Taps: A Brief History Of The Iconic Bugle Call

In the realm of military tradition, few sounds evoke the same level of reverence and nostalgia as the iconic bugle call, "Taps". The haunting melody has been a staple of American military culture for over a century and a half, signaling the end of the day, the start of a ceremony, or the final farewell to a fallen comrade. But where did this iconic tune originate, and how did it become an integral part of the American military's heritage?

The Origins of Taps

The history of Taps dates back to the American Civil War, when Union Army Brigadier General Daniel Butterfield and his aide, Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Norton, sought to create a distinctive bugle call to signal the end of the day's activities. At the time, the standard bugle call used by the Union Army was a French bugle call known as "Lights Out", which was not unique to the American military and was often confusing to soldiers. Butterfield and Norton wanted a call that would be unmistakably American and easily recognizable to soldiers in the field.

According to legend, Butterfield himself composed the melody for Taps, which was originally known as "Last Post". The call was first played in July 1862, at Harrison's Landing, Virginia, by Butterfield's brigade bugler, Private Oliver Norton. The new call was an instant success, and soon it was being used by Union Army units across the country.

From Last Post to Taps

The name "Taps" was reportedly coined by Union Army soldiers, who would refer to the call as "Taps" or "Last Taps" to distinguish it from other bugle calls. Over time, the name "Taps" became synonymous with the iconic melody, which was officially adopted by the United States Army in 1874.

Taps in the American Military

Today, Taps is an integral part of American military culture, played at a variety of ceremonies and events, including:

Retreat ceremonies, where the flag is lowered and the day's activities come to a close
Funeral services, where the call is played to honor fallen comrades
Memorial services, where Taps is played to honor the memory of those who have served
Military parades and ceremonies, where the call is played to signal the start or end of the event

The Significance of Taps

Taps holds a special significance in the American military, evoking a sense of nostalgia and reverence among soldiers and civilians alike. The call is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served, and the bravery and selflessness of those who have given their lives in service to their country.

Taps Around the World

While Taps is closely associated with the American military, its influence extends far beyond the United States. The call has been adopted by military units around the world, including those in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Fun Facts About Taps

Here are a few fun facts about Taps:

Taps is the only bugle call that is played at a funeral service
The call is played at Arlington National Cemetery over 5,000 times each year
Taps is played at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery every 30 minutes during the day and every hour at night

Taps Image Gallery

What is the history of Taps?

Taps was composed by Union Army Brigadier General Daniel Butterfield and his aide, Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Norton, in 1862. The call was originally known as "Last Post" and was later adopted by the United States Army in 1874.

What is the significance of Taps?

Where is Taps played?

Taps is played at a variety of ceremonies and events, including retreat ceremonies, funeral services, memorial services, and military parades and ceremonies.

We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of Taps. Whether you're a military veteran or simply a patriotic American, the haunting melody of Taps is sure to evoke a sense of reverence and nostalgia.