H (%^t/}:.•!«*».•.■ -apf. --qKc-. ■■.•"•.•• :>^" ^F^qmr ROOM George Washington Flowers Memorial Collection DUKE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY ESTABLISHED BY THE FAvntY or COLONEL FLOWERS J^ mifeM'y^W, ^ ^^/^ / \ ^ f > celebra.tio:n^ ^fvcntti-^ifth g^univtvi^atg THE CHATHAM ARTlLLEllY OF SAVANNAH MAY 1, 1861. Published vh coupuANqg with a liEsoLmoN adopted bv the Corps. %o( rntm srntto, niei in bonis, amicitiam tssr non possr. lipea birtus amiiitiam Ofgnit tt. (onttnrt, net eint birtutt resr amicitia uUo parto poUet. Kirtus, birtus fnquam, conriliat amicilias tl rongfrbat. — Ciceeo. JOHN M. COOPER AND COMPANY 1861. Tr.-R ^vocccclincjis of the Javi. The first of May being the Seventy-Fifth Anni- versary of the Chatham Artillery, that Company assembled in full uniform, at the Armory, at half-past nine o'clock, A. M. Leaving the yard at ten o'clock, with a battery con- sisting of six six-pounder guns and two twelve-pounder howitzers, and with a full brass band, the Corps was marched to the residence of Capt. Joseph S. Claghorn in South Broad Street, where a beautiful Confederate Flag was presented, in the name and on behalf of the Wives and Daughters of the Non-Commissioned Offi- cers, by Second Lieutenant Julian IIartridge, ac- companying the presentation by the following address. Captaix Claqhorx Axn Fellow Soldiers OF THE Chatham Artillery : I have been requested to present to you this Flag as a gift from the Ladies of the families of your Non-Commissioned officers. At all tiroes and under any circumstances, the performance of such a task would be most grateful to my feelings. Even were you citizen-soldiers of a country upon which peace and prosperity were smiling, and within whose borders no call had yet resounded to arms to meet an invading foe ; even were this banner intended simply as a decoration upon festive occasion!*, or to be borne by you only amid the "pomp and pageantry of mimu' war:" even under such circumstances, it would still be a ■ouixw 5(0 ^ c -^ ^ 4 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY or prido to mo, to \ye the clioscn medium of transmitting to rou an evidence of interest in your welfare and desire for your success. But tliis is no plaything of peace that I am commissioned to present. 3'ou. It is intended to subserve a higher, a holier, a more solemn purpose. It is entrusted to your care as the ensign of your country's iionor, to l)e borne against her foes,, and to bo defended from disgrace with tiie same zeal, the same courage, the same energy, with wliich you would protect tlie good name of mother or sister. Tlie fair donors have chosen as your banner, the ensign of a nation which, although infant in age, ha.s yet proudly claimed its place among the nations of the earth, and has cxst tlie gauntlet of its defiance at the feet of ita foes. Already has that ensign waved amid the smoke of battle and the din of contending forces ; and already has victory perched upon it Even now thousands of your cnuntrymen are gathering around it, leaving homes, and wives, and everything, to die, if need be, in its defence. The future seems to promise that soon you too will bo called on to bear it in defence of home, and country, and honor. Should that time come, I charge you, in the name of those who give it, to remember how sacred is the charge committed to your care. Remember that all the incentives wiiich can sway the heart or animate the soul of man, whether of love, or prido, or patriotism, cluster around this banner. It is the representative of your national existence — the protection of your domestic safety and happiness — the embodiment of tliat pure spirit of patriotism, which "deems a stain upon one's country as individual di^frace." Above all, remember that although the tear of affection may glisten in tlio eye of woman as she bids you farewell, altliough her cheek may pale, and her lip may quiver with anxiety and appre- hension that you may never return — that same eye will flash with the fire of indignation, tliat same clieok will mantle with the bhish of shame, that same lip will curl with scorn and contempt, should yon return with the flag which woman gave you tarnished by disgrace. But I feel no fear, nor do those who gave it, as to what will be the fate of this flag in your liands. I look back through the history of your body, and I find in the past everything to give hope and confidence in the future. I look upon you now on this, your seventy-fifth anniversary, OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 5 and see your organization more powerful tlian ever, and animated witli the 13rm determination never to disgrace the fair fame or the good name of the Chatham Artiller}^ To you, Captain CLAGiroRN\ as the commanding officer of this Corps, I commit this flag, with the assurance upon the part of tlie donors, of their confident belief that under your command, although time, or the elements, or the smoke of battle may tarnish the materials of which it is composed, the honor that encircles it will be preserved as pure and chaste, as when entnisted to your care. Capt. Claghorn upon receiving the flag, responded on behalf of the Company, as follows : LlECTE.VAXT Hartridge : It becomes my pleasing duty on behalf of our fellow-soldiers, to accept at your hands, as the representative of the Fair Donors, this beautiful Banner. Permit me to return to tbem and to you, our heartfelt thanks for this patriotic manifestation of their friendship, this marked expression of their confidence in our courage, and their reliance upon our devotion to our Country. Tell them, sir, that we will treasure up in our memories the kind words and wise counsels with which they have accompanied its presen- tation ; and when the struggle comes, as soon it may, when upon the battle-field, weary and faint with the strife and the contest, as we turn our eyes upon its bright stars, with renewed courage and strength, wo will with one defiant shout, strike again for them, our homes, and our liberties. Fellow-Soldiers — The Spartan mother when she sent her Bon to battle, gave him a shield with this parting injunction, " either mfh U, or upon it' It is with the same sentiment the fair Wives of our Non-Commia- gioned Officers have this day committed to your charge this sacred banner, the chosen symbol of a new-bom Republic, just struggling into exis- tence. Kre its bright stars or spotless field be polluted by the ruthlew hand of the destroyers of this once glorious Union, let its fiilken folds enshroud the last of its defenders I 6 SEVEXTY-Firrn AXXiVKusAia' • The flag was then saluted, the band playing the Marseilles Hymn, The ceremony of the Presentation and Reception of the Flag concluded, the Corps proceeded to the Athe- nu'um, where, in the presence of the Company occu- pying the parquette, and of a large concourse of ladies and gentlemen, the following prayer was offered to Almighty God, by the Chaplain, Private "William S. BOOAKT. Almighty and ever lasting God I tbat rulest all things by Thy Divine power in Ileaven and earth, Thou art our God, and we will praise Thee ; Thou hast been our fathers' God, and we will adore Thee. Thou iiast not dealt witli us afler our sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniquities — else had we been consumed. We acknowledge our depend- ence upon Thee, and our obligations to Thee. Wo confess our sins ; we deplore our transgressions; and we invoke Thy forgiveness. Let not Thy anger rise against us, nor cast us off from Tiiy favor forever. In tlio midst of wrath, Lord I remember mercy. Look with compassion upon our beloved land, rent with civil war, and stay the evils which beset us. Thou sittest in the throne, judging right; judge, we pray Thee, between us and our enemies. Make it appear that Thou art our Saviour and Miglity Peliverer. Stir up Thy strength, Lordl audcomo and help us, for thou givest nou always tiio battle to the strong, but canst save by many or by few. Bo (heroforo, our Miglity Defender. Wo beseech Thee, God I with Thy especial favor to behold and bless Thy servant, the President of tlie Confederate States, and nil others in authority over us. Give them wisdom of counsel, integrity of pur- j)ose, and firmness of will in their several duties and stations. Above all, repleniKh them with the grace of Thy Holy Spirit, that they may always incline to Thy will, and walk in Thy way. We pray too, for our representatives in the Congress now assembled, that Thou wouldst be pleased to direct and prosper all their consultations to the advancement of Thy glory, the good of Thy Church, and the safety, honor, and wel- OF THE CHATHAM AKTILLEIIY. 7 fare of Thy people. May our now Confederacy be built on the founda- tions of private virtue and public morality, consecrated by the spirit of religion and of reverent obedience to Thy holy will. May it recognize Thee as the source of all its prosperity, and the giver of all its success. Thus only shall it be to us and oiir children, a fountain of public and private blessings. And, Eternal God! in whose inscrutable providence, we have come to the verge of civil strife, and may soon stand face to face with the dangers of battle, receive, we beseech Thee, into Thy almighty protection, the persons and lives of us, Thy servants, and this military body in which we serve. Save us fronj the dangers to which we are exposed, from sickness, from accrident, and from the violence of enemies, that we may be a safeguard to this commonwealth, and a security to its people. Graciously hear us, that those evils which the craft and subtilty of the devil or man worketh against us, may by Thy good providence be brought to naught. Support us and our oause under the heavy troubles which threaten our beloved State. Give our people an abiding faith and trust in Thee. May we have courage to resist the wrong, and moral strength to do what is right. May truth, justice and religion be the ruling principles of our hearts, and the guides of our lives. And whether in peace or in war, may we all obey Thy requirement to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. And now, Heavenly Father, we commit our cause, our fellow-cit- izens, our families, and ourselves to Thy holy keeping. Fit us to hve to Thy honor and glory, and when we shall have served Thee in our generation, may we all be gathered unto our fathers, having the testimony of a good conscience, in the communion of the Catholic Chorch, in the confidence of a certain faith, in the comfort of a reason- able, religious, and holy hope, in favor with Thee our God, and in perfect charity with the world. These things and all elso that we need, we humbly ask through the merits of ftim, whom Thou hast given to be unto ua both a sacrifice for sin, and an ensample of godly life — Thy Son JesuA Christ, our Lord. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, bo with ua all evermore. Amen. 8 FKVENTV-KIFTH ANNIVEKSARY L'pou iii'j ."Mage sat the Color Guard, Avith the Con- federate Flag but a few moments before presented to the Corps, — the commissioned officers of the Chatham Artillcr}-, — three Ex-Captains of the Company, — Offi- cers of the Confederate Army, and of the Volunteer Corps of the City, — and a number of the prominent citizens of Savannah. The j)rayer was followed by music from the band occupying the orchestra; after which, the following Oration was pronounced by First Lieutenant Charles C. Jones, Jr., the Orator of the Day. ©vatiott. Fellow-Soldiers : Seventj'-five years -with all their hopes and fears, fortunes and misfortunes, pleasures and sorrows, have been gathered within the enfolding arms of an inex- orable Past, and the Chatham Artillery still lives; not in the decrepitude of age, and the weakness of decay, but in the noon-tide of prosperity, and in all the fresh- ness and vigor of a matured, established manhood. Three quarters of a century ago, few in numbers, but brave in heart, and animated with pure, noble, and patriotic impulses, our organization had its birth. To- day, upon our muster roll of active members, appear the names of ninety fresh-lipped men, good and true, mindful of the obligations which devolve UDon them as members of society, and alive to the responsibilities which they have assumed as citizen soldiers. Our burnished battery gleams brightly in the morning sun, and our crimson plumes are nodding gaily in the soft airs of Spring. Our bosoms beating high with honest pride, with friendship for each other, and with a sincere devotion to the honor, the dignity, and the every interest of our Company, we are met to celebrate the Sevexty-Fifth Anniversary of our time-honored Corps — a Corps B 10 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNTVERSARY surviving the shocks and changes incident to volunteer militar}' organizations, — maintaining since its inception a permanent, uninterrupted, active existence, — perform- ing at all times and in all places, with alacrity, with zeal and with ability, the duties which have devolved upon it, and standing this day confessedly Oie oldest volunteer pxilitary compamj wiOiiii Oie limits of Oiese Confederate States. Age itself imparts a dignity. The eloquence of the orator falls upon the ear in more commanding tones, as it comes re-echoed by the voices of centuries; and the gleam of the warrior's sword grows brighter still, as it flashes forth from out the darkness of the Past. The strong fortress of to-day, with its heavy bastions and glittering armament, seems far less attractive than the old castle bending beneath the weight of years, its high towers over-shadowed by the clustering ivy, its silent walls tapestried witli the moss of centuries. Age does indeed impress* its seal of consecration upon men and matter. It is meet then, Fellow-Soldiers, in reviewing the his- tory of our Company, that we should contemplate with peculiar pride and pleasure the longevity of our Corps. Looking down the current of time, what revolutions of States, what wars, what commotions, what changes of empire since that day, when with a battery of only two four-pounder guns, we first saluted the immortal mem- ory of Saint Tammany, the tutelar Saint of America 1 Other volunteer military organizations there were, in OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 11 this City and elsewhere, prior to and coeval with our own; but wearied with the heat and the burthen of the day, faint-hearted they have fallen ; and only here and there, upon the dusty pages of neglected newspaper files are seen occasional notices of their former existence, *' like sea-shells found where the ocean has been, to tell that the great tide of life was once there." The organization of our Corps was the legitimate re- sult of a practical patriotic recognition by the members who first composed it, of the necessities which then existed for the formation of an artillery corps within our City. Its founders were men who had many of them in person braved the dangers of the Revolution; who intel- ligently appreciated the priceless value of that liberty which had been so dearly bought, and who were pre- pared themselves sacredly to cherish, and vigorously to defend its existence. They were men feelingly alive to the fact, that in a country such as that which we then possessed, when dangers threatened, the first, the surest reliance must be placed upon citizen soldiers. Experi- ence has fully demonstrated the truth of the projxxsition, that at least in free and enlightened republics, the well- ordered volunteer military organizations arc in peace, the natural guardians of law, that to them in times of peril raust we look for the earliest, the most effectual protection. They were men too, who had here erected their family altars, and who had linked their fortunes with the destinies of our rising City, — men of respect- ability and of character, — aware of their true positions 12 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY and responsibilities as citizens of a Republic just born into the sisterhood of nations, — and entertaining for each other that sincere regard, which is the offspring of kindred hopes, of kindred interests, and of kindred virtues. The remark of the Roman orator, that true friendship cannot obtain except among good men, and that no alliance can long exist, which docs not find its origin in a friendship based upon virtue; is as applicable now, as it was when he announced it centuries ago, amid the quiet, beautiful shades of his Tusculan villa. Our organization, Fellow-Soldiers, was the child of that heroic age which followed hard upon the eight years struggle fRr American Independence. Our first Captain, Edward Lloyd, a Lieutenant in the service, testified his devotion to the cause of Freedom, amid the dangers and the carnage of several bravely fought fields, and was finally sorely wounded at the siege of Savannah. AVhile the surgeon was dressing the stump from which his arm had been rudely torn by a cannon ball. Major James Jackson observing to him, that his prospects were rendered unpromising, by reason of this heavy burthen which hard fate had imposed upon him, a young man just entering into life; Lloyd replied, that unpromising as .they were, he would not willingly exchange them for the feelings of Lieutenant Stedman, who had fled at the commencement of the assault, "With a Spartan heroism worthy of all admiration, he preferred the scars and the maiming of Freedom's OF THE CHATHAM: ARTILLERY. 18 battle-field, to security purchased at the sacrifice of honor and of patriotism. Although the hostile fleets, which hovered about our coasts, had spread their farewell sails for far-distant ports; — although the tramp of British soldiery was no more heard within our borders, — and the summer air, freed from the noisome vapors and the rude alarms of war, was filled with the sweet perfume of flowers, and the melody of song-birds, peace and tranquility did not entirely prevail within the limits of Georgia upon the suspension of hostilities between England and America. The war-whoop of the Indian still resounded in the deep recesses of neighboring forests, and bands of ma- rauding negroes were at large upon the outskirts of our immediate settlements. It will be remembered, that among the British forces occupying Savannah during and after its memorable siege, were numbered three hundred slaves. Upon the evacuation, taking refuge in the fastnesses of our swamps, and still styling themselves the "King of Eng- land's Soldiers," they attracted to themselves numer- ous run-aways, and made constant inroads upon the settlements on both sides of the Savannah River, plundering and murdering to the alarm and disquietude of the citizens. Serious apprehensions were also enter- tained, that th(i lawless, improper, and most delet-erious influence exerted by these free-booters, might and would lead to a general and bloody insurrection of the slaves ia this vicinity. 14 SEVENTY-FIFTH AXXn'ERSARY The earliest military duty performed by our Corps was in May, 1786. The first regiment of the Chatham County militia, to which our Company was attached was then ordered into service, for the purpose in con- nection with certain troops from Beaufort District in South-Carolina, of dispersing these lawless marauders, who had established a formidable encampment on Bear Creek in Effingham County. Enclosing a space of ground about the half of a mile in length, and some four hundred feet in width, with a breast-work four feet high, composed of logs and large canes, which they obtained from the adjacent swamps, they there fixed their permanent head-quarters. From thence depreda- tory parties constantly issued, who, after the commission of sundry outrages, would return laden with spoils. On the sixth of May, 1786, this fortified camp was attacked, and its occupants completely routed. Some were killed, others wounded, more captured. Their houses — twenty-one in number — were burned, and their crops destroyed. Thus, in a tour of dut}- lasting but a few days, and without the loss of a single member, did the Chatham Artillery assist in ridding the State of one of the most dangerous and best discip- lined bands of marauders, which ever infested our bor- ders. It cannot be questioned, my Fellow-Soldiers, but that the existence of these domestic troubles, and the pros- pect of immediate service, had much to do with the original establishment of our Corps. With its first OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 15 members, it was an organization formed not only for the pursuit of rational amusement, for manly exercise and proficiency in an important arm of military service, and for the cultivation of friendship, but chiefly de- signed as a reliable source of protection at home, as an organized efficient band of Cannoniers, prepared at a moment's warning, to render their every aid in sustain- ing the peace, the good order, the security of their City, their State, and of their Country. That primal object has been freely and generously eflfectuated in after years, whenever and wherever op- portunity occurred. With this brief historic sketch of the inception and earliest duties of our Company, we are the better pre- pared intelligently to appreciate the true character and peculiar excellencies of the original Preamble, which still remains prefixed to our Rules and Regulations. ".Impressed with a firm belief that the safety of flie glorious institutions under which we live, and which have been bequeathed to us as a sacred and inestimable legacy, purchased by the blood and toil of the Fathers of the Republic, depends upon a well regulated and strictly disciplined militia; that such a militia is es- pecially necessary in