(NOTE: John M. W. Smith probably never had his portrait taken prior to the Civil War. However, during the 10 month period that the 86th Illinois was in the Nashville, Tennessee area in 1862-63, John, like most of the Union soldiers in the Nashville area, probably took the time to sit for a portrait to send home to the loved ones that he left behind. These portraits were most often printed in the form of what was called a CDV, a paper picture glued to a heavier card stock about the size of a modern day baseball card, and the soldiers didn't just have one or two copies made. Most of the time, they had a dozen or more made, so they could swap pictures with their tentmates, messmates and for their friends, in the 86th and back home.
John M. W. Smith was severely wounded later in the war, survived his wounding and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, John probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. I would also be thrilled to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man, perhaps some showing him missing an arm. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private JOHN MANLY WASHINGTON SMITH, Co. F, 86 Illinois
John M. W. Smith was born on February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana, near Cumberland, Indiana, which is a town of the boundary of Hancock and Marion Counties in Indiana. John was the son of Michael C. Smith and possibly Isabel (Craig) Smith. Michael C. Smith was born on August 31, 1820/21 at __________, Virginia. Isabel Smith was born on May 12, 1824 in __________, Indiana, the daughter of Thomas Craig and Sarah (Eastes) Craig. Michael and Isabel are believed to have been married on October 12, 1848 in Hancock County, Indiana. If this marriage did not occur until 1848, then it is possible Michael was married before this as his first son, John M. W. Smith is believed to have been born on February 12, 1846. So either this marriage occurred before 1848 or Michael was married once before his marriage with Isabel. These are the children known to have been born to Michael C. Smith;
1. John M. W. Smith, born February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana. See his biography below.
2. Robert Pinkney Smith, born c. 1851 in Indiana. Robert P. Smith was married to Sarah Shuck on December 23, 1875 in Knox County.
In the 1900 Federal Census, Robert, Sarah and two children are still residing in Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL.
3. Elijah Anderson Smith, born c. 1854 in Indiana. Elijah A. Smith was married to Amanda Howater on December 25, 1879 in Knox County.
4. Milton Erastus Smith, born c. 1856
5. Anna E. Smith, born c. 1861.
Carol Dorward found the Michael Smith family in Hancock County, Indiana in 1850 and in Knox County, Illinois in 1860. The family came west to Illinois sometime between 1856 and 1860.
1850 Federal Census, Sugar Creek, Hancock Co., Indiana
Michael C. Smith, 30, VA, Farmer
Isabel Smith, 29, IN
John M. W. Smith, 5, IN
Jacob Hook, 24, OH
[Family moved to IL after 1856, based on where children born in the next census.]
1860 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michail [as name spelled] Smith, 39, IN, Farmer
Isaboleth Smith, 36, IN
John M. Smith, 13, IN
Robert Pincky (or Pinkey) Smith, 9, IN
Elijah Anderson Smith, 6, IN [ancestry has it transcribed as Elizah, but child is a male and looks like a "j" rather than a "z" to me]
Milton E. Smith, 4, IN
Ann Craig, 17, IN
Isabel died on March 13, 1862 at _________, Illinois. Her earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, Illinois.
Michael C. Smith was married 2nd Mary Ann Ellsworth on November 30, 1862 in Knox County. At the time of the 1870 Federal Census, Michael and his family are found in Haw Creek, Knox County, Illinois;
Michael G. Smith, 47, Farmer, KY
Mary E. Smith, 47, OH
Robert P. Smith, 19, IN
Elijah A. Smith, 17, IN
Milton E. Smith, 15, IN
Anna E. Smith, 9, IL"
1880 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michael G. Smith, 58, KY
Mary Smith, 57, OH
Erastus M. [probably Milton], 24, IN
Anna E. Smith, 19, IL
Simon Hampton, 6, IN
[Immediately above this family is... Elijah A. Smith and wife Amanda.]"
Michael died on April 14, 1899. His earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery near his first wife Isabel.
Now to continue with the biography of John Manly Washington Smith;
On August 5, 1862, John M. W. Smith volunteered at Maquon, Illinois to serve in a company which was being raised in the Maquon, Illinois area for service in the Union Army during the Civil War by a local well known Carpenter, Contractor and Businessman by the name of James L. Burkhalter. At the time he enlisted, John gave his place of residence as Maquon, Illinois.
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name SMITH, JOHN M W Rank PVT
Company F Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence MAQUON, KNOX CO, IL
Age 18 Height 5' 8 1/4 Hair BLACK Eyes BLACK
Complexion DARK Marital Status SINGLE
Occupation FARMER Nativity HANCOCK CO, IN
Service Record
Joined When AUG 5, 1862
Joined Where MAQUON, IL
Joined By Whom J L BURKHALTER
Period 3 YRS Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom _____ Muster Out _____
Muster Out Where _____ Muster Out By Whom _____
Remarks DISCHARGED AT QUINCY ILL ON ACCOUNT OF LEFT ARM AMPUTATED CAUSED BY SHELL FROM ENEMY
When Burkhalter had about 100 volunteers, he led the Maquon company into Peoria, where they went into camp at the old Peoria County fairgrounds, at that time being called Camp Lyon. It was located across Prospect from present day Glen Oak Park. There on August 27, 1862, Burkhalter and 93 of his volunteers, including now Private John M. W. Smith, were mustered in as Co. F of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of the gates of Camp Lyon, Capt. James L. Burkhalter leading Co. F, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound Camp Joe Holt in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade in Union General Buell's army, who were in pursuit of Confederate troops under the command of General Braxton Bragg. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more in the coming years. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederate Army withdrew from Kentucky and McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the next year and a half, the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. During this time, Private John M. W. Smith was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickmauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia and Rome, Georgia.
The spring and summer of 1864, found the men of McCook's Brigade part of the army under the command of General William T. Sherman and were involved in what would become known as the "Atlanta Campaign", the campaign to capture the important railroad hub of Atlanta, Georgia. By June of 1864, the men of General Sherman's army were closing in on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia, juts 30 miles north of Atlanta. In the History of the 86th, Kinnear wrote the following about this time period leading up to the main assault on June 27, 1864.
