Second Brigade, Second Division

First Rhode Island Detached Militia

Arrived at Washington, D. C., 26 and 30 April, 1861. Mustered in United States service for three months 2 May, 1861

COLONEL A E BURNSIDE
A E Burnside, Esq., was appointed colonel, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, on 17 April, 1861, and was assigned to command the Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, on 8 July, 1861. Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was appointed brigader general, United States Volunteers, by General Orders No.62, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 20 August, 1861, dated 6 August, 1861.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL J S PITMAN
Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was assigned to detached duty at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 19 June, 1861, and arrived on 24 June, 1861.

MAJOR J P BALCH
J S Slocum, was appointed first major, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, on 18 April, 1861, and resigned on 8 May, 1861. First Major J S Slocum, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was appointed colonel, 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, by General Orders No.27, State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Adjutant General's Office, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 1 June, 1861, dated 18 May, 1861, and Second Major J P Balch, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was appointed major, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, on 27 June, 1861. Major J P Balch, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was assigned to command the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia on 8 July, 1861 (See the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry).

Company A National Cadets: CAPT. A F DEXTER
The company was accepted in state service for three months at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company B Providence Artillery: CAPT. N VAN SLYCK
The company was accepted in state service for three months at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company C First Light Infantry No.1: CAPT. W W BROWN
The company was accepted in state service for three months at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861. Private W H Helme, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company C, was assigned to the the United States Corps Topographical Engineers, Balloon Detachment, under the command of First Lieutenant H L Abbot, United States Corps Topographical Engineers, on 14 July, 1861.

Company D First Light Infantry No.2: CAPT. N W BROWN
The company was accepted in state service for three months at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company E Pawtucket Light Guards: CAPT. S R BUCKLIN
The company was accepted in state service at Pawtucket, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company F Newport Artillery: CAPT. G W TEW
The company was accepted in state service for three months at Newport, Newport County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company G Mechanic Rifles No.1: First Lt. J T PITMAN
The company was accepted in state service for three months at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, under the command of Captain D A Peloubet, on 17 April, 1861, and Captain D A Peloubet, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company G, resigned at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 4 May, 1861. First Lieutenant J T Pitman, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company G, was assigned to command the company at the first battle of Bull Run on 21 July, 1861.

Company H Mechanic Rifles No.2: CAPT. C W H DAY
The company was accepted in state service at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company I Westerly Rifles: CAPT. H C CARD
The company was accepted in state service at Westerly, Washington County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Company K Woonsocket Guards: CAPT. P SIMPSON, Jr.
The company was organised for three months at Woonsocket, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, and was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Unlettered Company Carbineers: CAPT. F W GODDARD
The company (73) was assigned to the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., on 9 June, 1861, and Private F W Goddard, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company C, was appointed captain, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Carbineers, on 27 June, 1861.

American Brass Band: Chief Musican J C Greene & CHIEF OF DRUM CORPS B G WEST
The American Brass Band was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861, and was assigned to duty caring for the wounded and dying at the first battle of Bull Run on 21 July, 1861.

Note: Private H A DeWitt, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company C, was appointed second lieutenant, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Engineers, on 31 May, 1861.

Organisation of 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia at the first battle of Bull Run, 21 July, 1861: Colonel A E Burnside*, Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman**, Major J P Balch; Company A, National Cadets, Captain A F Dexter; Company B, Providence Artilley, Captain N Van Slyck; Company C, First Light Infantry No.1, Captain W W Brown; Company D, First light Infantry No.2, Captain N W Brown; Company E, Pawtucket Light Guards, Captain S R Bucklin; Company F, Newport Artillery, Captain G W Tew; Company G, Mechanic Rifles No.1, First Lieutenant J T Pitman; Company H, Mechanic Rifles No.2, Captain C W H Day; Company I, Westerly Rifles, Captain H C Card; Company K, Woonsocket Guards, Captain P Simpson, Jr.; Unlettered Company, Carbineers, Captain F W Goddard

*Assigned to command the Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, at the first battle of Bull Run on 21 July, 1861; **Not prsent at the first battle of Bull Run on 21 July, 1861

Sources

"The Pawtucket Light Guard arrived in this city about half-past two o'clock. They were accompanied bu Gilmore's Band, and also by several hundred citizens.

The Woonsocket Guards arrived here in a special train about 12 o'clock today."

Providence Evening Press (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 19 April, 1861 - Additional military news

"The second detachment of the Rhode Island Regiment is quartered in the city as follows: The Infantry are at their Armory, the Newport Artillery are at Railroad Hall, the Providence Artillery at their Armory on Canal street; the Pawtucket Light Guard at Pratt's Hall; the Woonsocket Guards at Brown Hall; the Westerly Rifles at Westminster Hall. The Mechanic Rifles left their Armory in Dyer building last evening, and took quarters at the Armory of the Marine Artillery."

Manufacturers' & Farmers' Journal (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 22 April, 1861

"The light guards are quartered in their armory, awaiting orders from headquarters. They may not go till this afternoon. At half past two yesterday this company departed from home."

Manufacturers' & Farmers' Journal (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 22 April, 1861 - Departure of the Pawtucket Light Guards

"The second division of the Rhode Island Regiment, under command of Col. Pitman, sailed for New York this afternoon. They number about 500 men and carry the flag when the Rhode Island Regiment bore through the battles of the revolution."

Daily Commercial Register (Sandusky, Erie County, Ohio), 24 April, 1861

"The Empire State, with Lieut. Col. Pitman's detachment, arrived at 6 o'clock this morning. Man all well and in fine spirits. The troops will embark on a steamer this afternoon to Washington direct."

Providence Evening Press (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 25 April, 1861 - Arrival of the 2d Detachment R.I.M. in New York

"At 9 o'clock yesterday morning the steamer Empire State arrived at Pier 33, North river, from Providence, R. I., bringing the second detachment of the First regiment from Rhode Island."

"At 6 o'clock the troops were transferred from the Empire State to the steamship Bienville, which lay just on the opposite side of the dock, with steam up, ready to start. The uniform of the soldiers consists of brown pants, loose blue woolen coats, belted at the waist, the regular army hat of black felt, and uniform red blankets, all constituting a light and easy costume, very appropriate to the season and the labour."

