Trustin Brown Kinder was the oldest child of
Isaac and Maria Kinder, the proprietors of the boarding house in which James S.
Griffing made his temporary home while living in Indianapolis from February to
September, 1852. Trustin was born in 1822 and spent his entire youth and adolescent
years in the Hoosier capital. He was well-liked and had many close friends.
Educated in the public school system of Indianapolis, he later attended Asbury
college [now DePauw University] where he graduated in 1845. After a year or two
in Indianapolis following college, he relocated to Paoli -- the seat of
government for rural Orange County in southern Indiana. Here he practiced law
until the breakout of hostilities between Mexico and the United States in 1846,
whereupon he volunteered for service and was voted First Lieutenant, later
promoted to Captain, of Company B, 2nd Indiana Regiment of Volunteers.
In the first and only real engagement of the
Mexican War in which Trustin's regiment participated, Trustin was slain on the
battlefield near Buena Vista, Mexico, on February 23rd 1847. His body was
eventually retrieved from the battlefield and returned to Indiana by his father,
filled with grief over the loss of his only surviving son. Trustin Kinder is
considered Indianapolis' first war hero.
The following letters were written by Trustin
B. Kinder prior to and during his service in the Mexican-American War. All of
the letters, with the exception of the one written to his close friend, Andrew
Jackson Carr, are the property of the Indiana Historical Society.
"Jack" Carr was a college chum and the son of Indiana Senator John
Carr -- a leading Democrat in Indiana history. In addition to the letters, there
are several newspaper articles wherein Trustin Kinder's name appears.
Indianapolis,
July 16, 1844
Dear
Sir [M. M. Heiss, Eagle Village],
Your
favor of the 10th inst. inviting me to attend a mass meeting of the Democracy of
Boone County is in my possession. Nothing would be more gratifying to my
feelings than to meet with those noble hearted Democrats of Boone County who are
and have been battling in the cause of Equal Rights; -- sustaining those
principles that have been handed down to us untarnished and pure. It should be
the duty of every American Freeman to struggle with the fangs of the tyrant and
hurl back those who have been and are still trying to stagnate our liberties; --
to rescue our country from the grasp of those who are now ruling and wish again
to gain power & place in our bleeding country.
The
Democratic Party of which I have this honor to be a member, are now of the eve
of a most glorious victory. All that is wanting is unity of effort. Let us all
show our patriotism by voting for men who support our own principles. Let the
citizens of Boone County send up two noble democrats to the Legislature. By
doing this they will do their duty.
As
I have already said, it would be highly gratifying to my feelings to be with
you, but my affairs at home demand my attention at the same time that you hold
your convention. Were it not for that, I would most assuredly be present, be
pleased to accept & through you I would tender to the citizens of Boone
County my warmest wishes for their future prosperity.
I
remain yours in the bonds of Democracy,
T.
B. Kinder
Paoli
[Indiana], Feby 16th 1845
Miss
Hannah [Culley]
,
Having
heard but little from Indianapolis since my departure and this being a very
lonesome Sunday & not having church in our place today is the only excuse I
shall render for the appearance of this epistle. Since my arrival at this place,
I have as is very natural wished frequently that I was back at my old home, and
enjoying the pleasure that I might derive from mingling in the society of my old
friends and acquaintances. But a moment’s after reflection teaches me that it
is much better that I have left that old home and the scenes of my childhood and
thrown myself upon the broad theatre of the world. But it is a pleasure, even if
it is a melancholy one, to revert to my past enjoyments and think of those
friends that I was forced from duty to myself to leave, to call up those
pleasing recollections has a tendency to alleviate the feelings and often times
to prevent ennui. Indeed, it is pleasing to think that after a long absence, I
shall again be permitted to return and revisit my old friends and companions, to
meditate upon those halcyon days when “the wide, unbounded prospect” of life
lay before me, but without its “shadows, clouds, and darkness,” and to
compare my hopes and expectations of that time with what has since been
realized. Some minds are so constituted or so regulated by habit that, in a
retrospective view, only those incidents which are agreeable are brought
forward, and all of an opposite kind kept in the background; or if they are
presented in the foreground, time casts a veil over them through which are only
seen what are beautiful. Such indeed I know is my own case. Consequently the
draughts of memory are indeed sweet. Then indeed it is delightful to remember
old friendships and my fancy delights to ramble over those scenes and incidents
which have transpired and which, though each trifling in itself, and like
flowers which observed apart scarce attract attention, but when formed into a
cluster, strike with much pleasure.
And
it will indeed be consoling in after life should it be my lot to drink deep from
the bowl of misfortune to call up the recollections of my old friends and
youthful associates. For
“Let
fate do her worst there are relics of joy,
Bright dreams of the past, which she cannot destroy.”
That
I may not exhaust your patience, I shall leave such reflections, but leave you
at your leisure to indulge in such thoughts as they may by circumstances be
presented to your mind.
My
present location differs very much from your city [of Indianapolis]. We have a
very pretty little town of about six hundred inhabitants who are very kind and
clever people. The scenery around the town is delightful. Indeed, it is quite
romantic and I am inclined to think that if I was given to writing poetry that
it would be an admirable location. But my genius not inclining that way, I just
stand and look out and think upon the subject. But while writing about poetry,
you have some poet or poetess who has unfortunately been thinking of me. I am
quite sorry that my departure produced such a sensation. If there is any danger
of any person running crazy, I shall most assuredly wend my way back again,
though my return might again cause another effort of genius by spinning into
verse “lines written on the return &c.” Poets and Poetess’ are
generally unhappy. To be so is the common destiny of poetic genius.
But
my paper admonishes me that I must begin to draw these lines to a close. I hope
all the fair hopes of Miss Laura are not blasted. I shall have the pleasure of
seeing her friend next week and shall inquire into the cause of such conduct.
All my advice will be given in her favor! And if ‘ere long she finds him
humbly upon his knees imploring her pardon for his conduct, she can credit it
all to me. I don’t know what to say to Mary but if I could tell it to her face
to face I should say a great many pretty and pleasing things!
I
should be highly gratified to hear from you & Laura, and Mary. Just drop me
a kind of a historical letter letting me know what you have all been doing and
what you all expect to do. Everything you know will be new to me not having
heard anything of that nature since my departure [from Indianapolis]. Give my
compliments to my friends. I am yours respectfully,
T.
B. Kinder
Don’t
forget to write immediately.
Paoli
[Indiana], April 14th, 1845
My
Friends Hannah [Culley] and Mary [Jane Brown, of Indianapolis],
I
am under many obligations to you for the kind reciprocation you was pleased to
favor me with, and for the many little historical facts that you was pleased to
put me in possession of. Be assured you have my warmest thanks. Every little
incident which might take place in your city [of Indianapolis] among my old
friends and acquaintances, though of little or no interest to you, is to me
(placed at the distance I am) very interesting. I have received many letters
from my friends at your place since my departure but they all forget to give me
the every day affairs that are passing. I suppose ‘ere this time Miss Laura
has returned to Ohio. If so, when you write, don’t forget to remember me to
her. There is nothing that might occur in this place that would tend to interest
you if I should write it, therefore I would only be wearing your patience to
make you read a letter filled with such matters.
I
was much edified by Mary’s romantic history of the “Umberella” and hope
that she may ‘ere long instead of tying the red worsted ‘round the
“umberella” be able to get that “silken cord that binds two willing
hearts” safely noosed around his affections. When you write to Laura you can
tell her that I have had the pleasure of seeing the “Judge” frequently since
your letter and it always appears to be a great pleasure to him to speak of her;
and [he] talks strongly of traveling for his health this summer, and thinks he
will make Akron [Ohio] a point in his tour. You know this is ominous.
Since
your letter I have received a letter from Mr. Hanna. He informs me that Miss
Stipp is soon to leave Indianapolis and you wrote that some three or four are
absent from town. I am inclined to think that you will have a dull summer,
though I hope not, for down here I know what it is to have dull times, though
the young people here have frequent meetings. But the society here is entirely
different from what it is at your place though we have some very intelligent
young ladies.
I
am quite sorry that circumstances compels me to forego the pleasure of attending
your Fair. Circumstances over which I have no control will prohibit me from
visiting your city and mingling among my old friends until next winter at which
time perhaps I shall be compelled from business to attend the Supreme Court and
I have already obtained the consent of a young friend of mine who is practicing
law in this place – a Mr. Black to go along with me. He is quite a beau and
“eligible.” Though I cannot be with you at the fair, you can drink to my
health. You will please remember me to Mr. & Mrs. Cully, and the balance of
my friends whom you may think proper. You will please answer this immediately.