the community in which we live, from the peculiar character of our population, which renders it necessary to«be always prepared, and ever on the alert to meet a danger which may have its being among us without our knowledge, and may break forth in our most unsuspecting moments; — fully convinced 16 SEVENTY-FIITII ANNIVERSARY that it is the duty of every citizen to contribute not only to the necessary pecuniary exigencies of his country, when demanded, but to be prepared in times of danger, when the peace, and welfare, and dignity of that country are threatened, to interpose his person as a shield and safeguard between her and dishonor; that to obtain this laudable and honorable object, a proper organization, and a strict bond of union and of action are required, as well in peace as in war ; and that a corps devoted to the service of Field Artillery is an honorable, important, and efficient branch of the National or State defence, — affording the best opportunit}'- to render valuable those services which it is our duty and our desire to proffer to our beloved country on all occasions, when the support of her rights or interests may demand them : — "We, the Officers, Non-commissioned Officers, and Privates of the CJjjatbam Artillery, whose names are hereunto sub- scribed, for the purposes above recited, and with a view to obtain a knowledge of military tactics, and especially of that portion more particularly embraced by the title of our association, do hereby solemnly agree to the fol- lowing 'Rules for the Government of the Chatham Artillery.' * * * ^[j^i ^^ ^q Jicrehy pledge our honor, of ivhich our signature is witness, that we will, to the best of our ability and understanding, devote ourselves to the advancement of the interests ff the Corps, to ivhich we have voluntarily attached ourselves, by all honorable means ; and ardently cooperate in the increase of its strength, respect- ability, and discipline ; and Oiat we will foster and maintain OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY.* 17 sentiments of respect and affection towards each other, as soldiers and citizens ; and, united as a band of brothers, devote ourselves, when occasion requires it, to Oie service of our Gountry.^^ The reflection, Brother Members of the Chatham Artillery, that for a period of seventy-five years we have endeavored faithfully and zealously to redeem the pledges thus early given, is fraught with emotions the most pleasing and satisfactory. And'hitherare we come, in the sweet sunlight of this beautiful May morning, in the presence of each other, and of this cloud of attest- ing witnesses, and in the full blaze of the dawning glories of our young Confederacy, to renew the vows, and to ratify the ennobling obligations which our Fa- thers in their patriotism, and the just claims of our beloved Country have devolved upon us. The first funeral honors ever paid by our Corps, were those rendered upon the occasion of the burial of Gene- ral Greene, in June, 1786. Of all the brave leaders who had distinguished them. selves during the war of the Revolution, he was per- haps, next to Washington, the one who at that moment held the highest place in the public esteem. Few men have ever built themselves a name upon purer or more durable foundations. The year previous. General Oglethorpe at the ad- vanced age of more than a century, had yielded up his spirit into the hands of the great God who gave it. Upon the white mural tablet in the chancel of Cranham 18 * SEVENTY-FIFTH AXXIYERSARY Church is engraven the record of his many virtues, the catalogue of his signal services. In nothing was he more illustriojis, than in being the successful founder of the Colony of Georgia, Thus, within the short space of one year, was our City called upon to mourn the demise of both the Author of her being, and the Defender of her liberties. The remains of General Greene were brousrht from his seat near Savannah, to this City for sepulture. We are indebted to a public journal of the day for the following account of the ceremonies attending his interment : "On Monday last, the 19th day of June, died at his seat near Savannah, Nathanael Gkeene Esq., late Major General in the Army of the United States ; and on Tuesday morning his remains were brought to town to be interred. "The melancholy account of his death was made known by the discharge of minute guns from Fort Wayne; the shipping in the harbour had their colours half masted ; the shops and stores in the town were shut; and every class of citizens, suspending their ordi- nary occupations, united in giving testimonies of deepest sorrow. " The several military corps of the town, and a gteat part of tlic militia of Chatham County, attended the funeral, and moved in the following procession : of the chatham artij^lery. ' 19 The Corps of Artillery, The Light Infantry, The Mihtia of Chatham County, Clergymen and Physicians, Band of Music The CORPSE AND PALL-BEARERS, Escorted on Each Side by a Company of Dragoons, The Principal Mourners, The Members of the Cincinna^ as Mourners, The Speaker of the Assembly, And other Civil Officers of the State, Citizens and Strangers, About five o'clock the whole proceeded, the Music playing the Dead March in Saul, and the Artillery firing minute guns as it advanced. When the military reached the vault in which the body was to be entombed, they opened to the right and left, and, resting on reversed arms, let it pass through. The funeral service being performed, and the corpse deposited, Viirteen dis- charges from Vie artillery^ and three from the musketry, closed the scene. The whole was conducted with a solemnity suitable to the occasion." Thus Fellow Soldiers, did our time-honored Company in its very infancy inaugurate that worthy custom — a custom which has never, during a period of three- quarters of a century, been abandoned or in a single instance omitted, — of rendering willing tribute to the memory of the illustrious dead. And surely to the honest patriotic heart, there can be, — under the melan- 20 SEVEXTy-FIFTH AXXIVERSARY choly circumstances which attend, — no higher gratifica- tion, than the privilege of in person paying the last funeral honors to those, whom in life the nation delight- ed to regard with esteem and gratitude. In the language of Seneca, great and good men are given by the Gods for ensamples to the world. Them while living we admire ; when dead, their memory we will revere, their virtues we will emulate. • On the fourth ol^July, 1786, the Chatham Artillery united for the first time, in celebrating the Anniversary of American Independence. After the lapse of so many years, it may not be deemed uninteresting to note the proceedings of that day. I quote from the Georgia Gazette^ of July 6th, 1786 : " Tuesday last being the Anniversary of INDEPEN- DENCE, the Officers of the Chatham County Militia, and a respectable number of Citizens, dined together at the Court House, when the following toasts were drank, accompanied by 13 discharges of cannon from Ca2)t. Lloyd's Artillery : •'1. The United States. " 2. The State of Georgia. "3. General Washington, or the American Farmer, "4. The immortal Memory of our late virtuous Fellow Citizen, General Greene. "5. The glorious Memory ' of those who fell in the Support of American Independence. " 6. The Protector of the Rights of Mankind, Louia XVI. OF THE ClIATnAM ARTILLERY. 21 " 7. Agriculture and Commerce, and the honest Ploughman and Merchant who contribute to their Ad- vancement. " 8. May the Navy of America be employed as the Scourge of Tyrants, and the Basis of Western Freedom . "9. May the Arts and Sciences of the East find a perpetual Asylum in the free and independent Regions of the "West. " 10. The glojious 4th July, 1776. "11. The American Mothers. '* 12. Harmony and Unanimity to the Councils of Georgia, and Wisdom and Respect to those of the Con- tinent. " 13. UNIVERSAL FREEDOM. " The day was spent with those demonstrations of joy and festivity which ought to mark the Era of happiness and freedom to the Western World. In the evening^ Capt. LloyrVs Company of Artillery exhibited a lively and stri- king scene of fire-vjorkSy which did honor to Hie abilities of the Captain and his Company, AND WHicn we are HAPPY TO ASSURE THE PUBLICK, BIDS FAIR TO BE EQUAL TO ANY CORPS OF THE KIND IN THE WORLD." Will it now be regarded a.s an act of egotism for us my Fellow Soldiers, to claim, that the bud of promise, then just unfolding in its earliest existence, has expand- ed into the proportions, the beauty, and the attractions of the perfect flower ? For the Editor of this venerable Journal, who thus generously awarded the meed of praise to our youthful organization, we shall cherish the 22 SEVEXTY-FIFTU ^VXNIVEKSARY warmest esteem ; aud although neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, we will cheerfully accord to him powers of divination more reliable than those possessed even by the renowned Pythia, Priestess of Apollo at Delphi. Ten years before, in Independence Ilall a deed had been done, which scarce finds a parallel in the annals of the world. Amid those feelings of honor, of pride, and of gratilication, which are the legitimate results of an intelligent appreciation of our present national existence as a Great Southern Republic, let us not forget the con- secrated associations which cluster around all that was good, all that was holy in the old Union. Above all, as citizens of Georgia, — one of the original Thirteen, — let us ever cherish in liveliest remembrance, the immor- tal memories of the fourth of July 1776. They are ours, and neither the lapse of time, nor the revolutions of States, shall rob us of them. Although the foul exhalations of a modern fanaticism are polluting the free air which floats around that venerable building, still, Independence Hall, as the Cradle of American Lib- erty, shall remain forever sacred. Adopting the invo- cation of an accomplished Orator, let time respect, and violence spare it, and the ruthless hand of embellishment have mercy upon it. Let every stone, and every brick, aud every plank, and every bolt, from the foundation to the pinnacle, be sacred. Let the rains of heaven fall softly upon the roof, and the winds of winter beat gently at the door. Let it stand to the end of time, OF THE CHATUAM ARTILLERY. 