George Varney facts for kids

George Varney (1834–1911) was a brave soldier who became a colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was later given an honorary rank of brevet brigadier general for his courage at the Battle of Fredericksburg in 1862. He was born in Levant, Maine, and worked as a grocer in Bangor, Maine before the war began.

George Varney's War Journey

Joining the Fight

When the Civil War started in 1861, George Varney joined the army as a major. He was part of the 2nd Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment, which was the first group of soldiers from Maine to respond to President Abraham Lincoln's call for volunteers.

Facing Danger

Varney's first battle was the First Battle of Bull Run in July 1861. He was injured and captured by the enemy, but he was exchanged for a Confederate officer a month later. He was then promoted to lieutenant colonel.

In 1862, he was captured a second time at the Battle of Gaines' Mill, but again, he was exchanged.

Courage at Fredericksburg

One of Varney's most notable moments was at the Battle of Fredericksburg on December 13, 1862. As a lieutenant colonel, he led his regiment closer to a strong enemy position called Marye's Heights. During the intense fighting, a piece of an artillery shell hit him on the head, knocking him unconscious. Even though he was badly hurt, his bravery was recognized.

Becoming a Colonel

Lieutenant Colonel Varney recovered from his head wound. On January 10, 1863, he was promoted to colonel of his regiment. He served honorably until June 9, 1863, when he left the United States Volunteers.

Life After the War

After his time in the army, George Varney continued to serve his community. In 1864, he was elected to the Maine House of Representatives, representing his hometown of Bangor, Maine.

An Honorary General

In 1867, President Andrew Johnson nominated Colonel Varney for the honorary rank of brevet brigadier general. This means he was given the title of brigadier general as a special honor for his service, even though he didn't command troops at that rank after the war. The U.S. Senate confirmed this award on February 21, 1867.

Later Years

George Varney lived the rest of his life in Bangor. He is one of eight Union generals buried at Mount Hope Cemetery in Bangor.

His Story Discovered

In 1980, one of Varney's descendants, Robert W. P. Cutler, found Varney's old letters and papers. These important documents were later published in a book called The Tin Box in 1999, sharing his story with more people.