(NOTE: Charles S. Aten probably never had his portrait taken prior to the Civil War. However, during the 10 month period that the 86th Illinois was in the Nashville, Tennessee area in 1862-63, Charles, like most of the Union soldiers in the Nashville area, probably took the time to sit for a portrait to send home to the loved ones that he left behind. These portraits were most often printed in the form of what was called a CDV, a paper picture glued to a heavier card stock about the size of a modern day baseball card, and the soldiers didn't just have one or two copies made. Most of the time, they had a dozen or more made, so they could swap pictures with their tentmates, messmates and for their friends, in the 86th and back home.
Charles S. Aten survived the war and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, Charles probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. However, at this point, I would be thrilled just to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private CHARLES S. ATEN, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Charles S. Aten was born the son of Thomas and Martha Sarah Heinrich (or Henry) Aten.
Charles was married to Susan A. Litts on September 25, 1852 in New Jersey. Ten children are believed to have been born to Charles and Susan. They include;
1. George F. Aten, born Nov. 21, 1852 in __________, New York; George was married to Jane Bain on August 11, 1879 in Peoria County; George died on Oct. 28, 1935 in Princeville, Illinois; buried in the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Illinois.
2. Nancy A. Aten, born c. 1855
3. Charles Dwight Aten, born March 26, 1861; died March 7, 1920 in Princeville, Illinois
4. Alfred Victor Aten, born Jan. 31, 1863 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois; Alfred was married to Edna __________ on __________ __, 18__; Edna died 1st on __________ __, 19__ at __________, __________; Alfred V. Aten died on March 29, 1944 in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Michigan and his mortal remains were laid in the ____________ Cemetery in Tecumseh, Michigan on April 1, 1944. His death certificate lists him as being widowed and a Cement Worker.
5. Emma Aurilla Litts Aten, born __________ __, 1866; married to __________ Owens; Emma died on __________ __, 1907 at __________, Michigan; buried in the Ridgeway Cemetery in Ridgeway, Michigan.
6. Nelson Henry Aten, born August 1, 1869
Charles and Susan brought their family to Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois in 1854 where he made a living as a Carpenter. Susan is believed to have had an older brother by the name of Benjamin D. Litts. Benjamin and his wife Marie also were soon found in Princeville, Illinois.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Atens are found in Princeville Township;
178 Aten Charles S. 36 M Carpenter NJ
178 Aten Susan A. 27 F NJ
178 Aten George 7 M NY
178 Aten Nancy A. 5 F IL
On August 9, 1862, Charles S. Aten and Benjamin D. Litts volunteered for service in a company which was being raised by a Princeville School Teacher by the name of John F. French.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name ATEN, CHARLES S
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 38 Height 5' 8 1/2 Hair BROWN
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity HOPE, WARREN CO, NJ
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks WOUNDED JUN 27, 1864 AT KENESAW MOUNTAIN GA
When French had about 100 volunteers, he led the Princeville Company into Peoria, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, French and 95 of his volunteers, including both Charles and Benjamin, were mustered into service as Company K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. (See Benjamin D. Litts Find A Grave biography for more information about him and his time in the service.)
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Two weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the feld in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, chasing the last Confederate troops in Kentucky. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering the first of many casualties to come. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederates withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the early days of 1863, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten may have been away from the regiment. He may have been sick and sent home. He may have been placed on detached service. Wherever he was, it appears that for whatever reason he was not present with the regiment, it had not communicated to the officers of the regiment and as of January 5, 1863, Private Charles S. Aten was not present with the regiment. In fact, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten was away from the regiment for the first six months of 1863. As seen on the poster on this site, which was purchased in Nashville, Tennessee about June of 1863, Charles S. Aten is apparently being listed as a Deserter.
