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HISTORY OF WATERLOO POST, NO. 52

DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA

G. A. R.

Submitted by: Arlene Goodwin, agoodwin@ctlnet.com and Lucy Funk, ebethgen@Yahoo.com

Proceeded to muster in to the Grand Army of the Republic, all of the above named comrades as Charter members, the comrades thus mustered in thereupon organized a Post of the G. A. R. by the election of the following named officers A. R. Stevens P.C., S. B. Johnson I. V. C., Peter Montavon J. V. C., R. Wes McBride Adjt., I. J. Lock Q.M., Jas. N. Chamberlain, Surg; J. N. McBride Chap. J. C. Brand O. D., Peter Fisher O. G., the P. C. then appointed S. Z. Dickenson, I. M. and J. M. Kimsey Q.M. A.

C. K. Baxter, R. Wes. McBride & S. Z. Dickenson ware appointed a committee to draft a set of by-laws, and ordered to report on the evening of Apr 5th. The committee reported at that time and to the by-laws of the post was adopted by sections as reported, but have been since amended from time to time to meet the requirement of the Post.

On May 6th the Post was formally acknowledged and given a number by the Supt. Commander as shown by the following letter.

Executive Department

Adgent Generals Office

Indianapolis, Ind, May 6th 1882

The name of Waterloo Post is here-by granted to Post No. 52 G. A. R. (Supt. of Ind.??)

In accordance with Sec. 3 Chapter 11 article 2nd, Rules & Regulations Dispensation is here by granted to Post No. 52 G. A. R. Dept. of Ind. to muster recruits in to said Post on the night of presentation of the application, this dispensation to remain in force during the month of May 1882. By Command of Jas. R. Carnahan, Dept. Commander.

Waterloo, Indiana, Apr. 6th, 1891

Friday Evening March 31st 1882. The following Ex-soldiers met at Haynes Hall at Waterloo Ind. for the purpose of organizing a Post of the Grand Army of the Republic to wit. R. Wes. McBride, John M. Kimsey, John C. Brand, S, J, Locke, Thomas H. Tomlinson, Peter Montavon, S. B. Johnson, Jas. N. Chamberlain, Jas. P. McCague, F. S. Chandler, A. R. Stevens, J. N. McBride, Edward Erwin, C. K. Baxter, H. C. Triplett, Noah Mortorff. W. H. H. Beard, S. Z. Dickenson, S. B. Cutter, J. W. Jones. G. W. Thomas, John Crockett, L. J. Blair, Peter Fisher, W. B Maxwell and J. G. Brown, Comrades C. S. Stoy P.C., G. F. Johns S. V. C., R. H. Weamer J. V. C., A. G. Jones Adjt., W. H. Dodge Surg., J. D. Daily QM, D. D. Deihl O. D. and H. H. Cupp O. G., all of Mead Post No. 44 of Butler Ind., acting for and by authority of Dept. Commander James R. Carnahan of the Dept. of Indiana.

The organization was now complete and in good working order, and recruiting commenced at one, David Goodrich being the first, he was duly mustered as a member of this Post on the evening of May 10th, 1882 and from that time to Jan. 1st, 1882, their had been nine recruits mustered. Through the efforts of Comrade Peter Montavon, the year 1883 gave the Post 28 more recruits. The year 1884 was not a good year for recruits as only 4 names was added to the roster. The years 1885 & 86 was very successful as there was 28 more names added to the Post roster. The Veterans of 61 to 5 now out side of the G. A. R. was getting scarce and far between and the year 1887 marked again of 5 the year 1888 again gave us 5 more names. The boys now out side of the Post was like a very thin scurmish line but we gobeled two of them in 1889, in 1890, 3 more was added so far in 1891 shows one more name on the roster.

Of the 26 charter members, 17 are members in good standing at this date, two have answered to the last roll call and lie in our beautiful cemetery, 4 have been transferred to other posts and three have been dropped from the rolls of the Post.

Of the 111 ex-soldiers who have been mustered into this Post six have answered to the call of the Great Captain above and have answered here to the last roll call, the first to answer was Wm. H. Fisher who died May 20th, 1883, the second was Franklin Gettz died at the soldiers home at Dayton Ohio, Aug 25, 1884. Then Capt. A. R. Stevens our first post commander died Feb. 11th, 1888, this year marked the death of two comrades of the Post, the other being John Rinehart on Mar. 4th, 1888, John Day died Nov. 11th 1889, the last being C. B. Cutter who died in Evansville, Ind. Feb. 26th 1890.

Of the 111 names on the Post roster of only 57 remain members in good standing to-day, four have been discharged, six have died, 17 have been transferred to other Posts, and 30 have been dropped from the rolls for non payment of dues.

The average age of the men whose names appear on the roster is 53 ½ years, the four oldest are now 70 years each. The 4 youngest men on the roll is 44 years each. The agrigate term of service of these 111 veterans is 225 ½ years the average term of service being two years and twelve days, the longest term of service being four years and nine months, the shortest being four months, they represent 9 states as follows; Indiana 63, Ohio 32, Mich. 6, Pa. 2, N.Y. 2, Mo. 2, Ills. 2, Iowa 1, Wis. 1, two served in the marine corps one in the regulars and represent 62 separate organizations or regiments.

The Post has expended for the relief of needy soldiers and families of soldiers who were in want the sum of $447.00.

By the Way we would be very much pleased to have these dropped members renew their obligation, and stand shoulder to shoulder with us in sustaining this grand organization through the few remaining years of our existence here.

At the meeting on the evening of Jan, 10th 1886 the necessary steps was taken to organize a Woman’s Relief Corps, as an Auxiliary to this Post, and in February following a corps was organized with 52 charter members, this organization have been a great help to the Post, and have always responded nobly to all the calls of the Post for all of which we are very thankful.

They have always looked after the sick and needy soldiers and their families and supplied their wants as far as it was possible or in their power to do. And on memorial and Decoration days their services have been invaluable.

THE SILVER ANNIVERSARY

The Grand Army of the Republic Twenty-five Years Old To-day.

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History of the First Meeting in 1864 –Principles of the Order

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The Record of Twenty-five Years, Fraternity, Charity, and Loyalty

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THE G. A. R.

The formation of military orders in the United States dates from the close of the war of the revolution.

General George Washington and the officers who had faithfully served under his command, imbued with deep patriotism, having kindly remembrance of the manifold danger they have passed, the hardships endured, privations and perils undergone, south by fraternal ties to perpetuate the memory of those days of a heroic past, and give to their children, and through them to generations then unborn, links of brotherhood so welded and cemented that they should wear untarnished while earth and it people remained a reality. The out-growth of this desire of Washington and his subalterns was the formation of the society know in history as the (incinnatis). Imbued with the peculiar notions of that period of the superiority of birth and rank, they overlooked the true fraternity, then as now encased in the hearts of the American soldiery, and made for them selves a society, to which only the titled "and the manner born" could be granted admission. Notwithstanding its radical exclusiveness the society with General Washington as its commander prospered, and today the descendants of its brave founders keep up its traditions and wear as diamonds the proud honors written in history of deeds of heroism and bravery of the men who over a hundred years ago sought in the bonds of fraternity to keep green in their hearts all memories of their military career.

The same board, generous-hearted sentiment slumbered in the hearts of our country’s defenders, and long before the last gun of the war of the rebellion the officers of the Union army sought to emulate the example of their ancestors of 1776. On the day of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln the first steps to organize the society known as the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States were taken. Soon after the society was fully organized and equipped. Based on the broad fundamental principles of fraternally and loyalty the order has builded greater than did the Cincinnatis of revolutionary fame.

THE AMERICAN VOLUNTEER

of the war of the rebellion was unlike his brother of revolutionary days in many ways. The latter served his country well, and when the sunlight of peace dawned upon the colonies, he was content to resume his place in civil life and forget war’s alarms. He lived in a different period and in a more sluggish and indifferent atmosphere. A deeper, broader civilization rested upon the land. Progress in art, science, mechanics, mercantile and agricultural pursuits had strengthened the people as a Nation in their love of home and county. When the first gun was fired upon Fort Sumter the slumbering military power of the North was aroused to action and the energies that had been devoted to peaceful pursuits became the active war sinews of the Nation. Four long years of terrible devastating war, 400,000 loyal free men sleeping in soldiers’ graves under the cypress and pine, 300,000 soldiers and sailors crippled for life; 1,000,000 mothers , wives, widows, sisters, and orphans mourning for loved ones who did not return, became sacred memories in the hearts of more than two and a half million soldiers of the Union, who, in 1865, laid down the implements of war for the occupations of peace.

It was these memories entwined as laurel wreaths about their hearts which led the veterans of 1861-65 to follow, not the Cincinnatis of the revolution, or the "Legioniers" of our own time, but the American idea of fraternity and loyalty which knows no rank or title. Upon this corner-stone was founded the temple where in "only those on whom no stain of treason rests can come, and whose unsullied record of a soldier’s or sailor’s life proved them the deadly enemies of treason." Major, B. F. Stephenson, Surgeon of the Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, and Chaplain William J. Rutledge, of the same regiment tent mates and been companions in marches and bivouac, talked of the days to come when the war ended the soldiers mustered out of service, how they would keep up the associations formed in camp and field.

It was in these personal camp-fires that Stephenson and Rutledge conceived the idea of an organization, American in form and spirit, to which no man required a greater qualification or rank than honorable service and discharge from the Union army of 1861-65. It fell to the lot of Major Stephenson to carry to their first fulfillment their mutual ideas and to him has been accorded without protest the great honor of being

THE FOUNDER

of the Grand Army of the Republic. Facts recorded in the history of the order place the names of Rutledge, Woods, Phelps, and others besides that of Stephenson, in the early days of the order, and to them all should be given great honor for noble work performed.

In March 1866, Major Stephenson, and Chaplain Rutledge met in Springfield and compiled a ritual. Copies of this ritual were shown to veterans interested in the formation of such on order. Those who had been permitted to examine the ritual and secret work were given the oath or obligation in February, 1866, and at that time the birth of the order really dates. April 6, 1866, in the then village, now city of Decatur, Ill., the first post of the Grand Army of the Republic was organized and mustered. The event was not heralded by beat of drum or bugle’s blare. A few earnest, patriotic ex-Union soldiers, believing the ideas and theories of Major Stephenson, willingly stepped to the front, ready for duty. Little did they think even dream, of the future greatness of the order they espoused. Like the twelve apostles of old, they believed, and in their belief they have seen success for beyond the most sanguine anticipations and desires of their brave intrepid, and undaunted leader.

