Howard County, MD in the Civil War

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[[units:8th New York State Militia|Back to 8th New York State Militia]]\\ 

__**Primary Sources for the 8th New York State Militia**__

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<caption>Scene in the Camp of the Washington Greys, 8th N. Y. S. M.</caption>
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//The Press//, May 9, 1861

The Accident at the Relay House.

The sudden death of a member of the Eighth New York regiment, by the discharge of his musket while cleaning it; yesterday, has saddened the hearts of his comrades, and thrown a gloom over the regiment. His name was LLOYD, and he was endeared to his associates by his courteous and kind deportment. He leaves a wife and two children in Brooklyn, New York.

Lest evening, a number of the soldiers at the Relay House sickened after eating ginger cakes, purchased from a cake vendor, who came to the camp. The matter is to be investigated.

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//New York Times//, May 10, 1861

LETTERS FROM THE ARMY.


FROM THE EIGHTH.\\ 
THE MOVEMENT TO THE RELAY HOUSE.\\ 
ELK RIDGE LANDING, ST. DENIS,\\ 
9 miles south of Baltimore,\\ 
Sunday, May 5, 1861.

Last night the Eighth Regiment of New-York Was surprised with orders from Brig. Gen. BUTLER, at Annapolis, to start for an unknown destination at 5 o'clock this morning. In obedience the regiment started at 7 o'clock, and arrived here about noon, the expedition being conducted by Gen. BUTLER in person. Immediately on arrival we moved to the grounds of Dr. HALL, who is now absent in Europe, thence removed to the estate of JOHN LATROBE, Esq., an eminent lawyer of Baltimore.

The object of the expedition is for the protection of the two bridges which cross the Patapsco River at this point. One of these bridges is a splendid stone structure, belonging to the Baltimore and Washington Railroad, and which would compare favorably with our own High Bridge at Harlem. The other, which is situated about half a mile below, is on the turnpike route, between Baltimore and Washington, called the "Washington turnpike."

It is presumed that a Philadelphia Regiment will attempt the passage through Baltimore to-day, and the destruction of these two bridges by the Secessionists, may be attempted. and Gen. BUTLER has resolved to guard against the probability, as well as to be enabled to march against Baltimore should any demonstration be made to interrupt the peaceable passage of troops through that city destined for the defence of the country.

At 5 o’clock, the Sixth Regiment of Massachusetts, Col. E. F. JONES, of Lowell, came up from Washington, and encamped on the grounds of Dr. HALL.

In conversation with a gentleman of standing in Baltimore, he remarked that no opposition would be made to any Northern troops passing through that city, but considered it very probable that a collision would occur should Col. WILSON'S Regiment undertake the passage. S. A. W.

 
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//New York Daily Herald//, May 10, 1861

THE EIGHTH REGIMENT.

LETTER FROM SERGEANT TURNBULL, OF THE ENGINEER CORPS.

RELAY HOUSE, OR ELKRIDGE,\\ 
SEVEN MILES FROM BALTIMORE, May 6 1861.

Departure from Annapolis - Encampment at the Relay House - The Bridge over the Patapsco Guarded - Rainy Weather - The Men Cheerful - Arrival of the Sixth (Massachusetts) Regiment to Reinforce the Outpost of the Eighth Regiment - The Accidental Death of Charles Leonard, &c.

On Saturday night at nine o'clock we got orders to report on Sunday morning at half past four o'clock, for the purpose of departing from Annapolis. We left that place in accordance with said orders at six o'clock precisely. we marched to the depot at the Junction, where we took cars, and arrived at this place about one o'clock. We took position on the heights overlooking the village, and commanding the bridge (a massive piece of masonry resembling High Bridge, but not quite so wide) over the Patapsco river.

After resting awhile we again shifted quarters about a quarter of a mile from our first position, and selected grounds for an encampment. We carried our camp equipage, baggage, provisions &c., up a very long and high hill, and accomplished our labors in that line, and had our tents erected by half past six o'clock P. M. A portion of the regiment quartered in a large house to the rear of the encampment. About seven P. M., and shortly after our quartering, a heavy rain set in and has continued up to this time (over thirty-six hours); the tents are drenched, the ground soft and heavy, the men wet through, both clothes and boos, and are in a very unpleasant situation. We will be all right, however, by noon to morrow, if the sun will only shine. The men are gay and merry, and take it as a matter of course.

The Sixth regiment, from Massachusetts arrived last night at five o'clock, and now occupy the grounds we had shortly before their arrival vacated. We have also on the brow of a hill adjoining the Boston Flying artillery, a splendid set of artillerists, who will make themselves surely felt whenever they come into action. The Sixth regiment (Massachusetts) suffered greatly from wind and rain for the last two nights. We can truly sympathize with them.