"On the morning of the 9th (of June), the entire army moved forward to Big Shanty, the next station on the railroad. Here, we found ourselves surrounded by scenery of peculiar and lofty beauty. To our left, and on the east of the railroad, were Sweet mountain and Black Jack, while to the westward, and nearly in front, rose the bold and striking Kenesaw. To the right was Pine mountain, and more distinctly to the right was Lost mountain. Here we found the rebel General Johnston, strongly fortified on the northern slopes of Pine, Kenesaw and Lost mountains. General Sherman says, in his official report: "The scene was enchanting; too beautiful to be disturbed by the harsh clamors of war; but the Chattahouchie lay beyond, and I had to reach it."
At this place, our division took a position at right angles with the railroad and a few miles south of Big Shanty, where it threw up substantial breastworks, and remained until the 14th, when the lines were advanced and another line of works thrown up. In front of these works there was a deal of skirmishing carried on, creating undue excitement in the lines of battle, for it was thought the Johnnies would make a trial on our strength and position. About this time there was an incessant roar of artillery on the extreme right of our lines, despite the heavy rains that fell, which afterwards proved to be the operations of Sherman's "flanking machine."
"On Saturday, the 18th, our lines were again moved forward and other works constructed, the boys working with a vengeance all night to find the Johnnies gone in the morning; being flanked and obliged to evacuate their position for another. They were followed up at early dawn on the morning of the 19th and chased to their next place of retreat. Their right was now found resting on the Marietta and Canton road, with their centre on Kenesaw mountain, and left, across the Lost mountain and Marietta road, behind Nose's creek, and covering the railroad back to the Chattahoochie. Our division under Davis, took its position directly in front of the Big Kenesaw and nearly up to its base. Several batteries of our artillery soon moved up in short range of the Kenesaw and opened a furious fire upon it, in order, if possible, to develop the whereabouts of the enemy's masked batteries. During this cannonade it seemed that the very heavens were in agitation and the earth in violent commotion, but no reply was received."
"The troops stood from behind their works in full view of the enemy, looking on in silent amazement, enjoying in their hearts the sublime grandeur of the scene. Finally, a locomotive was run up to the base of the mountain, when behold, a masked battery opened on it in all its fury, the engine immediately reversing its steam and running back. On the night of the 20th and 21st, the rebels constructed several strong forts on the summit of the Kenesaw, from whence they annoyed our position a great deal. On the 22nd and 23rd, interesting duels were fought between these batteries of the enemy and our own; and certainly there never was a more amusing and interesting scene portrayed than exhibited in these short, effective engagements. The scenes about Kenesaw will ever maintain a sacred spot on the tablets of our memory. During operations about this place it rained almost continually for three weeks, so that a general move was impossible."
During one of these "interesting" duels a fragment from one of the Confederate artillery shells struck Private John M. W. Smith's left arm, amputating it or at least mangling it so badly that doctors were forced to amputate it. After surviving his initial wounding and amputation, Private John W. M. Smith was sent north. He would spend the next four months in Union Army Hospitals in the north recovering from his wounds.
Five days after Private John M. W. Smith was wounded, the surviving members of McCook's Brigade took part in the assault on Cheatham's Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. During the 30 minute assault which was only partially successful, over 100 men from the 86th Illinois and approximately 500 men from the Brigade were killed, wounded or captured.
Private John M. W. Smith was discharged from the service from the U. S. Army General Hospital for Volunteers at Quincy, Illinois after recovering from his wounds. He is believed to have been discharged on October 29, 1864. Private John M. W. Smith was granted an Invalid Pension on February 10, 1865.
It is recorded in State of Illinois records that John M. Smith was married to Eliza J. McHenry on December 11, 1867 in Knox County, Illinois. Eliza Jane McHenry was born on Nov. 4, 1849 in Wyandotte, Wyandotte County, Ohio, the daughter of __________ McHenry and __________ (__________) McHenry. Seven children were born to John and Eliza. They include;
They were the parents of seven children:
1. Frederic A. Smith, born May 24, 1868/69; died December 7, 1901 near Muller, Nebraska.
2. Arthur Lee Smith; born __________ __, 1870; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
3. India Blanche Smith; born November 2, 1871 in Gilson, Knox County, Illinois; Married Josiah Manuel Stevenson on February 20, 1896; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926; died on May 11, 1959.
4. James Michael Smith, born January 21, 1873 in Stockham, Hamilton County, Nebraska; residing in Hecla, Nebraska in 1926. James was married to Rachel ______________.
The children born to James and Rachael include;
A. Barbara A. Smith, born c. 1905/06 in Nebraska.
B. Maud H. Smith, born c. 1907/08 in Nebraska.
C. Marybelle D. Smith, born c. 1910/11 in Nebraska.
D. Margarie S. Smith, born c. 1912/13 in Nebraska.
E. John J. Smith, born c. 1914/15 in Nebraska.
F. Dorothy O. or I. Smith, born c. 1917/18 in Nebraska.
At the time of the 1920 census, James and his family are found in Hecla, Hooker County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 46 Nebraska
Rachael A Smith Wife F 36 Nebraska
Barbara A Smith Daughter F 14 Nebraska
Maud H Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
Mary B Smith Daughter F 9 Nebraska
Margarie S Smith Daughter F 7 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 5 Nebraska
Dorothy O Smith Daughter F 2 Nebraska
At the time of the 1930 census, James and his family are found in Roosevelt Township, Sioux County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 54 Nebraska
Rachel A Smith Wife F 47 Nebraska
Marybelle D Smith Daughter F 20 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 16 Nebraska
Dorothy I Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
James M. Smith died on December 13, 1960 in Ventura, Ventura County, California.