23 second only to Mount Vernon, as the sanctuary of Amer- ican Patriotism. Let generation on generation of those who taste the blessings of the great Declaration, pay their homage at the shrine, and deem it no irreverence as they kneel in gratitude to the Providence which guided and inspired the men who assembled therein, to call its walls salvation and- its gates praise. Seventy -four times has our Battery saluted the morn- ing Sun, as he ushered in the annual dawn of that illus- trious day. Long may its thunders proclaim the great- ness of its memories, and awaken responsive echoes in the hearts of all true lovers of freedom. There appears, at an early period in our histor}^, to have existed a marked intimacy between the Chatham Artillery and the Society of the Cincinnati ; an associa- tion whose avowed object was the cultivation of friendly relations between the officers of the Eevolution, and their immediate descendants. The first of May — a day consecrated to the memory of Saint Tammany, the Tu- telar Saint of America^ — and the Fourth of July were often celebrated by them in Company; the festivities of each occasion concluding with a bountiful repast, enli- vened by regular and volunteer toasts redolent of pa- triotism, of admiration for the sex, and of cherished devotion to the memory of the illustrious departed. Rrtunity of viewing the Fair Sex of our City and vicinity, and the ladies the gratification of paying their respects to our Federal Chief. " After a few minuets were moved and one country dance led down, the President and his Suit retired about 11 o'clock. At 12 o'clock the supper room was opened, and the ladies partook of a repast, after which dances continued until 3 o'clock- The company retired with the happy satisfaction of having generally contributed towards the hilarity and gaiety of the evening. " On Saturday morning, the President attended by Gen. McLn'tosh and several other gentlemen, took a view of the remaining traces of the lines constructed by the British for the defence of Savannah in 1779 ; the General having been second in command under General Lincoln at storming them, had an opportunity of giving an account of every thing interesting during the siege and in the attack. " In the afternoon, the President honored the Citizens with his company at a dinner prepared for him under a beautiful arbor, supported by three rows of pillars, en- 30 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY tirely covered Avitli laurel and bay leaves, so as to exhibit uniform green columns. The pillars were higher than the arbor, and ornamented above it by festoons, and connected below by arches covered in the same manner. The place on which it stood was judiciously chosen, presenting at once a view of the city and of the shipping in the harbor, with an extensive prospect of the river and rice lands both above and below the* town. But the principal advantage which resultq^ from* ita situation and structure, was the opportunity which it afforded to a great body of people to have a distinct and uninterrupted view of that object to which all eyes and hearts appeared to be attracted. " A company of nearly 200 citizens and strangers dined under it, and the satisfaction which each one en- joyed in paying this personal tribute to the merit of a man, who is, if possible, more beloved for his goodness than admired for his greatness, produced a degree of convivial and harmonious mirth rarely experienced. " Every one beheld with delight in the person of our President, the able General, the virtuous Patriot, the profound Politician; in a word, one of the most shining ornaments that ever dignified human nature. " Tltc Artillery Co7yipany dined under another arhor^ erected at a small distance^ and received merited applause Jor the great dexterity which they displayed in firing, at each toast. Their fires were returned by Fort Wayne, and the ship Thomas Wilson which was moored opposite the arbor; her decorations through the day, and illumination at night had a fine effect. OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 31 " The following toasts were given : The United States of America. Prosperity to the Citizens of Savannah and its vicinity. [By the President.] The Fair of Ame- rica. The Vice President of the United States. The memorable Era of Independence. The Count d'Estaing. The Memory of Gren. Greene. The Arts and Sciences. The Memory of those brave men who fell before the Lines of Savannah, on the 9th of October, 1779. The Friends to Free and Equal Government throughout the Globe. All foreign Powers in Friendship with the United States. May Religion and Philosophy always triumph over Superstition and Prejudice in America. The present dexterous Corps of Artillery. [The President's toast.] (After the President retired,) The President of the United States. "The construction of the arbor, and the manner in which the entertainment was provided and conducted, did great honor to the gentlemen to whose direction the whole was committed. " In the evening there was a handsome exhibition of firework.«i, and the amusements of this day of joy and festivity were concluded by a Concert. ** On Sunday morning, the President attended Divine Service in Christ Church, and soon after set out on his way to Augusta. On taking his leave of the Mayor and Committee of the Citizens, he politely expressed his sense of the attention shewn him by the Corporation and every denomination of people during his stay in Savannah. He was attended out of the City by a num- 32 SEVEXTY-FIFTII ANMVKIISAHV ber of gentlemen, and escorted by a detachment of Au- gusta dragoons, commanded by Major Ambrose Gor- don. At the Spring Ilill, the President was received by General Jackson, where the Artillery and Liglit Infantry Companies were 3rawn up, and was there salu- ted by 39 discharges from the field pieces, and 13 vollies of platoons. After which he proceeded with several gen- tlemen to Mulbury Grove, the seat of the late Maj. Gen. Greene, where he dined, and then resumed his tour," The day after the departure of General Washington, the following card appeared in the public journals of our City : "General Jackson requests Captains Elfe of the Artil- lery, and Montfort of the Volunteer Infantry', to accept his best thanks for their soldierly conduct at the re- ception, during the stay, and on the departure of the President. lie likewise presents his thanks to the Com- missioned and Non-Commissioucd Officei's and Privates of each Corps. "It is a pleasure to the General to announce TO the Artillery the very general applause THEY RECEIVED ON SATURDAY, AND, WH.VT OUGHT TO IMMORTALIZE THE CORPS, THE APPROBATION OP THEIR CONDL'CT, EXPRESSED IN THE WARMEST TERMS, BY THE Commander in Chief of the United States. The General hopes that this charac- ter, so firmly established, will long continue THEM AN ornament TO THE MiLITIA, AND AN HONOR TO THE State of Georgia. OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 33 "The Field Officers of the Chatham Regiment will be pleased to communicate this order, and to receive the General's highest commendations for their attention to the duties required of them. "JAS. JACKSON, " Brigadier General 1st District. ^'Savannah, May 16, 1791." Eight years afterwards, in the delightful and honor- able retirement of Mount Vernon, serene as a summer sky when storms are hushed, "Washington, the Patriot, the Warrior, the Sage, the Statesman, and the Christian, laying aside his well-worn armor, ascended to the God of Justice and of Truth, whose child he was. A nation was clothed in the habiliments of mourning, and the City of Oglethorpe testified her interest in the general sorrow. Time forbids that we dwell upon the solemnities of that occasion. Suffice it to say, my Fellow Soldiers, that the Chatham Artillery united in the funeral cortege, with side arms " mourned," our battery with slow and solemn salute paying its farewell tribute to the memory of departed worth. Although the moss-clad vault upon the banks of the Potomac enfolds within its silent embrace the moulder- dering form of this majestic Hero, the recollection of his great deeds, his good thoughts, and of bis many virtwes, still lives, and is cherished by none with a purer devotion than by us, Brother Members of the Chatham Artillery. We have in our own keeping the pledges of E 34 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY his esteem, the proofs of bir. commendation and appro- val. We will guard sacredly tbe gift. We will see to it, that the stains of neglect and of forgctfulness shall not in after years tarnish the now burnished barrels of of our Washington Guns. We will see to it, that their now silent voices, — silent, because peace is as yet spreading her white wings over our beloved City, — are lifted in thunder tones, whenever the principles which he inculcated arc denied, whenever the inestimable pri- vileges which he bequeathed, are trifled with or invaded. Consecrated by the triumphs of Yorktown, — hallowed by the name and the memory of Washington, — and associated with the recollections of our Company for nearly seventy years, they will remain our perpetual joy and pride. When you and I, my Brother Soldiers, are gathered to our Fathers, these guns will continue among those who shall hereafter constitute the members of this our honored Corps, a bond of unchanging union, and a pledge of patriotic action whenever duty calls. General James Jackson in his Brigade Orders of the fifteenth of Jul}', 1791, returns his thanks to the Chat- ham Regiment, of which our Company was a member, for the efficient service rendered in the destruction of the hut^, and in the breaking up of an incampment of runaway negroes, who, in the vicinity of Savannah, had been committing many daring outrages. Our third Captain was JosiAii Tattnall, J«., a name famous in the history of our City and State, and worthily per}3etuatcd in the person of his noble repre- OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 85 sentative, who, up»n the quarter-deck, at Vera Cruz, at the affair of the Peiho, and elsewhere, has illustrated the dignity and the chivalrous virtues of his Father. Captain Tattnall was successively honored with the position of Colonel of the Chatham Regiment, with that of Brigadier General of the First Brigade, of the First Division — and with a seat in the State Legislature at various times. He afterwards became a Member of Congress, and finally was elevated to the highest office within the gift of his admiring fellow citizens. Dying in the "West Indies in 1804, it was his last wish, that his body should be brought Jaome and interred in the bosom of that State, and near the graves of those he loved so well. That desire has been gratified ; and he now sleeps beneath the solemn shades of those venerable Live Oaks, which- in commingled grandeur and beauty, with t,heir over-arching branches protect the Cemetery at Bonaventure, long the family seat of the Tattnalls. He was succcded in the command by James Robert- son, who was duly elected Captain on the^th July, 1794. In 1793, great disturbances prevailed along the fron- tiers of Georgia. The Creek Indians attacking tho white settlements from Clark County to the St. Mary's River, plundered and murdered whenever opportunity occujred. The citizens of Glynn and Camden fled to tho Sea-Lslands for isolation and