Walter Mills: During the Civil War
Walter P.C. Mills enlisted on September 12, 1861, in Pennsylvania as a Union soldier in the Civil War. He signed up for a three year tour and was mustered into Company B in the 54th Pennsylvania Regiment (which later became the 95th Pennsylvania) led by Captain Baldwin. On October 12th, 1861, they left Pennsylvania and headed to Washington, D.C. They camped at Kendall Green in defense of Washington, D.C., until October 29th, 1861. The regiment camped at Fairfax Seminary until March 18, 1862. As we can see his signature today on the wall in Blenheim House, a recognized Civil War Graffiti House, it is assumed that after his stay at Fairfax Seminary, he spent some time in Blenheim House before moving forward. The unit eventually advanced towards Manassas, Virginia, on March 10, 1862. After moving to several other places, they eventually ended up in the Battle of Gaines’ Mill in Virginia on June 27, 1862. At this battle, Mills was wounded in the left hip. He was treated at Fort Monroe Hospital in Virginia but later transported to Annapolis Hospital in Maryland for more intense treatment from July 5-August 9, 1862. It is unclear whether he deserted after leaving the hospital or was sent home on furlough. Records show he returned to duty on October 7, 1862. He re-enlisted on September 27, 1863, and was honorably discharged on July 17, 1865, from Halls Hill, Virginia. Mills’ regiment fought in many famous Civil War battles, such as Antietam, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg.