William Hawley (general) facts for kids

William Hawley (born August 19, 1824 – died January 15, 1873) was an important officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He became a colonel and later received a special honor, being named a "brevet" brigadier general in 1866. A "brevet" rank means it's an honorary title given for brave service, but it doesn't always come with the higher pay or command duties of a full general.

Early Life

William Hawley was born on August 19, 1824, in a place called Porter, New York. As he grew up, he lived in Lockport, New York. Later, in 1854, he moved to Madison, Wisconsin.

Military Career

Hawley had a long career serving his country.

Before the Civil War

Hawley first joined the United States Army during the Mexican–American War. This war happened between 1846 and 1848. During this time, he reached the rank of Sergeant. After the war ended, he left the army.

American Civil War

When the American Civil War began, Hawley joined the Union Army again. He helped create a group of soldiers called the 3rd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

Rising Through the Ranks

In the year after he joined, Hawley was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. The next year, he became a full Colonel and took charge of his regiment.

Key Battles and Campaigns

Colonel Hawley and his regiment were part of many important battles and campaigns during the war. These included:

• The Battle of Chancellorsville
• The famous Battle of Gettysburg
• The Atlanta Campaign
• Sherman's March to the Sea
• The Carolinas Campaign

These were all major events where Hawley and his soldiers showed great bravery.

After the War

Hawley officially left the volunteer army on July 18, 1865. For his brave actions in Georgia and South Carolina, President Andrew Johnson honored him. On January 13, 1866, President Johnson nominated Hawley to be a brevet brigadier general. The United States Senate agreed to this honor on March 12, 1866.

After leaving the army for a short time, Hawley rejoined the U.S. Army in May 1866. He became a second lieutenant in the 11th U.S. Infantry Regiment and was sent to Virginia. Later that year, he moved to the 20th U.S. Infantry Regiment. On December 6, 1866, he was promoted to first lieutenant.

Later Life and Death

William Hawley passed away on January 15, 1873, in Buffalo, New York. He became sick during a big snowstorm. He was buried in Glenwood Cemetery, which is in Flint, Michigan.