5. John Howard Smith; born ___________ __, 1876 in Nebraska; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
6. Norman H. "Mack" Smith; born September __, 1878 in Nebraska; residing near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
7. Maud Smith; born June __, 1886; married to __________ West; living in Ansley, Nebraska in 1926.
Carol Dorward found John M. W. Smith and his family at the time of the 1870 Federal Census are found in Haw Creek Township Knox County, Illinois;
"John M. W. Smith, 24
Eliza Smith, 21
Norman Smith, 1
Joseph Rivers, 13
[What is interesting, to me (Carol), is this can't be the same Norman as in the previous later records, so was this a child that died before the next census or is actually an eighth child? It is also interesting to note that the family who immediately precedes this family unit is a Michael Smith, b. abt 1823 KY) and Mary E. (b. abt1823 OH) Smith. This well could be the parents of the John M. W. Smith.]"
In 1871, John and Elia headed west with their family, settling for about a year in Seward, Nebraska. In 1872, the moved to Hamilton County, Nebraska. At the time of the 1880 census, the family is found in Aurora Township, Hamilton County, Nebraska;
John M. Smith, 34, Farmer, IN KY SC
Eliza J. Smith, 30, OH
Fredrick [without the 2nd e], 11, IL
India B. Smith, 10, IL
Arthur L. Smith, 8, NE/IL [apparently, couldn't remember which was his place of birth--indicates when move made from IL to NE??]
Jas. M. Smith, 7, NE
John Smith, 5, NE
Norman H. Smith, 2, NE
Alonzo McHenry, 18, TN (nephew)
Josiah Lowen, 18 (boarder)
In 1887, back in Central Illinois, several members of the old 86th organized a reunion for the old 86th, which was held in Peoria, Illinois during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering of the men of the 86th back in August of 1862. More than 130 veterans of the 86th attended this 1st reunion, which was such a success, that it was decided to hold another the next year. The reunion of 1888 was even better attended and the decision was made to continue them as long as veterans would attend. The last reunion was held in 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided by the 20 veterans who attended that reunion, that they were too old and too few to continue them any longer. For some unknown reason, the veterans of Co. F, never got into the reunions like some of the other companies did. Through the years, of the almost 100 men who served in Co. F during the war, only 17 different veterans of Co. F attended the reunions and there were never more than 7 present at any one time, that being the 2nd reunion in 1888.
Private John M. W. Smith never attended any of the reunions. In his case, as was the case of many of the veterans who headed west after the war, the great distance to be traveled and the difficulty in making that trip for a short reunion in the late 1800's and early 1900's played a great part in their not being able to attend. Private John M. W. Smith very active in the G.A.R., however. John was a member of the Zac Chandler G.A.R. Post #44 in Aurora, Nebraska, which was chartered on April 16, 1880. Private John M. W. Smith is found in several of the Nebraska Veterans Census' in Aurora, Nebraska including the 1890 veteran schedule where it refers to John M. W. Smith losing his left arm at Kennesaw Mountain.
1900 Federal Census, Aurora Twp.. Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 54, February 1846, IN KY IN, Farmer, Married 33 years
Eliza J. Smith, 49, November 1850, OH OH OH, 7 children/7 living
James M. Smith, 25, January 1875, NE IN OH
Norman H. Smith, 21, September 1878, NE IN OH
Maud Smith [as transcribed], 13, June 1886, NE IN OH
1910 Federal Census, Aurora Twp., Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 64, b. IN, Farmer
Louesa J. Smith, 60, OH, married 42 years, 7 children/6 living
Mack N. Smith (son), 30, Farmer
Private John M. W. Smith died on his 73rd birthday, February 12, 1919 in Aurora, Nebraska. His mortal remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska. The strange thing is, as you can see in the photographs on his other Find A Grave site, there is a government marker in the Maquon Cemetery, Knox County, Illinois that states very plainly Private John M. W. Smith, Co. F, 86th Ill. Inf. on it. It apparently has been dug out of the ground and just sits in the cemetery.
Kay Cynova, Find A Grave Contributor #47064119, searched through the Aurora are newspapers and came up with two obituaries for John M. W. Smith which follow;
From the The Aurora Republican Wednesday 19 Feb 1919 p.1:2
"Death of John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him. To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, December, 1901, Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury.
Mr. Smith was a veteran of the civil war, serving three years in Company F, 86th Illinois regiment of Volunteer infantry. He was wounded and lost an arm in service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death and endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
Funeral services were conducted from the United Brethren church by Rev. H. H. Heberly on Tuesday afternoon. Burial at Aurora cemetery."
From The Hamilton County Register Wednesday 21 Feb 1919 p.3:3
"John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him.
To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, Neb., December, 1901, and those living are Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury. He was a veteran of the Civil war, serving three years in Co. F, 86th Illinois regiment of volunteer infantry, being wounded and loosing an arm while in this service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death. He endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon in the United Brethren church in charge of Rev. H. H. Heberly. The male quartet of the church furnished the music and a guard of honor of the G. A. R. were pall bearers. Burial was at the Aurora cemetery."
Someone in the family ordered John M. W. Smith a government marker and placed it in the Maquon Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, where he served from. More recently, someone dug up this stone and now it just sits in the cemetery. See Find A Grave Memorial # 35548283 to see this stone.
Eliza J. (McHenry) Smith was granted a Widows Pension on March 10, 1919 in Nebraska. She collected this most likely until her death on Oct. 27, 1926 in Hamilton County, Nebraska. Her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska beside those of her husband of 51 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois and one of his great granddaughters, Barbara Baesler, whose email address is [email protected]
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Smith family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on John M. W. Smith and the Smith family. Baxter would also enjoy seeing copies of any photographs of Private John M. W. Smith that may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
John M. W. Smith was severely wounded later in the war, survived his wounding and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, John probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. I would also be thrilled to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man, perhaps some showing him missing an arm. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private JOHN MANLY WASHINGTON SMITH, Co. F, 86 Illinois
John M. W. Smith was born on February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana, near Cumberland, Indiana, which is a town of the boundary of Hancock and Marion Counties in Indiana. John was the son of Michael C. Smith and possibly Isabel (Craig) Smith. Michael C. Smith was born on August 31, 1820/21 at __________, Virginia. Isabel Smith was born on May 12, 1824 in __________, Indiana, the daughter of Thomas Craig and Sarah (Eastes) Craig. Michael and Isabel are believed to have been married on October 12, 1848 in Hancock County, Indiana. If this marriage did not occur until 1848, then it is possible Michael was married before this as his first son, John M. W. Smith is believed to have been born on February 12, 1846. So either this marriage occurred before 1848 or Michael was married once before his marriage with Isabel. These are the children known to have been born to Michael C. Smith;
1. John M. W. Smith, born February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana. See his biography below.
2. Robert Pinkney Smith, born c. 1851 in Indiana. Robert P. Smith was married to Sarah Shuck on December 23, 1875 in Knox County.
