Overview
Williams’ Independent Battery, Ohio Light Artillery, was organized in Canton, Ohio, on June 25, 1861, and mustered into United States service at Camp Chase, Columbus, on June 28, 1861. The battery served on the Union side during the early months of the Civil War, primarily operating in western Virginia. It was attached to General J. D. Cox’s brigade and was notable for its rapid deployment and early consolidation with another Ohio battery.
This unit is distinct from other Ohio artillery batteries that served later or under different designations.
Organization & Service
Williams’ Independent Battery was formed at Canton, Ohio, under the command of Captain William S. Williams. After mustering at Camp Chase on June 28, 1861, the battery was immediately ordered to western Virginia. Upon arrival, it was attached to General J. D. Cox’s brigade. On July 2, 1861, the battery was consolidated with Captain Cotter’s battery, reflecting the evolving needs and organization of Union artillery in the region.
Despite its initial three-month enlistment, the battery remained in service for an additional three months due to operational requirements. During this period, Williams’ Battery participated in all actions and marches of its brigade in western Virginia. The battery was ordered to Columbus on October 19, 1861, and was mustered out of service on November 6, 1861.
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
- Western Virginia operations, summer and fall 1861
- Actions and marches with Gen. J. D. Cox’s brigade
Casualties
Specific casualty figures for Williams’ Independent Battery during its service in 1861 are not detailed in available primary sources.
Field Officers & Commanders
- Captain William S. Williams
- First Lieutenant Daniel Lenker
Regimental Roster
The complete roster of Williams’ Independent Battery, including officers and enlisted men who served during its 1861 term, is available for genealogical and historical research. This roster provides names, ranks, and service details as recorded in official state and federal records.
To view the full roster, visit the Williams’ Independent Battery Roster page.
Sources & References
- The War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I
- Ohio Roster Commission, Official Roster of the Soldiers of the State of Ohio in the War of the Rebellion
- Dyer, Frederick H., A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion
- The Union Army, Vol. 2, Federal Publishing Company, 1908