Samuel H. Starr
Encyclopedia
Samuel Henry Starr was a career United States Army Officer, regimental commander and prisoner of war
. A collection of his letters provide a rare view of military life, the War with Mexico, Indian conflicts, the Civil War
, his fall from grace, recovery and post Civil War service. Despite his rough demeanor he was a religious man and reflective of the times he served.
He was known for his discipline and blistering tongue-lashings directed at friend and foe who performed unsuitably in his eyes. In the later part of 1862, he saber slapped (hit with the flat edge of his saber) an inattentive camp guard and loudly declared the soldier an "SOB." Because of his "abuse of the guard," he resigned his rank of Colonel, his command and subjected himself to a rigorous religious revival then an active recruiting effort.
Forgiven by the press and apparently by the Army, he rejoined the active military as a major in command of a cavalry regiment. He commanded the Cavalry Reserve Brigade briefly, but was denied the promotion and command when another officer his junior took command. He is noted for his July 1863 actions at the Battle of Fairfield
where his small cavalry regiment took on two crack Confederate Cavalry Regiments reinforced with light artillery. He was severely wounded in the melee and his right arm had to be amputated while he was a prisoner of war. "Old Paddy" was exchanged on parole in September (not November) of that year.
After a period of recovery he resumed his career to command the Cavalry Remount Camp in Maryland. Later he was a Special Inspector of Cavalry for the armies of the Potomac and the James where his insistence of doing things right contributed to a higher degree of quality and professionalism. During the post war period he served in Texas then retired as a full colonel on December 15, 1870.
Samuel Starr enlisted in the United States Army as a private on October 27, 1832 in Company G, 4th United States Artillery to October 26, 1837. On June 23, 1846 he enlisted with Company A, an engineer battalion during the Mexican War reaching the rank of sergeant and given a brevet
promotion to second lieutenant on June 28, 1848 and he was discharged on July 13, 1848. He sent letters to his wife's home from Matamoros, Mexico in 1846. Other letters were sent from Victoria, Mexico dated January 12, 1847 and two from Tampico dated February 9 and 22, 1847. His nickname was "Paddy" reflective of his Irish ancestry.
In one letter dated March 14, 1847 from an engineer camp near the city of Veracruz, he mentions some skirmishing near San Juan. His letter of March 30, mentions the surrender of Veracruz to American forces. Another letter dated April 22, 1847 describes following Mexican General Santa Anna to Xalapa
. The letter was written from the "Castle of Perote."
Other letters describe disease in the army (July 7), skirmishes during the approach to Mexico City and the Battle of Contreras
(August 30). From the Halls of Montezuma (September 23) he provides a description of the Battle of Molino del Rey
and the suffering of the casualties after that action. In many letters he paints a brief portrait of his life, the hardships of his men, the civilians and the defeated Mexican forces. In his last letter from "The City of Mexico" or Mexico City, his wife Eliza now resides in Rome, New York
(May 8, 1848).
He was appointed brevet second lieutenant, 2nd Dragoons, in June 1848. On July 13, 1848 he is commissioned a second lieutenant in the Regular Army. He sends a letter to his wife from West Point, Texas
in Fayette County on June 25, 1848 where he mentions his promotion as a passing comment. From a camp at Towash Village (April 2, 1849), San Antonio May 20) he encourages his wife to consider coming to Texas. On November 10, 1851 he is promoted to first lieutenant. By January 18, 1852 his wife is at Fort Gates, Texas, while he is at Fort Mason.
Then there is a strange letter (August 2, 1853) that is regarding the limits of Starr's arrest from Thomas J. Wood at Fort Mason, Texas. This is frustrating because it provides no clue to why he is on house arrest! The July 31st letter it refers to was not copied for the author. Several letters are then exchanged including a tender letter to his daughter Kate on September 22, 1853 and no mention of his "arrest."
On March 4, 1854 he is at Fort McKavitt where he describes the needs of his wife for family to his daughter Kate. Starr served in Texas from 1848 to 1854 and this time was hard for his wife.
In 1855 he was in Fort Riley, Kansas. On July 20, 1855 he is at Fort Kearney, Nebraska Territory while his wife is in Burlington, New Jersey and the envelope indicates he is now a Captain. He talks about his participation in chasing Native Americans
on the plains and their way of life. Other letters mention the Sioux and Utah expeditions in 1855-1856 when he was at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Over the years he writes many letters home, mostly to his daughters.
On May 19, 1856 while at Old Fort Cedar, Captain Augustus Pleasonton writes from the headquarters of the Sioux Expedition at Fort Pierre orders to return to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for recruiting duty. Starr is there by July 17 and in a letter dated April 11, 1857 from the Assistant Adjutant General, L. Thomas, he is sent back West. In a June 26, 1857 letter he describes to his daughter Kate where he is and how things are going at the post.
Then there is a letter (September 13, 1857) regarding an investigation into Starr's conduct to the Inspector General, Colonel J. K. F. Mansfield regarding irregularities of recruiting accounts. There is a series of letters to and from the Auditor's Office in the Treasury Department until at least August 1859. Apparently this is resolved because he is promoted to Captain on June 14, 1858 and continues with the 2nd U.S. Cavalry until August 3, 1861. In 1861 he leaves the Western territories for the East. On May 16, he is in Washington, D. C. and his wife is now residing in Burlington, New Jersey.
from Governor C. S. Olden in Trenton, New Jersey. It is effective on August 24, 1861. On September 25, 1861 the Officers of the 5th New Jersey Infantry write to Brigadier General William R. Montgomery regarding of Starr's excess discipline and mistreatment of his men.
