Washington Artillery of New Orleans

Washington Artillery of New Orleans. The Washington Artillery is a historic field artillery unit of the Louisiana Army National Guard, originally formed as a militia company in New Orleans in 1838. It is one of the oldest military units in continuous existence in the United States, having served in the American Civil War, both World War I and World War II, and numerous other conflicts. The unit is renowned for its long-standing traditions, distinctive insignia, and significant combat record, particularly with the Army of Northern Virginia during the Civil War.

History

The unit was organized on September 7, 1838, by a group of prominent New Orleans citizens, drawing its name and inspiration from George Washington. Initially a volunteer militia company, it served in ceremonial and civic roles before its first active service in the Mexican–American War, though it did not see combat. Its defining historical chapter began with the American Civil War, when the battalion mustered into Confederate States Army service in 1861. Following the war, the unit was reconstituted and later served in the Spanish–American War as part of United States Volunteers. In the 20th century, it was federalized for World War I, redesignated as the 141st Field Artillery Regiment, and saw extensive action in World War II with the 38th Infantry Division in the Pacific Theater. More recently, elements have deployed in support of the War in Afghanistan.

Organization and units

The original 1838 unit was a single battery. By the American Civil War, it had expanded to a battalion of four batteries, designated the 1st through 4th Companies. In the modern Louisiana Army National Guard, the lineage is carried by the 1st Battalion, 141st Field Artillery Regiment, part of the 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. The battalion is composed of multiple firing batteries, a headquarters battery, and a service battery. Its higher historical affiliations include the Washington Artillery Battalion (Confederate), the 60th Field Artillery Brigade, and the 38th Infantry Division. The unit's armament has evolved from Napoleon cannons to modern M777 howitzer systems.

Notable engagements and campaigns

During the American Civil War, the battalion fought with distinction in most major battles in the Eastern Theater. Key engagements include the First Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Antietam, the Battle of Fredericksburg, and the Battle of Gettysburg, where it was heavily engaged at the Peach Orchard. It also participated in the Siege of Petersburg and the Appomattox campaign. In World War I, the regiment served with the 39th Division. In World War II, as part of the 38th Infantry Division, it provided fire support during the New Guinea campaign and the Battle of Luzon, including actions at Zigzag Pass and the Bataan Peninsula.

Traditions and insignia

The unit maintains a strong sense of tradition, including the motto "Try Us". Its distinctive insignia features a bursting shell with the unit's initials and battle honors. A cherished artifact is the "Matilda", a pre-Civil War 12-pounder Napoleon gun that serves as a symbolic piece. The unit's dress uniform historically included a unique French Army-inspired bearskin hat, a tradition that has been periodically revived for ceremonial occasions. The unit also observes specific anniversary dates and maintains a museum at its Jackson Barracks headquarters in New Orleans.

Legacy and memorials

The Washington Artillery is celebrated as a cornerstone of New Orleans civic and military heritage. Its legacy is preserved at the Washington Artillery Park overlooking the Mississippi River and the French Quarter. Monuments and markers dedicated to the unit stand at several Civil War battlefields, including Gettysburg Battlefield. Its extensive history is documented in the collections of the Historic New Orleans Collection and the Jackson Barracks Military Museum. The unit's continuous service from the Antebellum South through 21st-century global conflicts makes it a unique institution in American military history.

Category:Military units and formations established in 1838 Category:Artillery regiments of the United States Army Category:Organizations based in New Orleans