Record 53/278 |
|
Description
|
| 1 letter on letterhead from William E. Strong to Mrs. J. H. Sturtevant concerning the death of her brother Marion F. Hume, considered the 1st soldier killed from Wisconsin in the Civil War: Chicago, Ill. February 2nd, 1882 Mrs. J. H. Sturtevant Oshkosh Wisconsin Dear Madame; Your favor of January 25th received, I am unable now to fix the exact date of the enlistment of Marion F. Humes. I think. However, he joined the Belle Light Rifles (afterwards "F" Company 2nd Wisconsin) of which I was Captain, in April 1861. I remember him well. He was a splendid soldier and the first one hit in "F" Company. The regiment was advancing in line of battle towards batteries in position July 21st (the first battle of Bull Run) when a round shot from a 6 pound field piece struck in front of the Command. [It] ricocheted, and passed through "F" Company, shattering the gun of the man in the front rank, one Flint I think. And carrying away the right arm of Marion F. Humes above the elbow. The line halted within a short distance and I ran back to Humes who was standing, but weak and faint. He said. However, he was able to walk back to the field hospital, which was in our rear, not far away. I directed him to do so and have always thought he reached the hospital but of course cannot say positively. I never saw him after he turned back and suppose he died on the field or in the rebel prison at Richmond. I will try and ascertain for you the exact date of his enlistment, although it will be a difficult thing I fear. I think I could swear that he enlisted in April, still it may have been in May. I will do anything I can to aid his father in securing the information he desires. Wisconsin lost no braver or better soldier during the war than Marion F. Humes. He was among the very first to give his life for his country. Yours very truly Wm. E. Strong |
Letter from William E. Strong
-THE CIVIL WAR
-Copyright Oshkosh Public Museum
COPYRIGHT INFORMATION ~ For access to this image, contact scross@ci.oshkosh.wi.us
| Strong |
COPYRIGHT INFORMATION ~ For access to this image, contact scross@ci.oshkosh.wi.us