^■^ ^. --^->^^^\ \^\^\ ^^^H 1 ^^^" ^^^ 1 w SHBS^BSP MiSNIK' )t .'«S^\\iW«i»»^WWiS«^^ ^,^l^^ STATES OF AMERICA.^ Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2010 with funding from The Library of Congress http://www.archive.org/details/greatbattlesofreOOrobe THE MINUTE MEN OF LEXINGTON. 'They unis^pcd flu'ir old Hint lock iimskfts, and swore they'd wear no yoke. GREAT BATTLES OF THE REPUBLIC. By EIGGAM STREBOR/\^»^^f^i^- WATCHING THE ENEMY. ILL USTRA TED s NEW YORK : JAMES MILLER, PUBLISHER. 13440 D ED I C A. T.I OK,: This volume is most respectfully dedicated to the heroes of the Army and Navy of America. In memorial of those who made the Union, and in honor of those who defend it. PREFACE. This volume I put before the world in memorial of those heroes who were determined to make a free and happy land of America. Therefore, through the clouds of oppression, at Lexington, the brilliancy of the Union first burst forth, and never did those unflinching patriots rest, until the last vapory crest was rolled back at Yorktown, and the great constellation blazed in the West. Again : I desire to show that the oath that was given by our fathers in the Revolution, is kept in- violate to-day. The litde difference in this great family has been amicably adjusted, and at our Cen- tennial we will meet at the family board. Then again : the men of to-day are of the same metal PREFACE. 'of one hundred years ago ; the foes that we have vanquished during the period of one hundred years, have been worthy of our steel, and we welcome all to our shores, we hail the world with gladness. Let all nations meet as one family, and the great Jehovah watch and ward keep over us. In passing before the mirror of the rebellion, we recognize names worthy of their illustrious ances- tors. There was a eulf between the North and South, but now it is bridged over, and unity, peace, and concord reisfn. South Carolina and Massachu- setts have shaken hands. New York has, welcomed Maryland and Virginia, and we can sing out : " The union of lakes, and the union of lands, And the union of love none can sever ; The union of hearts, and the union of hands, And the Flae of our Union forever." CONTENTS. PAGE I. Britannia's Insult to Columbia 13 II. Columbia's Reply 14 III. Columbia Hailed by Independence. . . i5 IV. Washington's Dream 17 V. United We Stand 19 VI. The Shot Heard 'Round the World 21 VII. The Minute Men of Lexington. ..... 23 VIII. Ethan Allen at Fort Ticonderoea .... 25 Vlll CONTENTS. PAGE IX. The Attack on Fort Moultrie 29 X. Washington and Lafayette at Valley Forge 32 XI. Surrender of Lord Cornwallis . ... 36 XII. Death of Washington • . . 38 XIII. Decatur before Tripoli, 1804 41 XIV. Battle of New Orleans 44 XV. Perry's Victory, 181 2 47 XVI. Porter's Defense of the Essex. ... 5o XVII. Battle of Palo Alto 53 XVIII. General Scott Storming the City of Mexico, 1847 55 XIX. The Mirror of the Rebellion 58 XX. Passins: in Review 61 XXI. The Two Great Armies 64 CONTENTS. ix PAGE XXII. The March of Heroes 6^ XXIII. Still Marching On 70 XXIV. Stonewall Jackson Guards the Camp 73 XXV. Farragut Lashed to the Mast "j^ XXVI. The Oath of Allegiance 'j'i XXVII. Capitulation 81 XXVIII. The Soldiers' Return from the War , 84 XXIX. Bunker Hill Centennial '^^ XXX. Our Union Forever 90 XXXI. America's Centennial 93 ILLUSTRATIONS. " I. The Minute Men OF Lexington. purvJr ■ II. Capture of Fort Ticonderoga. III. The Attack on Fort Moultrie. '^ IV. Washington and Lafayette at Valley Forge, V. Battle of New Orleans. ^ VI. Perry's Victory. n/VII. Battle of Palo Alto. VIII. The Oath of Allegiance. IX. Bunker Hill Centennial. X. The Union Now and Forever. BRITANNIA'S INSULT TO COLUMBIA. I'll send my ships across the sea, With England's flower of chivalry, To teach thee that my word is law. And thy base minions overawe. Think not thou'lt 'scape from 'neath my hand Because the sea divides the land ; I'll scouro-e thee for this heinous crime — To attempt to raise thy will 'gainst mine. I am thy monarch, great and strong, And will not overlook this wrong ; But lay thee prostrate at my f^ee", And deem the act of vengeance sweet. DAME COLUMBIA'S REPLY. I WILL not down at thy command, Nor own thee monarch of this land ; My noble sons will me surround, Nor shall we yield our vantage ground ; We'll break our bonds, we shall be free, And sing our song of liberty. The God of Battles will defend Our cause, and will us succor send ; Thy ships destroy, thy armies slay, And make thee ever rue the day When thou shalt cross the deep blue sea, To lay thy vengeful hand on me. COLUMBIA HAILED BY INDEPENDENCE. Columbia! why dost thou prostrate He ? Come, raise thy head and look on high. See the bright sun in splendor rise To mount his chariot in the skies. Does he not thee a lesson teach, That nothing is beyond thy reach ? Stand up and gird thy loins with strength, And view thy land from length to length. I, Independence shall declare ; The tyrant's rule we will not bear. See ! Liberty springs into birth. And Justice hand in hand with Truth ! i6 COLUMBIA HAILED BY INDEPENDENCE. Fline out our standard to the breeze And let it float on land and seas, To show Britannia that we'll stand Around thee, a devoted band. Rise now, and mount thy waiting car, While / let loose our dogs of war. Go, rouse our champions for the fight ! Our watch-word be "God and the Right." FORT TICONDEROGA. " In the name of the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congr -ss.' WASHINGTON'S DREAM. I SAW in my dream that Columbia sat weeping ; Her proud form was bent, her face hid from view, While Liberty, erect, her lone watch was keeping, And over all was heaven's guardians so true. Then Liberty spake, but in great indignation, " Why tarry ye here in the prime of thy youth ? Independence awaits thee. Go, make thee a nation. And gird on thy armor of Justice and Truth." Columbia then said : " Wilt thou be my commander, . And drive the insulting foe from the field ? Britannia knows well how we understand her, But with thee for our leader, we never will yield." 1 8 .Washington's dream. Then I heard once again another voice saying : " Gird on thy sword, and for freedom go fight, Turn not from the field, nor from duty be straying, And my hand shall lead thee thro' darkness to light." The angels then sang an anthem consoling ; Columbia looked up in rapturous delight, While Liberty was busy her patriots enrolling, And God over all was pleased at the sight. UNITED WE STAND. Sound ! sound ye the tocsin of war, While we hasten from near and from far, Round our leader so brave. Who has sworn us to save, And efface from us tyranny's scar. Virginia sends forth her proud son, Likened unto him there is none, For in him do we pride As we stand side by side. With our armor of rieht mrded on. He was chosen by God from above, Who, to show us his pity and love, 20 UNITED WE STAND. Caused a sino^ular scene To pass him in a dream , Ere he had power to move. We fear not Britannia's dread hand, While round Washington united we stand ; But divided we fall, Then shame rests on all, And we forfeit our beautiful land. Let us trust that God, in his love, Will endue us with strength from above, To drive from our coast The tyrant's proud boast. And our might as a nation to prove. THE SHOT HEARD 'ROUND THE WORLD." Onward came the lion roaring, Fair Columbia to destroy, Who beheld the eagle soaring Just above her dangerous toy. "Ah ! " cried she, " 'tis a good omen ; My pretty bird will learn to fly, While I call forth my sturdy yeomen To show them how to fight or die." Screeched the eagle ; as responsive To her call, came hundreds brave — Eager were they for the skirmish,, Loved Columbia's life to save. 22 "THE SHOT HEARD ROUND THE WORLD. Forward rushed the rampant hon Heedless of the multitude. While he fixed his greedy eye on Brave Columbia, as she stood Robed in pure majesty undaunted, As in scorn her proud lip curled ; While the lion before her flaunted. She fired the "shot heard 'round the world." A roar, a plunge, showed he was wounded, While shouts of victory rent the air ; Down came the eagle from his soaring And perched upon Columbia fair. So they planted Freedom's banner While the breeze its folds unfurled, As if in greeting to Columbia, Who fired the "shot heard 'round the world." "THE MINUTE MEN OF CONCORD AND LEXINGTON." 'TwAS on the thirteenth day of May Of seventeen seventy-four, King George's forces under Gage First trod upon our shore. To intimidate the colonists Seemed only their intent, While gathering up the dogs of war And on other mischief bent. So Pitcairn and Smith left Boston, Under darkness of the night, Thinking by this wretched meanness To elude a good square fight. 24 "MIXUTE MEN OF CONCORD AND LEXINGTON. But when found out by the patriots, Those " minute men " awoke, Grasped their old flint-locked muskets, xA-nd swore they'd wear no yoke. So at Lexington and Concord The foes were 'gainst each hurled, While volley after volley proved The shot heard round the world. FORT TICONDEROGA. " We must capture this fort, boys, yes, capture this • old fort ! 'Tis of vital importance, yet it may be dangerous sport." Thus spoke Ethan Allen, just before the break of day, In seventeen and seventy-five, upon the tenth of May. " Ah ! pause just for a moment, boys, I've hit upon a plan, Whereby, without us shedding blood, they shall yield up every man. 26 FORT TICONDEROGA. I'll make demand at early dawn, by high author- ity, The fort we'll have, and thus we'll win a bloodless victory. Your valor has been famed abroad, from oppres- sion's earliest hour ; You have been a scourge and terror, boys, to arbitrary power ; A desperate attempt this, none but the brave dare undertake, But /propose to lead you on, straight thro' that wicket gate." And as they neared the frowning fort, no sound the stillness broke. The garrison was wrapped in sleep, as tho' death had them smote. But soon they espied a sentinel, who upon them opened fire. So with drawn sword rushed Allen on, just to appease his ire. FORT TICONDEROGA. 