21st New York Infantry in the American Civil War

Overview

The 21st New York Infantry (also known as the 1st Buffalo Regiment) was an infantry regiment organized in Buffalo, New York, and mustered into United States service for a two years’ term on May 20, 1861, at Elmira. Serving in the Union Army, the regiment participated primarily in the Eastern Theater of the American Civil War. The unit was originally formed from the 74th New York militia and was notable for its early service and involvement in several major campaigns.

The regiment was composed mainly of recruits from Buffalo and was active in numerous engagements, including the Second Battle of Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. The 21st New York Infantry was mustered out at Buffalo on May 18, 1863.

Organization & Service

The 21st New York Infantry was organized in Buffalo, New York, as the 1st Buffalo Regiment, growing out of the 74th New York militia. The regiment was mustered into federal service for a two years’ term on May 20, 1861, at Elmira. Shortly after mustering, the regiment departed for Washington, D.C., on June 18, 1861. Initial quarters were at the Union House, followed by Kalorama Heights, and then Fort Runyon, Virginia, by July 14.

During the transition from three months’ to two years’ service, some members resisted remuster, resulting in disciplinary actions. On August 31, 1861, the regiment was attached to Wadsworth’s Brigade, McDowell’s Division, and ordered to Fort Cass, then to Upton’s Hill. There, the regiment constructed Fort Buffalo, which served as its winter quarters until March 10, 1862.

In March 1862, the regiment joined the general advance, moving to Centerville under Brigade Commander Gen. Patrick and Division Commander Gen. King. The 21st participated in various marches and minor skirmishes before fighting at the Second Battle of Bull Run and Chantilly. Afterward, at Upton’s Hill, the regiment was assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 1st Division, 1st Corps, and fought at South Mountain and Antietam, suffering significant losses at the latter. During the Battle of Fredericksburg, the brigade was stationed on the extreme left of the Union line.

On January 9, 1863, the regiment was assigned to Patrick’s Provost Guard Brigade, remaining with it until the end of its service. The 21st New York Infantry was mustered out at Buffalo on May 18, 1863.

Engagements & Campaigns

• Defense of Washington (1861)
• Second Battle of Bull Run
• Chantilly
• South Mountain
• Antietam
• Fredericksburg

Casualties

During its term of service, the 21st New York Infantry lost 75 men by death from wounds and 42 by death from other causes. Total deaths: 117. These figures are based on regimental and state reports.

Field Officers & Commanders

• Colonel William F. Rogers
• Lieutenant Colonel Adrian R. Root
• Lieutenant Colonel William H. Drew
• Lieutenant Colonel Horace G. Thomas
• Lieutenant Colonel Chester W. Sternberg
• Major William H. Drew
• Major Horace G. Thomas
• Major Chester W. Sternberg
• Major Edward L. Lee

Regimental Roster

The full roster of the 21st New York Infantry, including officers and enlisted men, is available for genealogical and historical research. The roster provides names, ranks, and service details for members of the regiment throughout its two years’ service.

To view the complete roster, visit the 21st New York Infantry Regimental Roster page.

Sources & References

• Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volumes 5, 12, 19
• New York State Adjutant General’s Reports
• Dyer, Frederick H., A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion
• Fox, William F., Regimental Losses in the American Civil War
• The Union Army, Vol. 2 (Federal Publishing Company, 1908)