(NOTE: Ruben B. Beebe probably never sat for a portrait before his entering the service during the Civil War and he may not have been well enough or been in the Nashville, Tennessee area long enough with the 86th to be concerned about sitting for a portrait as most of the members of the 86th did to send back home to their loved that they missed so much. However, Ruben B. Beebe survived the war and lived into the 20th century. During this time, Ruben must had his picture taken many more times. I would love to see some pictures of Ruben B. Beebe as a young man, especially of him in uniform from his days with the 86th, but at this point, I would just love to see some more pictures of Ruben be added to his FAG site, even some of him as a 60, 70 or 80 year old man. Can anyone help me with this? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Baxter)
2nd Lieutenant RUBEN B. BEEBE, Co. C, 86th Illinois
Ruben B. Beebe was born on April 22, 1824, possibly in Connecticut, but more likely in Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts, the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy (Hamlin) Beebe. Charles Beebe was born c. 17__ in __________, while Lucy Hamlin was born c. 1789/90 in Connecticut. Charles and Lucy were married in the early 1800's, probably around 1808/09 and probably in Connecticut. In the 1820's, they are believed to have been residing in or around Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts. About 1837/38, the Beebes came west to Illinois, where they settled in Peoria County, around the area of Northampton, Illinois. They, however, can not be identified in the 1840 census.
At the time of the 1850 census, Lucy is found widowed and residing in Peoria County, Illinois, with her daughter and son-in-law, Amelia and Alexander Cooper, and their family;
Cooper Alex 38 M Tinner 3,000 Ky
Cooper Amelia 35 F Conn
Cooper Anna 14 F Ill
Cooper Mary 13 F Ill
Cooper Alex., Jr. 2 M Ill
Beebe Mrs. 60 F Conn
Reuben R. Bebee was married to Josephine Oakford on December 1, 1853 in Peoria County, Illinois. Josephine was born on October __, 1833 in Phildelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of
The children born to Ruben Beebe and Josephine (Oakford) Beebe include;
1. Alexander C. Beebe, born January __, 1855 in Peoria County, Illinois. Alexander C. Beebe died on ___________ __, 1902 and his mortal remains were laid in the Chillicothe City Cemetery in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 59782817.
2. Edward Beebe, born c. 1857/58 in or near Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Edward Beebe was married on November 22, 1883 in Tazewell County, Illinois to Catharine L. Zuckweiler, who was 21 at the time. Catherine was born c. 1862 in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois, the daughter of Henry Zuckweiler and Eliza Zuckweiler.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Zuckweilers are found in ___________ County, Illinois;
Henry Zuckweiler M 34 Baden
Anna Eliza Zuckweiler F 26 New York
Katie L Zuckweiler F 7 Illinois
Geo H Zuckweiler M 5 Illinois
Mary A Zuckweiler F 3 Illinois
Anna E Zuckweiler F 1 Illinois
Kate Trader F 46 New York
James A Trader M 16 Missouri
John Petri M 22 New York
Alex Heffner M 17 Hanover
Edward and Catherine (Zuckweiler) Beebe are believed to have had one son before either, they were divorced or before Catherine died;
A. Henry James Beebe, born July 30, 1886 in Illinois. Henry in the 1900 census, seen below, is found residing with his grandmother and grandfather Beebe in Chillicothe, Illinois. At the time of the 1910 census seen below; Henry is found residing in Ward 6 of the city of Pekin, Tazewell County with his grandmother, Zuckweiler;
Thomas Ricken Head M 56 Illinois
Louise Ricken Wife F 55 Illinois
Bert Ricken Son M 32 Illinois
Sophie Hess Servant F 46 Illinois
Anna Zuickweiler Boarder F 66 New York
Henry Beebe Boarder M 23 Illinois
Henry James E. Beebe died on 9 Dec 1970 and his mortal remains were laid in the Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #116955910.
Edward B. Beebe was married 2nd on May 13, 1894 in West Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin to Anna G. Cliff. Edward's parents are given as Ruben B. Beebe and Josephine Oakford, while Anna was born in Lake City, Minnesota, the daugheter of James Cliff and Mary Roach.
Nothing more is known to Edward B. Beebe at this time.
3. Harry C. Beebe, born May 19, 1861 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Harry died on April 13, 1933 in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida, where he was a resident, at the age of 71y 10m 24d. Harry was married to Addie F. Cole in 18__. Harry's occupation on his death record is listed as Mill Work and his mortal remains were laid in the Hollywood Cemetery in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 18042198.
4. Louis T. Beebe, born July 20, 1864 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Louis was married to Hayme ____________. Louis died on October 16, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair County, Illinois. His parents are listed as Reuben Beebe, who was born in Conn., and Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia, Penn. Louis' occupation is listed as Proprietor Pkg. Co. and his residence as East St. Louis, St. Clair, Ill. for the last 34 Years. Louis' mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois on October 19, 1933. See his Find A Grave Memorial # 130494656.
5. Berton Beebe, born January 8, 1867 in Illinois. Berton died on December 27, 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 130494657.
6. Carrie Beebe, born January 23, 1870 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Carrie is believed never to have married. Carrie died on December 18, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair, Illinois. Carrie's occupation at the time of her death is listed as a school teacher. Her mortal remains were laid in St. Clair twp., St. Clair, Ill.
7. Florence Beebe, born April __, 1873 in Illinois. Believed never to have married. Was living with her mother and next oldest sister, Carrie, in 1910 in Chillicothe, Illinois. Like Carrie, was a School Teacher.
8. Nellie Beebe, born October __, 1875/76 in Illinois. Nellie was married to Lewis Thomas c. 1903/04 in Peoria County, Illinois.