2"] His gun he dropped, for quarter cried, readily the patriot granted, Urged him the commander's keep to show, for that was all he wanted. In thunder-tones the hero spoke : "My compli- ments to you tender. Come forth at once, without parley this garrison surrender." " Pray, who are you," cried De La Place, " and what authority Dare you assail my fortress, and thus my power defy ? " " In the name of the ' Great Jehovah,' whose right you'll not deny. And the Continental Congress, I am sure of vic- tory." Just then, as if in greeting, the sun in splendor rose O'er the daring Ethan Allen and his Green Moun- tain Boys, 28 FORT TICONDEROGA. To whom, as prisoners of war, every man was • given over, And thus a bloodless victory won, in the dread name of Jehovah. ATTACK ON FORT MOULTRIE. To silence Fort Moultrie was Clinton's cool inten- tion, Of that important fact I merely now make men- tion. 'Twas upon the twenty-eighth of June, the shot began to rattle, And the boys behind the palmetto logs were eager for the battle. The Sphynx, Acteon, and Syren were ordered a position, To intercept all succor of troops and ammunition. 30 ATTACK ON FORT MOULTRIE. Now, by this maneuver, the}^ completely were surrounded, And could not easily escape, had not the vessels grounded. A shot whizzed past toward the flag, and broke the staff asunder : The maddened men hurled back a shot that seemed like heaven's thunder. Brave Sergeant Jasper caught the flag, a rammer made it fast to, Mounted the parapet, under fire, and boldly run it up to view. Sir Peter Parker gave command the channel must be forded, The work to attack the fort in flank to his brave men accorded. The prevalence of late high winds caused un- usual depth of water, So the brave band within the fort was saved aofain from slauo^hter. ATTACK ON FORT MOULTRIE. 31 On the following day the squadron sailed to join the British forces, And in the Bay of New York, have time to count their losses. WASHINGTON AND LAFAYETTE AT VALLEY FORGE. Side by side, at Valley Forge, those two god-like heroes stood, Watching poor worn-out soldiers, who had left their tracks in blood. Their martial cloaks wrapped round them, they heeded not the blast ; The weary march was over, and they welcomed rest, at last. Shrouded were they in thick darkness, yet their lonely vigil kept O'er the brave, but suffering soldiers, who around the camp-fire slept. WASHINGTON AND LAFAYETTE AT VALLEY FORGE. " Watching poor worn out soldiers, who had left their tracks in blood." WASHINGTON AND LAFAYETTE. 33 Their hearts were filled with anguish, tho' their lips no murmur sent ; Clasped were their hands, like brothers, as their vows to heaven went. And the angels looked in pity down, in that dread hour of gloom, As death rode on the wintry blast, to seal some comrade's doom. Spoke they no word at gray of dawn, but- sorrow- ing turned away, To see what comfort could be gained in duties of the day. So to quarter there for Winter then was fully their intent. Ministering to the nation's heroes showed how the time was spent. When Spring, at last, her mantle flung o'er moun- tain, hill, and vale. And Lafayette stood in great surprise, listening to each wondrous tale 34 WASHINGTON AND LAFAYETTE. Of watchers who pursued their chief far down the mountain gorge, And heard him pray to God aloud, in famous Valley Forge. CORNWALLIS'S SURRENDER. Ye sons of Freedom, list to me, while I rehearse the story, How In seventeen eighty-one your sires were covered with glory. On the nineteenth of October, then, you clearly should remember. The posts of York and Gloucester Cornwallis did surrender. But he had formed a bold design : his way to New York forcing, In three divisions did embark his troops, the river crossing. 36 CORNWALLISS SURRENDER. The air and water both were calm ; his hopes of 'scape ran higher ; But soon the sky was overcast, and the tempest gathered nigher. The elements were 'gainst him armed, and he began to shiver, While wind and rain with violence his boats hurled down the river. When day appeared, and your brave sires dis- cerned their situation, How glad they were to come again to their dis- mantled fortification ! He wished, as prisoners royal, to march out with colors flying. But this the brave commander stood, with dignity denying. With high regard for Lincoln, gave him the proud commission. At Yorktown to receive, with grace, th' royal arms' submission, CORNWALLISS SURRENDER. 37 And then throughout the country, 'mid widespread exultation, Stood out the bold commander, as Father of the Nation. DEATH OF WASHINGTON. His mission was accomplished, his work on earth was done, In the sixty-eighth year of his age expired brave Washington. On the fourteenth of December, in seventeen ninety-nine, Before the midnio^ht hour rang- out was the auspicious time. The melancholy tidings to Congress soon they bore, That he, the matchless patriot, God's chosen, was no more. DEATH OF WASHINGTON. 