(NOTE: Col. Allen L. Fahnestock's 1st Henry rifle, his revolver, at least one of his coats and probably a lot of other pieces that he carried or wore during the war still exist today. If anyone having a Fahnestock item sees this, I would love to see pictures of each piece added to his Memorial. I would also enjoy seeing more photos of the Colonel through the years. Thanks, Baxter)
Colonel ALLEN L. FAHNESTOCK, Co. I & Staff, 86th Illinois
Allen L. Fahnestock was born at Abbottstown, Pennsylvania on February 9, 1828, the son of Jacob Fahnestock and Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock. Jacob was born on June 26, 1801 in Adams County, Pennsylvania, while Maria was born on May 16, 1806 in Adams County, Pennsylvania.
In 1836, Jacob Fahnestock, who was a manufacturer of plug tobacco, cigars and snuff in Abbottstown, Pennsylvania, went west to Illinois to to scout out some new land in Illinois. With S. F. Bollinger, of Canton, he bought 160 acres in Sec.17 of Peoria County and laid off the town of Lancaster, Illinois, the first village to be laid out in what was to become Timber Township. Jacob Fahnestock then returned to Pennsylvania and the next year, 1837, brought his family to their new home. Allen L. Fahnestock was 9 years old at this time.
About 1840, when he was about 12 years old, Allen went to St. Louis with Conrad and Jacob Doll and worked in their grocery store. Allen returned to his family and Peoria County in the spring of 1841 and carried the mail for some time from Peoria to Lancaster once a week for 25 cents. In the summer he worked on a farm for $3.00 a month taking pay in trade. On September 9, 1841, Allen's father, Jacob, passed away, leaving Maria with ____ children. Jacob's earthly remains were laid to rest in the Lancaster Cemetery. Maria outlived her husband by more than 50 years and was married 2nd to Peter Reynolds on June 7, 1843 in Peoria County. At the time of the 1850 census, Maria Reynolds and her children are found residing in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County. Peter Reynolds is not listed though. Did he also die before the census of 1850?
2825 Reynolds Maria 43 F 400 Pa
2825 Fahnestock William 21 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Charles 16 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Henry 12 M Ill
2825 Fahnestock Jacob 8 M Ill
Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock Reynolds passed away on May 24, 1895. Her earthly remains were laid next to those of her husband, Jacob Fahnestock, in the Lancaster Cemetery.
During the winter of 1844, Allen worked for three months for Mrs. Elizabeth Duffield for his board and attended school at Dry Run School, Samuel Farmer being the teacher.
In 1845, Allen went to Peoria where he worked for 2 years learning the Cooper's trade from James Soles. Allen was said to have received $35.00 for his first years work and $60.00 for his second. J. W. Robbins opened the first Cooper Shop in the Lancaster area and after serving his apprenticeship, Allen returned to Lancaster and began making sugar barrels for J. W. Robbins at 15 cents apiece. After a short time, Allen bought a shop and started his own business career.
As all grain and hogs for miles around were taken to Lancaster Landing for shipment and goods for the towns north as far as Knoxville, Galesburg and Monmouth were brought up the river and hauled from the landing, teaming was an important industry and it was not uncommon for one hundred loaded teams to pass through Lancaster in one day.
W. C. Andrews opened the first store. Later he became financially embarrassed and committed suicide. Allen L. Fahnestock, after working at the trade for Mr. Robins, bought the Andrews estate, and for years, ran three cooper shops making thousands of barrels. In 1856 Mr. Fahnestock sold hid shops to Herman Strobe and renting the Robins brick store building, engaged exclusively in the mercantile business and from that time to the end of its history was the chief merchant of the town.
In May of 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock enlisted in Capt. May's Company for service in the Mexican War but the Captain was notified by the Governor later that their services would not be needed. Later that year, on August 5, 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock was married to Miss Sarah E. Doane in Timber Township. Sarah was born in __________, Massachusetts on __________ __, 1830, the daughter of S_________ B. Doane and Lucretia (Johnson) Doane, both natives of Massachusetts. Seven children are believed to have been born to Allen and Sarah, two dying in infancy. They are;
1. Lewis E. Fahnestock, born ____________ __, 1848. Lewis died on ___________ __, 1849.
2. Mary A. Fahnestock, born
3. Charles E. Fahnestock, born July 29, 1852. Charles was married on February 28, 1873 to Amanda Griggs, the daughter of Franklin Griggs and Deborah (__________) Griggs, and the sister of Elizabeth Griggs, who was married to Private Harvey Hand, who served as a Private in then Captain Allen L. Fahnestock's Co. I. Amanda was born on July 29, 1854.
Charles was working in his father's store before the age of fifteen and by diligence and industry acquired great competence. He served a Postmaster, both at Glasford, and Sciota, Illinois, where they later lived and conducted a general merchandise store and grain elevator.
4. Alphonso A Fahnestock (1855 - 1912)*
5. Iverien Fahnestock (1857 - 1858)*
6. Frank Leslie Fahnestock, born May 5, 1859; died December __, 1903; buried in the Lancaster Cemetery in Lancaster, IL.
7. John Allen Fahnestock, born 1861. John died in 1943.
At the time of the 1850 census, Allen and Sarah are found in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County;
2807 Fahenstock Allen 22 M Cooper 4,000 Pa
2807 Fahenstock Sarah 21 F NY
2807 Woolf Jonathan 24 M Cooper Ohio
2807 Harcourt Daniel 28 M Silver Smith W. Canada
(Note: Jonathan Wolf would later serve with Allen Fahenstock in the 86th Illinois.)
Allen L. Fahnestock's business was growing and in 18__, he bought the __________ Andrews estate and opened three cooper shops and gained a contract with the Reed Brothers in Farmington, Illinois, who owned the warehouse and packing establishment at Lancaster Landing, now Glasford, and Allen began making barrels by the thousands.
In 1856, Allen L. Fahnestock sold his cooper shop to Herman Strube and at first, renting the store of J. W. Robbins, entered into the mercantile business and was the main merchant and business man of Lancaster, Illinois, and after the Civil War in Glasford, when Lancaster began to die out. Allen began selling dry goods, groceries, drugs and millinery. He also dealt with lumber, brick, coal and lime, and bought grain, carrying on a large and flourishing business for many years.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Fahnestock's are found residing in Timber Township of Peoria County.
Fahnestock Alan 32 M merchant 1,600 5,000 PA
Fahnestock Sarah E. 31 F MA
Fahnestock Mary 10 F IL
Fahnestock Charles 6 M IL
Fahnestock Alphonso 5 M IL
Fahnestock Frank 1 M IL
Galbraeth Lucretia 19 F servant PA
In 1861, Allen L. Fahnestock helped to raise a company of 60 men for service in what was to become Co. ___ of the 57th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry for service in the Union Army. he enlisted 60 men in the 57th Ill. For service in the Civil War and intended to go himself, but circumstances so shaped his plans that he was unable to leave home at that time.
In Aug. 1862 Mr. Fahnestock organized another company of 100 men, Co. I, 86th Ill. It was said that a good part of this company was recruited under a famous old silver leaf tree known for memorable gatherings that was located in Lancaster. He was unanimously elected Captain. His military ability was soon recognized and he was successfully promoted to Major, Lieu. Col., and Colonel. The first three commissions were received from Gov. Yates, father of the present Governor, the last one from Gov. Oglesby.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank CPT Company I Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence LANCASTER, PEORIA CO, IL Age 35 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair SANDY
Eyes GRAY Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation MERCHANT
Nativity ABBOTSTOWN, ADAMS CO, PA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 1, 1862 Joined Where LANCASTER, IL
Joined By Whom A L FAHNESTOCK Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED MAJOR JAN 31, 1864
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank MAJ Company HQ Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence Age 37 Height N/A Hair N/A
Eyes N/A Complexion N/A Marital Status N/A Occupation N/A
Nativity N/A
Service Record
Joined When JAN 31, 1864 Joined Where CAMP MCAFEE, GA
Joined By Whom GOV OF ILL Period 3 YRS
Muster In JAN 31, 1864 Muster In Where CHATTANNOGA, TN
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED LT COLONEL
Of the Battle of Chickamauga, many years after the war, in January or February of 1906, Col. Allen L. Fahnestock, who was the Captain commanding Co. I of the 86th Illinois at the time, was interviewed and the exerpts of this interview appeared in many newspapers, including the PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Marshall County, Indiana edition of February 8, 1906, under the column "Memories of the War." The column stated, "'There is no question in my mind,' said Colonel A. L. Fahnestock, 'as to who opened the fight at Chickamauga. Our regiment (the Eight-sixth Illinois) went out with Colonel McCook's brigade on the evening of Sept. 18, 1863 to destroy Reed's bridge across the Chickamauga. Companies I and B of the Eighty-sixth were on picket on the right of the Lafayette road, company B, under Captain Worrell, on my left, and twenty men of the Fifty-second Ohio on my right, the much talked of spring lying to the left of Captain Worrell's company.
