Stevens Thompson Norvell facts for kids
Stevens Thompson Norvell (born February 14, 1835 – died August 20, 1911) was an American soldier. He was born in Ogunquit, Maine. His father was John Norvell, who served as a U.S. Senator for Michigan. Stevens was named after his father's friend, Stevens T. Mason, who was a very young governor of Michigan. His grandfather, Lt. Lipscomb Norvell, was an officer during the American Revolutionary War.
Like many of his brothers, Stevens chose a career in the military. Five of his brothers fought in the American Civil War. One brother, Colonel Freeman Norvell, was a Marine officer in the Mexican War and also fought at the Battle of Gettysburg. Stevens joined the army as a private on January 23, 1858.
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Early Military Career
Stevens Norvell served in Utah during the early part of the American Civil War until 1860. As a first sergeant, he fought against the Apache people in Peralto, New Mexico, in 1862. He left the enlisted ranks in January 1863. Soon after, he became a second lieutenant in the 13th Infantry. By July of the same year, he was promoted to first lieutenant.
After the Civil War, he was assigned to the Military Division of Mississippi in 1865. Later, in 1868, he was stationed at Fort Stevenson in the Dakota Territory. He was promoted to captain in June 1868.
Serving with the Buffalo Soldiers
After the Civil War, the U.S. Congress created new army regiments. These included the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments, and several infantry regiments. These units were special because they were made up entirely of African American soldiers. Many of these soldiers were formerly enslaved people, free Black men, or African Americans who had fought in the Civil War. These brave soldiers became known as the Buffalo Soldiers.
Stevens Thompson Norvell joined the 10th Cavalry in 1870. He spent many years leading his company against Native American threats in the Southwest. He took part in several battles before being promoted to major in March 1890.
Spanish-American War Hero
When the Spanish–American War began, Major Norvell and the 10th Cavalry were sent to Cuba. He was 64 years old at the time. As the commander of the 1st Squadron of the 10th Cavalry, he led four companies of African American cavalrymen.
His unit saw action in important battles, including the Battle of La Guasima and the famous Battle of San Juan Hill. For his bravery and leadership at San Juan Hill, he received a special commendation. His actions helped lead to the surrender of Santiago.
Later Life and Retirement
After the historic Battle of San Juan Hill, Lieutenant Colonel Norvell was put in charge of the 9th Cavalry Regiment (United States). He retired from the army on February 14, 1899. Later, on April 23, 1904, he was promoted to the rank of colonel on the retired list.
Stevens Thompson Norvell married Sarah Elizabeth Proal on August 23, 1870, in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is buried with his wife Elizabeth at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