In the 1900 Federal Census, Robert, Sarah and two children are still residing in Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL.
3. Elijah Anderson Smith, born c. 1854 in Indiana. Elijah A. Smith was married to Amanda Howater on December 25, 1879 in Knox County.
4. Milton Erastus Smith, born c. 1856
5. Anna E. Smith, born c. 1861.
Carol Dorward found the Michael Smith family in Hancock County, Indiana in 1850 and in Knox County, Illinois in 1860. The family came west to Illinois sometime between 1856 and 1860.
1850 Federal Census, Sugar Creek, Hancock Co., Indiana
Michael C. Smith, 30, VA, Farmer
Isabel Smith, 29, IN
John M. W. Smith, 5, IN
Jacob Hook, 24, OH
[Family moved to IL after 1856, based on where children born in the next census.]
1860 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michail [as name spelled] Smith, 39, IN, Farmer
Isaboleth Smith, 36, IN
John M. Smith, 13, IN
Robert Pincky (or Pinkey) Smith, 9, IN
Elijah Anderson Smith, 6, IN [ancestry has it transcribed as Elizah, but child is a male and looks like a "j" rather than a "z" to me]
Milton E. Smith, 4, IN
Ann Craig, 17, IN
Isabel died on March 13, 1862 at _________, Illinois. Her earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, Illinois.
Michael C. Smith was married 2nd Mary Ann Ellsworth on November 30, 1862 in Knox County. At the time of the 1870 Federal Census, Michael and his family are found in Haw Creek, Knox County, Illinois;
Michael G. Smith, 47, Farmer, KY
Mary E. Smith, 47, OH
Robert P. Smith, 19, IN
Elijah A. Smith, 17, IN
Milton E. Smith, 15, IN
Anna E. Smith, 9, IL"
1880 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michael G. Smith, 58, KY
Mary Smith, 57, OH
Erastus M. [probably Milton], 24, IN
Anna E. Smith, 19, IL
Simon Hampton, 6, IN
[Immediately above this family is... Elijah A. Smith and wife Amanda.]"
Michael died on April 14, 1899. His earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery near his first wife Isabel.
Now to continue with the biography of John Manly Washington Smith;
On August 5, 1862, John M. W. Smith volunteered at Maquon, Illinois to serve in a company which was being raised in the Maquon, Illinois area for service in the Union Army during the Civil War by a local well known Carpenter, Contractor and Businessman by the name of James L. Burkhalter. At the time he enlisted, John gave his place of residence as Maquon, Illinois.
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name SMITH, JOHN M W Rank PVT
Company F Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence MAQUON, KNOX CO, IL
Age 18 Height 5' 8 1/4 Hair BLACK Eyes BLACK
Complexion DARK Marital Status SINGLE
Occupation FARMER Nativity HANCOCK CO, IN
Service Record
Joined When AUG 5, 1862
Joined Where MAQUON, IL
Joined By Whom J L BURKHALTER
Period 3 YRS Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom _____ Muster Out _____
Muster Out Where _____ Muster Out By Whom _____
Remarks DISCHARGED AT QUINCY ILL ON ACCOUNT OF LEFT ARM AMPUTATED CAUSED BY SHELL FROM ENEMY
When Burkhalter had about 100 volunteers, he led the Maquon company into Peoria, where they went into camp at the old Peoria County fairgrounds, at that time being called Camp Lyon. It was located across Prospect from present day Glen Oak Park. There on August 27, 1862, Burkhalter and 93 of his volunteers, including now Private John M. W. Smith, were mustered in as Co. F of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of the gates of Camp Lyon, Capt. James L. Burkhalter leading Co. F, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound Camp Joe Holt in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade in Union General Buell's army, who were in pursuit of Confederate troops under the command of General Braxton Bragg. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more in the coming years. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederate Army withdrew from Kentucky and McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the next year and a half, the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. During this time, Private John M. W. Smith was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickmauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia and Rome, Georgia.
The spring and summer of 1864, found the men of McCook's Brigade part of the army under the command of General William T. Sherman and were involved in what would become known as the "Atlanta Campaign", the campaign to capture the important railroad hub of Atlanta, Georgia. By June of 1864, the men of General Sherman's army were closing in on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia, juts 30 miles north of Atlanta. In the History of the 86th, Kinnear wrote the following about this time period leading up to the main assault on June 27, 1864.
"On the morning of the 9th (of June), the entire army moved forward to Big Shanty, the next station on the railroad. Here, we found ourselves surrounded by scenery of peculiar and lofty beauty. To our left, and on the east of the railroad, were Sweet mountain and Black Jack, while to the westward, and nearly in front, rose the bold and striking Kenesaw. To the right was Pine mountain, and more distinctly to the right was Lost mountain. Here we found the rebel General Johnston, strongly fortified on the northern slopes of Pine, Kenesaw and Lost mountains. General Sherman says, in his official report: "The scene was enchanting; too beautiful to be disturbed by the harsh clamors of war; but the Chattahouchie lay beyond, and I had to reach it."
At this place, our division took a position at right angles with the railroad and a few miles south of Big Shanty, where it threw up substantial breastworks, and remained until the 14th, when the lines were advanced and another line of works thrown up. In front of these works there was a deal of skirmishing carried on, creating undue excitement in the lines of battle, for it was thought the Johnnies would make a trial on our strength and position. About this time there was an incessant roar of artillery on the extreme right of our lines, despite the heavy rains that fell, which afterwards proved to be the operations of Sherman's "flanking machine."
