Robert Murray Morris facts for kids

Robert Murray Morris (1824–1896) was an important soldier in the United States Army and the Union Army. He served in several big conflicts. These included the Mexican–American War and the American Civil War. He also helped explore the western parts of the United States.

From 1846, he was an officer in a special army group. This group was first called the Regiment of Mounted Rifles. Later, it became the 3rd Cavalry Regiment. He also served as a Major in the 6th Cavalry Regiment. After the Civil War, he worked in Texas and Kansas. He retired from the army in 1873.

Robert Murray Morris: A Life in the Army

Early Life and First Steps in the Army

Robert Murray Morris was born in Washington, D.C. on May 12, 1824. His father was Commodore Charles Morris, a naval officer. Robert started at the West Point army school in 1841. However, he left the school in 1842.

He became a Second Lieutenant in the Regiment of Mounted Rifles on May 27, 1846. He then served in the Mexican–American War. He was praised for his brave actions in the battles of Contreras and Chapultepec.

Exploring the West

After the Mexican-American War ended, Morris went on a long journey. In 1849, his army group marched 2,500 miles to Oregon Territory. He served at Fort Vancouver from 1850 to 1851.

From 1853 to 1854, he helped protect a group exploring Utah. This group was part of the Gunnison–Beckwith Expedition.

The Civil War Years

Later, Morris was stationed in New Mexico Territory. He was at Fort Craig when the American Civil War began there in 1861. On September 26, 1861, Morris led his soldiers in a small fight. This was called the Skirmish near Fort Thorn. They fought against Confederate soldiers.

Morris's group had marched all night. They surprised the Confederates at their camp. After several hours of fighting, Morris's soldiers had to stop. They ran out of ammunition.

He later led his company in the Battle of Valverde. He was again praised for his brave actions there. His Mounted Rifles group was later sent east. They became the 3rd Cavalry. In 1863, he was promoted to Major. He then joined the 6th Cavalry. He was again praised for his brave actions on March 31, 1865. This was during the Battle of Dinwiddie Court House in Virginia.

After the War

After the Civil War ended, Morris and his regiment went to Texas. They helped rebuild the country after the war. They also fought Native American groups on the frontier. Later, he served on the frontier in Kansas. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1873. He held the honorary rank of Brevet Lt. Colonel.

Later Years

Morris lived in Washington, D.C. until 1889. Then, he moved to Martha's Vineyard. He passed away in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 7, 1896. He was buried in the Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C.