The May 18, 1861, Joliet True democrat reported: "Camp Godell-- Affairs appear to be moving along quite smoothly as Camp Goodell (spelled it two different ways, perhaps an error). The soldiers are all comfortably quartered and in good spirits."
This group of soldiers and their officers became the 20th Illinois Infantry Regiment.
The article continued: "Regimental officers were elected last Tuesday. Col. C.C. Marsh of Chicago. Lt.Col. Wm. Erwin of Joliet. Major J.W. Goodwin of Wilmington.
"Of Col. Marsh, we know but little, but he is said to be an efficient soldier, and a young gentleman of fair reputation and acquirement. He is now in the position to make for himself, an honorable name.
"Lt.Co. Erwin is known to all our citizens, having been for some years a resident among us. He will adorn the position to which he has been promoted, possessing, as he does, all the elements of the gentleman and scholar.
"Major Goodwin, as Lt. in the Union Greys, proved himself an excellent officer, and his promotion is a deserved compliment to his superior military acquirement."
By the end of May, companies arrived from other counties and the 20th Ill. Vol. Infantry was born in Will County with 24 officers and 314 enlisted men.
Get That Training On. --Old Secesh
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