The German - Louis Blenker

Louis Blenker was born in Worms, Germany, July 31st in 1812. In his youth he was apprenticed to a jeweler, but on becoming of age he enlisted in the Bavarian legion. When the legion was disbanded m 1837, he received the rank of lieutenant. He returned home to study of medicine at the University of Munich. Rather then becoming a doctor he found employment in the wine trade in Worms. By 1849 he was a member of the government in that city, and commander of the national guard. He fought in several successful engagements before he retired in Switzerland. In September 1849, having been ordered to leave the country, he came to the United States and settled in Rockland County, New York, where he farmed.
At the beginning of the civil war, he organized the 8th New York Volunteer Infantry, known as the First German Rifles. He was commissioned colonel on May 31st, 1861. Like many volunteer troops, the 8th New York drilled and paraded often, much to the delight of citizens. Blenker never failed to put on a good show. Despite his penchant for theatrics and gaudy uniforms, Blenker was a brave man, a fine horseman, and an organized commander. His regiment was a model unit. The 8th New York left the city at the end of May with Blenker making a grand appearance at the head of his troops on a superb horse.
At the First Battle of Bull Run, the 8th New York was assigned to the First Brigade of the Fifth Division. With Blenker in command of the brigade, Stahel led the regiment. The division was in reserve at Centreville, it was not engaged in the battle proper. Unlike many of the Union troops, Blenker's men did not disintegrate into a fleeing mob as the Confederates gained the upper hand, but held their ground in perfect formation, covering the retreat to Washington. With three regiments he stood to fight against an outnumbering enemy. For their brave conduct on the battlefield, Blenker and Stahel were both promoted. Blenker advanced to brigadier general and Stahel became colonel of the 8th New York.