Marcus R. Limb and George S. Limb served in Company D, Wooster City Guards, Eighth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Ohio National Guard. Both were active in the Improved Order of Odd Fellows, Patriarchs Militant, which complemented the Guards in training and competing in drills and encampments. Both experienced deployments in the O.N.G. to assist in peacekeeping situations. George was the first to be engaged in an actual war – the 1898 Spanish-American War in Cuba. Marcus had resigned from Company D in 1896 while living away from Wooster and rejoined in 1902 after his return to Wooster.
In 1916 George resigned from the military while at training camp. Marcus was deployed in the 1916 Mexican Border War serving in El Paso, TX. ▸ M.R. Limb & G.S. Limb Military:1916-?
Marcus Robert Limb (1870–1937)
1891 ▸ March 30, Private, Company D, 8th Regiment, O.N.G.
1891 ▸ December 30, Corporal.
1892 ▸ July 6, Sergeant.
1892 ▸ September 19, First Sergeant.
1894 ▸ March 30, discharged. Re-enlisted same date and warrant continued in force.
1894 ▸ July 20, discharged to accept commission as Second Lieutenant.
1894 ▸ July 20, 2d Lieutenant.
1895 ▸ November 29, married Lucille Bradshaw and went south to study dentistry and establish a practice.
1896 ▸ February 10, resigned Co D.
1901 ▸ Returned to Wooster with wife, Lucy, and son, Marcus George.
1902 ▸ June 30, reappointed 2d lieutenant, Co D, 8th Regiment, O.N.G.
1903 ▸ May 16, Captain, Co D.
1903 ▸ Purchased the armory in Wooster.
1916 ▸ June, Mexican Border service in El Paso, TX.
1917 ▸ June 15, War with Germany (WWI). Captain Co D, 146th Infantry.
1917 ▸ August 5, Captain 146th Infantry from O.N.G.
1917 ▸ November, Adjutant 146th Infantry.
1918 ▸ June 11, Major, 146th infantry, Wooster, O.
1918 ▸ Camp Sheridan, Ala.; Camp Lee, Va.; American Expeditionary Forces.
1918 ▸ June 13, overseas.
1918 ▸ June 15, departure date from Hoboken, N.J. on the USS Leviathan. (Son, Fritz, age 15, also on the Leviathan, as a Private.)
1918 ▸ October 9-15, hospital (gassed in the Argonne battle).
1918 ▸ October 15-November 8, C.O. St. Dizier.
1918 ▸ November 11, Armistice signed at Compiegne.
1919 ▸ Ordered to report to 146th Inf. Transferred to 358th Inf. 90th Div. G.H.Q. Inspector Feb. 23rd to March 6th.
1919 ▸ March 8, reported at Gerolstein, Germany, to 90th Div., assigned to 2nd Battalion 358th Inf. Station Daun, Germany.
1919 ▸ May, awarded French War Cross.
1919 ▸ June 8th, left France.
1919 ▸ June 28 Treaty of Versailles.
1919 ▸ August 20, Honorable discharge Camp Pike. 15% disability.
1890
NOTE: The University of Wooster, which Marcus Limb attended from 1888-1891, included a Military Department until September 1890.
The Wooster Voice
Wooster, Ohio
12 September, 1890
pg 9
Truce At Last.
Prospects For Future Hostilities Discouraging and our Military Department Is Discontinued.
When Lieutenant Wildinson resigned his command of the Military Department at Wooster his successor was speedily sought and Lieut. B.W. Beavell, 24th Infantry, U.S.A. was elected to the place and a request for his detail promptly sent to the Sec. of War. The detail was confidently expected and the authorities were not a little surprised to receive a telegram on Tuesday morning stating that no U.S.A. officer would be sent to Wooster. Later in the day President Scovel received a letter which gave as a reason, that Ohio, under the present opportionment, is only entitled to the two officers who are now serving at Ohio State University and Ohio Normal University. This settled it. The military so long a thorn in the flesh of the student body is removed.
It is a source of satisfaction to note that the Government casts no reflection on the conduct of the Military Department here by its removal. The standing it has maintained has always been creditable.
The last report of the Inspector General, who visited Wooster only a few months ago, was very complimentary.
The decease of the Department here is due solely to the governmental policy. The quota of U.S.A. officers on duty at educational institutions in any State is dependent on the census returns of that State. The quota for Ohio was full, the census of 1890 is not likely to warrant any increase in the number of officers detailed and thus Wooster is left.
The action of the Government is regretted by some because of a deep-rooted conviction that the meagre military discipline it afforded was beneficial. That the first year spent in the department was beneficial is conceded, but that the time spent in military after that was most profitably spent is exceedingly doubtful.
The first year the new student was treated to fairly vigorous “setting up exercises,” he was taught how to get off a presentable walk in ranks, also how to carry, right-shoulder, present, reverse and order arms, how to fix and charge bayonets, and how to load, make ready, aim and fire. All this the average student could and did perform just as accurately at the end of the first year as at the end of the fourth.
The remaining time spent in military might be divided into about three parts, 1/2, is unvaried exercises in the part of the manual already familiar, 1-6, in learning new drills and the other 1/3, in scheming to get out.
We are not singing a “sour grape” song but stating a well grounded conviction when we affirm that, had the matter ever been put to the test of a popular vote of the students, the Military Department would have been made perform the McGinty act long ago. It has been a bone of contention for a long time. The President has spent many precious hours arguing the merits of the military with dissatisfied students.
We regret that the University is to be deprived of the possibilities in the particular line afforded by the Military Department, yet we have no tears to shed because of its removal.
The most vigorous kicking comes from the “Rustlers” who had already spotted the new comers for several units of military. We are happy in the possession of a good gymnasium, a competent scientific instructor, and a possibility for physical development never before offered in Wooster, the Military Department to the contrary notwithstanding.
No that is is removed and the gymnasium free to be used entirely for gymnastics we may hope for better results.
The government at Washington still lives and so does the University of Wooster. The former will probably survive and the continuity of the latter is in no wise impaired.
1891
The Wooster Voice
Vol. I., No. 24.
Saturday, 21 March, 1891
pg. 385
Attention. Soldiers.
Fort A. Lincoln, N.D.
March 12, 1891.
Editor Voice, Dear Sir:—Permit me through the columns of your paper to call the attention of my former pupils in the Military Department to the unusual opportunities for obtaining commissions in the Army which are now offered to young men in civil life. By the operation of a recent act of Congress a great impulse has been given to promotion. There will probably remain over 100 vacancies in the grade of 2d Lieutenant next June after all the West Point graduates are absorbed. These will be filled by selection from meritorious non-commissioned officers, National Guardsmen and graduates of colleges having military departments. The examinations are not severe, except as to physique, the limit of age is from 21 to 28 or 30, and the pay is good, $1,400 per year with a fair prospect of steady promotion. Here is an opportunity for an honorable career for life which many of Wooster’s “boys” may be glad to embrace. Write to your Congressman or the Secretary of War for particulars, etc., Let us have more college men in the U.S.A.
Very truly yours,
A.C. Sharpe
Company D – Wooster City Guard, Wooster.
Marcus R. Limb, private, enlisted March 30, 1891.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 24 July, 1891
pg 3
Here and There.
Today’s Doings In This City.
Personal Notes and Brief Mentions of Passing Events.
The Adjutant General has issued new trousers to Co. D.
Co. D will elect a Second Lieutenant next Monday evening. The election was not held last evening owing to the absence of many members.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 31 July, 1891
pg 3
Here and There.
Today’s Doings in this City.
Personal Notes and Brief Mention of Passing Events.
Co. D will have new regulation dress coats in time for camp.
1892
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 October, 1892
pg 3
Here and There.
Today’s Doings In This City.
Personal Notes and Brief Mentions of Passing Events.
Capt. H.L. Kuhns with his command, Co. D, 8th Regt. O.N.G., will leave at 7:00 o’clock this evening over the Ft. Wayne road for Chicago. The following is nearly a complete list of those who will take the train. Col. C.V. Hard, Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh, Lieut. Fos. Fischer, Harry Taylor, Richard Hard, Chas. Roth, Roy Van Meter, Fred Hartman, Frank Swanson, Lafayette Shively, Geo. Arnold, A. Rettman, J.S. Spear, M.R. Limb, Chas. Curry, M. Wertz, W. Writh, H. Hartman, W. Smith, Robt. Moore, C.E. McAfee, W.S. Brown, Kimberlin Dayal, Buechler, E.J. Barrett, U. Stevens, Jack George, Jesse Wilhelm, C.H. Clark, J.S. McClure, George Webb, Jesse Robison, Chas. Warner, Charles Dice, W. Aitkenhead, James Taggart, R. Kaufman.
1893
George Schaible Limb (1875–1955)
1893: May 22, enlisted O.N.G., Private, 8th Infantry.
1896: April 20, Corporal.
1897: August 4, Sergeant.
1898: Quartermaster Sergeant Co. D, 8th O.V.I., War with Spain. Limb Family Military
1898: Q.M. Sergt. Age 23. Sick in Hosp. Montauk Pt. L.I. Aug 26-Sept 18, 1898. In St. Vincent’s Hosp. to Sept. 25
1899: May 8, First Sergeant.
1899: May 22, re-enlisted.
1902: June 10, First Lieutenant.
1916: June 30, resigned his commission while at Camp Willis in Columbus and returned home, after serving with Company D for twenty-three years. Fred Reddick was elected to take George’s place as First Lieutenant.
George S. Limb was the first to see active service in a war. He was one of many US troops who suffered yellow fever as a result of conditions while in Cuba.
Spanish-American War
Ohio History: Spanish-American War
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Saturday, 23 December, 1893
pg 4
Guards Get a Rest from Guarding.
Armory of the Wooster City Guard,
Co. D, 8th Regt. O.N.G.
Wooster, Ohio, Dec. 23, 1893.
Company Orders, No. 22—
By reason of the numerous church and social entertainments incident to Christmas week and the fact that the next regular drill date falls on Christmas evening, it is hereby ordered that no Company drill will take place until Monday evening, January 1st, 1894.
By Order of
Captain H.L. Kuhns
M.R. Limb, First Sergeant
1894
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 3 January, 1894
pg 3
Most Brilliant and Fashionable of the Season.
The third of the series of select dances arranged for the winter by a committee of Co. D, O.N.G., was held in the Armory Friday night and proved to be the most brilliant and fashionable of the series. The affair was an exceptionally pretty one in the matter of dress as all the gentlemen were in full evening dress and the gowns worn by the ladies were marvels of elegance, many of them having been made especially for the occasion. The music was furnished by the harpist, Pietro Satteli, of Dayton. During the entire evening dainty refreshments were served by attentive and obliging attendants.
Those present were: Miss Ethel Brown, of Circleville, O.; Miss Louisa Breck, Cleveland; Dr. A.B. Howard, Cuyahoga Falls; H.O. Dern, Will Wehe, W.B. Francisco, and Harvey Osborn, of Cleveland; Miss Nettie Koch, Fred Liner of Pittburg; Fred Miller, Doylestown; Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Ohliger, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gray, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Thomen, Capt. H.L. and Mrs. Kuhns, Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Parrish, Miss Jennie Horn, Ethel Hunt, Blanche Curry, Dail Douglass, Harriet L. Funck, Kate Derr, Mellie Baumgardner, Carrie Hershey, Anna Osborn, Mary Gill, Maybel Saybold, Edna Pierce, Birdie Ihrig, May Barret, Sadie Ogan, Bessie Dunlap, Messrs. Roy Yoder, John McClure, Frank Boisgrain, Thomas Shepherd, James George, Horace Carr, Edward Osborn, Charles Jones, Jimmie Jacobs, H.A. Hoffstot, Harry Burrows, Harvey Maize, M.R. Limb, E.J. Seigenthaler, Robert and Allen Barrett, Fred Leopold.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Tuesday, 30 January, 1894
pg 4
A Social Success.
The Military Ball of Wooster City Guard
Adjutant General Howe Inspects Co. D—A Delightful Dance—Choice Music.
The military ball and inspection of Co. D, 8th Regiment Ohio National Guard held in the Armory on Monday evening proved to be, as was expected, one of the delightfully brilliant social events of the season. The attendance of visiting officers was not up to expectations nor as large as last year when a special effort was made in the way of entertainment. There were about 100 ladies and gentlemen in addition to the 50 couples who enjoyed the ball, which took place in the spacious armory after the inspection.
Capt. H.O.S. Hiestand, U.S.A., who had been detailed to conduct the inspection, was called to Chicago very unexpectedly, but Adjutant General James Howe was present and personally inspected the command.
At 8:15 Sergt. M.R. Limb formed the Company in double rank, 45 members being in line. The command was then turned over to Capt. H.L. Kuhns and prepared for inspection. The orchestra here began an overture, when Adjt. Gen. Howe proceeded with a minute inspection of the arms and accoutrements, the knapsacks wee then opened and inspected, followed by a muster of the company. The company was then put through a few movements by Capt. Kuhns on order of Adjt. Gen. Howe. The movements were executed with the usual precision. Gen. Howe before dismissing the men made brief remarks, in which he complimented the company on their fine appearance, the good condition of the arms, clothing and other property of the state. He dwelt particularly on the fine personnel of the command; he expressed his pleasure on being able to be present and hoped that he would be able to meet the company on future occasions and find it in as good condition as he had found it this time. After the Company had been dismissed. Gen. Howe looked over the books and papers and made a casual examination of the armory, remarking that Wooster had a much better armory than the average.
The Dance.
Shortly after the Company had been dismissed from inspection the orchestra began the grand march which inaugurated the terpsichorean pleasures of the evening. The march was lead by Capt. H.L. Kuhns and Mrs. Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh, in which about 5 couples participated. The scene was a pretty one, the colors of those in military dress added a brilliancy that was effective, heightened by the lovely costumes worn by the ladies, all of whom were richly robed, many of the gowns worn being of the most expensive materials, all wearing flowers and many diamonds. The modest decollette predominated. The gentlemen all wore full evening dress. The music furnished by the Bowman & McAfee orchestra, of Cleveland, was simply grand, and conceded the best dance music furnished in the city for a long time. The 22 numbers on the card were over all too soon for the delighted participants, who insisted on some additional pieces. The musicians yielding to the demand gave three selections to the pleasure of the happy dancers. Every number by the orchestra was a gem but those in which they sang gave greatest satisfaction. The charming love song, “Daisy Bell” being received with especial favor. Buffet refreshments were served throughout the evening.
In June 1894 the Ohio National Guard was called to duty to assist with peace-keeping during the bituminous coal miners strikes, which were effecting mines in Ohio as well as other states in the country. The miners were striking for better and more uniform wages, which had suffered due to the Panic of 1893.
The strikes effected not only the mines but also the railroads which had been developed to service the mines and upon which the mines depended to deliver their product.
For an excellent article describing the 1894 strikes, see US coal miners strikes, 1894 – Jeremy Brecher
This was the first active duty seen be the Limb brothers and for which George, the younger of the two, missed his high school graduation ceremonies.
At the end of this series of articles is a wonderful letter written by one of the striking miners to the editor of the Wooster Republican (Wooster Daily Republican, Wed. 27 June, 1894) regarding the relationship between the miners and the soldiers.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 7 June, 1894
pg 4
A Midnight Alarm.
Soldiers Summoned From Their Slumbers.
Wooster City Guards Got Together Quickly.
Promptly Prepared For Departure on Orders From Columbus—They Go With Lt. Col. Hard to Join the 8th O.N.G. at Zanesville.
[From Thursday’s Daily]
When the militia in other States or even in distant parts of our own State are summoned to support the sheriffs in resistance to lawlessness and violence, that is one thing, but it is quite another thing when the word runs like wild fire that the Guards have been called out, and the hustle of their preparing to depart for the Front is the talk of the hour. The promptness of their response was an honor to Wooster’s company of the 8th O.N.G. and Col. Hard and Capt. Kuhns and their men carry with them to this service for the State the heartiest good wishes for their early return, honored by service for public peace and welfare.
The Orders Assembling the Guards.
Capt. H.L. Kuhns commanding Co. D, 8th Regiment, O.N.G., at a quarter to 11 last night received an order by telegram from Col. Gyger, to assemble his company and hold men in readiness for marching orders. The order was soon known to the members and at 12 o’clock, 45 of the 48 enlisted men of the Wooster City Guards were in line at the Armory, ready to march. All spent the night under strict military discipline. Breakfast was taken at the Yoder House, after which the command was marched back to the Armory where the morning was spent in drilling.
The orders received by Capt. Kuhns were as follows:
Canton, O, June 6, 10:45 p.m., 1894.
To Capt. H.L. Kuhns, commanding Co. D, 8th Regt, O.N.G., Wooster, O.
Assemble your company in heavy marching order, ready to move at any moment with ammunition. Await further orders. Notify Col. C.V. Hard.
Geo. R. Gyger,
Col. 8th Regt. O.N.G.
A few minutes later the following telegram was received:
Alliance, O., June 6, 1894.
Capt. H.L. Kuhns, Wooster, O.
Assemble Company in Armory and await orders to move.
Geo. R. Gyger,
Col. 8th Regt. O.N.G.
Co. K of Shreve passed through Wooster this morning on train 32 on their way to Canton under orders from Col. Gyger.
The following order was received at 8:45 this morning:
Alliance, O., June 7, 1894.
To Capt. H.L. Kuhns, Wooster, O.
Bring your Company to Zanesville as soon as possible. If possible take 7 o’clock train for Canton.
Geo. R. Gyger,
Col. 8th Regt. O.N.G.
The company left at 10:22 standard time for Zanesville taking P. Ft. W. & C.R.R. to Mansfield and from that place the B. & O. for Zanesville. Capt. Kuhns and the following members responded to the call.
Col. C.V. Hard, as lieutenant colonel of the 8th O.N.G., was on hand to go with the Guards to Zanesville, where the regiment are to rendezvous, reaching there via Mansfield some time this afternoon, probably.
The companies of the Eighth regiment under Col. Gyger were ordered by Adjutant General Howe to concentrate at either Massillon or Canton, and be in rendezvous at Zanesville. The seven companies of the Seventeenth called out were instructed to concentrate under Col. A.L. Hamilton at Newark and the entire Fourteenth concentrated in Columbus, from which place they were transported to the place of rendezvous at Zanesville. The entire number of troops called out aggregated in the neighborhood of 1,500 men. The telegrams summoning the companies from Delaware, Marion and Marysville were sent from Columbus at 8 o’clock last night and were delayed en route one hour and a half, yet the soldiers responded promptly and got to Columbus at 1:30 this morning, showing a prompt obedience to the call of duty.
The Scene and the Occasion.
Cambridge, the scene of the trouble, is 26 miles east of Zanesville on the Baltimore & Ohio main line. Adjutant General Howe expected to reach there by daylight in a special train with men of the 14th from Columbus. The troops are ordered out on the appeal of Sheriff Mason, of Guernsey county, a conservative man, and of the occasion for them this morning’s State Journal says:
“The long-expected call for troops came last night from an unexpected source. It was somewhat of a surprise, too, in view of the action of the conference of the national executive board and district presidents of the United Mine Workers. The arrangement for district conferences it was believed would tide over the critical period, but the miners seem to have gotten beyond that point where their better judgement controls them and the advice of their national officers is respected. This morning 1,500 troops are on their way to Cambridge, in Guernsey county, near which place coal trains on the Baltimore & Ohio railroad have been sidetracked by striking miners and held by strength of numbers. A conflict is hardly probable in view of the large number of troops sent to the scene of the trouble, but the troops are prepared for the worst. The miners are reported to be determined and if they resist it will not likely be an altogether one sided affair.”
Massillon Miners Dissatisfied.
Ohio State Journal Special.
Massillon, O., June 6.—The action of the national executive board and district presidents of the United Mine Workers gives dissatisfaction here to mine owners and the miners themselves. The reason for this is not hard to perceive. The decision to refer the wage question back to the districts seems to end the hope of a 70-cent rate for Ohio now. The 2,000 miners of Massillon district want a 70-cent rate re-established on general grounds and the operators were equally favorable to a base scale of 70 cents, feeling that if it could be granted there would be less inclination on the part of their employes to hold out for the old differential of 15 cents.
Whatever the Columbus decision may seem to mean to the country at large, it points to the indefinite continuation of the Massillon strike. This view is verified by a private telegram from Henry Mullen, president of the sub-district, who says: “The situation is unchanged in the Massillon district. No matter what is done elsewhere, we will still hold for the established differential, and this district still holds her place in the front rank and is determined to maintain it, as she has always done.”
Ohio Militia Moving.
Troops Ordered to Guernsey and Belmont Counties—An Injunction Issued.
Columbus, O., June 7.—Governor McKinley has just ordered out a force of 1,200 militiamen to the scene of the strike in Eastern Ohio. All of the command of the Fourteenth regiment and the Eighth regiment and several companies of the Seventeenth regiment have been ordered out. The scenes of the trouble are in Belmont and Guernsey counties.
A special from Cambridge says: The situation here is very serious. The miners are determined that no more coal shall pass, no matter whet must be resorted to in order to prevent it. One coal train slipped through by running on a passenger train’s schedule. When the passenger train followed the miners flagged it. They were very mad over being fooled by the engineer of the coal train. The passenger train got through, but it received a volley of stones, all the windows being broken. The passengers, however, had been forewarned and were not hurt. The mob then became so desperate as to alarm all citizens and Sheriff Mason asked Governor McKinley to send troops immediately.
A Wheeling dispatch says There is nothing new in the coal situation along the C., L. & W. R. R. in Ohio, but trouble is expected to-day.
General Manager Woodford, of the C., L. & W. company, has telegraphed to President McBride as follows: “The circuit court of the United States has issued a decree, command and order, enjoining the local unions of the United Mineworkers and all other persons from in any way interfering with the operation of trains over the Cleveland, Lorain and Wheeling line, and that court has placed the running of trains under control of the United States marshals. We will run coal trains to-day and earnestly request that you use every effort to prevent any interference with the operation of trains, or with the road in any way, and thereby save serious injury to those concerned. Kindly act promptly.”
The Miners’ Proposition.
Willing to Allow District Settlements If Possible.
Columbus, June 7.—The meaning of the action of the executive board and district presidents of the United Mine Workers of America, as learned by general conversation with various persons representing the miners, is that the board and presidents practically waive the point that settlement shall be made through them, provided operators and miners of the respective districts can agree upon something like uniform wages.
Some operators having asked to be allowed to deal with their own men they are given an opportunity to show what they are willing to do, but miners will not be authorized to resume work until all the territory affected by their labor is included in the settlement.
Eastern Pennsylvania is particularly desirous to have this plan. It is believed here that an amicable adjustment can be reached in this way. The national plan is not destroyed, but concedes a trial of a new way of settlement.
Personals.
Two members of the High School graduating class were forced to go with Co. D. One of them, Paul Lee, was one of the performers on the commencement programme at the City Opera House this evening.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 8 June, 1894
pg 2
Word From The Guards.
Their Early Arrival At Zanesville Reported.
Departure for the Front—Wild Rumors Without Foundation—Excitement at New Philadelphia—Early Return Not Probable.
Ever since Co. D left Wooster, wild rumors have been in circulation from time to time, the number of militia reported killed ranging from a dozen to 150. The Republican has arranged for news from the Wooster City Guards, and will give the real news from our boys as fast as received. Should there be bad news it will come quick enough, and all should take rumors with the utmost allowance.
Last night at 9 o’clock, the 29 infantry companies assembled at Zanesville, with Batteries C. and I. under command of Adjutant General Howe, left for Cambridge, three miles west of Mineral Siding, the scene of the lawlessness on the part of miners in Guernsey county, arriving at Norris Station at 11 p.m. as Gen. Howe wired Gov. McKinley. Latter sent him 2d O.N.G. and two remaining companies 14th, and ordered 1st under arms, with 5th and 16th infantry and Akron battery in readiness.
Part of 8th O.N.G. were taken to St. Clairsville Junction and Bridgeport. Strikers threaten reporters and property and it may be necessary to patrol miles of track.
From Wooster City Guards.
Correspondence of Wooster Republican.
Zanesville, O., June 7.—The boys in blue have gotten this far and no farther. At 4 p.m. standard time we are awaiting orders. Company “B,” Akron, is also waiting here. We arrived here at 2.00 p.m. over the C. A. & C., via Orrville and Millersburg. Nothing more exciting has happened than the issuing of 26 rounds of ball cartridges to each man on the train before arriving here. The trouble is at Cambridge, whither the other companies of the 8th, except B and D have preceded us. The miners have burned a bridge on the B. & O. Railway, thus stopping travel on that road. No trains have arrived on that road from the east today. The boys are tired and are ready to return home. Soldiering does not seem so funny to a great many. There are large numbers of idle men here, thrown out of work because of the lack of coal to run the factories. It is hard to gain any trustworthy information as so many stories are afloat. But the boys in blue hope to spend Sunday in Wooster. None have been injured or killed thus far. We are only smelling the battle as it were afar off. And there is very little smelling, certainly none of burnt powder.
Bloody Fight Reported.
Bellaire, O, June 8.—A report has been received from Mineral Siding that a fight has occurred between miners and a squad of militia, and that seven men were killed and several wounded. It has been impossible to confirm this report as yet.
Canal Dover, O., June 8.—When Company M, Seventeenth infantry, Captain o.C. Powelson, went aboard a special Cleveland and Marietta train here, en route to Cambridge, 2,000 people, mostly rolling mill men, stopped the train. Engineer Charles Rounds was either persuaded or compelled to leave his engine, but protection being guaranteed he resumed his post. Several attempts were made to start when the air was cut off. It is rumored the track is torn up at Odbert’s coal mine, south of here. Ties were placed on the track. Captain Powelson asked for more troops. They are laying here awaiting help.
A Cambridge dispatch says: Adjutant General Howe, with 1,200 men, arrived here on a special train of 18 cars and at once proceeded to Scott’s mine, or Mineral siding, four miles east of Cambridge, where no resistance was shown by the miners who had taken to the woods to avoid summons in injunction proceedings. The trains that had been held up there for two days were found to be in bad condition, partly unloaded, coupling pins and chains all thrown into the creek, packing taken from the wheels and in some cases the ends of the cars sledged in. All was soon cleared up and moved out. About half the troops, with two field pieces, were sent on to Franklin and the remainder are in camp at Scott’s mines with guards and pickets out. The wild stories about dynamiting the tunnel and tampering with bridges were unfounded.
A report came here that company M of the Fourteenth regiment of New Philadelphia had been detained at Canal Dover and that the strikers are tearing up the track at Sugar creek. Two more companies, one of the Seventh and the other of the Fourteenth, on arriving here were dispatched at once to Canal Dover to relieve Company M with sealed orders from the commander-in-chief. There are no fears of serious complications. The guards are comfortably quartered in their cars.
A Wheeling dispatch says: The starting of trains on the C., L. & W. road was delayed owing to United States Marshal Bohl and deputies being unable to reach the scene. They were delayed by the tie up of the B. & O. west of Bellaire but are now here and will undertake to run coal trains today. Secretary Davis of the local miners union at Bridgeport received a telegram from President John McBride asking him to have the miners vacate their camps and abandon all attempts to hamper the road. This was read to the miners but had no perceptible effect.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Tuesday, 12 June, 1894
pg 4
Not a Fair Complaint.
The Republican is in receipt of the following postal card, which it prints simply to give all sides a chance to be heard, although it is based both upon a misapprehension of what our correspondent did write and also overlooks much that he has said, as in the last paragraph but one of today’s letter printed above, just in the line of Sergeant Limb’s note, which follows:
“Dear Sir: The statement in your paper of the 8th is absurd. The boys are tired, but not willing to return home, and are indignant that such a statement should be sent home. It shows what one thinks, not what the company think. The boys wish me to say they are all well and joyfully do their duty, which I can vouch for. Hon. L.P. Ohliger and Corp. Hard arrived this forenoon. All ? well and ?. You would say ? a boy to go home. Two have had permission but would not go.
“M.R. Limb,
“1st Sergt. Co. D 8th Regt.”
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 13 June, 1894
pg 4
Eighth Enjoys Camp.
Dress Parade to Music By a Miner’s Band.
The Irrepressible American Spirit of Making the Best of Everything In Full Swing Among Co. D—Samples of Their Fun.
Camp Life of Wooster Guards.
Correspondence of Wooster Republican
Co. D, 8th Reg’t., O.N.G.,
In Camp at Glencoe, Ohio,
Regimental Headquarters at
McLanesville, O.
June 12, ’94.
“All quiet along the line” is the answer usually given to inquiries concerning the situation. The uninterrupted routine of guard duty has fallen to the lot of Co. D. Firing was again heard early this morning to the west in the direction of Cos. I and L. Co. D did not turn out as it did the morning before, so the cause and result of the shooting is unknown at this camp. To guard the three bridges in its beat, the company is divided into two details to serve for alternating periods of six hours each. The details are divided into three squads, a squad for each bridge. The company faithfully performs its duty and seems to be contented to stay as long as necessity may require.
Bugler Roth received orders last evening from regimental headquarters to report at McLanesville to act as regimental buglar.
The First and Second battalions of the 8th held dress parade yesterday at 4 p.m. at McLanesville. The music was furnished by a miner’s band from Franklin, O.
The 20 or more shots fired about 3 o’clock this morning, by men of Co.’s I and L., has been explained by a member of one of the companies. A horse and a ground-hog have been added to the one cow killed by these companies, which in their great haste to win military honors, have done considerable shooting. A few of the shots, last evening, however, were justifiable, as a number of men have been skulking about the bridges and tunnels on their beat.
The boys were greatly pleased when the bundle of Daily Republicans came this morning. They were the first papers received from home and for a time the sleeping coach was turned into a reading room. The papers caused a grand rush.
The commissary train brought in a new supply of provisions last evening.
The men have signed a pledge not to have their hair cut or shaved until they arrive home again in Wooster, O. It means work for Wooster barbers some time in the near future.
Co. D, 8th Reg’t. Wooster, O, in large letters, now decorates the sides of our cars.
Lieut. Fisher, Corporal Miller and Private Weinbrenner joined their company this morning.
The boys were overjoyed this morning by the receipt of two boxes from home, containing many necessary articles. The boys extend to The Republican a vote of thanks, for making arrangements to have the box sent.
Camp Notes.
All the members of Company D, owing to circumstances, have agreed to eschew hair cutting and shaving. By the time they reach Wooster they will out-rival Coxey’s army and present a dusty-road appearance that will turn the professional hobo green with envy. Many are already wearing luxuriant beards, Widow Whedon, Private Van Meter and Private Lee easily take the lead.
Petie Miller this morning had to carry two cords of wood a distance of quarter of a mile and stack it, for indulging in a few minutes sleep last night while on duty.
The boys are enjoying excellent meals prepared by Chief Cook Myers, assisted by Curly Clark and Deputy Smith. Three articles of diet daily served to the troops are bacon, boiled “murphys” and ethiopian coffee, also old fashioned white army beans, crop of ’63.
The boys were thrown into a frenzy of excitement this morning by the announcement that “Uncle Tom” McClure had left the coach and was actually performing manual labor.
Since the arrival of the boxes this morning, the boys have become happy and all say they are willing to stay for 30 days.
The popular song of the camp:
We’ll never care to wander from our own firesides.
We’ll never care to ramble or to roam
Dwelling ‘neath the old family tree.
We’re as happy as can be.
For there’s no place like home, sweet home.
Corporal Boigegrain while on duty Monday at 1 a.m., at the famous post No. 1 heard noises which convinced him that the woods were infested with hostile strikers. Bravely and gallantly he threw out his skirmish line sweeping through the ravines and over the hills. After an hour of exciting work, he started from the underbrush a bridle cow and three muskrats.
Corporal Hard arrived in camp after the great actions were over, with great notions of military precision. But the two mile march to No. 1 at high noon took the starch out of his collar, and since he is an advocate of catch-as-catch-can methods.
“Rough and Ready” Corporal Webb and his entire squad of three men were discovered nestling in the artms of morpheus, while guarding bridge No. 3, Tuesday morning. They awoke to find the load in their guns removed and their leggins taken away by the company wags.
“Moxey” Limb is always followed by a crown of entranced natives held spellbound by the rich melody of his low musical tones and his commanding presence.
Jim Jacobs thinks the region unproductive, because he has seen only one game chicken since leaving Wooster. But Jim forgot this little defect when he received a letter from his girl. He was seen reading it for the eighth time while serving on guard duty at No. 2.
The boys sadly miss Sergeant “Pa” Hard’s fatherly presence and advice.
Recruit Willie Brilmayer has invented a new form of challenge. After allowing four or five strikers to pass through the lines on the first night he was instructed to challenge all persons coming near his post. A few minutes afterwards, Major Bryan and staff approached, Brilmayer walked over and greeted the party with a genial “Good evening, gentlemen” and allowed them to proceed. He was again instructed.
Private McKinney has seriously strained his eyes hunting for soft tie on which to sleep while on guard duty. Uncle sam will have to procure him green glasses or give him a pension.
Menu, June 8
Sandwich
One Sandwich.
A sandwich the same one mentioned before.
The identical sandwich on empty stomachs.
Shadow sandwiches
Grilled sandwiches
Coffee Coffee Coffee
The boys regretted very much to miss the closing commencement ball. In lieu thereof they gave a small dance on the top of their two cars and entertained populace of Glencoe with a free open air concert. The programme was rich and varied consisting of recitations and a number of the latest airs. The recitationists were such talented performers as Matz; the ventriloquist was Elsperman, with others of equal talent. The musical part of the programme was led by Mox Limb,1st bass, Will Barnard 2d bass, Jim Jacobs 1st tenor, Fred McKinney 2d tenor, Jack McClure musical director, Ad Ellsperman drummer; chorus, the rest of the company.
Interesting items to friends of Co. D, which was the first of the 8th to reach Zanesville, are these from the Canton Repository’s camp correspondence:
“In camp Friday afternoon a Wooster man fired a blank shell “just for fun,” Colonel Gyger ordered him under arrest at once.
“The Eighth regiment was the first to respond to the call, reaching Zanesville about half an hour ahead of the Columbus detachments.
“First Lieutenant Peckinpaugh is in command of Company D, on account of Captain Kuhns being in command of the First Battalion, Major Dick being detailed on the general staff.
“Guards at a cut in charge of Co. D, of Wooster, were disturbed Saturday night by moving about on the ledge and occasional stone falling. Half the company was assembled and found a dog scratching along the hillside.
Official History of the Ohio National Guard and Ohio Volunteers (1901) pg 31.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 14 June, 1894
pg 4
Guards May Be Moved.
But Their Actions Are As Uncertain As Ever.