World (New York City, New York County, New York), 26 April, 1861 - Arrival of more Rhode island troops

"About half past twelve o'clock yesterday the train in which the Washington Light Guards, Captain S. A. H. Marks, went to the Junction, returned, bringing with them Gen. B. F. Butler's Massachusetts brigade, comprising the fifth and eighth regiments, and a portion of Governor Sprague's Rhode Island regiment."

National Republican (Washington, D. C.), 27 April, 1861 - Arrival of troops

"The steamer Empire State arrived this forenoon, with a detachment of the First Rhode Island Regiment. They leave on the steamer Bienville tonight."

Evening Star (Washington, D. C.), 27 April, 1861 - New York, Albany, 25 April, 1861

"The camp is progressing finely and company D moved out yesterday and companies I and H will go out today. It has not been named yet, but will, without doubt, be CAMP SPRAGUE."

Providence Evening Press (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 17 May, 1861 - Letter from the Rhode Island Regiment, Washington, 14 May, 1861

"The following positions, as nearly as we can learn, are occupied by the northern troops in and around Washington: The 5th Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Schwarzwealder, 1,100 men, is quartered in the City of Washington. The 6th Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Pinckney, 850 men, is quartered in the City of Washington and at Annapolis. The 7th Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Lefferts, 1,300 men, is encamped on Prospect Hill, a mile from the White House. The 8th Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Lyons, 960 men, occupy the Relay House, and a detachment is also stationed at Annapolis. The 12th Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Butterfield, 950 men, is quartered in the City. The 13th Regiment N.Y.S.M. (Brooklyn), Colonel Smith, 1,100 men, is stationed at Annapolis. The 20th Regiment (Ulster) N.Y.S.M., Colonel Pratt, 800 men, is stationed in Washington. The 25th Regiment (Albany) N.Y.S.M., Colonel Bryan, 800 men, is quartered in Washington. The 28th Regiment (Brooklyn) N.Y.S.M., Colonel M. Bennett, 550 men, is quartered in Washington. The 69th Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Corcoran, 1,100 men, is quartered on Georgetown Heights, near the college. The 71st Regiment N.Y.S.M., Colonel Vosburgh, 1,100 men, occupy the Navy yard. They also have control of three boats on the river, manned with 75 men each. The Alexandria bridge is also in charge of the 71st, 150 men stationed on the bridge with three pieces of ordnance. The 1st Regiment Firemen Zouaves (Volunteers), Colonel E. E. Ellsworth, 1,015 men, will soon be encamped on Georgetown Heights. They have been quartered in the Capital. Governor Sprague's Rhode Islanders, Colonel Burnside, 1,100 men, are quartered in the City of Washington. The 6th Regiment Massachusetts occupies the Relay House, nine miles from Baltimore. The 8th Massachusetts Regiment is quartered in Washington. A Regiment of Pennsylvania troops is stationed at the Relay House with the Massachusetts 6th and New York 8th, while the remainder is stationed in Washington. The 4th New jersey Regiment has gone into encampment on Meridian Hill, near the camp of the New York 7th. About 2,700 New Jersey soldiers are quartered in Washington."

Belmont Chronicle (St Clairsville, Belmont County, Ohio), 16 May, 1861 - Positions of Northern troops in the South

"On Thursday last 25 men were detailed from the Rhode Island Regiment for special secret night duty, in company with 25 men from the 6th Massachusetts Regiment. Sine that time they have been quartered on G street, in the city; their detination and when they leave is unknown."

Providence Evening Press (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 24 May, 1861 - Camp Sprague, Washington, D. C., 20 May, 1861

"At 6 o'clock last evening, a special train of twenty-two cars left the Washington depot, containing the battery, horses, wagons, and camp equipage of the Rhode Island Artillery Regiment, Col. Burnside. The battery consists of six pieces, of Gen. James' rifle patent, with caissons attached. About 100 men accompanied the train. At daybreak this morning, the remainder of the Rhode Island Regiment broke up camp, and left by cars for Baltimore, en route for Chambersburg."

Evening Star (Washington, D. C.), 10 June, 1861 - Movement of troops from Washington, exit by railroad and turnpike

"Shortly after 11 o’clock this morning, the First Rhode Island reached Camden Station, Baltimore. From Washington. The Regiment numbered 1100 me, in command of Col. Burnside. The Regiment includes a Light Artillery company of 150 men, with six pieces of rifled cannon."

"After debarking at the Camden Station, they formed into line and marched to the Bolton Depot, where they embarked for Chambersburg, Pa."

Philadelphia Inquirer (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), 11 June, 1861 - The Rhode Island Regiment en route for Chambersburg

"Chambersburg, Pa., 11 June - Last night the First Rhode Island Regiment, Col. Burnsides, arrived here, accompanied by Col. Tompkins’ Marine battery, mounting six 6-pounder rifled cannon, 150 men and 200 horses."

South (Baltimore City, Maryland), 12 June, 1861 - From Chambersburg

"Hagerstown, 11 June - Col. Burnside’s Rhode Island Regiment, with marine battery, horses, and stores, encamped this afternoon this side of Green castle in excellent condition."

World (New York City, New York, New York County), 12 June, 1861 - From Hagerstown

"Hagerstown, Md., Monday evening, 17 June, 1861 - The regulars and one regiment of infantry are now on their return from Williamsport, who, I understand, with the regular cavalry, and the detachment of four guns of the Rhode Island battery – all of which crossed over into Virginia yesterday - have been countermanded, and are to go to Washington by rail via Chambersburg and Baltimore. This morning the Rhode Island regiment, with two of its battery-guns, came up from camp at Williamsport, and passed through this place down the road to Frederick, reaching Boonsboro' probably tonight."

World (New York City, New York, New York County), 12 June, 1861 - From Hagerstown

"Governor's Sprague's magnificent Rhode Island regiment, with Colonel Burnside in command, arrived from Washington yesterday morning, and are encamped on the turnpike leading to Williamsport, Md., two miles south of Greencastle."

"This morning the First regiment of Wisconsin volunteers arrived at Chambersburg, and pitched their tents at Camp McClure, lately vacated by the Second brigade. They number 1,250 men, under command of Col. J. C. Starkweather, and seem to be a well formed and well furnished body. Their dress is dark grey, trimmed with black, and the men are above ordinary height."