The first department formed was that of Illinois. In the call for this encampment the following appeared: "The soldiers of the State of Illinois who desire to assist in the care of the families of their fallen comrades, of the disabled and unfortunate, who would assist each other by acts of friendship and of charity, and who would wish to establish and maintain the rights of the volunteer soldiers of the late war, morally, socially, and politically, are requested to meet with us."

July 19, 1866, the first encampment was convened at Springfield, Ill., and among those present and taking part in the proceedings of that memorable occasion were General John L. Beveridge, General Stephen A. Hurlbut, General John McNulty, General John McArthur, General John L. Rinaker, General John M. Palmer, Colonel William Birney, Colonel Cyrus Hall, Colonel Charles E. Lippincott, Colonel Thomas S. Mather, Major B. F. Stephenson, Chaplain William J. Rutledge, and many others, who had seen faithful and honorable service in defense of their homes and country.

The private was there, not in numbers to compare with the titled comrades, but there to stay and take his share whatever that might be.

THE ENCAMPMENT

elected General John M. Palmer to succeed Major B. F. Stephenson as department commander. The "Declaration of Principles, written by Robert M. Woods, Adjutant General was as follows:

Sec. 1. The soldiers of the volunteer army of the United States, during the rebellion of 1861-65 actuated by the impulses and convictions of patriotism and of eternal right, and combined in the strong bonds of the fellowship and unity by the toils, the dangers, and the victories of a long and vigorously waged war, feel themselves called upon to declare, in definite form of words and in determined co-operative action, those principled and rules which should guide the earnest patriot, the enlightened freeman, and the Christian citizen in his course of action, and to agree upon those plans and laws which should govern them in a united and systematic working method, with which, in some measure, shall be effected the preservation of the grand results of war, the fruits of their labor and toil, an so benefit the deserving and worthy.

Sec. 2. The results which are designed to be accomplished by this organization are as follows:

  1. The preservation of those kind and fraternal feelings which have bound together, with the strong cords of love and affection, the comrades in arms of many battles, sieges and marches.
  2. To make these ties available in works and results of kindness, of favor, and material aid to those in need of assistance.
  3. To make provision, where it is not already done for the support, care and education of soldiers’ orphans, and for the maintenance of the widows of deceased soldiers.
  4. For the protection and assistance of disabled soldiers, whether disabled by wounds, sickness, old age, or misfortune.
  5. For the establishment and defense of the late soldiery of the United States, morally, socially, and politically, with a view to inculcate a proper appreciation of their services to the country, and to a recognition of such services and claims by the America people.
  6. This Declaration of Principles was adopted by the National Encampment convened at Indianapolis, Ind., Nov, 20, 1866, the word "sailors" being added, as also a new section taken from the constitution the "Loyal Legion,"
    as follows:

  7. The maintenance of true allegiance to the United States of America, based upon paramount respect for, and fidelity to, the Nation constitution and laws; manifested by the discountenancing of whatever may tend to weaken loyalty, incite to insurrection, treason, or rebellion, or in any manner impair the efficiency and permanency of our free institutions, together with a defense of universal liberty, equal rights, and justice to all men.

The Third National Encampment, held in Philadelphia, Pa., January, 1868, after a heated discussion which threatened disruption, added to the fifth paragraph of section 2, Declaration of Principles, the following:

But this Association does not design to make nominations for office or to use its influence as a secret organization for partisan purposes.

Immediately following the organization of the Illinois department Major B. F. Stephenson devoted his attention and energies to the building up of the order in neighboring States, acting as

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

on authority assumed as the founder of the Grand Army of the Republic. So well did he perform his duty that in October, 1866, the following States had been added to the roll of departments: Wisconsin, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, and posts in Ohio, Kentucky, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, and the District of Columbia.

As the first National encampment, held at Indianapolis, Ind., Nov. 20, 1866, Major General Stephen A. Hurlbut, of Illinois was elected Commander-in-chief.

Major General John A. Logan, also of Illinois, succeeded General Hurlbut as Commander-in-chief in January, 1868, and was twice re-elected.

May 5, 1868, Commander-in-chief Logan issued the general order creating Memorial Day. The order bears date of May 5, 1868, and the sentiments contained therein are worthy a place in the hearts of every man, woman and child in Republic. Our brief review would be incomplete without at least containing a paragraph from this famous order.

  1. The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lied in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit. We are organized comrades, as our regulations tell us, for the purpose, among other thins, "of preserving and strengthening those kind and fraternal feelings which have bound together the soldiers and marines who united to suppress the late rebellion."

What can aid more to assure this result than by cherishing tenderly the memory of our heroic dead, who made their breasts a barricade between our country and its foes? Their soldier lives were the reveille of freedom to a race in chains, and their deaths the tattoo of rebellious tyranny in arms. We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. All that the consecrated wealth and taste of the Nation can add to their adornment and security is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let no wanton foot tread rudely on such hallowed grounds. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and found mourners. Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided Republic. If other eyes grow dull and other hearts slack, and other hands cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of light remain to us. Let us, then at the time appointed gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with the choicest flowers of springtime; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from dishonor; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us, a sacred charge upon a Nation’s gratitude—the soldiers’ and sailor’s widows and orphans."

How grandly the comrades of the Grand Army have complies with this order has become

A MATTER OF HISTORY

As the years go by the custom takes a stronger hold upon the hearts of the surviving veterans and of the loyal Union-loving people. Greater honor could not be given the idolized Logan than the carrying to their fullest fruition his wishes for the observance of Memorial Day.

As the typical American volunteer soldier he was loved by people and idolized by his comrades. The establishment of the beautiful services of Memorial Day should alone give the Grand Army of the Republic the respect and favor of every loyal patriotic American citizen. Passing out of the days of political darkness that obscured the true objects worked for and desired, the Grand Army became broader in its fraternity, greater in its charity, and grander in its loyalty. Since the days of 1868, politics in the National organization has been so completely eliminated that its members point with pride to its non-partisanship and to the grand results of its work for the poor and needy veterans and the families of departed comrades.

During the administration of Comrade Logan installation and burial services were added to the ritual work of the order. During his second term, 1870, the first consideration was given to the subject of "Auxiliary societies of the wives and daughters of the comrades and the widows and orphans of deceased soldiers." The charitable features of the Grand Army are worthy of emulation. Its acts of generosity are not confined to those who wear the badge or button, but to every needy and suffering veteran of the old Union army, without regard, to rank or color. The only test required is that the comrade show an honorable discharge; even this in many instances has been forgotten in the desire to assist an unfortunate comrade. Charity thus given has in a few instances been wrongly give, but they are so rare they are soon forgotten. From July, 1871, to July, 1890, the total amount reported by all the departments expended in relief to indigent comrades and their families amounted to the sum of $1,987,534.55.

The total membership of the Grand Army of the Republic Dec. 81, 1899, was 60,678; June 30, 1890, 458,230 and on Dec. 31, 1890, about 465,000. (written by hand, 3000 Posts)

A badge was adopted in 1866, but in 1868 a change was made by two additions, the insignia of rank and the eagle. In 1869 or 1880 a very radical change was made in its form, the result being the present badge worn by all comrades of the Grand Army. The badge is of bronze made from cannon

CAPTURED BY THE UNION

army during the late rebellion, its form being a five-pointed star, attached by a miniature National flag, the clasp or pin being an eagle on crossed cannon. The eagle is a facsimile of that on the "Medal of Honor" presented by direction of Congress for individual acts of heroism and bravery.

The obverse bears in the center the figure of the Goddess of Liberty, representing Loyalty; a soldier and sailor with clasped hands representing Fraternity; a woman and child, representing the widow and orphan of a fallen hero, receiving assurance of assistance and protection from the comrades, represents Charity. The National flag and eagle placed on each side of the group represent freedom—the ax or bundle of rods, Union. At the point of the star is the insignia of the various branches of the service, viz: cross swords of cavalry, cross cannon for artillery, cross muskets for the marine, bugle for the infantry, and anchor for sailors. The badge bears the legend, Grand Army of the Republic, 1861; veteran, 1866. The reverse side bears the corps badges, the National shield in the center, around all being a circle of stars representing the States of the Union and the Departments of the Grand Army of the Republic.

Changes have been made in the declaration of principles incorporated into the early work of the order. These principles are now simply stated as objects to be accomplished, and all semplance of partisanship has been eliminated. Truth, honesty, candor rests upon every word and letter.

  1. To preserve and strengthen those kind and fraternal feelings which bind together the soldiers and sailors and marines who united to suppress the rebellion and to perpetuate the memory and history of the dead.
  2. To assist such former comrades in arms as need help and protection and to extend needful aid to the widows and orphans of those who have fallen.
  3. To maintain true allegiance to the United States of America, based upon a paramount respect for and fidelity to its Constitution and laws; to discountenance whatever tends to weaken loyalty, incites to insurrection, treason, or rebellion, or in any manner impairs the efficiency and permanency of our free institutions; and to encourage the spread of universal liberty, equal rights, and justice to all men.

Eligibility is restricted and is measured by time. Fifty years from now but few of the two and a quarter millions of veterans of the Union army who yet survive will greet each other as comrades.

It is well then that all who come within the scope of the following should at once enroll themselves in the Grand Army of the Republic.

"Soldiers and sailors of the United States army, navy, or marine corps, who served between April 12, 1861, and April 9, 1865 in the war for the suppression of the rebellion, and those having been honorably discharged therefrom after such service, and of such State regiments as were called into active service and subject to the orders of the United States general officers, between the dates mentioned, shall be eligible to membership in the Grand Army of the Republic. No person shall be eligible to membership who has at any time borne arms against the United States."

