Andrew J. Grigsby facts for kids

Andrew Jackson Grigsby (born November 2, 1819 – died December 23, 1895) was an officer in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. He was part of the famous Stonewall Brigade. People also knew him as "A. J. Grigsby" or "Arnold J. Grigsby."

Early Life and Joining the War

Andrew Jackson Grigsby was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia. He went to Washington College, which is now called Washington & Lee University. Before the Civil War, he was a farmer. He also fought in the Mexican War.

When the Civil War started in 1861, Grigsby joined the Confederate Army. He became a major in the 27th Virginia Infantry, which was part of the Stonewall Brigade. Later that year, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel.

Leading the Stonewall Brigade

Grigsby showed strong leadership during the war. When his regiment's commander was hurt at the First Battle of Kernstown in March 1862, Grigsby took charge. He led the regiment through several important campaigns, including the Valley Campaign, the Seven Days Battles, and the Northern Virginia campaign.

Later, during the Second Battle of Bull Run, the acting commander of the Stonewall Brigade was killed. Grigsby then stepped up to lead the entire brigade. He led them into the Maryland Campaign. At the Battle of Antietam, even though he was only a colonel, Grigsby ended up commanding a whole division because his superior officers were either wounded or killed.

Why Grigsby Didn't Become a General

After the Battle of Antietam, Grigsby hoped to be promoted to brigadier general. He had led the brigade in two major battles and felt he had earned it. However, General Stonewall Jackson chose other officers for the top positions. Jackson gave division command to Brig. Gen. Raleigh Colston and command of the Stonewall Brigade to Brig. Gen. Elisha Paxton.

Grigsby was very upset that he was not promoted and was sent back to commanding his regiment. One idea about why he was passed over is that he used bad language, which General Jackson, a very religious man, did not like. Jackson never fully explained his decision. It is thought that Jackson preferred the quiet and religious Elisha Paxton over the hot-tempered Grigsby.

Because he was so disappointed, Grigsby resigned from the army in November 1862.

After the War

After leaving the army, Andrew Jackson Grigsby did not serve in the military again during the war. He later served in the Confederate House of Representatives, representing Kentucky.

Andrew Jackson Grigsby died on December 23, 1895, in Stony Point, Virginia. He is buried there in the Gross family cemetery.

See also

In Spanish: Andrew Jackson Grigsby para niños