Fletcher Webster facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Fletcher Webster
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Fletcher Webster as a Colonel in the Union Army
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| 12th Chief Clerk of the Department of State | |
| In office March 6, 1841 – April 23, 1843 |
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| President | William Henry Harrison John Tyler |
| Preceded by | Jacob L. Martin |
| Succeeded by | William S. Derrick |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Daniel Fletcher Webster
July 25, 1813 Portsmouth, New Hampshire, U.S. |
| Died | August 30, 1862 (aged 49) Prince William County, Virginia, C.S. |
| Cause of death | Died of wounds |
| Nationality | United States |
| Spouse | Caroline S. White |
| Parent |
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| Education | Harvard College |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States ArmyUnion Army |
| Years of service | 1861-62 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Commands | 12th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | Second Battle of Bull Run (DOW) |
Daniel Fletcher Webster, known as Fletcher Webster (born July 25, 1813 – died August 30, 1862), was an American diplomat and a brave officer in the Union Army. He was the son of a famous politician, Daniel Webster, and Grace Fletcher Webster.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Fletcher Webster grew up in a well-known family. He attended the Boston Latin School around 1829. After that, he went on to study at Harvard College, graduating in 1833.
A Role in Government
When his father was the Secretary of State, Fletcher got an important job. He became the Chief Clerk of the United States State Department. This was a very powerful position at the time. It was the second most important job in the whole department.
As chief clerk, Fletcher had a special duty. He was the one who told John Tyler that President William Henry Harrison had died. This meant John Tyler would become the new president.
Family Life
Fletcher Webster married Caroline S. White on November 11, 1836. They had two sons together: Daniel, born in April 1840, and Ashburton, born in December 1847. They also had four daughters. Sadly, three of their daughters passed away when they were very young. Their third daughter, Caroline W. Webster, later married James Geddes Day.
Serving in the Civil War
During the Civil War, Fletcher Webster joined the army. He became a colonel in charge of the 12th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. This group of soldiers was often called "The Webster Regiment." They were named in honor of their commander, Colonel Webster.
In a big battle called the Second Battle of Bull Run, Colonel Webster was fighting bravely. He was helping his fellow soldiers push back an attack. On August 30, 1862, he was badly wounded during the battle. He died from his injuries that day.
Remembering Fletcher Webster
Today, there are memorials to honor Colonel Fletcher Webster. A special boulder stands in Manassas National Battlefield Park in his memory. There is also a memorial for "The Webster Regiment" at Gettysburg National Park. His name is also carved on a marble shield at the Boston Latin School, where he once studied.