Herald (New York City, New York, New York County), 15 June, 1861 - Arrival of the Rhode Island troops and the Wisconsin Regiment

"Franklin Co., Pa., near Greencastle, 12 th June, 1861 - Monday morning found us packed and equipped, and at 5.35 A. M. we were marched out of Camp Sprague, the Light Battery and all the horses having been stowed on the cars the previous night. At 8 o’clock we were leaving the Baltimore and Ohio R. R. depot at Washington, and, arriving at Baltimore at noon, we marched at once across the city to the North Central Depot."

"We went through Little York, a place of ten thousand inhabitants, about 6 P. M., and I should judge they are all for the Union."

"Just before sunrise, we arrived at Chambersburg."

"At 9 A. M. we again started, and rode about 12 miles, and halted two miles beyond Greencastle, at what is called Shank's Woods."

Providence Evening Press (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 15 June, 1861 – Letter from the Rhode Island Regiment

"The troops waded through the stream with the water to their waists, and soon established themselves across the river, their advance being covered by two pieces of cannon of the battery of the Rhode Island regiment planted on the bluff at Williamsport."

Evening Star (Washington, D. C.), 17 June, 1861 - Advance of the Federal Army in Virginia

"Frederick, Md., 17 June - The Rhode Island Regiment arrived at daybreak. They encamped at Middletown tonight, eight miles from here."

Boston Traveller (Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts), 18 June, 1861 - The Rhode Island Regiment. Change of plans of the Federal Troops

"Frederick, Md., 17 June - One regiment of United States volunteers, probably the Rhode Island Regiment, are expected here at daybreak tomorrow. They left Hagerstown last night, and at 5 o’clock this afternoon were at Middletown, eight miles distant from here, where they will encamp for the night, and resuming their march at dawn, arrive here shortly after daybreak."

Daily Exchange (Baltimore, Maryland, 18 June, 1861 - Army movements in Western Maryland

"Frederick, 18 June - The First Rhode Island Regiment, 1,100 strong, entered this city shortly after 7 o’clock this morning, and have halted at the Fair grounds while arrangements are being perfected for their conveyance by railroad to the Relay House, and thence to Washington. They encamped during the night on the outskirts of the city."

South (Baltimore City, Maryland), 18 June, 1861 - Affairs at Frederick

"On Saturday, 15th instant, General Cadwalader reached this place, from Greencastle, with six regiments, among whom were the Rhode Island regiment, McMullen's rangers, and the Fort Sumter boys, and never did soldiers receive a more hearty welcome than did they to our town."

National Republican (Washington, D. C.), 20 June, 1861 - The crossing of the troops from Willamsport, 18 June, 1861

"The first Rhode Island regiment was mustered into service on 18th of April, and a detachment of the same started for this city the following day; but the regiment was not sworn in till 2d of May."

National Republican (Washington, D. C.), 2 July, 1861- The three months' troops - camp Sprague, Washington, D. C., 1 July, 1861

"Camp Sprague, 1 July - While I write, the Battery of the First Regiment is preparing to leave this evening, no one except the initiated knows whither. We all expect to follow it."

Providence Evening Press (Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island), 3 July, 1861 - Letters from the Rhode Island Regiments

"A company of Carbineers, to act as skirmishers, was formed, by details from the other companies, 1st Rhode Island (Detached Militia) Infantry, and armed with the Burnside rifles. On the 19 June, 1861 it was organised as a separate corps, and its place in the line of march was in front of the column. Its officers were appointed as follows: Francis W. Goddard, commissioned as Captain. Walter B. Manton, commissioned as Lieutenant. John B. Campbell, of Company A, Sergeant. George O. Gorton, of Company C, Sergeant. Robert H. Deming, of Company D, Sergeant. Louis T. Hall, of Company G, Sergeant. Peleg E. Bryant, of Company B, Sergeant."

"The Company numbered seventy-three privates, but its members messed, quartered, and were paid with their respective companies. Consequently no roll was preserved."

"The Regimental Band contains 22 musicians. The uniform of the Regiment consists of the regulation hat, a loose blue blouse, and grey pantaloons. A plain leather belt around the waist sustains the cartridge-box, the bayonet, and six-barrelled revolver, with which each man is armed. The officers are distinguished by a small gold strap on the shoulders; they wear a sash and a long sabre, and a revolver supported by a plain belt."

New York Tribune (New York City, New York County, New York), 22 April, 1861 - Gov. Sprague's Rhode Islanders

Books/ Manuscripts

Narrative of the campaign of the First Rhode Island Regiment, in the spring and summer of 1861, by Augustus Woodbury

History of Company F, 1st Regiment, R.I. Volunteers, during the spring and summer of 1861, by Charles H Clarke

Annual Report of the Adjutant General of the State of Rhode Island, for the year 1865, byProvidence Press Company, Printers to the State, 1866

Supplement to the Official Records: Part II, Record of Events, Volume 63, Serial No.75: Record of events for First Rhode Island Detached Militia (Three months), May-August 1861, edited by James B Hewett

Burnside, by William Marvel

Major General Ambrose E. Burnside and the Ninth Army Corps: A narrative of campaigns in North Carolina, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee, during the war for the preservation of the republic, by Augustus Woodbury

The Union Army: A history of military affairs in the loyal states 1861-65, records of the regiments in the Union Army, cyclopedia of battles, memoirs of commanders and soldiers, Volume 1, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware

Notes

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was authorised by a proclamation calling for 75,000 militia to serve three months on 15 April, 1861, and was accepted in state service for three months at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861.

General Orders No.1, Headquarters, Rhode Island Militia, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, 16 April, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to rendezvous at No.48 Broad Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, by General Orders No.1, Headquarters, Rhode Island Militia, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 17 April, 1861, dated 16 April, 1861.

Newport, Newport County, to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, Company F, 17 April, 1861: The Newport Artillery (110/115), acting as infantry, was ordered to proceed by the steamer Perry at Sayers Wharf, on Thames Street, Newport, Newport County, Rhode Island, to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 1 PM on 17 April, 1861.

