1st Regiment Cavalry, NY Volunteers
Civil War Newspaper Clippings

CAVALRY REGIMENT ACCEPTED.
Telegraphic despatch received last evening from Colonel Andrew T. McReynolds, now in command of the regiment of cavalry organized by the Hon. Carl Schurz accounced the acceptance by the President of that regiment. This removes entirely the clouds which have thus far surrounded the cavalry movements in this city, as seven companies of that regiment have been raised here. Four of these companies are composed of wealthy, intelligent and energetic Americans, whose headquarters have been so long at Palace Garden; the other three companies are composed of Germans. Two additional companies, mounted and equipped, were raised in Ohio, and three more in Pennsylvania, also mounted and equipped, constituting a regiment of twelve companies, or twelve hundred men. The companies in this city are not equipped, but many of our wealthy citizens have signified their willingness to contribute to that end so soon as satisfactory assurances of acceptance were received. They can now have an opportunity to show their liberality by placing this effective body of men, now so greatly needed, in the field as speedily as possible. A meeting of the four American companies will be held at Palace Garden this evening, and all persons who have signed the rolls are requested to be present. A few more respectable able bodied men who are accustomed to the saddle are wanted, and any such can enroll their names at headquarters, at the recruiting stations, No. 267 Broadway, and in Cortlandt street, near the Western Hotel.

LINCOLN CAVALRY.
The members of company B, of this regiment, will meet at Disbrow's Riding Academy, at noon on Friday, 19th inst., for the purpose of electing officers and being mustered into service. A preliminary meeting will be held this evening at eight o'clock.
J. C. BATTERSLY, Acting Captain.
Company C of this regiment will be mustered into the United States service on Friday, by Capt. Hayman, U. S. A. A preliminary meeting of these companies will be held at eight 'o'clock this evening, at headquarters, Disbrow's Riding Academy. An election of officers will be held previous to mustering in. A punctual attendance is requested for this evening. A few more able bodied, experienced horsemen will be accepted.

THE CAVALRY REGIMENT.
Despatches have again been received from the Secretary of War, ordering Col. McReynolds to bring his regiment immediately to Washington. It is scarcely necessary to say that this regiment is not quite ready to move, and it is the Secretary's fault that it is not. His unwillingness to give any encouragement to those who undertook the organization of the regiment when the war first broke out is the sole cause of the delay that will now be necessary before it is ready to move. Let the department intrust Col. McReynolds with the proper authority for equipping and perfecting the regiment, and he will be ready to move with at least half his force in the course of a fortnight. Cavalry regiments, as Mr. Cameron ought to know, are things not perfected in a day. The Hon. Bayard Clark has gone to Washington on business connected with the regiment.

THE LINCOLN CAVALRY.
Colonel McReynolds, who is now in Washington, telegraphed to his regiment last evening that the government has agreed to furnish horses, equipments, army uniforms, and everything necessary to the complete outfit of his regiment. Orders to that effect have been issued. There is yet room for a few enterprising young men of the right stamp. Col. McReynolds is a distinguished officer, and he intends to make the Lincoln cavalry a crack regiment. Members of the regiment are requested to report them selves at headquarters—the Americans at Disbrow's riding school, and the Germans at Elm Park, to-morrow night at eight o'clock.

LINCOLN CAVALRY.
At Conrad Park yesterday (Sunday), Mr. D. Meldola Levi of the Young Men's Christian Association conducted the religious exercise, using the impressive service of the Episcopal Church; after which he delivered a short and patriotic address, urging them to lead a true Christian life, which would be sure to make them good soldiers. The men all seemed to enter heartily in the exercise, and all joining in the hymns; after which they were presented with tracts by the Association. (July 15, 1861)

LINCOLN CAVALRY.
This regiment, commanded by Colonel Andrew T. McReynolds, is now nearly full, and will be sent on to Washington on Monday next. Company D was yesterday mustered into the United States service by Captain Hayman, United States infantry, under the following commissioned officers:—Captain, D. H. Harkins; First Lieutenant, __. C. Sprague; Second Lieutenant, Jas. F. Duffy The company numbered eighty first class men, who were pronounced by the mustering officer to be the finest looking volunteers yet accepts from this city. As each company is allowed ninety-five men, a few more experienced horsemen will be received and immediately provided with rations, horses and equipments. The members of Company B are hereby notified that a special meeting of this company will be held at headquarters, Disbrow's Riding Academy, corner of Thirty ninth street and Fifth avenue, on Thursday evening, July 18, at eight o'clock. Punctual attendance is particularly requested. If the requisite number of members are present the company will be mustered into the United States service on Friday morning, and go immediately into camp, receiving pay and subsistence. A few more able bodied horsemen will be accepted. By older of Colonel A. T. McReynolds.

LINCOLN CAVALRY.
The members of Company B will meet this day, at twelve o'clock, noon, at Disbrow's Riding School, for the purpose of electing officers and being mustered into service. J. C. BATTUSH, Acting Captain.
The members of Company B will hold a meeting this morning, at ten o'clock, at the headquarters, corner of Thirty-ninth street and Fifth avenue. They will be mustered into service after the election of officers. Company D, Captain Harkins, will go into camp at Elm Park to day. They have been mustered into the service, but will take a few more men. They can apply at the above headquarters or at the camp.

LINCOLN CAVALRY.
Seven companies have been mustered into service, and the roll is fast filling up with good and substantial men. Recruiting offices have been established throughout various parts of the city. Headquarters, Disbrow's Riding Academy.

