LOYAL LEGION HISTORICAL JOURNAL The Publication of The Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States VOL. 63, No. 3 FALL 2006 Witness! Kilburn Knox Hunter, Wallace, Kautz, Harris, Howe, 121st MOLLUS CONGRESS and the Trial of the Lincoln Foster, and Colonels Clendenin and. AT LINCOLN MEMORIAL Ekin) became members of MOLLUS. Assassination Conspirators. Only Col. Charles Tomkins did not UNIVERSITY By Dr. Robert Girard Carroon By Karl F. Schaeffer, Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief Past Commander-in-Chief become a Companion. The prosecution Our Congress at historic LMU in On the evening of April 14, 1865 a was handled by the Judge Advocate Harrogate, Tennessee will be held from group of Confederate sympathizers led General, Joseph Holt, and two offi cers Friday, October 20th to Sunday, October by John Wilkes Booth killed Abraham of the JAG corps, Maj. John A. Bingham 22, 2006. I now address all Companions Lincoln, the President of the United and Maj. Henry L. Burnett, both of and Dames of MOLLUS and DOLLUS to States, seriously wounded William who became MOLLUS Companions. consider attending this once in a lifetime, H. Seward, the Secretary of State MOLLUS was represented among twofold event - our MOLLUS Congress and made a failed attempt on the and LMU’s Lincoln Symposium. life of Andrew Johnson, the Vice MOLLUS and DOLLUS have had a President. With the exception of Booth, strong connection to LMU and Major the conspirators, David Herold, and General Oliver Otis Howard (#3808) John Surratt, Jr. were speedily rounded since LMU’s charter was issued on up and eventually incarcerated in the February 12, 1897. In late September old penitentiary at the Washington 1863, our 16th US President, Abraham Arsenal. Booth was eventually caught Lincoln met with General Howard. and killed and Herold captured and President Lincoln asked the good added to the number of those in prison. General to create a university in the The conspirators were brought before Brigadier General Kilburn Knox at Appalachia, Cumberland Gap region as a military commission or tribunal the time he was serving on the staff of governor John A. Dix of New York. the people were very poor and he wanted established by executive order of counsel for the defense by Major General an equal opportunity institution, without the new president, Andrew Johnson. Thomas Ewing. Major Generals Winfi eld regard to race, national origin, sex, age The trial lasted over fifty days and Scott Hancock and John A. Hartranft or religion. President Lincoln’s wish was 366 witnesses were called to give who were in charge of the prisoners realized in 1897 when General Howard, testimony. As the trial progressed also became Companions of MOLLUS.1 Rev. A. A. Myers and Cyrus Kehr created evidence was presented which indicated In the course of the trial a number Lincoln Memorial University in memory that the conspirators intended to bring of military officers were called, as of and in dedication to the principles of down the United States Government witnesses of whom seven became Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy. by assassinating its primary leaders. MOLLUS members including Lt. For the fi rst time in one hundred and The Military Order of the Loyal Legion, General Ulysses S. Grant. Among.the nine years, all of our MOLLUS and which had already been established by others who testified was Brevet Lt. DOLLUS members, along with their the time, the trial began on May 10, spouses, will have the opportunity 1865, was well represented by future to attend our Congress and LMU’s 1 Edward Steers, Jr. The Trial Transcript as compiled Companions involved in the trial. Of and arranged in 1865 by Benn Pitman. (Hereinafter Symposium which will be an awesome the nine offi cers who were members of The Trial) 2003. v-xix. Robert G. Carroon and Dana event. You will have the opportunity the military commission eight (Generals B. Shoaf Union Blue (2001) passim. continued on page 2, column 1 continued on page 10, column 1 THE LOYAL LEGION HISTORICAL JOURNAL is published by the MEMORIAL FUND of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, which was founded April 15, 1865. Pertinent materials will be welcomed from Companions and others. Information should be submitted to the Editor, Marston Watson, 48 Southwind Circle, Richmond, CA 94804-7404. Information should be typed and photographs may be black and white or in color. Contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund through the National Headquarters. Page 2 Loyal Legion Historical Journal Witness! Kilburn Knox...from page 1 Colonel Kilburn Knox. While the history of such witnesses as COMMANDERY NEWS General Grant is well known, the background of such witnesses as Lt. Colonel Knox is not. It is helpful to know something OHIO COMMANDERY about him to understand why he was subpoenaed as a witness. Ira Kilburn Knox was a native of Pennsylvania where HISTORIC GLENDALE CEMETERY AND CIVIL WAR he was born in Lawrenceville on October 23 1842, the MEMORIAL CHAPEL, AKRON, OHIO son of The Hon. John Knox, one of the Justice’s of the On Saturday afternoon, July 15, 2006, nearly two Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and Adeline Kilburn. hundred citizens from Akron, Ohio and surrounding He was known as Ira Kilburn Knox at the time of his area attended a magnificent military service at the enlistment on April 19, 1861 in the Commonwealth Artillery Memorial Chapel that was constructed by the Buckeye of Philadelphia. He was assigned with his company Post of the Grand Army of the Republic in 1876. to Fort Delaware where he remained until June 