15th New York Engineers in the American Civil War

Overview

The 15th New York Engineers (sometimes referred to as the Fifteenth New York Regiment of Engineers) served as an engineer regiment in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Organized in New York, the regiment was mustered into service for the Union and primarily operated in the Eastern Theater. As an engineer unit, its primary responsibilities included constructing fortifications, bridges, and other military works in support of the Army of the Potomac and other commands.

This regiment is distinct from the 15th New York Infantry (Three Months’ Service).

Organization & Service

The 15th New York Engineers was organized at New York City and mustered into service between June and October 1861. The regiment was initially composed of two battalions, each with its own companies. It was mustered in for three years’ service and later reenlisted veterans and recruits extended its term.

The regiment was attached to the Army of the Potomac, serving in the Engineer Brigade. Throughout its service, the 15th New York Engineers participated in major campaigns and operations, including the Peninsula Campaign, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Overland Campaign, and the Siege of Petersburg. The regiment was heavily engaged in constructing pontoon bridges, entrenchments, and other vital works. The unit mustered out of service in June 1865 at Washington, D.C.

Engagements & Campaigns

• Peninsula Campaign (1862)
• Battle of Fredericksburg
• Chancellorsville Campaign
• Gettysburg Campaign
• Bristoe Campaign
• Mine Run Campaign
• Overland Campaign (including Wilderness, Spotsylvania, North Anna, Cold Harbor)
• Siege of Petersburg
• Appomattox Campaign

Casualties

According to Fox’s Regimental Losses and the New York Adjutant General’s report, the 15th New York Engineers lost a total of 2 officers and 24 enlisted men killed or mortally wounded, and 1 officer and 142 enlisted men died of disease and other causes. Total deaths: 169.

Field Officers & Commanders

• Colonel John McLeod Murphy
• Colonel Wesley Brainerd
• Lieutenant Colonel William H. Pettes
• Lieutenant Colonel James F. Hall
• Major Charles W. Howell

Regimental Roster

The complete roster of the 15th New York Engineers, including officers and enlisted men, is available on the regiment’s roster page. This resource provides names, ranks, and additional service details valuable for genealogical research.

To view the full roster, visit the 15th New York Engineers Roster page.

Sources & References

• Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volumes 5, 11, 21, 25, 27, 36, 40, 46
• New York State Adjutant General’s Report (Annual Reports, 1861–1865)
• Dyer, Frederick H. A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion
• Fox, William F. Regimental Losses in the American Civil War
• Brainerd, Wesley. Bridge Building in Wartime: The 15th New York Volunteers (regimental reminiscence)