Datus Ensing Coon facts for kids

Datus Ensing Coon (1831 – 1893) was an interesting person who had many different jobs during his life. He was a newspaper publisher, a soldier, a politician, and a leader in a veterans' group. He lived in several places, including New York, Iowa, Alabama, and California.

Early Life and Military Service

Datus Coon was born in New York in 1831. When he was younger, he worked on a farm in Iowa with his father. Later, he started his own newspaper.

During the American Civil War, Datus Coon joined the Union Army. He became a high-ranking officer, serving as a colonel. He led a brigade of soldiers from Iowa.

Life in Alabama

After the war, Datus Coon moved to Alabama. He became involved in politics during a time called the Reconstruction era. This was a period when the Southern states were being rebuilt after the Civil War.

He was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives. He represented Dallas County, Alabama in the state government. He also worked as an inspector in Alabama in 1872.

Later Years in San Diego

In 1878, Datus Coon moved to San Diego, California. He took on a role related to immigration. He also became a very important member of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.). This was a large group for veterans who had fought in the Union Army during the Civil War.

Sadly, Datus Coon was accidentally shot in 1893. After his death, the Grand Army of the Republic honored him. They named one of their local groups, called a "post," after him.

Datus Coon is buried at Mt. Hope Cemetery in San Diego.