'^o A^ m>-./ i^'. %/ .-*>^-. %.o^' :;^ A <*. '^s^^- o V ^^^ ^. ♦ ^i:5:'vtv.N,'' •^ t^o^ vP S \-^''- .^ a\ Class _£ 10^ The Chelsea Savings bAN Incorporated 1858. Lorenzo Blackstone, Pres t. George D. Coit, Sec'y and Ireas. Chap. B. Chapman, Asst 'Ireas. cA^ 4^'7yC^^Cri^ % cLi \^^^ CASJji^\,\ ^-^-^ ^^(5u. ^i^ /^-|/ C^ Ortl. VVA^ 6 1 ^ /VXv— I D I3>4^ V "^ Incorporated 1858. lx>RENZO Blackstone. Pres't. George D. Coit, Sec'y and Treas. Chas. B. Chapman, Asst Treas. CUiw ;4Cv-Lti/Vv WC'WA JVCi ^t-^s ^ ^ Ld- u Irti. I' C\ Ou- l^lTiiirvv ^ "^ §M §rah ^flgs MEMORIAL DISCOURSE DKLIVERED IN THE SECOND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, NORAVICH, CONN,, DECEMBER IOTh, 1865, BY M^ M'r af T)A]SrA, PASTOTl OF THE CTIT'TICH. P U B I- I S H E D BY REQUEST. NORWICH: BULLETIN JOB P R I N T I X G OFFICE, 1866 . " ^nkt d UtQxm est pa ptria m0ri. i: MEMORIAL JOHN IV. -.38. OTHER MEN LABORED, AND YE ARE ENTERED INTO THEIR LABORS. It has ever been a beautiful sentiment which has prompted mankind to honor their worthy and illus- trious dead. And so it has been customary in almost every age to celebrate their virtues and deeds in po- ems and eulogies, by monuments of granite, and statues of marble. The world can not afford to do without the memory of its benefactors. Whatever is noble and self-sacrificing deserves to be perpetua- ted. By the ordering of Providence, it is intended that the honored and useful should pass into his- tory; for sepulture was never synonymous with ob- livion. So invested is every human life with relations that give it significance and influence, that the words of sacred writ have special force ; — ^' For none of us MEMORIAL liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself." Children mourn for parents. Communities lament the death of leading citizens. The demise of a Prince carries sorrow through an empire, or the sudden de- cease of a President drapes a Kepublic in sorrow, while for the fallen heroes, upon whose swords hung the destinies of nations the people grieve, and bear them in sadness to their burial. We never tire in our grateful tribute to our ances- tors, — who sought on this continent a new home, who endured the hardships incident to its settle- ment, and then cheerfully gave their lives to transmit it to us free. Eeady are our praises for their successors, who augmented what they inheri- ted, and bequeathed in turn to us with well guarded institutions of liberty and learning, the States they dwelt in and the Government they maintained. And it is in keeping with this just practice of the past, that we render our homage to those who have more recently sacrificed their ease and their lives to pre- serve all that we to-day possess. Through all these instances we observe the principle enunciated in the text, — other men labored ; we have entered into their labors. Others bear the burdens; we 51 E M R I A L . enjoy the results. The}'- fought and fell; we live secure and prosperous. — It is the method by which all our benefits are procured. Every privilege costs some one a struggle. It is the solemn law of vica- rious sacrifice ; a law which pervades all nature, and penetrates even the realm of human existence. It is the deep mystery of all being, — the sacrificing of life to give l*fe. The decaying rock forms the soil in which the herb grows up. The corn of wheat dies, and out of this death comes the harvest-life. The layers of de- ciduous leaves shelter the tree-roots, and form the rich substance in which the j^oung shrubs start to vigorous growth. So, too, in the animal world, the hawk strikes down the dove; the smaller fishes are food for the larger ; myriad forms of higher life sus- tain themselves by preying on the weaker and more helpless ; and in like manner it is impossible for man to live, as it is for man to be redeemed, except through vicarious suffering. Every human being has its birth in this law of sacrifice. No blessing comes to man save through this law. Every country cleared for civilization and made attractive for hu- man abodes, cost the first settlers the hardships and M E iM O R I A L early death incident to pioneer life. For its inde- pendence of foreign rule, and a free government of its own, patriots must battle and die. For its preser- vation when assailed by traitorous hands, must the loyal-hearted contend. So that there never was a victory won, but those who took possession of the conquest passed over the bodies of the noblest slain. It is this which invests with sanctity every social and religious right, — for they were all the price of blood. The Christian Church, with its precious hopes and holy inspirations, was procured by the Blood of Christ, and has been perpetuated through the ages by the sacrifices of its martyrs and confessors. Civil free- dom has grown fastest when its roots were moist- ened by the blood of those who died in its behalf Truth itself has all the while advanced by planting its feet in the blood of friends, and anon in that of foes, swinging, like a mighty pendulum, from one joy to another disaster, while the hands on the dial- plate above show how steadily it has moved on. And when we remember all that was imperiled by the late rebellion, we shall anew appreciate the patriotism of those who stood for our defence. A high-hearted, puissant nationality, with its array MEMORIAL. of arts and industries, of laws and institutions, saved to us and our posterity ; — assuredly, if this be the re- sult of others' sacrifices, it exalts their worth and entitles them to our lasting gratitude. But when it is borne in mind that more than this was the consequence of their service, who will un- dertake to measure the debt we owe those fallen heroes. Our Nation — redeemed from the thralldom of injustice, shaking off the badges of its history's shame, appearing in its new power, like "the clear shining after rain," — is the monument to their great labors. The Eepublic anew committed to the Justice and Liberty which its founders had val- ued, made aware of the supremacy of principles over forces, is their memorial. And because of their achievements, its history to us will be nobler and more full of inspiration, while a share in their la- bors will all people claim. The progress of Liberty throughout the world has by them been made more rapid, and the foretokenings of the millenial day to be more certainly discerned. They have re- established our Liberties and our Government, and their exhilarating example abides to stir us to gen- erous emulation. Colossal evils, which had grown M E Til O R I A L . with our growth and threatened our national life have been overthrown, and new principles are in the ascendant. The banner of the nation waves once more over an undivided land, its unchallenged sove- reignty supreme from the Lakes to the Gulf. Insti- tutions which were the fairest bloom of the ages and the brightest promise of the race, their heroic cour- age and sacrifice have preserved intact. All this is the result of tlieir having labored and died, and this is the grand legacy they have left us to enjoy. We can win no more laurels in a war for self- defence; other hands have gathered them. Tons remains the duty of mastering the civil problems yet unsolved, and of fashioning the institutions w^hich are to mould the spirit of the nation. Their labors have illustrated the capacity of Christianized men to maintain a democratic government, — to hold a country in the interests of freedom, where the feet of slaves shall scorch no more the soil, nor the breath of traitors poison the air. They have vindicated before the world that a great nation has no right to die, and that unresisted assassination is virtual sui- cide. Through their prowess the unfulfilled prom- ises of the Fathers have been realized. MEMORIAL. 