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Elias Briggs Baldwin
Born (1834-06-17)June 17, 1834
Dutchess County, New York
Died March 26, 1921(1921-03-26) (aged 86)
Oswego, Kansas
Allegiance United States United States
Union
Branch United States Army
Union Army
Rank Union Army LTC rank insignia.png Lieutenant colonel
Unit 36th Illinois Infantry Regiment
Commands held 8th Regiment Missouri Volunteer Cavalry
Battles/wars American Civil War

Elias Briggs Baldwin (June 17, 1834 – March 26, 1921) was an important figure during the American Civil War. He served as a lieutenant colonel in the Union Army. After the war, he became a pioneer in Labette County, Kansas. He is also remembered for a serious event that happened in 1863 near Huntsville, Arkansas.

Elias Briggs Baldwin's Life and Military Service

Early Life and Education

Elias Briggs Baldwin was born on June 17, 1834, in Dutchess County, New York. He grew up on his family's farm there. He went to high school in Red Creek, New York. After finishing school, he became a teacher. He taught in both Rhode Island and Connecticut.

Joining the Union Army

When the American Civil War began, Elias Baldwin decided to join the fight. On April 13, 1861, he joined the Union Army. His four brothers also joined the army with him. Sadly, one of his brothers was killed during the Battle of Resaca.

Elias Baldwin was first chosen to be a captain for Company C. This company was part of the 36th Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry. His regiment was sent to Missouri. In February 1862, he was given the role of quartermaster. This job involved managing supplies for the army. Later, in August, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel. He then led the 8th Regiment Missouri Volunteer Cavalry.

A Controversial Event in Arkansas

While serving under Union General Francis Herron in Huntsville, Arkansas, a difficult event occurred. On January 10, 1863, nine local men were executed. This event became known as the "Huntsville Massacre." The reasons for this event are still not fully clear.

Afterward, Elias Baldwin was arrested because of what happened. He was taken to Springfield, Missouri, for a trial. However, many of the people who could have been witnesses were still serving in the army. Other local people had moved away or could not travel to Springfield. Because of this, the charges against Baldwin were eventually dropped. He was then dismissed from the army.

Life After the War

By 1870, Elias Baldwin had moved to Labette County, Kansas. He lived there for many years. Elias Briggs Baldwin passed away in Oswego, Kansas, on March 26, 1921, at the age of 86.

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