THE LINCOLN CAVALRY.
Notwithstanding the great difficulties this regiment has had to struggle against, it is now nearly completed upon the basis started for its formation. There were yesterday reported as recruited and encamped, fourteen companies, of ninety-five men each. There are two encampments: one at Bellevue Garden, at the foot of Eighty-second street, East River, occupied exclusively by American companies; and the second at Elm Park, which is made up of German companies. Thus, with the Michigan companies, lately added, and those at Cincinnati, make up a full regiment. A new company is being recruited by Captain Otto, who formerly held a commission for many years in the Russian Army, and has also served in the American Army. A large number of the officers and privates have served one or more terms in the European armies. Recruiting offices have been opened at Held's Hotel, in the Bowery, and Elm Park, and a tent in the City Hall Park. At present, the expediency of forming a brigade is being canvassed by Col. McReynolds. In addition to the companies enumerated, he has already accepted several other companies, recruiting for which is now going on.

THE FIRST NEW YORK CAYALRY.—Captain Battersby, of the 1st New York Cavalry regiment, comes to this city with orders from Gen. Couch, in order to confer with Gov. Seymour, relative to the filling up of his regiment. This fine corps left the city in the summer of 1861, since which time they have been doing most arduous duty in Virginia, having served with McClellan on the peninsula, with Burnside at Fredericksburg, and throughout the other important campaigns. The regiment went out over one thousand strong, and has been greatly reduced from disease and sickness.

MILITARY MOVEMENTS IN THE CITY.
DEPARTURE OF THB LINCOLN CAVALRY. PRESENATION TO COLONEL M'REYNOLDS OF A WAR HORSE, BY RICHARD BUSTEED, ETC.
After various delays the Lincoln Cavalry, to the number of about-one thousand men, got away yesterday afternoon, en route for Washington, at which place they are to hold themselves in readiness to take a prominent part in the bloody conflict about to be inaugurated for the salvation of the Union, and the perpetuation of those principles of liberty handed down to us by our forefathers. This regiment--composed of Americans, Irishmen and Germans--is one of the finest that has left this city yet. The men composing the regiment want to fight for the "Union, the whole Union, and nothing but the Union;" and with such a motive, and such a noble field before them, they cannot fail to make stern resistance to rebellious subjects, and fight till they expend the last drop of their blood for the restoration of that prosperity and happiness which have already been partially destroyed, and which can only be regained by bringing back those to fealty who have made the rash attempt of subverting the lawful government, and tried to separate from the parent branch.
About twelve o'clock the regiment arrived in Fourteenth street, and having been drawn up in front of the Academy of Music, ex-corporation Counsel Busteed, in behalf of a few friends of the regiment, proceeded to present Colonel McReynolds with a splendid dapple gray charger.
Adjutant Battersby, having drawn up the regiment in proper form, Mr. Busteed proceeded to present the animal to the Colonel in a short and appropriate speech. Mr. Busteed (addressing the Colonel) said he had the happiness of being the medium of presenting to him, in behalf of his friends in New York, and for his use in the war, the charger on his left. It was presented to him in consideration of his character as a gentleman, as well as of his qualities as a soldier. In making this present they were not unmindful of Colonel McReynolds' former services to the country. In the Mexican war he had been one of the first in the field, and retired wounded and with honors; and raised again he was ready for action. Although a citizen of the United States only by adoption, his desire for the welfare of the country a second time impelled him to hazard the dangers of war, that its government might be upheld. The speaker regarded the present time as one of the very deepest interest. There never was a time when the country more needed high toned and courageous men than now. To be one of the soldiers whom the exigency needed, the Colonel had given up his government pension to re-enter the field of glorious activity. He (Mr. B) would not transgress the propriety of the occasion by referring to politics.
All parties were now submerged in a willing and unfaltering devotion to the country. (Applause.) It was a great mistake to suppose that the war now on foot was one of malice. It was an effort to uphold the constitution, by men irrespective of party, against an intestine foe. After deciding our capacity to take care of the constitution, then we could settle the questions of difference incidental to politics. He was not speaking this only for the friends of the Colonel, but, he believed, in saying so he spoke the sentiments of all patriots. (Applause.) He hoped the Colonel would return from this war with more glorious results than he had from the Mexican war. The men (turning to them) understood their commander — (applause) — they knew he would lead them on to victory. (Applause) They knew his past history, and were willing to serve with zeal under such a commander. (Applause.) Mr. Busteed closed by saying that he had no doubt both they and their commander would give a good account of themselves, to the satisfaction of the earnest desires and hopes of their friends. (Applause.) Three cheers for the Colonel were called for from the ranks, and given with much heartiness by the men. The Colonel then mounted the horse in waiting, uncovered, and replied to Mr. Busteed, that he should do injustice to his own feelings if he failed to respond to his expressions. He appreciated to the fullest extent the present. In regard to the allusions to his services already rendered in the field, he could only say he had done what a citizen in position which he occupied should do (applause); he defended the Stars and Stripes—the emblem of our country's brightness and glory. Although not a citizen of New York, he was indebted to New Yorkers for much favor. He was from Michigan—an adopted citizen of that State. He thanked police and the press of this city for their many acts of kindness to him and his regiment, who were going to the field not as partisans, but to fight the battles of the country. They went to the South to fight for South—to fight for its loyal citizens, to secure to them peace at home, and the benefits of the government of their and our fathers. (Applause.) He trusted that when the citizens of New York heard from the Lincoln Cavalry on it would be the glory of the regiment. Applause.) In conclusion he returned his thanks to the donors for present made him.
The charger is named Lightfoot. Its color is dappled gray. It is a Virginia bred animal, very docile, yet active. Mr. Disbrow formerly owned it, but some time ago sold it to Mr. Merrill, from whom it was purchased for presentation to Colonel McReynolds, at the price $500. The Colonel was a Major in the Mexican war, was wounded in his bridle arm, so that he can only raise it a short distance, and therefore he requires a charger he can easily guide. His friends have suited him perfectly this respect. Lightfoot is trained to fire and music.
After the presentation the officers took their respective positions, and then the regiment, a section of police, headed by Shelton's band of sixteen pieces, at half past one o'clock marched off through Union square to Broadway, and thence down to pier No. 1 North river, where they embarked for Elizabethport, their destination being Washington via Harrisburg.
The regiment numbered about seven hundred men. One of the German companies wore green sprigs on the front of their caps, and another had gray blankets rolled up and slung over the right shoulder and under the left arm.
It was expected that Mrs. Lincoln would have been present and presented the regiment with a stand of colors, but that lady did not leave her seclusion at Long Branch for that purpose, although the Colonel had intimation that she would make a presentation in person.
About half-past three o'clock the regiment arrived at pier No. 1 North river, where one of the Camden and Amboy boats was ready to take them aboard. Although Broadway was not so crowded as on previous occasions, still the enthusiasm of the people was as warm and genial as ever, and cheer followed cheer as the men passed along. About five o'clock the steamboat left the pier with the Lincoln Cavalry aboard, amidst cheers from a number of people.
The following is a list of the officers, so far as they have been appointed:—
Colonel—Andrew J. McReynolds.
Lieutenant Colonel—Count Moltki.
Adjutant—Jason Battersby.
Chaplain—Rev. Dr. Chas. Reighley (Episcopalian).
Surgeon—C. Elliott.
Quartermaster—E. H. Bailey.
Aid-de-Camp—F. C. Adams.
Company Captains—Ogle, Hawkins, Todd, Sternes, Bennett, Stosch, Houround and Shackelford.
The regiment will not be in a proper state of organization until they reach Washington and get their horses, &c.