1861. After opening remarks by Gerry Huhn, President of On June 9, 1861 Kilburn was commissioned a 1st Lieutenant the Summit County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical in the 13th U.S. Infantry, commission to date from May 14, Society, the main speaker for this event was Paul Huff, Past 1861. Lt. Knox was transferred to Jefferson Barracks, St. Commander of SUVCW General A. C. Voris Camp #67 Louis, Missouri, where he was assigned to duties as drill and MOLLUS member. Each person in attendance was offi cer for three regiments of volunteers. He then went on asked to report one Union Civil War family member to be recruiting and mustering duty in Iowa. . He was transferred to memorialized within the confi nes of the Civil War Memorial the Army of the Tennessee where he served in the Commissary Chapel. A roll call of 105 Civil War veterans was read. Department under Major General William T. Sherman; he was promoted Captain on May 14, 1864. Kilburn was then assigned to the staff of Major General James Birdseye McPherson. He was brevetted Major in the Regular Army on July 24, 1864 for gallant and meritorious service at the Battle of Atlanta on the recommendation of General John Logan. He was with General McPherson at the time of his death and accompanied the General’s remains when they were returned to Ohio for burial. He returned to duty and participated in the battles of Jonesboro and Lovejoy Station. In September 1864 he was ordered to Washington D.C. where he was assigned to the staff of the Secretary of War, Edwin M. Stanton in the Commissary General’s offi ce. He was

brevetted Lt. Colonel on March 13 1865. On April 15, 1865, Schaeffer he was assigned to duty as military aide to President Abraham l. to r. - John Seibert, Gordon Bury, Rosemary/Karl Schaeffer, Elizabeth/Madeline/ Lincoln, which appointment was nullifi ed by the death of Robert Rock and Lynne Bury the President. He was then appointed Assistant Secretary to A memorial service was then held in front President Andrew Johnson and served in that position until of the Statue of the Unknown Dead located in front August 1865. At that time Kilburn Knox reverted to his regular of the Chapel. Participants in this ceremony were: army rank of Captain and returned to service with the 13th Past National Commander-in-Chief of MOLLUS and U.S. Infantry and then transferred to the 22nd Infantry. He was Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War - Gordon R. Bury assigned to command Fort Dakota, Dakota Territory, a position MOLLUS National Sr. Vice-Commander-in-Chief and he held until he resigned his commission on April 1, 1869.2 Past Commander of SUVCW McClellan Camp #91 - Karl Kilburn returned to Philadelphia. Moving to New York City F. Schaeffer he accepted a position with the fi rm of Schuyler, Hartlely MOLLUS member and Past Commander of SUVCW and Graham. On April August 19, 1871 he married Annie General A. C. Voris Camp #67 - Robert E. Rock Menager. When General John A. Dix was elected Governor Past Commander of SUVCW General A. C. Voris Camp of New York. Knox was appointed to the Governor’s staff #67 - Rick Acker Chaplain of SUVCW General A. C. Voris Camp #67 - Larry 2 Microfi lm Publication M-1064 National Archives and Record Service Branch of Williams the Adjutant General’s Offi ce 1863-1870. Roll 536; Francis B. Heitman, Historical Register and Dictionary of the United States Army, 1903. 1:607; NARS K399 cr. Karl F. Schaeffer, Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief 1864. Pay record of Kilburn Knox... continued on page 6, column 2 continued on page 4, column 1

Loyal Legion Historical Journal Page 3

LOYAL LEGION HISTORICAL Welcome New Companions JOURNAL The following Companions have joined the Military Order of The Publication of the Military Order the Loyal Legion since May 2006. The Commander-in-Chief of the Loyal Legion of the United States extends congratulations and a warm welcome to each one. VOL. 63, No.3 FALL 2006 Jeffry C. Burden, Chancellor-in-Chief 1 Witness! Kilburn Knox and the Trial of the Lincoln Assassination Companions Insignia No. Commandery Conspirators Hereditary Companions 2nd Lt. Sam Edmund Clegg, USA 22445 Virginia Samuel O’Donald Cahill 22446 1 121st MOLLUS Congress at Virginia Edward Hawkins Sisson 22447 D.C. Lincoln Memorial University Michael Victor Scarlato, II 22448 Missouri

2 Commandery News Associate Companions Maurice David Descoucy, III A209 California 3 Welcome New Companions Thomas Edward Jacks A210 Missouri

6 The Legacy of Abraham Lincoln Hereditary Membership Program Along with the Future of DOLLUS is Moving in the Right Our Hereditary Membership Program is in effect each Direction and Will Prevail for fi scal year, October 1 through September 30. Here are the Generations to Come rules that apply to this program. Recruit a minimum of three (3) new Hereditary Companions and you will be rewarded 7 Recollections of Kit Carson with a Lincoln MOLLUS Certifi cate of Appreciation for meritorious service and a Lincoln Membership Medal of 10 Loyal Legion Memorial Fund Honor presented by our current Commander-in-Chief. These two prestigious awards will be presented to you at our 11 121st National Congress annual National Congress, the Lincoln Memorial Ceremony Reservation Form in Washington, D.C. or at the Lincoln Tomb Ceremony in Springfi eld, Illinois. If you are unable to attend one of these 12 Merchandise Order Form three major functions, arrangements may be made to mail the certifi cate and medal to your home. This program is the lifeblood of our historic Military Order and will ensure our noble existence for countless generations to come.

