John A. Bolles facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Augustus Bolles
|
|
|---|---|
| 8th Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth | |
| In office 1843–1844 |
|
| Governor | Marcus Morton |
| Preceded by | John P. Bigelow |
| Succeeded by | John G. Palfrey |
| Personal details | |
| Born | April 16, 1809 Ashford, Connecticut |
| Died | May 25, 1878 (aged 69) Washington, D.C. |
| Resting place | Forest Hills Cemetery Jamaica Plain Massachusetts |
| Political party | Whig |
| Spouses | Catherine Hartwell Dix, m. November 11, 1834. |
| Alma mater | Brown University, 1829, M.A. 1832 |
| Profession | Lawyer |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Branch/service | Union Army |
| Years of service | January 30, 1862-July 17, 1865 |
| Rank |  Major Bvt. Brigadier General |
| Unit | VII Corps |
| Commands | Aide de Camp to John Adams Dix, and Judge Advocate |
| Battles/wars | Battle of South Mountain, American Civil War |
John Augustus Bolles (born April 16, 1809 – died May 25, 1878) was an important American politician and lawyer. He served as the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth from 1843 to 1844. This job is like being the chief record-keeper and election official for the state of Massachusetts.
During the American Civil War, John Bolles also served as an officer in the Union Army. He was given a special honor called "brevetted" to Brigadier General, which means he received the rank of general for his good service, even if he didn't hold it permanently.
John Bolles came from a family that believed in ending slavery. His father was an abolitionist preacher, meaning he spoke out against slavery. John Bolles was also the brother-in-law of General John Adams Dix, another important figure.
Contents
A Life of Learning and Law
Before the Civil War, John Bolles was a very skilled lawyer and legal expert. He studied law deeply and gave advice to the government on important legal matters. For example, he helped the War Department understand the legal rules about a case involving a person named Clement Vallandigham. Bolles's legal advice was often followed by the courts.
Helping Others: The Boston Vigilance Committee
John Bolles was a member of the Boston Vigilance Committee. This group was very important because it helped fugitive slaves, who were enslaved people who had escaped to freedom. The committee worked to protect these individuals and help them stay free. This shows Bolles's commitment to justice and helping those in need.
Serving in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, John Bolles joined the Union Army. He served as a staff officer, which means he worked closely with generals, helping them with plans and legal advice. He was an aide to General John Adams Dix and also worked as a Judge Advocate, handling legal issues within the army. He served from January 1862 to July 1865.
Later Life and Passing
John Bolles passed away on May 25, 1878, in Washington, D.C. He was laid to rest in Forest Hills Cemetery, which is located in the Jamaica Plain area of Boston, Massachusetts.
