BATTLE RUNS POSTMASTER OUT OF TOWN
David Buehler was a lawyer, editor of a Republican paper, a prominent politician and was known as a staunch Republican "a Leader among Leaders," according to his wife. Fannie Buehler, who wrote about her experiences during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1896 when she was 71 years old.
Buehler was also the Postmaster of Gettysburg during the time of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Postmasters, especially prominent black Republicans, were marked men by the Confederates, and wherever they could be seized, were hurried to Libby and other prisons where they soon died, or suffered untold miseries worse than death, wrote Mrs. Buehler. She persuaded her husband to prepare for flight should the enemy make an invasion into Pennsylvania.
"On June 26 they came in considerable force," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
After several false "scares" the family was not to concerned when the heard a little commotion on the streets. Fannie Buehler did some sewing on her machine. A half hour later her daughter "rushed up the stairs and said, Oh! mamma the Rebels are here sure enough!"
Fannie Buehler laughed and replied, "I guess not."
"Yes indeed they are, hurry down," her daughter insisted.
But I did not hurry, I finished my work, shut up the machine and went leisurely down stairs to see what was up," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
David Buehler was in the post office gathering letters from boxes and arranging things, "We both took it as another false alarm and laughed over it." wrote Mrs. Buehler. Just then someone put his head through the window and said the Rebels were marching int town.
David Buehler went out to see how things looked with Fannie Buehler following him to the door. Buehler went as far as the "Diamond" or "Centre Square" when Dr. Stoever called to him.
"David, flee for your life." called Dr. Stoever.
The Division of Early Corps (Infantry) was marching up Chambersburg Street. Buehler ran home. Fannie Buehler immediately knew..."the Rebels had come."
Sometime in the spring Buehler had procured a satchel in which he put all his valuables, personal and official papers, with any government property he might have on hand, and a few necessary articles. it was ready for any emergency, never unpacked, but with abundant room for additional stamps or other supplies.
When I saw him running, I immediately ran for the satchel and an umbrella, for it began to rain, and met him at the door. The satchel he took but the umbrella he left, for it would be an incumbrance to him...I last saw him as he turned the corner of Middle Street on a dead run. It was raining slightly, wrote Mrs. Buehler.
The Rebel Calvary darted across the square and marched down York Street, (This is the direction Buehler had taken). The infantry was rounding the square and marching up Baltimore Street.
Buehler, after turning the corner at Middle Street knew he must escape with all possible haste. he hailed the driver of an empty wagon, who was trying to get away in order to save his horse. Buehler jumped in the wagon and the man drove as fast as possible toward York Street. He reached the corner of York and Stratton Streets at St. James Church a little in advance of the Rebel Calvary.
Some of the people in town were pursued and overtaken and marched back in town. Buehler, who realized the danger, jumped from the wagon and ran for the woods. A few shots were fired after him.
Buehler reached a farm house, the home of Eden Norris, who lived on the "Banaughtown" or Hanover Road. All the horses had been sent to York, except one old nag. Buehler was no longer able to walk. He "straddled this raw-boned animal and started for Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He overtook a number of others, who were fleeing from the enemy. He asked then to relay a message to have a vehicle sent to him from Hanover as he was exhausted. A man with a buggy came for him and took him to the "Central Hotel."
Buehler, who had never ridden on horseback before, and havig no saddle, "was wet, tired and sore when he reached the hotel.", wrote Mrs. Buehler.
In Hanover, Buehler contacted Capt. Eichelberger, president of the railroad. he asked if he was going to move the "rolling stock" during the night or the next morning. If he was moving it in the morning, Buehler would find a change of clothes, and rest for the night. If not, he would leave immediately on the train.
Eichelberger told Buehler he would wait till morning.
The captain soon learned the the enemy was burning the "rolling stock" in Gettysburg and decided to leave immediately for York.
He sent a messenger to the hotel, as he had promised, and my husband was just in the act of drawing off his boots, which were well soaked with water, he had one off, and not having time to put it on, ran with it in his hand to the last train which left Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He passed over the 1-mile Columbia covered bridge and witnessed the burning of the bridge. He stopped at Lancaster on his way to Philadelphia. On Monday, the 29th of June, he depositied his mail and valuable papers in Philadelphia. he continued to Elizabeth, N.J., where Fannie Buehler's sister lived. he reached her home on Monday night. It was here Buehler heard the first news of the battle.
