James Vote Bomford facts for kids

James Vote (Voty) Bomford (born October 5, 1811 – died February 6, 1892) was a brave soldier who served in the United States military. He was an officer for the Union side during the Civil War. He retired as a Brigadier General.

James Bomford went to Norwich University and then to West Point, graduating in 1832. He became a colonel in the 8th United States Infantry Regiment. He was wounded twice during the Battle of Perryville. He also fought in the Mexican–American War. His father, George Bomford, was a military officer and inventor who created the Columbiad cannon. James's son, also named George, later joined the military and retired as a captain.

Family Life

James Bomford was born on October 5, 1811, on Governors Island, New York. His parents were George Bomford and Louisa Sophia Catton. His mother's father, Charles P. Catton, was a famous English artist.

James and Louisa had four children: George Newman Bomford, James Vote Bomford, Jr., Elizabeth Bernardine "Lilly" Bomford, and Fredrika Augusta Bomford.

A Soldier's Journey

Voty Bomford was a courageous soldier who fought in several important wars. He served in the Black Hawk War and the Seminole Wars. He also took part in all the major battles of the Mexican–American War. It is said that he was the first American soldier to raise the American flag over the citadel in Mexico City.

When the American Civil War began, he was a Lieutenant-Colonel in the 8th Infantry. He was captured in April 1861 because he refused to promise not to fight against the South. He was held as a prisoner until May 1862. After being released, he became a leader in the Sixteenth Infantry.

Military Career Highlights

Bomford started his military career after leaving West Point in 1832. He was a Second Lieutenant in the 2nd Infantry. He joined the Black Hawk expedition and later fought in the Florida War from 1837 to 1838. He was also stationed near the Canadian border during some disturbances.

In 1845, he became a Captain in the 8th Infantry. He fought bravely in the war with Mexico. He participated in many key battles, including the Battle of Palo Alto, Battle of Resaca de la Palma, and Battle of Monterey. He was also part of the Siege of Vera Cruz and the Battle of Cerro Gordo.

Later, he fought in the capture of San Antonio and the Battle of Churubusco. He also took part in the Battle of Molino del Rey. During this battle, his unit, the U.S. 8th Infantry Regiment, led an attack against a much larger Mexican army. This battle happened just before the Battle of Chapultepec. The Battle of Chapultepec led to the capture of Mexico City, where Bomford famously placed the American flag. For his bravery, he was promoted multiple times during these battles.

When the Civil War started, Bomford was a Major. He was captured early in the war for refusing to join the Confederate side. After his release, he became a Lieutenant Colonel. He served as a top officer for Major General Alexander McDowell McCook. He fought at Perryville, Kentucky, where he was wounded twice. For his brave actions at Perryville, he was promoted to Colonel.

After the Civil War, Bomford continued to serve the country. He commanded military districts in North Carolina and South Carolina. He also commanded regiments in New York and Wyoming.

In 1872, at the age of 62, Brigadier General James Bomford retired from the army. He had served for 43 years, showing great dedication and courage. Interestingly, the island where he commanded a regiment later had cannons called Rodman Guns. These were improved versions of the Columbiad cannons invented by his father.

Later Years and Death

James Bomford passed away on February 6, 1892, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He was 80 years old. He was buried in Evergreen Cemetery, Hillside.