Mustered in March 1862, the Second Minnesota Battery of Light Artillery served in numerous battles across the South until they were mustered out in August 1865. This article focuses on the movement and action of the Second, and in particular upon its Captain, William Hotchkiss.

A "battery" refers to a cluster of larger weapons. During the Civil War, artillery batteries in the Union consisted of six pieces. For the Second, their pieces included two twelve-pounder cannons (which fired 12-pound projectiles) and four six-pounder cannons.

Most Minnesota History articles are written at a higher reading level, making them more appropriate for adults.