We can scarcely imagine his surprise and anxiety when the New York papers on the 29th of June announced the massing of troops around Gettysburg, and a battle would be fought there. Everyone said, "it could not be ," never at Gettysburg; "how could it be?" "It cannot possible be so," were the comments made on all sides."
"But when the news came Fighting at Gettysburg, Gen Reynold's killed; The 11th Corps repulsed on Seminary Ridge; Union troops driven through the town; Have taken possession of Cemetery Hill; there could no longer be any doubt that a battle was being fought at Gettysburg, and one can imagine the anxiety of those beyond the lines concerning friends within. Those days in which the battle raged so fiercely were days of suspense and anguish which can never be forgotten while memory lasts, and must be felt; cannot be described," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
On July 4th, David Buehler as determined to return to Gettysburg, even at the risk of his life. He started for Philadelphia. He arrived at Philadelphia but which way should he go from there? Baltimore or Harrisburg? He waited where he was to hear further developments.
"Reports were very discouraging and as my husband grew hourly more anxious to reach home, he determined to try Baltimore. After more delay and inconvenience, he reached that city, and although only fifty-two miles away, could in no way reach home. So he made up his mind he would try to get to Harrisburg as the Northern Central was running some trains," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
He contacted Governor Curtin personally. The governor personally was amazed at Buehler's request. According to Mrs. Buehler the following conversation transpired:
"Why, Mr. Buehler, Sir, Don't you know the whole country is full of Rebels, from Susquehannah to the Potamac. I have my scouts out and they bring in terrible reports from all directions." said the governor.
"But Governor, my wife and children are in Gettysburg, and I must get to them," said Buehler.
"Well, my dear sir, I can't give you a pass until I know you can go through the lines safely, better wait a day or so," replied the governor.
It was now July 7th, 863.
There were many dead men, many wounded, many prisoners, and possible deserters, who wished to be left alone, but not a single Rebel soldier between Harrisburg and Gettysburg in a fighting mood, according to Mrs. Buehler.
After several conferences with Governor Curtain, Buehler was determined to make his way to York. he left for York and found a man he knew, an old stage driver who drove from York to Gettysburg. The man consented to drive him there.
When he appeared ready for the start the stage driver backed out. Wild reports circulated that "no one but most reckless and daring would risk his life and his horses so he would not go."
Two or three other gentlemen, who were just as anxious to reach Gettysburg, joined Buehler and together they made this offer; "They would indemnify the stage and horses and pay the driver any price he asked, if he would only try to get them through," according to Mrs. Buehler.
The offer was accepted. The road was clear. The group did not see a live rebel even though there was evidence of a fierce struggle everywhere.
Buehler arrive home at 10 a.m. on July 7.
The information in this article is from the "Recollections of the Rebel Invasion and One Woman's Experience during the Battle of Gettysburg." by Fannie J. Buehler. The booklet was obtained from Col. Jacob M. Sheads
The Gettysburg Times
Saturday, October 8, 1983
by Sharon Duttera
Times Staff Writer
David Buehler was a lawyer, editor of a Republican paper, a prominent politician and was known as a staunch Republican "a Leader among Leaders," according to his wife. Fannie Buehler, who wrote about her experiences during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1896 when she was 71 years old.
Buehler was also the Postmaster of Gettysburg during the time of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Postmasters, especially prominent black Republicans, were marked men by the Confederates, and wherever they could be seized, were hurried to Libby and other prisons where they soon died, or suffered untold miseries worse than death, wrote Mrs. Buehler. She persuaded her husband to prepare for flight should the enemy make an invasion into Pennsylvania.
"On June 26 they came in considerable force," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
After several false "scares" the family was not to concerned when the heard a little commotion on the streets. Fannie Buehler did some sewing on her machine. A half hour later her daughter "rushed up the stairs and said, Oh! mamma the Rebels are here sure enough!"
Fannie Buehler laughed and replied, "I guess not."
"Yes indeed they are, hurry down," her daughter insisted.
But I did not hurry, I finished my work, shut up the machine and went leisurely down stairs to see what was up," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
David Buehler was in the post office gathering letters from boxes and arranging things, "We both took it as another false alarm and laughed over it." wrote Mrs. Buehler. Just then someone put his head through the window and said the Rebels were marching int town.
David Buehler went out to see how things looked with Fannie Buehler following him to the door. Buehler went as far as the "Diamond" or "Centre Square" when Dr. Stoever called to him.
"David, flee for your life." called Dr. Stoever.
The Division of Early Corps (Infantry) was marching up Chambersburg Street. Buehler ran home. Fannie Buehler immediately knew..."the Rebels had come."
Sometime in the spring Buehler had procured a satchel in which he put all his valuables, personal and official papers, with any government property he might have on hand, and a few necessary articles. it was ready for any emergency, never unpacked, but with abundant room for additional stamps or other supplies.
When I saw him running, I immediately ran for the satchel and an umbrella, for it began to rain, and met him at the door. The satchel he took but the umbrella he left, for it would be an incumbrance to him...I last saw him as he turned the corner of Middle Street on a dead run. It was raining slightly, wrote Mrs. Buehler.
The Rebel Calvary darted across the square and marched down York Street, (This is the direction Buehler had taken). The infantry was rounding the square and marching up Baltimore Street.
Buehler, after turning the corner at Middle Street knew he must escape with all possible haste. he hailed the driver of an empty wagon, who was trying to get away in order to save his horse. Buehler jumped in the wagon and the man drove as fast as possible toward York Street. He reached the corner of York and Stratton Streets at St. James Church a little in advance of the Rebel Calvary.
Some of the people in town were pursued and overtaken and marched back in town. Buehler, who realized the danger, jumped from the wagon and ran for the woods. A few shots were fired after him.
Buehler reached a farm house, the home of Eden Norris, who lived on the "Banaughtown" or Hanover Road. All the horses had been sent to York, except one old nag. Buehler was no longer able to walk. He "straddled this raw-boned animal and started for Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He overtook a number of others, who were fleeing from the enemy. He asked then to relay a message to have a vehicle sent to him from Hanover as he was exhausted. A man with a buggy came for him and took him to the "Central Hotel."
Buehler, who had never ridden on horseback before, and havig no saddle, "was wet, tired and sore when he reached the hotel.", wrote Mrs. Buehler.
In Hanover, Buehler contacted Capt. Eichelberger, president of the railroad. he asked if he was going to move the "rolling stock" during the night or the next morning. If he was moving it in the morning, Buehler would find a change of clothes, and rest for the night. If not, he would leave immediately on the train.
Eichelberger told Buehler he would wait till morning.
The captain soon learned the the enemy was burning the "rolling stock" in Gettysburg and decided to leave immediately for York.
He sent a messenger to the hotel, as he had promised, and my husband was just in the act of drawing off his boots, which were well soaked with water, he had one off, and not having time to put it on, ran with it in his hand to the last train which left Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He passed over the 1-mile Columbia covered bridge and witnessed the burning of the bridge. He stopped at Lancaster on his way to Philadelphia. On Monday, the 29th of June, he depositied his mail and valuable papers in Philadelphia. he continued to Elizabeth, N.J., where Fannie Buehler's sister lived. he reached her home on Monday night. It was here Buehler heard the first news of the battle.
We can scarcely imagine his surprise and anxiety when the New York papers on the 29th of June announced the massing of troops around Gettysburg, and a battle would be fought there. Everyone said, "it could not be ," never at Gettysburg; "how could it be?" "It cannot possible be so," were the comments made on all sides."
"But when the news came Fighting at Gettysburg, Gen Reynold's killed; The 11th Corps repulsed on Seminary Ridge; Union troops driven through the town; Have taken possession of Cemetery Hill; there could no longer be any doubt that a battle was being fought at Gettysburg, and one can imagine the anxiety of those beyond the lines concerning friends within. Those days in which the battle raged so fiercely were days of suspense and anguish which can never be forgotten while memory lasts, and must be felt; cannot be described," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
On July 4th, David Buehler as determined to return to Gettysburg, even at the risk of his life. He started for Philadelphia. He arrived at Philadelphia but which way should he go from there? Baltimore or Harrisburg? He waited where he was to hear further developments.
"Reports were very discouraging and as my husband grew hourly more anxious to reach home, he determined to try Baltimore. After more delay and inconvenience, he reached that city, and although only fifty-two miles away, could in no way reach home. So he made up his mind he would try to get to Harrisburg as the Northern Central was running some trains," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
He contacted Governor Curtin personally. The governor personally was amazed at Buehler's request. According to Mrs. Buehler the following conversation transpired:
"Why, Mr. Buehler, Sir, Don't you know the whole country is full of Rebels, from Susquehannah to the Potamac. I have my scouts out and they bring in terrible reports from all directions." said the governor.
"But Governor, my wife and children are in Gettysburg, and I must get to them," said Buehler.
"Well, my dear sir, I can't give you a pass until I know you can go through the lines safely, better wait a day or so," replied the governor.
It was now July 7th, 863.
There were many dead men, many wounded, many prisoners, and possible deserters, who wished to be left alone, but not a single Rebel soldier between Harrisburg and Gettysburg in a fighting mood, according to Mrs. Buehler.
After several conferences with Governor Curtain, Buehler was determined to make his way to York. he left for York and found a man he knew, an old stage driver who drove from York to Gettysburg. The man consented to drive him there.
When he appeared ready for the start the stage driver backed out. Wild reports circulated that "no one but most reckless and daring would risk his life and his horses so he would not go."
Two or three other gentlemen, who were just as anxious to reach Gettysburg, joined Buehler and together they made this offer; "They would indemnify the stage and horses and pay the driver any price he asked, if he would only try to get them through," according to Mrs. Buehler.
The offer was accepted. The road was clear. The group did not see a live rebel even though there was evidence of a fierce struggle everywhere.
Buehler arrive home at 10 a.m. on July 7.
The information in this article is from the "Recollections of the Rebel Invasion and One Woman's Experience during the Battle of Gettysburg." by Fannie J. Buehler. The booklet was obtained from Col. Jacob M. Sheads
The Gettysburg Times
Saturday, October 8, 1983
by Sharon Duttera
Times Staff Writer
BATTLE RUNS POSTMASTER OUT OF TOWN
David Buehler was a lawyer, editor of a Republican paper, a prominent politician and was known as a staunch Republican "a Leader among Leaders," according to his wife. Fannie Buehler, who wrote about her experiences during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1896 when she was 71 years old.
Buehler was also the Postmaster of Gettysburg during the time of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Postmasters, especially prominent black Republicans, were marked men by the Confederates, and wherever they could be seized, were hurried to Libby and other prisons where they soon died, or suffered untold miseries worse than death, wrote Mrs. Buehler. She persuaded her husband to prepare for flight should the enemy make an invasion into Pennsylvania.
"On June 26 they came in considerable force," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
After several false "scares" the family was not to concerned when the heard a little commotion on the streets. Fannie Buehler did some sewing on her machine. A half hour later her daughter "rushed up the stairs and said, Oh! mamma the Rebels are here sure enough!"
Fannie Buehler laughed and replied, "I guess not."
"Yes indeed they are, hurry down," her daughter insisted.
But I did not hurry, I finished my work, shut up the machine and went leisurely down stairs to see what was up," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
David Buehler was in the post office gathering letters from boxes and arranging things, "We both took it as another false alarm and laughed over it." wrote Mrs. Buehler. Just then someone put his head through the window and said the Rebels were marching int town.
David Buehler went out to see how things looked with Fannie Buehler following him to the door. Buehler went as far as the "Diamond" or "Centre Square" when Dr. Stoever called to him.
"David, flee for your life." called Dr. Stoever.
The Division of Early Corps (Infantry) was marching up Chambersburg Street. Buehler ran home. Fannie Buehler immediately knew..."the Rebels had come."
Sometime in the spring Buehler had procured a satchel in which he put all his valuables, personal and official papers, with any government property he might have on hand, and a few necessary articles. it was ready for any emergency, never unpacked, but with abundant room for additional stamps or other supplies.
When I saw him running, I immediately ran for the satchel and an umbrella, for it began to rain, and met him at the door. The satchel he took but the umbrella he left, for it would be an incumbrance to him...I last saw him as he turned the corner of Middle Street on a dead run. It was raining slightly, wrote Mrs. Buehler.
