Walter S. Newhall, A Memoir 1864. Published For The Sanitary Commission. – SOLD

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WALTER S. NEWHALL, A MEMOIR, PHILADELPHIA: Published For The Benefit of THE SANITARY COMMISSION, 1864.  Caxton Press of C. Sherman, Son & Co.  Dedicated To The Officers And Men of the Third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry…Frontispiece likeness of Newhall from photograph with facsimile signature.  Hard bound, 140 pages.

A nice history covering nearly the Newhall’s entire service which ended with his death in 1863. Briefly recounting his childhood, and his being a good Cricketer, competing in Canada, and other eastern cricket clubs.  He held the dubious distinction of being the first International Cricketer to die in time of War.

In April of 1861, as a 2nd Lieutenant, Newhall joined Major General John C. Fremont’s Bodyguard, a duty that lasted until August of that year, with Newhall rising to the rank of 1st Lieutenant.  In January of 1862, he was commissioned into the 3rd PA. Cavalry, again as 2nd Lt., and by September of 1862, had attained the rank of captain. Newhall was present at Gettysburg, and while leading a charge, was struck in the face with a confederate flag staff with a spear-like tip, that was lowered toward him as he approached. The spear “shattering his jaw, tearing his cheek to pieces, and knocking him senseless to the ground.”

After recuperating for a spell at home, Newhall rejoined the regiment in August, and saw some more skirmishes with the enemy.  On December 18, 1863, in the Warrenton, Va. area. he urged his horse into a cold and swollen stream, when the horse became mired and began to struggle, while Newhall attempted to dismount, but his horse reared upward and through him into the bitter cold, fast moving current.  His lifeless body resurfaced about a half hour later, and he was pulled from the turbulent stream.

A decent read, with good information as to his and the 3rd Pa. Cavalry’s actions during the war until the end of 1863.

Tight copy, wear to covers, corners etc.