The work and influence of the Grand Army of the Republic is known and respected in every locality where a post it located. The soldiers’ homes, State and National, the Nations cemeteries in the South and North, the monuments erected to the memory of

OUR GREATEST GENERALS

and bravest, heroes, pension legislation in all its forms, the enactment of laws favoring veterans as against citizens for positions of trust under the government, the creation of Memorial Day with its beautiful and holy ceremonies, the teaching of patriotism in schools and homes, the raising above the school-housed of the land the starry flag of red, white, and blue—these are realities—and for all these, even—more the people and the Nation is indebted to the Grand Army of the Republic. The comrades of the order have their reward in the knowledge of duties truly, generously performed.

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VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA

Aug 25, 1896

Capt. Messlien, Bert Ross, Lt. Shankle, Charles Campbell - made trim and braids for soldiers uniforms, Trent Ettinger, Capt. Harm, Henry Bowers, Floyd Wolcott, Lt. Ler_ Fikkes,Cap. W. W. Clark, Bandmaster, Staff Capt. Wright, Lt. Stiener, Lt. Barns or Burns, Capt. Rich Sech, Lt. Oscar Penzien, Cal. E. Hielding, Frank Clark.

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SOLDIERS CONVENTION

June 4, 1868

The Kendallville Standard announces that the soldiers propose to hold a convention at Kendallville, on the 4th of July. Steps have been taken to push forward the enterprise. The counties of the 10th Congressional District are included in the invitation. The 4th would be a very appropriate day for such a purpose, as it is the anniversary of many great events in the history of our county. Let there be a general turn out of the boys-in-blue.

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THE WATERLOO PRESS

Thursday, Sept. 29, 1870

SOLDIERS—When the democracy were in doubt, as to how this County would vote, they were wont to place soldiers on their ticket. Having carried the County for sometime, they have dispensed with this precaution, and no soldier can receive a nomination at their hands. In contrast with this conduct, the Republicans have placed, in nomination a County ticket containing the names of three private soldiers, Messrs. Colgrove, Gordon and Reinoehl. Two of them are running or the best offices in the County, Clerk and Auditor. The only way the soldier boys can force a recognition from the Democracy is to defeat them a time or two—The will be very accommodating when they are out of office.

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HOMESTEADS FOR SOLDIERS

What Lands They may Select and Where Located.

We publish below the law giving to soldiers homesteads in alternate reserved sections of public lands along our Western Railroads. It will be well to preserve this paper, for the list is valuable for future reference:

GENERAL LAND OFFICE

August 6, 1870

Gentlemen: The following is the 25th section of the act of Congress approved July 15, 1870, entitled "An act making appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending June 30, 1870, and for other purposes," viz:

"SECTION 25. And be it further enacted; that every private soldier and officer who has served in the army of the United States, during the rebellion, for ninety days, and remained loyal to the Government, and every seaman, marine and office and other person, who has served the navy of the United States, or in the marine corps or revenue marine, during the rebellion, for ninety days, and remained loyal to the Government, shall on payment of the fee for commission to any register or receiver of any land office, required by law, be entitled to enter one quarter section of land, not mineral, of the alternate reserved sections of public lands along the lines of any one of the railroads or other public works in the United States wherever public lands have been or may be granted by acts of Congress, and to receive a patent therefor, under and by virtue of the provisions of the act to secure homesteads to actual settlers, on the public domain, and the acts amendatory thereof and on the terms and conditions therein prescribed, and all the provisions of said acts, except as herein modified, shall extend and be applicable to entries under the act. And the Commissioner of the General Land Office is hereby authorized to prescribe the necessary rules and regulations to carry this action into effect and determine all acts necessary therefor."

By these provisions, the Homestead law of May 20, 1862, and the acts amendatory thereof, are so far modified as to allow entries to be made by the parties mentioned therein, of the maximum quantity of each quarter section, or one hundred and sixty acres of land, hold at the double minimum price of $259 per acre, instead of one-half quarter section or eighty acres as heretofore.

In case of a party desiring to avail himself thereof you will require him to file the usual homestead application for the tract desired if legally liable to entry to make affidavit according to the form hereto annexed, instead of the usual homestead affidavit and on his doing so, allow him to make payment of the $10 fee stipulated in the act of May 20, 1862, and the usual commissions on the price of the land is $259 per acre, the entry to be regularly numbered had reported to this office your monthly homestead returns.

Regarding settlement and cultivation, the requirements of the law in this class of entries are the same as in other homestead entries.

Very respectfully your Obt. Sergt.

Jos. S. Wilson, Com’r.

LIST OF LAND GRANT RAILROADS

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

GENERAL LAND OFFICE

September 19, 1870

Hon, Wm. Lawrence, Bellefontaine, O.

Sir---Pursuant to your request of the 12th inst. I have the honor here with to present a statement showing land grant railroads in the following named States and Territories, along which are alternate reserved sections, subject to entry under the Homestead and Pre-emption laws, as well as an estimate of the quantity subject thereto along each line of road:

MICHIGAN

Jackson, Lansing & Saginaw, from Hillsdale to Traverse Bay, reserved sections undisposed of

150,000

Port Huron & Milwaukee & Detroit & Milwaukee from Port Huron to Grand Haven, undisposed of

75,000

Flint & Pere Marquette from Flint to Marquette, undisposed of

300,000

Grand Rapids & Indiana from Fort Wayne to Traverse Bay, estimated quantity undisposed of

300,000

Marquette and Ontonagon, from Marquette to Ontonagon, estimated quantity undisposed of

250,000

Chicago and Northwestern from Marquette to the mouth of Menominee river, undisposed of

275,000

Total acres

1,559,000

IOWA

Iowa Falls & Sioux City, from Dubuque to Sioux City, estimated quantity undisposed of

150,000

McGregor & Sioux City from ________ to a point in O’Br_____ County estimated quantity disposed of

200,000

Sioux City & St. Paul, from Sioux City to St. Paul, estimated quantity undisposed of

125,000

Sioux City to Fremont Nebraska, estimated quantity undisposed of

625,000

Total acres

1,400,000

WISCONSIN

West Wisconsin, from Tomah to Lake Superior, undisposed of

600,000

St. Croix & Lake Superior, from St. Croix to Lake Superior and branch to Bayfield, undisposed of

300,000

Portage, Winnebago & Superior, from Portage City to Lake Superior, undisposed of

1,200,000

Total acres

2,100,000

MINNESOTA

St. Paul & Pacific Railroad, from St. Paul to mouth of the Siouxwood River; estimated quantity undisposed of

650,000

Branch of St. Paul & Pacific Railroad, from St. Paul to Crow Wing; estimated quantity undisposed of

800,000

Minnesota Central Railroad from St. Paul to Iowa State line, range 18 west; estimated quantity undisposed of

400,000

Winona & St. Peter Railroad, from Winona to St. Peter; estimated quantity

Undisposed of

750,000

St. Paul & Sioux City Railroad, from St. Paul to Sioux City, Iowa; estimated quantity undisposed of

500,000

Lake Superior & Mississippi from St. Paul to Duluth, undisposed of

550,000

Minnestoa Southern; from Houston to Sioux Lake, undisposed

400,000

Hastings & Dakota, from Hastings west to a point on the State line; estimated quantity undisposed of

300,000

Total acres

4,350,000

MISSOURI

Hannibal & St. Joseph, from Hannibal to St. Joseph, undisposed of

150,000

Atlantic & Pacific, from St. Louis via Springfield to state line, undisposed of

200,000

Cairo & Fulton, from Cairo to state line of Arkansas, undisposed of

50,000

Total acres

400,000

ARKANSAS

Cairo & Fulton, from point on state line via Little Rock to Texas line, undisposed of

550,000

Memphis & Little Rock from Memphis to Little Rock, undisposed of

250,000

Little Rock & Fort Smith, from Little Rock to Fort Smith, undisposed of

400,000

Total acres

1,200, 000

KANSAS AND NEBRASKA

Kansas Pacific, from Omaha to Ogden, Utah, undisposed of

9,000,000

St. Joseph & Denver City, from St. Joseph to Denver City, undisposed of

1,000,000

Kansas & _______ Valley, from eastern terminus of Union Pacific to Red River, undisposed of

1,200,000

Southern branch Union Pacific, from Ft. Riley to Ft. Smith, Arkansas, undisposed of

50,000

Total acres

12,050,000

NEVADA

Central Pacific, from Odgen to Sacramento, undisposed of

3,500,000

Western Pacific from Sacramento to San Jose, est’d,

800,000

California & Oregon, from Roseville to Portland, est.

1,200,000

Jose to Colorado river

300,000

Stockton & Copperopalis, estimated quantity

250,000

Total acres

6,250,000

COLORADO TERRITORY

Kansas Pacific, from Missouri river in Kansas to Denver city; undisposed of

2,000,000

Denver Pacific Railroad from Denver City to connect with Union Pacific Wyoming, estimated

2,000,000

Total acres

4,600,000

 

 

UTAH TERRITORY

Kansas Pacific to points near Ogden

2,500,000

Also, estimated quantity on Northern Pacific, in Wisconsin

1,000,000

In Minnesota, Estimated

2,000,000

In Oregon estimated

1,500,000

In Washington estimated

3,800,000

Total acres

8,300,000

Herewith I have the honor to enclose several of our circulars dated August 9, 1870, containing the amendment of July 15, 1870, the Homestead law which provides that soldiers and sailors can make homestead entries of alternate reserved sections along the several railroad lines, each to the extent of 160 acres, the law not, however, relaxing in any respect the requirements of the Homestead statutes as to actual bonafide continuous settlement and cultivation.

Homesteads for Soldiers Mustered Out Nov 10, 1870

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THE WATERLOO CITY PRESS

THURSDAY APRIL 7, 1870

REPUBLICAN TICKET

For Secretary of State

Max. F. A. Hoffman, of Cass.

For Auditor of State

John D. Evans, of Marion

For Treasurer of State

Gen. Robert H. Milroy, of Carroll.

For Attorney General.

Colonel Nelson Trusler, of Fayett.

For Superintendent of Public Instruction

Barnabas C. Hobbs of Wayne

For Judges of Supreme Court

Andrew L. Osborn, of LaPorte

Jehu T. Elliott, of Henry

Charles A. Ray, of Marion

Robert C. Gregory, of Tippencanoe

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129th Regiment.

We have been requested to announce that there will be a meeting on the officers and men who served in the 129th Regiment, at Kendallville, on the 8th day of April, 1870. All members of the Regiment are earnestly requested to attend the meeting.