At the time of the 1910 census, Nellie and Lewis are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillicothe, Illinois, where Lewis is a Clerk on the Sante Fe Railroad, there is Chillicothe. The live next door to Nellie's mother and her next two oldest sister, who are old maid school teachers;
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, Ruben and his brother, Henry C. Beebe, and their families are found residing in the village of Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois, in households 504 and 505;
Beebe Reuben 29 Carpenter 600 600 CT
Beebe Josephine 25 VT
Beebe Alexander 5 IL
Beebe Edward 2 IL
Beebe Henry 49 Carpenter 200 50 CT
Beebe Sarah 39 OH
Beebe Richard 19 Laborer IL
Beebe Lucy 17 IL
Beebe Alonzo 14 IL
Beebe Jane 12 IL
Beebe Addison 11 IL
Beebe Alice 6 IL
Beebe Levina 2 IL
On August 4, 1862, 39 year old Reuben B. Beebe went in to Chillicothe, Illinois where he volunteered to serve in a company which was being raised in Chillicothe, Illinois, and in the townships immediately north and west of Chillicothe, including Halleck Township in Peoria County and LaPrairie and Saratoga Townships in Marshall County. This company was being raised by John H. Batchelder, who operated the Ferry at Chillicothe, and Dr. Joseph Thomas, a Chillicothe area Physician. When he volunteered, Reuben gave his residence as Peoria County.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name BEEBE, REUBEN B
Rank 2LT Company C Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PEORIA CO, IL Age 39 Height 5' 10 Hair DARK
Eyes DARK Complexion DARK Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity SPRINGFIELD, HAMPDEN CO, MA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 4, 1862 Joined Where CHILLICOTHE, IL
Joined By Whom J H BATCHELDER Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks RESIGNED FEB 1, 1863 AT NASHVILLE TENN
When Batchelder and Thomas had almost 100 volunteers, they led the Chillicothe area company into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Batchelder, Thomas and 87 of their volunteers were mustered into service as Co. C of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Dr. Thomas was elected by the men of Co. C to serve as their Captain, while Batchelder was elected to serve as their 1st Lieutenant. Reuben B. Beebe was elected to serve as their 2nd Lieutenant. Of the men and boys who were accepted into the service in Co. C at this time, there were only about 4 men older than Reuben B. Beebe.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana, located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. By early October, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
That first winter in the field was difficulty, to say the least, on the green troops, the new diet and new lifestyle were not conducive to good health. Even before the men of McCook's Brigade left the Jeffersonville/Louisville area, men were having difficulty with their health and many were left behind sick in the hospitals when they pulled out. After the Battle of Perryville, on their march to Nashville, still more were left behind sick in makeshift hospitals in Bowling Green, Kentucky and in Gallatin, Tennessee. And during that 1862/63 winter in Nashville, the hospitals were full to overflowing with sick soldiers and today, hundreds of Union soldiers lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery who died during that 1st winter in Nashville. One of the soldiers, who was almost certainly having difficulty with his health was 2nd Lieutenant Reuben B. Beebe.
Kinnear in his HISTORY OF THE 86TH, wrote, "About this time was led a sad and disagreeable life, even more so than at any other time. The boys were new in their profession and entirely ignorant as to what conveniences a soldier might have even under circumstances so trying, and in consequence, were compelled to render themselves most unhappy. Some twenty odd men would live in the same tent, cook from a camp kettle swung in the middle of it, make their beds on the damp ground, frequently without even straw or boards under them. Snow fell, and the cold, keen winds of winter whistled without, while the poor soldiers lay cold and damp within. Many were taken ill and died from this exposure; more died and were discharged during this winter than in all our previous and after term of service. The hospitals were yet without proper organization, the sick in them improperly cared for, for war was as yet a new thing poorly understood and carried on. The Icelander, in his frigid and icy home of the far north, in his primeval ignorance, could not have lived in greater exposure than did the soldiers at this time."
What ever his ailment, his age was not working for 2nd Lt. Reuben B Beebe. Nothing the doctors did seemed to improve his condition. Finally by late January of 1863, doctors and/or officers of the 86th finally convinced Lt. Beebe that he should go home, with the hope that with the help of family and some home cooking, that he would survive his ailment. So, on February 1, 1863, almost certainly with a heavy heart, 2nd Lt. Reuben B. Beebe, resigned his commission and he headed home. Dozens of members of the 86th died that winter and today lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery. Dozens more were sent home with the hope that they would survive their ailment. Some did. Some didn't. Some that did, would never really be the same physically again. With the help of that family and home cooking, Reuben B. Beebe did survive his ailment and lived a long life for the time.
At the time of the 1870 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Beebe R. B. 47 M Carpenter 1,000 500 Connecticut
Beebe Josephine 41 F Pennsylvania
Beebe Alexander 16 M Illinois
Beebe Edward 12 M Illinois
Beebe Harry 9 M Illinois
Beebe Louis 6 M Illinois
Beebe Burton 3 M Illinois
Beebe Carrie 4/12 F Illinois Jan. 1870
At the time of the 1880 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Self F 46 Pennsylvania
Alexander Beebe Son M 25 Illinois
Bertie Beebe Son M 13 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F 10 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F 7 Illinois
Nellie Beebe Daughter F 4 Illinois
William Story Other M 42 England
Catharine Oakford Mother F 79 Pennsylvania
From the 1880 Peoria County History
"BEEBE REUBEN B. contractor and builder, res. Chillicothe, was born in Hamden Co., Mass., April 22, 1824, and is the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy Hamlin; came west at fourteen years of age, and settled at Northampton, Peoria Co. His father was a farmer, but Mr. Beebe went to learn his trade with his brother at the age of sixteen, and afterwards worked at it for three years in Lee Co.; did some business on his own account in Dixon, Ill., and in 1851 came to Chillicothe, and established himself, since when he has done a heavy building business over a large area of country. In 1854 he married Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia in 1834, by whom he has had eight children. During the late war he enlisted in Co. C., 86th I. V. I., was elected 2nd Lieutenant, and was mustered in August 1862. He served till the February following and then resigned. (page 724)"
In 1887, some of the surviving members of the 86th organized and held a reunion of the old 86th in Peoria, Illinois on August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering in of the men of the 86th. The reunion was such a success that they continued to be held through 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided that they were too old and too few to continue the reunions. The last dozen or so reunions were held in the Peoria G.A.R. Hall, which still stands today. Reuben attended that first reunion and was one of 20 members of old Co. C to attend that reunion. Reuben also attended the reunions of 1889 and 1892.
At the time of the 1900 census, Ruben Beebe and his family are found in Chillicothe Township Chillicothe city Ward 1-3, Peoria County, Illinois, where he is a House Carpenter;
Reuben B Beebe Head M Apr 1824 76 Massachusetts
Josephen O Beebe Wife F Oct 1833 67 Pennsylvania
Alexander C Beebe Son M Jan 1855 45 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F Jan 1870 30 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F Apr 1873 27 Illinois
Nellie O Beebe Daughter F Oct 1876 24 Illinois
Henry J Beebe Grandson M Jul 1886 14 Illinois
At the time of the 1910 census, Josephine and her family are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillcothe, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Head F Pennsylvania
Carrie Beebe F 40 Illinois School Teacher
Florence Beebe F 37 Illinois School Teacher
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois Sante Fe R.R. Clerk
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Beebe family, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Reben B. Beebe and the Beebe family. Baxter would also like to see copies of ANY photographs of Ruben Beebe, which have survived the years, especially any showing him in uniform from his days in the service, added to his Find A Grave Memorial for all to see and enjoy.)
