James Deshler facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Deshler
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James Deshler in Confederate uniform
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| Born | February 18, 1833 Tuscumbia, Alabama |
| Died | September 20, 1863 (aged 30) Chickamauga, Georgia |
| Place of burial |
Oakwood Cemetery, Tuscumbia
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| Allegiance |  United States of America Confederate States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1854–61 (USA) 1861–63 (CSA) |
| Rank |  First Lieutenant (USA) Colonel (CSA) Brigadier General (CSA), unconfirmed. |
| Battles/wars | Utah War American Civil War |
James Deshler (born February 18, 1833 – died September 20, 1863) was a soldier who served in the United States Army. He graduated from West Point, a famous military school. Later, he joined the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. He fought in several important battles, including Cheat Mountain, Camp Allegheny, Arkansas Post, and Chickamauga. Deshler was promoted to a high rank, but he died in battle before his promotion was officially confirmed.
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Early Life and Military Training
James Deshler was born on February 18, 1833, in Tuscumbia, Alabama. His parents were David Deshler and Eleanor Taylor. He attended the West Point military academy. He graduated in 1854, ranking higher than some other famous future generals.
After graduating, James became a second lieutenant in the United States Army. His first assignment was in California. Later, he was promoted to first lieutenant in 1858. He then joined a group of soldiers for the Utah War expedition.
After this expedition, Deshler was stationed at Fort Wise. He stayed there until 1861. In 1861, he left the U.S. Army. He then joined the Confederate States Army as the American Civil War began.
Service During the Civil War
After leaving the U.S. Army, Deshler joined the Confederate army as a captain in the artillery. In September 1861, he helped Brigadier General Henry R. Jackson during the Battle of Cheat Mountain. Deshler was wounded during the Battle of Allegheny Mountain. He was shot through his thighs.
After he recovered from his injuries, he was promoted to colonel. He was then assigned to work for Major General Theophilus H. Holmes. In 1862, Deshler was given his first command. This group included the 10th Texas Infantry Regiment and several dismounted cavalry regiments.
On January 11, 1863, Deshler was captured. This happened when the Confederates surrendered at the Battle of Arkansas Post. After being exchanged, meaning he was traded for a Union prisoner, he was promoted to brigadier general on July 28, 1863.
Death in Battle
On September 20, 1863, during the second day of the Battle of Chickamauga, Deshler was killed. He was inspecting his soldiers before an attack. A Union artillery shell exploded right in front of him. He died instantly from the blast.
After Deshler's death, future Senator Roger Q. Mills took command of his brigade. The Confederacy won the Battle of Chickamauga. A family friend buried Deshler's body on the battlefield. Later, the friend brought Deshler's father to the grave. They moved Deshler's body and reburied him in Oakwood Cemetery in his hometown of Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Memorials and Legacy
To honor his son, Deshler's father founded the Deshler Female Institute. This was a school for girls. Also, Deshler High School in Tuscumbia was named after him. This was another way to remember General Deshler.