All Depends Upon the Strikers—Many Ready to Resume Under the Agreement—Their Conference to Determine—Boys Welcome Their Gifts.
Correspondence Wooster Republican
Co. D, 8th Reg’t., O.N.G.,
In Camp at Glencoe, Ohio,
Regimental Headquarters at
McClainville, O.
June 13, ’94.
The camp was thrown into a state of excitement over the arrival of two boxes from Wooster for the company. But there was greater rejoicing and cheering, when it was learned what the boxes contained and that they were gifts from Wm. Annat and Hon. L.P. Ohliger. The scene was one which would recall the old occasions of “Christmas in Camp.” The gifts of under clothing and socks, were truly appreciated by men who had felt the need of such articles of wearing apparel. The boys gave three rousing cheers for Wm. Annatt for his gift and three rousing cheers more for L.P. Ohliger for his gift and efforts in behalf of the company. For the good and thoughtful people of Wooster, three more lusty cheers were given. The genial smiles of the men in the company showed their appreciation of the luxuries sent them by these generous and liberal men. Long may they enjoy the rewards which a magnanimous nature gains from its own generosity, is the wish of every member of the company.
All is quiet along the line, all was perfectly quiet during the night. The miners seem to be awaiting the action of their conference. Some here are ready and willing to go to work at 60 cents per ton, but others wish to hold out for 70 cents.
The future movements of the militia will depend on the action of the conference. It is rumored that Co. D may move to some other position in a day or two. But it is only the opinion of some of the officers. In reality our future movements and length of stay in Glencoe are just as uncertain and indefinite as they were at our arrival here on last Friday. The men are all enjoying good health and are in good spirits.
Camp Notes.
Private Paul Lee has been ordered to the commissary department. He left last evening to go to his new post.
The commissary train made the camp a visit yesterday afternoon and lift more provisions.
Capt. Kuhns, now acting as major of the First battalion, paid the camp a short visit yesterday.
Our kitchen and messroom fitted out from an old box-car, draws forth words of praise from all the officers who go into it, because of its tidiness and convenient arrangement.
Private Clark has resigned his position as assistant cook and Private Barnard has been appointed to fill the vacancy. Clark has returned to guard duty.
Private Matz has been acting as corporal of a squad.
Co. I has challenged any other company of the Third battalion of the 8th regiment to a game of base ball, Co. D preferred.
Ad Elsperman’s drum does faithful duty as a writing desk and is in use nearly all the time.
Ohio Soldiers Use Their Fists.
McClainville, O., June 14.—While Company K of the Eighth regiment was guarding a deep cut near this place the men were attacked by about 80 strikers who were armed with stones and clubs. The soldiers, seeing that the attacking party had no fire arms, threw down their own weapons and went at the mob with bare fists. In less than two minutes the whole party of Poles and Italians were put to flight without bloodshed.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 15 June, 1894
pg 3
Miners Going To Work.
That’s The Word Co. D Sends From It’s Beat Today.
The Guards Getting to Like Their Location—News of Trouble in a New Place—Carroll County Sheriff Gets Toledo Troops.
The Boys Will be Home Soon.
Col. C.V. Hard came in this morning from the headquarters of the 8th Regt. O.N.G. at McClainville. The Col. is as brown as a berry and looks like a bronzed veteran. He stated that he had a conversation with Gov. McKinley last night in which he learned that an order would be issued today to send the military home and that all of the regiments would be withdrawn in a few days unless there are more outbreaks of lawlessness. Our guess is that the troops will be kept on duty until after Monday, to make sure whether the strike is surely over.
Latest From Wooster City Guards.
Correspondence Wooster Republican
Co. D, 8th Reg’t., Ohio National Guard
In Camp at Glencoe, Ohio,
Regimental Headquarters,
McClainville, Thursday, June 14, ’94.
Some of the miners went to work this morning in the mines, east of town, so it is reported. All is quiet along the line, this morning.
Men from Co. F, posted east of Co. D, brought in a report of a great attempt made by the miners to blow up with dynamite bridge No. 1 in our territory, during the night, but it was a wild rumor as no miners appeared.
The work here has greater charm for the men the longer they stay, and none are anxious to return. The only drawback is the thought of anxiety on the part of friends at home.
The men are passing their spare time in playing ball and pitching horseshoes.
A. Ellsperman, drummer, returned to Wooster this morning, on a leave of absence.
The Republican’s readers will be interested in this news about the 8th O.N.G. from regimental headquarters at McClainville to the Massillon Independent: “In the Eighth are 700 men and Colonel Gyger says the health of the members is excellent. Not one man has been sleeping more than four hours out of the 24 and they look tired and worn, but in good spirits. They are good men and are standing the duty finely. The ages of the men will not average more than 20 or 21, and 90 per cent of these never saw active duty before. Thus far they have had too much work for drilling. The miners have not made any organized effort to harm the militiamen, but they do all they can to annoy the boys. They knew that the troops will not fire until it is absolutely necessary. One soldier was struck on the cheek with a stone and the cab window broken on a locomotive.”
Trouble in a New Place.
Springfield, O., June 14.—The wife of Corporal McCurdy, of Co. B, Champion City Guards, of this city, now on duty at the Wheeling Creek mines, received a telegram today stating that her husband had been shot while on picket duty and that he will be brought home. No other particulars.
Wheeling Creek, O., June 14.—The 16th Regiment hurriedly left tonight for Sherrodsville on the Wheeling & Lake Erie railroad where rioting prevails. The regiment, Col. Bunker commanding, moved on a train of 16 cars in one hour and ten minutes after ordered out.
Massillon, O., June 14.—The intolerable outrages of the miners at Sherrodsville have compelled General Manager Blair of the Wheeling & Lake Erie railway to apply for the first time for protection. In consequence 10 car loads of troops will be there by midnight. The miners are defiant and threaten battle. The disorder at Sherrodsville yesterday was continued long after the burning of the two W. & L.E. bridges whereby through traffic was brought to a standstill. They secured liquor and were determined to resume their lawlessness. They set fire to the station and to another bridge, both structures being saved by the accidental presence of bridge repair crews. A few minutes later a string of box cars was discovered on fire and thereafter the railroad men became voluntary guards and no further damage was done, although the miners preserved their defiant attitude. General Manager Blair made a demand upon Sheriff Butler of Carrol county for protection, and that official, having presumably exhausted his resources, has called for troops.
Regular Soldiers Not Wanted.
Columbus, O., June 14.—If U.S. Marshal Buhl finds it impossible to protect C. L. & W. trains with his deputies a formal demand will be made upon the national government for the assistance of the regular troops, and it can not be doubted that, in that contingency, the regulars will be ordered into the field. The Federal authorities are of the mind that the dignity of the ? should be respected, and it would not be surprising if, within a few days, the national government had taken upon itself all the quarrel.
A telegram, which was sent to President Cleveland by President John McBride, of the United Mine Workers, several days ago, is made public today and declares that the use of the United States troops in driving the coal miners and their families from their homes in the Indian Territory across the Texas frontier has been ordered without investigation on the part of the United States Attorney General, and should the miners and their families be made martyrs to such an eviction enforced, will bring disgrace upon the country and upon the administration.
Miners Will Get Only 40 Cents If They Refuse This Offer.
Columbus, O., June 15.—President McBride predicted today that if the miners persist in following the lead of A.A. Adams and refuses to abide by the recent settlement, in less than a month’s time they will be mining coal at 40 cents a ton instead of 60. He said that only by keeping a united front could the respect of the operators for the miners’ organizations be maintained.
McBride’s anxiety over the situation is shown by the sending by him of a large number of letters defending the action of the conference. A strong effort is being made to depose the present national officers, and place in McBride’s place Adams who first formed the compromise but now opposes it and has stirred up opposition.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Saturday, 16 June, 1894
pg 3
Co. D May Come Back Soon
Looks More Like Getting Home.
While there is no direct word today from Wooster City Guards, there are items of information indicating their early return from the field. Glencoe is named among the points along the Baltimore & Ohio, where the miners have changed their minds and decided to resume work, and there is a similar word form many points. In fact, resumption is more and more probable.
Yesterday noon when the 17th Regiment and Battery C. of Zanesville were ordered to Wheeling Creek from Mineral Siding. The 8th Regiment, now along the Baltimore & Ohio in Belmont county, extended their lines to cover the road in Guernsey county. That is to say Major Volrath’s battalion of the 8th, which has been on duty at McClainville, is now guarding Baltimore & Ohio property at Mineral Siding, covering about the same territory. All is quiet. The miners are greatly dissatisfied over the settlement but it is thought they will go to work Monday. The Republican will be advised as soon as the order to return is received, and Wooster will welcome her boys as warmly as Mansfield and Tiffin and other towns are preparing to greet their companies.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Monday, 18 June, 1894
pg 4
Home From Honored Service.
The Guards Warmly Welcomed Though It Was Early.
The bulletin displayed in the window of the office of The Republican Saturday night which announced that Co. D had been ordered home was eagerly scanned by hundreds. Owing to a delay in breaking camp, the special train did not leave McClainville until after 8 p.m., and consequently the Guards could not get home on the Ft. Wayne train 15 as expected.
The train bearing the three Canton companies, Alliance, East Liverpool and Co. D, was sent over the Pennsylvania Lines from McClainville to Bayard to Alliance. The train made poor time and did not reach Wooster till 6:45 Sunday morning. The interest in the company was attested by the fact that even at this early hour there were quite a number at the depot to welcome the boys home. The company was marched to the City Armory by Capt. H.L. Kuhns, where it was dismissed. The boys are all as brown as berries and say that they are ready to answer another call.
There is some talk among the men that there may be another call to duty before many days. If so, all will respond as promptly, as cheerfully and loyally as before, honoring themselves and the State.
The Last Letter from Camp.
Correspondence Wooster Republican
Co. D, 8th Reg’t., O.N.G.
Headquarters, McClainville, O.
Saturday a.m., June 15, 1894.
The company passed last night in Bellaire guarding the large suspension bridge spanning across the Ohio to West Virginia. The night passed quietly, no one giving the militia any trouble. The men did the work well, the officials of the road declaring that Co. D did the work better than any other company stationed there for that purpose. No one fell asleep on duty, while in the other companies whole squads fell asleep. The boys took breakfast at Bellaire this morning and are now in McClainville, where the company will make its headquarters. A company is detailed each evening to go to Bellaire, do guard duty and return the next morning.
The other companies remain here as if in camp. After breaking camp at Glencoe, the trip to McClainville was quickly made.
At the latter point, what might have been a serious accident was narrowly averted. Just after arriving at the latter place and while the commissary was stocking the mess-room with provisions, a wild engine came through the cut about 100 yards back of Co. D’s cars. Soldiers standing about cried “Jump” to the men in the cars. A large number did jump through the windows of the coach, from the kitchen. Some of the men riding on top of the cars jumped to a bank. But as the engine was still attached to Co. D’s cars, the engineer on it started ahead at the same time the other engineer slowed up his engine, so that when it struck the rear of the train it gave it only a violent shock, doing no other damage than upsetting milk buckets, etc., in the mess room. At this place there are the First and Second battalions, and Co. D of the Third of the 8th regiment. Everything is quiet.
McClainville is simply a railroad station and postoffice, with only two or three houses. It is three miles west of Bellaire.
A young man in Bellaire threw stones at Capt. Kuhns this morning. He was about three feet, three inches high, and about three years old.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 27 June, 1894
pg 3
Miners And Soldiers
What The Former Think Of The Latter.
Camp of Company D at Glencoe, Ohio—An Article From the Other Side That Will Interest All.
To the Editor, Wooster Daily Republican.
Dear Sir—I shall endeavor in an impartial way to lay before the readers of your paper a few facts relative to the recent coal strike and as to what occurred in this section. Our village is a small place of perhaps 150 inhabitants on the line of the B. & O. railroad, nine miles west of Bellaire.
We will first, in order to give you a brief outline, begin at Bellaire and come west on the B. & O. railroad one and one half miles to Schick’s mines owned by August Schick, of Bellaire, who employs about 75 miners, all of whom are Americans. Thence west one and one half miles, we come to Kidd’s mines at McClainville, owned by Kidd Bros. and they employ about 50 men, all Americans. Thence two miles further west we come to St. Clairsville Junction where Trolls’ mines are located, owned by Troll Bros. At these mines some 125 men are employed, about 50 of whom are Hungarians and foreigners of other nationality. Thence two miles west from these mines, we come to the Franklin mines, owned by Stewart & Mehan, where from 75 to 100 men are usually employed, all of whom are Americans who reside there and own their homes. Thence west two miles is the Glen coal works at our place, owned by a joint stock company and under the management of W.G. Simpson, who employs from 40 to 50 men, it being a new mine. The men are all Americans, the majority being raised in this section and most of them own property and are among our best citizens. This is the last mine of any note until Cambridge, O., is reached.
Well, when the great strike was ordered all the miners in these different mines from here to Bellaire came out to await the result. Day by day the men could be seen at the various railroad stations securing daily papers to see what was being done and looking at the passing trains of coal via the B. & O. from the West Virginia unorganized coal fields. At last word came that the strikers on the C. L. & W. Road eight miles north from this place, had stopped that company from hauling any more coal from West Virginia. This seemed to cause the B. & O. to increase the number of coal trains for a few days, when the news at last came to this point from Mcclainville, six miles east of this place on the B. & O., that some 200 miners from the C.L.& W. had come over to that point and stopped a coal train. This seemed to cause big excitement with the miners at this place and Franklin and other points on this line, as they were principally all bitterly opposed to any move of this kind, knowing the likelihood of destruction to property. Next, came the word that troops were coming to disperse the crowd at McClainville. No trains were run for nearly one day on the B. & O. on account of the coal train which was stopped at McClainville, being left on the main track. The strikers after seeing that they had stopped the mail, at once set to work and ran the coal cars from the dead train by hand back to the yards in Bellaire. This being done, the B. & O. started to move their freight and passenger trains unmolested which could have been done much sooner by the company, but they refused to move the dead coal train unless they could be permitted to take it on west.
Friday morning, the 8th inst, crowds were congregated at the stations to see the troops pass. About noon the first section passed slowly being followed shortly by two more trains consisting in all of 43 carloads. As the soldiers were passing they seemed quick and looked as though they were soon to encounter something desperate. “See them soldiers” said an old veteran, “they are expecting to run into a hornet’s nest. I can see it by their solemn countenances. They’ve been made to think that this country down here consists of cut throats. I’ll be a dollar, for they just look like we used to when we were going to attack old Stonewall Jackson.” After all the troops had passed everybody was anxious to know the result.
On their arrival at McClainville ? at 3:30 p.m., we got the word that the soldiers had charged to crowd of several hundred, dispersing them without the least resistance, save one woman, the daughter of a miner, who did not want to go, but the soldiers took her up and carried her across a railroad bridge and gave her to understand that she must go.
Along about 4 p.m., much to the surprise of the miners and ? in general, an extra train came up from the east bearing three companies of the 8th Regiment. Company D of Wooster, was ? at our station …illegible couple of lines at the bottom of the page…soldiers for a while, as it seemed an insult to have troops sent among us peaceable a class of citizens, and the store keepers were notified if they sold to soldiers they could not expect miners trade in the future. But later on, the miners held a meeting and rescinded their orders to the merchants and the boys in blue had access to get such as they were in need of, and each day thereafter the miners, farmers and soldiers were becoming more sociable, notwithstanding that some newspaper correspondents would have had it appear that our miners were skulking about to harm the soldiers, and by this account have you think we were a monstrous tough set, who would not be too good to poison strangers victuals with “rough on rats” or some other deadly poison. And notwithstanding that the soldiers had been made to believe many unmerciful lies concerning what kind of trouble and people they were likely to come in contact with on arriving in our midst, and after peace has been declared I think the soldiers will vindicate my statement that in us they found that we were people possessing about the same intelligence and in principle found us to come up to the standard with our sister counties of this great State.
Your boys made a favorable impression with our people and the officers of Company D, First Lieutenant A.B. Peckinpaugh in command, Second Lieutenant J. Fisher, First Sergeant M.R. Limb, with whom your correspondent had the honor of becoming acquainted, we found to be obliging and gentlemanly in every particular and the entire command consisted of men in whom the towns of Wooster and Canton and the State of Ohio should be proud for their gentlemanly conduct while here in camp. Our people would all be glad to meet the boys again, but not on such an occasion as they were on last week. The boys said to your correspondent that representations to them of us on the way down here were of the worst nature and that they expected serious trouble and for a few days they could hardly realize but what every man they saw was a miner and a foe, but we are glad that they realized and can make a report of the true situation, which will verify my statement. And it is to be hoped that we may not be branded by this outside world as standing in need of troops, so far as any apprehension of destruction of property at the hands of any of our miners were concerned. During the stay of the troops here our farmers’ wives were kept busy baking pies and the chickens were made to suffer. Lemonade and ice cream figured conspicuously the camp songs were sung. The young man returning from a friendly call on his best girl was brought to a halt, and in fact things were suddenly put into a different shape after the troops came, to what we had been accustomed, and since their departure we miss them, but are obliged to resume our normal condition, with the mines all going to work on Monday, the 18th inst.
Respectfully,
Good Bye.
Glencoe, O., June 18, 1894.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 11 July, 1894
pg 4
Wooster Militia To Be Paid This Evening.
The members of Co. D, 8th Regt. O.N.G., will receive their pay tonight for their services at Glencoe during the late strike. The pay will be advanced by Lt. Col. C.V. Hard, of the Wooster National Bank. It is understood that the State Treasurer has received funds in plenty to pay the expense of the militia and that the banks advancing money will be paid in a few days.
Geo. D. H?lle has been commissioned as second lieutenant, Co. G, Eighth Infantry, Wadsworth.
Gov. McKinley has ordered the superintendent of the State Arsenal to ship 5,000 rounds of ball cartridges to Cleveland, to Col. Kenuan of the 5th regiment. Everything has been put in readiness to move on Cleveland with a powerful force of militia the moment there is any disturbances there.
Mansfield News: Capt. Marquis of Co. M received a special order today from Maj. Vollrath directing him to have the company in readiness and properly equipped to respond to a call if necessary without delay. The order says in conclusion: “The details of all such arrangements must necessarily be left to your judgment and it is hoped that when the call for duty comes, your command will be found fully prepared and equipped for immediate service.” Capt. Marquis has drawn a requisition upon Gen. Howe for 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
W. & L. E. Men Want to Go Back to Work.
The nearest to Wooster that the strike troubles come locally is along the Wheeling & Lake Erie line, whose men are out largely against their own wishes, according to all accounts. The oldest employes on the road attended the meeting at Massillon Monday night and made earnest pleas to the strikers to reconsider their act of that day and to begin work. The Brotherhoods of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen and the Orders of Railway Trainmen and Conductors were well represented, and all took issue against the American Railway Union and its action in quitting. The meeting was called for the sole purpose of trying to induce the American Railway Union men who went out Monday to give up their charger and to return to work. The Independent says several very persuasive addresses were delivered both in favor of and against the strike, but notwithstanding the willingness of some, the local branch of the American Railway Union refused to throw up the charter. All members, however, were in favor of returning to work, and a despatch which described the situation was sent to President Debs, accompanied by a request that the Massillon branch be allowed to return to work at once. He finally responded that he would confer with the National Board and advise local President Geoghan. The A.R.U. has over 300 members in Massillon but only 25 were present at the meeting at which it was decided to go out.
Toledo, O., July 10, 1894.—The strikers on the Wheeling & Lake Erie and Ohio Central railroads have telegraphed Debs for permission to go back to work, as they have no grievance and think it is foolishness to remain out.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 19 July, 1894
pg 4
Here and There.
The members of Co. D, 8th Regt. O.N.G., will elect a second lieutenant tomorrow evening. E.C. Hard, J.S. McClure and M.R. Limb are the candidates. Recent recruits to the company are J.G. George, A.W. Mougey, W.L. McNamara, Edward Rice, Frank Gerlach, Ira Smith, John Forsyth. Wm. Brown and Chas. McKinney.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 25 July, 1894
pg 3
Personals.
The election held last night by Co. D, 8th Regt. O.N.G., for the selection of a second lieutenant to succeed Joseph P. Fischer, resigned, resulted in the election of First Sergeant M.R. Limb. Three ballots were necessary before a selection was made. The vote on the three ballots stood as follows First—M.R. Limb 18; J.S. McClure 18; E.C. Hard 9. Second—Limb 23; McClure 21; Hard 2. Third—Limb 26; McClure 18.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 12 September, 1894
pg 3
Local News.
Marcus R. Limb was last week commissioned Second Lieutenant of Company D, 8th Regiment, O.N.G., by Governor McKinley.
1895
Company D – Wooster City Guard, Wooster.
Marcus R. Limb, 2d Lieutenant.
George S. Limb, private, enlisted May 22, 1893.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 February 1895
pg 4
Personals.
Col. C.V. Hard, Capt. H.L. Kuhns, Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh, M.R. Limb, Hon. A.S. McClure, Hon. L.R. Critchfield, Sr. and wife, L.R. Critchfield, Jr., County Commissioners Miller and Blosser and T.W. Orr were among those who went to Shreve last night to attend the dedication of the new Armory.
Wooster Daily Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 February 1895
pg 4
Shreve’s New Armory
Co. H, 8th Infantry, O.N.G. Handsomely Housed
The Dedicatory Addresses Admirably Commemorate Him Who Was “First in War”—Social Pleasures
Washington’s birthday, Feb. 22, 1895, will be remembered in Shreve as the date which marked one of the important events in the history of the village, the dedication of the new armory erected by the Commissioners of Wayne and Holmes counties. The affair was a success in every particular, the building was crowded to the doors with an assemblage that enjoyed the literary and musical exercises.
The armory is situated in the south part of the village and is a model of neatness and convenience. The interior is furnished in Georgia pine, well lighted, with excellent arrangements for the accommodation of the military and for use on public occasions. The decorations last night were appropriate and in good taste. The armory stands as a monument to the energy of Capt. Critchfield, Lieut. Swartz and the citizens of Shreve.
The exercises of dedication were opened at 8 o’clock with music by Denny’s Orchestra. The selection was executed in fine style, the efforts of the musicians causing favorable comment. Rev. J.P. Hutchinson, of Shreve, then invoked the divine blessing. County Commissioner P.S. Blosser, on behalf of the Commissioners of the two counties, in a few words turned the keys of the armory over to Major Edward Vollrath, 8th O.N.G., of Bucyrus, who in accepted then in behalf of the Ohio National Guard in words most appropriate, spoke of the patriotism of the people of Wayne and Holmes counties, and of the lessons of patriotism which the armory taught. A ladies octette now gave “Dreaming or Waking” in a way that delighted the audience which demanded an encore. Adjutant General James C. Howe, who was to give an address on “The Ohio National Guard,” was not able to be present, but his assistant, Col. Wm. L. Curry, of Columbus, briefly responding. Saying among other things that the saying “old men for counsel and young men for war” was true, that the great battles of the Rebellion were fought and won by young menwhose average age was less than 20 years. A male octette here gave a selection. Capt. A.B. Critchfield, who was the chairman of the evening, in introducing the next speaker, Hon. A.S. McClure, said that he needed no introduction to the audience, as he would have the honor of representing this district in the next Congress. Cant. McClure in the course of his address paid eloquent tribute to the modern soldier and the Ohio National Guard, and was at times vigorously and enthusiastically applauded. “Pride of our Country” was given in a rousing manner by a large chorus.
Hon. L.R. Chritchfield, of Wooster, was the next speaker. He spoke on “Washington and the Continental Army,” and in his own brilliant way paid glowing tribute to Washington and his ragged, but brave and patriotic army, and in a succession of pictures vividly portrayed the varying fortunes of the Continental army their defeats and final victory at Yorktown when the gilded sword of Lord Cornwallis was seen in the hands of our own Gen. Washington. The ladies octette charmingly and sweetly sang a “Spinning Chorus.”
Col. Geo. R. Gyger, of Alliance, commander of the 8th Infantry, O.N.G., who created much laughter, responded to the address “The Eight Regiment O.N.G.” He spoke about a minute in which he said that if there were any bad things connected with the regiment there was not a man in the regiment who would disclose them, and as to their good qualities they were all to modest to speak of them. Major Charles Dick, of Akron, who was down on the programme for an address, “Our State and Our Flag,” not being present and as the our was late the exercises concluded with the singing of “Freedom’s Banner” by the chorus. The audience being dismissed at 11:30.
The best of order was maintained during the evening and the arrangements for the comfort of the assemblage was perfect.
The following officers of the 8th Regiment were present and occupied seats on the stage, together with Capt. Burns, 17th U.S. Infantry, Assistant General Wm. L. Curry, superintendent of State Arsenal, and Capt. P.J. Smith, all of Columbus.
Col. Geo. R. Gyger, Alliance; Lieut. Col. C.V. Hard, Wooster; Major Edward Vollrath, Bucyrus; Captain H.L. Kuhns, Co. D, Wooster; C.R. Miller, Co. F, Canton; H.C. Smart, Co. L, Canton; Charles Brenner, Co. B, Akron; Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh, Second Lieut. M.R. Limb, Co. D, Wooster, First Lieut. H. Willis, second Lieut, H.E. Votaw, Co. I, Canton; Capt. Heinline, Lieuts. M.A. Charlton and Winn, of Co. A, Bucyrus; Lieuts. Derbley and Edwards, of Polk, with many members of the various commands.
Co. H, 8th Regiment, O.N.G., was organized Juny 17, 1884, at Plimpton, Holmes county, with Capt. Exekiel Moores, 1st Lieut. David Colzer, 2d Lieut. L.D. Bell, about 30 members belong on the roster. The headquarters of the company were transferred to Shreve, June 17, 1893. The command now numbers 48 men, Capt. A.B. Critchfield, 1st Lieut. S.M. Swarts, 2d Lieut. Charles Taylor. The total cost of the armory was $2,450, of which Holmes county, under the State law, pays about $350 and Wayne the balance. It is complee in its appointments and when used as an audience room is large enough to hold 1,000 people, giving Shreve a good hall for public purposes, a credit to all concerned.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 27 February 1895
pg 5
Personals.
Col. C.V. Hard, Capt. H.L. Kuhns, Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh, M.R. Limb, Hon. A.S. McClure, Hon. L.R. Critchfield, Sr. and wife, L.R. Critchfield, Jr., County Commissioners Miller and Blosser and T.W. Orr were among those who went to Shreve last night to attend the dedication of the new Armory.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 4 September, 1895
pg 6
Gone To The State Camp.
Co. D, 8th Infantry, O.N.G., at 11 a.m. left over the B. & O. for Camp Howe, at Newark, where the Regiment will go into camp this afternoon for one week. Co. D will be in command of Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh as Capt. H.L. Kuhns has been detailed as major of the Third Battalion owing to the absence in Europe of Major F.C. Brysan. The following members of the company will be in camp:
Captain—Herman L. Kuhns
Lieutenant—Alfred B. Peckinpaugh
Second Lieutenant—Marcus R. Limb
Sergeants—John S. McClure, Edwin C. Hard, Geo. H. Webb, John W. Miller, Frank C. Gerlach.
Corporals—James A. McAfee, Jesse Miller, Harry P. Eaby, William Barnard, Arch H. Dice, Gustave W. Unger, Charles C. Roth, Adam Ellsperman.
Privates—J.W. Ames, Thomas Brown, William Brown, Louis Christine, Georg W. Conn, Ed. O. Conrad, Harry J. Conrad, John F. Everhart, John L. Forsythe, Sterling Funk, Lewis E. Gasche, Quintin Gravatt, Carey E. Gregory, Henry C. Heasley, William N. Hoelzel, Franklin B. Horn, Webster D. Horn, Howard Jones, Perine Lautzenheiser, Paul W. Lee, Wm. G. Letch, George S. Limb, Frederick S. McKinney, Walter L. McNamara, Edward R. Mann, Harry E. Miller, Horace W. Miller, Charles Reiman, Edison B. Rice, Charles F. Schopf, Charlie R. Scott, Walter Sloan, Ira R. Smith, Harry J. Stoll, George M. Swarts, James M. Putnam, Roy F. Tobias, Calvin Winebrenner, Harry D. Woolman.
Musician—Charles Roth
Armorer—James F. Putnam
Cook—“Greasy” Bowers. Assistants—Hod Smith, John Bowers, Jr.
Aide to Col. C.V. Hard—Luther Thomas.
Edson Rice, who styles himself “Company Clown,” asks us to say that he will not leave until Wednesday.
Mail will reach him Sunday at Millersburg.
Harry Eby, Jr., last night won in the freeze-out drill over 43 competitors. He now wears a badge presented to the Company by C.M. Taylor.
J.A.H. Myers has perfected a combination mess chest and stove which is pronounced just the thing. The first one made was turned out at the Universal Plow Works and will have its first practical test during the week at Newark. Experts say that Mr. Myers has hit on an article which will fill a long-felt need.
From Thursday’s Daily.
Wooster City Guards Co. D 8th regiment O.N.G. will leave for the State camping grounds at Newark at 11 a.m. Saturday. Capt. Kuhns expects to have 50 men in line. The trip will be over the B. & O. via Chicago Junction and Mansfield. The Wadsworth company (G) will reach the B. & O. at Sterand from the Erie. Co. C, of Polk, will probably join them en route. Co. A will leave Bucyrus Saturday morning at 9:55 over the P. F. for Mansfield, where they will be joined by Co. H of Shreve and Co. M of Mansfield, and leave at 1:45 on a special over the B. & O. for Newark, These with the Polk company form the Second Battalion of Major Vollrath.
Canton will contribute 150 young men, companies I, F and L, the hospital and signal corps, who will leave on the 8:15 a.m. Valley train. The hospital corps will take their own ambulance with them. The signal corps have been drilling energetically.
The camp will be named after Adjutant General Howe, and while it is admirably adapted, advance details will precede the commands to have everything in readiness. One gun of Battery H, Akron, may accompany the regiment with the 8th Regiment Band. J. Murray Webb, of Alliance, ? 16 years, leaves Thursday to be on hand with his supplies.
“Lieut. Col. C.V. Hard is a prominent business man of Wooster.” says the Newark Tribune in its sketch of the regiment.
1895 ▸ 29 November. Marcus Limb and Lucille Bradshaw married.
1895 ▸ 29 November. Marcus and Lucy moved to Indianapolis
1896 ▸ February. Marcus resigned from the O.N.G.
189??? ▸ Marcus attended dental school in Atlanta.
189??? ▸ Moved to St. Joseph, Missouri where Marcus joined a dental practice.
1900 ▸ Marcus and Lucy with sons George and Fritz returned to Wooster.
1902 ▸ May. Marcus rejoined Company D as 2d Lieutenant.
George S. Limb continued to advance in rank within Company D during Marcus’ absence.
1896
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 11 March, 1896
pg 1
Deputy County Auditor Alf B. Peckinpaugh on Monday evening was elected captain of Company D, 8th Regiment, O.V.I., in place of Cape. H.L. Huhns, whose 5 year term had expired. Further elections resulted in the promotion of 2d Lieut. John S. McClure, vice 1st Lieut. Peckinpaugh’s promotion to Captain, Frank Gerlach elected 2d Lieut. vice Marcus Limb, resigned. Awhile after the election in front of the Auditor’s office the guards fired a salute of honor to their new Captain.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 11 March, 1896
pg 5
Good For The Guards.
Important Election By Co. D, 8th Infantry, O.N.G.
Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh Unanimously Elected Captain, Sergeant J.S. McClure First and Sergeant Frank Gerlach Second Lieutenant.
[From Tuesday’s Daily]
Pursuant to orders from state general headquarters the members of Co. D, 8th Regt. O.N.G. met in the Armory on East North street last night to elect a captain, second lieutenant and to fill all vacancies. Out of the total membership of the company, 44 were present.
The election for captain resulted in the unanimous choice of Lieut. A.B. Peckinpaugh.
To fill the vacancy of first lieutenant made by the election of Lieut. Peckinpaugh as captain, Sergt. J.S. McClure received a majority of the votes cast. Second Lieut. M.R. Limb being absent from the city and having resigned, it became necessary to fill this position. Sergt. Frank Gerlach was almost unanimously chosen.
Capt. A.B. Peckinpaugh, who succeeds Capt. H.L. Huhns, has been a member of the company since June 28, 1887; was commissioned second lieutenant Oct. 3, 1890; promoted to first lieutenant April 6, 1891. With but one exception (Sergt. E.C. Hard, who enlisted in 1881) Captain Peckinpaugh is the oldest member of the command in point of years in service. While in the ranks Capt. Peckinpaugh was considered one of the best drilled and most obedient men in the company and was often the winner of the company badges. He has taken part in many of the notable engagements of the command and has ever been a faithful attendant at drill and company duties.
Capt. Herman L. Kuhns, whose term of enlistment expired Feb. 26th, was chosen captain Feb. 12, 1891. His election at the time was a great compliment to his popularity as a citizen, as he was not a member of the company and as a matter of fact, was not even a member of the Ohio National Guard, although having had some experience in an independent company at Canton. With his well known energy, Capt. Kuhns went to work and soon became proficient in tactics and has long been considered by his superior officers one of the best captains in the Eighth Regiment and was frequently honored while the regiment was in service or in camp. When Capt. Kuhns assumed charge of the command, the company had become greatly weakened in membership and in military standing through various reasons. Within two years from the time Capt. Kuhns assumed control of Co. D, he had recruited the ranks with many of the most prominent young men of the city and in doing this, of course made some enemies in weeding out a number who had been making trouble. He realized from the start that if the Wooster City Guards was to regain its former reputation as the best company in the Ohio National Guard obedience and attendance at drill were very essential. While always a gentleman, he proved a strict disciplinarian and soon had the satisfaction of seeing the company restored to its former prestige. In his retirement the State has lost a worthy officer and Co. D, a commander who was ever a credit to the organization.
Capt. Peckinpaugh, who had left the armory immediately after his election and gone to the County Auditor’s office, was given a serenade by the Drum Corps, after which the company fired a salute in his honor. Capt. Peckinpaugh was called out and in a few words thanked his comrades for the honor they had conferred upon him, promising to use his best efforts in keeping the command up to its present standard in discipline and drill.
1897
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 3 March, 1897
pg 3
[From Tuesday’s Daily]
Geo. Conn won the medal in the regular monthly freeze-out drill of Co. D last night. Geo. Limb secured second place.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 10 March, 1897
pg 3
Personals.
At the last Co. D, 8th Regiment, O.N.G. monthly freeze out drill George Conn won the medal George Limb was second.
1898
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 12 January, 1898
pg 3
Wooster Guards at the Governor’s Inauguration.