2nd Lieutenant RUBEN B. BEEBE, Co. C, 86th Illinois
Ruben B. Beebe was born on April 22, 1824, possibly in Connecticut, but more likely in Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts, the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy (Hamlin) Beebe. Charles Beebe was born c. 17__ in __________, while Lucy Hamlin was born c. 1789/90 in Connecticut. Charles and Lucy were married in the early 1800's, probably around 1808/09 and probably in Connecticut. In the 1820's, they are believed to have been residing in or around Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts. About 1837/38, the Beebes came west to Illinois, where they settled in Peoria County, around the area of Northampton, Illinois. They, however, can not be identified in the 1840 census.
At the time of the 1850 census, Lucy is found widowed and residing in Peoria County, Illinois, with her daughter and son-in-law, Amelia and Alexander Cooper, and their family;
Cooper Alex 38 M Tinner 3,000 Ky
Cooper Amelia 35 F Conn
Cooper Anna 14 F Ill
Cooper Mary 13 F Ill
Cooper Alex., Jr. 2 M Ill
Beebe Mrs. 60 F Conn
Reuben R. Bebee was married to Josephine Oakford on December 1, 1853 in Peoria County, Illinois. Josephine was born on October __, 1833 in Phildelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of
The children born to Ruben Beebe and Josephine (Oakford) Beebe include;
1. Alexander C. Beebe, born January __, 1855 in Peoria County, Illinois. Alexander C. Beebe died on ___________ __, 1902 and his mortal remains were laid in the Chillicothe City Cemetery in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 59782817.
2. Edward Beebe, born c. 1857/58 in or near Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Edward Beebe was married on November 22, 1883 in Tazewell County, Illinois to Catharine L. Zuckweiler, who was 21 at the time. Catherine was born c. 1862 in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois, the daughter of Henry Zuckweiler and Eliza Zuckweiler.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Zuckweilers are found in ___________ County, Illinois;
Henry Zuckweiler M 34 Baden
Anna Eliza Zuckweiler F 26 New York
Katie L Zuckweiler F 7 Illinois
Geo H Zuckweiler M 5 Illinois
Mary A Zuckweiler F 3 Illinois
Anna E Zuckweiler F 1 Illinois
Kate Trader F 46 New York
James A Trader M 16 Missouri
John Petri M 22 New York
Alex Heffner M 17 Hanover
Edward and Catherine (Zuckweiler) Beebe are believed to have had one son before either, they were divorced or before Catherine died;
A. Henry James Beebe, born July 30, 1886 in Illinois. Henry in the 1900 census, seen below, is found residing with his grandmother and grandfather Beebe in Chillicothe, Illinois. At the time of the 1910 census seen below; Henry is found residing in Ward 6 of the city of Pekin, Tazewell County with his grandmother, Zuckweiler;
Thomas Ricken Head M 56 Illinois
Louise Ricken Wife F 55 Illinois
Bert Ricken Son M 32 Illinois
Sophie Hess Servant F 46 Illinois
Anna Zuickweiler Boarder F 66 New York
Henry Beebe Boarder M 23 Illinois
Henry James E. Beebe died on 9 Dec 1970 and his mortal remains were laid in the Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #116955910.
Edward B. Beebe was married 2nd on May 13, 1894 in West Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin to Anna G. Cliff. Edward's parents are given as Ruben B. Beebe and Josephine Oakford, while Anna was born in Lake City, Minnesota, the daugheter of James Cliff and Mary Roach.
Nothing more is known to Edward B. Beebe at this time.
3. Harry C. Beebe, born May 19, 1861 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Harry died on April 13, 1933 in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida, where he was a resident, at the age of 71y 10m 24d. Harry was married to Addie F. Cole in 18__. Harry's occupation on his death record is listed as Mill Work and his mortal remains were laid in the Hollywood Cemetery in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 18042198.
4. Louis T. Beebe, born July 20, 1864 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Louis was married to Hayme ____________. Louis died on October 16, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair County, Illinois. His parents are listed as Reuben Beebe, who was born in Conn., and Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia, Penn. Louis' occupation is listed as Proprietor Pkg. Co. and his residence as East St. Louis, St. Clair, Ill. for the last 34 Years. Louis' mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois on October 19, 1933. See his Find A Grave Memorial # 130494656.
5. Berton Beebe, born January 8, 1867 in Illinois. Berton died on December 27, 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 130494657.
6. Carrie Beebe, born January 23, 1870 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Carrie is believed never to have married. Carrie died on December 18, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair, Illinois. Carrie's occupation at the time of her death is listed as a school teacher. Her mortal remains were laid in St. Clair twp., St. Clair, Ill.
7. Florence Beebe, born April __, 1873 in Illinois. Believed never to have married. Was living with her mother and next oldest sister, Carrie, in 1910 in Chillicothe, Illinois. Like Carrie, was a School Teacher.
8. Nellie Beebe, born October __, 1875/76 in Illinois. Nellie was married to Lewis Thomas c. 1903/04 in Peoria County, Illinois.