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WATERLOO PRESS

FEBRUARY 23, 1871

CAUTION TO SOLDIERS

We notice in some of our exchanges a caution to soldiers not to sell their discharge papers, as sharpers and speculators are trying to buy them up with a view to swindling them and the government of the lands to which veterans will be entitled under the Soldiers’ Homestead act when it shall become a law. The Cleveland Leader says that "two methods are apparently open by which these papers may be turned to a dishonest purpose. Many are in the possession of veterans who have no intention of removing westward, and are therefore willing to sell their discharge certificates for a trifling price. These papers may be sold by the brokers to other men not veterans, who wish to acquire western lands, and may do so by assuming the name of the soldier whose discharge papers they have bought. In other cases it is believed that discharge papers are being bought up for the purpose of being sold back to their original possessors at a greatly advanced price when wanted."
This warning is well intended, and veterans and their heirs would do well to take the warning not to sell or give away their discharge papers for any consideration whatever. No honest use can ever be made of these discharge papers by any one but the soldier or his lawful heirs. A man who proposes to buy one simply proposes a fraud, and asks the veteran to become a party in that fraud, as well as to submit to one himself. But it mat be well enough for conscienceless speculators to understand also that they have nothing to make by a traffic in discharge papers, as the homestead law requires that each applicant for lands must swear that he is the identical person who served in the army under the name culbodied in the muster our papers. And if occupation and title were given by fraud they would both be invalidated and would become totally worthless when the deception should be brought out in court. No title could be conveyed in that manner that would be worth one cent. To avoid wrong doing all around let no soldier sell or give away his discharge papers. On the contrary, let every true soldier regard them as his most precious possession while he shall live and the most honorable heir-loom which he can possibly bequeath to this children.

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THE WATERLOO PRESS

THURSDAY, OCT. 5, 1871

District Organization—the proposed organization of the surviving officers and soldiers of the counties of Allen, DeKalb, Steuben, LaGrange, Noble, Whitley, Kosciusko and Elkhart, has met with general commendation throughout the district. It is expected that a meeting will be held at Fort Wayne, on the 1st of January next; when the organization will be perfected. All interested in forwarding the movement, should correspond with Col. Zollinger, at the above mentioned place.

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WATERLOO CITY PRESS

DECEMBER 19, 1872

RE-UNION—The second Annual Re-Union of the Nineteenth Regiment, Indiana Volunteers, was quite largely attended, at Muncie, on the anniversary of the battle of Fredericksburgh. Considerable routine business was transacted, and "the boys" had a good time together. A committee of two from each company was appointed, for the purpose of ascertaining the present address, and the condition in life, of every honorably discharged member of the Regiment. General Meredith is President of the Association for life. Vice Presidents from each company, and a Secretary and Treasurer were elected for the ensuing year. Lieut. Col. John W. Shafer was unanimously chosen as orator for the next Re-Union , which is to take place in Indianapolis, on the next anniversary of the battle of South Mountain, Maryland. Friends knowing the present whereabouts of any of the members of Co. G, are invited to communicate with this office.

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SOLDIERS RE-UNION

WATERLOO PRESS

SEPTEMBER 14, 1871

It is proposed to have a Re-Union of all the soldiers who entered the service from the old 10th Congressional District, composed of the counties of Allen, Whitley, Kosciusko, Elkhart, Noble, DeKalb, Steuben and LaGrange. Fort Wayne has been suggested as a suitable place at which to hold it although this may be changed, if it should be thought desirable to do so. The district organizations comprise the 12th, 30th, 44th, 74th, 88th, 100th, 120th, 142d and 152d regiments of infantry; the 12th cavalry, and the 5th, 11th and 23d batteries of artillery. Those, together with all who enlisted from the district, in organizations outside of it are expected to join in the movement. The 129th regiment has, for several years, been holding an annual re-union, the last of which took place at Kendallville, on the 29th ultimo. At this meeting a committee consisting of Colonels Zollinger and DeLong and Lieut. Pinchin, were appointed to confer with other regiments in regard to time, place and manner of holding the proposed re-union. Col. Zollinger, the chairman of this committee, may be addressed at Fort Wayne. It is said he is laboring zealously to bring about the meeting of the "soldier boys."

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WATERLOO CITY PRESS

SEPTEMBER 7, 1871

RE-UNION—During the past week, the senior editor had the good fortune to meet over one hundred of his army comrades, at the re-union of the 19th Regiment Indiana Volunteers, at Cambridge, on the 28th and 29th ultimo. Members of Regiments derive a pleasure from these meetings, which is entirely unintelligible to civilians, and there fore the old soldiers will have to be excused for making the most of them. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Regiment marched in a body to the residence of Gen. Meredith, first Colonel of the Regiment, where they partook of an elegant supper. It gave great satisfaction to all to see how comfortably "Old Sot" was fixed for the remaining days of life, and many were the regrets expressed at his failing state of health.

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WATERLOO CITY PRESS

AUGUST 4, 1870

The 29th Indiana Volunteers will hold their annual reunion at South Bend, on the 29th of the month. A member of members of the Regiment reside in the county.

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WATERLOO CITY PRESS

SEPTEMBER 19, 1872

Soldier Boys—turn out and hear the old "War Governor" next Monday. You all remember how soldiers from other states, during the war, used about the following language in talking to you. Well, we would be better supplied, and get some credit for what we do, if we had a Governor as Martin. You may never have another opportunity to hear him. Every soldier, who feels proud that he belonged to an Indiana regiment ought to be here that day.

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WATERLOO CITY PRESS

FEBRUARY 12, 1875

SOLDIERS RE-UNION—It had been definitely arranged that a re-union of all the soldiers, who enlisted from what was formerly the tenth District, will take place at Fort Wayne, Indiana on the 7th day of April next. The veterans of DeKalb County should make arrangements to be present in strong force.

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WATERLOO CITY PRESS

MARCH 25, 1874

The ex-soldiers of the eastern part of the county will send a delegation to the Fort Wayne re-union from Butler

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 28, 1874

The 11TH Indiana, which had members from this county, had formed an association with General McGinnis of Indianapolis for President.

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WATERLOO PRESS

APRIL 9, 1874

SOLDIERS’ RE-UNION—Large delegations of ex-soldiers from the different counties in this section of the State attended the great Re-union which was held at Fort Wayne, on Tuesday of this week, embracing representatives of the 80th, 44th, 88th, 100th, and 129th regiments. And very many other organization. When all the delegations, from the different counties, concentrated in the city, the crowd was immense. The streets and buildings of the city were elaborately decorated with flags and banners, and many were the remnants of the colors of some of our old regiments, which would call to the mind many grim recollections of the past. The streets and sidewalks were literally thronged with people. The register at the headquarters contained the names of over 1100 ex-soldiers. In the afternoon Gen’l Tom Browne made the principle speech, with remarks from Governor Hendricks, General Willich, Colonel Gibson and others. In the evening a Banquet was held at the Rink, and the responding to the different Toasts, Music and a general exchange of socialites, made it quite pleasant. It is nice to have these gatherings and recount together the scenes of peril through which soldiers have passed, and will refresh the acquaintance of those that have been such warm friends during the war. The reunion was gotten up on short notice, but there that were leaders in it, will be remembered as having done everything in their power to interest all.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 6, 1874

The 21st Indiana Volunteers will have a re-union at Indianapolis October 1, 1874.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 27, 1874

The 5th Annual re-union of the 19th Regiment Indiana Volunteers takes place at Richmond September 14th & 15th.

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WATERLOO PRESS

OCTOBER 8, 1874

The 11th & 21st Regiments of Indiana Volunteers have effected permanent organizations at re-unions recently help.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 17, 1876

GRAND REUNION AT AUBURN—The soldiers of DeKalb County will hold a meeting at Auburn on Saturday, August 19th, at 1:30 p.m. sharp, to form an organization preliminary to a Grand Re-Union of the Soldiers of DeKalb and adjoining counties, the time of re-union to be announced the day of organization. Comrades you are requested to pass the word along the line. It is advisable that each township be represented at the organization. Let active co-operation be the watchword. COMMITTEE.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 24, 1876

DEKALB COUNTY SOLDIERS ASSOCIATION.

Pursuant to call, soldiers of the late war representing nearly every township and precinct in the County, convened in Ensley’s Hall, Auburn, on Saturday, August 18, 1876, for the purpose of organizing an Association of the ex-soldiers of the County. C. K. Baxter was called temporarily to the chair, and W. C. McGonigal was appointed Secretary.

After hearing explanatory remarks from Capt. Kinmont and others, and the adoption of a resolution declaring in flavor of organizing and holding annual re-unions of all the soldiers now resident of the county, a committee consisting of Capt. Kinmont, A. L. Reinoehl, D. D. Diehl, Simeon Hammon and Daniel Culver was appointed to report to the meeting suitable persons for officers for the ensuing year. The committee made the following report, which was unanimously adopted: For President, E. D. Hartman; for Vice Presidents—Butler, William Feagler; Jackson, Daniel Culver; Concord, John A. Provines; Newville, Nathan T. Fuller; Stafford, D. D. Diehl; Wilmington, James Woods; Auburn, J. L. Rainier; Waterloo, F. N. Beidler; Keyser, T. C. Sergeant; Richland, D. B. Chilcoat; Fairfield, G. W. Ansley; Smithfield, G. Cosper; Franklin, Levi Stoy; Troy, D. W. Weitz. Secretaries, C. K. Baxter and T. C. Mays; Treasury, Dr. Noyce Coats.

On taking the chair, President Hartman made a short address which was received with applause.

Upon motion, it was resolved to hold a re-union at Auburn, on the 26th day of September, 1876.

The President was directed to appoint a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws, to report at the re-union, the signing of which was to constitute every ex-soldier, now a resident of the county, a member of the Association.

On motion the Vice Presidents, with G. W. Gordon, of Auburn, as chairman, were constituted a general committee of arrangements. Committees on finance, railroads, speakers, music, artillery, etc., were authorized, the first of which was partially appointed, when it was deemed best to allow the President to fill the committees. Hon. Henry Feagler was appointed chief commissary for the coming re-union, and the county papers were requested to publish the proceedings, when the meeting adjourned until the 26th day of next month.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MARCH 4, 1882

Many of the ex-soldiers of this place and vicinity prefer to organize a Post of the Grand Army of the Republic.