The Late Lieutenant Hidden of the Lincoln Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST N. Y. V. CAVALRY.
Camp Kearny, Va., March 18, 1862.
Sir—It becomes my painful duty to forward herewith a series of resolutions adopted by the commissioned officers of my regiment, expressive of their profound grief for the death of your gallant son, First Lieutenant Harry B. Hidden, and in their name to console with you in this your sad bereavement.
His family and friends have this consolation, melancholy though it be, that no soldier ever died a braver or nobler death. May a kind Providence, who doeth all things well, assuage your grief. I am sincerely your friend and obedient servant,
ANDREW T. McREYNOLDS,
Colonel First N. Y. V. cavalry.
Enoch Hidden, Esq., No. 72 St. Mark's place, New York city, N. Y.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION
March 13, 1862.
Colonel—I enclose you my report to General Franklin, in embodying the high opinion of the squadron of your regiment under my command in the late advance on Manassas. Respectfully, your obedient servant,
P. KEARNY, Brigadier General.
Colonel McReynolds, First (Lincoln Horse) New York cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST NEW YORK CAVALRY,
March 15, 1862.
At a meeting of the officers of the First New York (Lincoln) cavalry regiment, held at Camp Kearny, Va., on Saturday evening, March 15, immediately on the return of the regiment from the advance to Manassas, for the purpose of expressing their sentiments regarding the death of Lieutenant H. B. Hidden, of Company H, Colonel A. T. McReynolds was called to the chair, and Lieutenant C. Thomson appointed Secretary. Colonel McReynolds explained the object of the meeting and in a few eloquent words paid a most touching tribute to the worth of the deceased.
On motion, a committee, consisting of Majors Ogle and Haurand and Captains Bennett, Stearns and Count Hosch, was appointed to draft suitable resolutions. After a short consultation the committee reported the following:
Whereas, we are suddenly called upon to contemplate the removal from our midst of Lieutenant H. B. Hidden, of Company H, who met a soldier's death at the hands of his country's enemies, on Sunday, the 9th inst., at Sangster's Station. In his death we have lost an esteemed friend, a gallant soldier and a brilliant social companion. While far in advance of the army, attached to a small command for the purpose of ascertaining the location and strength of the enemy, he was called upon to perform extraordinary services and to undergo unusual hardships. He shrank from no emergency, but was only too anxious to be placed where the danger was greatest. When finally brought face to face with an opposing force, far superior to his as regards numbers, he did not hesitate a moment, but at the head of fourteen men charged upon one hundred and fifty well armed infantry, driving them from the field, capturing thirteen prisoners, and utterly dispersing the entire force, while cutting his way to the officer commanding the enemy, his brilliant career was ended forever by a single shot, which killed him instantly. In the language of his commanding officer, "Lieutenant Hidden has illustrated, in the sacrifice of his life, the whole cavalry service: he has introduced for it a new era." It is therefore,
Resolved, That we, the officers of the First New York cavalry, do most sincerely regret the loss of our esteemed friend and companion, Lieutenant H. B. Hidden, whose talents as an officer, and whose superior social qualities endeared him alike to his brother officers and to his subordinates.
Resolved, That we extend to the friends and relatives of the deceased our warmest sympathies, and sincerely regret that our duties in the field would not permit us to pay to his remains that attention which we should otherwise have claimed as our privilege to do.
Resolved, That a copy of the above proceedings, together with the report of General Kearny, be furnished to the friends of the deceased, that they be published in the New York papers, and that they be preserved among the records of the regiment.
The resolutions were unanimously adopted.
On motion, Colonel McReynolds was requested to procure a sufficient number of photographs of the deceased to supply each officer with a copy.
On motion, the meeting adjourned sine die.
AND'W T. McREYNOLDS,
Colonel First New York Volunteer cavalry, Chairman.
CLIFFORD THOMSON, Secretary.