From the reports which we are constantly receiving from gentlemen in Baltimore [...] that that city is for the Union [...] can march into the same wi[...] attack. Be that as it may, it [...] the Eighth regiment where it [...] Very few of the men are sick, and those not seriously. We are more troubled at present with the rain and mud, and anxious as to how and when we are to meet the enemy.

On our road from Annapolis to this place I saw a few of the bridges erected by the Eighth regiment, of Massachusetts also a portion of the road which they relaid. This regiment has truly done so far very great service for which I doubt not but that they have already received the needed praise.

The splendid troop of the Eighth regiment, now acting as artillerists, are detained by Brigadier General Butler at Annapolis. We hope to have them with us soon. We do not know how long we are to remain here. Our friends at New York and elsewhere had better address to Relay House, Elkridge, Md. T. R. T.\\ 
Engineer Corps Eighth regiment, N. Y. S. T.

P. S. Will advise you of our next change, and all that transpires between this and next Wednesday night. Just received the intelligence that the New York Fire Zouaves are to march to Alexandria, Va.

P. S. May 7. A member of Company G, Eight Regiment, N. Y. S. T., named Charles Leonard, has shot himself dead by the accidental discharge of his piece while in the act of drawing the charge. The weather has been extremely wet, which has rendered it necessary to draw our charges frequently. T. R. T.

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//Brooklyn Times Union//, May 11, 1861

OUR WAR CORRESPONDENCE.

ENCAMPMENT, from Baltimore\\ 
9 miles, May 6th, 1861.

EDITOR TIMES.—I suppose you wonder at our being here, supposing we would remain at Annapolis for some time yet, Last Saturday evening we received orders to pack knapsacks and be In readiness to leave Annapolis the next morning at 6 o'clock. None of us knew where we were going, we were under sealed orders, but we all concluded that our destination would be Washington, but time soon informed us of our mistake. We are here, a short distance from Baltimore, holding a very important post called the "Relay House"; we are in camp, our duty is to protect the bridges and railroads in this part of the country.

I would have written you before, but could not find time, as we were all day Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, pitching tents and preparing grounds, which I assure you was hard work as it was raining hard all the time.

Our living is very poor, but gradually getting better, fresh meat is not to be had here, and hard biscuits are played out, I tell you it is very hard living for so much hard work, but I do not wish to complain, I shall stay with the Regiment as long as they stay.

One of our men was accidentally shot yesterday, he was drawing a charge from his musket, when it went off, the ball entering under his chin, passed through the top of bis head and killed him instantly; he was buried in the afternoon with all the military honors, the ceremony being very impressive.

All the boys are in good spirits and health and appear to be aching for a muss, which I think they will soon be sure to have, as it is said if the Pennsylvania troops are not allowed to pass through Baltimore without molestation, we are to go down and give them a brush. Another report says we are to go Harper's Ferry, which if true, will certainly give us the pleasure of a fight. But rumors are not to be relied on, all we can do in to obey orders.

I do not think we are going to Washington at all, but cannot tell exactly; to our friends we would say, all letters or parcels directed to us at Washington or Annapolis, will be forwarded us wherever we chance to be.

Oh how I would like to take a peep in the ‘Burgh, to see how you all are and get along, and get one good square meal of victuals,which I have not had since I left home.

Maryland appears strong Union, so I would judge. I think there is no fear of attack while in this State, but we are well prepared if such a thing should happen.

I may not be regular in writing, for sometimes we are ordered off when we do not get a chance to write in three or four days, like the present case.

Respectfully HIRAM G. SMITH\\ 
Corporal Co. B, 8th Reg., N. Y. S. M.

P.S. Excuse writing, as I am sitting upon the ground writing on my knapsack.


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//New York Evening Post//, May 11, 1861

The Eighth New York Regiment In Maryland

A letter from a member of the Eighth Regiment of this city, dated at Elk Ridge Landing, Howard county, Md., says;

"We are encamped here, about seven miles from Baltimore. Send me a double Mackinaw blanket; my single blanket is not sufficient. It is very chilly here nights, and since our arrival here the weather has been very disagreeable and rainy. It is currently reported here that the Seventh Regiment, on being sworn in, distinctly stipulated that they should not be called away from Washington until their term expired. We have not yet been sworn in,but we are ready to face Harper's Ferry, Baltimore, or any of their strongholds."

Another member of the Eighth, in a letter received this morning, writes:

"It has been cold all the time since we left New York. Some of our men are without over-coats, some without under-coats and some ragged, but we are all much better off than the poor Massachusetts boys, who have had a rough time here, without tents or proper provisions for their comfort.

"I feel anxious about leaving my wife and child, but my country called and I had to make the sacrifice." 

Our benevolent citizens, whose contributions to other regiments have been lavish, might direct some of their generous offerings to the Eighth Regiment. They will scarcely find a more deserving body of men. 
 

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//New York Times//, May 11, 1861

LETTERS FROM THE ARMY.

 

FROM THE EIGHTH NEW-YORK REGIMENT.

POISONING OF TROOPS—FUNERAL OF LEONARD—
GEN. BUTLER.

EIGHTH (N. Y.) REGIMENT,\\ 
ELK RIDGE LANDING, Tuesday, May 7, 1861.\\ 
Nine miles South of Baltimore.\\ 

A large number of Baltimoreans have been hovering about the encampments of the different Regiments quartered here, loud and unanimous in their declarations of loyalty and devotion to the Union; but a strict and right military discipline has been exercised against any admittance to our grounds. But wagons of every description are driven to our borders, and are of easy access to the camps, where eggs, pies, cakes, bread, coffee and tobacco are sold to the soldiers, at reasonable prices. But orders have just been issued fer their immediate removal, in consequence of the alleged poisoning of one or two members of the Sixth Regiment of Massachusetts troops. The circumstances of the case are these:

Yesterday a member of Company G, Capt. H. W. PRATT, from Worcester, Mass, named GEO. MINTER, went about among these country vendors, purchasing various kinds ef food, and upon returning to camp and eating of them was thrown into violent spasms, snapping and biting at every one who approached him, and suffering most intense pain. He was immediately placed under the attention of the surgeon of his regiment, Dr. NORMAN SMITH, of Groton, Mass., who treated him immediately for poison. The medicines employed operated so favorably that he may recover, although he still lies in the hospital in a critical position. In conversation with Dr. SMITH, he says the symptoms were unmistakably those produced by arsenic. Another man who was with him at the time, from Company A, National Greys, Capt. LAWTELL, from Lowell, was also taken ill, but was not seriously affected. 

The funeral of CHARLES LEONARD, of the Eighth New-York Regiment, who accidentally shot himself, took place to-day.

At 6 o'clock P. M., the Regimental line was formed in front of the officers' quarters, and many were the sad faces upon which the gleam of the morning still lingered. The regiment came immediately to a "parade rest." Then followed the solemn tap of the drum, and the bereaved company appeared at the fight of the line, and with measured tread and sadly beating hearts bore the remains of their dead comrade to the centre of the line. The body was encased in a coffin, and enshrouded in the folds of the American flag, and borne along resting upon two of the company's muskets. 

The company to which the deceased belonged formed upon the left and near the coffin, with inverted arms.

The entire officers of the regiment, including Gen. BUTLER and staff, then closed around the foot of the coffin, all remaining motionless and still as death, as, with uncovered heads, they awaited the commencement of the burial services, which were conducted by the Surgeon of the Regiment, FOSTER SMITH, M. D.

The services commenced with reading, and singing "Mount Vernon," with words slightly altered to suit the occasion. The melancholy tone with which this hymn was sung, and the tears that burst simultaneously from every eye in the regiment, in that lonely grove, far away from home, fully attested that the rough soldier bore within him that principle of affection which elevates and tones the human passions. Then followed reading of the 15th Chapter of Corinthians, commencing at the 15th verse. A prayer was then offered and followed by a few appropriate remarks.

When this was concluded, Gen. BUTLER rode forward a few paces towards the coffin, and while tears were coursing profusely down his cheeks, delivered a most touching and affecting appeal to the Regiment, to maintain the honor and glory of the Union, and calling upon them to swear above the dead body of their comrade, eternal fidelity to the great cause in which they were all engaged.

At the conclusion of his eloquent remarks, scarcely a dry eye was seen in the Regiment.

The coffin was then raised, and the mourning company, followed by Gen. BUTLER and Aids, as well as all the commissioned officers of the Regiment, commenced their slow march to the grave. Arriving at the chapel, the body was carried into the little graveyard of the village, about two miles from the camp, and consigned to its keeping until it shall be called for by the friends and relatives residing at New-York. Three volleys of musketry were fired over his grave, and in the darkness of the Light the company returned to their quarters.

Gen. BUTLER has, by this act, and by acknowledging, in tears of heartfelt sorrow, that the soldier is his brother, endeared himself far more to the hearts of his soldiers in the Eighth Regiment, than could the bestowal upon them of all the wealth of Golconda. He is a self-made man, and sympathizes deeply with the hardships and discomforts of his men.\\ 
S. A. W.
 


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//Middletown Whig Press//, May 14, 1861

News from Volunteers.

Edwin J. Scrantom, an apprentice in this office during the past year, but now a member of Company G, Washington Greys, 8th Regiment, on their way to the seat of War, has written a letter to a friend in Middletown, giving his 'experience’ of army life. We make some ex- tracts, He says the troops are (May 7th) encamped at Jack’s Bridge, eight miles from Baltimore, where there are 5,000 of them. One of the men in drawing a load from his gun that morning was accidentally killed. As to provender, he says they have salt pork, hard crackers, and coffee without milk. A night or two previous himself and another guard on duty 'surrounded' a prisoner.

