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 DISCOURSE 
 
 COMMEMORATIVE OF THE HEROES OF ALBANY, 
 
 WHO HAVE FALLEN DURING THE PRESENT WAR IN DEFENSE OF OUR COUNTRY, 
 
 DELIVERED IN THE 
 
 NORTH REF. PROT. DUTCH CHURCH OF ALBANY, 
 
 ON THE EVENING OF JULY 10th, 1864, 
 
 By RUFUS W. CLARK, D. D. 
 
 ALBANY : 
 
 STEAM PRESS. OF C. VAN BENTHUYSEN. 
 1864. 
 

CORRESPONDENCE. 
 
 Albany, July 13th, 1864. 
 Rev. Ettfiis W. Clark, D. D.: 
 
 Dear Sir — A very genera] desire having been expressed by the relatives 
 and friends of the noble men of our city, who have fallen while defend- 
 ing the liberties and laws of our country, that the discourse you delivered 
 on Sabbath evening, July 10th, in commemoration of their patriotism, 
 valor, and devotion, should be published; we therefore, in behalf of the 
 U. S. Christian Commission, respectfully request that you furnish a 
 copy for publication. Very truly yours, 
 
 THOMAS W. OLCOTT, President. 
 
 JNO. N. RATHBOME, Vice-President. 
 
 WM. McELROY, Treasurer. 
 
 L. DEDERICK, Secretary, 
 
 Albany, July 13th, 1864. 
 
 Messrs. Thomas W. Olcott, John F. Rathbone, William McElroy 
 and L. Dederick: 
 
 Gentlemen — It aifords me pleasure to comply with your request; and 
 it will be a gratification to me if you will allow the Discourse to be 
 published for the benefit of the U. S. Christian Commission, an organi- 
 zation which has contributed so largely, to the temporal comfort and 
 spiritual good of our brothers, in the camp and on the battle field. 
 
 I take the liberty of adding some skelches and names, that were 
 omitted in the delivery of the discourse. 
 
 "With the highest respect and esteem, I am truly yours, 
 
 RUFUS W. CLARK. 
 
RELATIVES AND FRIENDS OF THE NOBLE PATRIOTS, 
 
 OF THE CITY OF ALBANY, 
 
 WHO HAVE SACRIFICED THEIR LIVES IN OUR DEFENCE, 
 
 AND FOR THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC, 
 
 THIS DISCOURSE 
 
 IS MOST RESPECTFULLY AND AFFECTIONATELY 
 
 INSCRIBED. 
 
DISCOURSE. 
 
 2d BOOK OF SAMUEL, 1 chap., 25 verse. 
 
 " HOW ARE THE MIGHTY FALLEN IN THE MIDST OF THE BATTLE." 
 
 We bring to you, to-night, a few garlands which 
 we have woven for the illustrious dead. The 
 least that we can do, is, to cherish the memories, 
 and record the deeds of the noble men, who have 
 made sacrifices that we might enjoy tranquility ; 
 who have died on the battle field, that we might 
 have peace ; who have given their lives for our 
 nation's honor, perpetuity and prosperity. They 
 have done that for us, for which we can never 
 repay them. The debt of gratitude we owe can 
 never be cancelled. 
 
 History does not furnish us with an account of 
 any war, which has called forth a purer patriot- 
 ism, a holier love of liberty, loftier sentiments of 
 honor, duty and devotion to the public good, than 
 have characterized the heroes, who have been 
 engaged, and continued to be engaged, in the 
 struggle for the maintenance of the American 
 nationality. In preserving this nationality they 
 have been inspired with the belief that they were 
 
8 
 
 toiling to keep alive the best government that 
 Heaven ever granted to a people ; to perpetuate 
 and extend those social, educational and religious 
 institutions, upon which virtue and happiness are 
 based, and to secure the triumph of humanity 
 and justice, over systems of oppression, that are 
 a reproach and a peril to any nation. And on 
 the bright roll of martyr-heroes, none stand 
 higher for jDurity, bravery, and a lofty patriotism, 
 than those who have gone forth from the city of 
 Albany ; and whose precious remains we have 
 followed to the grave, with tears of personal 
 affection, and feelings of the warmest gratitude 
 and admiration. While their cold forms rest with 
 us, their influence and noble deeds have entered 
 into the most valued parts of American history. 
 By dying, they have put fresh life into the repub- 
 lic, and added to the value of our institutions. 
 We have more to love, more to pray for, more to 
 fight for, than we had before their heroism was 
 added to our national character. A republic for 
 which such sacrifices have been made, and upon 
 whose altar such noble and precious lives have 
 been laid, must live, must triumph over all its 
 foes, and shine with new splendor in the ages yet 
 to come. • 
 
 When first contemplating this tribute to the 
 
9 
 
 departed heroes of our city, it was my purpose to 
 notice all, of whom I could obtain full and satis- 
 factory information. But on investigation, I find 
 the number so large, that to bring my discourse 
 within reasonable limits, I must select a part from 
 the brilliant galaxy of names, that shed their 
 lustre upon our city, and allow them to speak for 
 their comrades, and represent their valor and 
 heroic deeds. 
 
 In April, 1861, the first guns were fired from 
 the batteries of treason upon Fort Sumter. The 
 sound of those guns startled the nation, and 
 revealed the existence of a deep, wide spread, and 
 malignant rebellion. After a long period of peace, 
 unity and uninterrupted prosperity — during which 
 the arts had been advanced, the resources of the 
 country developed, manufactures and commerce 
 increased, and the national domain extended, with 
 a rapidity almost without a parallel in history — 
 there burst upon us the storm of war, that now, 
 for more than three years, has been raging,' carry- 
 ing desolation to tens of thousands of homes, and 
 producing an amount of personal suffering, and 
 domestic anguish, that no language can depict. 
 
 During the first year of the war several of our 
 families were struck by the lightning from this 
 dark and terrific tempest. Among the dis- 
 
10 
 
 tinguished victims, at this early period, there 
 stands out before us the name of Colonel William 
 A. Jackson. The early years of this young hero 
 were passed amid the scenes of a refined, intellec- 
 tual and christian home. His father, an accurate 
 and distinguished scholar, occupying the Pro- 
 fessorship of Mathematics in Union College, 
 Schenectady, quickened by his conversation and 
 instruction the intellect of his son ; and the 
 natural talents, as well as mental acquirements of 
 the youth, gave promise of a very successful 
 career in life. In the year 1851 Mr. Jackson 
 graduated at Union College, and some time after- 
 wards he entered upon the profession of law in 
 this city, in partnership with one who is greatly 
 esteemed for his patriotic services, rendered to the 
 government and the country. His frank and pre- 
 possessing manners, his quick apprehension of the 
 points of any subject submitted to him for inves- 
 tigation, his power of oratory and varied intellec- 
 tual attainments, his social relations in the city, 
 and a large circle of friends, rendered his position 
 a most desirable one. But at the call of his 
 country he left all, to vindicate her honor, and 
 defend her against her foes. 
 
 It would have been his choice to have died upon 
 the battle field, but exhausted by his toils and 
 
11 
 
 anxieties, he was seized with typhus fever, and 
 after a short illness his spirit was called away. 
 He died an honored martyr to our great national 
 struggle for Union and Liberty. 
 
