| Schuylkill Haven in the Civil War |
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The office of the Adjutant General of the United States says that Charles E. Brown was issued the
Congressional Medal of Honor 1 December, 1864, for meritorious conduct at Weldon Railroad, Virginia, 19
August, 1864, while serving as a sergeant in Company C, 50th Regiment, Pennsylvania Infantry. The citation
says briefly: "Capture of the flag of the 47th Virginia Infantry, Confederate States Army."
His newspaper obituary notice says that Captain Charles Brown, "in command of Company C, 50th
Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers in the Civil War," died at his home on Dock Street, Schuylkill Haven, on
February 20, 1919. It notes only that he won the "Medal for the Legion of Honor."
Wallace's "Memorial of Patriotism," page 355, notes that "on the 19th of August the Regiment, with its
Division, participated in a movement on the Weldon Railroad, resulting in gaining possession of the important
point. It was not accomplished though without a severe fight. It continues, quoting a correspondent of the
press, "...The 50th Regiment of Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers captured a stand of colors from the 47th
Virginia. Emblazoned upon the red, white and red folds were inscriptions of thirteen engagements in which
the Regiment had fought - from Bull Run to Mine Run."
Brown was active in the 50th Regiment Association after the war and was associated with General Samuel
Schwenk who preceded him in death by only a year. Shortly before his death at the age of 78, he attended a
meeting of the Veterans Volunteers in New York, he offered his services to his government in World War I.
After the close of the Civil War, he operated a boat on the old Schuylkill Canal. After the canal closed, he
went to New York where he operated boats for a time between New York and Connecticut. He was also, for a
time, gate tender at the entrance of the county almshouse at Schuylkill Haven. (1)
At left is a picture of the 50th
Regiment of the Pennsylvania
Infantry. Could Henry Hill of
Schuylkill Haven be one of them?
Regiment of the Pennsylvania
Infantry. Could Henry Hill of
Schuylkill Haven be one of them?
Pottsville 1843, Corporal, Company C, 50th Pennsylvania Infantry. Wilderness, Va., 6 May 1864.
Citation: 23 September 1897 reads "This soldier, with one companion, would not retire when his
regiment fell back in confusion after an unsuccessful charge, but instead, advanced and
continued firing upon the enemy until the regiment reformed and regained its position." (3/4/99 -
from the papers of Brevet Major General St. Clair A. Mulholland) It seems that Corporal Hill is the
only Schuylkill County soldier to win the Medal of Honor during the Civil War by NOT capturing or
re-capturing a flag on the field of battle. Hill, a native of Pottsville, spent most of his life in
Schuylkill Haven and spent his early days on the local canal boats. Upon his death on August 3,
1909, at Schuylkill Haven at the age of 66, Hill's obituary said "he was severely wounded by a
bursting shell at Cold Harbor and was voted a medal for bravery." The battle of Cold Harbor
began June 3, 1864, and Henry Hill served a three year enlistment in Company C, then re-enlisted
and took part in battles in the Shenandoah Valley and at Spottsylvania, Beaufort, Cold Run,
Chantilly, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Wilderness and Cold Harbor. Henry Hill spent his post war
years employed as a night watchman and turnkey at the Schuylkill County Prison. Died August 2,
1909, buried Union Cemetery, Schuylkill Haven, Pa. (1)
MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS
| During the Civil War, two residents of Schuylkill Haven received the country's greatest award for heroism, the Medal of Honor. Here are brief histories of both men. |
A family by the name of Ditzler owned a store in Schuylkill Haven in the approximate location of
Lewis' News Agency. The store was in business during the Civil War and many locals believed the
proprietor to be in sympathy with the Confederate cause. It was reported that Union soldiers on
furlough, aware of this, made raids upon Mr. Ditzler's establishment.
Perhaps Mr. Ditzler was a "copperhead". This was a term used during the war to describe
Northerners who opposed the war and favored a negotiated settlement with the South. The term
originated in the New York Tribune in 1861 to refer to the copperhead snake that strikes without
warning. Most copperheads were from the Midwest although they were known to exist within our
area.
Schuylkill Haven, as did many towns, had a branch of the GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) Post
in town. This group consisted of veterans from the Civil War. On February 8, 1867, the Jere K.
Helms Post No.26 was formed in Schuylkill Haven. Many local men joined the post whose meeting
place in the P. T. Hoy building contained war mementos including a few flags and a stack of
cannon balls.
This post was named in honor of Jeremiah Helms, a boy less then fifteen who served as a
drummer boy with Company C of the 50th Regiment of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. At the Battle
of Antietam, on September 17,1862, Helms was performing his duty when the soldier next to him
was killed. Jeremiah laid down his drum, seized the musket and entered the ranks. A minie ball
found it's mark in his head and he died a few days later from the wound. Helms was one of six
brothers, two of whom were also in battle at Antietam. They visited him in the field hospital prior
to his death.
The chief factor in establishing the Schuylkill Haven Post was Captain James K. Helms, Jere's
eldest brother. Lieutenant Samuel A. Losch and others assisted him and their efforts resulted in
a large membership and became important in the display functions of town. The Post took charge
of preparations for observing Memorial Day after it's inception in 1867. Parades were organized
which ended at the Union Cemetery. William Guertler, who served a long time in the dreaded
Libby Prison, always carried the colors in the parade. Captain Beckley was frequently the
featured orator at the ceremonies. The Post was never self-sustaining and relied on fairs,
campfires and contributions to maintain it's existence. Irving Tyson held the position of Adjutant
for many years and was meticulous in keeping records, insuring each veteran's grave was
decorated on the 30th of May.
