Burlington free press. [volume] (Burlington, Vt.) 1827-1865, 1861-05-17
THE MUSTER OF THE VEHMONT
REGIIENT.


the Vermont Regiment, which took place at
Rutland on Wednesday afternoon, in pres-
ence of a great concourse of people. Before
the ceremony Of mastering the troops into
service took place, the Regiment was drawn
up in line, and presented, by Gov Fairbanks,
through their commander, Col. Phelps
with the National Colors, and the Regiment
al Standard.
The Governor said
Col. PHELPS Il consider myself fortunate
that in the selection Of commander for this Reg
iment, have been able TO secure the services Of
gentleman whose long experience as an officer IN
the United States Army-whose tried and well
known patriotism, and whose high moral worth so
eminently qualify him for the position.
And have great pleasure in commenting 10
your confidence and esteem the gentlemen whom ]
have associated with you as Field ofhccrs-geutle-
men highly esteemed as citizens, and known as
efficient officers.
And sir. as the Executive of the State Of Yer
mont, now place under your command this gal
liant Regiment, composed of companies detailed
from the Uniformed Militia Of the State. These
priyates and these company officers arc not hired
mercenaries, but citizen soldiers, esteemed and
beloved by their fellow citizens at home, and
worthy of the confidence aud regard Of their su.
perior officers. In placing them under your
charge, feel assured that but anticipate your
own impulses, when l enioin upon you the duty
of being to them father as well as a commander
Patriotic and fearless, they will follow where you
shall lead them, they will go wherever You may
send them.
The pleasing duty now dcvolves upon mo t
presenting to you this regimontal Tag, which bears
upou its fields the coat of arms OF the state OF
u md 7npli sagt he
principles which have characterized its citizens.
In your hands, supported by these troops ieci
assured that this flag never be dishonorcd nor tho
State Of Vermont disgraced.
But sir, | charge you to remember, t1at th5
g,c represents but one star in that other hag
which 1 now have the honor Of presenting you
bearing tho national emblem the stars and
Stripes. Vermont laims separate nationality
Her citizens ever loyal to the Union and the Va
tional Constitution, will in this time OF the ua-
tion's peril, rally in their strength for the pre-
servation Of the national government, ana the
honor Of cur country's fag-the fac OF tne Onlon'
Col. Phelps replied substantially as t'l-
bws
GovERyoR FAiRBAsks In the name OF the
1st REGIMENT Of Volunteers from Vermont, which
YOU have so zealously and assiduously lanoTea u
furnish at the call Of the President oi me hted
Ststes rive YOU nv best thanks for the beau
tiful ColOrs which you present US nc yf',.
said they are emblems, one OF the constitution
and the laws which We are going to defend ana
the other of the allegiance and loyalty oi the star
tbat n.ver sets. 1t shall be our highest endeayor
10 retain them in a way that shall meet the ap-
proval of your Excellency and Of the ireemen ol
Vermont.
The sreecies Of the Governor and Col.
Phelps were followed by enthusiastic cheers
from the Regiment.
The national flag presented to the Regi-
ment is # silk, and beautifully made and
finished.
The Regimental Standard is painted 'on
white silk, its dimensions being five by SIX
feet. The design is the State arms, with
military surroundings, hlgs, flowers and
other suitable accompanimcnts Of rich scroll
work in gilt, sc.
The ceremony Of presenting the colors be-
lnr ended, the Regiment was formed IN col
umn and inspected by 1t. Col. Rains after
which the oath of allegiance was admins
tered to the officers and men by Judge Small
ley.
The Regiment presented fine appearance
and were the subject of universal commend
alton by the crowds of people in attendance
The following is the order for marching
which was sent by special messenger, and
received by Gov Fairbanks atnoon Nednes-
day
Washington, May 9Th, lS6lS
His Excellsncy, the Governor OF Vermont
Rutland
Sir Lieut.. Gen. Scott has just received the
agreeable information that you have fine hegl
ment under Col. Phelps, ready for immediate ser
vice. The General being exceedingly pressed
with business, commands to request your TX
cellency 10 send the Regiment with little delay
as practicable, by water, TO Fort Monroe, Ol'
Point Comfort, Virginia.
have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully
your obedent servant.
Ell TOWNSEND,