James F. Curtis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Freeman Curtis II
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| Chief of Police of San Francisco | |
| In office November 4, 1856 – 1858 |
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| Preceded by | John W. McKenzie |
| Succeeded by | Martin J. Burke |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 19, 1825 Boston, Massachusetts, US |
| Died | March 1, 1914 (aged 88) Boston, Massachusetts, US |
James Freeman Curtis II (December 19, 1825 – March 1, 1914) was an important figure in early California history. He took part in the exciting California Gold Rush of 1849. He also served as the Chief of Police of San Francisco. Later, he became an officer in the California state militia and fought as a volunteer in the American Civil War.
Life and Early Adventures
James Freeman Curtis was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on December 19, 1825. When he was 14, his father passed away. His father had served in the War of 1812 on the ship USS Constitution.
In 1849, James sailed all the way around Cape Horn to reach California. This was during the exciting time of the California Gold Rush. He settled in San Francisco. In the 1850s, he became an important leader in San Francisco. He joined the San Francisco Committee of Vigilance. This group helped keep order in the city when there was a lot of crime. He was also part of the Society of California Pioneers. This group was for people who arrived in California before 1850.
Serving the Community
James Curtis was an active member of the California Militia. This was a military force made up of citizens. In 1854, he was chosen as First Lieutenant of the California Guard, Light Battery. This was the oldest military company in California. It was formed in 1849.
On November 4, 1856, James Curtis was elected Chief of Police of San Francisco. He held this important job until 1858.
Civil War Service
During the American Civil War, James Curtis joined the Union Army. He became a Major in the 4th Infantry Regiment California Volunteers on September 2, 1861. His first job was to command Fort Colville in Washington Territory.
In 1862, he became the commander of Fort Lincoln. This fort was located near Crescent City, California. On June 25, 1863, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. He then took command of Camp Drum in Wilmington, California. He also led the Military District of Southern California.
He commanded the 4th Infantry Regiment California Volunteers from August 20, 1863. He continued in this role until the regiment was combined with others on November 30, 1865. On April 11, 1864, he was promoted to Colonel of the 4th Infantry Regiment. He remained commander of Camp Drum and the Military District. He stayed in Southern California for the rest of the war. He was officially discharged from service on November 30, 1865. In 1867, he was given an honorary promotion to Brevet Brigadier General. This was for his excellent conduct during the war.
Later Life and Legacy
After the Civil War, James Curtis moved to Idaho. In 1892, he became the secretary of state for Idaho. He was also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. This was a group for Union Army veterans.
James Freeman Curtis II passed away on March 1, 1914, in Boston, Massachusetts.
Some people believe that Colonel Curtis's ghost haunts the Drum Barracks Civil War Museum in Wilmington, California. This story was even featured on the TV show Unsolved Mysteries in 1992.
