Overview
The 28th New York Independent Battery was an artillery unit organized for Union service during the American Civil War. Raised primarily from New York, Jefferson, and Steuben counties, the battery was mustered into United States service at Fort Schuyler on December 27, 1862, for a three-year term. The unit served in the Department of the East, performing garrison duty at key coastal fortifications.
The battery’s service was notable for its assignment to the defense of New York Harbor, with postings at Fort Schuyler and Sandy Hook. It remained on garrison duty throughout its term and did not participate in field campaigns or major battles.
Organization & Service
The 28th New York Independent Battery was organized at Fort Schuyler, New York, and mustered into federal service on December 27, 1862. The battery was initially formed as part of Anthon’s battalion of artillery, which comprised two batteries recruited from New York State. The men were drawn from New York, Jefferson, and Steuben counties.
After organization, the battery was assigned to garrison duty at Fort Schuyler, a key defensive position guarding the approaches to New York City. Later, the unit also served at Sandy Hook, New Jersey, another important coastal defense site. Throughout its service, the battery remained in the Department of the East, focusing on the protection of New York Harbor and its environs. The 28th New York Independent Battery did not see field service or participate in active campaigns. The battery was mustered out of service at New York City on July 31, 1865, under the command of Captain Josiah C. Hannum.
Research This Regiment Further
If you’d like to explore this unit’s history in more depth, regimental histories and Civil War reference works offer valuable detail.
Engagements & Campaigns
- Garrison duty at Fort Schuyler, New York Harbor (1862–1865)
- Garrison duty at Sandy Hook, New Jersey (dates within 1862–1865)
Casualties
- Killed or mortally wounded: none reported
- Died of disease: 3 enlisted men
- Total losses: 3 enlisted men
Field Officers & Commanders
- Captain Cyprian H. Willard
- Captain Josiah C. Hannum
Regimental Roster
The full roster of the 28th New York Independent Battery, including officers and enlisted men who served during its three-year term, is available for genealogical and historical research.
To view the complete roster, please visit the 28th New York Independent Battery Roster page.
Sources & References
- Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, relevant volumes
- New York State Adjutant General’s Report
- Dyer, Frederick H., A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion