On all the marches, both trying and dangerous, in battle, on picket and guard duty, Company A acted the part of brave, true and patriotic soldiers; worthy the name of “sons of noble sires” and of the grand old State of Massachusetts; and with the other companies of the Old Third Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, takes its place on the roll of honor. I do not recall of one instance of a member of Company A being punished for disobedience to orders, overstaying a pass, “standing on a barrel,” “riding the wooden horse,” or “carrying dirt on their heads in a mess pan.” Company A escaped all such punishment for two reasons; first, because the men willed to be soldiers; and second, the officers knew how to use men.
After the close of the war Company A continued its organization and was well uniformed, well officered, and well drilled until July 6, 1876, when by order of Governor Rice, it was disbanded to reduce the expenses of the volunteer militia of the State, the six companies being reduced to two, those of Brockton and Plymouth remaining.
Company A, which was usually full, has been commanded since the close of the war by Capt. Cephus Washburn, of Halifax; Capt. Charles P. Lyon, of Halifax; Capt. Morton V. Bonney, of West Hanover; and Capt. George H. Bonney, of Kingston. These men are still alive and are honored and beloved by all their fellow-citizens.
A Corrected Roster of Company A, Living and Dead, to October 1, 1903.
[The first figures indicate age at enlistment. As the whole company were Massachusetts men, the towns only will be mentioned. Mustered out June 26, 1863, will be considered the time, unless otherwise indicated. A star (*) before the name stands for service in the three months’ regiment.]
*John W. Marble, Captain; Freetown; 36. For many years foreman of Anthony and Swift’s Slaughter House, Assonet. Ex-member of Legislature. A man of staunch qualities. Died June 18, 1900.
*Charles P. Lyon, First Lieutenant; Halifax; 36. A great admirer of and worker for the interests of Company A; has held nearly every office in the company from corporal to captain. He rendered such timely assistance to Captain Harlow in notifying the members of the company to report on Boston Common, that, notwithstanding the order was received at night, the following morning saw Halifax “Minute Men” on the early train armed and equipped, according to the call of the “War Governor” and President Lincoln, with every man present. For years after the war he served as captain of the company. His town honored him and itself in sending him to the Legislature, where his voice and his vote was always on the right side. By trade a bootmaker, his work stood first-class. Born and always residing in Halifax, he has always enjoyed the confidence and good-will of his fellow-citizens; and now in the sunshine of a grand and fully rounded out life, he awaits orders to the higher and better life, honored and loved by all his associates, including every member of Company A.
*Nathaniel Morton, Second Lieutenant; Halifax; 21. The gentleman, the scholar, the officer, the soldier, “The modest man,” who proudly wears the “Minute Men’s Medal,” presented to him by the commonwealth for meritorious service. He participated in the burning of Gosport Navy Yard and assisted Captain Lyon in recruiting the company in 1862. Has held all the higher offices in the towns of Halifax and Pembroke for the last twenty-seven years; prominent in probate business; honored and respected by his townsmen. He resides in Bryantville, Mass., where, with his accomplished wife, he cordially welcomes all his friends.
*James H. Hathaway, First Sergeant; Freetown; 25. Mustered out with regiment. For many years foreman in factory at Walpole, Mass. Employee Consolidated Railroad. Resides at East Walpole, Mass.