The Fifth Regiment was established in Concord and approved by Gov. Berry on August 27, 1861. The regiment was composed of individuals from various professions, including farmers, mechanics, teachers, police officers, and shopkeepers from all across New Hampshire. Col. Edward E. Cross, a native of Lancaster, was appointed as the commander of the regiment. Prior to leading the Fifth, Cross had a diverse background, having established the first printing press in Arizona and served in the Mexican Army. After resigning from his commission upon hearing of the events at Fort Sumter, Cross returned to New Hampshire and was appointed as Colonel of the Fifth New Hampshire. The regiment was sworn into service on October 28, 1861, and traveled to Washington with 1,200 members the following day.
Under Cross’s leadership, the regiment underwent rigorous training to prepare for combat, which included daily drills and additional sessions focusing on military tactics and leadership skills. The regiment’s first engagement took place on March 13, 1862, at Rappahannock Station, where they suffered no casualties. Subsequently, the Fifth Regiment participated in various battles, including the Peninsula Campaign and the Battle of Fair Oaks. They also saw action at Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg, where Col. Cross was mortally wounded.
Following the Battle of Gettysburg, the Fifth Regiment was detached from the Second Corps and returned to New Hampshire to recruit new members. The regiment then served as guards for Confederate prisoners in Maryland until May 1864 when they rejoined the Army of the Potomac. The regiment suffered heavy casualties at the Battle of Cold Harbor and continued to be engaged in various skirmishes during the siege of Petersburg.
In October 1864, many of the original members completed their enlistments, resulting in the regiment being designated as the Fifth New Hampshire Battalion. Despite the challenges of recruiting new members, the Fifth continued to serve faithfully throughout the war. In April 1865, during the pursuit of Lee’s army, the Fifth Regiment was involved in their final battle at Cumberland Church near Farmville, Virginia. The regiment faced heavy losses and witnessed the capture of their beloved colors. The colors were recaptured by the 91st PA the day before the war ended.
After Lee’s surrender and the Grand Review in Washington, the Fifth Regiment returned to New Hampshire in June. On June 28, 1865, they were mustered out and passed their battle-worn colors to the state, marking the end of their service in the Civil War. The Fifth Regiment’s commitment to duty, resilience, and sacrifices throughout the war contributed to their lasting legacy in New Hampshire’s military history.
Fifth NH Volunteers, Co. A 