First Minnesota Infantry Regiment: Heroes of the American Civil War
The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment was a Union regiment that played a crucial role in the American Civil War. Formed in April 1861, the regiment was one of the first to respond to President Abraham Lincoln’s call for volunteers to suppress the rebellion. The regiment’s bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to the Union cause earned them a revered place in American history.
Formation and Early Battles
The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment was formed on April 29, 1861, at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. The regiment consisted of ten companies, each recruited from different parts of the state. The regiment’s first colonel was Willis Arnold Gorman, a former congressman and judge. The regiment’s early battles included the First Battle of Bull Run, where they suffered heavy casualties.
⚔️ Note: The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment was one of the first regiments to respond to President Lincoln's call for volunteers, demonstrating their eagerness to defend the Union.
Peninsula Campaign and Antietam
In 1862, the regiment participated in the Peninsula Campaign, where they fought in several battles, including the Battle of Gaines’ Mill and the Battle of Malvern Hill. The regiment suffered heavy casualties during the campaign, but their bravery and determination earned them recognition.
In September 1862, the regiment fought in the Battle of Antietam, where they played a crucial role in repelling the Confederate army’s invasion of Maryland. The regiment’s actions during the battle helped to turn the tide of the war in favor of the Union.
Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville
In December 1862, the regiment fought in the Battle of Fredericksburg, where they suffered heavy casualties during a series of futile assaults on the Confederate positions. The regiment’s bravery during the battle was noted by their commanders, who praised their sacrifice and dedication.
In May 1863, the regiment fought in the Battle of Chancellorsville, where they were part of the Union army’s ill-fated attempt to defeat the Confederate army in Virginia. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the regiment fought bravely, but ultimately retreated with the rest of the Union army.
Gettysburg and the War's Turning Point
In July 1863, the regiment fought in the Battle of Gettysburg, where they played a crucial role in repelling the Confederate army’s invasion of Pennsylvania. The regiment’s actions during the battle helped to turn the tide of the war in favor of the Union.
⚔️ Note: The Battle of Gettysburg marked a turning point in the war, as the Confederate army's invasion of the North was repelled, and the Union army gained momentum.
War's End and Legacy
The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment continued to fight throughout the war, participating in several battles, including the Battle of the Wilderness and the Battle of Petersburg. The regiment was mustered out of service on July 14, 1865, after the war’s end.
The regiment’s legacy is one of bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to the Union cause. The regiment’s actions during the war helped to turn the tide of the conflict in favor of the Union, and their sacrifice will always be remembered.
Statistics and Roster
The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment suffered 550 casualties during the war, including 204 killed or died of wounds, and 346 wounded or missing.
| Company | Location | Number of Men |
|---|---|---|
| A | Fort Snelling | 100 |
| B | St. Paul | 90 |
| C | Minneapolis | 110 |
| D | Stillwater | 80 |
| E | Red Wing | 95 |
| F | 105 | |
| G | Owatonna | 90 |
| H | Austin | 85 |
| I | Albert Lea | 95 |
| K | Rochester | 100 |
The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s roster included several notable individuals, including:
- Colonel Willis Arnold Gorman
- Lieutenant Colonel George H. Baker
- Major William H. Dike
- Captain David P. Stone
In summary, the First Minnesota Infantry Regiment played a crucial role in the American Civil War, fighting in several battles and suffering heavy casualties. Their bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to the Union cause earned them a revered place in American history.
What was the First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s first battle?
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The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s first battle was the First Battle of Bull Run.
Who was the First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s first colonel?
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The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s first colonel was Willis Arnold Gorman.
What was the First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s most notable battle?
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The First Minnesota Infantry Regiment’s most notable battle was the Battle of Gettysburg.