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WATERLOO PRESS

DECEMBER 11, 1884

G. A. R. Post, No. 52, at the regular meeting last Wednesday evening elected the following officers for the year 1885: Commander, James P. McCague ; Senior Vice Commander, Fred C. Waterman; Junior Vice Commander, John C. Brand; Quarter Master, S. J. Locke; Surgeon, James N. Chamberlain; Chaplain, Frank N. Beidler; Officers of the Day, Peter Montavon; Officer of the Guard, Capt. S. Edge; Representative tot he State Encampment, Frank W. Willis, Alternative, Capt. A. R. Stevens. The Post is in flourishing condition, and all honorably discharged soldiers should see to it that their names are enrolled in the order.

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WATERLOO PRESS

DECEMBER 18, 1884

G. A. R. Post, No. 52, have gone out of the "show business for the present. They were induced to accept the proposition of a traveling company, which held forth at Agricultural hall last Thursday, evening, under the name "Glendale, Woodhouse and Canfield’s" Drawing room Comedy company." The smoothest part of the concern was the tongue of the advance agent, who represented it to be a great show, and to prove it presented recommendations from societies in other towns. How these recommendations were obtained we cannot imagine, they surely did not obtain any from the Post here. There was a good house on the strength of the friendship of G. A. R. Post here, and all united in saying that the aforesaid Comedy Company is snide concern, and unworthy of the intelligence or patronage of any society. The boys of the Post desire the publicly to excuse themselves and to assure the community that in the future any entertainment advertised in their behalf shall be worthy of patronage of the friends of the Post.

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WATERLOO PRESS

SEPTEMBER 7, 1876

DEKALB COUNTY SOLDIERS’ ASSOCIATION

The Association has selected the following committees to prepare for the Re-union to take place in Auburn, on Thursday, September 28th, 1876.

Executive Committee: G. W. Gordon, Auburn; William Feagler, Butler; Daniel Culver, Jackson; John A. Provines, Concord; Nathan F. Fuller, Newville; D. D. Deihl, Stafford; James Woods, Wilmington; Joseph Rainier, Auburn, F. N. Beidler, Waterloo; T. C. Sargent, Keyser; D. B. Chilcoat, Richland; G. W. Ansley; Fairfield, George Cosper; Smithfield, Levi Stoy, Franklin, D. W. Weitz, Tory.

Committee on Finance: B. F. Culbertson, Auburn; Philip Noel, Butler; Daniel Culver, Jackson; Willis Anderson Concord; Harvey Hathaway, Newville; A. C. Hoffman, Stafford; A. F. Pinchen, Wilmington; Charles Beugnot, Auburn; J. W. Patterson, Waterloo; A. L. Rinoh, Keyser; J. D. Williams, Richland; George Buchanan, Fairfield; John Brandt, Smithfield; Frederick Oberlin, Franklin; D. W. Weitz, Troy.

Committee on Artillery: John Otto, H. E. Altenburgh, Daniel Culver, Joseph Jones, John Ocher.

Committee on Speaker: H. E. Altenburgh, W. C. McGonigal, D. B. Roether.

Committee on Grove and Speakers stand: H. E. Altenburgh, A. Wheadon, Wm. Boughan, H. C. Miller.

Committee on Music: Joseph McKay, R. D. Elson, Daniel Bodine.

Committee on Printing and Advertising: H. C. Peterson, T. B. Totten, Enos Kuhlman.

Committee on Reduction of R. R. Fare: Nicholas Ensley, T. J. Cuppy, Albert Robbins.

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WATERLOO PRESS

OCTOBER 5, 1876

THE SOLDIERS RE-UNION

The reunion of the soldiers of North Eastern Indiana. at Auburn last Thursday was all that could be desired notwithstanding the very unfavorable weather in the morning. This no doubt kept hundreds away, who had intended to be present; but even with this drawback The attendance was very large, being estimated as high as 5,000. The number of soldiers enrolled at headquarters reached nearly 700. At about 11 o’clock a.m. a procession was formed on Main street, the detachment of the Defiance battery, with their gun, taking the 30th, 44th, 74th, 88th, 100th and 129th regiments, as well as many individual representatives of other commands. The most noticeable feature of this procession, was the two old tattered flags, which had been carried by the 44th and 88th regiments. The music, which was good, was furnished by the Angola and Auburn Cornet Bands. They added very materially to the enjoyment of the occasion. The procession moved to the Saginaw depot and received General Logan, on his arrival from Fort Wayne, escorting him to the hotel, when an adjournment for dinner took place. The dinner was spread on improvised tables in the Court Square, and in justice to the Commissary Department, and the liberal citizens of the county, it must be said that it was ample. After the "inner man" was refreshed, those present gathered about the speakers stand, north of the Court House, and were addressed by Rev. Conway, of Wisconsin, and eloquent chaplain of one of the Logan’s regiments, until the arrival of General Logan on the stand, when the regular programme was commenced. The Lumbard Glee Club sang a song, suitable to the occasion, prayer was offered by the Chaplain, and Capt. E. D. Hartman delivered the welcoming address. The Glee Club than sang "Marching through Georgia," which created great enthusiasm among "the boys" and General Logan was introduced, and received a perfect ovation. He essayed to speak to the vast crowd, but it was plain from the start that his voice was too badly shattered to talk much under the most favorable circumstances, much less out-doors in the terrible wind which prevailed all day. He talked, however, as long as he could make anybody hear him, and his old soldiers had once more an opportunity to see their honored Commander, which seemed to satisfy all. After General Logan was compelled to retire the audience called out several gentlemen, among whom we noticed Messrs. Conway, McBride, Hartman, but all made their remarks very brief. The Celebrated Lumbard Glee Club done some more of their incomparable singing, and the vast audience quietly dispersed.

An this has come and gone the first re-union of the soldiers of this part of the state. The whole affair shows how groundless were the fears of those who prophesied it was to be a mere "political rally." This fear merely shows how the "wicked Flee when no man pursueth." The re-union was a pleasant affair, and enjoyed very much by those who participated in it. It will be a day long remembered by those who took a part in it. Now, if Tommy and our Tilden friends don’t like the re-union, they should follow the example of Hendricks and Blue Jeans, and get up one of their own. Let us hear from Major Hirschler and Captain Freeman Kelley.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MARCH 30, 1882

G. A. R. A meeting of ex-soldiers will be held tomorrow evening, in the Agricultural Hall, for the purpose of instituting a Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, for Waterloo and vicinity. The post at Butler will be present to assist in the ceremonies of the occasion.

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WATERLOO PRESS

APRIL 6, 1882

G. A. R. – A post of Grand Army of the Republic was instituted at this place, on Friday evening twenty-six veterans of the late unpleasantness connecting themselves with the organization at the start. The comrades of the new Post was indebted to Commander Stoy and a number of the members of Meade Post at Butler, for their attendance and assistance on the occasion of the organization. After the "muster in" of the charter members of the new Post, the following officers were chosen: Commander, Capt. A. R. Stevens; Senior Vice, Commander, S. B. Johnston; Junior Vice Commander, Peter Montavon; Adjutant, R. Wes McBride; Quartermaster; S. J. Locke; Surgeon, Dr. J. N. Chamberlain; Offer of the day, John C. Brand; Officer of the Guard, Peter Fisher; Sergeant Major, S. Z. Dickinson; Quartermaster Sergeant, J. M. Kimsey; Chaplain, J. N. McBride. On motion, a committee was appointed by the Commander, consisting of Comrades C. K. Baxter, R. Wes McBride and S. Z. Dickinson, to draft a constitution and by-laws for the government of the Post, to report to a meeting which was held last night when the organization was completed. For the present the Post meets in Agricultural Hall; but it is the intention to have a suitable room fitted up somewhere in town, where meetings will be held at stated intervals.

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WATERLOO PRESS

APRIL 20, 1882

The post of the Grand Army of the Republic is numbered 52, that being the number now in existence in the Department of Indiana.

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WATERLOO PRESS

THURSDAY APRIL 13, 1882

The Butler Record, of last week, contains this reference of the visit of this place at Meade Post, No. 44, G. A. R. "On Friday evening, of last week, C. S. Stoy, commander of Meade Post, No. 44, accompanied by comrades A. G. Jones, D. D. Diehl, H. H. Cupp, R. H. Weamer, G. T. Johns, I. D. Dailey and J. S. Dodge, went to Waterloo for the purpose of mustering a post of the G. A. R. When the party of Butlerites arrived they found twenty-six of their old comrades in arms waiting to be mustered, which ceremony was performed, officers elected an the general routine of business dispatched, when the boys from here suddenly found themselves invited out; we were conducted to S. J. Loke’s Hotel and there were invited to partake of a fine an impromptu supper a some wished to sit down to, a nice social time was the result of the banquet, old acquaintances were renewed, the old camp fire yarns retold, and the old battles re-fought minus the blood and carnage. The post at Waterloo is composed of men calculated to make it one of the best, if not the best, post in the state, and we shall keep an eye to their future with the fond anticipation of seeing bright laurels added to their fame as the years roll on.

The G. A. R. will probably secure rooms in the Citizen’s Bank Building.

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WATERLOO PRESS

JUNE 7, 1883

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES

The rain on Wednesday of last week, was disappointment to those who expected to take part in the services of Memorial Day. Waterloo Post of the Grand Army of the Republic had made ample preparations for the proper observance of the day; and in spite of the rain, which poured down pitilessly from 10 o’clock in the forenoon until late in the afternoon, the Hall was fairly well filled, when the hour for services arrived. Commander Johnston presided and called the meeting to order, the veterans occupying the front seats. The exercises consisted of singing, with the ritual for the occasion provided by the Grand Army, prayer, and an address by the Rev. William O. Butler. We cannot trust ourselves even to attempt to give an outline of what the address contained. As heretofore, we had expected to print the address in full this week; but the speaker made it extemporaneously, not even making use of notes, hence it is impossible to obtain a copy of it. An "old soldier" himself, Mr. Butler entered into the spirit of the occasion, and none who heard him were sorry that they had braved the rain to get to the hall.

