James Montgomery (colonel) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Montgomery
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James Montgomery, ca. 1858
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| Personal details | |
| Born | December 22, 1814 Austinburg, Ohio |
| Died | December 6, 1871 (aged 56) Linn County, Kansas |
| Political party | Free State Party (Until 1859) Republican Party (1859-1871) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Branch/service | United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Colonel |
| Commands | 3rd Kansas Infantry 2nd South Carolina 6th Kansas State Militia |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War
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James Montgomery (born December 22, 1814 – died December 6, 1871) was an important figure during a time called Bleeding Kansas. He was known as a Jayhawker, which was a term for groups who fought against slavery in Kansas. Later, he became a Union colonel during the American Civil War.
Montgomery strongly believed that slavery should end. He also supported freedom for all people. He took strong actions against those who supported slavery.
Contents
Early Life and the Fight for Kansas
James Montgomery was born on December 22, 1814, in Austinburg, Ohio. His parents were James and Mary Baldwin Montgomery. In 1837, he moved to Kentucky with his family and worked as a teacher.
After his first wife passed away, he married Clarinda Evans. They moved to Missouri in 1852. They waited there for Kansas to open for new settlers.
Settling in Kansas and Leading Free-Staters
In 1854, Montgomery bought land near what is now Mound City, Kansas. He quickly became a leader among the local Free-state men. These were people who wanted Kansas to become a free state, meaning no slavery.
In 1857, he formed a group called the "Self-Protective Company." He used this group to make pro-slavery people leave the area. These actions led to conflicts. The governor of the territory, James W. Denver, sent U.S. Army soldiers to calm things down.
Montgomery sometimes worked with another famous abolitionist, John Brown. He even thought about trying to rescue Brown after he was captured. However, heavy snow stopped his plan.
Role in the Civil War
On July 24, 1861, James Montgomery became a colonel in the 3rd Kansas Infantry. This unit was part of a larger group led by U.S. Senator James H. Lane. Montgomery was the second-in-command of this group.
Later Life and Legacy
After the Civil War ended, Montgomery returned to his farm. He lived in Linn County, Kansas. He passed away there on December 6, 1871.
