Weekly Gazette
Elgin, Illinois
August 21, 1861

Fox River Regiment

The new and favorite regiment is now in camp near Aurora. Last week the company from Young America, 80 strong, took possession of their tents on Monday of this week five companies arrive nearly all of them full. Col. Grueusel and other officers were presently to superintend companies. - Quartermaster Buck was ready for them and commenced dealing out the rations. The company form the town of Wayne, 7 miles below here, was filled up to fifty or more, and took their places with the rest, noting daunted by the prophecies against them - they are bound to succeed.

On Tuesday the Elgin Greys left here on the Fox River train. On the previous evening hundreds had assembled to bed them farewell. Speaking from the steps of the Bank building was continued for some time. Capt. Baldwin explained his position and feelings to a few words, which evidently came the the heart and reached the hearts of the people. Rev. Mr. Thomas poured out his feelings in a fervid and eloquent speed which was exceedingly well received. Col E.l S. Joslyn also addressed the crowd in his usual earnest manner.

In the morning at an early hour the streets were thronged. The muskets of the old Continentals were brought out for temporary use, the equipment of the regiment not having arrived yet. At the request of Quartermaster Buck, Capt. Rewick permitted the company to take the cannon whose roar has so often stirred the patriotism of the people of Elgin. It is needed for firing salutes. A car load of recruits came down the road, so that the "Greys" found their ranks full to overflowing. We are not afraid of their suffering in comparison with any other company.

About noon the Plato cavalry, Capt. Lewis arrived in our town, and were quartered at the hotels. A splendid military bank accompanied them to this place. The equipments of the horses were at B. Healy's - About fifty saddles were given out, and at 4 p.m. the troop started for camp, expecting to spend the night at St. Charles.

The Woodstock Rifles, Capt. M. L. Joslyn, will go into camp on Friday, by which time the regiment will be complete and the balance of the regimental officers be elected.