By December 14, 1861 he was commander of the 3rd Brigade, Hooker’s Division, Army of the Potomac. His October 15 letter from Alexandria, Virginia to Eliza shows pride in his men. On May 4, 1862 he is breveted to major, Regular Army for gallant and meritorious service during the battle of Williamsburg, Virginia. He still held his volunteer rank of colonel.
He writes a letter to wife Eliza only 22 miles from the Confederate Capital in Richmond, Virginia on May 17, 1862. He provides a good description and some detail of his experiences during the Battle of Williamsburg. On May 27 he writes from Bottom's Bridge in Virginia.
From the camp of "Seven Pines," six miles before Richmond, Virginia comes a report (June 5, 1862) of the killed and wounded from the 5th New Jersey Infantry during the Battle of Seven Pines
in Virginia acknowledged by Colonel Starr. Then there is a printed commendation from George McClellan to the soldiers of the Army of the Potomac in a letter dated July 1, from Governor Olden in Trenton to Starr praising his men. "The regiment was brave, and I have reason to congratulate myself in having command of as gallant a regiment as any in the service."
Due to a slapping incident reticent of the future strict disciplinarian and vulgar lashing tongue of cavalry General George S. Patton where Starr "saber slapped" an inattentive guard on the head. Starr resigned his commission in the volunteer service. A letter dated October 4, 1862 is forwarded General L. Thomas, Adjutant General in Washington, D. C. which is accepted on October 20. Starr at Camp Kearney, Virginia sends a telegram to Governor C. S. Olden regarding his resignation on October 22 and in reply Starr is encouraged to participate in recruiting efforts.
In a letter dated January 16, 1863 he shows remorse for his actions and a desire for forgiveness to his wife. On February 20, 1863, Starr writes to General L. Thomas, Adjutant General in Washington, D. C. regarding charges against him for improper recruiting. After a period of remorse, religious inner-inspection and forgiveness by the public, he returned to the 2nd U.S. Cavalry (formerly the 2nd Dragoons) as a captain. On April 25, 1863, Starr is promoted to major, Regular Army, with the 6th U.S. Cavalry Regiment.
On June 21, 1863 he is breveted lieutenant colonel for gallant and meritorius service in action at Upperville, Virginia. Starr commands the Cavalry Reserve Brigade briefly. He assumed he would be promoted but his older age and reputation denied him continued command. Many felt his old school discipline, attitude and the rapidly changing venue of the Union cavalry was beyond him. Remarkably he held his tongue while fuming in outrage but soldiered on. Then on July 2, 1863 for gallant and meritorius service in the Gettysburg Campaign he is breveted to colonel. However his new commander quickly makes a mistake that would be costly to Starr and the 6th Cavalry.
. To better understand Starr's role within the military organization, the following brief is provided. For more details, see Gettysburg Union order of battle
.
The following list is the 6th US Cavalry Regiment's documented battles and engagements of June and July 1863.
and attracted the attention of newly commissioned Union Brigadier General Wesley Merritt
of the Reserve Brigade, First Division, Cavalry Corps. He ordered the 6th U.S. Cavalry under (Brevet Colonel) Major Starr to scout Fairfield and locate the wagons, resulting in the Battle of Fairfield
. Starr dashed forward under orders after the Confederate supply train. His scouts spotted the wagons and Starr charged forward. When his forward units under Lieutenant Christian Balder encountered Virginia cavalry and came racing back, Starr decided to fight. He deployed his men in a defensive posture with a portion of them mounted ready for offensive action on the road.
Unknown to Starr his small cavalry regiment was facing two crack Confederate Cavalry Regiments reinforced with light artillery. Starr had his 400 troopers dismount perpendicular to the road in the adjoining fields and an orchard on a slight ridge near Fairfield, Pennsylvania
. Union troopers directed by their officers took up hasty defensive positions along a fence and a row of trees.
Starr's 6th Regiment halted a charge of the 7th Virginia Cavalry
. Starr, probably believing the Confederates were retreating charged forward with his mounted troopers. Confederate Chew's Battery
unlimbered and opened fire on the Federal cavalrymen. The 7th quickly regrouped and supported by the 6th Virginia Cavalry
, the 7th Virginia charged again.
It was a cavalryman's worst nightmare of a roiling twisted fight with pistols and blades by an overwhelming mounted force. In the violent melee Starr was struck by a saber in the head then hit in the arm by a pistol ball. He fell from his horse severely wounded. The Virginia cavalry cleared Starr's forces off the ridge inflicting heavy casualties and taking many prisoners. The 6th Cavalry had 6 men listed as killed in action, 5 officers and 23 men wounded and 203 officers and men missing out of 400.
General "Grumble" Jones
, outnumbering the Union forces by more than 2 to 1, pursued the retreating Federals for three miles to the Fairfield Gap, but was unable to eliminate his quarry. Small groups of the Starr's 6th Cavalry," ... reformed several miles from the field of action by Lt. Louis H. Carpenter
," harassed the Virginia troopers giving the impression of the vanguard of a much larger force. Another of Starr's lieutenants, named Nolan
, though wounded, assisted with the wounded not captured.
