James Henry Van Alen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Henry Van Alen
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| Born | August 17, 1819 Kinderhook, New York, U.S. |
| Died | July 22, 1886 (aged 66) At sea between Liverpool and New York |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1863 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Commands held | 3rd New York Volunteer Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Relations | James John Van Alen (son) |
| Other work | Merchant, soldier, politician |
James Henry Van Alen (born August 17, 1819 – died July 22, 1886) was an important figure during the American Civil War. He served as a brigadier general in the Union Army. He was also a successful merchant and later became involved in politics.
Early Life and Family
James Henry Van Alen was born in 1819 in Kinderhook, New York. He was the only son of James I. Van Alen, a wealthy merchant. His mother was Lucy Trumbull Van Alen.
James received his education from private teachers at home. He did not work in business himself, but he managed his family's money. He owned a lot of land, which he left to his son when he passed away.
Military Career
When the Civil War began, James Van Alen helped create a new military unit. He recruited and provided equipment for the 3rd New York Cavalry Regiment. On August 28, 1861, he became the colonel, or leader, of this unit. At that time, his regiment was stationed in Washington, D.C., helping to defend the city.
Van Alen was promoted to brigadier general on April 15, 1862. This was a very important rank in the army. During the Battle of Chancellorsville, he worked as an aide-de-camp for General Joseph Hooker. An aide-de-camp is like a personal assistant to a high-ranking officer.
Later, he was assigned to a place called Aquia Creek in Virginia. He took a twenty-day break from the army because he was sick with fevers. He then decided to resign from the army on July 14, 1863. After the war ended, he traveled often. He also joined the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, an organization for Union officers.
Political Involvement
After the presidential election of 1876, James Van Alen became involved in politics. President Ulysses S. Grant chose him to be one of the "visiting statesmen" to Louisiana. This meant he went to Louisiana to observe the election process.
When he returned to New York, Van Alen gave a famous speech. On January 3, 1877, he spoke about "The Vote of Louisiana." In his speech, he explained how some people tried to cheat and scare African American voters in Louisiana.
Personal Life
James Van Alen was married to Mary Young Steward. They had a home in Newport, Rhode Island called "The Grange." James lived there all year. They had one son who lived to adulthood:
- James John Van Alen (1848–1923) was a sportsman and politician. He married Emily Astor, who was the daughter of famous New York families.
In 1886, James Van Alen was traveling back from England with three of his grandchildren. On July 22, 1886, he went missing from the ship, the RMS Umbria. His body was never found. The New York Times newspaper reported that his disappearance caused sadness and mystery in Newport. People there knew and respected him very much.
Images for kids
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The Grange, a home in Newport, Rhode Island, designed by architect Clarence Sumner Luce.
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