No more procrastination. Give me a full history of the “sayings and doings”
of the city. [Tell me] whether or no you are going to have any May parties and
who is Queen? And everything that may present itself to your mind. I remain
yours respectfully,
T.
B. Kinder
Paoli [Indiana], February
2, 1846
Friend Jack, [Andrew Jackson
Carr, Charlestown, Clark County, Indiana]
I need make no apology for
not writing to you sooner, for when I went to Indianapolis this winter I
expected to come by the way of Charlestown. But my hurry was such that I did not
do so. And when I came home my whole intention was to visit your place. But when
we passed the Charlestown landing I was fast asleep & intended to go up with
Ferguson, but there was no stage & he didn’t go. And so I had to give it
up. But you may rely on seeing me at Charlestown Court I believe in May.
Perhaps you have already
understood that I am a candidate for Prosecuting Attorney and want you to do all
you can for me. I wish I had about ten thousand old schoolmates & my
election would be sure. I wrote to Simonson to have my name placed in your
paper. I wish you would see that it is done. I hope to hear of your being a
candidate for the Legislature this year; and if so I know you will be
successful.
Since I last saw you I have
been ploughing my way through the world. I expect to keep ploughing until I get
tired, and then shall retire to private life & try and live at ease. The
practice at the law is very dull. But if I can get elected prosecuting attorney
I think it will all be right. Just name it to your friends. If you should have a
county convention & there is anything said about nominating prosecutor, I
desire that you will see that I am “A” number one. I shall receive the
nomination of my county and I hope several others.
I should liked to have met
you at Indianapolis this winter. No doubt we would have had lots of fun. I had
the pleasure of seeing Athy Wathen in Jeffersonville when I came through. He was
flourishing finely. [He had] joined the Temperance Society & to all
appearances was flourishing bravely. You will please give my respects to
Simonson, his daughter, [to] Ferguson & Lady, & also Pinckney. And you
will accept my best wishes for your present and future prosperity, And by doing
what you can for me in the present canvass, you will greatly oblige.
Your old friend,
T. B. Kinder
You
will please write & let me know the news. What you are doing, & what you
are going to do. Yours &c., -- Kinder.
Camp
Belknap [Texas],
November 28th, 1846
Dear
Doct. [Livingston Dunlop of Indianapolis],
Your
letter of the 8th inst. was received four days since. I have been waiting to
obtain some information of our future destiny before writing to you, but as yet
nothing has come to hand that is at all satisfactory. I send you what of rumors
we have. It is though by those who ought to know that our whole Brigade will be
immediately ordered to Tampico, to form the base of operations against San Louis
Patosi. A few days since, six hundred “regulars” left Brasos to garrison
that place until further reinforcements should arrive. Gen’l Patterson will be
at Matermoris today. Gen’l Lane’s aid (A.S. Robinson) has one up to receive
any orders he may have for us. So you may imagine that we are all on the lookout
for a fight.
Gen’l
Worth & his command are in the possession of Saltillo. They entered without
resistance. Our whole Brigade are becoming quite restless to move, & will be
much disappointed if we do not move soon. Though of our moving, I have not the
slightest doubt. We have every appearance that we will be the first troops to
move. In a very short time our whole army will be in motion. Let me assure you
that nothing short of our army marching to the very walls of the city of Mexico
will bring the Mexican government to terms. The day that we commence battering
at the walls of the city, she will come to honorable terms & not before. And
the sooner we walk right into her affections the better for our government. The
policy of Mexico is to waste time in idle talk about negotiations & keep off
the evil day as long as possible. Every month that passes is doing the present
administration [in Washington] harm. The Whig party dare not openly oppose the
war. They have had one trial of that. But every time our arms are defeated,
every time a movement proves unsuccessful, they cry Oh! the Administration. The
officers of the “Regular Line” echo it forth, “Go home Volunteers &
vote down the administration.” Every effort that the officers of the Regular
Army can make to procrastinate an issue is done – cause – more promotions
– they are desirous that the “regular army” shall have all the honor –
cause – the voluptious poor house of the Nation, “West Point” will be
upheld. The present Congress must be active in forwarding every plan of attack,
make every appropriation again & wind the matter up at the end of the twelve
months, & all hell can’t beat the party.
A
few days since I was at the 1st Regiment encampment. The health of the
“boys” is very much improved. Col. Drake is quite well. McDougal & his
company were in good health. Col. Lane’s 3rd Regiment is still at Matemoris
& are enjoying very good health. All we desire is to give us a fair chance
to do what we came for and then we shall be satisfied. I shall write to you
frequently & give all the news, & if I should become troublesome with my
letters, you must allude it to the want of information we get from home &
think that you are in the same way from the army.
You
will please write frequently. Remember me to my friends & believe yours
truly,
T.
B. Kinder
Camp
Belknap, Texas,
December 5th 1846
Dear
Father,
I
hasten to drop you a line informing you that to day we take up our line of march
for Camargo. Our Regiment & the 3d Regt. are alone ordered. The 1st Regiment
(Col Drake’s) will remain at the mouth of the Rio Grande. It is a hard lot for
them. Their post is a very laborious and unhealthy one (though it is a post of
honor). It is understood that we will immediately join Gen’l Butler’s
Division. We may have to remain at Camargo some time. At all events, I think the
probability of our Regiment having any fighting to be out of the question. That
it is the intention to garrison Camargo, Monterey, & Saltillo, we have no
doubt & I think we shall be engaged in that service the remainder of the
time.
My
health continues good. In fact, the health of the whole Brigade is much better
than it has been. There is no news of any general importance at present.
Everything is actively moving. Gen’l Patterson’s division is going to
Tampico. Our will remain under Butler. I do not think there will be many more
hard fights. You will excuse this hasty letter. You will please direct my
letters to Camargo, 2 Regt. Ind. Vols. You
will please inform Doct. Dunlap of my change of residence. I correspond with
him.
Recollect
me to all the family, Mother & Sisters
I
am yours, affectionately,
T.
B. Kinder
In
Camp opposite Camargo [Mexico],
December 15th 1846
Dear
Doct. [Livingston Dunlap of Indianapolis],
I
hasten to drop you a line on the eve of our departure for parts as yet unknown.
We are ordered to march from this place to Paris for the purpose of joining
Gen’l Wool. Paris is 120 miles beyond Monterey. We start tomorrow morning,
will reach Monterey in eleven days, stop at that place only long enough to
provide provisions and forage and then go ahead. As yet I am not advised as to
our final destination. But enough is already known to apprise us that we will
have employment. Heretofore we have murmured at our being held back. But now all
is going ahead.
I
shall advise you from time to time as to our perigenations. I am as all
satisfied that we will have a great deal of hard duty to perform. A rumor has
just reached here that a train of baggage & provisions has been taken by a
band of Mexicans supposed to belong to the clan of Canales. A portion of the 3rd
Indiana Regiment & Kentucky Cavalry have just left & are in hot pursuit
of the enemy. Our whole Brigade have orders to march – the 3rd and our
Regiment are all here. The 1st [Regiment] have not reached here as yet but are
looked for hourly. We will all get together at Seralvo which is four days march
from this place.
You
will please inform my friends that I am quite well & hearty. I walked 20
miles yesterday; today I have been hard at work preparing for the journey, each
company entitled to one team. I have purchased a horse & saddle for $13,
consequently I shall not be troubled with sore bones & blistered feet. I am
pleased with the idea of having some duty to perform. The Brigade enjoy good
health. Quite a number of men have been discharged. None but perfectly stout
hearty men are taken.
You
will please recollect me to father & family. Write to Monterey to be
forwarded to the 2nd regiment of Indiana Volunteers.
I
am yours respectfully,
T.
B. Kinder
P.S.
You will excuse the apparent haste of this letter as all is confusion
& I am tired. The weather is very war – something like a 4th of July in
Indianapolis.
Camp
near Monterey, Mexico,
December 28th 1846
Dear
Doct. [Livingston Dunlap of Indianapolis],
After
nine days hard marching our Regiment have arrived safe & sound at Monterey.
Since my last letter (from Camargo), orders were issued ordering the 1st Regt.
back to the mouth [of the Rio Grande] & [to] Metamoris. We were all this
side of Seralvo when the orders were received. Col. Drake and his command are
truly sorry that their fate is so hard. But enough is now known to justify me in
saying that the 1st Regt. will do garrison duty during the remainder of their
service. The officers have done a great deal to injure their regiment by trying
to underrate their commanders & entirely disband the Regiment. I was sorry
that t hey could not go along with us.