3 What meant that cry of agony that rang throughout the land ? 'Twas the shriek of all America, the chief's de- voted band. Who first prepared the festal bower, gathered' the laurel clear, Then planted they the cypress grove, watered with affection's tear. Throucrhout the wide world the sad tidines soon was spread, That he, the god-like hero, George Washing- ton, was dead. Ah ! Columbia lamented the loss of her ereat son, Who redeemed her from slavery and for her freedom won. Down in Mount Vernon's quiet tomb a holy light is shed, And millions bow before the shrine where sleeps th' illustrious dead, 40 DEATH OF WASHINGTON. Who, first in war, first in peace, and first in the nation's heart, Left to her sons an heritage from which they ne'er will part. DECATUR BEFORE TRIPOLI. What nation on earth that has not sounded the fame Won by Maryland's proud son, Stephen De- catur by name, Who boldly rushed forth the fierce corsairs to slay. And the great prize, " Philadelphia," from them snatch away. So when the young moon hung o'er the wa- ters so blue, Naug-ht broke the night's stillness as the '* Ketch " rippled through. 42 DECATUR BEFORE TRIPOLI. They boarded the frigate, soon the flames did they light, And by their red glare they sought refuge in flight. Then again — when to victory his crew had just led. By treachery his brother fell, shot through the head. He bore down on the fleet, till he sought out the foe, Hand to hand conflict fought, revenge adding power to each blow ; And soon o'er the deck the Turks' life-blood did run. While a cheer from his crew told the day was now won. And when, seven years later, with bold front and lion heart. In fights with England's navy bore a conspicu- ous part ; DECATUR BEFORE TRIPOLI. 43 Before Alo^iers in after time the world could plainly see This hero stood demanding all Christians should be free. THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS-— WAR 1812. General Jackson was not idle, of that we may be sure, Until a good position of defense he could se- cure ; Even dreary nights would he allow none in the camp to sleep, But had them throwing earth in front out of a « ditch so deep. A formidable rampart constructed he, four miles in length. And mounted it with cotton bales, made fa- mous for its strength, BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS. 'And there before the cotton bales, two thousand men were slain.' BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS. 45 But scarcely was it finished, when Pakenham advanced ; With rockets, bombs, and cannon, boldly th' attack commenced. This so enraged " Old Hickory," that he opened on them fire : After seven hours' hard fighting, they gladly did retire. Then swore he " By the Eternal," that he'd to them valor prove Of Louisiana and Kentucky troops, whom dearly did he love. Upon the eighth day of the month, the British called again, And there, before the cotton bales, two thou- sand troops were slain. The roll of the American fire resembled thun- der's peal. And, on that narrow field of strife, Keane and Gibbs did reel. 46 BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS. Trying to rally his shattered troops — waving his hat — just then Pakenham reached the fatal ditch, fell dead before his men. PERRY'S VICTORY— WAR OF 1812. The first attack was over, and his ship scarce a gun could man, When the Britons their artilleries hurled, as near the fleet he ran. Upright in his craft stood he, as with strength from heaven supplied, Wielding his blade, as challenging the foes on every side. His noble brow unruffled, seemed he not of human form, As round him, from the cannons' mouth, th' raking shots were borne. 48 perry's victory — war 1812. Admiring stood the enemy, at the boldness of this deed, Of all brave acts recorded, sure, this young sailor's did exceed. And they saw him gain, uninjured, the old Niagara's side. While Elliot, the commander, hailed him as the navy's pride. Back to his fleet again he turned, and the old ship with him drew. As around him raged the fearful strife, charged mercy to his crew. When England's standard fell, exclaimed, " Hail, heaven's defending powers ! While foemen worthy of our steel we fought — thank God ! the victory's ours." Brave Barclay stood before the victor, to tender him his sword. While Perry said : " You're wounded, come, find care and rest on board." perry's victory WAR l8l2. 49 " You've won my heart," cried Barclay, " take my sword, -I'm conquered, I resign, 'Tis useless thus to hold out fight 'gainst such noble hearts as thine." " O sheathe your sword, brave Briton, and convey it to your land, 'Twould pierce your brother thro' the heart to touch it with his hand." Of Perry's bold achievements, history's pages do recall. While, in my own opinion, this seems bravest of them all. PORTER'S DEFENSE OF THE ESSEX IN 1812. Swift-lowering clouds obscured entire heaven's gladsome light, And wrapped the sons of Freedom in deepest gloom of night, As the struggling war-clad Essex for the shore thus boldly stood, While from her pores ran precious drops of free- men's warm life-blood. Brave MacKnight thus to Porter said, with bated breath : " You see our guns are like the minute guns of death, porter's defense of the ESSEX. 