protection. The territory then settled by the whites, was bounded West by the Oco- nee River to the Altamaha, and from it3 junction with 86 SEVEXTT-FIFTH AXN'IVERSARY the Ocmulgee, by a line dra-wn acrOis to the St. Mary's River, The few inhabitants of at present Mcintosh and Liberty Counties were under arms, and had in many instances fortified their dwellings. Two men had re- cently been killed by the Indians on the public road be- tween Riceboro anc^ the Ogeechee River, about a mile from the point where Mrs. Fulton's house now stands. Even the City of Savannah was believed to be in dan- ger, and reports were in circulation that the Lower Creeks were preparing to cross the Great Ogeechee at the place now occupied by Jenckes' Bridge. Under these circumstances, Hhe Chatham Light Artillery, (for that was then the name of our Company,) with alacrity and unanimity tendered their services, — to march wheresoever directed, — to their gallant and then vet- eran Colonel, Samuel Hammond, commanding the Chatham Regiment. That tender was accepted, and the Company ordered at once to proceed and take post at the plantation of Captain Saunders, in Liberty County, the thenTnost exposed portion of the settlements v/hich had not been deserted. Twenty-nine men rank and file, under the command of then Lieutenant James Robert- son, reported immediately for this duty. We have now among the archives of our Corps, a Muster Roll duly authenticated and bearing date the 28th ^fny, 1793, containing the names in full of the members who were then in active service. This precious relic was present- ed to the Company in 1848, by the late lamented and esteemed Colonel Joseph "W. Jackson. OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 87 Thirteen years ago, the Hon. Thomas Spalding, one of the early members of our Corps, addressed a com- munication to the Company, giving us his recollections of this expedition. I quote from that letter : " The Compan}' marched from Savannah at four o'clock in the afternoon, and reached the Widow » Young's, about eight or nine miles from Savannah, at dark. As they had no tents, the members sheltered themselves under her buildings during the night. The next morning at an early hour we marched, and although delayed a little at the Ogecchee, reached Mid- way Meeting House after dark — where we slept that night, upon the benches of the Church. The Meeting House was then on the opposite side of the Road, where the Grave- Yard now stands. The House was built of logs, for the first Meeting House had been burned by General Prevost, during the Eevolutionary War, on the same dny that General Charles Scriven fell, for it was here that General Charles Scriven died. The next day we marched via Riceboro', that our officers might see what provisions were procurable at that place. There was a* Stockade, and also a Block-House at the west-end of Riceboro', into which the villagers might retire. We reached Capt. Sauxder's about four o'clock in the afternoon. We found himself, with a few armed men, and a few armed negroes, in a house with a high brick foundation, — the hou.se weather-boarded — but filled in with brick between the frame — the doors and windows well barricaded, and furnished with port-holes. 38 SEVEXTY-FIFT5 ANNIVERSARY It was unincumbered with piazzas or out buildings, and was quite defensible against small arms. That night wo remained sheltered under his roof; but the next day we moved about a quarter of a mile to where his barn and overseer's house stood, and with the aid of his negroes threw up a light entrenchment around both buildings. The negroes occupied the barn at night, and we slept in the overseer's house. One half of our force scoured the Countrv every day. Our morning and evening gun echoed through the woods. There we spent our allotted time. Our commanding officer, Col. Hammond, visited us, and spent two days with us. For my own part, I never was happier, 1 had been educated in Liberty County. I was the youngest person in the Corps. My friends loaded me with kindness. Mr. Couper sent me brandy and sugar from Riceboro'. Capt. John White- IIEAD sent me mutton and other things from his planta- tion fourteen miles off. Dr. Henry Wood did the same. "My mess consisted of Cuarles Harriss, James Alger, William Morris, John Y. White, and Isaac LeGardere, the best singer and the best v>ok in camp. Col. Hammond joined our mess while in camp, and all was peace and quietude around us while we re- mained." Captain Robertson was a brave man, a fine officer, and a^ accomplished gentleman. The Corps flourished under his command. He was beloved by his corps, and respected and esteemed by all who knew him. OF THE CHATIIAil ARTILLERY. 39 Our fifth Captain, was Benjamin "Wall, a mau of courage, of great physical strength, and possessed of remarkable powers of endurance. For many years he efficiently discharged the duties of United States Mar- shal for this District. , The Corps at this time and for a long period subse- quent, paraded regularly once a month. All defaulters were tried by a Court of Enquiry. Assemblages of the Company were held at the Laboratory. The non-com- missioned offlccrs were annually elected on the first of May to serve for the term of one year. The celebra- tions of the fourth of July, and the first of May, were generally concluded by an elegant dinner at the Labora- tory, where, in the language of our "minutes," Vie hours vorre spent in the usual harmony and good fellowship so characteristic of this Company. The uniform of the Corps was at this time v^y like, if not quite identical with the old Continental uniform. Richard M. Stites, the son of a captain of Artillery in the army of the Revolution, was our next commander. An Attorney by profession — a remarkably accurate con- veyancer, of excellent business habits, and of strict pro- bity, he was for many years in the enjoyment of an extensive and lucrative practice. He died in 1813. In life, he secured the affectionate regard of his Company, and was respected by all for his many virtues. In death, his memorj^ pleasant to his friends, and cherished by hia former Command, is not forgotten. • Robert Mackay, was duly elected as his successor. 40 SEVEXTY-FItTH ANNIVERSARY A m£inber of the firm of Meiu, Mackay k Co., — one of the largest and most influential commercial houses of Savannah, — he was noted for his courtly manners, his uniform amiability, and the graces of his person. In fine, he was the accomQJli.shcd gentleman. During the war of 1S12, the first Regiment of the Georgia Militia was called into active service by order of Brigadier General Floyd. Fort Jackson was then occupied by a Detachment ^f the Chatham Artiller}'. The Company was also engaged in the construction of lines of fortifications enclosing our Cit}', and in the per- formance of various other duties required of them in the presence of the enemy, who had possession of the Coast of Georgia by Fleet under command of Admiral CocKBUKN, and of the adjacent Islands by military forces stationed on Cumberland Island and its vicinity. The fortifications then erected around the City consist- ed of earth-works, with batteries mounted upon plat- forms at irregular intervals. The line of Fortifications commenced near the intersection of Farm Street with the liiver: thence running South along the Western edge of the ridge upon which the City was built, until it reached and enclosed Spring Hill ; thence bending to Efist and South East, it surrounded the old Jail ; and thence pursuing a North Easterly direction, crossing East Broad Street at the intersection of South Broad Street, until it reached the Magazine, when an almost due i^orth course conducted it along the brow of the hill again to the River. Fort Wayne, then in existence OF THE CHATHAil ARTILLERY. 41 and regularly fortified, occupied the present site of tlio Gas works. In Januar}', 1815 the Chatham Artillery with the First Regiment, and other forces raised in the State, was mustered into the service of the United States, and re- mained on duty day and night, until peace was pro- claimed in February of the same year. The company was then mustered out of service by Col. Boot, Inspector Gerieral, and received the pay of the regular Army, Our eighth commander, was William Thorn Wil- liams. (Elected Dec. 10th, 1816.) After the cessation of hostilities with England, wearied with the continued routine of military dut}', and busied wnth those in- creased engagements which resulted from the influx of commerce, and the transmission of the accumulated agricultural products of several years, the Volunteer Organizations of our City, as might reasonably be ex- pected, suffered some diminution in their numbers. Under the efficient and spirited command of Capt. .Wil- liams however, the Corps soon recovered its wonted strength and activity, and numbered ujwn its Muster- Roll the names of Sixty-Three active members. For eight years did he retain the sincere respect and affec- tion of the Company, and then resigned his commission, only to assume the responsible duties of Major of the First Regiment, to the discharge of which he had been called by the unanimous voice of bis fellow sdldiers. He still lives in the happy appreciation of those picas- 42 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY * ures which arc the reward of a well spent life, and here to-day, tcstilies by his liouored presence, his abiding in- terest in the welfare of his former Command. He will accept the heart- felt assurances of our unchanging re- spect and esteem. The vacancy caused by the resignation of Captain Williams, was filled on the 14th December, 1824, by the election of Peter Blois. On the nineteenth of M%rch, 1825, our City was honored, and all hearts were gladdened by a visit from General LaFayette. The ovation voluntarily decreed by young and old, rich and poor, bond and free, was scconS only to that, which thirty four years before, had been extended to General Washington. Time and your patience forbid that we now recount the illustrious ceremonies of that day. The recollection of them, and of the joys which they imparted, still lives I doubt not in the memory of some whom I now address, and has been perpetuated in a permanent substantial form. In full ranks, your bosoms throbbing with generous emotions, you my Fellow Soldiers, participated in the splendid military display which greeted his coming. From our Washington Guns rang out the deep-toned welcome to the distinguished Hero, who, after the lapse of nearly half a century, revisited the scenes of his early glory and renown. Deeming this a fitting opportunity for paying a tri- bute of gratitude which had been already too long de- OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. * 43 layed, the citizens of Savannah determined to avail themselves of this happy and interesting occasion to lay the corner-stones of two monuments to be there- after erected, the one to the memory of General Na- THANAEL Greene, who was justly Considered the savior of the South in her Revolutionary struggle ; and the other to the memory of the brave Pulaski, who, des- pairing of the cause of Liberty in his own country, had sacrificed his life while contending for the freedom of ours. In the presence of the assembled citizens and of the soldiery, — «nder the most attractive circumstances, and amid the approving plaudits of our well-trained battery, those corner-stones were placed by General LaFayette. Twenty -eight years- afterwards another corner-stone was laid, upon which now rests the beautiful monument in Monterey Square. A national salute from our Com- pany, — then under the command of* Captain Gallie, — concluded one of the most brilliant and imposing civic and military pageants ever witnessed in Savannah. By a vote of Congress it had been resol'\||f3 that a monument should be erected to the memory of Pulaskl Mr. Gerry, Mr. Livingston, and Mr. Harnett, were appointed a Committee to carry that resolution into effect That monument was never erected ; and the vote still stands, at once an acknowledgment of the services and merits of a brave man, and to a 'certain extent at least, a mortifying illustration of the forgetfulnesa and the ingratitude of Republics. 