George Sigourney Acker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Sigourney Acker
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|---|---|
| Born | December 25, 1835 Rochester, New York |
| Died | September 6, 1879 (aged 43) Kalamazoo, Michigan |
| Buried |
Riverside Cemetery
Union City, Michigan |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Colonel Bvt. Brigadier General |
| Unit | 1st Michigan Cavalry |
| Commands held | 9th Michigan Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
George Sigourney Acker (born December 25, 1835 – died September 6, 1879) was an important officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He served bravely and rose through the ranks.
Contents
Who Was George Acker?
George Sigourney Acker was born on Christmas Day in 1835, in Rochester, New York. When the American Civil War began, he joined the Union Army. This was the army that fought to keep the United States together. Acker became a leader, showing courage and skill throughout the war.
Starting His Military Career
In 1861, George Acker joined the 1st Michigan Cavalry. He quickly became a captain, leading a group of soldiers called Company I. His first big actions were in the Shenandoah Valley in the spring of 1862. He also fought in the Second Battle of Bull Run. This was a major battle early in the war.
By late 1862, Acker was promoted to lieutenant colonel. In early 1863, he moved to the 9th Michigan Cavalry.
Key Battles and Promotions
George Acker played a role in stopping Confederate General John Hunt Morgan's raids. These were quick attacks by Morgan's soldiers in Kentucky and Ohio. Acker fought in the Battle of Buffington Island in Ohio. This battle helped lead to Morgan's capture.
After this, Acker and his regiment joined General Ambrose Burnside's forces. They were stationed in eastern Tennessee.
An Injury and Return
On November 14, 1863, Acker was injured at the Battle of Bean's Station. He recovered from his wounds and returned to duty in the spring of 1864. He was promoted to colonel.
Later Campaigns and Achievements
Colonel Acker again fought against General Morgan's troops. He served in Kentucky and Tennessee until October 1864. After this, he joined General William Tecumseh Sherman's army.
He took part in Sherman's famous "March to the Sea." This was a long march through Georgia that helped end the war. He also participated in the Carolinas Campaign. On March 13, 1865, Acker received a special honor. He was given a "brevet" promotion to Brigadier General. A brevet promotion means he had the rank, but not always the pay or command of a full general.
His Final Years
Colonel George Acker passed away on September 6, 1879. He died in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He is buried in Riverside Cemetery in Union City, Michigan.