"On Saturday, the 18th, our lines were again moved forward and other works constructed, the boys working with a vengeance all night to find the Johnnies gone in the morning; being flanked and obliged to evacuate their position for another. They were followed up at early dawn on the morning of the 19th and chased to their next place of retreat. Their right was now found resting on the Marietta and Canton road, with their centre on Kenesaw mountain, and left, across the Lost mountain and Marietta road, behind Nose's creek, and covering the railroad back to the Chattahoochie. Our division under Davis, took its position directly in front of the Big Kenesaw and nearly up to its base. Several batteries of our artillery soon moved up in short range of the Kenesaw and opened a furious fire upon it, in order, if possible, to develop the whereabouts of the enemy's masked batteries. During this cannonade it seemed that the very heavens were in agitation and the earth in violent commotion, but no reply was received."
"The troops stood from behind their works in full view of the enemy, looking on in silent amazement, enjoying in their hearts the sublime grandeur of the scene. Finally, a locomotive was run up to the base of the mountain, when behold, a masked battery opened on it in all its fury, the engine immediately reversing its steam and running back. On the night of the 20th and 21st, the rebels constructed several strong forts on the summit of the Kenesaw, from whence they annoyed our position a great deal. On the 22nd and 23rd, interesting duels were fought between these batteries of the enemy and our own; and certainly there never was a more amusing and interesting scene portrayed than exhibited in these short, effective engagements. The scenes about Kenesaw will ever maintain a sacred spot on the tablets of our memory. During operations about this place it rained almost continually for three weeks, so that a general move was impossible."
During one of these "interesting" duels a fragment from one of the Confederate artillery shells struck Private John M. W. Smith's left arm, amputating it or at least mangling it so badly that doctors were forced to amputate it. After surviving his initial wounding and amputation, Private John W. M. Smith was sent north. He would spend the next four months in Union Army Hospitals in the north recovering from his wounds.
Five days after Private John M. W. Smith was wounded, the surviving members of McCook's Brigade took part in the assault on Cheatham's Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. During the 30 minute assault which was only partially successful, over 100 men from the 86th Illinois and approximately 500 men from the Brigade were killed, wounded or captured.
Private John M. W. Smith was discharged from the service from the U. S. Army General Hospital for Volunteers at Quincy, Illinois after recovering from his wounds. He is believed to have been discharged on October 29, 1864. Private John M. W. Smith was granted an Invalid Pension on February 10, 1865.
It is recorded in State of Illinois records that John M. Smith was married to Eliza J. McHenry on December 11, 1867 in Knox County, Illinois. Eliza Jane McHenry was born on Nov. 4, 1849 in Wyandotte, Wyandotte County, Ohio, the daughter of __________ McHenry and __________ (__________) McHenry. Seven children were born to John and Eliza. They include;
They were the parents of seven children:
1. Frederic A. Smith, born May 24, 1868/69; died December 7, 1901 near Muller, Nebraska.
2. Arthur Lee Smith; born __________ __, 1870; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
3. India Blanche Smith; born November 2, 1871 in Gilson, Knox County, Illinois; Married Josiah Manuel Stevenson on February 20, 1896; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926; died on May 11, 1959.
4. James Michael Smith, born January 21, 1873 in Stockham, Hamilton County, Nebraska; residing in Hecla, Nebraska in 1926. James was married to Rachel ______________.
The children born to James and Rachael include;
A. Barbara A. Smith, born c. 1905/06 in Nebraska.
B. Maud H. Smith, born c. 1907/08 in Nebraska.
C. Marybelle D. Smith, born c. 1910/11 in Nebraska.
D. Margarie S. Smith, born c. 1912/13 in Nebraska.
E. John J. Smith, born c. 1914/15 in Nebraska.
F. Dorothy O. or I. Smith, born c. 1917/18 in Nebraska.
At the time of the 1920 census, James and his family are found in Hecla, Hooker County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 46 Nebraska
Rachael A Smith Wife F 36 Nebraska
Barbara A Smith Daughter F 14 Nebraska
Maud H Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
Mary B Smith Daughter F 9 Nebraska
Margarie S Smith Daughter F 7 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 5 Nebraska
Dorothy O Smith Daughter F 2 Nebraska
At the time of the 1930 census, James and his family are found in Roosevelt Township, Sioux County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 54 Nebraska
Rachel A Smith Wife F 47 Nebraska
Marybelle D Smith Daughter F 20 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 16 Nebraska
Dorothy I Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
James M. Smith died on December 13, 1960 in Ventura, Ventura County, California.
5. John Howard Smith; born ___________ __, 1876 in Nebraska; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
6. Norman H. "Mack" Smith; born September __, 1878 in Nebraska; residing near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
7. Maud Smith; born June __, 1886; married to __________ West; living in Ansley, Nebraska in 1926.
Carol Dorward found John M. W. Smith and his family at the time of the 1870 Federal Census are found in Haw Creek Township Knox County, Illinois;
"John M. W. Smith, 24
Eliza Smith, 21
Norman Smith, 1
Joseph Rivers, 13
[What is interesting, to me (Carol), is this can't be the same Norman as in the previous later records, so was this a child that died before the next census or is actually an eighth child? It is also interesting to note that the family who immediately precedes this family unit is a Michael Smith, b. abt 1823 KY) and Mary E. (b. abt1823 OH) Smith. This well could be the parents of the John M. W. Smith.]"
In 1871, John and Elia headed west with their family, settling for about a year in Seward, Nebraska. In 1872, the moved to Hamilton County, Nebraska. At the time of the 1880 census, the family is found in Aurora Township, Hamilton County, Nebraska;
John M. Smith, 34, Farmer, IN KY SC
Eliza J. Smith, 30, OH
Fredrick [without the 2nd e], 11, IL
India B. Smith, 10, IL
Arthur L. Smith, 8, NE/IL [apparently, couldn't remember which was his place of birth--indicates when move made from IL to NE??]