The 6th Cavalry's stand was considered one of the most gallant in its history and helped influence the outcome the battles being fought around Gettysburg. While the 6th Cavalry regiment was cut to pieces, it fought so well that its squadrons were regarded as the advance of a large body of troops. The Confederate senior officer of those brigades was later criticized severely for being delayed by such an inferior force. Private
George Crawford Platt
, later Sergeant
, an Irish immigrant serving in Carpenter's Troop H, was awarded the Medal of Honor
on July 12, 1895, for his actions that day at Fairfield. His citation reads, "Seized the regimental flag upon the death of the standard bearer in a hand-to-hand fight and prevented it from falling into the hands of the enemy." His "commander" was an eyewitness and documented Private Platt's "beyond the call of duty" behavior that day.*Bixby, William K. – Kodner, Molly Samuel H. Starr Papers, 1846-1904 In folder 72 in a letter dated January 9, 1868 is a copy of a letter from "George Stoneman, Petersburgh, Virginia, to Secretary of War, Washington, D.C., regarding actions of George C. Cram in the engagement at Fairfield, Pennsylvania, on July 3, 1863." Former Major Cram claimed credit for rallying the 6th Cavalry after the melee and the effort thereafter. Cram wished to be recognized for his actions. The Army dutifully conducted an investigation writing to those who survived the war. Starr reported that Cram "was not there."
As a prisoner of war, Starr was taken into Fairfield by the Confederates. He had his wounds attended to and unfortunately his right arm had to be amputated. He spent a few days in Fairfield until he recovered enough to be transported south. "Old Paddy" was later exchanged in the following September (not November).
In November 1864, Starr was assigned as chief mustering and disbursing officer for the state of Ohio. He held this position until January 1865. On April 12, 1865 Starr writes to the editor of the "Richmond Whig" and included the "proper lyrics" to a Union song. (Which song? It was not included in the author's copy!)
Starr then served as special inspector of cavalry for the Armies of the Potomac and the James from January to August 1865. He is at City Point, Virginia on July 18 when he writes his wife now residing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Starr was then reassigned back to the 6th Cavalry in Maryland. In October 1865, he received a brevet commission to lieutenant colonel for his outstanding service. In the later part of October, he was ordered with his regiment to Texas where he took part of the occupation. The 6th was headquartered in Austin, Texas and he brought his family there. Samuel Starr's daughter Kate married William D. Price of Austin, Texas, in 1866. Price had served as a captain of the 1st Texas Cavalry (Union) during the Civil War. Following the war, he became a prominent lawyer and judge in Austin. Price died in 1877.
Starr and the 6th participated in various Indian Campaigns from 1867 to 1869 in Texas. His daughter Jo apparently stayed in Philadelphia as evidenced by a series of letters from January 1866 to January 1870. He describes various incidents and events he believes she would find interesting. His last letter in the Missouri Historical collection to his daughter Jo dated August 15, 1870 is reflective of his service. During this period of relative quiet, Colonel Starr retired from the army in December 1870.
was a fraternal organization composed of veterans of the Union Army
who had served in the American Civil War
. Apparently he was concerned about the loss of his arm and had made an insert for his uniform jacket. To the casual passerby, it appeared as if his arm and hand was present, but limp at his side. His 1870 retirement picture in Philadelphia reflects this.
Colonel Samuel H. Starr, U.S.Army retired, died on November 23, 1891, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery
in Washington, D.C. with full military honors.
Samuel Starr left a legacy of many letters, correspondence, military papers regarding his service with various military units. This includes notes and comments from his daughters, especially Kate Price. They are part of the Samuel H. Starr Papers, 1846-1904 at the Missouri Historical Society Archives in St. Louis, Missouri.
The collection is arranged into eight series: Personal Correspondence from Samuel Starr to Family, Personal Correspondence to Samuel Starr (includes letters from veterans regarding reunions and veterans' organizations), Military Correspondence of Samuel Starr (Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Sioux Indian expedition), Military Papers of Samuel Starr (includes forms for quartermaster stores, charges against Starr, and lists of casualties. The series also includes three folders of General and Special Orders.), Papers of Other Members of the Starr Family, Papers of William D. Price, Papers of Other Members of the Price Family, and Miscellaneous.
Prisoner of war
A prisoner of war or enemy prisoner of war is a person, whether civilian or combatant, who is held in custody by an enemy power during or immediately after an armed conflict...
. A collection of his letters provide a rare view of military life, the War with Mexico, Indian conflicts, the Civil War
American Civil War
The American Civil War was a civil war fought in the United States of America. In response to the election of Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States, 11 southern slave states declared their secession from the United States and formed the Confederate States of America ; the other 25...
, his fall from grace, recovery and post Civil War service. Despite his rough demeanor he was a religious man and reflective of the times he served.
He was known for his discipline and blistering tongue-lashings directed at friend and foe who performed unsuitably in his eyes. In the later part of 1862, he saber slapped (hit with the flat edge of his saber) an inattentive camp guard and loudly declared the soldier an "SOB." Because of his "abuse of the guard," he resigned his rank of Colonel, his command and subjected himself to a rigorous religious revival then an active recruiting effort.
Forgiven by the press and apparently by the Army, he rejoined the active military as a major in command of a cavalry regiment. He commanded the Cavalry Reserve Brigade briefly, but was denied the promotion and command when another officer his junior took command. He is noted for his July 1863 actions at the Battle of Fairfield
Battle of Fairfield
The Battle of Fairfield was a cavalry engagement during the Gettysburg Campaign of the American Civil War. It was fought July 3, 1863, near Fairfield, Pennsylvania, concurrently with the Battle of Gettysburg, although it was not a formal part of that battle...
where his small cavalry regiment took on two crack Confederate Cavalry Regiments reinforced with light artillery. He was severely wounded in the melee and his right arm had to be amputated while he was a prisoner of war. "Old Paddy" was exchanged on parole in September (not November) of that year.
After a period of recovery he resumed his career to command the Cavalry Remount Camp in Maryland. Later he was a Special Inspector of Cavalry for the armies of the Potomac and the James where his insistence of doing things right contributed to a higher degree of quality and professionalism. During the post war period he served in Texas then retired as a full colonel on December 15, 1870.
