Eighty-Two Hanoverian Horsemen Formed Cavalry To Take Part In Civil War--Faculty Offers Make-up Examinations

Although Dartmouth College furnished many men who took active part in the Civil War, the most interesting episode of that war history involved the Dartmouth Cavalry.

In the summer of 1862, it was feared that Washington, the capital, would be captured by the Confederates. Since the condition of national affairs was thus, S. S. Burr '63 conceived the idea of forming a company of cavalry composed of Dartmouth students. Governor Sprague of Rhode Island offered to accept the company for a three months campaign.

Every student in College wanted to enlist, but the faculty protested and the number was finally limited to 83. A few men from Norwich, Bowdoin, and Union were included. A great demonstration was accorded the cavalrymen as they left for White River Junction in carriages.

The first two days were devoted to sabre practice and the various evolutions of the troopers. As not even a dozen of the company knew how to ride with case or saddle a horse properly, many amusing scenes resulted. When the command "Boots and saddles" was given for the first time, it was difficult to tell whether the boys or the horses were the more scared.

On September 2, the troop was the rear guard for the retreat from Winchester to Harper's Ferry. When General Miles surrendered there, the cavalry made a daring escape, capturing an ammunition train of 85 wagons on the way.

Upon disbanding on October 1, they returned to Hanover where they were given a great welcome by the other students and townspeople. The faculty wished at first to give them makeup examinations, but on learning that Brown University would accept the returning heroes, the requirement was not insisted upon. One man was lost and only two were taken prisoners.