A referenced collective account on the true origin of the traditional military bugle call known as Taps. Many myths exist about this song. This article shows the truth.
Regardless of the origin of the song Taps, it has come to be known as a solemn, haunting melody that stirs emotions in the soul of anyone who hears it. It represents solemn dignity, and attempts to comfort those who have lost loved ones in the service of their country. Taps is used on 2 prescribed occasions, most often at military funerals and as a "lights-out" signal for the troops at night. Its true origins are much more elusive. This article will attempt to bring to rest the historical truth behind the origin of the bugle call, Taps.
The Final Word on the True Story Behind Taps:
Although much less emotional than the urban legends that have circulated about Taps, the truth is that the song was written as a substitute for the official "Extinguish Lights" signal that was used to signal soldiers to put out their lights and go to bed. General Daniel Adams Butterfield wrote the new bugle call with the help of his brigade's bugler, Oliver Willcox Norton. Although not made official until after the conclusion of the Civil War, it slowly came into accepted use by both the Union and Confederate armies in the second half of 1862. These facts about Taps are laid out in great detail by Jari A. Villanueva a bugler, bugle historian, and authoritative expert on the song.
Taps was not used as a part of funeral services until the funeral of a cannoneer under the command of Captain John Tidball later in 1862. It was played as a substitute to the traditional 21 gun salute due to the funeral's close proximity to enemy lines. Following this funeral Taps was accepted as an alternative or as an additional way to honor the dead during the service.
Internet Hoaxes and Fictitious Rumors About The Story of Taps:
The most prominent of the legends about the origin of the song Taps is also the most eloquent, and one can see why it would be popularized in the public over the more static and unemotional truth stated previously. According to this myth, a Union captain came upon his Confederate son's body on the battlefield and found the notes to Taps scribbled on a paper in the boy's pockets. As the son was a Confederate soldier he was not allowed a proper military funeral, but the Captain asked his bugler to play this song at a private service. Again, this story has no historical backing to it, yet many authoritative web sites continue to sponsor the rumor, including military related sites such as the Junior ROTC.
