James Stewart (artilleryman) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Stewart
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|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Jock |
| Born | May 18, 1826 Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Died | April 8, 1905 |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1851 - 1879 |
| Rank |  Major |
| Unit | 18th U.S. Infantry Regiment |
| Commands held | 4th U.S. Light Artillery, Battery B |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
James Stewart (born May 18, 1826 – died April 8, 1905) was an important soldier in American history. He was born in Scotland and moved to the United States in 1844. He became a skilled artilleryman, which means he was an expert in using large guns, during the American Civil War.
Contents
Stewart's Army Career
James Stewart started his military journey in 1851. He joined the United States Army as a Private. A private is the lowest rank for a soldier.
Rising Through the Ranks
Stewart served continuously in a unit called the 4th U.S. Light Artillery, Battery B. This was a group of soldiers who operated cannons. By late 1861, he had become a First Sergeant. This is a very important non-commissioned officer role. His commander, John Gibbon, who later became a Major General, said Stewart was "the best first sergeant I ever saw."
In November 1861, Stewart earned a promotion. He became a Second Lieutenant, which is an officer rank.
Key Battles and Leadership
Stewart played a big role in several major battles during the Civil War.
Battle of Antietam
At the Battle of Antietam, Stewart's artillery battery was the first to enter a dangerous area known as the Cornfield. Their quick action helped stop a strong attack by a group called Hood's Division. When his commanding officer, Captain Joseph B. Campbell, was hurt, Stewart bravely took charge of the battery.
Battle of Gettysburg
Stewart also commanded his battery at the Battle of Gettysburg. His unit was the only regular artillery (meaning full-time army artillery) in the I Corps. The I Corps was a large group of Union Army soldiers. Stewart's battery faced very heavy fighting. It had the highest number of casualties (soldiers killed or wounded) of any battery in the I Corps.
On the first day of fighting at Gettysburg, Stewart's cannons were placed in front of the Thompson House. They were supported by three regiments (large groups of soldiers) from Pennsylvania.
Later Promotions
On August 1, 1864, Stewart received a special honor. He was "brevetted" captain. This means he was given a higher rank for his brave actions, but he didn't get the full pay or authority of that rank yet. This honor was for his "gallant services" (brave actions) at the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House and during the battles near Richmond.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, James Stewart stayed in the Regular Army. He was transferred to the 18th U.S. Infantry Regiment. He continued to serve until he retired in 1879. At the time of his retirement, he held the rank of Major.
