Aaron Fletcher Stevens facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Aaron Fletcher Stevens
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New Hampshire's 2nd district |
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| In office March 4, 1867 – March 3, 1871 |
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| Preceded by | Edward H. Rollins |
| Succeeded by | Samuel N. Bell |
| Personal details | |
| Born | August 9, 1819 Derry, New Hampshire |
| Died | May 10, 1887 (aged 67) Nashua, New Hampshire |
| Political party | Republican |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Branch/service | United States Army Union Army |
| Rank |  Colonel Brevet Brigadier General |
| Unit | 1st New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry |
| Commands | 13th New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Aaron Fletcher Stevens (born August 9, 1819 – died May 10, 1887) was an important figure in American history. He served as an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. After the war, he became a U.S. Congressman for two terms.
Contents
Early Life and Career
Aaron Fletcher Stevens was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire, on August 9, 1819. He spent his childhood in Londonderry and also in Peterborough. He went to school at Pinkerton Academy.
Before the Civil War, Stevens had several jobs. He worked as a machinist and later became a lawyer. He also served as a state legislator in New Hampshire. In 1845, he was allowed to practice law in New Hampshire. In the mid-1850s, he helped start the New Hampshire branch of the Republican Party.
Serving in the Civil War
When the Civil War began, Aaron Stevens joined the army. He became a major in the 1st New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry. He left this group on August 9, 1861.
However, he rejoined the Union Army on September 23, 1862. This time, he became a colonel of the new 13th New Hampshire Infantry Regiment.
Key Battles and Commands
Colonel Stevens and his regiment took part in the Battle of Fredericksburg. This was a very difficult battle for the Union Army.
He led different groups of soldiers during the war:
- From January to February 1863, he commanded Brigade 1, Division 1, IX Corps (Union Army).
- From July 31 to September 29, 1864, he commanded Brigade 3, Division 1, XVIII Corps (Union Army).
Stevens was injured during the Battle of Fort Harrison on September 29, 1864.
Becoming a Brigadier General
On December 12, 1864, President Abraham Lincoln chose Stevens to become a brevet brigadier general. A "brevet" rank means he was given the rank for his bravery and service, but it was usually a temporary or honorary promotion. The United States Senate approved this promotion on March 10, 1865. Stevens left the volunteer army on June 29, 1865.
After the War
After his military service, Aaron Fletcher Stevens continued to serve his country. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He served two terms as a Congressman, from March 4, 1867, to March 3, 1871.
Aaron Fletcher Stevens passed away in Nashua, New Hampshire, on May 10, 1887, at the age of 67. He was buried at the Universalist Church Cemetery in Nashua.
Images for kids
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Rank insignia for a Colonel
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Rank insignia for a Brigadier General