9 As in times of peace we are not apt to weigh the sacrifices tliat it costs to procure our blessings, let our yet close proximity to these days of war and woe, serve to exalt our estimate of the noble spirits that stood in the place of mortal peril to preserve and perpetuate them. By the side of the patriots of the Eevolutiouj these latest defenders of the coun- try take their place. We cherish every memorial of such illustrious heroes, — we admire their patience and fortitude ; for every day of peace, with its new development of greatness to the land and glory to its institutions, proclaims the magnitude of those labors upon which we have entered. The story of their sufferings and successes shall take significance from the era of the nation's new birth and power. As Americans and as Christians we pay this slight tribute to the memory of our noble dead, and record our gratitude for what through them has given to life new joj^s and promise. As we gather the rich fruitage of the tree of Freedom planted by our fathers and defended by their chiklren, we here will not cease to remember those who went from our homes, — fi-om this Church and Sabbath School* Forever precious shall be the names of these our owil 9 10 M E ?tl O R I A L martyr heroes, who delivered us from peril, and made our peace more sacred and secure. Honored boys, who in the freshness of their opening man- hood were counted worthy to suffer and die, — their memory is embalmed in our hearts and their example inspires us to better life. While yet the dew of youth was on them, they cheerfully exposed their lives for our menaced rights, and by the casualty of battle have fallen martyrs to Liberty and Law. Henceforth none need be uncertain how far the loyal sentiment reaches and how much it carries vfith it. Our Constitution and Laws will be more sacred than we ever thought them to be; our very name and heritage more august. It is with the purpose of recalling their noble patriotism, and of commending their example to those who knew them vv^ell, that this Memorial has been prepared. It is a record that the Sabbath School with which these brave bojs were all at some time connected, may well prize. I remember what an impression the simple reading of their names pro- duced on me, as I lirst saw them inscribed on the Sabbath School walls, and encircled with evergreen. " Our brave hoj/s,'' was the sim]>le but touching in- MEMORIAL. 11 scription over the names I have come personally to cherish with deepest reverence. Learning, moreover, that they were all Christian young men, I thought they were eloquent preachers of piety as well as patriotism to their surviving comrades. It seemed fitting, therefore, that now as the war has closed, and the principles for which they fought and fell are triumphant, some final tribute of grati- tude should be paid to their memories; and that we should seek to perpetuate, for the sake of the School and Church where they received religious instruction, the record of all they did and endured. One look upon the land their young valor defended, noting the happiness with which it is filled and the fame it has acquired abroad, will assure us that even the smallest testimonial to those whose sacrifices pro- cured all this, is not out of place. Many of those who hazarded their lives in the same 2:i*eat cause, have by a merciful Providence been permit- ted to return. They, with us, enjoy the fruit of their own labors and the labors of their comrades in arms. But those whose manly forms are missed from our assembly to-day, whose voices we no more shall hear in prayer and praise, — they who 12 MEMORIAL. died, not having seen tlie end or enjoyed the vic- tory, we commemorate by this imperfect tribute of our grateful love. And while indulging in the recollections which cluster about these lives we watched and saw so early cease, let us remember that we have duties and obligations corresponding to the blessings pur- chased for us. Allowed to partake of the fruit of their patriotic toils, may we seek jealously to pre- serve and extend the principles for which they fought. Blessing God that they lived and labored, the remembrance of what they accomplished shall inspire in us a new courage concerning the future, and stimulate us to loftier achievement. Prompt to honor and commemorate our dead, may wo by our labors serve as much the country and its liberties for which they became willing sacrifices. A brief sketch of each of those who went from our school, and who never returned, will serve to awaken a new appreciation of their character and career. Sergeant James Torrance was the youngest son of a widowed mother, born Nov. 29th, 1841, near Edinburgh, Scotland. He possessed in a high degree ■NI E M O R I A L . 13 the qualities of self-reliance and integrity which char- acterize so generally the Scotch. With a bright earn- est face, a manly form, those who observed him in the Sabbath School class, or in the workshop, were at- tracted by his appearance. While there was nothing in it particularly striking, there was still a quiet earnest bearing which impressed you. At the first call of the Government for troops, lie promptly re- sponded, and went out with the Third Connecticut Eegiment, commanded by Col. Terry, and was in the Battle of Bull Eun. Ecturning with the regi- ment, he was not contented to remain at home. His heart was in the cause, and he longed once more to enroll liimself among the country's defenders. Though his mother sought to retain him by her side, reminding him that she was now dependent upon her boys, he still seemed to think it was her duty to give him up, and his to go. Balancing thus the claims of a beloved mother, for whom he cherished the reverent affection peculiar to those of his nation, and the claims of his adopted country, he was for some time in much perplexity as to the course to be pursued. Meanwhile, his mother noticed the boy's strong 14 M E M O R I A L desire to enlist once more, and was not wholly un- prepared for the decision which brought him again to that step. " Mother/' he said, as nearly as his words can now be recalled, ^^ you know we have adopted this as our landj and we ought in this hour of peril to do something for the Government, and I think I ought to enter its service." The time had come, and sorrowfully, yet hopefully, the fond pa- rent replied, '' Jamie, if you must go, one condition I have to propose, — that you will read a chapter in this Testament, (handing him the coi)y,) when not on duty, every uight at nine o'clock, and your mother will do the same ; and so we Vvill remember each other." He assented to this, and in the Thir- teenth Kegiment, under the gallant Colonel, now Major General Birge, he soon took his departure for the Department of the South, under the command of Gen. Butler. The record of the regiment in New Orleans, where it was the body-guard of the com- manding general, and its subsequent career in the Port Hudson campaign, attest its high character. Young Torrance was regarded in his company as a brave and upright soldier, and his captain reports him as one of the most reliable in his command. M E ?.l O R I A L . 15 Sabbath, April 27th, 1862, he united with the Eegi mental Church, partaking for the first time ot the Lord's Supper. It was in fulfilling the promise made to his mother, that he was thus brought to the Saviour. Throughout his journal, I find the frequent entry, — '' Eead my chapter this evening," and sometimes the statement, ^' omitted my chapter to-night in consequence of duty," or something else w^hich necessarily prevented him. Conscientiously adhering to what was right, he was one of the few men, says his captain, w4io kept his moral character unblemished. From his journal, 1 noted the scru- pulousness with which he attended divine service : and in one place he makes the entry, '• took the guard to a temperance meeting to-night." In many ways this regard for his own and others' moral and religious welfare, is revealed. Patient and perse- vering, he kept up his hope in the final triumph of the Grovernment over its domestic foes. His letters home abound in pleasant descriptions of all that he saw and experienced, and contain the evidence of an unaltered devotion to those from whom he was parted. After his religious change, he wrote more solemnly of the exposure of his life, and »1() MEMORIAL assured his mother " that now he was prepared for death.'