Frederick Berge in the Civil War
10 July 2011 Category: genealogy
In 1861, he enlisted in Company C, 15th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry for 90 days. He re-enlisted as a musician in Company M, 4th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry until the end of the Civil War.
This is to certify that
FREDERICK W. BERGE
Enlisted from Luzerne County, Penna - April 27, 1861 and was mustered into the United States service at Harrisburg, Penna. as a musician to serve for a term of three months in Company C. I5th Regiment Penna. Vol.Infantry under Captain C. Robinson and Colonel P. Oakford.
The Regiment left Harrisburg for Lancaster, Pa. May 9, was on duty there until June 3, '61 and at Chambersburg Pa. till June 16, '61.
Assigned to 5th Brigade 2nd Division of Pattersons Army. Moved to Hagerstown June 16, to Williamsport Md. June 18.
Affair with Ashby's Cavalry of Rebels after they had crossed the Potomac River where Company I of the Regiment was captured. Occupation of Martinsburg July 3. Advance on Bunker Hill Va. July 15 - at Charlestown Va. July 17 to 25.
At Carlisle Pa. July 27 to Aug.7.'61 and HONORABLY DISCHARGED Aug.7, ‘61 at Carlisle Pa on expiration of term.
Reenlisted the Service Aug.13 ‘61 in Company M. 4th Regiment Penna. Vol. Cavalry to serve for 3 years as Bugler under Captain A. Dart and Cols. J. H. Childs and G. H. Covode.
The Regiment moved to Washington DC. Was on Provost duty there until May 10 1862. Scouting on the Rappahannock till June '62. Moved to the Virginia Peninsula arriving June 24. Assigned to Cavalry Div Army of the Potomac.
Participated in Seven Day Battle before Richmond Va. June 26 to July 1. '62. Battles of Mechanicsville June 26 - Gaines Mill June 27* - Bottoms Bridge June 28 Glendale June 30* - Malvern Hill July 1.'62*. Was Rearguard of Army of Potomac Promoted to Leader of Reg. Band.
Battle of So. Mountain Md. Sep. 14 ‘62* - Antietam Md. Sep 17 '62*. Shepherdstown Ford Sep. 19.* - engaged at Lovettsville Road Oct. 20. Upperville Nov. 2-3 - Ashby Gap Nov. 3 - Manassas Gap Nov. 5-6*. '62 - Jefferson Nov. 7 - Gaines Cross Road Nov. 10 - Waterloo Nov. 14 - Fredericksburg Dec. 13. 1862. Mud March Jany 20-24. '63. Hartwood Church Ferry. 25 - Kellys Ford Mar 17 and 29*. Stonemans Raid April 29 to May 8. Chancellorsville Va. May 14. '63 - Beverly Ford June 9 - Aldie June 17 *- Upperville June 21*. - Hanover Penna. June 30* - Battle of Gettysburg July 1-3. '63* - Green Oak July 5 - near Harpers Ferry Va. July 14. - Shepherdstown Md. July l5-16.'63. Scouting until Sep. 1863. Corbins Cross Roads Sep. 1.-Culpeper Sep. 13. - James City Oct. 10-11. '63 - Warrenton Oct. 12-13 - Auburn and Bristoe Sta. Oct. 14* - St. Stephens Church Oct. 14 - Mine Run Nov.26 to Dec. 2. '63.* - New Hope Church Nov. 27. - Honorably Discharged Jany. 4. -'64 and Reenlisted as a Veteran Jany. 4 for 3 years more or during the war in same Co. and Regiment under Capt. Saml. N. King and Col. S. B. M. Young. Assigned to 2nd Brig. 2nd Div. Cavalry Corps Army of the Potomac - Engaged at Todds Tavern Wilderness May 5-7. '64. Sheridan's Raid to James River, Nor. Anna River May 9-10. '64 _ Yellow Tavern May 11* - Richmond Fortifications May 12. - Hawes Shop May 28*. Cold Harbor May 31 June 1. '64*. - Sheridan's Trevillian Raid June 7 to 24. '64. Trevillian Sta. June 17*. St Peters Church June 21. St. Marys Church June 24*. Siege of Petersburg June 1864 to Apl. 1865. Chas. City Cross Road June 29. '64. Warwick Swamp July 12 - Malvern Hill July 28. Deep Bottom Aug. 13-20. -'64*. - Strawberry Plains Aug. 16 - Weldon Rail Road Aug. 18-21. '64. - Dinwiddie Road Aug. 23. - Reams Sta. Aug. 25* - Poplar Spring Church Sep. 29. - Boydton Plank Road Oct. 27-28*. - Stony Creek Sta. Dec. 21. Bellefield Dec. 7 12. '64. Dabneys Mills and Hatcher’s Run Feby. 5-7. '65*. Lewis Farm Mar. 29*. Dinwiddie C. H. and W. Oak Road Mar. 30-31. '65*. Five Forks Apl. 1. '65* - Amelia Springs Apl. 5*. - Sailors Creek Apl. 6.* - Farmville Apl. 7. '65 - Appomattox Sta. Apl. 8*. Appomattox C. H. Lee's Surrender Apl. 9th 1865*. Moved to Danville Apl. 23. Expedition after Extra Billy Smith May 20-22. at Lynchburg and finally Honorably Discharged July 1, 1865 at Lynchburg Va. By reason of Close of the War.
Member of G.A.R Lieut Ezra S. Griffin Post No. 130 Dept. of Pa. at Scranton, Pa.
