Pennock Huey facts for kids

Pennock Huey (born March 1, 1828 – died September 28, 1903) was an important officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He led a group of cavalry soldiers, who rode horses into battle.

Early Life and Military Start

Pennock Huey grew up in Chester County, Pennsylvania. His father, Jacob Huey, was a farmer. Before the Civil War began in 1861, Pennock worked as a merchant.

When the war started, Huey joined the Union Army. In September 1861, he became a captain. He led Company D of the 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry. This group was also known as the 89th Pennsylvania Volunteers. He served under David McMurtrie Gregg, who was the colonel of the regiment.

Rising Through the Ranks

Huey quickly showed his skills. In January 1862, he was promoted to major. Later, when Colonel Gregg moved to lead a larger group of soldiers (a brigade), Huey took command of the 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry regiment.

Key Battles and Commands

Huey led his regiment in several important battles. One of these was the Battle of Chancellorsville. His group was part of a brigade led by Thomas Devin.

The Chancellorsville Incident

During the Battle of Chancellorsville, Huey's cavalry unit had a surprising encounter. They ran into Confederate infantry (foot soldiers) on a narrow road. To get his troops out of danger, Huey ordered them to "Draw sabre and charge!" This quick action helped his soldiers escape, even though they suffered losses.

Later, this event was described as a big cavalry charge. Another cavalry commander, Alfred Pleasonton, even took credit for it. He claimed he had ordered a different major, Peter Keenan, to charge. However, Huey's account showed it was an unplanned charge. It was the only way to get his cavalry out of a difficult spot.

"Stonewall" Jackson Incident

Later that same evening, a famous Confederate general, "Stonewall" Jackson, was accidentally shot. He was scouting the area when South Carolina troops mistook him and his group for Union soldiers.

Changes in Cavalry Leadership

After a failed raid, General George Stoneman was replaced as the head of the Cavalry Corps. Alfred Pleasonton took over. In June 1863, the cavalry was reorganized. David McMurtrie Gregg, Huey's former commander, took charge of a new division. Huey's 8th Pennsylvania regiment was part of this new group.

On June 25, 1863, Pennock Huey was promoted to colonel of his regiment. He then took command of a brigade under Gregg.

Gettysburg Campaign and Capture

During the famous Battle of Gettysburg, Huey was not directly in the fighting. He was on a special assignment, protecting supply trains in Maryland. However, he did join the pursuit of the Confederate army after the battle. During this chase, his brigade served under Hugh Judson Kilpatrick.

Huey returned to leading his regiment for most of 1863. In 1864, he served under General Philip Sheridan. Huey was part of the rear guard during the retreat from the Battle of Trevilian Station.

On June 24, 1864, Huey was captured at the Battle of Saint Mary's Church. He was held as a prisoner in South Carolina. He was finally released on December 9, 1864, and returned to his command.

After the War

In March 1865, Pennock Huey was given the honorary rank of brevet brigadier general. He was officially discharged from the army with his regiment on August 11, 1865, in Richmond, Virginia.

After the war, Huey married Elizabeth Waln Wistar. He continued to work as a merchant and was also involved in the canal industry. He later wrote about the charge at Chancellorsville. He wanted to make sure he received proper credit for his actions, as his account differed from General Pleasonton's.

Pennock Huey passed away on his farm at the age of 75. He was buried in Philadelphia.

Images for kids

• Chapelcroft Home of General Pennock Huey.jpg

  Chapelcroft, the home of General Pennock Huey, around 1892.