Jas. M. Smith, 7, NE
John Smith, 5, NE
Norman H. Smith, 2, NE
Alonzo McHenry, 18, TN (nephew)
Josiah Lowen, 18 (boarder)
In 1887, back in Central Illinois, several members of the old 86th organized a reunion for the old 86th, which was held in Peoria, Illinois during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering of the men of the 86th back in August of 1862. More than 130 veterans of the 86th attended this 1st reunion, which was such a success, that it was decided to hold another the next year. The reunion of 1888 was even better attended and the decision was made to continue them as long as veterans would attend. The last reunion was held in 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided by the 20 veterans who attended that reunion, that they were too old and too few to continue them any longer. For some unknown reason, the veterans of Co. F, never got into the reunions like some of the other companies did. Through the years, of the almost 100 men who served in Co. F during the war, only 17 different veterans of Co. F attended the reunions and there were never more than 7 present at any one time, that being the 2nd reunion in 1888.
Private John M. W. Smith never attended any of the reunions. In his case, as was the case of many of the veterans who headed west after the war, the great distance to be traveled and the difficulty in making that trip for a short reunion in the late 1800's and early 1900's played a great part in their not being able to attend. Private John M. W. Smith very active in the G.A.R., however. John was a member of the Zac Chandler G.A.R. Post #44 in Aurora, Nebraska, which was chartered on April 16, 1880. Private John M. W. Smith is found in several of the Nebraska Veterans Census' in Aurora, Nebraska including the 1890 veteran schedule where it refers to John M. W. Smith losing his left arm at Kennesaw Mountain.
1900 Federal Census, Aurora Twp.. Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 54, February 1846, IN KY IN, Farmer, Married 33 years
Eliza J. Smith, 49, November 1850, OH OH OH, 7 children/7 living
James M. Smith, 25, January 1875, NE IN OH
Norman H. Smith, 21, September 1878, NE IN OH
Maud Smith [as transcribed], 13, June 1886, NE IN OH
1910 Federal Census, Aurora Twp., Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 64, b. IN, Farmer
Louesa J. Smith, 60, OH, married 42 years, 7 children/6 living
Mack N. Smith (son), 30, Farmer
Private John M. W. Smith died on his 73rd birthday, February 12, 1919 in Aurora, Nebraska. His mortal remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska. The strange thing is, as you can see in the photographs on his other Find A Grave site, there is a government marker in the Maquon Cemetery, Knox County, Illinois that states very plainly Private John M. W. Smith, Co. F, 86th Ill. Inf. on it. It apparently has been dug out of the ground and just sits in the cemetery.
Kay Cynova, Find A Grave Contributor #47064119, searched through the Aurora are newspapers and came up with two obituaries for John M. W. Smith which follow;
From the The Aurora Republican Wednesday 19 Feb 1919 p.1:2
"Death of John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him. To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, December, 1901, Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury.
Mr. Smith was a veteran of the civil war, serving three years in Company F, 86th Illinois regiment of Volunteer infantry. He was wounded and lost an arm in service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death and endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
Funeral services were conducted from the United Brethren church by Rev. H. H. Heberly on Tuesday afternoon. Burial at Aurora cemetery."
From The Hamilton County Register Wednesday 21 Feb 1919 p.3:3
"John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him.
To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, Neb., December, 1901, and those living are Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury. He was a veteran of the Civil war, serving three years in Co. F, 86th Illinois regiment of volunteer infantry, being wounded and loosing an arm while in this service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death. He endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon in the United Brethren church in charge of Rev. H. H. Heberly. The male quartet of the church furnished the music and a guard of honor of the G. A. R. were pall bearers. Burial was at the Aurora cemetery."
Someone in the family ordered John M. W. Smith a government marker and placed it in the Maquon Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, where he served from. More recently, someone dug up this stone and now it just sits in the cemetery. See Find A Grave Memorial # 35548283 to see this stone.
Eliza J. (McHenry) Smith was granted a Widows Pension on March 10, 1919 in Nebraska. She collected this most likely until her death on Oct. 27, 1926 in Hamilton County, Nebraska. Her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska beside those of her husband of 51 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois and one of his great granddaughters, Barbara Baesler, whose email address is [email protected]
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Smith family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on John M. W. Smith and the Smith family. Baxter would also enjoy seeing copies of any photographs of Private John M. W. Smith that may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
(NOTE: John M. W. Smith probably never had his portrait taken prior to the Civil War. However, during the 10 month period that the 86th Illinois was in the Nashville, Tennessee area in 1862-63, John, like most of the Union soldiers in the Nashville area, probably took the time to sit for a portrait to send home to the loved ones that he left behind. These portraits were most often printed in the form of what was called a CDV, a paper picture glued to a heavier card stock about the size of a modern day baseball card, and the soldiers didn't just have one or two copies made. Most of the time, they had a dozen or more made, so they could swap pictures with their tentmates, messmates and for their friends, in the 86th and back home.
John M. W. Smith was severely wounded later in the war, survived his wounding and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, John probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. I would also be thrilled to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man, perhaps some showing him missing an arm. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private JOHN MANLY WASHINGTON SMITH, Co. F, 86 Illinois
John M. W. Smith was born on February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana, near Cumberland, Indiana, which is a town of the boundary of Hancock and Marion Counties in Indiana. John was the son of Michael C. Smith and possibly Isabel (Craig) Smith. Michael C. Smith was born on August 31, 1820/21 at __________, Virginia. Isabel Smith was born on May 12, 1824 in __________, Indiana, the daughter of Thomas Craig and Sarah (Eastes) Craig. Michael and Isabel are believed to have been married on October 12, 1848 in Hancock County, Indiana. If this marriage did not occur until 1848, then it is possible Michael was married before this as his first son, John M. W. Smith is believed to have been born on February 12, 1846. So either this marriage occurred before 1848 or Michael was married once before his marriage with Isabel. These are the children known to have been born to Michael C. Smith;
1. John M. W. Smith, born February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana. See his biography below.
2. Robert Pinkney Smith, born c. 1851 in Indiana. Robert P. Smith was married to Sarah Shuck on December 23, 1875 in Knox County.
