John Adair McDowell (colonel) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Adair McDowell
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Colonel John A. McDowell
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| Born | July 22, 1825 Columbus, Ohio |
| Died | July 4, 1887 (aged 61) Madison County, Alabama |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1863 |
| Rank |  Colonel |
| Unit | 6th Iowa Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War: |
John Adair McDowell (1825–1887) was an American soldier and engineer. He became famous for leading the 6th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War. He was also the younger brother of General Irvin McDowell, who is known for the first big battle of the Civil War, the First Battle of Bull Run. His father, Abram Irvin McDowell, was once the mayor of Columbus, Ohio.
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John Adair McDowell's Military Journey
Starting in the Army
Before the Civil War began, McDowell was part of a local volunteer army group called a militia. On June 20, 1861, he was given the important rank of colonel. This meant he was in charge of a large group of soldiers.
Leading Troops in Battle
Colonel McDowell led a group of soldiers called a brigade. This brigade fought on the right side of General William Tecumseh Sherman's division. They were part of Major General Grant's Army of the Tennessee. They fought bravely at the Battle of Shiloh, a very important Civil War battle.
McDowell's brigade included his own 6th Iowa Regiment, plus the 40th Illinois, the 46th Ohio, and the 6th Indiana battery. General Sherman thought highly of McDowell. He described him as a "good, kind-hearted gentleman." McDowell also had a brother named Malcolm who worked for General Sherman.
After the War
McDowell decided to leave his military position on March 12, 1863. After he left, John M. Corse took over as the commander of the 6th Iowa Regiment. Even though he was born in Ohio, McDowell lived in Keokuk, Iowa.