Today
while on the march to this place we were met by an express from Gen’l Butler
requiring us to hasten with all quickness to Saltillo. The 3rd Reg’t Ind.
Volunteers were ahead of us in the march & started from here last night. We
will start tomorrow morning at daylight and make the march in three days. The
same express that brought in our orders to proceed to Saltillo also brought the
intelligence that Santa Anna was in
two days march of Saltillo. But we have so many false alarms that we hardly know
when to believe. We were rushed through from Camargo to this place expecting to
meet the “ochre coloured” scoundrels here, but they have all vanished. In
three or four days we shall know the reality of this report. If I should get
into a fight (now probable) & come out first best, you shall hear from me
immediately upon my arrival at Saltillo. But if I should accidentally fall a
victim, I shall only receive what a soldier volunteers for & all shall be
right. If so, you will accept my long goodbye, hoping that I have not disgraced
my own native Hoosier State, but that in defense of my country’s rights, I
died. If all goes right, you shall hear from me soon again.
Our
Regiment have traveled 25 miles today. Our camp is 3 miles from the city. I have
just returned from the city [where] I got a “Sentinel” from you with the
latest advices from Indiana. It was [dated] the 17th of November. You will
please recollect me to father & family * friends generally.
The
health of our Regiment is very fine & the climate is mild & agreeable.
On Christmas night I slept on the ground under green leaves. The country abounds
in tropical fruit. The oranges are fine & large.
You
will excuse this hasty letter as I am tired & have not time to con. out set
sentences. But you get it just as it comes.
I
am yours respectfully,
T.
B. Kinder
Gen’l Taylor with about 6000 men left here
yesterday morning for Victoria. They may stir up a breeze in that quarter but I
think it quite doubtful.
Camp
near Saltillo [Mexico],
January 1st 1847
Dear
Father, Mother & Family,
I
wish you all a happy new year. May prosperity adorn your path through its entire
course.
Our
Regiment after a very hard days march have just reached this place. When we left
Monterey, we anticipated a brush with the Mexicans at this place, but upon
arriving here we learned that they had all fled the country. Occasionally they
have heard of small bodies of Mexican lancers traveling over the country; hence
an excitement in this region is very easily raised and our troops have and will
be constantly on the lookout for a skirmish.
We
are now encamped in one of the many mountain passes incident to this country.
Gen’l Wool is twenty miles beyond Saltillo. The Mexican army cannot pass
through to Monterey without passing both of these guards. Though we are
creditably informed that the Mexican army are now at San Louis Potosi and it is
impossible for an army to march from San Louis Potosi to Saltillo owing to the
great scarcity of water. The distance is 340 miles and there are seven places of
40 miles without water. They have always preserved water in tanks but the season
has been so very dry that the tanks have entirely given out. We made one day’s
march on our road from Monterey to this place of 25 miles without water. The
country is very mountainous and almost barren of wood. This morning I saw the
first ice that has made its appearance in this country. There was very little of
it. From Monterey to this place there is a continued rise in elevation. It is
said that this place is 500 feet higher than at Monterey. I have just saw the
Mexican President’s message. It is rather pacific and is considered a peace
message. Our President’s message has not yet made its appearance though it is
looked for daily.
In
your letter dated November 4th which I rec’d at Monterey a week since, you
complained of my failing to write to you. I assure you that I have written about
every two weeks, but owing to the great irregularity in the mail, you may
consider yourself quite fortunate if you get every other one. At the present
time everything is perfectly quiet and we rest with great pleasure after a march
of near twenty five days. We left [Camp] Belknap [Texas] on the 5th of December
& arrived here this day. The boys are somewhat fatigued but are hearty and
not at all displeased that they are having a little active service. You have
doubtless learned before this that the 1st Regt. who were ordered on by Gen’l
Patterson received an order from Gen’l [Zachery] Taylor countermanding
Patterson’s order & so they have returned to their old post. Eight
companies are sent to Metamoris & two company’s at the mouth of the Rio
Grande. Col. Drake as a matter of course was much displeased. But it is the
greatest duty of a soldier to obey orders, so he went. I hope he may be relieved
soon & sent on but my own opinion is that he will remain at his present post
during the remainder of his service.
You
will please recollect me to my friends. Tell mother I shall bring her a New
Year’s present from Mexico. You will write often.
I
am yours affectionately,
T.
B. Kinder
The following article appeared in the March 6,
1847 edition of the Indiana State Sentinel -- a weekly newspaper
published in Indianapolis:
Charges against Lt. Governor Dunning
Under an envelope dated, “Camp near Saltillo,
Jan. 9, 1847,” we have just received the communications which we append below,
from Captain Kinder, who informs us that he has forwarded copies of the same to
the State Journal. Upon a careful reading of these communications, we do not see
that they establish any thing more than Mr. Dunning has himself admitted, as to
matter of fact. But they do seem to evince a disposition to put the severest
construction upon those facts which they will possibly bear; and even to
manifest a feeling of personal hostility towards Mr. Dunning, rather difficult
to account for, if these facts alone are taken into view. By the same mail which
brought these communications, we received a private letter from another source,
on which we can relay, and from which we take the liberty of making the
following extract:
“I see that they are attacking Mr. Dunning
for selling whiskey at exorbitant prices. I know but little about this matter,
but I have heard it frequently remarked that P. M. K____ had rather skinned him,
and that notwithstanding the exorbitant prices charged, Mr. D. would lose in the
transaction. But I would just say to you that there were other people who sold
whiskey besides Paris C. Dunning, and if one whiskey seller is to be attacked,
they ought to give them all rough thunder. I am neither advocating nor defending
any man, but contend that all persons guilty of the same offence ought to be
treated alike. I regret that Capt. Kinder wrote the article in the Paoli paper,
because I have a high regard for him. There will be plenty of time to talk of
these matters after we get home.”
We think there is some pith in these remarks,
and so we presume will our readers. But we must trust to time for a development
of all the circumstances in this case; and we have no doubt that that arbiter
will be a test of motives as well as of facts.
To the Editors of the Indiana State Sentinel
In your paper of Nov. 19th, 1846, I see a
communication from Lt. Gov. Dunning relative to his doings while on the Rio
Grande. It is not my intention to enter into a controversy with him. I send you
with this communication, a circular from the democratic officers of the
regiment, which you will please publish, and I shall rest satisfied, and let the
case go to a jury of the people. In a letter which I did write to the editor of
the Patriot, published at Paoli, I made certain statements, and I think the
circular will fully justify me. The insinuation in your paper that I was once a
whig, was unexpected to me, from the source. The first vote I ever gave was for
James Whitcomb for Gov. and Joseph A. Wright for Congress. I never cast a vote
for a whig for an office higher than a constable in my life. Your insinuation
can have its weight. I am willing that the people of the State of Indiana may
judge of my letter and the circular of the officers. I was much surprised at the
effrontery of Mr. Dunning in attempting to deny the facts, when there are so
many witnesses who will testify to the facts. I am yours, respectfully,
T. B. KINDER
We the undersigned officers of the 2d regiment
of Indiana volunteers, and members of the democratic party, have seen with
regret an attempt made by certain democratic papers in Indiana to bolster up the
conduct of Paris C. Dunning while on the Rio Grande. That Lt. Gov. Dunning was
engaged in the sutling business is true. That he was connected with P.M. Kent in
selling whiskey and other liquors to the soldiers at high and most exorbitant
prices, cannot be denied by any person who was here at the time.
The volunteers were forced to buy them or do
without, because they were the sutlers to the Regiment, and there were no goods
nearer than the mouth of the Rio Grande or Matamoras. We deem it but justice and
a duty we owe to those persons who have written home disclosing these facts, to
make thus openly, this statement, and we are surprised that he attempted to
shuffle off the responsibility. We regret to see that persons are judged as
acting from sinister motives in openly denouncing him to the people of Indiana.
The statements made and published in some of the papers of Indiana are as
notorious in camp as is the fact that he was here and was a partner of Kent. Mr.
Dunning denies the selling of whiskey for more than about 10 days. We are well
aware that it was kept and sold by the authority of the sutler, during Mr.
Dunning’s entire connection with him, on the Rio Grande. We deem this
sufficient. If more is necessary, it can be given from the Regiment.
W. A. Bowles, Col.
W. R. Haddon, Lieut. Col.
James A. Cravens, Major
David C. Shanks, Adjt.
L. Q. Hoggatt, 1st Lt. Law. Greys
Wm. T. Spicely, 1st Lt. Com. B.