^ Intelligently comprehending all the issues of the war, he as a Christian thought also of his own personal peril. And it seemed a relief to him, as it was a source of great joy to his anxious mother, that he had given his heart to Christ, and that now whatsoever might befall him, it would still be well with him. So his loyalty led him towards religion ; the two fires burning together, one helped kindle the other. Assuredlj^ there is a relation too deep for all to see between true loyalty and piety. Devotion to one's country, Avith its history, its laws, its hon- ors of the past, and its promises of a greater future, is kindred to the devotion martyrs have shown, when they sacrificed all for their faith. In the battles of Georgia Landing, Oct. 27, 1862, and of Irish Bend, April 14, 1863, the regiment saw hard service, and acquired a reputation for courage, steadiness and discipline, unsurpassed by any in the Department. In both these actions Sergeant Tor- rance acquitted himself with honor. Xot afraid to die, he was fearless in the duties of his position, and well seconded by his own example and achieve- ments the orders of his superior officers. On Sab- M E M R I A L . 17 bath, May 24, 1863, was the assault on Port Hud- son, with the Thirteenth Eegiment in the advance, leading the charge. Just previous to the battle, Torrance remarked to a comrade : " The only thing I dislike in the service, is the being obliged to fight on the Lord's Day, at least commencing any en- gagement which could as well be postponed till after the passage of holy time." Eis early training, to- gether with the high national respect paid by his own race to the Sabbath, had brought him to re- gard it as strictly sacred time. Still, he had of course no option, and he took his position on the line of battle. The conflict was severe and pro- tracted, and though unsuccessful, it was not owing to lack of bravery on the part of the men. It was in this action that young Torrance received his death shot. After little more than a year's ser- vice, he fell, as the hero should fall, facing the foe and leading in the charge. He had staked all in his countr^-'s behalf, and died in her defence. His was a humble career, for it was a modest yet manly youth who lived it, who sought ambitiously for no per- sonal renown, but who was earnestly intent on the Government's deliverance. It was the career of a 3 18 M E M O R T A L . brave Christian boy, who with intelligent patriotism and unobtrusiv' e fidelity took his place in the ranks, counting not his own life dear if onl}^ the country might be saved. And just such noble unosten- tatious boys gave to our armies their constancy in a long and bloody struggle, and their final victory over a determined and vindictive foe. I confess to no slight admiration of those w4io so consci- entiously and quietly labored and sufi'ered for so glorious a cause. These inconspicuous heroes, un- heralded by the bulletins of generals, unknown as they stood in serried column, were our real deliver- ers ; and I honor every one who with a heart to feel, and a mind to understand the character of the conflict, fell fighting in the ranks. On the grave of every such private in an army of heroes, I would willingly place the cypress tribute, for such sac- rifice and valor secured the home and freedom so pre- cious to-day. His seat in the Sabbath School class is vacant, but his memory will be fondly cherished, for he honored us by his manly piety as well as his patriotic devo- tion. His humble home surrendered a precious of- fering to secure the greater '^ home of the free/' MEMORIAL. 19 His brother, Colonel of the Twenty-ninth Colored Eegiment, who has so nobly distinguished himself in this contest, wrote to the mourning mother when he heard the sad intelligence that her son and his brother had fallen : — " Our starry flag where'er it floats will be dearer now to me, hallowed and con- secrated by a brother's blood. Let us give thanks that God has accepted our sacrifice, and that we are permitted to do and to suffer in the cause o? Liberty, Eighty and Truth ^^ Lieutenant Alfred M. Goddard was born in Ma- rietta, Ohio, June 19, 1836. His parents removed to Norwich when he was quite young, and here he grew up, developing a character of rare beauty and force. Leaving his home at an early age to com- mence life for himself, he for that reason was less generally known than othervvise he would have been. Yet in the home where a peerless devotion to those he most deeply loved distinguished him, by friends who were aware of his noble nature, he was held in reverent and afl*ectionate esteem. None knew him but to admire his earnestness of spirit, his command- ing self-reliance, his determined energy ; and all 20 M E M O R I A L this tempered by a refinement and gentleness, which gave to his character unusual completeness. He was one of those choice spirits whose career is invested with all that can stimulate and instruct. Immersed, when quite young, in the cares and du- ties of a responsible business, he yet displayed a culture ordinarily looked for only in the man of let- ters. His criticisms on books that chanced to pass under his notice, betray a fine taste united with unusual analytic power. His journal while in the Pacific, abounds in the most graphic portrayal of life on ship-board, and on the Islands. Susceptible to all that w^as beautiful and grand in nature, his descrip- tions of scenery in the Tropics and of the changeful ocean, near and upon which so much of his life w^as spent, can hardly be surpassed. Entering, when still under age, the employ of Williams & Haven, of New London, Conn., he was by them sent out to the Sandwich Islands, and in connection wnth a Branch House, resided about five years at Honolulu. During that period he made several voyages to the Arctic Ocean, passing two years on McKean's Island, in the Southern Pacific. At the breaking out of the war, he was about M E M R I A L . 21 leaving Honolulu for Mauritius. When the news reached him that hostilities had actually commenced, he was eager to leave at once for home, that he might enroll himself among those hurrying to the Government's defence; but such were his business engagements, that fidelity to his employers required the prosecution of the voyage. So, with a disap- pointed heart, he endeavored to do the work to which he was committed, though his thoughts were with the brave men who were already marshalled for deadly conflict with our foes. He writes in his journal as he started on this voy- age : '' I have been reading the Atlantic Monthly. It is all war. How is this? I am trying to do my duty, and yet a deathly sickness comes o'er mo when I think what a feeling of joy it would have given me could I have gone home and given up all for my country." At a later date he adds : '-' All my hope now is, that having chosen this path 1 may command myself and give my thoughts to the pres- ent, trusting that through some great good luck I may yet tind myself among the New England he- roes." AVho of us imagined that on the far Pacific main there was a heart beating with such lofty pat- 22 MEMORIAL. riotism; reckoning as its chiefest trial that it could not share in our struo-o-le for national existence. And yet, like thronging doves to their windows came the patriots of our land, traveling homeward from every quarter of the globe that they might swell the hosts who battled for truth and freedom. He speaks at this time of the change in his views of life, — " It is so real, so earnest, and can be so no- ble." Then reverting to his country, he remarks, " 1 begin to think the war is the best thing which could have happened to us. I know it must stir up our young men to action and fill their veins with new life. I honor the brave fellows and am proud of dear old Connecticut. The spirit of our Puritan Fathers is not yet dead." While at Mauritius, hearing of his father's sudden death, young Goddard hastened back with the ut- most expedition that he might visit his bereaved mother and mingle with the afflicted family. Taking the East Indian route through the Eed Sea and Eu- rope, he arrived at his home in the fall of 18(52. He hoped then to enter the army and gratify thus the deepest longing of his heart. But his business en- gagements compelled him to go back once more to M E M O R I A L . 