Note: The Newport Artillery arrived at Railroad Halls, Union Station, opposite Exchange Place, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 3 PM on 17 April, 1861.

Westerly, Washington County, to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, Company I, 18 April, 1861: The Westerly Rifles arrived by the New York, Providence & Boston Railroad at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 18 April, 1861.

Woonsocket to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, Company K, 19 April, 1861: The Woonsocket Guards arrived by the Worcester & Providence Railroad at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 12 PM on 19 April, 1861.

Pawtucket to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, Company E, 19 April, 1861: The Pawtucket Light Guards arrived by the Worcester & Providence Railroad at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 2.30 PM on 19 April, 1861.

Organisation of 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, 20 April, 1861: Colonel A E Burnside, Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman, Major J S Slocum; Company A (108), National Cadets, Captain A F Dexter; Company B (106), Providence Artillery, Captain N Van Slyck; Company C (108), First Light Infantry, No.1, Captain W W Brown; Company D (104), First Light Infantry, No.2, Captain N W Brown; Company E (104), Pawtucket Light Guards, Captain S R Bucklin; Company F (110), Newport Artillery, Captain G W Tew; Company G (99), Mechanic Rifles, No.1, Captain J T Pitman; Company H (46), Mechanic Rifles, No.2, Captain C W H Day; Company I (101), Westerly Rifles, Captain H C Card; Company K (104), Woonsocket Guards, Captain P Simpson, Jr.

Special Orders No.5, Headquarters, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, 20 April, 1861: Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was assigned to command the second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia by Special Orders No.5, Headquarters, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 20 April, 1861.

Note: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to rendezvous at Exchange Place, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 10.30 AM on 20 April, 1861.

Providence to Annapolis, First Detachment, 20-23 April, 1861

The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (545), under the command of Colonel A E Burnside and First Major J S Slocum, was ordered to proceed by the steamer Empire State to New York City, New York County, New York, in the afternoon on 20 April, 1861, and was accompanied by Governor W Sprague, State of Rhode Island. The first detachment arrived on the North/ Hudson River, opposite Warren Street, New York City, New York County, New York, in the morning on 21 April, 1861.

Embarkation at Fox Point, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, 20 April, 1861: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia embarked on the steamer Empire State at Smith's Wharf, on South Water Street, Fox Point, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, in the afternoon on 20 April, 1861.

Note: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was accompanied by Colonels L B Frieze and W Goddard, aide de camps to Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, in the morning on 20 April, 1861, and the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia embarked on the steamer Coatzacoalcos on the North/ Hudson River at 4 PM on 21 April, 1861.

New York City, New York County, New York, to Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, 21-23 April, 1861: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by the steamer Coatzacoalcos at Lower Bay, east of Staten Island, Richmond County, New York, to Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, in the evening on 21 April, 1861, and was accompanied by the 12th New York State Militia, on board the steamer Baltic; the 71st New York State Militia, on the steamer R R Cuyler; and the revenue cutter Harriet Lane. The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at Cape Charles, Northampton County, Virginia, in the morning on 23 April, 1861, and at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, north of Cape Charles, Northampton County, Virginia, at 9.15 AM the same day. The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at Annapolis Roads, two and a half miles southeast of Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, at 10 PM on 23 April, 1861.

Note: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by the steamer Coatzacoalcos on the North/ Hudson River at New York City, New York County, New York, and rendezvous at Lower Bay, east of Staten Island, Richmond County, New York, at 6 PM on 21 April, 1861.

Embarkation at New York City, New York County, New York, 21 April, 1861: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed on the tug boat Satellite and embark on the steamer Coatzacoalcos at 4 PM on 21 April, 1861.

Note: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by steamer Coatzacoalcos on the North/ Hudson River and rendezvous at Lower Bay, east of Staten Island, Richmond County, New York, at 6 PM on 21 April, 1861.

Steamer Baltic: 12th New York State Militia, Colonel D Butterfield; Steamer Columbia: 6th New York State Militia, Colonel J C Pinckney; Steamer R R Cuyler: 71st New York State Militia, Colonel A S Vosburgh; Steamer Coatzacoalcos: 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, first detachment, Colonel A E Burnside, First Major J S Slocum

Note: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at Hampton Roads, southwest of Fort Monroe, Artillery School of Practice, Old Point Comfort, Elizabeth City County, Virginia, in the evening on 22 April, 1861.

Rendezvous at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, north of Cape Charles, Northampton County, Virginia, 23 April, 1861: The 6th New York State Militia, on the steamer Columbia; the 12th New York State Militia, on the steamer Baltic; the 71st New York State Militia, on the steamer R R Cuyler; a detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, on the steamer Coatzacoalcos; and the revenue cutter Harriet Lane were ordered to rendezvous at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, north of Cape Charles, Northampton County, Virginia, in the morning on 23 April, 1861.

Note: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia disembarked at Foot Wharf, United States Naval Academy, on Hanover Street, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, at 5 PM on 24 April, 1861, and Captain D A Peloubet, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company G, was detached at Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and ordered to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 26 April, 1861.

Annapolis to Washington, First Detachment, 25-26 April, 1861

The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, at 6.30 AM on 25 April, 1861, and arrived at Crownsville, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, at 10/11 AM the same day. The first detachment was ordered to Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, at 12 PM on 25 April, 1861, and was accompanied by the 71st New York State Militia. The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at Patuxent Forge, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, in the evening on 25 April, 1861, and was ordered to Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, at 4.30 AM on 26 April, 1861. The first detachment arrived at Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, at 7 AM the same day and the Washington Light Guards arrived by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, in the morning on 26 April, 1861 (See the District of Columbia Militia).

Note: The 71st New York State Militia was ordered to Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, at 5.30 AM on 25 April, 1861, and the 71st New York State Militia, Company C, was stationed at Patuxent Forge, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, in the morning on 26 April, 1861.

Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, to Washington, D. C., 26 April, 1861: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, to Washington, D. C., at 9 AM on 26 April, 1861, and was accompanied by the Washington Light Guards, the 8th Massachusetts Infantry, Companies A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H, and four companies of the 5th Massachusetts Infantry. The first detachment arrived by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, at Washington, D. C., at 12.30 PM on 26 April, 1861.

