SUPPER TO THE 7TH WEST VIRGINIA CAVALRY AND CAPTAIN HOLMES' BATTERY
March 15, 1864
According to previous announcement by the reception committee, a banquet was given last evening to the Seventh West Virginia Veteran Cavalry and Captain Holmes' Battery. After the soldiers had partaken of the repast which was very abundant and very well prepared, Mayor Crangle and Governor Boreman made brief, but very warm speeches of welcome. Colonel John H. Oley, of the Seventh, made a brief speech, thanking the people for their generous reception, and complimenting the men under his command.:Captain Holmes, Colonel Thoburn, Colonel Rogers, of the Second Maryland, Colonel Daniel Frost, Colonel Caphart, Chaplain Gregg, of the Seventh, and Captain Rife, of the same regiment, made brief speeches. Colonel Rogers briefly described what he conceived to be the duty of a soldier: it was to obey his officers, keep his accoutrements in order and fight like the devil.
At the conclusion of the speaking a young man connected with Bob Edward's Variety Troope, gave the audience a specimen of the Zouave drill exciting great admiration.
Mr. John E. Wilson proposed three cheers for the gallant Seventh, and Colonel Oley proposed three cheers for the ladies and the loyal people of Wheeling all of which were given with a will.
The Seventh regiment leaves to day for the Kanawha Valley.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: March 1864