28 the Sandwich Islands, and with great reluctance he turned his face toward the Pacific. He seemed at this time keenly sensitive lest his absence from the country while in so critical a condition should not be understood. Many are the journal entries which betray this fear. " If my choice could be recalled," he writes in one place, " 1 would go through any- thing to get upon the battle field.'' As indicative of his religious state while so full of the war-spirit, he says of his last Sabbath at Honolulu ; " Spent a pleas- ant hour at the Young Men's Praj^er Meeting, an hour I hope never to forget, nor the promises which my heart made while in communion with those dear friends in Jesus." He speaks also of the moral is- sues of the conflict, demonstrating his ardent love of liberty for all classes — ''It seems strange the coun- try should have been ruled so long by this small party. (Slaveholders.) But the time for a change has come, and I think the curse of slavery will now be removed from our beautiful land." Despatching with promptness his business at the Islands, and closing his connection with the firm he had served so long and well, he was enabled to re- turn home in May, 1863, Then the cherished pur- 24 M E :\i O R T A L . pose of his soul seemed at length possible to be car- ried out. On the following July, he received a commission as First Lieutenant in Company B of the Eighth Connecticut Eegiment, but was at once detached for duty on the Staff of General Harland, the former Colonel of the Eighth Eegiment. In this capacity he rendered faithful service until March, 1864, when, at the request of officers and men, he rejoined his regi- ment. " It is a hard thing to do," says his diary, " but I am sure it is right." His associates on the Staff parted with him, not without the greatest re- luctance and the most genuine regret. To General Harland he was strongly attached, and by him in turn was esteemed as an able officer and a personal friend. The heart which had chafed so when busi- ness prevented his connection with the army, was still dissatisfied with the less arduous duties of staff officer, so he took his place in the ranks, and the long yearning of his heart seemed about to be ap- peased when the hardships and dangers of the field were to be his. March 13, 1864, the regiment, under command of Col. J. E. Ward, left its old camp at Portsmouth, MEMORIAL. 25 Ya., and marched to Deep Creek, where it performed outpost and picket duty until April 13. Thence it was ordered to Yorktown, and was assigned to the Second Brigade of the Eighteenth Corps. Forming part of Gen. Butler's command, it was engaged in a reconnoisance of the enemy's lines before Peters- burgh. On the morning of May 8, the regiment led the advance in an attempt to press back the enemy. Forming in battle line, it repeatedly charged the foe, driving him before them, and continued fighting till the ammunition was exhausted and the regi- ment was relieved by order, receiving, as it returned from the bloody field, the cheers of the whole brig- ade. It was in this action that the fatal bullet struck Lieut. Goddard. While bravely fighting and cheer- ing on his men in this his first battle, he fell, mor- tally wounded. The day before, his entry in his diary, when it was apparent an engagement was imminent, was both touching and significant,—" And the Children of Israel prevailed because they trusted in the Lord God of their Fathers." The day of the battle, Sat- urday, May 7, he wrote :—" 7 A. M. we go to the front with only arms and ammunition." Before sun- 4 26 MEMORIAL. down he was borne from the field, and ere another day had gone, the knightly youth of high hopes and un- flinching courage passed away. Of his carriage on the day of battle, his captain writes : — ^^ He was so thoughtful and considerate, not rash or impetuous but cool and collected, ready for any emergency, willing for every duty." He had won in no common degree the esteem of officers and men, and his loss was felt by all. Upon the examination of his wound, he asked the regimental Surgeon whether it was likely to prove fatal, adding, at once, that he thought it must, in which opinion the surgeon was obliged to concur. Immediately he added: " Tell my mother that I die in the front, that I die happy. I have been a great sinner, but Jesus loves me, and I can trust him/' Eemoved to the Chesapeake Hospital, at Fortress Monroe, he lingered for little more than a day, suf- fering intensely but patiently. When the Chaplain asked him what he should read, he replied: '^Read that hymn ^ Just as lam, without one plea.' " All around him were affected by his he- roic endurance, and his perfect trust in Christ. To one beautiful thought he gave utterance, (wrote the MEMORIAL. 27 regimental Chaplain,) when told he must die — " Then 1 shall he free from temptation.^' And soon he was ; sinking into his peaceful rest, as the lengthening shadows indicated the waning day. Sweet rest he soon found, after a short life full of adventure and of noble toil. . Writes one who knew him well : '^ He was one of the few men whom I have known in my life whose steadfast honesty was proof against all temptations, and his varied life exposed him to not a few." An- other friend, intimately associated with him while in the army, wrote when news of his death was re- ceived : ^^How kind and unselfish he was. "What a sturdy champion for every thing just, noble, and right. How he loathed Oj^pression and injustice. How he loved his country." Few excelled him in the earnestness and unselfish devotion which so eminently characterized him. A whole hearted consecration to others' good, made his career beautiful and his death glorious. In his grand young strength God permitted him to die, and his death adds another to the list of heroes whose memory and example are the Nation's heri- tage. 28 }.l E M O R J A L Adjutant E. Bex\jamin Culver was the only son of Benjamin and Adelaide Culver, born in the city of New York, Oct. 27, 1840. Through his school and business life he became w^ell known here, and by those most intimately ac- quainted with him, he was esteemed as a young man of more than ordinary excellence and promise. One of his early instructors speaks of him as the "peace- maker,'' while his teacher in Norwich, with whom he spent nearly a year and a half, mentions his marked truthfulness o£ chsLYSLCter. In the Sabbath School no face was more thought- ful, no heart more responsive to the appeals of the truth. By the superintendent he was regarded as one of those stable, upright boys, whom the Sabbath School not only benefits, but whose very presence gives character and success to the school. Earnest in all his views of life, it was a pleasure and a privi- lege- to teach him in reference to the things of heaven, while the same qualities made him a prized member of the little band first eno^ao^ed in the Mt. Pleasant Mission School. His personal appearance gave all the impression of youthful manliness. Gen- erous in his feelings and self-possessed in his man- ^I E M O R I A L . 