The Wooster City Guards, Company D, 8th Regiment O.M.G., went to Columbus at noon Sunday to participate in the Inauguration ceremonies of Governor Rushnell in that city on Monday. The following 35 is the roll of the members attending:
Capt. Frank Gerlach, 1st Lieut. Will Barnard, 2d Lieut. Gust Unger
Sergeants. A.H. Dice, George Limb, Horace Miller
Corporals. Walte Sloan, W.D. Horn, Edmund Gasche, Harry Woolman, George Swarts, George Conn, Charles Scott, Fred Schuen.
Privates. Horace Barrett, Robert Cameron, Jr., Neal Cameron, James Cameron, Lewis Christine, Jerome Clark, L.c. Cumberland, C.E. Cumberland, Will Curry, Quintin Gravatf, Carey Grossenbach, Charles Heater, Clem Langell, Irvin Lautzenheiser, Samuel McClarran, Will Robertson, C.F. Schopf, Thomas T. Stevens, Will Taggart, Charles Unger, Calvin Winebrenner.
George Schaible Limb
Spanish-American War
Official History of the Ohio National Guard and Ohio Volunteers (1901) pg 25.
Excerpts from 1898 Wooster Republican newspaper clippings:
Date unknown
Wooster Guards Recruits.
The following members of Co. D have passed the medical examination as certified to by Assistant Surgeon A.H. Smith: Arch H. Dice, George S. Limb, Horace W. Miller, Edwin R. Mann, Franklin B. Horn, Webster D. Horn, Louis E. Gasche, Harry D. Woolman, George M. Swarts, Charles R. Scott, Charles C. Roth, Fred A. Schuch, Charles W. Barnhart, Louis Christine, Jerome E. Clark, Edward D. Conrad, Charles E. Cumberland, Laverne C. Cumberland, Will R. Curry, Quintin Gravatt, Cary W. Grossenbach, Joseph T. Glenn, Samuel M. Glenn, Jr., Glenn W. Hall, Charles A. Heater, Clement E. Langell, Irvin Lautzenheiser, Percy M. Maize, Charles H. Moses, Samuel McClarran, Charles H. McKinney, Thomas R. Stevens, Leroy Snyder, Will Saybolt, Chas. E. Unger, William A. Taggart, Edwin Wallace.
18 July, 1898
Excerpt from a letter written from Capt. F.C. Gerlach to his mother and published in The Wooster Republican:
Last Saturday George Limb, Jerry Naftzger, Sterling Funk and myself walked to Siboney to get some things that were packed in our trunks. Everything in the way of baggage is still down at the landing, with no prospect of its being brought to camp. We were very much concerned the other day when we heard that all our baggage was to be burned,, but this did not prove to be true. We found the stuff all right and carefully guarded. I had considerable trouble in getting such things as I might need for myself and the boys.
July, 1898
George Limb, of Co. D, in writing to his brother Harry Limb, from Santiago, July 18th, says: “The regiment is camping on a large hill or mountain. They could not have found a healthier or cleaner place. All the cooking is done in the rear of the streets and the streets are all kept clean. At the foot of the hills are several springs where they obtain their water, and there is also a small creek which they call a river, in which the soldiers bathe. We gather a fruit here called mangoes. They are boiled and put down in sugar, making a preserve, each one making their own. Four regiments are in the city guarding it. The Spanish prisoners are outside of the city in a valley. There is a guard around them and no one dares go within 15 feet of the picket line. They have their own tents and do their own cooking. Their suits consist of blue pants and blouse made out of thin material and wear straw hats. They have no underclothing. There is an old castle near here built of mahogany wood and we get the logs from it to make firewood.”
1898
The Eighth at Home, Wooster’s Welcome and the Day Afterward, Echoes of the Rousing reception to the Regiment and Co. D — Boys Better Who Were Left Behind — More Come Home. Good Word from Eikoff Today. Capt. F.C. Gerlach this morning had the following from Chaplain Campbell: “Edward S. Reider, Sergeant George Limb, Jerome Clark, Percy Maize doing well, slowly recovering….” and “About Co. D Boys. Sergeant George Limb, of Co. D, is still very ill in the general hospital at Camp Wikoff.”
1898, probably September
To a Journal representative this afternoon he [Chaplain Campbell] said: “I left Camp Wikoff for my old home in Cambridge, Mass., last Saturday. I have seen none of the sick boys of the Eighth since then. I felt when I left them that Carvaaugh and Struggles could not get well. Sergeant George Limb, of Co. D, was transferred to a New York hospital Saturday. He has a malignant case of malarial fever. Kostenbader and Reider are at Norwitch and are all right…”
The Sandusky Star Journal
Sandusky, Ohio
Monday, 19 September, 1898
pg 2
Troops Are Off.
Camp at Montauk Point Will Soon Be Deserted.
Force Is Being Scattered.
Transfer of the Men Was Promptly Accomplished.
Sick Go To Various Hospitals
The Men In Fair Health Placed on Trains and Started to the Posts Assigned Them in Different Parts of the Country-Sixth United States Infantry Sent to Fort Thomas-Partial List of Those Cared For at City Hospitals.
New York, Sept. 19-Montauk Point as a military camp will soon be deserted.
In all about 1,400 soldiers from Camp Wickoff reached this city on the transport Chester and the ambulance boat Shinnecock. The troops brought by the Chester, being in fair health, were placed on the trains in New Jersey, and are now on their way to the posts assigned to them in the different parts of the country. The men of the Sixth United States infantry will do duty at Fort Thomas, at Newport, Ky., and the Tenth United States infantry is proceeding to Huntsville, Ala. Batteries A and B, First artillery, will do duty until further orders at Hilton Head, Port Royal, S.C.
The transfer of the men was promptly accomplished. When the transport was made fast to Pier 41, North river, several big floats carrying the baggage and stock cars came alongside. The baggage of the soldiers, the cannon and the horses were transferred to the cars, while the members of the two regiments and of the two batteries were being loaded on ferry boats. The Sixth infantry was sent via the Baltimore and Ohio, and as soon as the train was made up the baggage cars were coupled to it and the men were off. The Tenth regiment, which is traveling via the West Shore railroad, was handled in exactly the same way. The two batteries were shipped via the Pennsylvania railway. The ambulance ship took 128 sick soldiers to Jersey City, where they were transported to a hospital train in charge of Surgeon Major Charles Richard, United States army, which was to convey them to Philadelphia. The Shinnecock then crossed the North river and landed 26 sick soldiers and 27 convalescents, members of the army, the former being sent to St. Vincent’s and New York hospitals. Among the sick cared for at St. Vincent’s hospital were:
Sergeant George L. Limb, Company D, Eighth Ohio; Edward Pugh, M, Eighth Ohio; Albert Chesley, H, Thirty-third Michigan; Charles W. Carman, B, Eighth Ohio; Robert H. Flint, M, First District of Columbia; James Hearn, E, First District of Columbia; Chris Maher, C, First Illinois; Charles Hallerd, C, Thirty-third Michigan; William Johnson, C, First Illinois.
Among the soldiers conveyed to the New York hospital was Claude Clark, company B, Eighth Ohio.
The transport Berlin sailed, but it is thought that she is still off the coast not far from Montauk Point on account of fog. On board the Berlin are the First, Second, Eighth and Sixteenth infantry, bound for the Alabama camps. None of the other transport got away.
1898
Sergeant George Limb alighted from train 9 yesterday noon much to the delight of his friends. He came from New York where he had been since leaving Camp Wikoff a week ago. George is far from well but is gaining strength. He had a serious time of it in the hospital.
1898
Former Woosterite Promoted – To Look After the Sick – Sergt. George Limb at Home….Quartermaster Sergeant Geo. Limb, of Co. D, who was left behind in the hospital at Camp Wikoff when the 8th Regiment left for home, reached Wooster at noon Sunday in company with his brother, Harry Limb, of Orrville, who went to care for Sergeant Limb. George is looking pretty thin, but says he is gaining fast and that he will soon be himself.”
11 October, 1898
Quartermaster Sergt. George Limb has not been able to get up town since reaching home. He is now up and about the house.
Nov. 21, 1898
Wooster Company Cheers Its Officers. Of the conduct of our own Co. D and Capt. F.C. Gerlach nothing but good can be said. Although called upon to do double duty, the men never murmured, and performed all their duties with the alacrity which has always characterized the command. The good-will which the men bear toward Capt. Gerlach, Lieuts. Bernard and Ungar and Sergt. Geo. Limb was made manifest when they were lined up for the last time on Monday evening, when hearty cheers were given for them.
Eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Company D, Wooster.
George S. Limb, Q.M. Sergt., Wooster
Age 23. Sick in Hosp. Montauk Pt, L.I. Aug. 26-Sept. 18, 1898. In St. Vincent’s Hosp. to Sept. 25.
1899
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 April, 1899
pg 3
TAKE OFF THE BLUE.
The Ohio National Guard Torn and Rent.
Regiments Dismissed Wholesale—the Old Eighth Disorganized, And the Wooster Company Out of Service.
If a masked battery had suddenly opened on their ranks, the members of Company D, 8th Regiment Ohio National Guard, at Wooster, would not have been more surprised than they were on Sunday to receive official notice from Columbus that they had been dismissed from the service and without their knowledge had ceased to be soldiers since the previous Friday.
The general orders came from State Adjutant General Kingsley to Capt. F.C. Gerlach, of Company D. The eight Regiments disbanded are the 1st, 2d, 3d, 5th, 8th, 9th, 14th and 17th. Each Regiment had 12 companies, of which a few companies of each are retained in service “unattached companies.” All of the 8th have been put out except Co. A, of Bucyrus; Co. C, Wadsworth; Co. H, Shreve; Co. K, Alliance and Co. M, Mansfield. There are 35 of these “unattached” companies which will have to be reorganized in to Regiments.
The orders in substance say that for the present the strength of the Ohio National Guard must be reduced, for the reason that the General Government has failed to furnish the amount of ordinance necessary, and absolutely declined to issue any quartermaster property (clothing), and the regular State appropriation being insufficient for the purchase of the necessary clothing.
How the reduction was made is thus stated in the general orders “The following regimental organizations of the Ohio National Guard, having failed to render to headquarters the report required under General Orders, and for the reasons above stated, are dismissed from the date of these orders.” (Here the above that of Regiments are given.)
This, of course, dismissed Col. C.V. Hard, and all the Colonels and Field and Staff officers of the Regiments named.
Concerning failure to render the required report to headquarters, Capt. Gerlach says “Our muster roll was sent in on time, but was returned for correction, and included 62 names; all men who saw service in Cuba. In order to correct the rolls it was necessary for some correspondence with the regimental adjutant, and owing to his absence there was a delay in getting in the corrected roll, but, as the roll came back for correction after the date set by the Adjutant General in his order, I fail to see why myself and the officers of Co. D should be charged with failing to comply with orders.”
The armory in Wooster will have to be abandoned and turned over to the county commissioners, as the order says that after April 30th the State will no longer be responsible for the rent.
It is generally considered here that this is a too summary way of unexpectedly disposing of men who gallantly responded to their country’s call and risked their lives in Cuba. It is a dispiriting finale to the admition and honors the Company continually won, during many years of organization, by their skill at arms, proficiency in drill and highest discipline. It looks as if the State is ungrateful and forgets that Company D ever promptly responded to call of the Governor to endure hardships and dangers in suppressing strikes of vengeful, riotous miners and other disturbers of public peace.
Wayne County Herald
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 11 May, 1899
pg 3
Minor Mention.
At the regular meeting Monday night of Co. D, Capt. F.C. Gerlach announced the following appointments: 1st Serg., George S. Limb; Q.M. Sergt., Horace W. Miller; 2d Sergt. Louis E. Gasche; 3d Sergt., George M. Swartz; 4th Sergt., Charlie R. Scott; 5th Sergt., Carey W. Grossenbach; 1st Corporal, Robt. Cameron, Jr.; 2d Corporal, Charles E. Unger; 3d Corporal, Sterling R. Funk; 4th Corporal, Quintin M. Gravatt; 5th Corporal, Edward D. Conrad; 6th Corporal, Charles E. Cumberland; 7th Corporal, Jerome E. Clark; 8th Corporal, Lyman Critchfield, Jr.; artificer, Willie A. Conrad.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 24 May, 1899
pg 4
National Guard.
Adjutant General Has Its Needs Figured Out.
A special from Columbus last Thursday says: Adjutant General Axline estimates the cost of the things needful to the new Ohio National Guard at $152,892. This may be secured wholly or in part from three sources. Axline may get it from the State’s quota of the appropriation for the support of the National Guard or the government may allow it to the State in consideration of clothing taken, or the State may allow a deficiency temporarily to meet the needs.
The new guard will have a strength of 5,000 men, about 1,000 less than before the war. General Axline expects the government to furnish clothing, in lieu of that which the Ohio guardsmen wore to the war. He also expects the government to furnish guns promptly when needed.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 July, 1899
pg 3
Important Meeting
The Wayne County Soldiers and Sailors Association.
There will be a meeting of the members of the association held at G.A.R. Hall, Wooster, on Friday, July 21, 1898, at 2 o’clock P.M. to complete arrangements for the 3d Annual reunion of the Association. It is very important that all the officers and members of the various committees be present at this meeting, as business of great importance will be transacted. All old soldiers, soldiers of the Spanish American war, who are not yet members of the Association, are most cordially invited to be present. The Ladies’ are also especially invited to be present at this meeting as fair assistance and advice will be needed to make this reunion a success.
J.P. Van Nest, Secretary
The Executive Committee.
At the meeting on Saturday in G.A.R. Hall to arrange for the third annual reunion of the Wayne County Soldiers’ Association, the following executive committee was named by the officers:
Paint—John J. Schlaffley, Frank Hoverstock, Mrs. Mattie T.C. Stantler, Mr. Eaton.
Sugercreek—Dr. F.F.M. Pope, H.J. Stevenson, Mrs. Wm. Feasel, Dalton.
Baugh?—T.B. M?, Floyd H. P?, Mrs. Audrey Deacon, Orrville.
Chippewa—George Jackson, Joseph Marshall, Mrs. J.B. Pinkerton, Doylestown.
Milton—Norman Chaffin, Oliver Lee, Mrs. Norman Coaffio, Sterling.
Greene—J.E. Zimmerman, Willis W. Norris, Smithville; Mrs. J.A. Hamilton, Orrville.
East Union—F. Nussbaum, Charles Wagner, Mrs. Amos Moor, Applecreek.
Saltcreek—M.L. L?, Dr. Fred McKinney, Mrs. Samantha Armstrong, Fredericksburg.
Franklin—John W. Taggart, Wooster; R.V. Bowers, Shreve; Mrs. R.D. Leydich, Wooster.
Wooster—John Kope, F.Kimber, Mrs. Ezra Dunham, Wooster.
Wayne—J.N. Boor, Madisonburg; D. Tinsman, Mrs. Harmon Smyser, Wooster.
Can?—Jacob W. Over, Burbank; N.M. Wells, Creston; Mrs. James McGarvey, Canaan.
Congress—David Mitchell, West Salem; Neal Patterson, Congress; Mrs. George Musser, Congress.
Chester—James W. Christy, Wooster; Samuel E. Weaver, New Pittsburg; Mrs. A.J. Norton, New Pittsbourg.
Plaid—John Sparr, Blachleyville; Sinclair J. Pinnicks, Plain; Mrs. Absolom Hires, Reedsburg.
Clinton—J.N. Hainer, Sergt. Robinson, Mrs. Robert Morehead, Shreve.
Wooster City—First Ward—A.J. Blake, J.F. Barrett, Sergt. Geo. S. Limb. Mrs. Elam Smith.
Second Ward—Col. C.V. Hard, Andrew Trunk, Sergt. Lewis G. Gasche, Mrs. Harry McClarran.
Third Ward—Dr. R. Elson, ? H. Blessing, Sergt. C.W. Grossenbach, Mrs. L.R. Kramer.
Fourth Ward—Capt. B.F. Miller, Dr. C.H. Hesler, Sergt. Horace Miller, Mrs. W.W. Spear.
Fifth Ward—John Yarman, Jacob Long, John Linders, Mrs. James Hill.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 9 August, 1899
pg 3
Make A Hit.
Co. D Receiving Attention At Cedar Point.
How a Practical Joker Was Fooled—Sandusky Maidens Smitten With the Boys in Blue—“The Bullet Torn Flag.”
Special Correspondence to The Republican.
Camp Bard, Cedar Point, Aug. 7.—The coming of Co. D to this place was well advertised and upon arrival in Sandusky was applauded by many people who were at the train.
Headed by Shreve’s invincible military band, we marched to the boat landing and boarded the Worley for Cedar Point much to the pleasure of the boys. The camp was found ready for occupation. The advance detail in charge of Sergt. Gasche are hustle?, and had all in readiness. After a hasty dinner prepared by our expert caterer, Jacob Graber, who can cook as well as he can play a clarinet. Jacob and his assistants are cooking special meals for the boys who are easily pleased since they ran up against hard tack and beef.
We find everybody anxious to help us in every way possible. Canton Wright had us well advertised. We occupy the same site as did the Canton—amidst a clump of trees, making a cool and comfortable camp. Near our camp is a good drill ground, on which the company drills morning and afternoon.
Sunday was a big day for Cedar Point. Thousands of people were on the ground. As usual, the boys in blue were in demand. It was nothing unusual to see such boys as Charles Unger, Harry Branstetter, Geo. Limb, and Horace Miller (and there were others) with a fair damsel on each arm.
At the dance pavilion Quintin was in great demand by a fair Sandusky maid, whom, we learned, had wooden feet. It was not necessary to call an ambulance for her.
The Captain is enforcing the strictest kind of military discipline, and complimented us very highly on our conduct thus far.
They tell a good one on Corporal Bob Cameron. Bob sleeps on the upper deck, and had fun at the expense of the boys in the lower deck by accidentally falling through the slats onto the boys below. The last time he did it he found a tubful of water awaiting him. Bob would rather swim in the lake.
“Bobely,” one of our recruits, who never looks at a girl at home, is in great demand. He has proposed to several fair ones.
This lake breeze is a wonderful inducer of a desire to eat.
Ed Mahaney is the champion egg eater, it being his usual issue for breakfast. But “there are others”.
A bit excursion from Medina Tuesday. We expect many visitors.
Here in part of an article in the Sandusky Register about Co. D. Note what is said about the “bullet-torn flag.”
“Their tents are new, and are noted for their orderliness. The camp, indeed, is a model one. They have with them a “pup” tent, which is quite a curiosity, as it is the only one in use in Cuba by the Eighth Regiment which is now in existence. All were ordered confiscated on account of the yellow fever germs, but this one was smuggled out by the boys, and is preserved as a relic. Another thing of interest is the regimental flag which is in their possession. Torn and tattered, rent by Spanish bullets, it is proudly given a position of importance at the side of the Captain’s tent. Even in its badly used up condition it is more highly prized than its elegant neighbor, which graces the other side of the tent. The latter was given to the company on its return from Cuba, and is inscribed with the words “Expedition to Cuba” in gold letters. This very interesting company, which has written its record indelibly upon our national history, will be here 10 days. They intend to have a good time and already many of them have gotten into the good graces of Sandusky girls by the same bewitching smile still remembered by the dusky Cuban girl and the Southern beauty.”
1900
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 14 March, 1900
pg 3
Worthy And Attractive.
Are the Social and Military Entertainments ? at The Armory by Company D.
From what many say, we know that Company D, 8th Ohio, at Wooster, officers and men are very enterprising and up to date in everything in the military line as to skill and discipline, and, also, that they endeavor, in a social way, to make the Ohio National Guard popular with citizens, by their genial, honorable personal behavior as gentlemen.
From time to time, regularly, from before, and since, the members of this reorganized gallant Company of the 8th Regiment went to Cuba and returned with honors won in that foreign land, they have, in all ways, endeavored to merit the approval of the public.
Their Armory, on East North street, is consequently a rendezvous of entertainment, which is regularly given there under direction of their Commanding officers, Capt. F.C. Gerlach, Lieut. W.E. Barnard and Lieut. G.W. Unger, and their capable non-commissioned officers, and all men in the line. These entertainments are pleasurable affairs, attended by citizens, men, women and children, all enjoying it as a pastime.
The last, and best one, was Monday evening of last week at the Armory, where a large audience of old and young assembled and much enjoyed, witnessing the various exercises, which, of course, included a lunch and social features.
For pleasure and a good time, go every time to Company D’s entertainment announced to be held at the Armory.
At this last entertainment was the following, exciting and novel.
Programe of Action and Honors Won.
1. Physical Drill, by Sergeant G.S. Limb.
2. Bayonet Exercise, by Lieut. W.E. Barnard.
3. Manual Arms, by Lieut. G.W. Unger.
4. Company Drill, by Captain F.C. Gerlach.
5. Squad Drill contest, won by Corp. C.E. Unger. The object of this contest was to see which Corporal could show the most ability in drilling his squad from a programe given him one-half hour before drill.
6. Freeze-Out Drill, won by Corp. C.E. Unger and Sergt. G.S. Limb. The object of this contest was to see who could drill to the last man without making a mistake. First prize, Company medal and $1; second prize, 50 cents. These prizes are contested for on the first Monday of each month.
7. Tug of War, with six men each, won by Wagoner Naftzger and squad.
8. Blank Cartridge Race, won by Private Lee Gregory. The object of this contest was to see which man could first fire six cartridges placed a different intervals on the floor, each time bringing the cartridges to the starting point before firing. The sixth cartridge loaded signified when the last one was fired.
9. Equipment Race, won by Private Ralph E. Hard. The men in this contest removed their equipment, placing it at intervals on the floor, returning replacing it. The first man ready for inspection won the contest.
10. Pitching Shelter Tents, won by H.L. McClellan and Harry Branstetter. Such tents as were used during the Cuban campaign. The object in this contest was to see which two could be first to pitch their tents.
11. Striking Shelter Tents, novelty, won by Percy Maize and Clement E. Langell. The object in this contest was to see which two men could first take down their tents and be ready to march away with all their equipment. This is supposed to take place during a midnight alarm. The men in the tent pitching contest had had no practice in pitching tents since the Spanish American War.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 4 April, 1900
pg 3
At the freeze out drill contest by Company D, 8th Regiment, at the Armory Monday evening, the badge was won by Private Lloyd Naftzger; second, by Sergeant George S. Limb. After the drill the audience was well entertained by a phonograph concert given by Fred Zimmerman.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 8 August, 1900
pg 3
Many At Depot.
This Morning to See Company D Off to Camp Kieffer.
Several hundred people were at the depot Tuesday a.m. to see Company D off to Camp Kieffer at New Philadelphia. The special train bearing the companies from Bucyrus, Galion, Mansfield, Ashland and Shreve, was 55 minutes late. The other companies got on the train at Orrville, Massillon and Canton. A second train carrying baggage and horses followed an hour later. The trains were held at Alliance two hours in order to enjoy a dinner served by the citizens of that place. Those who took the train here were:
Capt. A.B. Peckinpaugh, Inspector of rifle practice.
Captain—F.C. Gerlach.
First Lieutenant—W.E. Barnard.
Second Lieutenant—G.W. Unger.
First Sergeant—G.S. Limb.
Q.M. Sergeants—H.W. Miller, L.E. Gasche, C.R. Scott, C.W. Grossenbaugh, E.E. Unger.
Corporals—W.R. Curry, H.D. Woolman, Q.M. Gravatt, C.E. Cumberland, C.E. Langell, P.M. Maize, H.D. McClarran, J.E. Clark.
Musician—W.J. Keister.
Artificer—W.Conrad.
Cook—H.R. Albright
Privates—A.W. Albright, W. Blandford, R.Boyd, N. Cameron, Chas. Christy, H. Clark, L. Gregory, J. Greist, H. Grill, R. Hard, John Hall, G. Harvey, J. Hoffman, W. Hughes, M. Johnson, H. Jolliff, W. King, Art Keister, H. McClarran, S. McClarran, Tom Miller, E. McCaron, B. McCaron, Art Milham, W. Nolin, J. Naftzger, H. Plank, W. Robertson, J. Pryor, W. Robertson, L. Rope, C. Rutter, L. Trapes, G. Troutman, Charles Wwarfel, W. Weaver, C. Keim, C. Latimer.
Cooks—Alex Graber, John Taylor, Harry Brumter.
1901
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 11 December, 1901
pg 7
University Won
Defeated Company D in Opening Game of Basket Ball.
The opening game of basket ball of the season was played in the Armory Wednesday night between teams representing Co. D and Wooster University, the latter winning by a score of 43 to 13. Both teams were out of practice, but both showed up well for the first game of the season, both were weak on defense, but the University excelled in passing the ball, and throwing the goals. The floor was slippery and the falls were numerous. The line up:
Company D—————University
Gasche—–Forward—–Weld
Limb—–Forward—–Weaver
Ruhl—–Center—–McConnell
Albright—–Guard—–T. Hills-Espey
Reddick—–Guard—–Cooper
Goals—McConnell 6, Espey 3, Weld 2, Weaver 3, Gasche 2, Reddick 1, Limb 1.
Goals from fouls—Weaver 1, Reddick 1.
Umpire, Jim Begg; referee, Capt. Gerlach.
Attendance 150.
McConnel’s throwing for baskets was fine. Gasche made two pretty goals.
1902
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 5 March, 1902
pg 6
Well Played Games.
Company D Defeats University at Basket Ball.
Company D defeated the University Wednesday in a hard played game by the score of 30 to 25. Reddick played the best game for Company D while Begg made some fine baskets for University. Company D played its best game. The University was handicapped by the absence of McConnell. The line up:
Company D—30———-University—25
Forwards
Kester———-Priest, Weaver
Reddick———-Espey
Centers
Trapes———-Begg, Weld
Guards
Limb———-Hills, Begg
Myers———-Cooper
Goals, Reddick 1, Begg 3, Cooper 2, Kester 2, Myers 2, Weaver 1, Espey 1, Priest 1, Weaver 1, Trapes 1, Limb 1. Goal from foul, Espy.
Umpire and referee alternating Gasche and Brown.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 5 March, 1902
pg 6
A Scrub Game.
There was an exciting game of basketball in the armory Friday night, between Company D team and a second team representing the University. The game was hotly contested from start to finish and ended in a score of 22 to 12, in favor of Company D.
Akron Beacon Journal
Akron, OH
Wednesday, 2 July, 1902
pg 3
Elected Officers.
Company D, Eighth O.N.G., of Wooster has elected officers on account of the election of Captain Gerlach to major. Will Barnard was chosen captain, George Limb, first lieutenant, and Marcus Limb, second lieutenant.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 2 July, 1902
pg 3
Election of Company D Commissioned Officers.
Monday evening the members of Company D, 8th Regiment O.N.G., at Wooster, elected the following officers: Captain, will E. Barnard; First Lieut., George Limb; Second Lieut., Marcus R. Limb.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 2 July, 1902
pg 4
Elected Officers.
Capt. W.E. Barnard, Lieuts. Geo. and M.R. Limb
Co. D 8th Regt, O.N.G., on Monday evening nominated and elected the following officers: Captain Wm. E. Barnard, First Lieutenant George Limb, Second Lieutenant Marcus R. Limb. Mr. Barnard who had expressed his intentions of resigning reconsidered this and will serve as the commanding officer. George Limb has long been a popular member of the Co. and his election and promotion is a compliment to him by his comrades. M.R. Limb was formerly a member of the Co. and his election as First [sic] Lieutenant is a marked testimonial and recognition of his ability.
Camp M’Kinley.
Orders Received and the Boys Will get Ready.
Officials orders have been received in regard to the annual encampment of the Ohio National Guard. The second brigade, of which the Eighth regiment is a part, will go into camp at the State camping grounds near Newark, Ohio, from 4th to 11th of July, inclusive. The orders call attention to the following provision Pa. 11, G.O. No. 6, A.G.O.S., 1901 The custom, which seems to have been quite prevalent in the guard, of taking substitutes to camp, must be discontinued; therefore all who wish to go to camp with the company this year must enlist on or before Tuesday, July 1st, as no enlistments will be accepted at the adjutant general’s office after that time.
Earnest work will be expected from both officers and men and brigade commanders will see that this requirement is fully complied with.
No drunkenness while in, or to and from camp will be tolerated.
The orders change the total strength of the company s follows: Commissioned officers, three; one first sergeant, one quartermaster sergeant, four duty sergeants, six corporals, two cooks, two musicians, one artificer and not less than thirty-two or more than fifty-six privates. This leaves plenty of room for new members and we are ready to take in any good material that comes along.
Wayne County Herald
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 10 July, 1902
Adjutant General Gyger issued commissions to Wm. E. Barnard, captain, Geo. S. Limb, 1st lieut. Marcus Limb, 2d lieut., all of Co. D, last Tuesday.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 16 July, 1902
pg 3
Personals.
Adjutant General Gyer has issued commissions to the new officers of Company D, 8th Regiment, O.N.G., of Wooster. William E. Barnard, Captain, George S. Limb, First Lieutenant, Marcus R. Limb, Second Lieutenant.
Eighth Infantry, Officers and Companies A through M
Company D –
Captain William E. Barnard
First Lieutenant George S. Limb
Second Lieutenant Marcus R. Limb
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 16 July, 1902
pg 2
Camp Is Ready
National Guard Will Begin Its ? Next Week.
Totally not readable…
May be the annual encampment referred to above.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 16 July, 1902
pg 2
Eighth Reunion.
Col. Hard to Respond to the Address of Welcome
Totally not readable…
Wayne County Herald
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 7 August, 1902
pg 1
The Eighth at Newark.
Members of Co. D Who Went with the Regiment—Bill of Fare at Camp McKinley
About 47 members of Co. D, including cooks, boarded the train which took the Eighth O.N.G. to Newark early Monday morning. Those who went were as follows: Major F.C. Gerlach, Captain A.B. Peckinpaugh, Regimental Adjutant Sergeant, Lewis Rope, acting Sergeant Major, Captain E.W. Barnard; Lieuts. George Limb, Marcus Limb, Louis E. Gasche, color sergeant sergeants, Harry Woolman, Louis Christine, Howard Albright, quartermaster sergeant; Charles Cumberland; corporals, Arthur Albright, Sam McClarran, Fred Reddick, John Hoffman, privates, James Rahi, George Livingstone, Lloyd Naftzger, Charles Kester, Paul Marthy, J. Brubaker, John Griest, T. Miller, J. Miller, Will Winch, James Pryor, J. Jolliff, Albert Myers, Lloyd Taggart, Charles Derr, Louis Scobey, B. Mowery, Albert Weber, Charles Hider, E. McMaster, John Hindman, C. Davis, Charles Zeigler, Charles Kine, W. Mitchell, Stanley Power, Jos. Joliff, Frank Russell, J. Martin, W. Kester, musician, Warren Keister, artificer, James McClarran, cooks, Frank Lane and Harry Tayler, grooms, Sergeant Tony Oltman, Curt Sigler.
The rations served to the Regiment during their stay in camp will be 16,000 pounds of fresh beef, 3,500 pounds of ham, 1,500 pounds of bacon, 600 pounds of lard, 8 barrels of flour, 16,000 pounds of bread, 104 cases of eggs (cases holding 30 dozen each), 104 dozen pound cans of corn, 104 dozen 3 pound cans of tomatoes, 52 gallons of vinegar, 5 bags of H.P. beans, 104 gallons of milk daily, 6,000 pounds of ice, 1,000 pounds of cabbage, 300 bushels of potatoes, 1,000 pounds of fresh fish (Friday issue), 52 gallons of syrup, 52 gallons of catsup, 520 pounds of rice, 1,500 pounds of coffee, 52 pounds young Hyson tea, 1,600 pounds of granulated sugar, 52 pounds of pure pepper, 26 bushels of onions, 11 boxes of lemons, 520 pounds of salt, 850 New York cheese, 5 cases of matches, 10 boxes of soap and a box of candles.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 24 December, 1902
pg 3
A Whirlwind Game.
Canton Y.M.C.A. Team Defeats Company D Boys.
A fair and extremely enthusiastic crowd witnessed the football game between the Canton Y.M.C.A. and the Company D basketball teams Thursday evening.
The game was fought from the first blow of the whistle, and was one of the most interesting games ever seen on the Wooster floor. Never has as rough a team been in wooster as the Canton Y.M.C.A. aggregation proved to be. According to the rules of the game there are this year two umpires and one referee, the visiting team being allowed the umpires, and the home team the referee. The Canton boys thus had the Wooster aggregation going and coming. They would play as rough as they could, and then when the Wooster players would start to retaliate the umpires would quickly call a foul, and give Canton a chance for a goal.
Wooster’s team work was every bit as good as Canton’s and in the last half was much better, the ball being in Company D’s possession the greater part of the half. Canton had much better luck throwing baskets than Wooster, as the home boys missed a larger number than did the visitors. The game was too close for the comfort of either side all the way through and was intensely exciting. Keister was Wooster’s star as far as throwing goals was concerned, although nervousness in the last half made him too anxious to get the ball out of his hands and on the road to the goal and thus prevented accurate work. However he played a magnificent game. All the Wooster boys did well and played with credit to themselves, while the score shows that the playing of the Canton boys was not backward either. In the last half, Kauffman, the Canton center, was ruled out be Referee Woolman on account of rough playing and a substitute put in his place. Canton objected vigorously to this but was forced to allow the decision to go through.
The umpires as stated, were two gentlemen from Canton.
The line-up was as follows.
Limb—–R.G.—–Jacobs
Albright—–L.G.—–Rex
Keister—–C.—–Kauffman
Myers—–R.F.—–Hiner
Reddick—–L.F.—–Strang
Goals from field: Wooster, Keister 4, Reddick 2; Canton, Jacobs 2, Rex, Kauffman, Hiner 4. Strang.
Goals from foul: For Wooster, Keister 2; for Canton, Hiner 2.
1903
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 28 January, 1903
pg 3
Basketball.
Company D had easy picking Friday night and won from company H, of Shreve, by a handsome martin of 35 to 10. The local five put out the somewhat changed line-up. Albright and Reddick wre out of the game on account of injuries. Kester was moved to forward and Trapes filled center. Jolliff took Albright’s guard.
In the first half the visitors held the locals down pretty well, the half ending 12 to 7 in favor of the local company. But in the last part of the contest the home team got after their opponents for keeps and played all around them so well that they succeeded in more than tripling the score. Company H seemed to have lost their wind in the latter part of the contest and were not able to catch it in time to do much. The team work of Company D was excellent while the visiting company were woefully weak in this important factor. When they would get the ball the visitors would throw it away and make poor attempts at passing.
Young’s orchestra entertained the audience in the intermission by rendering several excellent selections. On Tuesday the local company go to Ashland to play Company F and there will probably be no game here next week.
