Looking Back

Ann O’Hara
Posted 8/21/12

In the early years of the Civil War, things went badly for the North, and in September 1862 Lee’s army crossed the Potomac into Maryland, too close to Pennsylvania for comfort. The governor put out …

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Looking Back

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In the early years of the Civil War, things went badly for the North, and in September 1862 Lee’s army crossed the Potomac into Maryland, too close to Pennsylvania for comfort. The governor put out a call for “all able-bodied men” to defend their state and Wayne County provided three companies.

In a message sent on September 13 from Harrisburg to Charles Petersen’s store in Honesdale by “Morse’s Telegraph,” Captain M. L. Tracy, a Honesdale businessman, was ordered to march forward immediately. Free railroad transportation was provided, and each man was instructed to bring a blanket, tin cup, knife, fork and haversack. “Also gun if possible, with 60 rounds ammunition, to suit calibre of piece.”

Fortunately, after the Battle of Antietam, the Confederates retreated, and the militia regiments disbanded, having served a total of eight days. Still, like the militia called up at the time of the Battle of Gettysburg, these men had every reason to believe that they would find themselves battling the tough, experienced Southern troops.

From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society 810 Main St., Honesdale, PA, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For more information see WayneHistoryPA.org or call 570/253-3240.

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