5i And from below, just see how fierce shoot forth the flames ! Why not as prisoners let us yield ? naught else of hope remains." " Yield to the foe ! " cried Porter, " Not while my g'uns can rattle ! I'll teach them how to die sublime upon the field of battle.'' Whilst yet he spoke those bold words, behold ! a ray from heaven Fell on the famous hero, as to him a darino- thought was given. Then ordered he : " To anchor ! Round poise her noble head. And send a flaming messenger, to strike the living dead." Then the Cherub and the Phoebe trembled both in every gun, As the iron storm of th' Americans in vain they strove to shun. 52 porter's defense of the ESSEX. But the Essex came out conqueror, and waved her flaof on hio^h, For the glory of the bloody battle was that shout of victory. THE BATTLE OF PALO ALTO— MEXICAN WAR, 1847. On the field of Palo Alto, where the sfallant Ringgold fell, While fiercely all around him whirled the deadly shot and shell, Up came a charge of cavalry, led by dashing Captain May, Swept -the Mexicans from their guns, and broke their lines away. From all parts of the field they rushed, not caring for their loss, Plunged in the river, and were drowned in the vain attempt to cross. 54 THE BATTLE OF PALO ALTO. Then next came Santa Anna, into Vera Cruz with his men, To drive out the invader, and hold his power again. But General Taylor would not out, yet steadily he advanced, While Ampudia, with might invested, so fiercely at him glanced ; And Worth marched on to Monterey, where, 'mid loud cannons' boom, The frightened foe seemed sensible of that town's early doom. Upon the fourteenth of September, before it proved too late, The troops, retaining small arms, were allowed to evacuate ; But all material of war to the victors did belong, The bold sons of America, who went to right a wrone. GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT ADVANC- ING ON THE MEXICAN CAPITAL. Twiggs' division stormed the right, and carried the fortification ; Shields' brigade assauhed the rear, and drove them from their station ; Riley's force completed the rout — their own guns did on them fire. Three thousand prisoners tak'n, and Santa Anna forced to retire. Thus the army flushed with pride, while Monterey was storming, The Mexicans to the city hied, and waited for their cominof- 56 SCOTT ADVANCING ON MEXICO. Cadwalader and Smith, in storm severe, set out upon their mission. By sunrise reached an eminence, in rear of enemy's position. Scott then sent Twigg's division against the works in front. To effect diversion, if required, or to bear the battle's brunt. So furious was the contest, yet they gave no heed to groans. They to the very city fled, chased by the bold dragoons. In gallant style came Wright and Smith, with grape began to play, Sustained by Drum's artillery, they swore they'd win the day. Duncan's battery was blazing then, away upon the right. And Mcintosh was ordered to join in the gallant fio-ht. PERRY'S VICTORY. '• While foemeu worthy of our steel we fought, thank God! the victory's ours. SCOTT ADVANCING ON MEXICO. 5; Then all the guns were brought in line, the garri- son to cover, And by nine o'clock in the morning the battle fierce was over. General Quitman had the honor to advance to the great square, The American flag to hoist upon the national palace there. Attended by his brilliant staff, rode in the chief commander, 'Mid the shouts of the whole army, on the four- teenth of September. THE MIRROR OF THE REBELLION. We will gently lift the drapery of the red, white, and blue, And show the true heroes, as they pass in grand review. Before the nation's mirror, let them hail from South or North, Whether here or in the spirit land, we boldly call them forth, To reflect their glorious deeds, done in Freedom's sacred name. And let them be recorded on the scroll of eternal fame. THE MIRROR OF THE REBELLIOx\\ 59 When, in after years, the echo shall be heard the world around. The heart of Liberty shall leap, when she hears the glorious sound. Her sons, with hearts of oak, behold, one hundred years ago, Her standard raised, 'mid bloody strife, with Eng- land as her foe. And victory's mantle, when it fell from revolution's sires, Upon their sons, who boldly swore to quench not ' Freedom's fires. Well have they kept their oath, and their sons, in turn, the same, As they've met the foe, undaunted, upon many a battle plain. Where'er the starry banner waved, they, with a rallying cry, In Freedom's name rushed onward, to conquer or to die. 6o THE MIRROR OF THE REBELLION. Then let us raise the drapery of the red, white, and blue, As the heroes of America pass in the grand