John E. Phelps facts for kids
John Elisha Phelps (born April 6, 1839 – died September 17, 1921) was an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He played an important role in several battles and military operations.
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Early Life and Beginnings
John E. Phelps was born in Springfield, Missouri, on April 6, 1839. Before the Civil War began, he worked as a grocer, selling food and household items. He was also a cattle trader, buying and selling cows and other livestock.
Military Career
Phelps began his military journey as a secret agent for General Nathaniel Lyon. This was a very important and risky job.
Joining the Army
On June 11, 1862, Phelps officially joined the army. He was made a second lieutenant in the 3rd U.S. Cavalry Regiment. This unit was part of the Regular Army (United States), which means it was a permanent part of the United States military.
Phelps was wounded in the leg during the Battle of Pea Ridge. This was a major battle fought in Arkansas.
Working with General Carr
From September 1862 to April 1864, Phelps worked as an aide-de-camp for Brigadier General Eugene Asa Carr. An aide-de-camp is like a personal assistant to a high-ranking officer. They help with many tasks, including carrying messages and giving advice.
On October 1, 1863, Phelps was promoted to first lieutenant in the regular army.
Leading the 2nd Arkansas Cavalry
In late 1862, while he was recovering from malaria, Phelps helped create a new group of soldiers. This group was called the 2nd Arkansas Cavalry Regiment (Union). On March 18, 1864, he was made a colonel of this regiment.
Phelps led different groups of cavalry soldiers from April 1865 until he left the volunteer service. He commanded Brigade 1 and then Brigade 2 of the Cavalry Corps. He also led the Cavalry Division of the Military District of West Mississippi.
End of Service
Phelps left the volunteer army on August 20, 1865. He then resigned from his position in the regular army on September 28, 1865. He received special honorary promotions, called "brevet" appointments, to captain, major, and colonel for his service.
On January 13, 1866, President Andrew Johnson nominated Phelps for another special honor. He was nominated to be a brevet brigadier general of volunteers. The United States Senate approved this appointment on March 12, 1866.
After the War
After the Civil War, John E. Phelps became a farmer. He also worked as a miner, digging for valuable minerals. Later in his life, he moved to Tacoma, Washington.
John E. Phelps passed away in Pasadena, California, on September 17, 1921. He was buried in Hazelwood Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.