The line-up
Co. H—10———-Co. D—35
Ports———-Kester
Pennell—–Forwards—–Meyers
Kerr—–Center—–Trapes
Eddy———-Jolliff
McMeller—–Guards—–Limb
Goals—Kester 9, Trapes Limb 2, Pennell 2, Kerr 1. Fouls—Pennell 4, Kester 1. Time: 20 minute halves. Officials: Woolmann and Merkel.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 28 January, 1903
pg 3
Wooster Team Lost.
Given Worst of Decision on the Alliance Floor.
The Company D basketball team was defeated by the Company K team at Alliance Wednesday evening by a score of 30 to 15. The game was marked by roughness all the way through. The company K boys started in to play rough and Wooster gave them all they wanted at their own game. Time was repeatedly called on account of some body getting hurt, the Alliance boys being the victims, most of the time. In the second half Kester was knocked out, he having been unfit to play when the game commenced. Meyers was put out by the referee for alleged ungentemanly playing, and the stustitutes being unused to playing on the regular team, could not block the rough and rapid plays of their opponents.
Company D claim that they can defeat Company K on any other floor except at Alliance, and say that they are ready to meet them anywhere else in reason. It is hoped that another game can be arranged as each company has won a game, Company D having defeated Company K the night before Thanksgiving by a score of 16 to ?.
The score:
Co. K———-Co. D
Zeuber—–Left Forward—–Meyers
Bently—–Right Forward—–Reddick
Hazelett—–Center—–Kester
Powell—–Right Guard—–Limb
Allerton—–Left Guard—–Albright
Goals—Hazelett 8. Fouls—Bently 2, Vaughn 1, Zeuber 1. Referee: Downes. Umpire: Woolman.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 18 February, 1903
pg 3
Basket Ball.
Company D won the deciding game from Company K last night by the large margin of 57 to 14. A large attendance was out to see the royal battle and they were not disappointed. From the first it was very evident that it would be a case of roughness as both sides were determined to win. Neither team seemed very particular how they went after the ball just so as they got it.
The contest started off with a rush but it was several minutes before the Alliance boys got the first one on a foul. This encouraged them somewhat and they thought they had a cinch but that is where they made a mistake for the home team began on onslaught that did not cease until the whistle blew for the final round and the score showed an overwhelming victory for the locals.
The visitors had fine team work in the first half and did some excellent passing and shooting. But in the last half they seemed demoralized and didn’t know what to do when they did get the sphere. On the other hand Company D improved as the game progressed and almost winded their opponents towards the close. Hazlett, of whom so much was expected, seemed out of condition. In long shooting he is by far the best seen here for a long time but he did not play the game that he is capable of.
The line-up
Co. K—14———-Co. D—57
Daughtery———-Redick
Zuber—–Forwards—–Myers
Hazlett—–Center—–Kester
Allerton———-Albright
Bently—–Guards—–Limb
Goals—Limb 3, Kester, 10, Myers 7. Redick 1, Hazlett 3, Zuber 2. Fouls—Kester 3, Zuber 4. Time—20 minute halves. Officials—Woolman and Cooper.
Marcus Limb elected Captain of Company D, O.N.G., 8th Regiment. George Limb, ahead of Marcus in rank, was nominated first, but declined.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 1 April, 1903
pg 1
New Captain of Company D.
At an election held Monday evening, March 30, Lieut. Marcus R. Limb was elected Captain of Company D, 8th Regiment O.V.I. to succeed Capt. W. E. Barnard, who resigned that position for good business reasons. Capt. Barnard has an enviable record, he having served four years in the ranks and six years a a commissioned officer, a period of ten years, and was in the Cuban war. Although he voluntarily resigned, the State honored him by placing him on the “retired list,” making him therefore, still in service, subject to call in case of war or a State emergency. Capt. Limb has also seen long service and in every respect well equipped for his advancement in promotion.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 1 April, 1903
pg 4
Elected Captain.
Capt. W.E. Barnard has received his discharge from the O.N.G. at his own request and been placed on the retired list. Capt. Barnard, although a young man, can be proud of his record in the Ohio National Guard, which shows that he served four years in the ranks and six years as an officer, including his service in Cuba. The discharge shows that he has been placed on the retired list, which makes him subject to call in case of war or emergency.
At the meeting of Co. D, 8th O.N.G., held Monday evening, Second Lieut. M.R. Limb was elected a captain of the company to succeed Capt. Wm. E. Barnard, resigned. First Lieut, George Limb was first placed in nomination but declined. Second Lieut. M.R. Limb was nominated and when the ballots were counted it was found that his election was unanimous. Lieut. Limb has taken a deep interest in advancing the interests of the command and will doubtless make a most efficient captain.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 15 April, 1903
pg 6
May Go To St. Louis.
Best Men of Company D May Be Chosen to Go.
We have information from a reliable source to the effect that the regiment of the Ohio National Guard which will be sent to the St. Louis exposition will be made up of the 12 best drilled and disciplined companies in the Ohio National Guard. The plan adopted by the governor is to have a special inspection as to the qualifications of the different companies and make his selection from the reports of the inspecting officers.
This is an opportunity for the boys of Company D to sustain the past reputation of the organization. The company has always been considered one of the best in the entire Ohio National Guard, and this picked regiment will represent the best drilled and disciplined troops that Ohio can furnish. The companies selected will consist of 40 men being filled up to the full quote of 60 by men from other companies. The regiment will rendezvous at Dayton on April 28th, where they will participate in practice drills, leaving for St. Louis on the 29th.
Lieut. G.S. Limb states that he fears he will be handicapped by lack of sufficient clothing for his men.
The requisition for new clothing has been sent in to the adjutant general and in all probabilities the new material will arrive in the near future.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 22 April, 1903
pg 7
Military Examinations.
Fifteen Officers of Ohio National Guard Commissioned.
At Columbus last Thursday fifteen officers-elect of the Ohio National Guard passed the examination held before the State Military Board, which is very rigid in examinations, not alone in military knowledge, but in general intelligence and when they have complied with the regulations, will receive their commissions. But two of the class failed. The successful ones are:
Burton L. Dukes, captain A. Second infantry, Findlay; Marcus R. Limb, captain D, Eighth infantry, Wooster; Edwin Morgan, appointed captain and commissary, Eighth Infantry, Alliance; George W. Stockham, first lieutenant F, Sixth infantry, Napoleon; Eugene C. Reynolds, first lieutenant H, Fifth infantry, Youngstown; John M. Craig, second lieutenant, D, Fifth infantry, Warren; J. Dalbey Crawfe, second lieutenant M, Second infantry, Ottawa; Fred H. Reiber, second lieutenant A, Third infantry, Covington; Kendall Banning, second lieutenant G, Third infantry, Dayton; Garrett H. Demarest, second lieutenant I, Fourth infantry, Xenia; William B. Woodmansee, second lieutenant E, First infantry, Sabina; Charles S. Benedict, second lieutenant B, Seventh infantry, Marietta; Wade C. Christy, second lieutenant H, Fifth infantry, Youngstown; William L. Moore, second lieutenant H, Fourth infantry, Chillicothe; S. Horace Sayre, first lieutenant L, Eighth infantry, Galion.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 13 May, 1903
pg 4
Inspection of Co. D
By Major Williams of the U.S. Army Who Gave Compliments
Last Saturday evening at the armory in Wooster, Company D, of the 8th Regiment Ohio National Guard, was subjected to an official inspection. The Inspecting officer was Major A. Williams, of the U.S. Army. The Company numbers 55 men, but as some of the members are clerks in stores and busy on Saturday night, only 38 answered roll call in line. All did well. The drills were commanded by Capt. Marcus R. Limb and Lieut. George S. Limb, and were executed with highest military precession, for which all were complimented by Major Williams. Besides citizens present were the military men, Cast. S.M. Swartz, of Company R, and Capt. Morgan, of Alliance, also Major Frank C. Gerlach and Capt. A.B. Peckinpaugh, Adjutant of the 8th Regiment.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 13 May, 1903
pg 5
Very Satisfactory.
Inspection of Company D by Major Williams, U.S.A.
The inspection of Co. D, Eighth Regiment O.N.G. on Saturday night by an officer of the United States army, Major A. Williams, was very satisfactory to the inspecting officer who so expressed himself to officers of O.N.G. here for the inspection. Taking into consideration the fact that many of the members of the command are clerks and thus not able to get away Saturday night, the turn out was quite good, 38 of the 55 men enrolled answering to roll call. The drills commanded by Capt. M.R. Limb and Lieut. George Limb, were executed in excellent shape, and in a was as to be complimented by Major Williams. The accoutrements were all found in good shape. Among those present were Capt. S.M. Swarts, of Co. K, and Capt. Morgan, quartermaster, of Alliance; Major F.C. Gerlach and Capt. A.B. Peckinpaugh, adjutant of the Eighth Regt. O.N.G.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 12 August, 1903
pg 3
Col. Edward Vollrath and staff, of Bucyrus, on Monday evening inspected Co. D, at Armory, commanded by Capt. M.R. Limb. The Colonel highly complimented the company for their discipline and drill.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 12 August, 1903
pg 1
Inspection Satisfactory.
Col. Edward Vollrath Visits Co. D, 8th O.N.G.
Col. Edward Vollrath commanding officer of the Eighth regiment O.N.G., was in Wooster on Monday evening for the purpose of inspecting Company D. Col. Vollrath reached the city on the train due here at 7:56 and was met at the depot by Capt. M.R. Limg. Nearly the full membership of Company D answered to their names at roll call. The inspection, while not regarded as particularly rigid by the men, was very satisfactory to Col. Vollrath, who so expressed himself to the officers of the company.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 12 August, 1903
pg 2
Here and There.
Wednesday, August 5.
Major F.C. Gerlach and Capt. M.R. Limb were at Mansfield today attending a meeting of the officers of the Eighth Regiment, O.N.G.
1903: Ohio National Guard annual encampment at Camp McKinley.
The Newark Earthworks in Licking county were used by the state of Ohio from 1892 to 1908 as a militia encampment.
Ohio History Connection: Newark Earthworks
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 2
On Monday Company D, 8th Regiment O.N.G., took train for annual Encampment of Ohio National Guard at Newark, under command of Capt. Marcus R. Limb and Lieutenants George S. Limb and James B. Rah., also accompanied by Major Frank C. Gerlach.
Map of encampment from the Newark Advocate, 8/18/1903, pg 1.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 3
Personals.
A telegram from Capt. Limb on Wednesday noon states that the boys of the company are all well and a fine camp being held.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 2
New Guns.
Company D Will Receive Theirs at Newark.
A dispatch from Columbus says “Governor Nash received 2,860 new Krag-Jorgensen guns from the war department Thursday for the Ohio National guards. They came too late to be shipped to the special companies before the division camp but Major General Dick insists upon them being shipped and they will be distributed at the Newark camp ground next week after the troops arrive. The shipment discloes has nine companies of militia were found not to be up to the standard by the recent United States army inspectors and these will have to remain without new guns until a later date.”
Company D is all right in this connection, having been found fully up to the standard.
Captain M.R. Limb told a Republican man Friday afternoon that Company D would leave the old rifles at home and would get the new ones at camp. The old ones will be shipped to the state arsenal from Wooster.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 3
Capt. Limb Among Them.
One of the Eighth Regiment’s Best Crack Shots.
Sixteen soldiers of the Eighth regiment, O.N.G., have been selected and are announced by General Orders No. 18, issued from the regimental headquarters … Monday as a detachment from the regiment to compete for place on the state rifle team at the approaching competitive practice at Newark.
The competitive shoot will be held at the state rifle range at Newark, during the first four days immediately following the divisional encampment this month, unless otherwise ordered. The state rifle team, chosen at the encampment will be sent to Sea Girt, N.J. in September to compete for the trophy in the national contest held there annually.
Following are the names of the men who have been chosen.
From the regiment at large Captain Herman Werner, Co F; Captain F.R. Beer, Co. E; Sergeant Wiley K. Miller,?; Corporal Joseph E. Cunin, Co. K; Private Joseph Jolliff, Co. D; Private Bert A. Schultz, Co. B.
From the several companies, Company B, Corporal Rosseau Hess, Co.? Private Clarence F. Knoedler; Co. D, Captain M.R. Limb; Co. E, Private Jesse W. King; Co. F, Sergeant Harry Treen; Co. H, Private James E. Miller; Co. I, Private H.B. Hallenberger; Co. K, Captain S.M. Swartz; Co. L, Musician C.C. Finley; Co. M, Sergeant Charles E. Shea.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 5
Company D All Right.
The Encampment Is Going Along Very Smoothly.
News from Newark states that Company D is getting along in good shape in camp, and the boys have settled down to camp life.
The Eighth regiment was the last one to reach camp Monday afternoon, it arriving there towards evening, headed by the Eighth regiment band of Akron.
The following companies of the Eighth received their new guns: B of Akron, C of Canton, D of Wooster, E of Ashland, H of Shreve, I of Tiffin, K of Alliance, L of Galion and M of Mansfield.
The remaining companies not named above failed to pass inspection and will not get the new guns, but must be contented with their old Springfields.
The Eighth regiment boys have received an issue of light blue neckerchiefs for its men. This is according to the new army regulations and the Eighth is the only regiment so supplied.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 6
Eighth’s Bill of Fare.
A dispatch from Columbus says “Major General Dick has issued another order relative to the provisional department and the issue of rations. Majors ?, Fisher, of Canton, and Clinton, B. Wilcox, brigade commissaries, will act respectively in receiving and issuing officers under the direction of Division Commissary Harry Frease, of Canton. The following will be included in the soldiers’ bill of fare at the state encampment: Fresh boneless beef, sugar cured hams, beans, bacon, soft bread, crackers, rolled oats, navy beans, plain baked beans, rice, tapioca, new potatoes, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, coffee, tea, table syrup, pickles, plain butterine, eggs, milk and ice.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1903
pg 8
With Colors Flying.
Company D Set Out for Newark, Monday Morning.
With only two guns in the company the boys of Company D took the train at 8:40 Monday morning for the annual encampment of the Ohio National Guard at Newark. The boys were called together at the armory, and from there went to the depot to take the train, which was scheduled to be at Wooster at 8:30. As usual in such cases the train was over an hour late, and when it arrived it was necessary to wait some time so that it was nearly 10 o’clock before the boys pulled out for camp.
The boys made an unusual sight marching away without their guns, but upon their arrival at camp they will receive the new ones from the government, which they will use while in camp.
The following members of the company were present when the roll was called Monday morning, when the boys were lined up, preparatory to taking the train, although several others have signified their intention of going down later in the week:
Captain—Marcus R. Limb
Lieutenants—George S. Limb and Jas. B. Rahl.
Sergeants—H.D. Woolman, Louis F. Rope, Chas. E. Cumberland, Louis w. Christine, Lloyd A. Naftzger.
Corporals—S. McClarran, F. Reddick, J.H. Griest, and privates J.W. Keister, J.E. McClarran, J.B. Putman, J.F. Brubaker, C.L. Davis, C.F. Derr, A.H. Dice, R.W. Eddy, J.M. Flory, Joe Glenn, F.Gebring, C.W. Grossenbach, Samuel Glenn, J.W. Hindman, C.H. Hyder, A.L. Hard, J.P. Jolliff, Jay Jolliff, W.J. Jolliff, W.J. Keister, C.T. Kester, E.M. Krause, A.Myers, W.A. Marthey, John M?, ? Miller, W.R. Mitchell, S.A. Power, Frank Russell, A.P. Rope, C.A. Smith, L.J. Scobey, M.E. Taggart, A.S. Weber.
Notes.
Capt. S.M. Swarts, of the Alliance company, got off at Wooster and shook hands with his many acquaintances at the depot.
Former Captain W.E. Barnard went down to the depot to see the boys off. This is the first year he has missed camp for a long time and he could not stay away, altogether.
Major Frank C. Gerlach joined the guards at Wooster.
The officers all wore kahki suits, coats and all.
The Wayne County Herald
Wooster, OH
Thursday, 20 August, 1903
pg 1
O.N.G.
Off to Camp — Rifle Team — New Guns.
Sixteen members of the 8th Regt. O.N.G. have been chosen as a detachment to compete for place on the state rifle team at the competitive practice at Newark during the first four days of the divisional encampment this month. The state rifle team will be sent to Sea Girt, N.J., to compete for the national trophy at the annual contest in September. Capt. M.R. Limb and Private Joseph Joliff have been chosen from Co. D.
The war department has issued 2,360 new Krag Jorgensen guns which will be distributed in the Ohio National Guard at the Newark camp-ground. Nine companies which failed to pass the recent U.S. army inspection will not be given new guns. Co. D will not take their old rifles, which will be shipped to the state arsenal.
The following is the bill of fare which will be served to the regiment while at camp.
Fresh boneless beef, sugar cured hams, beans, bacon, soft bread, crackers, rolled oats, navy beans, plain baked beans, rice, tapioca, new potatoes, onions. tomatoes, cabbage, coffee, tea, table syrup, pickles, butterine, eggs, milk and ice.
Co. D left for the O.N.G. encampment at Newark Monday morning. The following are the members who went.
Captain—Marcus R. Limb
Lieutenants—George S. Limb and Jas B. Rahl
Sergeants—H.D. Woolman, Louis F. Rope, Chas. E. Cumberland, Louis W. Christiane, Lloyd A. Naftzger
Corporals—S. McClarran, F. Reddick, J.H. Griest, and privates J.W. Keister, J.E. McClarran, J.B. Putman, J.F. Brubaker, C.L. Davis, C.F. Derr, A.H. Dice, R.W. Eddy, J.M. Flory, Joe Glenn, F. Gebring, C.W. Grossenbach, Samuel Glenn, J.W. Hindman, C.H. Hyder, A.L. Hard, J.P. Jolliff, Jay Jolliff, W.J. Jolliff, W.J. Keister, C.T. Kester, E.M. Drause, A. Myers, W.A. Marthey, John Miller, T.H. Miller, W.R. Mitchell, S.A. Rope, C.A. Smith, L.J. Scabey, M.E. Taggart, A.S. Weber.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 26 August, 1903
pg 3
Back To Wooster
Company D Gladly Returns — A Climax in State Encampments
The members of Co. D reached home at about half past eight o’clock Monday evening, a tired and dirty set of fellows, after an eight day camp at Newark, Ohio. There were over seven thousand living in the tented fields. The grounds are fitted by nature for such a purpose, and no one who has not been there can have any idea of the environments—natural mounds for central stations, large circular rings about eight feet high and twenty-five feet or more wide at the base, with an opening in the mounds, and large enough for a whole regiment to camp inside. There are several of these large ones, and remind one of an immense circus ring. These were built by the mound builders before the time of the Indians, and are worthy rivals of the great undertakings of today. A good stream of water passes one side, a great many shade trees wherever they would not interfere with drills, and the whole grounds a flat table land are some of the things peculiarly fitted for the occasion. The water is pumped from drilled wells and piped to all parts of the grounds. A good electric light plant was in operation.
The boys got up at about five o’clock and ate at six. Drilled a couple of hours in the forenoon and the same in the afternoon. Guard mount at half past nine and dress parade at six p.m. The time was kept nearly all taken up with work, which was very tiresome. Company D fared better than some of the other companies, being in the care of Captain M.R. Limb, and Major Critchfield of Shreve, who did everything possible to make the camp an enjoyable one for their men, which was highly appreciated. The grounds are three miles out of Newark, with street car connections. Capt. Werner of Akron was stationed with his men at the Court House in the city to see that everything was peaceful in town.
On Friday there was a review of all the infantry, cavalry and artilliary by the Governor, his staff and other United States and state officers. The review was witnessed by over ten thousand people.
Notes.
Two members of Co. D were fined and imprisoned in the guard house for spending nearly the whole week up town.
On every drill and review the Eighth Regiment made the best appearance, both on account of equipment and numbers, the Cleveland and other papers recognizing the fact with pleasing comment.
Wooster boys, and in fact nearly the whole regiment, showed by their conduct that they are gentlemen away as well as at home.
The entire Eighth had blue silk handkerchiefs issued to them to wear about the neck, which prettily distinguished them in the large gathering.
Joe Jolliff will stay three days to represent Co. D in the target shoot.
Charles Cumberland was Acting First Sergeant most of the time.
With about a dozen bunking in each tent it was quite a “mess.”
The bill of fare was oleomargarine and other things, mostly oleo.
The first day one of the “rookies,” or new men, did guard duty, washed the Captain’s feet, and many othe outlandish things.
It took nine hours to come home, when it should only have taken four. An insufficient water supply, with no privilege to get any at the many stops, made it all the more disagreeable.
The Eighth had a good picture taken.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 26 August, 1903
pg 8
Here And There.
Tuesday, August 25.
The members of Company returned Monday night from Camp McKinley, looking like bronzed veterans of old. All report having enjoyed themselves, although the strictest discipline was maintained throughout the encampment. Privates Joseph Jolliff and James Hindman remained behind to represent the regiment in the target practice. Hindman taking the place of Captain M.R. Limb, who decided that he could not remain away from his business during the contest, which will last four days.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 26 August, 1903
pg 8
About The Eighth.
Columbus Paper Says Nice Things About It.
The Ohio State Journal in a Newark dispatch has the following to say about the Eighth. The Eighth regiment is one of the most talked about regiments in of the camp. It has been highly complimented, and Colonel Vollrath is putting on many airs as a consequence. Companies K and F of the Eighth have 96 per cent of their men in camp.
As this regiment has been commanded by Major Dick and Adjutant General Geyger, these officers are greatly pleased at the showing made.
Company K of Alliance, General Gyger’s old regiment, has had six orderlies in five days. They are Corporal Hazlett, brigade orderly; Privates Floyd W. McKee, Arthur Clay Robers, Eurban Wetzel, William A. McGee and Clyde Cuzzens.
The companies of the Eighth have an average of 45 men on drill every day. Out of the 767 men in the regiment, 153 are now detailed on outside duty.
1903: Company D and Company H of the Eighth regiment were chosen to represent the Ohio National Guard at regular army maneuvers at West Point, Kentucky, amid some initial controversy.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 September, 1903
pg 3
Personals.
Major F.C. Gerlach and Capt. Marcus R. Limb were in Mansfield Thursday, attending a meeting of officers of the 8th regiment to make arrangements to attend the U.S. Encampment at West Point, Kentucky, details of which are published in another column. Capt. Limb expects to take about 65 men of his command. Of course Major Gerlach will be there in full regimentals, and all will give honor, as will also Company H, of Shreve, to Wayne county.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 September, 1903
pg 5
To Kentucky
Eighth Regiment Will Go to Represent Ohio.
Again Honored on Account of Excellent Showing in Camp—Will Participate in Regular Army Maneuvers.
The 8th Regiment, O.N.G., has been specially honored by being selected to attend and participate in the regular army maneuvers at West Point, Kentucky, for ten days in National camp. Company D of Wooster and Company H, of Shreve, will go Sept. 3d, returning home Oct. 11. This is a compliment above all the infantry regiments of Ohio, as the regular army officers of inspection at the late State encampment at Newark, graded the 8th at 25 per cent higher than any other state regiment for skill and efficiency, and hence Governor Nash on this recommendation, gave the order for the 8th to go. The U.S. government pays the commissary and quarter expenses and per diem expenses of about $2 per day. The 8th Regiment will have to find its own money for the trip, which will cost, says Col. Vollrath, from $60.00 to $100.00 for the 11 days.
A dispatch from Columbus tells of the efforts of the officers of the Third regiment to have that organization subs… (and the rest of virtually unreadable until near the bottom…)
“The Eighth regiment is in splendid shape and when we go to West Point, I expect they will make as good a showing as any of the regiments, regular and volunteer.
Major F.C. Gerlach, of Wooster, returned home …. He said the arrangements were all about completed for leaving on the 10th. A… will be expended the Eighth he said on account.. very …cannot read the rest.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 September, 1903
pg 3
He Wants Recruits.
Captain Limb Wants to Take Away a Full Company
In place of the members of company D who have not taken an active interest in the affairs of the command, Captain Limb wants to enlist some more men. Some of the men have not been attending drill to any extent. Some were not at the last encampment and some of them have already stated that it will be impossible for them to go to Kentucky. Captain Limb is very anxious to take 65 enlisted men with him to the maneuvers in Kentucky, and will bend his energies in this direction. There are several young men who have signified their desire to joint the company who will be taken in and there will be room for a number of others who will apply at once. It is, of course, desirable that they apply immediately, so they may have the opportunity of getting the drill necessary for them to make a good showing in Kentucky. The great majority of the soldiers who will attend the Kentucky maneuver will be composed of the regular army, most of whom have seen service. The boys of the Eighth will be in competition with the best there is in the military power of the United States, and it is necessary that they make as good a showing as possible.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 September, 1903
pg 3
The Details Are All Arranged For The Eighth’s Kentucky Trip
At the meeting of the officers of the Eighth regiment held in Mansfield Thursday night matters … upon the Eighth regiment going to Kentucky were carefully gone over and thoroughly discussed. Letters have been received from other regiments offering men to fill the Eighth up if the Quota is not full. Col. Vollrath and the officers of the regiment do not wish to do this, however, and will make strenuous efforts in the next few days to fill up from the towns and communities in which the companies are located.
It is expected that orders will be issued for the members of the command to wear blue uniforms on their trip to Kentucky. The Eighth, however, will belong to the Brown army, there being two armies which will contest the “Blue” and the “Brown.”
Major F.C. Gerlach, of this city, twgether with Major A.B. Critchfield of Shreve, and Major Marquis went over to Bucyrus after the Mansfield meeting to confer with Col. Vollrath, who had just returned from Chicago with orders from the department.
As was expected, the selection of the Eighth regiment, O.N.G., to attend the regular army maneuvers at West Point, Ky. has caused a feeling of dissatisfaction among the other regiments of the guard in this state, the officers and men of whom hoped to be chosen.
Governor Nash has even been charged with playing politics in selecting the “President’s Own,” without doubt the best known regiment in the Ohio guard, and according to the rating of the United States army officers at the recent encampment of the guard of the state, 25 per cent better than any other Ohio regiment. The officers of the Third regiment have taken the matter to heart more than any other, and Wednesday several of them paid Governor Nash a visit, hoping that he would change his order in favor of the Third. But the chief executive of Ohio was not inclined to be moved, even after he had been charged with favoritism, and the Eighth will attend the maneuvers.
A dispatch from Columbus tells of the efforts of the officers of the Third regiment to have that organization substituted for the Eighth. It follows:
“In all humor and making charges of favoritism and military politics, Col. Harry Mead and other officers of the Third infantry left for home Wednesday after vainly endeavoring to persuade Governor Nash to permit the Third to attend the United States army maneuvers at West Point, Ky.
“Governor Nash was obdurate though Colonel Mead, Maj. ?, Captain Menard, Captain P?, Captain Hooven and Captain Ewing put us a ? argument. They declared the enlisted men of the Third were anxious to go at the government per diem of 43 cents and that the regiment would not ask the state for a penny.
“The governor held firmly to his view that the whole National guard ought not to be sent this year but only one regiment and one battery. He had selected the Eighth infantry and Battery A as the cream of the guard and best fitted to represent it, at least in appearance.
“The Third’s officers declared the governor was favoring the Eighth and was playing politics. They also declared all the guardsmen would combine to see to it that the legislature did not need an appropriation to pay the expenses of the Eighth. They declared it was nonsense to suppose the Eighth would need $6,000 to $10,000 to go to West Point. The Third was willing to go at its own expense. There is possibility that a number of officers of the regiment will resign.”
Talk With Critchfield
The Canton Repository in an interview with Major A.B. Critchfield says
“In regard to the pay that men would receive in camp, he said
“The men will receive the usual amount paid them by the state. The government provides transportation, provisions and pay, the rate of $13 a month. I spoke to Governor Nash about the matter the other day and told him that there is now a surplus of $19,000 in the treasury but that under the present appropriation it could not be used for this purpose. I asked Governor Nash if he would have any objection to our asking the legislature to re-appropriate this money and use it to pay the men the difference between government and state pay. He said that he would have none and he thought we would have no difficulty in getting the monet.
“The Eighth regiment is in splendid shape and when we go to West Point I expect they will make as good a showing as any of the regiments, regular and volunteer.
Major F.C. Gerlach returned home from Bucyrus at noon. He said the arrangements were all about completed for leaving on the 30th. “A great deal will be expected of the Eighth,” he said “On account of the very favorable reports of the inspecting officer from the government.” The place where the regiment will be mobilized has not yet been decided upon.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 September, 1903
pg 6
Leave September 30
Final Arrangements Being Completed for the Eighth
The boys of company D will leave Wooster September 30 for the maneuvers in Kentucky, this being the date on which the Eighth will leave. The regiment will spend ten days in camp and on its return the boys will reach Wooster October 11.
There was an article in the Cleveland Leader Wednesday morning to the effect that the Eighth was not ? going to Kentucky. The Leader in a dispatch from Columbus states that there is trouble at the Washington end of the line. The decision to send the regiment was delayed so long that it’s now doubtful whether the war department has power to do the necessary advertising for supp? to appropriate the money for the trip.
Major F.C. Gerlach when whown the report by a Republican man states that he had just finished talking with Colonel Vollrath over the long distance telephone and that Colonel Vollrath had stated that he was goint to Chicago at once to see Major General B? to complete the final arrangements in the matter.
“There is no truth whatsoever in the report that we are not going to get to go,” said Major Gerlach, “and all the final arrangements are now being made.”
Major A.B. Critchfield was in Wooster Wednesday. He also belittled any statement to the effect that the Eighth would not go.
In addition to the mention already made in The Republic that the Eighth O.V.I. would go to the maneuvers in Kentucky the following dispatch from Columbus will be of interest:
Governor Nash has affixed his official endorsement to the application of Col. Vollrath that the Eighth infantry be assigned to represent the Ohio National Guard at the fall maneuvers of the United States army at West Point, Ky., and the Ohio troops will participate in these maneuvers, and the fear that this opportunity for a part of the Ohio militia to gain invaluable experience by working with regulars be missed has been dissipated.
It is known unofficially that the United States army inspectors who were detailed to duty at the state encampment at Newark, have reported to the war department that the Eighth made the best showing of any of the Ohio regiments. The inspectors graded the Eighth over 25 per cent higher than any other infantry command. The Eighth, accordingly, is entitled to precedence.
Governor Nash, however, would be willing to send the entire Guard to the maneuvers if it were not for the fact that the state appropriations for military purposes cannot legally be used for service outside of Ohio. The United States government pays the commissary, per diem and other expenses to state troops at the maneuvers, but the per diem is on a regular army basis. Governor Nash has no power to make up the difference between the regular army pay and the militia rate, which is $2 a day. The Eighth regiment will have to find its own money for the trip. Col. Vollrath said today that is would require from $6,000 to $10,000 for the Eighth to participate in the maneuvers which last fourteen days.
Little Opposition
The only other Ohio command which has applied for permission to go is Battery A of Cleveland. The government does not allow either for horse hire or forage as the relative expense of sending artillery is greater than for infantry. It will take about $2,000 to send Battery A. Whether the battery will raise the funds and go is not known here yet.
Under the Dick law Gov. Nash is to delegate twelve militia officers to attend the maneuvers as observers. There is considerable rivalry among ? officers for these appointments. Regimental ? fear these appointments will go wholly to staff officers and they are protesting. They claim the benefit of the knowledge obtained by witnessing the maneuvers should be had by troop commanders and not be more or less wasted upon staff men. In this ? it appears that the two Ohio officers who were detailed to attend the United States army maneuvers at Fort R? has last year Col. Mead and ? Donavan made no report of any kind and while their experiences may have been of benefit to them individually, nothing which they may have learned has done the rest of the guard any good.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 September, 1903
pg 6
In The Fourth Brigade
Facts About The Eighth’s Trip to Kentucky.
In speaking of the Eighth going to the Kentucky maneuvers the Washington correspondent of the Cleveland Plain Dealer says:
“The Eighth is better known in the east and in Washington than any other Ohio guard organization except the Cleveland Troop. As the “president’s own” it is recalled for its service in Cuba under command of Col. C.V. Hard, during the Spanish-American war, when Congressman Dick was second in command. Its record from the recent inspection and summer camp of the Ohio guard satisfies the regular army officers that no better organization could have been delegated from Ohio and that it will stand as good a chance for honors as any regiment mobilized at West Point.
“At West Point, the Eighth will be brigaded with two infantry regiments and a dismounted battalion of artillery from the Kentucky guard. The whole, as the fourth brigade, will be under the command of Gen. Tasker H. Bliss, one of the best known soldiers in the Unites States army. Graduate of the military academy from Pennsylvania, an honor graduate of the ? school, Bliss has won a distinguished reputation on the staff and in the field.
In addition he held an administrative office in Cuba under the military occupation which he filled with success.
“These chromatic maneuvers in Kentucky, in which a brown and a blue army will contend for the possession of the key to Louisville, will be held over ground that has claim to be historic from the days of Boone to those of Morgan. “Right on the same hills blue clad and butternut forces fought in real earnest within active memory of thousands of Ohio survivors.
“The difference to the local inhabitants will be wide. There ? farmers went bankrupt in ? and gear and goods, while those over the Ohio looked at their sleek herds with shivering apprehension. Now both hail the coming of the soldiers joyfully and anticipate rich dividend in the sale of everything from leather pies to potatoes and forage.
“The government will lease the land for the maneuvers at 5 cents an acre to be able to pay for what damage is done. Otherwise the claimants would have to take their sufferings to congress for special legislation. But when land is leased by the army for cantonment purposed, as this will be declared to be, funds are available to pay necessary damages.”
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 7 October, 1903
pg 10
Off To Kentucky.
Company D, 8th Regiment Attending the Regular Army Maneuvers.
Wednesday evening the officers and men of Company D, 8th Regiment O.N.G. went from Wooster to attend the Regular Army maneuvers, the 8th being the only Ohio regiment selected to attend. The new uniforms and accoutrements of latest regulation had been supplied, and they looked finely and stepped out lively when marching from Armory to railroad station.
