1st West Virginia Cavalry Regiment

United States Civil War military unit 1st West Virginia Cavalry Regiment West Virginia Civil War Medal.png circular medal with grain, two people, an eagle, and dates West Virginia honorable discharge medal July 10, 1861, to July 8, 1865 United States Union (American Civil War) UnionWest Virginia 23px West Virginia Cavalry American Civil War 1862: Battle of Kernstown I (6 co.) 1863: Battle of HanoverBattle of Gettysburg, Battle of Hagerstown, Battle of Boonsboro, Battle of Mine Run 1864: Battle of Cove Mountain, Battle of Lynchburg, Battle of Rutherford's Farm, Battle of Kernstown II, Battle of Moorefield, Battle of Opequon, Battle of Fisher's Hill, Battle of Cedar Creek, Action at Nineveh 1865: Battle of Waynesboro, Virginia, Battle of Dinwiddie Court House, Battle of Five Forks, Battle of Sailor's Creek, Battle of Appomattox Station, Battle of Appomattox Court House Henry Anisansel 1861–62 Colonel Nathaniel P. Richmond 1862–63 Colonel Henry Capehart 1863–64 Colonel Charles E. Capehart 1864 Lt. Colonel Harvey Farabee 1864–65 Major The 1st West Virginia Cavalry Regiment served in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Although it started slowly, it became one of the most active and effective of the West Virginia Civil War regiments—and had 14 Medal of Honor recipients, the most for any West Virginia regiment during the war. It was originally called the 1st Virginia Cavalry, not to be confused with the Confederate 1st Virginia Cavalry. Some reports added "Union," "Loyal" or "West" when identifying this regiment. After the Unionist state of West Virginia was officially admitted to the Union in 1863, the regiment became the 1st West Virginia Cavalry Regiment. The National Park Service identifies it as the 1st Regiment, West Virginia Cavalry. The regiment was organized in Wheeling, Morgantown and Clarksburg in 1861 and consisted of 13 companies, plus an additional company that was attached for most of the war. Members were predominately recruited from Ohio and Pennsylvania and the western Virginia counties of Marshall, Monongalia, Harrison and Ohio. The regiment was often split during the first two years of the war, with detachments spending time guarding the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and hunting bushwhackers. During July 1863, ten companies of the regiment fought at the Battle of Gettysburg as part of a division. The regiment began fighting in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley during the second half of 1864. At the beginning of 1865, it became part of the 3rd Brigade in General George Armstrong Custer's Third Division, Cavalry Corps—which, along with another division was under the command of General Philip Sheridan. Sheridan's two cavalry divisions were responsible for eliminating Confederate General Jubal Early's Army of the Valley from the war, and also played an important part in the surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia. After the war, the 1st West Virginia Cavalry participated in the Grand Review of the Armies, and was mustered out on July 8, 1865. Formation and organization thumb|300 px|right|The prime recruiting area for the 1st (West) Virginia Cavalry, especially Wheeling, Morgantown, and Clarksburg (circled in blue).|alt=Old map of western Virginia with important recruiting areas circled Although Virginia seceded from the union and joined the Confederate States of America, many people in the northwestern portion of the state preferred to remain loyal to the United States. The first new cavalry regiment formed from this loyal region was originally known as the 1st Virginia Cavalry, and was sometimes noted as a loyal (to the union) regiment to differentiate it from the 1st Virginia Cavalry that was a rebel force for the Confederacy. The regiment eventually was identified as a West Virginia cavalry regiment after the new state was formed in the loyal section of Virginia.Battle Unit Details – Union West Virginia Volunteers – 1st Regiment, West Virginia Cavalry National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/search-battle-units-detail.htm?battleUnitCode=UWV0001RC 2017-08-13 Recruiting for the new regiment began during July 1861, and a significant portion of the new recruits were from the cities of Wheeling, Morgantown, and Clarksburg. An analysis of the regiment by the George Tyler Moore Center showed that 32% of the men were from West Virginia, 23% were from Pennsylvania, 16% were from Ohio and the remainder were from Virginia and other states as well as immigrants. One company consisted mostly of men who spoke German.First Loyal Virginia Troops For the Union Cause George Tyler Moore Center for the Study of the Civil War – Shepherd University http://www.shepherd.edu/gtmcweb/research_papers.html https://web.archive.org/web/20110718152712/http://www.shepherd.edu/gtmcweb/research_papers.html dead 2011-07-18 2017-07-20 The regiment's first company, known as the Kelley Lancers, rarely fought with the regiment and was usually attached to General Benjamin Franklin Kelley. Their original captain, John Lowry McGee, eventually became commander of the 3rd West Virginia Cavalry.Lang 1895 194 Another company that was typically detached was called Gilmore's Company.George Washington Gilmore formed a company of cavalry independently at the request of General George B. McClellan, and Gilmore was its captain.Livingston 1912 766 Gilmore's company was originally called the Pennsylvania Dragoons and was formed July 1861 with men from Fayette County, Pennsylvania.Ellis 1882 771 An example of it fighting detached is the Wytheville Raid, where it fought with an additional company from the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, an infantry regiment, and another cavalry regiment.Sutton 2001 89 Beginning July 14, 1863, Gilmore's Company served with the 2nd West Virginia Cavalry, and finished its service as Company L of that regiment.Sutton 2001 44 Note The first regiment commander was Colonel Henry Anisansel, who was commissioned on September 7, 1861. Anisansel was a former lieutenant in the Ringgold Cavalry.The Ringgold Cavalry was an independent cavalry company from Pennsylvania that was formed in 1847. At the start of American Civil War, its captain was John Keys, and its first lieutenant was Henry Annisansel.Farrar 1911 13 On September 6, 1861, Annisansel left to become colonel of the First Virginia Cavalry.Farrar 1911 15 Note His second-in-command was Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel P. Richmond. Richmond had been a lieutenant in the 13th Indiana Infantry Regiment and an aide-de-camp to General William Rosecrans.Rantings of Civil War Historian – Col. Nathaniel P. Richmond Eric Wittenburg http://civilwarcavalry.com/?p=2124 2017-08-24 The regiment's first chief surgeon was Henry Capehart, who eventually became regiment commander and a general.Henry Capehart was commissioned as colonel of the regiment on December 23, 1863.Lang 1895 159 His brother, Charles E. Capehart, eventually joined the same regiment.Eriksmoen Curtis Fargo doctor succeeded Custer in Civil War The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead Fargo, North Dakota July 11, 2010 http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/284548/group/News/ https://web.archive.org/web/20120531221353/http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/284548/group/News/ May 31, 2012 dead Major Charles E. Capehart took temporary command of the regiment at Gettysburg, and again took command of the regiment after his brother's promotion to brigade commander during September 1864. Note Early action The regiment's first action is listed as the Battle of Carnifex Ferry on September 10, 1861.Battle Detail – Carnifex Ferry National Park Service https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/search-battles-detail.htm?battleCode=wv006 2017-12-31 However, the two companies present, Gilmore's Company and a company led by Captain William West that eventually became CompanyI, were held in reserve.Moore 1864 40 The first fighting was done by the Kelley Lancers (CompanyA) in Romney in October 1861.Frothingham 1862 17–19 As the regiment grew, it worked primarily in detachments to hunt bushwhackers. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad (a.k.a. the B&O Railroad) was an important asset for the Union army, and detachments of the regiment were also used to guard it.Lang 1895 163 Although the regiment became West Virginia's "most active, and one of the most effective," it did not begin well. During 1862, General Frederick W. Lander brought court martial charges against Anisansel for "failing to obey an order to charge the enemy" at Bloomery Gap. Anisansel was exonerated because he claimed a battle injury made him unable to make the charge. After returning to duty, he resigned on August 6, 1862. He was succeeded by Richmond, his second-in-command. During December 1862, Richmond became involved in a dispute that resulted in his arrest for disobedience.O'Neill 2012 67–68 Richmond remained under arrest until he resigned on March 18, 1863. On May 3, 1863, an 80-man detachment of the regiment was surprise attacked at Warrenton Junction by the notorious guerilla warfare leader Major John S. Mosby and his Mosby's Rangers. They were rescued by the 5th New York Cavalry, but had 17 men killed or wounded, including Major Josiah Steele—who died about one month later from his wounds.Black 2008 Last page of Part I of e-book During the spring after the Mosby encounter, the regiment was armed with Spencer repeating rifles.Lang 1895 164 Officers from the regiment sent a petition to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton to have Richmond reinstated. Richmond was reinstated as regimental commander on June 12. On June 20, the new state of West Virginia joined the union, and the 1st Virginia Cavalry (loyal) became the 1st West Virginia Cavalry—although many still called it the 1st Virginia.The New State of West Virginia West Virginia Division of Culture and History http://www.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood16.html 2015-02-21 Gettysburg Campaign Battle of Gettysburg, Third Day cavalry battles On June 24, the 3rd Brigade, Third Division, Twenty-second Army Corps of the Army of the Potomac departed from its camp in Fairfax, Virginia. Their destination was Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Richmond commanded the 1st West Virginia Cavalry as it departed with 10 of the regiment's companies as part of this brigade with three other regiments.CompanyI and Gilmore's Company participated in the Wytheville Raid during mid-July 1863. Both suffered severe casualties—about one third of their men. CompanyI's Captain Dennis Delaney was killed, and both his lieutenants severely wounded. First Lieutenant William E. Guseman died from his wounds, while Second Lieutenant Charles H. Livingstone was taken prisoner.United States Congress 1891 1005 Note The brigade moved to Frederick, Maryland, where the entire division was reorganized into two brigades. Brigadier General Judson Kilpatrick was assigned command of the division, and Brigadier General Elon J. Farnsworth was assigned command of the 1st Brigade. Brigadier General George Armstrong Custer was assigned command of the 2nd brigade.Scott Lazelle 1889 1018–1019 As the troops moved from Frederick toward Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the regiment in the rear was attacked by cavalry under the command of General James Ewell Brown "Jeb" Stuart. Farnsworth's 1st Brigade counter-attacked, and with the help of Custer's 2nd Brigade drove off the Confederate cavalry. The 1st West Virginia had 2 killed, 5 wounded, and 18 men taken prisoner. This June 30 battle became known as the Battle of Hanover.CWSAC Battle Summaries: Hanover National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior https://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/pa001.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20141006163918/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/pa001.htm dead October 6, 2014 2018-01-09 Gettysburg thumb|150px|right|Charles E. Capehart|alt=old picture of civil war officerThe Battle of Gettysburg began on the next day, lasting from July 1 through July 3. The Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by General George G. Meade, defeated the invading Confederate Army of Northern Virginia commanded by General Robert E. Lee. Over 150,000 men (both sides combined) fought in this battle, and casualties are estimated to be around 51,000.CWSAC Battle Summaries: Gettysburg National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior https://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/pa002.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304120135/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/pa002.htm dead March 4, 2015 2017-08-20 Farnsworth's brigade did not encounter any enemy forces for the first two days (July 1 and 2) of the battle. Late in the afternoon on the third day of the battle, Kilpatrick ordered Farnsworth to make a mounted charge against a Confederate infantry position that was fortified and near ground difficult for horses. Although Farnsworth objected, he followed his orders.Johnson Buel 1884 394 The 1st West Virginia Cavalry, led by Richmond, made the first charge. The West Virginians became nearly surrounded by the 1st Texas Infantry and had to retreat to safety using their sabers. They took some prisoners and suffered casualties of five killed and four wounded. Farnsworth led a second group of men in another charge and took significant casualties—and Farnsworth was killed.Starr 2007 441 The charge became known as the infamous Farnsworth's Charge.Wittenberg 2011 Ch. 2 of e-book After the death of Farnsworth, Richmond assumed command (officially July 4) of Farnsworth's 1st Brigade. Major Charles E. Capehart assumed command of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry.Charles Capehart was an officer in two Illinois infantry regiments before joining the 1st (West) Virginia Cavalry as a captain on July 2, 1862.United States Congress Senate 1886 2 Report No. 2887 He was commissioned as major of the regiment on June 6, 1863. Note Both commands were temporary.Young 1913 417 Pursuit of Lee's Army thumb|450px|right|Kilpatrick's Division pursued Lee after getting reinforcements.|alt=Old map of region west of GettysburgAfter the third day of fighting at Gettysburg, armies on both sides were exhausted. Lee's Confederate Army of Northern Virginia prepared to leave during the rainy night and return to the relative safety of Virginia. Their trip back would involve traveling through mountains to cross the Potomac River at Williamsport, Maryland. General John D. Imboden led a wagon train carrying wounded men on a northwest route, which was safer and easier to follow.Wittenberg Petruzzi Nugent 2008 6 Lee moved with the healthy part of his Army of Northern Virginia on a more southern route to Williamsport that was shorter but had more difficult terrain.Wittenberg Petruzzi Nugent 2008 39 Kilpatrick's division, which was reinforced with cavalry stationed at Emmitsburg, Maryland, pursued Lee's retreating army. Late at night high in the mountains, near Monterey Pass, a dismounted advance guard company from Custer's 2nd Brigade confronted a small group of rebels guarding the pass. The rebels, using only one piece of artillery, prevented Custer's men from entering the pass while a wagon train belonging to Confederate General Richard S. Ewell moved from the north into the pass.Wittenberg Petruzzi Nugent 2008 57–58 At 3am, the 1st West Virginia Cavalry were ordered to assist Custer. In pouring rain and total darkness, the 1st West Virginia Cavalry charged down the mountain, capturing the Confederate artillery piece and an entire wagon train in hand-to-hand combat.One source says 640 officers and men made the charge.Wittenberg Petruzzi Nugent 2008 65 Another source said that less than 100 men followed through with the charge.Brown 2005 137 Note The captured wagon train consisted of 300 wagons and 15 ambulances, and the horses and mules pulling them. A total of 200 officers and 1,100 men were captured. Casualties for the 1st West Virginia were only 2 killed and 2 wounded.Scott Lazelle 1889 1019 For this action, Charles Capehart was later awarded the Medal of Honor.Congressional Medal of Honor Society – Capehart, Charles E. Congressional Medal of Honor Society http://www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/216/capehart-charles-e.php 2017-11-17 He accomplished this while having a shattered ankle that was the result of being shot while fighting at Gettysburg.United States Congress Senate 1886 1 Report No. 2887 Less than a week after the battle at Monterey Pass, Colonel Othniel De Forest (who had been ill) of the 5th New York Cavalry reported for duty, and Richmond was relieved from command of the 1st Brigade. Richmond and the 1st West Virginia Cavalry reported to Frederick, Maryland, for provost duty. Lee's army crossed the Potomac at Williamsport and Falling Waters on July 14.Wittenberg 2011 Ch. 16 of e-book Capehart becomes commander For the last half of July, the regiment fought in some minor skirmishes, and eventually reported to Stafford, Virginia, near Fredericksburg.Scott Lazelle 1889 1007 On September 16, Richmond was injured when his horse was shot and fell on him at Raccoon Ford on the Rapidan River. He resigned in early November after an October promotion to colonel, and was discharged on a Surgeon's Certificate of Disability on November 11.Hunt 2014 105 During November, the regiment (ten companies) was in the Battle of Mine Run as part of Custer's Third Division. Their brigade commander was General Henry Eugene Davies, and the regiment was under the temporary command of Major Harvey Farabee. Henry Capehart, the regiment's surgeon (and brother of Charles Capehart), was familiar with the territory, and provided valuable assistance to Davies in strategy and fighting—in addition to navigating the terrain. Davies was impressed, and along with