Publisher Remembering “MOLLUS” In Your Will Benjamin C. Frick After you provide for your family and other matters, would you consider Commander-in-Chief including a memorial gift in your will to our hallowed Order? Your gift to the Loyal Legion Memorial Fund, which is tax deductible, would be used Editor-in-Chief to support the preservation of battlefi elds, monuments and programs that Marston Watson serve to memorialize the Civil War. In this way you would be perpetuating the memory of your Civil War ancestors and fellow companions. Assistant Editor Kathleen Todd Watson Layout and Production MOLLUS WEBSITE Loyal Legion Historical Journal is now online! Printed by Cerrito Printing http://www.suvcw.org/mollus/mollus.htm El Cerrito, California Page 4 Loyal Legion Historical Journal Witness! Kilburn Knox...from page 2 Infantry in the Confederate Army in Michael O’ Laughlin]5 I left the War as Commissary General and Chief of 1861 and served until late 1862 when Department at 10 o’clock after the Ordnance with the rank of Brigadier ill health forced him to resign and return illumination there was over and walked General. He was much involved in to Maryland. John Wilkes Booth had up to the Secretary’s house. There was veteran’s affairs in New York and was drawn him into the initial conspiracy, a band playing at the house and on the one of the earliest members of MOLLUS which was to kidnap President Lincoln. steps were General Grant, Mrs. Grant, becoming a Companion (Insignia No. The plot to kidnap the President failed the Secretary, General Barnes and his 65) of the Pennsylvania Commandery and O’ Laughlen returned to Baltimore wife, Mr. Knapp and his wife, Miss Lucy on November 1, 1865. He transferred from the Capitol. Several weeks later Stanton, and two or three small children. to the New York Commandery on he was summoned by Booth to meet I was standing on the upper steps talking April 30, 1877 and to the Wisconsin with him in Washington DC and to Mrs. Grant and the General. Some Commandery on October 2, 1889. was present in the city on April 13. fireworks were being set off in the Kilburn was appointed Secretary It was on the evening of April 13, 1865, square opposite and I stepped down a and Inspector of the Northwestern that Major Knox encountered Michael little to allow the children to see them. Branch, National Home for Disabled I got down on the step, I think, next to Veterans at Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the last one, leaning against the railing, January 1887. He became Governor and this man [O’Laughlin] came up to of the Home on May 1, 1889. His me after I had been there ten minutes, wife Annie worked as a Matron of the probably, and said, ‘Is Stanton in?’ Said Home. The Knox’s had a daughter, I, I suppose you mean the Secretary? He Birdseye McPherson Knox. General said, ‘Yes.’ I think he made the remark, Knox died at the National Soldier’s ‘I am a lawyer in town; I know him very Home on April 17, 1891. Annie M. Knox well.’ I was under the impression he was continued to work as a Matron at the under the infl uence of liquor. I told him Home until her death in 1927 Birdseye I did not think he could see him. Then, married Oscar Chrysler and they had he walked to the other side of the steps three children: Laura Annette, Harriet Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. Was and stood there probably fi ve minutes. Louise, and Frederick Knox Chrysler.3 he a target of the conspirators? I still staid there, I suppose fi ve minutes Kilburn Knox was called to testify as O’Laughlen in front of the home of and he walked over and said, ‘Is Mr. a witness in the portion of the trial of Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. It Stanton in?’ and then said, ‘Excuse me, was charged in the specifi cations that I thought you were the offi cer on duty 3 In Memoriam Companion Kilburn Knox Commandery Michael O’Laughlen’s assignment in of the State of Wisconsin MOLLUS, Circular No. 11, here.’ Said I, There is no offi cer on duty the conspiracy was to murder General Series 1891, Whole No. 205; Union Blue 2001, 276; here. He then walked to the other side of Widow’s Pension Application, Annie Knox. Box Grant who it was stated was staying 39411, Bundle 17, Cert. 354382. National Archives the steps and walked inside of the hall, at the home of Secretary Stanton. and Record Service. the alcove, and stood on the inside of The theory advanced was that O’ the step. I saw him standing there, and Laughlen had gone see if Grant was at I walked over to Mr. David Stanton and the Stanton home and what opportunity said, Do you know that man? He said he he might have to assassinate him did not. I said to him, He says he knows the next evening, in concert with the the Secretary very well, but he is under attacks by Booth, Adzerodt and Powell.4 the influence of liquor and you had It was to give evidence in support of better bring him out. Mr. David Stanton the specifi cations by the Judge Advocate walked up to him, talked to him a few General that Lt. Colonel Knox testifi ed moments, and then took him down the on May 16, 1865 in the trial chamber at steps. He went off, and I did not notice the Washington Arsenal. In response to him again. He did not say anything about Michael O’Laughlen. Did he fail to questions from Joseph Holt, Knox stated, General Grant. By this time, I think, carry out his real assignment? “I was at the home of the Secretary of the General had gone into the parlor.” the conspirators which dealt with the War, in this city on the evening of the “I think the Secretary stood on the defendant Michael O’ Laughlen. O’ 13th of April last, and saw there a man steps outside, and this man stood Laughlen was a childhood friend of John whom I recognize among the prisoners. behind the Secretary, and from where Wilkes Booth when both were residents There he is [pointing to the accused, of Baltimore, Maryland. O’Laughlen he stood he could see into the parlor. had enlisted in the First Maryland 5 Although it is spelled “O’Laughlin” in the trial 4 The Trial, xc-xci, 20 transcript, the family spelled it “O’ Laughlen”. Loyal Legion Historical Journal Page 5 On the left-hand side of the hall, going attack Grant, then he would have gone George Adzerodt, it may well be that he in, is the library; on the other side is to the Willard Hotel, not the residence got cold feet. Also like Adzerodt he had the parlor door. He stood on the side of the Secretary of War, where there been drinking