This entry is from Diary of a Union Lady 1861 - 1865 edited by Harold Earl Hammond. This is the diary of Maria Lydig Daly, wife of a justice of the Court of Common Pleas in New York City.
This entry was written just after the First Battle of Bull Run about the New York 69th, later to be known as the Irish Brigade. The lady writing made a flag for the regiment.
July 28, 1861
My flag, which I gave to the 69th, was lost. The ensign dropped it in his retreat, and as he escaped unhurt, has not dared to show his face The Regiment declared that he shall be shot if he does. He is skulking somewhere about in Washington, and sent on to his wife for nine dollars to enable him to come home. But if he does, the Regiment vows vengeance for the disgrace. If anyone asks me about it, I shall say that one of ensigns was killed and nothing more. The brave fellows shall not suffer for the fault of one. Besides, it was the first battle, and I would forgive the poor fellow and give him another chance.
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| Officers of the 69th New York State Militia, Fort Corcoran, Va, from Library of Congress Collection |
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