In the spring of 1861, a band of hungry Chippewa Indians came to the McCann farm just across the river from here and traded a young eagle for corn. The eagle became a family pet. When Company C, 8th Wisconsin was organized at Eau Claire for Civil War duty, the crippled Dan McCann offered the eagle's services as a mascot, saying that someone from the family ought to go. On October 12, 1861, the eagle regiment headed for battle. In action, Old Abe spread his wings and screamed encouragement to his men. Old Abe served in 42 battles and lost only a few feathers. After 3 years of service, Old Abe was formally presented to the State of Wisconsin on 26 September 1864, where a room was equipped for him in the Capitol in Madison. His last public appearance was at the National Encampment of the G.A.R. in Milwaukee, where he and General U.S. Grant were honored guests. Old Abe died on 28 March 1881.