__________________
4th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment (Union)
- Organized on Sep 20 1861 at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, PA
- Enlistment term: 3 years
- Mustered out on Jul 1 1865 at Lynchburg, VA
Available statistics for total numbers of men listed as:
- Enlisted or commissioned: 1968
- Drafted: 31
- Transferred in: 1
- Killed or died of wounds (Officers): 9
- Killed or died of wounds (Enlisted men): 89
- Died of disease (Officers): 3
- Died of disease (Enlisted men): 257
- Prisoner of war: 170
- Died while prisoner of war: 97
- Disabled: 43
- Missing: 13
- Deserted: 23
- Discharged: 187
- Mustered out: 1246
- Transferred out: 23
Historical notes and Reports:
PENNSYLVANIA
64TH INFANTRY
(4th Cavalry)
Fourth Cavalry.-Cols., David Campbell, James H. Childs,
James K Kerr, George H. Covode, S. B. M. Young, Lieut.-Cols.,
James H. Childs James K Kerr, William E. Doster, S. B. M.
Young, George H. Covode Alexander P. Duncan, Majs., James K
Kerr, William E. Doster, James H. Trimble, George H. Covode,
William M. Biddle, S. B. M. Young Alexander P. Duncan, James
T. Peale, R. A. Robison, William B. Mays D. C. Phillips,
Robert J. Phipps N. J. Horrell, John C. Paul. The 64th
regiment of the line, known as the 4th cavalry, was recruited
in Sept. and Oct., 1861, and rendezvoused at Camp Curtin, but
was soon after transferred to camp in the vicinity of the
soldier's home, Washington, D. C. where the men were mustered
into the U. S. service for three years. Co. A was raised in
Northampton county, B, E and G in Allegheny, C and D in
Westmoreland and Indiana, H, I, K and L in Venango, F in
Lebanon and M in Luzerne. Col. Campbell had previously
commanded the 12th infantry and was an experienced militia
officer. The winter at Washington was spent in perfecting the
command in drill and discipline. On March 12, Col. Campbell
resigned to take command of the 5th cavalry, and Lieut.-Col.
Childs succeeded him. It was with difficulty the command was
maintained intact as the cavalry arm of the service was not
then in favor. In May, 1862, it joined McDowell's column on
the Rappahannock and was assigned to McCall's division Pa.
reserves. Soon after it moved with its division by transport
to the support of McClellan on the Peninsula, arriving at
White House on June 24, where one battalion under Lieut.-Col.
Kerr was detached and ordered to Yorktown, remaining there
until the close of the Peninsular campaign. The balance of
the regiment proceeded to the front, arriving in time to
participate in the famous Seven Days', battles of McClellan's
army. The 4th suffered a loss of a few men during the night
attack by the enemy on July 31, at Harrison's landing. Moving
via Williamsburg to Yorktown it was joined by Kerr's battalion
and proceeded thence to Washington, but was too late to share
in the second Bull Run fight. It was active at Antietam, here
the regiment lost its colonel, temporarily in command of the
brigade on that day. Col. Childs was succeeded in command by
Lieut.-Col. Kerr. While encamped on the Potomac, near
Hancock, in the early fall a battalion under Capt. Duncan,
crossed the river and made a sudden descent on the
headquarters of the enemy's picket reserve at Hedgesville,
capturing 3 officers and 20 men and winning praise from high
quarters for its dashing exploit. The regiment rode with Gen.
Pleasonton in his pursuit of Stuart; was engaged in numerous
skirmishes while the army moved from Harper's Ferry to
Warrenton, and was part of the rear-guard when Burnside moved
to Falmouth. During the battle of Fredericksburg it guarded
the fords above the town on the north bank of the river. It
shared in the ''Mud March'' in Jan., 1863, and then went into
winter quarters at Potomac Creek Station. It had two
squadrons engaged at the battle of Kelly's ford, the first
real cavalry victory of the war. It then skirmished at
Rapidan Station and Ely's ford, was in reserve with its
division at Chancellorsville; was only lightly engaged at
Brandy Station; still as a part of the 2nd brigade, 2nd
cavalry division, it embarked on the Gettysburg campaign,
being engaged at Middleburg and Upperville, and arriving on
the field of Gettysburg on the morning of July 2. On the 5th
it engaged in the pursuit of Lee, frequently skirmishing with
his rear-guard. In the campaign of maneuvres which followed
the march into Virginia, it was briskly engaged at
Shepherdstown and suffered a heavy loss at Jeffersonton,
losing in killed, wounded and prisoners about 200 men out of
375 in action. Many of the men captured here subsequently
died in Andersonville prison. It was again sharply engaged at
Bristoe Station in October and had its final skirmish of the
campaign at Beverly Ford. It did not share in the Mine Run
campaign, being posted for 4 months along the line of the
Orange & Alexandria railroad. During the winter more than
two-thirds of the men reenlisted for three years, but the
veteran furlough was long delayed. Detachment after
detachment of raw recruits were received and when the regiment
entered on the Wilderness campaign in May the 4th, was a
veteran regiment only in name, less than 20 of the original
enlisted men being present for duty. It participated in
Sheridan's raid on Richmond, in which it was active at Yellow
tavern and supported King's battery in the battle inside the
outer line of intrenchments before Richmond. On rejoining the
army at the North Anna river its ranks were swelled by
returning veterans and recruits, making it the largest
regiment in the corps. It was active at Haw's shop, and was
present at Cold Harbor. It saw much hard service during
Sheridan's second raid, being heavily engaged at Trevilian
Station and again at St. Mary's Church, where the 4th lost 87
Men, and Col. Covode was mortally wounded, dying in the
Enemy's hands, though his body was after ward recovered by a
party under Capt. Parke. Crossing the James, the 4th was
almost constantly employed during the rest of the summer in
skirmishing, marching and picket duty. It was engaged with
Fitz Hugh Lee's cavalry at Second swamp in July, and was again
engaged in August on the Jerusalem plank road. Subsequently
it was in the advance upon the Boydton plank road in October,
and in December at Hatcher's run it assisted in capturing a
fort and 200 prisoners, 3 cannon and numerous stores. It
shared in the raid on the Weldon railroad in December and,
went into winter quarters on its return. It took part in the
engagement at Hatcher's run in Feb., 1865. In the final
campaign of that year, under Lieut.-Col. Duncan, it had its
full share, marching and fighting almost constantly. It
suffered some loss at Dinwiddie Court House and in the action
at Farmville. On the morning of Lee's surrender, Gregg's
division had cut off a body of the enemy's cavalry, but
further operations were stopped by the news of Lee's
capitulation. The regiment returned after the surrender to
Petersburg proceeding thence to North Carolina, but soon
returned to Virginia and was permanently stationed at
Lynchburg, Lieut.-Col. Duncan being made provost-marshal of a
district embracing nine counties. On July 1, it was mustered
out at Lynchburg and soon returned to Pittsburgh, where it was
finally discharged.
