1st Kentucky Infantry Regiment (Union)

The 1st Kentucky Infantry Regiment was a Union Army infantry regiment that served during the American Civil War. Formed in the early stages of the conflict, it played a significant role in several key battles and campaigns.

Formation and Early Service

Organized in Louisville, Kentucky in 1861, the regiment initially consisted of three-year enlistments. Its initial officers were largely drawn from pro-Union Kentucky citizens. The regiment saw its first action in the Western Theater of the war, participating in engagements such as the Battle of Shiloh and the Siege of Corinth. Its early service was characterized by high casualty rates, reflecting the intense fighting of the early war.

Key Battles and Campaigns

The regiment participated in numerous significant campaigns, including but not limited to:

• Battle of Shiloh: Suffered significant losses during this crucial battle.
• Siege of Corinth: Played a part in the prolonged siege that ultimately led to the Confederate evacuation of the city.
• Battle of Perryville: Engaged in heavy fighting during this pivotal battle in Kentucky.
• Tullahoma Campaign: Participated in the Union advance through central Tennessee.
• Chickamauga Campaign: Saw intense fighting at the Battle of Chickamauga, suffering heavy casualties.
• Chattanooga Campaign: Contributes to the Union victory at Chattanooga.

Later Service and Demobilization

The 1st Kentucky Infantry Regiment continued its service throughout the war, undergoing numerous reorganizations and replacements as casualties mounted. The regiment's participation in later campaigns varied, but it continued to play a role in the Union war effort. It was eventually mustered out of service near the end of the war. The precise date of demobilization requires further research.

Casualties

The regiment sustained heavy casualties throughout its service, a common fate for many units during the Civil War. Precise casualty figures require further research and cross-referencing with primary sources.

Legacy

The 1st Kentucky Infantry Regiment stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by Kentucky Unionists during the Civil War. Its contributions to several key campaigns in the Western Theater helped secure Union victory. Further research is needed to fully understand the regiment's lasting impact.

Further Research

More detailed information on the regiment's specific actions in various battles, its officers, and its post-war history is needed to complete this entry. Primary sources such as regimental records and personal accounts of soldiers would greatly enhance our understanding of this important unit.