Baker, Nathan E

Nathan E Baker

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Significance:

Company F, 38th Illinois Infantry

Place of Birth:

Monroe County, Ohio

Date of Birth:

September 1843

Place of Death:

Murfreesboro, TN

Date of Death:

December 31st, 1863

Place of Burial:

Murfreesboro, TN

Cemetery Name:

Stones River National Cemetery

Nathan E Baker was born in September 1843, In Monroe County, Ohio. At the age of 18, he moved to Atlanta, Logan County, Illinois and worked as a farmer. He entered service at the age of 19 on August 16th, 1861, in Atlanta, Illinois. A few days later, on August 23rd, he mustered in at Camp Butler with the 38th Illinois Infantry, Company F as a private. His enlistment records describe him as being only 5 feet 3 1/2 inches in height and having a light complexion with blue eyes and light hair.

The 38th Illinois was led by Brigadier General Carlin, Division General Davis, and Corps Commander McCook. They joined in pursuit of General Bragg after engaging in the battle of Perryville in October of 1861. In December of 1862, they were stationed in Nashville where they waited to advance. On December 26th, the day after Christmas, they received orders to march towards Murfreesboro.

Once in Murfreesboro on December 30th, the regiment was positioned just east of Gresham Lane. Early on December 31st, the Confederate Army of Tennessee began their plan of attack, creating a J-shaped motion around the Union Army of the Cumberland's right flank. The 38th was heavily engaged in this sweep and deterred three heavy charges made by the Confederates. They held their position for two hours before giving way to retreat after Johnson's division was driven back too far to hold on.

During these engagements, the regiment lost 34 killed, 109 wounded, and 34 missing. Private Baker was among those who lost his life in these engagements on December 31st, 1862 at the battle of Stones River.

Nathan E Baker is laid to rest in the Stones River National Cemetery in plot L-4617.