A GALLANT AFFAIR.
Defeat of Rebel Cavalry in the Shenandoah Valley.
WASHINGTON, MAY 29.—The following was received at the headquarters of the Army to-day:
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES Forces,
BERRYVILLE, Va., May 19, 1863.
CAPTAIN: The affair of the 16th, by the advance guard of the First New York, was more disastrous to the rebel party at Berry's Ferry than was at first realized. Out of the 22 rebels, two were killed, five wounded and ten captured, and this by sixteen men of the First New York Cavalry. One of the killed was Capt. W. W. Mead. He was shot from his horse and drowned in the river. I forward a document taken from his pocket, being the authority from the rebel Secretary of War to organize his company in White's battalion. Among the prisoners is one Surgeon and Lieut. Morgan. Lieut. Vermillian, who commanded the party, is entitled to all praise. The rebels were in ambush and permitted the party to pass. The first intimation they had of their presence was a volley and their immediate formation in their rear on the road. Vermillion's men instantly wheeled about and charged, with the results already reported. I have the honor to be your obedient servant.
ANDREW L. McREYNOLDS,
Colonel First New York Cavalry, Commanding.
Capt. John O. CRAVENS, Assistant Adjutant General,
2d division, 8th Army Corps, Winchester, Va.

LETTER FROM CAPT. WOODRUFF'S COMPANY.
Syracuse cavalry in the Summer Campaign— Splendid Charges led by Lieut. Woodruff, on Jenkins' Rebel Cavalry—Company "F" at the Winchester Battle--The campaign in Pennsylvania-- Capt. Jones and Lieut. Woodruff, with 190 men capture rebel wagon train, prisoners, guns, &c.--An Unparallelled Exploit, Incidents, &c., &c.

CAMP 1ST N. Y. CAVALRY,
Headquarters Co. "F" Sharpsburg, Md.,
July 24, 1863.
MESSRS. EDITORS STANDARD:--If I Mistake not the last letter written by me for the Standard, was dated from Berryville, Va.—Since that time Capt. Bennett, of "F", forwarded to Washington his resignation, which to the surprise of everybody, was accepted. But Capt. B.'s love for the service would not permit him to leave it; he purchased a wagon and became "a cheese and cake pedlar'' to soldiers. In military phraseology, "he's gone as a Sutler!"
Immediately upon the resignation of Bennett, Lieut. Chas. E. Woodruff was placed in command of Company F, in accordance with the wishes of the boys; for we value and respect an officer that is on hand and in fighting trim when blows the blast of battle, We acknowledge Lieut. W. as an intrepid soldier—a valiant leader, always "in front" when daring deeds are to be done. Lieut. Woodruff has merited promotion by exemplary conduct on several occasions since the regiment has in active service. Not only this,—he is the senior Lieutenant of the regiment and while we of Company F cherish our past associations with him in the camp and battle-field, we are more than elated to know that now his advancement is sure, in spite of O'Brien's assertion that

In the Army there's hard service, boys
Promotion's very slow.

Hereafter Company F shall not want for opportunity to distinguish itself, as it has already done in the recent battles in the Winchester valley, and still later capture of a wagon train near Green Castle, Pa., which events, memorable and distinguishable as they are, it is the pleasant privilege of your correspondent to chronicle.
On Friday, the 12th of June, it was ascertained that a large rebel force had moved had moved into the Shenandoah Valley for the purpose of capturing the forces at Berryville, consisting of two infantry regiments, one battery of artillery, and one regiment of (lst N. Y.) Cavalry, the whole under command of Col. A. T. McReynold, of "ours."
On Saturday morning, the 13th, Col. McReynolds, having sent his wagon train to Martinsburg, evacuated Berryville, moving toward Winchester. The 1st N. Y. Cavalry acted as rear-guard, repelling the rebel forces under Gens. Jenkins and Imboden, which were in close pursuit, while the infantry and artillery reached Winchester in safety.
At the junction of the Winchester and Smithfield roads, near the Opequon Creek, the rebel cavalry charged upon the 1st New York. The enemy's forces in advance, consisted of two full regiments of cavalry and one regiment of mounted infantry.
The German battallion, which had been formed in line at an angle of the road, retreated before superior numbers in considerable confusion. Capts. Boyd, Simmons and Jones, and Lieut. Woodruff, exerted every effort to rally them, but in vain. Lieut. W., with his own company and Company "M,"-- whose commanding officer, Lieut. Pender-..ist, had just been made prisoner,) charged impetuously upon the advancing column of the enemy. The spirited and determined onset of F and M repelled and checked the rebel advance, at which juncture Capt. Jones brought up a portion of the 1st Battallion, and completed the work so nobly begun. The rebels beat a hasty retreat, leaving behind them 19 killed and 47 wounded—among the latter a Major and two Captains.
I have not space to particularize all the individual instances of bravery in this terrible contest. Company F took the advance. The encounter they had was hand to hand, and blade to blade. Honorable mention is due Sergts. Barton, Baughan and Lake, and privates Wright, Williamson, Warren, May and Manhattan, all "the bravest of the brave," for meritorious conduct during the engagement. The last named four were wounded, and three of them, Williamson, May and Manhattan, fell into the hands of the enemy.
Manhattan subsequently escaped. His captors disarmed him and placed one man as guard over him. The rebel held in his hand Manhattan's belt, with sabre attached, and our comrade coolly but with anxious eye watched for an opportunity to grasp it. The opportunity came, and the remainder of the story is told in the following famous and classic lines:

"The Yankee lad the weapon seized--it was the best of blades--
He stuck it in the rebel's ribs, and sent him to the shades."

