39th Illinois Veteran Volunteers

On 16 Aug. 1864, Federal infantry stormed Confederate earthworks nearby, in the Second Battle of Deep Bottom. The 39th Illinois helped lead the assault. Pvt. Henry M. Hardenbergh, of Bremen Township, the color bearer, served in Co. G, called the "Preacher's Company" because it was recruited by a minister. Wounded during the charge, Hardenbergh captured the flag of the 10th Alabama Inf. Regt. after mortally wounding its color sergeant. The Confederates soon recaptured the works and drove the Union force back to its bridgehead at Deep Bottom. Hardenbergh was awarded the Medal of Honor and a lieutenant's commission.