Lieutenant Groninger, of the Eight-sixth, and myself took charge of our post that night, as I was short of men. I told Private Jacob Petty, of my company, that evening that there would be a fight the next morning, and said to him that he shot a Johnny, I would buy him a plug of tobacco. The next morning, a Confederate cavalryman rode to our front. Petty saw him and asked Lieutenant A. A. Lee if he should shoot. Lee said yes. Petty fired and brought down his man, and that shot opened the battle of Chickamauga.
Soon after Petty's shot, firing began on the left of Company B, at the spring................." Fahnestock concluded the interview by saying, "I claim that our brigade should have the credit of opening the battle of Chickamauga, and I contend that we closed it on the night of the 20th at Cloud Springs, to my mind the key to the Union position. Petty, who fired the first shot on the morning of the 19th, claimed his reward that evening. Lieutenant Lee notified me that Petty had got his man and wanted his plug of tobacco. Tobacco was scarce at the time, but I found a plug, paid $1 for it, and sent it to Petty. The United States is indebted to me for that amount, plus the interest for forty-two years."
Colonel Fahnestock kept a wonderful diary record of the 86th and it's travels. Norm Kelly, a local Peoria area historian wrote the following about Fahnestock and his diary;
Colonel Fahnestock
by Norm Kelly
"Fahnestock was born in Abbots Town, Pennsylvania in 1828, coming to Peoria County in 1837. Folks started working at a tender age back then and during his teen years he carried mail and worked as an apprentice Cooper. He was elected to the Timber Township Clerk's office out in Peoria County until the next opportunity to volunteer for the army. That chance came during the Civil War when he was commissioned a Captain on August 27, 1862. His leadership qualities got him quickly promoted first to major then finally as a full colonel in 1864. Colonel Allen Fahnestock retired from the military a local hero on June 6, 1865. In 1866 local folks elected him Peoria County Treasurer until the colonel opened a dry goods store in Glasford, Illinois. Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock lived a full, satisfying life, until his death on June 29, 1920 at age of 92. Let's learn something about his military career by looking through the diary that he kept all during the war.
Colonel Fahnestock talks of his beloved wife Sarah and his six children the marriage brought him and his pride and love for them. In the Colonel's diary he often referred to the Civil War as "The Great Rebellion." Fahnestock rode his white horse named 'Molly' throughout the war, wherein he described his trek over 5,500 miles. Fahnestock's men endured 18 major battles during the ferocious war. One of the first entries in Fahnestock's diary began on an enthusiastic note: "We march out of Louisville in good spirits and ready to meet the enemy, fearful that the war would end and not get a chance for battle" Over the dreadful, terrifying years that followed, his diary entries would change dramatically.
They trekked along, shivering, freezing and then later, bogged down in mud and attacked by insects of every kind. Besieged with every communicable disease known to mankind his troops fought on. At night, seeking shelter in his small tent, Fahnestock put his thoughts down in his cherished diary. "I took some morphine and lay in the tent hearing cannonading and the Battle of Murphysboro is progressing and more boys are losing their lives in the hundreds." He included, "Sleet two and a half inches. Feet wet, feel blue. This is enough to kill the best men living." Daily the then junior officer poured his heart out writing hundreds of entries in his diary. "A Union general mistook our brigade and fired upon us. The sun was getting low and as red as blood and there is no doubt but what both armies prayed for the sun to set and let darkness end the battle."
I often wondered how men were recruited for service before and during the Civil War. Here is an enlightening paragraph as to how Fahnestock managed to get the job done. "L. Fahnestock and W.A. Woodruff, raising a company for the war have opened a recruiting office at the head of Bridge Street here in Peoria. They already have 64 men sworn in. They opened a larger office over on Fulton and Main and managed to recruit seventy new men before having a meeting over in Timber Township. In all 1,262 men were recruited in this general area during that time. Some man of means offered recruits $10.00 to sign up and also stated that he would deed 40 acres in Timber Township to the widow of the first man who fell in battle." Enticing…huh?
The colonel's description of the mass graves of men killed during a Georgia skirmish makes the reader weep. He wrote that "Many of the bodies were piled high with less than enough earth over them to conceal the color of their blue uniforms."
The war ended and Colonel Fahnestock and what was left of his men got on a train and came home to wives and children they could barely recall. He, like so many of the men from Peoria and Peoria County gave everything they had to protect this Union and they all lived right here where we live today. Remember their sacrifices the next time you complain because your morning newspaper is late at your doorstep."
It has already been stated in the settlement of Glasford that Mr. Fahnestock built the first store. He has ever since been the pioneer and leading merchant and many of his customers today are the grand and great grandchildren of his first customers 48 years ago.
Besides a complete stock of general merchandise, he also carries a stock of millinery goods, and also keeps a drug store, being a registered pharmacist. It can be truly said that the Col. Has been the life blood in the commercial system of the town and township.
Besides his service to the country, Allen L. Fahnestock also was called on to serve the citizens of the Lancaster/Glasford area and he enjoyed doing so. It was said that Allen L. Fahnestock was a Republican and was always recognized as a leader of that party in the township. Allen was first elected to the office of town clerk in 1853, which office he filled for several years. He was school treasurer for fifteen years and was elected Township Supervisor in 1861 and at the close of the war was County Treasurer from 1865 to 1867. Allen L. Fahnestock was also the first Postmaster of Glasford, Ilinois, which was organized in 186__.
Colonel Fahnestock has always been a Republican and belongs to Timber Post, No, 432, G. A. R. He was the first Post Commander and was subsequently re-elected several terms; is also a member of the Masonic order, having attained to the Royal Arch degree.
He has an extensive and valuable collection of fossils, petrifactions and relics, consisting of six thousand specimens, worth thousands of dollars, and requiring years to collect.
In September of 1949 the Glasford Gazette published the following article about Timber G.A.R. Post #432; "Timber Post, No. 432, Grand Army of the Republic, was organized in 1884 - twenty years after the close of the Civil War, the veterans of the Union army being eligible for membership in this organization. The charter was dated at Chicago, April 11, 1884. Following are the names of the charter members: Allen L. Fahnestock, Wm. V. Watson, Jacob Cowser, Morris W. Skinner, Martin L. Davis, Bernard Friess, James Owens, Samuel Fuller, Augustus G. Spong, Jacob L. Fahnestock, Horatio B. Doll, Henry M. Cowser, John C. McQuown.
When the post was first organized it met in the upper part of the "warehouse," owned by Col. A. L. Fahnestock, later known as the Lightbody elevator. It was destroyed by fire in 1923. In a couple of years the township voted to build a one-story building for township meetings and elections. Col. Fahnestock and Wm. Davis circulated a subscription paper, and raised partly enough money to build a second story to the hall, for use of the G. A. R., and it was their meeting place for many years. After the hall was built Col. Fahnestock conducted dancing classes there, and made enough money to finish paying for the second story.
Timber Post at one time had 100 members. Col. Fahnestock had recruited a company during the Civil War, which was known as Co. I, 86th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and most of the members were from that company.
The Post also had one of the best martial bands in the state, that attended the annual state reunions. It consisted of James Shreffler, fifer, Samuel B. Silzel, tenor drummer, and James Owens, bass drummer. The last surviving member, and last Post Commander, was Bennah Robbins, who died Nov. 20, 1939. There are now only 17 surviving G. A. R. members in the United States, and the 83rd and final encampment will be held at Indianapolis this year."
In 1906, THE PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Indiana published the following article in its July 5, 1906 edition of the paper;
"Colonel Daniel McCook's Brigade, Army of the Cumberland, got dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois to do Masonic work and to make Masons. It was named 'Wallace Military Lodge,' Colonel David D. Irons, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was the Worshipful Master; Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock, senior deacon; and Capt. Jo Major, Treasurer. The name of the other officers I have forgotten. The lodge met in the Masonic lodge room at Murfreesboro, Tenn. in July, 1863 on Stone River battlefield. The next meeting was held March 6, 1864 in one of the upper stories of Lee & Gordon's Mill on the Chickamauga battlefield. On April 23, 1864, the third degree of Masonry was conferred on Colonel Dan McCook in the lodge room of Lee & Gordon's Mill. Colonel Irons died in Nashville on August 11, 1863 and Major J. F. Thomas, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was Master. Colonel Fahnestock was senior deacon when Colonel Dan was made a Mason. We had a good many Masons from other commands at our meeting, but I have forgotten their names. We had very little opportunity to hold lodge meetings after we broke camp at Chickamauga and started on the Atlanta Campaign. There are a few men living who were made Masons at Lee & Gordon's Mill. I believe that Colonel Dan McCook's brigade lodge was unique and stood alone as the only Lodge of Master Masons that held its meetings on battlefields where momentous results were brought about...........
