My Great-Great-Grandfather

Franklin Derby

My great-great-grandfather Franklin Mason Derby, from my mother's side of the family, was born in Stockbridge, New York on July 12th 1835. This photo of the band was taken just prior to the battle at Gettysburg. I am told that he is one of only three band members who survived the battle at Gettysburg. 

Franklin enlisted as a private in company E, 81st Regiment of the Infantry and Brigade Band of the New York Volunteers on December 21st, 1861. He served for 3 years and was honorably discharged from service on December 8th 1864 on account of wounds received on his right arm at Cold Harbor, Virginia on June 3rd, 1864. He served the last 3 months in Libby Prison. Someone in my family has 2 letters that were sent to Franklin by his wife, Laura Beck, while he was in Prison. Laura sent these letters to Franklin sealed up in loafs of bread. Franklin died October 12th 1904.

(Franklin is the one with the Bass and X over him)