heavily on the April 13th next to the library, and in that position was no indication that Grant would be and continued to do so on April 14th. he could have looked into the parlor, staying, or that he would be there on In any case he returned to Baltimore on and seen who was in there through the following day, April 14, when the the 15th where he was later arrested.8 the door. The whole house was lighted attacks were to be carried out. Grant The testimony of Kilburn Knox, had up, and I feel pretty certain that the always stayed at the Willard and the it been more carefully analyzed by prisoner, O’Laughlin, is the man I saw.” conspirators would surely have known the prosecution, indicated that Edwin On being cross-examined by this. On April 13, Booth checked out McMasters Stanton was the most O’Laughlen’s defense counsel, Walter Ford’s Theatre, Powell strolled by logical and intended fourth victim Cox, Lt. Colonel Knox said, “I do not the home of the Secretary of State of the conspirators and not Ulysses recollect whether it was moonlight or and actually spoke to the male nurse S. Grant who, at most, would have dark that evening. There was a great enquiring after Seward’s health, and been only a target of opportunity. crowd around the Secretary’s house, George J. Adzerodt went to the Kirkland The story of the assassination of and close up to the steps. I did not notice House where he had the clerk point out Abraham Lincoln continues to be the the man until he walked up on the steps Vice President Andrew Johnson, whom subject of historical research, with books and spoke to me, and after he went he did not know, who was having a meal and articles on the topic appearing almost out again I saw him no more. I did not in the dining room. If the assassins were annually. Speculations are still made go inside the hall while he was there. checking on the location of their potential about all aspects of the assassination and Secretary Stanton was on the left-hand victims then why did O’Laughlen go to the trial and the fi gures connected with side of the steps talking to Mrs. Grant, the house of the Secretary of War if his the “crime of the century.” This article is and the man went up on the right-hand intended target was Grant, who always only one of many and suggests a theory side past them, and went in and took a stayed at the Willard? An obvious that it was Edwin M. Stanton who was place on the left hand side. He had on a answer is that Grant was not the target the target and that Michael O’ Laughlen black slouch hat, a black frock coat, and at all-but Edwin M. Stanton was.7 was as involved as George Adzerodt in black pants; as to his vest I cannot say. In many ways Secretary Stanton the attempt to assassinate the leaders of That was while the fi reworks were going was the person who had done more the government on April 14, 1865. on. I had never seen the man before. I to bring about the destruction of the Confederacy than any of the others in 8 H. Donald Winkler, Lincoln and Booth (2003), 67. have seen him once since in this prison; Trial, xciii. I came here a week ago last Sunday the administration with the exception for the purpose of identifying him.”6 of the President. As the trial developed The New York Commandery The importance of Kilburn Knox’s the question of a possible attempt on the meets regularly for dinner and testimony lies in the identification life of the Secretary of War, to be carried welcomes any companions visiting of Michael O’Laughlen and in his out on the same night as the others was New York City to join us. We meet conversation with him wherein suggested but was brushed aside in favor at 3 West 51st Street (WNRC), New O’Laughlen only asked after Secretary of the more dramatic target, Ulysses S. York City, courtesy of the Squadron Stanton and not General Grant. David Grant. However there was no knowledge A Association with drinks in Stanton, the Secretary’s son, backed on the part of the conspirators that Grant the Pub at 6:30 PM followed by up Knox’s testimony. Sgt. John C. would be in the Capitol until he actually dinner at seven. The schedule for Hatter who was also at the Stanton arrived on the 13th and checked in at the coming year is as follows: the Willard. On the other hand Stanton home said that O’ Laughlen did ask 2006 after Grant, but his testimony may was known to be in Washington and the Wednesday,Sept.13th simply have been influenced by the conspirators certainly knew where he Wednesday,Oct.11th specifications which were public by lived. The Secretary of War, given the Wednesday,Nov.15th the time he and the others testified. other intended victims, was the obvious Monday,Dec.11th. The indictment listed the obvious fourth target. As the other assassins 2007 targets that were actually attacked or were checking out their targets and Monday,Jan.8th threatened with attack: The President, places of operation, so, it appears, was Tuesday,Mar.6th the Vice President and the Secretary Michael O’Laughlen, but, when it came Monday,April 16th Monday,May 7th (Annual of State. The indictment also listed Lt. to actually carrying out his mission, like Meeting) General Grant. If O’Laughlen was to 7 Michael W. Kaufman American Brutus (2004), 213- Wednesday,June 13th. 6 The Trial, 226-227, 344, 382. 214, 317. Elizabeth D. Leonard, Lincoln’s Avengers Donald L. Twiss, Recorder, (914)713-2400 (2004), 110 Page 6 Loyal Legion Historical Journal

The Legacy of Abraham Mrs. Shattuck, a leader in a number recruiting program to insure growth Lincoln Along with the Future of Chicago club activities, as its fi rst now and countless years to come. president. She began her one-year term Our member Dames should strive of DOLLUS is Moving in the at the group’s fi rst meeting on October to attain new members by signing Right Direction and Will 5, 1899. Mrs. Hapeman was elected up our daughters, daughters-in-law, Prevail for Generations to president in 1900-1901. At this time granddaughters, nieces and cousins (no Come MOLLUS and DOLLUS has a connection age requirement – from cradle on up). which has continued to flourish. The admission fee and fi rst year dues Rosemary Schaeffer, National President One of the key issues in 2006 and are $20.00. Dues thereafter are only A historical military order was formed future years is to encourage membership $10.00 a year. Recruit a member today! by three Union offi cers on April 15, growth. MOLLUS has a productive 1865 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was