David S. Lewis, Lt. Com. B.
A. T. Rose, 1st Lt. Com. C.
Joshua Moore, 2d Lieut.
Josiah Burnell, Lt. Com. Com. D
Thomas C. Pare, 2d Lieut.
Saltillo
[Mexico],
January 25th 1847
Dear
Friend [Livingston Dunlap of Indianapolis],
There
is little of any interest transpiring in this section of the army. A portion of
the Mexican army was within 60 miles march of this place but have retired,
probably back to San Louis Potosi. Rumors hath it that Sant Anna has been
ordered to the city of Mexico. The reason he assigns for not making a more
vigorous defense is a want of funds. He desires an immediate appropriation of
eight hundred thousand and a similar appropriation every succeeding month.
Gen’l [Zachary] Taylor has returned to Monterey. Gen’t Butler left this
place three days ago to see him and confer about an expedition – some say
against San Louis Potosi. It is expected that an expedition under Taylor will
immediately be fitted out. Everything in this quarter appears perfectly quiet at
present. If a force goes under taylor, it is but reasonable to suppose that we
will “be in.” Gen’l Butler will return to this place in a very few days
and then we will know all about it. Gen’l Wool’s command is encamped five
miles from the city consisting of about 300 dragoons Col. Yell’s Arkansas
Regiment, two Illinois Regiments. The
2nd Kentucky Reg’t of Infantry and Ky. Cavalry are encamped seven miles from
town. There are no troops in this place except the 2nd & 3rd Ind. & a
company of Artillery under Capt. Webster. The Hoosiers enjoy good health.
Why
is it that I have not received your letters? Since the first one you wrote, none
others have arrived. I read a copy of the President’s Message from you last
night. The message is popular with the army. I expect the Whigs will resist an
appropriation in Congress for this war. Let them if they dare, do it.
I
have not heard from the 1st Regiment for 2 weeks. Charley Smith has returned to
his reg’t.
Give
my compliments to my friends & write often.
From
yours truly,
T.
B. Kinder
Aqua
Nueva, Mexico,
Feby 8th 1847
Dear
Friend [Livingston Dunlap of Indianapolis],
We
have made another move. Gen’l [Zachary] Taylor reached Saltillo in the 4th
inst. and ordered us to march. We arrived at this place on last night twenty
five miles from Saltillo. There are about five thousand troops in camp, all
under the immediate command of Gen’l Taylor. We will remain here for some
time. Old Rough says his orders are to act entirely on the defensive. A
reinforcement is looked for about the the 1st of April, at which time it is
thought we will be relieved and take up out line of march homeward (so thought).
Maj. Bollan, Maj. Gaines and Capt. Clay & men have all gone under strong
guard to San Louis Potosi. Rumor reached our camp this morning that the whole of
the party officers and men in attempting to make their escape were killed. The
report was brought by Mexicans they say. Our men attempted to break the guard,
killed fifteen Mexicans, and every man was killed. Capt. Harney of Ky. with 18
men are reported as being among the number. If this proves true – as I am
afraid it is – a deep sensation will be produced. There are many small
scouting parties of the Mexican forces who seek every opportunity to cut off
small bodies of our men. It is difficult to find out their many hiding places in
the mountains. Old Rough is in fine health – somewhat chagrined about
Scott’s taking command.
I
see that the Tories in Congress are doing all they can toward assisting the
Mexicans in this war. Those who favor the Mexicans at Washington City &
elsewhere had as well take passage for the city of Mexico and there take up arms
for those they appear to love. A person would think that they have had a
sufficient warning in the days of the last war to stand off and look on. In
fifteen years they will deny their opposition to this war. They had better back
out in time to save their credit, if they have any to save.
I
have no news from the 1st Reg’t. Gen’l Scott has not been heard from. I have
no farther particulars. Health very fine.
Give
my respects to my friends & write.
Yours
truly,
T.
B. Kinder
News of the bloody battle at Buena
Vista did not reach Indianapolis for over a month. A description of the American
victory did not appear in the Indiana State Sentinel until the March 31, 1847
edition. That issue provided the first listing of the names of the dead and
wounded. The following is an excerpt:
A Bloody Battle! General Taylor
Victorious. The Mexican Army led by Santa Anna defeated at Buena Vista with
great slaughter. We lay before our readers, in advance of our regular
publication, the glorious tidings from the army, brought by the schooner John
Bell. Our reporter left the vessel in the river and came up to [New Orleans] by
express with the glad news. The following account was prepared for us by an
officer of the army. It may be relied upon. We publish also Gen. Santa's account
of the battle, from which it will be seen that he has suffered a defeat, though
he covers up his retreat with a flourish of words.
Dr. Turner, U.S.A., who arrived at
Matamoras on the 9th inst. from Monterey, brought the glorious intelligence of
another brilliant victory over the Mexican army. The scene of action was at
Buena Vista, a hacienda about six miles west of Saltillo. The fighting commenced
on the 22d of February and ended on the 23d. Santa Anna retired to Aqua Nueva, a
distance of ten miles, leaving four thousand killed and wounded. Santa Anna's
force amounted to about fifteen thousand men, that of Gen. Taylor to about five
thousand, almost entirely volunteers...
Dr. T. brought a list of 63
officers killed and wounded. [Those in the Indiana Brigade are as follows:]
Wounded -- General Lane.
Second Regiment -- Killed -- Capts.
T. B. Kinder and Walker, and Lieut. Parr. Wounded -- Capts. Saunders and
Osborn, and Lieutenants Cayen, Pennington, Morse, Lewis, Davis, and Epperson.
Third Regiment -- Killed -- Capt.
Taggart. Wounded --- Maj. Gorman and Capt. Sluss.
The following letter written by
Major Morrison to Indiana Governor Whitcomb appeared in the April 21, 1847
edition of the Indiana State Sentinel. The murder and robbery of the grievously
wounded Capt. Kinder is mentioned near the end of the letter.
Buena Vista (6 miles south of
Saltillo, Mexico), February 26, 1847
Dear Sir,
After the most desperate and
sanguinary battle of this or any other age, I find myself sufficiently composed
to undertake to give you a sketch of its details.
On or about the 3d or 4th of Feb.,
Gen. Taylor with all his forces, amounting to about 4,500 fighting men, advanced
from Saltillo on the San Luis Potosi road, to a small Hacienda called Aqua Nuevo
(New Water) where he encamped and remained until Sunday, the 21st February, on
which day at 12 o'clock, he commenced a movement toward Saltillo, and retreated
14 miles to Buena Vista. He there encamped at a pass between the mountains where
the only road is between an abrupt hill, extending to the mountains on the
south, and a row of ravines on the north, extending across the valley to the
mountains on the same side. Here he threw up a short embankment so as to reduce
the pass to a mere wagon road way. On Monday morning at about seven o'clock, our
pickets announced the approach of the Mexican army, commanded by Santa Anna in
person, and accompanied by gen. Ampudia, consisting of 20,000 or 21,000 men,
well armed and equipped, and provided with a large train of artillery, from 6 to
24 pounders. They drew up and formed for battle at a distance some two or three
miles from our lines, and Gen. Santa Anna sent forward a flag of truce demanding
a surrender of our army, promising to treat us with becoming clemency, stating
his numbers to amount to 20,000 men, and giving one hour for consideration and
answer. Gen. Taylor promptly returned for answer that he cared not for the size
of the army, as he, Taylor, had an army that was able to whip it; but if Santa
Anna saw fit to surrender to him, he would be treated in a proper manner.
These ceremonies being over, at 10
minutes before 4 o'clock P. M., the Mexican batteries opened the conflict by a
discharge of bombs, which was promptly returned by our light artillery. After an
exchange of six shots, the Mexican columns began to advance, and after a short
time gained an important position on the mountain side, on the south of the
pass. The U.S. army was posted in detached portions in such a manner as best to
subserve the intentions of our Generals. Four rifle companies of the Indiana
brigade, under the command of Major Gorman, were ordered to intercept the
progress of the Mexicans, who were attempting to cross the mountain ranges to
pass our left flank. These companies very actively ascended the mountain, and
lay behind a ridge. The Mexicans opened a very brisk and continued fire upon
them, which lasted until dark. The riflemen, commanded by Capts. Walker, Sluss,
Dunn, and Osborn, lay close, and two of the companies only were enabled to shoot
when the enemy advanced to the brow of the ridge, which they did do, with very
considerable effort, killing many of the Mexicans. Our riflemen had only two or
three slightly wounded. Thus ended the operations of the first day, and both
armies lay upon their arms upon the field, through a cold and inclement night.
