2nd O.V.I. Ohio Volunteer Infantry

The Legacy of the 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry: A Tribute to Their Service

The 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry (2nd O.V.I.) holds a significant place in American Civil War history, symbolized by its National Colors—a rectangular flag measuring 208 cm in height and 195 cm in width. The flag is more than just fabric; it is a canvas of history, bearing the names of key battles and campaigns in which the regiment fought. Inscribed on the flag are the names "Ivy Mountain," "Stone River," "Lookout Mountain," "Perryville," "Hoover's Gap," "Chickamauga," and "Missionary Ridge." These words commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of the men who fought under this banner.

Pinned to the flag are three streamers from reunions held in Addison, Goshen, and Middletown. These reunions served as moments of reflection and camaraderie, bringing together veterans to remember their shared experiences and the bonds forged in the crucible of war.

Formation and Early Service

Much like the 1st Ohio Volunteer Infantry, the 2nd O.V.I. was formed in response to the bombardment of Fort Sumter, a pivotal event that ignited the Civil War. The regiment was quickly organized in Columbus, Ohio, under the leadership of Colonel Lewis Wilson. Comprised primarily of men from Southern Ohio, the 2nd O.V.I. was divided into ten companies, labeled A through K. These companies included:

• Company A: Rover Guards (Cincinnati)
• Company B: Columbus Videttes
• Company C: Columbus Fencibles
• Company D: Zouave Guards (Cincinnati)
• Company E: Lafayette Guards (Cincinnati)
• Company F: Springfield Zouaves
• Company G: Pickaway Company
• Company H: Steubenville Company
• Company I: Covington Blues (Miami County)
• Company K: Pickaway Company

Mobilized on April 18th, 1861, the regiment wasted no time and was on its way to Washington, D.C., the very next day. Their mission was clear: protect the nation's capital in its time of need.

The Campaigns of the 2nd O.V.I.

The 2nd O.V.I. quickly found itself in the thick of the conflict, fighting alongside the 1st O.V.I. in General Irvin McDowell's advance on Manassas, Virginia. The regiment played a key role in the occupation of the Fairfax Courthouse and participated in the First Battle of Bull Run. Despite their efforts, by July 31st, 1861, the 2nd O.V.I. had completed its three-month service and returned to Ohio, their ranks depleted but their spirits unbroken.

However, the regiment's story did not end there. Between July 17th and September 20th, 1861, the 2nd O.V.I. was reorganized at Camp Dennison, Ohio, for a three-year term of service. This new formation would see the regiment participate in some of the most brutal and decisive battles of the war, including the occupation of Nashville, the Battle of Chickamauga, and the Siege of Chattanooga.

The Price of Service

The toll of war was heavy on the 2nd O.V.I. Over the course of their service, the regiment suffered the loss of 102 men killed or mortally wounded in battle. An additional 138 men lost their lives to disease, a grim reminder of the harsh conditions soldiers faced both on and off the battlefield.

On October 10th, 1864, the 2nd O.V.I. reached the expiration of their term. The remaining recruits were transferred to the 18th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, marking the end of the regiment's active involvement in the war.

Remembering the 2nd O.V.I.

The National Colors of the 2nd O.V.I., adorned with battle honors and reunion streamers, stand as a powerful symbol of the regiment's service and sacrifice. These brave men from Ohio answered the call of duty in the nation's darkest hour, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and patriotism that continues to inspire future generations.

Document from Ohio Civil War 150