review. PASSING IN REVIEW. Behold the great McClellan, who for the Union takes a stand. The scales of mercy and justice holds he firmly in his hand ; His heart is filled with love for those 'gainst whom he comes to fight, And with his sword uplifted cries — " God will de- fend the right!" See the Confederate general, too, bearing honors on his name. The Son of " Light Horse Harry," of revolutionary fame. 62 PASSING IN REVIEW. On the soil of th' Old Dominion he lifts his sword on high, To shield her sacred manor swears, and with her sons to die. Next comes the intrepid Anderson ; bravely Fort Sumter held. As batteries shook both sea and shore ; while it was being shelled, One hundred o-uns salute the flasf, and that de- voted band. By stirring strains, march out the Fort, and sail for Northern land. Ah ! now we see brave Beauregard, who, in en- * gineering skilled, The thundering voice of Sumter thus commanded to be stilled. Oh ! see Columbia's son's arrayed in battles fierce and strong, As, in opinion of the North, they come to right a wrong, PASSING IN REVIEW. 6 While in the breasts of Southrons the fires of freedom burn, And from all overtures of peace they in indigna- tion turn. THE TWO ARMIES. Two mighty armies now behold, in all the panoply of war. From the Blue Ridge and Alleghanies to the broad Atlantic shore, There sweeps the tide of battle strong between the blue and gray, Each praying in their hearts to see the dawn of victory's da}^ A charge of cavalry they make at the bugle's stirring sound. While the thunder of artillery rolls o'er the battle-Q^round, BATTLE OF PALO ALTO. Death of Major Ringgold. THE TWO ARMIES. 65 And bursting shells lash up. the earth, the smoke curls up In line, Ascends the clouds, while missiles shriek, makino- the scene sublime. The rattling volley of infantry can each no longer stand, The bayonet charge is ordered, and the conflict's hand to hand. Here each arm of the service is thus held up to view, While hatred chains the hearts of both th' gallant gray and blue. Born are they of one nation, knit in each kindred tie ; Brothers they are, yet as foemen meet, to conquer or to die. The world looks on in wonder, and asks, can such things be. That brother's hand 'gainst brother raised in this great family. 56 THE TWO ARMIES. Ah ! the same proud spirits boast they, in their veins the same blood runs, And the mantle of their revolutionary sires fall on their daring sons. MARCHING ON. Sherman the ^reat, the warrior tried, in whose abihty The army showed their steadfast faith from Atlantic to the sea. Ah! next comes "Philip Sheridan," may his laurels never fade, Won in Shenandoah Valley, when his famous charge he made. * A skillful officer " McDowell," of cool head and generous heart, In various battles under Pope's campaign bore a conspicuous part. 58 MARCHING ON. But "one-armed Howard" is the model of the Christian soldier true, For the right wing of the army led he fair Georgia through. Oh, here is brilliant " Hooker," at Chancellorsville well he fought. Although ofttimes was wounded, he always said 'twas naught. " Fremont," who taught mathematics on the sloop of war Natchez, With Stonewall Jackson measured swords at the battle of Cross-Keys. ''Banks'" movement emulates th' retreat of the far-famed Xenophon, Whose glory is eclipsed thus far by America's bold son. Brave " Hancock " on the Peninsula great repu- tation earned. And in a charge at Williamsburg the tide of battle turned. MARCHING ON. 69 " Sedgwick," the pure patriot, by noble impulse ever swayed, With heroism at Antietam every trait of skill displayed. THE MARCH OF HEROES. See the famous " Harris I'ght-horse," led by " Kilpatrick'' near and far, Who, on the plains of Brand}^ Station, won a brigadier-general's star. At Richmond, to free the prisoners, his intent was plainly seen, But failed for want of co-operation, by the death of young Dahlgren. Brave " Lyon,'' in a glorious charge, at " Wilson's Creek " did fall, While leading his troops to victory, seemed fore- most of them all. THE MARCH OF HEROES. 7 1 " Kearney," the dauntless, now appears, famed for his reckless ride, Exploring a gap in the Union lines, was struck down in his pride. Bold " Corcoran," of the Sixty-ninth, who led his legion on, Upofi many a bloody field of strife has deathless honors won. Here's the gallant youthful "Ellsworth," famed for his Zouave drill, Who challenged all military corps to a trial of his skill; When he saw his country's danger, responded quickly to her call. Rallying his men around him, in her defense to stand or fall. "Greble" worked his guns, and scorned retreat, till the busfle's recall should sound, With unflinching courage met his death, upon Great Bethel's battle-ground. 