44 SEVEXTY-FIFin ANNIVERSARY It was reserved for Georgia, — the 3'oungest of tbe "Original Thirteen," — for Savannah, — the City whose soil had been consecrated by the outpouring of his generous blood, — to redeem this pledge thus given and thus neglected by the General Government, and to testify her grateful appreciation of the illustrious services and pure devotion of Pulaski. Invoking the aid of a Polish Artist to embody their gratitude in some permanent artistic memorial, the citizens of Savannah caused to be erected in one of the high places of our City, a monument, which in its purity of conception, — symmetry of outline, — and varied at- tractions, — rises a perfect gem of art. Often have you seen it, and never have you passed beneath its shadow, without pausing to give expression to those ennobling thoughts which its presence inspires. The morning sun beams kindly upon its fair propor- tions, infusing into 'every sculptured line new life and beauty. Ilis evening rays liVigcr in soft radiance about its summit. The storm, in its wild career, rufiles not a a ftinglc Dlume of that puissant eagle, — the symbolic bird of both Poland and America, — as he jealously guards the united emblems of Poland and Georgia. The lightning of Ileavcn in its erratic course, harms not ihe Goddess of Liberty, as from her lofty pedestal she Iceeps her vestal vigils. Standing almost upon the very spot where fell the Hero whose virtues it commemorates, — ever repeating the story of departed greatness, — ever reminding us of OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 45 the glorious recollections of our Kevolutionary period, ever inspiring the men of our times with veneration for the Past, gratitude for the Present, and fervent hope for the uninterrupted prosperity of the Future, it will re- main when the children of this and of other generations are gathered to their Fathers. It will stand amid the changes of years, and the revolutions of States, a noble monument of a people's gratitude, more vocal in the undying memories which cluster about it, than the fabled statue of Memnon. On the secoijd day of February, 1826, Charles M. King was dul}^ elected Captain of our Corps, and for a period of six years retained its active command. Our battery then consisted of twQ four-pounder brass pieces, and the Washington Guns. The four stated parades, on the 8th January, 22d February, 1st May, and 4th July, were regularly observed. Target practice on the 22d February. A detachment of the Corps alwaj's on alarm duty, — the alarm-post being fixed at the Labora- tory, and the signal agreed upon for the immediate assemblage of the Corps \n the event of anv unusual disturbance or danger, the discharge of three guns jn quick succession. Ex-Captain King still lives, and although at quite a remove from us, never forgets, on the recurrence of our Anniversary-, to assure the Company of his sincere re- membrance of, and abiding interest ii* their every well- fSare. Our eleventh Captain was Charles Stephens. En- 46 SEVENTY-FIFTn ANNIVERSARY • tering the Army at an early age, he served as Ensign of Infantry in the South-West. Advanced to the rank of Lieutenant, he* was present at Pcnsacola when the British were' compelled by the forces under General Jackson to evacuate the harbor and blow up Fort Barancas. He was subsequently stationed on the Missis- sippi River as an Adjutant of one of the regular regi- nients of Infantry, when New-Orleans was attacked by the English forces under Packeniiam, on the ever memorable 8th January 1815. Important services were also rendered by him under General Andrew Jackson during the Indian "Wars. He brought to the discharge of the duties devolving upon him as the Captain of our Corps, social qualifica- tions of no ordinary character, a fine military expe- rience, and an ai)titude for command. The Company flourished. In 1835. serious hostilities occurred between the Whites and the Indians in Florida. Obeying the im- pulses of his brave, generous heart, he accepted the command of a Detachment of Volunteers, and with our then First Lieutenant Nicoll, and a battery of two pieces, immediately repaired to Picolata. The efficient services there rendered by him were appreciated by all, and elicited marked and well merited expressions of approbation and commendation from General Clinch. Although unable in an organized capacity to accom- pany their Captain upon this expedition, our Corps was not unmindful of him during his absence. In pursu- OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 47 ance of a resolution adopted on the 3rd February, 1836, a quantity of excellent wine was purchased and for- warded to him by the steamboat Florida. In 1838, when difficulties of a grave cfearacter were apprehended with the Cherokee Indians, the following resolution was unanimousl}^ passed, and a copy forwarded to the Goverii^: "that this Company will cheerfully respond to any call his Excellency the Governor shall make upon us." The Chatham Artillery, — under the command of then Lieutenant Gallie, — in 1844, made an excursion to Macon, and were generously received and delightfully entertained by the Volunteer military organizations of that City. In July, 1845, we fired a salute of seventy-eight minute guns at five o'clock in the morning — another salute of seventy-eight guns at mid-day — and a similar salute at five o'clock in the afternoon, as a last tribute of respect to the memory of Ex-President Andrew Jackson. On the nineteenth of May, 1846,-=- upon the occasion of the commencement of hostilities between the United States and Mexico, — the following resolution was unan- imously adopted by the Corps: "Resolved, That the Commanding Ofiicer inform his Excellency the Governor of the State, that the Chatham Artillery do now, as always, bold themselves in readiness to respond promptly to any call that may be made upon them, to execute the laws, suppress insurrection, or repel invasion. 43 SEVEXTV-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY , The corner-stone of our present Armory Building was laid, with appropriate ceremonies, on the seventh of Sep- tember,* 1847, — an oration on the occasion being pro- nounced by«Privat« James "\V. I^hestox; Ex-Captain Williams adjusting the stone, and apph'ing the trowel. For a period of f^venteen years did Capt. Stephens faithfully, eflicientl}'-, and honorably reta0 the command of our Corps. I need not remind you, my Fellow Soldiers, of the firm and almost unbounded attachment with which he regarded our organization. We owe much to him. The life of our social meetings — full of the warmest friendship for each member of the Corps, — the very soul of harmonj', — appreciating the pleasures and forgetting not the duties which belong to the efficient commander of a time-honored Company, — filling with distinction the high po.sition of the citizen soldier, — his memory lives in the history of our Corps, and in the happy recollection of many of you my Brother Artillerists. Almost the last act of his life, was on the 8th January immediately preceding his lamented demise, rising from his couch, to put on his uniform, and with trembling footstep — trembling, because the image of the grave was already foreshadowed in his weakened frame — appear upon the balcony of his residence, that he might receive and acknowledge the salute of his beloved command. It was a sad day when with measured tread, and muffied drum, we followed his lifeless form to that silent and lonely dwelling prepared for all the living. • OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 49 On the tenth of February, 1849, we duly elected as OUT next Commander, Lieutenant John B. Gallie. I may not now allude to the many virtues, and the signal excellencies of our esteemed Ex-Captain. He is with us to day,- and in his presence it becomes me sim- ply to mention his name, to awaken in your bosoms responsive memories sincerely cherished. The ties which bind us to him, arc not and cannot be severed; for although in the command of the Savannah Artillery, — our younger sister, of dignified mien, and stately tread, — he still wears our uniform, and we look with pleasure and with pride to his name still written upon^ the honorary ligt of our Company. Long may he live, infusing into his new command, that esprit de Corps, that discipline, and that fraternal feeling so characteris- tic of the old. Accepting the invitation of the Washington Light Artillery to unite with them in the celebration of the anniversary of Washington's birth-day, we repaired to Charleston in February, 1850, were there reviewed by Governor Seabrook, and for two days became the re- cipients of lavish hospitalities, and distinguished courte- sies, at the hands of the Military Organizations of our Sister City. • The year following, our company was called upon to mourn the death of its oldest member, the Hon. Thomas Spaldixo. In Juno, 1852, in eonprqiKnce of ccnam mriTKrri (iis- turbances, and continued acts of l.'iw1p<;<;r)css perpetrated 50 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY within the limits of Savannah bj unknown parties, the Chatham Artillery entered upon the performance of active patrol duty at night, in the streets, and upon the ourskirts of the Cit}', with marked benefit to the peace and good order of our community. The same year, in compliance with the request of the Citizens of Liberty County, a Detachment of our Com- pany inarched to Midway Meeting