Source: The Union Army, vol. 1
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Gettysburg after battle report:
Reports of Lieut. Col. William E. Doster, Fourth Pennsylvania
Cavalry.
Hdqrs. Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry,
September 3, 1863.
Sir: I have the honor to report that, on the morning of June 21, I
received orders from Col. Gregg to mount my regiment, which
was encamped in the woods about 1 mile from Middleburg, on the
Upperville road, and to move out in column of squadrons on the left
of the Tenth New York and one battalion of the First Maine, on the
right of the road leading to Upperville, which I accordingly did,
moving at intervals from the protection of one knoll to another until
we had advanced perhaps 1 mile, when my pioneer corps took possession
of a small rifled gun which had been abandoned by the enemy
in his flight.
After proceeding about 1 mile farther, I was ordered to cross the
road and proceed parallel to it. This I did, at the same time deploying
one company, dismounted, as skirmishers on my front, and afterward
adding one squadron on my left. In this manner we reached a point
within one-half mile of the town, occasional shots being exchanged
between our skirmishers and those of the enemy. Here I was ordered
to form my regiment as a support to and on the left of, I think, some
regular regiments. Before the order to advance was given, I was
ordered to the support of Tidball's battery, then on the rising
ground on the right of the road, in full view of the town and of the
enemy.
After remaining here a short time, I was ordered forward to the
support of the battalion of the First Maine, which had been ordered
to charge and drive the enemy from and beyond the town. I immediately
ordered my regiment forward at a gallop, and, after passing
through and beyond the town some hundreds of yards, came up
with the First Maine, which was formed on the road, apparently
awaiting a charge by the enemy. In a few minutes the enemy came
dashing down the road, when I ordered my first two squadrons to
advance carbines, to be ready to receive them. The First Maine,
after firing a few shots, scattered to the right and left. The fire of
my regiment being too hot for him, the enemy wheeled, and I ordered
a charge, which was obeyed most promptly and gallantly by both
officers and men. The enemy were driven from the field, leaving a
number killed, many wounded, and several prisoners in our hands.
I then deployed two squadrons in the field on the right of the road
as skirmishers, falling back some distance in the field with the principal
part of my command. The enemy again charged, my men at
the same time wheeling, so as to throw a flank fire into him as he
passed along the road. About 20 of my men then dashed into the
road in his rear, and, after a desperate hand-to-hand conflict, utterly
routed and discomfited him, thus preventing his escape, and causing
the capture of the entire party, variously estimated at from 20
to 50 men. The division coming up at this time, it was impossible to
give the exact number.
I now received orders to rally my men and fall back beyond Upperville,
where I encamped for the night.
During the actions of the day the regiment sustained a loss of 1
killed, 3 severely wounded, 1 slightly wounded, and 2 taken prisoners.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. DOSTER,
Lieut.-Col. Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry.
Lieut. John B. Maitland,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Cavalry Brigade.
-----
Sulphur Springs, Va.,
August 13, 1863.
Sir: I have the honor to report that, immediately after the battle
of Gettysburg and the pursuit of Lee as far as Marion (described in
my last report*), this regiment accompanied the brigade to Middletown
and Boonsborough, Md., without any event of note occurring
until July 14, when the regiment recrossed the Potomac at Harper's
Ferry, and encamped on Bolivar Heights.
On the 15th, we marched with the brigade as far as Shepherdstown.
About 4 p. m. was ordered by Col. Gregg to advance 4 miles out
the Winchester road to Wolper's Cross-Roads, and report my arrival.
About 1 mile from Shepherdstown my advance guard encountered
and drove before them a party of 10 rebels, which was increased to
about 40 by the time I reached the cross-roads. They fled into the
woods beyond the cross-roads and renewed the attack, but were again
dispersed.
