Sarsfield Grenadier Guards facts for kids
The Sarsfield Grenadier Guards were a special military group from California that started in the 1800s. They were formed on July 29, 1870, in Sacramento. This group was named after a famous Irish soldier, Patrick Sarsfield. Today, their history and traditions are carried on by Company B of the 184th Infantry Regiment.
How the Guards Started
The Sarsfield Grenadier Guards officially began on July 29, 1870. They became part of the California National Guard. When they first started, there were 33 men who joined. They were led by three officers: Captain W. H. Ashton, Jr., 1st Lieutenant Charles Brady, and 2nd Lieutenant Thomas Nolan. Captain Ashton left later that year and was replaced by Captain Henry Johnson. Then, Henry Lewis became captain on March 16, 1871.
It was a tradition for the men in the Grenadier Guards to choose their own officers. This special way of choosing leaders continued for many years, even into the 1900s. The Guards were named after Patrick Sarsfield, a brave Irish soldier. Even though they didn't have all their equipment or uniforms right away, they started serving immediately. Most of the members of the Sarsfield Grenadier Guards were Irish or had Irish family.
What the Guards Did
The Sarsfield Grenadier Guards had many important duties. In 1891, they helped escort President Benjamin Harrison when he visited Sacramento. An escort means they traveled with him to protect him and show respect. They also served as an escort for the Grand Army of the Republic memorial day in 1892.
In 1894, there were big railway strikes. The Guards were called in to help keep the peace and make sure things didn't get out of control. One of their most important jobs was after the terrible 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The Guards were sent to San Francisco to help put out fires and rescue people who were trapped or hurt.
Later, the Guards served on the Mexican border from June 27, 1916, to April 9, 1917. After the United States joined World War I, the Guards were sent to Europe to fight.
