George Mercer Brooke facts for kids

George Mercer Brooke (born October 16, 1785, died March 9, 1851) was an important officer in the United States Army. He became a major general. In 1823, when he was a colonel, Brooke received a special order. He was sent to Florida with James Gadsden. Their mission was to set up a military base near Tampa Bay. This new base would help control the Seminole people. It would also stop illegal activities along the Gulf Coast.

Early Life and Family

George Mercer Brooke was born in King William County, Virginia. His father, Richard Brooke, was a planter and a state senator. His mother was Maria Mercer Brooke. George married Lucy Thomas Brooke. They had a son named John Mercer Brooke. John later became a famous scientist and naval officer.

Military Career and Fort Brooke

Brooke started his military career in May 1808. He was a first lieutenant. He served during the War of 1812. In 1824, Colonel Brooke led four companies of soldiers. They came from Pensacola, Florida. On January 10, 1824, they set up a camp. It was called "Cantonment Brooke." This camp was at the mouth of the Hillsborough River. Today, this area is downtown Tampa.

The camp was built near a large hickory tree. This tree stood on an old Indian mound. This mound was likely built by the Tocobaga people many centuries ago. Brooke told his soldiers to clear the land. They built a wooden fort and other buildings. He made sure to save some large live oak trees. These trees provided shade and made the camp look nice. Later in 1824, the camp was officially named Fort Brooke.

Commander of the Western Division

On June 10, 1846, Brooke was given a big new job. He became the commander of the Western Division of the United States Army. He took over from General Edmund P. Gaines. Brooke was in charge of all U.S. Army territory west of the Mississippi River. His main job was to send help and supplies. These went to the armies of generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott. They were fighting in Mexico. Brooke worked from his headquarters in New Orleans.

Legacy

George Mercer Brooke has a lasting legacy. His great-grandson is also named George Mercer Brooke, Jr. There is also a chapter named after him. It is part of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.