Jacob Parrott facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jacob Wilson Parrott
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| Born | July 17, 1843 Fairfield County, Ohio |
| Died | December 22, 1908 (aged 65) Kenton, Ohio |
| Place of burial |
Grove Cemetery Kenton, Ohio
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army (POW) |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1865 |
| Rank | First Lieutenant |
| Unit | Company K, 33rd Ohio Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Jacob Wilson Parrott (born July 17, 1843 – died December 22, 1908) was an American soldier. He became famous during the American Civil War. He was the very first person to receive the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military.
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Jacob Parrott's Early Life and Service
Jacob Parrott was born in Fairfield County, Ohio. When the Civil War began, he quickly joined the United States Army. In 1861, he became a private in the 33rd Ohio Infantry. His first battle was the Battle of Ivy Mountain.
The Great Locomotive Chase
In April 1862, Jacob Parrott volunteered for a very risky mission. He joined 21 other soldiers for a secret raid. This group became known as "Andrews' Raiders." They were led by a man named James J. Andrews.
Their goal was to go behind Confederate lines. They planned to steal a train called "General." They wanted to damage Confederate railroads. This would stop supplies from reaching the enemy.
Capture and Escape
The raid did not go as planned. Jacob Parrott and the other raiders were captured. They were put in prison. Parrott was treated very harshly. He was beaten many times to try and make him reveal information. But he refused to talk.
Later, Parrott and 14 other prisoners managed to escape. It was a very difficult journey. Only six of them, including Parrott, made it back to their own lines.
A Hero's Recognition
After his escape, Jacob Parrott was exchanged for a Confederate prisoner. He then traveled to Washington, D.C.. There, he met President Abraham Lincoln.
On March 25, 1863, something special happened. Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton presented Jacob Parrott with the Medal of Honor. He was the first person ever to receive this important award. It was given for his bravery during the Great Locomotive Chase.
Continuing His Service
Jacob Parrott continued to serve in the Union Army. He fought for the rest of the war. In 1863, he was promoted to second lieutenant. This happened after the Battle of Stones River. He was promoted again to first lieutenant in 1864.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, Jacob Parrott returned home. He went back to Kenton, Ohio. He worked as a cabinet maker. He also managed a stone quarry near Kenton.
Jacob Parrott passed away on December 22, 1908. He suffered a heart attack while walking home. He is buried in Grove Cemetery in Kenton, Ohio. His bravery and his place in history as the first Medal of Honor recipient are still remembered.