The following officers were in command: Capt. Marcus R. Limb, first lieutenant, George S. Limb, second lieutenant, James B. Rahl; non commissioned officers, first sergeant, Chas Cumberland, quarter master sergeant, James McClarran; third sergeant, Louis Rope, fourth sergeant, Fred Reddick, fifth sergeant, Arch Dice; first corporal, Arthur Albright, second corporal, Sam McClarran, third corporal, John Griest, fourth corporal, Albert Myers, musician T.R. Hamlin.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 18 November, 1903
pg 3
Having received the new improved guns from the State to equip Company D, 8th regiment, Capt. Marcus R. Limb last Thursday shipped the Springfield rifles to the State Arsenal at Columbus, according to order of the Adjutant General.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 16 December 1903
pg 3
It is a question whether Company D, 8th Regiment O. will participate in the inaugural exercises of the new Governor Herrick at Columbus. Capt. Limb last Friday received a letter from Col. Vollrath, requesting that the Company participate in the ceremonies at the Capital, which invitation has not officially been accepted, for the good reason that the railroad transportation and incidental expenses would have be paid, individually, by members of the company, and the state only paying the per diem expenses, which is small. It is therefore, at present, doubtful whether the members of the Company can afford to attend the inauguration unless, they, personally, will agree to do so, there being no compulsion for them to go, only to participate in a great official occasion.
[And just below this—]
Captain M.R. Limb has received an invitation to attend, with his company, the inauguration of Myron T. Herrick as Governor of Ohio. It has not been decided as yet whether Co. D will go or not, as there is quite an amount of expense in connection with a trip like this.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 December, 1903
pg 6
Co. D Wins.
From the University by a Score of 47 to 26.
The basketball game at the armory Friday evening between Co. D and the university teams drew but a small crowd. The general opinion before the game seemed to be that the university would take first honors because of the small amount of practice Co. D has been able to have since the last game.
The first half was interesting and close, the score ending 17 to 15 in favor of Co. D. In this half McConnell scored 13 of the 15 points made by the university, making three field goals and throwing seven fouls without a miss.
In the second half Meese took Weaver’s place and Crabtree substituted for Hamilton. The university started the half by making several points which put them in the lead. That was all that was necessary to start Co. D and after they were started nothing could stop them. Good team work was in evidence and the best speed shown this year. Thirty points were rolled in in practically the last fifteen minutes and the way the boys hit the basket from all over the floor was a caution. Every man on the Co. D team scored, Kester making 15 of the 30 points.
The game ended 47 to 26 in favor of Co. D. Myers is back on the company team and with the two Jolliffs, Kester and Limb the boys ought to do up most anything that comes their way. Following is the lineup.
Company D—Myers, J. Jolliff, Kester, Joe Jolliff, Limb.
University—Foss, Weaver, Meese, McConnell, Cramer, Hamilton, Crabtree.
Time of halves—20 minutes.
Referee—Gasche.
Umpire—Meese, Weaver
Scorer—W. Kester.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 December, 1903
pg 6
Will Sell Armory.
The county commissioners will sell the armory building and lot on East North street, Wooster, Ohio, at public sale on the premises Jan. 11, 1904, at 2 o’clock p.m.
Daniel Leiner,
John F. Harrison,
S.I. Hehman,
Commissioners of Wayne county, Ohio.
1904
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 16 March, 1904
pg 2
Passed Inspection.
Captain Newcomb Finds Company D Is All Right.
Captain Newcomb of the regular army inspected company D at the armory Wednesday evening. In the afternoon he looked over the guns and military accoutrement and found that they were all right. The inspection in the evening did not take a great while Captain Newcomb had the boys put through a few drills, which occupied only a few moments. He then looked the boys over and the inspection was finished. Captain Newcomb found everything all right. He recommended however that Captain Limb make requisition for new caps for the members of the company, a matter that Captain Limb had been intending to look after following the inspection.
There were quite a few spectators present at the armory.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 April, 1904
pg 2
No Camp At Newark.
Captain Limb Wants a Half Dozen New Soldiers.
If the Ohio National Guard is not go to the maneuvers this year it is probable that the state encampment will be held at some other place than Newark. The soldiers who have gone to Newark two or three seasons have become tired of the place and are pining for a change.
Adjutant General A.B. Critchfield has filed an application to have the entire Ohio National guard go to the maneuvers this year which will be held in Pennsylvania. There is a possibility that the Ohio troops may not get to go this year, but that their turn may come next year. The extreme Eastern and the extreme Western states will possibly be the only ones allowed to participate this coming fall.
Captain M.R. Limb is looking for some new recruits for company D and would like about a half dozen. A number of the boys are out of the city and Captain Limb will discharge the absent ones in order to have the company full of active members. The absent members do not, of course, get the benefit of the new law allowing 25 cents per drill for the reason that they cannot attend and the command is to be filled with men that will be able to get the benefit of the provisions of the new law.
Under the new law it will take some little extra time, but will be necessary to procure the extra money for the soldiers who attend the drills.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 13 April, 1904
pg 7
Critchfield In Town.
General Is Happy Over Recent Bills That Were Passed.
General A.B. Critchfield, rotund, jocular, happy and always the same whether bustling for the party or officiating as adjutant general of Ohio, was in Wooster Saturday shaking hands with his many friends. General Critchfield is very happy, lately, over the many bills that he has successfully put through the legislature for the benefit of the National guard. The one that was passed by the senate Friday doubles the rent money and expenses allowance of every company in the state. “It will help the company here,” he said, “for instead of getting $400 and having to get along on that they will now have about $800. We are getting the National guard into lots better shape. The organization has been running along for years without any help to speak of, and it is our aim now to put it in the highest state of efficiency. It takes money to do it, but the legislature and the governor seem to be willing to spend a little in the right way.
The soldier boys here in Wooster are getting along in their usual good shape. I am just taking a smoke on Major Gerlach’s new baby,” he said holding out part of a good looking perfecto. “The company here appears in good shape as it ought to. Captain Limb is keeping up the record of his predecessors. He is one of the most enthusiastic captains in the business.”
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 20 July, 1904
pg 8
Sent to Shoot.
Company D Has Three Men in The State Meet.
Company D has three men in the state shoot that is taking place in Newark this week. They are Harvey Messmore, Albert Weber and Henry Bebout, and … Captain M.R. Limb to represent the Wooster company at the shoot. Each company in the National Guard is supposed to send its quota to the shoot. The preliminary shoot lasts the first four days of the week. The fifty best marksmen of the preliminary work will remain over two days longer to try their skill, and the eighteen best of these fifty will be selected to represent Ohio in the National shoot, which will take place in August or September.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 31 August, 1904
pg 7
Home From Camp.
Members of Co. D Report Having Had Real Military Duty.
Major F.C. Gerlach, Capt. M.R. Limb and the members of Co. D, 8th Regt O.N.G. got home at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday from the military maneuvers at Camp Rerrick. The men report having enjoyed themselves, although given much real military duty and considerable work on the long marches. The health of the command was excellent during the camp. Corporal Will Kester was the only man off duty. Corporal Kester had the bad luck to come in contact with poison ivy and was in bad shape for several days and is not fully recovered from the effects of the poison.
The Eighth regiment received much praise for the way in which they conducted themselves during the maneuvers. The Eighth and the Sixth were the only two regiments mentioned at the sum up at the end of the second day’s work. Company D was very prominent in the mimic warfare. At one time the company had established an outpost, and part of the men were at the top of the hill when several companies of the enemy were seen to approach. Captain Limb waited until the enemy were within 200 yards and gave the signal to fire. The umpires ruled two companies out and made part of the others retreat 200 yards. Several other times the events were equally exciting. The Eighth and company D were given their full share of the work. At times company D were compelled to bear the extreme brunt of the fighting.
The night of the fight between the regulars and the state troops, the Eighth boys were located six miles from the scene of the trouble and saw none of the exciting scenes. Speaking of the relations between the state troops and the regulars one of the Eighth boys said “We were brigaded with some of the regular troops in the Fifth brigade and were camped alongside of them. The relations between the men were as cordial and brotherly as could be desired. The regulars regretted the unfortunate occurrence just as much as any of the others. Those engaged in the riot were members of the 14th artillery, a regiment that is said to be composed of some of the toughest characters in the army.”
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 16 November, 1904
pg 2
Ready for Election.
Will Vote For Officers on November Twenty first.
Company D will hold an election Monday night to see who is to be the delegate from the company to the officers’ meeting in Mansfield on Tuesday to nominate officers for the regiment to be voted on at the election of division and regimental officers to be held Nov. 21. It is not known what will be done at the meeting in Mansfield, but it is presumed that the old officers will probably be nominated again.
An effort will be made to get company H. of Shreve, to Wooster next week for a shoot with the company D boys. At the recent contest Wooster had not had any practice and the Shreve boys who had been handling the guns pretty nicely walked clear away from the Wooster boys. If Wooster gets another match with Shreve, it is expected that the story will be different.
The money to pay the company D boys for the last quarter’s drill is now in the hands of Captain Limb and will be distributed at once. The amounts vary according to the attendance of the different members of the company.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 23 November, 1904
pg 3
Personals.
Major F.C. Gerlach and Capt. M.R. Limb were in Mansfield Tuesday, attending a meeting of officers of the 8th Regiment O.N.G.
1905
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 22 March, 1905
pg 6
Adjutant General A.B. Critchfield on Tuesday forwarded from Columbus to Capt. M.R. Limb, commanding Company D, 8th Regiment O.N.G., of Wooster, eight handsome bronze medals for delivery to the members of that company who won them by skill at the rifle shooting contest, namely Charles Cumberland, Bernard Maurer, M.C. Taggart, Jos. E. Jolliff, Harvey Messmore, M.R. Limb, H.N. Regout, Harry O. Maurer.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 26 April, 1905
pg 8
Here And There.
Monday, April 24.
Capt. M.R. Limb announces that Co. D will shoot at target in the armory for gold and silver medals the first Monday night in May.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 24 May, 1905
pg 3
Personals.
Capt. M.R. Limb on Monday attended a meeting of the officers of the 8th Regiment O.N.G. at Canton.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 31 May, 1905
pg 3
Officers Held Meeting.
Eighth Regiment Will Camp by Battalions This Year.
The officers of the Eighth regiment, O.N.G., met with Col. Vollrath at Hotel McKinley, Canton, Monday to discuss matters pertaining to the welfare of the regiment and to form plans for the new method of encampment, namely by battalion.
Major F.C. Gerlach of Wooster, who is in command of the second battalion, states that the second battalion will very likely camp at Newark during July. Major Marquis has announced that the first battalion will camp there early in July. The state rifle shoot will be held on these grounds starting July 23.
It seemed to be the concensus of opinion that the state camp grounds at Newark afforded the best facilities, and it is probable that the three different battalions will select that place. The encampment of each battalion, the full arrangements, and all responsibility will rest with the majors.
Present at the conference were one or two officers from each of the twelve companies in the regiment. Major Marquis of the first battalion, was present, Major Schwartz of the third and second battalion was represented by Captain Limb of company D, Wooster, in the absence of Major Gerlach. Among the other officers present were Captain Bradford, Mansfield; Captain Zang, Alliance; Captain Heller, Lieutenant Weaver, Lieutenant Bolach, of Wadsworth; Lieutenant Merker, Captain Bertolette, Shreve; Lieutenant Hazlett, Alliance; First Lieutenant U.E. Clay and Second Lieutenant Charles Houser, of Canton; Captain Yanunc, Lieutenant Walkup and Lieutenant Write, of Akron; Captain C.H. Hughes, of Mansfield, regimental quartermaster; Captain W. Bacon, Tiffin; First Lieutenant R. U. Hastings, Namsfield; Captain H.J. Blackburn, Akron, and Major Smith, of Canton.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 7 June, 1905
pg 4
Is Increasing Company.
In anticipation of the fact that company D with the rest of the Second battalion will go into camp at Newark July 2, Captain M.R. Limb is arranging to recruit the company to its full capacity. This has to be done within the next five days. It will be the aim of Captain Limb to cut out all the members who are not attending drills and to substitute others who will be active members of the company. There is room for several good soldiers.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 28 June, 1905
pg 3
The 8th Regiment, Ohio National Guard, will go into annual state encampment at Newark during the first week in July. The members of Company D, Capt. M.R. Limb, commanding, will leave Wooster on Sunday, July 2, and with the other companies in the same battalion will camp under the direction of Major F.C. Gerlach. The camp is to be given up especially to rifle practice this year, in order to get the soldiers up to the best state of efficiency.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 5 July, 1905
pg 2
Last Sunday morning Major F.C. Gerlach and thirty-members of Company D, 8th Regiment O.N.G., under command of Capt. M.R. Limb, went to Newark to encamp there this week.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 5 July, 1905
pg 8
At Camp Newark.
Members of Company D in Annual Encampment this Week.
Major F.C. Gerlach, Capt. M.R. Limb and 34 members of Co. D, Eighth Regt. O.N.G., left at 8:40 a.m. Sunday for the week in camp at Newark. A large number of the command were at the depot to see the company. A number of the soldiers will go to Newark tonight and Tuesday.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 13 December, 1905
pg 3
Ready For The Eighth.
A Full Line of Committees Have Been Appointed.
The committee of general arrangements for the coming celebration of the Eithth of January consisting of George J. Kreiger, John McSweeney, R.L. Adair, Emmett Lee, J.O. Fritz, Fleming Fisher and Lyman Critchfield, Jr. met on Wednesday evening Dec. 6, and organized for the celebration as follows.
Charimen of Committee of General Arrangements, Geo. J. Kreiger.
Secretary, Lyman Critchfield, Jr.
Committee on Invitation of Speakers—John McSweeney, E.B. Eshelman, Isaac N. Hough, John S. Adair, Ed. S. Wertz.
Committee on Music—O.C. Franks, Warren Keister, Harry Sweeney.
Committee on Printing—John C. Hoffman, John Marchand, Chas. Collier.
Committee on Dance and Dance Music—Eugene Carlin, Geo. France, Harry Kramer, Marcus Limb, Fritz Haller, Nick Roberts, Arch Dice.
Committee on Banquet—Wayne Hart, Benton G. Hay, John McSweeney, Ed. Kreiger, C.M. Tawney.
Committee on Hall—James B. Minier, Mac Ginter, John Johnston, C.B. Schlossnogle, Joseph Sullivan, Chas. Schopf.
Committee on Decoration—Henry Leiner, John Van Nest, Frank Glasgo, Harrison Miller, Joseph Housekeeper.
Committee on Finance—John Nolle, Marcus Van Nest, Chas. A. Weiser.
Committee on Reception—L.R. Critchfield, Marlon Vanover, Hon. S.B. Eason, H.A. Hart, W.E. Weygandt, J.C. McClarran, H.B. Swartz, A.D. Metz.
Vice Presidents—A.N. Roth. Paint Township; L.C. Davidson, Sugarcreek; Ira Ault, Baughman; Conrad Barth, Chippewa; Earnest McConnell, Milton; Joe Gallagher, Greene; C.E. Reiter, East Union; August Chenevey, Saltcreek; Moses Saunders, Franklin; Walter Smith, Wooster; Ira McCoy, Wayne; J.G. Mattison, Canaan; T.V. Keeler, Congress; J.W. Ebert, Chester; John Bardon, Plain; Chas. Esselburn, Clinton.
The committee of general arrangements also selected Jos. O. Fritz as president of the evening of the celebration, which will take place on Monday evening, the 8th day of January, 1906.
The committee on invitation of speakers will endeavor to have Mayor-elect Dempsey, of Cincinnati, Mayor-elect Brand Whitlock, of Toledo, or Congressman H.C. Garber, chairman of the executive committee in the State during the recent campaign that night.
1906
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 10 February, 1906
pg 2
For Target Practice
Company D Receiving 1,000 Special Shells
Company D is receiving 1,000 special shells for indoor target practice which will be indulged in by company D in the near future, according to orders received from headquarters. The shells were sent some days ago and are expected here almost any time now.
Captain Limb is discharging four members of the company who have not been active members of the company for a long time. There are five or six men who want to come in and the discharge of four will make room for that many of them. The papers necessary to secure a discharge are now the same as are used in the regular army.
In speaking of the good work done by the Eighth at the maneuvers in Kentucky last fall, General Bates said that in case of any war the Eighth would be one of the very first regiments called out, after the regular army.
Here and There
Friday, Feb. 5.
Capt. M.R. Limb on Friday received fifteen pairs of ball bearing skates for use at the armory.
Social Notes.
The roller skating season at the armory opened well Tuesday night in spite of the cold and stormy weather. The number present was large, the large number enjoying the skating was surprising when one considered that it is many years since the sport was so popular, and it was thought that those who knew how to skate then would have to learn it over again. Such did not seem to be the case however, as there were but few on the floor who seemed at all awkward on the rollers. The music by the Wooster City band added much to the enjoyment of the skaters.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 June, 1906
pg 7
Command D. Goes To War
Captain Limb in Command, the Guards were Off at 11 Monday Night.
Loving Sweethearts, Anxious Mothers, Admiring Sisters Kissed and Waved Goodbye.
With the kisses and tears of sweethearts, mothers and sisters dampening their ruddy cheeks, Wooster’s soldiers, something over fifty members of Company D, left for the coal fields at 11 o’clock Monday night by special train. The special started at Crestline and picked up troops along the line. The train comprised eight cars and cars for necessary baggage.
Company D thought they were off shortly after 1 o’clock Monday afternoon, and a thousand people went to the Pennsylvania depot to see the boys depart. Countermanding orders came and the men were brought up town for supper. The company was ordered to report to Major Vollrath at Massilon.
To a man the Wooster company was eager for the trip. Then that regal turn out of pretty girls and sympathizing relatives and friends was enough to inspire a soldier’s breast to deeds of glory and valor such as has never been written since the charge of the Light Brigade. But most of the company D boys expressed sympathy for the suffering miners. “If it comes to shooting, I’ll aim high,” said one fellow. Another was singing, “I like to be a soldier, but I’ll shoot the miner’s —-nit, but I’ll shoot the miner’s —-nit.” And another, “I think I will run the risk of getting battered on the cocoanut before I’d aim very close to one of those poor devils of the sub-caverns.”
“The spirit demonstrated by the men is wholly sympathetic for the miners, yet a fight may work a change in their feelings,” said a bystander.
Captain Limb was in command of the company when it left Wooster, subject to Major Gerlach. It is not anticipated that the guards will be on to do much fighting on the trip. Company D, together with the other troops, arrived at the mines at 6:10 Tuesday morning.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 June, 1906
pg 1
War Now On Guards Shot.
Miners Incensed by Attack On Union Men Lay in Ambush for State Guards.
Gen. Hughes Decides Circumstances Warrant Troops—More Than a Hundred is Needed.
Columbus, June 4,—The greater part of the Fourth regiment, Columbus, Seventh, Ironton, and Eighth, Bucyrus, will be send to Dillonvale, if Adt. Gen Hughes decides the circumstance warrant troops.
He considered it would be unwise to send only 100 men, as requested by Sheriff Vorhees. Hughes is waiting to hear further from the sheriff.
The latter reported early Monday that 15 men had been killed, but he was sent back to get further details.
__________
Steubenville, O., June 4.—Two guards and two strikers were shot and wounded in a battle about 1 a.m. on Monday, midway between Plum Run and Crow Hollow. About 63 guards and 250 miners participated in the fight.
According to the information received here, the guards were ambushed in a ravine, through which they were passing while on their way from Plum Run to Crow Hollow, where trouble is anticipated. The guards were straggling along, mostly in single file, which probably accounts for the ineffectiveness of the strikers firing. The latter were concealed among the trees and underbush lining the sides of the ravine, and when the first guard had advanced to a point well within the lines of the concealed force a miner fired his gun into the air. This was the signal for a general fusillade.
Fire Is Returned.
Most of the guards turned and ran, but a few stood their ground and, taking such shelter as they could find, returned the fire. The miners soon began to fall back and the guards imitated their example, carrying off two of their number who were slightly wounded.
Miners Incensed.
It is claimed that the thing which incensed the Crow Hollow miners to the point of attacking the guards was an assault made on two union miners at Plum Run by four guards Saturday night. Two Italians, carrying union cards, after entering the mine at the latter place refused to go to work, claiming that they had not been notified that a strike was in progress. They were then ordered off the premises and refused to leave. Guards promptly threw them off in the melee, one of the miners being badly beaten. He went over to Crow Hollow, told of his experiences and showed his injuries. The miners, fired with indignation by the Italian’s story, quickly decided to avenge them by ambushing the Plum Run guards, who, it was known, were to be sent over to protect the workmen at the Crow Hollow mines.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 June, 1906
pg 1
Co. D At Dillonvale
With Other Companies of Eighth Regiment.
Major Frank C. Gerlach received a message from Col. Edward Vollrath at 6 o’clock, Monday morning, to have his battalion in readiness to proceed to Plum Run mine near Steubenville, the scene of the battle between miners and militia early Monday morning, as detailed in the telegraph columns of the Republican. Major Gerlach at once notified the four companies in his battalion. The members of Company D were notified. Lieutenants Rahl and Limb are in charge, and soon through the regular way every member of the company was notified, and all had their uniforms ready to put on so they could be in readiness in fifteen minutes after the receipt of notice by the ringing of the bell at the city hall.
Major Gerlach received notice that the commissary supplies for the regiment had been loaded on a car at Canton and were all ready for the trip.
The call for the company caused a great deal of excitement, Monday, and made the soldier boys who have been doing drill duty only since the war with Spain, anticipate a few days of real live service and there was general inquiry, Monday, for the latest news from the front.
Capt. M.R. Limb on Sunday went to Port Clinton, where he was elected captain of the State Rifle team. Capt. Limb was notified and phoned to the city to have the members of Co. D notified and to hold themselves in readiness for a hurry call. Lieuts. Limb and Rahl within an hour or two had reached every member of the command in the city.
Major Gerlach at 2 p.m. was informed by Col. Vollrath that he had issued orders to mobilize the entire Eighth Regiment. Major Gerlach immediately sent out an order to the commanding officers of Co. C, Canton; Co. I, Tiffin; Co. H, Shreve; and Co. D, Wooster, these companies making up the third battalion of the regiment. Owing to poor telephone service the Canton company was not notified until an hour after the order to assemble had been received by Co. D.
Owing to a change in the orders Co. D did not get off until after 11 p.m. Monday for the scene of the trouble at Dillonville, although the command, 44 strong, was at the Pennsylvania depot in time to take the train due at 4:31. A special train was started from Crestline and was delayed along the route. When reaching Wooster it carried the companies from Galion, Mansfield, Tiffin, Ashland, and Shreve. Capt. M.R. Limb, who was at Port Clinton, reached home in time to take charge of the company.
A special dispatch received by The Republican from one of the members of Company D, Tuesday, states that everyone of the company is all right and that the boys are all in good spirits, but very tired.
The Wooster boys did not arrive at the scene of the trouble until 6 o’clock a.m. Tuesday. They were looking for any trouble in sight but did not have any chance to show their valor, as everything was quiet. They were on the train nearly all the morning awaiting orders.
It is the general feeling in the Eighth that the boys will all be back home in a day or two.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 June, 1906
pg 1
No Bad Feeling At Dillonvale
Militia is on the Ground and Everything Has Quieted Down. No Disastrous Results Expected.
Columbus, Ohio, June 5.—General Speaks telephoned adjutant general Hughes at noon that the troops are all distributed at the mines. There are 1100 militia on the ground, and all is quiet. No further trouble is expected, and the miners show a friendly disposition to the soldiers. It is thought that some of the soldiers will be sent home in a day or two.
Columbus, Ohio, June 5.—General Speaks reported all quiet at Dillonvale at 2 o’clock, eleven hundred troops are on hand and the mobilization is satisfactory, the soldiers and strikers have fratranalized.
Steubenville, O., June 6.—Two regiments of the State militia are now on guard in the Jefferson county coal fields, the troops arriving there at an early hour today. Dillonvale, Plum Run and Bradley are the strike centers.
At Dillonvale the coal strikers are in a most turbulent mood. It is reported that they and their sympathizers made large purchases of rifles, revolvers and ammunition, and finding an insufficient quantity in Dillonvale, extended their purchases to Steubenville and Wheeling.
Every attempt is being made by the leaders of the mine workers to hold the men in check, but the failure to pay strike benefits, coupled with their straightened circumstances and the outbreak of Monday morning, have had the effect of inciting the foreign element to desperate measures.
The militia force now at the mining region is a very strong one. Two regiments are on duty, the Fourth and Eighth. Each infantry company received 1,000 rounds of ammunition on its arrival at Bradley. In addition 10,000 rounds war ordered sent to General Speaks from Kings Mills, near Xenia, where it is manufactured. The most effective riot guns ever made are the Colt machine guns with which Company I, of the Fourth, formerly Battery H, is equipped. This company, which is commanded by Captain Harold M. Bush, took along its four rapid-fire guns.
In the clash Monday morning seven guards and two strikers were wounded. No one was killed. The miners had prepared an ambuscade for the guards in the woods midway between Plum Run and Bradley mines, and as the 63 armed men, marching single file, came along the narrow path, a miner ahead shot in the air. At this signal the 250 strikers who were hiding behind the rocks and trees opened fire from the hillsides on the guards in the hollow. Many of the latter at once broke ranks and fled back to Plum Run, but others stood their ground and returned the fire. The battle lasted fifteen minutes. Over 500 shots were exchanged and the firing only ceased after the guards’ ammunition had been exhausted. The guard then retired from the field and returned to Plum Run. The ambuscade, it is said, was arranged because of an alleged assault on an Italian union miner, who refused to work.
Scale Committee Meets.
Columbus, O., Jun 5.—There is a proposition before the joint scale committee of the Ohio Operators and Mine Workers. John E. Winder, on behalf of the operators, presented the proposal, which suggests arbitration. In presenting the proposition the operators said that the issue between the opposing sides, as presented in the scale committee, was clear-cut. The miners insist that present conditions in the coal industry justify the restoration of the 90 cents a ton wage scale of 1903. The operators just as strongly assert that conditions of the coal trade do not justify the restoration of the 1903 scale, but that, in fact a reduction from the 1904-5 scale should be conceded by the miners. The operators suggest that the arbitration committee by appointed by the governor, composed of operators, miners, and outside parties, an equal number of each.
Troops Ordered Out.
Columbus, O., June 5.—In response to the urgent request of Sheriff D.F. Vorhees, of Jefferson county, for aid, Adjutant General Oliver H. Hughes despatched a force of about 1,100 Ohio National Guardsmen to Bradley. The troops sent to the scene were the Fourth Infantry, headquarters in Columbus, Colonel C.S. Ammel commanding; the Eighth Infantry, headquarters Bucyrus, Colonel Edward Vollrath commanding; the Second ambulance company and the Second company, signal corps. General John C. Speaks, commanding the Second brigade, was ordered to mobilize these troops and proceed to Jefferson county and report to Sheriff Vorhees.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 June, 1906
pg 2
Captain Limb To Go.
Head of Wooster Company to Represent Regiment.
Col. Edward Vollrath, commanding the Eights, has selected the regimental rifle team to compete at the state contest at Port Clinton. The members of the team are M.R. Limb of Wooster, R.U. Hastings of Mansfield, T.O. Sattler of Ashland, E.F. Eddy, of Shrive and Aquila Leaf of Alliance.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 June, 1906
pg 7
Coal Company Warned.
Steubenville, O., June 2.—Prosecuting Attorney Alban dispatched Sheriff Vorhees to Plum Run to warn the United States Coal company against its action in preventing the strikers from receiving groceries. Merchants of Smithfield who hauled groceries to the homes o f the strikers, which are in company houses, are not allowed to deliver the goods, as armed guards lead the horses away from the living district and order the drivers to depart at the point of rifles. Prosecutor Alban pronounces such actions as an outrage, and advised the sheriff to order the company to desist or place enough deputy sheriffs on duty to carry everything to the strikers homes except liquor. The sheriff will appeal to the company to stop what the prosecutor terms an effort to starve out the strikers, and if his appeal is in vain he will issue orders backed up by deputy sheriffs.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 11 July, 1906
pg 2
Here and There.
Friday, July 6.
Capt. M.R. Limb of Co. D informs The Republican that he can use eight more recruits so as to fill command to the full quota. As the regiment will go into camp August 6 Those who contemplate joining should do so at once.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 1 August, 1906
pg 6
Will Belong To Browns.
Company D Getting Ready to Go to Camp.
Company D is getting all ready to go to camp on Monday, August 13, when the maneuvers will take place in Tuscarawas county.
Captain M.R. Limb, commander of the company, has received the official orders. The orders have the usual remarks as to the details of transportation etc. They state that company D and the eighth regiment will belong to the army of Browns. The other army will be known as the “Blues.” Company D’s mail will have to be addressed to Strausburg. The camp will be known as Camp Pattison, in honor of the late governor of the state.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 15 August, 1906
pg 1
Company D All Right.
A telephone message from a member of the Eighth regiment Tuesday stated that the boys were in camp in good shape and were all ready for the maneuvers. The first mimic battle is scheduled to take place tomorrow morning. Company D and the Eighth are having good food, good cooking and are feeling fine.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 15 August, 1906
pg 7
Co. D All Ready.
Boys Will Leave on a Special Train, Monday.
The members of Co. D, Eighth regiment Ohio National Guard, will leave on Monday for the military maneuvers at Strasburg. Capt. M.R. Limb expects to have not less than 50 enlisted men in camp and has things well in hand for the camp. Capt. Limb on Saturday received a lot of new khaki shirts for the men which he will issue on Monday morning.
The command will leave on a special train due here at 9:20. The train on reaching this city will have on board the companies from Tiffin, Gallion, Mansfield, Ashland and Shreve. The train will be run to Massillon where a change will be made for the camp, to be known as “Camp Pattison,” in honor of the dead governor. Harry Woolman and Henry Kettler with two assistants are to act as cooks for Co. D.
The orders are that officers and men go to the camp grounds in the field service uniform and with the simple mess equipment furnished by the state. There are to be no frills. It is to be a military camp in every particular.
The maneuver grounds contain about 25 square miles of hills, trees and open country. It is an ideal place for maneuvers of large bodies of troops. The battalion of engineers Cleveland, has made a map of the grounds. These will be distributed to the officers when they arrive at the camp. Officers of the regular army who will act as umpires, will make out the problems for the militiamen to work out in the field. These problems will be a test of the ability of the officers and enlisted men to take care of themselves under conditions approaching those to be expected in actual warfare.
General Dick and his staff will establish their camp at Strasburg Sunday in advance of the troops.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 15 August, 1906
pg 8
The Arrest Of Soldier.
But Soldier Explained and Trouble Is Averted.
The members of Co. D, 8th Regt., O.N.G., were up bright and early Monday and began preparing for the trip to the military maneuvers at Strausburg, Tuscarawas county. The special train was scheduled to leave at 9:20 a.m. but did not reach Wooster until 11 o’clock. The train consisted of seven coaches and three baggage cars. The cars held the occupants from Tiffin, Galion, Mansfield, Ashland and Shreve when reaching the city. The men were under strict military command, the end of each car being guarded to prevent the soldiers leaving the coaches.
Co. D, besides Lieuts. James Rahl and George Limb, and non-commissioned officers, numbered 45. A number who did not accompany the command at the present time will join the company during the week at Strausburg. Major Frank C. Gerlach also took the train. Some little time was lost here in loading Major Gerlach’s horse, “Cubans,” the famous little mare brought back from Cuba by Sergt. Tony Oltmann, and now owned by Samuel Bell. It is safe to say that no officer will have a better or showry mount than Major Gerlach.
Capt. Limb before leaving stated that he believed that he was going to take more of the members of his command than any other company in the regiment. All but one member of the company who did not report had been excused. This soldier was Private Irvin Derr of Wooster. Capt. Limb before taking the train placed the papers into the hands of Chief Leiner for Derr’s arrest.
Private Derr was found after dinner by Chief Leiner and told of the order left by Capt. Limb. Derr explained that he had been at Millersburg and was not able to get to the city on account of train connections. Derr promised to take the 4:80 p.m. train for Camp Pattison and was given his liberty without being formally under arrest. Derr’s intentions were all right and he would have been on hand had he been able.
1907
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 14 August, 1907
pg 2
By The Way.
Are Wooster boys who do not belong to company D afraid to go to war? It is the general impression among Eighth regiment and company D officials that the reason more enlistments have not been made this summer in order to go to camp is on account of the recent Japanese war tale that has been going the rounds of the newspapers.
“We haven’t had very many enlistments, this year,” said Captain Limb, Wednesday to a Republican man. “We nearly always have a large number just before camp, the number giving us enough men to practically fill the regiment. We attribute the falling off of enlistments to the war talk that has been going the rounds. We always notice that just following any war flurry there is a dropping off in the desire of young men to enter the national guard, and this year is no exception,” Captain Limb said.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 14 August, 1907
pg 8
Orders Are Received
For Company D to Go Into Camp Next Week
Company D of Wooster will start for their camp at Port Clinton, next Sunday. The special train on which the Wooster company will go is scheduled to leave Wooster at 9:05 in the forenoon. The regiment will arrive in camp some time in the afternoon.
Company D with the other companies in the regiment will have a separate coach. Captain Limb received official orders Monday concerning the movement of the local company to the camp. All baggage is to be tied, or carefully crated, and should be marked the orders state.
Special orders are given concerning the action of the soldiers on the train. All soldiers must be kept off the platform while the train is in motion. ? Wadsworth and Tiffin companies will go on other trains. Each train is to be under the special charge of a senior officer. The Ashland company will to to Custaloga and join the special train at 9:55.
Made Good Showing
Victors in the Series of Rifle Shoots by Co. D
The members of Co. D, 8th regiment O.N.G. during the last few weeks have been engaged in a series of rifle shooting contests for cash prizes offered by Capt. M.R. Limb. In the contest on Monday night Sergt. L.A. Naftzger was first, F.C. Reddick second.
In the series of shoots Sergt. Louis Rope landed first with a score of 82, Sergt. Fred Reddick second with a score of 78. Other high scores in the shooting for the medal were made by the following:
Corp. L.J. Grossenback, 75, Pic. Jay W. Jolliff, 75, Pri. John Rope, 75, Pri. John Clark, 73, Corp. Wm. Jolliff 72, Serg. L.A. Naftzger, 70.
The highest score during shoot was 23 out of 25.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 21 August, 1907
pg 3
In accordance with an order received from General Critchfield, Capt. M.R. Limb, of the local company D, dispatched eight men under command of Corporal Mowrer to Port Clinton Wednesday.
The men left Wednesday at noon. They will be used to assist in the target practice of the state team, which will be held preliminary to the camping of the regiment. These men will not return until the others do who go on the 18th.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 21 August, 1907
pg 4
Opened Bids At Noon
Kettler and Limb Will Again Manage Opera House
All the members of the Board of Public Service and Clerk Whitmore and City Solicitor Beton G. Hay were present at noon Monday when bids for the management of the city opera house were opened. But two propositions were received, both of these came from George Kettler and Capt. M.R. Limb. The first proposition by which the city will be the owner of the special scenery now in the house and the property of Kettler & Limb at the close of the season and the payment of $23.50 per night, was accepted. The first attraction booked is for Fair and Home week, the famous Rosskam Chicago Stock Co.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 13 November, 1907
pg 6
Men Discharged.