The Rebel Calvary darted across the square and marched down York Street, (This is the direction Buehler had taken). The infantry was rounding the square and marching up Baltimore Street.
Buehler, after turning the corner at Middle Street knew he must escape with all possible haste. he hailed the driver of an empty wagon, who was trying to get away in order to save his horse. Buehler jumped in the wagon and the man drove as fast as possible toward York Street. He reached the corner of York and Stratton Streets at St. James Church a little in advance of the Rebel Calvary.
Some of the people in town were pursued and overtaken and marched back in town. Buehler, who realized the danger, jumped from the wagon and ran for the woods. A few shots were fired after him.
Buehler reached a farm house, the home of Eden Norris, who lived on the "Banaughtown" or Hanover Road. All the horses had been sent to York, except one old nag. Buehler was no longer able to walk. He "straddled this raw-boned animal and started for Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He overtook a number of others, who were fleeing from the enemy. He asked then to relay a message to have a vehicle sent to him from Hanover as he was exhausted. A man with a buggy came for him and took him to the "Central Hotel."
Buehler, who had never ridden on horseback before, and havig no saddle, "was wet, tired and sore when he reached the hotel.", wrote Mrs. Buehler.
In Hanover, Buehler contacted Capt. Eichelberger, president of the railroad. he asked if he was going to move the "rolling stock" during the night or the next morning. If he was moving it in the morning, Buehler would find a change of clothes, and rest for the night. If not, he would leave immediately on the train.
Eichelberger told Buehler he would wait till morning.
The captain soon learned the the enemy was burning the "rolling stock" in Gettysburg and decided to leave immediately for York.
He sent a messenger to the hotel, as he had promised, and my husband was just in the act of drawing off his boots, which were well soaked with water, he had one off, and not having time to put it on, ran with it in his hand to the last train which left Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He passed over the 1-mile Columbia covered bridge and witnessed the burning of the bridge. He stopped at Lancaster on his way to Philadelphia. On Monday, the 29th of June, he depositied his mail and valuable papers in Philadelphia. he continued to Elizabeth, N.J., where Fannie Buehler's sister lived. he reached her home on Monday night. It was here Buehler heard the first news of the battle.
We can scarcely imagine his surprise and anxiety when the New York papers on the 29th of June announced the massing of troops around Gettysburg, and a battle would be fought there. Everyone said, "it could not be ," never at Gettysburg; "how could it be?" "It cannot possible be so," were the comments made on all sides."
"But when the news came Fighting at Gettysburg, Gen Reynold's killed; The 11th Corps repulsed on Seminary Ridge; Union troops driven through the town; Have taken possession of Cemetery Hill; there could no longer be any doubt that a battle was being fought at Gettysburg, and one can imagine the anxiety of those beyond the lines concerning friends within. Those days in which the battle raged so fiercely were days of suspense and anguish which can never be forgotten while memory lasts, and must be felt; cannot be described," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
On July 4th, David Buehler as determined to return to Gettysburg, even at the risk of his life. He started for Philadelphia. He arrived at Philadelphia but which way should he go from there? Baltimore or Harrisburg? He waited where he was to hear further developments.
"Reports were very discouraging and as my husband grew hourly more anxious to reach home, he determined to try Baltimore. After more delay and inconvenience, he reached that city, and although only fifty-two miles away, could in no way reach home. So he made up his mind he would try to get to Harrisburg as the Northern Central was running some trains," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
He contacted Governor Curtin personally. The governor personally was amazed at Buehler's request. According to Mrs. Buehler the following conversation transpired:
"Why, Mr. Buehler, Sir, Don't you know the whole country is full of Rebels, from Susquehannah to the Potamac. I have my scouts out and they bring in terrible reports from all directions." said the governor.
"But Governor, my wife and children are in Gettysburg, and I must get to them," said Buehler.
"Well, my dear sir, I can't give you a pass until I know you can go through the lines safely, better wait a day or so," replied the governor.
It was now July 7th, 863.
There were many dead men, many wounded, many prisoners, and possible deserters, who wished to be left alone, but not a single Rebel soldier between Harrisburg and Gettysburg in a fighting mood, according to Mrs. Buehler.
