Civil War Soldier’s Stencil Killed in Action Recovered from Chancellorsville

Civil War Soldier’s Stencil Killed in Action Recovered from Chancellorsville - Inventory Number: IDE 219

Excavated stencil mounted to a cardstock backing board. Approximately 70% of the brad body remains with most of the soldier’s information legible.  The history of the 12th New Hampshire at this battle is chronicled in countless books: “It had been an extremely costly day of fighting for the 12th. The regiment went into action with 558 officers and men and lost 41 killed, 213 wounded, and 63 missing (most of whom were captured), for a total of 317 casualties. This was by far the most casualties of any Union regiment at Chancellorsville.”

“The men of the 12th got up and advanced, but despite the best efforts of their officers to get them up and going, few men in the other regiment moved. The 12th New Hampshire was on its own. The regiment moved up to the top of a hill.  Colonel Potter halted the advance, pointed towards the enemy with his sword, and said “There the devils are. Give them hell”. 

The men of the 12th opened fire. Potter had been ordered to engage and hold the enemy in place either for “as long as possible” or “until the last man falls” depending on the witness. 

Henry H. Nickson - Born in Pembroke, NH, Residence - Gilmanton NH; 22 years old. Enlisted on 8/11/1862 as a Private. On 8/30/1862 he mustered into "B" Co. NH 12th Infantry. He was Killed on 5/3/1863 at Chancellorsville VA.

Comes housed in 8 inch x 14 inch riker display case with red velvet backing and descriptive card.

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Inventory Number: IDE 219