29 ners, young Culver was the favorite of a large circle of friends. In the spring of 1859, after a season of unusual religious interest, he united with this Church, and maintained thenceforth a high char- acter as a faithful and devoted Christian. His re- ligious experience seemed to give new breadth and beauty to his life. Unassuming, and withal modest in his ways, his was a quiet, but earnest piety. He said little in public about it, yet his daily life wit- nessed to its power. His pastor says of this change in his character : — '* In pf^ssing from death unto life, he did not profess to experience any rapturous emotions of joy, any strong assurance of hope, but a placid, serene and humble consciousness of a new and living purpose of consecration to the service of the Saviour, and consequent delight in that service," His mother writes, that '' he was always thoughtful, and in early years was the subject of deep religious convictions. When but eleven years of age, so impressed was he by a sermon on missions, that he resolved to become a missionary, whenever old enough. This pur- pose he relinquished, only when faUing health indi- cated that he could not probably endure the labor 30 MEMORIAL. incident to such a life. From this time, however, he became a careful student of the Bible, and it was these impressions which culminated in his public profession of Christ in 1859. As a clerk in the store of Lee & Osgood, he has left the reputation of rare fidelity and skill. Ener- getic and quick to learn, he mastered the business, and gave promise of great success. Between him- self and employers a warm attachment existed, bro- ken only by his early death. His admirable business qualities, as well as his personal worth, had attained for him a position not often reached by those as 3^oung as he. When the Eighteenth Kegiment was forming, the duty of entering his country's service came to him with new force. Seeking the advice of friends and parents, he finally registered his conviction of what was duty, by enlisting. The purest of motives prompted him in this act, for it was when his earthly prospects were brightest that he entered the army, and his parents knew that at pecuniary sacrifice he remained in the service. He was moreover an only son, tenderly beloved, and relinquished more than M E IVI O R I A L . 31 many in leaving father and mother at his country's call. In August, 1862, he left Norwich with the Eigh- teenth Eegiment, commanded by Col. William G. Ely. While stationed at Baltimore, Culver was de- tailed to act as clerk at the head-quarters of Gen. Schenck, Commandant of the Middle Department. His executive ability secured him the appointment, and so valuable were his services considered by the General, that he was retained some time after his promotion to the Adjutancy of the regiment. While in this position, in one of his letters he speaks of his dissatisfaction with such labor. Though it was safer and more lucrative than a soldier's service, still, he said it was not for this kind of work he enlisted. He was eager to engage in active campaigning — to meet the hardships and brave the perils of the field. He rejoined his regiment just after the unfortu- nate battle of Winchester, June 13, 34, 15, 1863, when the Colonel and a large proportion of the offi- cers and men were taken prisoners. His first letter, dated at Maryland Heights, spoke of " a disconsolate band" he had succeeded in gathering together, — the remnants of the splendid regimeut which had left 32 M E 31 O R I A L Norwich less than a year previous. He furnished to anxious friends the first reliable account of the casualties of that action. Entering upon the duties of Adjutant, he proved himself at once a most effi- cient officer. In April, 1864, he returned home on a furlough, and many remember with deep interest that last visit. The campaign of the spring was about to open, and the indications were that there would be hard fighting. The earnestness with which Culver spoke of the increased perils showed his full appre- ciation of his own exposure, when he returned. Coming events appeared to have wrought an unu- sual thoughtfulness. And though he spoke calmly and with hope, it was with a half betrayed impres- sion that this would prove his last interview with Norwich friends. Side by side in our west gallery he sat with a brother officer, a worshiper as of old in this place of prayer. It was the last time he heard his Pastor's voice, the^last service he was to attend in the Church where he had confessed his faith in Christ, and enrolled himself as a disciple of the Saviour. At the last interview with his parents, his mother M E :m R I A L . 33 remarked: ''You look care-worn, but I do not ask you to resign." He replied : " I could not be induced so to do, for, dear mother, calmly and deliberately I give my service, and my life if necessary, for my country. You remember the lines — * " For strangers into life we come, And dying is but going home." ' When he returned to his regiment, the army of the Shenandoah, of which it formed a part, had started upon its long and tedious campaign. At New Market, Ya., occurred the first engagement with the rebels. In this the Eighteenth Eegiment participated, losing fifty-six in killed, wounded and missing. The report of this battle was the last Ad- jutant Culver lived to make. Eetreating to Cedar Creek, Va., the army rested several days, and was reorganized under General Hunter, who relieved General Sigel. On May 27, equipped for rapid march- ing, the regiment, with the army, advanced with lit- tle opposition until arriving in the vicinity of Pied- mont, June 5, 18G4. A battle here ensued, resulting after severe and protracted fighting, in the total rout of the enem}^, and the capture of 1500 prison- 34 MEMORIAL ers. Among the first mortally wounded on our side was Adjutant Culver. While engaged with the regi- ment in one of the earliest charges made that day, he was struck by a piece of shell and fell from his horse. Eemoved at once to the hospital, he died the fol- lowing day, June 6, 1864. He had fought his last fight, and received his death wound while joining in the charge which brought victory to our arms. What he had said he was Avilling to do, he was by the providence • of God permitted to do in thus cheerfully laying down his life for his country. So the youth whom fond parents had watched as he developed into all that was noble and pure, fell bravely fighting for our liberties and our land. One more name his death affords to the roll of heroes, whose generous self-sacrifice sanctifies the cause. An earnest Christian, a faithful clerk, a devoted patriot, he has left behind the record of a noble life. Through the casualty of battle he realized early and speedily the lines of his flivorite hymn — " Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee," and the future opened to him a new life of nobler MEMORIAL. 35 aims and higher services. His firmly outlined in- tegrity, united with his quiet enthusiasm had made him to be loved by many, and in this city he long will be remembered. In this epoch of grand events he acted a noble part, and sincerely and bravely per- formed his every duty. Corporal Herbert E. Beckwith was born June 23, 1845. A youth of a thoughtful but reserved temperament', he Avas not by all understood or ap- preciated. The wayward impulses of a character not yet matured, were by some mistaken for the choices of a wilfuU spirit. Yet all through his early years he exhibited some of the noblest traits possi- ble to youth, blended with much that was strange and interesting. Pondering with more than a boy's usual seriousness the subject of religion, he frequent- ly surprised them who knew him best by his earnest expression of the personal difiiculties he met with in trying to heed its claims. Under the appearance of an eager, spirited life, lay concealed the thoughtful- ness and lofty aspiration which really distinguished him. Many doubtless recall his slight form and pleasant face in the Sabbath School-room, where he 36 M E I\I O R I A L was accustomed during the singing, to stand by the organ to work its bellows. Early in the war he manifested a strong desire to enlist, but his youthful age and the wishes of his parents for a while deterred him. Many thought him too young to endure tbe hardships of a soldier's life, but the excitement and novelty of such a career had a fascination for him, and, boy as he was, he too felt the stirrings of that mighty passion which can make of the youngest, patriots and heroes. Not that he at this time thoroughly defined his motives^ but it was more than idle curiosity that had made him wish to do Avhat he instinctively felt was noble. To have part in the mighty conflict, was his strong- est desire. He was a lad of noble impulses, and not unintelligently did he choose that his place should be among the brave defenders of his country. After some debate as to the wisdom of such a course, he enlisted Oct. 1, 1861, in the Tenth Eegi- ment, under Col. Eussel. For nearly two years he shared the fortunes of that noble regiment. He passed safely through the battles of Eoanoke Island, Newbern and Kinston. Through all this period till June, 1863, he acquitted himself well as a soldier. MEMORIAL. 