Brigadier-General Theodore Runyon, U.S.V.

Brigadier-General Theodore Runyon is a native of New Jersey, which State, throughout the war of the Rebellion, as is well known, was true to its history and traditions (distinguished as they were for patriotic devotion). It was among the very first to respond to the call of President Lincoln for seventy-five thousand men, and its response was not only made promptly, but in a very substantial and effective manner. The troops it furnished under that requisition constituted a well-equipped brigade of four regiments, and were the first which, as a brigade, went forth to the defense of the threatened capital of the nation, and they rendered very important service at a very critical time in the history of the country. They were among the first defenders. The brigade referred to was commanded by General Theodore Runyon. It was subsequently increased by the addition of some of the regiments of three years' men which constituted the next levy of the State. In the Army of Northeast Virginia, which was organized by General McDowell in July, 1861, for his intended forward movement and was commanded by him, General Runyon commanded the Fourth Division, which was composed of the New Jersey troops and troops from New York and Pennsylvania, and for his services rendered in that position, at the time of the first battle of Bull Run, he received special commendation from General McDowell for his zeal and efficiency in commanding the division "during the advance towards Manassas Junction ;" General McDowell adding that his efforts were of " great service to the army and the people." The value of his service was also recognized by President Lincoln, and in 1862, after the expiration of his term, he was honored by his State with the brevet rank of major-general, conferred on him pursuant to special resolution of the Legislature, for "efficient and meritorious services in the field." In the memorable passage of the Federal forces from Washington into Virginia, the troops under his command constructed the extensive fortification Fort Runyon, which was called by his name.