At the time of the 1910 census, Nellie and Lewis are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillicothe, Illinois, where Lewis is a Clerk on the Sante Fe Railroad, there is Chillicothe. The live next door to Nellie's mother and her next two oldest sister, who are old maid school teachers;
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, Ruben and his brother, Henry C. Beebe, and their families are found residing in the village of Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois, in households 504 and 505;
Beebe Reuben 29 Carpenter 600 600 CT
Beebe Josephine 25 VT
Beebe Alexander 5 IL
Beebe Edward 2 IL
Beebe Henry 49 Carpenter 200 50 CT
Beebe Sarah 39 OH
Beebe Richard 19 Laborer IL
Beebe Lucy 17 IL
Beebe Alonzo 14 IL
Beebe Jane 12 IL
Beebe Addison 11 IL
Beebe Alice 6 IL
Beebe Levina 2 IL
On August 4, 1862, 39 year old Reuben B. Beebe went in to Chillicothe, Illinois where he volunteered to serve in a company which was being raised in Chillicothe, Illinois, and in the townships immediately north and west of Chillicothe, including Halleck Township in Peoria County and LaPrairie and Saratoga Townships in Marshall County. This company was being raised by John H. Batchelder, who operated the Ferry at Chillicothe, and Dr. Joseph Thomas, a Chillicothe area Physician. When he volunteered, Reuben gave his residence as Peoria County.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name BEEBE, REUBEN B
Rank 2LT Company C Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PEORIA CO, IL Age 39 Height 5' 10 Hair DARK
Eyes DARK Complexion DARK Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity SPRINGFIELD, HAMPDEN CO, MA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 4, 1862 Joined Where CHILLICOTHE, IL
Joined By Whom J H BATCHELDER Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks RESIGNED FEB 1, 1863 AT NASHVILLE TENN
When Batchelder and Thomas had almost 100 volunteers, they led the Chillicothe area company into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Batchelder, Thomas and 87 of their volunteers were mustered into service as Co. C of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Dr. Thomas was elected by the men of Co. C to serve as their Captain, while Batchelder was elected to serve as their 1st Lieutenant. Reuben B. Beebe was elected to serve as their 2nd Lieutenant. Of the men and boys who were accepted into the service in Co. C at this time, there were only about 4 men older than Reuben B. Beebe.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana, located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. By early October, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
That first winter in the field was difficulty, to say the least, on the green troops, the new diet and new lifestyle were not conducive to good health. Even before the men of McCook's Brigade left the Jeffersonville/Louisville area, men were having difficulty with their health and many were left behind sick in the hospitals when they pulled out. After the Battle of Perryville, on their march to Nashville, still more were left behind sick in makeshift hospitals in Bowling Green, Kentucky and in Gallatin, Tennessee. And during that 1862/63 winter in Nashville, the hospitals were full to overflowing with sick soldiers and today, hundreds of Union soldiers lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery who died during that 1st winter in Nashville. One of the soldiers, who was almost certainly having difficulty with his health was 2nd Lieutenant Reuben B. Beebe.
Kinnear in his HISTORY OF THE 86TH, wrote, "About this time was led a sad and disagreeable life, even more so than at any other time. The boys were new in their profession and entirely ignorant as to what conveniences a soldier might have even under circumstances so trying, and in consequence, were compelled to render themselves most unhappy. Some twenty odd men would live in the same tent, cook from a camp kettle swung in the middle of it, make their beds on the damp ground, frequently without even straw or boards under them. Snow fell, and the cold, keen winds of winter whistled without, while the poor soldiers lay cold and damp within. Many were taken ill and died from this exposure; more died and were discharged during this winter than in all our previous and after term of service. The hospitals were yet without proper organization, the sick in them improperly cared for, for war was as yet a new thing poorly understood and carried on. The Icelander, in his frigid and icy home of the far north, in his primeval ignorance, could not have lived in greater exposure than did the soldiers at this time."
What ever his ailment, his age was not working for 2nd Lt. Reuben B Beebe. Nothing the doctors did seemed to improve his condition. Finally by late January of 1863, doctors and/or officers of the 86th finally convinced Lt. Beebe that he should go home, with the hope that with the help of family and some home cooking, that he would survive his ailment. So, on February 1, 1863, almost certainly with a heavy heart, 2nd Lt. Reuben B. Beebe, resigned his commission and he headed home. Dozens of members of the 86th died that winter and today lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery. Dozens more were sent home with the hope that they would survive their ailment. Some did. Some didn't. Some that did, would never really be the same physically again. With the help of that family and home cooking, Reuben B. Beebe did survive his ailment and lived a long life for the time.
At the time of the 1870 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Beebe R. B. 47 M Carpenter 1,000 500 Connecticut
Beebe Josephine 41 F Pennsylvania
Beebe Alexander 16 M Illinois
Beebe Edward 12 M Illinois
Beebe Harry 9 M Illinois
Beebe Louis 6 M Illinois
Beebe Burton 3 M Illinois
Beebe Carrie 4/12 F Illinois Jan. 1870
At the time of the 1880 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Self F 46 Pennsylvania
Alexander Beebe Son M 25 Illinois
Bertie Beebe Son M 13 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F 10 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F 7 Illinois
Nellie Beebe Daughter F 4 Illinois
William Story Other M 42 England
Catharine Oakford Mother F 79 Pennsylvania
From the 1880 Peoria County History
"BEEBE REUBEN B. contractor and builder, res. Chillicothe, was born in Hamden Co., Mass., April 22, 1824, and is the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy Hamlin; came west at fourteen years of age, and settled at Northampton, Peoria Co. His father was a farmer, but Mr. Beebe went to learn his trade with his brother at the age of sixteen, and afterwards worked at it for three years in Lee Co.; did some business on his own account in Dixon, Ill., and in 1851 came to Chillicothe, and established himself, since when he has done a heavy building business over a large area of country. In 1854 he married Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia in 1834, by whom he has had eight children. During the late war he enlisted in Co. C., 86th I. V. I., was elected 2nd Lieutenant, and was mustered in August 1862. He served till the February following and then resigned. (page 724)"
In 1887, some of the surviving members of the 86th organized and held a reunion of the old 86th in Peoria, Illinois on August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering in of the men of the 86th. The reunion was such a success that they continued to be held through 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided that they were too old and too few to continue the reunions. The last dozen or so reunions were held in the Peoria G.A.R. Hall, which still stands today. Reuben attended that first reunion and was one of 20 members of old Co. C to attend that reunion. Reuben also attended the reunions of 1889 and 1892.
At the time of the 1900 census, Ruben Beebe and his family are found in Chillicothe Township Chillicothe city Ward 1-3, Peoria County, Illinois, where he is a House Carpenter;
Reuben B Beebe Head M Apr 1824 76 Massachusetts
Josephen O Beebe Wife F Oct 1833 67 Pennsylvania
Alexander C Beebe Son M Jan 1855 45 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F Jan 1870 30 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F Apr 1873 27 Illinois
Nellie O Beebe Daughter F Oct 1876 24 Illinois
Henry J Beebe Grandson M Jul 1886 14 Illinois
At the time of the 1910 census, Josephine and her family are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillcothe, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Head F Pennsylvania
Carrie Beebe F 40 Illinois School Teacher
Florence Beebe F 37 Illinois School Teacher
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois Sante Fe R.R. Clerk
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Beebe family, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Reben B. Beebe and the Beebe family. Baxter would also like to see copies of ANY photographs of Ruben Beebe, which have survived the years, especially any showing him in uniform from his days in the service, added to his Find A Grave Memorial for all to see and enjoy.)
