Martin R. M. Wallace facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Martin Reuben Merritt Wallace
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| Born | September 29, 1829 Urbana, Ohio |
| Died | March 6, 1902 (aged 72) Chicago, Illinois |
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| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1864 |
| Rank |  Colonel brevet Brigadier General |
| Unit | 4th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Spouse(s) | Emma Gilson Wallace |
Martin Reuben Merritt Wallace (born September 29, 1829 – died March 6, 1902) was an important officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He served from October 1861 to November 1864. He became a colonel (a high-ranking officer) of the 4th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Cavalry. After his service, he received an honorary title of brevet brigadier general for his brave actions.
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Martin Wallace's Early Life
Martin R. M. Wallace was born in Urbana, Ohio, on September 29, 1829. He was one of many children in his family. His brother, W. H. L. Wallace, also became a famous general.
In 1834, Martin's family moved to LaSalle County, Illinois. He went to public school in the winter and worked on the family farm during the warmer months. Later, in 1839, his family moved to Ogle County, Illinois, near Mount Morris.
Martin attended the Rock River Seminary. After finishing his studies there, he decided he wanted to become a lawyer. He studied law with his older brother, W. H. L. Wallace. Martin became a lawyer in 1858 and moved to Chicago, Illinois, to start his own law practice.
Joining the Civil War
When the Civil War began, Martin Wallace helped to create the 4th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Cavalry. He was given the rank of major (a military officer rank) for this regiment on October 12, 1861.
He served under Colonel Theophilus Lyle Dickey, who used to be his law partner. Martin Wallace led a group of soldiers in several important battles. These included the Battle of Fort Henry, the Battle of Fort Donelson, and the Battle of Shiloh.
Key Battles and Promotions
During the Battle of Shiloh, Martin's brother, W. H. L. Wallace, sadly lost his life. After Colonel William McCullough died in December 1862, Martin R. M. Wallace took charge of the 4th Illinois Cavalry Regiment.
He was promoted to lieutenant colonel on January 5, 1863. Then, on June 3, 1863, he became a full colonel. Martin Wallace finished his service in the volunteer army on November 3, 1864.
Post-War Recognition
On May 4, 1866, President Andrew Johnson wanted to honor Wallace for his service. He nominated Wallace for an honorary title: brevet brigadier general of volunteers. This was a special recognition, even though Wallace was no longer an active army officer. The United States Senate agreed to this appointment on May 16, 1866.
Life After the War
After the Civil War, Martin Wallace continued to serve his country in different ways. He was named the United States Assessor for the Chicago District. This job involved assessing taxes.
In 1868, he was elected to the Cook County Court, where he worked as a judge for eight years. Later, in 1889, Governor Joseph Fifer appointed him as a Justice of the Peace for South Chicago. He also worked as an attorney for the Cook County board.
Martin Wallace's wife, Emma, was also well-known. She was a philanthropist, meaning she helped others through charitable acts.
Martin R. M. Wallace passed away on March 6, 1902, in Chicago, Illinois. He was buried in Rosehill Cemetery.
Images for kids
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Wallace's grave at Rosehill Cemetery