In the 1900 Federal Census, Robert, Sarah and two children are still residing in Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL.
3. Elijah Anderson Smith, born c. 1854 in Indiana. Elijah A. Smith was married to Amanda Howater on December 25, 1879 in Knox County.
4. Milton Erastus Smith, born c. 1856
5. Anna E. Smith, born c. 1861.
Carol Dorward found the Michael Smith family in Hancock County, Indiana in 1850 and in Knox County, Illinois in 1860. The family came west to Illinois sometime between 1856 and 1860.
1850 Federal Census, Sugar Creek, Hancock Co., Indiana
Michael C. Smith, 30, VA, Farmer
Isabel Smith, 29, IN
John M. W. Smith, 5, IN
Jacob Hook, 24, OH
[Family moved to IL after 1856, based on where children born in the next census.]
1860 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michail [as name spelled] Smith, 39, IN, Farmer
Isaboleth Smith, 36, IN
John M. Smith, 13, IN
Robert Pincky (or Pinkey) Smith, 9, IN
Elijah Anderson Smith, 6, IN [ancestry has it transcribed as Elizah, but child is a male and looks like a "j" rather than a "z" to me]
Milton E. Smith, 4, IN
Ann Craig, 17, IN
Isabel died on March 13, 1862 at _________, Illinois. Her earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, Illinois.
Michael C. Smith was married 2nd Mary Ann Ellsworth on November 30, 1862 in Knox County. At the time of the 1870 Federal Census, Michael and his family are found in Haw Creek, Knox County, Illinois;
Michael G. Smith, 47, Farmer, KY
Mary E. Smith, 47, OH
Robert P. Smith, 19, IN
Elijah A. Smith, 17, IN
Milton E. Smith, 15, IN
Anna E. Smith, 9, IL"
1880 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michael G. Smith, 58, KY
Mary Smith, 57, OH
Erastus M. [probably Milton], 24, IN
Anna E. Smith, 19, IL
Simon Hampton, 6, IN
[Immediately above this family is... Elijah A. Smith and wife Amanda.]"
Michael died on April 14, 1899. His earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery near his first wife Isabel.
Now to continue with the biography of John Manly Washington Smith;
On August 5, 1862, John M. W. Smith volunteered at Maquon, Illinois to serve in a company which was being raised in the Maquon, Illinois area for service in the Union Army during the Civil War by a local well known Carpenter, Contractor and Businessman by the name of James L. Burkhalter. At the time he enlisted, John gave his place of residence as Maquon, Illinois.
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name SMITH, JOHN M W Rank PVT
Company F Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence MAQUON, KNOX CO, IL
Age 18 Height 5' 8 1/4 Hair BLACK Eyes BLACK
Complexion DARK Marital Status SINGLE
Occupation FARMER Nativity HANCOCK CO, IN
Service Record
Joined When AUG 5, 1862
Joined Where MAQUON, IL
Joined By Whom J L BURKHALTER
Period 3 YRS Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom _____ Muster Out _____
Muster Out Where _____ Muster Out By Whom _____
Remarks DISCHARGED AT QUINCY ILL ON ACCOUNT OF LEFT ARM AMPUTATED CAUSED BY SHELL FROM ENEMY
When Burkhalter had about 100 volunteers, he led the Maquon company into Peoria, where they went into camp at the old Peoria County fairgrounds, at that time being called Camp Lyon. It was located across Prospect from present day Glen Oak Park. There on August 27, 1862, Burkhalter and 93 of his volunteers, including now Private John M. W. Smith, were mustered in as Co. F of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of the gates of Camp Lyon, Capt. James L. Burkhalter leading Co. F, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound Camp Joe Holt in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade in Union General Buell's army, who were in pursuit of Confederate troops under the command of General Braxton Bragg. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more in the coming years. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederate Army withdrew from Kentucky and McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the next year and a half, the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. During this time, Private John M. W. Smith was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickmauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia and Rome, Georgia.
The spring and summer of 1864, found the men of McCook's Brigade part of the army under the command of General William T. Sherman and were involved in what would become known as the "Atlanta Campaign", the campaign to capture the important railroad hub of Atlanta, Georgia. By June of 1864, the men of General Sherman's army were closing in on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia, juts 30 miles north of Atlanta. In the History of the 86th, Kinnear wrote the following about this time period leading up to the main assault on June 27, 1864.
"On the morning of the 9th (of June), the entire army moved forward to Big Shanty, the next station on the railroad. Here, we found ourselves surrounded by scenery of peculiar and lofty beauty. To our left, and on the east of the railroad, were Sweet mountain and Black Jack, while to the westward, and nearly in front, rose the bold and striking Kenesaw. To the right was Pine mountain, and more distinctly to the right was Lost mountain. Here we found the rebel General Johnston, strongly fortified on the northern slopes of Pine, Kenesaw and Lost mountains. General Sherman says, in his official report: "The scene was enchanting; too beautiful to be disturbed by the harsh clamors of war; but the Chattahouchie lay beyond, and I had to reach it."
At this place, our division took a position at right angles with the railroad and a few miles south of Big Shanty, where it threw up substantial breastworks, and remained until the 14th, when the lines were advanced and another line of works thrown up. In front of these works there was a deal of skirmishing carried on, creating undue excitement in the lines of battle, for it was thought the Johnnies would make a trial on our strength and position. About this time there was an incessant roar of artillery on the extreme right of our lines, despite the heavy rains that fell, which afterwards proved to be the operations of Sherman's "flanking machine."
"On Saturday, the 18th, our lines were again moved forward and other works constructed, the boys working with a vengeance all night to find the Johnnies gone in the morning; being flanked and obliged to evacuate their position for another. They were followed up at early dawn on the morning of the 19th and chased to their next place of retreat. Their right was now found resting on the Marietta and Canton road, with their centre on Kenesaw mountain, and left, across the Lost mountain and Marietta road, behind Nose's creek, and covering the railroad back to the Chattahoochie. Our division under Davis, took its position directly in front of the Big Kenesaw and nearly up to its base. Several batteries of our artillery soon moved up in short range of the Kenesaw and opened a furious fire upon it, in order, if possible, to develop the whereabouts of the enemy's masked batteries. During this cannonade it seemed that the very heavens were in agitation and the earth in violent commotion, but no reply was received."
