Jno. Robertson

John Robertson (January 2, 1814 – March 19, 1887) was a Scottish-American military officer and historian who served as the Adjutant General of Michigan for twenty-six years. Appointed at the outbreak of the American Civil War, he oversaw the mobilization of over 90,000 Michigan troops for the Union Army. Robertson is frequently cited as the "father of the Michigan National Guard" and was the author of the state history Michigan in the War.

Early life and regular army service Robertson was born in Banffshire, Scotland, on January 2, 1814. Seeking a military career, he immigrated to the United States in 1833 and enlisted as a private in the United States Army.

He served six years in the 5th U.S. Infantry, rising to Sergeant Major, the highest non-commissioned rank. His service included postings at Fort Howard and Fort Brady in Sault Ste. Marie. After leaving the regular army in 1839, he settled in Detroit and established himself as a commission merchant.

Robertson remained in office for twenty-six years, serving under five successive governors. He was the primary architect of the Michigan Military Code of 1870, which transitioned the state's volunteer forces into a professionalized permanent militia known as the Michigan State Troops.

Upon his death, the Detroit Free Press described him as "the best-known military man in the state" and highlighted his "indomitable energy" in preserving the records of Michigan's veterans.

Death Robertson died in office on March 19, 1887, at his residence in Detroit. He was buried with full military honors in Elmwood Cemetery.