David Henry Williams facts for kids

David Henry Williams (born March 19, 1819 – died June 1, 1891) was an American engineer and writer. He also served as a soldier in two major wars.

He worked as a railroad surveyor and civil engineer. During the Mexican–American War, he volunteered for the United States Army. Later, in the American Civil War, he became a colonel in the Union Army. He led the 82nd Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment starting in July 1861.

Williams was briefly appointed as a brigadier general in November 1862. However, this appointment was not officially approved, so his highest rank remained colonel. After leaving the army in 1863, he went back to engineering. When his health declined, he became a writer for newspapers and magazines.

Early Life and Career

David Henry Williams was born in Otsego County, New York, on March 19, 1819.

In 1837, Williams moved to Detroit, Michigan. For ten years, he worked as a surveyor, mapping out routes for railroads.

Serving in the Mexican–American War

Williams volunteered to serve in the Mexican–American War. This war took place between the United States and Mexico from 1846 to 1848. While records are not entirely clear, it is believed he served as an enlisted soldier.

After the war, Williams moved to Allegheny, Pennsylvania, which is now part of Pittsburgh. There, he continued his engineering work and became interested in military training groups called militias.

The American Civil War

When the American Civil War began, David Henry Williams joined the Union Army. He was appointed as the first colonel of a group of soldiers known as the 31st Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment. This regiment later changed its name to the 82nd Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment.

Williams led his regiment during several important battles and campaigns:

• The Peninsula Campaign: This was a major Union effort to capture the Confederate capital.
• The Siege of Yorktown: A long standoff where Union forces surrounded a Confederate position.
• The Seven Days Battles: A series of intense fights where his regiment faced heavy losses, especially at the Battle of Seven Pines and the Battle of Malvern Hill.

His regiment did not see as much heavy fighting in later campaigns, like the Maryland Campaign or the Battle of Fredericksburg.

In November 1862, Williams was appointed as a brigadier general. However, this promotion was not officially confirmed by the government. Because of this, his highest official rank remained colonel. Williams left the Union Army in early 1863 and returned home to Allegheny.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving the army, Williams went back to his engineering career. For a time, he even taught engineering.

However, his health soon began to decline. He then turned to writing, becoming a frequent contributor to newspapers and magazines.

David Henry Williams passed away on June 1, 1891, in Allegheny, Pennsylvania. He was buried in Allegheny Cemetery in Pittsburgh.