We are sorry to see that 'Ed.' does not fancy a soldier’s life very much, and thinks he will discard the army when his time expires. We expected that, being a typo, he would have more of a liking for the 'shooting stick.' 
 

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//Commercial Advertiser//, May 14, 1861

LETTER FROM THE ARMY.

CAPTURE OF THE STEAM GUN.

ELK RIDGE, Camp Morgan,\\ 
Sunday Morning, May 12, 1861.

Thursday night, May 2d, we left Camp Misery, where our Company and Company D were engaged in erecting fortifications to command the road from Baltimore, where the secession troops had to pass, and on last Sunday evening we left Annapolis for this place, which is about nine miles from Baltimore, and are now here, although we do not know how soon we may have to leave for some other place.

On Friday afternoon our company started on ten minutes notice, no one knew where except our captain, for all our movements are kept secret. We  made for the railroad depot on a run, when a locomotive and single car started before more than half could got on except by running. We proceeded  about seven miles and stopped, our captain separated the company in three commands, and proceeded in different directions. Our party, under the second lieutenant, succeeded in capturing the celebrated steam-gun, which left Baltimore for Harper's Ferry, and was, no doubt, intended to give our troops a warm reception. They calculate it to throw three hundred musket balls a minute, and it will scatter in all directions. But, thank God, we have captured it, The Baltimore papers give the Massachusetts regiment the credit of the capture, which is not the case, as Company C, Eighth regiment, N. Y.S. M., has taken the prize. 

We have got four mules,two negroes and the owner, who would have escaped, but thinking to blind us, stepped up and wanted to know "what business we had to stop private property?" He said it was a new patent saw mill, but we could not swallow that. One of our staff officers in citizen's dress went to Baltimore, gained information of its being taken to Harper's Ferry, rode back in all haste, when we started off, and company C made the capture. Our captain's company did not arrive for two hours after; they had to march about eight miles further than we did.

One of Frank Leslie's artists was here taking a sketch of this famous gun. I took a good look at it yesterday,and it is a most singular looking affair. The Massachusetts boys were about to get steam on it yesterday, when I came away. It is at the General's headquarters, about a mile from our camp.

I procured & pass yesterday, with five privates and an officer, to visit the village, when we stopped at a small private house, where lived a strong Union man and wife. They gave us a nice dinner for the mall sum of twenty-five cents each. We had a nice clean table cloth, which was a great luxury to begin with; the eatables consisted of a nice piece of roast beef, with horseradish, pickles, apple sauce, biscuits and coffee, and seemed more like home to us all.

Last night we started about dark, and laid on our arms in the bushes on the road to Harper's Ferry, the General having received notice of an expected attack on our camp, with instructions to come in as quick as possible should the enemy make his appearance. We were not allowed to speak above a whisper, and stayed out until daylight,but they did not make their appearance, and to night we intend going three miles further on a branch road which was only found out this morning, D.\\ 
Company C, 8th regiment N.Y. S. M.


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//New York (NY) Morning Express//, May 16, 1861

Our War Correspondence.

—
Letter from a Member of Company E, 8th Regiment, N. Y. S. M., to his Brother in This City - The Butcher Regiment of New York City in Camp.

RELAY HOUSE, ELKRIDGE, MD., May 10, 1861.

