Washington sentinel. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1853-1855, 1854-09-14
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The Association of the Defenders of Balti-

The Association Of the Defenders Of Balti-
more arrived in Washington on Tuesday morning
at eleven o'clock in special train of cars.
Passing Laurel, the company of artillery of that
neighborhood formed in line, and saluted them with
discharges from field pieces.
The defenders numbered one hundred and
eighteen, under General Miltenberger, who acted
as marshal, and looked hale and hearty enough to
again meet the enemy in battle. They were
Joined at the station by upwards of twenty of
their compatriots who reside in this city All
wore black cockade and badge; honorable
marks of distinction.
The defenders were received by the District
association of soldiers who served in the Mexican
campaign the committee from Alexandria; the
Washington Light Infantry, and by Captain p. b.
Key, of the Montgomery Guards, and other citi-
zens. Having been invited into the saloon, ex-
Mayor Seaton delivered an impromptu address Of
welcome when they hastily partook of the re-
freshment there provided for them.
The line was formed soon after, and the pro-
cession moved to the residence of Capt. Key, on
street, where another collation. awaited them.
While the defenders were ascending the steps,
Mr.. Minnix performed patriotic air on the fife,
accompanied by Mr. Lightner on the drum. Both
these old soldiers made use of the same instru-
ments at the memorable battle OF North Point, or
Baltimore, forty years ago; the anniversary OF
which they on Tuesday celebrated James Darling
was near by, but not with the bass drum, as in
other days, it being too heavy for him 10 carry on
the march. He, however, brought it to Washing
ton During the late war with Great Britain, It
was his business to beat the drum while his fell
low soldiers beat the enemy; the former duty
being necessary to facilitate the latter.
An old black man, with his badge and cockade
was prominent among the defenders. In reply to
a question by an inquistive gentleman, he said
he fit at North Point, but not at de battle of
Bladensburg." While on the one hand he felt
proud of his prowess, he took pains to relieve him
self of even suspicion of cowardice by the pecu u
liar form ofreply. g was dar," he continued ex-
ullingly; and no doubt would have narrated the
events Of the battle had favorable opportunity
been afforded.
The majority OF the visitors appeared as they
could vet ado the State some service" and, al
together are fine looking set Of men. May they
enjoy many happy days to come in the midst of
those whose love and respect they have for SO
many wears possessed. We noticed few whose
feeble steps and trembling limbs Enthusiastically
indicated that their fighting days are over.
The defenders always celebrate the anniversary
of the battle of Baltimore, action that crowned
our arms with victory, and gave TO the country
that soul-stirring song the "Star spangled Ban
ner,n written by F. S. Key.
The visitors proceeded TO Alexandria, the Mount
Vernon Guards previously coming over TO this
city as an additional escort. When they reached
the wharf, Captain Dufy's company of artillery
gave them salute in the thunder tones of his
cannon. George Washington Park Custis after
wards welcomed them in an address from the
balcony of the Marshall house, and was replied
to by Robert c. Barry, esq, of Baltimore, to whom
that duty had been assigned. These ceremonies
concluded, the defenders were conducted to Sa-
repta Hall 10 dinner. Several addresses were
delivered, toasts drunk and wit, sentiment, and
patriotism abounded.
Arrangements were made for the return Of the
defenders TO their homes at eight o'clock in the
evening, in special train Of cars and they all ar
rived in safety.
The weather was pleasant, and more favora-
bic day for the excursion could not have been de-
sired.