John C Rigdon

Historical Sketch And Roster Of The New Jersey 8th Infantry Regiment John C Rigdon

The 8th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry was organized under the provisions of an act of Congress, approved July 22, 1861, and was fully organized, officered, and equipped by Sept. 14, at which time it was mustered into the service of the United States, for three years, at Camp Olden, Trenton. It left the state on Oct. 1, with 38 officers, 851 non-commissioned officers and privates, a total of 889. It was formed into a brigade with its brother regiments, the 5th, 6th, and 7th New Jersey.

The 8th fought throughout the war in Virginia. They fought in nearly every engagement through 1865 including the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Sailors Creek, and of course, Appomattox. The 8th New Jersey was mustered out on July 17th, 1865. Approximately 284 men died in the service of their country under the 8th's colors. Hundreds of others suffered long after the war's end from the wounds they received.