Whereever he was and for whatever reason he was gone, Private Charles S. Aten is known to have rejoined the regiment some after this during 1863. For the next two years, Charles S. Aten would serve faithfully in the Princeville company. He participated in numerous battles including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, but it was at Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia on June 27, 1864 where the 86th suffered the most. On that fateful day, over 100 men from the 86th of approximately 400 men who made the charge on Cheatham Hill, were killed, wounded or captured in less that 30 minutes. Eight Co. K men were killed or wounded. Charles had his left index finger shot off during this assault, but he stayed with the regiment. As time went on, Charles was there as the ranks dwindled. On September 7, 1862, when the 86th marched out of Peoria, the 86th numbered about 932 men. During the course of the war, the 86th received about 70 recruits to fill the ranks. On June 6, 1865, Charles was one of approximately 350 men from the 86th who remained to muster out in Washington, D.C. He then returned to his home in Princeville with what remained of Co. K.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Atens reside in the Village of Princeville;
52 Aten Charles S.45 Carpenter 100 New Jersey
52 Aten Susan 36 Pennsylvania
52 Aten George 17 New York
52 Aten Nancy 14 Illinois
52 Aten Charles 9 Illinois
52 Aten Alfred 6 Illinois
52 Aten Emma 4 Illinois
52 Aten Nelson H. 1 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Atens are found residing in Princeville Township in Peoria County;
Charles S. ATEN, Self Gender: Male Birth: NJ
Susan ATEN, Wife Gender: Female Birth: NJ
Charles D. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Alfred B. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Emma ATEN, Dau Gender: Female Birth: IL
Nelson H. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Charles and Susan moved to Michigan sometime after the 1880 census and most likely before 1888, settling in Tecumseh, Michigan. Charles and Susan's home was on Kilbuck Street in Tecumseh. The 1900 census of Lewawee County census lists two grandsons living with the Atens that were born in Michigan, the first in 1888. Nelson and Alfred reside with the parents at this time along with the grandsons.
In 1887, the surviving members of the 86th held the first reunion on the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service. After this these were held annually every August in Peoria. Charles was not able to attend that first reunion, but he was one of thirteen Co. K boys to make the 2nd reunion in 1888. But, this proved to be the only reunion that Charles was able to attend.
Susan Aten passed away in 1902 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh. When Pvt. Charles S. Aten passed away in his home in Tecumseh on Kilbuck St. on July 20, 1905, his earthly remains were laid to rest beside his wife of almost 50 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter Fite would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add more to the Aten family history. Baxter would also like to get a picture of Charles for the Princeville Historical Society, especially one of him in uniform from his days in the 86th, but until then, Baxter would just love to get a copy of a picture of him at any age.)
Charles S. Aten survived the war and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, Charles probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. However, at this point, I would be thrilled just to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private CHARLES S. ATEN, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Charles S. Aten was born the son of Thomas and Martha Sarah Heinrich (or Henry) Aten.
Charles was married to Susan A. Litts on September 25, 1852 in New Jersey. Ten children are believed to have been born to Charles and Susan. They include;
1. George F. Aten, born Nov. 21, 1852 in __________, New York; George was married to Jane Bain on August 11, 1879 in Peoria County; George died on Oct. 28, 1935 in Princeville, Illinois; buried in the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Illinois.
2. Nancy A. Aten, born c. 1855
3. Charles Dwight Aten, born March 26, 1861; died March 7, 1920 in Princeville, Illinois
4. Alfred Victor Aten, born Jan. 31, 1863 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois; Alfred was married to Edna __________ on __________ __, 18__; Edna died 1st on __________ __, 19__ at __________, __________; Alfred V. Aten died on March 29, 1944 in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Michigan and his mortal remains were laid in the ____________ Cemetery in Tecumseh, Michigan on April 1, 1944. His death certificate lists him as being widowed and a Cement Worker.
5. Emma Aurilla Litts Aten, born __________ __, 1866; married to __________ Owens; Emma died on __________ __, 1907 at __________, Michigan; buried in the Ridgeway Cemetery in Ridgeway, Michigan.