Kilpatrick and Custer recommended Capehart to replace the injured Colonel Richmond as commander of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry.Lang 1895 165 Henry Capehart was commissioned as colonel on December 23, becoming the regiment's commander. Army of West Virginia thumb|150px|right|Henry Capehart|alt=old picture of civil war officerBeginning in December, the regiment became part of the Department of West Virginia, but was unassigned. Near the end of January 1864, the regiment returned to Wheeling. They stayed at Camp Willey on Wheeling Island for a few days before going to their homes for a 30-day furlough. About 500 men re-enlisted.The First Virginia Cavalry Regiment Coming Wheeling Daily Intelligencer 3 1864-01-28 Five hundred men of the regiment have re-enlisted. A reception to honor the regiment was held in Wheeling on February 3. The local newspaper called them "The Heroes of 70 Engagements".Reception of the First Virginia Cavalry Wheeling Daily Intelligencer 2 1864-02-03 The Heroes of 70 Engagements The regiment left Wheeling during mid-March, departing on the B&O Railroad.The First West Virginia Cavalry Wheeling Daily Intelligencer 2 1864-03-14 on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad They became part of the 2nd Brigade, Second Cavalry Division, in the Army of West Virginia. They patrolled West Virginia for the next six weeks, but did not see any significant action. Beginning in May, the regiment was part of the 3rd Brigade, Second Cavalry Division. They participated in General William W. Averell's Raid on the Virginia & Tennessee Railroad, which was a valuable asset for the Confederacy because it enabled transportation of soldiers and supplies between the two states. On May 10, Averell's division (including the regiment) fought in the Battle of Cove Mountain in northern Wythe County, Virginia. Averell was eventually able to destroy 26 bridges and portions of railroad track near Dublin (Newbern on old maps), Virginia. The division returned to its base in West Virginia on May 18.Sutton 2001 117 On May 22, the regiment was fording the Greenbrier River just upriver from a waterfall. Their objective was to eliminate some Confederate sharpshooters that were harassing the cavalry. Colonel Henry Capehart stationed himself between the falls and the crossing. His standard procedure was to position himself down river at crossings, which would enable him to rescue men having trouble crossing the water. He was an expert rider and had a horse that was a good swimmer. In this circumstance, a private from Company B was swept out of his saddle while attempting to cross a swollen river with a swift current. Not only was the private swept over the falls, but Capehart and his horse were too. Capehart was able to rescue the private while both were being shot at by enemy sharpshooters.Beyer Keydel 1907 344–345 On February 12, 1895, Henry Capehart was awarded the Medal of Honor for this action. His citation read "Saved, under fire, the life of a drowning soldier."Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Capehart, Henry U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#CAPEHARTH https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#CAPEHARTH dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-20 Hunter's Lynchburg Campaign thumb|150px|right|William H. Powell|alt=Old painting of an American Civil War generalDuring early June, various Union forces met in Stanton, Virginia, and were resupplied. After a reorganization on June 9, Averell commanded the Second Cavalry Division, and its 3rd Brigade (1st and 2nd West Virginia Cavalry regiments) was commanded by Colonel William H. Powell. The infantry was led by General George Crook. General David Hunter was the commander of the entire cavalry and infantry force.Sutton 2001 125–126 On June 10, they moved toward Lexington, Virginia as part of a plan to capture Lynchburg. The force arrived in Lexington on June 11, and occupied the town for several days. On June 14, Powell's brigade was sent forward Liberty, and drove away Confederate cavalry. During this time, Confederate reinforcements were arriving at Lynchburg.Sutton 2001 127 On June 16, the entire Union force left Liberty and approached Lynchburg from the southwest. The Battle of Lynchburg was fought on June 17 and 18. Approximately 44,000 soldiers participated in this Confederate victory.CWSAC Battle Summary: Lynchburg National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va064.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304072858/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va064.htm dead March 4, 2015 2015-12-14 The Union force could not capture Lynchburg, and was forced to retreat toward West Virginia as supplies dwindled. The force reached Charleston on July 1. Losses for Hunter's entire army totaled to 940 men.Sutton 2001 135 Shenandoah Valley During July, the 1st West Virginia Cavalry left Charleston, West Virginia, for Parkersburg—where they boarded the B&O Railroad with their horses to begin a three-day trip to the other side of the state. Their destination was the rail station at Martinsburg.Sutton 2001 138 The regiment was commanded by Henry Capehart, and was part of the 2nd Brigade, Second Cavalry Division, Army of West Virginia. Hunter commanded this army while Averell commanded its Second Cavalry Division. Powell commanded the 2nd Brigade of the Second Division.Sutton 2001 126 Battle of Rutherford's Farm thumb|150px|right|William W. Averell|alt=Old picture of an American Civil War generalThe Battle of Rutherford's Farm, also known as the Battle of Carter's Farm, occurred on July 20, about 4 mi km 1 north of Winchester, Virginia.CWSAC Battle Summary: Rutherford's Farm National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va115.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304133818/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va115.htm dead March 4, 2015 2015-12-26 While portions of Hunter's army were still arriving in the Martinsburg area, Hunter sent Averell from Martinsburg toward Winchester to meet a perceived threat to the B&O Railroad from General Jubal Early's Army of the Valley.Patchan 2007 119 Averell did not have his entire cavalry force when he started, but had about 1,000 men from the 1st and 3rd West Virginia Cavalry Regiments. He also had another 1,350 infantrymen.Pond 1912 86 He advanced southwest down the Valley Turnpike, and was attacked by Confederate troops under the command of General Stephen Dodson Ramseur.Patchan 2007 137 Although the attack was initially successful, Averell was reinforced by 300 men from the 2nd West Virginia Cavalry who had arrived at Martinsburg after Averell had departed. The unexpected reinforcement led to a Confederate panic, and Averell won the battle.Patchan 2007 138 The Confederate loss was about 400 to 450 men, and Averell's men collected 500 rifles from the battlefield. Averell's casualties were about 220.Patchan 2007 148 Second Battle of Kernstown After Averell's victory at Rutherford's Farm, he was joined by another cavalry division and infantry. Crook commanded the entire force. Both cavalry divisions sent men on scouts to find Early's army. Crook believed that most of Early's army had left the valley to defend the Confederate capital, Richmond, Virginia. He did not believe the reports of Averell and General Alfred N. Duffié (commander of the First Cavalry Division) that said enemy infantry, artillery, and cavalry were in the area.Patchan 2007 181 Crook was mistaken, and both cavalry units made accurate reports.Patchan 2007 268 On July 24, Averell was ordered to conduct a flanking maneuver near Front Royal to cut off what Crook believed was a small band of Confederates. Averell encountered a much larger enemy force than he was led to expect, and the Second Battle of Kernstown began. As portions of Crook's force began retreating (some in panic) north through Winchester, he finally understood the situation.Patchan 2007 232 He organized a more orderly retreat.One brigade commander from Duffié's First Division caused panic by ordering teamsters to bring their horses to a trot as his brigade fled north.Patchan 2007 242 The main road eventually became littered with burning wagons. Duffié's other brigade, led by Colonel William B. Tibbits, performed much more admirably. His brigade made several charges that enabled trapped infantry men to escape.Patchan 2007 237 Note Powell's brigade (including the 1st West Virginia Cavalry) and an infantry brigade led by Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes (future President of the United States) were among the few organized units remaining.Rutherford B. Hayes United States government – "The White House" https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/about-the-white-house/presidents/rutherford-b-hayes/ 2018-02-11 They became the rear guard against the pursuing Confederate cavalry.Sutton 2001 144 The battle was over by the end of July 25, as all soldiers were soaked in cold rain.Patchan 2007 250 Crook retreated north across the Potomac River, and the Confederates reoccupied Martinsburg (in addition to controlling Winchester). The 1st West Virginia Cavalry lost a total of 28 men killed, wounded, missing, or captured.Scott Lazelle Davis 1891 290 Chambersburg and Moorefield The regiment was part of Averell's cavalry force that pursued Confederate Generals McCausland and Bradley Johnson after the rebels burned the Pennsylvania community of Chambersburg.Battle Summary – Moorefield National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/wv013.