The Post purchased a plot on the Union Cemetery for war veterans and the local Patriotic Sons of
America purchased a gate and fence to surround the plot. Until at least 1950, Memorial Day
commemorations were held at the plot. This plot is still visible today.
| At left is the tombstone of Charles Brown on the Union Cemetery. The flat stone in front of the large stone indicates his Medal of Honor status. |
| On this page information relating to Schuylkill Haven's involvement in the Civil War will be presented. As it progresses it will concentrate on individuals, unit rosters and stories unique to Schuylkill Haven residents. |
Charles Brown's Personal Account
The following is an account of how the 2nd Flag of the 47th Virginia was captured at Weldon Railroad, as
written by Charles Brown of the 50th PVI.
We received orders to charge on the balance of the rebels. As soon as we began to charge on them they
took to their heels and retreated as fast as possible. We took a great number of prisoners. We are now at
the breastworks and are charging right on. Now we have taken the breastworks. There was not more then
one out of every ten that escaped. While at the breastworks I heard a peculiar sound coming from the other
side of the works. I crawled on top of the works and looking around saw Charles Oswald and Joe Long
fighting two rebels. They seemed to have the best of the rebels. Looking ahead about fifty yards I saw a
rebel sergeant and two color guards working their way through the wood. I was then wearing a sword and
had no gun, but I jumped down and picked up a Belgian rifle. I thought she was loaded and ran after the
sergeant and color guards. When I got close to them and commanded that they surrender, one of the
guards attempted to raise his gun and I said "drop that" and then made them turn around and marched back
to the breastworks. I then threw down my rifle and took the flag from the sergeant and got to the top of the
breastworks and waved it. Our whole regiment cheered me. But my waving drew the entire rebel fire at me.
The soles of my shoes were shot off as also the rim of my hat. Many shots went through my clothing and it
got too hot and I jumped down back of the breast works. In shooting at me the rebels killed Charles Burkett,
Adam Burkett and William Wagner. After the firing was somewhat lessened we examined the flag and found
that it belonged to the 47th Virginia and it was presented by the Ladies of Richmond. It had the marks of
many battles on it that were fought in Virginia. The sergeant and color guards sitting nearby cried bitterly
that the flag which they had prized so highly had been taken from them. I then stuck the staff in the ground
and lay down beside it and went to sleep. General Wilcox came by and awakened me and said "Brown while
you were asleep I heard all about the capture of the flag and the sergeant and the color guard. Now the law
of the government requires me to send this flag to Washington for safe keeping and it will be labeled by
whom and how it was captured so that future generations can view it". He said he would see that I was
properly rewarded. (This account compliments of Stu Richards)
Note: Research has found that the three men killed in this tale were also from Schuylkill Haven as were Joe
Long and Charles Oswald. Long was later killed in action on December 31,1864 and Oswald survived the war.
written by Charles Brown of the 50th PVI.
We received orders to charge on the balance of the rebels. As soon as we began to charge on them they
took to their heels and retreated as fast as possible. We took a great number of prisoners. We are now at
the breastworks and are charging right on. Now we have taken the breastworks. There was not more then
one out of every ten that escaped. While at the breastworks I heard a peculiar sound coming from the other
side of the works. I crawled on top of the works and looking around saw Charles Oswald and Joe Long
fighting two rebels. They seemed to have the best of the rebels. Looking ahead about fifty yards I saw a
rebel sergeant and two color guards working their way through the wood. I was then wearing a sword and
had no gun, but I jumped down and picked up a Belgian rifle. I thought she was loaded and ran after the
sergeant and color guards. When I got close to them and commanded that they surrender, one of the
guards attempted to raise his gun and I said "drop that" and then made them turn around and marched back
to the breastworks. I then threw down my rifle and took the flag from the sergeant and got to the top of the
breastworks and waved it. Our whole regiment cheered me. But my waving drew the entire rebel fire at me.
The soles of my shoes were shot off as also the rim of my hat. Many shots went through my clothing and it
got too hot and I jumped down back of the breast works. In shooting at me the rebels killed Charles Burkett,
Adam Burkett and William Wagner. After the firing was somewhat lessened we examined the flag and found
that it belonged to the 47th Virginia and it was presented by the Ladies of Richmond. It had the marks of
many battles on it that were fought in Virginia. The sergeant and color guards sitting nearby cried bitterly
that the flag which they had prized so highly had been taken from them. I then stuck the staff in the ground
and lay down beside it and went to sleep. General Wilcox came by and awakened me and said "Brown while
you were asleep I heard all about the capture of the flag and the sergeant and the color guard. Now the law
of the government requires me to send this flag to Washington for safe keeping and it will be labeled by
whom and how it was captured so that future generations can view it". He said he would see that I was
properly rewarded. (This account compliments of Stu Richards)
Note: Research has found that the three men killed in this tale were also from Schuylkill Haven as were Joe
Long and Charles Oswald. Long was later killed in action on December 31,1864 and Oswald survived the war.
| At right is a representation of the flag captured by Brown. |
| If you have any ideas for posting on the Civil War as it relates to Schuylkill Haven, please email it to: civilwar@schuylkillhavenhistory.com |
| At right is the headstone on the Union Cemetery of Henry Hill. |
(1) The narratives on Brown and Hill are from information at the
Historical Society of Schuylkill County and local writer Jay Zane.