formed to honor and remember Abraham Lincoln, our beloved 16th COMMANDERY NEWS United States President, who was brutally assassinated the previous day Commandery News...from page 2 at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. Massachusetts Commandery Treasurer John Taft, CDR USN Ret The Military Order of the Loyal Legion A report was made during the formal Recorder Bradford Blaser, CDR USN of the United States (MOLLUS) was meeting concerning the successful Ret created to perpetuate the principles restoration of the Civil War Soldier statue and leadership of Abraham Lincoln. in the city of Brockton, Massachusetts. Carol Bundy, a noted local historian, Two wives of MOLLUS members Massachusetts Commandery made a entertained members and guests after called a meeting on May 11, 1899 at signifi cant contribution to its restoration. a fine luncheon, with a fascinating the Palmer House in Chicago, Illinois Companion Brendan O’Connell reported and moving profile of the short but on his participation in the Lincoln important life of Colonel Charles Birthday ceremonies in Washington, Russell Lowell, Jr. (1835-1864), a D.C. and informed members about the Civil War hero who died in battle. MOLLUS annual meeting at Lincoln University in October 2006. We discussed Virginia Commandery participation in Memorial Day ceremonies Members of the Commandery met on at the National Veterans Cemetery in 28 June 2006 in Richmond to review Bourne on Cape Cod. The commandery recent Commandery events, introduce was recognized for its participation. new members and discuss recruiting, Companion Bayard Lincoln, manager as well as make plans for the upcoming of ROTC awards, reported on the Congress. Companion David Condon Mrs. Ella Thomas Hapeman presentation of the awards made at brought a special relic of his to the to form a ladies auxiliary of MOLLUS. MIT, Northeastern University and the meeting – a presentation sword that This historic event was organized University of Massachusetts. Five belonged to his MOLLUS ancestor, Brig. by Mrs. Ella Thomas Hapeman of awards were presented which consisted Gen. Edmund Jackson Davis, 1st Texas Ottawa, Illinois, widow of Lt. Col. of a MOLLUS medal and a cash gift. Cavalry (US). Alex Wise, executive Douglas Hapeman of the 104th Illinois The recipients were: Army Cadets Ryan director of the American Civil War Center Volunteers (MOLLUS Insignia No. J. Walsh, Andrew De Georgio, David at Historic Tredegar, gave an update on 3488, Illinois Commandery) and Mrs. Hunter, Air Force Cadet Kyle A. Bowman, the progress made towards Opening Day, Lorenzo Bruce Shattuck, wife of and Navy Midshipman Jacqueline Perez. now set for this fall. The museum will Capt. L. B. Shattuck, 35th New York Commander Warren Wells called tell the story of the war from the Union, Infantry, (MOLLUS Insignia No. 3703, for the annual election of offi cers. The Confederate, and African-American Illinois Commandery). A committee results chose new offi cers as follows: perspectives, and will occupy more was formed from among the fi fty-one than 10,000 square feet on three levels charter members to draft a constitution Commander Frederick Stevens, LtCol built in Tredegar’s foundry building. and bylaws of the Dames of the Loyal USA Ret Legion of the United States (DOLLUS). Vice-Commander Howard Norris, Jeffrey Burden, Recorder The new DOLLUS organization elected LtCol USAF Ret Loyal Legion Historical Journal Page 7 Recollections of Kit Carson remember the late Dr. Leib, who was services of Carson he never rejected them. Read before the Illinois Commandery of MOLLUS, March 1, 1928 the Editor and Proprietor of the “Rail- Up to the time of the Civil War Carson by Nelson Thomasson, Captain Company E, 5th Splitter” in Chicago in 1860? He was had a great partiality for California, and Infantry USA made a Q. M., and became McClellan’s every time he could go with Fremont capable Quarter Master in West Virginia, or others, or alone, he would go. The but the Senate would not confi rm his fi rst Mission established by the Roman nomination, and be gave up and went Catholic religion was San Diego, in back to his old medical profession, and 1769, and then about 25 to 30 missions years after came out to us as a contract north, all near the Pacifi c Ocean or on the physician when we inaugurated the rivers that had their only outlet through territory of Arizona, at Prescott, the the Golden Gate at San Francisco. Then capital thereof. Dr. Leib wrote a book the wealth of our country consisted of how to make a million (which he did the precious metals of the South, or the not do) but died a poor man in Prescott, rich peltries of the North. These two and his widow married another doctor. pursuits have, in a manner, been the Carson was passionately fond of the pioneers and precursors of civilization, buffalo, and told me he had hunted and without pausing on the borders, Kit Carson buffalo every year since he was 12 they have penetrated at once in defi ance years old. He despised the appellation of difficulties to the very heart of Good-Bye, Friends, Adios Amigos of scout, and wished to be called a savage countries, laying open the – The last words of Kit Carson. trapper or hunter in his younger days. secrets of the wilderness after them, not Commander and Companions: In a paper of this kind it is so hard to tell waiting the slow and pausing steps of We reached Albuquerque on July 4, what is best to give and the better to omit. agriculture and the coming of crowds, l862, and then and there, for the fi rst But no matter how you do it, you will be and this was what Carson gloried in, time I met Kit Carson. But the heat criticized, and so we will dictate it just to be an explorer, trapper, and hunter was so terrific and the flies were so as it comes to us, and let it alone at that. Captain Asa B. Carey, who died as pestering, that the room was kept dark Christopher Carson was born at chief paymaster of the U. S. Army and I saw little of him. But afterwards, Cynthiana, Kentucky on December (whom I ever regard as the James up and down the Rio Grande, and during 24, 1809. But he was carried in his Madison of our crowd) was next in the Navajo campaign, I saw enough mother’s arms to Missouri in less than command in the celebrated Navajos of him, to fall in love with him. He a year afterwards. When I was part of campaign. Carey had two companies was already enthroned in my mind, by the garrison of New Fort Barracks in of the 13th U. S. Infantry with him. my reading the fi rst novel I ever read, Kentucky in 1868, I took the trouble We would start out in the morning, and Lena Leota or The Prairie Flower, by just after Colonel Carson’s death, to run unless we had water holes in view for G. P. R. James, published in 1853, and down to Cynthiana, his birthplace, as it camping purposes, we would make about by the accounts made to me by my is in the adjoining county, but I could 10 to 13 miles a day. We had American maternal uncle, David Meriwether, not fi nd a soul who knew anything worth horses and they could in their walks appointed by President Pierce as recording as to this Carson family. And keep the little mustangs in a perpetual Governor of New Mexico in 1854. by the same token little can be learned dog trot. Carson would always lead the Kit Carson’s life is full to repletion in Missouri, because when the subject way, and when we would arrive at our with adventure. Look at his career with of our inquiry became a mere boy, “he rendezvous, he was there and through Fremont, just before and during our was on the jump,” to use his expression, Murphy would yell out “Pheiffer, you war with Mexico, and during the short to make a living. But if you really, throw your Company over thar and while he was a Lieutenant in the regular want to know anything, go to Taos Birney, your Company adjoining” and army. The Senate would not confi rm today, and every adult will talk and tell so making a perfect semi-circle. And his appointment which he held about you a great deal of our hero of heroes. then in a few moments you could smell one year, but performed service to his He became a waggoner at the age of 15, the fragrant coffee to be relished by the Government even after he knew he was and a hunter when about 17 years of age, tired and almost exhausted soldiers. rejected in the winding up of certain and a full-fl edged scout before Colonel Colonel Carson would always keep public affairs. By the way, something Charles Fremont found him when he his camp chair at the head of this circle ought to be done about the U. S. Senate took his (Carson’s) daughter to school and receive the reports of the different ruling of confi rmations. Don’t we all in St. Louis. Fremont had his other detachments. Afterwards, if suffi cient employees, but when he could get the continued on page 8, column 1 Page 8 Loyal Legion Historical Journal of St. Louis or State of Missouri.” I Recollections...from page 7 been born, had died, and still lived - that have forgotten which he stated. Colonel officers were present, a card party was enough for him. He used to say, “A Carson said, “I wish you would keep would be formed, and certain offi cers man should never do anything in day it for me till I return from the Navajo (I often thought) would be invited to time that would make him repent thereof Country, but you must promise me to come and join in the game of draw when the night came.” Now do you let no one on its back but you. I will poker, or whatever the majority or think we youngsters went wrong when be gone about three weeks. When I get Carson might wish. Right here I wish we truly idolized this nature’s man? out of the Canon de Chelly, my address to record Carson would only allow a He took quite a liking to a Captain who will be Ceboeta. I will come back here.” small ante and limit to be practiced. commanded a Company of Americans, I promised - I told him I would like He would invariably gamble or bet on but who came too late to get into the to discard the Mexican bit. “No,” the canned fruits or chicken a la Marengo, regular column. This Captain was an Colonel said, “he is too spirited to be and also what was called then lemonade ex-preacher and when detached and sent without this curb.” This animal was a sugar. This was new to us and “Oh!” so on scout would make speeches to his beauty - with the bridle (but which I nice in that hot climate to our tired and battalion, saying they were about to go thought was cruel) you could manage jaded bodies. We all, if we could afford into action, and every man should implore him with the left hand most easily. If it, had meerschaums, but Carson was his Maker, or the God of battles, for His Custer had this curbed bit he would not very partial to the briar pipe - some protection. This offi cer would spring have had that runaway of his horse at depended upon chewing tobacco being doctrines upon Carson, but the Colonel the grand parade in Washington City in protected from the dry climate by tin would then turn his head away - puff 1865. There is no cruelty to the horse foil covering, which General Winfi eld his smoke in another direction. Colonel by a skillful rider. The slightest pressure Scott had invented 16 years before on Carson had some time and somewhere opens the animal’s mouth, but his nostrils the road from Vera Cruz to the City been told about the simple and sincere are free, which a horse so much likes. of Mexico. And then would begin the teachings of the humble Galilean and of Napoleon could not adopt it, because stories beside the camp fi res, which I his 12 men who stood against the whole he never could use the bridle reins will never forget if I live ages to come. world and won. He believed in this and with only his right hand, never the left. Colonel Carson was not what could let theology go hang. He believed that Colonel Kit Carson was a great be called an educated man, and always membership in the kingdom above could believer and lover of pure religion - that regretted he was not. He could write be insured only on the basis of individual religion born in a stable and educated his name, and wrote it “Kit Carson,” righteousness. No other credentials were in a carpenter shop, he was a verily true but Murphy, the adjutant of the column, worthy of a moment’s consideration. Christian - but he would have nothing to decreed it would not go down with the He believed in the Heavenly Father do with theology. At the camp fi res when third auditor, and prevailed upon having who is the embodiment of mercy the talk would glide into that, he would it “C. Carson.” I had a large box of these and redeeming love for his children. turn himself in his canvas back chair, orders and returns signed by Colonel And so I could go along and tire and exhale his puffs of smoke from his Carson but, of course, they all went up you with these recollections - but Cui briar root pipe in an opposite direction. in your great smoke of 1871, where they