Person:William Holden (4)

Went to Lincoln IL in 1859

DEATH OF MAJOR HOLDEN

Died in Greenville, May 22d, at the home of his son-in-law, John B. Reid, Esq., in the 68th year of his age.

Mr. Holden was a native of Woburn, Middlesex County, Mass., and lived in the place until about two years ago, when he moved to this State. At the early age of 16 he entered the army and served his country in the War of 1812. Again, at the breaking out of the present war, he was among the first to volunteer in the service of his country.

He entered the 7th Illinois Infantry as Drum-Major of the Regiment, and was with that Regiment at Ironton, Mo., and at the battles of Fort Donelson and Pittsburg Landing. About one month since, he obtained his discharge from the army, being compell3ed to do so on account of sickness.

Mr. Holden had been for many years a member of the church. He was a consistent Christian, and a most exemplary man in all the walks of life.

"He rests from his labors and his works do follow him."-Greenville (Ill) Advocate

We are pained to give place to the above, announcing the death of Drum-Major Wm. Holden, formerly of this town. Two or three weeks ago, we stated that he was in feeble health, and since that time he had been gradually sinking until his decease. Major Holden was born in Stoneham in the year 1795 and was for some forty years a resident of Woburn, during which time he lived an upright and esteemed citizen, endearing himself to many by his social disposition and generous qualities. He had seen much of military life, commencing that experience before the War of 1812, in which war he did active duty as a drummer. He was a favorite among his military associates in town and vicinity, and although always ready for duty, he entered into the recreation of the camp with all the zest of any of his younger companions enjoying their pleasures and sharing their privations. He loved and honored his profession and never seemed happier or stood more erect than when keeping step to his own drum-beat. Little more than two years since, the Major removed with his family to the West joining members of the household who years before had preceded them, where they have lived together till now an unbroken band.

He joined the 7th Illinois Regiment, in which his son is still a Captain, was promoted to a Drum Major, and served as such until his discharge. He took a lively interest in the movements and success of our Army, as his former writings published in this paper will attest. Major Holden beat his "last reveille" at Shiloh, on the morning of that battle, and soon after his health obliged him to leave the field and camp for the quiet comforts of home, which he reached and died among his kindred. Peacefully and sweetly may he sleep.

1.   Holden Family Bible.
2.   Franklin Thomas Reid. History and Reminiscenses of Col. John B. Reid and Family.

   booklet published for 50th anniversary of J.B. and Emma Reid 19 May 1903

3.   Putnam, Eben. The Holden genealogy: ancestry and descendants of Richard and Justinian Holden, and of Randall Holden. (Boston, Massachusetts: Murray Printing, 1923-1926)
   1;261, 2;140.
4.   Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System: aka CWSS. (National Park Service)
   Film Number M539 roll 42.

   William Holden (First_Last)
   Regiment Name 7 Illinois Infantry 3 months, 1861
   Side Union
   Company F&S
   Soldier's Rank_In Drum Major
   Soldier's Rank_Out Prin. Musician
   Alternate Name
   Roster
   Notes
   Film Number M539 roll 42
   UNION ILLINOIS VOLUNTEERS
   
   7th Regiment, Illinois Infantry (3 months, 1861)
   
   Organized at Camp Yates, Ill., and mustered in by Capt. John Pope, U.S.A., April 25, 1861. Duty at Alton, Cairo, Mound City, Ill., and St. Louis, Mo., till July. Expedition from Cairo to Little River June 22-23 (Cos. "E" and "G"). Mustered out July 25, 1861, expiration of term.
   
   Regiment lost 5 by disease during service.