By the way, Major Dan McCook Sr. was the first Worshipful Master of Lancaster Lodge, No. 106, of Lancaster, Peoria County, Illinois, organized in 1851."
by Baxter B. Fite III
Colonel ALLEN L. FAHNESTOCK, Co. I & Staff, 86th Illinois
Allen L. Fahnestock was born at Abbottstown, Pennsylvania on February 9, 1828, the son of Jacob Fahnestock and Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock. Jacob was born on June 26, 1801 in Adams County, Pennsylvania, while Maria was born on May 16, 1806 in Adams County, Pennsylvania.
In 1836, Jacob Fahnestock, who was a manufacturer of plug tobacco, cigars and snuff in Abbottstown, Pennsylvania, went west to Illinois to to scout out some new land in Illinois. With S. F. Bollinger, of Canton, he bought 160 acres in Sec.17 of Peoria County and laid off the town of Lancaster, Illinois, the first village to be laid out in what was to become Timber Township. Jacob Fahnestock then returned to Pennsylvania and the next year, 1837, brought his family to their new home. Allen L. Fahnestock was 9 years old at this time.
About 1840, when he was about 12 years old, Allen went to St. Louis with Conrad and Jacob Doll and worked in their grocery store. Allen returned to his family and Peoria County in the spring of 1841 and carried the mail for some time from Peoria to Lancaster once a week for 25 cents. In the summer he worked on a farm for $3.00 a month taking pay in trade. On September 9, 1841, Allen's father, Jacob, passed away, leaving Maria with ____ children. Jacob's earthly remains were laid to rest in the Lancaster Cemetery. Maria outlived her husband by more than 50 years and was married 2nd to Peter Reynolds on June 7, 1843 in Peoria County. At the time of the 1850 census, Maria Reynolds and her children are found residing in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County. Peter Reynolds is not listed though. Did he also die before the census of 1850?
2825 Reynolds Maria 43 F 400 Pa
2825 Fahnestock William 21 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Charles 16 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Henry 12 M Ill
2825 Fahnestock Jacob 8 M Ill
Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock Reynolds passed away on May 24, 1895. Her earthly remains were laid next to those of her husband, Jacob Fahnestock, in the Lancaster Cemetery.
During the winter of 1844, Allen worked for three months for Mrs. Elizabeth Duffield for his board and attended school at Dry Run School, Samuel Farmer being the teacher.
In 1845, Allen went to Peoria where he worked for 2 years learning the Cooper's trade from James Soles. Allen was said to have received $35.00 for his first years work and $60.00 for his second. J. W. Robbins opened the first Cooper Shop in the Lancaster area and after serving his apprenticeship, Allen returned to Lancaster and began making sugar barrels for J. W. Robbins at 15 cents apiece. After a short time, Allen bought a shop and started his own business career.
As all grain and hogs for miles around were taken to Lancaster Landing for shipment and goods for the towns north as far as Knoxville, Galesburg and Monmouth were brought up the river and hauled from the landing, teaming was an important industry and it was not uncommon for one hundred loaded teams to pass through Lancaster in one day.
W. C. Andrews opened the first store. Later he became financially embarrassed and committed suicide. Allen L. Fahnestock, after working at the trade for Mr. Robins, bought the Andrews estate, and for years, ran three cooper shops making thousands of barrels. In 1856 Mr. Fahnestock sold hid shops to Herman Strobe and renting the Robins brick store building, engaged exclusively in the mercantile business and from that time to the end of its history was the chief merchant of the town.
In May of 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock enlisted in Capt. May's Company for service in the Mexican War but the Captain was notified by the Governor later that their services would not be needed. Later that year, on August 5, 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock was married to Miss Sarah E. Doane in Timber Township. Sarah was born in __________, Massachusetts on __________ __, 1830, the daughter of S_________ B. Doane and Lucretia (Johnson) Doane, both natives of Massachusetts. Seven children are believed to have been born to Allen and Sarah, two dying in infancy. They are;
1. Lewis E. Fahnestock, born ____________ __, 1848. Lewis died on ___________ __, 1849.
2. Mary A. Fahnestock, born
3. Charles E. Fahnestock, born July 29, 1852. Charles was married on February 28, 1873 to Amanda Griggs, the daughter of Franklin Griggs and Deborah (__________) Griggs, and the sister of Elizabeth Griggs, who was married to Private Harvey Hand, who served as a Private in then Captain Allen L. Fahnestock's Co. I. Amanda was born on July 29, 1854.
Charles was working in his father's store before the age of fifteen and by diligence and industry acquired great competence. He served a Postmaster, both at Glasford, and Sciota, Illinois, where they later lived and conducted a general merchandise store and grain elevator.
4. Alphonso A Fahnestock (1855 - 1912)*
5. Iverien Fahnestock (1857 - 1858)*
6. Frank Leslie Fahnestock, born May 5, 1859; died December __, 1903; buried in the Lancaster Cemetery in Lancaster, IL.
7. John Allen Fahnestock, born 1861. John died in 1943.
At the time of the 1850 census, Allen and Sarah are found in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County;
2807 Fahenstock Allen 22 M Cooper 4,000 Pa
2807 Fahenstock Sarah 21 F NY
2807 Woolf Jonathan 24 M Cooper Ohio
2807 Harcourt Daniel 28 M Silver Smith W. Canada
(Note: Jonathan Wolf would later serve with Allen Fahenstock in the 86th Illinois.)
Allen L. Fahnestock's business was growing and in 18__, he bought the __________ Andrews estate and opened three cooper shops and gained a contract with the Reed Brothers in Farmington, Illinois, who owned the warehouse and packing establishment at Lancaster Landing, now Glasford, and Allen began making barrels by the thousands.
In 1856, Allen L. Fahnestock sold his cooper shop to Herman Strube and at first, renting the store of J. W. Robbins, entered into the mercantile business and was the main merchant and business man of Lancaster, Illinois, and after the Civil War in Glasford, when Lancaster began to die out. Allen began selling dry goods, groceries, drugs and millinery. He also dealt with lumber, brick, coal and lime, and bought grain, carrying on a large and flourishing business for many years.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Fahnestock's are found residing in Timber Township of Peoria County.
Fahnestock Alan 32 M merchant 1,600 5,000 PA
Fahnestock Sarah E. 31 F MA
Fahnestock Mary 10 F IL
Fahnestock Charles 6 M IL
Fahnestock Alphonso 5 M IL
Fahnestock Frank 1 M IL
Galbraeth Lucretia 19 F servant PA
In 1861, Allen L. Fahnestock helped to raise a company of 60 men for service in what was to become Co. ___ of the 57th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry for service in the Union Army. he enlisted 60 men in the 57th Ill. For service in the Civil War and intended to go himself, but circumstances so shaped his plans that he was unable to leave home at that time.
In Aug. 1862 Mr. Fahnestock organized another company of 100 men, Co. I, 86th Ill. It was said that a good part of this company was recruited under a famous old silver leaf tree known for memorable gatherings that was located in Lancaster. He was unanimously elected Captain. His military ability was soon recognized and he was successfully promoted to Major, Lieu. Col., and Colonel. The first three commissions were received from Gov. Yates, father of the present Governor, the last one from Gov. Oglesby.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank CPT Company I Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence LANCASTER, PEORIA CO, IL Age 35 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair SANDY
Eyes GRAY Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation MERCHANT
Nativity ABBOTSTOWN, ADAMS CO, PA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 1, 1862 Joined Where LANCASTER, IL
Joined By Whom A L FAHNESTOCK Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED MAJOR JAN 31, 1864
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank MAJ Company HQ Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence Age 37 Height N/A Hair N/A
Eyes N/A Complexion N/A Marital Status N/A Occupation N/A
Nativity N/A
Service Record
Joined When JAN 31, 1864 Joined Where CAMP MCAFEE, GA
Joined By Whom GOV OF ILL Period 3 YRS
Muster In JAN 31, 1864 Muster In Where CHATTANNOGA, TN
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED LT COLONEL
Of the Battle of Chickamauga, many years after the war, in January or February of 1906, Col. Allen L. Fahnestock, who was the Captain commanding Co. I of the 86th Illinois at the time, was interviewed and the exerpts of this interview appeared in many newspapers, including the PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Marshall County, Indiana edition of February 8, 1906, under the column "Memories of the War." The column stated, "'There is no question in my mind,' said Colonel A. L. Fahnestock, 'as to who opened the fight at Chickamauga. Our regiment (the Eight-sixth Illinois) went out with Colonel McCook's brigade on the evening of Sept. 18, 1863 to destroy Reed's bridge across the Chickamauga. Companies I and B of the Eighty-sixth were on picket on the right of the Lafayette road, company B, under Captain Worrell, on my left, and twenty men of the Fifty-second Ohio on my right, the much talked of spring lying to the left of Captain Worrell's company.