And Order is Received Reducing Company Force.
Captain M.R. Limb has discharged a number of members of company D. The men were not attending drills, or doing anything for the good of the company, so Captain Limb thought it would be well to reduce the non-working force of the organization, and discharged them.
Shortly after their discharge an order was received from the adjutant general reducing the company number in the Ohio National Guard to 58. Company D is a little below that, ? recruit the necessary number to the regular quota, just as soon as there are nay applicants.
Company D is having regular drills right along, according to the requirements of the National Guard. A good target range near town is also raising the marksmenship ranks among the members of the Wooster Company.
1908
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 5 February, 1908
pg 3
Ohio Militia
Will Participate In Maneuvers at Camp Benjamin Harrison.
Washington, Feb. 4.—The officials of the war department designate the report from Akron, O, relative to the mobilization of the national guard, as an outgrowth of the department’s efforts to secure a thorough co-operation between the militia and the regular army in their joint drills during the coming summer. The department has been in correspondence with Adjutant General Critchfield of the Ohio National Guard on this subject and a meeting with an unexpected degree of success in securing the participation of the Ohio state troops in the projected maneuvers and drills, which in this case are to take place in September next at Camp Benjamin Harrison near the city of Indianapolis. The first project contemplated the participation of two regiments of the Ohio militia but the state authorities have now practically decided that it would be economical to conduct the usual summer exercises and encampment in connection with these joint drills so that the whole of the state national guard is likely to be ordered to Camp Benjamin Harrison. There will be two troops of cavalry, two field batteries of artillery, eight infantry regiments with one battalion besides a division of the hospital corps, a battalion of engineers and a division of the signal corps, composed of two companies.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 5 February, 1908
pg 6
Critchfield And Limb
Would Like to Get Some U.S. Army Offices
There are at present 612 vacancies as officers in the United States Army. To fill these positions members of state militia organizations are to be given opportunity to enter the army ty competitive examination. Capt. M.R. Limb, commanding officer of Co. D, Eighth regiment, O.N.G., has received the following calling attention to the matter from Robert Shaw Oliver, assistant secretary of war:
“In view of the present and prospective vacancies in the grade of Second Lieutenant in the army over and above those required by law for the graduates of the United States Military academy and the enlisted men of the Regular Army, I am authorized by the president to inform you that he will be pleased to name for competition in July next a candidate to be named by you from among members of the organized militia of Ohio.
“This candidate will be authorized to compete with other civilian candidates for a limited number of vacancies under regulations prescribed by the war department in General Orders inclosed herewith. This order gives in detail the requirements of the examination and all information needed by candidates in advance to enable them to prepare themselves. The following fundamental rules of eligibility are laid down by the department in conformity with existing regulations, and in order to secure uniformity among candidates who shall be named by the various governors in response to this invitation.
“The candidate must be unmarried, must not be less than 21 years of age or more than 27; must be a citizen of the United States; must be physically qualified to discharge all the duties of an office in active service; must be free from mental or bodily deformity and of good moral character and habits; must have been a member of the organized militia of your state continuously for not less than two years prior to being named by you, and must have the favorable recommendation of the commanding officer of his immediate organization and of the regimental and brigade commanders when the same exist and are his direct superiors. The candidate whether officer or enlisted man, may be of any grade.”
Adjutant General Critchfield has issued a circular letter on the subject and says that the candidate from Ohio will be chosen by competitive examination and named by Gov. Harris. The examination will be held during the first ten days in February. Transportation is to be furnished the candidates from their homes to Columbus and return. It is altogether likely that Captain Limb will send down a candidate, who will be named next Monday evening.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 20 May, 1908
pg 6
Company D to Go
Will Be Present at Maneuvers Near Indianapolis.
Company D of this city with the Eighth regiment and two or three other Ohio regiments will be present at the maneuvers near Indianapolis in September.
This matter was decided very recently at Columbus and official orders have not been sent out, as yet.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 12 August, 1908
pg 3
Personals.
Mrs. M.R. Limb and Miss Florence Limb accompanied Capt. Limb to Port Clinton Thursday, where they will camp for the week.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 19 August, 1908
pg 1
Will Soon Go To Camp.
Co. D Has Many New Members on the Roll and Claim Oldest Officers in the State.
Co. D, together with the rest of the Ohio National Guard, goes into camp at Fort Benjamin Harrison near Indianapolis, Indiana, on Sept. 2nd staying there until the 10th. During that time they will be in the Federal service just the same as the Regular Army. The time in camp will be occupied by maneuvers in which the regular and the guardsmen will be fighting side by side.
The troops are divided into two forces the Blues and the Browns. These two armies will engage each other in the same manner as in actual warfare, blank cartridges being used. Each day new problems will be solved, the maneuvers becoming intricate as they progress.
Have Served Long
The three officers of the company, Capt. Limb, Lieuts. Limb and Rahl, have served together in their present official capacities for over five years. Only one or two other companies in the state have officers who have been associated together for that long a period.
The company is in fine shape, having new equipments, and has been enrolling many new members. Although the time is limited, a few good men can still get in the organization an go to camp with the command. Only men of good character and who pass the required physical examination are taken.
The company is now composed of fifty-one members, the largest number enrolled for some years. Sixteen new ones have been taken in since the first of the year, while very few have dropped out. The soldiers always look forward with pleasure to their two weeks in camp, and are expecting a fine time, in spite of lots of hard work.
An “x” after a name denotes that that man has become a member of Co. D, since the first of the year.
Capt. M.R. Limb.
1st Lieut. G.S. Limb.
2nd Lieut. Jas. B. Rahl.
1st Sergt. Fred C. Reddick.
SERGEANTS.
Louis F. Rope.
Samuel McClarren.
Albert S. Weber.
Ralph J. Stark.
CORPORALS.
Harry Maurer.
William Joliff.
Louis Grossenbach.
William Weaver.
August P. Rope.
MUSICIANS.
Harry C. Sweeney.
Paul R. Schott.
PRIVATES.
Morris Amster x, Henry Bebout, Harvey Beam, Russell Brillhart, John Clark, Irvin Derr, Harry Derr, Edward M. Elliott, John M. Flory, Charles Graham, John Hider, Ross Hindman x, Clifford Jolliff x, Frank Kope, Waster A. Kern x, Bert D. Lawrence, Joseph D. Landers, Carl M. McDowell, Clyde H. Maxwell, Glenn E. Mann, George Meffan x, Louis Massaro x, Joseph McClure x, Benjamin Pryor, Charles Robinson, Geo. Russell x, Bert Wilson, John F. Wepler x, Henry Zarlengo, Adrian Anderson x, Thomas W. Miller x, Chas W. Weber x, Anthony Casper x, Marion W. Flory x, Chas R. Stondenhelmer x, John H. Miller x.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 9 September, 1908
pg 1
Co. D Goes To Camp.
Leave Wooster Last Wednesday for Indiana With Full Quota of Good Men.
Wooster was well guarded Tuesday night. Early in the evening, members of Co. D could be seen in soldier clothes, and as the hours became more numerous. They began to gather at the armory at seven o’clock, and by midnight the majority of the members of the company were there, dressed in their war attire, ready to go to camp at Fort Harrison, Indianapolis, Ind.
The soldiers spent the night in the armory, and were aroused early in the morning by the rining of the fire bell, which sounded the riot call before 4 o’clock. The new apparatus worked fine. It was shut off after sounding ten taps of the bell. The real riot call is ten taps, sounded twice, but the second ten are only a repetition, and the call sounded perfectly the first time.
The train containing the members of the local company left Wooster at 4:30, and as scheduled to arrive in camp this afternoon. The company has never been in better condition, either in training or numbers, and Capt. Limb is confident of making a good showing. Co. D has always been one of the best companies in the 8th regiment, and it is a settled fact that the 8th has no superior in the country.
Following is a list of the men who went from Wooster.
Captain, Marcus R. Limb.
First Lieut., George S. Limb.
Second Lieut., James B. Rahl.
Sergts., Fred C. Redick, Samuel McClarran, Albert S. Weber, Ralph J. Stark.
Corps. Harry O. Maurer, William Jolliff, Lewis Grossenbach, William Weaver, August Rope.
Musicians, Harry C. Sweeney, Paul R. Schott.
Privates—Morris Amster, Adrian Anderson, Cicero E. Appleman, Henry N. Bebout, Harvey C. Beam, Russell Brillhart, Clarence Berry, Randall Barrett, John Clark, Anthony Casper, Irvin Derr, Harry Derr, Edward Elliott, John Flory, Marion Flory, Charles Graham, John Hider, Ross Hindman, Jay Jolliff, Frank Rope, Walter Derr, Bert Lawrence, Josept Landers, John Miller, John H. Miller, Robert S. Miller, Thomas Miller, Carl McDowell, Clyde Maxwell, Glenn Mann, George Meffan, Lewis Massaro, Rex McSweeney, Benjamin Pryor, Harvey Messmore, John Rope, George Russell, Charles Robleos, Edward Shupe, Charles Stoudenheimer, Albert Wilson, John Wepler, Russell Winkler, Henry Warlengo.
Cook, James Scobey. Helper, Durbin Messmore.
Musicians, Harry C. Sweeney has been promoted to Quarter Master Sergeant.
Wooster Republican
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 11 November, 1908
pg 8
Here And There.
Friday Nov. 6
Everything is practically settled for the 8th Regiment’s trip to Washington to attend the inauguration of William H. Taft as president March 4th.
Capt. M.R. Limb is engaged in handing out checks to the members of Co. D for quarterly pay.
1909
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 4 August, 1909
pg 3
Capt. M.R. Limb, Charles Stoutenheimer and Augustus Rope are entitled to places on the state rifle team from Co. D, which will compete in the national shoot at Camp Perry. Only Mr. Stoutenheimer however remained at the camp, the other two men finding this impossible. In qualifying, Mr. Stoutenheimer scored 333 out of 500 shots.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 8 December, 1909
pg 1
Guards Are Called Out
Governor Sends Four Regiments to Bridgeport to Quell Strikers in Large Tin Plate Mills.
A riot call, twenty taps of the fire bell in two series of ten taps each, was sounded in Wooster at 11:30 Saturday forenoon, and all members of Co. D, residing in the city hurried to the armory, where Capt. M.R. Limb ordered them to be in readiness to take a special train for Bridgeport, O., just across the river from Wheeling W. Va.
The entire Eighth Regiment received similar orders, other Wayne county towns affected being Orrville and Shreve. A fresh outbreak of rioting on the part of striking steel workmen at Bridgeport Saturday morning was responsible for the call for troops.
That the Ohio militia can be gathered in remarkably quick time was demonstrated in Wooster, for within an hour after the call was sounded practically every member of the company residing in the city was on hand, ready to make the journey.
While it is possible that the riot call made the hearts of the soldiers beat faster, it was not from fear. A good example of spirit was shown by Sergt. Fred Reddick. His time as a member of the company expired Nov. 26th and he had not re-enlisted. After Mr. Reddick reached the armory he remembered that he was no longer a member of the company so he promptly re-inlisted.
All was hustle at the armory while the soldiers donned their uniforms and got their knapsacks in readiness. Officers notified members who live out of hearing distance of the bell, and in a very short time these began to reach the city.
It was the first time the guards were called upon to do guard work for several years, the last instance being the coal strike at Nelsonville. The present strike is not recognized as a particularly large one and enough soldiers are being summoned to awe the strikers. Little trouble is feared. Among the men who were ready to take the special train here Saturday afternoon are the following:
Major Gerlach’s Staff—Adjt. Grover McCoy; Quartermaster Taggart and Sergeant W.E. Kerr.
Captain, M.R. Limb.
First Lieut., G.S. Limb; Second Lieut., J.B. Rahl.
First Sergt., F.C. Redick; Sergts., L.F. Rope, Sam McClarran, A.E. Weber, R.J. Stark.
Corporals, Wm. Jolliff, A.P. Rope, and P.R. Schott.
Privates, Anderson, Beam, Brillhart, Berry, Clark, Casper, Elliott, Eckert, J. Flory, M. Flory, Hider, Hindman, J.C. Jolliff, Kope, Lyon, R. Miller, Maxwell, Mann, J. McClure, Robinson, Stoutenheimer, Sterrett, Wepler and Winkler.
A deputy sheriff was shot and seriously wounded last night in a battle between strike sympathizers and deputies guarding the Etna Standard mills of the American Sheet & Tin Plate Co. in Bridgeport, O.
Three thousand sheet steel workers are making in Bridgeport the last stand of organized labor against the open shop order of the steel trust. Thus far they have prevented the opening of the mammoth Etna mills, owned by a trust subsidiary.
The trust allowed the Bridgeport plant to lie idle until this week. Now the rush of orders makes its output necessary. When the trust attempted to open the plant Wednesday morning the striking workmen picketed the mill gates. Last night twenty imported nonunion men were captured by the pickets and sent home. This morning the pickets prevented the engineers and unskilled laborers from entering the plant.
1910
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 3 August, 1910
pg 3
Soldiers Fire One Volley.
Scouting Party of Eighth Sends Volley into Weeds at Columbus.
A scouting party composed of soldiers of the Eighth Regiment under command of Col. Edward Vollrath, fired one volley at Columbus Monday night. The Eighth is encamped at Goodale park, and the streets near here have been the scene of the majority of the trouble. A party of rioters, hidden in some weeds in a vacant lot, were stoning passing cars. Colonel Vollrath, at the head of a party of troops, ordered them to fire into the weeds. No one was injured. It is quite likely that some members of Co. D were in the party. Dispatches from Columbus indicate that the troops will all be removed by the last of the week, as many extra policemen are being sworn in at Columbus. Rioting has decreased in a great measure since the arrival of the Eighth and Fourth regiments. It is quite likely that these regiments will be kept on the scene the longest but it is expected that Co. D will reach Wooster sometime this week.
The Eighth regiment of which Co. D is a part has a proud record.
The Eighth regiment has supplied Ohio with adjutant generals since the days of Governor William McKinley. General Charles Dick was formerly lieutenant colonel. Adjutant General Weybrecht was lieutenant colonel of the regiment at time of his appointment. During the Spanish war the regiment served as the Eighth O.V.I. and was known as the “President’s Own.” It was the only Ohio regiment which landed in Cuba before the surrender of the Spanish forces at Santiago.
Organized in 1877, the Eighth saw duty in the first year of its existence in the railway strike riots. It was sent to Cincinnati during the court house riots of 1884 and the same year officiated at the double hanging in Ashland. It has been called out many times for riot duty.
The Eighth regiment has its headquarters at Bucyrus and is commanded by Col. Edward Vollrath of Bucyrus. The regiment has no lieutenant colonel. Majors are Frederick S. Marquis of Mansfield, Frank C. Gerlach of Wooster and Satanford H. Swartz.
Companies and commanders are:
Company A. Bucyrus, Captain Charles G. Teetrick; Company B. Akron, Captain William E. Walkup; Company C, Akron, Captain Earl W. Hill; Company D, Wooster, Captain Marcus R. Limb; Company E, Ashland, Captain Charles L. Clark; Company F, Akron, Captain William Yontz; Company G, Wadsworth, Captain Allan Weaver; Company H, Shreve, Captain Wiley K. Miller; Company I, Tiffin, Captain Willins Bacon; Company K, Alliance, Captain Urban S. Wetzel; Company L, Galion, Captain Ralph G. Sayre; Company M, Walter S. Bradford.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 28 September, 1910
pg 3
Personals.
Capt. M.R. Limb, Lieut. Milton Taggart, Corp. Chas. Stoudenheimer and Sergt. Albert Weber left for Camp Perry Monday to take part in the annual regimental shoot.
1911
Akron Beacon Journal
Akron, Ohio
Friday, 10 March, 1911
pg 1
Captains Walkup And Yontz Asked To Join The U.S. Troops In Texas.
Captain W.E. Walkup of Company B and Captain W.C. Yontz of Company F of Akron are among the favorite officers of the Eighth regiment who have been invited by Colonel Vollrath and Adjutant General C.C. Weybrecht to go to the Mexican border to witness the maneuvers of the federal troops being gathered there.
Captain Walkup received his invitation Friday morning, but Captain Yontz had not received any word yet at noon. However, a special Columbus dispatch stated that Yontz’s name was included in the list of Eighth regiment officers submitted to the war department by Adjutant General Weybrecht Friday for the service, which it is understood is to be entirely voluntary and optional.
The other Eighth regiment officers invited to go to Texas are Captain Marcus R. Limb, Company D, Wooster; Captain Charles L. Clark, Company E, Ashland; Captain Wiley K. Miller, Company H, Shreve; Captain Willis Bacon, Company I, Tiffin; Captain Ralph G. Sayre, Company L, Mansfield; Major Harry Bertolette, Shreve; Major S.M. Swartz, Canton.
Captain Walkup Friday had not decided whether or not he would accept the invitation, but is considering it. The letter came as an invitation rather than a formal demand and it is evidently for the purpose of giving the officers an opportunity to watch the operations on the large scale on which they will be conducted. These movements will be for the instruction of the officers, according to a dispatch from Columbus Friday morning.
Considerable interest is shown in the companies stationed in this city regarding the movements of the government.
Colonel George M. Wright, chief of General Dick’s staff, nor Rev. Ira W. Priest, chaplain of the regiment, had received any orders or instructions up to Friday afternoon.
Cincinnati Enquirer
Cincinnati, Ohio
Saturday, 11 March, 1911
pg 2
Ninety Officers
From Ohio National Guard Are in List Submitted to Washington.
Special Dispatch to The Enquirer.
Columbus, Ohio, March 10—At noon today Adjutant General Weybrecht called upon the War Department, in Washington, and certified the names of 90 officers of the Ohio National Guard who can go to the Mexican border. He has wired Columbus that no definite selections have been made, but he is certain that all the officers certified will be detailed within the next 10 days to go to San Antonio for a three-week period.
It is probable that no private soldiers of the national guard will be called out at this time.
Colonel Herbert G. Catrow, of the Third Regiment, with headquarters at Dayton, hastened to Washington as soon as the call was issued. What officers he will certify from his regiment are not known, but it is expected that most of the Third Regiment men will be detailed. The others certified to-day by Adjutant General Weybrecht, and who will no doubt go to Texas are:
First Brigade Staff—Major William H. Duffy, Toledo; Major David A. Lynch, Fostoria.
Second Brigade—Major Arthur W. Reynolds, Columbus, Commissary; Major Frank E. Ross, Columbus, Quartermaster.
First Regiment—Lieutenant Colonel William H. Sullivan, Middletown; Majors Chas. Becht, Cincinnati; Frank Ward, Cincinnati; Captains Robert L. Dunning, Adjutant, Cincinnati; P.G. Banker, commissary, Middletown; Adolph A. Gruber, Cincinnati; Walter W. Schwaab, Company C, Cincinnati, William C. Meyer, Company F, Cincinnati; Bert Chumlet, Company G, Cincinnati; Homer B. Glancy, Company K, Batavia.
Second Regiment—Lieutenant Colonel J. Guy Deming, Ada; Major Cliffe Deming, Ada; Colonel John M. Bingham, Columbus; Captains Frank J. Moyer, Company A, Findlay; J. Dalby Crawfis, Company H, Ottawa; Lieutenant John A Harley, Company C, Lima; Lieutenant James G. Lehman, Company H, Bowling Green.
Fourth Regiment—Colonel Byron L. Bargar, Columbus; Major George Florence, Circleville; Captains Robert Lindenberg, Columbus; Frank L. Oyler, Company B, Columbus; John T. Snitzler, Company E, Marysville; James A. Samson, Company K, Delaware.
Fifth Regiment—Colonel Charles X. Zimmerman, Cleveland; Major Albert W. Davis, Norwalk; Captains Charles W. Mathivet, Adjutant, Cleveland; Frank B. Hollenback, Company G, Cleveland; Harry W. Ulric, Company H, Youngstown; Arthur S. Houts, Company K, Cleveland.
Sixth Regiment—Colonel L.W. Howard, Toledo; Major George W. Cunningham, Fostoria; Captains Arthur D. Hill, Company H, Toledo; Edward C. Sturn, Fremont; Arthur H. Wicks, Company I, Clyde; Harry C. Kern, Company G, Toledo; Lieutenant Walter C. Weier, Company A. Toledo; Lieutenants Frank E. Smith, Company B, Bellevue; Frank P. Walsh, Company L, Toledo; Second Lieutenant Clyde E. Williams, Company E, Bryan.
Seventh Regiment—Colonel Harry D. Knox, Marietta; Captains Willard R. Bell, Company A, Zanesville; Harry S. Dyer, Company B, Marietta; Charles H. Bell, Company H, New Lexington; Edward P. Lawlor, Company M, McConnelsville.
Eighth Regiment—Captains William E. Walker, Company B, Akron; Marcus R. Limb, Company D, Wooster; Charles L. Clark, Company E, Ashland; William Yontz, Company F, Akron; Wiley K. Miller, Company K, Shreve; Willis Bacon, Company I, Tiffin; Ralph G. Sayre, Company L, Mansfield.
Signal Corps—Company B, Columbus, Major Lewis W. Jaquith, First Lieutenant Chalmers R. Wilson.
Cavalry—Major William M. Scofield, First Lieutenants Dudley J. Hard, Otto Miller and Reuben Hitchcock, all from Cleveland.
Artillery—Battery C, Columbus; First Lieutenant Harry R. Avery, Columbus. Battery A, Cleveland: Captain Quida A. Kulish, First Lieutenant Fred T. Mudge.
Medical Corps—Majors Joseph A. Hall, Cincinnati; William P. Love, Youngstown; Daniel W. Iford, Toledo; Harry Bertolette, Shreve.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 24 May, 1911
pg 6
Leaves For Texas Wednesday
Capt. M.R. Limb, Mrs. Limb and son Fritz will leave on Wednesday for Texas, where the Captain was detailed to view the army maneuvers.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 21 June, 1911
pg 3
Personals.
Capt. M.R. Limb and two children returned Tuesday evening from San Antonio. Capt. Limb for two weeks has been out on the field, where the troops are maneuvering, several other officers of the O.N.G. being with him. Mrs. Limb returned as far as Paris, Ill., where she will spend some days with friends before returning to Wooster.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 2 August, 1911
pg 3
Personals.
Mr. and Mrs. M.R. Limb and children have gone to Camp Perry, where they will remain during the rifle shoot.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 6 September, 1911
pg 1
Soldiers Off To Camp.
Members of Co. D, Eighth Regiment. O.N.G., left Saturday for Steubenville for a week’s camping and drilling. Next week is homecoming week at Steubenville and the Eighth was the fortunate regiment selected to be present at the big celebration.
The soldiers were in uniform bright and early Saturday morning and by 9 o’clock all of them were at the Armory ready to make the trip. They marched to the depot, where they boarded the special train that takes them to Steubenville. The soldiers took three uniforms with them. the following regimental officers and members of Co. D left Wooster:
Regimental musician, Warren Keister
Lieutenants, McCoy, Taggart
Capt., M.R. Limb
First Lieut. G.S. Limb
Second Lieut., Fred Redick
Sergeants, Weber, Messmore, W. Jolliff, Weaver
Corporals, Rope, c. Jolliff, Stoudenhelmer, Russell, Wepler, Weber, Eckert.
Musician, Mertz.
Privates, Massaro, Mann, Manges, McDougel, Mower, Metcalf, T. Miller, Palmer, Robinson, Adams, Berry, byers, Blanchard, Casper, Crampion, Coffman, Devlin, Egger, Garber, Yost, Wilson, Weny, Smith, Stark, Swart, Shimel, Russell, Shamp, Sterrett, Schuch, Sigler, Snyder, Stull, Eyman, Fry, Frick, Graham, Hider, Hard, Haerle, Hixon, Jolliff, Kinner, Lyon, B. Miller
Cook, Constable Scobey.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 15 November, 1911
pg 3
Would Receive Pay.
Local O.N.G. Men Will Send Petition to Congressman Ashbrook.
Members of Co D, 8th O.N.G. are interested in a bill that is to be brought up at the next session of Congress. If passed it means that the local soldiers will get paid a certain percentage, probably 25 per cent of the salary received by soldiers of the regular army. Officers will probably be allowed a smaller percentage of the salary received by Regular Army officers.
A petition is to be prepared and signed by local soldiers and sent to Congressman W.A. Ashbrook, asking him to support the bill. Mr. Ashbrook favored a bill of a similar nature which passed the House at the last session.
The bill passed a year ago was not satisfactory to the soldiers for several reasons but this was not known until after it had passed the house. The matter was brought to the attention of the Senate and the bill was killed. The bill now being drafted is much more satisfactory to the soldiers and they are heartily in favor of it.
Capt. M.R. Limb, in speaking of the matter Tuesday, said “The passage of this bill will mean that our men get paid for holding themselves in readiness for war. The National Guard men now do not get paid for holding themselves in readiness. In Ohio they get a small amount for attending drill. A newly enlisted private in the regular army gets $16 per month. Co D privates would draw about $50 a year.
1911 ▸ November 22. M.R. Limb entered to run for Board of Education, the first elected office sought.
1912
1912 ▸ August 28. Lucy Bradshaw Limb filed for divorce from M.R. Limb.
1912 ▸ September 4. M.R. Limb filed a petition for divorce alimony and custody of the children.
1912 ▸ November 12. Lucy Limb answered M.R. Limb’s petition.
1912 ▸ December 10. Lucy Limb did not contest the divorce.
1912 ▸ December 31. Divorce is finalized with M.R. Limb retaining custody of the two sons and the home.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Wednesday, 8 November, 1912
pg 1
Appointments In The U.S. Navy
Capt. M.R. Limb, of Company D, has received information from Washington which will be of interest to the members of company D and young men in the city and county in general.
The letter brings the information that a board of officers will be convened in the navy department in January; 1913, for the purpose of holding competitive examinations of young men between the ages of 21 and 27 to fill vacancies in the grade of second lieutenant in the marine corps. The officers of the marine corps are on the same basis for pay allowances, retirement, etc., as officers of the U.S. Infantry.
The pay of the second lieutenant is $1700 per year with 10 per cent additional for each five years service. Added to this are certain allowances in the way of quarters, heat, light, etc. The positions, if secured, are for life or good behavior, and with prospect of promotion. Service required will be sea on vessels of the navy and at naval stations on shore.
These appointments are made first from the enlisted men in the service, then members of the national guard and third for civil life.
Capt. Limb will send in the names of any men who wish to try for the appointment.
1913
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Thursday, 9 January, 1913
pg 3
The Week’s Doings.
Capt. M.R. Limb and Lieut. Grover McCoy were in Bucyrus Tuesday attending a meeting of the officers of the Eighth Regiment, O.M.G.
Co. D will be inspected the latter part of February, very probably the 28th, by Colonel Sharpe.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 28 February, 1913
pg 6
Co. D Inspected by Capt. D.C. Anderson.
Co. D Eighth regiment, O.N.G., was inspected Tuesday evening by Capt. D.C. Anderson of the Ninth Infantry, stationed at Ft. Thomas, Ky.
Capt. Anderson made a change in the method of inspection. Heretofore the commissioned officers have always been subjected to rigid questioning, but this time the inspection officer devoted the majority of his time to the non-commissioned officers, questioning and instructing them. He was well satisfied with the work of the whole company and complimented Capt. M.R. Limb.
Major F.C. Gerlach, Lieut. McCoy, Lieut. Taggart, Regimental Sergeant Kerr, Musician Keister and Capt. A.C. Merrillat, U.S.A. retired, were guests.
Co. D had 100 per cent of members present, an enviable showing indeed.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 28 March, 1913
pg 6
Co. D Departs
Members of Co. D commanded by Capt. M.R. Limb left Wooster at about 2 o’clock Thursday afternoon marching from here to C… which place they expect to … west to Mansfield and C…
Dispatches received at the … News office Thursday stated that … troops from Northern Ohio had progressed as far as B… that the first soldiers would be in Dayton Friday.
Co. D was the third … company to leave home, the others … Eighth succeeding in getting there Wednesday. Co. H is still flood bound at Shreve while Co. B is in the same fix at Ashland.
Those Who Went
F.C. Gerlach, Major
M.C. Taggat, Lieut.
G.C. McCoy, Lieut.
W.A. Kerr Regt. Sergt. Major
W.J. Kester Chief Musician
M.R. Limb, Capt.
G.S. Limb, Lieut.
F.C. Reddick, Lieut.
A.S. Weber, 1st Sergt.
Emil Schuch, Q.M.
Wm. Jolliff, Sergt.
J.F. Wepler, Corporal
C.H. Wever, Corporal
Ray Eckert, Corporal
Wyman Fry, Corporal
Joe Shamp, Corporal
C.W. Berry, …
Ed McDonald, Cook
M. A. Byers …Coffman, C.A. Crampton…the list is very difficult to read.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 18 April, 1913
pg 5
The Week’s Doings.
Members of Co. D, Eighth regiment, O.N.G., after three weeks spent in helping Ohio’s flood sufferers, returned to the city at 8:25 Monday evening, marched to the armory, and were disbursed.
The troops were called out just three weeks ago Tuesday morning, but did not get away from Wooster until late Wednesday afternoon. They marched to Creston, went on the Erie and were finally landed in Zanesville, where they have been on duty ever since.
The soldiers were able to accomplish much in the way of preventing looting and their presence was enough to stop the would-be thieves. Soldiers had orders to shoot looters on sight.
The local boys were all in good health upon returning except Capt. M.R. Limb, who is suffering from a slight attack of tonsilitis. Private James Dowling contracted tonsilitis at Zanesville and was cared for by Capt. Limb, who got it in turn.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Tuesday, 29 April, 1913
pg 1
Not War; ’Twas What Gen. Sherman Said War Is
No! No!!
Capt. Limb was not mobilizing his soldiers.
The riot call had not been sounded.
There is no war.
People of Wooster thought hades had turned loose last evening when they heard beating of drums, the firing of guns, and other war-like demonstrations reverberate upon the spring-like air.
But it was nothing much. Oh, no—not much—to those listening.
Simply the impressive work of the great and never-to-be-forgotten “Oriental and 101 degree,” which was exemplified by a horde of good fellows in board of trade hall.
The first class of an even Hunsicker dozen girded up their loins and went through the fascinating mysteries. They were fat, lean, medium, some mechanics, some business man, and one lone writer, the latter having received the only honors and “emoluments” that were given out at the session. The honors and the emoluments were gratefully and gracefully received. No, never mind, what they were—it’s enough for the reader to know that they were honors, of no mean proportions.
Well, anyway, it was simply fine, and if the 150 who follow enjoy themselves as much as did the even dozen who went through last evening, there will be much shouting and merriment in Wooster for the next few months in lodge circles.
The next session will probably be held one week from last night if the “laugh-sore” gets out of the systems of those present last evening.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Tuesday, 1 July, 1913
pg 2
Co. D Gets Orders About Annual Camp.
Armory Co D, 8th Infantry, Wooster, Ohio. June 30, 1913
1—In accordance with B.O. No. 2 c.s. R H.Q. this command will leave for Camp Perry at 9:20 a.m. Saturday, July 5, 1913.
2—The khaki uniform will be worn, two pairs of breeches will be taken.
3—Each man will provide himself with underwear, socks, soap, towel, toothbrush, and comb, also one day’s travel ration. By order of Captain M.R. Limb, First Sergeant A.S. Weber.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 18 July, 1913
pg 5
Company D At The Camp.
Company D at the recent camp scored 28 first class men, four second class men and had six men unqualified, four of whom came home before the opportunity was given them to complete the course. Among those first class men were three experts, three sharpshooters and three marksmen. Capt. Limb, Sergt Stoudenheimer and Eckert scoring expert riflemen, and also qualifying at the 800 and 1000 yard ranges.
Sergt. Weber and Jolliff and Private Pfouts scored sharpshooters, Sergt. Jolliff and Private Plouts qualifying at the 800 and 1000 yard ranges.
Privates Dan Hixon, Hershel Smith and George Mathis qualified as marksmen.
Sergt Stoudenheimer carried off the honor as high man on the range.
The members of Co. D, who saw service during the flood, received their service badge.
Officers and men will be allowed to take their wives and families to the California Exposition by paying an amount equal to their own expense. Efforts are being made to take friends of the different commands at the same time.
The different commands must be up to full strength and each member must have seen one year’s service. Company D has already started to deposit funds to defray the expense of the trip…. is the desire of Capt. Limb to … the command up to 70 or 80 men and then select the best drilled to make the trip.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Tuesday, 12 August, 1913
pg 1
Stoudenheimer Second Highest.
Sergeant Charles R. Stoudenheimer, of Co. D., 8th infantry, Wooster, is named in the list of 15 sharpshooters from which 12 will be picked who will compose the Ohio team in the international match which Opens Thursday. Stoudenheimer scored second highest, 348.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Tuesday, 2 September, 1913
pg 3
Wooster Boy Makes Score
Sergeant Charles Stoudenheimer made the top Buckeye score for the four range right reach 221 in the national contest at Camp Perry range Friday.
Captain Emmet Eddy was seventh with a score of 214.
Ohio’s listed men who were elected only a fortnight ago made 26th in the field of forty-five, scoring 2,435.
Wayne County Democrat
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 17 October, 1913
pg 5
Col. To Drop In Unexpectedly
Inspection of each company in the Eighth regiment, Ohio National Guard, will be made in the near future by Col. Edward Vollrath, of Bucyrus.
Col. Vollrath has notified the companies that an inspection will be made but has not told the dates, so that no preparations can be made for the occasion. Captain Limb states that Company D will be ready for the inspection at any time and that the Colonel can drop in whenever he wishes to.
1916
The Marion Star
Marion, Ohio
Monday, 10 January 1916
pg 1 & 3
Mills Reopen; Strike Broken
Hundreds Return to Work in East Youngstown Today.
Majority, However, Fear to Leave Home
Most of Troops Quit Strike Zone; Fourth Ordered Home.
Two Austrians from New York Under Arrest as Leaders of Strike—Situation at Republic Plant Unchanged.
Youngstown, Jan. 10.—Partial evacuation of East Youngstown by the National guard was decided on by Brigadier General C. Speaks this afternoon, following a conference with officers of his staff and a talk with Governor Willis over long-distance telephone.
The Fourth Regiment, led by Colonel Byron L. Barger, of Columbus was ordered back to the several headquarters of the companies in central Ohio; the Eighth regiment, under Colonel E.C. Vollrath, of Bucyrus, was ordered to Struthers, five miles from Youngstown, and the other ten companies of the Fifth infantry were left in Roumanian hall, at East Youngstown, and the other ten companies of the Fifth regiment were brought to Youngstown and quartered in the Y.M.C.A. building.
