James H. Bronson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James H. Bronson
Born	1838 Indiana County, Pennsylvania
Died	March 16, 1884 (aged 45–46)
Place of burial	Chartiers Cemetery, Carnegie, Pennsylvania
Allegiance	United States of America Union
Service/branch	United States Army Union Army
Years of service	1863-1865
Rank	First Sergeant
Unit	5th Regiment United States Colored Troops
Battles/wars	American Civil War *Battle of Chaffin's Farm
Awards	Medal of Honor

James H. Bronson (born 1838 – died March 16, 1884) was a brave African American soldier. He fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for military bravery in the United States.

James H. Bronson: A Hero of the Civil War

Early Life and Joining the Army

James H. Bronson was born in 1838 in Indiana County, Pennsylvania. He grew up on a farm. Later, he moved to Ohio, like many people looking for new chances. In 1860, he lived in Weathersfield Township, Ohio, and worked as a barber.

When he was about 24 or 25 years old, Bronson decided to join the Army. This was on August 3, 1863. He started as a private in Company D of the 5th U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment. This regiment was made up of African American soldiers.

Bravery at Chaffin's Farm

By September 29, 1864, James H. Bronson had become a first sergeant. This was just before a big battle called the Battle of Chaffin's Farm. His regiment, along with other black troops, was given a very tough job. They had to attack the center of the Confederate defenses.

The Difficult Attack

The Confederate defenses were strong. They had two lines of obstacles made from cut-down trees and sharp stakes. Behind these were tall wooden fences called palisades. Confederate soldiers were waiting behind these defenses.

When Bronson's regiment attacked, they faced heavy fire. Many officers were hurt or killed, including all the officers in Company D. But James H. Bronson didn't give up. He took charge of Company D. He gathered his men and led them forward again.

Breaking Through the Defenses

Bronson and his soldiers bravely pushed through the obstacles. They fought hand-to-hand with the Confederate defenders. They successfully broke through the strong enemy lines and captured the positions.

For his amazing courage and leadership during this battle, James H. Bronson was given the Medal of Honor. He received this special award on April 6, 1865, just a few months after the battle.

After the War

After the Civil War ended, Bronson's regiment was stationed in North Carolina. James H. Bronson passed away on March 16, 1884, when he was about 45 or 46 years old. He was buried in Chartiers Cemetery in Carnegie, Pennsylvania. His bravery during the war is remembered as an important part of American history.