 The same year there fell also Sergeant John 
 Waterman, Co. A, 18th regiment ; Corporal 
 Thomas Goldwaite, who died at Fort McHenry of 
 typhoid fever ; Lieut. Snyder, William Conkling, 
 Robert Cameron, William Cady, a youthful artist 
 who was killed at Great Bethel June, 1861 ; and 
 the youthful patriot James Rice, the forerunner 
 of another bearing the same name, who, two years 
 afterwards, fell amid a halo of glory, that reflected 
 the brightness of his earthly christian military 
 career, and the lustre of those hopes that guided 
 his pure spirit to mansions in the skies. 
 
 Young Rice, of whom we now speak, who died 
 in November, 1861, at Camp King, Munson's Hill, 
 Virginia, was but sixteen years of age when he 
 enlisted to serve his country. The boy left his 
 home inspired with the thought that he, in the 
 hour of the nation's extremity, might do something 
 for our honor or protection. He joined the army 
 with high aims, and proved an active, faithful and 
 efficient soldier. While on picket duty, guarding 
 his companions in arms, he was shot by the enemy 
 and fell. His last words to his dear father were, 
 
12 
 
 " Father I have done my whole duty to my coun- 
 try." And there, before having reached the age 
 of 17, the young hero dies. Though a stranger 
 to us, still we stojD to drop the tear of gratitude 
 over his grave, and to commend parents and 
 friends to Him, who can afford consolation under 
 such a bereavement. 
 
 Of the citizens of Albany who offered up their 
 lives for their country, during the year 1862, I 
 have the names of twenty, each of whom deserves 
 an extended and earnest tribute. The most 
 illustrious in this company is that of Ormsby 
 Macknight Mitchel ; a name dear to many hearts 
 here ; one who formerly worshiped within these 
 walls, but who to-day worships in a higher, purer, 
 more glorious temple. Gen. Mitchel was distin- 
 guished in so many departments, that I am unable 
 to say whether he was most eminent as an 
 astronomer, a soldier, or a christian. He certainly 
 presented, in a most happy union, scientific cul- 
 ture, earnest patriotism, tender humanity, and 
 devoted piety. His intellect moved among the 
 stars, and caught their brilliancy. His thoughts 
 partook of their harmony and grandeur. His 
 discoveries, and contributions to astronomical 
 science, are alone sufficient to render his name 
 distinguished in the annals of American litera- 
 
ture. His popular lectures made him a favorite 
 with all, and inspired the minds of the people 
 with a love for the beauties and sublimities of 
 astronomy, and with adoration for the great 
 Creator, and his marvellous works. 
 
 The native genius of an hero appears in the 
 fact, that at the early age of twelve years he had 
 mastered the Latin and Greek languages, acquired 
 the elements of mathematics ; and at that time 
 commenced the world for himself as a clerk. For 
 three years he supported himself, and at the age 
 of fifteen went to West Point, with a cadet's 
 warrant, a knapsack upon his back and 25 cents 
 in his pocket. He graduated with honor in 1829, 
 and was at once made assistant Professor of 
 Mathematics, which position he filled for two 
 years. After practicing law in Cincinnati six 
 years, he was elected Professor of Mathematics, 
 Philosophy and Astronomy, at Cincinnati College, 
 which office he filled with distinguished ability 
 for ten years. In 1859 he became director of the 
 Dudly Observatory of this city, and has left here 
 an apparatus for accurate measurements, which 
 bears the impress of his great mechanical skill. 
 But it is with the mechanism of his noble heart, 
 that was nicely adjusted to measure the depths of 
 human suffering ; it is with those fine chords that 
 
14 
 
 vibrated to the calls of patriotism and the claims 
 of his country ; it is with those aspirations that 
 nothing but the truths and glories of Christianity 
 could satisfy, that we are chiefly interested. Gen. 
 Mitchel had a soul that could hear the cries of 
 humanity, and respond by toil and sacrifices for 
 the helpless and unfortunate. For the education 
 and happiness of the freedmen committed to his 
 charge, he did what he could ; and at the last great 
 day, many of the recipients of his benevolence, 
 will be ready to rise up and pronounce him 
 blessed. At the moment the breath left his body 
 science lost a rare ornament ; the army mourned 
 for a skillful and brave soldier ; humanity wept 
 for an earnest defender and advocate ; and the 
 church lost a true christian and humble follower 
 of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
 
 Passing along the picture gallery of 1862, we 
 come to another hero who bears the marks of 
 youth, of calm determination, of pure patriotism, 
 and of heroic bravery. He, too, worshipped once 
 within this church and celebrated with you the 
 dying love of Jesus. He was reared and tenderly 
 loved by one whose voice you have often, in years 
 past, heard from this pulpit ; but now he sleeps 
 in the battle-field in a soldier's grave, far from 
 parents, sisters and brothers; far from the fond 
 
15 
 
 wife, who in youth became a widow ; far from a 
 little one who can never look up and say father, 
 but must wait to learn the sad history that makes 
 the child an orphan, and the mother a weeping 
 mourner. You may recognise the portrait as that 
 of Theodore C. Rogers. So noble was his bear- 
 ing, so manly his bravery, that even the officers 
 of the rebel army, when they saw him leading his 
 soldiers the conflict, gave orders to their own sol- 
 diers not to fire at him. And when he fell, by 
 those whom the order did not reach, and his life- 
 less body was borne from the field and laid under 
 a tree, two generals of the rebel army, while 
 gazing upon him and reading the letters from his 
 parents and wife, taken from his pocket, wept as 
 though a brother of their own had been suddenly 
 hurried into eternity. 
 
 During the same year the Fire Department of 
 our city gave up some of its most efficient and 
 useful members for the salvation of the country. 
 Among them we make honorable mention of 
 Lieut. John McCaffrey, of the 104th New York 
 Volunteers, who was formerly foreman of Engine 
 Company No. 12, and at the time he enlisted Avas 
 a member of company No. 10 ; of Lieut James M. 
 Southwick of the 93d Regiment, another brave 
 soldier and efficient officer; of Lieut. James Kin- 
 
16 
 
 near who belonged to company No. 6 ; men who, 
 when at home, were ready at any hour of the 
 night or the day to hapten, the moment the alarm 
 was given, to protect your houses and property 
 from the ravages of fire, and then went forth to 
 lay down their lives for the suppression of that 
 awful rebellion, that has brought upon our beloved 
 country such desolation, and carried anguish to 
 so many hearts. 
 
 Col. Edward Frisby, also a brave and noble 
 officer, was wounded, and then killed by a horse 
 that was shot and fell upon him. The honors 
 with which his remains were followed to the 
 grave in this city, bore testimony to the esteem 
 and respect in which he was held by a large circle 
 of friends. 
 
