Joseph Messer Clough facts for kids

Joseph Messer Clough (June 15, 1828 – May 7, 1919) was a brave soldier who fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He started as a private and rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant colonel. After the war, he was honored with the title of brevet brigadier general.

Early Life and Beginnings

Joseph Messer Clough was born on June 15, 1828, in Sunapee, New Hampshire. He grew up in New Hampshire. Later, he went to Norwich University in Vermont to study.

Before the Civil War, Clough was involved in local defense. He was a leader in the City Guard of Manchester, New Hampshire. He also served in the City Guard in Lowell, Massachusetts. For his job, he worked as a machinist and operated mills.

Serving in the Civil War

When the Civil War began, Joseph Clough quickly joined the Union Army. On April 26, 1861, he enlisted as a private. He joined the 1st New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry regiment. This was a short-term regiment, serving for 90 days.

Rising Through the Ranks

Clough showed great leadership early on. He was quickly made a lieutenant in the 1st New Hampshire regiment. After this regiment finished its service, he joined another. On September 18, 1861, he became a captain in the 4th New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

Key Battles and Injuries

Captain Clough saw a lot of action during the war. He was wounded on July 30, 1864. This happened during a big mine explosion at Petersburg, Virginia. This event is known as the Battle of the Crater.

Later, on October 18, 1864, Clough was promoted again. He became a lieutenant colonel with the 10th New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He was wounded a second time in March 1865. This injury happened during the Battle of Fort Stedman. Clough finished his service on July 29, 1865.

After the War

After the Civil War ended, Joseph Clough returned to civilian life. He worked as a farmer. He also had a job as a mail agent for the railroad.

Post-War Honors

On July 9, 1866, President Andrew Johnson honored Clough. He nominated him to be a brevet brigadier general. This means he was given the honorary rank of a general. The United States Senate confirmed this honor on July 23, 1866.

Years later, in 1909, Clough received another honor. New Hampshire Governor Henry B. Quinby appointed him to the rank of major general. This was in the state militia.

Joseph Messer Clough passed away in New London, New Hampshire, on May 7, 1919. He was buried in Montcalm Cemetery in Enfield Center, New Hampshire.