John A. Bridgland facts for kids

John Alexander Bridgland (born December 3, 1826 – died July 29, 1890) was an important American diplomat, businessman, and soldier. He lived during a very interesting time in American history, playing a part in the Mexican–American War and the American Civil War.

John's Early Life

John Alexander Bridgland was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on December 3, 1826. His father, Alexander Bridgland, was a rich landowner and merchant. His mother was Harriet Susannah Thornton. John's family was well-known. His grandfather, Sterling C. Thornton, owned famous racehorses.

When John was just twelve years old, his father passed away. This sad event caused the family to lose their wealth. Because of this, John could not get the same advanced education as his relatives. Instead, he started working early. He helped manage family properties and businesses for his mother and other relatives.

Adventures in Mexico and Indiana

John Bridgland's military journey began through a business trip. His family asked him to deliver horses from Virginia to relatives. These relatives were serving in the U.S. Army in Mexico. This was during the Mexican–American War.

On his way, John's ship was wrecked off the coast of Mexico. But he still managed to find the U.S. Army. He joined General Winfield Scott's forces as they marched into Mexico City. John stayed with the army until they reached New Orleans. There, he became very sick with Yellow Fever.

After he recovered, John traveled by steamboat to Cincinnati. He started working in the tobacco business. He did very well in the Midwest. Soon, he opened his own trading business in Richmond, Indiana. With his new wealth, he built a large home. He also got married and provided a good life for his family. This was the life they had lost after his father's death.

John became very interested in Indiana politics. He first supported the Whig party. By 1860, he was a strong supporter of the Republican party. He also actively supported their presidential candidate, Abraham Lincoln.

Serving in the Civil War

When the American Civil War began, John Bridgland became a colonel. He was given command of the 2nd Regiment Indiana Cavalry. Governor Morton gave him this important role. His past experience in the Mexican-American War helped him get this position. He was also known for breeding excellent horses.

Colonel Bridgland fought for the Union Army. He took part in battles in the western parts of the country. He was at important battles like Shiloh. He also helped with the occupation of Nashville, Tennessee.

In late 1862, he had to leave his military role. This was because of health problems. However, he continued to support the Union Army. During the war, his mother and five of his six sisters stayed in Virginia. Some of his brothers-in-law fought for the Confederacy.

Life After the War and Diplomacy

After the Civil War, John Bridgland's business faced challenges. Prices went up a lot. He worked hard to rebuild his wealth, and he succeeded. He again became active in politics and helping war veterans.

He often traveled to New York and Washington, D.C. There, he met many important politicians and military leaders. He became especially good friends with General William Tecumseh Sherman.

In 1873, President Ulysses S. Grant appointed him to a special job. John became the U.S. Consul at Le Havre in France. A consul is like a diplomat who helps citizens and promotes trade in another country. He served in this role until 1882.

Passion for Horses

John Bridgland loved horses his whole life. He inherited this passion from his grandfather, Sterling Thornton. While he was a consul in France, he worked to help the American horse industry. He tried to arrange a deal to sell American horses to the French Army.

Besides selling horses in Europe, Bridgland also bought some. He brought two stallions, three colts, and two fillies to America. These horses came from some of the best stables in England.

John's Family Life

John Bridgland married Caroline Elizabeth Gilbert on June 14, 1849. She was from Pennsylvania. They were married in Richmond, Indiana. Caroline passed away in 1880. John never remarried after her death. In his retirement, he had a companion named Mary Hannegan.

John and Caroline had one child, a daughter named Harriet Augusta Bridgland, born in 1853. Harriet Bridgland married Carlos Rodríguez de Trujillo y Malibrán in Seville, Spain. They had two children together: John Alexander Rodríguez de Trujillo and Caroline Rodríguez de Trujillo. Harriet and her family lived in London, England and Seville, Spain. It is believed that John Bridgland's descendants never returned to the United States.

John A. Bridgland Mansion, built 1858, Richmond, Indiana