At the early dawn, the contest was
renewed on the mountain side, and when the light rendered it possible to make
accurate observation, it was discovered that the Mexican force had been
reinforced, so that not less than 3,000 of them were on the hill side above our
forces, where and when they poured forth an incessant volley of musketry upon
our lines below, and upon the riflemen who had again attempted to prevent their
progress around the mountain. The Mexicans had also erected a battery near the
base of the same mountain, and their cavalry and lancers were moving in an
immense column, endeavoring to force a passage towards Saltillo, on our left
flank. The second Indiana regiment commanded by Col. Bowles, and led by Gen.
Joseph Lane in person, was formed so as to be in front of the advancing column.
The second Illinois, Col. Hardin, was next, and the Kentucky, Col. McKee, came
in to the support of the others, in checking the column of the enemy. The
Kentucky cavalry, Col. Humphrey Marshall, and the Arkansas cavalry, Col. Yell,
were in the mountain gorge attempting to aid the riflemen in opposing the
flanking column of the enemy. Here the whole of the line became hotly engaged,
and a most deadly, vigorous, and gallant conflict, of at least three hours,
raged between the contending hosts, the artillery on both sides playing during
the whole time upon the contending masses.
After the contest had fairly
opened, the Mississippi regiment of riflemen, commanded by Col. [Jefferson]
Davis, marched into the engagement, at a most critical moment, and ardently
engaged the Mexican column. So very numerous were the forces of the Mexicans,
and so obstinately and effectively did they maneauver and fight, that it
required all the bravery, skill, and devotion of our brave men to withstand
them. Our officers most gallantly, heroically, and gloriously, led their men to
the charge and to the cannon's mouth, and the fatigued and exposed volunteers
most gallantly gave twenty full rounds of musketry, being at the same time under
a most destructive and galling fire of cannon and grape shot, which enfiladed
their ranks from left to right, and which was also met by the cross fire of the
Mexican infantry. At the time that the Mississippi regiment came to the attack,
the pressure upon the left wing of the second regiment of Indiana volunteers was
so great that a part of the line was compelled to give way, and some of them
retreated in disorder, but it was after they had stood their ground equal to any
veterans, for three hours, and after regiment upon regiment of fresh troops had
been brought to bear and charge upon them. Many of them devotedly paid the
forfeit of their lives as the price of their bravery, and those who fell back
only did so when further resistance seemed unavailing. A part of the Arkansas
squadron of horse, who had dismounted, and fought valiantly on foot, were also
compelled to retreat from the line, but they had nobly stood for a long time,
exposed to every chance of death, before they wavered in the least.
Here was a most important juncture
in the affairs of the day, and here the prowess of American arms, sustained by
American hearts and nerves, was shown to be superior to all the forces of
numbers, the discipline of regular veterans, and the ferocity of the savage and
mercenary hordes, who so vigorously pressed upon our comparatively small army.
The gallant Mississippians most nobly led their way to the hottest of the fight;
and at this period were joined by many of the second regiment of Indianians who
had been forced to separate from their comrades. The third regiment of Indiana
volunteers commanded by Col. J. H. Lane, was now for the first time allowed to
participate in the action, having been previously stationed near the right wing,
where it was supposed the enemy would make a desperate effort to force a
passage, should that point be, by any means, weakened. The third most gallantly
moved the the support of the Mississippians, and participated in an open field
fight for several hours, doing fine execution, but suffering quite a severe
loss. The whole army now became generally engaged at various points. The
Kentucky cavalry most heroically charging the lancers, cavalry and infantry of
the enemy, suffered severely, but bravely maintaining the charges and checking
the enemy. The regular dragoons under Col. May, fought in every direction where
their services were needed, and too much praise cannot be given to the active
and laborious exertions of the different companies of artillery who were
incessantly engaged in raking the Mexican columns.
After the middle of the day, the
enemy made a daring and desperate sally with a very large force, in order to
overrun our entire line. They were met by Col. McKee's regiment of Kentucky
infantry, and by Col. Hardin's regiment of Illinois volunteers. Never did
veteran soldiers fight better, and never did an enemy pay more dearly for his
temerity. Hour after hour passed amid the unceasing din of small arms, while the
peal of the cannon reverberated from the whole chain of the mountain range, in a
triple echo. Here and on every part of the vast battlefield the contest
thickens, and the very elements seemed to participate in the struggle. Several
short gusts of rain and hail the while serving to refresh the sinking vigor of
the almost exhausted soldiery...
...Thus has closed one of the most
desperate, great and glorious battles on record either in ancient or modern
history; and a victory to American arms has been achieved as respendent as any
that ever gilded her pages. Gen. Taylor, with his usual equanimity and coolness,
commanded the forces as commander in chief, and his presence was a host in
itself; inspiring confidence in every breast that all could be done would be
done, and that defeat would never disgrace us, however great the disparity of
numbers. Gen. Wool was next in command, and most diligently and valiantly
attended to every department of the engagement. He is a brave and competent
officer, and merits the gratitude of his countrymen for his services on this
great occasion. Next came Gen. Joseph Lane, of the Indiana Brigade. He was on
the field from the onset to the close of the action, and never did any man more
heroically devote himself to his duty. The thickest of the fight had no terrors
for him, and to an observer it would seem that he was heaven defended, for he
was continually passing in all directions amidst the shower of bullets. he is
however severely wounded through the right arm, the ball passing about midway
between his shoulder and elbow, through the centre of the arm, yet not breaking
the bone. Col. Bowles, Lane, Hadden, and McCarty were most gallantly employed,
as were Majors Gorman and Cravens. Maj. Gorman, who, as already stated, first
led the attack in the mountains, is slightly wounded. every officer of the
Indiana Brigade sustained himself admirably, and although some had, from the
necessity of the case, more conspicuous portions than others, none failed to
perform his part. The soldiers deserve the highest commendation, for no man
could me more of a man in the field, and each one fought as though the great
issue depended upon his individual efforts. If, in the pressure of the fight
some were forced to recede, let it be remembered, that on similar occasions, the
most renowned legions have been overpowered and forced to retire from their
position. This one great battle has established for the young State of Indiana,
a reputation for patriotic devotion, chivalrous conduct and daring bravery which
will endure until the conclusion of time, and the memory of her gallant sons
will be as sweet incense to her latest generations. But she mourns the loss of
many a noble spirit, and her joy will be tempered with tears of mourning, and
the bright smile of her countenance, shaded wit the the crape and the pall. This
memorable battle is the more glorious, as it was commenced on the 22d of
February. the birthday of the illustrious Washington.
I here send you some of the names
of the brave men who have fallen so gloriously. A more full and official
statement will immediately be made by Gen. Taylor to Washington, which will be
authentic and accurate, containing every name.
The total loss of the Indiana
Brigade is as follows:
Second Regiment -- Killed 32,
wounded 71, missing 4. Total 107.
Third Regiment -- Killed 9,
wounded 57. Total 66.
In the two regiments, 173.
...Capt. Kinder was inhumanely
murdered and robbed (after he was wounded and placed in a wagon,) by the Mexican
lancers. They took from his person $945 in gold. They lanced many of our men who
first fell wounded.
We are still encamped upon the
battlefield, where we stay until another fight, or until the enemy leaves us.
Santa Anna still threatens us; but we fear him but little, being determined to
fight to the death rather than be conquered. I may write you again soon. You may
rely upon the statement here given.
Your most ob't serv't,
A. F. Morrison, Major,
U.S.A.
The following letter,
mentioning Trustin B. Kinder's death, was written by Lew Wallace to an
Indianapolis acquaintance shortly after the Battle of Buena Vista. It was
published in the Indiana State Sentinel on April 21, 1847.
Camargo [Mexico], March 12,
1847
Friend Chapman,
From the above date you may
readily fancy us "up and at 'em guards." The order for Saltillo direct
came just in the nich of time. Metamoras was becoming most infernally dull, and
as the Mexicans had all "vomosed el rancho," carrying with them every
beautiful cigaritto smoker in the place, I might add after the style of friend
Watts, most infernally tedious and tasteless too. On Monday the 8th instant, we
bundled up our duds, consisting of two check shirts, one pair of socks, &c.
&c., took possession of the cabin and decks of the steamer Whiteville, and
puffed ourselves to Camargo, landing in double quick time.