Near midnight we reached Winchester, and on Sunday participated in the disastrous and bloody engagements upon Winchester Heights. On Monday morning we led the vanguard of what remained of Milroy's Army, fighting our way through a tremendous force placed between us and Martinsburg for the purpose of surrounding us. Here it was that our regiment charged upon a rebel battery, taking it but being without infantry support could not hold it.
We reached Hancock the same day, going from thence to Bedford and Bloody Run in Pennsylvania. Subsequently we were ordered to Loudon, a village lying north west from Green Castle and 13 miles distant.
While encamped at Loudon, scouts reported an immense rebel train passing towards Hagerstown, Gen. Lee's army being then in full retreat.
On Sunday, July 5th, Capt. Jones determined to make a sudden dash upon the train, and if possible capture a portion of it. In this daring enterprise he had the active co-operation and invaluable assistance of Lieut. Woodruff, and the expedition was remarkably successful. In fact, could any one doubt its success when led by officers so daring and courageous. Fortes fortuna juvat!
With a force of only one hundred and ninety men--one hundred from the 1st New York and ninety from the 12th Pa. Cavalry--Capt. Jones marched to Mercersburg, and from thence took a by-road that intersected at right angles with the Cumberland valley turnpike, about 10 miles from the latter place and equidistant between Green Castle, Pa., and Hagerstown, Md.
From an anjacent hill Lieut. Woodruff, with his advance guard, reconnoitred the road. He could see the immense train moving slowly on guarded as was subsequently ascertained, by two thousand of Imboden's cavalry, three pieces of artillery, and any quantity of infantry. That only two hundred men could successfully attack and cut in two a train so well guarded seems incredible and impossible. The enterprise is without question the most brilliant and unparalleled cavalry charge of the war. The intersecting by-road gave our forces the favorable opportunity to strike the train at its centre. It was a coup de main, Lieut. Woodruff—the reconnoisance having been successfully made—with twelve men of Co. F, led the charge. With drawn sabres, and with shouts that seemed to awaken the slumbering echoes of the whole Cumberland Valley, the undaunted lads of the 1st New York rushed upon the rebel train. So sudden and unexpected was the attack that the rebel guards were thunder-struck. Visions of Pleasanton's cavalry, of Kilpatrick, and of Gregg, floated through the excited brains of the chivalric Secesh. Said they: "Stuart can't whip these fellows, and it's useless for us to fight;" They threw down their arms and fled in every direction. We routed them "foot, horse and dragoon." The infantry begged for quarter, with cries of "For God's sake don't shoot us; we surrender.” The rebel cavalry, more than five times the number of our little band of heroes, scampered terribly panic-stricken, to an adjacent woods; many of them leaving their horses and concealing themselves in the bushes and wheat fields. The artillery, one 30- pounder and two 12-pounders, was abandoned by the guards. The riders of the 30 pound gun escaped with the horses by cutting the traces; we captured the others, horses and all.
While Lieut. Woodruff and his men gathered up the prisoners and guns, Capt. Jones and the force under him turned the train off the turnpike and started it in the direction of Mercersburg. A rebel reinforcement was coming up from Green Castle, and the inferior force we had, made delay dangerous. The captured train was hurried off rapidly, and prisoners marched off on the "double quick." What we captured amounted to 948 prisoners, (including the wounded in twenty ambulances,) 530 horses and mules, 103 wagons and ambulances, and 3 pieces of artillery. What we reached camp with amounted to 698 prisoners, about 90 wagons and ambulances, two pieces of artillery, and all the horses and mules. Owing to the inadequate guard (there being so few of us to watch so many prisoners) and the darkness of the night then rap- idly setting in, 260 prisoners slipped away from us before we reached Mercersburg. The wagons left were destroyed; the 30 pounder was spiked and abandoned for want of facilities wherewith to bring it off. At Mercersburg we halted, and a courier was dispatched to Loudon for reinforcements to take charge of the prisoners. Meanwhile gallant valiant boys, whose unparalleled exploit had become known in town, were regaled feasted by the fair ladies of Mercersburg.— And with savory and apetizing eatables, there came sweet words of delight, wonder and admiration. In fact ladies lionized the lads. It will be many a day ere and its hospitable ladies shall be forgotten. Long live the ladies of Mercersburg, Pa.
Incidents and instances of the desperate valor and invincible gallantry of the 1st New York Cavalry, are entitled to at least a passing notice. Two privates (I have not learned their names or the company they are attached to,) charged furiously upon fifteen rebels, routing them by individual prowess alone. The encounter resulted the death one of the heroes, but other brought off four prisoners had satisfaction of seeing the remainder, not killed or wounded, skedaddle before a reinforcement of ours in truly chivalric style, helter-skelter and pell-mell. Sergeant Barton, of Company F, captured six mounted men in one squad, and had more captured cavalry arms equipments than he could bring off the field. In fact twelve of Company F individually distinguished themselves. If justice is done then they will not be forgotten. Like King Arthur and his Knights of the merry olden time, the feats of arms of a single encounter has made them famous. Emblazoned on the living scroll of History, its storied pages all aglow with the golden light of their glorious deeds, shall be the names of the heroes of the 1st New York, and the lustre of their prowess and fame of their achievements shall be undimmed "to the latest syllable of recorded time."
Lieut. Woodruff in the advance, with his twelve of Company F, charged on a squadron of one hundred and fifty rebel infanty, capturing every man of them. The Major commanding them, mounted upon a fleet horse, attempted to escape. Lieut. W. ordered him to halt and surrender, but the rebel rode on. Coolly drawing his revolver from his holster, the Lieutenant with deliberate aim fired, and the rebel officer fell from his horse, mortally wounded. His horse, arms and equipments were brought in, but his body had interment in the soil he had come to desecrate and despoil. "Facilis descensus Averni!"
We lost in the affair one man killed and three wounded. Rebel loss, four killed and ten wounded.
The expedition having resulted so favorably to our forces, recommendations were immediately forwarded to Washington for the promotion of Capt. Jones and Lieut. Woodruff for services so distinguished and conduct so meritorious in the Pennsylvania campaign.
We are at this time pleasantly encamped on the old Antietam battle ground. We guard the Potomac fords with a strong picket force. On the 23d (yesterday) we visited Martinsburg with a force of two hundred cavalry-- remaining in town three hours. Martinsburg had been evacuated by the rebel forces the day previous. Several hospitals were found crowded with rebel sick and wounded. We took a number of prisoners, many of them stragglers.
Citizens in town stated to us positively that at least 20,000 wounded rebels passed through during the six days succeeding the Gettysburg battle. They say Lee's army is badly demoralized and disorganized. Whole regiments, or what remained of regiments, were shoeless; and they suffered from three days' fasting. The horses of the cavalry and artillery, for want of forage, were lean and worn out. Even the once sleek and plump-bodied Pennsylvania horses had been reduced to a guant and skeleton condition by hard usage and insufficient food. Many rebel soldiers expressed a willingness to return to the old flag and allegiance again, deeming their cause hopelessly lost.
Brig. Gen. McReynolds, with the forces here composing his command, will occupy Martinsburg to-morrow. Rebel pickets are in sight at the Ford, and we may have a fight en route.
Accept the kind regards of "old acquaintances" in Company F, and believe us, ever yours. Veritas.