Early years
Samuel Starr was born July 31, 1810, in Leyden, New York. He was the son of Benjamin John or Henry Starr (September 12, 1779–August 19, 1852) and Achsah Maria Ely (May 24, 1787–August 19, 1864). Samuel had eights siblings. Starr married Eliza Kurtz (May 7, 1822–March 1, 1900) from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 21, 1841 in Leyden Township, Lewis County, New York and had several children.- Achsah Catharine (Kate) Starr (about 1843–?) in New York state.
- Kurtz Henry Starr (January 25, 1846–April 2, 1847) in New York.
- Annie Martha Starr (about 1849–?) in Austin, Texas.
- Jo Ursula Starr (about 1851–?) in Fort Graham, Texas.
- Samuel Benjamin Starr (April 20, 1857–?) in Burlington, New Jersey.
Military service
Brevet (military)
In many of the world's military establishments, brevet referred to a warrant authorizing a commissioned officer to hold a higher rank temporarily, but usually without receiving the pay of that higher rank except when actually serving in that role. An officer so promoted may be referred to as being...
promotion to second lieutenant on June 28, 1848 and he was discharged on July 13, 1848. He sent letters to his wife's home from Matamoros, Mexico in 1846. Other letters were sent from Victoria, Mexico dated January 12, 1847 and two from Tampico dated February 9 and 22, 1847. His nickname was "Paddy" reflective of his Irish ancestry.
In one letter dated March 14, 1847 from an engineer camp near the city of Veracruz, he mentions some skirmishing near San Juan. His letter of March 30, mentions the surrender of Veracruz to American forces. Another letter dated April 22, 1847 describes following Mexican General Santa Anna to Xalapa
Xalapa
Xalapa-Enríquez, commonly Xalapa or Jalapa, is the capital city of the Mexican state of Veracruz and the name of the surrounding municipality. In the year 2005 census the city reported a population of 387,879 and the municipality of which it serves as municipal seat reported a population of...
. The letter was written from the "Castle of Perote."
Battle of Contreras
The Battle of Contreras, also known as the Battle of Padierna, took place during August 19–20, 1847, in the final encounters of the Mexican-American War. In the Battle of Churubusco, fighting continued the following day.-Background:...
(August 30). From the Halls of Montezuma (September 23) he provides a description of the Battle of Molino del Rey
Battle of Molino del Rey
The Battle of Molino del Rey was one of the bloodiest engagements of the Mexican-American War. It was fought in September 1847 between Mexican forces under General Antonio Léon against an American force under General Winfield Scott at a hill called El Molino del Rey near Mexico City.-Background:On...
and the suffering of the casualties after that action. In many letters he paints a brief portrait of his life, the hardships of his men, the civilians and the defeated Mexican forces. In his last letter from "The City of Mexico" or Mexico City, his wife Eliza now resides in Rome, New York
Rome, New York
Rome is a city in Oneida County, New York, United States. It is located in north-central or "upstate" New York. The population was 44,797 at the 2010 census. It is in New York's 24th congressional district. In 1758, British forces began construction of Fort Stanwix at this strategic location, but...
(May 8, 1848).
He was appointed brevet second lieutenant, 2nd Dragoons, in June 1848. On July 13, 1848 he is commissioned a second lieutenant in the Regular Army. He sends a letter to his wife from West Point, Texas
West Point, Texas
West Point is an unincorporated community in western Fayette County, Texas, United States. Although it is unincorporated, West Point has a post office, with the ZIP code of 78963.-External links:* Handbook of Texas Online....
in Fayette County on June 25, 1848 where he mentions his promotion as a passing comment. From a camp at Towash Village (April 2, 1849), San Antonio May 20) he encourages his wife to consider coming to Texas. On November 10, 1851 he is promoted to first lieutenant. By January 18, 1852 his wife is at Fort Gates, Texas, while he is at Fort Mason.
Then there is a strange letter (August 2, 1853) that is regarding the limits of Starr's arrest from Thomas J. Wood at Fort Mason, Texas. This is frustrating because it provides no clue to why he is on house arrest! The July 31st letter it refers to was not copied for the author. Several letters are then exchanged including a tender letter to his daughter Kate on September 22, 1853 and no mention of his "arrest."
On March 4, 1854 he is at Fort McKavitt where he describes the needs of his wife for family to his daughter Kate. Starr served in Texas from 1848 to 1854 and this time was hard for his wife.
In 1855 he was in Fort Riley, Kansas. On July 20, 1855 he is at Fort Kearney, Nebraska Territory while his wife is in Burlington, New Jersey and the envelope indicates he is now a Captain. He talks about his participation in chasing Native Americans
Native Americans in the United States
Native Americans in the United States are the indigenous peoples in North America within the boundaries of the present-day continental United States, parts of Alaska, and the island state of Hawaii. They are composed of numerous, distinct tribes, states, and ethnic groups, many of which survive as...
on the plains and their way of life. Other letters mention the Sioux and Utah expeditions in 1855-1856 when he was at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Over the years he writes many letters home, mostly to his daughters.
On May 19, 1856 while at Old Fort Cedar, Captain Augustus Pleasonton writes from the headquarters of the Sioux Expedition at Fort Pierre orders to return to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for recruiting duty. Starr is there by July 17 and in a letter dated April 11, 1857 from the Assistant Adjutant General, L. Thomas, he is sent back West. In a June 26, 1857 letter he describes to his daughter Kate where he is and how things are going at the post.
