William Thomas Ward facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Thomas Ward
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Kentucky's 4th district |
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| In office March 4, 1851 – March 3, 1853 |
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| Preceded by | George Caldwell |
| Succeeded by | James Chrisman |
| Member of the Kentucky House of Representatives | |
| In office 1850 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | August 9, 1808 Amelia County, Virginia |
| Died | October 12, 1878 (aged 70) Louisville, Kentucky |
| Resting place | Cave Hill Cemetery, Louisville, Kentucky |
| Political party | Whig |
| Alma mater | St. Mary's College |
| Profession | Lawyer |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Branch/service | United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1847–1848, 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Unit | XX Corps |
| Battles/wars | Mexican–American War American Civil War |
William Thomas Ward (August 9, 1808 – October 12, 1878) was an important figure in American history. He was a brave soldier who became a brigadier general in the United States Army. He also served as a U.S. Congressman for Kentucky and was a member of the Kentucky Legislature.
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William T. Ward's Early Life
William T. Ward was born on August 9, 1808, in Amelia County, Virginia. He went to local schools and later attended St. Mary's College near Lebanon, Kentucky. After his studies, Ward decided to become a lawyer. He studied law and was allowed to practice, starting his career in Greensburg, Kentucky.
Ward's Military Service
William T. Ward served his country in two major conflicts: the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War.
The Mexican-American War
From 1847 to 1848, Ward served as a major in the 4th Kentucky Volunteers during the Mexican–American War. This war was fought between the United States and Mexico.
The American Civil War
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Ward was commissioned as a brigadier general in the Union Army. He served throughout the entire war, which lasted until 1865. General Ward led a group of soldiers called a brigade in the XX Corps. This was during the early parts of the Atlanta Campaign, a very important series of battles.
Later, he took command of the Third Division of the XX Corps for the rest of the Atlanta Campaign. He played a key role in battles like the battle of Peachtree Creek. Ward also led his troops during Sherman's March to the Sea and the Carolinas Campaign. These were major movements by the Union Army that helped end the war.
A Career in Politics
Besides his military service, William T. Ward was also active in politics, representing the people of Kentucky.
In the Kentucky Legislature
In 1850, Ward became a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives. This is where laws are made for the state of Kentucky.
Serving in Congress
The following year, Ward was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. He represented Kentucky's 4th Congressional District as a member of the Whig Party. He served one term in the 32nd Congress, from March 4, 1851, to March 3, 1853. He chose not to run for re-election in 1852.
Later Life and Legacy
After the Civil War ended, William T. Ward returned to his law practice. He worked as a lawyer in Louisville, Kentucky.
William T. Ward passed away on October 12, 1878. He was buried in the Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, Kentucky. He is remembered for his service as both a military leader and a politician.