 Gladly would we, did time allow, offer an 
 extended tribute of our gratitude and admiration 
 to Addison I. Fellows, who just as he was enter- 
 ing upon life, and gaining the esteem and affection 
 of a large circle of friends, was cut down by the 
 typhoid fever ; to Lieut. Edward Bayard Hill, a 
 member of the regular service, and a man of 
 modest bearing, cultivated intellect, and unflinch- 
 ing bravery, who gave his talents, his noble heart, 
 and his life to his country ; to Clarence H. 
 Stephens, the brave boy of nineteen years, who 
 
17 
 
 fell before the deadly fire of the rebel artillery ; 
 to Harmon Visscher, Jr., a youth of excellent 
 attainments and universally esteemed, who was 
 shot through the breast, and was left on the field 
 for dead, but reviving received the attentions of 
 his devoted mother, till the last breath left his 
 body ; to Thomas L. Hartness, the brave soldier 
 and devoted Sabbath school teacher ; to Lieut. 
 James Reid, the courageous officer, who fell at the 
 fatal battle of Bull Hun ; to the young James De 
 Lacey, whose affection, as the son of a widowed 
 mother, was equal to his courage upon the battle 
 field, and who fell at the slaughter at Antietam ; 
 to the noble and heroic Adjutant John H. Russell; 
 to the brave Robert Caldwell, the only son of a 
 widowed mother ; and to Lieut. McCornwell, who 
 fell in the same battle ; to George Martin, who 
 after he had passed through all the battles of the 
 Peninsula with Gen. McClellan's army, at last at 
 the battle of Campton Gap was shot through the 
 heart, and leaves a wife and child and a large 
 circle of friends to mourn the loss ; to Stephen 
 Ross White, who died of fever at Roanoake Island; 
 also to Edward Augustus Higham, all of whom 
 richly deserve from our hands, and from our 
 citizens, far more than these brief allusions. Mr. 
 Hicham, when he enlisted was offered a commis- 
 
18 
 
 sion, but he replied, " No, the government needs 
 privates more than officers, and I will go as a 
 soldier." He went as such, and a more faithful, 
 self-sacrificing and brave defender of our country 
 never went into the field. He served under the 
 lamented and heroic Col. George W. Pratt, 
 another name, though not strictly classed among 
 the citizens of Albany, yet one that Ave cannot 
 pass without saluting, as deserving of the highest 
 honors, and of a conspicuous place in the history 
 of American valor. 
 
 Mr. Higham died in the Prince Street Hospital, 
 Alexandria, Va., Oct. 10, 18G2, aged 21 years. 
 He was a splendid young man, active, intelligent 
 and upright, with a future exceedingly bright and 
 promising. He was Avounded in the leg at the 
 battle of Bull Run, August 30th, and left on the 
 field from Saturday to Monday night, suffering 
 much from the rain on Saturday night, and the 
 scorching sun on Sunday. He was taken to the 
 hospital, where he lingered until his noble spirit 
 was called to its everlasting rest. 
 
 Besides being a brave, conscientious, and patri- 
 otic soldier, Mr. Higham was a sincere christian. 
 He united with the Fourth Presbyterian church of 
 this city in 1859, at the age of eighteen years; 
 the church being then under the jDastoral care of 
 
19 
 
 the Rev. Dr. Seeley, who took a deep interest in 
 the spiritual welfare of our young hero ; and who 
 was very much affected to see the young man 
 come out alone, as he did, to profess his love for 
 Jesus, before angels and men. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. McMurdy, chaplain of the hospi- 
 tal at Alexandria, writes of the departed patriot 
 to his fond father, " Your son was a noble young 
 man, patient and uncomplaining in every trouble. 
 He was a sincere and humble christian, and felt 
 that there was no trust but in the mercy of the 
 Redeemer. ' His death is a sacrifice to the coun- 
 try, and may it prove effectual to the nation." 
 
 The same year there fell another valued mem- 
 ber of the Fourth Presbyterian church. Mr. 
 Whitman Mattoon, the only son of Mr. David 
 Mattoon, who was connected with the 44th regi- 
 ment, and was killed in the seven days battle on 
 the Peninsula in the early part of July. The 
 particulars of his death have never been received 
 by his afflicted parents, nor has his body been 
 recovered. The precious remains doubtless lie 
 unburied with others of the noble dead; but his 
 brave spirit has gone to that Savior, whom he 
 loved, and labored to serve on the earth. 
 
 During the year 1863, scarcely a month passed 
 without some family in our city being plunged 
 
20 
 
 into the deepest mourning. And among the 
 offerings made to our county, there were several 
 as distinguished for eminent piety, as for a noble 
 patriotism. I have only to mention, first the 
 name of Adjutant Richard M. Strong, to excite 
 your warmest gratitude and enthusiastic admira- 
 tion. Fitted by nature, and a superior classical 
 and legal education, to take the highest rank in 
 the profession of law ; qualified to adorn and 
 elevate any social circle that might be favored 
 with his presence ; inspired with a devotion to 
 the cause of Christ that rendered him one of the 
 best of christian counsellors, and the most efficient 
 workers, as his services rendered to the State 
 Street Presbyterian Church, at the period of its 
 organization, can abundantly testify ; he still left 
 all to accept the perils of the battle-field, and the 
 destiny of an American soldier. In collecting his 
 regiment, he underwent great toil and personal 
 sacrifices. He was with his soldiers but a short 
 time before he won their confidence, affections, and 
 admiration. To record his noble deeds, his acts of 
 kindness, and his efforts to lead men to the Savior 
 of the world, would require volumes. Besides his 
 arduous military duties, he acted as chaplain to the 
 regiment, when they were deprived of the services 
 of that officer. He rose early in the morning, and 
 
21 
 
 went from tent to tent, and hospital to hospital, 
 ministering to the temporal necessities of the sick 
 and wounded ; offering consolation to the sorrow- 
 ing, and praying with the dying. He was literally 
 broken down by over exertion. His zeal outran 
 his strength. The fires of his patriotism and his 
 piety, consumed the energies of his physical 
 system. At the early age of twenty-eight years 
 his spirit returned to the God who gave it ; and 
 to-day Richard M. Strong lives in those blissful 
 regions, where the roar of cannon and the storm 
 of battle are never heard. 
 
 Near him the angels may see another hero, who 
 was his co-worker for Christ and for his country 
 on the earth — Lieut. James Williamson of the 
 177th regiment. Mr. Williamson was one of the 
 first trustees of the State Street Presbyterian 
 Church, and won golden opinions for his efficiency 
 as a church officer, his social qualities, and his high 
 integrity as a business man. His noble traits of 
 character pre-eminently fitted him for the duties 
 of a patriotic soldier, and a braver man never 
 stood before the cannon of the enemy. He was 
 shot through the brain while rallying his men in 
 the "forlorn hope" before Fort Hudson. The 
 orders from the General in command to assail 
 that fort, that citadel of granite and iron, with a 
 
22 
 
 few men, or even a thousand stormers as they 
 were called, was, in fact, an order for the men to 
 go directly into their graves. The only visible 
 prospect before them was instant death, and still 
 Lieut. Williamson's loyalty and spirit of obedi- 
 ence led him to face even that. Had he been 
 commanded to go out and fight a lightning storm 
 with drawn sword, he would doubtless have done 
 it ; and the command would have had just as 
 much reason and judgment in it, as the command 
 that cost him his life. 
 
