Nathaniel J. Jackson

Nathaniel James Jackson (July 28, 1818 – April 21, 1892) was an American machinist and soldier. He served as a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War, in which he was wounded three times. After the war, Jackson operated a mine.

Early life and career Nathaniel J. Jackson was born in the coastal town of Newburyport, Massachusetts. When he was young, he was taught "the machinist's trade" and by 1861, he was superintendent of the Hill mill in Lewiston, Maine. Jackson was also active in the Maine State Militia, and would command some of those militiamen early in the American Civil War during his first two commands.

Civil War service In 1861, Jackson chose to follow the Union cause. He was appointed commander of the 1st Maine Infantry Regiment on May 3, with the rank of colonel. The 1st Maine did not participate in the opening campaigns of the Civil War, and the 90-day regiment, as well as Jackson, were mustered out of the volunteer service in early August.

Jackson re-entered the Union Army on September 3, 1861, as colonel of the 5th Maine Infantry. This regiment enlisted for 3 years' service, and Jackson's appointment to command it was not popular. His assignment was announced on September 9, "which led to a near mutiny in the regiment. Several officers resigned and General Henry W. Slocum had to act swiftly to prevent further mutinous acts by the members of the 5th Maine." Jackson and the 5th then participated in the 1862 Peninsula Campaign. He fought during the Battle of Gaines' Mill on June 27, where Jackson was wounded in his right elbow. His regiment lost 10 killed, 69 wounded, and another 16 men missing in the battle.

Upon recovering, Jackson participated in the 1862 Maryland Campaign. He fought at the Battle of Crampton's Gap on September 14, and was present Battle of Antietam three days later. On September 19 Jackson was wounded in his knee in fighting again at Crampton's Gap.