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Proudly the bandsmen played the familiar National Airs as the Boys of '61 marched into battle. Among the massed bandsmen were the musicians of the " Wildcat Regiment Band", the 105th Pennsylvania volunteers. |
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Like their brothers in arms, the members of the "Wildcat Regiment Band"
were swept up in the wave of patriotism enveloping the United States, both North
and South, in 1861. During that same year in Pennsylvania, the men of Indiana,
Jefferson, Clarion, Clearfield and Westmoreland Counties answered their
country's call to arms and joined the standard of the "Wildcat Regiment".
These musicians who formed this Civil War Band were average men who came from small towns, assorted
professions, and from all walks of life. They were laborers, farmers, store
keepers, and teachers, yet they were the esprit de corps for the first
long year of the Civil War. Their brass Band music provided fervor before a charge and
quiet comfort during war's anguish. Though mustered as a bandsman, a musician
served a dual role: he often was required to put down his instrument and pick up
a stretcher and tend to his wounded or dying comrade.
The Band was recruited by band leaders John C. Smith of Indiana and John T. Strattan of
Strattanville. The "Wildcats" were fortunate to attract the services of
"Professor" Smith, who enlisted with several members of the civilian Indiana
brass Band. The heritage of the Wildcat Regiment Band is grounded in the early
history of the Indiana brass Band. The pride of Indiana County, this band had
been in existence since 1842 and was highly regarded for the ability of its
members.
The original Wildcat Regiment Band served faithfully from
September 1861 until August 1862, when General Order No. 91 discharged all
regimental bands.
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For periodic updates on Band activities sent to you:
 
email: Bruno Pino Phone: 724-397-2814 Mail: 3935 RTE. 85 Hwy N. Home, Pa. 15747 |
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