6. Nelson Henry Aten, born August 1, 1869
Charles and Susan brought their family to Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois in 1854 where he made a living as a Carpenter. Susan is believed to have had an older brother by the name of Benjamin D. Litts. Benjamin and his wife Marie also were soon found in Princeville, Illinois.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Atens are found in Princeville Township;
178 Aten Charles S. 36 M Carpenter NJ
178 Aten Susan A. 27 F NJ
178 Aten George 7 M NY
178 Aten Nancy A. 5 F IL
On August 9, 1862, Charles S. Aten and Benjamin D. Litts volunteered for service in a company which was being raised by a Princeville School Teacher by the name of John F. French.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name ATEN, CHARLES S
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 38 Height 5' 8 1/2 Hair BROWN
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity HOPE, WARREN CO, NJ
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks WOUNDED JUN 27, 1864 AT KENESAW MOUNTAIN GA
When French had about 100 volunteers, he led the Princeville Company into Peoria, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, French and 95 of his volunteers, including both Charles and Benjamin, were mustered into service as Company K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. (See Benjamin D. Litts Find A Grave biography for more information about him and his time in the service.)
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Two weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the feld in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, chasing the last Confederate troops in Kentucky. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering the first of many casualties to come. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederates withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the early days of 1863, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten may have been away from the regiment. He may have been sick and sent home. He may have been placed on detached service. Wherever he was, it appears that for whatever reason he was not present with the regiment, it had not communicated to the officers of the regiment and as of January 5, 1863, Private Charles S. Aten was not present with the regiment. In fact, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten was away from the regiment for the first six months of 1863. As seen on the poster on this site, which was purchased in Nashville, Tennessee about June of 1863, Charles S. Aten is apparently being listed as a Deserter.
Whereever he was and for whatever reason he was gone, Private Charles S. Aten is known to have rejoined the regiment some after this during 1863. For the next two years, Charles S. Aten would serve faithfully in the Princeville company. He participated in numerous battles including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, but it was at Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia on June 27, 1864 where the 86th suffered the most. On that fateful day, over 100 men from the 86th of approximately 400 men who made the charge on Cheatham Hill, were killed, wounded or captured in less that 30 minutes. Eight Co. K men were killed or wounded. Charles had his left index finger shot off during this assault, but he stayed with the regiment. As time went on, Charles was there as the ranks dwindled. On September 7, 1862, when the 86th marched out of Peoria, the 86th numbered about 932 men. During the course of the war, the 86th received about 70 recruits to fill the ranks. On June 6, 1865, Charles was one of approximately 350 men from the 86th who remained to muster out in Washington, D.C. He then returned to his home in Princeville with what remained of Co. K.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Atens reside in the Village of Princeville;
52 Aten Charles S.45 Carpenter 100 New Jersey
52 Aten Susan 36 Pennsylvania
52 Aten George 17 New York
52 Aten Nancy 14 Illinois
52 Aten Charles 9 Illinois
52 Aten Alfred 6 Illinois
52 Aten Emma 4 Illinois
52 Aten Nelson H. 1 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Atens are found residing in Princeville Township in Peoria County;
Charles S. ATEN, Self Gender: Male Birth: NJ
Susan ATEN, Wife Gender: Female Birth: NJ
Charles D. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Alfred B. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Emma ATEN, Dau Gender: Female Birth: IL
Nelson H. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Charles and Susan moved to Michigan sometime after the 1880 census and most likely before 1888, settling in Tecumseh, Michigan. Charles and Susan's home was on Kilbuck Street in Tecumseh. The 1900 census of Lewawee County census lists two grandsons living with the Atens that were born in Michigan, the first in 1888. Nelson and Alfred reside with the parents at this time along with the grandsons.
In 1887, the surviving members of the 86th held the first reunion on the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service. After this these were held annually every August in Peoria. Charles was not able to attend that first reunion, but he was one of thirteen Co. K boys to make the 2nd reunion in 1888. But, this proved to be the only reunion that Charles was able to attend.
Susan Aten passed away in 1902 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh. When Pvt. Charles S. Aten passed away in his home in Tecumseh on Kilbuck St. on July 20, 1905, his earthly remains were laid to rest beside his wife of almost 50 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter Fite would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add more to the Aten family history. Baxter would also like to get a picture of Charles for the Princeville Historical Society, especially one of him in uniform from his days in the 86th, but until then, Baxter would just love to get a copy of a picture of him at any age.)
