George F. Sweetland

b. 1839, d. 26 September 1889
  • Father: Henry Sweetland
  • Mother: Clarissa [--?--]
  • Company: K
  • George F. Sweetland was born about in 1839 at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, son of Henry Sweetland and Clarissa [--?--].
  • George F. Sweetland was enumerated in the household of Jesse M. Smith in the 1860 US Federal Census on 23 Jun 1860 at Burrillville, Providence County, Rhode Island, as:
    Jesse Smith, 25, stable keeper, b. RI (as were all)
    Mary E., 24
    **George Swetland, 21.
  • On 4 Sep 1860 George F. Sweetland married Sarah C. J. Tifft, 15, daughter of Ransom Tifft and Lucy A. Beckwith, at Gloucester, Providence County, Rhode Island.
  • In 1861 George was living at Blackstone, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, George gave his occupation as hostler.

  • On 1 Jul 1861 George mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Blackstone, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 22 years old.
  • On 21 Oct 1862 George ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts to enlist in the regular army.

  • Starting 23 Oct 1862, George also served in the 6th Cavalry Regiment, Company K, Regular Army.
  • On 20 Jul 1863 George was transferred to 3rd Regiment RC, Company D.
  • He ended his service with by discharge on 24 Jul 1864 at Alexandria, Alexandria (city), Virginia.
  • George was living at Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, and was a coachman.
  • On 12 Apr 1884, at National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers, Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, George was admitted, as single man.
  • George gave his next-of-kin as Jesse Smith in Harrisville, Gloucester (sic), RI. (Note: this is the person with whom he lived in 1860.)
  • He died on 26 Sep 1889 and was found dead near Dayton Ohio, east of the narrow gauge crossing Easten Pike. He was 50 years old.
  • He was buried in Sep 1889 at National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers, Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, Section H, 7, 20.
  • Sarah C. J. Tifft was enumerated as the widow of George F. Sweetland, of the 15th Massachusetts, in the 1890 Veterans' Schedules of the US Federal Census in Jun 1890 at Harrisville, Burrillville, Providence County, Rhode Island.
  • On 17 Sep 1890 Sarah C. J. Tifft received a pension to surviving family member in Rhode Island based on George's service; and received certificate number 319675.
  • NOTE: clearly there was documentation of a marriage. Sarah is believed to be the daughter of Ransom and Lucy A. (Beckwith) Tifft, however no reliable documentation has yet been found. The pension file needs to be viewed.
  • Sarah, his wife, outlived George and died on 29 Jan 1922 at Woonsocket, Providence County, Rhode Island, at age 77.
  • George's wife, Sarah C. J. Sweatland, died and was buried in Jan 1922 at Pascoag Cemetery, Burrillville, Providence County, Rhode Island, at age 76 years and 11 months.
  • Last Edited: 21 May 2018

Family: Sarah C. J. Tifft b. 12 Jan 1845, d. 29 Jan 1922

George M. Sylvester

b. 12 April 1843, d. 3 February 1910
  • Father: George D. Sylvester b. between 1813 - 1814
  • Mother: Rachel Wilder b. between 1816 - 1817
  • Company: D
  • George M. Sylvester was born on 12 Apr 1843 at South Hingham, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, son of George D. Sylvester and Rachel Wilder.
  • George M. Sylvester was enumerated in the household of George D. Sylvester and Rachel Wilder in the 1850 US Federal Census on 26 Aug 1850 at Hingham, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, as:
    George D. Sylvester, 36, express man, b. MA (as were all in the family)
    Rachel, 33
    Elizabeth A., 12
    **George M., 7
    Amelia W., 5
    Seth C., 3/12.
  • George M. Sylvester was enumerated in the 1860 US Federal census on 23 Jul 1860 at Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    George M. Sylvester, 17, mason's apprentice, b. MA
    in the household of:
    Alvin S. Burgess, 40, master mason, b. MA.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, George gave his occupation as mason.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 George mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 18 years and 3 months old.
  • On 2 Oct 1862 George ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts due to disability.

  • He made application for a veteran's pension on 7 Apr 1863, and received certificate number 1101758.
  • He was enumerated in the 1870 US Federal Census on 22 Jul 1870 at Waltham, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, as a brick mason, age 27.
  • He was enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 9 Jun 1900 at Cambridge, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, as:
    Sylvester, George M., boarder, 57, single, b. MA, brick mason
    in the household of
    Church, Charles, 66, b. England.
  • He died on 3 Feb 1910 at South Hingham, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, unmarried, of diabetes. He was 66 years, 9 months and 22 days old.
  • He was buried on 6 Feb 1910 at High Street Cemetery, Hingham, Plymouth County, Massachusetts.
  • Last Edited: 19 Apr 2016

Eli Syminster

b. 1839, d. 21 May 1862
  • Company: K
  • Eli Syminster was born in 1839 at England.
  • In 1861 Eli was living at Blackstone, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Eli gave his occupation as weaver.

  • On 1 Jul 1861 Eli mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Blackstone, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 22 years old.
  • In 1862 Eli was promoted to to Corporal.
  • He died on 21 May 1862 at Fair Oaks, Henrico County, Virginia, killed in action. He was 23 years old.
  • He was buried in May 1862 at Seven Pines National Cemetery, Sandston, Henrico County, Virginia, Plot: D 431.
  • He was married at the time of his enlistment according to Ford's history. If so, then no record of a widow's pension has yet been found.
  • Last Edited: 13 Apr 2016

Henry Spurr Tafft

b. 13 March 1834, d. 9 May 1909

Henry S. Tafft
  • Father: Smith Taft b. 22 Mar 1784, d. 9 Jul 1842
  • Mother: Hannah Albee b. 23 Jul 1801, d. 29 Jun 1867
  • Company: H
  • Henry Spurr Tafft was also known as Henry S. Taft in some records. His military records are under "TAFFT", as is his burial and his pre-war records in MA.
  • He was born on 13 Mar 1834 at Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of Smith Taft and Hannah Albee.
  • On 9 Jul 1842 his father, Smith Taft, died at Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 58.
  • In 1842, at Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry was involved in a guardianship proceeding at the probate court.
  • He was enumerated in the household of Israel Plummer and Amelia Taft Cooper in the 1850 US Federal Census on 19 Aug 1850 at Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Israel Plummer, 38, merchant, b. MA
    Amelia J., 39
    Emma A., 13 (his future wife)
    Sarah L., 11
    Hiram, 35, machinist, b. MA
    **Henry S. Taft, 16, clerk, b. MA
    Ann S. Dexter, 23, b. Ireland
    James Bronson, 16, laborer, b. VT
    Patrick Duphey, 19, laborer, b. Ireland.
  • On 25 Dec 1855 Henry Spurr Tafft, 21, married Emma Amelia Plummer, 20, daughter of Israel Plummer and Amelia Taft Cooper, at Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • Henry Spurr Tafft was enumerated in the household of Israel Plummer and Amelia Taft Cooper in the 1860 US Federal Census on 9 Jun 1860 at Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, with his in-laws as:
    Israel Plummer, 50, prop. of stone works, b. CT
    Amelia, 45
    Emma A. Taft, 23, b. MA
    Sarah G. Plummer, 19
    ** H. S. Taft, 25, clerk, b. MA
    I. P., 3, b. CA
    Anita, 1, b. MA
    Henry A. Choller, 19, clerk. b. CT
    James Milligan, 20, laborer, b. MA
    Margaret Jackson, 15, servant, b. RI.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Henry gave his occupation as clerk.

