William Werner was born in New York City. When he was 18, he enlisted in Battery G on Dec. 29, 1863 in Chicago. He had hazel eyes, black hair, and a fair complexion, and was 5 feet 6 inches tall. He gave his occupation as farmer.Werner

At the battle of Tupelo, “he was driving the wheel team of the limber,” fell off when turning about, and “two wheels ran over him injuring his feet.” He was carried off the field on the caisson. Nevertheless, he remained in the service until he was discharged at Springfield, IL in September 1865. He probably had his picture made at this time. Also at some point during his service, he suffered from maleria.

In 1898, he was unmarried and had no living children, and resided at the Illinois State Soldiers Home at Quincy. He died on May 4, 1901.

SOURCES: William Werner military service record and pension file, National Archives.

Photo backmark: Butler & Smetters, Artists…Springfield, Ill.
“First Premium awarded at the State Fair for 1863”
May have been taken at discharge in Sept. 1865, since no other indication of when Werner
would have been in Springfield.
In private possession.