VAIL, JOSEPH A. (1835-1876). First lieutenant, 5th New York Infantry, Companies A, K, and G. Vail, who was born in New York City and resided at 158 Grand Street in Manhattan, was a tailor by occupation. After enlisting as a private on April 25, 1861, at New York City, he mustered into the 5th New … Read more
WALTER, PAUL (1830-1882). Second lieutenant, 55th Regiment, New York State National Guard, Company E. Of German birth, he enlisted and was commissioned into the 55th National Guard on June 24, 1863, at New York City. He mustered out the next month on July 27, 1863, at New York City. His last residence was 8 Second … Read more
On the evening of April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was mortally wounded by gunshot while attending a play at Ford’s Theatre. Actress Laura Keene (1826-1873) was on stage that fateful evening, starring in “Our American Cousin.” A witness to one of the most infamous moments in American history, Keene is believed to have been the first to identify the assassin as fellow actor John Wilkes Booth. It is also widely claimed, though often contested, that the actress rushed to the President’s side just moments after the shot was fired, cradling his head in her lap as her dress became drenched in his blood.
WINSLOW, CLEVELAND (1836-1864). Colonel, 5th New York Infantry; 5th New York Veteran Infantry. Born in Medford, Massachusetts, he received a college education, worked as a merchant and served seven years in the 71st New York National Guard. A resident of Middleton, Staten Island, he enlisted in the 5th as one of its original captains. In … Read more