  • On 1 Aug 1861 Henry mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry as a 1st Lieutenant, being credited to the quota of Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 27 years, 4 months and 19 days old.
  • On 14 Aug 1861 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry Spurr Tafft was mentioned in an article about the departure of the Fifteenth Massachusetts from Worcester.
  • In Sep 1861 Henry was transferred from detached to the Signal Corps. to.
  • On 25 Feb 1862 at "The Worcester Daily Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry is reported has having received a commendation. (Volume 17 #48)
    MASSACHUSETTS FIFTEENTH
    We have received the following by mail from Col. Devens’ headquarters at Poolesville:
    Headquarters 15th regt. Mass. Vols.,
    Camp Foster, Poolesville, Feb. 18, ‘62
    Regimental General Orders # 18
    The commanding officer has much pleasure in informing the regiment that the name of 1st Lieut. Henry S. Taft, of the 15th Mass volunteers, has been brought to the notice of the general commanding the army, by Major Meyer, commanding the signal corps, as having elicited the official approbation of the officers commanding the land and naval forces at the recent action at Port Royal Ferry, for gallantry, good conduct, and services rendered.
    By order of Col. Devens,
    G. W. Baldwin, adjutant.
  • On 17 Jan 1863 Henry was promoted to to Captain, and assigned to Co., H, but was still on detached service to the Signal Corps.
  • On 9 Feb 1863 at "The Worcester Daily Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry S. Taft was mentioned in an article about promotions.
  • On 3 Mar 1863 Henry ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts by transfer to the Signal Corps, U. S. A. (regular army.)

  • Henry Spurr Tafft and Henry Arthur Webster, future brothers-in-law, served in the Signal Corps.
  • On 25 Nov 1863 Henry ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts to become a Captain in the Signal Corps.

  • He ended his service with the Signal Corps by resignation on 20 Aug 1864.
  • On 21 Oct 1864 at The Bay State House, Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry Spurr Tafft attended the First Annual Reunion of the Fifteenth Regiment Association.
  • On 13 Mar 1865 Henry was promoted to Brevet Major.
  • On 13 Mar 1865 Henry was promoted to Brevet Lieutenant Colonel.
  • He and Emma Amelia Plummer were enumerated in the 1870 US Federal Census on 11 Jul 1870 at Saint Helena, Beaufort County, South Carolina, as:
    Taft, H. S., 35, planter, $32,000 real estate, $8000 personal estate, b. MA
    ---, Emma A., 33, b. MA
    ---, Plummer, 13, b. CA
    ---, Annette, 11, b. MA
    ---, Grace C., 4, b. SC
    ---, Henry 1, b. SC.
  • Apparently his wife and children returned to Massachusetts at this time.
  • Henry Spurr Tafft's family was enumerated separately in the household of Israel Plummer and Amelia Taft Cooper in the 1870 US Federal Census on 3 Aug 1870 at Whitinsville, Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Plummer, Israel, 59, agent granite Co., $300 real estate, $30,000 personal estate, b. CT
    ---, Amelia T., 61, b. MA
    ---, Ebenezer 46, clerk in store, $6000 r.e., $1000 p.e., b. CT
    Taft, Emma A., 34, b. MA
    ---, Israel P., 13, b. CA
    ---, Amelia, 11, b. MA
    ---, Grace C., 4, b. SC
    ---, Henry, 1, b. SC
    Brown, Julia, 17, (black) domestic servant, b. SC.
  • Henry Spurr Tafft was enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census on 10 Jun 1880 at Rail Road Avenue, Whitinsville, Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Taft, Henry S., 45, boarder, married, granite agent, b. MA (parents place of birth in parenthesis as MA)
    in the home of
    Campbell, William W., 27, lawyer, b. VT, and his wife.
  • On 21 Oct 1880 at Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry Spurr Tafft attended the 14th annual reunion of the 15th Massachusetts Regiment.
  • On 20 Oct 1883 at Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Henry Spurr Tafft attended the 17th annual reunion of the 15th regiment association, with some 110 other veterans of the regiment. (Report from the Fitchburg Sentinel.)
  • On 21 Aug 1884 Emma Amelia Plummer, his wife, died at Cambridgeport, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, at age 48 of cancer.
  • On 12 May 1885 Henry Spurr Tafft, 51, married Katherine Edmonds Webster, 35, daughter of David Henry Webster and Sabrina W. Plummer, at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, (Note: she was a first cousin of his first wife; both women were granddaughters of Ebenezer and Pamela (Shepard) Plummer.)
  • Henry S. Tafft was enumerated in the 1890 US Federal census, Veteran's Schedule in Jun 1890 at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, as having been a Captain in the Signal Corps.
  • In 1894 Henry wrote a very long account of his military service.
  • He made application at Rhode Island for a veteran's pension on 31 Jan 1902, and received certificate number 1105442.
  • On 15 Sep 1903 Henry Spurr Tafft, 69, married Adela Rene Havens, 83, at Pawtucket, Providence County, Rhode Island, From The Pawtucket Times, 16 Sep 1903:
    Col. Henry S. Tafft a prominent resident of this city and Mrs. Adella R. MacArthur of Detroid Mich., were united in marriage at 10 o'clock yesterday morning by Rev. Henry I. Cushman, pastor of the First Universalist Church. On their return from their bridal tour, Col. and Mrs. Tafft will reside at The Hermitage 333 Laurel Hill Avenue.
    Col. Henry S. Tafft is president of the Rhode Island Metaphysical Association, and is well known in social, religious and military circles. He is prominent in local Grand Army circles, being a member and past commander of Rodman Post, G. A. R. He has been a resident of this state for 20 years.
    Mrs. Tafft became the wife of William MacArthur, one of the largest lumber dealers in the West. About five years ago she published a religious novel entitled, "That Romanist," and many of her poems have been published from time to time. Since Mr. MacArthur's death in 1894 she has given her time and talents to the development of a system of self-culture and has become prominent in metaphysical teaching. Her lectures have been given mostly in the west.
  • Henry Spurr Tafft died on 9 May 1909 at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island. He was 75 years, 1 month and 26 days old.
  • He was buried in May 1909 at North Burial Ground, Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island.
  • On 21 Nov 1909 Adela Rene Havens received a pension to surviving family member in New York based on Henry's service; his wife received certificate number 854142.
  • Last Edited: 19 Mar 2018

Family 1: Emma Amelia Plummer b. 21 Sep 1835, d. 21 Aug 1884

  • Israel Plummer Tafft b. 5 Feb 1857, d. 5 Aug 1919
  • Amelia Annette Tafft b. 10 May 1859, d. Jul 1938
  • Grace C. Taft b. 1866
  • Henry J. Tafft b. 1868

