Embury D. Osband facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Embury D. Osband
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|---|---|
| Born | June 6, 1832 Ontario County, New York |
| Died | October 4, 1866 Yazoo County, Mississippi |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  Union Illinois |
| Service/ |
Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Colonel Brevet Brigadier General |
| Commands held | 3rd U.S. Colored Cavalry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | |
Embury D. Osband (born June 6, 1832 – died October 4, 1866) was an important officer during the American Civil War. He led the 3rd United States Colored Cavalry Regiment, which was a special unit made up of African-American soldiers. Osband was born in New York and worked as a teacher before the war began. He later moved to Chicago.
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Early Life and Work
Embury D. Osband was born on June 6, 1832, in Ontario County, New York. As a young man, he chose a career in education. He worked as a teacher, helping students learn and grow.
Starting a Business
After teaching, Osband decided to start his own business. He created a company that supplied books to schools. This showed his dedication to education and helping young people learn.
Moving to Chicago
In 1856, Embury Osband got married. Soon after, he and his wife moved to Chicago, a busy city in Illinois. They settled there, and Osband continued his work.
Service in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Embury Osband felt it was his duty to join the fight. He quickly became involved in the Union Army.
Joining the Union Army
Osband helped to create a new company of soldiers for the 4th Illinois Cavalry Regiment. Because of his leadership skills, he was made a captain of this company. This was his first step as a military officer.
Leading African-American Soldiers
In 1863, Osband was given a very important role. He was made a colonel and put in charge of a brand new regiment. This unit was called the 3rd United States Colored Cavalry Regiment. It was special because it was made up of African-American soldiers, many of whom had been enslaved before the war.
Leading these soldiers was a big responsibility. Colonel Osband helped train them and led them into battle. He played a key part in several military actions.
Grierson's Raid
Colonel Osband and his regiment took part in a major operation known as Grierson's 1864–65 Raid. This was a long and daring cavalry mission. It involved moving quickly through enemy territory to disrupt Confederate forces. Osband's leadership during this raid was highly praised.
Earning a Higher Rank
For his brave service and strong leadership during the war, Embury Osband received a special honor. He was given the brevet rank of brigadier general. A brevet rank is an honorary promotion. It means he was recognized for his excellent service, even though he might not have held that rank permanently.
After the War
After the Civil War ended in 1865, Embury Osband left the military. He decided to start a new life as a farmer.
Life in Mississippi
Osband moved to Mississippi to begin his farming career. He worked hard to build a new life for himself after the war.
His Death
Sadly, Embury D. Osband's life was cut short. He died on October 4, 1866, in Yazoo County, Mississippi. He was only 34 years old. He is buried at the Vicksburg National Cemetery.