FROM MARTINSBURG, VA.
From an Occasional Correspondent.
Martinsburg, Va., August 11, 1863.
Martinsburg bears the same appearance that it did before the invasion of General Lee, and but few faces amongst the residents are absent from one's memory. Little was done by the Rebel army except to the railroad which received their attention, some eight miles of the rails having been purloined. They also exacted provisions from the residents and in some cases exacted or compelled them to perform menial services.
Several of the hotels are opened again for business.
General McReynolds is in command here. The First New York Cavalry and the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry are encamped but a short distance from the town.
Bushwhacking has become flat and unprofitable, and but little of it is done.
The town of Winchester is in a forlorn condition; neither side occupy it and its inhabitants must necessarily enjoy profound quiet. A company of cavalry have had issued to it two days' rations and will pass through there on a scout.
A scouting party, composed principally of the First New York Cavalry, returned last night from a four day's scout. They entered Loudon county through Snicker's Gap, and reached Leesburg, destroyed a considerable amount of Rebel army stores, but saw no enemy.
The cars leave Baltimore at the same hours for Martinsburg, as they have since the summer arrangement.
Captain D. A. Bennett, the sutler of general headquarters, occupies the large store in which Dodson & Brother transacted business.

The Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry.
Correspondent of the Inquirer.
CAMP TWELFTH PENNA. CAVALRY, NEAR MARTINSBURG, VA.,
August 11, 1863.
Since our departure from Pennsylvania we have been stationed for several weeks in Sharpsburg, Md., occasionally varying the monotony of camp life by sending out scouting and foraging parties which thus far have been uniformly very successful.
Our division is at present under the command of Colonel McReynolds, of the first N. Y. (Lincoln Cavalry.) In the absence of the Colonel of the regiment, Major Titus has been placed in command and enjoys in a high degree the esteem and confidence of both officers and men. A large number of our men are at present on a scouting expedition, and I learn have just had a severe brush with the enemy near Winchester, capturing a number of prisoners, which are expected to-day.
The men of the regiment enjoy excellent health, and desire nothing more than a little rest, and then an opportunity to cross swords once more with the Rebels.

ARREST OF THE COMMANDER OF THE POST AT MARTINSBURG.—COL. MCREYNOLDS, of the 1st New York cavalry, known as the Lincoln cavalry, commander of the post of Martinsburg, Va., is in this city under arrest. The charges against Colonel McReynolds are that he has permitted rebel officers to promenade in Martinsburg unmolested, and that he has permitted and directed goods to be taken through Martinsburg without an examination by the provost marshal.

CHARLESTOWN, VA., NOV. 24TH, '63.
MR. MCNEIL.—SIR: Being a friend and comrade of your son, it becomes my duty to inform you that he is a prisoner in the hands of the enemy. He was captured near Berryville, one week ago yesterday. Fred and his comrades fought gallantly, but the enemy had fresh horses and superior numbers, and he and three of his comrades had to surrender to the rebels, but not until a long race and a severe running fight took place. Fred's horse gave out and he could not get away. He is safe, and I hope will soon join us again.
Yours respectfully,
R. C. Clark.

