 463-73 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L.
[Series I. Vol. 38. Part II, Reports. Serial No. 73.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick C. Winker, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations September 4-December 21.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIX WISCONSIN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Savannah, Ga., December 24, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations, required by circular of 23d instant:
Having pitched camp in Atlanta the 4th of September, my regiment remained there in peace and quiet till October 8, when, pursuant to orders received the night before I marched it to the Chattachoochee railroad bridge, there reporting to Col. F. C. Smith, commanding post. Here we detained as part of the garrison until November 14, when, having the day previous contributed our quarter of a mile destruction to the railroad between and that city, we marched to Atlanta with Col. Smith, and were there ordered to join our own [brigade] again, which we did. November 15, we started from Atlanta about 10 a. m., and that day and ensuing night wended in rear of a laboring wagon train to Stone Mountain. November 16, marched to Rock Bridge and crossed Yellow River. About 10 a. m. November 18 arrived at Social Circle, and there commenced destroying railroad. We worked in different places; destroyed in all about half a mile's length. November 19, arrived at Madison and again destroyed a short piece of road immediately adjacent to the town, perhaps 250 or 300 yards. November 22, we arrived to Milledgeville. November 26, at Sandersville. November 27, at Davisborough. November 29, crossed the Ogeechee and marched through Louisville.
December 6, arrived at Springfield, and on the 10th in front of Savannah, where we took position. The next day the brigade was advanced and my regiment placed on the extreme left of the line. December 12, I was ordered to take my regiment to the right of the brigade and there take position between the Savannah and Charleston and Central Railroads, relieving the troops of the Fourteenth Corps then there. This I did, and there remained somewhat exposed to rebel shot and shell, but without sustaining a casualty, till December 21, when we entered the city of Savannah without opposition.
We captured on the march about one dozen mules and three horses.
As to the amount of provisions foraged, it is impossible to make an estimate; but I can safely say that from the time that we left Rock Bridge until we arrived in the vicinity of Springfield, two men and a pack-mule from each company, sent out daily, brought in sufficient to subsist the command wholly.
The regiment enjoyed the best health throughout the campaign. The ambulance with the regiment was but little used. Two men were with the division hospital ambulances a portion of the time, but there are none of those present with this army in hospital now.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRED C. WINKLER,
Lieut. Col., Cmdg. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteers.
Capt. C. H. YOUNG,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. PAGE 352-92
[Series I. Vol. 44. Serial No. 92.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick C. Winkler, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations January 16-March 24.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH WISCONSIN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Near Goldsborough, N. C., March 25, 1865.
CAPT.: In compliance with circular from brigade headquarters, I have the honor to report the following operations of my regiment since January 16 instant:
On that day we were camped on Hardee's farm, in Beaufort District, S. C., near the city of Savannah, Ga. The brigade starting for Hardeeville that day, we were left as part of a guard for a supply train then loading. On the 18th we marched as a convoy to this train to Hardeeville, S. C., there rejoined the brigade, and went into camp, where we remained till January 29, when we started for Robertsville, which place we reached about noon the 30th ultimo.
Here we found two days' more rest, and then on the morning of February 2, communication with the rear being severed, entered upon the long march. On the morning of the 3d we passed through Lawtonville, and the evening of the 4th camped near Allendale. Here my first forage party came in, bringing an abundance of supplies. We continued our march without interruption; on the morning of the 6th crossed the Big Salkehatchie at Buford's Bridge. The 7th, crossed Little Salkehatchie at Dowling's Mills, and in the evening reached the railroad about one mile east of Graham's Turnout. Worked at the destruction of the railroad west of Graham's on the 8th. On the 9th we marched west to a couple of miles beyond Blackville, and worked vigorously at the destruction of the railroad till night. The 10th, we marched to White Pond and continued the same work, leaving off at night at the Thirty-third Mile Post from Augusta. The next day left the railroad and resumed our march northward. The 12th, crossed the South Fork of the Edisto, on the 13th the North Fork, and on the 16th came in sight of the capital of South Carolina. Thence marching westward a piece on the 17th, we crossed the Saluda on the 18th, and Broad River the 20th. Passed through Winnsborough the 21st and arrived on the banks of the Catawba River the 22d and crossed on a pontoon bridge the same night. On the 26th we arrived at Hanging Rock, where remained the next day.
