Emilio, Luis F., History of the Fifty-Fourth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry , 1863-1865

From Tremont Street the column entered Park, thence to the State House, where from the steps Governor Andrew, accompanied by his staff and the Executive Council, reviewed the veterans as they passed. Proceeding down Beacon Street through Joy, Cambridge, West Cedar, Mount Vernon, Walnut, and Beacon to the Common, everywhere along the route cheers went up from admirers, and friends rushed to shake hands with relatives or acquaintances among the officers and men. Everywhere along the journey the public buildings, including the State House, and parks of the city floated the stars and stripes. Through the throng of citizens lining the curb, the Fifty-fourth marched, welcomed at every step, with the swing only acquired by long service in the field, and the bearing of seasoned soldiers.

Arriving upon the Common, the regiment halted. In the presence of a very large assemblage, including Mayor Lincoln, Colonel Kurtz, chief of police, Hon. Henry Wilson, and other gentlemen of prominence, the regiment was exercised for a few moments in the manual of arms. Forming from line into a hollow square, Brevet Brigadier-General Hallowell called his officers around him, thanked them for the efficient and manly way they had performed their service, their uniform kindness to him, and tendered his best wishes for their success and happiness through life. He then addressed the enlisted men, thanking them for the brave manner in which they had supported him in many trying times throughout their service. He said whenever a ‘forlorn hope’ had been called for, the Fifty-fourth had been ready and prompt to respond. They had protected