George H. Maynard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Henry Maynard
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![]() Maynard in 1895
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Born | Waltham, Massachusetts |
February 2, 1836
Died | December 26, 1927 Waltham, Massachusetts |
(aged 91)
Place of burial |
Mount Feake Cemetery Waltham, Massachusetts
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Allegiance | United States of America Union |
Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
Rank | Private |
Unit | ![]() |
Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Awards | Medal of Honor |
George H. Maynard (February 2, 1836 – December 26, 1927) was a brave soldier in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military. He earned this special award for his heroic actions during a battle.
Early Life and Work
George H. Maynard was born in Waltham, Massachusetts, on February 2, 1836. His parents were Warren and Nancy Maynard. He went to public schools in Waltham. When he was 15, he started learning to be a jeweler in Boston. He worked as a jeweler until the Civil War began.
Military Service and Bravery
Maynard joined the Union Army on July 20, 1861. He was a private in Company D of the 13th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He fought in many battles, including the Battle of Fredericksburg in Virginia. This battle took place on December 13, 1862.
During the Battle of Fredericksburg, Maynard showed incredible courage. He ran through dangerous enemy fire to save a fellow soldier. This soldier had been badly wounded. For this brave act, Maynard received the Medal of Honor in 1898. He left the 13th Massachusetts Regiment on February 17, 1863.
Later, on January 17, 1864, he became a captain in the 82nd United States Colored Infantry. He was promoted to the rank of major on March 15, 1865. This was for his excellent service during the war. He officially left the army on September 10, 1866.
Life After the War
After the war, George Maynard married Harriet Elizabeth Henry in 1868. They had seven children together. Sadly, most of his children passed away before him.
Maynard was also involved in several groups. In 1875, he joined the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts. He became the first sergeant of this company in 1879. He was also a member of the Masons and a Knight Templar. He was part of the Massachusetts Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.
George Maynard lived a long life. He passed away in 1927 at the age of 91. He was buried in the Mount Feake Cemetery in Waltham, Massachusetts.