Private Truman Head, commonly known as "California Joe" (1809 – November 24, 1875) was a famous member of the 1st United States Sharpshooters[1] during the American Civil War.

[5] Since Head had no family, he had left his gold mining fortune of $50,000 in a trust for his fellow soldiers in case he was killed in action.

A large cannon (a 32 pounder) had been brought to the field of battle by the Rebels, and "California Joe" and some comrades were ordered to silence it.

They found positions between the lines, and when morning came, Joe watched as the gun crew began to prepare the weapon for loading.

[7] Another tale describes how "a small mounted party, led by an officer wearing a white shirt" ventured outside the rebel fortifications.

Military honors, including a 21-gun salute, were provided by a detachment from the San Francisco Cadets, Company H, Second Infantry, led by Corporal P.