Hartwell B. Compson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hartwell Thomas Benton Compson
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| Born | May 5, 1842 Seneca Falls, New York |
| Died | August 31, 1905 (aged 63) Portland, Oregon |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Oregon National Guard |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1865 (US Army) |
| Rank | Major and Brevet Colonel (US Army) Brigadier General (National Guard) |
| Unit |  8th Regiment, New York Volunteer Cavalry |
| Commands held | 8th Regiment, New York Volunteer Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Hartwell Thomas Benton Compson (May 5, 1842 – August 31, 1905) was an American military officer. He received the Medal of Honor for his brave actions during the American Civil War.
A Young Soldier's Start
Hartwell Compson was born on May 5, 1842, in Seneca Falls, New York. He was one of thirteen children in his family. When the American Civil War began, he decided to join the army. In September 1861, he volunteered for the 8th Regiment New York Cavalry.
Compson quickly showed he was a good leader. He moved up in rank very fast and eventually became the commander of his regiment.
Heroism in Battle
On March 2, 1865, Major Compson led his troops into a big battle at Waynesboro, Virginia. The fighting was very intense, with soldiers fighting close up. During this fierce battle, Major Compson did something incredibly brave. He personally captured the main flag of Confederate general Jubal Early. Capturing an enemy's flag was a huge victory and showed great courage.
For this amazing act, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award a soldier can receive for bravery. General Philip Sheridan also gave Compson an honorary promotion to colonel, which is called a brevet promotion. Unlike many soldiers who had to wait a long time for their awards, Compson received his Medal of Honor just one month after the battle.
Life After the War
After leaving the army in June 1865, Compson took on new roles. He worked as a U.S. Marshal, which is like a federal police officer. He also served as a Postmaster, managing a local post office.
Later, he moved to Oregon. There, he continued his military service by becoming a Brigadier General in the Oregon National Guard.
Hartwell Compson passed away on August 31, 1905, in Portland, Oregon. He was buried in the Grand Army of the Republic Cemetery. For about 100 years after his death, his grave did not have a proper headstone. But then, some amateur historians, Roy Vanderhoof and Mike Stephenson, worked hard to get him one. With help from Congresswoman Darlene Hooley, they got a proper headstone from the Federal Veterans Administration.
