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Post by Greg Carter on Jul 7, 2002 18:58:51 GMT -5
There are numerous reports in the records of the Sauk War that denote Illinois militiamen "losing" their bayonets and belts. Could this be the forerunner to the Civil War practice of "lightening the load" by ditching what they believed to be useless gear, or is it possible that so many men actually lost their equipment?
GMC
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Post by Robert Braun on Jul 18, 2002 15:23:25 GMT -5
'Almanac," I think that some of the items, like the loss of government bayonet belts and the like may be a case of "lightening the load." However, I am inclined to think otherwise, for the simple reason that the majority of militia volunteers were mounted, and hence had less of a need to concern themselves with "lightening the load," than say straight infantry with no benefit of horses.
Now that's not to say it didn't happen, because it did. For example, a reading of the muster-out roll of Captain George Bower’s Company, Second Regiment, First Brigade, shows that these fellows left behind blankets, coffeepots, camp kettles, etc.-- reportedly all on the orders of a superior. Another example-- Dodge's squadron, and most of General Henry's command left behind five wagons, food, excess baggage and tent-cloths at the Rock River Rapids when BH's trail was found.
Generally, when I read about the loss of a saddle, or bridle, or a coat, or a U. S. musket or a "tommyhawk," I am inclined to think that the loss was unintentional.
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Post by Greg Carter on Jul 19, 2002 7:52:12 GMT -5
Bob,
I think you are right. Of course, if I were a soldier in an area with hostiles lurking about I would not want to part with my weapons or tack and saddle either!
GMC
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