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Thomas Sherwin
Sherwin, Thomas.JPG
Born July 11, 1839
Boston, Massachusetts
Died December 19, 1914
Boston, Massachusetts
Allegiance Union
Service/branch Union Army
Years of service 1861–1865
Rank Union Army LTC rank insignia.png Lieutenant Colonel
Union Army brigadier general rank insignia.svg Bvt. Brigadier General
Unit 22nd Massachusetts Infantry
Commands held 1st Brigade, 1st Division, V Corps
Battles/wars American Civil War
Other work President, New England Telephone and Telegraph Company
Detail of Thomas Sherwin’s grave
Detail of Thomas Sherwin's grave in the Old Village Cemetery

Thomas Sherwin (July 11, 1839 – December 19, 1914) was an important figure in American history. He was a brave soldier during the American Civil War and later became a successful business leader.

Early Life and Joining the War

Thomas Sherwin was born in Boston, Massachusetts. His father, also named Thomas Sherwin, was a well-known educator. He was the headmaster of the English High School of Boston.

Before the war, young Thomas Sherwin worked as a teacher in Dedham, Massachusetts. When the American Civil War began in 1861, he decided to join the Union Army. He enlisted as a lieutenant in the 22nd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry regiment.

A Soldier's Courage

Thomas Sherwin quickly showed his bravery on the battlefield. He fought in many important battles during the war.

Wounded in Battle

On June 27, 1862, Sherwin was wounded during the Battle of Gaines' Mill. This battle was part of a series of fights known as the Seven Days Battles. Despite his injury, he continued to serve with dedication.

Honored for Bravery

Sherwin was especially recognized for his courage at the Battle of Gettysburg. This was one of the most important battles of the Civil War. His actions there, along with his overall service, earned him a special honor.

On April 3, 1866, after the war ended, President Andrew Johnson nominated Thomas Sherwin for an honorary rank. He was given the title of "brevet brigadier general" in the United States Volunteers. A "brevet" rank is an honorary promotion given for outstanding service or bravery. It means he was recognized as a brigadier general, even though he might not have held that rank full-time. The U.S. Senate officially approved this award on May 18, 1866.

After the War

After his military service, Thomas Sherwin continued to contribute to society. He became the president of the New England Telephone and Telegraph Company. This shows he was not only a brave soldier but also a skilled leader in the business world.

Thomas Sherwin passed away on December 19, 1914, in Boston, Massachusetts.

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