After the services, the veterans, escorted by a detachment of the Rifles, marched through the storm to the cemetery, where the graves of the twenty-three departed soldiers sleeping there were appropriately decorated. At the conclusion of this ceremony, the Riffles fired the usual salute, where the benediction was pronounced , and the party returned to the town.

On account of the unpropitious weather; a visit to Lutz and Ridge cemeteries was abandoned, they being so far from town.

On the return to Grand Army Hall, the veterans passed resolutions of thanks to the Rifles for their services, and also to the choir for the excellent music furnished by them.

In spite of the very bad weather, the day was appropriately observed; and it is the unanimous opinion of those who participated in the services that the observance of Memorial Day should never be postponed or neglected on account of the weather.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 24, 1882

The Old Soldiers’ flag has been placed in the keeping of the Grand Army of the Republic of this place. It is on no account to be defaced by lettering of any description.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MARCH 22, 1883

Senior Vice Commander, James P. MaCague is representing Waterloo Post in the State G. A. R. Encampment at Indianapolis this week.

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WATERLOO PRESS

NOVEMBER 22, 1883

The G. A. R. post has under consideration a proposition to amend its by-laws providing for meetings twice instead of once a month.

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WATERLOO PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 1883

The G. A. R. had a special meeting last evening, Mainly for the purpose of mustering in a number of new recruits.

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WATERLOO PRESS

JANUARY 31, 1884

G. A. R. Post 52, will hold their regular meeting on next Wednesday night. A full attendance is requested as the Post will be inspected on that night.

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WATERLOO PRESS

APRIL 3, 1884

Th G. A. R. boys are preparing a very interesting program for their Camp Fire gathering on the 2d of May next, and the entertainment ought to well patronized, as the proceeds go to the fund for erecting a monument at the State Capitol in honor of Indiana soldiers, who died for their country.

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WATELOO PRESS

MAY 1, 1884

Next Wednesday evening is the regular meeting of G. A. R. Post No. 52. All members should be on hand. Matters pertaining to the coming soldiers reunion, and memorial services will be discussed. There is a probability that the District Inspector will be on hand to inspect the Post.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 18, 1884

G. A. R. Post, No. 52, will superintend the memorial services on the 30th inst. The post will meet at their hall at 2 o’clock p.m. and the services will be held in the Agricultural Hall, at 2 o’clock. The committee on the decorating the hall, comrades, John C. Brand, W. H. H. Beard, and J. P. McCague. Music; comrades, C. R. Reed, J. M. Kimsey, and F. N. Beidler, Marking graves, comrade Peter Montavon. On flowers Frank W. Willis, Mrs. Isaac Speer, Mrs. F. C. Waterman, Mrs. C. Triplett, Mrs. P. Parnell, Mrs. S. B. Johnston. Mrs. B. F. Kennedy, Mrs. Park Sebert, Mr. S. Z. Dickinson, Mrs. A. R. Stevens, Mrs. P. Montavon, Misses Ida Blair, Mertie Cotrill, Addie Fisher, Mary Roby and Minnie Patterson. Each one of these ladies are requested to make a wreath of flowers, about twelve inches in diameter and to supply extra cut flowers loose, and to leave with the chairman, by 2 o’clock, Friday, May 30.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 22, 1884

The members of G. A. R. Post No. 52, and all old soldiers, are hereby notified that they are requested to meet at the Post Hall, at 2 o’clock p.m. on next Sabbath, for the purpose of attending church in a body, at 3 o’clock. The services will be at the Christian church, and the sermon by Elder Z. W. Shepherd. A full Attendance of all soldiers is requested.

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WATERLOO PRESS

NOVEMBER 26, 1885

PAGE 5 COL 3

The G. A. R. Post now holds its regular meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. The next regular meeting will occur on Wednesday evening, Dec. 2, at which time a full corps of officers will be elected for the year 1886, and it is earnestly desired that every member be present.

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WATERLOO PRESS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 1885

THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The soldiers’ banquet at G. A. R. Hall, on Christmas evening, given by the ladies, was one of the most successful entertainments given in Waterloo. About two hundred persons enjoyed a bountiful supper of good things, and several families who were unable to attend, were remembered with a liberal supply of cakes and substantial of life. Th tables were marvels of beauty, and the ladies vied with one another as to which table should be the most beautiful. Everything that could be desired was supplied, and the bill of fare afforded a strange comparison with that of which soldiers’ tables on the tented field were furnished. The ladies seemed to be successful in all their under-takings, and with some magic hand everything within reach yielded to their wishes. They secured the commodious and well-furnished rooms of both the Orders of Masons and Odd Fellows for reception rooms. Mrs. Koons also tendered the use of her kitchen, which adjoined the Halls, and her offer was highly appreciated. These parties have the thanks of the ladies and the G. A. R. post also. One feature that attracted attention was the large number of children and young people belonging to the families of soldiers. This alone tells us that the civil war is rapidly passing into the history to the present generation, and that comparatively few people now living have personal knowledge of the great national struggle. The day will be remembered with pleasure by the old "vets" and there families, and all unite in wishing the ladies who labored so earnestly to make the banquet a success, many "Merry Christmas days."

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 31, 1885

The members of G. A. R. Post, No. 52, and all old soldiers, are requested to meet at G. A. R. Hall on next Sabbath, at 2 o’clock, standard time. Memorial services will be held at 3 o’clock p.m., in the Presbyterian church, Rev. W. D. Parr officiating. All old soldiers will march from the hall in a body to attend the services. A full attendance of soldiers and their friends is desired.

G. A. R. Post, No. 52, met a their hall last night to complete their arrangements for memorial services on Saturday May 30th. Mrs. Judge McBride, Mrs. F. N. Beidler and Mrs. F. W. Willis are the ladies selected to take part in the exercises, which will be held in Agricultural Hall. Full particulars will be given next week.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 14, 1885

PAGE 5 COL. 4

At the regular meeting of the Grand Army post on Wednesday evening of last week, a committee was appointed, consisting of Capt. A. R. Stevens, Dr. Chamberlain and Peter Montavon, for the purpose of making arrangements to properly observe memorial day. A detail form the Rifles, under command of Dick Locke, will act as escort and firing squad. The arrangements will be completed in time to make a report at the next meeting of the G. A. R. We understand that anew departure will be taken in the order of exercises, and that the ladies will take more of an active part than on previous memorial days.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 13, 1885

PAGE 5 COL. 5

G. A. R. Post No. 52, at their regular meeting on last Wednesday evening, adopted the following:

WHEREAS, The death of our beloved commander, General Ulysses S. Grant, has caused a common sadness in the hearts of all in this broad land, it is especially fitting that we as members of the "Grand Army of the Republic," of which Gen. Grand was an early and honored member, give utterance to our deep sense of loss and bereavement, therefore.

Resolved, That while the loss falls heavy on all his countrymen, it is felt with peculiar pain by all who served under him in the armies of the Union.

Resolved, That, as soldiers of the Union armies, we mourn him who was brave, faithful and generous as a comrade, and whose unequaled merit made him our most illustrious commander, whose leadership under God gave final and lasting victory to our arms.

Resolved, That we, as comrades of the Grand Army, will preserve gratefully the memory of this priceless services, guard loyalty the record of his fame, study and revise his noble utterances and initate, as far as we can, that lofty patriotism which made him as just, charitable and generous to the vanquished as he was loyal to the right and to his own convictions.

Resolved, That in the death of Gen. Grant there has passed away a noble, unflinching soldier, who achieved a glorious record for himself, while he rendered invaluable service to this country in time of her great peril, and with the rest of the strickened Nation and mourning world, we join offering our tribute to his memory, and we extend to his afflicted family our tenderest sympathy in this their time of grief and sorrow.

Resolved, That, these resolutions be spread upon the records, and the Post hall be draped in mourning for a period of sixty days, in fraternal rememberance of our noble dead.

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WATERLOO PRESS

AUGUST 13, 1885

PAGE 5 COL 4

At the last regular meeting of the G. A. R. Post No. 52, the enlistment fee was reduced to one dollar, to take effect after its passage. Every old soldier in this vicinity should join this post and unite their destines. It is necessary that the old vets should care for one another and the permanency of this organization invites all to enroll their names and in this way they can be found when wanted.

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WATERLOO PRESS

JUNE 4, 1885

PAGE 5 Col. 3

The following resolutions were adopted by Waterloo Post G. A. R. No. 52, May 30, 1885:

RESOLVED: that the thanks of this Post are due and are heartily given to Mrs. R. Wes McBride, Mrs. F. W. Willis, Mrs. F. N. Beidler, and Dr. Z. W. Shepherd for the able manner in which they fulfilled the duties assigned them on Decoration Day.

RESOLVED: That this post returns their sincere thanks to the choir, the band, the firing squad, and to all who assisted in decorating the Hall.

James P. McCague, Commander

Prentiss Gill, Adjutant

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WATERLOO PRESS

DECEMBER 31, 1885

At the regular semi-monthly meeting of G. A. R., Post No. 52, held at their hall on Wednesday evening, of the last week, the following officers were elected for the year 1886: Commander, James P. McCague; Senior Vice-Commander, Fred C. Waterman; Junior Vice-Commander, Capt. Samuel Edge; Officer of the Day, Frank N. Beidler; Officer of the Guard, James N. McBride; Quarter Master, Simon J. Locke; Surgeon, J. N. Chamberlain; Chaplain, Wm. O. Butler; Delegate to state encampment which meets at Indianapolis in February, Frank N. Beidler; Alternate, A. A. Waters. Six recruits were mustered into the Post.