I learned from a prisoner whom we captured that about 500 rebel
cavalry, belonging to [A. G.] Jenkins, was encamped at Leetown, in
front; that a rebel cavalry force was on my left near Charlestown, and
that a portion of Ewell's corps, whose drums were heard distinctly,
was near Martinsburg and about 3 miles to my right, and sent the information
to the colonel commanding brigade. I threw out pickets
on all the roads, and held them without further molestation until 11
p. m., when I was ordered back with three squadrons to Shepherdstown,
the balance being relieved next morning.
At about 1 p. m. of the 16th, I was ordered to move my regiment
on the right of the Winchester road and Randol's battery, and instructed
to support the battery while watching and holding the
enemy in check on the right of the line. I successively advanced
three squadrons--Capt.'s Peale and Duncan and Lieut. Andrews--to
the right of the line, which became warmly engaged
about 5 p. m., and so remained until the close of the day.
Meanwhile two squadrons, Capt.'s Peale's and Dart's, had been
sent under Maj. Young to the support of the First Maine, and held
their ground on the right of the road until orders were given to retire.
Capt. Robison remained as support of the battery.
For gallant and meritorious conduct, First Sergt. John Harper,
Company B, deserves special mention.
In this action 7 were wounded and 6 missing.
I fell back with the brigade to Harper's Ferry the same evening,
and thence moved to Bristoe Station and Warrenton without meeting
with anything unusual, excepting rest, rations, and forage.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. DOSTER,
Lieut.-Col., Comdg.
Lieut. Maitland,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
Source: Official Records: Series I. Vol. 27. Part I. Reports. Serial No. 43
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Itinerary of the Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, May 5 -
June 30, 1864
Regt. was in the engagement at Todd's Tavern on the 5th, 6th, 7th,
and 8th of May.
May 9.--Started on the raid to Richmond.
May 10.--Skirmished on the North Anna.
May 11.--Skirmished all day, commencing at Ground Squirrel Church,
and repulsed a charge of the enemy at Glen Allen Station.
May 12.--Was heavily engaged in the action within the fortifications of
Richmond.
May 28.--Engaged at Haw's Shop.
May 30.--In a skirmish near Old Church.
June 1.--Marched from the White House to Cold Harbor.
June 2.--Skirmished at Gaines' house.
June 7.--Started on a raid in direction of Gordonsville.
June 11.--In engagement near Trevilian Station.
June 21.--Reached White House.
June 22.--Skirmished with the enemy at Macon's Mill.
June 23.--Marched to Jones' Bridge.
June 24.--In the battle of Saint Mary's Church, in which Lieut.
Col. George H. Covode was mortally wounded; Lieut. Youngs
missing.
June 30.--At Prince George Court-House.
Source: Official Records
PAGE 866-67 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII.
[Series I. Vol. 36. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 67.]
****************************************************************************************
Report of Col. B. M. Young, Fourth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, of operations February 5-7.
HDQRS. FOURTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY,
February 16, 1865.
LIEUT.: I have the honor to submit the following report of the
operations of my command in the engagements of the 5th, 6th, and 7th
instant:
The regiment, on the 5th, on reaching Rowanty Creek, remained on
picket, while the remainder of the division proceeded to and returned
from Dinwiddie Court-House. During that date had no engagement with the enemy.
At 5 a.m. of the 6th, left Rowanty Creek; at 8.30 a.m., one mile
beyond which, formed into line, remaining until near 4 p.m., when
ordered back toward the run. On reaching the skirmish line ordered to
charge down the road, where it was said a North Carolina brigade of
infantry was formed. Having no support and having to charge by
sections of eight, the enemy opened a most deadly fire upon the
regiment, causing it to fall back, which was done in an orderly
manner, and reformed and charged again across an open field, with the
same result, and even a third charge was made, but each charge found
the enemy too strong to be dislodged.
On the 7th drove the enemy across Gravelly Run and into their works,
when they opened upon us with artillery. The regiment then fell back
across the run, where it remained until dark, when it was withdrawn.
No prisoners were captured from the enemy, or property of any kind.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. B. M. YOUNG,
Col., Cmdg.
Lieut. D. C. SWANK,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brigade, Second Cavalry Division.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LVIII.] THE RICHMOND CAMPAIGN. PAGE 369-95
[Series I. Vol. 46. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 95.]
This is to certify that
FREDERICK W. BERGE
Enlisted from Luzerne County, Penna - April 27, 1861 and was mustered into the United States service at Harrisburg, Penna. as a musician to serve for a term of three months in Company C. I5th Regiment Penna. Vol.Infantry under Captain C. Robinson and Colonel P. Oakford.
The Regiment left Harrisburg for Lancaster, Pa. May 9, was on duty there until June 3, '61 and at Chambersburg Pa. till June 16, '61.
Assigned to 5th Brigade 2nd Division of Pattersons Army. Moved to Hagerstown June 16, to Williamsport Md. June 18.
Affair with Ashby's Cavalry of Rebels after they had crossed the Potomac River where Company I of the Regiment was captured. Occupation of Martinsburg July 3. Advance on Bunker Hill Va. July 15 - at Charlestown Va. July 17 to 25.
At Carlisle Pa. July 27 to Aug.7.'61 and HONORABLY DISCHARGED Aug.7, ‘61 at Carlisle Pa on expiration of term.
Reenlisted the Service Aug.13 ‘61 in Company M. 4th Regiment Penna. Vol. Cavalry to serve for 3 years as Bugler under Captain A. Dart and Cols. J. H. Childs and G. H. Covode.
The Regiment moved to Washington DC. Was on Provost duty there until May 10 1862. Scouting on the Rappahannock till June '62. Moved to the Virginia Peninsula arriving June 24. Assigned to Cavalry Div Army of the Potomac.