(NOTE: Ruben B. Beebe probably never sat for a portrait before his entering the service during the Civil War and he may not have been well enough or been in the Nashville, Tennessee area long enough with the 86th to be concerned about sitting for a portrait as most of the members of the 86th did to send back home to their loved that they missed so much. However, Ruben B. Beebe survived the war and lived into the 20th century. During this time, Ruben must had his picture taken many more times. I would love to see some pictures of Ruben B. Beebe as a young man, especially of him in uniform from his days with the 86th, but at this point, I would just love to see some more pictures of Ruben be added to his FAG site, even some of him as a 60, 70 or 80 year old man. Can anyone help me with this? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Baxter)
2nd Lieutenant RUBEN B. BEEBE, Co. C, 86th Illinois
Ruben B. Beebe was born on April 22, 1824, possibly in Connecticut, but more likely in Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts, the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy (Hamlin) Beebe. Charles Beebe was born c. 17__ in __________, while Lucy Hamlin was born c. 1789/90 in Connecticut. Charles and Lucy were married in the early 1800's, probably around 1808/09 and probably in Connecticut. In the 1820's, they are believed to have been residing in or around Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts. About 1837/38, the Beebes came west to Illinois, where they settled in Peoria County, around the area of Northampton, Illinois. They, however, can not be identified in the 1840 census.
At the time of the 1850 census, Lucy is found widowed and residing in Peoria County, Illinois, with her daughter and son-in-law, Amelia and Alexander Cooper, and their family;
Cooper Alex 38 M Tinner 3,000 Ky
Cooper Amelia 35 F Conn
Cooper Anna 14 F Ill
Cooper Mary 13 F Ill
Cooper Alex., Jr. 2 M Ill
Beebe Mrs. 60 F Conn
Reuben R. Bebee was married to Josephine Oakford on December 1, 1853 in Peoria County, Illinois. Josephine was born on October __, 1833 in Phildelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of
The children born to Ruben Beebe and Josephine (Oakford) Beebe include;
1. Alexander C. Beebe, born January __, 1855 in Peoria County, Illinois. Alexander C. Beebe died on ___________ __, 1902 and his mortal remains were laid in the Chillicothe City Cemetery in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 59782817.
2. Edward Beebe, born c. 1857/58 in or near Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Edward Beebe was married on November 22, 1883 in Tazewell County, Illinois to Catharine L. Zuckweiler, who was 21 at the time. Catherine was born c. 1862 in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois, the daughter of Henry Zuckweiler and Eliza Zuckweiler.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Zuckweilers are found in ___________ County, Illinois;
Henry Zuckweiler M 34 Baden
Anna Eliza Zuckweiler F 26 New York
Katie L Zuckweiler F 7 Illinois
Geo H Zuckweiler M 5 Illinois
Mary A Zuckweiler F 3 Illinois
Anna E Zuckweiler F 1 Illinois
Kate Trader F 46 New York
James A Trader M 16 Missouri
John Petri M 22 New York
Alex Heffner M 17 Hanover
Edward and Catherine (Zuckweiler) Beebe are believed to have had one son before either, they were divorced or before Catherine died;
A. Henry James Beebe, born July 30, 1886 in Illinois. Henry in the 1900 census, seen below, is found residing with his grandmother and grandfather Beebe in Chillicothe, Illinois. At the time of the 1910 census seen below; Henry is found residing in Ward 6 of the city of Pekin, Tazewell County with his grandmother, Zuckweiler;
Thomas Ricken Head M 56 Illinois
Louise Ricken Wife F 55 Illinois
Bert Ricken Son M 32 Illinois
Sophie Hess Servant F 46 Illinois
Anna Zuickweiler Boarder F 66 New York
Henry Beebe Boarder M 23 Illinois
Henry James E. Beebe died on 9 Dec 1970 and his mortal remains were laid in the Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #116955910.
Edward B. Beebe was married 2nd on May 13, 1894 in West Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin to Anna G. Cliff. Edward's parents are given as Ruben B. Beebe and Josephine Oakford, while Anna was born in Lake City, Minnesota, the daugheter of James Cliff and Mary Roach.
Nothing more is known to Edward B. Beebe at this time.
3. Harry C. Beebe, born May 19, 1861 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Harry died on April 13, 1933 in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida, where he was a resident, at the age of 71y 10m 24d. Harry was married to Addie F. Cole in 18__. Harry's occupation on his death record is listed as Mill Work and his mortal remains were laid in the Hollywood Cemetery in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 18042198.
4. Louis T. Beebe, born July 20, 1864 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Louis was married to Hayme ____________. Louis died on October 16, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair County, Illinois. His parents are listed as Reuben Beebe, who was born in Conn., and Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia, Penn. Louis' occupation is listed as Proprietor Pkg. Co. and his residence as East St. Louis, St. Clair, Ill. for the last 34 Years. Louis' mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois on October 19, 1933. See his Find A Grave Memorial # 130494656.
5. Berton Beebe, born January 8, 1867 in Illinois. Berton died on December 27, 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 130494657.
6. Carrie Beebe, born January 23, 1870 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Carrie is believed never to have married. Carrie died on December 18, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair, Illinois. Carrie's occupation at the time of her death is listed as a school teacher. Her mortal remains were laid in St. Clair twp., St. Clair, Ill.
7. Florence Beebe, born April __, 1873 in Illinois. Believed never to have married. Was living with her mother and next oldest sister, Carrie, in 1910 in Chillicothe, Illinois. Like Carrie, was a School Teacher.
8. Nellie Beebe, born October __, 1875/76 in Illinois. Nellie was married to Lewis Thomas c. 1903/04 in Peoria County, Illinois.