Our quarters here could not be better, We are all in excellent health and spirits and ready for action. Our only cause of complaint in the quality of food dispensed. It is almost intolerable, the only merit the beef has, it renders the use of umbrellas and overcoats superfluous, for we are always dry. No fear of the enemy now, for we've salt enough to preserve us. Our officers are capital fellows, and are very kind to the men. Col. Lyons is universally beloved, and his ambition seems to be to merit the good will of his command. He visits the sentinels every night, and if it proves stormy, he always has a little whiskey for them. Captain Griffin drills us pretty hard; he is an excellent soldier, and nothing is too good for his men. He drained his private purse for our benefit while at Annapolis. G. L. Fox, of the New Bowery Theatre, is a lieutenant in this company, and is very popular with the whole regiment. As the Fire Zouaves passed him, en route to Washington, they gave him three rousing cheers. I like a soldier's life very much. It is so novel to me. Our encampment is very picturesque, and hundreds visit us daily from Baltimore, and are profuse to their compliments as to the general appearance of things. Occasionally we have a little trouble with mounted rebels, some of whom are very bold and fire upon our "pickets"; but the sentiment of the respectable portion of the Batimoreans seems to be decidedly in favor of the Union. I trust we may soon have a chance to pass through Baltimore, for I wish to test the loyalty of its citizens. The march would prove beneficial anyhow. If we wore attacked it would afford us an opportunity to fight, (and I think we know how to do it) and if we passed peaceably through it would set the question at rest and prove wonderfully favorable to the Union cause throughout the country. Ben, brother of Florence, the Irish Comedian, and I are cooks this week for our mess. The mess consists of 12 men. We tried our hands at baked beans yesterday, and wore in hopes of securing for ourselves the title of the "Delmenicos" of the Eighth Regiment," and would have done so only we unfortunately happened to get a large piece of brown soap in the beans, The boys made a great time about it, just as if we could help it. The regiment being composed mostly of butchers, you can imagine their opinion of the beef furnished us. One of them, the "dismal man" of our mess, exclaims, "Here we are fighting for the public weal and yet only get such beef. Here our lives are at at steak, and still we only have salt junk." Never mind, all will be right soon. I hate to complain, but I must give the crackers a dash. They are tough as leather doughnuts, Lieut. Fox says he has sent home for another set of teeth. I think about hiring a darkey to masticate mine for me. The toughest work we have had yet is eating the army biscuit. Still we have plenty of fun in camp. As I write, numbers are playing quoits; a me are scupping; some singing patriotic songs; some reading the papers (the Express and Herald generally); but the majority are at a flag raising. When we march up Broadway, on our return to New York, we will open the eyes of the people. We have proved wonderfully, and the regiment moves like a piece of machinery.

Our Captain has just come running up and tells us to be prepared to move at a moment's notice. There is great bustle in the camp, and we are all in high glee at the prospect of a row. You'll hear stunning news of the doings of the "old Eighth" yet.\\ 
Your affectionate brother,\\ 
S. C. T., Co, E, Eighth, N. Y. S. M.


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//Rockland Messenger//, May 16, 1861

RELAY HOUSE, May 7, 1861.\\ 

Our camp has had a gloom cast over it by having one of our men removed from our midst by death. This morning about 9 o'clock, we heard the report of a musket, and soon the news spread that a man had been shot. I hastened to the spot, and there lay the man stretched upon the ground with the blood gushing out of his mouth. His name was Charles Leonard; his residence was No. 266 Avenue B, New York City. He was a member of Company G, Capt. William S. Carr. It seems that the Captain, but two minutes previous, had given orders to his men to stack those pieces that, were loaded, in order that no accident might occur. Instead of obeying this order, whether understanding it or not, we do not know, Mr. Leonard attempted to draw the charge from his musket by means of a screw attached to the rammer, and in so doing the powder exploded, and the ball was discharged, entering directly under the maxillary bone on the left side of the face, shattering the bone, and lacerating the blood-vessels. The ball took an obliquely downward and backward course, crushing the third and fourth cervical vertibae, and severing the spinal cord, causing almost instant death. His funeral will take place this afternoon, and his remains will be placed in the private burying ground of Mr. John Banker, who has kindly offered the use of it as a temporary burying place.

It is probable that they will be disinterred, and carried to New York.

This is the first death that has occurred in our midst since we left New-York, and our men naturally feel that it comes very, near home, to see a comrade suddenly struck down by death, although the result of pure accident, must naturally make them think how uncertain life is, and that we have no lease of our lives. have just been informed that Mr. Leonard was formerly a member of Engine Co. No, 18.

A rumor was afloat in this village, that the above Charles Leonard was the son  of the Hon. M. G. Leonard, of Rockland Lake, but such is not the case —[Ed, Mess.]

Private Loyd, of the N.Y. 8th Regiment, while drawing a load from his rifle, the charge  exploded, lodging a ball in his throat, killing him instantly. His body was sent to New York.

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//New York Daily Herald//, May 17, 1861

THE EIGHTH REGIMENT.\\ 
LETTER FROM A MEMBER OF COMPANY E.

CAMP MORGAN, RELAY HOUSE, May 8, 1861.

I will give you some idea of our trip from New York. We had to sleep just where we could find a place—some times between decks and sometimes on deck: but not one word of complaint was heard from the boys. At meal hours we formed a line and marched to the dining saloon door. We were let in, sixty at a time, only to find salt horse, bomb proof biscuit and strong coffee, after standing perhaps three or four hours to get at the table. At last we arrived at Annapolis, and had to lie all night and part of the next day out in the stream, before we could disembark. The first three or four nights we had to sleep out on the grass, with our feet to a tremendous log fire. We finally got quartered in a brick house, in the yard, through the kindness of Prof. Smith. Since that time we have gone through the regular routine of military duty, mounting guard in one of the most fierce rain storms I ever saw. We left for this place last Sunday morning, about nine o'clock, and arrived here about half- past one, much to the surprise of the villagers. We are encamped on a hill, surrounded by a beautiful wood. Our company is divided off into messes; I am in mess No 4. We all take our turns at cooking. Our captain is a fine fellow—Captain Griffin—and if we do have a fight, which the boys are all eager for, we will do justice to his command. We are all well, and regale ourselves three times a day with salt horse and biscuit—sometimes a little variation of beans and soup. But I must bring my correspondence to a close, as the drum is beating for dress parade. 
 