Note: The 8th Massachusetts Infantry, Companies A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H, arrived at Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, in the morning on 25 April, 1861, and four companies of the 5th Massachusetts Infantry by the Annapolis & Elkridge Railroad in the afternoon on 26 April, 1861.

Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh & Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., detachment, 26 April, 1861: The first detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed at the Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., on 26 April, 1861.

Note: The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia rendezvoused at Excahnge Place, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 2.30 PM on 24 April, 1861.

Providence to Washington, Second Detachment, 24-28 April, 1861

The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (525), under the command of Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman and Second Major J P Balch, was ordered to proceed by the steamer Empire State to New York City, New York County, New York, at 5 PM on 24 April, 1861, and arrived on the North/ Hudson River at Pier No.33, junction of Jay and West Streets, New York City, New York County, New York, at 9 AM on 25 April, 1861.

Note: The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia emabarked on the steamer Empire State at Smith's Wharf, on South Water Street, Fox Point, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 4.30 PM on 24 April, 1861.

Distribution of 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, second detachment, 22 April, 1861: The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company B, was stationed at the Providence Artillery Armory, on Canal Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island; Companies C and D at the First Light Infantry Armory, on Meeting Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island; Company E at Pratt's Hall, on Weybosset Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island; Company F (45) at Railroad Halls, Union Station, opposite Exchange Place, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island; Companies G and H at the Providence Marine Corps Artillery Armory, No.176 Benefit Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island; Company I (50) at Westminster Hall, on Westminster Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island; and Company K at J O Reed's Assembly Rooms/ Brown Hall, No.27 South Main Street, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 22 April, 1861.

Organisation of 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, second detachment, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, 23 April, 1861: Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman, Second Major J P Balch; Company A, Second Lieutenant G F Low; Company B, Second Lieutenant J E Hidden; Company C, First Lieutenant L C Warner; Company D, First Lieutenant S R Knight; Company E, Second Lieutenant L B Stone; Company F, First Lieutenant W A Stedman; Company H, Second Lieutenant E C Harris; Company I, First Lieutenant W H Chapman; Company K, Second Lieutenant J A Allen

New York City, New York County, New York, to Washington, D. C., 25-28 April, 1861: The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel J S Pitman and Second Major J P Balch, embarked on the steamer Bienville on the North/ Hudson River opposite Pier No.33, junction of Jay and West Streets, New York City, New York County, New York, at 6 PM on 25 April, 1861, and was ordered to Washington, D. C., at 10 PM the same day. The second detachment arrived at Cape Henry, Princess Anne County, Virginia, in the evening on 26 April, 1861, and was stationed at Kettle Bottom Shoals, on the Potomac River, sixty miles south of Washington, D. C., in the evening on 27 April, 1861. The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at the Navy Yard Wharf, on the Eastern Branch of the Potomac River/ Anacostia River, Washington, D. C., at 12 PM on 28 April, 1861.

Note: The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia disembarked at the Navy Yard Wharf, on the Eastern Branch of the Potomac River/ Anacostia River, Washington, D. C., in the morning on 29 April, 1861.

Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh & Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., detachment, 29 April, 1861: The second detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed at the Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., on 29 April, 1861.

Department of Washington, 26/28 April-10 June, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at the Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., on 26 and 29 April, 1861.

Abstract from return of the volunteer troops stationed in the Department of Washington, Colonel J F K Mansfield, United States Army, commanding, 30 April, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (1,104/1,112), under the command of Colonel A E Burnside, was stationed at the Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., on 30 April, 1861.

Mustered for three months, grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue & North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., 2 May, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was mustered in United States service for three months at the grounds of the Capitol building, on Pennsylvania Avenue and North/ South Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by Brevet Major & Assistant Adjutant General I McDowell, United States Army, on 2 May, 1861.

Note: Major J S Slocum, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, resigned at the Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., on 8 May, 1861, and was ordered to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 9 May, 1861 (See the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry).

Patent Office to G W Keating's Farm, 14-18 May, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed at the Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., in the afternoon on 14 May, 1861.

Note: A detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (50) was ordered to G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., on 9 May, 1861, and the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Companies B, F, G, H, I, and K, arrived at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., between 15 and 17 May, 1861.

General Orders No.9, Paragraph II, Headquarters, 1st Rhode island Detached Militia, Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh & Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., 14 May, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company D, was ordered to G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., by General Orders No.9, Paragraph II, Headquarters, 1st Rhode island Detached Militia, Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., at 5 PM on 14 May, 1861.

Note: G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., was designated Camp Sprague in honour of Governor W Sprague, State of New Hampshire, by General Orders No.9, Paragraph I, Headquarters, 1st Rhode island Detached Militia, Patent Office, on North F Street, between West Seventh and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C., on 14 May, 1861.

Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., Companies A, C, & E, 18 May, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Companies A, C, and E, arrived at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., on 18 May, 1861.

Note: Governor W Sprague, State of New Hampshire, was ordered to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, in the morning on 23 May, 1861.

Special duty at North G Street, detachment, 16 May, 1861

A detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (25), under the command of Ensign L A Tower, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company E, was assigned to special duty in the evening on 16 May, 1861, and was accompanied by a detachment of the 5th Massachusetts Infantry (25). The detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia and the detachment of the 5th Massachusetts Infantry were stationed at North G Street, Washington, D. C., on 20 May, 1861 (See the 5th Massachusetts Infantry).

Note: Ensign L A Tower, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company E, was appointed captain, 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, Company F, on 1 June, 1861, and was ordered to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 2 June, 1861. He arrived at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, in the morning on 3 June, 1861 (See the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry).

Occupation of Alexandria County, detachment, 23/24 May, 1861

A detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (25) and a detachment of the 5th Massachusetts Infantry (25) set up six rope ferries east of the Aqueduct Bridge, on the Potomac River, at Georgetown, D. C., in the evening on 23 May, 1861, and were stationed at Georgetown Ferry, on Water Street, east of the Aqueduct Bridge, on the Potomac River, at Georgetown, D. C., in the morning on 24 May, 1861 (See the Occupation of Alexandria County).

Note: Ensign C W Topliff, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company A, was assigned to command a detachment of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia stationed at North G Street, Washington, D. C., on 28 May, 1861, and the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., between 14/18 May and 10 June, 1861 (See the District of Columbia Militia).