Participated in Seven Day Battle before Richmond Va. June 26 to July 1. '62. Battles of Mechanicsville June 26 - Gaines Mill June 27* - Bottoms Bridge June 28 Glendale June 30* - Malvern Hill July 1.'62*. Was Rearguard of Army of Potomac Promoted to Leader of Reg. Band.
Battle of So. Mountain Md. Sep. 14 ‘62* - Antietam Md. Sep 17 '62*. Shepherdstown Ford Sep. 19.* - engaged at Lovettsville Road Oct. 20. Upperville Nov. 2-3 - Ashby Gap Nov. 3 - Manassas Gap Nov. 5-6*. '62 - Jefferson Nov. 7 - Gaines Cross Road Nov. 10 - Waterloo Nov. 14 - Fredericksburg Dec. 13. 1862. Mud March Jany 20-24. '63. Hartwood Church Ferry. 25 - Kellys Ford Mar 17 and 29*. Stonemans Raid April 29 to May 8. Chancellorsville Va. May 14. '63 - Beverly Ford June 9 - Aldie June 17 *- Upperville June 21*. - Hanover Penna. June 30* - Battle of Gettysburg July 1-3. '63* - Green Oak July 5 - near Harpers Ferry Va. July 14. - Shepherdstown Md. July l5-16.'63. Scouting until Sep. 1863. Corbins Cross Roads Sep. 1.-Culpeper Sep. 13. - James City Oct. 10-11. '63 - Warrenton Oct. 12-13 - Auburn and Bristoe Sta. Oct. 14* - St. Stephens Church Oct. 14 - Mine Run Nov.26 to Dec. 2. '63.* - New Hope Church Nov. 27. - Honorably Discharged Jany. 4. -'64 and Reenlisted as a Veteran Jany. 4 for 3 years more or during the war in same Co. and Regiment under Capt. Saml. N. King and Col. S. B. M. Young. Assigned to 2nd Brig. 2nd Div. Cavalry Corps Army of the Potomac - Engaged at Todds Tavern Wilderness May 5-7. '64. Sheridan's Raid to James River, Nor. Anna River May 9-10. '64 _ Yellow Tavern May 11* - Richmond Fortifications May 12. - Hawes Shop May 28*. Cold Harbor May 31 June 1. '64*. - Sheridan's Trevillian Raid June 7 to 24. '64. Trevillian Sta. June 17*. St Peters Church June 21. St. Marys Church June 24*. Siege of Petersburg June 1864 to Apl. 1865. Chas. City Cross Road June 29. '64. Warwick Swamp July 12 - Malvern Hill July 28. Deep Bottom Aug. 13-20. -'64*. - Strawberry Plains Aug. 16 - Weldon Rail Road Aug. 18-21. '64. - Dinwiddie Road Aug. 23. - Reams Sta. Aug. 25* - Poplar Spring Church Sep. 29. - Boydton Plank Road Oct. 27-28*. - Stony Creek Sta. Dec. 21. Bellefield Dec. 7 12. '64. Dabneys Mills and Hatcher’s Run Feby. 5-7. '65*. Lewis Farm Mar. 29*. Dinwiddie C. H. and W. Oak Road Mar. 30-31. '65*. Five Forks Apl. 1. '65* - Amelia Springs Apl. 5*. - Sailors Creek Apl. 6.* - Farmville Apl. 7. '65 - Appomattox Sta. Apl. 8*. Appomattox C. H. Lee's Surrender Apl. 9th 1865*. Moved to Danville Apl. 23. Expedition after Extra Billy Smith May 20-22. at Lynchburg and finally Honorably Discharged July 1, 1865 at Lynchburg Va. By reason of Close of the War.
Member of G.A.R Lieut Ezra S. Griffin Post No. 130 Dept. of Pa. at Scranton, Pa.
__________________
4th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment (Union)
- Organized on Sep 20 1861 at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, PA
- Enlistment term: 3 years
- Mustered out on Jul 1 1865 at Lynchburg, VA
Available statistics for total numbers of men listed as:
- Enlisted or commissioned: 1968
- Drafted: 31
- Transferred in: 1
- Killed or died of wounds (Officers): 9
- Killed or died of wounds (Enlisted men): 89
- Died of disease (Officers): 3
- Died of disease (Enlisted men): 257
- Prisoner of war: 170
- Died while prisoner of war: 97
- Disabled: 43
- Missing: 13
- Deserted: 23
- Discharged: 187
- Mustered out: 1246
- Transferred out: 23
Historical notes and Reports:
PENNSYLVANIA
64TH INFANTRY
(4th Cavalry)
Fourth Cavalry.-Cols., David Campbell, James H. Childs,
James K Kerr, George H. Covode, S. B. M. Young, Lieut.-Cols.,
James H. Childs James K Kerr, William E. Doster, S. B. M.
Young, George H. Covode Alexander P. Duncan, Majs., James K
Kerr, William E. Doster, James H. Trimble, George H. Covode,
William M. Biddle, S. B. M. Young Alexander P. Duncan, James
T. Peale, R. A. Robison, William B. Mays D. C. Phillips,
Robert J. Phipps N. J. Horrell, John C. Paul. The 64th
regiment of the line, known as the 4th cavalry, was recruited
in Sept. and Oct., 1861, and rendezvoused at Camp Curtin, but
was soon after transferred to camp in the vicinity of the
soldier's home, Washington, D. C. where the men were mustered
into the U. S. service for three years. Co. A was raised in
Northampton county, B, E and G in Allegheny, C and D in
Westmoreland and Indiana, H, I, K and L in Venango, F in
Lebanon and M in Luzerne. Col. Campbell had previously
commanded the 12th infantry and was an experienced militia
officer. The winter at Washington was spent in perfecting the
command in drill and discipline. On March 12, Col. Campbell
resigned to take command of the 5th cavalry, and Lieut.-Col.
