John J. Williams (soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Jefferson Williams
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| Born | 1843 Jay County, Indiana, U.S. |
| Died | May 13, 1865 (aged 21–22) Cameron County, Texas, U.S. |
| Burial |
Jay county Infirmary Cemetery
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| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
Union Army |
| Years of service | 1863–1865 |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 34th Regiment Indiana Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
John Jefferson Williams (born 1843 – died May 13, 1865) was a brave soldier. He served as a private in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was part of Company B in the 34th Regiment Indiana Infantry. John Williams is known for a very sad reason: he was killed at the Battle of Palmito Ranch. This battle was the last land battle of the Civil War. He is generally recognized as the very last soldier to die in that conflict.
Contents
John Jefferson Williams: A Soldier's Story
Early Life and Joining the Army
John Williams was born in 1843 in Jay County, Indiana. When he was about 20 years old, he decided to join the Union Army. This happened in September 1863. He likely joined in a town called Anderson.
After joining, he moved to Camp Joe Holt. This was a place where his unit practiced and got ready for duty. Soldiers would drill, which means they would practice marching and military movements.
A Soldier's Duty
John's regiment, the 34th Indiana Infantry, spent most of the war doing guard duty. They also performed "garrison duty." This means they were stationed in a place to protect it. They served in the Western Theatre of the war. This area included states like Louisiana and Texas.
For example, John was stationed in New Orleans. In the spring of 1865, his unit joined a larger army. This army was getting ready to invade and take control of Texas.
The Final Battle
John Williams first saw real combat action in the Battle of Palmito Ranch. This battle happened near Brownsville, Texas. It took place on May 13, 1865. Sadly, John died during this battle.
He is widely known as the last soldier killed in action during the Civil War. However, some people believe another soldier, Corporal John W. Skinner, was the last. Corporal Skinner was killed a few days later, on May 19, 1865. This happened in an ambush near Eufaula, Alabama.
Where He Rests
John Williams was first buried at the Alexandria National Cemetery. This cemetery is in Pineville, Louisiana. Later, around 1897 or 1898, his remains were moved. They were brought back to his hometown in Jay County, Indiana. He is now buried at the Jay County Infirmary Cemetery.
See also
- Indiana in the American Civil War
- Daniel Hough – The first American soldier to die in the Civil War.
