John Gregory Bourke facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Gregory Bourke
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John Gregory Bourke
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| Born | June 23, 1846 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US |
| Died | June 8, 1896 (aged 49) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
 United States ArmyUnion Army |
| Years of service | 1862–1896 |
| Rank |  Captain |
| Unit |  15th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer CavalryThird U.S. Cavalry |
| Commands held | Chief of Scouts during the Apache Wars |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War
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| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
| Other work | writer |
John Gregory Bourke (June 23, 1846 – June 8, 1896) was a captain in the United States Army. He was also a writer who kept many detailed journals. He wrote several books about the American Old West. These books included studies of its Native American cultures.
Bourke received the Medal of Honor for his brave actions. This award was given to him for his service during the American Civil War. After the war, his commander helped him get into West Point. He graduated in 1869 and served as an Army officer until he passed away.
Contents
John Bourke's Early Life and Military Service
John G. Bourke was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His parents, Edward Joseph and Anna Bourke, were Irish immigrants. John had a good early education. He even learned languages like Latin, Greek, and Gaelic.
Joining the Civil War
When the Civil War started, John Bourke was only fourteen. At sixteen, he ran away from home. He lied about his age, saying he was nineteen. He then joined the Fifteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. He served in this group until July 1865.
He earned a Medal of Honor for his bravery. This happened during the Battle of Stones River in Tennessee in December 1862. He also fought in the Battle of Chickamauga.
Becoming an Army Officer
His commander, Major General George H. Thomas, saw Bourke's potential. He nominated Bourke for West Point, a famous military academy. John became a cadet there on October 17, 1865. He graduated on June 15, 1869.
After graduating, he became a second lieutenant. He joined the Third U.S. Cavalry. He served with his group at Fort Craig, New Mexico Territory, from 1869 to 1870.
Service in the Apache Wars
From 1872 to 1883, Bourke worked as an aide to General George Crook. This was during the Apache Wars. As Crook's aide, Bourke saw many parts of life in the Old West. He witnessed battles and learned about the wildlife. He also observed the relationships between the military, settlers, and Native Americans.
John Bourke's Writings and Observations
Bourke kept a diary throughout his adult life. He wrote down everything he saw in the West. These notes later became the basis for his books and other writings.
On the Border with Crook
While working with General Crook during the Apache Wars, Bourke filled many journals. These notes were later published as a book called On the Border with Crook. This book is considered one of the best firsthand stories of army life on the frontier.
Bourke wrote about both the soldiers and the Native Americans. He described the land, army life during long trips, and his observations of Native American cultures. His book tells about General Crook's meetings with famous leaders like Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse, and Geronimo. General Crook tried to make peace treaties and move tribes to reservations. Bourke also gave many details about towns and people in the Southwest, especially in the Arizona Territory.
In 1881, Bourke was a guest of the Zuni Indians. He was allowed to attend a special ceremony of a Newekwe priest. He was also on the board of the Anthropological Society in Washington.
Family Life and Passing
Bourke married Mary F. Horbach in Omaha, Nebraska, on July 25, 1883. They had three daughters together.
John Gregory Bourke passed away in Philadelphia on June 8, 1896. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. His wife, Mary, was buried with him after her death in 1927.
See also
