Charles Hamlin (general) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Hamlin
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Charles Hamlin
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| 49th Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives | |
| In office 1885–1887 |
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| Preceded by | J. Manchester Haynes |
| Succeeded by | Charles E. Littlefield |
| Member of the Maine House of Representatives | |
| In office 1883–1887 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | September 13, 1837 Hampden, Maine, U.S. |
| Died | May 15, 1911 (aged 73) Bangor, Maine, U.S. |
| Resting place | Mount Hope Cemetery, Bangor, Maine, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Major Brevet Brigadier General |
| Unit | 1st Maine Heavy Artillery Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Charles Hamlin (born September 13, 1837 – died May 15, 1911) was an important person from Bangor, Maine. He was a lawyer and a brave officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He reached the rank of major.
After the war, he was given an honorary rank. This was called a brevet brigadier general. This special honor was given by President Andrew Johnson. Charles Hamlin was also the son of Hannibal Hamlin, who was a Vice President of the United States. His brother, Cyrus Hamlin, was also a Union Army general.
Contents
Charles Hamlin's Life Story
Early Life and Military Service
Charles Hamlin was born in Hampden, Maine. He went to Bowdoin College and finished his studies in 1857. When the American Civil War started, he joined the Union Army. He became a major in the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery Regiment.
Later, he worked as a staff officer. This meant he helped generals with important tasks. He was a major and an assistant adjutant general in the Army of the Potomac. He fought in many battles, including the famous Battle of Gettysburg.
A Special Honor
For his loyal and excellent service, Charles Hamlin received a special honor. He was given the honorary rank of brevet brigadier general. This means he had the rank for his brave actions, but not the full pay or command of a regular brigadier general. The United States Senate confirmed this honor in 1866.
Witnessing History
While serving in Washington D.C., Charles Hamlin was present at Ford's Theater. He was there with his sister, Sarah, on the night Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. This was a very sad and important moment in American history. Hamlin left the army in September 1865.
Life After the War
After the war ended, Charles Hamlin returned home to Bangor, Maine. He continued his career as a lawyer. He became the City Solicitor of Bangor in 1867. This job meant he was the main lawyer for the city.
In the 1880s, he entered politics. He was elected to the Maine House of Representatives in 1883 and again in 1885. During his second term, he was chosen to be the Speaker. The Speaker is like the leader of the House of Representatives.
Hamlin also helped his community in other ways. He served as the president of the Eastern Maine General Hospital. Today, this hospital is known as the Eastern Maine Medical Center.
See also
- List of American Civil War brevet generals (Union)