It was estimated at noon that only 577 of the 9,000 workingmen of the Youngstown Sheet & Tube company, who had been out since Thursday night, had returned to work, 500 entering the plants over the Poland-avenue bridge, and seventy-five over the burned Wilson-avenue bridge.
Afraid to Leave Homes.
“In attempting to discover why so many men stayed out, I found that many are afraid to leave their homes,” said General Speaks. “They told me, through an interpreter, they were afraid their homes would be burned and their wives and children might be in danger. They said they were not afraid while the soldiers were on duty, but they refused to believe the militia would remain on guard long.”
In discussing the situation today, President J.A. Campbell, of the sheet and tube company, said he feels practically all the old employes will return at the twenty-two cents per hour offered, which in an increase of 2-1/2 cents for ordinary skill, as soon as they feel they are secure from violence within and without the plant.
Won’t Import Workers.
“We feel that it is not our men who started the trouble,” said Campbell. “Evidence is at hand to support such a view. We have done so much for our employes that I am certain they would not take the lead in a strike like this. We are not trying to import workmen. That would be silly.”
Conditions at the Republic Iron & Steel company plant were reported to be exactly as they had been for some days. No work is being done in the plant and there is little prospects of a resumption for a time at least, officials said. General Manager J.W. Deetrich said he had a second conference with the committees representing the strikers and they they had gone to report his ultimatum to the men.
Arraignment of the men under arrest at East Youngstown was commenced by Squire Skipp today. Most of the prisoners pleaded not guilty and were bound over to the Mahoning county grand jury, which is now in session.
__________
Many Return To Work.
East Youngstown, Jan. 10.—The backbone of the big strike at the mills of the Youngstown Sheet & Tube company appeared broken today. Hundreds of the strikers returned to work, all apparently in a docile mood, when the bit mill whistle sounded the call at 6 o’clock.
Following the sedition of the company officials last night to open the mills, Brigadier General John C. Speaks, in charge of the 2,000 Ohio National guardsmen on duty here, withdrew all his soldiers from the property of the company. Speaks said he did not want to be considered as suing his force to guard the property of one particular concern.
Anticipating trouble at the opening of the mills, General Speaks called the entire Fourth regiment, under command of Colonel Byron L. Barger, of Columbus, which had been stationed at Berlin Center and Alliance Junction, to reinforce the Fifth regiment, led by Colonel Charles X. Zimmerman, of Cleveland, and the Eighth regiment, commanded by Colonel Edward C. Vollrath, of Bucyrus.
Ready for Action.
The guardsmen, fully armed and equipped with twenty rounds of ammunition each, were stationed on long trains of cars under Center street bridge, one mile west of the western end of the plant.
The repentant workmen entered the mills over the Wilson avenue bridge, which was partially burned by the mob, Friday night, and the Poland avenue bridge on the other side of the mills.
Squads of soldiers aided the company policeman guard the entrances of the bridges and no men who could not be identified by the corporation timekeepers were allowed to enter.
Clear the Street.
The militia and East Youngstown civic authorities cooperated with the Youngstown Sheet & Tube company, by clearing the village of all loiterers who were on the streets. If the men refused to leave they were taken into custody.
The 327 men under arrest at midnight on charges varying from that of carrying concealed weapons and loitering to charges of looting, assault and destroying property, were augmented by continued arrests until over 500 were in the regular and improvised jails by 6 o’clock this morning.
The prisoners were housed in the village jail, the fire engine-house, the various lodge halls, the council chamber and the banquet hall of the municipal building. Colonel Zimmerman loaned several companies of infantry to keep guard both inside and outside the buildings.
Eight detectives in the employ of an agency serving the steel mills arrived this morning for the purpose of hunting down the leaders of the mob which destroyed property and lives Friday night.
Two Important Prisoners.
Both the civic and military authorities today considered the most important prisoners to be Dan Eleck and John Briski, two Austrians from New York City, who were put through a third-degree examination last night by Prosecutor A.M. Henderson and Sheriff J.C. Umstead.
According to Umstead and Henderson, the men confessed that they were sent here from New York by “certain interests” to stir up discontent and trouble among employes of all mills manufacturing supplies for the allies.
Later the men hedged on their stories and said they had not been sent from New York at all, but had been in Youngstown for months. They told such conflicting stories that the authorities did not know what to believe and they were to be turned over to the Mahoning county grand jury, which reconvened today. Both were well dressed, plentifully supplied with money and apparently educated, although they spoke very broken English.
United States Inspector George Pate, of Cincinnati, today opened up a temporary postoffice in East Youngstown. The village postoffice was burned in the Friday night riot.
General Speaks today announced that the crucial test—the way the opening of the mills was taken by the strikers—had showed that the nerve of the trouble-makers had been broken.
Troops May Leave Today.
Although making no official statement of the disposition which would be made of the soldiers here, General Speaks held a conference with Governor willis over long-distance telephone following the opening of the plant, but he refused to give out the subject matter of the conversation.
Shortly after midnight two squads of soldiers, under the leadership of Captain Marcus R. Limb, of the Eighth infantry, raided a row of houses in the outskirts of East Youngstown and confiscated several wagonloads of liquor and merchandise which had been stolen by the marauders, Friday night.
The occupants of the residences offered no resistance. They were all foreigners and nothing could be gained from quizzing them until interpreters could be secured.
Surgeon General Joseph A. Hall, of Cincinnati, sent here by Governor Willis to look into the quarters of the men from a standpoint of sanitation, today had the sleeping places of the militia thoroughly inspected and fumigated.
Only Slight Trouble.
The only trouble this morning occurred at the Poland avenue bridge when a man stopped working men as they alighted from street cars and told them the Brier Hill Steel company, a rival corporation, was offering twenty-five cents an hour for common labor today.
The men were returning to work at the sheet and tube works at twenty-two cents an hour. Soldiers requested the man to move on. He seemed reluctant to go at first, but gentle prodding with a bayonet changed his mind.
Fred C. Croxton chief mediator of the state industrial commission, today continued his efforts to bring the men who are still out and the officers of the big concerns together.
“I am up against the proposition of working with men who belong to no union and who apparently have no spokesman,” said Croxton. “We hope, however, to arrange a meeting before night at which wages can be discussed.”
__________
Virtually Evacuate City.
Columbus, Jan. 10.—Adjutant General Hough was informed this morning by National guard officials at East Youngstown that the troops had practically evacuated that city with the exception of a small detachment at the bridge at East Youngstown and a small number of soldiers stationed at the plants and in the village of Struthers. The adjutant general was told that the Fourth regiment troops were being held in their cars at Berlin Center and that all of the Fifth and Eights regiments except the detachments mentioned are in their cars at Hazelton yards, ready to be ordered home.
The adjutant general, however, declared that he has no intention of recalling all the troops, at least before tonight. He intimated that the withdrawal of most of the soldiers was for the purpose of preventing a charge being made that state troops were being used to protect private property when not necessary.
__________
Federal Investigation.
Washington, Jan. 10.—The federal government today took a stand in the Youngstown strike. Late today the department of labor ordered an investigation of conditions at East Youngstown leading to the rioting of last Friday night.
News-Journal
Mansfield, Ohio
Tuesday, 7 March 1916
pg 4
City News Notes
Colonel Edward Vollrath, J.C. Cramer, H.O. Pontius, Frank A. Munz, Cyrus Fisher and Daniel Spade, of Bucyrus, and Major F.C. Gerlach, Captain M.R. Limb and Lieutenant Grover McCoy, of Wooster, were among the officers and members of the Eighth regiment, O.N.G., who were here yesterday to attend the funeral of the late Mayor Fred S. Marquis.
1916: 23 March, M.R. Limb and Helen A. Weidner of New Philadelphia, Ohio, are married in Wooster.
Dayton Daily News
Dayton, Ohio
Friday, 14 April 1916
pg 8
Going to Annapolis
New Philadelphia, O., April 14—Senator Pomerene has appointed Will L. Butler of New Philadelphia to the Annapolis naval academy. As alternates he has named Marcus Limb, Wooster; Donald Stratton, Alliance, and William C. Sellers, Marysville.
Mexican Border War (1910–1919)
The Mexican Border War culminated in a US military expedition into Mexico in pursuit of Pancho Villa, who had attacked a border town in New Mexico. The ending of the war lead to the establishment of a permanent border wall. “The boys”, as soldiers were called at that time, returned from duty on the Mexican Border just in time to be faced with recruitment for World War I.
The Bucyrus Evening Telegraph
Bucyrus, Ohio
Monday, 17 April 1916
pg 8
Company “D” Claims 1400 Rifle Score
“Use Amber Glasses” Says Captain Limb
Co. D at Wooster is hot and heavy after that 1383 score made by Co. A of Bucyrus. read this from the Wooster Republican:
Members of Co. D rifle team participating in the home and home shoot of companies of the Eighth regiment, chalked up a total of approximately 1400 out of a possible 1500 points Friday. The unofficial score kept here shows a total of 1380, an average of better than 46 for each man out of a possible 50. Capt. Limb had word from the chief inspector, Capt. Eddy, however, that the official count would make the figure slightly higher. It was expected that 1400 would be close to the actual figure.
“Capt. Eddy stated here that Bucyrus also made a good score and that Wooster and Bucyrus are close so far in the shoot. The shooting is the best ever done by members of Co. D.
“Major F.C. Gerlach and Capt. M.R. Limb up to Saturday had received no instructions whatever regarding a possible call for the Eighth regiment to participate in the Mexican controversy.
“‘I don’t know why you hear talk about it requiring two or three weeks to get regular army men to the border.’ Capt. Limb said Saturday. ‘We can mobilize the Eighth regiment in four or five hours—it was done when called to Youngstown—and the trip to the border can be made in three days and a half.
“‘If we were called to Mexico we would like to see every man in the company have a pair of amber glasses. They are needed there in the bright sun.’”
Shreve News
Shreve, Ohio
Friday, 12 May, 1916
pg 4
Wooster.
Captain M.R. Limb Tuesday gave out the following result of the company team shoot in the Eighth Ohio infantry, Ohio national guard.
Co. E, Ashland, 1416; D, Wooster, 1389; A, Bucyrus, 1383; C, Canton, 1379; H, Shreve, 1334; M, Mansfield, 1258; I, Tiffin, 1228; B, Akron, 1190; L, Galin, 1118; F, Akron, 1077; G, Wadsworth, 1041.
In discussing the latest Mexican entanglements and the likelihood of state troops being called out, Captain Limb stated that he did not believe the Ohio troops would be ordered into service soon, and that he looked for very little being done in connection with the guards until after the enactment of the new military law.
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Cincinnati, Ohio
Friday, 23 June 1916
pg 3
Militiaman Arrested.
Newark, O., June 22—Upon the request of Captain M.R. Limb, of Wooster, local police to-day arrested Joseph Lucci and returned him to Wooster, where he is a member of the National Guard. Lucci was in Newark with a carnival company exhibiting in connection with the Eagles convention.
The Times Recorder
Zanesville, Ohio
Friday, 23 June 1916
pg 3
Arrest Carnival Man as “Deserter”
Newark, O., June 22—Upon the request of Captain M.R. Limb, of Wooster, local police today arrested Joseph Lucci and returned him to Wooster, where he is a member of the National Guard. Lucci was in Newark with a carnival company exhibiting in connection with the Eagles convention.
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Cincinnati, Ohio
Monday, 26 June 1916
pg 3
Equipment Fails To Arrive, So Mobilization of Ohio Militia Is Delayed.
Guards May Be Called To Camp Wednesday.
State Authorities Decide Upon Prompt Action
To Break Up Further Attempts at Interference With Enlistments in Buck-eye Unite.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Columbus, Ohio, June 25.—There will be a delay in mobilization of troops at the big camp here, and none is to be ordered in before Wednesday because of the lack of equipment from the Federal Government. Equipment is needed for more than 8,000 men, and nothing has arrived.
Army regulations provide that when, under call of the President, state troops are called out for service, the War Department will furnish uniforms and other equipment an arms to care for the men who are in excess of the peace strength of the guard without formal requisitions.
Adjutant General Hough has proceeded on this theory. Thus far he has not received notice of the shipment of any supplies. Until they are shipped men will not be mobilized.
Decide on Prompt Action
The state authorities to-day decided on prompt action to break up further attempts at interference with enlistments. Judge Advocate general Robert J. Turney, of Cleveland, has been assigned to assist Attorney-General Edward C. Turner to show the power of the military arm of the state.
At Toledo and Xenia attempts have been made to secure release of men from the guard by habeas corpus proceedings. The Federal Courts may be appealed to in order that the attacks on the guard may be ended. If Sheriffs interfere there may be assertion of the superior power of the military.
While Governor Willis is deeply chagrined that at any city in the state such a situation would develop, he is full of fight since he has been informed of some of the antecedents of the factional trouble. He has pledged the full strength of the Administration to Adjutant General Hough in forcing to a final test the questions raised. There will be no back-tracking. That has been positively determined by the state authorities.
Governor Willis feels there has been a great work done the past week by the National Guard of Ohio. Without preliminary notice the call to the colors came.
Doubled in Number
Within the week the enlisted men of the guard have been doubled in number, the big mobilization camp laid out and put nearly ready for use, nearly four miles of sewer been constructed, enormous storehouses constructed, kitchens and other buildings required are nearly completed, electric light, telephone and telegraph wires put in place, over a mile of street-car track laid and in operation, a postoffice established and put in service, enormous stores purchased, 50 cars of camp equipment and field hospital supplies moved from Camp Perry, rations for men and beast purchased in train-load lots and the whole organization brought up to the minute without excitement or flurry.
To-day the big motor ditcher used in sewer ditching broke down, but after a few hours a big manufacturing plant assembled its men and put the machine in working shape again. There has been quick co-operation from every source in the state with the guard in putting the camp preparations along.
Major K.I. Best, guard architect, who was in command of the construction of guard armories over the state, helped the construction of camp buildings by transferring all his workmen at all points to Columbus. He brought the contractors and foremen and had seasoned organizations to take charge of every piece of work. The big storehouses and other buildings have gone ahead without delay under his direction.
Major Darby in Charge.
Major John C. Darby, of Cleveland, has command of the sanitary conditions at the campus sanitary inspector. He has absolute command to enforce full safety of health. The delay in ordering the troops in is wholly a matter of health preparations. federal and guard officials and State and City Board of Health are all co-operating in the health precautions taken. Adjutant General Hough has positively refused to hurry any troops in until the camp is disease proof. In that position he has the full support of Governor Willis.
To-day two companies of the Fourth Regiment went to the camp to prevent the grounds being overrun by visitors and sightseers. The Ninth Battalion had plenty of other work to do and the two companies had plenty to stop the thousands who had a good-natured curiosity to see a large military camp being put in preparation. They estimated they turned back 20,000 persons to-day.
The men engaged in putting the improvements in worked all day and to-night a big gang is pushing the work ahead. another day of sunshine and the end will be at hand, officials said to-night.
Columbus had its first military religious service in public to-day since the call came and the men went on duty. The headquarters companies of the Fourth Regiment under Colonel Byron L. Barger and staff, assembled at Goodale Park, where Chaplain Avery Clinger held services. Many thousands of citizens were at the services. Several nearby churches dismissed their services and joined the worshippers in the park. Music was furnished by the Fourth Regiment band.
Horses purchased for the Ohio Guard are being corralled at the bans in the State Fair Grounds as fast as they reach the city. More than 100 were brought in yesterday and a train load is expected to-morrow morning. They are inspected by State Veterinarian Dr. A.S. Cooley, of Cleveland, as a further measure of protection against contagious diseases. There is room at the Fair Grounds for many hundreds of the animals and fine facilities for handling them and making them familiar with the work they will have to do.
Plans for turning Camp Willis in to a permanent army camp, to be used in conjunction with the Columbus barracks, are being discussed by guardsmen here who say that the Federal Government is working to that end. The improvements that are now nearing completion may be permanent.
__________
Crowd Cheers Third.
Dayton Troops, Come Without Equipment, Go Through Drills.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Dayton, Ohio, June 26.—Military activity was in evidence in all sections of the city to-day and large crowds witnessed the scenes enacted at the Fair Grounds, Armory and the recruiting stations. Many names were added to the rolls of the Third Regiment which is almost at war strength with nearly 1,200 troops.
Colonel R.L. Hubler has received orders from Adjutant General Hough to begin the movement of troops to Columbus Tuesday, with Company L, of Sidney. Headquarters company, band and sanitary detachment, and Companies G, H and K, of this city, and the machine gun company are included. Company B will be picked up at Springfield.
Company A, of Covington; C, of Piqua; D, of Urbana, and M, of Greenville, will proceed direct to Columbus from their respective stations. Company E, of Hamilton; Company F, of Middletown, and Company I, of Xenia, will entrain in a body.
Company G, quartered at the Dayton Fair Grounds, went through rigid drill exercises to-day. A large crowd cheered them. The “rookies” appeared without uniform and many without equipment. No attempt will be made to furnish uniforms or military equipment until the state camp is reached.
The Dayton Bicycle Club has arranged to conduct a supply depot and will send bundles, parcels valuables and money to the members of the Third Regiment. For some time an effort has been made to raise a fund of $5,000 to $10,000 for the regiment.
__________
Taggart Swamped.
With Telegrams From Indianians Who Wish To Be Officers.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Washington, June 25.—If Senator Taggart carries out his plan to raise a regiment of Indianians for service in Mexico he will not be handicapped by a lack of officers.
The Senator was bombarded to-day with telegrams from Indianians who would like to be officers in the Taggart regiment. Nobody has yet telegraphed him for permission to go as a private, although it is expected there also will be no lack of privates.
There seems to be an impression that Taggart would be a fine boss to work for, even in the arduous pursuit of chasing Mexicans. Senator Taggart said that a soldier cannot do good work “unless there is plenty of fight in his boiler,” and that if he should be permitted to fit out a regiment to be taken to the front he will make it a point to see that the commissary is well equipped.
“I understand,” said Senator Taggart, “that the militia will be first called out, and that when the militia is in the field there will be consideration given to the calling of volunteers.”
__________
Aviation Centers
Are To Be Established Throughout Country To Train Birdmen.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
New York, June 25.—To provide a continuous aeronautical patrol of the border 10 aviation centers, with a chain of smaller stations between, are to be established at once. The military aviators are to be recruited from the National Guard and civilians who have taken up aviation.
Recruiting and training of operators has commenced. The War Department made arrangements to operate the Hempstead Plain aviation center, which is one mile from Garden City, L.I. Eight other aviation schools are available and are in running order at the present time. They are located at North Island, San Diego, Los Angeles, Newport News, Governor’s Island, Ithaca, buffalo and Jamaica Plains, Boston.
In Addition there also are available the following locations: Augusta, Ga.; Belmont Park, L.I.; Sheepshead Bay; College Park, Md.; the Aerodrome of the Aero Club of Illinois, and San Antonio, Texas.
__________
Thousands At Camp.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Charleston, W.Va., June 25.—Thousands of persons this afternoon went to Kanawha City, the mobilization camp of the Second Regiment of the West Virginia National Guard, now awaiting muster into the Federal service, to see the 12 companies on dress parade. Colonel Charles E. Morrison, commanding, made an inspection of the entire camp and expressed himself as well pleased with the regiment, which is increasing in strength each day.
__________
New Company Organized.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Evansville, Ind., June 25.—The military company being organized here by Lieutenant Colonel Julius Blum, upon orders from Adjutant General Frank L. Bridges, of the Indiana National Guard has enrolled nearly 50 members. Colonel Blum expects to have the company filled in two or three days, when it will depart for Ft. Benjamin Harrison at Indianapolis.
__________
Troops May Move To-Day.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Frankfort, Ky., June 25.—Orders for the Kentucky militiamen to move to Ft. Thomas are expected to-morrow. Company K, of Ashland, and the Signal Corps, of Lexington, will entrain at 5 o’clock Monday morning for the fort, where they will prepare the camp. Colonel Colston, of Louisville, came to Frankfort to-day to Governor Stanley regarding the movement of the First Regiment. The Governor was out of town, however, and his conference has been postponed until to-morrow.
__________
Leave Ashland Monday.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Ashland Ky., June 25.—K Company, of the Second Kentucky National Guard, will leave Monday evening for Ft. Thomas. Captain Poag was the first Captain in the state to report a full company. This afternoon the flag which L Company, of Ashland, carried during the Spanish-American War was presented to K Company.
__________
Clark Made Captain.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Hopkinsville, Ky., June 25.—E.W. Clark, former Captain of Company D, of this city, will leave early to-morrow morning for Murray to take charge of L Company, of which he has been appointed Captain. Captain Clark says he will prosecute a vigorous enlistment campaign to bring the company up to full war strength.
__________
Reception For Guardsmen.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Findlay, Ohio, June 25.—Citizens of Findlay this afternoon tendered A Company, Second Regiment, a public reception. In the morning the company attended church. Grand Army veterans, followed by Spanish War veterans, headed a parade to the theater. The company will leave for Columbus Tuesday.
__________
Ready For Front.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Wooster, Ohio, June 25—The hundred mark was passed to-day in recruiting Company D. Captain Limb has 102 men ready to go to the front.
__________
Recruits Are Added.
Special Dispatch to the Enquirer.
Wooster, Ohio, June 25—Captain Limb has added 35 recruits to D Company, Eighth Regiment, now having 102 men ready for service.
George Limb resigns from Company D as of Friday, June 30, 1916.
Shreve News
Shreve, Ohio
Friday, 7 July, 1916
pg 5
Court, County & General News.
George Limb Resigns.
Columbus, (Camp Willis), July 1.—First Lieut. George Limb of Company D of Wooster tendered his resignation, which was accepted Friday, June 30, and will leave for home Saturday or Sunday. He has been a member of Company D for twenty-three years.
Capt. M.R. Limb requested the boys of company D to take a ballot as to Lieut. Limb’s successor and Fred Redick was elected to fill the vacancy. Redick has been with company D for sixteen years and has been second lieutenant for five years. He rose from the ranks step by step.
William G. Jolliff was elected second lieutenant to succeed Redick. Jolliff has been in the company since 1913.
Lieut. Redick holds the distinction of never having missed a muster during the sixteen years that he has been a member of Company D.
Capt. Limb said this afternoon that affairs are moving fast in military circles and that Company D may possibly be on the way to the border in a few days. The boys are about equipped now. Drilling is the order of the morning and afternoon.
Corporal Ed. Ross is acting as barber. Bill Charlton made a barber chair. It is a first class one and is a fine piece of work. It is worthy of a place in the Wooster museum.
_______________
In its description of the arrival of the Eighth regiment at Columbus news writers pays the following tribute to Colonel Vollrath and his soldier boys:
“Along a five-mile course crowded with a throng of cheering thousands, Colonel Edward Vollrath of Bucyrus, led the Eighth regiment, Ohio National Guard, into Camp Willis at 4:40 o’clock this evening.
“This, said to be the largest regiment ever entered into the federal service, was the first infantry unit of the Ohio guards to take quarters at the big mobilization camp preparatory to enlistment into the federal service and journeying to the Mexican border.
“Colonel Vollrath is the idol of his regiment. Though more than a score of invitations to ride in an automobile were proffered him, every offer was politely refused. He set the pace of his command during the five-mile hike.
“Admiration of regular army mustering officers of the national guard and the citizens of Columbus was heaped on Colonel Vollrath for the wonderful mass of soldiers he brought into camp. His command of 1856 officers and is above maximum war strength.”
The Democratic Banner
Mount Vernon, Ohio
Tuesday, 11 July 1916
pg 5
Cigars Not Wanted
By Co. D — Money Raised For Tobacco
Wooster, July 10—Walter Whitaker and former Mayor Van Over were busy Saturday gathering in subscriptions from the business section for the boys of Company D at Camp Willis. A goodly sum was collected and this will be taken to Camp Willis Sunday by some one of the many who will make the trip. The money will be handed to Captain M.L. Limb, who will use it for the Wooster boys.
“We want a little chewing and smoking tobacco,” is the word sent back by the Wooster boys. “Don’t send cigars.”
Unknown Wooster newspaper
Sunday, 26 November, 1916
pg. ?
CAPT. LIMB LOOKS FOR XMAS BOXES
He Tells of Mishap That Befell Two Wooster Boys
El Paso, Nov. 26—I have spent considerable time in investigating the cause of the accident to the machine in which Bricker and Jolliff were riding.
It seems that they were passing to the left of another machine and had just about gotten past when a big truck coming from the opposite direction caused Bricker, who was at the wheel, to turn sharply to the right, bringing him in front of the machine he was passing.
The truck, however, hit his front fender and may have hit the left front hub. This caused the machine to lose some of its speed, and of course the machine in the rear in an endeavor to pass without hitting him, pulled to the right, but in doing so, hit the right rear wheel, throwing Bricker’s machine up against a telegraph pole. Both boys in the front seat went through the wind shield. Both were given first aid in a very short time, but the report phoned to us was that Jolliff was fatally and Bricker seriously injured. After I saw both boys I sent first message.
Four or Five X-ray pictures have been taken of Jolliff, and there is no depression on the skull. The last two show no fracture. But he looks a sight, as does Bricker, from bruises and cuts, which, of course, will amount to nothing in the end, or when healed up.
Both have recognized Colonel Weybrecht and myself at all times, and both will be all right in a short time.
I’ll not burn up the wire unless there is something doing, and then you will get it straight as I see it. However, we have little sickness. Colds! Some of ys, yes, but there is little wonder when the weather is considered. Our nights are cold and days warm. I often wonder whet would have happened if we had not taken the shot in the art at Columbus. We have not had a death in our regiment. Rap! Rap! There have been 1200 men for six months in the field. I believe most of the men have gained from five to twenty-five pounds since they left home. I don’t say they are getting all they want. No man can do that, nor that there is not a grumble once in a while. However, that is to be expected, for it is as hard to find a man that won’t grumble once in a while as it is to find a man who is always satisfied with what he gets. Time smoothes all such things over.
It looks to me as though you might as well get that Christmas box ready, for the prospects of return before that time look slim.
Dalton Gazette
Dalton, Ohio
Thursday, 30 November, 1916
pg 1
Two Wooster Guardsmen on Border Injured.
J.C. Jolliff, sergeant in Co. D, Eighth regiment, was seriously hurt and Harrison Bricker, private in Co. D, slightly hurt in an automobile accident at El Paso, Tex., according to a message received Saturday from Captain Limb, the company commander. No details were given. Both victims are well-known Wooster young men.
1947
Wooster Daily Record
Wooster, Ohio
Monday, 22 September, 1947
pg 10
Wooster Long a Guard Service Center
Nearly 80 Years of Fine Service Back of Co. H As Wooster Guards
By Elisabeth Quinby
As the new mobile armored Company H, 145th Infantry, 37th Division, Ohio National Guard swings into a 60 day recruiting period it will be representing nearly 80 years of Wooster military tradition.
A long-forgotten record of achievement lies behind today’s Guardsmen.
Shortly after the Civil War a young high school faculty member — F.G. Steel — formed a small army of school boys. Himself a veteran of the Civil War, Steel directed his boys in military maneuvers strictly from the latest 19th Century ideas in warfare.
* * *
THE WANDS THEY used as weapons in storming the hill which then occupied the present site of the Bowman Street School are far different from the real guns and the modern vehicles with which Company H is equipped.
Later, when the Wooster City Guard was organized on October 4, 1879, many of the Steel Cadets exchanged their wands for the slow-loading and firing guns of their day.
Soon after the formation of the Guard, the group became Company D, 8th Regiment, Ohio National Guard.
ONLY FOUR MEN IN Wooster today know much about the early days of the Steel Cadets and Company D. They are Jack Russell, Joe Fischer, Reuben Bechtel, and Jesse Marshall.
All four men are in or nearing their eighties and Mr. Bechtel and Mr. Russell are the only surviving Wooster members of the Cadets.
Company D, with J.W. Clark as its first captain, was to have thirty-six strenuous years.
* * *
AN EARLY ASSIGNMENT came on May 8, 1880, to stand guard at Silver Creek during the coal strike. Its last assignment as a unit was in 1916, when Company D, as part of the U.S. Army, went on border duty at Las Cruces, New Mexico. The company was mustered out of U.S. service on March 22, 1917.
Following World War I in the fall of 1920 Governor Victor Donahey of Ohio called for the formation of a new local unit to be part of the 37th Division, which was then being formed.
Major Marcus R. Limb undertook the task, which resulted in the activation of Company K, 145th Infantry, Ohio National Guard. The company was sworn in on October 19, 1920. It served with distinction until 1928, when the company was moved to Akron and replaced with Company G, a unit commanded by Julius A. Stark, now chief of staff of Ohio’s 37th Division.
COMPANY G, THIRD REGIMENT, Ohio State Guard was activated during the war years and was commanded by Capt. Ross Weygandt of Wooster. It was de-activated at midnight on September 12, 1947.
Newest Wooster military unit is Company H, Ohio National Guard, which was activated earlier this year. Capt. Charles McDlarran of Wooster is its commander. Lieutenants are Alfred Coppola, Ira Ryder, jr., and Paul Malarkey.
All the long years of the preceding units are studded with historic assignments and outstanding honors won in various competitions.
In February, 1881, the City Guard was mustered in for state service as Company D, 8th Regiment, Ohio State Guard. Officers were J.W. Clark, captain; J.A. Ogden, first lieutenant; C.V. Hard, second lieutenant. In 1882 Pvt. James Taggart was appointed Regimental Quartermaster and Company D distinguished itself at the Toledo camp in September, 1882, for taking the $500 drilling prize.
* * *
THE YEAR 1884 WAS memorable for a number of things — the Company was called out on the Cincinnati strike, but was ordered home when they arrived at Orrville, the Company also served two strife-torn days at Ashland, protecting the jail and courthouse at the time of the hanging of Horn and Gribbens.
“The crowd at Ashland climbed over the high wooden fences,” Jack Russell recalls, “and finally they knocked one whole side down. They were determined to get in on the hangings, and they did.”
The active years rolled by. Company D was drilling at the old Academy of Music where the west store of the Freedlander Co. now stands. It later moved to the “old plow shop” better known in those days as the McDonald Agricultural Works located on Diamond Alley and South st. The building they used is still standing and was used as a warehouse by the McIntire Company until it was recently acquired by the William Annat Company here.
“We used the huge third floor of that building,” Jack Russell says, “One time we were drilling there and Jacob Snyder, a Union veteran, mistook the drill order and walked out the third floor door. He fell to the ground and was pretty well shaken up. We laughed about it all the rest of the years were were in the company.”
* * *
IN THEIR LATER DAYS, Company D moved to the old armory built by B.B. Lake on East North st. Modern Woosterians are still using that armory, which has been converted into bowling alleys.
In 1885 1st Lt. Hard was elected major, Robert Cameron 1st Lt. and D.W. Kimber, 2nd Lt. They went to Philadelphia that year for their prize drill.
Philadelphia was having a Soldier’s and Sasilor’s reunion at the time. Mr. Jack Russell remembers that the town was filled with colorful troops — the Lomax Rifles, the tough Bush Zouaves, the Houston Light Guards, the Montgomery Grays, and many others.
* * *
COMPANY D WAS NOT TO be outdone in sartorial splendor by their competitors.
“Potter and I,” says Mr. Russell, “put on our fine gray dress uniforms and went out to see Philadelphia in a big way. We thought we cut a good figure but not a single person spoke to us. Most of them took one look and turned away in disgust.
We wondered what was wrong. “Why,” we asked a Philadelphian we managed to corner. He glared at us. “No one in Philadelphia likes Southerners,” he told us. “An there we were all decked out in Confederate gray — with nothing else to put on.”
Company D camped at Gallion in 1887 and participated in a prize drill at Washington, D.C., a long trip in those days. The company went to Columbus for the parade at the opening of the Ohio Dentennial Exposition on September 22, 1888.
* * *
BECAUSE 1889 WAS THE year of the George Washington Centennial at New York City, Company D prepared for a long trip, a fine time and another national event to record on its log.
Jack Russell and Joe Fischer will never forget that trip.
“They marched us from the Battery clear up Main Street. While those cobblestone streets hurt our feet our spirits were high. All the way to our encampment just off the Bowery the people of New York showered paper down on the marching troops,” they recall.
That was the time also, that Brandon McClure of Company D proved once and for all that he was the champion pie-lover of them all. McClure his fellow troop members claim was afraid that he wouldn’t get his favorite dessert in the big city. He packed a whole grip full of those little 5-cent pies to fortify himself while we were encamped at New York, and for snacks along the way.”
McClure was the subject of another pie story — the pre-Battle of Christmas Run fracas when Guy Teeple stole McClure’s hoarded berry pie and caused a one man revolution.
* * *
NO ONE SEEMS to know quite when the Battle of Christmas Run took place, but he survivors all agree that it was the Battle of the Century, so far as Wayne County, Ohio, was concerned. Nearest guess at the date is in the early 1890’s.
The warriors gathered for lunch out on the old fairgrounds which were then on the Lincoln highway, west of Wooster, alongside Christmas Run.
Not only Company D was involved in the mock battle, but also members of the G.A.R. and the Lakeville Guards.
It began in earnest after lunch, lasted until dusk. Old soldiers grounded their arms and fought hand to hand as the battle fury increased.
Cal Spear had brought his horse for the occasion.
* * *
‘HE RODE LIKE A GREAT general right in the thick of battle,” Jesse Marshall says. “Sam Hildebrand was one of the wounded — with his cap blown off and his face burned with gunpowder — spite of the ruling that no real ammunition was to be used.”
A haze from the battlefield rose into the murky day and hung all afternoon about fifteen feet above the battling heroes.
McClure was the only pre-battle casualty. His uniform was badly stained with berry juice from the stolen pie which Teeple finally threw at him. McClure was at that time a noted strawberry grower, and Teeple was the scion of the family which owned Teeple’s Galleries, a photographic studio on the southeast corner of the Public Square. It stood where the New Quinby building now stands.
While Capt. J.A. Ogden headed Company D, the men in the ranks were constantly on the alert for his unpredictable orders.
* * *
“ONE THAT I REMEMBER,” says Jack Russell, “is Fours right, double time, HALT.”
Those were the years of the 16-man roller skating platoon which executed perfect drills on skates. The unpredictable orders once caught Mr. Russell and his skating partner, Harry Pearson, in a tight spot. They broke up the figure when they were unable to stop, and wound up sailing through the armory in opposite directions.