Then there is a letter (September 13, 1857) regarding an investigation into Starr's conduct to the Inspector General, Colonel J. K. F. Mansfield regarding irregularities of recruiting accounts. There is a series of letters to and from the Auditor's Office in the Treasury Department until at least August 1859. Apparently this is resolved because he is promoted to Captain on June 14, 1858 and continues with the 2nd U.S. Cavalry until August 3, 1861. In 1861 he leaves the Western territories for the East. On May 16, he is in Washington, D. C. and his wife is now residing in Burlington, New Jersey.
Civil War
During the Civil War, Starr held a number of positions. He served as aide de camp to Brigadier General Joseph Mansfield, who was in command of the Department of Washington. On August 16, 1861 Starr accepts his appointment as a colonel of the 5th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry5th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry
The 5th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry was one of four regiments formed by Governor Charles Olden upon requisition of President Abraham Lincoln on July 24, 1861. The regiment departed for Washington, DC on August 24, 1861 and camped at Meridian Hill...
from Governor C. S. Olden in Trenton, New Jersey. It is effective on August 24, 1861. On September 25, 1861 the Officers of the 5th New Jersey Infantry write to Brigadier General William R. Montgomery regarding of Starr's excess discipline and mistreatment of his men.
By December 14, 1861 he was commander of the 3rd Brigade, Hooker’s Division, Army of the Potomac. His October 15 letter from Alexandria, Virginia to Eliza shows pride in his men. On May 4, 1862 he is breveted to major, Regular Army for gallant and meritorious service during the battle of Williamsburg, Virginia. He still held his volunteer rank of colonel.
He writes a letter to wife Eliza only 22 miles from the Confederate Capital in Richmond, Virginia on May 17, 1862. He provides a good description and some detail of his experiences during the Battle of Williamsburg. On May 27 he writes from Bottom's Bridge in Virginia.
From the camp of "Seven Pines," six miles before Richmond, Virginia comes a report (June 5, 1862) of the killed and wounded from the 5th New Jersey Infantry during the Battle of Seven Pines
Battle of Seven Pines
The Battle of Seven Pines, also known as the Battle of Fair Oaks or Fair Oaks Station, took place on May 31 and June 1, 1862, in Henrico County, Virginia, as part of the Peninsula Campaign of the American Civil War. It was the culmination of an offensive up the Virginia Peninsula by Union Maj. Gen....
in Virginia acknowledged by Colonel Starr. Then there is a printed commendation from George McClellan to the soldiers of the Army of the Potomac in a letter dated July 1, from Governor Olden in Trenton to Starr praising his men. "The regiment was brave, and I have reason to congratulate myself in having command of as gallant a regiment as any in the service."
Fall from grace and redemption
Starr had always been a strict taskmaster and disciplinarian typical of an pre-war army sergeant with a mouth that matched. To those who admired him, he earned the nickname of "Old Paddy" and to those that didn't "Old Nose Bag." The later term comes an old company punishment for transgression that required the offender mount astride a fence rail, with his arms secured behind him and with his feet tied together. The crowning came with a horse feed bag (the nose bag) placed over the face of the individual. Other forms of company punishment included being strapped to a wagon wheel to being forced to walk a post for hours in full uniform and gear. The harsh discipline was maintained for both officers and enlisted men. Starr had been warned after the September 25, 1861 letter of complaint from his officers by the Army. The large number of volunteers would not put up with the harsh discipline of the pre-war regulars.Due to a slapping incident reticent of the future strict disciplinarian and vulgar lashing tongue of cavalry General George S. Patton where Starr "saber slapped" an inattentive guard on the head. Starr resigned his commission in the volunteer service. A letter dated October 4, 1862 is forwarded General L. Thomas, Adjutant General in Washington, D. C. which is accepted on October 20. Starr at Camp Kearney, Virginia sends a telegram to Governor C. S. Olden regarding his resignation on October 22 and in reply Starr is encouraged to participate in recruiting efforts.
In a letter dated January 16, 1863 he shows remorse for his actions and a desire for forgiveness to his wife. On February 20, 1863, Starr writes to General L. Thomas, Adjutant General in Washington, D. C. regarding charges against him for improper recruiting. After a period of remorse, religious inner-inspection and forgiveness by the public, he returned to the 2nd U.S. Cavalry (formerly the 2nd Dragoons) as a captain. On April 25, 1863, Starr is promoted to major, Regular Army, with the 6th U.S. Cavalry Regiment.
On June 21, 1863 he is breveted lieutenant colonel for gallant and meritorius service in action at Upperville, Virginia. Starr commands the Cavalry Reserve Brigade briefly. He assumed he would be promoted but his older age and reputation denied him continued command. Many felt his old school discipline, attitude and the rapidly changing venue of the Union cavalry was beyond him. Remarkably he held his tongue while fuming in outrage but soldiered on. Then on July 2, 1863 for gallant and meritorius service in the Gettysburg Campaign he is breveted to colonel. However his new commander quickly makes a mistake that would be costly to Starr and the 6th Cavalry.
Gettysburg Campaign
The Gettysburg Campaign was a series of engagements before and after the Battle of GettysburgBattle of Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg , was fought July 1–3, 1863, in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle with the largest number of casualties in the American Civil War, it is often described as the war's turning point. Union Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade's Army of the Potomac...
. To better understand Starr's role within the military organization, the following brief is provided. For more details, see Gettysburg Union order of battle
Gettysburg Union order of battle
The following units and commanders fought in the Battle of Gettysburg of the American Civil War on the Union side. The Gettysburg Confederate order of battle is shown separately...
.