Lieutenant Groninger, of the Eight-sixth, and myself took charge of our post that night, as I was short of men. I told Private Jacob Petty, of my company, that evening that there would be a fight the next morning, and said to him that he shot a Johnny, I would buy him a plug of tobacco. The next morning, a Confederate cavalryman rode to our front. Petty saw him and asked Lieutenant A. A. Lee if he should shoot. Lee said yes. Petty fired and brought down his man, and that shot opened the battle of Chickamauga.
Soon after Petty's shot, firing began on the left of Company B, at the spring................." Fahnestock concluded the interview by saying, "I claim that our brigade should have the credit of opening the battle of Chickamauga, and I contend that we closed it on the night of the 20th at Cloud Springs, to my mind the key to the Union position. Petty, who fired the first shot on the morning of the 19th, claimed his reward that evening. Lieutenant Lee notified me that Petty had got his man and wanted his plug of tobacco. Tobacco was scarce at the time, but I found a plug, paid $1 for it, and sent it to Petty. The United States is indebted to me for that amount, plus the interest for forty-two years."
Colonel Fahnestock kept a wonderful diary record of the 86th and it's travels. Norm Kelly, a local Peoria area historian wrote the following about Fahnestock and his diary;
Colonel Fahnestock
by Norm Kelly
"Fahnestock was born in Abbots Town, Pennsylvania in 1828, coming to Peoria County in 1837. Folks started working at a tender age back then and during his teen years he carried mail and worked as an apprentice Cooper. He was elected to the Timber Township Clerk's office out in Peoria County until the next opportunity to volunteer for the army. That chance came during the Civil War when he was commissioned a Captain on August 27, 1862. His leadership qualities got him quickly promoted first to major then finally as a full colonel in 1864. Colonel Allen Fahnestock retired from the military a local hero on June 6, 1865. In 1866 local folks elected him Peoria County Treasurer until the colonel opened a dry goods store in Glasford, Illinois. Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock lived a full, satisfying life, until his death on June 29, 1920 at age of 92. Let's learn something about his military career by looking through the diary that he kept all during the war.
Colonel Fahnestock talks of his beloved wife Sarah and his six children the marriage brought him and his pride and love for them. In the Colonel's diary he often referred to the Civil War as "The Great Rebellion." Fahnestock rode his white horse named 'Molly' throughout the war, wherein he described his trek over 5,500 miles. Fahnestock's men endured 18 major battles during the ferocious war. One of the first entries in Fahnestock's diary began on an enthusiastic note: "We march out of Louisville in good spirits and ready to meet the enemy, fearful that the war would end and not get a chance for battle" Over the dreadful, terrifying years that followed, his diary entries would change dramatically.
They trekked along, shivering, freezing and then later, bogged down in mud and attacked by insects of every kind. Besieged with every communicable disease known to mankind his troops fought on. At night, seeking shelter in his small tent, Fahnestock put his thoughts down in his cherished diary. "I took some morphine and lay in the tent hearing cannonading and the Battle of Murphysboro is progressing and more boys are losing their lives in the hundreds." He included, "Sleet two and a half inches. Feet wet, feel blue. This is enough to kill the best men living." Daily the then junior officer poured his heart out writing hundreds of entries in his diary. "A Union general mistook our brigade and fired upon us. The sun was getting low and as red as blood and there is no doubt but what both armies prayed for the sun to set and let darkness end the battle."
I often wondered how men were recruited for service before and during the Civil War. Here is an enlightening paragraph as to how Fahnestock managed to get the job done. "L. Fahnestock and W.A. Woodruff, raising a company for the war have opened a recruiting office at the head of Bridge Street here in Peoria. They already have 64 men sworn in. They opened a larger office over on Fulton and Main and managed to recruit seventy new men before having a meeting over in Timber Township. In all 1,262 men were recruited in this general area during that time. Some man of means offered recruits $10.00 to sign up and also stated that he would deed 40 acres in Timber Township to the widow of the first man who fell in battle." Enticing…huh?
The colonel's description of the mass graves of men killed during a Georgia skirmish makes the reader weep. He wrote that "Many of the bodies were piled high with less than enough earth over them to conceal the color of their blue uniforms."
The war ended and Colonel Fahnestock and what was left of his men got on a train and came home to wives and children they could barely recall. He, like so many of the men from Peoria and Peoria County gave everything they had to protect this Union and they all lived right here where we live today. Remember their sacrifices the next time you complain because your morning newspaper is late at your doorstep."
It has already been stated in the settlement of Glasford that Mr. Fahnestock built the first store. He has ever since been the pioneer and leading merchant and many of his customers today are the grand and great grandchildren of his first customers 48 years ago.
Besides a complete stock of general merchandise, he also carries a stock of millinery goods, and also keeps a drug store, being a registered pharmacist. It can be truly said that the Col. Has been the life blood in the commercial system of the town and township.
Besides his service to the country, Allen L. Fahnestock also was called on to serve the citizens of the Lancaster/Glasford area and he enjoyed doing so. It was said that Allen L. Fahnestock was a Republican and was always recognized as a leader of that party in the township. Allen was first elected to the office of town clerk in 1853, which office he filled for several years. He was school treasurer for fifteen years and was elected Township Supervisor in 1861 and at the close of the war was County Treasurer from 1865 to 1867. Allen L. Fahnestock was also the first Postmaster of Glasford, Ilinois, which was organized in 186__.
Colonel Fahnestock has always been a Republican and belongs to Timber Post, No, 432, G. A. R. He was the first Post Commander and was subsequently re-elected several terms; is also a member of the Masonic order, having attained to the Royal Arch degree.
He has an extensive and valuable collection of fossils, petrifactions and relics, consisting of six thousand specimens, worth thousands of dollars, and requiring years to collect.
In September of 1949 the Glasford Gazette published the following article about Timber G.A.R. Post #432; "Timber Post, No. 432, Grand Army of the Republic, was organized in 1884 - twenty years after the close of the Civil War, the veterans of the Union army being eligible for membership in this organization. The charter was dated at Chicago, April 11, 1884. Following are the names of the charter members: Allen L. Fahnestock, Wm. V. Watson, Jacob Cowser, Morris W. Skinner, Martin L. Davis, Bernard Friess, James Owens, Samuel Fuller, Augustus G. Spong, Jacob L. Fahnestock, Horatio B. Doll, Henry M. Cowser, John C. McQuown.
When the post was first organized it met in the upper part of the "warehouse," owned by Col. A. L. Fahnestock, later known as the Lightbody elevator. It was destroyed by fire in 1923. In a couple of years the township voted to build a one-story building for township meetings and elections. Col. Fahnestock and Wm. Davis circulated a subscription paper, and raised partly enough money to build a second story to the hall, for use of the G. A. R., and it was their meeting place for many years. After the hall was built Col. Fahnestock conducted dancing classes there, and made enough money to finish paying for the second story.
Timber Post at one time had 100 members. Col. Fahnestock had recruited a company during the Civil War, which was known as Co. I, 86th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and most of the members were from that company.
The Post also had one of the best martial bands in the state, that attended the annual state reunions. It consisted of James Shreffler, fifer, Samuel B. Silzel, tenor drummer, and James Owens, bass drummer. The last surviving member, and last Post Commander, was Bennah Robbins, who died Nov. 20, 1939. There are now only 17 surviving G. A. R. members in the United States, and the 83rd and final encampment will be held at Indianapolis this year."
In 1906, THE PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Indiana published the following article in its July 5, 1906 edition of the paper;
"Colonel Daniel McCook's Brigade, Army of the Cumberland, got dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois to do Masonic work and to make Masons. It was named 'Wallace Military Lodge,' Colonel David D. Irons, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was the Worshipful Master; Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock, senior deacon; and Capt. Jo Major, Treasurer. The name of the other officers I have forgotten. The lodge met in the Masonic lodge room at Murfreesboro, Tenn. in July, 1863 on Stone River battlefield. The next meeting was held March 6, 1864 in one of the upper stories of Lee & Gordon's Mill on the Chickamauga battlefield. On April 23, 1864, the third degree of Masonry was conferred on Colonel Dan McCook in the lodge room of Lee & Gordon's Mill. Colonel Irons died in Nashville on August 11, 1863 and Major J. F. Thomas, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was Master. Colonel Fahnestock was senior deacon when Colonel Dan was made a Mason. We had a good many Masons from other commands at our meeting, but I have forgotten their names. We had very little opportunity to hold lodge meetings after we broke camp at Chickamauga and started on the Atlanta Campaign. There are a few men living who were made Masons at Lee & Gordon's Mill. I believe that Colonel Dan McCook's brigade lodge was unique and stood alone as the only Lodge of Master Masons that held its meetings on battlefields where momentous results were brought about...........