HALL PARK--DINNER AT THE JEFFERSON MARKET DRILL ROOM--GENERAL M'CLELLAN PRESENT--AN ENTHUSIASTIC RECEPTION TO THE LATE COMMANDER.
The First New York cavalry, Colonel A. T. McReynolds, having re-enlisted for the war, arrived in this city yesterday, and were the recipients of a most cordial and hearty reception at the hands of the public as well as the city authorities. All who are in any manner conversant with the history of the present war cannot fail to recognize the First New York cavalry as one of the best and bravest regiments in the service, and the reception accorded to these veterans yesterday afternoon was nothing but what was due to their gallantry while in active service.
At three o'clock the returning regiment filed through the Park, accompanied by the Seventh regiment, National Guard, Colonel Lefferts. They were reviewed by Mayor Gunther, accompanied by a large delegation of the Common Council. There was a large crowd of spectators congregated in the Park at the time who loudly cheered the returning volunteers. The men of the First presented a fine appearance. They looked, indeed, like veterans in every sense of the word. Their bronzed and hardy features betokened the hard service through which they has passed, while their marching and general movements proved the excellent military training which they had received at the hands of their officers. The route of the procession was up Broadway to Eighth street, along Eighth street to Sixth avenue, and thence up to the Jefferson market drill rooms, where they sat down to a splendid collation , provided by the city authorities.
After the soldiers had properly appeased their appetites, Alderman Hardy, as chairman of the Committee on National Affairs, welcomed the regiment in an eloquent and appropriate speech. He enumerated the many valuable services which they had rendered the country, and, concluded by toasting the Health of the First New York cavalry.
Col. McReynolds responded in a lengthy speech. He also alluded to the services which the First New York cavalry had rendered the government. When they returned, with less than one-third their number, he could but look upon them as a Spartan band. The gallant Colonel concluded by returning thanks for the hospitable and kind manner in which he had been received in the city of New York.
Alderman Hardy next proposed the toast of the officers of the First New York cavalry. Major Quinn responded, and introduced the Rev. Mr. Parker, who also spoke at some length. General Wetmore followed. Alderman Hardy then read the following relative to the regiment:--
HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF WESTERN VIRGINIA,
Feb. 14, 1864.
Major F. Quinn, Commanding First regiment, New York Cavalry:—
I desire to acknowledge the valuable services you have rendered during the time you have been attached to the First division. The gallantry and zeal displayed by the officers and men on all occasions, and the promptitude with which you have discharged your arduous duties, have been excelled by no other cavalry regiment in the United States service. I trust you will meet with that hearty welcome you so well deserve, and that at the expiration of your furlough you may rejoin my command. I am, very respectfully
JAMES C.SULLIVAL, Brigadier General.
Scarcely had Alderman Hardy ceased reading the document, when General McClellan was announced to be coming into the room. The wildest excitement here seized every soldier present. Cheer upon cheer went up in the most enthusiastic manner. In the midst of which "Little Mac" entered, smiling and bowing. He was immediately surrounded, and after a hard tussle, amid cheering, hand shaking and innumerable blessings poured upon his head, the General at length succeeded in reaching the head of the room, where the officers of the regiment, together with the invited guests, were seated. Col. McReynolds then introduced the General in a few flattering remarks, when the latter gentleman mounted on a chair and was again met with a perfect storm of cheers, which lasted for several minutes. Order being at length restored, General McClellan spoke as follows:—My friends and comrades—I came here not to make a speech to you, but to welcome you home and to express the pride I have always felt in your career, not only when you were with me, but since I left the Army of the Potomac. You have been fighting battles under others than your late commander. I can tell you now conscientiously and truly I am proud of you in every respect. There is not one stain on your career, not a line of it of which you, your State and your country may not be proud. I congratulate you on the resolution that so many of you have formed in your desire to re-enter the service. I hope and I know that your future career will be as glorious as your past. I have one other hope, and that is that we may yet serve together some time again.
At the end of the General's speech, cheer upon cheer again burst forth, and it was with the greatest exertions that the soldiers could be kept from laying hands on "Little Mac" and overpowering him with embraces. They insisted upon another speech and a clearer view of General McClellan, when that gentleman had again to mount the chair, saying:—My friends, now I shall have to bid you goodby. I propose the health of the First New York cavalry.
The General then, with much difficulty, took his departure, being subjected to a similar quantity of hand shaking, embracing, &c.
Mr. P. Reed, being called upon said that Mrs. McClellan had remarked that she was very sorry she could not go around to the Jefferson market add shake every one of them (the regiment) by the hand.
After some further remarks the soldiers dispersed, highly pleased with their reception and entertainment.
The following are the officers of the regiment:—Colonel, A. T. McReynolds; Major, Timothy Quinn; Major, D. H. Harkins; Captains, Abram Jones, J. K. Stearns, J. C. Battersby, C. H. Bailey, R. H. O. Hertzog, R. S. Prendergast, F. Passegger, J. B. Stevenson; First Lieutenants, F. G. Martindale, D. A. Disbrow, C. Thompson, Fredk. Duber, A. C. Hinton, C. B. Knowles; Second Lieutenants, C. A. New, ____ Poindexter; Adjutant, A. Puelm; Quartermaster, Wm. Alexander.