Historical Society of Schuylkill County and local writer Jay Zane.
| LAST UPDATED: JUNE 9 |
|
| SCHUYLKILL HAVEN'S HONORED DEAD |
| The plaque above is located on the war memorial located in Bubeck Park. Click on it to read the names of those who died in the Civil War. |
| Below is the list of those Schuylkill Haven soldiers who gave their lives in the Civil War and information related to their deaths. |
| Below is the front page of the Pottsville Republican from June 10, 1907 paying tribute to Captain J. K. Helms, Civil War patriot of Schuylkill Haven. The article is long but interesting. The engraving of James Helms also appeared in the newspaper. |
| PERPETUATE MEMORY OF CAPT. J. K. HELMS |
| Members of the Patriotic Order of Sons of America and Other Citizens Join in Paying Tribute to an Honored but Deceased Patriot |
| THE MONUMENT WAS UNVEILED |
The memory of the late Capt. J. K. Helms was suitably honored at Schuylkill Haven this afternoon
when the spot which marks his last resting place was unveiled a massive and stately headstone of
granite suitably inscribed. The dedicatory services took place at Union Cemetery and were
participated in by representatives of the P. O. S. of A. from many different parts of the state. Capt.
Helms was the first National President of this order and it was largely through his efforts that what
was known as the Junior Sons of America was rejuvenated into the Patriotic Order Sons of America.
He is regarded in a certain sense therefore as the father of the order. But not only was his memory
extolled by the orators of the trade of the interest and activity he exhibited in this order, but also
for the influence he swayed as a citizen and a soldier on the field of battle.
The services today were under charge of the Union Veteran's assn., with the following committee or
arrangements: H. J. Stager, chairman, F. E. Stees , secretary, F. P. Spiese, W. H. Schwartz, J. A. M.
Pasemore. Their efforts were supplemented by the following local committee: C. S. Blackburn, H.
Schumacher, J. C. Paxson, W. C. Saylor, J. K. Helms, S. M. Helms, an ex-state president of the order
who is now president of the Veteran's Association, was in direct charge of the demonstration, while
the parade was marshaled by another ex-state president, John R. Mast. The Veteran's Assn. is
entitled to the credit of raising the splendid piece of granite which will testify to Capt. Helms worth
to future generations as they purchased the stone and also bore the expenses of the dedicatory
services.
The procession formed at the hall of the local Camp 47 at two o'clock and marched over the direct
route from the hall to the Union Cemetery. Eiler's cornet band headed the procession, followed by
the members of Jere Helms Post No. 26, GAR, the committee and the speakers, the camps and the
delegations and last of all the members of the Veteran's Assn.
Immediately upon arrival at the cemetery the exercises under the auspices of the sub-committee
began. Eiler's Cornet Band played the dirge "King David's Funeral March" and H. J. Stager,
chairman of the Veteran's Assn. Committee made a brief but very appropriate introductory address.
Rev. D. M. Moser, pastor of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church of Schuylkill Haven, offered prayer and
then the veil which enshrouded the monument was drawn aside by S. M. Helms. Another selection
from the band followed after which the choir of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church sang the anthem "I
Will Lift Up Mine Eyes". Address by R. H. Koch, C. N. Brumm and Capt. George West Blake were next
on the program. These addresses were interspersed by anthems by the choir. The benediction
pronounced by Rev. O. B. Wengert, of the Schuylkill Haven United Brethren Church and the taps
"Good Night" ended the exercises and the vast concourse returned to town. There were hundreds
of visitors present, nearly all the state officers of the P. O. S. of A. attending while scores of camps
were represented by their officers or prominent members. The Pottsville camps were particularly
well represented.
R. H. Koch in his eulogistic address on Capt. Helms entered into the details of his life. He was born
June 11, 1842 in Myerstown, Lebanon County. In 1852 his father moved to Pottsville crossing the
Blue Mountains in wagons, it being before the era of railroads in this section. After remaining here
two years his father changed his residence to Philadelphia. Here young Helms first displayed the
ability which afterwards gave him such success by capturing the first prize at school and enjoying
special mention. Rev. William Barnes was pastor of the Nazareth M. E. Church which he then
attended. This minister will be remembered by many of the people of Pottsville as having been
pastor of the local church. From Philadelphia the Helms family removed to Schuylkill Haven and
from there James enlisted in the cause of the Union at the outbreak of the Rebellion. He first joined
Col. Nagle's Infantry in the six months service and at the expiration of that time reenlisted in Co. D,
48th Penna Infantry. From a private he rose through meritorious conduct to the captaincy of his
company. He participated in all of the Burnside's corps engagements up to and when he was
wounded at the battle of Petersburg and carried from the field. He returned home with seven balls
in his body.
After the war he was appointed clerk in the provost marshal's office under Capt. Bowen of Pottsville
and was successively appointed revenue storekeeper,revenue appraiser and revenue inspector.