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304120643/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/wv013.htm dead March 4, 2015 2016-02-12 After multiple skirmishes and Confederate threats to burn more towns, McCausland's two brigades of cavalry were caught in Battle of Moorefield, West Virginia. In a surprise attack at dawn on August 6, 1864, Averell captured over 400 Confederates.Patchan 2007 299 In this battle, Powell rode with Henry Capehart and the 1st West Virginia Cavalry. After the 3rd West Virginia Cavalry charged across the South Branch of the Potomac River and met strong resistance from the Confederate 17th Virginia Cavalry, they were reinforced by the 1st West Virginia—and the two regiments overwhelmed the Confederates.Patchan 2007 307 Powell's report said "The thanks of the brigade are also due to the First West Virginia Cavalry for the timely support given to the Third West Virginia Cavalry at a time when the enemy seemed conscious of our weakness, and attempted to rally their forces and to repel the advance of our lines, and for its joint operation with the Third Virginia Cavalry, driving the enemy into the mountains for a distance of twelve miles, killing, wounding and capturing many, also capturing one battle-flag and two pieces of artillery."Ainsworth Kirkley 1902 736 Despite Averell's successes, General Philip H. Sheridan assumed command of all Union troops in the Shenandoah Valley on August 7.Starr 2007 245–246 Battle of Opequon The Battle of Opequon, also known as the Third Battle of Winchester, began in the morning on September 19, 1864.Sutton 2001 159 Some historians consider this the most important battle of the Shenandoah Campaign. Sheridan's Army of the Shenandoah defeated Early's Army of the Valley. Union casualties were about 5,000 out of 40,000 men, while Confederate casualties were about 3,600 out of 12,000 men. Generals and colonels on both sides were killed, including Confederate Colonel George S. Patton Sr.—grandfather of the famous World War II tank commander, General George S. Patton. Confederate General Robert E. Rodes was killed, and Confederate cavalry generals Fitzhugh Lee and Bradley Johnson were among the wounded. General David Allen Russell, killed in action, was among the Union casualties.Battle Detail – Opequon National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/search-battles-detail.htm?battleCode=va119 2015-09-12 The majority of the Union casualties were in the infantry. Averell's Second Cavalry Division had only 35 casualties, including four from the 1st West Virginia Cavalry.Ainsworth Kirkley 1902 117 Battle of Fisher's Hill The Battle of Fisher's Hill occurred on September 21–22, 1864.13. Fisher's Hill (21–22 September 1864) National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior http://www.nps.gov/abpp/shenandoah/svs3-13.html https://web.archive.org/web/20150520010929/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/shenandoah/svs3-13.html dead May 20, 2015 2015-12-27 Early's Confederate army was pursued from Winchester to Fisher's Hill, where the rebels had strong fortifications and an advantageous location given the terrain.Sutton 2001 161 The 1st West Virginia Cavalry was part of a diversion that enabled Crook's infantry to secretly position itself to the rear of the Confederate line. Crook's surprise attack broke through the Confederate lines, and was the major reason for the Union victory. The 1st West Virginia Cavalry was part of Powell's cavalry brigade that pushed through the gap created by Crook, and chased rebels as they fled south. After the battle, Sheridan pressured his officers to pursue Early's retreating army. Sheridan became impatient with Averell, who he considered too cautious. On September 23, Sheridan replaced Averell with Powell. Henry Capehart was designated commander of Powell's old brigade, and Capehart's brother, Charles, became commander of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Powell's Second Cavalry Division pursued Early further south.Lang 1895 166 Battle of Cedar Creek thumb|150px|right|Philip Sheridan|alt=Old picture of an American Civil War generalThe Battle of Cedar Creek occurred on October 19, 1864. Early's Confederate Army appeared to have a victory until Sheridan rallied his troops to a successful counterattack. Although Union casualties were more than double those of the Confederates, this battle is considered a Union victory, and Confederate troops were driven from the battlefield. The Union troops recaptured all of their artillery lost earlier in the battle, and 22 additional cannons belonging to Early's army.Battle Detail – The Battle of Cedar Creek National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior http://www.nps.gov/cebe/learn/historyculture/the-battle-of-cedar-creek.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150310013435/http://www.nps.gov/cebe/learn/historyculture/the-battle-of-cedar-creek.htm dead March 10, 2015 2015-12-26 Union cavalry were commanded by General Alfred Torbert. The 1st West Virginia Cavalry Regiment remained in the 2nd Brigade of Powell's Second Division. Powell positioned his division near Front Royal to prevent Confederate cavalry under General Lunsford L. Lomax from flanking the Union force.Sutton 2001 170 The 1st West Virginia Cavalry had a total of 3 casualties in this battle.Ainsworth Kirkley 1902 136 Nineveh On November 12, the Second Division again fought Lomax's cavalry.Reid 1868 515 Powell sent most of his 1st Brigade out beyond Front Royal, where it encountered a portion of Lomax's cavalry commanded by McCausland. The Confederates slowly pushed the 1st Brigade back. Powell brought Capehart's 2nd Brigade, including the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, to the front while the 1st Brigade moved to the rear.Beach 1902 448–449Powell's 1st Brigade consisted of the 8th Ohio Cavalry, 14th Pennsylvania Cavalry, and 21st New York Cavalry regiments. His 2nd Brigade consisted of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, 3rd West Virginia Cavalry, and 1st New York Cavalry.Ainsworth Kirkley 1902 512 Note Capehart's brigade charged, resulting in a short clash that ended with the Confederates retreating as fast as they could. They were chased for 8 mi 1.Beach 1902 450 Powell captured all of the rebel artillery (two guns), their ammunition train, and took 180 prisoners.Rhodes 1900 149 Newspaper accounts said McCausland was slightly wounded.Camp Near Winchester, VA., Nov. 12 1864. Wheeling Daily Intelligencer 1 1864-11-23 Two men from the 1st West Virginia Cavalry were awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in this battle. Private James F. Adams, from CompanyD, received his medal for "Capture of State flag of 14th Virginia Cavalry (C.S.A.)".Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Adams, James F. U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#ADAMSJF https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#ADAMSJF dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-22 The other medal winner was Sergeant Levi Shoemaker from CompanyA. His citation is "Capture of flag of 22d Virginia Cavalry (C.S.A.)".Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (S–Z) Shoemaker, Levi U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#ADAMSJF https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#ADAMSJF dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-22 The Nineveh action, plus actions at Newtown or Middletown and Cedar Creek fought by other Union cavalry divisions on the same day, totaled to 184 Union casualties (killed, wounded or missing).Dyer 1908 957Dyer does not list Confederate casualties in his Compendium. Powell's November 17 report listed enemy losses of 20 killed, 25 wounded, and 161 prisoners. His own loss was listed as 2 killed and 15 wounded.Ainsworth Kirkley 1902 512–513 Note Third Division thumb|150px|right|George A. Custer|alt=Old picture of an American Civil War generalPowell resigned from the Union Army on January 5, 1865.Sutton 2001 192 His father had died and his mother was seriously ill.William H. Powell Papers, 1825–1899, Chronicling Illinois Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum http://alplm-cdi.com/chroniclingillinois/items/show/515 2017-01-01 2015-04-17 https://web.archive.org/web/20150417053100/http://alplm-cdi.com/chroniclingillinois/items/show/515 dead Sheridan reorganized his 8,000-man force into two cavalry divisions.Sutton 2001 188–189 General Wesley Merritt was Sheridan's cavalry commander. General