Bono. He (Carson) lived a long life, as What would he think if someone told were in an iron vault, but which proved great men’s lives are all short. Abraham him that we now have church property to be no protection in your said great fi re. Lincoln died at 56 years, and Carson a in the United States amounting to 3 Once when we were jogging along I few years later, in the year 1868. He billion dollars and that there were 183 asked Colonel Carson how many Indians died really from a wound he received sects of purported religions? Would it he had sent to the “Happy Grounds.” His when a young man. This wound at not have petrifi ed him with astonishment reply was that he could not tell exactly, times gave him great trouble. He was as much as any of his Arizona trees? but he said he never killed any unless brought down from Taos to Fort Lyons As to these statements, see the 1926 his life was in great danger, and then to be near a doctor of the regular army. Statements of the Census Bureau. But he would send the Indian before him. This doctor told him almost to a day I am not a preacher or an exhorter, One day, looking up the road which how long he could live, ie., when the but let us hope, yes, let us pray that came through the Bosque (or woods), wound would reach a certain stage in with these 183 sects or denominations I saw Colonel Carson coming toward his throat, and one day Carson had felt and 3 billion dollars worth of church me, mounted on a very superb horse. He he was being choked, and he only had property, that we will soon have more was escorted by a few cavalry men of time to cry out, “Friends, good-bye,” practical piety and righteousness. his New Mexican regiment. He saluted and dying he shouted “Adios Amigos.” Carson was never heavy on any me teniente, “How you like my new Carson was born on the 24th of religion, but he knew that his Christ had horse? It is a present from the people December, a Christmas Eve present to his Loyal Legion Historical Journal Page 9 parents, 1809, Madison County, the same often thought it was due to Mr. Cody’s regular army, and more similar stuff. year that Abraham Lincoln saw light, perseverance and to his tip-top worthiness. But really, this was originated by but he was brought to Missouri early to Colonel Carson always gave me the McFerran, who died shortly after as what is now Howard County. Missouri credit of his being appointed Indian Quarter Master General of the U. was then called Upper Louisiana, being agent of the Southwest, and I never S. Army. He needed Carson very a part of the land ceded to the United did do a semi-public action that gave much to carry out certain provisions States by France in 1803. This Howard me so much private satisfaction. It promised to the Utes and Navajoes, County, Missouri, where Carson came happened in this way: When on waiting and this was the only way to do it. as a child, was a wild region, infested orders here in Chicago I made a visit to How fast humans increase even on all sides with Indians, often hostile Washington City, and had hardly taken in bondage. We brought from the and always treacherous. Carson told me a seat in General John C. McFerran’s Navajo Country 9,200 prisoners, and he had sown his wild oats before he was offi ce, when he spoke right out, that now they write me there are about 21, he knew he could not have his cake he wanted me to go to General Grant 21,000 Indians on the reservation. But and eat it, too, so he chose to save his and join with others in asking this this increase does not exceed that of money and his strength for future use. commission for Carson. I told him the Negro race. Lincoln, with a few About the year 1868, General William (McFerran) that Lieutenant Colonel strokes of his pen manumitted four Tecumseh Sherman made an inspection Chaves, Carson’s Lieutenant Colonel, million slaves, and now there must be tour of the Plains forts, almost all said had a candidate for that offi ce, etc., but several more million citizens of African forts in Kansas and Colorado. Instead of McFerran said, “No matter, go ahead, decent - voting at the Northern Polls. hiring or inviting Kit Carson or Maxwell, and be quick about it.” We immediately I wish to bespeak of the American formerly of Kaskasika, Illinois, to escort made a petition in as few words as people their best actions to these him and staff, as it had been the custom, possible. I went to the old warhorses Navajos. Even General Sheridan, whose General Sherman by a special order, fi rst, whom I knew personally, such as antipathy extended to all Indians, used to commanded Captain Edmund Butler of General Rucker, Sheridan’s father-in- confess to his compadres that there were my Regiment, the 5th U. S. Infantry, and law; McFeeley, Thompkins (who led many good Indians in the Navajo Tribe. platoon of soldiers, to be his bodyguard. the fi rst cavalry fi ght in the Civil War, Right here and now I wish to stress At this we then marveled. The heirs of etc.) and who knew Carson fortunately the fact that this Navajo campaign was Butler proudly show this special order and got them to sign this petition. comparatively a bloodless one. On today. Why was it thus? About a year Next morning I appeared before the second day after entering Canon or so previous General Sherman was McFerran and showed him the petition, de Chelly, and the killing of Major presented with a scholarship from some and he said we will go right over to Cummins, the Major of Carson’s university in Indiana, and as Tecumseh Grant’s office. We went, and found regiment, which I told you about in a had no son then eligible for this college, Grant just coming down the stairway, former paper, we had no real fi ghting. he selected the oldest son of Kit Carson with Major Leit (who had been a It was all planned by General James to be the candidate to go through the cross-eyed dry-goods clerk in Chicago) H. Carleton and Colonel Carey - and curriculum. Carson’s boy went, and and Grant had taken him on his staff. executed by Colonel Kit Carson and his before the fi rst year was out, or soon McFerran, who had been a classmate command - and all very successfully. I thereafter, General Sherman had a bill of Grant’s at the Point in 1844, did the can, in my recollections, see Manulita, of about $1,000 sent him for board and talking, saying “General, here is a small the Chief of all the Navajos, bowing books, for Kit Carson’s boy. This made petition; we wish to call your immediate his head in acquiescence, and