William H. Withington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William H. Withington
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Member of the Michigan State Senate | |
| In office 1891–1892 |
|
| Member of the Michigan House of Representatives | |
| In office 1873–1874 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born |
William Herbert Withington
February 1, 1835 Dorchester, Massachusetts |
| Died | June 27, 1903 (aged 68) Jackson, Michigan |
| Occupation | Military officer, manufacturer, politician |
| Signature |  |
William Herbert Withington (born February 1, 1835 – died June 27, 1903) was a brave officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was also a successful businessman and a politician in Michigan.
Contents
Early Life and Career
William H. Withington was born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, on February 1, 1835. As he grew up, he decided to move to Michigan. There, he became a manufacturer of tools used on farms.
Military Service in the Civil War
Joining the Union Army
In May 1861, William Withington joined the Union Army. He started as a captain in the 1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment (3 Months). This was at the very beginning of the American Civil War.
First Battle of Bull Run
On July 21, 1861, Captain Withington fought in the First Battle of Bull Run. This was a major battle where he showed great courage. During the fight, his commanding officer, Orlando B. Willcox, was wounded. William Withington quickly took charge of the troops. He continued to lead them until he himself was wounded and captured by the enemy.
He was held as a prisoner of war for some time. Later, he was part of a prisoner exchange. This meant he was traded for an enemy soldier. He left the volunteer army on January 31, 1862.
Becoming a Colonel
Even after being wounded and captured, William Withington continued his service. On August 11, 1862, he was given a higher rank. He became a colonel of the 17th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He served in this role until he resigned from the volunteers on March 31, 1863.
Honorary General Rank
For his brave actions during the war, William Withington received a special honor. On December 3, 1867, President Andrew Johnson suggested he be given an honorary rank. This rank was brevet brigadier general. A "brevet" rank is an honorary promotion given for special service or bravery. It means he was recognized as a general, even if he didn't command a full general's unit. The United States Senate officially approved this on February 14, 1868.
Life After the War
Business and Politics
After the Civil War ended, William Withington returned to his life as a manufacturer. He started his own company, the Withington and Cooley Manufacturing Company. This company made tools for farming in Jackson, Michigan.
He also became involved in politics. He served as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives from 1873 to 1874. Later, he was a member of the Michigan State Senate from 1891 to 1892.
Medal of Honor
On January 7, 1895, William H. Withington received the highest military award in the United States. He was awarded the Medal of Honor. This medal was given for his incredible bravery at the First Battle of Bull Run. He took command when his superior officer was wounded and continued to lead his troops until he was also wounded and captured.
Later Years and Death
William H. Withington passed away in Jackson, Michigan, on June 27, 1903. He was buried at Mount Evergreen Cemetery in Jackson, Michigan.