Resumed our journey on the 28th and arrived at Chesterfield March 3, and to the Great Pedee, near Sneedsborough, N. C., on the 4th, where we remained the 5th. On this day 1 officer and 10 enlisted men, part of a forage party engaged in grinding corn at a mill, were captured by a rebel cavalry force disguised as Union foragers. March 6, marched to Cheraw and there crossed the Great Pedee the ensuing night. The 10th we got across a series of swamps and the Lumber River and reached the city of Fayetteville the 11th; we moved through the city and across the Cape Fear the 13th. Went on a reconnaissance to Black River the 14th and marched northward on the Raleigh plank road the 15th. Continued this march on the 16th, but soon came upon the enemy and became engaged in a hot skirmish, which continued till night, the enemy being driven from two lines of lighter works to his main line of breast-works. The regiment lost in this skirmish 2 officers killed, 5 enlisted men killed, and 10 wounded. The next day, the enemy having left, we marched over his works to Averasborough, where my regiment took position on the Smithfield road. The 18th, changed our route to the eastward and crossed Black River. In the afternoon of the 19th we came upon the enemy in force, troops in advance of us being already fighting. We were first formed as a reserve in rear of the First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, but soon moved with the brigade to the right of that division. Advancing in line, the brigade soon met the enemy and a severe engagement ensued, which continued till dark, when the enemy withdrew, leaving his dead on the field.
My regiment was in the second line throughout the engagement; gave no fire and received but a light one at the hands of the enemy, by which 1 enlisted man was killed and 4 wounded. The next morning we moved back to our first position; in the afternoon moved to the left flank and there intrenched. On the morning of the 21st moved out in support of the picket-line to reconnoiter the enemy's picket-line, and returned to camp. In the afternoon broke camp and marched back to our first reserve position. Starting thence on the 22d we crossed the Neuse River on the 23d and arrived at Goldsborough on the 24th.
Of the amount of provisions taken from the country it is very difficult to form an estimate, even approximately accurate. From the 4th of February till the 4th of March, when we reached the Great Pedee, our foragers provided us with an abundance of supplies, so that we could well have dispensed with even the small quantities of hard bread that were issued, and had accumulated a respectable quantity of meat and meal. After that we procured enough, in addition to our savings, to give each man a good ration every day. The whole amount taken from the country may be about as follows: Eight hundred pounds of wheat flour, 4,000 pounds of corn meal, 550 bushels of sweet potatoes, 13,000 pounds of meat, 900 pounds of lard, 150 pounds of dried fruit. How much forage the pack animals, forage animals, and animals proper in the regiment consumed and destroyed, it is still more difficult to tell, but I should put it at about 1,200 bushels of corn. My foragers destroyed about 300 bales of cotton.
Casualties (Nominal list (omitted) shows 2 officers and 6 men killed, 15 men
wounded, and 1 officer and 10 men prisoners.)
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
FRED. C. WINKLER,
Lieut. Col., Cmdg. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteers.
Capt. H. G. H. TARR,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
Report of Maj. Francis Lackner, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations January 24-25.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGT. WISCONSIN VOLS., Hardeeville, S. C., January 26, 1865.
