The 1st Minnesota Heavy was composed of twelve companies / batteries, of 140 men plus officers in each.

It was the largest unit Minnesota sent to war numbering 1700 men.

The regiment was assigned to garrison duty at Chattanooga, Tennessee.

There it was in charge of the heavy guns at forts defending the city in anticipation Southern General John Hood might try and retake the Chattanooga.

Albert Woolson, who was a 14-year-old company drummer in the regiment, became the last surviving veteran of the American Civil War from either side after passing away in 1956.