By the way, Major Dan McCook Sr. was the first Worshipful Master of Lancaster Lodge, No. 106, of Lancaster, Peoria County, Illinois, organized in 1851."
by Baxter B. Fite III
(NOTE: Col. Allen L. Fahnestock's 1st Henry rifle, his revolver, at least one of his coats and probably a lot of other pieces that he carried or wore during the war still exist today. If anyone having a Fahnestock item sees this, I would love to see pictures of each piece added to his Memorial. I would also enjoy seeing more photos of the Colonel through the years. Thanks, Baxter)
Colonel ALLEN L. FAHNESTOCK, Co. I & Staff, 86th Illinois
Allen L. Fahnestock was born at Abbottstown, Pennsylvania on February 9, 1828, the son of Jacob Fahnestock and Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock. Jacob was born on June 26, 1801 in Adams County, Pennsylvania, while Maria was born on May 16, 1806 in Adams County, Pennsylvania.
In 1836, Jacob Fahnestock, who was a manufacturer of plug tobacco, cigars and snuff in Abbottstown, Pennsylvania, went west to Illinois to to scout out some new land in Illinois. With S. F. Bollinger, of Canton, he bought 160 acres in Sec.17 of Peoria County and laid off the town of Lancaster, Illinois, the first village to be laid out in what was to become Timber Township. Jacob Fahnestock then returned to Pennsylvania and the next year, 1837, brought his family to their new home. Allen L. Fahnestock was 9 years old at this time.
About 1840, when he was about 12 years old, Allen went to St. Louis with Conrad and Jacob Doll and worked in their grocery store. Allen returned to his family and Peoria County in the spring of 1841 and carried the mail for some time from Peoria to Lancaster once a week for 25 cents. In the summer he worked on a farm for $3.00 a month taking pay in trade. On September 9, 1841, Allen's father, Jacob, passed away, leaving Maria with ____ children. Jacob's earthly remains were laid to rest in the Lancaster Cemetery. Maria outlived her husband by more than 50 years and was married 2nd to Peter Reynolds on June 7, 1843 in Peoria County. At the time of the 1850 census, Maria Reynolds and her children are found residing in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County. Peter Reynolds is not listed though. Did he also die before the census of 1850?
2825 Reynolds Maria 43 F 400 Pa
2825 Fahnestock William 21 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Charles 16 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Henry 12 M Ill
2825 Fahnestock Jacob 8 M Ill
Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock Reynolds passed away on May 24, 1895. Her earthly remains were laid next to those of her husband, Jacob Fahnestock, in the Lancaster Cemetery.
During the winter of 1844, Allen worked for three months for Mrs. Elizabeth Duffield for his board and attended school at Dry Run School, Samuel Farmer being the teacher.
In 1845, Allen went to Peoria where he worked for 2 years learning the Cooper's trade from James Soles. Allen was said to have received $35.00 for his first years work and $60.00 for his second. J. W. Robbins opened the first Cooper Shop in the Lancaster area and after serving his apprenticeship, Allen returned to Lancaster and began making sugar barrels for J. W. Robbins at 15 cents apiece. After a short time, Allen bought a shop and started his own business career.
As all grain and hogs for miles around were taken to Lancaster Landing for shipment and goods for the towns north as far as Knoxville, Galesburg and Monmouth were brought up the river and hauled from the landing, teaming was an important industry and it was not uncommon for one hundred loaded teams to pass through Lancaster in one day.
W. C. Andrews opened the first store. Later he became financially embarrassed and committed suicide. Allen L. Fahnestock, after working at the trade for Mr. Robins, bought the Andrews estate, and for years, ran three cooper shops making thousands of barrels. In 1856 Mr. Fahnestock sold hid shops to Herman Strobe and renting the Robins brick store building, engaged exclusively in the mercantile business and from that time to the end of its history was the chief merchant of the town.
In May of 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock enlisted in Capt. May's Company for service in the Mexican War but the Captain was notified by the Governor later that their services would not be needed. Later that year, on August 5, 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock was married to Miss Sarah E. Doane in Timber Township. Sarah was born in __________, Massachusetts on __________ __, 1830, the daughter of S_________ B. Doane and Lucretia (Johnson) Doane, both natives of Massachusetts. Seven children are believed to have been born to Allen and Sarah, two dying in infancy. They are;
1. Lewis E. Fahnestock, born ____________ __, 1848. Lewis died on ___________ __, 1849.
2. Mary A. Fahnestock, born
3. Charles E. Fahnestock, born July 29, 1852. Charles was married on February 28, 1873 to Amanda Griggs, the daughter of Franklin Griggs and Deborah (__________) Griggs, and the sister of Elizabeth Griggs, who was married to Private Harvey Hand, who served as a Private in then Captain Allen L. Fahnestock's Co. I. Amanda was born on July 29, 1854.
Charles was working in his father's store before the age of fifteen and by diligence and industry acquired great competence. He served a Postmaster, both at Glasford, and Sciota, Illinois, where they later lived and conducted a general merchandise store and grain elevator.
4. Alphonso A Fahnestock (1855 - 1912)*
5. Iverien Fahnestock (1857 - 1858)*
6. Frank Leslie Fahnestock, born May 5, 1859; died December __, 1903; buried in the Lancaster Cemetery in Lancaster, IL.
7. John Allen Fahnestock, born 1861. John died in 1943.
At the time of the 1850 census, Allen and Sarah are found in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County;
2807 Fahenstock Allen 22 M Cooper 4,000 Pa
2807 Fahenstock Sarah 21 F NY
2807 Woolf Jonathan 24 M Cooper Ohio
2807 Harcourt Daniel 28 M Silver Smith W. Canada
(Note: Jonathan Wolf would later serve with Allen Fahenstock in the 86th Illinois.)
Allen L. Fahnestock's business was growing and in 18__, he bought the __________ Andrews estate and opened three cooper shops and gained a contract with the Reed Brothers in Farmington, Illinois, who owned the warehouse and packing establishment at Lancaster Landing, now Glasford, and Allen began making barrels by the thousands.
In 1856, Allen L. Fahnestock sold his cooper shop to Herman Strube and at first, renting the store of J. W. Robbins, entered into the mercantile business and was the main merchant and business man of Lancaster, Illinois, and after the Civil War in Glasford, when Lancaster began to die out. Allen began selling dry goods, groceries, drugs and millinery. He also dealt with lumber, brick, coal and lime, and bought grain, carrying on a large and flourishing business for many years.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Fahnestock's are found residing in Timber Township of Peoria County.
Fahnestock Alan 32 M merchant 1,600 5,000 PA
Fahnestock Sarah E. 31 F MA
Fahnestock Mary 10 F IL
Fahnestock Charles 6 M IL
Fahnestock Alphonso 5 M IL
Fahnestock Frank 1 M IL
Galbraeth Lucretia 19 F servant PA
In 1861, Allen L. Fahnestock helped to raise a company of 60 men for service in what was to become Co. ___ of the 57th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry for service in the Union Army. he enlisted 60 men in the 57th Ill. For service in the Civil War and intended to go himself, but circumstances so shaped his plans that he was unable to leave home at that time.
In Aug. 1862 Mr. Fahnestock organized another company of 100 men, Co. I, 86th Ill. It was said that a good part of this company was recruited under a famous old silver leaf tree known for memorable gatherings that was located in Lancaster. He was unanimously elected Captain. His military ability was soon recognized and he was successfully promoted to Major, Lieu. Col., and Colonel. The first three commissions were received from Gov. Yates, father of the present Governor, the last one from Gov. Oglesby.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank CPT Company I Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence LANCASTER, PEORIA CO, IL Age 35 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair SANDY
Eyes GRAY Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation MERCHANT
Nativity ABBOTSTOWN, ADAMS CO, PA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 1, 1862 Joined Where LANCASTER, IL
Joined By Whom A L FAHNESTOCK Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED MAJOR JAN 31, 1864
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank MAJ Company HQ Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence Age 37 Height N/A Hair N/A
Eyes N/A Complexion N/A Marital Status N/A Occupation N/A
Nativity N/A
Service Record
Joined When JAN 31, 1864 Joined Where CAMP MCAFEE, GA
Joined By Whom GOV OF ILL Period 3 YRS
Muster In JAN 31, 1864 Muster In Where CHATTANNOGA, TN
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED LT COLONEL
Of the Battle of Chickamauga, many years after the war, in January or February of 1906, Col. Allen L. Fahnestock, who was the Captain commanding Co. I of the 86th Illinois at the time, was interviewed and the exerpts of this interview appeared in many newspapers, including the PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Marshall County, Indiana edition of February 8, 1906, under the column "Memories of the War." The column stated, "'There is no question in my mind,' said Colonel A. L. Fahnestock, 'as to who opened the fight at Chickamauga. Our regiment (the Eight-sixth Illinois) went out with Colonel McCook's brigade on the evening of Sept. 18, 1863 to destroy Reed's bridge across the Chickamauga. Companies I and B of the Eighty-sixth were on picket on the right of the Lafayette road, company B, under Captain Worrell, on my left, and twenty men of the Fifty-second Ohio on my right, the much talked of spring lying to the left of Captain Worrell's company.
