Welcome to the fascinating history of the 104th New York Infantry Regiment, also known as the Wadsworth Guards. Mustered in during a time of national conflict, this regiment was organized between September 1861 and March 1862, amidst the American Civil War. It played a pivotal role in several key battles, leaving its indelible mark on U.S. military history.
The 104th NY was formed by merging the Morgan Guards, led by Colonel John J. Viele, with the Geneseo Regiment, Wadsworth Guards, under Colonel John Rorbach. This strategic consolidation at Albany, New York, allowed for a robust and unified fighting force that would soon serve in the Military District of Washington and engage in the Army of Virginia’s critical campaigns.
Among its notable engagements, the regiment fought in the Battle of Bull Run and the Battle of Antietam, participating in the Maryland campaign under General McClellan. The men of the 104th faced harsh conditions and fierce combat, losing many to battle wounds and diseases. Lieutenant John P. Rudd was the first from the regiment to fall at Bull Run, marking the beginning of a long and arduous journey for the soldiers.
Throughout its service, the 104th NY saw its ranks diminish and rebuild as soldiers re-enlisted, showing immense dedication to their cause. The regiment continued to serve valiantly until its honorable discharge on July 17, 1865, near Washington, D.C., having lost 237 men during its service.
Stories of courage and sacrifice abound within the ranks of the 104th, reflecting the broader historical context of the Civil War, a time when the United States was deeply divided. The regiment’s legacy lives on as a symbol of perseverance and commitment to duty.
Now, as you explore the history of the 104th New York, imagine the resolute footsteps of these soldiers as they marched into battle, driven by a sense of duty and honor that continues to inspire.
