Gen. Cowdin and the First Massachusetts Regiment of Volunteers

"Gen. Cowdin and the First Massachusetts Regiment of Volunteers" by Robert Cowdin is a historical account written in the mid-19th century, specifically during the period of the American Civil War. The book details the experiences and challenges faced by Cowdin as he leads the First Massachusetts Regiment in its formation, deployment, and various military actions. It serves as both a personal memoir and a record of the regiment's early days, capturing the fervor of volunteerism and the complexities of military leadership during a tumultuous time in American history. In this narrative, Cowdin recounts his efforts to organize and equip the First Massachusetts Regiment amidst bureaucratic challenges and political maneuvering. He describes his initial offer of service to the Governor of Massachusetts, the eventual appointment as Colonel of his regiment, and his dealings with both state and federal officials regarding supplies and support. The text reflects on themes of sacrifice, honor, and frustration as Cowdin navigates the difficulties of military life, including his eventual promotion to Brigadier General and the obstacles he faced from political influences that hindered his career advancement. His story highlights the dedication of the soldiers and the complexities of civil-military relations during the Civil War era. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Robert Cowdin was a businessman, a field officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War and a local politician in Massachusetts. Cowdin was colonel of the 1st Massachusetts Infantry and served in several major battles early in the war. He was appointed brigadier general of volunteers September 26, 1862 and he then commanded a brigade in the defenses of Washington until March 1863. He did not become a full brigadier general because his appointment expired by law March 4, 1862 when the U.S. Senate adjourned without confirming it. His grade reverted to colonel but after being relieved of command of the brigade, he returned home and saw no further service.