CHAPTER IV.
Company A, Third Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteer Militia.
[Written by Corporal John G. Gammons.]
The early history of this company is of such importance and interest as to claim more than a passing notice.
Company A, known as Halifax Light Infantry, was organized in 1792 when George Washington was President of the United States and John Hancock Governor of Massachusetts. It was one of the first companies in the State to receive its charter from Governor Hancock, and therefore takes rank as one of the oldest among the militia companies in the State at that time.
It was well armed, equipped and drilled and was in active service in the war with England in 1812-14, being on duty at Boston, Mass., where for faithful service rendered, it received the thanks of Governor Hancock and the commendation of the citizens of Boston.
It was commanded by Capt. Asa Thompson of Halifax, a “mighty man of valor” of gigantic proportions, being six feet seven inches in normal condition, and eight feet tall with his captain’s hat on. On parade and at musters this company attracted attention, not only by the Saul-like appearance of its captain, but also by the large black bearskin caps worn by its officers and men. Tradition says that when Captain Thompson marched his company across South Boston bridge throngs of men, women and children would collect to see “the giant” and his men, and not a few would tremble with fear that the bridge would not be able to support the captain and his great company.
When President Lincoln issued his first proclamation for troops, Company A (as minute men) reported for duty April 16, 1861, being commanded by Capt. Joseph Harlow of Halifax, whose height was six feet two inches. This zealous and patriotic officer rode all night through the towns in which the members of the company resided, summoning them to meet on Boston Common the next day, by order of Governor John A. Andrew. This midnight ride has been fittingly compared to that of Paul Revere.
Company A was assigned to the Third Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers, three months’ men, Col. David S. Wardrop commanding, and was ordered to Virginia, where it did its full share in destroying Gosport Navy Yard. It afterward served there under Major-General Butler and was doing guard duty when the slaves coming into our lines were declared “contraband of war” by that officer.
