From the New Haven (CT) Columbian Weekly Register, 7/22/1865, p. 1, c. 2

Trouble in the First Conn. Heavy Artillery.

A private letter received in this city, dated the 3d, and postmarked Richmond, the 6th, represents that the First Connecticut Heavy Artillery have got themselves into trouble (at least a portion of them,) and the prospect of the speedy return home of the regiment is very doubtful. It was understood in the regiment that when they had completed the loading of the guns for transportation, the regiment should be sent home. Stimulated by this promise the boys worked like beavers, but when the task was completed the regiment was ordered out for drill. A wild and turbulent scene followed. The excited soldiers drove their officers off, fired and burned their quarters, while a party of them went into Fort Darling, and loaded and discharged the guns in that famous work. Regulars were sent for and came in haste from Richmond; a portion of the regiment, numbering from 125 to 150, were taken to Castle Thunder and put in close confinement, while the remainder were kept in camp, under strong guard, and not a man allowed to leave.

What is to be done with the regiment is uncertain – there are all sorts of rumors – some asserting that they will be sent South, to Texas, or Florida – while others are equally positive in the belief that the ring-leaders will be shot and the rest sent to the Rip Raps, or to garrison the forts for the remainder of their time, with a total or partial loss of pay. Company M, the writer says, was the worst in the mutiny. The soldiers of the regiment look upon the course adopted towards them as grossly unjust and tyrannical, but it does not appear that they have mended matters. In their case, it seems to us, it would have been better “to bear the ills they had” for a little time longer, or at least until they had got within sight of friends and homes. The government is in arrears to the regiment for six months’ pay. We hope that notwithstanding this unfortunate affair, the regiment which has done such good and efficient service will be allowed to return at an early day.

Bridgeport Farmer.

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