James Stevens Peck facts for kids
James Stevens Peck (born December 6, 1838 – died May 28, 1884) was a lawyer and army officer from Vermont. He fought in the American Civil War with the 13th and 17th Vermont Infantry Regiments. Later, he became the top military officer for Vermont, known as the Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard.
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Early Life and Education
James S. Peck was born in Montpelier, Vermont, on December 6, 1838. He went to the University of Vermont and finished his studies in 1860. After college, he learned about law from two well-known lawyers, Lucius Benedict Peck and Stoddard B. Colby.
Serving in the Civil War
In 1862, James Peck joined the army as a Second Lieutenant. He was part of Company I in the 13th Vermont Infantry. He quickly moved up to become the regiment's Adjutant, which meant he was a key assistant to the commanding officer.
Peck fought in important battles, including the famous Battle of Gettysburg. After his first regiment finished its service, he joined the 17th Vermont as an Adjutant again, this time with the rank of Major. He was praised for being very brave in battles like Wilderness, Cold Harbor, and the Siege of Petersburg. He left the army when the war ended in 1865.
Life After the War
In 1866, James Peck became a lawyer and started his own law office in Montpelier. He also volunteered for the city's fire department from 1866 to 1880.
Peck was a member of the Republican Party. He worked as an Assistant Secretary for the Vermont Senate from 1868 to 1872. From 1869 to 1880, he was also an Assistant United States Attorney for Vermont, helping with legal matters for the government. In 1881, he became the Postmaster in Montpelier, managing the local post office until he passed away.
Continuing Military Leadership
Even after the Civil War, Peck stayed involved in the military. He served as Assistant Adjutant General and Inspector General for the Vermont National Guard. He held the rank of Brigadier General from 1868 to 1872.
In 1872, James Peck took over as the Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, the highest military position in the state. He held this important role until 1881. He was also a founding member of the Reunion Society of Vermont Officers, a group for former military officers. He served as the society's Secretary for many years and later became its President.
Later Years and Passing
James Peck had health problems for several years, which were related to his time serving in the war. He passed away on May 28, 1884, while on vacation in Loon Lake, New York. He is buried at Green Mount Cemetery in Montpelier, Vermont.