 Other of our noble citizens had to bite the dust 
 before that death giving citadel. Col. M. K. 
 Bryan, a man full of generous impulses, bravery 
 and patriotism, who was among the first at the 
 breaking out of the war to give his services to his 
 country, and who, for long and weary months, 
 faithfully discharged the arduous and perilous 
 duties of his position, fell while gallantly leading 
 his forces against Fort Hudson. 
 
 Step with me a short distance, and look upon 
 another youthful form lying under a tree gasping 
 for life. It is the holy Sabbath day, the 14th of 
 June, 1863, a day when, at least, pious, God fear- 
 ing soldiers are most reluctant to fight, except in 
 self-defence. This young officer has been struck 
 by a shell, which tore away his sword hilt, and 
 
23 
 
 carried it through his left hip. He felt that the 
 assault was well nigh desperate, and all his feel- 
 ings revolted against a Sabbath day attack upon 
 that strong hold. But obedience and courage are 
 the duties of a soldier, and in no breast did they 
 burn with a purer flame, than in that which is 
 now heaving with its last breath. Far from a 
 christian home, and dear relatives and friends, at 
 11 o'clock, on that Sabbath, dies Major James 
 Henry Bogart, of Albany, in the 24th year of his 
 age. 
 
 When sixteen }'ears of age he united with the 
 church of Christ, and ever lived faithful to his 
 christian vows. As a boy, James was pure 
 minded, truthful, affectionate and obedient. He 
 loved his home, loved his parents and devoted 
 relatives. But he also loved his country ; and at 
 the first tidings of rebellion, the spirit of patriot- 
 ism awoke in his breast, and he consecrated him- 
 self to the protection and welfare of his country. 
 His remains lie in the Albany Rural Cemetery, by 
 the side of other heroes, waiting the last trumpet's 
 peal, when to all believers in Jesus, this corrupti- 
 ble will put on incorruption, and this mortal be 
 clothed with immortality. 
 
 Another brave soldier who fell at Fort Hudson 
 was Samuel G. Loomis ; and to the roll of fame for 
 
24 
 
 the year 1863, we must add the names of John 
 Shaffer, a young man of superior worth, who 
 after braving many battles died, and the last 
 words upon his lips were, " My mother ;" Charles 
 H. Fredenrich of the 10th regiment, a thorough 
 soldier, greatly beloved by a large circle of friends ; 
 Charles H. Haskell, Henry Sayer, Francis Court- 
 ney, Geo. G. Thayer, Charles G. Latham, a 
 talented and educated young man, Lieut. S. B. 
 Shepard, Corporal Alonzo E. Lewis, Thomas 
 Edward Gary, who was instantly killed, leaving 
 a father and brother in the army, James McNab, 
 William H. Fields, Lieut. Philips, Capt. Augustus 
 Barker, Bernard Cain, and Christopher G. Burns, 
 who after passing through the dangers of fourteen 
 battles died of consumption, aged twenty-four 
 years. 
 
 But we must pause as the trumpet of fame 
 sounds forth the name of Capt. William I. Tem- 
 ple, who fell at the battle of Chancellorsville on 
 Friday, May 1st, 1863. Our city has not given 
 to the war a more brilliant intellect, or more 
 splendid mental attainments than were possessed 
 by this young hero. Though he died just as he was 
 entering upon his twenty-first year, still he lived 
 long enough to prove his power of thought, his 
 capability of rapid acquisition in knowledge, and 
 
25 
 
 his ability to attain the highest rank in any pro- 
 fession, or department of literature or science, to 
 which he might devote his energies. His genius, 
 too, seemed to shed its lustre and its refining 
 influence upon his whole nature. Capt. Temple 
 was a gentleman of elegant and polished manners, 
 winning address, and noble and generous impulses. 
 He partook of the traits of his distinguished father, 
 Col. Temple, who was governed by a high sense 
 of honor, as well as a pure patriotism. 
 
 At the commencement of the war, Mr. Temple 
 was a student at Harvard College ; and at the call 
 of his nation, he left all to serve her interests. 
 He enlisted in the regular army in 1861, and he 
 gave the fire of his genius, and ardor of his patri- 
 otic heart, to the work of subduing the rebellion. 
 Though but nineteen years of age, he had the 
 maturity of manhood, the skill of an experienced 
 officer, and the bravery of a veteran in the ser- 
 vice. Officers, who were associated with him, 
 have said, that they never saw such coolness dis- 
 played upon the battle-field as he manifested. 
 He moved among cannons and exploding shells 
 with as much ease and calmness, as he would 
 among a circle of friends in a drawing room. Had 
 his life been spared, he would doubtless have 
 dealt some heavy blows upon the monster that is 
 
 4 
 
26 
 
 seeking to tear out the vitals of our republic, and 
 the soul of liberty. But in the bloom of youth ; in 
 the dawn of his splendid genius, and unconquerable 
 bravery ; at the moment the inspiration of a lofty 
 patriotism filled his soul, he fell a martyr to the 
 cause that represents to the world, liberty, 
 education, religion, and all the elements that 
 confer righteousness, peace and happiness upon a 
 nation. 
 
 Another name, over which we drop the tear of 
 affection and gratitude, is that of Captain Augustus 
 Barker, the youngest son of William B. Barker, 
 Esq., and grandson of the late William James of 
 this city. He was connected with the 5th New 
 York Volunteer Cavalry, and had distinguished 
 himself in several severe battles. While nobly 
 struggling against the tide of rebellion, he was 
 taken prisoner, and suffered the privations and 
 horrors of the Richmond prisons. But his intense 
 sufferings did not extinguish his patriotism, nor 
 lessen his valor. On regaining his liberty, he 
 devoted himself with fresh enthusiasm to his 
 country ; and his manly traits of character, his 
 generosity and courage, made him a favorite with 
 his companions in arms, and with all who knew 
 him. 
 
 On the 16th of September, 1863, his regiment 
 
27 
 
 had moved from Hartwood Church to the southern 
 side of the Rappahannock river, while he was left 
 behind in charge of the troops guarding the river. 
 On the next day, while marching to rejoin his 
 regiment, being, at the moment, with a single 
 man in advance of the troops, he was fired upon by 
 guerillas concealed in the adjoining woods. Two 
 balls took effect, one in the right side, and the 
 other in the left breast, each inflicting a mortal 
 wound. He was tenderly cared for, and every 
 thing done to alleviate his intense pains, but he 
 survived his wound but twelve hours. 
 
 Thus, at the early age of twenty-two, in the 
 flower of his youth, and in the vigor of his hopes 
 and aspirations, our hero offered up his precious 
 life upon the altar of his country. 
 
