Related to Confederate General Joseph Johnston, through his mother. Traveled west to seek his fortunes in 1855 at the age of 20. At Fort Kearney he volunteered for an expedition against the Cheyenne Indians. Due to his fortitude, he was mustered into the Army as a 2nd lieutenant. Stationed on the Pacific Coast with his unit, he resigned his commision soon after the outbreak of the Civil War and came East to Missouri where he was assigned to the staff of General Ben McCulloch. His first combat took place in the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas in 1861, in which General McCulloch was killed. Later made Colonel of the 2nd Mississippi Cavalry and served under the great Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest. Fought in many battles with Forrest including Elkhorn, Corinth, Missionary Ridge, Chicamauga and the daily skirmishes. Also served under General Lucius Polk whose daughter he would marry after the war. Remembered as a capable and confident cavalry officer who had the esteem and respect of his superiors and the men who served under him. Went on to become successful in the sale of limestone after the war. Spent the last 6 years of his life in Lexington.
Related to Confederate General Joseph Johnston, through his mother. Traveled west to seek his fortunes in 1855 at the age of 20. At Fort Kearney he volunteered for an expedition against the Cheyenne Indians. Due to his fortitude, he was mustered into the Army as a 2nd lieutenant. Stationed on the Pacific Coast with his unit, he resigned his commision soon after the outbreak of the Civil War and came East to Missouri where he was assigned to the staff of General Ben McCulloch. His first combat took place in the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas in 1861, in which General McCulloch was killed. Later made Colonel of the 2nd Mississippi Cavalry and served under the great Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest. Fought in many battles with Forrest including Elkhorn, Corinth, Missionary Ridge, Chicamauga and the daily skirmishes. Also served under General Lucius Polk whose daughter he would marry after the war. Remembered as a capable and confident cavalry officer who had the esteem and respect of his superiors and the men who served under him. Went on to become successful in the sale of limestone after the war. Spent the last 6 years of his life in Lexington.
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