House, and there fired a salute of One Hundred guns, in commemoration of the centennial anniversary of the settlement of that County. In addition to the attractions which attended the celebration of the 22d February, 1853, .we sliould men- tion the association of the Chatham Artiller}-, the Re- publican Blues, and the Savannah Volunteer Guards into a volunteer military organization known as The Washington Legion. Although we have been compelled reluctantly to part with the Savannah Volunteer Guards, that Legion still exists, an honorable bond of friendship between the members who compose it, — a tribute to the memory of the illustrious Hero whose name it bears — and a source of unfeigned pride to our City. Long may that union last, each returning anni(v^ersary, with its accompanying pleasures, serving but to knit even more closelj', — if that were possible, — the ties which bind the Republican Blues and the Chatham Artillery in the bonds of a com- mon Brotherhood. Our thirteenth Commander, was the Hon. John E, OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 51 "Ward, — one whom our Company, our City, our State, and the United States have delighted to honor. Wheth- er in the social circle, at the Bar, in the Legislative Halls, or as a Minister Plenipotentiary in a far distant Country, he has in each and every position illustrated the virtues of the great, and reflectifed credit upon the land which gave him birth. The last sounds that fell upon his car, when leaving his native State upon his recent mission, — a mission which he has so signally accomplished, — were tlie farewell notes of our battery ; and among the welcoming hands and the sincere gratu- lations which awaited his return, — none were warmer, none truer, than those extended by his old comrades of the Chatham Artillery. On the 12th May, 1856, our Company with marked ceremonies, paid their last tribute of respect to the memory of our illustrious member George M. Troup. On the 20th July, 1858, my Fellow Soldiers, we unanimously elected our present worthy, efficient, and beloved Commander, Joseph S. Claghorx. I may not now pause my Comrades, to give expres- sion to those emotions of especial pride, and of pleasure which fill your breasts, at bare mention of his name. Our well filled ranks, — our discipline, — our subordi- nation, — the deep seated attachment which we bear for our organization,. — and the fraternal feeling existing among our membership, — all attest the efficiency, and the happy influence of his command. Your brightening eyes do but feebly express the sincere esteem, respect, 52 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY and affection, which "wc all, Officers and Privates, enter- tain for him. Long n\ay he grace the uniform he wears, and wield the sword of command which this day he boars. The uniform of our Corps, originally nearly allied to the "Old Continental," — in which the swallow tail coat with its buff trimmings, the yellow vest with heavy side pockets — knee-breeches, and old-fashioned cocked-hat, played such important parts, — was essentially modified in the early part of this century. It was again changed to a considerable extent in 1832, and subsequently in 1835; finally assuming those engaging and striking characteristics, which render it so unique, dignified, and attractive. Until within a comparatively recent period, the cap used, consisted of a tall leather Hat,-^ profusely ornamented with gilt mountings, — large gilt eagle in front, — and heavy scale ; from a brass socket some two and a half inches high, flowing a beautiful fountain plume of scarlet horse hair. The wnngs then worn, consisted of yellow sheep-skin rolls. The present ele- gant and imposing Chapeau, with its graceful plume of scarlet ostrich feathers, was adopted on the 4th April, 1843 : our present wings, on the 7th Octoljer, 1847, and the present belt, sword, and fatigue cap in 1854. Need I here recall my Fellow Soldiers, the pleasant memories which cluster in such rich profusion about our Nashville excursion in June, 1859? Ilave you forgotten the distinguished mai-ks of consideration at- tending us everywhere, both upon our journey to, and OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 53 onr return from the " City of the Rocks" ? Have you forgotten that universal welcome', — a welcome flowing alike from the open hearts of manly forms, and the ten- der bosoms of beautiful women and children in gala attire, scattering flowers which mingled their sweet per- fumes with the happy greeting; — a welcome, the trib- ute of a generous people, — recognized in the living shouts of joy which* rent the air, as with banners flying, and amid the discharge of Artillery, we made our little less than triumphal entry into that City? Have you forgotten the numberless attentions lavished upon us during our sojourn of three days among those beautiful hills, and within the shadow of that Capitol, in its puri- ty of conception, symmetry of form, and calm quiet repose, reminding of the Parthenon ^t Athens? Have you ceased to remember that memorable visit to the Hermitage, when, within the precincts of its consecrated • garden, with uncovered heads and in silence, we gather- ed around the tomb of Jackson, and there paid our heartfelt tribute of respect and veneration for the memory of one of the noblest and bravest men into whose breast the God of battles ever infused the living spaik? Have you forgotten the holy influence of that room in which the old Hero fought his last battle, and from which his disenthralled spirit rose triumphant over death and the grave? Have you ceased to remember the glad wel- come extended by our brother members of the Volun- teer Corps of this City, upon our return? Xo my Comrades, these pleasant recollections, with all their 5-1 SEVENTY-FIFTH AXXIVERSARY bright concomitants, are, and will be, ever cherished by us anu)ng the happiest> memories of our Corps, And how shall I commemorate your recent services in l>chalf of the State, and of our Southern Confederacy, in the occupation of Fort Pulaski? How shall we suf- ficiently admire the alacrity and the zeal with which 3'ou responded to the first call of his Excellency, the Governor, and forsaking the attractions of home, disre- garding the claims of private interests, and turning away from the allurements of pleasure, repaired at a moments warning to the post of duty and of honor? That post of honor and of duty was also believed, my brave Comrades, to be the post of danger; and although that tour of self-sacrifice, of protracted labor, and of rigid discipline paf^ed without bringing with it the car- nage of battle and the alarms of actual warfare, we have *the satisfaction of knowing, and of realizing in our in- most souls, that we stood prepared to brave every peril in the defence of the honor of our State and Confedera- cy, — in the maintenance of the exalted rights and ennobling principles for which we were contending, — and in the protection of the peace and the security -of our beloved City. In after years, when the rough-hewn image of the present shall have risen into all the beauty, dignity, and proportion of a perfect masterpiece, — when present labors shall have secured their rich rewards, — when our aims and purposes shall have achieved their legiti- mate and glorious results, — when the land shall be OF THE CnATlIAM ARTILLERY. 65 flooded with the noon-tide effulgence of our newly risen sun, another orator, upon another anniversary occasion, shall find in the memories of this day, and in the gener- ous, hightoned, patriotic actions of this period, a theme, whose praise may well demand and exhaust his proud- est powers. Thus my Fellow Soldiers have we briefly alluded to some of the more prominent recollections, which are suggested by a review of the history of our venerable and beloved Corj^s. We have looked only at the scat- tered hill-tops as it were, upon which the light of history has rested. Time and the patience of this respected auditory forbid that we stoojD to gather the sweet flowers of memory springing ^erywhere, and exhaling their delicate perfumes in that gentler sunshine, which nestles 80 softly in the quiet, retired valleys. And yet, in view of even this hasty retrospect, where amid your well filled detachments, the eye that does not kindle at sight of these recollections ? Where the heart that does not feel prepared anew to consecrate its affections, and to contribute its energies in perpetuating the good name, Wq dignity, and the every welfare of our time honored Organization? Where the Cannonier, who fails to re- cognize the more than ordinary obligations resting upon him, intelligently and bravely to discharge the duties which he has a-ssumed as a citizen soldier, and as a Mem- ber of the Chatham Artillery ? The attachment which binds us to our Company, — a Company, upon whose blazon age, and honor, and .^6 FEVENTV-FIITII ANNTVKHSAltV patriotism, and friendship, and virtue have placed their seals of consecration, — is peculiar in its character, and finds within your heart of hearts iu its quiet apjireeiated power, a readier recognition than in any description which I might attempt. For myself, there is a magic influence in the simple presence of that magnificent uniform, — a magic influ- ence in the warm grasp, denoting the fellowship which exists between brother members of the Chatham Artil- lerv, — a magic influence in the proud memories which belong to our Corps, and in the recollections of the life- history of many who have fostered, and who have been connected with our organization. There is an ackowl- edged power in the intelligent comprehension of the causes which gave us being, and of the ennobling objects w^hich have continued our existence. These attachments shall know no change until this beating heart forgets its emotions, — until these eyes shall kindle no longer at accustomed sight of friendships prized, at thought of associations cherished. And when this uniform shall be exchanged for the habiliments of the grave, I pra^ you, my Brothers, forget not the last funeral. parac forget not the last solemn salute from our single gun. Need I delay you longer my Comrades, to name the fraternal feeling, unaffected by the excitement of politics, — unchanged by the revei^es of fortune, which has always characterized the intercourse between the mem- bers of our Company ? Shall I here commemorate the high regard which we have ever entertained for the ray OF TEE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 57 Other volunteer Military Organizations of our City, — tlie entire absence of everything savoring of jealousy or rivalry, — and the unfeigned pleasure with which we have always welcomed their and our guests from abroad ; — or bring to your remembrance the special enjoyments experienced on gala occasions, upon the