Colonel George W. Robbins
8th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry

from the collection of Bill Jackson, 2d Great Grandson of Horace Mann Baker of Co K, 8th WI, a friend of Augie Weisert and William P. Lyon, Capt. of Co. K..

Col. Robbins began his military career in the 8th Wisconsin as Lieutenant Colonel sworn in by Gov. Randall on 8/16/1861. Entering as a New England (Conn.) born and educated 21 year old farmer from Madison, he was popular with the men of the regiment. He and Major Jefferson led the 8th in their first battle at Farmington. He was wounded at Corinth, Mississippi , October 3rd, 1862. 
After Colonel Murphy's surrender at Holly Springs and dismissal from service, Lt. Col. Robins became Col. Robbins. December 20, 1862. He was injured at Vicksburg in a horse related accident a year after his injury at Corinth. Due to health problems that continued after his second injury, Col. Robbins resigned his commission September 31, 1863 and returned to Mass. In one of the letters from Augie to Horace, Augie mentions that Col. Robbins died at Avon, Mass.
He had served at Frederickstown, Mo., New Madrid, Island No. Ten, Farmington, Corinth, Iuka, Jackson, MS., Vicksburg and Richmond, La.
When he enlisted he was single, had light eyes, hair and complexion and stood 5' 8" tall.


Augie Weisert /Horace Baker Letters