Gen. McClellan Among the Soldiers.
A banquet was given to the 1st N. Y. Cavalry, at Jefferson Market Drill Room, on Thursday. Their term of service having expired, four hundred and twenty-five of the five hundred remaining of the Regiment, re-enlisted for the war. During the course of the evening, it was announced that Gen. McClellan was coming. In an instant there was such a scene of enthusiasm as cannot be adequately described. Every one turned toward the door, soldiers literally clambered over each other and the tables, cheering in the wildest manner. As he passed through the room, they caught him by the hands, and gathered about him so that he could hardly move. Hats were waived in the air in all directions, and there was one unanimous voice of glad greeting.
McClellan was then introduced to the regiment by Col. McReynolds. The tumult of cheers subsided as General McClellan arose, and the room became as quiet as if for a prayer. He spoke as follows:
My friends and Comrades: I came here not to make a speech to you, but to welcome you home, and express to you the pride I have always felt in watching your career, not only when you were with me, but since I left the Army of the Potomac, while you have been fighting battles under others, and your old commander. I can tell you now, conscientiously, and truly, I am proud of you in every respect.
There is not one page of your record—not a line of it—of which you, your State and your country may not be proud. I congratulate you on the patriotism that so many of you have evinced in your desire to re-enter the service.--I hope, I pray, and I know that your future career will be as glorious as your past. I have one other hope, and that is that we may yet serve together some day again.
The cheers that followed this speech were a repetition of the previous scene. Officers and men cried out, "We'll follow you anywhere, General." It was during these scenes that Mr. (General) Wetmore disappeared, and was not seen any more during the banquet.
Mr. Philander Reed, who came in with Gen. McClellan, said: "Soldiers of the First New York Cavalry—Mrs. McClellan said,"" Tell the soldiers of the First New York Cavalry I am only sorry I cannot come round to the market and shake each of them by the hand." (Three cheers for Mrs. Gen. McClellan.)
By a letter from Sergeant Isaac L. Personius, dated "Camp Sullivan, Harper's Ferry, Va., March 12, 1864," we learn that on the 9th inst., while his Company, (Co. L, 1st N. Y. Cavalry,) were out on picket, they were attacked by 60 of Mosby's Guerrillas, and he was wounded in the left arm and shoulder; that 10 others were wounded and 1 killed, 20 were taken prisoners, but all but 6 escaped. Personius was among the captured who escaped. He writes, "I am badly but not mortally wounded. Remember me kindly to all the boys, and especially to Bob Hedges."

DESERVES PROMOTION.—The friends of Major Timothy Quinn in this city, (and their name is legion,) are watching with much interest, the fate and application now pending before Gov. Seymour for the promotions of the Major to the Colonelcy of the regiment. Col. McReynolds, having resigned as Colonel of the regiment (the First New York cavalry), to be mustered out at the expiration of his original term of service, (June 15th,) on the 9th of that month "bore testimony to the excellent military qualities of Major Q. and stated that he "has proven himself to be brave, energetic and efficient in face of the enemy, possessing the dash and boldness necessary to a good cavalry officer, and is worthy of superior position." On the same day, al of the officers of the regiment then serving with them, twenty-one in number, wrote Gov. Seymour and requested the appointment of Major Q. as Colonel, stating that he had been "in command of the regiment about constantly for the past year," and expressed their confidence in his ability and qualifications. Maj.-Gen. Stahl has also sent forward his endorsement of the application. Brig.-Gen. Sullivan, in command of the brigade, also wrote the Governor on the same day, stating that Major Q. was the senior Major of the regiment, and that he "knows him to be a brave, skillful and determined soldier, and therefore requests his appointment." Major Chas. G. Halpine, Assistant Adjutant-General for the Department of Western Virginia, recommends Major Q. to Gov. Seymour's notice for promotion. On account of his gallantry in a battle fought on the previous Sunday, in which Major Q. rendered most excellent service. Maj.-Gen. Hunter "fully concurs in all the foregoing recommendations," and adds: "Major. Quinn is a dashing, brave and zealous officer, who spares no toils or risks to accomplish his whole duty." He says further that he "is one of the very best cavalry officers in his command." It would seem from all these high endorsements that there is a pretty unanimous opinion in the army where he has participated in numerous battles that Major Q. should be appointed to the vacant position. The only one opposed to him is Lieut.-Col. Adams, who seeks the appointment for himself, but who has been under arrest for a long time, and who has left to Major Q. the command of the regiment, as the officers certify, for nearly all the time of the past year, and who is now absent from the army. It is hardly possible, under these circumstances, that the many friends of the Major will be disappointed in their very just expectations that the Governor will confer the promotion on Major Quinn which his friends demand for him.

The following was contributed by Dale Caragata:
Jenyns Charles Battersby served as a captain and later as a lieutenant-colonel in the Lincoln Calvary during the Civil War. I can shed some further light on him since I am distantly related to him.
Jenyns Charles Battersby was born in 1819 in Hickory Lodge, near Crossakeel, County Meath, Ireland, the 3rd & youngest son of Edward George Battersby (brother of Lt-Col Wm Battersby of Bobsville, Meath), of Hickory Lodge, by his wife, Elizabeth Ryan. In 1835, Jenyns and his parents & brothers Robert & William, immigrated to America and settled in southern Ontario, Canada.
However, by 1850, Jenyns C Battersby had moved to the States and settled in New York City with his wife Julia and daughters (re 1850 US Census). His Obituary in The New York Times (Nov 1, 1899, page 7) states that he served as a Lieut-Colonel in the First Reg't of the New York Cavalry. In his later years, Colonel Battersby, who by then was considered to be rather eccentric, became somewhat of an artist and painted a mural of the meeting of Generals Grant and Lee at Appomattox. Lt.-Col. Jenyns Battersby died Oct 30, 1899, aged eighty years, at Clifton Springs, New York. He was a great-nephew of Colonel Richard Long (1740-1814) of Longfield House, Cashel, Tipperary, Ireland. He was also a 2nd cousin-in-law of a Confederate captain, Charles Cameron (b England, 1818), of the 7th Louisianan Infantry.
I have noticed that the article on the 1st Regiment Calvary of New York Volunteers, contains spelling errors of "Battersby." Jenyns C. Battersby is referred to therein as J. C. Battersly, J. C. Battush, and as Jason Battersby.
[Editor's note: The mis-spellings of Battersly's name have not been changed because it is our policy to only transcribe what has been published, not to correct it.]

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