Washington to Chambersburg, 10-11 June, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, under the command of Colonel A E Burnside, was ordered to proceed by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, to Chambersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania,at 8 AM on 10 June, 1861, and was accompanied by the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery. The regiment arrived at Camden Station, corner of South Howard and Camden Streets, Baltimore City, Maryland, at 11 AM on 10 June, 1861, and by the Northern Central Railroad at York, York County, Pennsylvania, at 6 PM the same day. The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived by the Cumberland Valley Railroad at Chambersburg, Franklin County, via Harrisburg, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, in the morning on 11 June, 1861.

Note: Six 10 pounder James rifles of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery. were stationed at the Washington Station, junction of New Jersey Avenue and North C Street, Washington, D. C., at 6 PM on 9 June, 1861 (See the Three Months' Volunteers, Department of Washington).

Special Orders No.99, Paragraph III, Headquarters of the Army, Washington, D. C., 8 June, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to Carlisle Barracks, on Letort Spring, a quarter of a mile northeast of Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, by Special Orders No.99, Paragraph III, Headquarters of the Army, Washington, D. C., on 8 June, 1861.

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to the Washington Station, junction of New Jersey Avenue and North C Street, Washington, D. C., at 6.30 AM on 10 June, 1861.

Department of Pennsylvania, 11-18 June, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by the Franklin Railroad to Greencastle, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, at 9 AM on 11 June, 1861, and was accompanied by the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery. The regiment arrived at Camp Duncan, J Shank's woods, east of the Greencastle & Williamsport Turnpike, two miles southwest of Greencastle, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, at 12 PM on 11 June, 1861.

Camp Duncan, J Shank's woods, east of the Greencastle & Williamsport Turnpike, two miles southwest of Greencastle, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, to Williamsport, Washington County, Maryland, 15 June, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by the Greencastle & Williamsport Turnpike to Williamsport, Washington County, Maryland, at 7.30 AM on 15 June, 1861, and were accompanied by the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery. The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived by the Greencastle & Williamsport Turnpike one mile northeast of Williamsport, Washington County, Maryland, at 12 PM on 15 June, 1861.

Troops ordered to Washington, D. C., 17 June, 1861: 2nd United States Infantry, Companies D, K; 3rd United States Infantry, Companies B, D, G, H, K; 8th United Sates Infantry, Company G, Colonel D S Miles, 2nd United States Infantry; 2nd United States Cavalry, Companies A, C, F, K, Colonel G H Thomas; 1st United States Artillery, Companies E, H, Captain A Doubleday, 1st United States Artillery, Company E; 1st Rhode Islands Detached Militia, Colonel A E Burnside; 1st Rhode Islands Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery, Captain C H Tompkins

Greencastle & Williamsport Turnpike, one mile northeast of Williamsport, Washington County, to Frederick City, Frederick County, Maryland, 17-18 June, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, under the command of Colonel A Burnside, was ordered to Washington, D. C., at 7 AM on 17 June, 1861, and was accompanied by two 10 pounder James rifles of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery. The regiment arrived at Boonsboro via Hagerstown, Funkstown, and Benevola, Washington County, Maryland, at 3 PM on 17 June, 1861, and was ordered to Frederick City, Frederick County, Maryland, at 7 PM the same day. The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at Middletown, Frederick County, Maryland, at 9.30 PM on 17 June, 1861, and one mile southwest of Frederick City, Frederick County, Maryland, at 12 AM on 18 June, 1861.

Frederick County Agricultural Society Fairgrounds, State/ Hessian Barracks, on Market Street, Frederick City, Frederick County, Maryland, 18 June, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at the Frederick County Agricultural Society Fairgrounds, State/ Hessian Barracks, on Market Street, Frederick City, Frederick County, Maryland, at 7 AM on 18 June, 1861.

Note: Four 10 pounder James rifles of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery, under the command of Captain C H Tompkins, arrived at Boonsboro, Washington County, Maryland, in the afternoon on 17 June, 1861.

Frederick City to Washington, 18-19 June, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia (1,245) was ordered to proceed by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad to Washington, D. C., at 8 PM on 18 June, 1861, and was accompanied by the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia/ Providence Marine Corps Artillery. The regiment arrived by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., via Relay House/ Washington Junction, Howard County, Maryland, at 8 AM on 19 June, 1861.

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, at Washington, D. C., at 6 AM on 19 June, 1861.

Department of Washington, 19 June-16 July, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., between 19 June and 16 July, 1861.

Note: F W Goddard was appointed captain, Carbineers, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, and W B Manton first lieutenant, Carbineers, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, by General Orders No.40, State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Adjutant General's Office, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, on 1 July, 1861.

Special Orders No.167, Paragraph I, Headquarters, Department of Washington, Washington, D. C., 2 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, the 71st New York State Militia, the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry, and the 2nd Rhode Island Artillery was assigned to Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, by Special Orders No.167, Paragraph I, Headquarters, Department of Washington, Washington, D. C., on 2 July, 1861.

General Orders No.13, Headquarters, Department of Northeastern Virginia, Arlington, Alexandria County, Virginia, 8 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was assigned to the Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, under the command of Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, by General Orders No.13, Headquarters, Department of Northeastern Virginia, Arlington, Alexandria County, Virginia, on 8 July, 1861.

Disposition of Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, 15 July, 1861: Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Headquarters, Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C.; 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Major J P Balch, Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C.; 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, Colonel J S Slocum, Camp Clark, J Gales' woods, northeast of G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C.; 2nd New Hampshire Infantry, Colonel G Marston, Camp Sullivan, north of J A Smith's Park, east of Seventh Street Turnpike, D. C.; 71st New York State Militia, Colonel H P Martin, Washington Navy Yard, on South M Street, between East Sixth and Ninth Streets, Washington, D. C.; 2nd Rhode Island Artillery, Captain W H Reynolds, Camp Clark, J Gales' woods, northeast of G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C.

