Wisconsin in the American Civil War

With the outbreak of the American Civil War, the northwestern state of Wisconsin raised 91,379 soldiers for the Union Army, organized into 53 infantry regiments, 4 cavalry regiments, a company of Berdan's sharpshooters, 13 light artillery batteries and 1 unit of heavy artillery.

All were noted for their hard fighting and dashing appearance, being among the only troops in the Army of the Potomac to wear Hardee hats and long frock coats.

One quilt that was made in 1864 by a group of women in Green Bay had the following poem: For the gay and happy soldier We're contented as a dove, But the man who will not enlist Never can gain our love.

If rebels attack you, do run with the quilt And safe to some fortress convey it; For o'er the gaunt body of some old secesh We did not intend to display it.

Other items women often sent included: shirts, sheets, pillows, pillowcases, coats, vests, trousers, towels, handkerchiefs, socks, bandages, canned fruits, dried fruits, butter, cheese, wine, eggs, pickles, books, and magazines.