Silas Colgrove

Silas Colgrove (May 24, 1816 – January 13, 1907) was an American lawyer, judge, and Union Army officer during the American Civil War. He commanded the 27th Indiana Infantry Regiment through significant battles in both the Eastern and Western Theaters, earning a brevet promotion to brigadier general for his distinguished service.

Early life Colgrove was born in Woodhull, New York, on May 24, 1816. He later moved to Winchester, Indiana, where he worked as a lawyer and served as prosecuting attorney. From 1856 until 1861, he represented Randolph County in the Indiana House of Representatives.

Civil War service At the outbreak of the Civil War, Colgrove was commissioned lieutenant colonel of the 8th Indiana Infantry Regiment and participated in the Western Virginia campaign, including the Battle of Rich Mountain, which helped secure the region for the Union.

In September 1861, he was promoted to colonel and given command of the newly formed 27th Indiana Infantry Regiment. Under his leadership, the regiment gained a reputation for discipline and resilience.

Later in 1864, the regiment transferred west to participate in the Atlanta campaign. Colgrove led his men in the Battle of Resaca and the Battle of Peachtree Creek, where he sustained serious wounds. Recognized for his meritorious service, he was brevetted brigadier general in July 1864. Due to lingering effects of his injuries, Colgrove resigned from active service on December 30, 1864.

Post-war career After the war, Colgrove was elected Circuit Court judge for Randolph and Delaware Counties in Indiana, serving multiple terms. He also served as president of the Cincinnati, Fort Wayne & Grand Rapids Railroad. In 1888, he moved to Washington, D.C., where he worked at the Bureau of Pensions until retiring in 1893 due to ill health.

Death Silas Colgrove died on January 13, 1907, in Kerr City, Florida. He was cremated, and his ashes were scattered over Lake Kerr.