Department of Northeastern Virginia, 16-22 July, 1861, & Advance to Centreville, 16-18 July, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to Washington, D. C., at 1 PM on 16 July, 1861, and across the Long Bridge, on the Potomac River, at Washington, D. C., at 2.30/3 PM the same day. The regiment arrived by the Columbia Turnpike at Holmes Run, one mile southeast of Bailey's Crossroads, Fairfax County, via Arlington Mills, Alexandria County, Virginia, at 7 PM on 16 July, 1861.

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to rendezvous on Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D. C., at 12.30/1.30 PM on 16 July, 1861.

Order of march, Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, 16 July, 1861: Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia; 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, Colonel J S Slocum; 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Major J P Balch; 2nd Rhode Island Artillery, Captain W H Reynolds; 1st United States Artillery*, Light Company G, First Lieutenant J Edwards, Jr., 3rd United States Artillery, Company B; 2nd New Hampshire Infantry, Colonel G Marston; 71st New York State Militia, Colonel H P Martin

*Two 20 pounder Parrott rifles of the 1st United States Artillery, Light Company G, under the command of First Lieutenant J Edwards, Jr., 3rd United States Artillery, Company B, was stationed at Fort Runyon, at the junction of the Columbia and the Washington & Alexandria Turnpikes, Alexandria County, Virginia, between 14 and 16 July, 1861, and accompanied the Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, to Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, in the afternoon on 16 July, 1861 (See the 1st United States Artillery, Light Company G).

Note: Brigadier General I McDowell, United States Army, accompanied the Second Division, McDowell's Army, to Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, in the afternoon on 16 July, 1861.

Holmes Run, one mile southeast of Bailey's Crossroads, to Fairfax Courthouse, Fairfax County, Virginia, 17 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to Fairfax Courthouse, Fairfax County, Virginia, at 7 AM on 17 July, 1861, and arrived by the Little River Turnpike at Fairfax Courthouse via Annandale, Fairfax County, Virginia, at 12.30 PM the same day.

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed west of Fairfax Courthouse, Fairfax County, Virginia, between 12.30 PM on 17 July, 1861, and 7.30 AM on 18 July, 1861.

Fairfax Courthouse to B D Utterback's/ Willow Spring farm, two miles east of Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, 18 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, at 7.30 AM on 18 July, 1861, and arrived at B D Utterback's/ Willow Spring farm, north of the road between Fairfax Courthouse and Centreville, one mile east of Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, at 6.30 PM the same day.

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed on the Little River Turnpike, one mile west of Fairfax Courthouse, Fairfax County, Virginia, between 11 AM and 3.30 PM on 18 July, 1861.

First battle of Bull Run, 21 July, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, under the command of Major J P Balch, was stationed at B D Utterback's/ Willow Spring farm, north of the road between Fairfax Courthouse and Centreville, two miles east of Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, in the morning on 21 July, 1861.

Advance to Sudley Ford, on the Bull Run River, 21 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to Sudley Ford, on the Bull Run River, at 2 AM on 21 July, 1861.

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry, and the 71st New York State Militia were stationed west of the Sudley Road, three quarters of a mile south of Sudley Spring, Prince William County, Virginia, in the morning on 21 July, 1861.

Advance to Matthew's Hill, one mile southeast of Sudley Spring, Prince William County, Virginia, 21 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered across Sudley Spring's Ford, on Catharpin Run, to southwest of E Matthew's, on Matthew's Hill, one mile southeast of Sudley Spring, Prince William County, Virginia, in the morning on 21 July, 1861.

Dogan's/ Rosefield, on Dogan's Ridge, half a mile northeast of Groveton, Prince Willaim County, Virginia 21 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was stationed half a mile north of Dogan's/ Rosefield, on Dogan's Ridge, half a mile northeast of Groveton, Prince Willaim County, Virginia, in the afternoon on 21 July, 1861.

Withdrawal to Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, 21 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to B D Utterback's/ Willow Spring farm, north of the road between Fairfax Courthouse and Centreville, two miles east of Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, at 4 PM on 21 July, 1861.

Retreat to Washington, 21-22 July, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at B D Utterback's/ Willow Spring farm, north of the road between Fairfax Courthouse and Centreville, two miles east of Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia, at 9 PM on 21 July, 1861, and was ordered to Fairfax Courthouse, Fairfax County, Virginia, in the evening the same day. The regiment arrived at Fort Runyon, junction of the Columbia and the Washington & Alexandria Turnpikes, Alexandria County, Virginia, in the morning 22 July, 1861.

Fort Runyon, junction of the Columbia and the Washington & Alexandria Turnpikes, Alexandria County, Virginia, to G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., 22 July, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered across the Long Bridge, on the Potomac River, at Washington, D. C., at 8 AM on 22 July, 1861, and arrived at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., in the morning the same day.

List of killed, etc, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, at the battle of Bull Run, 21 July, 1861: Company A, k 2, w 3, w/c 1, c 1, t 7; Company B, w 8, w/c 3, t 11; Company C, c 3, t 3; Company D, k 1, w 4, w/c 5, c 1, m 1, t 12; Company E, k 1, w 5, t 6; Company F, k 2, w 6, w/c 1, c 2, t 11; Company G, k 1, w 2; w/c 5, c 2, t 10; Company H, k 1, w 2, w/c 1, c 1, t 5; Company I, k 1, w 4, w/c 1, t 6; Company K, k 3, w/c 1, t 4; Killed 12, wounded 33, wounded/captured 18, captured 10, missing 1, total 74

Return of casualties in the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Second Brigade, Second Division, Army of Northeastern Virginia, at the battle of Bull Run, 21 July, 1861: Killed 13, wounded 39, captured/missing 30, total 82

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, under the command of Major J P Balch, was stationed at Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., between 22 and 25 July, 1861.