After several conferences with Governor Curtain, Buehler was determined to make his way to York. he left for York and found a man he knew, an old stage driver who drove from York to Gettysburg. The man consented to drive him there.
When he appeared ready for the start the stage driver backed out. Wild reports circulated that "no one but most reckless and daring would risk his life and his horses so he would not go."
Two or three other gentlemen, who were just as anxious to reach Gettysburg, joined Buehler and together they made this offer; "They would indemnify the stage and horses and pay the driver any price he asked, if he would only try to get them through," according to Mrs. Buehler.
The offer was accepted. The road was clear. The group did not see a live rebel even though there was evidence of a fierce struggle everywhere.
Buehler arrive home at 10 a.m. on July 7.
The information in this article is from the "Recollections of the Rebel Invasion and One Woman's Experience during the Battle of Gettysburg." by Fannie J. Buehler. The booklet was obtained from Col. Jacob M. Sheads
The Gettysburg Times
Saturday, October 8, 1983
by Sharon Duttera
Times Staff Writer
David Buehler was a lawyer, editor of a Republican paper, a prominent politician and was known as a staunch Republican "a Leader among Leaders," according to his wife. Fannie Buehler, who wrote about her experiences during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1896 when she was 71 years old.
Buehler was also the Postmaster of Gettysburg during the time of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Postmasters, especially prominent black Republicans, were marked men by the Confederates, and wherever they could be seized, were hurried to Libby and other prisons where they soon died, or suffered untold miseries worse than death, wrote Mrs. Buehler. She persuaded her husband to prepare for flight should the enemy make an invasion into Pennsylvania.
"On June 26 they came in considerable force," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
After several false "scares" the family was not to concerned when the heard a little commotion on the streets. Fannie Buehler did some sewing on her machine. A half hour later her daughter "rushed up the stairs and said, Oh! mamma the Rebels are here sure enough!"
Fannie Buehler laughed and replied, "I guess not."
"Yes indeed they are, hurry down," her daughter insisted.
But I did not hurry, I finished my work, shut up the machine and went leisurely down stairs to see what was up," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
David Buehler was in the post office gathering letters from boxes and arranging things, "We both took it as another false alarm and laughed over it." wrote Mrs. Buehler. Just then someone put his head through the window and said the Rebels were marching int town.
David Buehler went out to see how things looked with Fannie Buehler following him to the door. Buehler went as far as the "Diamond" or "Centre Square" when Dr. Stoever called to him.
"David, flee for your life." called Dr. Stoever.
The Division of Early Corps (Infantry) was marching up Chambersburg Street. Buehler ran home. Fannie Buehler immediately knew..."the Rebels had come."
Sometime in the spring Buehler had procured a satchel in which he put all his valuables, personal and official papers, with any government property he might have on hand, and a few necessary articles. it was ready for any emergency, never unpacked, but with abundant room for additional stamps or other supplies.
When I saw him running, I immediately ran for the satchel and an umbrella, for it began to rain, and met him at the door. The satchel he took but the umbrella he left, for it would be an incumbrance to him...I last saw him as he turned the corner of Middle Street on a dead run. It was raining slightly, wrote Mrs. Buehler.
The Rebel Calvary darted across the square and marched down York Street, (This is the direction Buehler had taken). The infantry was rounding the square and marching up Baltimore Street.
Buehler, after turning the corner at Middle Street knew he must escape with all possible haste. he hailed the driver of an empty wagon, who was trying to get away in order to save his horse. Buehler jumped in the wagon and the man drove as fast as possible toward York Street. He reached the corner of York and Stratton Streets at St. James Church a little in advance of the Rebel Calvary.
Some of the people in town were pursued and overtaken and marched back in town. Buehler, who realized the danger, jumped from the wagon and ran for the woods. A few shots were fired after him.
Buehler reached a farm house, the home of Eden Norris, who lived on the "Banaughtown" or Hanover Road. All the horses had been sent to York, except one old nag. Buehler was no longer able to walk. He "straddled this raw-boned animal and started for Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He overtook a number of others, who were fleeing from the enemy. He asked then to relay a message to have a vehicle sent to him from Hanover as he was exhausted. A man with a buggy came for him and took him to the "Central Hotel."
