In the spring of 1814, Andrew Hensel and John Gipe (Gype) mustered into federal service with the Pennsylvania Militia at Carlisle, PA, joining Capt. John McMillin’s company under the command of Col. James Fenton. As members of the 5th Detachment, they were quickly mobilized to reinforce the vulnerable Niagara frontier amid British incursions from Canada.
By late August, the men arrived in Buffalo, New York, part of a strategic defense buildup following prior British raids that had devastated nearby communities. Muster rolls confirm their presence through the fall of 1814, with duty likely focused on patrolling, fortification, and maintaining readiness near the war’s northern border.
Their company included seasoned officers such as Joseph Chamberlain, William Lynn, and Samuel Blythe, supported by non-commissioned officers like Sergeants Cooper and Cunningham, and Corporal Reed. Despite harsh conditions and uncertainty at the frontier, Hensel and Gipe served faithfully until early 1815, mustering out shortly after the war ended with the Treaty of Ghent.
Joseph Workman, a native of Dauphin County, enlisted in Capt. Jacob Dietrick’s company as British threats loomed over the Mid-Atlantic in late 1814. His unit, part of the 2nd Regiment, 1st Brigade under Col. Adam Rischter, was mustered at York, PA on September 5, but had officially entered service on September 1.
The regiment played a defensive role, stationed in York, one of Pennsylvania’s major militia depots. With war-weary Americans still fearing British landings or incursions through the Chesapeake, men like Workman were tasked with garrison duty, guarding supply routes, and maintaining a visible deterrent force in eastern Pennsylvania.
Workman’s company, composed of approximately 70–100 militia from surrounding counties, remained on duty through the winter. Their service concluded in March 1815, shortly after the official end of the war. Though they did not see combat, their presence embodied Pennsylvania’s commitment to homeland defense during a critical phase of the conflict.
Adam Frantz, from Dauphin County, entered military service under Capt. Philip Fetterhoff as part of the 2nd Regiment, 1st Brigade, commanded by Lt. Col. Adam Rischter. His company assembled in York and officially began duty on September 3, 1814, following mobilization orders issued by the Pennsylvania governor on August 26.
Fetterhoff’s company was likely engaged in garrison and logistical duties in southeastern Pennsylvania. While records are clear on their initial muster and pay, there is some ambiguity regarding the end of Frantz’s service. Company records suggest a December 3 discharge, though other companies in the same regiment served until March 5, 1815.
Regardless, Frantz contributed to the state’s readiness during the final, uncertain months of the War of 1812. His company’s presence helped secure Pennsylvania’s interior and respond rapidly had British forces advanced into the region.
William Row enlisted under Capt. Thomas Moore in the 2nd Regiment, 2nd Brigade, Pennsylvania Militia. This regiment was led by Lt. Col. John Lotz, and Row was mustered into service on September 1, 1814, as tensions with Britain escalated during the final campaigns of the War of 1812.
His company was stationed at York, Pennsylvania, throughout the duration of his service. While they were not deployed to active combat zones, Row and his comrades performed essential duties maintaining public order, securing transportation hubs, and preparing for potential British invasion inland from the coast.
Their service concluded in March 1815, aligning with the post-war demobilization that followed the signing of the Treaty of Ghent. William Row’s dedication during this period reflected the readiness and resolve of Pennsylvania’s citizen-soldiers, who stood prepared despite the uncertainty of war’s outcome.
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