Col. Curtis marched last
Sunday for up country, where all is confusion -- fighting, surprising, and
murdering. Taylor has fought and vanquished Santa Anna in a battle [near Buena
Vista], which at the same time that it will have a weighty and forcible argument
for a speedy conclusion of the war, will not leave a rag of popularity on the
back of the one-legged hero of San Jacinto. Taylor went into the field with 4500
volunteers at his back. Santa Anna assaulted him with 21,000 of the soldiers
whom he has been cultivating so long at San Luis. After a bloody contest of two
days and a greater part of one night, the latter sounded retreat, and hurried
off his military carriage for Aqua Nueva. 4000 Mexicans were left unburied on
the field; while 1600 more have fallen prisoners of war into the hands of the
victor.
A victory so great, so
unprecedentedly glorious, could not of course be purchased without loss on our
side. Among the 700 heroes who were slain an wounded on that bloody day, we, who
knew him from infancy, have to mourn the death of Captain Kinder. Poor Trus! The
glory which shall forever shine upon the field which was thy death-bed, and
which shall reflect lustre upon thy name and fate, is but sorry consolation for
the loss this death inflicts upon country and friends. Peace, though, to his
remains. When we reach Saltillo, we will mark his resting-place, and save it
from obliteration and disrespect.
A train of 260 wagons was
attacked just beyond Cerralvo and captured by Urrea. The inhuman devil heaped
the wagons into a vast pyramid, threw into them the bodies of the teamsters,
whom he had previously murdered, and settin fire torch to them, blotted his
country with infamy, while he himself burdened his country with a lion's share
of $150,000 which at the time was being conveyed to Monterey.
Major Giddings, returning
from Monterey to Camargo with 400 Ohioans, attacked 1800 Mexicans, killed a
great number, chased the rest out of town, and amply revenged the loss we
ourselves sustained. From such incident you may infer that we are getting into a
rather torrid nighborhood. Give us your best wishes though, and we will win
names for ourselves and State, which will set us for valor and chivalry
alongside of Kentucky and Virginia.
In conclusion, old fellow,
the Hoosiers in Mexico have adopted a motto and a battle cry. Indiana forever!
Your friend,
Lew. Wallace
A young Lew Wallace, shortly after the Mexican-American War
April 10, 1847
The Indiana State Sentinel
Death of Captain Kinder
Philological Hall, April 5,
1847.
Since it has been the will of
an Almighty Providence to call from time to eternity our beloved brother and
friend, we feel it a sacred duty to pay this feeble tribute of respect to his
memory. We had fervently hoped that our country's colors might have waved in
triumph over those we loved, and bore them back in safety to the soil of
freedom; that no bitter pang should rend the parent's heart, and no mourning
badge tell the fate of those who fought on the bloody field. But the will was
not with us, for one of that little "Philo." band has fallen. Yes it
was small, though firmly bound in heart and hand to brave the hardships of a
stranger land, and with returning peace to meet again around our sacred alter
here unbroken. But it was phantom hope. The minute gun has already told that T.
B. Kinder is no more. in the midst of the shout, and groans, and cannon's
roar, where the dripping sabre told the tale of many a gallant heart -- where
the spirit of friend and foe together took their peaceful flight, he too sank an
early victim, and his spirit left that scene of carnage for another world.
It is not for us to tell the
merits of the departed one -- for many know him, and many a weeping eye and
heavy heart responded to the news that the open and noble-souled Kinder was
gone. He was the hope of declining years, the subject of the prayers of a pious
mother -- an only brother -- and an only son. And in this sacred hall his memory
will forever live; for he was of the number who nurtured the rose around which
our affections twine -- and who by his frank and noble nature secured the love
of all with whom he daily walked. Little did we think when last we met in this
our common home, when we watched that firm and steady step that told of buoyancy
and health, that it soon must falter on the field of death, and that we then
parted to meet no more on earth. Yes, we parted -- he to visit that home now
wrapt in mourning; and we to prepare for that stage on which he acted a short,
though brilliant part. But he is lost to us, his parents, his friends, and his
country. The lone field of Buena Vista has furnished a resting place for that
manly form, o'er which the battle smoke has cleared away and left it there to
rest in peace. The sister's hand has planted no rose or evergreen there; nor at
the lonely hour of twilight bedewed them with her tears. No mother was there to
hear that dying groan, to soothe the aching brow, or from it wipe the clammy
sweat of death. But we would add no new pang to those already felt; there is a
hope that soars beyond the cold and cheerless grave, that tells though friends
should fall, far, far away from home on earth, -- the patriot's home is Heaven.
Yet with those who weep we can but shed a tear of pity, and mourn with those who
are thus bereft. Therefore
Resolved, That we
deeply sympathise with the parents and friends of our deceased brother, for the
loss of one thus torn away in the prime of manhood from the midst of a hopeful
people; and to the surviving fellow soldiers who shared in that bloody conflict,
we tender our assurance of deepest sympathy for the loss of their beloved
commander.
Resolved, In token of
this, that we, as fellow members wear the usual badge of mourning for the space
of thirty days.
Resolved, That a
written and printed copy of the above preamble and resolution be transmitted to
the parents of the deceased.
Committee:
Joseph R. McCrea,
W. T. B. McIntire,
Gilbert M. Dunn
The following article,
written by "Martin" of New Albany, Indiana on May 20, 1847 appeared in
the May 29, 1847 edition of the Indiana State Sentinel (taken from The
Western Democrat).
Colonel Bowles and the brave
Captain Kinder
Three days before the bloody
battle of Buena Vista, Colonel Bowles ordered the lamented Captain Kinder to
detail a portion of his command for a certain purpose. Captain Kinder informed
the Colonel that that duty belonged to his first Sergeant. For this instruction,
the field commander had Captain Kinder arrested, and his sword taken from him.
But on the morning of the twenty-second, and but a short time before the brave
Kinder fell, he marched at the head of his company, with a musket upon his
commanding shoulder instead of his sword by his side. General Lane, the very
soul of chivalry and noble bearing, learning that the Colonel had not delivered
to Captain Kinder his sword, and that he was upon the sanguinary field of battle
armed only as a common soldier, immediately ordered Colonel Bowles to deliver up
to the gallant Kinder his sword. The order was immediately complied with; but
the brave and noble youth was soon seriously wounded, while leading on his
command in the thickest of the fight.
Thus fell a brave officer and
a warm and devoted friend. He was highly esteemed by all while living, and his
death has thrown a gloom over a large circle of friends. But his Colonel still
lives, -- lives to reap the just reward of his cowardice and treachery, and to
receive from the brave and chivalrous sons of Indiana, the severest answer for
the slanderous report he made to Gen. Wool, of the gallant and brave regiment
under his command -- a regiment deserving a purer man -- a braver soldier, and a
better military officer, to command them upon the battlefield.
July 17, 1847
The Indiana State Sentinel
Reception of the Body of
Capt. Kinder
Saturday, June 19th 1847
In accordance with notice,
the young men of Indianapolis held a meeting for the purpose of making
preparations for the reception of the body of Captain Kinder.
The meeting was organized on
motion of R. L. Walpole, Esq., by calling J. T. Morrison, Esq., to the chair,
and appointing Mr. B. R. Sulgrove, secretary. The object of the meeting being
stated by the chairman, A. J. Stevens, Esq., then offered the following, which
was adopted:
“The young men of
Indianapolis, the friends and acquaintances of the lamented Capt. T. B. Kinder,
who fell so gallantly fighting for his country at the renowned Buena Vista,
learn that his remains are now on the way to the home of his relations, and of
his boyhood; and desiring to express their deep feelings of regret for his
untimely death, their admiration for his noble bearing on the battle field, and
their sense of his estimable worth as a citizen, unanimously,
Resolved, That the volunteers
of Indiana merit the approbation of the citizens of Indianapolis for their
generous resolve in bringing the remains of the late Capt. T. B. Kinder to rest
among his early friends and relations.
Resolved further, That a
committee of three be appointed to make suitable arrangements for the reception
of the same, and that they report the order of arrangements through the city
papers.
Committee of arrangements:
Stevens, Sulgrove and Coburn.
The meeting on motion then
proceeded to vote for Orator of the day: W. H. Hanna, Esq., was appointed.
Ordered, That the proceedings
of the meeting be published in the papers; and on motion the meeting adjourned. JOHN T. MORRISON, President. B. R. Sulgrove, Secretary
ORDER OF ARRANGEMENTS
A procession will be formed
at the Palmer House and proceed to the limits of the city where the remains will
be met and escorted to the Court House, at which place an oration will be
delivered. Prayer by the Rev. Mr.