Lieutenant Groninger, of the Eight-sixth, and myself took charge of our post that night, as I was short of men. I told Private Jacob Petty, of my company, that evening that there would be a fight the next morning, and said to him that he shot a Johnny, I would buy him a plug of tobacco. The next morning, a Confederate cavalryman rode to our front. Petty saw him and asked Lieutenant A. A. Lee if he should shoot. Lee said yes. Petty fired and brought down his man, and that shot opened the battle of Chickamauga.
Soon after Petty's shot, firing began on the left of Company B, at the spring................." Fahnestock concluded the interview by saying, "I claim that our brigade should have the credit of opening the battle of Chickamauga, and I contend that we closed it on the night of the 20th at Cloud Springs, to my mind the key to the Union position. Petty, who fired the first shot on the morning of the 19th, claimed his reward that evening. Lieutenant Lee notified me that Petty had got his man and wanted his plug of tobacco. Tobacco was scarce at the time, but I found a plug, paid $1 for it, and sent it to Petty. The United States is indebted to me for that amount, plus the interest for forty-two years."
Colonel Fahnestock kept a wonderful diary record of the 86th and it's travels. Norm Kelly, a local Peoria area historian wrote the following about Fahnestock and his diary;
Colonel Fahnestock
by Norm Kelly
"Fahnestock was born in Abbots Town, Pennsylvania in 1828, coming to Peoria County in 1837. Folks started working at a tender age back then and during his teen years he carried mail and worked as an apprentice Cooper. He was elected to the Timber Township Clerk's office out in Peoria County until the next opportunity to volunteer for the army. That chance came during the Civil War when he was commissioned a Captain on August 27, 1862. His leadership qualities got him quickly promoted first to major then finally as a full colonel in 1864. Colonel Allen Fahnestock retired from the military a local hero on June 6, 1865. In 1866 local folks elected him Peoria County Treasurer until the colonel opened a dry goods store in Glasford, Illinois. Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock lived a full, satisfying life, until his death on June 29, 1920 at age of 92. Let's learn something about his military career by looking through the diary that he kept all during the war.
Colonel Fahnestock talks of his beloved wife Sarah and his six children the marriage brought him and his pride and love for them. In the Colonel's diary he often referred to the Civil War as "The Great Rebellion." Fahnestock rode his white horse named 'Molly' throughout the war, wherein he described his trek over 5,500 miles. Fahnestock's men endured 18 major battles during the ferocious war. One of the first entries in Fahnestock's diary began on an enthusiastic note: "We march out of Louisville in good spirits and ready to meet the enemy, fearful that the war would end and not get a chance for battle" Over the dreadful, terrifying years that followed, his diary entries would change dramatically.
They trekked along, shivering, freezing and then later, bogged down in mud and attacked by insects of every kind. Besieged with every communicable disease known to mankind his troops fought on. At night, seeking shelter in his small tent, Fahnestock put his thoughts down in his cherished diary. "I took some morphine and lay in the tent hearing cannonading and the Battle of Murphysboro is progressing and more boys are losing their lives in the hundreds." He included, "Sleet two and a half inches. Feet wet, feel blue. This is enough to kill the best men living." Daily the then junior officer poured his heart out writing hundreds of entries in his diary. "A Union general mistook our brigade and fired upon us. The sun was getting low and as red as blood and there is no doubt but what both armies prayed for the sun to set and let darkness end the battle."
I often wondered how men were recruited for service before and during the Civil War. Here is an enlightening paragraph as to how Fahnestock managed to get the job done. "L. Fahnestock and W.A. Woodruff, raising a company for the war have opened a recruiting office at the head of Bridge Street here in Peoria. They already have 64 men sworn in. They opened a larger office over on Fulton and Main and managed to recruit seventy new men before having a meeting over in Timber Township. In all 1,262 men were recruited in this general area during that time. Some man of means offered recruits $10.00 to sign up and also stated that he would deed 40 acres in Timber Township to the widow of the first man who fell in battle." Enticing…huh?
The colonel's description of the mass graves of men killed during a Georgia skirmish makes the reader weep. He wrote that "Many of the bodies were piled high with less than enough earth over them to conceal the color of their blue uniforms."
The war ended and Colonel Fahnestock and what was left of his men got on a train and came home to wives and children they could barely recall. He, like so many of the men from Peoria and Peoria County gave everything they had to protect this Union and they all lived right here where we live today. Remember their sacrifices the next time you complain because your morning newspaper is late at your doorstep."
It has already been stated in the settlement of Glasford that Mr. Fahnestock built the first store. He has ever since been the pioneer and leading merchant and many of his customers today are the grand and great grandchildren of his first customers 48 years ago.
Besides a complete stock of general merchandise, he also carries a stock of millinery goods, and also keeps a drug store, being a registered pharmacist. It can be truly said that the Col. Has been the life blood in the commercial system of the town and township.
Besides his service to the country, Allen L. Fahnestock also was called on to serve the citizens of the Lancaster/Glasford area and he enjoyed doing so. It was said that Allen L. Fahnestock was a Republican and was always recognized as a leader of that party in the township. Allen was first elected to the office of town clerk in 1853, which office he filled for several years. He was school treasurer for fifteen years and was elected Township Supervisor in 1861 and at the close of the war was County Treasurer from 1865 to 1867. Allen L. Fahnestock was also the first Postmaster of Glasford, Ilinois, which was organized in 186__.
Colonel Fahnestock has always been a Republican and belongs to Timber Post, No, 432, G. A. R. He was the first Post Commander and was subsequently re-elected several terms; is also a member of the Masonic order, having attained to the Royal Arch degree.
He has an extensive and valuable collection of fossils, petrifactions and relics, consisting of six thousand specimens, worth thousands of dollars, and requiring years to collect.
In September of 1949 the Glasford Gazette published the following article about Timber G.A.R. Post #432; "Timber Post, No. 432, Grand Army of the Republic, was organized in 1884 - twenty years after the close of the Civil War, the veterans of the Union army being eligible for membership in this organization. The charter was dated at Chicago, April 11, 1884. Following are the names of the charter members: Allen L. Fahnestock, Wm. V. Watson, Jacob Cowser, Morris W. Skinner, Martin L. Davis, Bernard Friess, James Owens, Samuel Fuller, Augustus G. Spong, Jacob L. Fahnestock, Horatio B. Doll, Henry M. Cowser, John C. McQuown.
When the post was first organized it met in the upper part of the "warehouse," owned by Col. A. L. Fahnestock, later known as the Lightbody elevator. It was destroyed by fire in 1923. In a couple of years the township voted to build a one-story building for township meetings and elections. Col. Fahnestock and Wm. Davis circulated a subscription paper, and raised partly enough money to build a second story to the hall, for use of the G. A. R., and it was their meeting place for many years. After the hall was built Col. Fahnestock conducted dancing classes there, and made enough money to finish paying for the second story.
Timber Post at one time had 100 members. Col. Fahnestock had recruited a company during the Civil War, which was known as Co. I, 86th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and most of the members were from that company.
The Post also had one of the best martial bands in the state, that attended the annual state reunions. It consisted of James Shreffler, fifer, Samuel B. Silzel, tenor drummer, and James Owens, bass drummer. The last surviving member, and last Post Commander, was Bennah Robbins, who died Nov. 20, 1939. There are now only 17 surviving G. A. R. members in the United States, and the 83rd and final encampment will be held at Indianapolis this year."
In 1906, THE PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Indiana published the following article in its July 5, 1906 edition of the paper;
"Colonel Daniel McCook's Brigade, Army of the Cumberland, got dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois to do Masonic work and to make Masons. It was named 'Wallace Military Lodge,' Colonel David D. Irons, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was the Worshipful Master; Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock, senior deacon; and Capt. Jo Major, Treasurer. The name of the other officers I have forgotten. The lodge met in the Masonic lodge room at Murfreesboro, Tenn. in July, 1863 on Stone River battlefield. The next meeting was held March 6, 1864 in one of the upper stories of Lee & Gordon's Mill on the Chickamauga battlefield. On April 23, 1864, the third degree of Masonry was conferred on Colonel Dan McCook in the lodge room of Lee & Gordon's Mill. Colonel Irons died in Nashville on August 11, 1863 and Major J. F. Thomas, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was Master. Colonel Fahnestock was senior deacon when Colonel Dan was made a Mason. We had a good many Masons from other commands at our meeting, but I have forgotten their names. We had very little opportunity to hold lodge meetings after we broke camp at Chickamauga and started on the Atlanta Campaign. There are a few men living who were made Masons at Lee & Gordon's Mill. I believe that Colonel Dan McCook's brigade lodge was unique and stood alone as the only Lodge of Master Masons that held its meetings on battlefields where momentous results were brought about...........