Childs succeeded him. It was with difficulty the command was
maintained intact as the cavalry arm of the service was not
then in favor. In May, 1862, it joined McDowell's column on
the Rappahannock and was assigned to McCall's division Pa.
reserves. Soon after it moved with its division by transport
to the support of McClellan on the Peninsula, arriving at
White House on June 24, where one battalion under Lieut.-Col.
Kerr was detached and ordered to Yorktown, remaining there
until the close of the Peninsular campaign. The balance of
the regiment proceeded to the front, arriving in time to
participate in the famous Seven Days', battles of McClellan's
army. The 4th suffered a loss of a few men during the night
attack by the enemy on July 31, at Harrison's landing. Moving
via Williamsburg to Yorktown it was joined by Kerr's battalion
and proceeded thence to Washington, but was too late to share
in the second Bull Run fight. It was active at Antietam, here
the regiment lost its colonel, temporarily in command of the
brigade on that day. Col. Childs was succeeded in command by
Lieut.-Col. Kerr. While encamped on the Potomac, near
Hancock, in the early fall a battalion under Capt. Duncan,
crossed the river and made a sudden descent on the
headquarters of the enemy's picket reserve at Hedgesville,
capturing 3 officers and 20 men and winning praise from high
quarters for its dashing exploit. The regiment rode with Gen.
Pleasonton in his pursuit of Stuart; was engaged in numerous
skirmishes while the army moved from Harper's Ferry to
Warrenton, and was part of the rear-guard when Burnside moved
to Falmouth. During the battle of Fredericksburg it guarded
the fords above the town on the north bank of the river. It
shared in the ''Mud March'' in Jan., 1863, and then went into
winter quarters at Potomac Creek Station. It had two
squadrons engaged at the battle of Kelly's ford, the first
real cavalry victory of the war. It then skirmished at
Rapidan Station and Ely's ford, was in reserve with its
division at Chancellorsville; was only lightly engaged at
Brandy Station; still as a part of the 2nd brigade, 2nd
cavalry division, it embarked on the Gettysburg campaign,
being engaged at Middleburg and Upperville, and arriving on
the field of Gettysburg on the morning of July 2. On the 5th
it engaged in the pursuit of Lee, frequently skirmishing with
his rear-guard. In the campaign of maneuvres which followed
the march into Virginia, it was briskly engaged at
Shepherdstown and suffered a heavy loss at Jeffersonton,
losing in killed, wounded and prisoners about 200 men out of
375 in action. Many of the men captured here subsequently
died in Andersonville prison. It was again sharply engaged at
Bristoe Station in October and had its final skirmish of the
campaign at Beverly Ford. It did not share in the Mine Run
campaign, being posted for 4 months along the line of the
Orange & Alexandria railroad. During the winter more than
two-thirds of the men reenlisted for three years, but the
veteran furlough was long delayed. Detachment after
detachment of raw recruits were received and when the regiment
entered on the Wilderness campaign in May the 4th, was a
veteran regiment only in name, less than 20 of the original
enlisted men being present for duty. It participated in
Sheridan's raid on Richmond, in which it was active at Yellow
tavern and supported King's battery in the battle inside the
outer line of intrenchments before Richmond. On rejoining the
army at the North Anna river its ranks were swelled by
returning veterans and recruits, making it the largest
regiment in the corps. It was active at Haw's shop, and was
present at Cold Harbor. It saw much hard service during
Sheridan's second raid, being heavily engaged at Trevilian
Station and again at St. Mary's Church, where the 4th lost 87
Men, and Col. Covode was mortally wounded, dying in the
Enemy's hands, though his body was after ward recovered by a
party under Capt. Parke. Crossing the James, the 4th was
almost constantly employed during the rest of the summer in
skirmishing, marching and picket duty. It was engaged with
Fitz Hugh Lee's cavalry at Second swamp in July, and was again
engaged in August on the Jerusalem plank road. Subsequently
it was in the advance upon the Boydton plank road in October,
and in December at Hatcher's run it assisted in capturing a
fort and 200 prisoners, 3 cannon and numerous stores. It
shared in the raid on the Weldon railroad in December and,
went into winter quarters on its return. It took part in the
engagement at Hatcher's run in Feb., 1865. In the final
campaign of that year, under Lieut.-Col. Duncan, it had its
full share, marching and fighting almost constantly. It
suffered some loss at Dinwiddie Court House and in the action
at Farmville. On the morning of Lee's surrender, Gregg's
division had cut off a body of the enemy's cavalry, but
further operations were stopped by the news of Lee's
capitulation. The regiment returned after the surrender to
Petersburg proceeding thence to North Carolina, but soon
returned to Virginia and was permanently stationed at
Lynchburg, Lieut.-Col. Duncan being made provost-marshal of a
district embracing nine counties. On July 1, it was mustered
out at Lynchburg and soon returned to Pittsburgh, where it was
finally discharged.
