Jefferson Coates facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jefferson Coates
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| Born | August 24, 1843 Grant County, Territory of Wisconsin |
| Died | January 27, 1880 (aged 36) |
| Place of burial |
Dorchester Cemetery Dorchester, Nebraska
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| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
 United States ArmyUnion Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1864 |
| Rank |  Brevet Captain |
| Unit |  7th Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry - Company H |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War *Battle of South Mountain *Battle of Gettysburg |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Francis Jefferson Coates (born August 24, 1843 – died January 27, 1880) was a brave soldier. He fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was one of only 64 soldiers to earn the Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Contents
Life as a Soldier
Jefferson Coates was born in Grant County, Wisconsin, on August 24, 1843. His parents were William Coates and Cynthia Cain. Even though he was born in Grant County, his home was listed as Boscobel, Wisconsin.
Joining the Army
Just a few days after his 18th birthday, Coates joined the Union Army. This was on August 29, 1861. He became a soldier in the 7th Wisconsin Infantry. This group was part of the Union Army, which fought for the northern states during the Civil War.
Key Battles and Bravery
Coates fought in several important battles. He was hurt while fighting in the Battle of South Mountain. Later, he showed great courage during the Battle of Gettysburg. This was one of the most important battles of the American Civil War.
During the Battle of Gettysburg, Coates was shot in the face. This terrible injury caused him to lose both of his eyes. Because of his bravery in this battle, he received the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award a soldier can get for courage. He was also promoted to the rank of Captain.
Leaving the Army
After his injury, Coates could no longer serve in the army. He was officially released from duty on September 1, 1864. This was at the end of his time serving.
Life After the War
Even though he was completely blind, Jefferson Coates did not give up. He learned a new skill: making brooms. This helped him support himself after the war.
Family Life
On April 21, 1867, Coates married Rachael Sarah Drew. They had five children together. Between 1870 and 1873, the family moved to Dorchester, Nebraska.
His Passing
Jefferson Coates died on January 27, 1880, in Dorchester, Nebraska. He passed away from pneumonia. He is buried in the Dorchester Cemetery in Dorchester.
Remembering Jefferson Coates
Jefferson Coates is remembered for his courage and determination. The Jefferson Coates County Campus for the Missouri School for the Blind was named in his honor. This shows how his story continues to inspire others.