 Few regiments have suffered more during the 
 war than the 43d New York volunteers, made up 
 principally of Albanians. Previous to May, 1863, 
 this regiment had passed through the battles 
 before Yorktown, Williamsburg, Malvern Hill, 
 Fair Oaks, Seven Pines, Antietam, the second at 
 Bull Run, and each of the battles at Fredericks- 
 burg. In the engagement, on the 5th of May, at 
 Fredericksburg, several officers and privates fell, 
 and among them the brave and youthful Capt. 
 Douglass Lodge, who had reached only his 
 
28 
 
 twentieth year. In no breast did the tidings of 
 the assault upon Fort Sumter, stir deeper or more 
 patriotic emotions, than in the breast of this young 
 hero. He was the first volunteer to sign the roll 
 of a company then forming by Capt. Cottingham ; 
 and although the arrangements for this company 
 were not perfected, yet he afterwards enlisted in 
 the 25th regiment, and soon after joined the 43d. 
 In all the battles to which we have referred, he 
 greatly distinguished himself, and at Antietam he 
 won the admiration of his comrades, and for his 
 gallant conduct was promoted to the Captaincy. 
 While bravely leading his forces at Fredericks- 
 burg, he received a shot in the forehead, and 
 instantly expired. 
 
 From the 177th regiment we were called to 
 mourn the loss of William Crounse and George 
 Elder, the latter of whom attended this church 
 and died from a fever in this city. It was my 
 privilege to visit this brave youth during his last 
 days, and to receive from him the testimony of 
 his love for Jesus, and his trust in the pardoning 
 mercy of his God. At the early age of eighteen 
 years, George Elder gave his life for his country, 
 and to his afflicted parents we tender our warmest 
 sympathies. 
 
 But there is another name dear to the hearts of 
 
29 
 
 many here, and identified with our own church, 
 and the cause of foreign missions, and that is 
 Lieut. William H. Pohlman. This christian hero 
 was born on the Island of Borneo, January 10, 
 1842, and was the only surviving son of the late 
 Rev. Wm. J. Pohlman, missionary of the Ameri- 
 can Board to China. He was also a nephew of 
 ' the late Rev. John Scudcler, the devoted and suc- 
 cessful missionary to the heathen, who went to 
 India in 1819. Lieut. Pohlman, with his only 
 sister, was sent to the United States at an early 
 age to receive their education ; and when the war 
 broke out, he was a member of Rutgers College, 
 in New Brunswick, having entered that institu- 
 tion in the fall of 1859. While quietly and 
 successfully pursuing his studies, preparatory to 
 the gospel ministry, the conviction fastened itself 
 upon his mind, that the country needed his servi- 
 ces. For a time he was deeply exercised as to 
 the question of duty, and he laid the subject 
 before God in earnest prayer. Ere long he saw 
 that he must abandon his studies, and fight for his 
 adopted country. 
 
 He enlisted as a private in the first New Jersey 
 regiment, May 28, 1861, and very soon displayed 
 the highest qualities of a christian soldier. He 
 passed through all the campaigns with honor, 
 
30 
 
 until January 17th, 1863, when he was promoted 
 to a Lieutenancy in the 59th regiment, New York 
 State Volunteers, and shortly after was appointed 
 acting Adjutant. Wherever duty called him, he 
 gained the affections and admiration of all his 
 associates. His purity of life, his lofty patriotism, 
 and his christian devotion, were, at all times, 
 conspicuous. After passing through the toil, 
 hardships and perils of thirteen hard fought bat- 
 tles, he appears before us in the bloody field of 
 Gettysburg. Our forces weary, hungry and 
 exhausted by their long marches under the burn- 
 ing sun, wheeled into ranks to receive the shocks 
 of the rebel artillery. Those memorable three 
 days of July, when heroism and brave endurance 
 won such triumphs, will never be forgotten by a 
 grateful people. On the 2d of July the valiant 
 Col. of the regiment was severely wounded, and 
 Lieut. Pohlman was the only field officer left, dur- 
 ing the remainder of the battle. How keenly he 
 felt his responsibility, and how well he discharged 
 his duties, his men relate with passionate pride. 
 How could they falter, when, wherever the peril 
 was greatest, 
 
 " There was no braver sight 
 
 Than his young form, steadfast 'mid shot and shell." 
 
 But late in the afternoon of Friday, July 3d, a 
 
ol 
 
 minie ball struck his arm, and frightfully shat- 
 tered it. He was at once urged to withdraw from 
 the front, but he answered, " No, never while I 
 have a sound arm left to fight with." An hour 
 later his sword arm failed him, and another ball, 
 glancing from his swordhilt, which it shattered, 
 pierced his right wrist, and severed an artery, 
 thus disabling him from service. At this crisis 
 his noble nature shone forth with new lustre. To 
 the soldiers who would have borne him from the 
 field, now, almost won, he said, " Boys stay in 
 your places'. Your country needs every man of 
 you." Thus he left them, but not until he had 
 groped about in his blindness, to recover, if pos- 
 sible, the sword given to him by his adopted 
 mother. Its empty scabbard, battered and blood- 
 stained, with the glorious motto engraved upon it, 
 unmarred : " For God and your country," is now 
 the most cherished relic, to her who filled a 
 mother's place to the orphan boy. He reached 
 the camp, having fainted on the way from loss of 
 blood, and was laid by the side of his beloved 
 Colonel. So careful was he of the feelings of his 
 friends in this city, that he withheld his name 
 from the newspaper reporters, lest the tidings of 
 his wounds might shock those who were dear to 
 his heart 
 
32 
 
 In a characteristic note dictated the following 
 day, after first speaking of their glorious victory, 
 he added, " The usual good fortune which has 
 attended me in thirteen battles of the war, has 
 forsaken me in the fourteenth engagement. I 
 bear honorable wounds in my country's cause." 
 Our hero was tenderly cared for, and under the 
 influence of a home presence, and while hoping 
 soon to welcome a beloved only sister, he seemed 
 to rally; but on the night of the 20th he sank 
 rapidly, and at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, July 
 21st, his noble spirit went to its reward. His 
 nearest relative says of her patriotic and christian 
 brother: "We could not wish him a prouder 
 record, nor ask for him a worthier death. 
 
 ' Great God of night ! 
 Accept our sacrifice ; 
 Bid thou our country rise, 
 The joy of longing eyes, 
 The Home of Right.'" 
 
 On entering the gallery for the present year, 
 1864, we are greeted with another cluster of 
 heroes who reflect the highest honor upon our 
 city, and many of whom combined, in a remarka- 
 ble degree, the purest christian principles, with 
 the most unselfish patriotism. 
 
 The name of Col. John Wilson will ever be held 
 in grateful remembrance, by all the admirers of 
 
33 
 
 the highest type of the Scotch character. This 
 hero was a man, in the fall sense of the term. 
 Splendid and fascinating in appearance; with a 
 heart full of courage and firmness ; with the strong 
 resolution, and undeviating principles of the old 
 Scotch covenanters, he went to the battle-field, 
 and laid his noble life upon the altar of our 
 country. 
 
 Col. Wilson was intimately associated with Col. 
 Fryer of Greenbush ; and they were on the field 
 together when the brave Fryer was wounded in 
 the hand. ' He still continued fighting, until a 
 shot struck him in the shoulder. Even that did 
 not drive him from the field ; and soon after he 
 was severely wounded in the lungs, when he was 
 borne to the hospital. Shortly after, Col. Wilson 
 was wounded in the leg, and laid by the side of 
 his friend. The remark was made him: "This 
 is a great deal to bear." " Yes," replied Col. 
 Wilson, " but not too much for the dear old flag"* 
 
 * Since the de'ivery of this discourse, we have received the melan- 
 choly tidings of the fall of Col. James D. Visscher, who succeeded Col. 
 Wilson, in the command of the 43d regiment, N. Y. State Volunteers. 
 He was killed in the recent fight before the northern defences of Wash- 
 ington. 
 