Source: The Union Army, vol. 1
***************************************************************************************
Gettysburg after battle report:
Reports of Lieut. Col. William E. Doster, Fourth Pennsylvania
Cavalry.
Hdqrs. Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry,
September 3, 1863.
Sir: I have the honor to report that, on the morning of June 21, I
received orders from Col. Gregg to mount my regiment, which
was encamped in the woods about 1 mile from Middleburg, on the
Upperville road, and to move out in column of squadrons on the left
of the Tenth New York and one battalion of the First Maine, on the
right of the road leading to Upperville, which I accordingly did,
moving at intervals from the protection of one knoll to another until
we had advanced perhaps 1 mile, when my pioneer corps took possession
of a small rifled gun which had been abandoned by the enemy
in his flight.
After proceeding about 1 mile farther, I was ordered to cross the
road and proceed parallel to it. This I did, at the same time deploying
one company, dismounted, as skirmishers on my front, and afterward
adding one squadron on my left. In this manner we reached a point
within one-half mile of the town, occasional shots being exchanged
between our skirmishers and those of the enemy. Here I was ordered
to form my regiment as a support to and on the left of, I think, some
regular regiments. Before the order to advance was given, I was
ordered to the support of Tidball's battery, then on the rising
ground on the right of the road, in full view of the town and of the
enemy.
After remaining here a short time, I was ordered forward to the
support of the battalion of the First Maine, which had been ordered
to charge and drive the enemy from and beyond the town. I immediately
ordered my regiment forward at a gallop, and, after passing
through and beyond the town some hundreds of yards, came up
with the First Maine, which was formed on the road, apparently
awaiting a charge by the enemy. In a few minutes the enemy came
dashing down the road, when I ordered my first two squadrons to
advance carbines, to be ready to receive them. The First Maine,
after firing a few shots, scattered to the right and left. The fire of
my regiment being too hot for him, the enemy wheeled, and I ordered
a charge, which was obeyed most promptly and gallantly by both
officers and men. The enemy were driven from the field, leaving a
number killed, many wounded, and several prisoners in our hands.
I then deployed two squadrons in the field on the right of the road
as skirmishers, falling back some distance in the field with the principal
part of my command. The enemy again charged, my men at
the same time wheeling, so as to throw a flank fire into him as he
passed along the road. About 20 of my men then dashed into the
road in his rear, and, after a desperate hand-to-hand conflict, utterly
routed and discomfited him, thus preventing his escape, and causing
the capture of the entire party, variously estimated at from 20
to 50 men. The division coming up at this time, it was impossible to
give the exact number.
I now received orders to rally my men and fall back beyond Upperville,
where I encamped for the night.
During the actions of the day the regiment sustained a loss of 1
killed, 3 severely wounded, 1 slightly wounded, and 2 taken prisoners.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. DOSTER,
Lieut.-Col. Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry.
Lieut. John B. Maitland,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Cavalry Brigade.
-----
Sulphur Springs, Va.,
August 13, 1863.
Sir: I have the honor to report that, immediately after the battle
of Gettysburg and the pursuit of Lee as far as Marion (described in
my last report*), this regiment accompanied the brigade to Middletown
and Boonsborough, Md., without any event of note occurring
until July 14, when the regiment recrossed the Potomac at Harper's
Ferry, and encamped on Bolivar Heights.
On the 15th, we marched with the brigade as far as Shepherdstown.
About 4 p. m. was ordered by Col. Gregg to advance 4 miles out
the Winchester road to Wolper's Cross-Roads, and report my arrival.
About 1 mile from Shepherdstown my advance guard encountered
and drove before them a party of 10 rebels, which was increased to
about 40 by the time I reached the cross-roads. They fled into the
woods beyond the cross-roads and renewed the attack, but were again
dispersed.
I learned from a prisoner whom we captured that about 500 rebel
cavalry, belonging to [A. G.] Jenkins, was encamped at Leetown, in
front; that a rebel cavalry force was on my left near Charlestown, and
that a portion of Ewell's corps, whose drums were heard distinctly,
was near Martinsburg and about 3 miles to my right, and sent the information
to the colonel commanding brigade. I threw out pickets
on all the roads, and held them without further molestation until 11
p. m., when I was ordered back with three squadrons to Shepherdstown,
the balance being relieved next morning.
At about 1 p. m. of the 16th, I was ordered to move my regiment
on the right of the Winchester road and Randol's battery, and instructed
to support the battery while watching and holding the
enemy in check on the right of the line. I successively advanced
three squadrons--Capt.'s Peale and Duncan and Lieut. Andrews--to
the right of the line, which became warmly engaged
about 5 p. m., and so remained until the close of the day.
Meanwhile two squadrons, Capt.'s Peale's and Dart's, had been
sent under Maj. Young to the support of the First Maine, and held
their ground on the right of the road until orders were given to retire.
Capt. Robison remained as support of the battery.
For gallant and meritorious conduct, First Sergt. John Harper,
Company B, deserves special mention.
In this action 7 were wounded and 6 missing.
I fell back with the brigade to Harper's Ferry the same evening,
and thence moved to Bristoe Station and Warrenton without meeting
with anything unusual, excepting rest, rations, and forage.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. DOSTER,
Lieut.-Col., Comdg.
Lieut. Maitland,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
Source: Official Records: Series I. Vol. 27. Part I. Reports. Serial No. 43
**********************************************************************************
Itinerary of the Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, May 5 -
June 30, 1864
Regt. was in the engagement at Todd's Tavern on the 5th, 6th, 7th,
and 8th of May.