(NOTE: Charles S. Aten probably never had his portrait taken prior to the Civil War. However, during the 10 month period that the 86th Illinois was in the Nashville, Tennessee area in 1862-63, Charles, like most of the Union soldiers in the Nashville area, probably took the time to sit for a portrait to send home to the loved ones that he left behind. These portraits were most often printed in the form of what was called a CDV, a paper picture glued to a heavier card stock about the size of a modern day baseball card, and the soldiers didn't just have one or two copies made. Most of the time, they had a dozen or more made, so they could swap pictures with their tentmates, messmates and for their friends, in the 86th and back home.
Charles S. Aten survived the war and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, Charles probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. However, at this point, I would be thrilled just to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private CHARLES S. ATEN, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Charles S. Aten was born the son of Thomas and Martha Sarah Heinrich (or Henry) Aten.
Charles was married to Susan A. Litts on September 25, 1852 in New Jersey. Ten children are believed to have been born to Charles and Susan. They include;
1. George F. Aten, born Nov. 21, 1852 in __________, New York; George was married to Jane Bain on August 11, 1879 in Peoria County; George died on Oct. 28, 1935 in Princeville, Illinois; buried in the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Illinois.
2. Nancy A. Aten, born c. 1855
3. Charles Dwight Aten, born March 26, 1861; died March 7, 1920 in Princeville, Illinois
4. Alfred Victor Aten, born Jan. 31, 1863 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois; Alfred was married to Edna __________ on __________ __, 18__; Edna died 1st on __________ __, 19__ at __________, __________; Alfred V. Aten died on March 29, 1944 in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Michigan and his mortal remains were laid in the ____________ Cemetery in Tecumseh, Michigan on April 1, 1944. His death certificate lists him as being widowed and a Cement Worker.
5. Emma Aurilla Litts Aten, born __________ __, 1866; married to __________ Owens; Emma died on __________ __, 1907 at __________, Michigan; buried in the Ridgeway Cemetery in Ridgeway, Michigan.
6. Nelson Henry Aten, born August 1, 1869
Charles and Susan brought their family to Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois in 1854 where he made a living as a Carpenter. Susan is believed to have had an older brother by the name of Benjamin D. Litts. Benjamin and his wife Marie also were soon found in Princeville, Illinois.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Atens are found in Princeville Township;
178 Aten Charles S. 36 M Carpenter NJ
178 Aten Susan A. 27 F NJ
178 Aten George 7 M NY
178 Aten Nancy A. 5 F IL
On August 9, 1862, Charles S. Aten and Benjamin D. Litts volunteered for service in a company which was being raised by a Princeville School Teacher by the name of John F. French.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name ATEN, CHARLES S
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 38 Height 5' 8 1/2 Hair BROWN
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity HOPE, WARREN CO, NJ
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks WOUNDED JUN 27, 1864 AT KENESAW MOUNTAIN GA
When French had about 100 volunteers, he led the Princeville Company into Peoria, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, French and 95 of his volunteers, including both Charles and Benjamin, were mustered into service as Company K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. (See Benjamin D. Litts Find A Grave biography for more information about him and his time in the service.)
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Two weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the feld in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, chasing the last Confederate troops in Kentucky. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering the first of many casualties to come. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederates withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the early days of 1863, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten may have been away from the regiment. He may have been sick and sent home. He may have been placed on detached service. Wherever he was, it appears that for whatever reason he was not present with the regiment, it had not communicated to the officers of the regiment and as of January 5, 1863, Private Charles S. Aten was not present with the regiment. In fact, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten was away from the regiment for the first six months of 1863. As seen on the poster on this site, which was purchased in Nashville, Tennessee about June of 1863, Charles S. Aten is apparently being listed as a Deserter.
