Ansel Dyer Wass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ansel Dyer Wass
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| Born | November 12, 1832 Addison, Maine |
| Died | January 24, 1889 (aged 56) Boston, Massachusetts |
| Buried |
Evergreen Cemetery, Portland, Maine
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Colonel Brevet Brigadier General |
| Commands held |
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| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Other work | Agent, Boston Custom House |
Ansel Dyer Wass (born November 12, 1832 – died January 24, 1889) was an important officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was born in Addison, Maine.
Contents
Serving in the Civil War
When the Civil War started, Ansel Wass was working as a clerk. He joined the army on April 22, 1861, as a first lieutenant. He served with the 6th Massachusetts Militia.
Joining the 19th Massachusetts Infantry
On August 28, 1861, Wass became a captain of a group called the "Tiger Zouaves." This group later became Company K of the 19th Massachusetts Infantry. He led this company until July 1, 1862. During this time, his regiment was part of the Army of the Potomac. They fought in the Peninsular Campaign.
Promotions and New Commands
On July 1, 1862, Wass moved to the 41st Massachusetts Infantry. He was promoted to major and then to lieutenant colonel on September 6, 1862. He served with this regiment in Louisiana. However, he left the army on January 31, 1863.
Return to the 19th Massachusetts
Wass rejoined his old regiment, the 19th Massachusetts Infantry, on May 23, 1863, as a lieutenant colonel. He was badly hurt during Pickett's Charge on July 3, 1863. This famous battle happened at Gettysburg.
Later, on October 14, 1863, he temporarily led the 3rd brigade of the II Corps. He was wounded a second time during the Battle of Bristoe Station.
Leading Regiments
On February 28, 1864, Wass was promoted to colonel. He became the commanding officer of the 19th Massachusetts. He held this position until the regiment finished its service on July 28, 1864.
After that, on August 6, 1864, Colonel Wass was put in charge of a new regiment, the 60th Massachusetts Infantry. This regiment first guarded railroad lines in Maryland. Then, they moved to Indianapolis to deal with Confederate supporters.
Even though he was not in good health from his long service and wounds, Wass was appointed colonel of the 62nd Massachusetts Infantry on March 2, 1865. However, the war ended before this regiment could go into battle.
Becoming a Brigadier General
On May 4, 1866, President Andrew Johnson suggested that Wass be made a brevet brigadier general. This special rank was given for his brave service. The United States Senate agreed to this on May 18, 1866.
Life After the War
After the war, Ansel Wass worked as an agent for the United States Customs Service. He passed away in Boston, Massachusetts on January 23, 1889. He was buried in Evergreen Cemetery (Portland, Maine).