Family 2: Katherine Edmonds Webster b. 23 May 1849, d. 11 Oct 1902

  • Margaret W. Tafft b. 25 Dec 1891, d. 11 May 1984

Family 3: Adela Rene Havens b. 12 Jun 1820, d. 13 Oct 1911

Benjamin Taft

b. between 1840 and 1841, d. 15 January 1862

Benjamin Taft
  • Father: Moses Taft b. 5 Aug 1815
  • Mother: Louisa A. Watkins b. between 1815 - 1816
  • Company: I
  • Benjamin Taft was born between 1840 - 1841 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of Moses Taft and Louisa A. Watkins, grandson of Reuben and Nancy (Foster) Taft, who married 05 Mar 1805, in Dudley, Worcester, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Benjamin gave his occupation as clerk.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 Benjamin mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry as a 1st Sergeant.
  • John Floyd Maley wrote a letter to The Webster Times, listing his fellow prisoners, on 27 Oct 1861 from Richmond, Virginia, mentioning Benjamin Taft, as follows.
  • On 30 Oct 1861 at the "Worcester Palladium", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Benjamin Taft was included, with 304 other men, among "The Killed Wounded and Missing of the Fifteenth Regiment," after Ball's Bluff.
  • On 2 Nov 1861 at "The Webster Weekley Times", Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Benjamin Taft was listed as a Company I casualty of Ball's Bluff.
  • On 9 Nov 1861 Benjamin Taft was mentioned, along with 95 other men of the 15th Massachusetts, in a report of 9 Nov 1861 to the Webster Times, by F. Q. Robinson, concerning the aftermath of Ball's Bluff and reporting his status.
  • On 20 Nov 1861 at "The Worcester Daily Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Benjamin Taft was listed with 195 other men among the prisoners taken at Ball's Bluff.
  • On 20 Nov 1861 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Benjamin Taft was listed, with 88 other men of the 15th Massachusetts, as a prisoner at Richmond.
  • "The Prisoners At Richmond -
    Sergeant Taft of company I, fifteenth regiment, writes from Richmond, under date of December 4th, that the prisoners of fifteenth and twentieth regiments are now in one building. The company B prisoners ( Fitchburg ) received that morning a box of clothing sent by their friends at home. The prisoners generally are in good health, faring as well as could be expected."
    (Volume III # 40 Webster Times December 14, 1861.)
  • John Floyd Maley wrote a letter to The Webster Times on 29 Dec 1861 from Richmond, Virginia, mentioning Benjamin Taft, as follows.
  • He died on 15 Jan 1862 at Salisbury, Rowan County, North Carolina, as a prisoner of war.
  • On 15 Jan 1862 Benjamin Taft was mentioned in the Worcester Spy (Volume 91 #3) as follows:
    There were 175 prisoners sent further south last week, two from our company, Sergeant Taft of Worcester, and Rufus Corbin of Webster. Geo.W. Lewis and Henry Clapp received letters from home today.
  • He was buried at Salisbury National Cemetery, Salisbury, Rowan County, North Carolina, Section 3, Plot 266.
  • A eulogy for Benjamin Taft was published on 8 Feb 1862 at "Worcester Aegis & Transcript", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, (contributed by Peter H. Viles, Worcester, MA) as follows:
    Sergeant Taft of the Massachusetts Fifteenth whose death took place at Salisbury, N.C., was a young man of more than ordinary promise. He was a corporal in Company D, but a short time before the battle at Ball's Bluff, was promoted to first sergeant in Company I. He was ready at all times, and under all circumstances, to respond to any call to duty; was dignified, yet kind and gentlemanly in his deportment. His high toned moral character, his faithful performance of his duties, and his natural adaptation to the drill, made himself worthly of the confidence which was reposed in him. He death will be lamented by his regiment who sympathize with his friends in their sad bereavement. Comrade.
  • An obituary for Benjamin Taft was published on 8 Feb 1862 at "The Webster Times", Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as follows: (Volume III # 48)
    Death of Sergeant Benjamin Taft
    The sad intelligence was received in this city, yesterday, of the death of Serg’t Taft, Of Company I, fifteenth Massachusetts regiment at Saulsbury , N.C., where he was held as a prisoner of war. He died of typhoid fever, after an illness of ten days. The confederate officer who forwarded the intelligence to the friends of the “deceased” in this city says ”He had every attention shown him possible under the circumstances by a good surgeon, and was perfectly comfortable. He left no messages. He was decently buried the day following his death in the Lutheran churchyard of this place.”
    Serg’t Taft enlisted in Company D, where he served as first corporal, but was afterwards promoted to be first sergeant of Company I. His age at the time of his death was 20 years, 11 months and one day. He was the son of Mr. Moses Taft of this city---Spy, 6th.
  • He's surviving family was enumerated in the household of Moses Taft and Louisa A. Watkins in the 1870 US Federal Census on 27 Jul 1870 at Green Point, Kings County, New York, his parents, as:
    Taft, Moses, 54, Pattern Maker, b. MA
    ---, Louisa, 54, b. NY
    Miller, Andrew, 34, Segar (sic) Manufr., b. MA
    ---, Helen, 27, b. MA (his married sister.)
  • On 15 Jul 1874 Benjamin Taft was included on the Civil War memorial at Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 26 Jul 1890 Louisa A. Watkins received a pension to surviving family member in New York based on Benjamin's service; his mother, received certificate number 297586.
  • On 27 Oct 1910 at "The Webster Times", Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Benjamin was mentioned in an article about the 44th regimental reunion as follows:
    John R. Nichols of Wilton, N. Y. a member of the regiment, who could not be at the reunion, sent to Col. Joslyn a letter in which he wrote of Taft. “At Ball’s Bluff I was taken prisoner, and so was Benjamin Taft. I made his acquaintance at Richmond. He was a nice young fellow. We called him Benny. About December 24, 1861, there were a great many prisoners removed from Richmond to Salisbury. Benjamin Taft and myself were among the number. I rode on the train and it was stopped, and we did not move along much. Benny, and two or three other comrades, managed to slip away and elude the guards. Benny got played out, sick, tired, and footsore. He begged of his companions to go on and leave him, but they would not do so. They gave themselves up and in a few days after I arrived at the Salisbury prison they were brought in. Benny was sick and went to the hospital, which was one of the little old negro cabins a little ways from the prison proper. In a few days the report came to us that he was dead.”.
  • Last Edited: 22 Nov 2016

James Taft

b. 1830, d. 22 January 1868
  • Father: Luke Taft b. 3 Jun 1783, d. 7 Apr 1863
  • Mother: Nancy Wood b. 6 Feb 1787, d. 29 May 1859
  • Company: H
  • James Taft was born in 1830 at Uxbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of Luke Taft and Nancy Wood.
  • On 9 Oct 1855 James Taft married Marion Adalade Scott, 24, daughter of Manly Scott and Henrietta Thayer, at Uxbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • James Taft and Marion Adalade Scott were enumerated in the 1860 US Federal census on 11 Jun 1860 at Sutton P. O., Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    James Taft, 30, farmer, $6000 real estate, $2000 personal estate, b. MA
    Marion, 29, b. MA
    Patricia Rhodes, 34, b. MA
    Margaret, 32, b. MA
    Anthony Taft, 11, b. RI
    Thomas McCrary, 20, farm laborer, b. Ireland
    Mary Ceny, 15, servant, b. Ireland.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, James gave his occupation as trader.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 James mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry as a 1st Sergeant
    . He was 31 years old.
  • On 17 Jan 1862 James was promoted to as a 2nd Lieutenant.
  • On 17 Jul 1862 James ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts by resignation.

  • He attended the funeral of George Hull Ward on 8 Jul 1863 at Rural Cemetery, Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • James Taft died on 22 Jan 1868 at New York City, New York, New York. He was 38 years old.
  • From the " Massachusetts Spy," (Worcester, MA), 31 Jan 1868:
    Died - In New York City, Jan 22, James Taft, formerly Lieut of Co. H, 15th Regt, aged 38 years.
  • He was buried in Jan 1868 at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Uxbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • He's surviving family was enumerated in the household of Henrietta Thayer in the 1870 US Federal Census on 1 Aug 1870 at Blackstone P. O., Uxbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Scott, Henrietta, 80, $700 real estate, $200 personal estate, b. MA (his mother-in-law)
    **Taft, Marion A., 39, $4000 personal estate, b. MA.
  • On 5 Nov 1881 Marion Adalade Taft received a pension to surviving family member based on James's service; making application number 281492, but no certificate number is recorded.
  • Marion, his wife, outlived James and died on 6 Oct 1883 at Uxbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, of cancer at age 52.
  • Last Edited: 13 Apr 2016

