Thomas Sherwin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Sherwin
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| Born | July 11, 1839 Boston, Massachusetts |
| Died | December 19, 1914 Boston, Massachusetts |
| Allegiance | Union |
| Service/ |
Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant Colonel 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 |
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.
Contents
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.
