Asbury Coward facts for kids
Asbury Coward (born September 19, 1835 – died April 28, 1925) was an important leader in education. He served as an officer in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Later, he became the top education official for South Carolina. He also led a famous military college called The Citadel.
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Early Life and Education
Asbury Coward was born near Charleston, South Carolina. He grew up on a place called Quenby Plantation. In 1854, he finished his studies at the South Carolina Military Academy. This school is known today as The Citadel.
After graduating, Coward started a school with his friend Micah Jenkins. They opened the King's Mountain Military School in Yorkville in 1855. This school was a boarding school. It taught young men military skills and academic subjects.
Service During the Civil War
The King's Mountain Military School closed when the American Civil War began. Asbury Coward joined the Confederate Army. He became a colonel, which is a high-ranking officer. He fought in important battles in Tennessee and Georgia. He served under a well-known general named James Longstreet.
After the war ended, Coward tried to reopen his military school. However, it was a very difficult time for the country. The school struggled and eventually had to close again.
Leading The Citadel
In 1890, Asbury Coward was chosen to lead The Citadel. This was the same military college he had graduated from. He became the Superintendent of The Citadel. He held this important position for many years. He worked there until 1908.
During his time as Superintendent, he helped shape many young leaders. He focused on discipline and education.
Legacy and Recognition
Asbury Coward passed away in 1925. He was buried at Rosehill Cemetery in York County.
People remember his contributions to education and his service. The Daughters of the American Revolution honored him. They put up a monument for him. This monument is located at Kings Mountain National Military Park in Blacksburg.
His letters and writings are kept in special collections. The Citadel has many of his letters. Winthrop University also has a small collection. His life story was published in a book in 1968.