37 His fragile form, and boyish countenance frequently excited the wonder how he should have come into the rough scenes and stern experiences of military life. His Chaplain, Eev. H. C. Trumbull, testifies to his regular attendance at the regimental prayer-meet- ings, and on divine service. He appeared interest- ed, and in many ways assisted the Chaplain in ar- ranging for the different meetings to be held. Thus his influence and example were given to sustain the religious interests of the regiment. Undemonstra- tive in his feelings, it was his many kind acts and generally thoughtful manner, which indicated how much he valued the ministrations of his Chaplain. At his father's request, he was honorably dis- charged, June, 1863. His soldierly conduct had gained him the esteem of both ofliCers and men, and at the time of leaving he was to have been promoted to be Sergeant-Major. The remainder of the sum- mer he spent at home, restlessly debating whether he ought not to enter the army again. He knew now what a soldier's fare was, and for one so 3'oung had already acquired considerable military experi- ence. When proposing, therefore, a second time to 38 M E M O B, I A L . enter the service, it was with higher motives and a better understanding of all it involved. Talking with his father about it, to the query : '^ suppose you are wounded or killed ?'' he replied: "It is glo- rious to die for one's country." And I doubt not that the training which had taught him to value our Government and the institutions of freedom, had wrought in him this willingness to do something for their maintenance. In November, 1863, be enlisted for the second time in the Second Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. With this regiment he left for Norfolk, Ya., the following month, and was stationed at Camp O'Eourke, near the city. On the 10th of January, 1864, he was made Corporal, being detailed soon after as Orderly to the Adjutant. In February, the regiment was ordered to Plymouth, N. C, where it performed gar- rison duty, at Fort Wessels, one of the defences of that place. On the 20th of April Plymouth was at- tacked by the enemy in force, and after a determined resistance was captured. Young Beckwith, with his regiment, was among the prisoners taken. They were immediately marched off, and taken under strong guard first to Tarboro, and thence to Wil- MEMORIAL. 39 mington, Charleston, and finally to Andersonville. Here five weary months were passed. Beckwith's journal gives his experience in that terrible prison- pen. It is substantially a history of suffering, cruel- ty and of every inhumanity possible to a desperate and unprincipled foe. '' This is a miserable place/' he writes in one place, " so little care is taken of it, especially of the sick, who die in large numbers." Exposure to the summer's scorching sun, and then to the night-dews, made its impress soon on the youth- ful soldier. It is painful to read of the struggle he and others had to make to live on the scanty and unwholesome rations dealt out there. On the 4th of July, he writes ; " This most glorious day has passed almost in misery, in the most miserable place almost on earth." Sometimes he speaks of rations of rotten bacon, and again of the non-issue of the usual rations. The tale of suffering is affecting to read, and 3^et no word of complaint escapes him. Of his personal sufferings and patient hopeful spirit friends at home knew comjjaratively little, till com- panions of his escaped from that Pen of Death, and told what they witnessed. Their account of his hopeful courage and resolute endurance, was most 40 MEMORIAL full and touching. Unable to digest the only food furnished them, Beckwith was among the first to ex- perience the pangs of unsatisfied hunger. His calm relation in his diary of some terrible fact, such as the failure of water, or the appearance of disease, shows how the fearful schooling of these months had familiarized him with the most excruciating suffer- ing. Singularly reticent as to his own interior life, he notes usually whatever he sees of interest. The recurrence of the holy Sabbath appeared to make him long most of all for his Christian home. " At times," he says, " I fancy I hear the church bells in Norwich." Thus patiently the frail boy endured the weary confinement which was gradually consuming his strength, and destroying his health. Sept. 12th, 1864, came the welcome news of deliverance through an exchange, and he left the prison, though with the signs of a not far distant death. Taken to Charles- ton, he with the rest was transferred to one of our transports, and brought North. December 24th, he reached Camp Parole, Annapolis, Md., and on the 28th was removed to the hospital. Pale and weak, with his lungs almost gone, after the exposures in- MEMORIAL. 41 cident to his prison-life, he went directly to his bed in the hospital, and died two days after, Dec. 30, 1864. The Christian woman whose lot it was to nurse the wearied soldier-boy, writes after his death : '^So feeble was he when he entered the hospital that he never spoke above a whisper. I questioned him as to his trust in his Saviour, asked him if he loved him, and whether he was willing to submit to His holy will, whether he should live or die. To all my questions he assented with a nod and a very sweet smile." So passed away the young veteran, not yet twenty years of age. By his services and his sufferings he honored his country. He died with a Christian's trust, and with a patriot's spirit — spared by a merciful providence till he reached friends and was under the old flag, — then the war-worn youth concluded his earthly campaigns, and like a tired child he sank to sleep, his day of duty ended. Tidings of his arrival at Annapolis reached his parents too late for them to reach there before he died. His only wish was that "■ he might see his mother,'*' and oftentimes the kind stroke of the woman's hand who watched him during his last days, would remind him of that other hand whose 6 42 MEMORIAL. touch he knew so well; and too weak to speak, he could indicate by a smile what he thought. His re- mains were brought home for interment, and all who looked upon the emaciated frame and saw the young face so traced with the lines of pain, received a new impression of the magnitude of some of our soldier's sufferings. Strange seemed the providence which had called the youngest and frailest of all who went from our School, to such an ordeal of hardship and suffering. Yet it was an ordeal which the delicate youth heroically passed through, dying a Christian's death, and without a murmur at the lot which had been his. Captain James E. Nickels, was born in the town of Cherryfield, Maine, July 14, 1843. He was left an orphan at an early age, and having an aunt re- siding in this Cit}^, he came here in the year 1857, and attended school. In the winter of 1858, during a season of religious interest in the Central Baptist Church, he became personally interested, and re- quested the prayers of Christians in his behalf These prayers he believed, as he afterwards publicly stated, Clod graciously answered to the salvation of MEMORIAL. 