At the time of the 1910 census, Nellie and Lewis are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillicothe, Illinois, where Lewis is a Clerk on the Sante Fe Railroad, there is Chillicothe. The live next door to Nellie's mother and her next two oldest sister, who are old maid school teachers;
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, Ruben and his brother, Henry C. Beebe, and their families are found residing in the village of Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois, in households 504 and 505;
Beebe Reuben 29 Carpenter 600 600 CT
Beebe Josephine 25 VT
Beebe Alexander 5 IL
Beebe Edward 2 IL
Beebe Henry 49 Carpenter 200 50 CT
Beebe Sarah 39 OH
Beebe Richard 19 Laborer IL
Beebe Lucy 17 IL
Beebe Alonzo 14 IL
Beebe Jane 12 IL
Beebe Addison 11 IL
Beebe Alice 6 IL
Beebe Levina 2 IL
On August 4, 1862, 39 year old Reuben B. Beebe went in to Chillicothe, Illinois where he volunteered to serve in a company which was being raised in Chillicothe, Illinois, and in the townships immediately north and west of Chillicothe, including Halleck Township in Peoria County and LaPrairie and Saratoga Townships in Marshall County. This company was being raised by John H. Batchelder, who operated the Ferry at Chillicothe, and Dr. Joseph Thomas, a Chillicothe area Physician. When he volunteered, Reuben gave his residence as Peoria County.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name BEEBE, REUBEN B
Rank 2LT Company C Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PEORIA CO, IL Age 39 Height 5' 10 Hair DARK
Eyes DARK Complexion DARK Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity SPRINGFIELD, HAMPDEN CO, MA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 4, 1862 Joined Where CHILLICOTHE, IL
Joined By Whom J H BATCHELDER Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks RESIGNED FEB 1, 1863 AT NASHVILLE TENN
When Batchelder and Thomas had almost 100 volunteers, they led the Chillicothe area company into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Batchelder, Thomas and 87 of their volunteers were mustered into service as Co. C of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Dr. Thomas was elected by the men of Co. C to serve as their Captain, while Batchelder was elected to serve as their 1st Lieutenant. Reuben B. Beebe was elected to serve as their 2nd Lieutenant. Of the men and boys who were accepted into the service in Co. C at this time, there were only about 4 men older than Reuben B. Beebe.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana, located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. By early October, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
That first winter in the field was difficulty, to say the least, on the green troops, the new diet and new lifestyle were not conducive to good health. Even before the men of McCook's Brigade left the Jeffersonville/Louisville area, men were having difficulty with their health and many were left behind sick in the hospitals when they pulled out. After the Battle of Perryville, on their march to Nashville, still more were left behind sick in makeshift hospitals in Bowling Green, Kentucky and in Gallatin, Tennessee. And during that 1862/63 winter in Nashville, the hospitals were full to overflowing with sick soldiers and today, hundreds of Union soldiers lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery who died during that 1st winter in Nashville. One of the soldiers, who was almost certainly having difficulty with his health was 2nd Lieutenant Reuben B. Beebe.
Kinnear in his HISTORY OF THE 86TH, wrote, "About this time was led a sad and disagreeable life, even more so than at any other time. The boys were new in their profession and entirely ignorant as to what conveniences a soldier might have even under circumstances so trying, and in consequence, were compelled to render themselves most unhappy. Some twenty odd men would live in the same tent, cook from a camp kettle swung in the middle of it, make their beds on the damp ground, frequently without even straw or boards under them. Snow fell, and the cold, keen winds of winter whistled without, while the poor soldiers lay cold and damp within. Many were taken ill and died from this exposure; more died and were discharged during this winter than in all our previous and after term of service. The hospitals were yet without proper organization, the sick in them improperly cared for, for war was as yet a new thing poorly understood and carried on. The Icelander, in his frigid and icy home of the far north, in his primeval ignorance, could not have lived in greater exposure than did the soldiers at this time."
What ever his ailment, his age was not working for 2nd Lt. Reuben B Beebe. Nothing the doctors did seemed to improve his condition. Finally by late January of 1863, doctors and/or officers of the 86th finally convinced Lt. Beebe that he should go home, with the hope that with the help of family and some home cooking, that he would survive his ailment. So, on February 1, 1863, almost certainly with a heavy heart, 2nd Lt. Reuben B. Beebe, resigned his commission and he headed home. Dozens of members of the 86th died that winter and today lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery. Dozens more were sent home with the hope that they would survive their ailment. Some did. Some didn't. Some that did, would never really be the same physically again. With the help of that family and home cooking, Reuben B. Beebe did survive his ailment and lived a long life for the time.
At the time of the 1870 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Beebe R. B. 47 M Carpenter 1,000 500 Connecticut
Beebe Josephine 41 F Pennsylvania
Beebe Alexander 16 M Illinois
Beebe Edward 12 M Illinois
Beebe Harry 9 M Illinois
Beebe Louis 6 M Illinois
Beebe Burton 3 M Illinois
Beebe Carrie 4/12 F Illinois Jan. 1870
At the time of the 1880 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Self F 46 Pennsylvania
Alexander Beebe Son M 25 Illinois
Bertie Beebe Son M 13 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F 10 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F 7 Illinois
Nellie Beebe Daughter F 4 Illinois
William Story Other M 42 England
Catharine Oakford Mother F 79 Pennsylvania
From the 1880 Peoria County History
"BEEBE REUBEN B. contractor and builder, res. Chillicothe, was born in Hamden Co., Mass., April 22, 1824, and is the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy Hamlin; came west at fourteen years of age, and settled at Northampton, Peoria Co. His father was a farmer, but Mr. Beebe went to learn his trade with his brother at the age of sixteen, and afterwards worked at it for three years in Lee Co.; did some business on his own account in Dixon, Ill., and in 1851 came to Chillicothe, and established himself, since when he has done a heavy building business over a large area of country. In 1854 he married Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia in 1834, by whom he has had eight children. During the late war he enlisted in Co. C., 86th I. V. I., was elected 2nd Lieutenant, and was mustered in August 1862. He served till the February following and then resigned. (page 724)"
In 1887, some of the surviving members of the 86th organized and held a reunion of the old 86th in Peoria, Illinois on August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering in of the men of the 86th. The reunion was such a success that they continued to be held through 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided that they were too old and too few to continue the reunions. The last dozen or so reunions were held in the Peoria G.A.R. Hall, which still stands today. Reuben attended that first reunion and was one of 20 members of old Co. C to attend that reunion. Reuben also attended the reunions of 1889 and 1892.
At the time of the 1900 census, Ruben Beebe and his family are found in Chillicothe Township Chillicothe city Ward 1-3, Peoria County, Illinois, where he is a House Carpenter;
Reuben B Beebe Head M Apr 1824 76 Massachusetts
Josephen O Beebe Wife F Oct 1833 67 Pennsylvania
Alexander C Beebe Son M Jan 1855 45 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F Jan 1870 30 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F Apr 1873 27 Illinois
Nellie O Beebe Daughter F Oct 1876 24 Illinois
Henry J Beebe Grandson M Jul 1886 14 Illinois
At the time of the 1910 census, Josephine and her family are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillcothe, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Head F Pennsylvania
Carrie Beebe F 40 Illinois School Teacher
Florence Beebe F 37 Illinois School Teacher
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois Sante Fe R.R. Clerk
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Beebe family, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Reben B. Beebe and the Beebe family. Baxter would also like to see copies of ANY photographs of Ruben Beebe, which have survived the years, especially any showing him in uniform from his days in the service, added to his Find A Grave Memorial for all to see and enjoy.)
