Wisconsin in the American Civil War facts for kids
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During the American Civil War (1861-1865), Wisconsin was a northern state. This meant it fought for the Union side. When the war began, Wisconsin quickly gathered 91,379 soldiers for the Union Army.
These soldiers were organized into many different groups. They formed 53 infantry (foot soldier) regiments and 4 cavalry (horseback soldier) regiments. There was also a special company of Berdan's sharpshooters. Wisconsin also provided 13 light artillery batteries and one heavy artillery unit. Most of Wisconsin's troops fought in the Western Theater of the war. However, some regiments also served in the Eastern armies. Three of these regiments were part of the famous Iron Brigade.
Sadly, 3,794 Wisconsin soldiers were killed in battle or died from their wounds. Another 8,022 died from diseases. About 400 more died in accidents. In total, 12,216 Wisconsin men were casualties. This was about 13.4 percent of all the soldiers Wisconsin sent to war.
Wisconsin's Brave Soldiers
About one out of every nine people living in Wisconsin joined the army. This included people of all ages and genders. Half of all eligible voters in Wisconsin also served. Wisconsin was the only state that created replacement groups for soldiers already fighting. Because of this, Union generals often preferred to have Wisconsin regiments in their command.
Many Wisconsin regiments became famous for their bravery. Three of these were part of the well-known "Iron Brigade". These were the 2nd Wisconsin, 6th Wisconsin, and 7th Wisconsin. These regiments were known for their tough fighting and sharp appearance. They were some of the only troops in the Army of the Potomac to wear special Hardee hats and long frock coats. They fought very hard and suffered many losses at the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863.
Another brave group was the 8th Wisconsin. This regiment often brought its special mascot into battle. The mascot was Old Abe, a real bald eagle!
In January 1863, a Union soldier named Chauncey Herbert Cooke wrote a letter to his sister. He was a private in Company G of the 25th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He explained why he was fighting for the Union. He wrote that he had "no heart in this war if the slaves cannot go free." This shows that many soldiers believed they were fighting to end slavery.
Women's Important Role During the War
While the men were away fighting, many women in Wisconsin had to take on new responsibilities. They learned how to farm and do other hard manual labor. Besides taking care of their homes and children, women also sent many important supplies to the soldiers.
They often sent handmade quilts and blankets to keep the soldiers warm. Other items women frequently sent included:
- Shirts, sheets, pillows, and pillowcases
- Coats, vests, and trousers
- Towels, handkerchiefs, and socks
- Bandages for injuries
- Canned and dried fruits
- Butter, cheese, and eggs
- Wine and pickles
- Books and magazines for entertainment
After a battle in Georgia called the Battle of Resaca, women did something special. They sent every wounded soldier within a certain area a fresh orange or lemon. These fruits helped to quench the strong thirst that wounded soldiers often felt. Women's efforts at home were very important for supporting the soldiers on the battlefield.
Related pages
- List of Wisconsin Civil War units