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AUBURN COURIER

SEPTEMBER 29, 1887

Butler, A number of soldier friends are purposing to visit St. Louis during the G. A. R. reunion. ________________

 

AUBURN GAZZETTE

JUN 6, 1898

The installation of the officers of the G. A. R. and W. R. C. last Monday night proved, as it always does, a very happy affair. The G. A. R. officers installed were comrades McIntosh, Com.; Bates, Sr. Vice; Elson, Jr.Vice; Thomas, Q. M.; Sheffer, Q. M. S. the adjutant and surgeon elect were not present and could not be installed. The installing officer was Col. Otto, and he went at it just right. When he had finished the W. R. C.: Installed their officers, Mrs. F. N. Beidler, of Waterloo, being the installing officer. She presided with dignity and the ceremony, which is beautiful, went through without a hitch. Following are the names of the ladies who assumed official obligations: Pres., Mary E. Clark; S. V., Flora Myres; J. R. V. Rebecca Picker; Sect., Mary Gordon; Treas., Louise Prosser; Con., Ida Metcalf; Assist. Con., Lydia A. Cowen; Guard, Mary Campbell; Assist, Guard, Sarah Cullors; Organist, Metta Cullors. After the installation a very palatable repast was furnished. During the proceedings songs were sung by Morris Widney, which brought down the house. The remarks of the Commander McIntosh were to the point and listened to with interest. There were present some old soldiers who are not members of the G. A. R., and members of the S. of V. Camp and friends of families belonging to the two orders.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 29, 1884

THE SOLDIERS RE-UNION

At Waterloo, for the 5th and 6th days of June, is taking shape and the programme had already been partially arranged.

The afternoon of the 5th will be devoted to the reception of Comrades, and at sunset salute will be fired.

At sunrise on the 6th a salute will be fired. The reception of Comrades, and the registry of their names and the receipt of badges, at headquarters (Engine House) will occupy the time until 10 o’clock a.m. from ten o’clock until the dinner hour will be devoted to speaking and other exercises at the stand. After dinner will occur the parade, a feature of which will be "Sherman’s Bummers" and "Mosby’s Cherrillas," under appropriate commanders. At the conclusion of the parade the Sham Battle will take place. It is intended to make the battle a feature of the occasion, and if possible excel any previous effort in this locality. The Butler Artillery Company, armed Posts of the Grand Army of the Republic, the Waterloo Rifles and other organizations will participate. All soldiers who can do so are cordially invited to bring arms with them and take part in the engagement.

On the evenings of both days there will be given at the Hall and entirely new Drama, entitled "The Dead Witness." followed by a "Laughable Faree." Proceeds for the benefit of the Waterloo Post G. A. R. and the Waterloo Rifles.

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WATERLOO PRESS

JULY 3, 1884

Post No. 52, G. A. R. removed from the Leas’ building over Citizens Bank, to the rooms recently fitted up by Mr. G. T. Abbey in the old Press Office.

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WATERLOO PRESS

MAY 27, 1886

THE RE-UNION COMMITTEES

The following Committees have been appointed for the Re-Union:

Finance Committee: S. J. Locke, J. W. Patterson, R. Wes McBride

Committee on Speakers and Toast: L. J. Blair

Committee on Programme: R. W. McBride

Committee on Grounds: S. B. Johnston, Charles Bowman.

Committee on Artillery: J. W. Patterson

Committee on Enrollment and Badges: F. W. Willis

Committee on Printing: C. K. Baxter

Committee on Military companies: R. Wes McBride

Committee on Music: J. W. Patterson

Committee on Entertainment: S. B Johnston, with authority to add

Committee on Advertising: J. W. Patterson, with authority to add

Committee on Reception: R. Wes McBride with authority to add

Committee on Drinking Water: S. J. Locke and Charles Meek

Committee on carriages: R. M. Lockhart and D. Y. Husselman

Committee on Stretchers: J. B. Bixler and Peter Montavon

Committee on preparing Lent’s Hotel for use as barracks: J. M. Kimsey, S. J. Locke, J. S. Bowers, John Koons, W. B. Johnson, Peter Fisher, F. N. Beidler, L. R. Willard, Amos Zirwes

Committee on erection of stand and seats: J. P. McCague, J. J. Lightner, S. R. Rickel, John Detrick, J. N. McBride

Committee on clearing grounds for battle and building fort: Chairman, Capt. E. B. Cutter, Lieut. J. C. Brand, Charles Bowman, J. B. Bixler, Sanford Smith, Fred C. Waterman, Frank Hammon, A. M. Barnes, Sam Furney, Henry Beidler, Wes Beidler, George W. Clutter. John Franks, Marion Howard, William Meek, Harry Meek, Milton Randall, David Goodrich, J. D. Likens, S. Hammon.

Committee on Ammunition: J. W. Patterson, J. N. Chamberlain, R. Wes McBride

Committee on Horses for Artillery and visiting staff: J. C. Brand, Cook Ford, F. E. Thomson

Committee on Decoration: S. B. Johnston, John Koons, A. R. Stevens, F. W. Willis.

Committee on Flags: A. R. Stevens with authority to add

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WATERLOO PRESS

NO DATE

SOLDIERS ASSOCIATION—The soldiers of the late war, resident in Waterloo and vicinity, have formed an organization similar to those already existing at Auburn, Butler and Newville. Saturday evening a permanent Constitution was adopted and a resolution was passed in favor to holding a Soldiers Re-Union at this place, on the 10th and 11th days of June next. Monday evening the organization was completed, by electing the following officers, for the coming six months.

Capt. R. We McBride President

F. W. Willis, Vice President

F. S. Chandler, Secretary

Simon J. Locke, Treasurer

J. C. Brand; S. P. Strow, J. P. McCague, Trustees

Gen’l L. J. Blair, Captain

John M. Kimsey 1st Lieutenant

Jacob G. Brown 2nd Lieutenant

Regular meetings of the Association will be held on the 1st Saturday evening of each month.

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WATERLOO PRESS

NO DATE

At the meeting of the Waterloo Ex-Soldiers’ Association, Saturday night, the following gentlemen were chosen a General Committee of Arrangements for the coming Soldiers’ Re-Union at this place: R. Wes McBride, Gen’l Blair, J. W. Patterson, Dr. S. B. Johnston; and S. J. Locke. This committee is now at work, having appointed a number of the necessary sub-committees and entered into correspondence with individuals and organizations abroad. The work is in efficient hands, and if the committee meet the proper encouragement , the re-union will be a success.

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WATERLOO PRESS

June 17, 1880

The annual re-union of the ex-soldiers of north-Eastern Indiana, at this place on Thursday and Friday of last week, was a great success both in the numbers who assembled, and in its general management. The number of people who assembled in town on Friday, we have heard estimated all the way from 6,000 to 10,000; but Waterloo is used to seeing large crowds, and under all circumstances were well cared for.

The display of uniformed and un-uniformed military was the largest ever seen in the county. Uniformed companies from Bryan and this place, and detachments of the Toledo and Coldwater Batteries participated in the sham battle on Friday, together with large companies of uniformed "old soldiers" from Butler, Auburn, Angola, Waterloo and other points. The "battle" went off without serious accident, and was splendidly managed.

Colonel A. D. Streight, of Indianapolis and other speakers, addressed the old soldiers and citizens, from a stand erected in Col. Frothingham’s orchard. Much regret was expressed for the unavoidable absence of Col. Gray, who had also accepted an invitation to be present and speak.

We would like to mention by name all who assisted, by their presence and efforts in making the affair so enjoyable to all: but this is manifestly impossible. The Committee of Arrangements especially deserve much credit for their gratuitous work in organizing and carrying out the "Great Re-Union."

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WATERLOO PRESS

JUNE 2, 1927

MEMORIAL DAY WAS FITTINGLY OBSERVED IN WATERLOO

LEGION CONDUCTED TOUCHING SERVICES

Three gray haired veterans of the Civil war sat on the rostrum of the High school auditorium Monday afternoon during the Memorial services which were conducted under the auspices of the American Legion. The fact that there were but three of the aged veterans in attendance means that the ranks of the boys who once wore the blue are now so thin that Memorial Day must be observed by the American Legion instead of the Grand Army of the Republic. The three veterans who occupied places of honor on the stage were Charles Reed, John J. Lightner, and Hiram Bartholomew. With the exception of Daniel Shuman, who was too feeble to be present, they are the only remaining veterans of the Civil war belonging to this jurisdiction.

The services of the day were held at the high school auditorium instead of the town hall as had been planned. The meeting was called of one o’clock when the members of the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary marched to the high school auditorium, led by the beating of the drums of the drum corps.

At the auditorium the services were conducted under the auspices of the American Legion. H. R. Bloom acted as master of ceremonies. The program arranged was carried out and the address of the day was delivered by Capt. Walter D. Stump of Auburn. His remarks were confined to the soldiers of the various wars in which this country has been engaged. He made a stirring appeal to the people to talk less against the nation’s activities and stand ready to uphold the government in all its functions and be ready to do our duty when the time comes for action.

In the line of march to the cemetery the drum corps led the procession and the parade was followed by the school children carrying flags. At the cemetery the procession assembled around the soldier’s mound where the exercises were conducted by the members of the Auxiliary. From thence they marched to the bridge across Cedar creek and conducted services in memory of the sailor dead. The graves of all soldiers had been decorated during the day.

The attendance at the services this year was well representative of the patriotic citizenry of the community.

ROLL OF HONOR

The following is a list of soldiers deceased buried in the Waterloo cemetery and under jurisdiction of the Waterloo Post G.A.R. No. 52.

D. B. Atkinson, John H. Acton, J. G. Brown, Martin V. Arthur, John Beckner, Wm. W. H. Beard, John C. Brand, W.O. Butler, Lewis J. Blair, Frank N. Beidler, Charles Bowman, J. N. Chamberlain, Anthony Clippenger, Elam B. Cutter, Samuel Dickinson, J. C. DeLong, Charles DeLong, John Day, S. Z. Dickinson, Nathan Elliott, Samuel Edge, Edward Erwin, William H. Fisher, Peter Fisher Stephen George. Franklin Getz, John Geeting, Prentiss Gill, Franklin Hendrix, Elijah Hill, Henry Healy, John Huyck, Daniel F. Hamman O. H. Holcomb (Mexican War), John Ingersoll, J. W. Jones, Eli Johnson, Samuel Kennedy, B. F. Kennedy, John L. Keller, John M. Kimsey, William C. Lockhart, Simon J. Locke, Joseph Lent, Alonzo Lower, Norman Luce, Henry Luce, Samuel Milliman, James Miller, John Martin, Peter Montavon, James A. Matson, Dexter Monger, William B. Maxwell, James N. McBride, I. J. McFadden, James P. McCague, William Ogle, William Oiler, L. T. Perue, Robert Patterson, C. M. Phillips, Philip Plum, Milton Randall, Israel Rose, Samuel Rohrbaugh, Jonathan B. Rummell, Samuel R. Rickel, Emanuel Summerlott, John K, Sinn, J. H. Shoemaker, Jacob A. Shoemaker, Samuel Stough, A. R. Stevens, J. B. Shaffer, John C. Smith, Simon P. Strow, Isaac Speer, John Steward, George L. Thomas, Joseph Welder, William Whipple, John Wilson, Albertus Widener, Shipley Wilson, Frank W. Willis,, Fred C. Waterman, Austin Wing, Norris Williamson, Adolph Wherly,

BURIALS AT CEDAR LAKE CEMETERY

Almarion Benjamin, Simeon Guthrie, David Goodrich, Samuel Holden, Augustus Homerhouse, Henry Kloepfel, David McBride, Daniel Rager, John Rinehart, Charles Schroeder, Enos Vian, Anthony B. Wilson, Charles H. Triplett, William Forrest, Martin Casselman, Henry Roush, _____ Fickel, William Smith, Jacob Hallett

RIDGE CEMETERY

Moran Rockwell, Willie Nodine, Andrew Shanks, Oscar Smith, David Smith.