Family: Marion Adalade Scott b. 19 Mar 1831, d. 6 Oct 1883

Edwin H. Tanner

b. 16 March 1841, d. 5 November 1907
  • Father: William Henry Tanner b. 17 Mar 1810, d. 21 Sep 1895
  • Mother: Hannah Slater b. 12 Mar 1816, d. 19 Oct 1883
  • Company: H
  • Edwin H. Tanner was also known as Harry E. Tanner in some census enumerations.
  • He was born on 16 Mar 1841 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of William Henry Tanner and Hannah Slater.
  • Edwin H. Tanner was enumerated in the household of William Henry Tanner and Hannah Slater in the 1850 US Federal Census on 18 Aug 1850 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Wm. Tanner, 37, farmer, b. RI
    Hannah, 36, b. England
    **Geo. A., 10, b. MA
    **Edwin H., 9, b. MA
    Elizabeth H., 8, b. MA
    Chas., 4, b. MA
    Harriet, 3, b. MA
    May, 17, b. RI (relationship unknown.)
  • Edwin H. Tanner was enumerated in the 1860 US Federal census on 8 Jun 1860 at Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Edwin Tanner, 18, machinist, b. MA, is enumerated in a very large boarding house owned by Susan C. Hopkins, 50, b. MA.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Edwin gave his occupation as machinist.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 Edwin mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Northbridge, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 20 years, 3 months and 26 days old.
  • Edwin H. Tanner and George A. Tanner, brother, served together in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry in Co. H -- George joining a year later than his brother.
  • On 18 Sep 1862 Edwin was promoted to Corporal.
  • On 1 Oct 1862 Francis Carpenter, having visited the battlefield, wrote a letter to the Webster Times detailing the status of many men after the Battle of Antietam.
  • On 11 Oct 1862 Edwin was promoted to Sergeant.
  • On 10 May 1864 at "The New York Times", New York City, New York, Edwin H. Tanner was mentioned on page 8, among others, as having made his way north after the battle.
  • On 15 May 1864 Edwin was wounded.
  • On 18 May 1864 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Edwin H. Tanner was noted among the wounded at the Battle of the Wilderness.
  • On 25 May 1864 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Edwin H. Tanner was mentioned among the casualties.
  • On 1 Jun 1864 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Edwin was mentioned as follows:
    We could find but one Massachusetts man among the wounded this morning, and he was Sergt. Tanner, Co. H, 15th Mass, one of the old veterans, who stated that he had lost but one week since he entered the service. He was very cheerful and believed in ”taking things just as they came.” Other boats are expected here every hour.
  • In Jun 1864 Edwin was promoted to 1st Sergeant.
  • On 28 Jul 1864 Edwin ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts having finished his term of service.

  • He was enumerated in the 1870 US Federal Census in 1870 at Woonsocket, Providence County, Rhode Island, as:
    Tanner, Harry E., 30, gas fitter, b. MA.
  • He made application for a veteran's pension in Nov 1879, and received certificate number 201934.
  • On 10 Mar 1890 Edwin H. Tanner, 48, married Virginia Antoinette Koopman, 25, daughter of Henry Koopman and Emma Lambert, at Orleans Parish, Louisiana.
  • Edwin H. Tanner and Virginia Antoinette Koopman were enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 8 Jun 1900 at New Orleans, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, as:
    Tanner, Harry, b. May 1844 in MA, Engineer
    ---, Virginia, wife, b. Jan 1863 in LA
    ---, Orion, son, b. Jan 1891 in Mississippi.
  • On 4 Jul 1907 Edwin H. Tanner was included on the Civil War memorial at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, according to an article in the Webster Times. See the "Documents" section at the main website for an account of the festivities of dedication.
  • He died on 5 Nov 1907 at New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana. He was 66 years, 7 months and 20 days old.
  • On 15 Nov 1907 Virginia Antoinette Koopman received a pension to surviving family member in Louisiana based on Edwin's service; and received certificate number 670406.
  • He's surviving family was enumerated in the household of Virginia Antoinette Koopman in the 1910 US Federal Census on 22 Apr 1910 at McDonoghville, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, as:
    Virgina A Tanner, 45y, widow, b. LA (fat b. Germany, mor b. England)
    Oran Tanner, 19y, single, b. Miss (fat b. MA, mor b. LA), pipe fitter on the railroad
    Egbert Cortright, 41y, single, b. Mobile (fat b. AL.)
  • Edwin's son, Orin Fulcher Tanner, died and was buried in Dec 1943 at Hope Mausoleum, New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana, at age 52 years and 11 months.
  • Last Edited: 23 Jun 2019

Family: Virginia Antoinette Koopman b. 27 Jun 1864

  • Orin Fulcher Tanner b. Jan 1891, d. 27 Dec 1943

George A. Tanner

b. 15 February 1840, d. 18 April 1910
  • Father: William Henry Tanner b. 17 Mar 1810, d. 21 Sep 1895
  • Mother: Hannah Slater b. 12 Mar 1816, d. 19 Oct 1883
  • Company: H
  • George A. Tanner was born on 15 Feb 1840 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of William Henry Tanner and Hannah Slater.
  • George A. Tanner was enumerated in the household of William Henry Tanner and Hannah Slater in the 1850 US Federal Census on 18 Aug 1850 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Wm. Tanner, 37, farmer, b. RI
    Hannah, 36, b. England
    **Geo. A., 10, b. MA
    **Edwin H., 9, b. MA
    Elizabeth H., 8, b. MA
    Chas., 4, b. MA
    Harriet, 3, b. MA
    May, 17, b. RI (relationship unknown.)
  • On 30 Jan 1861 George A. Tanner, 20, married Emma Green, 16, daughter of John Green and Miranda Wood, at Burrillville, Providence County, Rhode Island.
  • George A. Tanner and Edwin H. Tanner, brother, served together in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry in Co. H -- George joining a year later than his brother.
  • In 1862 George was living at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, George gave his occupation as mechanic.

  • On 29 Jul 1862 George mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He was 22 years, 5 months and 14 days old.
  • On 2 Aug 1862 at "The Webster Times", Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, George A. Tanner was mentioned, along with 18 other men, as a new recruit in the 15th Massachusetts.
  • On 1 Oct 1862 Francis Carpenter, having visited the battlefield, wrote a letter to the Webster Times detailing the status of many men after the Battle of Antietam.
  • On 8 Oct 1862 George ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts at Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, due to disability.

  • Starting 18 Aug 1864, George also served in the 4th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, Company I as a Corporal.
  • He ended his service with the 4th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery by mustering out on 17 Jun 1865 at Washington, DC.
  • He and Emma Green were enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census on 23 Jun 1880 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Tanner, George, 40, works at shoe making, b. MA
    ---, Emma, 36, wife, b. CT
    ---, Hattie C., 15, dau, b. MA
    where they live nextdoor to his parents.
  • George A. Tanner was enumerated in the 1890 US Federal census, Veteran's Schedule in Jun 1890 at Oxford, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as having served in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Company H.
  • On 9 Apr 1891 George's daughter, Hattie C. Tanner married Luman A. Davis at Oxford, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 4 Jul 1907 George A. Tanner was included on the Civil War memorial at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, according to an article in the Webster Times. See the "Documents" section at the main website for an account of the festivities of dedication.
  • On 5 Nov 1907 his brother, Edwin H. Tanner, died at New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana, at age 66.
  • George A. Tanner died on 18 Apr 1910 at Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 70 years, 2 months and 3 days old.
  • He was buried on 21 Apr 1910 at Mount Zion Cemetery (East Village), Webster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 10 May 1910 Emma Green received a pension to surviving family member based on George's service; his wife, received certificate number 703238.
  • On 27 Oct 1910 George A. Tanner was reported as deceased at the 44th regimental reunion.
  • Last Edited: 6 Aug 2017

