Who was the Last Civil War Veteran?
The American Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal moment in the country’s history, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. The war resulted in the deaths of an estimated 620,000 to 750,000 soldiers and civilians, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in American history. As the years passed, the number of Civil War veterans dwindled, until finally, there was only one left.
The Last Civil War Veteran: Walter Williams
Walter Williams, a former Union soldier, was born on February 9, 1842, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the Union Army at the age of 17, serving as a drummer boy in the 6th Pennsylvania Reserves. Williams saw action in several battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg, and was wounded twice during his service.
After the war, Williams settled in Missouri, where he worked as a farmer and a carpenter. He married twice and had three children. Williams remained active in veterans’ organizations, attending reunions and speaking about his experiences during the war.
The Search for the Last Civil War Veteran
As the number of Civil War veterans dwindled, the search for the last surviving veteran became a national obsession. In the early 1950s, the Department of the Army launched a campaign to find the last veteran, offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the identification of the last surviving soldier.
The search was not an easy one. Many veterans had died without leaving behind a clear record of their service, and some had even changed their names or moved to different parts of the country. Despite these challenges, the search continued, with the help of veterans’ organizations, genealogists, and historians.
The Identification of Walter Williams
On January 20, 1959, the Department of the Army announced that Walter Williams, a 116-year-old resident of Missouri, was the last surviving Civil War veteran. Williams’ identification was confirmed through a combination of documentation, including his military records, census data, and testimony from his family members.
Life as the Last Civil War Veteran
As the last Civil War veteran, Williams became an overnight sensation. He was hailed as a national hero, and his story was featured in newspapers and magazines across the country. Williams was invited to attend various events and ceremonies, including the 1959 dedication of the Civil War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Despite the attention, Williams remained humble and private. He continued to live on his farm in Missouri, surrounded by his family and friends. Williams passed away on September 4, 1959, at the age of 117, bringing an end to the Civil War era.
The Legacy of Walter Williams
Walter Williams’ legacy extends far beyond his status as the last Civil War veteran. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war, and the importance of preserving our nation’s history.
Key Facts about Walter Williams
- Born: February 9, 1842, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Enlisted: 1861, Union Army, 6th Pennsylvania Reserves
- Battles: Gettysburg, Antietam, Fredericksburg
- Wounded: Twice during his service
- Post-war life: Farmer, carpenter, and veteran’s advocate
- Last Civil War veteran: January 20, 1959
- Died: September 4, 1959, age 117
Timeline of the Last Civil War Veteran
- 1952: The Department of the Army launches a campaign to find the last surviving Civil War veteran
- 1956: The search is intensified, with the help of veterans’ organizations and genealogists
- January 20, 1959: Walter Williams is identified as the last Civil War veteran
- 1959: Williams attends various events and ceremonies, including the dedication of the Civil War Veterans Memorial
- September 4, 1959: Walter Williams passes away at the age of 117
Conclusion
Walter Williams, the last Civil War veteran, left behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war, and the importance of preserving our nation’s history. As we reflect on the Civil War and its impact on our country, we honor the memory of Walter Williams and all those who served during that pivotal moment in American history.
