Baltimore Riot Trail: Death at President Street Station

History: 1861 marked the start of the American Civil War. From the outset, Baltimore's secessionist movement hoped to stop railroad activity to Washington, so to isolate the national capital. In order to counter the rebellion, Colonel Edward Jones' Sixth Massachusetts Regiment arrived at Baltimore's President Street Station on April 19, while on their way to Washington in answer to President Lincoln's call for 75,000 volunteers.

Anti- Unionist mobs attacked the Sixth Massachusetts regiment, slowing the Regiment's advance along Pratt Street to Camden Station for several hours. Camden Station was reached, but four soldiers and 12 civilians died, along with dozens wounded; the first casualties of the war. Baltimore Police Marshal George P. Kane restored order as the rest of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment reached Camden Station.

More to Explore: The Baltimore Civil War Museum at President Street Station interprets Lincoln's inaugural journey and the Pratt Street Riots, among other thrilling stories, such as the station's use for Underground Railroad escapes. Situated near the Baltimore neighborhoods of Little Italy and Harbor East, museum visitors are amid a foodie paradise, with ethnic restaurants of every flavor and variety within walking distance.

Photo Credits:

1. "Print shows troops from the 6th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment firing into an unruly mob of southern sympathizers who are blocking the street."
2. "Lithograph of soldiers from the 6th Massachusetts Regiment relaxing at the Relay House outside of Baltimore." Prints courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.