Charles A. Wikoff facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Augustus Wikoff
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Charles A. Wikoff
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| Born | March 3, 1837 Easton, Pennsylvania |
| Died | July 1, 1898 (aged 61) near Santiago, Cuba |
| Buried |
Easton Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1898 |
| Rank |  Colonel |
| Commands held | 22nd U. S. Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War
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Charles Augustus Wikoff was an important officer in the United States Army. He served in the army for many years, starting during the American Civil War. He is especially remembered because he was the highest-ranking American officer to die in the Spanish–American War. He was born on March 3, 1837, and passed away on July 1, 1898.
Contents
Who Was Charles Wikoff?
Early Life and First Job
Charles Augustus Wikoff was born in Easton, Pennsylvania. He went to Lafayette College and earned two degrees there. Before joining the army, he worked as a civil engineer. From 1855 to 1857, he helped build the Illinois Central Railroad. He worked under a famous person named George B. McClellan.
Fighting in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began in April 1861, Wikoff joined the army. He started as a private in the 1st Pennsylvania Infantry. The next month, he became a first lieutenant in the 15th U.S. Infantry.
During the war, he was shot in his left eye at the Battle of Shiloh. After that, he wore an eye patch for the rest of his life. He also fought in other big battles, like the Battle of Chickamauga and the Battle of Missionary Ridge. For his bravery at Missionary Ridge, he was given the honorary rank of major. In August 1864, he was promoted to captain.
After the Civil War
After the Civil War ended, Wikoff continued his army career. He was moved to different army units. He served in places like Texas and the Dakotas. In December 1886, he became a major in the 14th Infantry. This unit was stationed at Vancouver Barracks.
Later, in November 1891, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel. He served with the 19th Infantry at Forts Wayne and Brady in Michigan. Finally, in January 1897, he became a colonel of the 22nd Infantry. This unit was based at Fort Crook, Nebraska.
The Spanish-American War
In 1898, Colonel Wikoff led his 22nd Infantry from Fort Crook to Cuba. There, he was given a new command. He led the 3rd Brigade, which was part of the 2nd Division. This division belonged to Major General William Rufus Shafter's V Army Corps.
Wikoff was leading his troops during a charge at the Battle of San Juan Hill. He was shot while crossing an open field. Sadly, he died from his wound within 15 minutes. He was the highest-ranking American officer to be killed in this war. After he fell, two other officers, William S. Worth and Emerson H. Liscum, were also shot. Finally, Ezra P. Ewers, who was fourth in command, took control of the brigade.
His Legacy
Charles Augustus Wikoff is buried in Easton Cemetery in Pennsylvania.
A place called Camp Wikoff in Montauk, New York, was named after him. This camp was important because American troops, including Theodore Roosevelt, returned there after the Spanish-American War.
