Civil War
"RINGGOLD LIGHT ARTILLERY FIRST DEFENDERS - April 16th 1861" Reading, PA. Civil War Reunion Ribbon
Civil War Red Silk with Gold Print Reunion Ribbon of the Ringgold Light Artillery, noted as the "First Defenders" who were the First Military Unit to Respond to President Abraham Lincoln's Call to Defend the Nation's Capital, Choice Extremely Fine+.
This historic artillery company was noted as the military unit that first answered President Lincoln's call for troops of April 15, 1861, to defend the Nation's Capital. The Ringgold Light Artillery left Reading for Harrisburg, PA. on April 16th,1861 and was mustered into service on April 18th, 1861. Their prompt response to President Abraham Lincoln's call earned them the everlasting title of "First Defenders".
This distinctive Red Silk Ribbon is imprinted in Gold reading: "RINGGOLD LIGHT ARTILLERY FIRST DEFENDERS - April 16th 1861" with a wonderful large illustration of a Civil War era Field Cannon. This impressive Ribbon measures about 6" x 3". This rare Silk Ribbon was made for a reunion of the Ringgold Light Artillery, established in 1850 in Reading, PA, the unit named for Major Samuel Ringgold, an artillery officer killed in the Mexican-American War. Printed in bright gold on red silk with a wonderful overall presentation.
The Ringgold Light Artillery of Reading was organized and equipped in 1850, under James Mc Knight, Captain. It was armed with four six-pounder brass field pieces and caissons, with full equipments of artillerists, including sabres, and mustered over two hundred men.
It was composed of good material, was well drilled, and was the pride of the city of Reading. It had participated in several volunteer encampments; one at Easton of a week's duration, where it was entertained by ex-Governor Reeder, and other leading citizens.
Source: Bates, Samuel P. (Samuel Penniman), 1827-1902.: History of Pennsylvania Volunteers, 1861-1865.