Joseph R.T. Coates facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joseph R.T. Coates
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|---|---|
| Mayor of Chester, Pennsylvania | |
| In office 1887–1893 |
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| Preceded by | Dr. J.L. Forwood |
| Succeeded by | John B. Hinkson |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1864 |
| Rank | Major |
| Commands | 1st Pennsylvania Reserve Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Joseph Ridgeway Taylor Coates (died September 21, 1921) was an American lawyer and politician from Pennsylvania. He was the mayor of Chester, Pennsylvania from 1887 to 1893. He also served as an officer in the Union Army during the U.S. Civil War. He fought in many important battles of the war.
Military Service in the Civil War
In 1861, Joseph Coates joined the army as a First Lieutenant. He was part of the 1st Pennsylvania Reserve Regiment, also called the 30th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company C. This company was formed in Chester. It was first known as the "Keystone Guards."
Coates and his company fought in several major battles. These included the Battle of Mechanicsville, the Battle of New Market, the Second Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Antietam, the Battle of Fredericksburg, the Battle of Gettysburg, the Battle of Bristoe Station, and the Battle of Bethesda Church.
Coates was promoted to Captain in 1862. By 1864, he became a Major by brevet. A brevet rank is a temporary promotion given for brave service, but it doesn't always come with higher pay.
He left the army with his company on June 13, 1864.
Political Career and Life
After his military service, Coates became a lawyer. He was a member of the Delaware County bar, which means he was allowed to practice law in Delaware County.
He served as the Postmaster for the Chester Post Office from 1865 to 1869. A Postmaster is in charge of a local post office.
Later, he became the mayor of Chester. He served in this role from 1887 to 1893. After his time as mayor, John B. Hinkson took over the position.
Joseph Coates passed away on September 21, 1921. He was buried at Chester Rural Cemetery.