2nd Lieutenant RUBEN B. BEEBE, Co. C, 86th Illinois
Ruben B. Beebe was born on April 22, 1824, possibly in Connecticut, but more likely in Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts, the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy (Hamlin) Beebe. Charles Beebe was born c. 17__ in __________, while Lucy Hamlin was born c. 1789/90 in Connecticut. Charles and Lucy were married in the early 1800's, probably around 1808/09 and probably in Connecticut. In the 1820's, they are believed to have been residing in or around Springfield, Hamden County, Massachusetts. About 1837/38, the Beebes came west to Illinois, where they settled in Peoria County, around the area of Northampton, Illinois. They, however, can not be identified in the 1840 census.
At the time of the 1850 census, Lucy is found widowed and residing in Peoria County, Illinois, with her daughter and son-in-law, Amelia and Alexander Cooper, and their family;
Cooper Alex 38 M Tinner 3,000 Ky
Cooper Amelia 35 F Conn
Cooper Anna 14 F Ill
Cooper Mary 13 F Ill
Cooper Alex., Jr. 2 M Ill
Beebe Mrs. 60 F Conn
Reuben R. Bebee was married to Josephine Oakford on December 1, 1853 in Peoria County, Illinois. Josephine was born on October __, 1833 in Phildelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of
The children born to Ruben Beebe and Josephine (Oakford) Beebe include;
1. Alexander C. Beebe, born January __, 1855 in Peoria County, Illinois. Alexander C. Beebe died on ___________ __, 1902 and his mortal remains were laid in the Chillicothe City Cemetery in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 59782817.
2. Edward Beebe, born c. 1857/58 in or near Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Edward Beebe was married on November 22, 1883 in Tazewell County, Illinois to Catharine L. Zuckweiler, who was 21 at the time. Catherine was born c. 1862 in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois, the daughter of Henry Zuckweiler and Eliza Zuckweiler.
At the time of the 1870 census, the Zuckweilers are found in ___________ County, Illinois;
Henry Zuckweiler M 34 Baden
Anna Eliza Zuckweiler F 26 New York
Katie L Zuckweiler F 7 Illinois
Geo H Zuckweiler M 5 Illinois
Mary A Zuckweiler F 3 Illinois
Anna E Zuckweiler F 1 Illinois
Kate Trader F 46 New York
James A Trader M 16 Missouri
John Petri M 22 New York
Alex Heffner M 17 Hanover
Edward and Catherine (Zuckweiler) Beebe are believed to have had one son before either, they were divorced or before Catherine died;
A. Henry James Beebe, born July 30, 1886 in Illinois. Henry in the 1900 census, seen below, is found residing with his grandmother and grandfather Beebe in Chillicothe, Illinois. At the time of the 1910 census seen below; Henry is found residing in Ward 6 of the city of Pekin, Tazewell County with his grandmother, Zuckweiler;
Thomas Ricken Head M 56 Illinois
Louise Ricken Wife F 55 Illinois
Bert Ricken Son M 32 Illinois
Sophie Hess Servant F 46 Illinois
Anna Zuickweiler Boarder F 66 New York
Henry Beebe Boarder M 23 Illinois
Henry James E. Beebe died on 9 Dec 1970 and his mortal remains were laid in the Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #116955910.
Edward B. Beebe was married 2nd on May 13, 1894 in West Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin to Anna G. Cliff. Edward's parents are given as Ruben B. Beebe and Josephine Oakford, while Anna was born in Lake City, Minnesota, the daugheter of James Cliff and Mary Roach.
Nothing more is known to Edward B. Beebe at this time.
3. Harry C. Beebe, born May 19, 1861 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Harry died on April 13, 1933 in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida, where he was a resident, at the age of 71y 10m 24d. Harry was married to Addie F. Cole in 18__. Harry's occupation on his death record is listed as Mill Work and his mortal remains were laid in the Hollywood Cemetery in Orange City, Volusia County, Florida. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 18042198.
4. Louis T. Beebe, born July 20, 1864 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Louis was married to Hayme ____________. Louis died on October 16, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair County, Illinois. His parents are listed as Reuben Beebe, who was born in Conn., and Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia, Penn. Louis' occupation is listed as Proprietor Pkg. Co. and his residence as East St. Louis, St. Clair, Ill. for the last 34 Years. Louis' mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois on October 19, 1933. See his Find A Grave Memorial # 130494656.
5. Berton Beebe, born January 8, 1867 in Illinois. Berton died on December 27, 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 130494657.
6. Carrie Beebe, born January 23, 1870 in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois. Carrie is believed never to have married. Carrie died on December 18, 1933 in East St. Louis, St. Clair, Illinois. Carrie's occupation at the time of her death is listed as a school teacher. Her mortal remains were laid in St. Clair twp., St. Clair, Ill.
7. Florence Beebe, born April __, 1873 in Illinois. Believed never to have married. Was living with her mother and next oldest sister, Carrie, in 1910 in Chillicothe, Illinois. Like Carrie, was a School Teacher.
8. Nellie Beebe, born October __, 1875/76 in Illinois. Nellie was married to Lewis Thomas c. 1903/04 in Peoria County, Illinois.
At the time of the 1910 census, Nellie and Lewis are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillicothe, Illinois, where Lewis is a Clerk on the Sante Fe Railroad, there is Chillicothe. The live next door to Nellie's mother and her next two oldest sister, who are old maid school teachers;
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, Ruben and his brother, Henry C. Beebe, and their families are found residing in the village of Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois, in households 504 and 505;
Beebe Reuben 29 Carpenter 600 600 CT
Beebe Josephine 25 VT
Beebe Alexander 5 IL
Beebe Edward 2 IL
Beebe Henry 49 Carpenter 200 50 CT
Beebe Sarah 39 OH
Beebe Richard 19 Laborer IL
Beebe Lucy 17 IL
Beebe Alonzo 14 IL
Beebe Jane 12 IL
Beebe Addison 11 IL
Beebe Alice 6 IL
Beebe Levina 2 IL
On August 4, 1862, 39 year old Reuben B. Beebe went in to Chillicothe, Illinois where he volunteered to serve in a company which was being raised in Chillicothe, Illinois, and in the townships immediately north and west of Chillicothe, including Halleck Township in Peoria County and LaPrairie and Saratoga Townships in Marshall County. This company was being raised by John H. Batchelder, who operated the Ferry at Chillicothe, and Dr. Joseph Thomas, a Chillicothe area Physician. When he volunteered, Reuben gave his residence as Peoria County.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name BEEBE, REUBEN B
Rank 2LT Company C Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PEORIA CO, IL Age 39 Height 5' 10 Hair DARK
Eyes DARK Complexion DARK Marital Status MARRIED Occupation CARPENTER
Nativity SPRINGFIELD, HAMPDEN CO, MA
Service Record
Joined When AUG 4, 1862 Joined Where CHILLICOTHE, IL
Joined By Whom J H BATCHELDER Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out N/A
Muster Out Where N/A Muster Out By Whom N/A
Remarks RESIGNED FEB 1, 1863 AT NASHVILLE TENN
When Batchelder and Thomas had almost 100 volunteers, they led the Chillicothe area company into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Batchelder, Thomas and 87 of their volunteers were mustered into service as Co. C of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Dr. Thomas was elected by the men of Co. C to serve as their Captain, while Batchelder was elected to serve as their 1st Lieutenant. Reuben B. Beebe was elected to serve as their 2nd Lieutenant. Of the men and boys who were accepted into the service in Co. C at this time, there were only about 4 men older than Reuben B. Beebe.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana, located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. By early October, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
That first winter in the field was difficulty, to say the least, on the green troops, the new diet and new lifestyle were not conducive to good health. Even before the men of McCook's Brigade left the Jeffersonville/Louisville area, men were having difficulty with their health and many were left behind sick in the hospitals when they pulled out. After the Battle of Perryville, on their march to Nashville, still more were left behind sick in makeshift hospitals in Bowling Green, Kentucky and in Gallatin, Tennessee. And during that 1862/63 winter in Nashville, the hospitals were full to overflowing with sick soldiers and today, hundreds of Union soldiers lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery who died during that 1st winter in Nashville. One of the soldiers, who was almost certainly having difficulty with his health was 2nd Lieutenant Reuben B. Beebe.