- The Army of the Potomac was initially under Major General Joseph HookerJoseph HookerJoseph Hooker was a career United States Army officer, achieving the rank of major general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Although he served throughout the war, usually with distinction, Hooker is best remembered for his stunning defeat by Confederate General Robert E...
then under Major General George G. Meade on June 28, 1863. - The Cavalry Corps was commanded by Major General Alfred PleasontonAlfred PleasontonAlfred Pleasonton was a United States Army officer and General of Union cavalry during the American Civil War. He commanded the Cavalry Corps of the Army of the Potomac during the Gettysburg Campaign, including the largest predominantly cavalry battle of the war, Brandy Station...
, with divisions commanded by Brigadier Generals John BufordJohn BufordJohn Buford, Jr. was a Union cavalry officer during the American Civil War, with a prominent role at the start of the Battle of Gettysburg.-Early years:...
, David McM. Gregg, and H. Judson KilpatrickHugh Judson KilpatrickHugh Judson Kilpatrick was an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War, achieving the rank of brevet major general. He was later the United States Minister to Chile, and a failed political candidate for the U.S...
.
| Division | Brigade | Regiments and Others |
|---|---|
First Division: BG John Buford John Buford John Buford, Jr. was a Union cavalry officer during the American Civil War, with a prominent role at the start of the Battle of Gettysburg.-Early years:... (2,748) |
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| Reserve Brigade: BG Wesley Merritt Wesley Merritt Wesley Merritt was a general in the United States Army during the American Civil War and the Spanish-American War. He is noted for distinguished service in the cavalry.-Early life:... |
6th Pennsylvania: Maj James H. Haseltine 1st US U.S. 1st Cavalry Regiment The 1st Cavalry Regiment is a unit in the United States Army which has its antecedents in the early 19th Century in the formation of the United States Regiment of Dragoons. To this day, the unit's Special Designation is "First Regiment of Dragoons".-Origins:The "United States Regiment of Dragoons"... : Capt Richard S. C. Lord 2nd US: Capt Theophilus F. Rodenbough Theophilus Francis Rodenbough Theophilus Francis Rodenbough was born in Easton, Pennsylvania and was a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. He received America's highest military decoration the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Gettysburg Campaign at the Battle of Trevilian Station. After his retirement... 5th US U.S. 5th Cavalry Regiment The 5th Cavalry Regiment is a historical unit of the United States Army that began its service in the decade prior to the American Civil War and continues in modified organizational format in the U.S. Army.-Nineteenth century:... : Capt Julius W. Mason 6th US U.S. 6th Cavalry Regiment The 6th Cavalry is a historic regiment of the United States Army that began as a regiment of cavalry in the American Civil War. It currently is organized into aviation squadrons that are assigned to several different combat aviation brigades.-Civil War:The 6th U.S... : Maj Samuel H. Starr, Lt Louis H. Carpenter Louis H. Carpenter Louis Henry Carpenter was a United States Army brigadier general and a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions in the American Indian Wars.... , Lt Nicholas Nolan Nicholas M. Nolan Nicholas Merritt Nolan was a United States Army major. He began his military career on December 9, 1852 as an artilleryman then served in the 2nd Dragoons. He started as a private and rose through the ranks becoming a First Sergeant. He was commissioned an officer in late 1862 in the Regular Army... , Capt Ira W. Claflin |
The following list is the 6th US Cavalry Regiment's documented battles and engagements of June and July 1863.
- Beverly Ford, Virginia, June 9, at the Battle of Brandy StationBattle of Brandy StationThe Battle of Brandy Station, also called the Battle of Fleetwood Hill, was the largest predominantly cavalry engagement of the American Civil War, as well as the largest to take place ever on American soil. It was fought at the beginning of the Gettysburg Campaign by the Union cavalry under Maj....
. The 6th was under Buford's right wing.
- Benton's Mill, Virginia, June 17, an engagement near Middleburg.
- Middleburg, Virginia, June 21, at the Battle of MiddleburgBattle of MiddleburgThe Battle of Middleburg took place from June 17 to June 19, 1863, in Loudoun County, Virginia, as part of the Gettysburg Campaign of the American Civil War....
. - Upperville, Virginia, June 21, at the Battle of UppervilleBattle of UppervilleThe Battle of Upperville took place in Loudoun County, Virginia on June 21, 1863 during the Gettysburg Campaign of the American Civil War.-Background:The Union cavalry made a determined effort to pierce Confederate Maj. Gen. J.E.B. Stuart's cavalry screen...
- Fairfield, Pennsylvania, July 3, at the Battle of FairfieldBattle of FairfieldThe Battle of Fairfield was a cavalry engagement during the Gettysburg Campaign of the American Civil War. It was fought July 3, 1863, near Fairfield, Pennsylvania, concurrently with the Battle of Gettysburg, although it was not a formal part of that battle...
- This is where Starr was wounded and taken prisoner. - Williamsport, Maryland, July 6, an engagement.
- Funkstown, Maryland, July 7, a small engagement.
- Boonesboro, Maryland, July 8 and 9, at the Battle of Boonesboro.
- Funkstown, Maryland, July 10, at the Battle of FunkstownBattle of FunkstownThe Second Battle of Funkstown took place near Funkstown, Maryland, on July 10, 1863, during the Gettysburg Campaign of the American Civil War...
.