72 THE MARCH OF HEROES. " Baker " fell, pierced by bullets five, at Ball's Bluff's disastrous fight, And all his pride of country was crushed in death's dark night. STONEWALL JACKSON'S GUARD. They hurried on at a double-quick, waded the Shenandoah River, A grove was reached, they fell prostrate, and slept as sound as ever. An officer then to Jackson said, " I hear not e'en a sentinel's tramp." The reply came back, " No sentry post — / alone will guard the camp." On the hard, cold ground the soldiers lay, their clothes all dripping wet. Into God's keeping gave themselves, and around camp no guard was set. 74 STONEWALL JACKSON S GUARD. The lonely watcher paced o'er the ground till near the break of day, When he aroused his men, to resume the march of thirty miles away. And upon that summer Sabbath morn, as the sun in splendor rose, The birds sent forth their greetings, regardless of such near approaching foes ; Soon the pleasing sound was hushed into terror by the rumbling wheels Of a great park of artillery, as the enemy on them steals. Here we'll gently draw the curtain o'er the follow- ing ghastly sight, For who has not read, in history, of Bull Run's bloody fight ; When the battle fierce was over, and all marched back to camp, The soldiers' lusty cheer rang out, after Stone- wall's martial tramp. FARRAGUT LASHED TO THE MAST. The Union fleet, linked two abreast, Avent down in Mobile Bay, While Farragut, lashed to the mast, swore that he'd win the day. Oh, the boldness of this exploit awoke such genu- ine admiration In the breast of those 'gainst him arrayed, yet brothers of one nation. The Tecumseh fired the first orun — and the battle fierce began, She was soon run down with all her crew by the monster rebel ram. 76 FARRAGUT LASHED TO THE MAST. Torpedoes lined the channel, where the fleet wooed the dangerous sport, The gallant men, coolly worked their guns, soon passed the thundering Fort. The batteries past, the rebel ram bore down up- on the fleet, Which, w^elcomed with artillery, wrapped her in a flaming sheet. The Flag-ship then, with Farragut, joined in the fierce attack. But the monster ram soon shelled her and drove her crippled back. Then, in their towering fury the commanders raised a ruction. And with five vessels of the fleet soon threatened her destruction. No help was nigh — no way of escape — the vessel struck her flag, While Buchanan he lay wounded — Farragut thus made eood his brag". FARRAGUT LASHED TO THE MAST. 11 And in Fort Morgan General Page, In anger and mortification, Before surrendering, spiked his guns, and destroyed all ammunition. THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE. Before you now, on bended knee, Columbia, hear them swear To rally round the standard that you so proudly bear ; Which for a time they did forsake, for their bonny banner blue. Borne by their sires when bathed in blood for Lib- erty and you. The Stars and Stripes wave o'er the free, the vic- tory you have won ; And the 'olive branch in love hold out to each re- bellious son ; PEACE. THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE. 79 While the boys in blue a welcome shout on this au- spicious day, And the eagle screams as he hears the oath made by the boys in gray. They pledge themselves henceforth to know no South, North, East, or West, But keep step to the Union's music, which thrills every patriot's breast ; And when again you call your sons in your defense to stand, They'll rise as if by magic — broadcast throughout the land ; Their swords will draw — their lives lay down — all for Columbia's good — Proudest among earth's nations, who one hundred years has stood. Well may the eagle scream on high, and clutch the scroll of fame. Well may the starry banner fly in Freedom's gilded name ! 8o THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE. Oh, could our martyred heroes now but hear the joyful sound That rings a welcome to our shores — heard all the world around. FRATERNITY. CAPITULATION. Great joy arose thro' the afmy, and the country was filled with delight, While Lee and Grant were in council — Columbia seemed pleased at the sight. The eagle soared high with the tidings, and perched upon Liberty's shield. As, unto the Union's great champion. Secession's bold chieftain did yield. At Appomattox Court House this happened, upon April the tenth, Sixty-five, 'Twas found hard for the leaders in action to keep good resolutions alive. 82 CAPITULATION. And thus, to save further blood-shed, this hero did tender his sword. Which the victor returned to him, saying, " Accept thou a brave man's reward ; Thouo^h the cause I deem wronsf thou hast chosen, none hold I in higher esteem, The word of my brother's sufficient — his pledge he will surely redeem." This was the result of the council between the blue and the gray, And the Nation with pride will remember forever this memorable day. So, as Sherman was marching on Raleigh, the joy- ful news to him came, " Glory to God and our country ! " with fervor was heard to exclaim. Then Johnston to Sherman surrendered, to save fur- ther effusion of blood, Those chieftains shook hands on the roadside — in view of each army they stood — CAPITULATION. 