LUTZ CEMETERY

Lt. Isaac Hornberger

CATHOLIC CEMETERY

Jonas Miller

SHOWER’S CORNERS CEMETERY

Jonathan Thomas, Adam Morrison, Levi Powell, Park Seberts. Christopher Tyron.

SPANISH AMERICAN VETERANS BURIED IN WATERLOO CEMETERY

George Getts, Sherman Edge, Daniel Rohrbaugh, Clarence Luce,

WAR IN GERMANY

Harry Rude, Vernon Hallett, Verd Wareham, Myron Nodine, Frank Benson, Clark Sutherland, James J. Boozer.

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WATERLOO PRESS

OCTOBER 16, 1913

F.C. WATERMAN’S FUNERAL

Was attended by a large Number of Old Soldiers.

The funeral of Fred C. Waterman was held at the late home last Thursday afternoon. There was a large attendance of the many friends of the deceased, and among them was a large number of old soldiers and member of the G. A. R., which took charge of the burial service, and a delegation of the Post acting as pall bearers. Rev. A. Geist, of the Evangelical church, delivered the funeral sermon, using as his text Matt. 24:44. The interment took place in the Waterloo cemetery. Some very beautiful floral designs were sent to the home, and there were many kind expressions of sympathy offered the surviving widow and sons. A number of letters of condolence were received. Among them was a letter from W. H. McIntosh, of Auburn, which is as follows:

 

 

Auburn, Ind., Oct. 10, 1913

Mrs. F. C. Waterman,

Dear Madam: -To you as the faithful and loved wife of my dear Comrade Waterman, I offer my most sincere sympathy in this the hour of bereavement and time of loneliness.

Your memory and my own are rich in pleasant remembrances of the gallant soldier, the public spirited citizen, the cherished husband and tried friend. I am so glad that I came to your home just on the eve of this departure for the field of Gettysburg, and happily enjoyed my visit.

Fred was always my friend, and when I heard of his abrupt death, the tidings was a heavy blow and brought a depression of spirits from which I am slow to recover.

We were soldiers of Wisconsin, I am proud to say. Good soldiers, who tried to do and did do our duty manfully, and I am proud to name Comrade Waterman a brother comrade in the ranks of "The Iron Brigade."

His and our demise was and is inevitable. From death we come into being upon that beautiful world. From God we have received and still receive manifestations of his love and mercy, and to Him we come in hours of sadness and repose our faith in his sure promises.

With the thousands upon thousands of brave men who sustained their country in the hour of trial Comrade Waterman has been mustered out, and surely as you have his certificate of honorable service, just so sure has he an honorable discharge and has passed into the glorious realm of the hereafter.

His death was swift and painless. He lay not as some I know have been lying for months and years in helplessness, but passed at once from life to death.

So I would pass, so I will soon go, and I ask of God no greater favor than a death like that of Comrade Waterman, a living remembrance of surviving comrades and friends.

From my heart I offer my sympathy at this time. Grief will yield to fond regret and memory will yet have in store most cheering recollection of your happy congenial life. Yours,

Wm. H. McIntosh

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WATERLOO PRESS

13 Apr 1880

RE-UNION PROGRAMME

The following partial programme had been decided upon the Old Soldiers;’ Re-union at Waterloo, Ind., June 10th and 11th, 1880:

June 10th

9:30 a.m. reception of Loomis’ Battery Michigan Artillery, Capt. Pratt Commanding, Coldwater, Mich.

1:15 p.m. reception of visitors from South.

2.p.m., reception of Co. E 16th Regiment, Ohio National Guard. Capt. Foote, Bryan, O., and 4th Battery Ohio Light Artillery, Capt. O. J. Hopkins, Toledo, O., with visitors from East.

3 p.m. reception of visitors from North and West.

3:30 p.m., Regimental and Company Re-unions.

Sunset, National Salute.

June 11th Forenoon

Sunrise, reveille and National Salute

8 to 9:30 Regimental and Company Re-unions.

9:30 a.m. Form procession and march to grounds.

10 a.m. Exercises at stand in the following order: 1st, Music by band; 2d, Prayer; 3d, Song by Glee Club; 4th Oration; 5th Song by Glee Club, "Marching through Georgia;" 6th, Toasts and responses; 7th Songs. "Tramp, Tramp. Tramp." And "Old John Brown." By everybody, led by Glee Club; 8th break ranks for dinner.

AFTERNOON

1:30 P.M., Artillery drill by Loomis’ Battery, commanded by Capt. Pratt, of Coldwater, Mich., and 4th Battery, Ohio Light Artillery, Capt. Hopkins, of Toledo, O.

2 p.m., Infantry Drill by Co. E, 16th Reg’t O. N. G., Lieut. Wm. Harding, Bryan, O., and the Waterloo Rifles, Capt. R. Wes McBride, Waterloo, Ind.

3 p.m. Sham battle participated in by the above named military organizations, and independent companies from Butler, Auburn, Angola, Waterloo and elsewhere; and also by a detachment of the Signal Corps. Under command of Capt. Sam’l Edge, and a squad of Sharp Shooters commanded by Serg’t J. B. Bixler.

4:30 p.m., Prisoners marched to headquarters and paroled.

A full list of officers will be furnished probably next week. Every old soldier or sailor who was honorably discharged is invited. All are requested to report at head quarters immediately on their arrival, where they will be enrolled and furnished appropriate badges. Survivors of Regiments and Companies present will march together, and each organization will be commanded by the senior office of such organization in attendance. The committee intend that the utmost punctuality and promptness shall be observed in carrying out the programme. Each person participating is earnestly requested to come resolved to be on hand promptly to the minute to perform any duty assigned him. We will advertise nothing we do not expect to give precisely as advertised.

Letters have been received from Col. L. P. Gray, Lieutenant Governor of the State, and Col. Streight, of Indianapolis, accepting invitations to be present and speak to the people.

R. Wes Mc Bride}

L. J. Blaker }

S. B. Johnston } Commanders

J. W. Patterson }

S. J. Locke }

Waterloo, May 9, 1880

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WATERLOO PRESS

June 31, 1880

Annual Soldier’s Re-Union!

At Waterloo, Indiana, June 10th and 11th, 1880. The Executive Committee take pleasure in announcing that the following organizations have definitely promised to take part in the Sham Battle, June 11th, 1880.

Loomis’ Battery, Michigan Artillery, Capt. A. J. Pratt, Coldwater, Michigan.

4th Battery Ohio Light Artillery, Capt. O.J. Hopkins, Toledo. Ohio.

1st Battery Indiana Light Artillery, Capt. Jack Morrell.

Post No. 1, Union Soldiers Association, Capt. G. H. Hoffman, Auburn, Ind.

Post No. 2, U. S. A., Capt. Jont Hazlett, Butler, Ind.

Post No. 3, U. S. A., Capt. Hugh Maxwell, Newville, Ind.

Post No. 4, U. S. A., Lieut. Jacob Brown, Waterloo, Ind.

Co. E 16th Ohio National Guards, Capt. Foote, Bryan, Ohio, Waterloo Rifles, Waterloo, Ind. Capt. Samuel Edge’s detachment of the Signal Corps. Sergeant J. B. Bixler’s detachment of U. S. Sharp-shooters. Corporal Wm. Almanriter’s detachment Confederate Sharpshooters.

We also have assurance that companies will be organized in Angola, Pleasant Lake, Kendallville, Fremont and Hudson, who will take an active part.

Capt. G. W. Gordon, Auburn, Ind., President of Northern Indiana Encampment U. S. A.

will have command of the infantry assigned to the defense of the fort, while the entire force engaged in defense of the fort, will be under command of Capt. E. B. Cutter, late of the 88th Ind. V. I. Capt. Gordon and Cutter will each appoint their respective staff officers.

The force defending the fort will be composed of one gun of the Loomis’ Battery, Capt. Morrell’s Battery, and Post No. 1, 3 & 4 U. S. A., under Capt’s Hoffman, Maxwell and Lieut. Brown, Corporal Almanriter’s Sharpshooters.

The attacking force will consist of Capt. Hopkins 4th Ohio Battery, one gun of Loomis’; Michigan Battery, the Bryan Light Infantry, Butler Post No. 2, U. S. A., the Waterloo, Rifles, and Sergeant Bixler'’ Sharpshooters.

Commander in Chief General L. J. Blair.

Chief of Staff, Lieut. S. B. Johnston.

Inspector General and Aid de Camp, Capt. A. R. Stevens.

STAFF OFFICERS

Col. Chas. A. Zolinger, Ft. Wayne.

Col. C. E. Bryant, Huntington

Capt. A. F. Pinchin, Butler

Major L. F. Wildin, Pleasant Lake

Capt. Alexander, Kendallville

Col. R. M. Johnson, Goshen

"George Humphrey, Ft. Wayne,

Lieut. Joseph Rainier, Auburn,

Major William Cole, Angola

Capt. Braden, Ligonier

"E. D. Hartman, Auburn.

The Ft. Wayne & Jackson Railroad Company will sell half fair tickets from Jonesville, and all points south for both days of the Re-union.

R. Wes McBride }

L. J. Blair }

S. B. Johnston } Ex-Committee.

J. W. Patterson }

S. J. Locke }

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