43 his soul. Quite young at the time, his experience was not without many misgivings, but his subse- quent career seemed to give every evidence that he had become an earnest Christian. In the Spring of 1859, he entered the employ of K. M. Haven, and became a member of his family. At the outbreak of the war he enlisted in Captain (now Brig. Gen.) Harland's company, of the Third Connecticut Eegiment,and passed creditably through the three months' campaign. His coolness at the Battle of Bull Eun was noticed, wdiere his company was one of the very few that suffered any casualties. Keturning to his former business, he devoted his spare time to the study of military tactics. Such, however, was his patriotism, as well as his fitness for army service, that he could not remain content- edly at home. He enlisted as a private once more in the Four- teenth Eegiment, under command of Col. Dwight Morris. Offered the position of Lieutenant, he de- clined it in favor of one who had gotten more re- cruits than he, accepting the rank of First Sergeant. In less than a month, with little preparatory drill, or familiarity with actual service, the regiment was 44 MEMORIAL ordered to join the Potomac Army, and to take part in the bloody battle of Antietam. In December following it was in the fight at Fredericksburgh, where fourteen out of eighteen officers were killed or wounded. Nickels soon received the commission of Lieutenant, and in November, 1863, was promo- ted to the Captaincy of Company I. Up to this time his regiment had been almost constantly in active service. In the campaign of 1864, he passed through the terrible battles of the Wilderness unharmed, leading his regiment in a brilliant charge at Cold Harbor, for which he was complimented by the com- manding General. This hitherto uninterrupted career of success was terminated by a severe wound received in August, 1863, in the struggle for the possession of the Wel- don Eailroad. He was left on the battle-field, where he escaped being made a prisoner, because supposed to be dead. In the night, missed by his comrades he was sought out, and by the Adjutant and one other member of his company, was carried in the darkness a distance of eight miles. Thus, by the devotion of these friends was he brought within our lines. Taken to City Point, he was thence re- M E iM O R I A L . 45 moved to Armory Square Hospital, Washington. Here, after a lingering illness, relieved at times by hopes of recovery, he died Feb. 20, 1865. During this long illness of nearly six months, he maintained a cheerful, patient spirit. His earnest wish was that he might regain his strength and return to the field, though he added : " I am not afraid to meet death." Nil He looked upon all his sufferings as for the best, and sought bravely to suffer, if no longer he could do God's w^ill. A few days before his death, says his aunt, when I told him his situation, and pointed him to Christ, he replied : " It is all right with me ;" and soon he was loosed from his sufferings, and closed his young life calmlj^ with a Christian's hope. In his regiment, his gentlemanly conduct, his sol- dierly ability, his pure patriotism, had gained him a high reputation. As an officer he distinguished him- self from the first, and by unquestioned merit, though among the youngest in the regiment, rose to be senior Captain. Modest in his bearing, his tact and courage were remarked by many. A brother officer of his regiment bears this noble testimony to the young soldier: "I never knew an order Capt. Nickels hesitated to obey, or the emergency he w^as 46 MEMORIAL. unequal to fill." In his hospital life he was watched over by his aunt and brother, and during this weary confinement, exhibited a cheerful, trustful spirit. In- to twenty-one short years this orphan boy crowded a life-time of noble deeds. He left behind the name and record of a Christian patriot. His short career was a brilliant and useful one ; and none think of him now without grateful acknowledgment of all that he was permitted to do. Of his appearance in the Sabbath School, his teacher writes : "Young Nickels was a very pleasant scholar, quiet and thoughtful, an attentive listener, very seldom absent from his seat, and unusually observant of the proprieties of the day and place. This recollection of him is distinct — that he was not one of those whose attention was so easily diverted as to task all the teacher's ingenuity in or- der to keep his mind to the business of the hour. He was never forward to express his thoughts, but when he did so, it was because he had thoughts to express. This was especially noticeable on one of those first exciting Sabbaths after the war com- menced, when he told of his fixed determination to take a personal share in the struggle. It was hardly MEMORIAL. 47 expected by me, considering his seeming frailty of body, and his usual undemonstrative manner." Faithful in the store, he was esteemed by his em- ployers, while as a soldier of his country he gained his brightest laurels in its service. Eescued from the mediocrity which envelopes so many names, this or- phan shall be made known to fame ; for holy impul- pulses of patriotism and heroic suffering have exal- ted his memory and his achievements. Such heroes gave to our struggle its sacredness ; such sacrifices endear every privilege we through them obtain. God seemed to accept these young defenders of a country he has so marvellously befriended, — for in all these instances, none were left to die uncheered by the anticipations of Heaven. Such were the brave youth who went from our School and Church to battle and die for the country. Such was the patriotism which we may gratefully believe was helped in its development by the relig- ious inspiration gained here. Eegretfull}^ as we may sometimes think of these young men so early sacrificed, yet the cause they served, the results their sacrifice helped to secure, compensate in a measure for our bereavement. Such a record as they have left 48 31 E M O R I A L . of piety blended with patriotism^ honors us. Their history is a beautiful testimony to the spirit which characterized our Church and School during those years of peril and sorrow to the nation. Surely, to cherish the memory and example of these young heroes should be our grateful duty, and will not be unprofitable. "VYe have not mentioned Charles E. Breed, who dying after discharge from the service, thus fails to^ come within the scope of this Memorial. Nor have we spoken of others who were spared by a protect- ing providence to return to us; though the survey of all that they attempted and accomj^lished is fraught with most stirring interest, exciting our reverent affection and just pride. Not many Schools of Christ can show a nobler record of unselfish devotion, high-hearted patriot- ism, and splendid achievement. Especially would we render our tribute to the brave boys who fell fighting in our defence; and though their graves are not all with us their memories linger, sacredly embalmed in all our hearts. How grand is our his- tory when seen through the medium of such lives as these. How precious the new Freedom won by MEMORIAL. 49 their patriotic valor. Eeviewing at a glance the trophies of these crucial years, it is plain that the death of these young men was not a vain sacrifice. Their courage has attained for them a renown which will never grow old; their achievements have given new glory to the land, new value to the Government. The benign institutions which are the dear purchase of their blood, perpetuate their fame, and press home upon us our solemn obligations. Henceforth all who deny that our liberty can be combined with law, justice and the advancement of happiness, we point to these names. Those who doubt whether our Government can produce exaltation of soul and loyalty to what is just, we refer to the achieve- ments of these heroes, who went forth in their young strength to do battle for sacred but imperilled rights. Beautiful in the Christian hope each cherished, hero- ic in their patriotic services, happy in their early but triumphant deaths, — what a record they have left behind. It is well and fitting, therefore, that we enshrine in Memorial phrase, names that will ever live as symbols of nobleness, as signs of endearment. Beau- tiful the life and true, that leaves holy deeds to wit- ness that it has been. 7 50 MEMORIAL. And so long as our own now prosperous national- ity exists, with the dust of heroes in its soil, with its examples of the prowess of the past, and its pro- phetic visions of the future, so long will these young patriots be remembered. Though these rare hearts have stilled forever their fevered beating, and faces yet traced with tears of bereavement show they are mourned, still will we thank God they were permitted to toil, to suifer, and to die. Nobly they labored, and with holy grati- tude we enter into their labors. Wiser laws, hu- maner institutions, liberties enlarged and faith exal- ted — these are the crimsoned trophies their blood, with that of others, secured us. These shall pro- claim in a language more expressive than human lips can utter, in forms more significant than sculptured marble can exhibit, the worth and memory of the young men who sowed in weakness the harvest we raise in power. Let the voice of our brothers' blood cry to us from the ground, kindling in every heart a chastened but resolute enthusiasm to extend through the land the blessings of our regenerated liberties. Let a frater- nal spirit awaken a new emulation in advancing all MEMORIAL. 