Daniel McCauley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Daniel McCauley
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Portrait of Colonel Daniel Macauley of the 11th Indiana Volunteer Infantry Regiment, taken sometime in 1862-1865
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| 10th Mayor of Indianapolis | |
| In office 1867–1873 |
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| Preceded by | John Caven |
| Succeeded by | James L. Mitchell |
Daniel McCauley (1839–1894) was an important American soldier and politician. He served as an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Later, he became the mayor of Indianapolis, Indiana.
Contents
Early Life and Joining the Army
Daniel Macauley was born in New York in September 1839. He later moved to Indianapolis, Indiana. When the American Civil War began in 1861, Daniel was ready to serve his country.
He joined the 11th Indiana Infantry Regiment on April 22, 1861. He started as a Second Lieutenant in Company E. Daniel quickly showed his skills and was promoted to Adjutant. This meant he helped Colonel Lew Wallace with important tasks. After serving in Virginia, his regiment returned home in August 1861.
A Brave Soldier
Daniel Macauley rejoined the 11th Indiana Regiment on August 31, 1861. He continued to rise through the ranks.
Promotions and Key Battles
- He became a Major on April 21, 1862, after the Battle of Shiloh.
- During the summer of 1862, his regiment fought in Arkansas and Mississippi.
- Daniel was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on September 4, 1862.
- He took command of the 11th Indiana on November 29, 1862.
- He became a full Colonel on March 10, 1863.
Colonel Macauley led his troops during the important Siege of Vicksburg. This was a major effort to take control of the Mississippi River.
Fighting at Vicksburg
- In the first battle of the campaign, his men captured a Rebel battery at Battle of Port Gibson.
- On May 19, 1863, his regiment fought hard at Battle of Champion Hill.
- Colonel Macauley was among the 167 soldiers who were hurt during this battle.
Return to Service
After recovering from his injuries, Colonel Macauley rejoined his regiment. They continued fighting in Louisiana until January 1864. After a break, the 11th Indiana moved to Virginia.
During the Valley campaigns of 1864 in the Shenandoah Valley, his regiment was in many battles. Colonel Macauley was badly wounded again in October 1864 at the Battle of Cedar Creek. His injuries were so severe that he could no longer fight on the front lines.
He was then given a special role in Baltimore. On July 11, 1865, Daniel Macauley was honored for his bravery. He was given the special title of Brigadier General. This award was dated back to the day he was wounded at Cedar Creek.
Life After the War
On July 26, 1865, Brigadier General Macauley left the army. He returned home to Indianapolis.
Mayor of Indianapolis
After his military service, Daniel Macauley entered politics. He was elected the 10th mayor of Indianapolis in 1867. He served as mayor for six years, until 1873.
General Macauley passed away in 1894. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a special place for heroes.
