John J. Kennedy (Republic of Texas politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John J. Kennedy
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|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | "Colonel" |
| Born | 1813 |
| Died | 1880 (aged 67) Hallsville, Texas |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America Republic of Texas Confederate States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army Texan Army Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1832–36 (USA) 1836–1846 (Republic of Texas) 1861–65 (CSA) |
| Rank |  First Lieutenant Captain |
| Commands held | Company K, "Clough Rangers" 17th Texas Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | Black Hawk War Second Seminole War Regulator-Moderator War American Civil War |
| Other work | Sheriff of Harrison County, Texas |
John Joseph Kennedy (1813–1880) was an American lawyer and sheriff from Scotch-Irish heritage. He played an important role in ending the Regulator-Moderator War in East Texas. Kennedy served as an artillery officer in the United States Army. Later, he became a cavalry captain for the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. He was also a Freemason, a member of Marshall Lodge #22.
Contents
John J. Kennedy's Early Life and Military Service
John J. Kennedy started his military career as a first lieutenant in the United States Army. He served under General Abraham Eustis. Kennedy fought in two important conflicts: the Black Hawk War and the Second Seminole War. These wars took place in the 1830s.
Moving to Texas and New Beginnings
In 1836, John Kennedy moved to the Republic of Texas. This was before Texas became part of the United States. He received a large land grant of 1,240 acres from Anson Jones, who would later become the last president of the Republic of Texas. This land helped him establish himself in the new territory.
Helping End the Regulator-Moderator War
John Kennedy became the sheriff of Harrison County, Texas. During his time as sheriff, he helped bring peace to the region. He worked with his brother-in-law, Joseph Upton Fields, to end the Regulator–Moderator War. This was a conflict between different groups of settlers in East Texas. Kennedy also served as a commissioner for Harrison County, helping to manage local government.
Life as a Planter and Politician
According to records from 1860, John Kennedy was a significant landowner. He managed a large farm or plantation. He also tried to enter state politics. Kennedy ran for a seat in the Texas Senate. He campaigned against the Compromise of 1850, a series of laws about slavery and territories. Although he was first thought to have won, he was later defeated in the election.
Service During the American Civil War
When the American Civil War began, John Kennedy joined the Confederate States of America. He served as a Captain. He led Company K of the 17th Texas Cavalry, a unit also known as the "Clough Rangers."
Battle of Arkansas Post
Captain Kennedy and his company fought in the Battle of Arkansas Post. This was a major battle during the Civil War. Despite the intense fighting, Kennedy managed to avoid being captured by the Union forces.