crying Tecumseh mad as a March hare, and attention thereto.” Grant stopped and out after Carson had his talk and hence his screed against all scouts in McFerran read the petition and some of smoke with him, “Good Medicine.” general and particularly those in the the names appended. He (Grant) took And now I am dead tired, and I am employ of the U. S. Government then the paper from McFerran and handed it afraid you are also, and this is all I will - stating the Indians were almost gone, to Major Leit, and told him to make out say about Colonel Carson tonight, that and the scouts should go with them, and this commission to Colonel Kit Carson. he retired after his Indian appointment so forth and so on. But Reno will tell you Of course, this made Lieutenant to that lovely Taos in New Mexico, just (who is alive today) that if Custer had Colonel Chaves howling mad, and he East of the Continental Divide - and the more scouts and depended upon them, came out in the papers asking what Ute and Navajo reservations in Arizona. that he (Custer) would never have come could a delegate from the great territory But I want to add one word about to such an inglorious end. But Sherman’s in New Mexico amount to, when the Lincoln - I tried to do so last evening screed had its effect, and how Buffalo administration made an appointment but could not as I did not have the Bill fl ourished in his long career; I have over his head by a Lieutenant of the continued on page 10, column 2 Page 10 Recollections...from page 10 Loyal Legion Historical Journal 121st MOLLUS Congress...from page 1 manuscript with me. Here it is, and I I replied that it would take me a long to see, listen and talk to some of allude to it now again, because in our time to tell her. She interrupted me and the greatest American historians and last meeting some of us intimated that told me she was teaching her children to authors during this Symposium, which is we were not keeping the recollection regard Abraham Lincoln as a demigod intertwined to allow all of us to attend our of Lincoln as fresh as we might. In and in another generation Lincoln would Congress and the Lincoln Symposium, my article on Lincoln published in the be regarded as great as any saint above. during our three days at LMU. I Chicago News some time ago, this article Some of you know I have been attended LMU’s Lincoln Symposium hardly went to press before I came to writing my different recollections about in 2001 and it was a grand event. hear of something further which I regret Statesmen whom I knew, as Douglas, LMU will provide their bus to pick not knowing then, so I put it in now as it Lincoln, and others. But the articles up attendees who plan to fl y into the is too important to leave unmentioned. I wrote fell stale with the exception Knoxville, TN Airport, which is about I was recently in Dr. Gardiner’s of that of Lincoln - but Lincoln’s has 60 miles southwest of Harrogate, TN. anteroom waiting for my turn for a been reprinted in the New York Herald- They will pick you up and then return treatment, and I noticed a man and a Tribune, Washington, D. C. papers, and you to the airport for your departure woman and several children waiting especially all through the South and the home. Let us know your fl ight schedule with me. Suddenly the woman came Pacifi c Slope. That shows that Lincoln’s so that we can advise the University. up to me, and to my surprise asked me fame can take care of itself, and as this Those who are driving to Harrogate, how I regard the memory of Lincoln. Russian lady said, it will soon be the check your map for Middlesboro, KY loftiest ikon on all the world’s fl ags. which is just a mile or so north of Harrogate, TN in the furthest southeast Loyal Legion Memorial Fund corner of Kentucky, which also touches The Loyal Legion Memorial Fund is a 501(c)(3) organization that serves the furthest southwest corner of Virginia. as the charitable arm of the Order. The Memorial Fund publishes the Loyal I have been advised that housing Legion Roster and the Historical Journal, and supports commemorative will be at the Holiday Inn Express in observances at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the Middlesboro, KY. This fi ne hotel is Lincoln Tomb in Springfi eld, Illinois. The Fund also provides support owned by the Mars Family, two of to the Civil War and Underground Railroad Museum, Rutherford B. which are members of the LMU Board Hayes Presidential Center, Grant Monument Association, Zellwood of Trustees, fi nancial supporters and Historical Society and Museum, GAR Museum and Library, the Civil War graduates of LMU. As we get closer to Preservation Trust, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the our Congress and Symposium events, Abraham Lincoln Museum at Lincoln Memorial University, among others. you will be advised of the details. The following individuals have contributed to The Loyal Legion Your presence at our 121st Congress Memorial Fund during the period of April 1 through July 31, 2006 and LMU’s Lincoln Symposium will be very special for all who attend. The Abraham Lincoln Society Remembering our MOLLUS/DOLLUS The Philip H. Sheridan Society ($1,000 and above) patriarch, Abraham Lincoln, LMU (up to $99) The Estate of Thomas L.W. Johnson founders and our present LMU offi cials Steven G. Kelsch Florence C. Stanley and Joseph from President Nancy Moody down Roger E. Kranich W. Stanley Charitable Remainder will represent our remembrance James C. Landis Annuity Trust of this outstanding University. Edwin H. Simmons, Sr. The Ohio Commandery is responsible for our 121st Congress, The Ulysses S. Grant Society Corrections: The acknowledgements under the leadership of our 54th ($500 to $999) of certain contributions received were listed incorrectly in the Spring Commander-in-Chief (2001-2003) (none during this period) 2006 publication of the Journal, and long time Commandery Recorder, The William T. Sherman Society for which an apology is extended. Gordon R. Bury.Karl F. Schaeffer James W. Reese should be ($100 to $499) listed as James W. Reece. Robert Girard Carroon The contribution from Mrs. Paul M. George E. Walton Niebell, Sr. was made in memory of Walter L. Weart her brother, Grahame T. Smallwood, Jr. Loyal Legion Historical Journal Page 11 The Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States 121st National Congress, October 20-22, 2006, Harrogate, Tennessee Reservation Form

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