Family: Emma Green b. 25 May 1844, d. 14 Mar 1911

  • Hattie C. Tanner b. between 1864 - 1865

Thomas Phillips Tayler

b. 30 January 1833, d. 23 December 1909
  • Father: William Lonsdale Tayler
  • Mother: Mary E. Phillips
  • Company: B
  • Thomas Phillips Tayler was born on 30 Jan 1833 at at sea, son of William Lonsdale Tayler and Mary E. Phillips.
  • Thomas Phillips Tayler married Maria Anna Byrne.
  • Thomas Phillips Tayler and Maria Anna Byrne were enumerated in the 1860 US Federal census on 14 Jun 1860 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    T. P. Taylor (sic), 28, watchman, $1200 real estate, $500 personal property, b. "on the ocean"
    M. A., 22 (f), wife, b. PA
    A. ?., 3 (m), b. MA
    M. J., 2 (m), b. MA
    L. S., 6/12 (f), b. MA.
  • In 1861 Thomas was living at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in 1861, Thomas gave his occupation as sailor.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 Thomas mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 28 years, 5 months and 12 days old.
  • On 21 Oct 1861 Thomas was wounded at The Battle of Ball's Bluff, Leesburg, Virginia, and taken prisoner. From Mark Landry --
    He participated at Ball’s Bluff on October 21, 1861 where he was wounded and taken prisoner by the 7th Virginia Infantry under Captain Duff and was confined in Leesburg from October 21, 1861 to January 4, 1862 at which time he was released under a flag of truce. It was supposed that he could not live but a short time on account of his wounds. He was confined at a hospital in Leesburg, VA and Poolsville, MD. "He did all that a man could do to defend the glorious stars and stripes of our union." After he returned home he had to use crutches for a year on account of his wounds. He was invalided at Fitchburg under the care of Dr. A. Hitchcock for thirty days from June 14, 1862.
  • On 30 Oct 1861 at the "Worcester Palladium", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Thomas Phillips Tayler was included, with 304 other men, among "The Killed Wounded and Missing of the Fifteenth Regiment," after Ball's Bluff.
  • On 4 Jan 1862, Thomas was exchanged from prison.
  • On 15 Jan 1862 Thomas Phillips Tayler was mentioned in the Worcester Spy :
    Fifteenth Regiment - We learn that, under a flag of truce carried by Quartermaster Howe of the 15th, Thomas Taylor of Co. B. and J. Moffit of Co. E., together with a private of the California regiment, were returned on Jan. 4th, by the rebel authorities at Leesburg, all three severely wounded at the affair at Ball’s Bluff. There was no pledge required of them that they would not serve against the confederate states, but it is doubtful when, if ever, they will be able to.
  • On 12 Oct 1862 Thomas ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts due to disability for wounds received in action.

  • On 4 Jul 1868 Thomas Phillips Tayler was included on the Civil War memorial at Main Street, Westminster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, From the "Massachusetts Spy," (Worcester, Massachusetts), 17 July 1868:
    A very fine soldiers' monument of Fitchburg granite, with curb of the same material, was dedicated in Westminster, July 4. It stands 22 1/2 feet high, the names of 82 soldiers being on marble slabs attached to the sides of the monument.
    The dedicatory services proper consisted of prayer, singing of an original ode, floral demonstration, an address, the reading of a poem, and the playing of a dirge by the Gardner Brass Band. A free dinner was provided in the grove....speeches were made by Captain Holden and General Kimball....
  • He and Maria Anna Byrne were enumerated in the 1870 US Federal Census on 4 Jul 1870 at Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Thomas P. Taylor, 37, farmer, b. England
    Maria, 34, b. PA
    Ann S., 13, b. MA
    Mary J., 11, b. MA
    Lizzie, 10, b. MA
    Maria, 4, b. MA.
  • On 1 Jul 1879 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Thomas Phillips Tayler attended the annual reunion of Company B, 15th Massachusetts, the Fitchburg Fisiliers. (Click icon to read the report in the Fitchburg Sentinel.)
  • He and Maria Anna Byrne were enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census on 13 Jun 1880 at Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, where he is a Farmer.
  • On 29 Dec 1881 Thomas and Maria's daughter, Lizzie Snowden Tayler married Andrew J. Whitney at Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • In Jun 1886 Thomas was living at Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 1 Jun 1887 Thomas's daughter, Maria Louella Tayler married Edward Alfred McIntire at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 5 Sep 1887 Thomas and Maria's daughter, Anne Louisa Tayler married George B. Whitney at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • On 6 Sep 1887 Thomas and Maria's daughter, Mary Jane Tayler married Allen H. Clark at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • On 11 May 1898 at "The Fitchburg Sentinel", Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Thomas Phillips Tayler was mentioned in an article as an original member of the Fitchburg Fusiliers.
  • He and Maria Anna Byrne were enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 25 Jun 1900 at Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Taylor, Thomas P., b. Jan 1833, married 44 years, b. at sea (of English parents), farmer
    ---, Maria A., wife, b. Sep 1835, all four children living, b. PA.
  • On 28 Jun 1900 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Thomas Phillips Tayler attended a reunion of Company B of the 15th Massachusetts. Click icon to read the report in the Fitchburg Sentenel.
  • On 29 Jun 1901 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Thomas Phillips Tayler attended the 40th reunion of Company B.
  • On 28 Jun 1905 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Thomas Phillips Tayler attended a reunion of the Fitchburg Fusiliers, Company B of the 15th Massachusetts, as reported in the Fitchburg Sentinel.
  • Thomas wrote a letter on 24 Jun 1909 from Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as follows:
    Dear Colonel Kimball,
    Your card came duly to hand last Saturday. In reply I will say that I am troubled with a weak heart which makes it almost impossible for me to come to the reunion this year. I think that I have attended the last roll call of my dear old Co. B. I say this with tears running down my cheeks. With kind love to you and all comrades, I remain your faithfull comrade.
    Thomas P. Tayler.
  • On 26 Jun 1909 Thomas Phillips Tayler wrote a letter read at the 41st reunion of Company B, The Fusiliers.
  • He died on 23 Dec 1909 at Princeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 76 years, 10 months and 23 days old.
  • An obituary for Thomas Phillips Tayler was published on 23 Dec 1909 at "The Fitchburg Sentinel", Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as follows:
    Death of Aged Resident of Princeton
    Thomas P. Taylor died at his home in Princeton early this morning from a complication incidental to old age. He was a native of England and had lived in Princeton for many years. He was 76 years, 10 months and 23 days old. He leaves a wife and two daughters, Mrs. Edward McIntyre of West Fitchburg and Mrs. L. A. Clark of this city. The body was brought to H. O. & H. L. Sawyer's undertaking rooms where the funeral will be Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock.
  • He was buried on 27 Dec 1909 at Forest Hill Cemetery, Div. 1, Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Hemlock Path.
    Funeral Held at Rooms of Undertaker Sawyer
    On account of the storm which made it impossible to get around with carriages the funeral of Thomas P. Taylor, which was to have been from H. O. & H. L. Sawyer's undertaking rooms, Sunday afternoon, was postponed till this afternoon at 3 o'clock. Rev. Edward B. Saunders, pastor of the first Universalist church officiated. The body was placed in the tomb at Forest Hill cemetery. (Fitchburg Sentinel, 27 Dec 1909.)
  • After 1909 Maria Anna Byrne received a pension to surviving family member in Massachusetts based on Thomas's service; and received certificate number 696629.
  • On 27 Oct 1910 Thomas P. Taylor was reported as deceased at the 44th regimental reunion.
  • Maria, his wife, outlived Thomas and died on 23 May 1936 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 100.
  • A researcher, notes, "Some of his most intimate comrades in service were Fred Nichols, Francis Nichols, Edward S. Kendall, N. Porter Howard, all of Westminster, MA and Artemas Gibson of Fitchburg, MA. "
  • Last Edited: 15 Jun 2017

Family: Maria Anna Byrne b. 29 Sep 1835, d. 23 May 1936

  • Anne Louisa Tayler b. 12 Apr 1857
  • Mary Jane Tayler b. 27 Jun 1858
  • Lizzie Snowden Tayler b. 30 Nov 1859, d. 9 Nov 1908
  • Maria Louella Tayler b. 23 Nov 1866

Charles Hollis Taylor

b. 24 January 1831, d. 1 March 1912
  • Father: Elijah Flagg Taylor b. between 1807 - 1808
  • Mother: Phebe A. Danforth b. between 1804 - 1805
  • Company: A
  • Charles Hollis Taylor was born on 24 Jan 1831 at Marlborough, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, son of Elijah Flagg Taylor and Phebe A. Danforth.
  • Charles Hollis Taylor was enumerated in the household of Elijah Flagg Taylor and Phebe A. Danforth in the 1850 US Federal Census on 20 Aug 1850 at Bolton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Elijah Taylor, 42, farmer, b. MA (as were all in the family)
    Phebe, 45
    **Charles H., 18
    Horatio F., 11
    Caroline, 9.
  • On 20 Aug 1853 Charles Hollis Taylor, 22, married Elvira M. Wilson, 19, daughter of Abel Wilson and Charlotte Moore, at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • In 1862 Charles was living at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in 1862, Charles gave his occupation as teamster.

