Son of Laban and Mary (Thayer) Bates. He received his education in the common schools of Massachusetts, at Worcester Academy, and at Brown University where he graduated in 1851.He was noted to have taught school at Milford, Mass. when 16 years of age. Bates was proficient in mathematics and philosophy. Following graduation he came to Meadville, PA where he taught ancient languages at Meadville Academy and became its principal (1851-1857).In 1860, he was appointed deputy state superintendent of schools and was active in the National Teachers Asso. Bates wrote articles and lectured on various topics concerning teaching and education. In 1866, he was appointed Pennsylvania State Historian by Gov. Andrew Curtin. This position was created by the legislature for the purpose of gathering information and forming accounts of the Pennsylvania organizations that served during the Civil War. His 5 volume work, The History of Pennsylvania Volunteers 1861-5 (1869-70) remains the start of any civil war research involving any Pennsylvania soldier or regiment. Among other works authored by Bates are those on the battles of Gettysburg and Chancellorsville. Union General Joseph Hooker was a frequent visitor to his Meadville home and in October of 1876 both men toured the Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and Antietam. battlefields.
Son of Laban and Mary (Thayer) Bates. He received his education in the common schools of Massachusetts, at Worcester Academy, and at Brown University where he graduated in 1851.He was noted to have taught school at Milford, Mass. when 16 years of age. Bates was proficient in mathematics and philosophy. Following graduation he came to Meadville, PA where he taught ancient languages at Meadville Academy and became its principal (1851-1857).In 1860, he was appointed deputy state superintendent of schools and was active in the National Teachers Asso. Bates wrote articles and lectured on various topics concerning teaching and education. In 1866, he was appointed Pennsylvania State Historian by Gov. Andrew Curtin. This position was created by the legislature for the purpose of gathering information and forming accounts of the Pennsylvania organizations that served during the Civil War. His 5 volume work, The History of Pennsylvania Volunteers 1861-5 (1869-70) remains the start of any civil war research involving any Pennsylvania soldier or regiment. Among other works authored by Bates are those on the battles of Gettysburg and Chancellorsville. Union General Joseph Hooker was a frequent visitor to his Meadville home and in October of 1876 both men toured the Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and Antietam. battlefields.
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