Robert Pinn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Alexander Pinn
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First Sergeant Robert Pinn
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| Born | March 1, 1843 Perry Township, Stark County, Ohio |
| Died | January 5, 1911 (aged 67) |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1863 - 1865 |
| Rank | First Sergeant |
| Unit | 5th U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War *Battle of Chaffin's Farm |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Robert Alexander Pinn (born March 1, 1843 – died January 5, 1911) was a brave African American soldier. He fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. Pinn received the Medal of Honor, which is America's highest award for military bravery. He earned this honor for his actions in the Battle of Chaffin's Farm.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
Robert A. Pinn was born on March 1, 1843, in Perry Township, Ohio. He grew up on a farm and was one of ten children. He went to school and helped on the family farm until he was 18 years old.
Joining the Union Army
In 1863, Pinn joined the Army in Massillon, Ohio. He became a First Sergeant in Company I of the 5th U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment. This unit was also known as the 127th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
Heroism at Chaffin's Farm
On September 29, 1864, Pinn's unit fought in the Battle of Chaffin's Farm in Virginia. During this battle, he showed great courage. Six months later, on April 6, 1865, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his brave actions. He was one of only four Black Americans from Ohio to receive this award during the Civil War.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, Robert Pinn went back to Massillon, Ohio. He worked as a contractor and a teamster, which meant he drove teams of horses for work.
Education and Career
In 1874, Pinn decided to go to Oberlin College. After he graduated, he became the principal of Cairo High School. He also taught school in South Carolina. Later, Pinn returned to Massillon and studied law. In 1879, he became a lawyer in Ohio.
Family and Legacy
Robert Pinn was married to Emily J. Manzilla, who passed away in 1890. They had a daughter named Gracie R. Pinn. Robert Pinn died at age 67 and was buried in Massillon City Cemetery.
His bravery and achievements are still remembered today. In 1973, the Ohio National Guard named a new building in Stow, Ohio, after him. In 1998, the shooting range at the University of Akron was also named the Robert A. Pinn Shooting Range in his honor. This range is a top facility in Ohio.