Whereever he was and for whatever reason he was gone, Private Charles S. Aten is known to have rejoined the regiment some after this during 1863. For the next two years, Charles S. Aten would serve faithfully in the Princeville company. He participated in numerous battles including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, but it was at Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia on June 27, 1864 where the 86th suffered the most. On that fateful day, over 100 men from the 86th of approximately 400 men who made the charge on Cheatham Hill, were killed, wounded or captured in less that 30 minutes. Eight Co. K men were killed or wounded. Charles had his left index finger shot off during this assault, but he stayed with the regiment. As time went on, Charles was there as the ranks dwindled. On September 7, 1862, when the 86th marched out of Peoria, the 86th numbered about 932 men. During the course of the war, the 86th received about 70 recruits to fill the ranks. On June 6, 1865, Charles was one of approximately 350 men from the 86th who remained to muster out in Washington, D.C. He then returned to his home in Princeville with what remained of Co. K.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Atens reside in the Village of Princeville;
52 Aten Charles S.45 Carpenter 100 New Jersey
52 Aten Susan 36 Pennsylvania
52 Aten George 17 New York
52 Aten Nancy 14 Illinois
52 Aten Charles 9 Illinois
52 Aten Alfred 6 Illinois
52 Aten Emma 4 Illinois
52 Aten Nelson H. 1 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Atens are found residing in Princeville Township in Peoria County;
Charles S. ATEN, Self Gender: Male Birth: NJ
Susan ATEN, Wife Gender: Female Birth: NJ
Charles D. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Alfred B. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Emma ATEN, Dau Gender: Female Birth: IL
Nelson H. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Charles and Susan moved to Michigan sometime after the 1880 census and most likely before 1888, settling in Tecumseh, Michigan. Charles and Susan's home was on Kilbuck Street in Tecumseh. The 1900 census of Lewawee County census lists two grandsons living with the Atens that were born in Michigan, the first in 1888. Nelson and Alfred reside with the parents at this time along with the grandsons.
In 1887, the surviving members of the 86th held the first reunion on the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service. After this these were held annually every August in Peoria. Charles was not able to attend that first reunion, but he was one of thirteen Co. K boys to make the 2nd reunion in 1888. But, this proved to be the only reunion that Charles was able to attend.
Susan Aten passed away in 1902 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh. When Pvt. Charles S. Aten passed away in his home in Tecumseh on Kilbuck St. on July 20, 1905, his earthly remains were laid to rest beside his wife of almost 50 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter Fite would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add more to the Aten family history. Baxter would also like to get a picture of Charles for the Princeville Historical Society, especially one of him in uniform from his days in the 86th, but until then, Baxter would just love to get a copy of a picture of him at any age.)
Charles S. Aten survived the war and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, Charles probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. However, at this point, I would be thrilled just to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private CHARLES S. ATEN, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Charles S. Aten was born the son of Thomas and Martha Sarah Heinrich (or Henry) Aten.
Charles was married to Susan A. Litts on September 25, 1852 in New Jersey. Ten children are believed to have been born to Charles and Susan. They include;
1. George F. Aten, born Nov. 21, 1852 in __________, New York; George was married to Jane Bain on August 11, 1879 in Peoria County; George died on Oct. 28, 1935 in Princeville, Illinois; buried in the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Illinois.
2. Nancy A. Aten, born c. 1855
3. Charles Dwight Aten, born March 26, 1861; died March 7, 1920 in Princeville, Illinois
4. Alfred Victor Aten, born Jan. 31, 1863 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois; Alfred was married to Edna __________ on __________ __, 18__; Edna died 1st on __________ __, 19__ at __________, __________; Alfred V. Aten died on March 29, 1944 in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Michigan and his mortal remains were laid in the ____________ Cemetery in Tecumseh, Michigan on April 1, 1944. His death certificate lists him as being widowed and a Cement Worker.
5. Emma Aurilla Litts Aten, born __________ __, 1866; married to __________ Owens; Emma died on __________ __, 1907 at __________, Michigan; buried in the Ridgeway Cemetery in Ridgeway, Michigan.
6. Nelson Henry Aten, born August 1, 1869
Charles and Susan brought their family to Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois in 1854 where he made a living as a Carpenter. Susan is believed to have had an older brother by the name of Benjamin D. Litts. Benjamin and his wife Marie also were soon found in Princeville, Illinois.