8 Then a shout rose, loud and joyous — 'twas heard the whole country around, While salvos of artillery in gladness roared o'er the late battle-ground. THE SOLDIERS' RETURN FROM THE WAR. Now behold those blood-stained warriors, tramping onward in their might, With their tattered banners waving in fair Free- dom's glorious light. Cannons roaring, bugles sounding, shouts of victory rend the air, As the heroes proudly marching, glorying in the scars they bear. Four long years of untold anguish, in the field and in the camp, Suffered they without repining, keeping trimmed Columbia's lamp, THE soldiers' RETURN. 85 Let the country show its gladness, as the sound rings near and far, Let the joy-bells peal their welcome to the con- querers, home from war, Let each mother's heart-felt blessing thro' her tears of gladness shine, As she welcomes home her idol, strong in his man- hood's prime. Let the maiden place the laurel he has earned up- on his brow. While in love and life united, for the war is over now. For no longer will he listen to the bugle's early call. And 'mid the din of battle see his comrades round him fall, And hear the demon yells and wild curses in a breath, While the blue and gray commingle in the agonies of death. 86 THE soldiers' return. But battle-scarred and honored he reaches home — sweet home — Where -from, but at his country's call, he ne'er again will roam. . BUNKER HILL CENTENNIAL CELE- BRATION. Let artillery roar a welcome, tattoo It on the drum, Ring out the m.erry joy-bells as your guests march proudly on To celebrate the victory won by your grand old sires, * One hundred years ago to-day, 'mid revolution fires. 'Twas here they fought so nobly, young South Car- olina's pride. With Massachusetts' stalwart sons, stood firmly side by side. 88 BUNKER HILL CENTENNIAL. Their pledge anew they come to make, at Free- dom's sacred shrine, And plant again th' palmetto tree, 'long with the stately pine. Strengthened by New York's " Old Guard," God bless those men forever, Pray that the Union they thus make no treach- erous hand dare sever. See old Maryland's Fifth to Boston, too, their grateful tribute brings, And thus the dove of peace soars on, with heal- ing in its wings. Upon the soldiers' monument, a shield of flowers — white and red — » They placed in solemn silence, in honor of the gal- lant dead. And the Norfolk " light artillery," whose guns did loudly roar. In the dark days of rebellion, is now welcomed at your door. BUNKER HILL CENTENNIAL. 89 If e'er such deeds of kindness by them should be forgot, Then, " Old Virginia " to her sons would say : " I know you not." Oh, let the shouts of welcome reverbrate thro' the land, While to your hearts your brothers take, firmly top:ether stand. Redeem the oath your sires once made, to serve thro' good and ill, » As they bathed in blood the Nation's flag, and the Sword of Bunker Hill. OUR UNION FOREVER. By the God who reigns above us, by the stars that shine so bright, Here we swear to keep our banner ever precious in our sight. Bought with blood of sires Immortal, in oppression's darkest hour, Handed down to sons undaunted, who defy all earthly power, Here we swear to guard the Union, which one hundred years has stood. Ah ! not even one link is broken — 'tis cemented strono- with blood. OUR UNION FOREVER. 9 1 Let US now forget all sadness, may our skies be bright and clear, Let our shouts ring out in gladness, as our birth- day feast draws near, Let us welcome every people, from the earth's re- motest clime, Coming now to do us homage at fair Freedom's sacred shrine. Fling out now our starry banner, to receive the dew from heaven, Swear to shield our sacred manor, by the heaven- born patriots given. Joyfully now we hail Columbia, glorious, free, and happy land, Of division there's no danger, for, united, firm we stand ; And we'll come from every quarter, on fair Inde- pendence Day, While we hear her Declaration, all due reverence sliiall we pay. 92 OUR UNION FOREVER. Millions then will join the chorus, as our song is heard above, By the One who keeps guard o'er us. Great Jeho- vah, God of Love ! AMERICA'S CENTENNIAL. Columbia! bright gem of the ocean, The birth-place of sweet Hberty, Accept now thy patriots' devotion, And the homage the world offers thee. Thy hundred years are in keeping With principles grown from thy birth, While old heroes are quietly sleeping Broadcast o'er the bosom of earth. Thy son, the staunch young Republic, Calls millions around him this day, To display to them thy brilliant record. That trials nor time can decay. 94 AMERICAS CENTENNIAL. Then welcome with joy every nation, While thy grandeurs to them ye unfold, They shall see how exalted the station For one — just one hundred years old. We'll unfurl our old starry banner That protects us on land and on sea, Let them feel how cordial a manner We extend in the land of the free. THE END. ^tf4 '1^ ^ Xw^^^s^ 1^ N ' iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii SSaHDN03 JO AMVuan x$\. t- M 'I ill ' ^1 \ si