Thomas Devin led the First Division, and Custer commanded the Third Division. There was no Second Division.Rhodes 1900 191 The 1st West Virginia Cavalry became part of the 3rd Brigade, Third Division Cavalry Corps. The brigade consisted of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd West Virginia Cavalry Regiments, and the 1st Regiment New York (Lincoln) Cavalry, and was commanded by Henry Capehart.Sutton 2001 189 These four regiments had been most of Averell's force that had a major victory at Moorefield during August 1864. As a brigade, they had also performed extremely well three months later at Nineveh under Powell's command. The brigade became known as Capehart's Fighting Brigade, after its skills were noticed by Sheridan—who called it "the fighting brigade".Stevenson 1879 325–326 Both divisions spent about six weeks in winter quarters, where they rested and were given fresh clothing. On February 27, they left Winchester and moved south. Their purpose was to eliminate Early's Army of the Valley.Sutton 2001 188 Laurel Brigade In late February, Early received additional troops which were supposed to enable him to attack instead of flee. The reinforcement was the elite Confederate cavalry known as the Laurel Brigade, and it was under the command of General Thomas L. Rosser.Sutton 2001 197–198 Many of the men in the proud and well–equipped Laurel Brigade had served with Stuart—the Confederacy's most famous cavalry officer.Jeb Stuart was one of the Confederacy's most famous leaders. One historian wrote "Few Confederate generals achieved wider renown during the Civil War than Major General James Ewell Brown Stuart." He was killed in battle during mid-May 1864.Thomason Gallagher 1994 vii Note Early added his own cavalry to Rosser's command, and sent them toward Custer's approaching division. Rosser used rails to fill a covered bridge over the middle fork of the Shenandoah River, and this is where he planned to confront Custer.Sutton 2001 191 At 2:00am, on March 1, Capehart's brigade was awakened and told to prepare to move without breakfast or feed for their horses. Their objective was to remove the obstacle of Rosser's cavalry, which would enable the rest of Custer's division to attack Early's army—which was thought to be between Harrisonburg and Staunton. At the covered bridge, Capehart sent a portion of his brigade, dismounted, to attack Rosser. The 1st West Virginia Cavalry was sent upriver where it crossed and then charged down on Rosser.A member of the 2nd West Virginia Cavalry wrote that Capehart (the brigade's commander) sent the 1st West Virginia upriver. A member of the 1st New York Cavalry wrote that Custer (the division commander) sent the 1st New York Cavalry, supported by the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, upriver.Stevenson 1879 327–328 Note The brigade drove off Rosser's cavalry, capturing 50 men and all of his artillery.Sutton 2001 191–194 Thus Custer, utilizing Capehart's brigade (including the 1st West Virginia Cavalry), defeated one of the Confederacy's best cavalries.Sutton 2001 198 Battle of Waynesboro Sheridan's cavalry encountered the remnants of Early's army at Waynesboro, Virginia, on March 2. Most of Early's army was killed or captured, although Early evaded capture.Waynesboro U.S. National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va123.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304120617/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va123.htm dead March 4, 2015 2015-11-12 Custer's division did the fighting. His 1st Brigade dismounted and attacked as infantry, then Capehart's 3rd Brigade, including the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, charged and cut off over half of Early's force—which forced that portion of the rebels to surrender. All of Early's headquarters equipment was captured, as were 11 pieces of artillery. Capehart's brigade chased the fleeing rebels toward Rockfish Gap.Stevenson 1879 329 A New York newspaper credited the 3rd Brigade with capturing 5 pieces of artillery, 67 wagons of ammunition and food, and 1 battle flag.Stevenson 1879 336 Early's army was eliminated from the war.Sutton 2001 197 Sheridan leaves the Valley to fight Lee's army Sheridan's original orders were to destroy the Virginia Central Railroad and then meet with the army of Union General William Tecumseh Sherman in North Carolina.Rhodes 1900 156 Sheridan reached Charlottesville on March 3, but faced delays caused by muddy roads.Rhodes 1900 157 On March 5, Sergeant Richard Boury, from CompanyC, was part of a squadron of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry sent into the mountains to find some rebels that had retreated from Waynesboro. Boury captured a flag and three rebels.22nd Regiment Cavalry, NY Volunteers Civil War Newspaper Clippings (Evening, March 27, 1865 – Presentation of Flags to the War Department) New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs: Military History https://dmna.ny.gov/historic/reghist/civil/cavalry/22ndCav/22ndCavCWN.htm 2015-12-27 He received the Medal of Honor, and the citation described his action as being "at Charlottesville" .Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Boury, Richard U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#BOURY https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#BOURY dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-22 thumb|150px|right|U.S. Grant 1864|alt=Old picture of an American Civil War general in fieldRainy weather, swollen rivers, and destroyed bridges persuaded Sheridan to move east toward Richmond instead of moving south across the river to link with Sherman's army in North Carolina. Private Archibald H. Rowand, Jr., of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry's Company K, was one of two men sent with a message from Sheridan to General Ulysses S. Grant (the Union's highest-ranking officer and future president of the United States). His mission meant that he had to get through Confederate lines. To accomplish this feat, Rowand wore a Confederate uniform for much of his journey. His 48-hour journey covered 145 mi 1 on on horseback and an additional 11 mi 1 on on foot. Near the end of his journey, he was chased by Confederates and had to abandon his horse and swim the Chickahominy River. That started the walking portion of his journey. He was wet, muddy, and was wearing only his underclothing when he crossed into Union lines.Rowand's adventure was discussed in a Pittsburg newspaper article in 1998.Secrets of a Union spy Mark Roth, (Pittsburgh) Post-Gazette assistant managing editor http://old.post-gazette.com/regionstate/19980508bbbrowand7.asp 2017-12-24 2018-08-19 https://web.archive.org/web/20180819010922/http://old.post-gazette.com/regionstate/19980508bbbrowand7.asp dead Note Sheridan's two divisions reached a Union Army base at the river port community of White House, Virginia, on March 18, 1865. At White House, the two divisions were resupplied, and rested for five days.Rhodes 1900 158 They departed on March 24, and met the Army of the Potomac near Petersburg on March 27. The Army of the Potomac was "the Union's primary army operating in the East."Army of the Potomac Ohio History Central http://www.ohiohistorycentral.org/w/Army_of_the_Potomac 2016-11-30 Sheridan's Army of the Shenandoah was still considered separate from the Army of the Potomac, so he received orders directly from Grant. Grant was working on site with Meade and the Army of the Potomac. Meade had partially surrounded Lee's army at Richmond and Petersburg, but Lee still had a western escape route. Grant ordered Sheridan to proceed to Dinwiddie, Virginia, where it could cut off Lee's escape route.The Fall of Richmond, Virginia American Battlefield Trust https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/reaction-fall-richmond 2018-11-03 The two divisions were joined by the Second Cavalry Division from the Army of the Potomac, which was led by General Crook.Rhodes 1900 191–192 The three cavalry divisions totaled to a force of about 9,000.Rhodes 1900 159 Battle of Dinwiddie Court House Sheridan now had three divisions, and reached Dinwiddie Court House on March 29. While most of his army went into camp at that location, Custer's Third Division (which included the 1st West Virginia Cavalry) guarded the wagon trains further back at Malone's Crossing. On the next day, Devin's First Cavalry Division, and a brigade from Crook's Second Division, were sent north toward Five Forks. Their reconnaissance found a strong enemy infantry force led by General George E. Pickett, and the Union cavalry was driven back.Rhodes 1900 159–160 The Battle of Dinwiddie Court House occurred on March 31, and is considered a Confederate victory.Battle Summary – Dinwiddie Court House, Virginia National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va086.