Washington to Providence, 25-28 July, 1861

The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was ordered to proceed by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, to Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 1 PM on 25 July, 1861, and was accompanied by the 25th Pennsylvania Infantry (300), Companies B, E, and H, under the command of Captain D A Smith, 25th Pennsylvania Infantry, Company H. The regiment arrived by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad at Camden Station, corner of South Howard and Camden Streets, Baltimore City, Maryland, in the evening on 25 July, 1861, and was ordered to proceed by the Philadelphia, Wilmington & Baltimore Railroad to Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, at 8 AM on 26 July, 1861. The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia arrived at Broad Street Station, corner of Broad and Washington Avenue/ Prime Street, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, at 7 PM the same day and were ordered to proceed by steamer at Washington Street Wharf, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, to Camden, Camden County, New Jersey, at 11 PM on 26 July, 1861. The regiment arrived by the Camden & Amboy Railroad at South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey, in the morning on 27 July, 1861, and by steamer at New York City, New York County, New York, at 10 AM the same day. Four companies of the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia were ordered to proceed by the steamer State of Maine and six companies, under the command of Colonel A E Burnside, by the steamer Bay State to Providence, Providence, County, Rhode Island, at 1.30 PM on 27 July, 1861. The regiment arrived at Providence, Providence, County, Rhode Island, at 7 AM on 28 July, 1861 (See the 25th Pennsylvania Infantry).

Note: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Company E, arrived by the Worcester & Providence Railroad at Pawtucket, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 12 PM on 28 July, 1861; Company K by the Worcester & Providence Railroad at Pawtucket, Providence County, Rhode Island, at 1 PM on 28 July, 1861; and Company E by the steamer Perry at Sayers Wharf, on Thames Street, Newport, Newport County, Rhode Island, at 2 PM on 28 July, 1861.

Mustered out, Providence, Providence, County, Rhode Island, 2 August, 1861: The 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia was mustered out at Providence, Providence, County, Rhode Island, Colonel G Loomis, 5th United States Infantry, on 2 August, 1861.

Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, 17 April, 1861: A E Burnside, Esq., was appointed colonel, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, on 17 April, 1861, and was assigned to command the Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, by General Orders No.13, Headquarters, Department of Northeastern Virginia, Arlington, Alexandria County, Virginia, on 8 July, 1861. Colonel A E Burnside, 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, was appointed brigadier general, United States Volunteers, by General Orders No.62, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 20 August, 1861, dated 6 August, 1861.

United States Military Academy, south of West Point, Orange County, New York, to Washington, D. C, detachment of United States Military Academy Cadets, 5-8 May, 1861: A detachment of United States Military Academy Cadets (43), under the command of Cadet H W Kingsbury, United States Military Academy, was ordered to Washington, D. C., in the afternoon on 5 May, 1861, and was stationed at New York City, New York County, New York, on 6 May, 1861. The detachment of United States Military Academy Cadets arrived at Walnut Street Wharf, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, at 9.45 PM on 7 May, 1861, and was temporarily arrested and detained at Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, between 7 and 8 May, 1861. The detachment of United States Military Academy Cadets was ordered to proceed by the Philadelphia, Wilmington & Baltimore Railroad to Perryville, Cecil County, Maryland, in the morning on 8 May, 1861, and was ordered to proceed by the steamers Ariel and Georgeanna on the Susquehanna River to Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, at 5 AM on 8 May 1861. The detachment of United States Military Academy Cadets was accompanied bythe 20th New York State Militia and arrived by the Washington Branch, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, at Washington, D. C., via Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, and Annapolis Junction, Howard County, Maryland, in the evening on 8 May, 1861.

Note: Cadet E B Beaumont, United States Military Academy, was ordered to Washington, D. C., in the afternoon on 5 May, 1861, and was appointed second lieutenant, 1st United States Cavalry, Company H, by General Orders No.21, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 17 May, 1861, dated 6 May, 1861. Second Lieutenant E B Beaumont, 1st United States Cavalry, Company H, was appointed aide de camp to Colonel A E Burnside,1st Rhode Island Detached Militia, at the first battle of Bull Run on 21 July, 1861.

Colonel D Hunter, 3rd United States Cavalry, Second Division, McDowell's Army, 18 June, 1861, dated 14 May, 1861: Major & Paymaster D Hunter, United States Pay Department, was appointed colonel, 3rd United States Cavalry, by General Orders No.33, Paragraph I, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 18 June, 1861, dated 14 May, 1861, and was assigned to command the Second Division, McDowell's Army, by General Orders No.13, Headquarters, Department of Northeastern Virginia, Arlington, Alexandria County, Virginia, on 8 July, 1861. Colonel D Hunter, 3rd United States Cavalry, was appointed brigadier general, United States Volunteers, by General Orders No.62, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 20 August, 1861, dated 17 May, 1861, and major general, United States Volunteers, by General Orders No.62, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 20 August, 1861, dated 13 August, 1861.

Note: Cadet D W Flagler, United States Military Academy, were ordered to Washington, D. C., on 30 June, 1861, and arrived in the morning on 3 July, 1861. He was appointed brevet second lieutenant, United States Ordnance Department, by General Orders No.41, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., on 3 July, 1861, dated 24 June, 1861, and were assigned to special duty as a drill instructor at Washington, D. C., in the afternoon on 3 July, 1861. Brevet Second Lieutenant D W Flagler, United States Ordnance Department, was appointed aide de camp to Colonel D Hunter, 3rd United States Cavalry, at the first battle of Bull Run on 21 July, 1861.

Reports

OFFICIAL REPORT NO.40: Series I, Volume 2 (Serial No.2), Chapter IX, pp399-400
Major J P Balch, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, dated Camp Sprague, G W Keating's farm, 700 yards north of Boundary Street, west of North Capitol Street, Washington, D. C., 23 July, 1861

OFFICIAL REPORT NO.39: Series I, Volume 2 (Serial No.2), Chapter IX, pp395-399
Colonel A E Burnside, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, Second Brigade, Second Division, McDowell's Army, dated Washington, D. C., 19 August, 1861

OFFICIAL REPORT NO.31: Series I, Volume 2 (Serial No.2), Chapter IX, pp382-383
Colonel D Hunter, Third United States Cavalry, Second Division, McDowell's Army, dated Washington, D. C., 5 August, 1861

Orders of Battle

• Second New Hampshire Infantry
  Colonel G Marston ›
• First Rhode Island Detached Militia
  Colonel A E Burnside ›
• Second Rhode Island Infantry
  Colonel J S Slocum ›
• Seventy-first New York state Militia
  Colonel H P Martin ›
• Second Rhode island Light Artillery
  Captain W H Reynolds ›
• ‹ Back to Second Brigade, Second Division
• ‹ Back to McDowell's Army

The above painting, 'New York's Bravest', is by Don Troiani, modern America's finest historical artist.