George W. Monroe facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Wood Monroe
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| Born | June 3, 1835 Columbia, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Died | September 22, 1869 (aged 34) Frankfort, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Buried |
Frankfort Cemetery, Frankfort, Kentucky, U.S.
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| Allegiance |  United States (Union) |
| Branch |  United States Army (Union Army) |
| Years of service | 1862 – 1868 |
| Commands held | 22nd Kentucky Infantry Regiment 7th Kentucky Veteran Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War
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George Wood Monroe was an American soldier who became a Brevet Brigadier General during the American Civil War. This means he received an honorary rank for his brave actions. He led the 22nd Kentucky Infantry Regiment during the war. After the war, he also commanded the 7th Kentucky Infantry Regiment. Monroe and his troops were important in several major battles of the Vicksburg campaign.
Early Life and Career
George W. Monroe was born on June 3, 1835. His birthplace was Columbia, Kentucky. He was the sixth son of Judge Benjamin Monroe. George grew up in Frankfort, Kentucky, and went to public schools there. Because his father was a judge, George was able to become a lawyer in the 1850s.
Serving in the Civil War
On January 10, 1862, George Monroe joined the army. He became a lieutenant colonel in the 22nd Kentucky Infantry Regiment. Some of the men in his company were his friends from Frankfort. Monroe first fought in the Battle of Middle Creek on the same day he joined. He was praised for his actions there. One report said he was key to winning the day.
Monroe and the 22nd Kentucky Regiment then joined George W. Morgan. They fought in the Battle of the Cumberland Gap. Later, they joined William Tecumseh Sherman at the Battle of Chickasaw Bayou. Monroe was wounded during this battle. On December 12, 1862, he was promoted to colonel. He was then given command of the entire regiment.
Key Battles and Promotions
Monroe and the 22nd Kentucky Regiment took part in Ulysses S. Grant's Vicksburg campaign. They fought in many important battles. These included Arkansas Post, Thompson's Hill, Champion Hill, and Big Black River Bridge.
In March 1864, three Kentucky regiments were combined. The 7th, 9th, and 22nd Kentucky Infantry Regiments became the 7th Kentucky Veteran Regiment. Monroe was given command of this new regiment. They stayed stationed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. On March 18, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln honored Monroe. He made him a Brevet Brigadier General. This was for his "gallant and meritorious services" during the war.
After the War
After the Civil War ended, Monroe continued to serve in the United States Army. He became Kentucky's Quartermaster General. This role involved managing supplies for the army. He served until September 1868. He had to resign because he became very sick. George Wood Monroe passed away on September 22, 1869. He was buried at Frankfort Cemetery.