 Col. Visscher was a high minded, courteous gentleman; an unselfish 
 and warm hearted patriot; a brave man among even the courageous — a 
 hero among heroes. He rose rapidly in the army, from one position to 
 another, until he has now risen to the eminence of a martyr for his 
 country. 
 
34 
 
 Passing along, we come to another countenance 
 radiant with christian hope, and beaming with 
 victory. The eyes reveal the inward intelligence. 
 The lips whisper the peace of the soul. Upon the 
 brow is stamped, " heroism." In the hand is a 
 commission addressed to " Brigadier-General 
 James C. Rice," a name which history will 
 embalm, and posterity applaud. 
 
 Six years ago this hero enlisted under the Cap- 
 tain of our salvation, and professed his faith 
 before angels and men, in the Madison Square 
 Presbyterian Church, in the city of New York. 
 Less than two years ago he took to his heart one, 
 who is now a widow. She looked and prayed for 
 the brightness of serene skies, and received the 
 thunderbolt that has shattered her spirit. 
 
 Gen. Rice left this city for the war, as Lieut. 
 Col. of the 44th regiment. So valuable were his 
 services, so noble his conduct in the camp and 
 the field, that he was promoted to the high posi- 
 tion that he occupied at his death. 
 
 In the last battle that cost him his life, his 
 bravery and devotion were pre-eminently con- 
 spicuous. He went into the battle dismounted, 
 mingled with his men, cheered them on to the 
 conflict. So terrible was the storm of battle, that 
 out of 1800 of his brigade, 857 privates, and 32 
 
officers fell, and still his courage never faltered. 
 After he was struck, and was being borne to the 
 rear, he was met by General Meade, who, on 
 learning the name of the wounded officer, imme- 
 diately dismounted, and taking him by the hand, 
 expressed the hope that he might soon be healed. 
 Gen. Rice replied that he had little hope of that, 
 but he was ready to give his life for his country. 
 His last letter, addressed to his aged mother, 
 reveals the inner thoughts and workings of his 
 soul. He said, " We are about to commence the 
 campaign, the greatest in magnitude, strength and 
 importance, since the beginning of the war. God 
 grant that victory may crown our arms ; that this 
 wicked rebellion may be crushed, our Union pre- 
 served, and peace and prosperity again be restored 
 to our beloved country. My faith, and hope, and 
 confidence are in God alone, and I know that you 
 feel the same. I trust that God may again gra- 
 ciously spare my life, as he has in the past ; and 
 yet we cannot fall too early, if, loving Christ, one 
 dies for his country. My entire hope is in the 
 cross of my Saviour. In this hope I am always 
 happy. We pray here in the army, mother, just 
 the same as at home. The same God who 
 watches over you, also guards me. I always 
 remember you in my prayers, and I know that 
 
36 
 
 you never forget me in yours. All that I am, 
 under God, I owe to you, mother. Do you 
 recollect this passage in the Bible, ' Thou shalt 
 keep, therefore, the statutes, that it may be well 
 with thee, and thy children after thee.' How 
 true this is in respect to your children, mother. 
 I hope that you will read the Bible, and trust the 
 promises to the last. There is no book like the 
 Bible for comfort. It is a guide to the steps of the 
 young — a staff to the aged. Well, my dear 
 mother, good bye. We are going again to our 
 duty, to bravely offer up our life for that of our 
 country, and, through God, we shall do it valiantly. 
 With much love and many prayers, that whatever 
 may betake us, we may meet in Heaven at last. 
 I am your affectionate son, James." 
 
 They will meet again, where sorrow and part- 
 ing are no more. 
 
 On the tablet of your memory, there is engraved 
 another name, which time cannot efface. The 
 lines are cut so deep, that even the ploughshare 
 of a successful rebellion cannot obliterate them. 
 Around the name there might appropriately be 
 the symbols of intense patriotism, unwavering 
 fortitude, and courage that never knew fear. That 
 name is Col. Lewis Benedict. At the battle of 
 Pleasant Hill, up Red river, while gallantly lead- 
 
37 
 
 ing his brigade, in the pursuit of the retreating 
 foe, and at the moment the glories of a great vic- 
 tory burst upon him, our hero was pierced by five 
 rebel bullets, and instantly fell, to rise no more. 
 In this engagement he was acting as Brigadier 
 General, and had succeeded in infusing his earnest 
 spirit, and undaunted bravery into the minds of 
 his officers and soldiers ; and hurling upon the 
 enemies of God and human freedom, the retribu- 
 tion that they richly deserved. But his zeal 
 always carrying him in into the thickest of the 
 fight ; his thought of himself being lost in his 
 love of country, his martyrdom seemed an inevi- 
 table fact, to which destiny pointed- It is a 
 wonder that such a hero escaped as long as he did. 
 Col. Benedict was with Gen. Banks in all his bat- 
 tles, and shared largely in his victories. His form 
 was conspicuous in the storming of Fort Hudson ; 
 and while that fort poured forth its showers of 
 shell and shot, he stood immovable amid the rain 
 of death, striving to do his duty, and save his men, 
 and his nation. 
 
 To the city of Albany belongs the honor of the 
 birth of this distinguished American soldier. He 
 was born of parents of the highest respectability, 
 on the second day of September, 1817. He studied 
 and graduated at Williams College, Williamstown, 
 
38 
 
 Mass., and prepared himself for the profession of 
 law. He held several important offices of trust 
 and responsibility in our city ; but when his 
 country was in peril, he left all and rushed to her 
 defense. 
 
 In 1861, he was commissioned as Lieut. Col. of 
 the 73d regiment, Excelsior Brigade ; and after 
 undergoing the hardships of a soldier, he fought 
 bravely at the battle at Williamsburg. Here he 
 was captured by the enemy, and after several 
 months imprisonment, he was released by 
 exchange. From that time to the hour of his 
 death, he gave his thoughts, energies, valor, and 
 aspirations, to his country's honor and salvation. 
 
 The patriotism, also, of William I. Wooley was 
 strikingly conspicuous. He was one of the first 
 to respond to the call of his country, and in spite 
 of ill health, and the remonstrances of friends who 
 felt that his impaired strength rendered him unfit 
 for service, he persevered in his noble efforts for 
 the defense of the nation until his death, which 
 occured in the Georgetown Hospital, July 13, 
 1861. 
 
 We approach next, another hero-martyr, whose 
 remains were recently borne from before this 
 pulpit, to rest in our quiet and beautiful cemetery. 
 In the character of Col. Lewis 0. Morris, there 
 
39 
 
 was a remarkable combination of tenderness and 
 valor, of kindness and bravery. Whether we look 
 at his gentle attentions as a husband and father, 
 or at his readiness to serve his soldiers or their 
 friends ; or at his bravery and splendid achieve- 
 ments upon the battle-field, we are impressed with 
 his pure and noble traits of character. 
 