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//The Daily Exchange//, May 20, 1861

CAMP RELAY — From this point we have nothing important. The Eighth New York Regiment, Col. Jones, having received orders to proceed to Washington, on Saturday morning struck their tents and left. 


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//The New York Times//, May 25, 1861

MOVEMENTS OF THE EIGHTH REGIMENT

CAMP MANSFIELD, EIGHTH REGIMENT N.Y. S. T.,\\ 
WASHINGTON, Monday, May 20, 1861.

To the Editor of the New-York Times:

Our friends in New-York are continually writing to members of this Regiment about their ignorance of our whereabouts and doings, while they read whole columns concerning other Regiments'; in consequence of which, I determine to give them, through the medium of your wide-spread and popular columns, a defiled account of our doings singe leaving New-York. 

We embarked on the steamship Alabama the 23d ult., sailing under sealed orders to be opened at sea, and after a pleasant voyage arrived at Annapolis, Maryland, on the morning of the 25th ult, disembarking the same cay, and at night sleeping on the dewy grass with our blankets for a covering. The next day the Regiment went into quarters, occupying the Naval Officers' elegant mansions,' fronting the beautiful grounds of the Naval Academy.

While stationed at this post, a detachment of 7 engineers, 2 pieces, Capt. VARIAN's Eighth Regiment Battery and 200 men, under command of Lieut.-Col. WATERBURY, were detailed to erect a fort on Mount Misery, a point 7 miles up the river Severn, commanding all the land approaches to Annapolis. Our men suffered severely from incessant rains and poor rations, but performed their duties with credit to the Regiment. The remainder of the Eighth had eight days' guard duty to perform out of the ten we stayed At Annapolis, although 4,000 troops were at the station.

Nothing further of special import occurred, except repeated calls to turn out at midnight to repel fancied attacks of the enemy.

On Saturday, May 4, orders were received for the Regiment to prepare to march on the following morning at A.M. The "boys" were up bright and early with gladsome countenances, and eager to leave a station that had become so obnoxious to them, by the actions, of those over whom they had no control. At the precise time indicated, the orders were given to march but without our noble troop or music.

It seems the band was stationed at the post without the knowledge of the regiment, and being a Government hand, we count not help ourselves; however, we made the best of our misfortune, only too glad to get away. 

The regiment embarked on the cars, not caring where they went, so long as there was active work, and after a few hours' ride, found ourselves at the Relay House, nine miles below Baltimore, on the Washington branch of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. On leaving the cars and forming into line, the regiment took up the line of march for the heights overlooking the Relay House, the Harper's Ferry Branch a Railroad and the viaduct over the Patapsco River, which had been threatened by the rebels. 

The same night the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment arrived, and next day the Boston Flying Artillery—the latter immediately placing their guns in a position covering the points alluded to above. The brigade was under command of Brig-Gen. BUTLER, of Massachusetts. The telegraph wires were taken in charge by the General, and no trains allowed to pass either way without inspection. This was a most important position. Sixhteen carloads of provisions and clothing, as also DICKENSON'S celebrated steam-gun were taken by the combined efforts of the Sixth and Eighth Regiments, although the former have wholly monopolized the credit of those acts. The men were in daily expectation of an attack upon their position. Two companies of the Eighth were on picket guard constantly ranging from one to four miles from the camp. Guards were doubled every night, and the

utmost vigilance prevailed. Notwithstanding the regiment was called up to repel attacks a number of times, they responded with alacrity, coming into line at 12 o'clock, midnight, and answering for duty in ten minutes from the roll of the drum. The camp rules were extremely rigid, and no man was allowed to pass the lines without special permission from the Colonel. 