He finally received the appointment of a clerkship at Harrisburg at a salary of $1400 a year. This
position he turned over to the late S. A. Losch who was then a baggage master on the Mine Hill
Railroad, thus giving Losch his start in politics. The people of Schuylkill Haven elected Capt. Helms
as a justice of the peace and a school director, which positions he held many years and up to his
death. As previously stated he was the first National President of the P. O. S. of A. as well as one of
the earliest state presidents.
Capt. Helms was a brother of Jere H. Helms who enlisted as a drummer boy in Co. F 50th Penna.
Infantry and was killed at the age of 15 years at the battle of Antietam. It is for him that the Helms
Post of the GAR is named.
P. D. Helms, deputy U. S. Marshal, is a brother of Capt. Helms. Like his other brothers, P. D. was a
gallant soldier having enlisted in Co. H Cameron Dragoons afterwards known as the 5th Penna.
Cavalry.
The parade was a picturesque one. The members of Eiler's Cornet Band wore white duck pants and
blue coats. The members of the Jere Helms Post wore the old fashioned uniform of the Civil War
and carried guns. The P. O. S. of A. Camps lent life to the scene by the profusion of national colors.
Besides the local organizations the following Camps were in line from out of town: Camp 49 of Pine
Grove, Camp 247 of Landingville, Camp 307 Summit Station. There were also good sized
delegations from Pottsville, Port Carbon and other towns present. The parade was headed by the
local committee of Camp 47 of Schuylkill Haven.
Most of the businesses and houses along the route of the parade were well decorated, although
some neglected to exhibit the colors. The decorations at the post office, E. C. Saylor's music store,
Stitzer's Café, Central Hotel, Pflueger's news stand, Binchley's restaurant, Keller's store, H. J.
Moser, A. R. Kauffman, Dr. D. Dechert, Dr. Detweiler and others were very beautiful and evinced
artistic taste.
At the cemetery several thousand people witnessed the unveiling ceremonies. The headstone
which was fully described in yesterday's Republican was much admired by everyone. It is a splendid
ornament to Union Cemetery.
when the spot which marks his last resting place was unveiled a massive and stately headstone of
granite suitably inscribed. The dedicatory services took place at Union Cemetery and were
participated in by representatives of the P. O. S. of A. from many different parts of the state. Capt.
Helms was the first National President of this order and it was largely through his efforts that what
was known as the Junior Sons of America was rejuvenated into the Patriotic Order Sons of America.
He is regarded in a certain sense therefore as the father of the order. But not only was his memory
extolled by the orators of the trade of the interest and activity he exhibited in this order, but also
for the influence he swayed as a citizen and a soldier on the field of battle.
The services today were under charge of the Union Veteran's assn., with the following committee or
arrangements: H. J. Stager, chairman, F. E. Stees , secretary, F. P. Spiese, W. H. Schwartz, J. A. M.
Pasemore. Their efforts were supplemented by the following local committee: C. S. Blackburn, H.
Schumacher, J. C. Paxson, W. C. Saylor, J. K. Helms, S. M. Helms, an ex-state president of the order
who is now president of the Veteran's Association, was in direct charge of the demonstration, while
the parade was marshaled by another ex-state president, John R. Mast. The Veteran's Assn. is
entitled to the credit of raising the splendid piece of granite which will testify to Capt. Helms worth
to future generations as they purchased the stone and also bore the expenses of the dedicatory
services.
The procession formed at the hall of the local Camp 47 at two o'clock and marched over the direct
route from the hall to the Union Cemetery. Eiler's cornet band headed the procession, followed by
the members of Jere Helms Post No. 26, GAR, the committee and the speakers, the camps and the
delegations and last of all the members of the Veteran's Assn.
Immediately upon arrival at the cemetery the exercises under the auspices of the sub-committee
began. Eiler's Cornet Band played the dirge "King David's Funeral March" and H. J. Stager,
chairman of the Veteran's Assn. Committee made a brief but very appropriate introductory address.
Rev. D. M. Moser, pastor of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church of Schuylkill Haven, offered prayer and
then the veil which enshrouded the monument was drawn aside by S. M. Helms. Another selection
from the band followed after which the choir of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church sang the anthem "I
Will Lift Up Mine Eyes". Address by R. H. Koch, C. N. Brumm and Capt. George West Blake were next
on the program. These addresses were interspersed by anthems by the choir. The benediction
pronounced by Rev. O. B. Wengert, of the Schuylkill Haven United Brethren Church and the taps
"Good Night" ended the exercises and the vast concourse returned to town. There were hundreds
of visitors present, nearly all the state officers of the P. O. S. of A. attending while scores of camps
were represented by their officers or prominent members. The Pottsville camps were particularly
well represented.
