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Catalog Number
2020.9.497Title
De Koeyer, PeterDescription
Image of Holland MI resident Peter De Koeyer's record of service in the "Record of Service of Michigan Volunteers in the Civil War, Vol. 43"History
Peter De Koeyer (Also spelled De Koeijer) was born in 1826. On August 26th, 1864, he enlisted with the 1st Regiment Michigan Mechanics and Engineers, Co. B. Sadly, on March 21st, 1865, he died of disease in Goldsboro North Carolina. He was the last soldier from Holland MI to die in the war, dying just 29 days before the wars end. His burial details are unknown, but his name can be found on the Soldier's Monument in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.The 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics were organized on October 29th, 1861 (Companies L and M were organized in 1863. This regiment was responsible for building bridges, pontoons, boats, forts, saw mills, corduroy roads, and destroying enemy infrastructure. The regiment was often split up, following armies that needed their expertise. It contributed greatly to the Union war effort, providing much needed services in non combat roles. ;Read More