The Civil War

Title: Minnesota Troops at Gettysburg
Type: Newspaper
Date: 1863
Source: Goodhue County Republican

Description: The Goodhue County Republican published this account of the Minnesota regiments in the battle of Gettysburg.
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Activities:

1. What other accomplishments had the First Minnesota achieved before going to Gettysburg?
   
   
   
   
   Answer: They crossed the Potomac River and helped to protect the retreat at Bull Run. They also were in a number of other battles for the Union army.
2. The First Minnesota originally had more than 1,000 men, but by 1863 there were only 410 at Gettysburg. How many soldiers remained after Gettysburg?
   
   
   
   
   Answer: Fewer than 100 men and officers remained.
3. What sources might we use to figure out if those who were considered "mortally wounded" actually survived?
   
   
   
   
   Answer: Lists of regiment members from later battles would tell us if any of those soldiers lived to fight again. It was not uncommon for soldiers to be reported dead and then be found later to have recovered from serious wounds or to have been taken prisoner and survived.
4. What does Wilkinson mean when he says that "I hope this is overdrawn"?
   
   
   
   
   Answer: He is hoping that the account he has been given is not accurate and that fewer soldiers have been hurt or wounded in the battle.