Buehler, who had never ridden on horseback before, and havig no saddle, "was wet, tired and sore when he reached the hotel.", wrote Mrs. Buehler.
In Hanover, Buehler contacted Capt. Eichelberger, president of the railroad. he asked if he was going to move the "rolling stock" during the night or the next morning. If he was moving it in the morning, Buehler would find a change of clothes, and rest for the night. If not, he would leave immediately on the train.
Eichelberger told Buehler he would wait till morning.
The captain soon learned the the enemy was burning the "rolling stock" in Gettysburg and decided to leave immediately for York.
He sent a messenger to the hotel, as he had promised, and my husband was just in the act of drawing off his boots, which were well soaked with water, he had one off, and not having time to put it on, ran with it in his hand to the last train which left Hanover," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
He passed over the 1-mile Columbia covered bridge and witnessed the burning of the bridge. He stopped at Lancaster on his way to Philadelphia. On Monday, the 29th of June, he depositied his mail and valuable papers in Philadelphia. he continued to Elizabeth, N.J., where Fannie Buehler's sister lived. he reached her home on Monday night. It was here Buehler heard the first news of the battle.
We can scarcely imagine his surprise and anxiety when the New York papers on the 29th of June announced the massing of troops around Gettysburg, and a battle would be fought there. Everyone said, "it could not be ," never at Gettysburg; "how could it be?" "It cannot possible be so," were the comments made on all sides."
"But when the news came Fighting at Gettysburg, Gen Reynold's killed; The 11th Corps repulsed on Seminary Ridge; Union troops driven through the town; Have taken possession of Cemetery Hill; there could no longer be any doubt that a battle was being fought at Gettysburg, and one can imagine the anxiety of those beyond the lines concerning friends within. Those days in which the battle raged so fiercely were days of suspense and anguish which can never be forgotten while memory lasts, and must be felt; cannot be described," wrote Mrs. Buehler.
On July 4th, David Buehler as determined to return to Gettysburg, even at the risk of his life. He started for Philadelphia. He arrived at Philadelphia but which way should he go from there? Baltimore or Harrisburg? He waited where he was to hear further developments.
"Reports were very discouraging and as my husband grew hourly more anxious to reach home, he determined to try Baltimore. After more delay and inconvenience, he reached that city, and although only fifty-two miles away, could in no way reach home. So he made up his mind he would try to get to Harrisburg as the Northern Central was running some trains," Mrs. Buehler wrote.
He contacted Governor Curtin personally. The governor personally was amazed at Buehler's request. According to Mrs. Buehler the following conversation transpired:
"Why, Mr. Buehler, Sir, Don't you know the whole country is full of Rebels, from Susquehannah to the Potamac. I have my scouts out and they bring in terrible reports from all directions." said the governor.
"But Governor, my wife and children are in Gettysburg, and I must get to them," said Buehler.
"Well, my dear sir, I can't give you a pass until I know you can go through the lines safely, better wait a day or so," replied the governor.
It was now July 7th, 863.
There were many dead men, many wounded, many prisoners, and possible deserters, who wished to be left alone, but not a single Rebel soldier between Harrisburg and Gettysburg in a fighting mood, according to Mrs. Buehler.
After several conferences with Governor Curtain, Buehler was determined to make his way to York. he left for York and found a man he knew, an old stage driver who drove from York to Gettysburg. The man consented to drive him there.
When he appeared ready for the start the stage driver backed out. Wild reports circulated that "no one but most reckless and daring would risk his life and his horses so he would not go."
Two or three other gentlemen, who were just as anxious to reach Gettysburg, joined Buehler and together they made this offer; "They would indemnify the stage and horses and pay the driver any price he asked, if he would only try to get them through," according to Mrs. Buehler.
The offer was accepted. The road was clear. The group did not see a live rebel even though there was evidence of a fierce struggle everywhere.
Buehler arrive home at 10 a.m. on July 7.
The information in this article is from the "Recollections of the Rebel Invasion and One Woman's Experience during the Battle of Gettysburg." by Fannie J. Buehler. The booklet was obtained from Col. Jacob M. Sheads
The Gettysburg Times
Saturday, October 8, 1983
by Sharon Duttera
Times Staff Writer
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