Gillett. Oration by W. H. Hanna, Esq. Marshal of the Day, Wm. Campbell, Esq.,
and Assistants.
T
PALL BEARERS:
AARON
OHR, A. G. PORTER, A. M. CARNAHAN, L. S. SARGEANT, W. L. MORRIS, R. L. WALPOLE
The Indiana State Sentinel
Burial of Capt. T. B. Kinder
On Monday last the funeral of Capt. T. B.
Kinder, whose remains had been brought from the Rio Grande, took place in this
city, and the melancholy ceremonies were attended by a very large concourse of
citizens. The escort duty was performed by the company of volunteers from Paoli,
formerly under the command of Capt. Kinder, but now of Capt. Spicely, and the
company of Capt. Landrey, of this county, also performed duty on the occasion. A
large number of ladies and citizens on foot accompanied the remains from the
residence of the father of the deceased to the State House Square. Prayer was
then offered by the Rev. Mr. Kavanaugh; a funeral sermon was preached by the
Rev. Mr. Gillett, and some very appropriate remarks in the way of eulogy upon
the virtues and generous qualities of the deceased, were made by the Rev. Mr.
Ames. After which the funeral train, under the military escort above mentioned,
together with others of the volunteer officers and privates, proceeded to the
grave yard, where an oration was pronounced by John T. Morrison, Esq.
The remains were then interred with the customary military honors.
Thus passes away one who had high hopes of
earthly promotion and fame, and many long years of happiness. His memory will
long be cherished by all who loved him so well while he lived, and who so
sorrowfully lament his early death.
From the History of Great
Indianapolis, page 140:
...And so the Marion Volunteers
came home with hardly a smell of powder and large quantities of experience, but
it was all the same here. They were all veterans. The first Regiment shared in
the glories of the Third and the martyrdom of the Second under unjust criticism.
Extensive preparation was made at Indianapolis for the public reception of the
volunteers, but instead of coming in a body they came in squads, and spoiled the
programme. And there was another event to turn attention from any celebration.
There had been several Indianapolis people in other organizations than the
company raised here, and among them none better known or more popular than
Trustin B. Kinder. He had gone down to Orange County to practice law, and when
the war came on he volunteered there, and his company, of which he was captain
went into the Second Regiment. He fell at Buena Vista, and his body was brought
home for burial, and it was the only one of the Indianapolis dead that was
brought back. Luther Reck, son of the first Lutheran clergyman here, had been
drowned in the Rio Grande on August 18, 1846, and Harry Cartwright, John
Johnson, Jerome Lutz, Wm. Green, Edward Malone and John Peyton had succumbed to
disease, but their bodies had been left on Mexican soil. Captain Kinder's
funeral was on July 12, 1847. His company had come from Paoli to attend the
service, and acted as escort while a great concourse joined in the procession.
It was by far the largest funeral ever seen in Indianapolis up to that time and
for years afterwards. The remains were escorted from his father's house to the
State House Square where the services were held. A prayer was offered by the
Rev. Kavanaugh, a sermon delivered by the Rev. Gillette, and an eulogy by the
Rev. Ames; after which the funeral train moved down to the old graveyard. Here
an oration was pronounced by John T. Morrison, and the soldier was consigned to
his grave with military honors. To the wreaths upon his grave, Sarah T. Bolten
added her immortelle of song --
"Gallant soldier, farewell;
True, thy country has proved thee,
And thy memory will dwell
In the warm hearts that love thee."
From the History of Indianapolis
& Marion County by B. R. Sulgrove, 1884, page 303:
In July 1847, the body of Trustin
B. Kinder -- son of Isaac, an old settler of Indianapolis -- who had gone to a
southern county of the State to practice law, and there joined the 2nd Indiana
Regiment, so defamed by Jefferson Davis' report, and killed in the Battle of
Buena Vista, was returned here and buried in the old cemetery with military
honors and a public demonstration never witnessed at a funeral here before or
ever since, except at the death of Gov. Morton.
From the Encyclopedia of
Indianapolis by Bodenhamer & Barrows, 1994, p. 870:
Kinder, Trustin B. (July 27, 1822
to February 23, 1847).
First war hero from Indianapolis.
Kinder was born on the family's farm near the small village of Indianapolis. He
was educated locally, read law, and was admitted to the bar in 1845. Kinder
practiced his trade in Paoli, Indiana, prior to volunteering for military duty
during the Mexican War. Commissioned a Captain of Company B, 2d Indiana
Volunteer Infantry, Kinder died in action at the Battle of Buena Vista. Upon
learning of his son's death, the captain's father, despite his advanced years,
made a hazardous journey to Mexico to bring his son's remains back to
Indianapolis for burial. Kinder's body lay in state in the Capital rotunda, and
on July 12, 1847, was the object of what observers reported was the largest
funeral in the city to that time and for years afterwards. After initial burial
in City Cemetery, where members of his company laid him to rest with full
military honors, Kinder's mother reinterred his body at Crown Hill Cemetery in
October 1864. -- Wayne L. Sanford
The following excerpts are taken
from the USGENWEB Orange County Indiana web site. Clicking on the title to each
story will take you to the web link.
ORANGE
COUNTY IN THE MEXICAN WAR
The war with Mexico in 1846 - 47 brought out
more than a full company from Orange County. On the 13th of May, 1846, President
Polk called for volunteers, and soon afterward in response to this William A.
Bowles, Trustin B. Kinder, William T. Spicely, John Murray and others,
began the formation of a company in the county. The organization was completed
some time in June, and the following officers were elected: William A. Bowles,
Captain; T. B. Kinder, First Lieutenant; W. T. Spicely, Second
Lieutenant; John Murray, Third Lieutenant. Soon after this the company assembled
at Paoli to march to New Albany, where the Second Regiment, to which they were
assigned, was being organized. The boys in bright new uniforms were drawn up in
front of the residence of the Captain, and were there presented with a beautiful
banner in behalf of the county by one of the Dougherty's. It is said Capt.
Bowles replied in a short eloquent speech, pledging the lives of his company for
the preservation of the national flag. Lieut. Kinder, a talented young
lawyer, delivered a speech of considerable length and of great strength. He
declared that he would leave his bones to bleach on the sunny plains of Mexico
rather than see his country's flag dishonored and trailed in the dust.
Lieut. Spicely also delivered a speech to the same effect. The company, then, in
wagons and on horseback, started for New Albany, being escorted some distance
from town by the brass band of Paoli, and a large delegation of sorrowing
relatives and friends, some of whom continued on to New Albany. The Company
became B, of the Second Regiment, Indiana Volunteers, and at New Albany Capt.
Bowles was promoted to the Colonelcy of the regiment, and was succeeded as
Captain of Company B, by T. B. Kinder. In July the regiment started for
Mexico. An account of the service of this regiment will be found in another part
of this volume. The roll of the company at the date of muster-in cannot be
given. The following is the roll June 23, 1847, at the time of muster-out:
William T. Spicely, Captain; John Murray, First Lieutenant; John Gullett, Second
Lieutenant; D. S. Lewis, Third Lieutenant; John Hungate, Augustus G. Brooks,
James H. Vandeveer, and Abner Dougherty, Sergeants; Eli McDonald, Albert
Mayfield, Christian P. Leatherman and Christopher C. Shore, Corporals. Privates
- David A. Apple, John Allen, John R. Allen, William Burks, James Blackburn,
John Brown, Robert W. Bolton, Thornton Burgess, William Cook, Patrick Cosgrove,
Martin Cutsinger, James Cobble, Alexander Conklin, G. Dougherty, Abe Dover,
Epaulette Dufriend, James Dooley, Irwin Drake, Charles Edwards, Henry Edwards,
Martin Gobble, Daniel Hulmstutter, John Hulmstutter, Samuel Harris, Samuel
Hostetler, B. N. Hostetler, H. B. Hawkins, William Henson, Edward W. Hollowell,
Nelson Johnson, Squire Kesterson, Joshua Y. Lewis, John R. McGhee, Elihu
McDonald, Elias F. Moyer, James Moyer, William Morgan, Francis N. Noblitt, James
M. Pinnick, Elijah Pinnick, Josephus Pounds, Jonathan Palmer, Elisha Pruett,
Jacob Quinlan, Hiram Russell, W. J. Shelton, William Scarlett, John A. Smith,
Eli Stalcup, Oliver M. Throop, Angel Tillery, George H. Tyler, Samuel VanCamp
and Benjamin Walker. The following were killed at Buena Vista: Capt. T. B.
Kinder, John T. Hardin, Joseph Lafferty, Arthur Massey, David McDonald, John
Shultz and Joseph H. Harrison. The following died of wounds or disease: James H.