51 the great branches of industry, in promoting the free institutions of Government, and procuring es- tablishments for education, charity and moral im- provement, in teaching a better religious faith and a greater consecration to what is just and pure. «*How sleep the brave who sink to rest With all their country's wishes blest ! When Spring with dewy fingers cold, Returns to deck their hallowed mold, She there shall dress a sweeter sod Than fancy's feet have ever trod. There Honor comes, a pilgrim gray, To bless the turf that wraps their clay — And Freedom shall a while repair, To dwell a weeping hermit there." APPENDIX. Charles Edward Breed was born in Norwich, Sept. 19, 1845. Without any thing of note to mark his early days, he had quietly yet faithfully met the duties of school and business life. At the beginning of the war he manifested an earnest desire to en- list in his country's service, but feeble health and the wishes of friends deterred him. Still retaining his interest in the cause he from the first desired personally to aid, he finally decided, with the consent of his parents to enter the navy, in April 1864. Not able even then to endure a soldier's hardships, he hoped to be of some service to the Government on one of its vessels, while also antici- pating that the sea-air might benefit his health. With a gener- ous feeling that what he could, he ought to do, he took his place on the ship, and by faithful unpretentious duty rendered his share in the crushing out of rebellion. The exposures and labors of his position, however, proved too much for his strength, and re- luctantly, though after persistent trial, he was obliged to seek dis- charge from duty. He came home in February of '65, with the symptoms of fatal disease. Lingering till the following April, he grew weaker and weaker, when, like the expiring taper, his life 54 APPENDIX. quietly went out. So gradually and yet certainly he came to his end, that from almost the first he and his family gave up all hopes of recovery. Young in years and delicate in appearance, his was a short career ; but we can not forget even the brief service of those whose patriotic purposes exceeded their powers of execu- tion. Like many other wearied and weak ones, the war has- tened the consummation of the life that but for it, might have been prolonged. The fire of a noble patriotism consumed some, as exhausting toil broke down others. But better the purpose, though it find but partial realization, than length of days unsanc- tified by any lofty aim. God often removes those who have early planned for useful living, while he waits long for others to make even the faint beginnings of true devotion. Heaven will thus behold the full fruitage of many lives from which earth anticipa- ted benefits. APPENDIX. 55 NAMES OF ALL WHO WERE IN SERVICE FROM THIS SCHOOL AND CONGREGATION. The following are the names of all those who entered the army or navy, and had been previously connected with the Congrega- tion or Sabbath School. The dates when they enlisted and when they were mustered out of service are given, together with the rank they held at the time the latter occurred. A large proportion began their military career as privates, or non-commissioned officers, and earned their promotion by their ability and courage in the field. All will regard it as a noble record of patriotic achievement. It is moreover quite remark- able that out of so large a number sent forth to battle for their country, so few were killed ; for all the regiments with which these young men were connected met severe service, and many were the hardships personally encountered. The experience of some who have returned attest how much was suffered by our soldiers; for they were in perils by the sword, by prison, by weariness, by cold, on sea and land. Several lived through the horrors of the " Andersonville Pen," and others endured long confinement in Libby Prison. The fruits of their own labors God has kindly permitted them to behold and enjoy. They survive a conflict, the magnitude of which time will disclose, and the full significance of which other ages will see. They have borne an honorable part in a contest which has done more than any other history records, to establish human liberty and popular government. A share in the bless- ings their invincible valor procured is their happy lot, and the 56 AP P E N D I X country for which they have fought will be endeared to them as to no others. The consciousness of having done their duty must in every case increase their enjoyment of present and future civic privi- leges. Their brave deeds will not soon be forgotten, while all en- tering into their labors will cease not in grateful remembrances of their toils and sufferings. The cause they shone in, is itself immortal, and their names forever blended with it, can never pass away: Samuel T. C. Merwin, Capt. Apr. 22, 1861, June 27, 1865. Wm. G. Ely, Col. " " Sept. 18, 1864. David Young, Lt. Col. May 7, 1861, Aug. 7, 1861. Frank. S. Chester, Capt. •* " " " Joseph H. Jcwett, Adj't. " " Dec. 12, 1865. Francis McKeag, 2d Lt. " «' June 27, 1865. James McKee, Serg't. . " " " " Henry F. Cowles, 1st Lt. " " May 15, 1865. James R. Nickels, Capt. May 11, 1861, Died Feb. 20, '65. James Torrance, Serg't. " " kill'd May 24,'63. Parris R. NiCKERSoN, Corp. " " Aug. 12, 1861. H. W. BiRGE, Brevet Maj. Gen. May 23, 1861, Oct. 1865. John A. Beckwith, Sept. 21, 1861, Sept. 20, 1864. Herbert E. Beckwith, Corp. Oct. 1, 1861, Died Dec. '30, 64. Charles M. Coit, Capt. Oct. 5, 1861, May 30, 1865. James E. Fuller, Capt. Apr. 24, 1861, res'd July 6, 1865. Edwin F. Hinckley, Oct. 26, 1861, Nov. 3, 1862. Silas W. Sawyer, Capt. Oct. 30, 1861, res'd. Feb. 16,'64. APPENDIX. 67 Chas. Farnsworth, Lt.Col. Nov. 26, 1861, res'd.May 17,'64. Alfred P. Rockwell, Col. Jan. 21, 1862, Feb. 9, 1865. Alfred Mitchell, Capt. Feb. 18, 1862, res'd.Mar. 11,'64. William P. Miner, 1st Lt. " " July 16, 1864. Bela p. Learned, Maj. Mar. 12, 1862, Sept. 25, 1865. Frank S. Bond, Major. March, 1862, Nov. 10, 1864. Alvan Bond Fuller, May, 1862, May, 1865, Henry P. Goddard, Capt. June 11, 1862, res'd. Apr. 26,'64 . Leonard Simons, Aug. 23, 1862, June 10, 1865. Isaac W. Hakes, Jr., Capt. July 12, 1862, res'd. Dec. 26,'62. Wm. C. Hillard, Hosp'l. St'd. July 14, 1862, Nov. 26, 1865. David Torrance, Lt. Col. July 17, 1862, Nov. 24, 1865. Anthony Adams, " " June 27, 1865. ' Joseph P. Rockwell, Capt. July 26, 1862, '< «' E. Benjamin Culver, Adjt. " '* killed June 6, '64. George W. Loomis, Serg't. " " June 27, 1865. Christopher A. Brand, 1st Lt. " " res'd. Feb. 23, '63. D. W. Hakes, Capt. and Com. Aug. 4, 1862, .Tune 17, 1865. Henry K. Sparks, Aug. 5, 1862, June 27, 1865. Geobge Coggswell, Serg't. Aug. 6, 1862, '♦ " James N. Clark, Aug. 25, 1862, Aug. 17, 1863. Stephen B. Meech, Adj't. Aug. 30. 1862, " " SuBERT M. Porter, *' " " " C. B. Webster, A. A. Surg, Dec. 24, 1862, Sept. 11, 1865. Alfred M. Goddard, 1st Lt. July 24. 1863, died May 9, 1864. S 58 MEMORIAL George W. Htjisitington, U. S. N. Paymaster, Oct. 30, 1863, Nov. 21, 1865. Amos D. Allen, U. S. N. Pm'r. Nov. 1, 1863, Sept. 5, 1865. C. E. Breed,U. ^. N. 3d.Eng'r. April 14, 1864, died Apr. 17, '65. Joseph Abbe, Mar. 22, 1864, May 30, 1865. / N i^ %/ " jfe- \/ :k^c^'^ %.^^ m ,^ -- - -"^