  • On 9 Aug 1862 Charles mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 31 years, 6 months and 16 days old.
  • On 5 Mar 1863 Charles ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts due to disability.

  • On 25 Dec 1876 Charles and Elvira's daughter, Ida Augusta Taylor married George A. Ware at Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a third marriage for him and the first for her.
  • On 22 Feb 1878 his brother, Horatio Foster Taylor, died at age 40.
  • Charles Hollis Taylor made application for a veteran's pension in Jan 1880, and received certificate number 1057185.
  • He and Elvira M. Wilson were enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census on 9 Jun 1880 at Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Charles Taylor, 48, teaming, b. MA
    Elvira M., wife, 37, b. NH
    Walter S., son, 20, fireman on engine, b. MA
    Nellie N., daur, 17, b. MA
    Gracie F., daur, 10, b. MA.
  • On 6 Sep 1885 Charles and Elvira's daughter, Nellie N. Taylor married Zina H. Howe at Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • Charles Hollis Taylor was enumerated in the 1890 US Federal census, Veteran's Schedule in Jun 1890 at Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as having served in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Co. A.
  • On 19 Sep 1894 Charles and Elvira's daughter, Gracie F. Taylor married Charles H. Whitcomb at Lunenburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • Charles Hollis Taylor and Elvira M. Wilson were enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 6 Jun 1900 at Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Charles Taylor, 67, b. Jan 1833 in MA, married 43 years, day laborer
    Elvira M., 58, wife, b. Jan 1842 in NH, all four of her children are living
    Ernest W., 18, grandson, b. June 1881, single, b. MA, carder in cotton factory.
  • Charles Hollis Taylor died on 1 Mar 1912 at Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 81 years, 1 month and 6 days old.
  • He was buried on 3 Mar 1912 at New Cemetery, Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 12 Mar 1912 Elvira M. Wilson received a pension to surviving family member in Massachusetts based on Charles's service; his wife, received certificate number 740948.
  • On 26 Dec 1913 Elvira M. Wilson, his wife, died at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 79 after an illness of several months.
  • Charles's wife, Elvira M. Wilson, died and was buried in Dec 1913 at New Cemetery, Ashburnham, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 79 years and 10 months.
  • Last Edited: 22 Aug 2019

Family: Elvira M. Wilson b. 6 Jan 1834, d. 26 Dec 1913

  • Ida Augusta Taylor b. 8 May 1856
  • Walter Lewis Taylor b. 16 Sep 1860
  • Nellie N. Taylor b. 1863
  • Gracie F. Taylor b. 1869

George Coolidge Taylor

b. 16 April 1841, d. 21 October 1861

George C. Taylor
  • Father: David Taylor Jr. d. 1 Sep 1844
  • Mother: Louisa B. Coolidge b. 24 Feb 1812, d. 1 Jan 1906
  • Company: B
  • George Coolidge Taylor was born on 16 Apr 1841 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of David Taylor Jr. and Louisa B. Coolidge.
  • On 1 Sep 1844 his father, David Taylor Jr., died at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 16 Mar 1848 George's widowed mother, Louisa B. Coolidge, remarried to Jeremiah Stewart, 36, at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • George Coolidge Taylor was enumerated in the household of Jeremiah Stewart and Louisa B. Coolidge in the 1850 US Federal Census on 13 Aug 1850 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Jeremiah Stewart, 32, farmer, b. MA (as were all in the family)
    Louisa B., 37
    Martha L. Taylor, 13
    **George C., 9
    Harriet A., 7
    Susan E., 6/12.
  • In 1861 George was living at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in 1861, George gave his occupation as machinist.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 George mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry as a Sergeant, being credited to the quota of Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 20 years, 2 months and 26 days old.
  • He died on 21 Oct 1861 at The Battle of Ball's Bluff, Leesburg, Virginia. He was 20 years, 6 months and 5 days old.
  • On 30 Oct 1861 at the "Worcester Palladium", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, George Coolidge Taylor was included, with 304 other men, among "The Killed Wounded and Missing of the Fifteenth Regiment," after Ball's Bluff.
  • In 1866, George was included in the history of "Fitchburg in the War of Rebellion", but no family information is given.
  • On 25 Nov 1892 John White Kimball gave his eye-witness account of the Battle of Ball's Bluff to the Boston Journal, and it was reprinted in the Fitchburg Sentinel.
  • George Coolidge Taylor was mentioned in the obituary of Louisa B. Coolidge on 2 Jan 1906 at "The Fitchburg Sentinel", Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as follows:
    Long Life Ended
    Mrs. Louisa B. Stewart Passed Away on New Year's Day, Aged 93 Years.
    Mrs. Louisa B. (Coolidge), widow of Jeremiah Stewart, one of the oldest residents of this city, the first Fitchburg mother to loose a son in the Civil War, and probably the longest time Protestant church member in this community, passed peacefully away at her home, 271 Blossom street, on New Year's day at 4.30 p.m.
    Mrs. Stewart had retained her mental faculties unimpaired and had experienced little bodily infirmity up to last Friday when she was attacked with pneumonia, which at her advanced age left no hope of recovery. She was born at Boston, Feb. 24, 1812. Her parents died before she was five yeears old and after their death she resided with relatives in Boston till about 10 years of age when she came to Fitchburg and resided with a Mr. Hovey on West street, who was related to her.
    Her first marriage was to David Taylor, Jr., no Sept. 13, 1839. She had five children by this marriage, two of whom -- Mrs. Edwin Huckins of this city and Mrs. John Q. A. Barden of Allston -- are living. Her younger son, Sergt. George B. (sic) Taylor, served in Company B, 15th Mass. regiment, and was the first Fitchburg soldier to lose his life in the War of the Rebellion, having been killed at the Battle of Balls Bluff, Oct. 21, 1861. David Taylor died in this city, Sept. 1, 1844.
    Her second marriage was to Jeremiah Stewart on March 16, 1848. He died, Oct. 5, 1891, leaving one daughter, Miss Susie E. Stewart, who survives. Besides her children, Mrs. Stewart leaves one granddaughter, Mrs. May (Barden) McGowan of Allston, and one great-granddaughter, Miss Pauline McGowan, nine years old.
    Mrs. Stewart was the last of her parents' five children, three of whom lived to be over 90 years of age.
    She joined the C. C. church nearly 80 years ago and when the Rollstone church was oprganized in 1868 she removed her relations to that church of which she has been, since the death of Roby Fletcher, the oldest member. She was of a quiet retiring disposition, but a lady of most exemplary character, b earing great trials with patience and resignation.
  • Last Edited: 5 May 2019

George Goodspeed Taylor

b. 26 November 1829, d. 31 January 1901
  • Father: Isaac Taylor
  • Mother: Betsey Nutting
  • Company: B
  • George Goodspeed Taylor was born on 26 Nov 1829 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of Isaac Taylor and Betsey Nutting.
  • On 22 Nov 1853 George Goodspeed Taylor, 23, married Susan T. Willoughby, 22, daughter of Luther Willoughby and Dorcas Taylor, at Templeton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • George Goodspeed Taylor and Susan T. Willoughby were enumerated in the 1860 US Federal census on 8 Aug 1860 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, where he is a carpenter.
  • In 1862 George was living at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in 1862, George gave his occupation as carpenter.

  • On 11 Aug 1862 George mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 32 years, 8 months and 16 days old.
  • On 24 Apr 1864 George was transferred from 1st Batallion, 216th Company, V. R. C. to.
  • On 28 Jul 1864 George ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts having fulfilled his term of service.

