Formation
The 9th was raised as a regiment of riflemen with broadsides posted throughout the state during September 1861 for 'sharp shooters', men who could show proficiency with a rifle. Recruiting started in September but the first muster occurred on 5 October at Camp Olden near Trenton. The camp was named for the governor of New Jersey, Charles Smith Olden. The regiment's nickname was the Jersey Muskrats.
The regiment was issued new Springfield rifle muskets (possibly the Springfield Model 1861) in late November after being issued smoothbore muskets. The men, recruited as sharp shooters, protested and Governor Olden made a special request to get the best weapon available to men.
Key training dates:
- 5 October 1861 – First Muster at Camp Olden near Newark, New Jersey
- 26 November 1861 – Issued Springfield rifled-muskets to replace smoothbore muskets (reference?)
- 4 December 1861 – Embarked for Washington to join the Union Army
Read more about this topic: 9th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry
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