It was Capt. Ogden too, who routed out a Company D honor guard of twenty-four men on one of the coldest nights Wayne County ever had. The men went up to the Hart home on Larwill st., Wooster, to fire a salute in honor of Dr. Hugh Hart, father of Wayne Hart, of Wooster. Dr. Hart had just been appointed surgeon general of Ohio by Governor Campbell.
“The men were half frozen, but they did their duty happily for their fellow member,” Jesse Marshall recalls.
In the spring of 1890 Capt. Ogden resigned his post because he was moving away from Wooster. The company also lost its second lieutenant, Forbes Alcock, who was later to head the Canton Wrights, one of the crack drill teams of the country.
* * *
UNDER THE NEWLY ELECTED Capt. W.J. Mullens, the regiment encampment at Massillon, July 29-August 3, 1890, was the high spot of the year.
“No one ever forgot Massillon,” Jesse Marshall says. “That was the time the police department got so mad at Company D that they arrested the whole bunch, took them down to the mayor’s office, and held them until 2 a.m.”
Cause of Company D’s wholesale arrest started with the sudden hatred they had worked up against a newspaperman named Skinner.
Skinner printed a story in the Massillon paper comparing the Eighth Regiment with the tramps who had killed a policeman up the railroad tracks a piece — and then had had the nerve to come out to the enraged encampment.
“We caught him, got a tent fly ready, put him in and tossed him in the air till he cried for mercy. He was really scared,” Jack Russell describes the prank. “The citizens of Massillon didn’t like it.”
When “the law” arrived instead of taking the whole regiment, they arrested Company D.
* * *
“I ALWAYS GIVE VOLRATH credit for using his head at that time,” Marshall adds. “He was a lawyer and told Company D to appoint three or four members to take the blame for tossing Skinner in the fly.”
“Then he furnished Wayne County bonds instead of the Stark County variety, and everyone finally walked away, free men.
“The sheriff caught on and came out for us — but by that time the Company had gone back to Wooster.”
That November Sgt. Joe Fischer, one of the three living Wooster members of Company D was elected second lieutenant.
The 1891 was another year the company never forgot. It was then in the heyday of its long history. They had few outside interests in those days, which accounts for the enormous amount of time the members devoted to hard workouts with the company. The incidents that are recalled today are mainly the out-of-the ordinary ones which brought laughter into a serious project.
* * *
THEY CAMPED AT MEYERS LAKE, near Canton, from August 18 until August 24 in 1891.
“The greatest temptation there, besides stealing one of the lake boats for a hair-raising cruise, was the straw stack,” Jesse Marshall says. “We finally had to throw a guard around it day and night to keep someone from sneaking up and settling it on fire.”
Company D’s history includes attending the World’s Fair at Chicago in 1893, official duty in the coal strike in Belmont and Guernsey Counties in June, 1894. Lt. Joseph Fischer resigned on July 12, 1894 with First Sgt. M.R. Limb (later Mayor of Wooster) elected to take Fischer’s place. The Company made a practice march to Chippewa Lake and back in 1895 and the big event of 1896 was attending the inauguration of Gov. William McKinley at Columbus.
As the Spanich-American War approached, officers in Company D changed rapidly. By the time war was declared in 1898, F.C. Gerlach was captain.
* * *
THE ORDER TO ASSEMBLE, for the Spanish-American war was given on April 28, 1898. Company D went to Akron to join its regiment and thence to Camp Bushnell at Columbus. Members were mustered in to United States service as Company D, 8th Regiment, O.V.I. and ordered to Camp Alger near Falk Church, Va. The 8th Ohio became part of the second brigade, First Division, Second Army Corps, along with the 6th Illinois and the 6th Massachusetts. Brig. Gen. G.A. Garrettson was commander. The 8th O.V.I. was designated as President’s Own, and left New York aboard the U.S.S. St. Paul on July 6. They reached Santiago on July 10, camped near Aguadoras River, and later on Seville Hill.
In August, when they were encamped on San Juan Hill, the 8th OVI was ordered to embark on the Mohawk for New York. Members of Company D were finally discharged officially on November 21, 1898.
Company D stayed in service as a detached company assigned to the Eighth regiment. The company camped during the summer of 1899 at Cedar Point. Meanwhile, the regular training was being kept up, and in 1900 Company D took second place at St. Louis in competitive drill. Also in 1900, the company attended the inauguration of Gov. Nash at Columbus.
“Mind the time Sammy Hildebrand slipped on a banana peel when we were marching in Columbus,” Jack Russell reminded Jesse Marshall.
* * *
“DID HE FLOP! I thought he was really going some place,” chuckled Marshall.
President McKinley’s inauguration in Washington, D.C., was attended in force by Company D. That year the Company went to the Buffalo Exposition and had a side trip to Niagara Falls. They took second prize in competitive drill at the Columbus State Fair, September 4. In September, also, they attended the President’s funeral at Canton.
The Company, although still going strong, was becoming more involved in other activities, other interests. Many of them went into the famed Canton Wrights, along with their old second lieutenant Forbes Alcick — who by this time was beginning to be weighed down with the medals he’d received as commander of the drill team.
In 1903, when James B. Rahl of Wooster, was serving as second lieutenant, the company “received new 1898 model rifles and participated in regular Army maneuvers at West Point, Ky,” according to the record. They served in the coal strike crisis at Jefferson Co., O., in 1906, attended the Taft inauguration in 1909, stood flood service at Zanesville in 1914.
The latter turned out to be something of an adventure for the company, since railroad communications were cut off in all directions from Wooster, and the company first attempted to find passage out through the bottoms toward Shreve. At noon they arranged passage over the Erie at Creston, packed baggage and supplies in wagons, and walked to Creston. A number of shifts brought them to Columbus, then to Lancaster, where ten boats took them eventually to Zanesville. Baggage had to be transported over the intervening bridges by handcar.
In 1916, Company D was called into service during the Youngstown strike in January. In July of that year the company, with 138 men and three officers, was mustered into United States service.
Twenty-eight of the men were eliminated in the physical examination, and — to Company D’s sorrow — one member deserted.
* * *
CAPT. M.R. LIMB, 1st Lt. Fred C. Redick and 2nd Lt. William Jolliff and Company D left on August 31 for El Paso, Texas. On Sept. 28th the company was assigned to border duty at Las Cruses, N.M. The company was ordered to Fort Benjamin Harrison for mustering out on March 22, 1917.
Back in Wooster there were still a few months before Company D was called to action, July 15, in World War I. Lt. Jolliff had resigned, with 1st Sgt. Walter R. Yost commissioned 2nd lieutenant to take his place.
Company D had come a long way from the Steel Cadets who stormed the old tree on the Bowman street hill fifty years before World War I.
The company roster back in the heyday of Co. D is incomplete because of scanty records. It includes many family names that are still well-known in modern Wooster —
* * *
THERE WERE HUGH ANNANT, James Taggart, Ross Funk, Ed Hard, Irvin McClarran, Joe Keister, and Samuel Hildebrandt;
Jack Russell, Ed Gray, Curt Snyder, Charles Barrett, Charles Worley, Harry Pearson, Dr. Brown, Sherman Lundy, John Potter, Dr. Whitmore, Harry Deemer, and Brandon McClure;
Charles Zimmerman, James Shamp, Charles Clark, Jacob Snyder, Charles Weber, Will McClure, Frank Smith, Jim Peppers, John Reamer, John Keller, Dr. Hessler and Will Myers;
Horace H. Clemmons, George Winters, Lou Cook, William Banker, Lynn Jeffries, Harry Imgard, Harry Floor, Fred Floor, Wesley Keller, C.V. Hard, James A. Ogden and Joseph Cumberland;
Rube Bechtel, Fred Faber, Joe Fischer, Frank Fletcher, Ed Bates, Al Peckinpaugh, Cal Spear, Fin Luce, Charles Clark, Will Allis, Frank Gott, Cary Taggart, Jud Proger, Charles Taylor, Bert Ebinger, Sam Bissell, Charles Curry, Charles Dice, James Glass, Harry Scovil, Guy Teeple, Will Shively, and Harry Kramer;
Jesse Marshall, Walter Potter, Julius Sugars, Addie Ross, Ross Wallace, William Long, Andrew King, Leander Geiselman, Jesse Spear, Jesse Wilhelm, Frank Motz, George Webb, Jesse Robison, Russell Smith, Emmett Manges, John Bloxhan, Robert Cameron, Forbes Alcock and many others, added each year until World War I.
* * *
AFTER WORLD WAR I, Company D was never reactivated. In its place Company K, 145th Infantry, Ohio National Guard was formed by Major Marcus R. Limb — long active in Company D — at the request of Governor Victor Donahey.
Company K was to be part of the 37th Division then forming. It was on October 19, 1920, that Company K was sworn in. There were three officers and sixty men, about fifteen of whom were World War I veterans, the rest largely seniors in the Wooster high school class of that year.
Walter R. Yost, now Chief of Police in Wooster, was the first captain of Company K. The other officers were Julius Stark, now chief of staff of the 37th Division, O.N.G., and Edward Ross, Ralph Harpster was first sergeant; Ernest Martin, supply sergeant; Paul Lyon, mess sergeant; and Merle Conrad, clerk.
This organization achieved such a high degree of efficiency that it was placed on the Board, of Honor at President Warren Harding’s funeral at Marion, O., in 1923.
* * *
“PERHAPS THE MOST marked difference between Company K and its predecessors,” Capt. Yost says, “was the control of its administration and training by the regular army — for at this time one regular army instructor was constantly on duty with the organization to aid and assist in building its abilities up to the standard of requirement of the regular army.
“This standard had been required by the reorganization bill of 1916, which made the Guard responsible for 18 divisions of the 27 divisions then known as the First Line of Defense.”
In 1928 Company K was moved to Akron to assure that city of a full battalion of infantry, and was replaced with another unit — Company G, Ohio National Guard — which was commanded by Julius A. Stark. At that time Capt. Yost’s active participation ended.
* * *
IN EARLY SUMMER, 1941, Company G was called up to duty with the 37th Division, shortly before the United States entered World War II.
On Thursday, May 18, 1944, nearly three years after Wooster’s National Guard company entered regular army service, a meeting of the Board of Trade offices was announced to discuss the organization of a unit of the Ohio State Guard in Wooster.
On Friday evening at 8 p.m. details of the new company were fully discussed, and at a second meeting, on May 24, Ross S. Weygandt was recommended as commander of the new unit.
Several days later, Horace M. Doyle and Mayor Ralph E. Fisher were appointed as lieutenants in the unit. Doyle was appointed 1st Lieutenant, Fisher 2nd Lieutenant.
Drills were held in the Wooster Armory, which was leased from Ohio M. Yocum on May 31, 1944. Company G was formally mustered into service on Wednesday, June 16, 1944.
In slightly less than one month, after the decision to organize the State Guard unit in Wooster, a full company of 60 men had been mustered in. They attended Camp Light at Zaleski, Ohio, that first summer — leaving Sunday morning, July 16, with only a small part of the necessary equipment because delivery had been delayed.
Company G attended three annual training camps with members giving a good account of themselves at all of them, as Capt. Weygandt emphasized at last week’s farewell dinner.
Wooster’s latest military organization is Company H, 37th Division Ohio National Guard, which is commanded by Captain Charles McClarran of Wooster. Strength now stands at half of the authorized 150 enlisted men and 7 officers.
* * *
COMPANY H, ACTIVATED this spring, is a heavy weapons company and is the fourth lettered company of the Second Battalion of the 145th Infantry. The battalion is commanded by Lt. Col. William Morr, who distinguished himself in all of the campaigns of the 37th Division during World War II.
Close to the heart of Col. Julius Stark, of Wooster, chief of staff of the 37th Division, is his home company.
“A real job is confronting the people of Wooster in organizing and maintaining Company H,” Col. Stark points out.
Overall strength is seven officers and 150 enlisted men with enlistments extending over a period of twenty-four months.
Company H has leased the grandstand at the fairgrounds for use until a new armory is built in Wooster.
“I believe we will find many men who served in World War II most anxious to enlist in the organization, for various reasons,” Col. Stark says. “The pay, from an enlisted man’s viewpoint, will be the best in the history of the National Guard. This company will be composed almost entirely of specialists. It will be motorized and, at full strength, will have some forty motor vehicles.
“The type of training the organization will do cannot help but be interesting and should attract intelligent young men who are interested in preparing themselves to help in the defense of their country, should the occasion ever arise again.”
While come of the most urgently needed posts have already been opportunities are open for those enlisting in Company H, as Capt. McClarran has previously announced.
This modern-day motorized company is operating in a world that has come a long way from the turn of the century world.
But it will still have to go some to beat the record of achievement hung up more than half a century ago by the Steel Cadets and their successors in Company D, 8th Regiment, Ohio National Guard.
1948
Wooster Daily Record
Wooster, Ohio
Friday, 23 April, 1948
pgs 10-11
Observe Fiftieth Anniversary Of War With Spain
Group of Spanish War Veterans As They Appear Today
PHOTO w/caption: Following the April meeting of Buckeye Camp No. 51, members present at Memorial Hall posed for their golden anniversary portrait. Front row, left to right: George B. Webb, Harry L. McClarran, Arch H. Dice, Charles R. Scott, Robert J. Campbell, Frank P. Bedford, John W. Kostenbader, Percy Maize, junior vice commander; Charles E. King, commander; Lyman R. Critchfield. Back row, from left, William E. Barnard, Wiley K. Miller, Ernest A. Berry, William A. Conrad, William Ernst, Fred J. Leopold, W.B. Swartz, senior vice commander; John C. McKeever, Frank G. Gray.
PHOTO w/caption: Lt. George Limb, of Wooster, has a whole series of pictures which he took both in the U.S. and in Cuba. This one shows the landing of Company D at Siboney, Cuba, two boat loads being shown pulling away from the Transport St. Paul.
PHOTO w/caption: Barracks such as these were used to house Company D men in their brief training period at Falls Church, Va.
PHOTO w/caption: E.A. Berry, Wooster nurseryman, treasures this picture taken when Company H, of Shreve, landed upon its return from Cuba. While the figures are somewhat dim, those near the front, left to right are Gen. A.B. Critchfield (a captain then), E.A. Berry (just the back of him), Charles White, former Deputy Sheriff Sam Manson, Walter Robison, Chas. Clewell, Charles Christopher and William Downing. The Robinson family had a father and two sons in the service. Clewell’s mother is still a resident of Shreve, probably the only mother of a Spanish War veteran living in this vicinity.
PHOTO w/caption: This picture was taken, April 26th, 1898, when Company D, 8th Regiment, O.V.I. entrained at the Pennsylvania depot and was off for war in Cuba. The photographer was looking west, the building in the left background being the depot. Note the clothes and the buggy in the foreground.
Vets Recall Events Of Conflict In Which Disease Took Big Toll
by Elisabeth Quinby
“Forever in thine eyes, O Liberty, shines that pure light whereby the world is saved, and though thou slay me, yet will I trust in thee.”
— LYMAN CRITCHFIELD, jr. (in letter home, 1898)
Two world wars and current strife in the Far East and in Europe have over shadowed the short hazardous war the United States fought with Spain half a century ago.
Sunday, April 25, is the 50th anniversary of the official call for United States troops to fight in the Spanish-American War.
In Wooster and Doylestown and Orrville, in Shreve, Millersburg, Medina, Creston, Killbuck, Smithville, Marshallville, Loudonville, Apple Creek, Big Prairie — in hundreds of villages and cities the golden anniversary will pass quietly.
But those who survived the ordeal by disease, lack of food, and skirmishes with Spanish troops, will not ever forget the war months in 1898.
On February 15, 1898, the U.S.S. Maine was hit and sunk in Havana harbor, with the loss of some 200 lives.
Egged on by the Hearst press in particular, the country was seething until the war call came on April 25.
In the spring of 1898 the Eighth Regiment, Ohio National Guard, possessed a complete 12 company formation: A. Bucyrus; B. Akron; C. Polk; D. Wooster; E. East Liverpool; F. Canton; G. Wadsworth; H. Shreve; I. Canton; K. Alliance; L. Canton; and M. Mansfield.
President William McKinley’s home city, Canton, was represented by three companies — and Ohi’s Eighth Regiment was to become famous as “McKinley’s Own.”
On April 23, 1898, Col. Curtis V. Hard, commanding officer of the 8th Regiment, O.N.G., was informed the call for troops would be made Monday, April 25.
Capt. F.C. Gerlach of Wooster rounded up his men Sunday morning, went with them to a special war-eve service at the Wooster Methodist Episcopal church that night. Rev. J. Frank Smith took his text from Samuel 2, 10:12: “Be of good courage; Let us pray for the men, for our people and the cities of our God.”
Men of Wooster’s Company D could not know that night that they were going to meet death chiefly from pestilence — yellow fever and dysentery — instead of bullets.
(Many years later, at a Memorial Day service in Wooster, the late Edwin Slusser Wertz landed the 1898 U.S. Army as having been the direct influence in vast improvement in health and diet conditions for American soldiers in later years.)
On the26th of April, 1898, the 8th Regiment was assembled at Akron, and two days later proceeded to Camp Bushnell, Columbus, where it was mustered into U.S. service as the 8th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, on May 13, 1898.
MEANTIME, back in Wooster, outstanding citizens of the community chipped in a total of $395.50, with which a bay horse was bought for Col. C.V. Hard and a seal brown horse for Chaplain I.N. Keiffer, beloved confident of the Wooster contingent. Col. Hard’s horse was named “General Wooster;” the horse given to Chaplain Keiffer was “Martin Luther, Jr.”
A dispatch from Camp Bushnell to the Wooster Republican on May 2, 1898, brought news of food gripes and of Cpl. Charlie Scott’s appointment to chief of police duty. “Assistants are Will Curry, Pete Miller, and Blondy Plank. Can you guess the reason why? (oversleep), runs the news item.
On May 16, the 8th Ohio was ordered to Camp Alger, in Fairfax county, near Falls church, Virginia. The camp was only nine miles from Washington, D.C. Crowds from the capital city came out daily to view the troops on parade.
ALL ALONG the way to Camp Alger the troops were greeted by mobs of cheering citizens. At the camp the 8th Ohio waited impatiently for orders to proceed to the front, in Cuba. Rumors flew — the 8th was going to Washington, to Puerto Rico, back to Columbus, out to Manila, where Dewey was attempting to take the Philippine Island for the United States.
The 8th Ohio was one of the earliest regiments to reach Camp Alger, which became one of the great permanent camps of the Spanish-American War. The camp was at Woodburn Manor, near Bull Run, one of the historic spots of the war between the states. Regiment members griped about food — in the historic manner of troops — about the long overdue pay, and about the camp’s being far from civilization.
Among celebrities of the regiment were Chaplain Keiffer, who was to die suddenly before the troops left for Cuba; Capt. Ammon B. Critchfield, of Shreve’s Co. H, “weighing 294 pounds, jovial and brave;” Capt. F.C. Gerlach of Wooster, Co. D, “the splendid young captain;” Col. C.V. Hard, “erect on his elegant bay, dignified, unimpassioned.”
Back in Wooster, 1st Sgt. Arch Dice was recruiting additional men. More than 40 men were added to the company rolls before he returned to Camp Alger. A fellow passenger on the trip was Chaplain Keiffer, who became ill soon after arriving in camp.
In June, Col. Hard, commander of the 8th O.V.I., wired back news of the sudden death of Chaplain I.N. Keiffer.
THE CHAPLAIN, who was president of Century club here when he left from military service, had been feeling ill for some days.
“I talked with him a few hours before his death, and both of us agreed he was improving,” Col. Hard wired back to Wooster. “At 3:45 a.m. the attendant was startled to hear him gasp. Assistant Surgeon Wuchter, of Wadsworth, who tented next door, heard him and rushed in. He gasped again and was dead. The cause was probably neuralgia of the heart. Officers and men of the regiment are all thoroughly dejected.
To replace Chaplain Keiffer, Col. Hard recommended the Rev. Dr. J.O. Campbell, minister of the United Presbyterian church, Wooster.
— ADD SPANISH WAY
In his farewell sermon at the church before leaving for the front, the Rev. Dr. Campbell told his overflow congregation: “American arms are triumphant on the hill tops around Santiago, and are sweeping Spain’s navies from the seas. God always writes with a legible hand . . .”
On the 4th of July, 1898, orders were received by Col. hard to move his regiment to New York City, to take the U.S.S. St. Paul for Cuba. The ship was in command of Captain Sigsbee, who was in command of the Maine at the time it was destroyed in Havana harbor.
The ship left the evening of July 6 for Santiago. During the voyage the 8th Ohio had some diversion for the St. Paul chased several suspect vessels.
TROOPS WERE instructed to land at Siboney, about 12 miles down the coast from Santiago.
Arrival of the U.S.S. St. Paul on July 12 brought a special entry in the diary of the British Consul in Havana, Mr. Ramsden. “The sight of the 8th Regiment as reinforcements increased the despondency of the Spanish for their cause,” Mr. Ramsden observed.
“As soon as all were landed, the advance over the mountain trails was begun. “The heat was oppressive and the tropical sun beat down hard upon the heads of the boys from northern Ohio . . .” runs a dispatch from Cuba to the Wooster Daily Republican. The men saw many crude fresh graves, over which the buzzards hovered.
All through the war, which was officially over late in August, 1898, Lyman Critchfield, Jr. — known to succeeding generations in Wayne Co. as Judge L.R. Critchfield — kept up a running account of 8th Ohio news. Other correspondents signed themselves “Sgt. Slim” and “High Private.”
As they marched to encamp after landing at Siboney, the 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry saw fresh graves along the road. Col. Hard received orders to encamp his regiment on the east bank of the Aguadores river.
THE CAMP was wet and unhealthy. From the time of muster in and muster out the regiment was to lose 106 men — with more deaths added the following year from conditions directly traceable to the Spanish American War.
Although Col. Hard asked and received permission to change the location of the camp to Sevilla Hill, the entire stay in Cuba was a constant struggle against disease.
The regimental graveyard was in a secluded spot high on the hillside and commanding a view of Santiago, five miles away. Irvin Lautzenheiser was the first regimental death in Cuba. Famous “Round Robin” letter signed by every officer in the entire army of Santiago protested against the circumstances which endangered the health of their troops.
Part of the Ohio men had gone into the signal corps — and, like Fred Leopold of Wooster, spent the war months in Puerto Rico. Spain progested the American landing on that island and tendered a peace proposal. (“Young” King Alphonso of Spain was ill at the time with the measles.)
On July 23, Col. Hard wired to Wooster: “Eighth All Well — notify towns interested.”
RUMORS OF THE disease which was striking down the 8th Ohio in Cuba still made a nightmare of the summer of ’98 for the families in this district.
Lt. Col. Charles Dick of the 8th Ohio was selected to return to the United States to confer with President McKinley on conditions in Cuba.
Lyman Critchfield wrote home: “The health of the 8th is good, of Co. D, excellent . . . Our precautions for preserving our health are strict. We boil all our water and do not eat the fruit here. Our rations are slim, but we expect them to be better soon.
“The boys are singing and joking and discussing war and fighting the Spaniards mentally. We have had no word from home since July 5. We have no drills and all the work is to cook our own meals and keep from starving. Between times the band plays “Yankee doodle” and we all shout and sing. At night we dream of being back in the States.”
In Puerto Rico, as July 1898, wore on into August, the headlines read: “Dons Fled Like Scared Rabbits From the Americans.” All our troops in Cuba were marching on San Juan.
YELLOW FEVER among troops in Cuba was rating scare headlines too, although the Wooster Daily Republican asserted there was not a case of the fever among members of the 8th Ohio.
“Last Saturday,” wrote Capt. F.C. Gerlach, “George Limb, Jerry Naftzger, Sterling Funk and myself walked to Siboney to get some things that were packed in our trunks.
“I had dinner with Capt. H.L. Kuhns. There was a report that there was yellow fever, but it was shown that it was not the genuine fever.”
To allay the spreading rumors, the 8th Ohio sanitary bulletins were published:
This is the way the war now stacked up:
Beginning of the war, Thursday, April 21, 7 a.m.
Admiral Sampson’s fleet sails from Key West to blockage ports of Cuba, Friday, April 22, 5:45 a.m.
First gun of the war fired by the gunboat Nashville, Friday, April 22.
First prize of the war — the Buena Ventura — captured by the Nashville, Friday, April 22.
The president asks for 125,000 volunteers, April 23.
Great naval battle fought in the harbor of Manila, P.I., and the Spanish fleet vessels destroyed by the U.S. squadron, in command of Commodore George Dewey, May 1.
Invasion of Cuba begun by the landing of 600 marines, June 10.
American troops at Guantanamo attacked by Spaniards, who were repulsed, June 11.
Second Manila expedition leaves San Francisco, June 15.
General assault — after previous victories — begun by the army and by ships at 7 a.m. July 1 and 2, the American troops capturing and holding the lines of the enemy.
Santiago de Cuba bombarded by the Fifth Army Corps on Sunday, July 10.
Pease overtures made by Spain announced by the authorities at Washington, Tuesday, July 26.
Army in Cuba ordered on August 4 to proceed to the new camp at Montauk Point, N.Y.
By August 5, General Miles had reached many miles in the interior of Puerto Rico, and the Spaniards were on the run.
Spain’s acceptance of our peace terms submitted to the president, August 9, 1898.
“HOME HOME,” ran the August 6 dispatch headline in the Wooster Daily Republican. “The longing words of sick soldier boys.”
Foul food, or no food at all, foul living conditions, foul everything in Cuba were behind the 8th Ohio survivors.
On August 5, Col. Hard was notified to have his troops in readiness for the trip north. “All men will be examined for yellow fever, and all suspect cases will be left behind. Tents will be left standing and only private horses will be embarked,” ran the official orders.
“All clothing and bedding that can be spared will be turned in to prevent infection.”
(Those were the days before the dread yellow fever had been traced to a certain breed of mosquitoes.)
On August 10, the entire regiment was re-united and encamped on famed San Juan Hill. On the 16th of August orders were received that the 8th Ohio was to embark on the U.S.S. Mohawk, a transport that had just landed 1200 miles away on Puerto Rico.
“The sick and emaciated 8th Regiment went north, with two deaths at sea. A number had been left behind in Cuban hospitals. We’ll have ?? camp until ?? September ?? sixty days’ furlough until mustering out on November 10, at Wooster,” goes the published account of the trip home.
Tragedy was still to hit many households in this county.
August 22, in a story datelined Burbank, Ohio, a typical story is told: “While Mr. and Mrs. David Naftzger were attending the camp meeting at Pleasant Home yesterday, a man whose horses were almost white with sweat drove up to the grounds and found Mr. and Mrs. Naftzger and told them that there was a death message at their home.
“Mrs. Naftzger exclaimed with pitiful accents, ‘Oh, I know who it is. It is my boy,’ and fainted dead away and had to be carried to their carriage.”
Fern N. Naftzger, their only son, had died of yellow fever in Santiago. He was only 19 years old.
After the 8th Regiment, O.V.I. landed in the States, the county was stirred by accounts of illness. There was a mass meeting in the Wooster Opera House, which resulted in Harry McClarran and Andrew Branstetter starting at 2 a.m. for New York, with $353.06 to be used in caring for sick Wooster soldiers.
COL. CURTIS HARD was attacked in the press following cessation of the war, for the “skeletal” condition of his troops on arrival at New York. Chaplain Campbell and the 8th Ohio Regiment came to his defense.
Lyman Critchfield reported that “some of the boys brought parrots with them. Co. D has one. We are teaching it to swear and use rude words in the English language. It talks Spanish now.”
The war was over.
Sick and dying soldiers still were hospitalized at Montauk Point, N.Y. Rumored deaths added to the anxiety of families back home.
Then the Wooster paper headlined:
“HARK, THE SIGNAL BELL. Twice it Will Ring for Our Own Boys: When They Leave New York and Are Within an Hour of Wooster.”
There was to be a formal reception at the depot, a parade, a supper at the armory, a 7:30 p.m. parade and fire works, a reception at the Opera House at 8 p.m.
Fire Chief Gerlach was primed to give the special signal by repeating the fire alarm three times in a 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8 sequence.
Company D, of Wooster, Company H, of Shreve, and the other companies in the 8th Ohio, came home to royal welcomes.
ON NOVEMBER 10, 1898, Company D reached Wooster. On November 11 they staged a full dress parade. The last full dress parade under Major Edward Vollrath of Bucyrus, came on November 18.
(Even the University of Wooster, through President Sylvester F. Scovel, invited the troops to an impromptu open house on the college campus.)
The regiment ? forgot its gallant band. They agreed: “In the dark days before Santiago, it was as a cooling draught to the fevered brain, to the weak, sick, and ragged boys of the 8th Ohio to hear the inspiring strains of the regimental band come floating over the hills at eventide.”
On November 21 — it was a Monday — the 8th Ohio Regiment, O.V.I., was mustered out. They were never to be together again as a regiment.
But, in 1906 Buckeye Camp No. 51, United Spanish War veterans was chartered on April 2. The camp still meets in Memorial hall on the first Monday of each month.
There are now 58 members of Buckeye Camp No. 51. Officers are: Charles King, Madisonburg, commander; W.B. Swartz, Wooster, senior vice commander; Percy Maize, R.D. Wooster, junior vice commander; Wiley K. Miller, Wooster, quartermaster; Fred Leopold, Wooster, adjutant.
Members of the camp celebrated Muster Day a week early this year, with a dinner on Sunday, April 18. A week from the 50th anniversary date, the entire north-eastern Ohio Booster of Spanish American war veterans and auxiliary members will come to Wooster for an all-day meeting.
The national association of the Spanish American veterans has been invited by Cuba to hold the annual fall convention there this year — but plans are being held up by a transportation bottleneck, Wooster veterans say.
Buckeye Camp, No. 51, United Spanish War Veterans, includes the following members today:
Resident Members — Barnard, William E.; Berry, Ernest A.; Bersch, Albert W.; Conrad, William A.; Critchfield, Lyman R.; Curry, William R.; Dice, Arch H.; Gray, Frank G.; Johnson, Merton R.; Jolliff, Harvey; King, Charles F.; Kinkler, Harry.
Kostenbader, John W.; Langell, Clem E.; Leopold, Fred J.; Limb, George S.; Maize, Percy; McClarran, Harry L.; Merkel, Eugene D.; Milham, Arthur R.; Miller, Wiley K.; Rush, Ray; Scott, Charles R.; Swartz, William B.; Unger, Gus W.; Webb, George B.; Willford, L.R.
Non-Resident Members — Bedford, Frank P., Killbuck; Bensinger, Oliver, Rittman; Bird, Charles E., Loudonville; Brown, Thomas, Cleveland; Buchanan, Sam E., Creston; Campbell, Robert J., Shreve; Chance, Alfred R., Seville; Dewar, James, Dayton; Emrick, Edward, Medina; Ernst, William, Shreve.
Gensemer, Dubs K., Creston; Isch Elmer, Marshallville; Lautzenheiser, Perrine, Hudson, Mich.; Lemon, A.B., Millersburg; Manson, John C., Orrville; Marsh, Clarence B., Sandusky; Miehls, William A., Orrville; Merillat, Oliver B., Millersburg; Miller, Bert R., Shreve; Mumma, Lee R., Washington, D.C.
McFarland, Edgar, Columbus; McKeal, James, Shreve; McKeever, John C., Shreve; McKenzie, H.C., Big Prairie; Pontius, Lee, Orrville; Sterrett, William B., BridgePort, O.; Swartz, George, Barberton; Tanner, Wilbur, J., LeRoy; Werner, Samuel, Orrville; Zeber, George W., Harmony, Pa.
As soldiers always have, the Spanish-American troops thought they were fighting a final war.
Many of them have lived to find they were only starting on another 50 years of strife. Their sons and their grandsons have fought two major world wars.
Yet — they still feel the way they did when they volunteered in ’98.
“Forever in thine eyes, O Liberty, shines that pure light whereby the world is saved and though thou slayest me, yet will I trust in thee.”
* * * *
Complete Company D Roster
Complete roster of Company D, (Wooster), 8th Regt., O.V.I.
Col. Curtis V. Hard, of Wooster, commanding
OFFICERS
Captain F.C. Gerlach
First Lt. William E. Barnard
Second Lt. Gustave W. Unger
Sergeants: First, Arch H. Dice, Q.M., George S. Limb, Horace W. Miller, Harry P. Eaby, Louis E. Gasche, Frank B. Horn.
Corporals: Webster D. Horn, Harry D. Woolman, George M. Swarts, Charles R. Scott, Cary M. Grosenbach, Robert Cameron, Jr., LaVerne G. Cumberland, Charley E. Unger, Perrine Lautzenheiser, Sterling Funk, Will R. Curry, and Rhomas R. Stevens.
Musicians: Charles A. Heater, David H. Drushal.
Wagoner: Lloyd A. Naftzger
Privates: Howard R. Albright, John R. Barnes, William H. Baughman, Willard K. Beckley, George H. Blake, William H. Boyd, George W. Brown, Thomas P. Brown, Harry P. Branstetter, George Burg, William H. Bucher, Jr., Nathaniel C. Cameron, Sherman Carr, Louis W. Christine, Charles Christy.
Jerome E. Clark, Alvin Clay, Edward D. Conrad, Owen Creath, Lyman R. Critchfield, Wallace Criley, Joseph W. Kistler, Frank Kostenbader, Clement E. Langell, Irvin Lautzenheiser, William G. Lerch, Frederick J. Leopold, Chas. W. Linberger, Percy M. Maize, Edward Mahaney, Harry C. Miller, Edward H. Miller, Arthur R. Milham, Charley McKinney, Harry L. McClarran.
William G. McClelland, Howard Meseley, John P. Myers, Fern R. Naftzger, Willis Norris, Antonio Oltmanns, Harry F. Plank, Chas. E. Cumberland, Eddie W. Derr, Ralph W. Eddy, Edward Emrich, Jacob C. Fitler, Charles Fortney, Glenn, Jr., Joseph Glenn, Quinten Gravatt, William Welch Graves, Frank Guy Gray, James Greist.
Harry N. Heller, William H. Hughes, Earl O. Immler, Harry A. Jacobs, Harvey F. Jolliff, Merten R. Johnson, Harry Kinkler, Sinclair Pinnicks, Floyd Plum, Edmond Rieder, William R. Robertson, Amos L. Ross, William Schuch, Fred A. Schuch, Robert Segner, Jr., Vernon J. Smith, Olin Lee Smith, John F. Stotsberry, William A. Stotsberry, Charles C. Stotsberry, John T. Swarts, William Swartz, Edward Thomen, Samuel F. Weaver, George B. Webb, Calvin A. Winebrenner, Ephraim I. Yoder.