  • He and Susan T. Willoughby were enumerated in the 1870 US Federal Census on 28 Jul 1870 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, with their daughter Cora.
  • George Goodspeed Taylor and Susan T. Willoughby were enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census in Jun 1880 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    George E. TAYLOR     Self, 50, MA, Occ:     Carpenter
    Susan W., Wife, 48, NH
    Cora E., Dau, 13, b. MA.
  • George Goodspeed Taylor made application at Massachusetts for a veteran's pension on 16 Jul 1890, and received certificate number 651095.
  • On 6 May 1891 George and Susan's daughter, Cora E. Taylor married Albert E. Graves at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • On 28 Jun 1894 at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, George Goodspeed Taylor attended the annual reunion of Company B ("Fitchburg Fusiliers"). From The Fitchburg Sentinel, 28 June 1894
    Veteran Fusiliers' Reunion
    On a bright June day like this, 33 years ago, today, the Fitchburg Fusiliers marched down Main street to the old depot and took a train for Worcester where they, with the other companies of the 15th Mass. regiment went into camp at Camp Scott, remaining till Aug. 8, when they went to the front.
    The survivors of the company, with honorary members of the association and other friends, held their annual reunion at Whalom park, today. A good number of lady friends of the veterans were present.
    The business meeting was held in the grove at 11:30 a.m. The following officers and members of the company responded to roll call. Gen. John W. Kimball, Capt. Charles H. Eager, Lieut. J. Myron Goddard, Sergt. Walter A. Eames, Privates John R. Farnum, Artemas A. Gibson, William Gibson, Granville C. Hosmer, Wallace W. Holman, Edward S. Kendall, Herbert D. McIntire, Joseph B. Matthews, George G. Taylor, Henry F. Whittemore. Honorary members -- Harrington Sibley, Charles May, F. A. Monroe, Edward F. Kimball, Albert McIntire, Samuel Osborne, Elmer W. Holman, C. A. Tenney, C. H. Toomey, James Harrington.
    The record of the last meeting was read by the clerk, E. S. Kendall, and approved and the report of the treasurer showing a balance of $41.59 was accepted.
    The following officers were chosen -- Capt, John W. Kimball; first leiutenant, J. Myron Goddard, Wakefield; second lieutenant, Charles H. Eager, Belmont; clerk and treasurer, Edward S. Kendall, Westminster; auditors -- Gen. J. W. Kimball, Herbert D. McIntire, Artemas A. Gibson.
  • On 17 Mar 1895 his grandson, Robert Francis Graves, son of Albert E. Graves and Cora E. Taylor, was born at Springfield, Hampden County, Massachusetts.
  • On 23 Mar 1895 his married daughter, Cora E. Graves, died at Springfield, Hampden County, Massachusetts, at age 28 of child bed fever.
  • On 11 May 1898 at "The Fitchburg Sentinel", Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, George Goodspeed Taylor was mentioned in an article as an original member of the Fitchburg Fusiliers.
  • He and Susan T. Willoughby were enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 16 Jun 1900 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, where they live in a rented home and he is a carpenter. Of the three children they had, none are still living in 1900.
  • From the Fitchburg Sentinel, 28 January 1901...
    "George G. Taylor, a war veteran, aged about 73 years, sustained a paralytic shock of his left side, Saturday. He is attended by Dr. Geddes, who has but little hope of his living but a few days."
  • George Goodspeed Taylor died on 31 Jan 1901 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, of apoplexy. He was 71 years, 2 months and 5 days old.
  • He was buried in Jan 1901 at Riverside Cemetery, Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 5 Feb 1901 at "The Fitchburg Sentinel", Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, George was mentioned:
    "The funeral of George G. Taylor, whose death occurred, Thursday, from paralytic shock sustained the previous week, was held ??? G. A. Cooke officiating. Mr. Taylor was a war veteran, engaged in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, being wounded at Antietam."
  • In Feb 1901 Susan T. Taylor received a pension to surviving family member in Massachusetts based on George's service; his wife, received certificate number 512458.
  • On 29 Jun 1901 George Goodspeed Taylor was noted as deceased at the 40th reunion of Company B.
  • Susan, his wife, outlived George and died on 8 Nov 1913 at Winchendon, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 82.
  • Last Edited: 13 Apr 2016

Family: Susan T. Willoughby b. 24 Aug 1831, d. 8 Nov 1913

  • Cora E. Taylor b. 4 Dec 1866, d. 23 Mar 1895

Henry Thomas Taylor

b. 19 January 1835, d. 18 October 1868
  • Father: John Taylor b. between 1810 - 1811
  • Mother: Susan Newhall b. between 1812 - 1813
  • Company: A
  • Henry Thomas Taylor was born on 19 Jan 1835 at Lancaster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of John Taylor and Susan Newhall.
  • Henry Thomas Taylor was enumerated in the household of John Taylor and Susan Newhall in the 1850 US Federal Census on 20 Aug 1850 at Lancaster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    John Taylor, 39, combmaker, b. MA (as were all in the family)
    Susan, 37
    John F., 17
    **Henry, 15
    Walter N., 5/12
    William D. Carr, 26, laborer.
  • On 5 May 1857 Henry Thomas Taylor, 22, married Adeline W. Gates, 17, daughter of Samuel Gates and Abigail L. Chase, at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in 1861, Henry gave his occupation as comb-maker.
  • In 1861 Henry was living at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 Henry mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 26 years, 5 months and 23 days old.
  • On 25 Apr 1862 Henry ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts due to disability on account of rheumatism.

  • From Marvin's "History of Lancaster" - "His eyesight was injured by a bursting shell which filled his face with earth. He was in the battle at Ball's Bluff, and swam the river. (Credited to Leominster.)"
  • In 1868 Henry Thomas Taylor was piano maker.
  • He died on 18 Oct 1868 at Lancaster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, of accidental death. He was 33 years, 8 months and 29 days old.
  • He was buried in Oct 1868 at Middle Cemetery, Lancaster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 21 Feb 1869 Henry's widow, Adeline W. Gates remarried to John H. Morgan at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for him and the second for her.
  • On 8 Oct 1878 Henry's widow, Adeline W. Gates remarried to Charles W. Conant at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for him and the third for her.
  • Henry Thomas Taylor's surviving family was enumerated in the household of Adeline W. Gates and Charles W. Conant in the 1880 US Federal Census on 3 Jun 1880 at Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Conant, Charles W., 39, carpenter, b. NH
    ---, Adaline, 40, wife, dressmaking, b. MA
    Taylor, Burton G., 21, son-in-law, single, works in ??, b. MA.
  • On 2 Jun 1886 Henry and Adeline's son, Barton Gates Taylor married Frances Eva Le Geyt at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • Henry's wife, Adeline W. Gates, died and was buried on 13 Nov 1907 at Evergreen Cemetery, Leominster, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 67 years and 9 months.
  • Last Edited: 13 Apr 2016

