William Henry Bisbee (January 28, 1840 – June 11, 1942) was a United States Army General whose military career spanned over four decades, encompassing conflicts from the American Civil War through the Philippine–American War. A career officer, Bisbee's service was marked by his bravery in battle, strategic acumen, and commitment to his country, culminating in his promotion to Brigadier General and recognition as one of the oldest retired officers of the U.S. Army.
William Henry Bisbee | |
|---|---|
 Brigadier General William Henry Bisbee (1840-1942) | |
| Born | January 28, 1840 Woonsocket, Providence County, Rhode Island, US |
| Died | June 11, 1942 (aged 102) Brookline, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, US |
| Buried | Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, US |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1902 |
| Rank | Brigadier General |
| Battles / wars | American Civil War
|
| Awards | Purple Heart[1] |
Early life and education
editWilliam Henry Bisbee was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, on January 28, 1840, to William Orson Bisbee and Harriet Miriam (Ballou) Bisbee. He was a descendant of a Norman chieftain who fought under William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. After receiving his early education in Woonsocket, Bisbee worked in merchandising before joining the U.S. Army.
Civil War service
editBisbee enlisted in the United States Army on September 2, 1861, as part of the 18th United States Infantry. He served with the Army of the Ohio and later the Army of the Cumberland, participating in major battles such as Corinth, Perryville, Stones River, Chickamauga, Chattanooga, Atlanta, Jonesboro, and Lookout Mountain. His valor at Stones River led to multiple citations and a promotion to Second Lieutenant by President Abraham Lincoln. He was wounded three times in battle.
Indian Wars and Spanish-American War
editFollowing the Civil War, Bisbee was involved in several frontier engagements during the Indian Wars, including roles in Indian Territory (Oklahoma). During the Spanish–American War, he commanded a regiment in Cuba, contributing to the Siege of Santiago, El Caney, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. His performance in these conflicts earned him a promotion to Colonel.
Philippine-American War and later career
editBisbee was transferred to the Philippines after the Spanish–American War, serving as a military governor in Pangasinan and Nueva Ecija Provinces during the Philippine–American War. His effective leadership resulted in his promotion to Brigadier General in October 1901. He retired in 1902 after a distinguished 41-year career.
Personal life
editOn September 3, 1863, Bisbee married Lucy Katherine Shade, and they had four children: Eugene Shade, Katherine Ballou, Haymond Bird, and Louise Lucille. Lucy passed away in her seventy-fifth year.
Retirement and legacy
editGeneral Bisbee retired as one of the longest-serving officers from the Civil War era. Upon his death on June 11, 1942, he was the oldest retired officer of the United States Army, having lived to the age of 102.[2] He was recognized by numerous military organizations and was a member of several prestigious societies. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
References
edit- ^ "Purple Heart". Finding Aids, University of Michigan. Retrieved July 22, 2024.
- ^ Lincoln (June 12, 1942). "BRIG. GEN. BISBEE DIES AT AGE OF 102; Oldest Retired Army Officer of Nation Fought in 4 Wars, Beginning With the Civil IN INDIAN CAMPAIGNS ALSO His First Commission Signed". The New York Times. Retrieved July 20, 2024.
- ^ "Biography of William Henry Bisbee". Rhode Island Genealogy. 19 April 2020. Retrieved July 20, 2024.