Kinnear in his HISTORY OF THE 86TH, wrote, "About this time was led a sad and disagreeable life, even more so than at any other time. The boys were new in their profession and entirely ignorant as to what conveniences a soldier might have even under circumstances so trying, and in consequence, were compelled to render themselves most unhappy. Some twenty odd men would live in the same tent, cook from a camp kettle swung in the middle of it, make their beds on the damp ground, frequently without even straw or boards under them. Snow fell, and the cold, keen winds of winter whistled without, while the poor soldiers lay cold and damp within. Many were taken ill and died from this exposure; more died and were discharged during this winter than in all our previous and after term of service. The hospitals were yet without proper organization, the sick in them improperly cared for, for war was as yet a new thing poorly understood and carried on. The Icelander, in his frigid and icy home of the far north, in his primeval ignorance, could not have lived in greater exposure than did the soldiers at this time."
What ever his ailment, his age was not working for 2nd Lt. Reuben B Beebe. Nothing the doctors did seemed to improve his condition. Finally by late January of 1863, doctors and/or officers of the 86th finally convinced Lt. Beebe that he should go home, with the hope that with the help of family and some home cooking, that he would survive his ailment. So, on February 1, 1863, almost certainly with a heavy heart, 2nd Lt. Reuben B. Beebe, resigned his commission and he headed home. Dozens of members of the 86th died that winter and today lie buried in the Nashville National Cemetery. Dozens more were sent home with the hope that they would survive their ailment. Some did. Some didn't. Some that did, would never really be the same physically again. With the help of that family and home cooking, Reuben B. Beebe did survive his ailment and lived a long life for the time.
At the time of the 1870 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Beebe R. B. 47 M Carpenter 1,000 500 Connecticut
Beebe Josephine 41 F Pennsylvania
Beebe Alexander 16 M Illinois
Beebe Edward 12 M Illinois
Beebe Harry 9 M Illinois
Beebe Louis 6 M Illinois
Beebe Burton 3 M Illinois
Beebe Carrie 4/12 F Illinois Jan. 1870
At the time of the 1880 census, Ruben and his family are found in Chillicothe, Peoria County, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Self F 46 Pennsylvania
Alexander Beebe Son M 25 Illinois
Bertie Beebe Son M 13 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F 10 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F 7 Illinois
Nellie Beebe Daughter F 4 Illinois
William Story Other M 42 England
Catharine Oakford Mother F 79 Pennsylvania
From the 1880 Peoria County History
"BEEBE REUBEN B. contractor and builder, res. Chillicothe, was born in Hamden Co., Mass., April 22, 1824, and is the son of Charles Beebe and Lucy Hamlin; came west at fourteen years of age, and settled at Northampton, Peoria Co. His father was a farmer, but Mr. Beebe went to learn his trade with his brother at the age of sixteen, and afterwards worked at it for three years in Lee Co.; did some business on his own account in Dixon, Ill., and in 1851 came to Chillicothe, and established himself, since when he has done a heavy building business over a large area of country. In 1854 he married Josephine Oakford, who was born in Philadelphia in 1834, by whom he has had eight children. During the late war he enlisted in Co. C., 86th I. V. I., was elected 2nd Lieutenant, and was mustered in August 1862. He served till the February following and then resigned. (page 724)"
In 1887, some of the surviving members of the 86th organized and held a reunion of the old 86th in Peoria, Illinois on August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering in of the men of the 86th. The reunion was such a success that they continued to be held through 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided that they were too old and too few to continue the reunions. The last dozen or so reunions were held in the Peoria G.A.R. Hall, which still stands today. Reuben attended that first reunion and was one of 20 members of old Co. C to attend that reunion. Reuben also attended the reunions of 1889 and 1892.
At the time of the 1900 census, Ruben Beebe and his family are found in Chillicothe Township Chillicothe city Ward 1-3, Peoria County, Illinois, where he is a House Carpenter;
Reuben B Beebe Head M Apr 1824 76 Massachusetts
Josephen O Beebe Wife F Oct 1833 67 Pennsylvania
Alexander C Beebe Son M Jan 1855 45 Illinois
Carrie Beebe Daughter F Jan 1870 30 Illinois
Florence Beebe Daughter F Apr 1873 27 Illinois
Nellie O Beebe Daughter F Oct 1876 24 Illinois
Henry J Beebe Grandson M Jul 1886 14 Illinois
At the time of the 1910 census, Josephine and her family are found residing on 6th Street in Ward 2 of the city of Chillcothe, Illinois;
Josephine Beebe Head F Pennsylvania
Carrie Beebe F 40 Illinois School Teacher
Florence Beebe F 37 Illinois School Teacher
Lewis Thomas Head M 36 Illinois Sante Fe R.R. Clerk
Nellie Thomas Wife F 33 Illinois
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Beebe family, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Reben B. Beebe and the Beebe family. Baxter would also like to see copies of ANY photographs of Ruben Beebe, which have survived the years, especially any showing him in uniform from his days in the service, added to his Find A Grave Memorial for all to see and enjoy.)
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