George Nicholas Bascom facts for kids
George Nicholas Bascom (born 1837 – died February 21, 1862) was an officer in the United States Army. He served in the Arizona Territory and at the start of the American Civil War.
George Bascom's Early Life and Army Days
George N. Bascom was born in Owingsville, Kentucky. He went to the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1858. After West Point, he was first stationed at Camp Floyd in Utah. Later, he moved to Fort Buchanan in Arizona. He was a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. 7th Infantry Regiment.
The Bascom Affair
In January 1861, Lieutenant Bascom was involved in an event called the Bascom Affair. This happened at Apache Pass. This event is seen as a major reason for the start of the Apache War (1861–1872).
A Soldier's End
When the American Civil War began, Bascom was promoted to captain. He was assigned to the U.S. 16th Infantry Regiment. However, before he could join his new regiment, his old unit, the 7th Infantry, moved to Fort Craig.
Captain Bascom was killed in action on February 21, 1862. This happened during the Battle of Val Verde in New Mexico Territory. He was fighting against Confederate forces. Later, Fort Bascom, in New Mexico, was named in his honor.
Bascom was first buried at the cemetery at Fort Craig. When Fort Craig closed in 1885, many bodies were moved. They were reburied at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. Bascom's burial was one that could not be identified. It is believed he rests under one of the unknown markers there.
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