Family: Adeline W. Gates b. Feb 1840, d. 10 Nov 1907

  • Barton Gates Taylor b. 15 Jul 1858

Herbert D. Taylor

b. November 1842, d. 17 September 1925
  • Father: Sanford Taylor b. 25 Aug 1812, d. 30 Mar 1907
  • Mother: Angenette Mason b. 16 Oct 1817, d. 28 Mar 1881
  • Company: A
  • Herbert D. Taylor was born in Nov 1842 at Massachusetts, son of Sanford Taylor and Angenette Mason, probably in Palmer.
  • Herbert D. Taylor was enumerated in the household of Sanford Taylor and Angenette Mason in the 1850 US Federal Census on 10 Sep 1850 at Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Sandford Taylor, 38, dresser, b. CT
    Angenett, 33, b. MA (as were all the children)
    Eliza G., 9
    *Herbet D., 8
    Agnes, 3
    Emily J., 2.
  • Herbert D. Taylor was enumerated in the household of Sanford Taylor in the 1855 Massachusetts State census in 1855 at Shirley, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, as:
    Sanford Taylor, 45, dresser, b. CT
    Anganett Taylor, 38, b. MA
    Eliza J Taylor, 15
    Herbert D Taylor, 12
    Agnes Taylor, 8
    Emma Taylor, 7
    Lydia Hamilton, 59.
  • In 1861 Herbert was living at Sterling, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in 1861, Herbert gave his occupation as shoemaker.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 Herbert mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry as a Sergeant, being credited to the quota of Sterling, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 18 years and 8 months old.
  • On 1 Jan 1863 Herbert was promoted to Corporal.
  • On 3 Jul 1863 Herbert was wounded at The Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania.
  • On 22 Jul 1863 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Herbert D. Taylor was reported as wounded at Gettysburg.
  • On 1 Dec 1863 Herbert was promoted to Sergeant.
  • On 22 Jun 1864 Herbert was taken prisoner at Petersburg, Prince George County, Virginia.
  • On 3 Aug 1864 Herbert's sister, Agnes Caroline Taylor, married Rev. Cassius Henry Darling at Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 24 Aug 1864 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Herbert D. Taylor was reported among the prisoners, for a total of four commissioned officers and seventy-seven enlisted men.
  • Between 1865 - 1866 Herbert D. Taylor married Elizabeth A. King, daughter of Robert King and Emma Felgate.
  • Herbert D. Taylor was enumerated in the household of Sanford Taylor and Angenette Mason in the State census in 1865 at Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Sanford Taylor, 52, b. CT, dresser
    Angenette Taylor, 48
    Herbert Taylor, 22
    Cassius H Darling, 21
    Agnes T Darling, 18
    Emma J Taylor, 17
    Annie Taylor, 1.
  • On 22 Apr 1865, Herbert was released from prison.
  • On 30 Apr 1865 Herbert's sister, Eliza J. Taylor, married George H. Jewett at Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • On 29 May 1865 Herbert ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts the 1870 roster makes no mention of him transferring to the 20th MVI.

  • On 14 Sep 1866 his infant daughter, Hattie Eudora Taylor, died at Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, of cholera.
  • On 8 Feb 1871 his son, Harrie A. Taylor, died at Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 3 of scarlet fever.
  • Herbert D. Taylor and Elizabeth A. King were enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census in Jun 1880 at Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, where he Works In Carpet Mill. There are no children enumerated in the household.
  • Herbert D. Taylor was enumerated in the 1890 US Federal census, Veteran's Schedule in Jun 1890 at Walpole, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, as having served in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Company A, noting that he was a prisoner at Andersonville.
  • He made application at Massachusetts for a veteran's pension on 30 Jun 1892, and received certificate number 1105748.
  • In 1896, Herbert was included in "The History of Clinton, Massachusetts."
  • He and Elizabeth A. King were enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 2 Jun 1900 at Walpole, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, as:
    Taylor, Herbert D., b. Nov 1842, married 34 years, b. MA (fath b. CT, mor b. MA, stationary engineer
    ---, Elizabeth A., wife, b. July 1849, both of her children deceased, b. Eng (as were her parents), emmig 1859.
  • On 21 Oct 1903 at Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Herbert D. Taylor attended the 37th annual regimental reunion with some eighty other veterans.
  • On 27 Oct 1910 at The State Mutual Building, Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, Herbert D. Taylor attended the 44th reunion of the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry.
  • He died on 17 Sep 1925 at Walpole, Norfolk County, Massachusetts. He was 82 years and 10 months old.
  • He was buried in Sep 1925 at Woodlawn Cemetery, Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
  • In Sep 1925 Elizabeth A. King received a pension to surviving family member in Massachusetts based on Herbert's service; and received certificate number 967403.
  • Herbert's wife, Elizabeth A. King, died and was buried in 1931 at Woodlawn Cemetery, Clinton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, at age 81 years.
  • Last Edited: 22 Aug 2019

Family: Elizabeth A. King b. Jul 1849, d. 1931

  • Hattie Eudora Taylor b. 31 Jul 1866, d. 14 Sep 1866
  • Harrie A. Taylor b. 22 Jul 1867, d. 8 Feb 1871

James Taylor

b. June 1839, d. 16 June 1922
  • Father: Lawson Taylor b. 17 Feb 1810, d. 3 Apr 1885
  • Mother: Sabina W. Smith b. 1812
  • Company: D
  • James Taylor was born in Jun 1839 at Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island, son of Lawson Taylor and Sabina W. Smith.
  • His mother, Sabina W. Smith, died apparently.
  • James's widowed father, Lawson Taylor, remarried to Lorinah B. Howell.
  • James Taylor was enumerated in the household of Lawson Taylor and Lorinah B. Howell in the 1860 US Federal Census on 21 Jul 1860 at Sutton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, as:
    Lawson Taylor, 50, farmer, b. MA
    Lorenia, 48, b. MA
    **James, 21, mechanic, b. RI
    Hattie A., 7, b. MA.
  • At the time of his enlistment in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, James gave his occupation as machinist.

  • On 12 Jul 1861 James mustered into service with the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, being credited to the quota of Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts. He was 22 years and 1 month old.
  • He was declared missing in action on 21 Oct 1861 at The Battle of Ball's Bluff, Leesburg, Virginia.
  • On 30 Oct 1861 at the "Worcester Palladium", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, James Taylor was included, with 304 other men, among "The Killed Wounded and Missing of the Fifteenth Regiment," after Ball's Bluff.
  • On 20 Nov 1861 at "The Worcester Daily Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, James Taylor was listed with 195 other men among the prisoners taken at Ball's Bluff.
  • On 20 Nov 1861 at "The Worcester Spy", Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, James Taylor was listed, with 88 other men of the 15th Massachusetts, as a prisoner at Richmond.
  • On 7 Dec 1862 James Taylor, 23, married Elizabeth H. Smith, daughter of Lewis Smith and Maria [--?--], at Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in a first marriage for both.
  • On 30 Dec 1862 James ended military service with the 15th Massachusetts due to disability.

  • He and Elizabeth H. Smith were enumerated in the 1880 US Federal census on 2 Jun 1880 at Somerville, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, as:
    Taylor, James, 40, student (sic), b. RI (fat b. MA, mor b. VT)
    ---, Lizzie, 38, wife, b. ME (fat b. ME, mor b. RI.)
  • James Taylor was clergyman.
  • On 3 Jul 1883 Harriet E. Smith, his wife, died at North Adams, Berkshire County, Massachusetts.
  • On 4 Aug 1884 James Taylor, 45, married Emma Pauline Morey, 41, daughter of Daniel C. Morey and Emily Reed Valentine, at Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, in a second marriage for him and the first for her.
  • James Taylor and Emma Pauline Morey were enumerated in the 1900 US Federal census on 13 Jun 1900 at Abington, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, as:
    Taylor, James, b. June 1839, 60, married 16 years, b. RI (fath b. MA, mor b. VT), clergyman
    ---, Emma P., wife, b. Feb 1843, 57, no children, b. MA.
  • James Taylor made application for a veteran's pension on 2 Aug 1905, and received certificate number 1113985.
  • He and Emma Pauline Morey were enumerated in the 1910 US Federal Census on 19 Apr 1910 at Middleboro, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, as:
    Taylor, James, 70, married second 25 years, b. RI (fath b. MA, mor b. VT), own income
    ---, Emma P., wife, 65, married 25 years, no children, b. MA (fath b. VT, mor b. MA.)
  • On 3 May 1912 Emma Pauline Morey, his wife, died at Norwell, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, at age 69.
  • James Taylor was enumerated in the 1920 US Federal Census on 10 Jan 1920 at Warner, Merrimack County, New Hampshire, as:
    Taylor, James, boarder, 80, widower, b. RI (fat b. MA, mor b. VT), minister of New Church
    in the home of Charles H. and Alice Hardy (b. NH.)
  • He died on 16 Jun 1922 at Warner, Merrimack County, New Hampshire. He was 83 years old.
  • He was buried on 18 Jun 1922 at Pine Grove Cemetery, Warner, Merrimack County, New Hampshire.
  • Last Edited: 23 Nov 2018

Family 1: Elizabeth H. Smith b. 1842, d. 3 Jul 1883

Family 2: Emma Pauline Morey b. Feb 1843, d. 3 May 1912