Alexander S. Diven facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alexander Samuel Diven
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Alexander S. Diven as Colonel of the 107th New York Infantry Regiment, 1863.
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| Member of the New York Senate from the 20th district |
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| In office 1858–1859 |
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| Preceded by | John E. Paterson |
| Succeeded by | Samuel H. Hammond |
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York's 27th district |
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| In office 1861–1863 |
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| Preceded by | Alfred Wells |
| Succeeded by | Robert B. Van Valkenburgh |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 10, 1809 Catharine, New York, U.S. |
| Died | June 11, 1896 (aged 87) Elmira, New York, U.S. |
| Resting place | Woodlawn Cemetery |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Amanda Beers |
| Children | 8 |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States ArmyUnion Army |
| Years of service | August 13, 1862 – May 11, 1863 |
| Rank |  Colonel Bvt. Brigadier General |
| Commands | 107th New York Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Alexander Samuel Diven (February 10, 1809 – June 11, 1896) was an American politician from New York. He also served as an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Alexander Samuel Diven was born in Catharine, New York, in 1809. He attended local schools and academies in Penn Yan and Ovid. After his schooling, he decided to study law. In 1831, he became a lawyer and started his practice in Elmira.
Political Career
Diven began his political journey in New York. He was a member of the New York State Senate. He represented the 27th District from 1858 to 1859.
Serving in Congress
As a member of the Republican Party, Diven was elected to the United States Congress. He served in Congress from March 4, 1861, to March 3, 1863. During his time in Congress, he was strongly against slavery. He was known for being the first to suggest and introduce ideas to allow African American soldiers to join the Union Army.
Military Service in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Alexander Diven joined the Army. He started his military service on August 13, 1862. His first rank was lieutenant colonel in the 107th New York Infantry Regiment.
Rising Through the Ranks
Diven quickly showed his leadership skills. He was promoted to colonel on October 21, 1862. Even while serving in the Army, he was allowed to take a break to attend to his duties in Congress. He was honorably discharged as a colonel on May 11, 1863. Later, on April 30, 1864, he received an honorary promotion to brevet brigadier general of Volunteers. In 1869, he gave a speech at the dedication of a monument honoring the 107th New York Regiment.
Business Ventures
After his military service, Diven became involved in business. From 1865 to 1875, he worked in railroad construction and management. He was a key figure in the operations of the Erie Railroad.
Building Fire Engines
In the 1870s, Diven and his four sons bought a company called LaFrance Manufacturing Company. This company made steam fire engines. They renamed it LaFrance Manufacturing Company. The company soon built a new factory. This plant made steam engines and other equipment, including parts for railroad locomotives.
Family and Legacy
In 1835, General Diven married Amanda Beers from Elmira. They had eight children together, four sons and four daughters. One of his daughters, May, married a U.S. Army officer named Emerson H. Liscum in 1867.
Alexander Samuel Diven passed away in Elmira, New York, on June 11, 1896. He was buried at Woodlawn Cemetery. Diven Elementary School in the Elmira City School District is named in honor of his son, George.