R. H. Koch in his eulogistic address on Capt. Helms entered into the details of his life. He was born
June 11, 1842 in Myerstown, Lebanon County. In 1852 his father moved to Pottsville crossing the
Blue Mountains in wagons, it being before the era of railroads in this section. After remaining here
two years his father changed his residence to Philadelphia. Here young Helms first displayed the
ability which afterwards gave him such success by capturing the first prize at school and enjoying
special mention. Rev. William Barnes was pastor of the Nazareth M. E. Church which he then
attended. This minister will be remembered by many of the people of Pottsville as having been
pastor of the local church. From Philadelphia the Helms family removed to Schuylkill Haven and
from there James enlisted in the cause of the Union at the outbreak of the Rebellion. He first joined
Col. Nagle's Infantry in the six months service and at the expiration of that time reenlisted in Co. D,
48th Penna Infantry. From a private he rose through meritorious conduct to the captaincy of his
company. He participated in all of the Burnside's corps engagements up to and when he was
wounded at the battle of Petersburg and carried from the field. He returned home with seven balls
in his body.
After the war he was appointed clerk in the provost marshal's office under Capt. Bowen of Pottsville
and was successively appointed revenue storekeeper,revenue appraiser and revenue inspector.
He finally received the appointment of a clerkship at Harrisburg at a salary of $1400 a year. This
position he turned over to the late S. A. Losch who was then a baggage master on the Mine Hill
Railroad, thus giving Losch his start in politics. The people of Schuylkill Haven elected Capt. Helms
as a justice of the peace and a school director, which positions he held many years and up to his
death. As previously stated he was the first National President of the P. O. S. of A. as well as one of
the earliest state presidents.
Capt. Helms was a brother of Jere H. Helms who enlisted as a drummer boy in Co. F 50th Penna.
Infantry and was killed at the age of 15 years at the battle of Antietam. It is for him that the Helms
Post of the GAR is named.
P. D. Helms, deputy U. S. Marshal, is a brother of Capt. Helms. Like his other brothers, P. D. was a
gallant soldier having enlisted in Co. H Cameron Dragoons afterwards known as the 5th Penna.
Cavalry.
The parade was a picturesque one. The members of Eiler's Cornet Band wore white duck pants and
blue coats. The members of the Jere Helms Post wore the old fashioned uniform of the Civil War
and carried guns. The P. O. S. of A. Camps lent life to the scene by the profusion of national colors.
Besides the local organizations the following Camps were in line from out of town: Camp 49 of Pine
Grove, Camp 247 of Landingville, Camp 307 Summit Station. There were also good sized
delegations from Pottsville, Port Carbon and other towns present. The parade was headed by the
local committee of Camp 47 of Schuylkill Haven.
Most of the businesses and houses along the route of the parade were well decorated, although
some neglected to exhibit the colors. The decorations at the post office, E. C. Saylor's music store,
Stitzer's Café, Central Hotel, Pflueger's news stand, Binchley's restaurant, Keller's store, H. J.
Moser, A. R. Kauffman, Dr. D. Dechert, Dr. Detweiler and others were very beautiful and evinced
artistic taste.
At the cemetery several thousand people witnessed the unveiling ceremonies. The headstone
which was fully described in yesterday's Republican was much admired by everyone. It is a splendid
ornament to Union Cemetery.
| Here are the images of the two Medal of Honor recipients from Schuylkill Haven. |
Local GAR Post
Was Mr. Ditzler a Copperhead
VETERAN ASSN. IN CHARGE
CHARLES E. BROWN
HENRY HILL
| CIVIL WAR VETERAN'S CARD FILE |
| In 1869-1871, index cards were created on Civil War veterans with personal information. Below are the cards of Schuylkill Haven men killed during the war which could be located. Names of the men are under their card. To view the information, click on the card. These cards were initially prepared to serve as an index to Bates' "History of Pennsylvania Volunteers". The Office of the Adjutant General later expanded the scope of the cards by transcribing onto them data found on the original Civil War Muster Rolls. |
| AGLEY, SAMUEL |
BENEDICT, JACOB
BERGER, AUGUSTUS
BURKERT, CHARLES
EBERT, DANIEL
ECKEL, EMANUEL
FOX, WILLIAM
FRITZ, JOHN
FRITZ, PETER
GETLER, JACOB
HELMS, JEREMIAH
HILL, WILLIAM
HINEY, GEORGE
HINEY, WILLIAM
KISSINGER, WILLIAM
LONG, JOSEPH
MARTZ, SAMUEL
REED, JOHN
SIMPSON, GEORGE
WARNER, LEVAN
WILLIAMS, PATRICK
| The information on the cards of these 21 men reveals much. Eleven of them were boatmen on the canal which was far out of proportion to other occupations which included a tailor, a miner, a blacksmith and a painter among others. Their average age at enlistment was about 23 and in comparison to men today, their average height was only 5'5". The dead included a father and son and also a pair of brothers. |
|
| PENSIONERS |
| Soldiers wounded or injured during the Civil War were entitled to pensions later in life. If they were deceased, their widows could apply for the benefit. Below is a list of men or widows under the Schuylkill Haven Post Office who received government pensions. It contains their name, certificate number, injury, rate of benefit and date of application. |
Newspaper account of the
death of Charles Brown....
death of Charles Brown....
