Our Proud History
The Civil War
Again in 1861 Maine answered the Nation's call by sending the First and Second Regiments of Infantry to battle in the Civil War. Maine soldiers participated in many significant engagements during the war. Four regiments from Maine took part in the first battle of Bull Run and seven infantry regiments accompanied General McClellan in the attempt to take Richmond. Maine units were recognized for gallantry and courage at the battle of Williamsburg, the battle of Fair Oaks, battles in the Valley of the Shenandoah, Cedar mountain, the second Bull Run, the Antietam campaign, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the second battle of Fredericksburg and Mary's Heights. Maine soldiers were known for strength, bravery and ability during the battles in which they fought, however the battle that would exemplify the Maine determination would be that of Little Round Top at Gettysburg.
A small hill to the far right of the Union line, Little Round Top, have been utilized as a signal station, manned by Colonel Joshua Chamberlain and the 20th Maine. Had they succumbed to the attempts to capture the hill by the Confederate forces, the Union soldiers would have been overcome by fire that they would not have been able to withstand. The 20th Maine fought persistently and held back the Confederates in a battle that ended in hand to hand combat with bayonets fixed. General Chamberlain's "daring heroism and great tenacity" was recognized in 1893 with the presentation of the Medal of Honor.
In 1887 a provisional regiment consisting of eight companies, accompanied the governor on his attendance at the Centennial celebration of the adoption of the Constitution of the United States at Philadelphia. The Boston Sunday Herald paid the following compliment, "The provisional regiment, sent by Maine to the Centennial at Philadelphia was a great credit to that state. It was the only organization wearing the full dress uniform of the regular service that appeared to understand the value of discipline and cleanliness, off as well as on duty." Maine had a larger representation than any other state.