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304120531/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va086.htm dead March 4, 2015 2015-12-30 While Sheridan again sent Devin and Crook north, Pickett's infantry and cavalry led by Major General Fitzhugh Lee drove back infantry under the command of Union General Gouverneur Kemble Warren, located east of Sheridan's army. Then the attacking Confederate force turned its attention to Sheridan. This forced Sheridan's cavalry to face three enemy divisions: two infantries and one cavalry.Rhodes 1900 160 As the Union cavalry was driven back toward Dinwiddie Court House, Capehart's 3rd Brigade was recalled from duty guarding the wagon train. They moved near what would soon become the front, an open area in front of Dinwiddie. Capehart's brigade used rails from a fence to quickly build a protective area for fighting while dismounted. The brigade was able to halt the Confederate attack in fighting that continued until after dark.Sutton 2001 210–211 Battle of Five Forks thumb|right|400px|Sheridan's cavalry movement near Richmond and Petersburg|alt=Old map highlighting Sheridan's movements around RichmondThe Battle of Five Forks occurred on April 1, 1865. Five Forks is a small community in Dinwiddie County, located between Dinwiddie Court House and Petersburg. Sheridan received reinforcements from the Fifth Corps and a division of cavalry from the Army of the James.Battle Summary – Five Forks, Virginia National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va088.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304133751/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va088.htm dead March 4, 2015 2015-12-30 The Confederate force was again led by Pickett and Fitzhugh Lee. Both sides advanced and retreated, and soon the opposing forces were fighting in close combat using sabers.Sutton 2001 213 At times, the cavalry fought dismounted.Sutton 2001 212 A portion of Capehart's brigade drove the rebels to the end of the field, only to be partially driven back by a second group of Confederate cavalrymen. After the regiment was reinforced by the rest of Capehart's brigade, the Confederates were driven from the area, and numerous battle flags were captured.Sutton 2001 214 Lieutenant Wilmon W. Blackmar, from CompanyH of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, was awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in this battle. After Capehart's brigade began a charge, Blackmar observed that they were chasing a small detachment of Confederates, and the main body of the Confederates was about to isolate the cavalry from the Union infantry. Blackmar caught up with Capehart and informed him of the situation, and was ordered to reform the brigade in the correct line of battle. Blackmar reformed a portion of the brigade and led a charge without waiting for the rest of the brigade. The charging men took prisoners, and captured artillery, wagons, and ambulances. Custer and Capehart promoted Blackmar to captain immediately.Beyer Keydel 1907 511 Blackmar's Medal of Honor citation says "At a critical stage of the battle, without orders, led a successful advance upon the enemy."Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Blackmar, Wilson W. U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#BLACKMAR https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#BLACKMAR dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-21 Although the battle is considered finished on the day it started, skirmishing continued as Lee's army tried to escape to the west. On April 2, Capehart's brigade attacked the Confederates at Namozine Church. In this confrontation, Henry Capehart's horse was killed, and his clothing was pierced with several shots that did not seriously wound him.Stevenson 1879 343 On the next day, another brigade from Custer's division attacked, and eventually the Confederates escaped toward Amelia Court House. This inconclusive battle, described as a Confederate rear guard action, became known as the Battle of Namozine Church. Total casualties for both sides are an estimated 75, and Confederate General Rufus Barringer was captured.Battle Summary – Namozine Church National Park Service https://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va124.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150304120621/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va124.htm dead March 4, 2015 2018-02-14 Battle of Sailor's Creek thumb|300px|right|A push by Capehart's Brigade of Custer's Division helped surround Ewell's Reserve Corps in the Marshall's Crossroads area of the Battle of Sailor's Creek|alt=Modern map of battlefieldIn early April, the Confederate government abandoned Richmond, and Lee's army began moving west. On April 6, Union troops chased Lee's army to an area south of the Appomattox River near Saylor's Creek.The creek and the battle, as found on old maps, are spelled multiple ways: Sailors', Sailer's, Saylor's, and Sayler's. The National Park Service uses the spelling Sailor's Creek. The historic name is Sayler's Creek.10 Facts About Sailor's Creek American Battlefield Trust https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/10-facts-sailors-creek 2018-11-03 Note The Battle of Sailor's Creek was concentrated in three places, and Sheridan's cavalry fought in the Marshall's Crossroads area. Sergeant Francis M. Cunningham, from CompanyH of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, wrote that the battle "was one of the hardest cavalry fights of the war."Wallace 1897 642 Custer's cavalry division made numerous charges upon the Confederate lines. Although the charges were successful in capturing artillery and men, casualties were high. Armies on both sides had already suffered numerous casualties in battles at Dinwiddie Court House and Five Forks. In the case of CompanyH, only four men remained for the final charge. As Henry Capehart, commander of Custer's 3rd Brigade, reviewed the Confederate army's position, Custer rode along the lines in plain view of the Confederate infantry, taunting his enemy with captured Confederate battle flags. The Confederates responded by taking numerous shots at the general, hitting his horse. Custer dismounted without injury. Capehart realized that the Confederates would need time to reload their single-shot rifles, and requested permission for his 3rd Brigade to attack immediately. Custer quickly agreed, and Capehart's brigade of about 1,400 cavalry men including the 1st West Virginia Cavalry charged the Confederate lines.Battle Analysis: Cavalry Battle at Sailor's Creek The United States Army, Fort Benning Public Affairs Office https://www.benning.army.mil/armor/earmor/content/issues/2014/JUL_SEP/Jerke.html 2015-12-16 2015-11-05 https://web.archive.org/web/20151105082101/http://www.benning.army.mil/armor/earmor/content/issues/2014/JUL_SEP/Jerke.html live Capehart's men used sabers, carbines, and revolvers to move through three Confederate infantry lines. A large portion of Ewell's corps became surrounded, causing many of the demoralized Confederate soldiers to surrender. Thus, the Union troops captured more than 20 percent of Lee's army. Approximately 8,000 Confederate soldiers, including eight generals, were killed or captured. Among the surrendering generals was the corps commander Ewell. Another general captured was Custis Lee, eldest son of the commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, Robert E. Lee. Upon seeing the battered survivors from his army, Robert E. Lee said "My God, has the army dissolved?" Although many men from General Richard H. Anderson's IV Corps escaped westward, the battle is considered the "death knell" for Lee's Confederate Army.Battle Detail – Sailor's Creek National Park Service https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/search-battles-detail.htm?battleCode=va093 2015-12-16 The Battle of Sailor's Creek was the last major battle of the American Civil War. Five men from the 1st West Virginia Cavalry were awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in this battle. Captain Hugh P. Boon received his medal for capturing a flag.Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Boon, Hugh P. U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#BOON https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#BOON dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-21 Boon's CompanyB was part of a charge when he noticed a battalion of enemy infantry on the right. He led his company away from the original charge, moving toward the infantry. His company routed the Confederate battalion, and Boon captured the flag of the 10th Georgia Infantry. Although Boon was worried that he did not exactly follow orders, a superior officer witnessed the affair and acknowledged that the captain took appropriate action.Beyer Keydel 1907 531 Sergeant Francis M. Cunningham's Medal of Honor citation reads "Capture of battle flag of 12th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.) in hand-to-hand battle while wounded."Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Cunningham, Francis M. U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#CUNNINGHAMFM https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#CUNNINGHAMFM dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-21 Cunningham's horse had been killed, but he found a Confederate mule that leaped a Confederate breastworks when the regiment made a charge. Although Cunningham, who was from CompanyH, was shot twice (but survived), he captured a Confederate flag using his saber. Custer later recommended Cunningham for the award.Beyer Keydel 1907 528–530 Commissary Sergeant William Houlton won his medal for the capture of a flag, but the regiment was not identified in the citation.Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (G–L) Houlton, William U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_gl.html#HOULTON https://web.archive.org/web/20130917042330/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_gl.html#HOULTON dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-21 Corporal Emisire Shahan from CompanyA received his medal for "Capture of flag of 76th Georgia Infantry (C.S.A.)".Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (S–Z) Shahan, Emisire U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_sz.html#SHAHAN https://web.archive.org/web/20131215014031/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_sz.html#SHAHAN dead December 15, 2013 2017-12-21 The citation for Medal of Honor winner Private Daniel A. Woods, who was from CompanyK, says "Capture of flag of 18th Florida Infantry (C.S.A.)".Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (S–Z) Woods, Daniel A. U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_sz.html#WOODSDA https://web.archive.org/web/20131215014031/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_sz.html#WOODSDA dead December 15, 2013 2017-12-21 Battle of Appomattox Station On April 8, Lee's Army of Northern Virginia continued to flee westward. Two Union army corps were following. Additional Union troops, including Sheridan's cavalry, were further west. Sheridan hoped to block Lee's retreat. His advance force was Custer's Third Division. Custer captured Confederate supply trains and removed a few pieces of track to prevent the trains from going back to Lynchburg. However, Custer was then repelled by Confederate artillery.In Search of the Battle of Appomattox Station American Battlefield Trust https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/search-battle-appomattox-station 2018-02-11 After two more attacks using single brigades were ineffective, Custer made a rare night attack using his entire division. Strong moonlight reduced the risk of getting lost or misidentifying friendly and enemy soldiers, and the night attack was successful. Custer's division captured 24 to 30 artillery pieces, 1,000 prisoners, and 150 to 200 wagons. Two men from the 1st West Virginia Cavalry were awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in this battle. Corporal Thomas Anderson, from CompanyI, received his medal for capturing a Confederate flag.Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (A–F) Anderson, Thomas U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#ANDERSONT https://web.archive.org/web/20130917052505/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_af.html#ANDERSONT dead September 17, 2013 2017-12-23 The flag has been, at times, displayed in Lee Chapel and Museum of Washington and Lee University.The Lee Chapel and Museum at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, has displayed various flags from the American Civil War. Among those flags, identified as Battle Flag no. 356, is the Confederate flag captured by Corporal Thomas Anderson of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry.The History of the Flags in Lee Chapel and Museum Washington and Lee University https://www.wlu.edu/lee-chapel-and-museum/about-the-chapel/history-of-lee-chapel-flags 2017-12-23 2018-08-15 https://web.archive.org/web/20180815194241/https://wlu.edu/lee-chapel-and-museum/about-the-chapel/history-of-lee-chapel-flags dead Note Charles Schorn, Chief Bugler from CompanyM, also received the Medal of Honor for actions in this battle after he captured the flag of the Sumter Flying Artillery.Medal of Honor Recipients – Civil War (S–Z) Schorn, Charles U.S. Army Center of Military History https://history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_sz.html#SCHORN https://web.archive.org/web/20131215014031/http://www.history.army.mil/moh/civilwar_sz.html#SCHORN dead December 15, 2013 2017-12-23 This flag, which had been carried by the Sumpter Flying Artillery since 1861, was captured in Custer's final nighttime charge.Speicher 2009 259 Battle of Appomattox Courthouse Battle of Appomattox Court House thumb|300px|right| Lee surrenders to Grant|alt=Old American Civil War painting of generals assembled to surrenderOn April 9, Lee's Army of Northern Virginia continued to flee westward. Infantry led by Generals John Brown Gordon and James Longstreet, and cavalry led by Fitzhugh Lee formed a battle line near the Appomattox Court House. This was their last chance to escape to Lynchburg, as Union troops were attempting to surround them.Battle Summary: Appomattox Court House National Park Service http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va097.htm https://web.archive.org/web/20150315150642/http://www.nps.gov/abpp/battles/va097.htm dead March 15, 2015 2016-01-08 The 1st West Virginia Cavalry's participation in this "battle" was mostly preparing to attack—but no full-fledged charges were made. A Confederate officer approached Capehart's 3rd Brigade on horseback under a flag of truce. Capehart and the officer rode down the column to Custer, where the officer told the general that Lee and Grant were in correspondence concerning a surrender of Lee's Army.One author (Lang) says the Confederate approached General Henry Capehart.Lang 1895 174 A second author (Sutton) says the Confederate officer approached "Colonel Briggs, of the seventh Michigan".Sutton 2001 225 Note Shortly after his meeting with Longstreet's representative, Custer turned command of the division over to Henry Capehart and rode off to see Sheridan. On that day, Robert E. Lee unconditionally surrendered his starving Army of Northern Virginia to Grant. The surrender look place at the home of Wilmer and Virginia McLean in the small community of Appomattox Court House, Virginia.The Surrender – Appomattox Court House National Park Service https://www.nps.gov/apco/the-surrender.htm 2016-01-09 War's end The 1st West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry remained in battle line until the evening of April 9, and then went into camp. On the next day, they marched toward Burkesville Junction, arriving on April 12. After resting for the night, they marched to Nottoway Court House, and received new clothing. The cavalry reached Petersburg, Virginia, by April 18, and camped outside the city.Sutton 2001 230–232 On the same day, Custer sent a recommendation to Secretary of War Stanton that Colonel Henry Capehart be promoted to Brigadier General, retroactive to March 1.Capehart's retroactive promotion can cause confusion. Custer's April 18 recommendation was a promotion retroactive to March 1.Lang 1895 176 This meant that during battles such as Five Forks and Sailor's Creek, Capehart was a colonel, but after April he was considered a general since before those and several other battles. Capehart was breveted to brigadier general effective March 13. Note On April 24, the division started a march to North Carolina to join Sherman's army confronting the Confederate army of General Joseph E. Johnston. However, on April 28, they became aware that Johnston had surrendered. On the next day, the division began its return north.Sutton 2001 234–235 Grand Review of the armies thumb|300px|right|Unknown cavalry in Grand Review of the Armies|alt=Old American Civil War photo of cavalry parading in Washington, DCThe Grand Review of the Armies began on May 23, 1865, as a Union celebration of the end of the Civil War. Union troops paraded down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, DC. The parade was led by Custer's Third Division, which was led by Capehart's brigade.Sutton 2001 237–238Sutton 2001 264 The New York Times described men in Custer's division as "being decorated with a scarf or tie, known as the Custer Tie, red in color ..." It also said "Capehart's brigade of West Virginia Veterans, as trusty a body as ever drew a sabre, are singled out for their fine appearance ..."Review of the Armies New York Times 1 1865-05-24 Final muster out List of Medal of Honor recipients from the 1st West Virginia Cavalry In early June 1865, the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd West Virginia Cavalries were ordered to proceed to Wheeling, West Virginia, to muster out. On June 17, the men and their horses were loaded onto a B&O Railroad train where they departed for Wheeling. The three regiments camped on Wheeling Island between Wheeling and Belmont County, Ohio.Sutton 2001 239 They were officially mustered out on July 8, 1865. While Crook and Custer would continue service with the federal cavalry in the western