Henry M. Hardenbergh

Henry M. Hardenbergh was a veteran of the American Civil War and a recipient of the Medal of Honor.

Biography Hardenbergh was born in Noble County, Indiana.

Second Battle of Deep Bottom On August 16, 1864, Hardenbergh and the 39th Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry took part in a 200-yard charge on Confederate fortifications in Henrico County, Virginia. Hardenbergh, who was carrying his regiments colors, but continued advancing after passing the flag onto another soldier. After breaching the Confederate fortifications, Hardenberg engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the color bearer of the 10th Alabama Infantry. He was left severely injured, but he successfully captured the flag.

Following the battle, Hardenbergh presented the captured flag to Union General David B. Birney. Birney recommended Hardenbergh for the Medal of Honor and a lieutenant's commission in the 36th U.S. Colored Troops.

Citation

Death Hardenbergh was killed by a Confederate sniper on August 28, 1864, while on picket duty during the Siege of Petersburg. He never received his officer's commission, and his Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously. He now rests at Poplar Grove Cemetery near Petersburg, Virginia.

Legacy On August 16, 1995, a marker was erected by Bremen Township near Richmond, Virginia, near where Hardenbergh fought during the Second Battle of Deep Bottom. The marker was placed to commemorate Hardenbergh.