James Martinus Schoonmaker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Martinus Schoonmaker, Sr.
|
|
|---|---|
James Martinus Schoonmaker circa 1913
|
|
| Born | June 30, 1842 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
| Died | October 11, 1927 (aged 85) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
| Place of burial |
Homewood Cemetery, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
|
| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
 Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1865 |
| Rank |  Colonel |
| Commands held |  14th Pennsylvania Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War • Third Battle of Winchester |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
| Other work | Railroad executive |
James Martinus Schoonmaker, Sr. (born June 30, 1842 – died October 11, 1927) was a brave Colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was also a successful businessman after the war, working as a vice-president for the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad. He earned the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military award in the United States, for his courage in a battle called the Third Battle of Winchester in 1864.
Contents
Early Life and Military Start
James Schoonmaker was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 30, 1842. When the American Civil War began, he was a student at the Western University of Pennsylvania. He decided to join the army right away.
He enlisted in a local group of soldiers that became part of the 1st Maryland Cavalry. James quickly showed he was a good leader and fighter. He rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant in just over a year.
Leading the 14th Pennsylvania Cavalry
In August 1862, James Schoonmaker was given a special task by the Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton. He was asked to form a new cavalry regiment, which is a large group of soldiers on horseback. This new group was called the 14th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment.
Because of this important role, James was promoted to the rank of colonel. He later commanded a larger group of cavalry soldiers, working under the famous General Philip Sheridan.
Medal of Honor Hero
James Schoonmaker earned his Medal of Honor for an incredibly brave act during the Third Battle of Winchester. This battle happened on September 19, 1864, in Virginia.
Courage at Star Fort
During the battle, Colonel Schoonmaker led his troops in a daring charge. They were on foot, attacking Confederate artillery (large cannons) located in a place called Fort Alabama, also known as Star Fort. This was a very important moment in the battle.
His fearless leadership helped his soldiers drive the enemy out of their defenses. They also captured many prisoners. For this heroic action, he received the Medal of Honor on May 19, 1899.
The official Medal of Honor statement says: "During the Battle of Star Fort, Virginia, at a critical period, gallantly led a cavalry charge against the left of the enemy's line of battle, drove the enemy out of his works, and captured many prisoners."
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, James Schoonmaker became a very successful businessman. He made a large fortune in the "coke" industry around Pittsburgh. Coke is a type of fuel made from coal, used in making steel.
He also served on the board of directors for Mellon Bank, a major financial institution. James Schoonmaker married Alice Brown and Rebekah Cook. He had three children: Gretchen, William, and James Jr. He passed away on October 11, 1927, in Pittsburgh and is buried at Homewood Cemetery.
Images for kids
-
J. M. Schoonmaker in Union uniform