 Col. Morris was born in this city, in August, 
 1824. He was educated at our academy, and 
 afterwards pursued his studies in Massachusetts. 
 His noble father having been killed at the siege 
 of Monterey, he received a commission in the 
 regular army. At the outbreak of the rebellion, 
 he was in Texas, in command of Fort Brown ; 
 and his company was the only one, if we are 
 rightly informed, that did not surrender to the 
 rebels, in that State. So highly was he regarded 
 by the military authorities, that he was appointed 
 to direct the operations against Fort Macon, in 
 North Carolina, which he captured and afterwards 
 commanded. It was a fort of great strength, and 
 its reduction was considered as one of the most 
 brilliant achievements of the war. 
 
 In the summer of 1862, Col. Morris was placed 
 in command of the 113th New York regiment, 
 raised in this city, which was the first regiment 
 from this State to arrive in Washington, at the 
 
40 
 
 moment when that city was threatened by the 
 rebel army. 
 
 When stationed afterwards at Fort Reno, an 
 elegant sword, sash, and belt, were presented to 
 him, in testimony of the affection and admiration 
 of the officers and soldiers, who had experienced 
 the kindness of his noble and generous heart. 
 
 Several months before he was killed, he sought 
 with diligence and earnestness an interest in the 
 blessed Saviour, and often conversed with his 
 devoted Chaplain, upon the interests of his 
 immortal soul. And after receiving his death 
 wound, and before he breathed his last, he 
 expressed his love for Jesus, his hope of Heaven, 
 and his readiness to depart and be with Christ. 
 
 Two days before the death of Col. Morris, a 
 beloved and honored member of his staff preceded 
 him in the mysterious journey to the spirit land. 
 I allude to the youthful William Emmet Orr, 
 acting assistant Adjutant General, with the rank 
 of First Lieutenant, who was born in this city, 
 September 12th, 1841. His ancestors combined 
 the best, and most vigorous qualities of the Scotch 
 and Irish character ; and young Orr partook 
 largely of these elements. In his early childhood 
 he manifested an amiable and lovely disposition, 
 great purity of heart and of life, and was remar- 
 
41 
 
 kable for his obedience and affection as a son. 
 At the age of sixteen years, during a season of 
 special religious interest, he consecrated himself 
 to the service of his blessed Saviour, and united 
 with the Second Presbyterian Church, of this city, 
 under the pastoral care of the Rev. Dr. Sprague. 
 He entered upon the christian life with high aims, 
 and with just views of the nature and obligations 
 of a public profession of his faith. 
 
 He was educated at the excellent school, con- 
 ducted by the Rev. Mr. Pierson, in Elizabeth, 
 New Jersey, and was afterwards a student at the 
 Rochester University. His intellectual attain- 
 ments, combined with his social and benevolent 
 traits of character, rendered him a most agreea- 
 ble companion ; and those who were with him at 
 Fort Reno, and other places where he was 
 stationed, speak of him with fondness and 
 admiration. 
 
 Lieut. Orr was also an earnest patriot, and 
 courageous soldier. One who saw him on the 
 field, when shot and shell were flying thick around 
 him, and his comrades were falling, said, that his 
 bravery could not be surpassed. In the thickest 
 of the fight, his calm resolution, and fervid and 
 lofty patriotism never forsook him. He looked 
 
42 
 
 not at danger, but at duty. He asked not for a 
 position of ease and safety, but for one where he 
 could best serve his country, and honor his God. 
 
 After spending a night in the rifle pits with 
 Col. Morris, he retired with others in the morn- 
 ing to the woods to take breakfast, when he was 
 shot by a rebel, who fired from a tree. After 
 receiving the fatal wound, he was borne in a 
 rough conveyance forty miles, and was attended 
 by his colored servant on foot, a bright lad of 
 fourteen years, named William Webster, whose 
 mother is a slave at the South. This devoted 
 boy did all in his power for the comfort of our 
 hero ; and at every stopping place filled his can- 
 teen with fresh water for him. To his attentions 
 Lieut. Orr attributed the prolongation of his life ; 
 and the youth is now rewarded by the kind inter- 
 est of the family, in his welfare and education. 
 
 The last few days of Mr. Orr's life, were days 
 of extreme prostration and suffering. He was 
 attended by his devoted parents, who did all in 
 their power for his relief. But on Thursday 
 morning, June 2d, 1864, at one-half past two 
 o'clock, his feet and hands grew cold, his breath- 
 ing was labored, and in a few moments he bid 
 farewell to his dear friends, his delightful home, 
 his bleeding country, and was attended by the 
 
43 
 
 angels of God, to the mansions prepared for him 
 in the Heavens by the Saviour, whom he loved. 
 
 Among others who deserve our tribute of grati- 
 tude, are the honored names of Major William 
 Wallace, Capt. H. N. Merriman, both brave, 
 christian soldiers; Capt. Edwin Forrest, George 
 W. Kilbourn, and Capt. Robert H. Bell, the latter 
 of whom served with great faithfulness and bra- 
 very under the lamented Col. Morris. 
 
 We have also another youth, whom nothing but 
 a sense of duty led to abandon the peaceful pur- 
 suits of life, and plunge into the perils of the 
 battle-field. I allude to the young hero, William 
 A. Van Gaasbeck, who was born in this city, 
 Sept. 5th, 1841 ; and who, when 18 years of age, 
 went to New York to engage in mercantile pur- 
 suits. Immediately on the news of the first firing 
 upon Fort Sumter, he wrote to his father, that he 
 felt it to be his duty to give up his situation, and 
 enlist in defense of his country. And from that 
 time up to the 6th of June, 1864, when he was 
 wounded in the arm, a period of two years and 
 nine months, he served his country with distin- 
 guished bravery and faithfulness. His letters 
 were always cheerful. He never complained of 
 the hardships of a soldier's life, and never asked 
 for a furlough to visit his home and friends. And 
 
44 
 
 even after his arm was taken off at the shoulder, 
 he expressed a hope of a speedy recovery, that he 
 might return again to his battery. But God willed 
 otherwise ; and on the 23d of June, he died at 
 Davis Island, near New York, attended by his 
 beloved mother. 
 
 William was a truthful, pure minded, affec- 
 tionate boy. His sense of right and honor were 
 so high, that he could not be tempted to perform 
 a mean or wrong act. The history of his anxie- 
 ties, sufferings, dangers, and acute pains at the 
 last, are known only to himself and his God. 
 