Battle of Fairfield
On July 3, 1863, reports of a slow moving Confederate wagon train were reported in the vicinity of Fairfield, PennsylvaniaFairfield, Pennsylvania
Fairfield is a borough in Adams County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 486 at the 2000 census.-History:During the Gettysburg Campaign in the American Civil War, the Battle of Fairfield played an important role in securing the Fairfield pass and the Hagerstown Road, enabling Robert E...
and attracted the attention of newly commissioned Union Brigadier General Wesley Merritt
Wesley Merritt
Wesley Merritt was a general in the United States Army during the American Civil War and the Spanish-American War. He is noted for distinguished service in the cavalry.-Early life:...
of the Reserve Brigade, First Division, Cavalry Corps. He ordered the 6th U.S. Cavalry under (Brevet Colonel) Major Starr to scout Fairfield and locate the wagons, resulting in the Battle of Fairfield
Battle of Fairfield
The Battle of Fairfield was a cavalry engagement during the Gettysburg Campaign of the American Civil War. It was fought July 3, 1863, near Fairfield, Pennsylvania, concurrently with the Battle of Gettysburg, although it was not a formal part of that battle...
. Starr dashed forward under orders after the Confederate supply train. His scouts spotted the wagons and Starr charged forward. When his forward units under Lieutenant Christian Balder encountered Virginia cavalry and came racing back, Starr decided to fight. He deployed his men in a defensive posture with a portion of them mounted ready for offensive action on the road.
Fairfield, Pennsylvania
Fairfield is a borough in Adams County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 486 at the 2000 census.-History:During the Gettysburg Campaign in the American Civil War, the Battle of Fairfield played an important role in securing the Fairfield pass and the Hagerstown Road, enabling Robert E...
. Union troopers directed by their officers took up hasty defensive positions along a fence and a row of trees.
Starr's 6th Regiment halted a charge of the 7th Virginia Cavalry
7th Virginia Cavalry
The 7th Virginia Cavalry also known as Ashby's Cavalry was a Confederate cavalry regiment raised in the spring of 1861 by Colonel Angus W. McDonald, Sr. The regiment was composed primarily of men from the counties of the upper Shenandoah Valley as well as from the counties of Fauquier and Loudoun...
. Starr, probably believing the Confederates were retreating charged forward with his mounted troopers. Confederate Chew's Battery
R. Preston Chew
Roger Preston Chew was a noted horse artillery commander in the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia during the American Civil War. After the war, he was a prominent West Virginia businessman and railroad executive....
unlimbered and opened fire on the Federal cavalrymen. The 7th quickly regrouped and supported by the 6th Virginia Cavalry
6th Virginia Cavalry
The 6th Virginia Volunteer Cavalry Regiment was a cavalry regiment raised in Virginia for service in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. It fought mostly with the Army of Northern Virginia....
, the 7th Virginia charged again.
It was a cavalryman's worst nightmare of a roiling twisted fight with pistols and blades by an overwhelming mounted force. In the violent melee Starr was struck by a saber in the head then hit in the arm by a pistol ball. He fell from his horse severely wounded. The Virginia cavalry cleared Starr's forces off the ridge inflicting heavy casualties and taking many prisoners. The 6th Cavalry had 6 men listed as killed in action, 5 officers and 23 men wounded and 203 officers and men missing out of 400.
General "Grumble" Jones
William E. Jones
William Edmondson Jones, known as Grumble Jones, was a planter, a career United States Army officer, and a Confederate cavalry general, killed in the Battle of Piedmont in the American Civil War.-Early life:...
, outnumbering the Union forces by more than 2 to 1, pursued the retreating Federals for three miles to the Fairfield Gap, but was unable to eliminate his quarry. Small groups of the Starr's 6th Cavalry," ... reformed several miles from the field of action by Lt. Louis H. Carpenter
Louis H. Carpenter
Louis Henry Carpenter was a United States Army brigadier general and a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions in the American Indian Wars....
," harassed the Virginia troopers giving the impression of the vanguard of a much larger force. Another of Starr's lieutenants, named Nolan
Nicholas M. Nolan
Nicholas Merritt Nolan was a United States Army major. He began his military career on December 9, 1852 as an artilleryman then served in the 2nd Dragoons. He started as a private and rose through the ranks becoming a First Sergeant. He was commissioned an officer in late 1862 in the Regular Army...
, though wounded, assisted with the wounded not captured.
The 6th Cavalry's stand was considered one of the most gallant in its history and helped influence the outcome the battles being fought around Gettysburg. While the 6th Cavalry regiment was cut to pieces, it fought so well that its squadrons were regarded as the advance of a large body of troops. The Confederate senior officer of those brigades was later criticized severely for being delayed by such an inferior force. Private
Private (rank)
A Private is a soldier of the lowest military rank .In modern military parlance, 'Private' is shortened to 'Pte' in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries and to 'Pvt.' in the United States.Notably both Sir Fitzroy MacLean and Enoch Powell are examples of, rare, rapid career...
George Crawford Platt
George Crawford Platt
George Crawford Platt was a Medal of Honor recipient in the American Civil War.He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Private in Troop H, 6th US Cavalry for action on July 3, 1863 at Fairfield, Pennsylvania, near Gettysburg...
, later Sergeant
Sergeant
Sergeant is a rank used in some form by most militaries, police forces, and other uniformed organizations around the world. Its origins are the Latin serviens, "one who serves", through the French term Sergent....