May 9.--Started on the raid to Richmond.
May 10.--Skirmished on the North Anna.
May 11.--Skirmished all day, commencing at Ground Squirrel Church,
and repulsed a charge of the enemy at Glen Allen Station.
May 12.--Was heavily engaged in the action within the fortifications of
Richmond.
May 28.--Engaged at Haw's Shop.
May 30.--In a skirmish near Old Church.
June 1.--Marched from the White House to Cold Harbor.
June 2.--Skirmished at Gaines' house.
June 7.--Started on a raid in direction of Gordonsville.
June 11.--In engagement near Trevilian Station.
June 21.--Reached White House.
June 22.--Skirmished with the enemy at Macon's Mill.
June 23.--Marched to Jones' Bridge.
June 24.--In the battle of Saint Mary's Church, in which Lieut.
Col. George H. Covode was mortally wounded; Lieut. Youngs
missing.
June 30.--At Prince George Court-House.
Source: Official Records
PAGE 866-67 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII.
[Series I. Vol. 36. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 67.]
****************************************************************************************
Report of Col. B. M. Young, Fourth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, of operations February 5-7.
HDQRS. FOURTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY,
February 16, 1865.
LIEUT.: I have the honor to submit the following report of the
operations of my command in the engagements of the 5th, 6th, and 7th
instant:
The regiment, on the 5th, on reaching Rowanty Creek, remained on
picket, while the remainder of the division proceeded to and returned
from Dinwiddie Court-House. During that date had no engagement with the enemy.
At 5 a.m. of the 6th, left Rowanty Creek; at 8.30 a.m., one mile
beyond which, formed into line, remaining until near 4 p.m., when
ordered back toward the run. On reaching the skirmish line ordered to
charge down the road, where it was said a North Carolina brigade of
infantry was formed. Having no support and having to charge by
sections of eight, the enemy opened a most deadly fire upon the
regiment, causing it to fall back, which was done in an orderly
manner, and reformed and charged again across an open field, with the
same result, and even a third charge was made, but each charge found
the enemy too strong to be dislodged.
On the 7th drove the enemy across Gravelly Run and into their works,
when they opened upon us with artillery. The regiment then fell back
across the run, where it remained until dark, when it was withdrawn.
No prisoners were captured from the enemy, or property of any kind.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. B. M. YOUNG,
Col., Cmdg.
Lieut. D. C. SWANK,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brigade, Second Cavalry Division.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LVIII.] THE RICHMOND CAMPAIGN. PAGE 369-95
[Series I. Vol. 46. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 95.]
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Frederick William Berge
09 June 2011 Category: genealogy
On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the US Civil War, I decided to return to some genealogy focus for this blog and follow the lives of ancestors who lived during that time.
First up is Frederick Berge:
Frederick William Berge (Frederick Berger) was born 19 March 1838 in Hesse Cassel. He arrived 11 July 1855, in New York, on the ship O Thijen (O Thyen), which departed from the port of Bremen. He is listed as born in Germany, 17 years old and his occupation is shoemaker.
First up is Frederick Berge:
Frederick William Berge (Frederick Berger) was born 19 March 1838 in Hesse Cassel. He arrived 11 July 1855, in New York, on the ship O Thijen (O Thyen), which departed from the port of Bremen. He is listed as born in Germany, 17 years old and his occupation is shoemaker.
In 1861, Frederick Berge enlisted in Company C, 15th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry for 90 days. He re-enlisted as a musician in Company M, 4th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry until the end of the Civil War.
On the 1870 census, Frederic Berge, age 32 living in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is listed as a shoemaker, owning real estate valued at $1500. and personal estate valued at $500. His wife Catherine, born in Ireland is listed as 28 years old and her occupation as keeping house.
Also in the household in 1880 are a 8 year old son Frederic, attending school, 3 year old Mary and 1 year old William (our ancestor). All the children are recorded as born in Pennsylvania.
Three boarders are also listed in the household: William Malia, 25, a blacksmith who was born in Ireland
George Albert, 29, a miner who was born in England, and Patrick Stanton, 28, a miner who was born in Ireland. Ten years later, on the 1880 census, William Malia is listed as married and the father of 4 children.
Check the possibility of family connection of Malia and/or Stanton to Catherine Langan.
On the 1880 census, the Berge family is living on Hampton Street in Scranton and Fred is 42 and his occupation is hotel keeper. Catherine is 40, keeping house and the children are 18 year old Fred who is a blacksmith and was unemployed for 3 months of the census year. Mary is no longer in the household (according to pension application, Mary died 1 May 1872) ; William is 12 and at school, and John 10, and Agnes 7 are also attending school. Two year old Josephine is at home.
A boarder Mary Engels, 19 is listed as a servant. Mary is listed as born in Pennsylvania, with both of her parents listed as having been born in Germany.
Wordless Wednesday
Josh is working in Kodiak this month.
Memorial Day cookout
Gretta enjoying the cookout with the neighbors. I took the short film with my iTouch and used an app called “Film Director” to add a 20’s silent film look.
cookout - iPhone
cookout - iPhone
I'm Back in Anchorage
19 May 2011 Category: Alaska
Been planning a visit to Josh for the summer but pushed up the arrival date by several months when he was offered a job that will keep him away from home the rest of May & most of June. 
Figured it would be better for Gretta to have me to keep her company than to have her boarded out for such a long stretch.
Figured it would be better for Gretta to have me to keep her company than to have her boarded out for such a long stretch.
