Dover Rifles

The following story is copied word for word from the Ocean County Emblem
– Tom’s River, NJ June 12, 1861

“Dover Rifles”

At an adjourned meeting of the Dover Rifles, held at the Court House in this village, on Wednesday evening last, for the election of officers, the following gentlemen were elected to the several offices:

Capt. John C. Patterson; 1st. Lieut. Ralph B. Gowdy; 2nd Lieut. David J. Bower; Ensign, Charles W. Potter; Orderly Sergent, John Klippel; 2nd Sergeant, Paul H. Smock; 3rd R.D. James; 4th Charles Chipman; 1st Corporal, Richard Skirm; 2d. Corporal, Joseph F. Thibeaudeau; 3d. Brookfield Goble.

The musicians are Mr. John Walton Fifer, and George Walton, Drummer.

James P. Cowperthwait was chosen Secretary, and Warren C. Abbe Treasurer.

This company is chosen of twenty six of our most respectable young and active men. No doubt but they will make a fine company, and in case of requirement would render efficient service to the Union army. We say success to it.

The Ocean Emblem, Tomís River, NJ June 26, 1861

(Note- This was the start of Co. F of the 14th NJ Vols.) Ed. – Al Platt