, an Irish immigrant serving in Carpenter's Troop H, was awarded the Medal of Honor
Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is bestowed by the President, in the name of Congress, upon members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her...
on July 12, 1895, for his actions that day at Fairfield. His citation reads, "Seized the regimental flag upon the death of the standard bearer in a hand-to-hand fight and prevented it from falling into the hands of the enemy." His "commander" was an eyewitness and documented Private Platt's "beyond the call of duty" behavior that day.*Bixby, William K. – Kodner, Molly Samuel H. Starr Papers, 1846-1904 In folder 72 in a letter dated January 9, 1868 is a copy of a letter from "George Stoneman, Petersburgh, Virginia, to Secretary of War, Washington, D.C., regarding actions of George C. Cram in the engagement at Fairfield, Pennsylvania, on July 3, 1863." Former Major Cram claimed credit for rallying the 6th Cavalry after the melee and the effort thereafter. Cram wished to be recognized for his actions. The Army dutifully conducted an investigation writing to those who survived the war. Starr reported that Cram "was not there."
- Jones, Jim in 'Cross Sabers' reports a letter dated February 17, 1868 citing a letter from Major Samuel H. Starr, 6th Cavalry, from the "Post of Mount Pleasant, Tex." that it was Lt. Louis H. Carpenter who rallied the troops and that former Major Cram was not with the 6th for several days before the Battle of Fairfield." Cram's efforts for recognition and award were denied by the Army.
- EHistory archive on page 8 has a listing of the primary officers present during the Gettysburg campaign. Under the Cavalry Corps, Reserve Brigade, 6th U.S. we find "Maj. Samuel H. Starr (wounded and exchanged), Lieut. Louis H. Carpenter, Lieutenant Nicholas Nolan, Captain Ira W. Claflin." We find no Major Cram.
As a prisoner of war, Starr was taken into Fairfield by the Confederates. He had his wounds attended to and unfortunately his right arm had to be amputated. He spent a few days in Fairfield until he recovered enough to be transported south. "Old Paddy" was later exchanged in the following September (not November).
Post P.O.W. service
On September 3, 1863 after returning home to Philadelphia, Starr writes General L. Thomas (A.G. in Washington, D. C.) regarding his parole of honor and where he could be reached. On September 19, Starr receives a letter from W. T. Hartz, Office of the Commissary General of Prisoners (Washington, D. C.) informing him that his parole was invalid. By December 22, 1863, Starr is on light duty in Columbus, Ohio on mustering service. In September 1864 Starr was ordered to join Sheridan’s army in the Shenandoah Valley. And on October 19, he is at Martinburgh, Virginia.In November 1864, Starr was assigned as chief mustering and disbursing officer for the state of Ohio. He held this position until January 1865. On April 12, 1865 Starr writes to the editor of the "Richmond Whig" and included the "proper lyrics" to a Union song. (Which song? It was not included in the author's copy!)
Starr then served as special inspector of cavalry for the Armies of the Potomac and the James from January to August 1865. He is at City Point, Virginia on July 18 when he writes his wife now residing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Starr was then reassigned back to the 6th Cavalry in Maryland. In October 1865, he received a brevet commission to lieutenant colonel for his outstanding service. In the later part of October, he was ordered with his regiment to Texas where he took part of the occupation. The 6th was headquartered in Austin, Texas and he brought his family there. Samuel Starr's daughter Kate married William D. Price of Austin, Texas, in 1866. Price had served as a captain of the 1st Texas Cavalry (Union) during the Civil War. Following the war, he became a prominent lawyer and judge in Austin. Price died in 1877.
Starr and the 6th participated in various Indian Campaigns from 1867 to 1869 in Texas. His daughter Jo apparently stayed in Philadelphia as evidenced by a series of letters from January 1866 to January 1870. He describes various incidents and events he believes she would find interesting. His last letter in the Missouri Historical collection to his daughter Jo dated August 15, 1870 is reflective of his service. During this period of relative quiet, Colonel Starr retired from the army in December 1870.
Retirement and legacy
Returning home to Philadelphia, he participated in the G.A.R. The Grand Army of the RepublicGrand Army of the Republic
The Grand Army of the Republic was a fraternal organization composed of veterans of the Union Army, US Navy, US Marines and US Revenue Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. Founded in 1866 in Decatur, Illinois, it was dissolved in 1956 when its last member died...
was a fraternal organization composed of veterans of the Union Army
Union Army
The Union Army was the land force that fought for the Union during the American Civil War. It was also known as the Federal Army, the U.S. Army, the Northern Army and the National Army...
who had served in the American Civil War
American Civil War
The American Civil War was a civil war fought in the United States of America. In response to the election of Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States, 11 southern slave states declared their secession from the United States and formed the Confederate States of America ; the other 25...
. Apparently he was concerned about the loss of his arm and had made an insert for his uniform jacket. To the casual passerby, it appeared as if his arm and hand was present, but limp at his side. His 1870 retirement picture in Philadelphia reflects this.
Colonel Samuel H. Starr, U.S.Army retired, died on November 23, 1891, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia, is a military cemetery in the United States of America, established during the American Civil War on the grounds of Arlington House, formerly the estate of the family of Confederate general Robert E. Lee's wife Mary Anna Lee, a great...
in Washington, D.C. with full military honors.
Samuel Starr left a legacy of many letters, correspondence, military papers regarding his service with various military units. This includes notes and comments from his daughters, especially Kate Price. They are part of the Samuel H. Starr Papers, 1846-1904 at the Missouri Historical Society Archives in St. Louis, Missouri.
The collection is arranged into eight series: Personal Correspondence from Samuel Starr to Family, Personal Correspondence to Samuel Starr (includes letters from veterans regarding reunions and veterans' organizations), Military Correspondence of Samuel Starr (Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Sioux Indian expedition), Military Papers of Samuel Starr (includes forms for quartermaster stores, charges against Starr, and lists of casualties. The series also includes three folders of General and Special Orders.), Papers of Other Members of the Starr Family, Papers of William D. Price, Papers of Other Members of the Price Family, and Miscellaneous.