By the way, Major Dan McCook Sr. was the first Worshipful Master of Lancaster Lodge, No. 106, of Lancaster, Peoria County, Illinois, organized in 1851."
by Baxter B. Fite III
Colonel ALLEN L. FAHNESTOCK, Co. I & Staff, 86th Illinois
Allen L. Fahnestock was born at Abbottstown, Pennsylvania on February 9, 1828, the son of Jacob Fahnestock and Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock. Jacob was born on June 26, 1801 in Adams County, Pennsylvania, while Maria was born on May 16, 1806 in Adams County, Pennsylvania.
In 1836, Jacob Fahnestock, who was a manufacturer of plug tobacco, cigars and snuff in Abbottstown, Pennsylvania, went west to Illinois to to scout out some new land in Illinois. With S. F. Bollinger, of Canton, he bought 160 acres in Sec.17 of Peoria County and laid off the town of Lancaster, Illinois, the first village to be laid out in what was to become Timber Township. Jacob Fahnestock then returned to Pennsylvania and the next year, 1837, brought his family to their new home. Allen L. Fahnestock was 9 years old at this time.
About 1840, when he was about 12 years old, Allen went to St. Louis with Conrad and Jacob Doll and worked in their grocery store. Allen returned to his family and Peoria County in the spring of 1841 and carried the mail for some time from Peoria to Lancaster once a week for 25 cents. In the summer he worked on a farm for $3.00 a month taking pay in trade. On September 9, 1841, Allen's father, Jacob, passed away, leaving Maria with ____ children. Jacob's earthly remains were laid to rest in the Lancaster Cemetery. Maria outlived her husband by more than 50 years and was married 2nd to Peter Reynolds on June 7, 1843 in Peoria County. At the time of the 1850 census, Maria Reynolds and her children are found residing in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County. Peter Reynolds is not listed though. Did he also die before the census of 1850?
2825 Reynolds Maria 43 F 400 Pa
2825 Fahnestock William 21 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Charles 16 M Cooper Pa
2825 Fahnestock Henry 12 M Ill
2825 Fahnestock Jacob 8 M Ill
Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock Reynolds passed away on May 24, 1895. Her earthly remains were laid next to those of her husband, Jacob Fahnestock, in the Lancaster Cemetery.
During the winter of 1844, Allen worked for three months for Mrs. Elizabeth Duffield for his board and attended school at Dry Run School, Samuel Farmer being the teacher.
In 1845, Allen went to Peoria where he worked for 2 years learning the Cooper's trade from James Soles. Allen was said to have received $35.00 for his first years work and $60.00 for his second. J. W. Robbins opened the first Cooper Shop in the Lancaster area and after serving his apprenticeship, Allen returned to Lancaster and began making sugar barrels for J. W. Robbins at 15 cents apiece. After a short time, Allen bought a shop and started his own business career.
As all grain and hogs for miles around were taken to Lancaster Landing for shipment and goods for the towns north as far as Knoxville, Galesburg and Monmouth were brought up the river and hauled from the landing, teaming was an important industry and it was not uncommon for one hundred loaded teams to pass through Lancaster in one day.
W. C. Andrews opened the first store. Later he became financially embarrassed and committed suicide. Allen L. Fahnestock, after working at the trade for Mr. Robins, bought the Andrews estate, and for years, ran three cooper shops making thousands of barrels. In 1856 Mr. Fahnestock sold hid shops to Herman Strobe and renting the Robins brick store building, engaged exclusively in the mercantile business and from that time to the end of its history was the chief merchant of the town.
In May of 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock enlisted in Capt. May's Company for service in the Mexican War but the Captain was notified by the Governor later that their services would not be needed. Later that year, on August 5, 1847, Allen L. Fahnestock was married to Miss Sarah E. Doane in Timber Township. Sarah was born in __________, Massachusetts on __________ __, 1830, the daughter of S_________ B. Doane and Lucretia (Johnson) Doane, both natives of Massachusetts. Seven children are believed to have been born to Allen and Sarah, two dying in infancy. They are;
1. Lewis E. Fahnestock, born ____________ __, 1848. Lewis died on ___________ __, 1849.
2. Mary A. Fahnestock, born
3. Charles E. Fahnestock, born July 29, 1852. Charles was married on February 28, 1873 to Amanda Griggs, the daughter of Franklin Griggs and Deborah (__________) Griggs, and the sister of Elizabeth Griggs, who was married to Private Harvey Hand, who served as a Private in then Captain Allen L. Fahnestock's Co. I. Amanda was born on July 29, 1854.
Charles was working in his father's store before the age of fifteen and by diligence and industry acquired great competence. He served a Postmaster, both at Glasford, and Sciota, Illinois, where they later lived and conducted a general merchandise store and grain elevator.
4. Alphonso A Fahnestock (1855 - 1912)*
5. Iverien Fahnestock (1857 - 1858)*
6. Frank Leslie Fahnestock, born May 5, 1859; died December __, 1903; buried in the Lancaster Cemetery in Lancaster, IL.
7. John Allen Fahnestock, born 1861. John died in 1943.
At the time of the 1850 census, Allen and Sarah are found in the Lancaster/Glasford area of Peoria County;
2807 Fahenstock Allen 22 M Cooper 4,000 Pa
2807 Fahenstock Sarah 21 F NY
2807 Woolf Jonathan 24 M Cooper Ohio
2807 Harcourt Daniel 28 M Silver Smith W. Canada
(Note: Jonathan Wolf would later serve with Allen Fahenstock in the 86th Illinois.)
Allen L. Fahnestock's business was growing and in 18__, he bought the __________ Andrews estate and opened three cooper shops and gained a contract with the Reed Brothers in Farmington, Illinois, who owned the warehouse and packing establishment at Lancaster Landing, now Glasford, and Allen began making barrels by the thousands.
In 1856, Allen L. Fahnestock sold his cooper shop to Herman Strube and at first, renting the store of J. W. Robbins, entered into the mercantile business and was the main merchant and business man of Lancaster, Illinois, and after the Civil War in Glasford, when Lancaster began to die out. Allen began selling dry goods, groceries, drugs and millinery. He also dealt with lumber, brick, coal and lime, and bought grain, carrying on a large and flourishing business for many years.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Fahnestock's are found residing in Timber Township of Peoria County.
Fahnestock Alan 32 M merchant 1,600 5,000 PA
Fahnestock Sarah E. 31 F MA
Fahnestock Mary 10 F IL
Fahnestock Charles 6 M IL
Fahnestock Alphonso 5 M IL
Fahnestock Frank 1 M IL
Galbraeth Lucretia 19 F servant PA
In 1861, Allen L. Fahnestock helped to raise a company of 60 men for service in what was to become Co. ___ of the 57th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry for service in the Union Army. he enlisted 60 men in the 57th Ill. For service in the Civil War and intended to go himself, but circumstances so shaped his plans that he was unable to leave home at that time.
In Aug. 1862 Mr. Fahnestock organized another company of 100 men, Co. I, 86th Ill. It was said that a good part of this company was recruited under a famous old silver leaf tree known for memorable gatherings that was located in Lancaster. He was unanimously elected Captain. His military ability was soon recognized and he was successfully promoted to Major, Lieu. Col., and Colonel. The first three commissions were received from Gov. Yates, father of the present Governor, the last one from Gov. Oglesby.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank CPT Company I Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence LANCASTER, PEORIA CO, IL Age 35 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair SANDY
Eyes GRAY Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation MERCHANT
Nativity ABBOTSTOWN, ADAMS CO, PA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 1, 1862 Joined Where LANCASTER, IL
Joined By Whom A L FAHNESTOCK Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED MAJOR JAN 31, 1864
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name FAHNESTOCK, ALLEN L
Rank MAJ Company HQ Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence Age 37 Height N/A Hair N/A
Eyes N/A Complexion N/A Marital Status N/A Occupation N/A
Nativity N/A
Service Record
Joined When JAN 31, 1864 Joined Where CAMP MCAFEE, GA
Joined By Whom GOV OF ILL Period 3 YRS
Muster In JAN 31, 1864 Muster In Where CHATTANNOGA, TN
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks PROMOTED LT COLONEL
Of the Battle of Chickamauga, many years after the war, in January or February of 1906, Col. Allen L. Fahnestock, who was the Captain commanding Co. I of the 86th Illinois at the time, was interviewed and the exerpts of this interview appeared in many newspapers, including the PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Marshall County, Indiana edition of February 8, 1906, under the column "Memories of the War." The column stated, "'There is no question in my mind,' said Colonel A. L. Fahnestock, 'as to who opened the fight at Chickamauga. Our regiment (the Eight-sixth Illinois) went out with Colonel McCook's brigade on the evening of Sept. 18, 1863 to destroy Reed's bridge across the Chickamauga. Companies I and B of the Eighty-sixth were on picket on the right of the Lafayette road, company B, under Captain Worrell, on my left, and twenty men of the Fifty-second Ohio on my right, the much talked of spring lying to the left of Captain Worrell's company.
