Guthrie Greys facts for kids

The Guthrie Grays were a special group of soldiers. They were part of the Ohio Militia. This group was formed before the U.S. Civil War began.

What were the Guthrie Grays?

The Guthrie Grays started in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was in April 1854. At first, they were an "independent company." This means they were a private military group. They were not fully controlled by the state government.

How did the Grays start?

The first leader of the Guthrie Grays was Presley Guthrie. He was a brave soldier. He had fought in the Mexican–American War. Many smart and promising young men from Cincinnati joined this group. Their first public appearance was on July 4, 1854. They marched in Cincinnati's Independence Day parade.

Becoming an official unit

The Guthrie Grays became bigger and more organized. On January 10, 1859, they became the Guthrie Grays Battalion. In the same year, Ohio passed a new law. This law recognized independent companies like the Grays. After this, they could get weapons and supplies from the state. The Governor of Ohio could also call them to serve. But they still had a lot of freedom. They could choose their own members. They could also elect their own officers. They could even pick their own uniforms.

Joining the Civil War

In April 1861, the Guthrie Grays joined a larger group. They became part of the 6th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The Grays formed two companies, called Company A and Company B. The entire 6th Ohio Volunteer Infantry regiment was known as the "Guthrie Grays." They served bravely during the U.S. Civil War.