Pottsville Republican of February 20, 1919
DEATH OF CIVIL WAR VETERAN
Captain Charles Brown, aged 79 years, died at his home on Saint John Street Schuylkill Haven
after a short illness. Captain Brown was born in this section of the county and has lived here all
the years of his life. He was a member of the Methodist Church of Schuylkill Haven. Years ago he
operated one of the boats on the Schuylkill Canal and when it was closed, he went to New York
for a short time where he operated a boat between New York and Connecticut. The deceased
bore a splendid war record. At the outbreak of the Civil War he recruited a company in Schuylkill
Haven, which was known as Company C, 50th Pennsylvania Infantry and became its captain. The
company fought all through the four years of the war, and Captain Brown was recommended for
bravery several times. He was a member of the Legion of Honor, to which only men who have
been recommended for bravery can be members. He was very active in the 50th Regiment
Veteran Association. At the outbreak of the world war, Captain Brown went to New York and
offered his services to his country if he could be used in drilling troops or in any other way. He
has been living retired in Schuylkill Haven for a number of years and is survived by his wife, two
sons, warren G. of Schuylkill Haven and Arthur of Chicago. Mrs. Thomas Stitzer of Mahanoy City
and William Brown of Cressona are also a sister and brother.
DEATH OF CIVIL WAR VETERAN
Captain Charles Brown, aged 79 years, died at his home on Saint John Street Schuylkill Haven
after a short illness. Captain Brown was born in this section of the county and has lived here all
the years of his life. He was a member of the Methodist Church of Schuylkill Haven. Years ago he
operated one of the boats on the Schuylkill Canal and when it was closed, he went to New York
for a short time where he operated a boat between New York and Connecticut. The deceased
bore a splendid war record. At the outbreak of the Civil War he recruited a company in Schuylkill
Haven, which was known as Company C, 50th Pennsylvania Infantry and became its captain. The
company fought all through the four years of the war, and Captain Brown was recommended for
bravery several times. He was a member of the Legion of Honor, to which only men who have
been recommended for bravery can be members. He was very active in the 50th Regiment
Veteran Association. At the outbreak of the world war, Captain Brown went to New York and
offered his services to his country if he could be used in drilling troops or in any other way. He
has been living retired in Schuylkill Haven for a number of years and is survived by his wife, two
sons, warren G. of Schuylkill Haven and Arthur of Chicago. Mrs. Thomas Stitzer of Mahanoy City
and William Brown of Cressona are also a sister and brother.
| Pottsville Republican of January 22, 1908 HAD FINE WAR RECORD - Death of W. D. Guertler, Veteran of Civil War at Schuylkill Haven William D. Guertler, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of Schuylkill Haven and a veteran of the Civil War passed away at the residence of his sister, Mrs. James A. Roan, on Union Street shortly after noon on Tuesday. Mr. Guertler was born March 7, 1844, and was therefore in his sixty fifth year. He was a native of Schuylkill Haven and was one of a family of thirteen children of whom only two survive, a sister and a brother, Mrs. James A. Roan of town and John A. Guertler of Philadelphia. He had been ill since last March and was bedfast since October, but up to within two days of his death his mind was perfectly clear and although in great pain he was a patient sufferer and passed the time relating to friends who called to see him, incidents of the great rebellion. William D. Guertler entered the service as a private on July 31, 1862 and was mustered in at Harrisburg on August 10 following in Company H, 125th Pennsylvania Volunteers. He was honorably discharged owing to expiration of term of service on May 18th 1863 and on April 15th 1864 reenlisted in Company C, 50th Pennsylvania Volunteers and was mustered out at the close of the war. Among the engagements in which he participated were, Kearneysville, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, The Wilderness, Nye River, Virginia, Spottsylvania Court House. He was twice wounded, first at Fredericksburg where a fragment of shell tore open his forehead and at Chancellorsville where he sustained a gunshot wound of the arm. During the battle of Spottsylvania Court House on May 12th 1864, by a flank movement of Confederate forces a number of Union soldiers were taken prisoners and Mr. Guertler and a number of his Schuylkill Haven comrades were among those captured. Among the prisoners were: William D. Guertler, David Raudenbush, John Doudle, Peter Daukle, Elias Berger, William Haines, Jacob Hehn, Henry Hehn, Garrett Kerrigan, William Williams. Peter Daukle and Henry Hehn died while in prison. Captain Dan Burkert who commanded the company, had been wounded the day before the capture. Of this list, David Raudenbush is the only one now living. The prisoners were taken successfully to Gordonsville, Virginia, Lynchburg, Danville, Charleston, South Carolina, Florence, South Carolina, Augusta , Georgia and Andersonville whence they were paroled December 11th, 1864. Mr. Guertler's reminiscences of the war would fill a book. The most interesting were his accounts of the terrible privations endured by the prisoners in the notorious Libby prison. While standing near the deadline one day, a prisoner by his side famished from hunger and almost crazed from thirst reached over the fatal line to catch in his tin cup a little water from a pool and was instantly shot through the heart by the sentry. Mr. Guertler always maintained that the horrors of Andersonville had never been fully revealed. |
| OBITUARIES OF SCHUYLKILL HAVEN CIVIL WAR VETERANS |
| Perhaps the best record of Schuylkill Haven's involvement in the Civil War is recorded in a recent book, "A History of Company C, 50th Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteer Infantry Regiment", written by John "Stu" Richards of Orwigsburg. I highly recommend this book, which is told almost exclusively through the viewpoint of the soldiers via their letters home and their post war recollections. The information on Company C that follows is from that book with the gracious permission of Stu Richards. Please check out his blogs at: http://coalregionhistorychronicles.blogspot.com/ http://schuylkillcountymilitaryhistory.blogspot.com/ |
| COMPANY C 50TH PENNSYLVANIA VETERAN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY |
| Company C of the 50th Regiment was recruited in Schuylkill Haven, its organization taking place on September 9, 1861, with Daniel F. Burket as the company commander. Burket opened a recruiting station at the town hall in the summer of 1861 and began recruiting volunteers from Schuylkill Haven and nearby. After recruiting ninety four men, Burket organized and put the men in military formation and marched them to the railroad station. They traveled to Camp Curtin in Harrisburg and were assigned their unit designation. Throughout the war they were an almost exclusively Schuylkill Haven resident unit. Nearly half the men were boatmen and canal workers. The company went to Washington on October 2 and then to Annapolis on October 9, sailing on transports to the Carolinas on October 19. On the night of November 1, they encountered a gale off Cape Hatteras and one of their vessels was saved only through the efforts of the men of Company C after the masts had been cut away, everything on board jettisoned and the crew of the ship abandoning the transport. They were first encamped near Hilton Head, but went to Beaufort on December 6, where on the night of their arrival, they had their first engagement with the rebels, helping to drive them from the island. On January 1, 1862, they were engaged in force for the first time at the battle of Coosaw where a rebel fort was destroyed. In May of 1862, Company C, under Colonel Benjamin Christ, were near Charleston and went to Pocotaligo to burn the railroad bridge there. The only access to the place was a narrow causeway through a marsh and a bridge which had the planks removed. The bridge was not burned and they were drawn from Charleston. In July the company was ordered to Fortress Monroe and then to support General Pope in Virginia. It was engaged at the battle of Second Bull Run for two days and while suffering numerous casualties, drove the enemy in every encounter. They were severely shelled near Centreville and were also actively engaged in the battle of Chantilly. It was again engaged at South Mountain, Maryland on September 14 and at Antietam on September 17, 1862. At Fredericksburg, the company was not engaged but bore witness to the battle. After action under General Ambrose Burnside, the company was sent west and took part in the siege of Vicksburg and after the fall of that city went with General Sherman in his campaign to Jackson. On August 10, 1863, the company returned to Kentucky and then to Knoxville. The company was very short on men, many suffering from malaria. In October, Company C was sent to help repel the invasion of eastern Tennessee, where it saw minor action. They were then sent to aid in checking the advance of Longstreet's advance from Chattanooga, where they were forced to fall back. They fought hard at Campbell's Station where they held the enemy for over seven hours. On November 29, the company assisted in the defense of Fort Saunders and was skirmishing to the rear of the enemy after the siege was raised. While camping at Blaine's Crossroads, almost the entire company reenlisted on January 1. Shorty after, they moved to Nicholasville, a distance of two hundred miles, marching the distance in ten days. They suffered greatly during the march. The men came home to Schuylkill Haven on furlough and returned to the field in March 1864. On March 5, they reached the field at the Wilderness, where they participated in heavy fighting, suffering heavy casualties. The company was again engaged at Spotsylvania Court House, where it was involved in a charge with the brigade and carried the heights, again with heavy casualties. On March 20, they went to Annapolis, their numbers bolstered by recruitment. The company was engaged in picket duty for more then a month around Petersburg, Virginia and on August 19 was engaged near Weldon Railroad. They were actively engaged around Petersburg for the remainder of 1864, going into winter camp in November, remaining there until the spring of 1865. In April 1865, the company was part of the first regiment to enter Petersburg. After participating in the laying of the cornerstone of the National Monument at Gettysburg they returned home to Schuylkill Haven and were mustered out on June 6, 1865. During the war the company suffered eleven killed, twenty five wounded and eleven missing. Company C was in thirty six regular battles during its existence. In distance traveled and variety of service, it may be doubted whether any other Pennsylvania unit equaled their record. Company C saw action at many of the most famous of Civil War battles including Second Bull Run, Vicksburg and the Wilderness. Men from Schuylkill Haven were wounded and died and some were held prisoner in the infamous Andersonville Prison. All things considered, the contributions of this small town unit were great during the Civil War. |
| SCHUYLKILL HAVEN BECOMES INVOLVED IN THE WAR |
| On April 13, 1861, the residents of Schuylkill Haven were alarmed by the news of the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in South Carolina. News was slow during that time and most people had to wait for the evening passenger train from Philadelphia to obtain news. Patriotism was at a high level during April and May of 1861. On April 20, at the railroad car shops of the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad, employees of the company raised a large American flag, rousing the spirit of the community. A large flag was also raised at the Michael Bassler home on the highest point in town. Patriotic speeches were given daily and local bands played patriotic songs. On June 27, a 115 foot high pole was raised, bearing an eagle and a wooden cannon pointing south. |
| Below are tombstones of some of the veterans of Company C from Schuylkill Haven. All but Israel Oswald, buried in the Jerusalem Cemetery, are buried in the Union Cemetery of Schuylkill Haven. |
| Alpheus Combs, farmer, served from April 16, 1864 until July 30, 1865. |
| Franklin Burns, boatman, served only from March 27, 1865 until July 30, 1865 but was wounded in the left side by a gunshot blast at Petersburg, VA. |
| Isaac Eckert, boatman, Corporal served from September 9, 1861 until July 30, 1865. |
| Peter Paul, boatman, served from September 9, 1861 until July 30, 1865. He was wounded by a gunshot wound to the right shoulder at Chantilly. |
| Daniel Martz, of Reading, laborer, served from February 10, 1864 until May 16, 1865. He had gunshot wounds to the right foot and right arm bleeding in fifteen places. |
| David Raudenbush, carpenter, sergeant served from September 9, 1861 until July 30, 1865. He was wounded by a gunshot wound above the right knee at the Wilderness and was a prisoner at Andersonville. |
| William Eckert, boatman, served from April 6, 1864 until July 30, 1865. He was wounded at the Wilderness. |
| Israel Oswald, blacksmith, entered the service on September 9, 1861 and transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps on January 1, 1865. |
| William Wildermuth, boatman, Corporal, served from September 9, 1861 until July 30, 1865. He was wounded by a gunshot wound in the right leg in the summer of 1864. He was one of the last four members of the company alive in 1916 living in Schuylkill Haven. |
| New veteran obituaries have continually been listed. These listings can be of assistance in genealogical research. Images of tombstones of various veterans and of some of the Company C men which was largely composed of Schuylkill Haven men are also presented. New entries include excerpts from Stu Richards book on Company C. |
| THE PROCESSION |
| SERVICES AT THE CEMETERY |
| LIFE OF CAPTAIN HELMS |
| A PICTURESQUE PARADE |
Captain
Daniel F.