Orders were received, on Monday, 13th inst., for a portion of the Regiment to proceed to Baltimore, and with the Sixth, of Massachusetts, to occupy that city. A detachment of artillery, also, accompanied us. The soldiers were very enthusiastic on receiving the orders, as symptoms of a fight were everywhere visible, certainly in the eyes of the Eighth members. At 4 P. M., six hundred uniformed troops marched out of the camp, amid the cheers of those who remained. We reached Baltimore about 5 P. M.—the Sixth Regiment leaving the cars, and forming into line, without a flag. The Eighth, however, supplied the deficiency, as almost the first man out of the cars, was our noble Color-sergeant, B. L. BLONK, who immediately unfurled the glorious emblem of liberty—the Star Spangled Banner—to the gaze of the astonished but delighted thousands. Cheer after cheer followed that noble flag as the Regiment passed to Federal hill, where the Sergeant hoisted it to the top of the flag-staff,—the two Regiments uniting in singing:

"The Star Spangled Banner,\\ 
Oh, long shall it wave.\\ 
O'er the land of the free\\ 
And the home of the brave."\\ 


The sight of that flag seemed to nerve the dispirited Union-loving men in that city, and to unloosen the chains that had so long bound them. Free thoughts and free speech were once again privileges to the indulged in by the free men of Baltimore. Secession was crushed in Maryland; the reign of terror was over and mob-law ceased to be the order of the day. 

The Eight Regiment seemed to be especial favorites; whether it was from the fact that they carried the first national flag through the city since the riot of April 19, or to show their displeasure at seeing the Sixth Regiment, or not, I cannot say; but certain it was that the citizens threw open their doors to them wherever they went, and a gray coat was a pass anywhere through the city. We were treated hospitably and kindly during our stay, and regrets were expressed on ail sides at our departure.

On Wednesday, orders were received to consolidate the regiment and report at Washington immediately. Thursday, A. M., the 16th inst., we left Baltimore, and on arriving at our old camp, our astonishment was great to find the recruits all uniformed; and on parade next morning, they equaled the "old members" of the regiment in appearance and drill. The uniforms that had been so long on the way, were received during our absence, new spirits were imbibed by the recruits upon receiving their equipments.

Much credit is due to our worthy Quartermaster CORNELL, for his exertion in behalf of the regiment while in New-York.

We have a fine body of men, and could we march up Broadway to-day, our friends would not be ashamed of the old Eighth.

Saturday, 18h inst., we left our quarters at the Relay House, and proceeded to Washington, where we arrived at 10 A. M., immediately taking up the line of march for our camping grounds viz Pennsylvania avenue and the White House. Our camping grounds are beautifully situated, and the thanks of the regiment are due to Engineer in-Chief WALTON and Quartermaster CORNELL for their admirable selection. Yesterday the camp was inaugurated, and named in honor of the commander of this district, Gen. MANSFIELD.

We have passed through great hardships, endured fatigues, and have been placed in trying and difficult positions, but we assure our friends that under the lead of our gallant Col. LYONS, the Eighth Regiment, N. Y. S. T., (Washington Greys,) no matter where our duty may call us to go, are now, as they ever were, Paratus et Fidelis.

P. S.—I forgot to mention that the Regiment owes much to our worthy and self-sacrificing Adjutant, D. B. KEELER, Jr., for its present state of excellence and efficiency. He is respected and beloved by the whole regiment.



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//Daily Herald//, June 5, 1861

PRAYING IN THE ARMY.

It is a matter of interest in a trying time like this to know that God is not forgotten in the camp. If our soldiers are engaged in a just contest they may well imitate Havelock, of the East by being praying soldiers. Saints will do their duty anywhere. 

Says the N. Y. Examiner: 'We have seen a most interesting letter from Capt. Thomas Swany, of the eighth New York regiment, written from the Relay House, on Monday, to his pastor, Dr. Taylor, of Brooklyn. In many of the tents prayer and singing are heard every evening, and on Sunday last the chaplain, Mr. T. F. Smith, of the First Baptist, Church of this city, preached to a large congregation, on the worth of the soul, and in the evening a precious prayer meeting was held—the number present crowding a large room. Capt. Swany has prayer every night in his room, with the officers of his mess. God is thus acknowledged and worshipped in the camp. Rev. T. W. Conway, chaplain of Colonel Hawkins. New York Zouaves, preached to that regiment on Sunday morning in Castle Garden, prior to their departure for their new quartets on Riker's Island. Religious services were also held in the Park Barracks, Rev. Mr. Goss and Rev. Mr. Lockwood officiating—several religious young gentlemen voluntering for the choir. About five hundred of the recruits attended.' 
  
   
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//Geneva Daily Gazette//, June 14, 1861

Letter from a Geneva Volunteer.

CAMP SANDFORD, HEADQUARTERS OF 8TH REG'T.\\ 
Washington Greys, N. Y. S. M.,\\ 
Arlington Heights, Va., June 10th, 1861.

Dear Father: I received your letter of the 7th inst., this (Monday) afternoon, and was very glad to get it. The 8th left New York on the 23d of April, by sea to Annapolis, and since that time have seen more active service than any other Regiment that has come into the field. The Regiment numbers 1,200 men, and consists of 900 Minnie muskets, 6 pieces of flying artillery and 10 mountain howitzers.