 But there is one other, for whom the tears of 
 sorrow are not yet dry ; one whose funeral servi- 
 ces are fresh in our memory, the tidings of whose 
 death fell as a thunderbolt upon the hearts of a 
 widowed mother, and a wide circle of relatives and 
 friends. I allude to a child of the covenant, who, 
 in infancy, was brought to the altar, and solemnly 
 dedicated to the Father, the Son, and the Holy 
 Ghost. His name was written in the church 
 books, and in the book of life, Charles E. Pruyn. 
 He was the son of Col. Samuel Pruyn. His 
 footsteps through childhood and youth were fol- 
 lowed by christian counsels and fervent prayers. 
 At the beginning of the war, he, actuated by the 
 purest patriotism, bid adieu to the attractions of 
 
45 
 
 home, and went to the battle-field, as a Lieutenant 
 in the 96th regiment. Very soon it was apparent 
 that he possessed, in a very eminent degree, all 
 the qualities of a soldier, a patriot, and a christian. 
 He said very little about his devotion to his 
 country, or his willingness to make sacrifices to 
 maintain our nationality ; but three years of 
 almost unmitigated toil, privation, and suffering, 
 endured without a single complaint, prove the 
 spirit of this young officer. His coolness in the 
 severest conflict ; his unflinching bravery, when 
 soldiers were falling and dying all around him ; his 
 brotherly kindness to the sick and wounded, were 
 often the subject of remark from his superior 
 officers, and of expression of deep gratitude from 
 the recipients of his attentions. 
 
 His regiment was in Casey's division; and at 
 the terrific battle of Fair Oaks was in the advance, 
 and suffered most severely. Lieut. Pruyn had 
 just risen from a sick bed, and weak as he was, he 
 participated in the struggle and dangers of that 
 fearful encounter. It will be remembered that 
 that division was severely censured b}^ the Gen- 
 eral in command ; a censure, however, which he 
 was afterwards compelled to retract. But it had 
 a cruel effect on the heart of our young patriot. 
 For him, after all his struggles, and sufferings, 
 
46 
 
 to be branded as a coward, and that too by his 
 commander whom he had almost worshipped, was 
 too much for him. Sick in body, and deeply dis- 
 tressed in spirit, he resigned his commission. 
 But this step he soon regretted, and resolved, 
 before he reached his home, to return to the 
 service. A severe illness, contracted during that 
 dreadful campaign, compelled him to delay any 
 efforts to do so, for several weeks. But before he 
 was sufficiently recovered to leave his room, he 
 was offered the position of Adjutant, in the 118th 
 regiment of N. Y. Vol., then organizing in Pitts- 
 burgh. After careful deliberation he accepted 
 the appointment, and left his home when too ill 
 to sit up, more than a few hours at once. 
 
 After some months, he was recommended, by 
 the almost unanimous vote of the officers, for the 
 position of Major of the regiment. Though the 
 senior Captain had a superior claim, in the regu- 
 lar line of promotion, still he urged the appoint- 
 ment of Mr. Pruyn, " because he had earned, and 
 deserved the promotion." 
 
 A few weeks since, he was badly wounded in 
 the foot, and the surgeon and others urged him to 
 remain in the hospital, as his foot was much 
 inflamed; but he insisted upon being with his 
 noble comrades, and spending all his strength in 
 
the service of his country. On the loth of June, 
 the instant after he had, in a clear, ringing voice, 
 uttered the words, " Attention, Battalion !" pre- 
 paratory to giving the order "Charge," a shell 
 exploded upon his breast, terribly mangling his 
 body ; and with the single exclamation, " Oh !" 
 he expired instantly. He fell at the early age of 
 23 years. His body was embalmed, and on 
 Monday, June 27th, it was borne, under military 
 escort, to his last resting place, in the Albany 
 Rural Cemetery. 
 
 The moral character of our brave and honored 
 townsman was irreproachable. Neither the tempt- 
 ations of the cit}^, nor the trials of camp life, made 
 any inroads upon his lofty principles, and 
 unwavering integrity. When he came back to 
 his home to recruit, he was the same pure minded 
 youth, and tender and affectionate son, that he 
 was when he enlisted to fight the battles of his 
 country. 
 
 But it is of his christian character, his abiding 
 confidence in God, and his hope in Jesus Christ, 
 his Saviour, that we delight to speak. At the 
 early age of fifteen, he made a public jorofession 
 of his religious faith. He entered upon his chris- 
 tian duties, with an earnest desire to be a 
 consistent, faithful, and useful, servant of his 
 
48 
 
 divine master. His recent letters to his fond 
 mother indicate the growth of his spiritual life. 
 In one he said: "I have given up all speculations 
 upon our movements and prospects ; where we 
 are going, and what is before us, I do not know ; 
 but I am happy and contented. I have commit- 
 ted myself fully to the God of battles, and he will 
 do just what is best for me." His chaplain gave, 
 also, the most consoling and abundant testimony 
 to his preparation for the realities of eternity ; 
 and letters received, since his death, from soldiers, 
 express the warmth of their affection for the 
 departed.* 
 
 * The following tribute to his memory has been received since the 
 delivery of this discourse: 
 
 Headquarters 118th N. Y. S. V., ^ 
 
 In the Trenches. Before Petersburg, Va., > 
 
 July 20th, 1864. ) 
 
 Mrs. Mary Pruyn, Albany, N. Y.: 
 
 Madam — Enclosed I send you extract from General Orders No. 80, 
 Headquarters Department Virginia and North Carolina, just received at 
 these headquarters. 
 
 It will assure you that the name of your lamented son is still identified 
 with the struggle, towards the success of which he contributed his young 
 life. The nobly fallen have not been forgot. en — their memory has beeu 
 most fittingly honored. 
 
 Alorg our outer lines their names have been set — gems of encourage- 
 ment to ourselves — signs of warning to the foe. 
 
 It shall be our effort to emulate the brightness of their example — their 
 devotion — that their sacrifices may prove to have been in behalf of a 
 cause as gloriously successful as it is gloriously righteous. 
 I am, Madam, most respectfully, 
 
 J. L. Cunningham, 
 Captain Commanding 118th N. T. V. 
 
49 
 
 When such sacrifices are offered up for the 
 salvation of our country, may we not hope and 
 believe that God will spare the republic ; secure 
 the triumph of universal liberty ; give to us a 
 future of honor and prosperity ; and allow memo- 
 ries like these to be embalmed in the gratitude 
 and admiration of posterity ? 
 
 To the bereaved fathers, mothers, widows, and 
 sisters, before me, we offer our tenderest sympa- 
 thies, and the consolations of our holy religion. 
 In the name of the American government and 
 people ; in the name of the christian church, so 
 intimately identified, as we believe, with our 
 national history ; in the name of the friends of 
 civil liberty throughout the world, we thank you 
 for your precious gifts ; and it is our fervent 
 prayer to Almighty God, that you may be pre- 
 pared to meet the christian heroes who have gone 
 
 [Official.} 
 
 Headquarters Department op Virginia and North Carolina, I 
 In the Field. Va., July 15th, 18G4. ^ 
 
 General Orders No. 80. 
 
 In honor of the memory of some of the gallant dead of this army, who 
 having fallen in this campaign, the redoubts and batteries on the lines 
 will hereafter he known as follows, viz: — * * 
 
 Battery No. G is named Battery Pruyn, after Major Charles E. Pruyn, 
 One Hundred and Eighteenth New York Volunteers. 
 
 By command of Major Gen. B. F. Butler. 
 
 (Signed) R. S. Davis, 
 
 Major and Assistant Adjutant General. 
 
50 
 
 before you, to those blissful regions, over which 
 the Prince of peace reigns ; and where the bless- 
 ings of loyalty and love, are the portion of all the 
 subjects of the Supreme and Glorious King. 
 
 

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