Edwards, James H. Smith, David W. Johnson, Wesley Edwards, John Robertson,
Benjamin Taylor, William Goldsmith. The following were discharged, probably for
disability: William Warren, Robert Dougherty, Henry Harrison, Joab Burt, Enos
Evans, Alexander Keith, Harvey Morris, Clement McDonald and John P. McDonald. At
the battle of Buena Vista, Capt. Kinder was dangerously wounded, and was placed
in ambulance which started for the rear, hut was upset in one of the many
ravines on the battle-field. Here the wounded Captain was killed by the Mexican
Lancers. His body was brought to Paoli where it was publicly received by a large
assemblage at the court house, and was then conveyed to Indianapolis, the former
home of the young soldier, for interment, being also publicly received by a
large throng of citizens at Orleans on the way. John T. Hardin was killed by
a spent ball just as the battle was over.
THE
BARBECUE
The most noted barbecue
ever held in Orange county was the one held at French Lick on the return of the
soldiers at the close of the Mexican War in 1847. During the war there had been
much bitter controversy between the members of the different political parties.
The objections urged against the administration were the opening of more slave
territory by the admission of Texas.
The invasion of foreign territory by the American army and a war waged against a
sister republic. The complete success of the American army silenced all
objection. General Taylor's victory over Santa Anna at Buena Vista; the
triumphant campaign of Scott, ending in the capture of the city of Mexico added
new lustre to American arms and won the admiration of the people. The last
discordant note in American politics received a quietus. The war was almost unanimously
approved, and the participants in the war returned to be hailed as heroes
"when Johnny comes Marching Home." The dispute between the Colonel and
the members of his regiment about a having ordered a retreat had not reached the
public ear at that time, so Col. William A. Bowles returned the idol of his
friends at home and the hero of the hour at the great barbecue, given in honor
of the returned soldiers. Some two weeks previous to this the body of Capt.
T. B. Kinder, who fell in the battle of Buena Vista, passed through the county
on the way to the home made sad by his death in battle.
The captain had for a brief period been a citizen of Paoli and was made first
lieutenant, and finally captain of Company B of the Second Indiana. Captain
Kinder was a talented young lawyer who came to Paoli to practice his profession.
The field of glorious war was more attractive to his young ambition that
climbing by slow steps the ladder of fame as a lawyer.
He obeyed his country's call and entered the strife with all the ardor of
youth. On the assembling of the company at Paoli for departure to the scene of
war a beautiful flag was presented to the company by the citizens. Young Kinder eloquently
pledge his fellow countymen that rather that see the flag dishonored he would
die in the battle and leave his bones to bleach on Mexican soil. He fell at
Buena Vista, but the gallantry of the American soldiers won the battle and the
body of the captain was returned to the sorrowing parents in the north part of
the State. The patriotism of his new made friends at Paoli were granted the
privilege of retaining the body long enough to honor the gallant dead. The
meeting was held at the old camp meeting grounds across the creek south of
Paoli. Notices were sent all over the country and a vast assembly of the people
gathered to do honor to the dead soldier. The casket containing the body was
received here and John Frazier, the father of Rev. William Frazier, so well
known to our people, delivered an eloquent address which was published in the
county papers. At this meeting announcement of the barbecue to be held at French
Lock was proclaimed to the multitude by old Major A. J. Simpson, the father of
our Major John R. The old man climbed on top of the camp meeting shanty and
shouted with stentorian lungs these words, "Two weeks from next Tuesday
there will be a barbecue to all the world at French Lick. This occasion is to
honor the dead, that will be to the honor of the living." To do the
soldiers honor great preparations had been made. A long trench was filled with
wood and burned until it became a fiery furnace. Whole carcasses of dressed
beef, cattle and sheep were suspended over the furnace until thoroughly cooked
or barbecued. Long tables were constructed beneath the shady leaves of the fine
old forest trees. Here the people gathered to a "feast of fat things."
With abundance of bread and hot coffee and well roasted beef and mutton, the
people gathered about the table and enjoyed the great feast with their honored
guest.
From a platform erected for the occasion addresses of welcome were delivered and
Col. William A. Bowles and Surgeon William F. Sherrod responded with eloquent
addresses. The day closed without anything to mar the enjoyment of the people or
disturb the laurels won by the brave. Bowles and Sherrod proudly wore their
laurels unconscious of the fact that they had already reached the meridian of
their popularity. The private soldiers and non-commissioned officers received
hearty cheers as they stepped proudly to martial music. Another commissioned
officer was present, Capt. William T. Spicely, who had succeeded Captain
Kinder, and commanded the company with honor to the close of the war. He was
a soldier (every ounce). While he had not the charm of oratory, like Sherrod and
Bowles, he proved afterward in the war of the rebellion that he was born to
command.
Spicely was the finest military genius Orange County ever produced. On the march
to military fame he eclipsed both Sherrod and Bowles. He passed from Captain to
Colonel, and from Colonel to General. Not a single cloud ever eclipsed his
military star. While I write this brief tribute of respect to General Spicely
his remains rest in the beautiful cemetery at Orleans. Once each year the hand
of love covers his grave with beautiful flowers. Surgeon William F. Sherrod, who
fought on his own hook at Buena Vista, and gave such a graphic description of
the battle, and William A. Bowles, Colonel of the Second Indiana, seemed to
tower above their fellows that day.
They appeared to be the best of friends. They spoke from the same stand, and at
the barbecue, ate at the same table. Side by side they seemed to be successfully
climbing the ladder of fame, all unconscious of the strife and the jealousy so
soon to cloud their lives and hasten their death.
So closed the great barbecue, a fitting tribute to the valor of the American
soldier. I can not at this time call to mind a single survivor who was present.
Not one of the men so highly honored that day survive to tell the tale. One by
one they have gone to join the innumerable company "in that bourne from
whence no traveler returns."
The men who wore the shoulder straps, the men who gave the commands and the men
who obeyed orders from superiors are now on a level. They have all perished from
the earth, but the flag they loved and the government whose honor they
maintained on the battle field is still honored and loved, and holds all the
enchantment of the historic past. God grant that the necessity of obeying the
call to arms may never come. May peace with all its sweet and hallowed influence
be the heritage of our land forever. This may be the last statement that I shall
ever make about the two doctors, whose actions fill so much of this historic
chapter. As to Bowles it may be truly said no history of French Lick can be
written without the repeated mention of his name. In passing let me say that he
was once loved and honored by thousands. When his life was about to be taken for
treason many men and women who had experienced his kindness and medical skill in
saving lives of loved ones as a family physician were troubled. When the
tender-hearted Lincoln commuted the sentence and spared his life, thousands were
made glad.
Let us all forgive his errors and gratefully cherish the memory of all that was
lovable in his life. As for Dr. William F. Sherrod we say as our last word about
one we knew so well. He was companionable, he was intelligent, one of the best
equipped men by nature and acquired knowledge of his profession that Orange
County has ever had. He followed the hallucination of political fame until he
lost his balance. Disappointed political ambition was his ruin, "With
malice towards none and charity for all" we close this chapter.
ATTORNEYS
AND PROSECUTORS
In 1840 Andrew J. Thickston and Elias S. Terry
were admitted to practice; W. D. Rossetter in 1843. In 1845 William P. Otto
became President Judge, Michael Mavity and William Case being Associates. Henry
Hollowell succeeded Mavity in 1846. W. B. Niblack and John S. Watts were
admitted in 1846. T. B. Kinder was admitted to the bar in 1846. John
Baker was appointed Master in Chancery in 1846. Lyman Leslie became District
Prosecuting Attorney in 1846. Samuel Frisbie was admitted in 1846. William Case,
Associate Judge, died in 1847 and John Hungate succeeded him. Jesse T. and
Joseph Cox were admitted to practice about this time. T. H. Thornton had been
admitted a number of years before. Lucian Barbour was admitted in 1850. George
A. Bicknell became Special Prosecutor in 1850. William Morrow was admitted in
1851. C. L. Dunham had been admitted for many years. In 1852 the office of
Associate Judge was abolished, W. P. Otto continuing alone. At this time the
Common Pleas Court was created, and the Probate Court abolished.
Click on Images for Enlargement
Capt. Trustin B. Kinder's gravesite in
Indianapolis
Engraving on Capt. Trustin B. Kinder's Monument in Indianapolis
Isaac and Maria Kinder's gravesite in Indianapolis
Engraving on Isaac and Maria Kinder's Monument in Indianapolis