parade, at tar- get practice, or around the festive board ? Shall I point you to that catalogue of membership running un- broken through Seventy-five years, chronicling the names of many whom not only we ourselves, but our City, our State, and the nation have delighted to honor? Do you forget the marked privileges conferred upon our Corps by special Legislative enactment ? Shall I point you to the dignity and the responsibili- ties with which the Citizen Soldier at this period, and in this Country, is invested; — or remind 3'ou of the fact, that volunteer military organizations like our own, are, and must be identified with the civilization of the age; — that to them must we look, especially at this time, for a practical illustration of heroic virtue, and of self- Bacrificing devotion? Need I dwell upon the peculiar excellencies of the Artillery, as perhaps the most important arm of military service, particularly during the present crisis, and in our immediate section of the Country; — or bring to your contemplation the stem duties, and the dangerous engagements which we may be called upon to perform ? Most willingly Brother Soldiers would 1 enter upon the portrayal, did I not feel assured that this would be a a 68 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY work of supererrogation. You have jour pledges for the Future, in your recorded vouchers of the Past. Ee- membering the consecrated recollections, and the proud memories of former years, appreciating the responsibili- ties of the present, you will continue to declare your manhood in time to come. I may not now enter upon an analysis of the peculiar questions involved in this present crisis. They have been already time and again fully discussed. They are intelligently comprehended. Principles of Justice, of Equality, of Property, of Honor, of Humanity, of Reli- gion, are all at stake; and he who will not in their maintenance follow where his intuitive sense of duty, of right, and of hightoned manhood must lead him, de- serves not the name of freeman. If faint hearts are looking back, it is too late to retire from the contest. Good men, the wise, the highmindcd, the brave, all urge to heroic action. The God-speed of the reverend Clergy goes with us. Our Wives, and Daughters, and Moth- ers bid us onward. Our Country calls upon her Sons to bare their breasts in her defence. Inspired by the holy principles we espouse, — in sight of the homes of those we love, and of the green graves of our fothers, — nerved in the sacred cause of Liberty, of Truth, and of Independence, we are invincible by any force a malignant, blinded, and fanatical enemy may send against us. OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 69 The Lord of old for Jacob fought, And Jacob's God is still our aid * * « « * * In his salvation is our hope : And in the name of Israel's GWd Our troops shall lift their banners up, Our Navies spread their flags abroad. Heaven only knows how long or how thickly our skies may be overcast. But of this we may rest assured, that although the night be dark, the morning with all its gladsome light, and joy, and sunshine, will eventu- ally dawn upon ns. Our Brothers are already in the field. The answering shores of South Carolina, and the echoing waves of Charleston Harbor, are proclaiming aloud the greatness of their deeds. The God of battles smiling upon their patriotic chivalrous struggle, sent them the victory, and the Flag of these Confederate States now floats in beauty and in triumph from the parapets of Fort Sumter. Virginia, the Mother of Heroes, and Patriots, and Statesmen, raises her approving voice, and joins us in our glofious mission. North-Carolina, Tennessee, Mary- land, Arkansas, and Kentucky are preparing to assert their sovereignty, and declare their sympathy with their sister Southern States. Thus act succeeds act in this wonderful drama, and we now stand in the eye of a regenerated age, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners. Should the policy of Mr. Lincoln and his Black Republican Administration 60 SEVENTY-FIFTU ANNIVKKSAUY be carried into eflfect, and the pure waters of our Rivera and Harbors be defiled by the presence of blockading fleets, we much mistake the metal of this Southern Con- federacy, and the character of our esteemed President, — at once Soldier and Statesman, — if a great Southern Army, attracting as it advances the good men and true of every section, shall not be soon upon the march, whose mission it shall be, to rescue the tomb of Wash- ington from ihc pollution of a fanatical rule, and if need be, to plant our standard upon the dome of the Capitol at Washington. Let the Black Ilepublicans rave among the cold hills of their native States, and grow mad at home with entertainment of heresies, of infidelity, and of abstract conceptions of a "higher law," but in God's name, let them never in hostile array, attempt to set foot upon this our land of sunshine, of high-soulcd virtue, and of liberty. Profoundly realizing the fact, that our first obligations are due at home, and near our family altars ; that for their pretection was our organization formed ; — our battery fully apix)inted and ready for action, — our cais- sons well filled with cartridges, prepared by the patriotic labors of our fair country-women, — with hearts beating calmly, yet firmly beneath this inspiring uniform, — we, the Officers and Members of the Chatham Artillery, do hereby most solemnly pledge, whenever this our soil is invaded, or these our liberties are threatened, to the defence of you, our beloved Mothers, Wives, Daughters, OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 61 Sisters, to the safe-guard of our beloved city, and to the support of our new-born Confederacy, our lives, our for- tunes, and our sacred honors. My eyes rest upon the banner fashioned by the hand of beauty, hallowed by the labors, the smiles and the good wishes of the Wives and Daughters of our Non- commissioned Officers, which has this morning been placed by them a holy trust in our keeping. Upon its silken folds are displayed in simple and yet most impressive form, the Stars and Stripes — emblem- atic alike of all that was true, virtuous, brave, equal, and patriotic in the old Union, and of all that is ennobling, hopeful, and chivalrous in the aspirations of our young and glorious Confederacy. With pride and in honor, my Fellow Soldiers, you have rallied around your former standards in sunshine and in storm. You will cherish this with a devotion, which will kindle anew with every recurring year. Upon the fair name of our time-honored Corps there rests not a single stain; and here, my Comrades, with all the ennobling recollections of the Past crowding thick and fast upon me, — in full view of the responsi- bilities of the Present, — and with a firm reliance upon the successful issues of the Future, — in the presence of these fair Ladies, who have honored our Celebration with their approbation and their smiles, — in the pres- ence of these esteemed witnesses, — in this the morning of our new Nntionalify, — and upon this our Seventy- Fifth Anniversary, for you, for myself, as Citizen Sol- 62 SEVEN'TY-FIprH ANNIVERSARY diers, I desire to renew the oath of allegiance which binds us to our Company, to our City, to our State, and to our Country. Let but the emergency come, and by all that is sacred, by all that we hold dear, this Banner shall wave in triumph over our conquering heads; drooping only, when the carnage of the battle has left not an eye to kindle at its presence, not an arm to be lifted in its pro- tection. Marching from the Theatre, to tlie Residence of Lieu- tenant Jones, the Corps there partook of a glass of wine with biin, and thence proceeded to the Eastern extremi- ty of the Bay, where a salute of Eight guns was fired in honor of the day. • Returning to the Armory, the Guns were parked, and the Corps dismissed. The parade of this day was the largest ever made in the history of the Company. The following is a complete Roll of the present mem- bership of the Chatham Artillery. R O LL' Cltatliam SHilUvn, May 1, 1861. Captain. JOSEPH S. CLAGHORN. lituttnants. Ist— CHARLES C. JONES, Jr. 2d— JULIAN HARTRIDGE. 3d— WILLIAM M. DAVIDSON. » I9t— THOMAS A. ASKEW. 3d— SAMUEL P. BELL. 2d— JOHN GAMMELL. 4th— JAMES H. DEMUND. Corporals. l8t— S. PARKMAN HALSEY. 3d— BENJAMIN H. HARDEE. 2d— JOHN F. WHEATON. 4th— JACOB F. DOE. lantt Corporals. JOHN 0. DEITZ. JOHN A. LEWIS. JAMES A. COURVOISIE. SAMUEL B. PALMER. GEORGE A. WHITEHEAD. 64 SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY |3iibatts. Bailey, Frederick "W. Bertody, Thomas D. , Bilbo, John Bliss, Alfred Bogart, William S. Boston, John Butler, Osceola Callahan, Daniel Cannon, Charles Cevor, Charles Charlton. Andrew H. Christian, Henry R. Coolidgo, William Crawford, Robert A. Cunningham, Thomas If. Daniel, John S. Dickson, William G. Dumas, Henry B. Einstein, Abraham Estabrook, George C. Falligant, Louis A. Farr, Joseph M. Finlayson, John Garden, Frederick A. Gaudry, Julius B. Gray, Patrick Gray, Willie G. Greiner. Cliarles A. Guerard, John M. Guilmartin, Laurence J. Hackett, Elisha L. Harden, William D. Hartridge, Alfred L. Hertz, Frederick E. Horton, Humphrey P. Johnston, John M. Johnson, George 0. Johnson, Elliott C. Johnson, Warren Jones, Samuel King, William Nephew King, MacLeod Lathrop, James W. Lawton, Edward P. Ijittimore, William Linvillc, Henry H. Marshall, Theodore B. Ma\', William H. Miller, James Miller, Thomas R. Mills, Enoch Mitchell, Stephen W. Morse, Horace McDonald, James W. Norton, John R. O'Byrne, James L. Palmer, Herbert A. Prendergast, Joseph I. Pritchard, William R. Richmond, Henry A. Sanchez, Bernardino S. Scranton, Henry H. Sheftall, Mordecai G. Sims, Frederick W. Stibbs, Henry Tildcn, Barnard G. Treanor, Michael D. Warner, William Washburn, Joseph Jr. Washburn, Henry K. Webb, GWorge S. Willington, George Zeiglcr, Solomon Zeigler, William OF THE CHATHAM ARTILLERY. 65 Baldwin, Daniel H. Buker, Edward W. •Eittnpt iHtmbers. Cope, George L. Buckner, James H. Lovell, Edward Boifeuillet, John T. Slbstnt ^tmbtts. Dunning, William H. jllonorars Welman, Francis H. Bond, Samuel M. Williams, William Thome Xicoll, John C. King, Charles M. Jones, James M. Mallery, John Box, Thomas N. Duncan, William Wright, Allen R. Sorrel, Francis Gallic, John B. Low, Andrew Ward, John E. McHenry, James Cunningham, John Meroer, Hugh W. Wilder, John R. Locke, Joseph L. Sjrmons, William R. fiSLtmittB. Washburn, Joseph Beals, Joseph A. Luce, Alonzo B. Hager, Elisha McCleskey, George A. Henry, Albert G. Camp, Daniel B. Lama, John Parsons, Elisha Ash, Charles B. Tufts, Martin Bulloch, William G. Hone, William Barrie, Claudius E. Mooney, Martin D. Cuyler, Richard R. Buckner, Milton J. Wetter, Augustus P. Lincoln, William W. Maddox, Thomas A. Cass, Michael L. .;:s^!5 4 I