John W. Barlow facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Whitney Barlow
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Brigadier General John W. Barlow, Chief of Engineers May 2–May 3, 1901
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| Born | June 26, 1838 Wyoming County, New York |
| Died | February 27, 1914 (aged 75) Jerusalem |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1901 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Commands held | Chief of Engineers |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War Indian Wars |
John Whitney Barlow (born June 26, 1838 – died February 27, 1914) was an important officer in the United States Army. He was known for his amazing engineering skills, especially during and after the American Civil War.
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Early Life and Military Training
John Barlow was born in Wyoming County, New York. He went to the United States Military Academy (also known as West Point) from Wisconsin. He finished his studies and graduated in May 1861.
He first joined the artillery and served with the famous U.S. Horse Artillery Brigade. This was during the Peninsula Campaign in the Civil War. In July 1862, he moved to the Topographical Engineers.
Civil War Contributions
Barlow worked with the Battalion of Engineers at the Battle of Gettysburg. He also served as an engineer for an army corps during the siege of Atlanta. He was in charge of building defenses around Nashville. For his brave service there in December 1864, he was given the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel.
Post-War Engineering Projects
From 1870 to 1874, Barlow was the Chief Engineer for General Sheridan. This was in the Military Division of the Missouri. During this time, he explored the areas where the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers begin. His detailed reports helped guide new settlers.
Barlow also worked on improving harbors and defenses along Long Island Sound from 1875 to 1883. He improved harbors in northern Wisconsin and Michigan. He also helped build a canal around Muscle Shoals on the Tennessee River.
Later Career and Retirement
From 1892 to 1896, Barlow was the main American member of a group that re-marked the border with Mexico. This border had been disputed. After that, he was the Northwest Division Engineer for four years.
On May 2, 1901, he became a brigadier general. He was also named Chief of Engineers. The very next day, May 3, 1901, he retired from the Army. He had served for 40 years.
Legacy
John Barlow passed away on February 27, 1914, in Jerusalem, at the age of 75. His body was brought back to the United States. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
A military battery at Fort MacArthur, called Battery Barlow–Saxton, was named in his honor. Barlow Peak in Yellowstone National Park is also named after him.
