Edward P. Woods, Civil War Soldier

Item Information

Title:
Edward P. Woods, Civil War Soldier
Description:
Edward P. Woods Born in Chicopee, Mass_Son of John Woods_By occupation a Gunsmith_Unmarried_at the age of 23 enlisted for three months’ service in 1st. Regiment of Infantry, Conn. Vols. Rifle Company A. _Capt J. Howley._He was the first one to sign the enlistment roll of this company at Hartford, Conn._The regiment rendezvoused at New Haven and was mustered into service April 22nd, 1861. About a week after, left by water route for Washington D.C._In camp there a few weeks, and afterwards stationed at Fairfax Court House._Engaged in the Bull Run battle_Returned with the regiment at the expiration of the term of service. October 9th, 1861, enlisted for three years in the thirty-First Regiment of Infantry, Mass. Vols._Company E._Appointed Orderly Sergeant of his company at its formation, and rendered to his Captain. E.P. Nettleton, valuable assistance in enlisting men to fill the ranks._In April, 1862, at Ship Island, was relieved from his position as Sergeant at his own request, and took his place in the ranks. While the regiment was in garrison duty at Fort Jackson, he acted as assistant to the Provost Guard. About the 1st of February, 1863, He was detailed for duty in the hospital corps; at the battle of Bisland he rendered distinguished service in this capacity, and his bravery on that day was remarked by officers and men. Captain Nettleton, thinking him too regardless of bullets, On the 25th of May when he came up with his men to take off one of the wounded, cautioned him not to expose himself, as his services were of as much value to him as those of a dozen men. Woods replied that he would take care of himself and he probably did._But on the 14th of June, 1863, during the engagement before Port Hudson, he volunteered to take some cordial to Gen Paine, who had been wounded many hours before and lay exposed on the field. Creeping along on his hands and knees, until he came near he threw the canteen, but not quite within reach. Gen. Paine, however, told him that he would be able to get it in a short time, but Woods was not satisfied and returned to the rear for further aid, saying, “I will go to him this time or die.” He moved up with due caution, but before he reached the spot, he fell dead, pierced with three bullets._No man was better known in the regiment for spirit and bravery than Woods. He was fully inspired with Patriotic self-devotion, and the free offering of his life was accepted in the cause of his country. The Surgeon of the regiment, E.E. Bidwell, writing to the mother of young Woods, under date of June 16, 1863, said, “He fell, doing his duty_he died a hero. I can testify to his almost unequalled efficiency as one of the hospital corps, of which he was at the time the chief, and to the courage, skill and fidelity which he always exhibited on duty. I had determined to recommend him for promotion, as soon as the battle should cease, for his gallantry and good conduct on the field. But death anticipated my purpose and he has gone up higher.”
Date:
[ca. 1861–1865]
Format:
Manuscripts
Location:
Chicopee Public Library
Collection (local):
Soldier's Record, Town of Chicopee
Subjects:
United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865
Places:
Massachusetts > Hampden (county) > Chicopee
Link to Item:
https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/items/show/2741
Terms of Use:
Public Domain
Contact host institution for more information.
Notes:
Soldier's Record, Town of Chicopee
Identifier:
SR-152.0