At the time of the 1860 census, the Atens are found in Princeville Township;
178 Aten Charles S. 36 M Carpenter NJ
178 Aten Susan A. 27 F NJ
178 Aten George 7 M NY
178 Aten Nancy A. 5 F IL
On August 9, 1862, Charles S. Aten and Benjamin D. Litts volunteered for service in a company which was being raised by a Princeville School Teacher by the name of John F. French.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name ATEN, CHARLES S
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 38 Height 5' 8 1/2 Hair BROWN
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity HOPE, WARREN CO, NJ
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks WOUNDED JUN 27, 1864 AT KENESAW MOUNTAIN GA
When French had about 100 volunteers, he led the Princeville Company into Peoria, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, French and 95 of his volunteers, including both Charles and Benjamin, were mustered into service as Company K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. (See Benjamin D. Litts Find A Grave biography for more information about him and his time in the service.)
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Two weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the feld in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, chasing the last Confederate troops in Kentucky. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering the first of many casualties to come. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederates withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the early days of 1863, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten may have been away from the regiment. He may have been sick and sent home. He may have been placed on detached service. Wherever he was, it appears that for whatever reason he was not present with the regiment, it had not communicated to the officers of the regiment and as of January 5, 1863, Private Charles S. Aten was not present with the regiment. In fact, it appears that Private Charles S. Aten was away from the regiment for the first six months of 1863. As seen on the poster on this site, which was purchased in Nashville, Tennessee about June of 1863, Charles S. Aten is apparently being listed as a Deserter.
Whereever he was and for whatever reason he was gone, Private Charles S. Aten is known to have rejoined the regiment some after this during 1863. For the next two years, Charles S. Aten would serve faithfully in the Princeville company. He participated in numerous battles including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, but it was at Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia on June 27, 1864 where the 86th suffered the most. On that fateful day, over 100 men from the 86th of approximately 400 men who made the charge on Cheatham Hill, were killed, wounded or captured in less that 30 minutes. Eight Co. K men were killed or wounded. Charles had his left index finger shot off during this assault, but he stayed with the regiment. As time went on, Charles was there as the ranks dwindled. On September 7, 1862, when the 86th marched out of Peoria, the 86th numbered about 932 men. During the course of the war, the 86th received about 70 recruits to fill the ranks. On June 6, 1865, Charles was one of approximately 350 men from the 86th who remained to muster out in Washington, D.C. He then returned to his home in Princeville with what remained of Co. K.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Atens reside in the Village of Princeville;
52 Aten Charles S.45 Carpenter 100 New Jersey
52 Aten Susan 36 Pennsylvania
52 Aten George 17 New York
52 Aten Nancy 14 Illinois
52 Aten Charles 9 Illinois
52 Aten Alfred 6 Illinois
52 Aten Emma 4 Illinois
52 Aten Nelson H. 1 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Atens are found residing in Princeville Township in Peoria County;
Charles S. ATEN, Self Gender: Male Birth: NJ
Susan ATEN, Wife Gender: Female Birth: NJ
Charles D. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Alfred B. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Emma ATEN, Dau Gender: Female Birth: IL
Nelson H. ATEN, Son Gender: Male Birth: IL
Charles and Susan moved to Michigan sometime after the 1880 census and most likely before 1888, settling in Tecumseh, Michigan. Charles and Susan's home was on Kilbuck Street in Tecumseh. The 1900 census of Lewawee County census lists two grandsons living with the Atens that were born in Michigan, the first in 1888. Nelson and Alfred reside with the parents at this time along with the grandsons.
In 1887, the surviving members of the 86th held the first reunion on the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service. After this these were held annually every August in Peoria. Charles was not able to attend that first reunion, but he was one of thirteen Co. K boys to make the 2nd reunion in 1888. But, this proved to be the only reunion that Charles was able to attend.
Susan Aten passed away in 1902 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh. When Pvt. Charles S. Aten passed away in his home in Tecumseh on Kilbuck St. on July 20, 1905, his earthly remains were laid to rest beside his wife of almost 50 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter Fite would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add more to the Aten family history. Baxter would also like to get a picture of Charles for the Princeville Historical Society, especially one of him in uniform from his days in the 86th, but until then, Baxter would just love to get a copy of a picture of him at any age.)
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