William Read Scurry facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Read Scurry
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| Born | February 10, 1821 Gallatin, Tennessee |
| Died | April 30, 1864 (aged 43) Grant County, Arkansas |
| Place of burial |
Texas State Cemetery, Austin, Texas
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| Allegiance |  United States of America Confederate States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1846 (USA) 1861–1864 (CSA) |
| Rank |  Major (USA)Brigadier General (CSA) |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
William Read Scurry (born February 10, 1821 – died April 30, 1864) was an important general for the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. He was known for his leadership in several key battles.
Contents
Early Life and Career
William Scurry was born in Gallatin, Tennessee. In 1839, when he was 18, he moved to Texas. There, he became a lawyer and worked as a district attorney.
Scurry married Janette B. Sutton on December 17, 1846. They had seven children together.
Public Service in Texas
Scurry was involved in Texas politics early on. He served in the government of the Republic of Texas from 1844 to 1845. This was before Texas joined the United States. He also worked to help Texas become part of the United States.
After Texas joined the U.S., Scurry continued his law practice. He also helped run a newspaper called the Austin State Gazette. In 1856, he joined the state Democratic Party. Later, in 1861, he was part of the group that decided Texas would leave the United States.
Military Service
William Scurry had a military career even before the Civil War.
Mexican-American War
In 1846, Scurry joined the Mexican–American War as a private. A private is the lowest rank in the army. He quickly showed his skills and was promoted to Major by July 1846.
American Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Scurry joined the Confederate Army. In July 1861, he became a lieutenant colonel in the Fourth Texas Cavalry. This unit was part of the Sibley Brigade.
New Mexico Campaign
In early 1862, Scurry's unit took part in the New Mexico campaign. This was a plan by the Confederates to take control of the New Mexico Territory.
- Battle of Valverde: Scurry showed great bravery and leadership at the Battle of Valverde in February 1862.
- Battle of Glorieta Pass: He then led the Confederate forces at the Battle of Glorieta Pass in March 1862. After this battle, he was promoted to Colonel on March 28, 1862. He played a very important role in leading the Confederate soldiers as they retreated from New Mexico.
On September 12, 1862, Scurry was promoted again, this time to brigadier general.
Defending Texas
General Scurry and other soldiers who fought in New Mexico helped to recapture Galveston, Texas, on January 1, 1863. This was an important victory for the Confederates.
In October 1863, Scurry took command of the Third Brigade of Walker's Texas Division. He led them into battle in April 1864.
- Battle of Mansfield: Scurry's brigade fought in the Battle of Mansfield in Louisiana.
- Battle of Jenkins' Ferry: After this, his brigade moved to Arkansas. They went to fight against General Frederick Steele, who was planning to invade Texas.
Death and Legacy
William Scurry was killed in action at the Battle of Jenkins' Ferry on April 30, 1864. He was buried in the State Cemetery in Austin, Texas. A tall white marble monument was built over his grave to honor him.
Scurry County, Texas, is named after him. This shows how important he was to the state of Texas.
See also
In Spanish: William Read Scurry para niños
