July 30, 1861 — Death of Col. C. F. Fisher

Newbern Weekly Progress, Newbern, NC

The gallant Fisher sleeps in the family burial ground, peace to his ashes. We knew him and admired him. He was brave, chivalrous, and good. He had his enemies as all superior men have, but his name and memory will be fresh and green when they and their names will have passed from human recollection.

The Goldsboro Tribune says of the lamented dead:

The remains of Col. Fisher passed through this place on Wednesday morning last, on their way to Salisbury, accompanied by Mr. George Morrow, his groom, and Mr. Blount King, camp steward. These gentlemen were in the action, and brought his body from the field in the midst of frightful surroundings.

Col. Fisher fell in front of his regiment having advanced with a flag which he waved in encouragement to his troops to come to the charge. This noble and chivalrous officer was from 60 to 70 yards in advance of his line, and fell from his horse, receiving a wound from a bullet which entered his forehead and passed through his head.

It is painful to record his death, but we must expect in this cause to part with some of our best men and dearest friends. It is like the necessity which would compel us to part with some precious jewels, in order to save a great remainder.

And the following handsome tribute to Col. Fisher’s worth is from the Petersburg Express:

“The death of Col. C. F. Fisher, of the sixth North Carolina Regiment will be received throughout his native State, with the most profound emotions of sorrow and regret. A braver spirit, a truer patriot, a warmer friend, a better citizen, never breathed the pure air of heaven. His regiment was raised almost entirely through his own extraordinary exertions, and he spared neither effort or money, in filling up the ranks of his companies. For sometime he discharged the entire duties of Quartermaster, Adjutant and Commissary — indeed, we are informed, that his whole soul seemed absorbed in the consummation of the noble and patriotic purpose which he had formed. The Regiment passed through this city but a fortnight since, and its fine looking men, and their splendid arms and perfect equipments of every kind, were the theme of universal praise with our people. They were ordered to repair immediately to the seat of war, and remained in Richmond, we believe, but a few hours. The military career of their accomplished and devoted leader was brief but glorious. We have not heard the particulars of his sudden death, but he no doubt died where every brave office will only die, on the field of action, at the head of his regiment, and urging them onto “victory or death.” His mortal remains will soon disappear beneath the sod, but he haves a name that will live through all time, and one which future generations will ever delight to utter with patriotic pride.

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