List of California Civil War Union units facts for kids

California was far from the main battlefields of the American Civil War (1861-1865), but it still played an important role. Even though it was a Union state, many people in California had strong feelings for both the Union and the Confederacy. To help the Union effort, California formed many groups of volunteer soldiers. These soldiers were called "California State Volunteer Units." They served the Union Army mainly in the western parts of the United States, especially west of the Rocky Mountains. Their job was to protect the region and keep peace, allowing regular Federal troops to go fight in the East.

California's Civil War Volunteers

During the Civil War, California raised many groups of volunteer soldiers. These brave men signed up to serve the Union. They helped protect important areas in the West. This allowed the main Union army to focus on battles in the eastern states.

Protecting the West

California's volunteer soldiers had several important jobs. They guarded important places like forts and supply routes. They also helped keep peace and order in the western territories. Sometimes, they even fought against Native American groups in the region. These soldiers served from 1861 until 1866, even a year after the war officially ended.

Different Kinds of Units

The California volunteers were organized into different types of fighting groups. Some were cavalry, which meant they rode horses. Others were infantry, meaning they fought on foot. There were also special groups like the "Mountaineers Battalion." These units were formed at different times and served for varying lengths. For example, the 1st California Cavalry Regiment served from May 1863 to October 1866. The 1st California Infantry Regiment was active from February 1862 to October 1866.

The "California Brigade" in the East

There was a special group of soldiers known as the "California Brigade." This brigade was formed in 1861. It was put together in Pennsylvania by Senator Edward D. Baker from Oregon.

A Mix-Up of Names

Even though the soldiers in this brigade were from Pennsylvania, they were first called "California" regiments. This was a way to honor Senator Baker, who had strong ties to California. However, after a battle called the Battle of Ball's Bluff in October 1861, the brigade's name was changed. It became known as the Philadelphia Brigade. The regiments were then correctly called Pennsylvania regiments.

• The 1st California Infantry Regiment became the 71st Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment.
• The 2nd California Infantry Regiment became the 69th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment.
• The 3rd California Infantry Regiment became the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment.
• The 5th California Infantry Regiment became the 106th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment.

What is a State Militia?

A state militia is a group of citizens who can be called upon to serve as soldiers. They are usually organized by a state government, not the national government. During the Civil War, California also had its own state militia units. These units helped maintain order within the state. You can find more details about these groups in the California State Militia units article.

See Also

• California Civil War Confederate Units
• Lists of American Civil War Regiments by State
• California in the American Civil War