CAPT.: Pursuant to orders received from the general commanding, I assumed the command of a scouting party of 115 men on the 24th instant, and starting from this place at 8.30 a.m. pursued the Augusta road toward Robertsville. At a point about two miles beyond Purysburg we began to find the road obstructed, a tree being felled across the same every fifteen to twenty feet. We found these obstructions wherever the sides of the road are wooded up to Kirk's house, and at several places beyond. The road is bad; some portions of it we found under water and others miry. About one mile beyond Ennis' Cross-Roads (Bradham's) we encountered a rebel picket-post of about twenty-five men, belonging, as I was informed, to Wheeler's command. Leaving the advance to engage them in front, I sent a party of twenty-five dismounted men through the swamps on the right of the road, with instructions to strike the road again at a point in rear of the enemy. Before they could strike the road, however, the enemy fled and we pursued them for about three miles, occasionally exchanging shots with them. I was informed that there are some 300 to 500 of Wheeler's men at Robertsville, and other squads of the same number at various points farther up the road. Toward evening we returned to Ennis' Cross-roads, where I had left forty men to guard the rear, and camped there for the night. The next morning (25th) we proceeded on the Sister's Ferry road to Grahamville without meeting the enemy. This road is unobstructed, dry, and in good condition. At Grahamville we were met by some of Gen. Foster's cavalry. At 12 m. we left Grahamville, marching for camp on the Charleston and Purysburg road. The great swamp bridges at Ferebeeville we found temporarily repaired for us by the pioneers of the Third Division, and after crossing the same we continued on the main road for about four miles, when I left the main road with the men of the First and Third Brigades and proceeded to camp on a side road. The men of the Second Brigade continued on the main road to Purysburg. We reached our camps at Hardeeville at 5 p.m. We saw a number of cattle, sheep, and hogs on the road, but found forage for animals scarce. The Charleston road, as far as I went on it, is unobstructed, but in places very miry and almost impassable, especially for teams.
We suffered no casualties.
I have the honor, captain, to remain, your obedient servant,
FRANCIS LACKNER,
Maj. Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry.
Capt. JOHN SPEED,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LIX.] THE CAMPAIGN OF THE CAROLINAS. PAGE 843-98
[Series I. Vol. 47. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 98.]
Battles (where losses incurred) involving 26th Infantry Regiment
Location | Date | Killed | Wounded | POW | Missing | Losses |
Atlanta, GA | 06/27/64 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Atlanta, GA | 07/01/64 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Atlanta, GA | 08/08/64 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
Averysboro, NC | 03/16/65 | 8 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 16 |
Bentonville, NC | 03/19/65 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
Buzzard's Roost, GA | 02/24/64 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Chancellorsville, VA | 05/02/63 | 38 | 109 | 37 | 2 | 186 |
Dallas, GA | 05/24/64 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Dallas, GA | 05/25/64 | 8 | 19 | 4 | 0 | 31 |
Gettysburg, PA | 07/01/63 | 44 | 145 | 48 | 0 | 237 |
Kenesaw Mountain, GA | 06/22/64 | 3 | 31 | 0 | 0 | 34 |
Marietta, GA | 06/19/64 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 8 |
Peach Tree Creek, GA | 07/20/64 | 11 | 27 | 0 | 0 | 38 |
Resaca, GA | 05/10/64 | 3 | 40 | 1 | 0 | 44 |
Brigade, Division, Corps, and Army assignments for 26th Infantry Regiment
From | To | Brigade | Division | Corps | Army/Department | Comments |
10/01/62 | 09/25/63 | 2 | 3 | 11 | Army of Potomac | |
09/25/63 | 04/16/64 | 2 | 3 | 11 | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | |
04/14/64 | Jun 1865 | 3 | 3 | 20 | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | Mustered Out |
Roster for 26th Infantry Regiment - 1,101 men
Source: Roster of Wisconsin Volunteers; War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865; Volumes I and II; compiled by Authority of the Legislature, under the direction of Jeremiah M. Rusk, Governor & Chandler P. Chapman, Adjutant General; Democrat Printing Company, State Printers; Madison, Wisconsin; 1886
| Abbott - Hardrath | Harsch - Meyers |
| Michel - Staib | Stamm - Zuhrmuehlen |
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