This is not a regiment of volunteers, come comes into the field a body of well drilled soldiers. There has been but one regiment come to Washington so well equipped as ours - that is the 7th of New York. Every man is uniformed and equipped alike. Our uniform is find grey pants with black stripes down the sides, grey jacket with black collar and black cuffs, army overcoats, a light grey military cap with Havelock, and fully equipped. There is privates in it worth their thousands. We want for nothing. Sunday night we were two weeks here - the longest we have been at one place since we left New York. when we first arrived at Annapolis we camped in the Naval Academy grounds without any coverings but our blankets; but we finally got quartered in houses. We were under Gen. Butler's command. We had been at Annapolis about nine days, when Gen. Butler selected the 8th, out of six Regiments to go to Mt. Misery, on the main road from Baltimore to Annapolis, to throw up breastworks, so as the keep off any force that might come from Baltimore to Annapolis. From the top of the Mt. we could see Baltimore. It was a dreary place; and the name very appropriate, for we saw enough misery while there. It rained and snowed continually while we were there. We had got the work completed and our cannon mounted on the top of the Mt., when, on Saturday night as 1 o'clock, we received orders to march immediately for Annapolis, thence to Washington. We arrived at Annapolis at daylight, and embarked immediately aboard the cars for Washington, as we supposed, (Gen. Butler was with us,) but when we got to Annapolis Junction they switched us off on to another Railroad, and at noon we fetched up at the Relay House, nine miles from Baltimore. We were the first troops there. Church was just out as we drew up in line, and the officers were dealing out ammunition to the men. It created great excitement in the place. Families packed up and moved out of town immediately. Gen. Butler took lead and marched us up the hill to a splendid mansion, the residence of a leading secessionist, and took possession; and we put up our tents on the lawn. The folks vacated the premises. The next day not a secessionist could be found in the place.

We had been there a few hours when the 6th Regiment of Massachusetts arrived from Washington, and took possession of another mansion on the hill opposite. While here Company C, of our Regiment, captured the Winans' steam gun and the 6th of Massachusetts gets the credit for it.

After staying at the Relay House eight days, we were ordered to Baltimore, with the 6th of Massachusetts. We arrived in Baltimore at 7 o'clock in the evening. The 6th Regiment of Massachusetts is the one that was attacked there on the 19th of April. Before commencing to March through the city, Gen. Butler read his orders. In them was this "If you are fired upon from any house, halt and level that house to the ground, and the people therein be made to know earth no more - then march on." The march commenced. The 6th Regiment of Massachusetts went first, and ours followed. The 6th carried no colors, we carried colors (my company is the color company) through the city. As we marched through the city the Massachusetts Regiment was hissed every step of the way, while our Regiment was greeted with cheers and waving of handkerchiefs. We marched through the principal streets, thence to Federal Hill, where we camped.

About 10 o'clock the citizens of Baltimore sent supper to our Regiment. The next morning breakfast was ready for us at any house where we might go. Folks would pull us in to breakfast; while the 6th was treated with contempt. Fear of having the city burned was what made them treat us so well.

While in Baltimore we seized about 400 stand of arms, ammunition and provisions. The last night we were there, Gen. Butler received notice of his appointment as Major General. He started immediately for Washington. We were in Baltimore three days and three nights, and then went back to the Relay House. We staid there a few days longer when we went to Washington.

[...]

I must stop writing now as I have got to go on parade. I am a private in Company G.

E. MEAD.


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//Queen County Sentinel//, June 27, 1861

LETTER FROM A SOLDIER.

To the Editor of the Queen County Sentinel.

HEAD QUARTERS EIGHTH REG'T N. Y. S. T.\\ 
Arlingon Heights, Va., June 11th, '61.

DEAR SIR:\\ 
Being a resident of Rockaway, and having many friends therein, I have thought that an account of the delights (?) of a soldier's life would be interesting to them and your readers generally - hence my taking the liberty of addressing you.

April, in the steamship Alabama, with sealed orders which were to be opened when twenty miles at sea, consequently we were ignorant of the place of destination, although we were almost confident that we were to go to Washington via Annapolis, on opening Orders we found our surmise correct. After a comparative rough trip and plenty of seasickness we landed in the venerable City of Annapolis, and commenced our troubles by passing the night on the grass rolled in our blankets. Since that time our life has been a series of inconveniences and hardships; we would no sooner get fairly settled and begin to feel comfortable than orders would be issued for our removal to some other position. Our stay in Annapolis was brief, being only eight or ten days; from there we moved to the Relay House, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, where they kept us one week, when a portion of our regiment, with the Sixth Massachusetts regiment started for Baltimore; we passed through there with considerable eclat, and camped on Federal Hill, a great eminence in the centre of the city. We had no sooner unslung knapsacks and stacked arms than it commenced raining furiously - there we were without an overcoat or a place of shelter...


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Howard County, MD in the Civil War

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