United States, the 1st West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry Regiment ceased to exist.Marcovitz 2002 45 During the war, the regiment had 10 officers and 71 enlisted men killed. An additional 126 men died from disease. At the end of the war, the regiment was part of the highly regarded Capehart's Fighting Brigade, and was one of the most active, and most effective, of the West Virginia regiments. Fourteen men received the Medal of Honor, the most for any West Virginia regiment.The George Tyler Moore Center for the Study of the Civil War has the count of Medal of Honor winners for the 1st West Virginia Cavalry as 14. A 15th soldier is sometimes listed as a Medal of Honor winner for the regiment.West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History – West Virginia Medal of Honor Recipients West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History http://www.wvculture.org/history/wvmemory/wvmoh.html 2019-06-15 However, Sergeant James M. Burns, who was in the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, was fighting with the 1st West Virginia Infantry regiment when his actions caused him to be awarded the Medal of Honor.The Hall of Valor Project – James Madison Burns Sightline Media Group https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/1607 2019-06-15 Note See also Medals of Honor for West Virginia Soldiers West Virginia Units in the Civil War West Virginia in the Civil War Notes Footnotes Note 30em Citations 30em References 20em Ainsworth Fred C. Kirkley Joseph W. The War of the Rebellion : A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I - Volume XLIII Government Printing Office 1902 Washington https://books.google.com/books?id=HBpEAQAAMAAJ&q=The+thanks+to+the+brigade+are+also+due+to+the+First+West+Virginia&pg=PA736 427057 Beach William Harrison The First New York (Lincoln) Cavalry from April 19, 1861, to July 7, 1865 Lincoln Cavalry Association 1902 New York 448 https://archive.org/details/firstnewyorklin00beac Nineveh Powell chased. 44089779 Beyer Walter F. Keydel Oscar F. Deeds of Valor : from Records in the Archives of the United States Government; How American Heroes Won the Medal of Honor; History of our Recent Wars and Explorations, from Personal Reminiscences and Records of Officers and Enlisted Men who were Rewarded by Congress for Most Conspicuous Acts of Bravery on the Battle-field, on the High Seas and in Arctic Explorations Volume I Perrien-Keydel Co. 1907 Detroit https://books.google.com/books?id=pORNAQAAMAAJ&dq=%22Colonel+Henry+Capehart%2C+of+the+First+West+Virginia%22&pg=PA344 3898179 Black Robert W. Ghost, Thunderbolt, and Wizard: Mosby, Morgan, and Forrest in the Civil War Stackpole Books 2008 Mechanicsburg, PA 681219923 Brown Kent Masterson Retreat from Gettysburg: Lee, Logistics, and the Pennsylvania Campaign University of North Carolina Press 2005 Chapel Hill 712044679 978-0-80786-942-0 Dyer Frederick H. Frederick H. Dyer A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion Dyer Pub. Co. 1908 Des Moines, Iowa https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015026937642&view=1up&seq=969 1028851810 December 23, 2022 Ellis Franklin History of Fayette County, Pennsylvania: with Biographical Sketches of Many of its Pioneers and Prominent Men L. H. Everts and Co. 1882 Philadelphia 18032598 Farrar Samuel Clarke The Twenty-second Pennsylvania Cavalry and the Ringgold Battalion, 1861–1865 New Wemer Co. 1911 Akron, Ohio & Pittsburgh 1211514 Frothingham John B. Sketch of the life of Brigadier General B. F. Kelley ... L. Prang & Co. 1862 Boston 13098101 Hunt Roger D. Colonels in Blue : Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee : a Civil War Biographical Dictionary McFarland & Company, Inc. 2014 Jefferson, North Carolina 863157239 978-1-47661-386-4 Johnson Robert Underwood Buel Clarence Clough Battles and Leaders of the Civil War, Volume III The Century Company 1884 New York https://books.google.com/books?id=UHFKAAAAYAAJ&dq=Farnsworth%27s+Charge&pg=PA394 2048818 Lang Theodore F. Loyal West Virginia from 1861 to 1865 : With an Introductory Chapter on the Status of Virginia for Thirty Years Prior to the War Deutsch Publishing Co. 1895 Baltimore, MD 779093 Livingston Joel Thomas A History of Jasper County, Missouri, and its People Lewis Publishing Co. 1912 Chicago 2704614 Marcovitz Hal George Custer Chelsea House Publishers 2002 Philadelphia 233792501 978-1-43810-263-4 Moore Frank The Rebellion Record: A Diary of American Events – Third Volume G. P. Putnam 1864 New York https://books.google.com/books?id=li1HAQAAMAAJ&q=Carnifex+Ferry+Gilmore&pg=PA40 228717409 O'Neill Robert F. Chasing Jeb Stuart and John Mosby : the Union Cavalry in Northern Virginia from Second Manassas to Gettysburg. McFarland & Co. 2012 Jefferson, North Carolina 794664336 978-0-78649-256-5 Patchan Scott C. Shenandoah Summer: The 1864 Valley Campaign University of Nebraska Press 2007 Lincoln, NE 122563754 978-0-8032-0700-4 Pond George E. The Shenandoah Valley in 1864 Charles Scribner's Sons 1912 New York 13500039 Reid Whitelaw Ohio in the War: Her Statesmen, Her Generals and Soldiers. Volume I: History of the State During the War, and the Lives of Her Generals Moore, Wilstach & Baldwin 1868 New York https://archive.org/details/OhioInTheWarReidV1 444862 Rhodes Charles D. History of the Cavalry of the Army of the Potomac including that of the Army of Virginia (Pope's) and also the History of the Operations of the Federal Cavalry in West Virginia During the War Hudson-Kimberly Publishing Co. 1900 Kansas City, MO Scott Robert N. Lazelle H. M. The War of the Rebellion: a Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies Series I Volume XXVII Part I Government Printing Office 1889 Washington, DC https://books.google.com/books?id=jJAOAQAAMAAJ&q=%22Report+of+Maj.+Charles+E.+Capehart%2C+First+West+Virginia+Cavalry.%22&pg=PA1018 427057 Scott Robert Nicholson Lazelle H. M. Davis George B. The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies Series I Volume XXXVII Part 1 Government Printing Office 1891 Washington, DC https://books.google.com/books?id=tsQ9AAAAYAAJ&q=Averell+Powell+Thoburn+1st+West+Virginia&pg=PA290 427057 Speicher James Sumter Flying Artillery : A Civil War History of the Eleventh Battalion Georgia Light Artillery. Pelican Publishing Co 2009 Gretna, Louisiana 922577268 978-1-45561-267-3 Starr Stephen Z. Union Cavalry in the Civil War Louisiana State University Press 2007 Baton Rouge 153582839 978-0-8071329-1-3 Stevenson James H. Boots and Saddles : A History of the First Volunteer Cavalry of the War, Known as the First New York (Lincoln) Cavalry, and also as the Sabre Regiment Patriot Pub. Co. 1879 Harrisburg, PA 320 https://archive.org/details/bootssaddleshist00stev 31947777 Sutton Joseph J. History of the Second Regiment, West Virginia Cavalry Volunteers, During the War of the Rebellion Blue Acorn Press 2001 1892 Huntington, WV 263148491 978-0-9628866-5-2 Thomason John W Gallagher Gary W Jeb Stuart University of Nebraska Press 1994 Lincoln, NE 30110697 978-0-8032-9424-0 United States Congress 1891 The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies Series I Volume XXVII Part II The Miscellaneous Documents of the House of Representatives for the First Session of the Fifty-First Congress 1889–'90 U.S. Government Printing Office 191710879 https://books.google.com/books?id=X0xHAQAAIAAJ&q=%22Second+West+Virginia+Cavalry+did+not+behave%22&pg=PA1002 2016-02-23 United States Congress Senate United States Congressional Serial 49th Congress 1st Session Report No. 2887 Government Printing Office 1886 Washington https://books.google.com/books?id=WThHAQAAIAAJ&q=Colonel+Capehart&pg=RA1-PA2885-IA1 191710879 Wallace Lew The Story of American heroism : Thrilling Narratives of Personal Adventures During the Great Civil War, as Told by the Medal Winners and Roll of Honor Men J. W. Jones 1897 Springfield, Ohio https://books.google.com/books?id=F80TAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA182 11816985 Wittenberg Eric J. Gettysburg's Forgotten Cavalry Actions: Farnsworth's Charge, South Cavalry Field, and the Battle of Fairfield, July 3, 1863 Savas Beatie 2011 New York 779472347 978-1-61121-071-2 Wittenberg Eric J. Petruzzi J. David Nugent Michael F. One Continuous Fight: the Retreat from Gettysburg and the Pursuit of Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, July 4–14, 1863 Savas Beatie 2008 New York 185031178 978-1-9327144-3-2 Young Jesse Bowman The Battle of Gettysburg: a Comprehensive Narrative Harper 1913 New York 1831353 External links George Tyler Moore Center for the Study of the Civil War National Park Service – The Civil War West Virginia Division of Culture and History – The Civil War in West Virginia 1st West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry Regiment Reenacting Group Category:Units and formations of the Union army from West Virginia Category:1861 establishments in Virginia Category:Military units and formations established in 1861 Category:Military units and formations disestablished in 1865