Thomas R. Ranson facts for kids
Thomas D. Ranson was a brave soldier from Staunton, Virginia, who fought in the American Civil War. He was part of the Confederate States Army and served in the famous Stonewall Brigade. This brigade was led by General Stonewall Jackson, a very well-known leader.
Captain Ranson survived the war. He is remembered for a special act of kindness and respect for his fallen leader, General Jackson. Jackson died near Chancellorsville, Virginia, on May 10, 1863.
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Who Was Thomas Ranson?
Thomas D. Ranson came from Augusta County, Virginia. He joined the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. He became a captain and served under General Stonewall Jackson. Their unit, the Stonewall Brigade, was known for being very strong and brave.
A Special Act of Respect
Years after the war ended, in the 1880s, Captain Ranson did something truly special. He knew that General Jackson's mother, Julia Neale Jackson, had died young. She was buried in an unmarked grave. She passed away in 1831 when her son Thomas (who would become Stonewall Jackson) was only seven years old. He became an orphan at that young age.
Honoring Jackson's Mother
Julia Neale Jackson (1798–1831) was buried in Fayette County, West Virginia. Her grave was along an old road called the James River and Kanawha Turnpike. For many years, her grave had no marker, meaning it could easily be forgotten.
Captain Ranson wanted to make sure this important site was not lost. He arranged for a marble marker to be placed on Julia Neale Jackson's grave in Westlake Cemetery. This cemetery is in a place that is now the town of Ansted, West Virginia.
Why This Act Was Important
Today, people in Ansted still look after Julia Jackson's gravesite. They remember the young boy who grew up to be the legendary Stonewall Jackson. They also talk about Captain Ranson's kind act.
Ranson's gesture showed the deep love and respect the soldiers had for General Stonewall Jackson. Jackson was a very religious and private man. He was also a brave leader who often put himself in danger to protect his troops. Captain Ranson's act is a symbol of that strong bond between a leader and his soldiers.
