5th New York Independent Artillery
Posted to the Project on 19 Oct 07
The 5th New York Independant Artillery (also known as Taft’s or the First Excelsior Light Artillery) was made up of men from New York City and the counties of Monroe and Kings. It was raised as part of Sickles Excelsior Brigade in the late fall of 1861. At Gettysburg, the battery contained 146 men and six 20 lb Parrotts under the command of Capt. Elijah D. Taft (1819-1915), a Brooklyn carpenter.
The monument is located in the National Cemetery. The main feature is a bronze replica staute of a Civil War cannon mounted at the top of the mounment.
5th New York Independent Artillery
Artillery Reserve, 2nd Volunteer Brigade
Capt. Elijah D. Taft
Engaged 146 men and six 20 lb Parrotts; 1 killed, 2 wounded
Monument: National Cemetery