Burket
Charles E. Brown
First Lieutenant
George W. Brumm
William H. Hiney
John S. Eckel
Samuel A. Losch
Second Lieutenant
John F. Saylor
Augustus Mellon
First Sergeant
David Raudenbush
William Hill
Sergeant
Levi Eckert
Henry Hill
George Schwenk
Samuel Hoffman
James H. Levan
Alexander P. Garrett
Corporal
Henry M. Deibler
George W. Cake
Jacob Scheck
Charles Oswald
Isaac Eckert
William Wildermuth
Frederick Scheck
Gotlieb Burket
John Doudle
George H. Hoffman
Robert Bechtel
Benjamin Brown
Musician
William H. Genslin
Clestine McKibbons
Jeremiah Holmes
Daniel F.
Burket
Charles E. Brown
First Lieutenant
George W. Brumm
William H. Hiney
John S. Eckel
Samuel A. Losch
Second Lieutenant
John F. Saylor
Augustus Mellon
First Sergeant
David Raudenbush
William Hill
Sergeant
Levi Eckert
Henry Hill
George Schwenk
Samuel Hoffman
James H. Levan
Alexander P. Garrett
Corporal
Henry M. Deibler
George W. Cake
Jacob Scheck
Charles Oswald
Isaac Eckert
William Wildermuth
Frederick Scheck
Gotlieb Burket
John Doudle
George H. Hoffman
Robert Bechtel
Benjamin Brown
Musician
William H. Genslin
Clestine McKibbons
Jeremiah Holmes
Privates
Agley, Samuel
Baker, Lafayette
Bowsman, George
Berger, David
Beeker, William
Boyer, Lewis
Bretz, William
Block, David
Burns, Henry
Burns, Franklin
Bryne, William
Brown, George W.
Berger, Elias
Belle, Volney
Benedict, Jacob
Bertold, Albert
Burkert, Charles
Berger, Augustus
Brosins, George W.
Burget, Elias
Brenner, Jonathan
Combs, Alpheus
Correll, Rolandus
Christian, Henry B.
Carrigen, Garrett
Dilcamp, Peter
Dupple, Gotlieb
Dankle, Peter
Eckert, John N.
Eckert, William
Eckert, John
Eiler, Charles
Eckert, Marks E.
Eckle, Emanuel
Ebert, Daniel
Emerick, William
Ellis, Thomas
Eilerding, Henry
Fisher, Franklin
Fritz, Peter
Fritz, John
Freistine, George
Fitzimons, Peter
Fohl, Richard
Fenstamacher, Fr'n
Fickenshee, Peter
Gulliver, Christian
Guertler, William D.
Garber, Mahlon
Agley, Samuel
Baker, Lafayette
Bowsman, George
Berger, David
Beeker, William
Boyer, Lewis
Bretz, William
Block, David
Burns, Henry
Burns, Franklin
Bryne, William
Brown, George W.
Berger, Elias
Belle, Volney
Benedict, Jacob
Bertold, Albert
Burkert, Charles
Berger, Augustus
Brosins, George W.
Burget, Elias
Brenner, Jonathan
Combs, Alpheus
Correll, Rolandus
Christian, Henry B.
Carrigen, Garrett
Dilcamp, Peter
Dupple, Gotlieb
Dankle, Peter
Eckert, John N.
Eckert, William
Eckert, John
Eiler, Charles
Eckert, Marks E.
Eckle, Emanuel
Ebert, Daniel
Emerick, William
Ellis, Thomas
Eilerding, Henry
Fisher, Franklin
Fritz, Peter
Fritz, John
Freistine, George
Fitzimons, Peter
Fohl, Richard
Fenstamacher, Fr'n
Fickenshee, Peter
Gulliver, Christian
Guertler, William D.
Garber, Mahlon