Lieutenant Groninger, of the Eight-sixth, and myself took charge of our post that night, as I was short of men. I told Private Jacob Petty, of my company, that evening that there would be a fight the next morning, and said to him that he shot a Johnny, I would buy him a plug of tobacco. The next morning, a Confederate cavalryman rode to our front. Petty saw him and asked Lieutenant A. A. Lee if he should shoot. Lee said yes. Petty fired and brought down his man, and that shot opened the battle of Chickamauga.
Soon after Petty's shot, firing began on the left of Company B, at the spring................." Fahnestock concluded the interview by saying, "I claim that our brigade should have the credit of opening the battle of Chickamauga, and I contend that we closed it on the night of the 20th at Cloud Springs, to my mind the key to the Union position. Petty, who fired the first shot on the morning of the 19th, claimed his reward that evening. Lieutenant Lee notified me that Petty had got his man and wanted his plug of tobacco. Tobacco was scarce at the time, but I found a plug, paid $1 for it, and sent it to Petty. The United States is indebted to me for that amount, plus the interest for forty-two years."
Colonel Fahnestock kept a wonderful diary record of the 86th and it's travels. Norm Kelly, a local Peoria area historian wrote the following about Fahnestock and his diary;
Colonel Fahnestock
by Norm Kelly
"Fahnestock was born in Abbots Town, Pennsylvania in 1828, coming to Peoria County in 1837. Folks started working at a tender age back then and during his teen years he carried mail and worked as an apprentice Cooper. He was elected to the Timber Township Clerk's office out in Peoria County until the next opportunity to volunteer for the army. That chance came during the Civil War when he was commissioned a Captain on August 27, 1862. His leadership qualities got him quickly promoted first to major then finally as a full colonel in 1864. Colonel Allen Fahnestock retired from the military a local hero on June 6, 1865. In 1866 local folks elected him Peoria County Treasurer until the colonel opened a dry goods store in Glasford, Illinois. Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock lived a full, satisfying life, until his death on June 29, 1920 at age of 92. Let's learn something about his military career by looking through the diary that he kept all during the war.
Colonel Fahnestock talks of his beloved wife Sarah and his six children the marriage brought him and his pride and love for them. In the Colonel's diary he often referred to the Civil War as "The Great Rebellion." Fahnestock rode his white horse named 'Molly' throughout the war, wherein he described his trek over 5,500 miles. Fahnestock's men endured 18 major battles during the ferocious war. One of the first entries in Fahnestock's diary began on an enthusiastic note: "We march out of Louisville in good spirits and ready to meet the enemy, fearful that the war would end and not get a chance for battle" Over the dreadful, terrifying years that followed, his diary entries would change dramatically.
They trekked along, shivering, freezing and then later, bogged down in mud and attacked by insects of every kind. Besieged with every communicable disease known to mankind his troops fought on. At night, seeking shelter in his small tent, Fahnestock put his thoughts down in his cherished diary. "I took some morphine and lay in the tent hearing cannonading and the Battle of Murphysboro is progressing and more boys are losing their lives in the hundreds." He included, "Sleet two and a half inches. Feet wet, feel blue. This is enough to kill the best men living." Daily the then junior officer poured his heart out writing hundreds of entries in his diary. "A Union general mistook our brigade and fired upon us. The sun was getting low and as red as blood and there is no doubt but what both armies prayed for the sun to set and let darkness end the battle."
I often wondered how men were recruited for service before and during the Civil War. Here is an enlightening paragraph as to how Fahnestock managed to get the job done. "L. Fahnestock and W.A. Woodruff, raising a company for the war have opened a recruiting office at the head of Bridge Street here in Peoria. They already have 64 men sworn in. They opened a larger office over on Fulton and Main and managed to recruit seventy new men before having a meeting over in Timber Township. In all 1,262 men were recruited in this general area during that time. Some man of means offered recruits $10.00 to sign up and also stated that he would deed 40 acres in Timber Township to the widow of the first man who fell in battle." Enticing…huh?
The colonel's description of the mass graves of men killed during a Georgia skirmish makes the reader weep. He wrote that "Many of the bodies were piled high with less than enough earth over them to conceal the color of their blue uniforms."
The war ended and Colonel Fahnestock and what was left of his men got on a train and came home to wives and children they could barely recall. He, like so many of the men from Peoria and Peoria County gave everything they had to protect this Union and they all lived right here where we live today. Remember their sacrifices the next time you complain because your morning newspaper is late at your doorstep."
It has already been stated in the settlement of Glasford that Mr. Fahnestock built the first store. He has ever since been the pioneer and leading merchant and many of his customers today are the grand and great grandchildren of his first customers 48 years ago.
Besides a complete stock of general merchandise, he also carries a stock of millinery goods, and also keeps a drug store, being a registered pharmacist. It can be truly said that the Col. Has been the life blood in the commercial system of the town and township.
Besides his service to the country, Allen L. Fahnestock also was called on to serve the citizens of the Lancaster/Glasford area and he enjoyed doing so. It was said that Allen L. Fahnestock was a Republican and was always recognized as a leader of that party in the township. Allen was first elected to the office of town clerk in 1853, which office he filled for several years. He was school treasurer for fifteen years and was elected Township Supervisor in 1861 and at the close of the war was County Treasurer from 1865 to 1867. Allen L. Fahnestock was also the first Postmaster of Glasford, Ilinois, which was organized in 186__.
Colonel Fahnestock has always been a Republican and belongs to Timber Post, No, 432, G. A. R. He was the first Post Commander and was subsequently re-elected several terms; is also a member of the Masonic order, having attained to the Royal Arch degree.
He has an extensive and valuable collection of fossils, petrifactions and relics, consisting of six thousand specimens, worth thousands of dollars, and requiring years to collect.
In September of 1949 the Glasford Gazette published the following article about Timber G.A.R. Post #432; "Timber Post, No. 432, Grand Army of the Republic, was organized in 1884 - twenty years after the close of the Civil War, the veterans of the Union army being eligible for membership in this organization. The charter was dated at Chicago, April 11, 1884. Following are the names of the charter members: Allen L. Fahnestock, Wm. V. Watson, Jacob Cowser, Morris W. Skinner, Martin L. Davis, Bernard Friess, James Owens, Samuel Fuller, Augustus G. Spong, Jacob L. Fahnestock, Horatio B. Doll, Henry M. Cowser, John C. McQuown.
When the post was first organized it met in the upper part of the "warehouse," owned by Col. A. L. Fahnestock, later known as the Lightbody elevator. It was destroyed by fire in 1923. In a couple of years the township voted to build a one-story building for township meetings and elections. Col. Fahnestock and Wm. Davis circulated a subscription paper, and raised partly enough money to build a second story to the hall, for use of the G. A. R., and it was their meeting place for many years. After the hall was built Col. Fahnestock conducted dancing classes there, and made enough money to finish paying for the second story.
Timber Post at one time had 100 members. Col. Fahnestock had recruited a company during the Civil War, which was known as Co. I, 86th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and most of the members were from that company.
The Post also had one of the best martial bands in the state, that attended the annual state reunions. It consisted of James Shreffler, fifer, Samuel B. Silzel, tenor drummer, and James Owens, bass drummer. The last surviving member, and last Post Commander, was Bennah Robbins, who died Nov. 20, 1939. There are now only 17 surviving G. A. R. members in the United States, and the 83rd and final encampment will be held at Indianapolis this year."
In 1906, THE PLYMOUTH TRIBUNE newspaper, of Plymouth, Indiana published the following article in its July 5, 1906 edition of the paper;
"Colonel Daniel McCook's Brigade, Army of the Cumberland, got dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois to do Masonic work and to make Masons. It was named 'Wallace Military Lodge,' Colonel David D. Irons, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was the Worshipful Master; Colonel Allen L. Fahnestock, senior deacon; and Capt. Jo Major, Treasurer. The name of the other officers I have forgotten. The lodge met in the Masonic lodge room at Murfreesboro, Tenn. in July, 1863 on Stone River battlefield. The next meeting was held March 6, 1864 in one of the upper stories of Lee & Gordon's Mill on the Chickamauga battlefield. On April 23, 1864, the third degree of Masonry was conferred on Colonel Dan McCook in the lodge room of Lee & Gordon's Mill. Colonel Irons died in Nashville on August 11, 1863 and Major J. F. Thomas, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was Master. Colonel Fahnestock was senior deacon when Colonel Dan was made a Mason. We had a good many Masons from other commands at our meeting, but I have forgotten their names. We had very little opportunity to hold lodge meetings after we broke camp at Chickamauga and started on the Atlanta Campaign. There are a few men living who were made Masons at Lee & Gordon's Mill. I believe that Colonel Dan McCook's brigade lodge was unique and stood alone as the only Lodge of Master Masons that held its meetings on battlefields where momentous results were brought about...........
By the way, Major Dan McCook Sr. was the first Worshipful Master of Lancaster Lodge, No. 106, of Lancaster, Peoria County, Illinois, organized in 1851."
by Baxter B. Fite III
Family Members
Siblings