"The troops stood from behind their works in full view of the enemy, looking on in silent amazement, enjoying in their hearts the sublime grandeur of the scene. Finally, a locomotive was run up to the base of the mountain, when behold, a masked battery opened on it in all its fury, the engine immediately reversing its steam and running back. On the night of the 20th and 21st, the rebels constructed several strong forts on the summit of the Kenesaw, from whence they annoyed our position a great deal. On the 22nd and 23rd, interesting duels were fought between these batteries of the enemy and our own; and certainly there never was a more amusing and interesting scene portrayed than exhibited in these short, effective engagements. The scenes about Kenesaw will ever maintain a sacred spot on the tablets of our memory. During operations about this place it rained almost continually for three weeks, so that a general move was impossible."
During one of these "interesting" duels a fragment from one of the Confederate artillery shells struck Private John M. W. Smith's left arm, amputating it or at least mangling it so badly that doctors were forced to amputate it. After surviving his initial wounding and amputation, Private John W. M. Smith was sent north. He would spend the next four months in Union Army Hospitals in the north recovering from his wounds.
Five days after Private John M. W. Smith was wounded, the surviving members of McCook's Brigade took part in the assault on Cheatham's Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. During the 30 minute assault which was only partially successful, over 100 men from the 86th Illinois and approximately 500 men from the Brigade were killed, wounded or captured.
Private John M. W. Smith was discharged from the service from the U. S. Army General Hospital for Volunteers at Quincy, Illinois after recovering from his wounds. He is believed to have been discharged on October 29, 1864. Private John M. W. Smith was granted an Invalid Pension on February 10, 1865.
It is recorded in State of Illinois records that John M. Smith was married to Eliza J. McHenry on December 11, 1867 in Knox County, Illinois. Eliza Jane McHenry was born on Nov. 4, 1849 in Wyandotte, Wyandotte County, Ohio, the daughter of __________ McHenry and __________ (__________) McHenry. Seven children were born to John and Eliza. They include;
They were the parents of seven children:
1. Frederic A. Smith, born May 24, 1868/69; died December 7, 1901 near Muller, Nebraska.
2. Arthur Lee Smith; born __________ __, 1870; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
3. India Blanche Smith; born November 2, 1871 in Gilson, Knox County, Illinois; Married Josiah Manuel Stevenson on February 20, 1896; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926; died on May 11, 1959.
4. James Michael Smith, born January 21, 1873 in Stockham, Hamilton County, Nebraska; residing in Hecla, Nebraska in 1926. James was married to Rachel ______________.
The children born to James and Rachael include;
A. Barbara A. Smith, born c. 1905/06 in Nebraska.
B. Maud H. Smith, born c. 1907/08 in Nebraska.
C. Marybelle D. Smith, born c. 1910/11 in Nebraska.
D. Margarie S. Smith, born c. 1912/13 in Nebraska.
E. John J. Smith, born c. 1914/15 in Nebraska.
F. Dorothy O. or I. Smith, born c. 1917/18 in Nebraska.
At the time of the 1920 census, James and his family are found in Hecla, Hooker County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 46 Nebraska
Rachael A Smith Wife F 36 Nebraska
Barbara A Smith Daughter F 14 Nebraska
Maud H Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
Mary B Smith Daughter F 9 Nebraska
Margarie S Smith Daughter F 7 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 5 Nebraska
Dorothy O Smith Daughter F 2 Nebraska
At the time of the 1930 census, James and his family are found in Roosevelt Township, Sioux County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 54 Nebraska
Rachel A Smith Wife F 47 Nebraska
Marybelle D Smith Daughter F 20 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 16 Nebraska
Dorothy I Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
James M. Smith died on December 13, 1960 in Ventura, Ventura County, California.
5. John Howard Smith; born ___________ __, 1876 in Nebraska; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
6. Norman H. "Mack" Smith; born September __, 1878 in Nebraska; residing near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
7. Maud Smith; born June __, 1886; married to __________ West; living in Ansley, Nebraska in 1926.
Carol Dorward found John M. W. Smith and his family at the time of the 1870 Federal Census are found in Haw Creek Township Knox County, Illinois;
"John M. W. Smith, 24
Eliza Smith, 21
Norman Smith, 1
Joseph Rivers, 13
[What is interesting, to me (Carol), is this can't be the same Norman as in the previous later records, so was this a child that died before the next census or is actually an eighth child? It is also interesting to note that the family who immediately precedes this family unit is a Michael Smith, b. abt 1823 KY) and Mary E. (b. abt1823 OH) Smith. This well could be the parents of the John M. W. Smith.]"
In 1871, John and Elia headed west with their family, settling for about a year in Seward, Nebraska. In 1872, the moved to Hamilton County, Nebraska. At the time of the 1880 census, the family is found in Aurora Township, Hamilton County, Nebraska;
John M. Smith, 34, Farmer, IN KY SC
Eliza J. Smith, 30, OH
Fredrick [without the 2nd e], 11, IL
India B. Smith, 10, IL
Arthur L. Smith, 8, NE/IL [apparently, couldn't remember which was his place of birth--indicates when move made from IL to NE??]
Jas. M. Smith, 7, NE
John Smith, 5, NE
Norman H. Smith, 2, NE
Alonzo McHenry, 18, TN (nephew)
Josiah Lowen, 18 (boarder)
In 1887, back in Central Illinois, several members of the old 86th organized a reunion for the old 86th, which was held in Peoria, Illinois during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering of the men of the 86th back in August of 1862. More than 130 veterans of the 86th attended this 1st reunion, which was such a success, that it was decided to hold another the next year. The reunion of 1888 was even better attended and the decision was made to continue them as long as veterans would attend. The last reunion was held in 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided by the 20 veterans who attended that reunion, that they were too old and too few to continue them any longer. For some unknown reason, the veterans of Co. F, never got into the reunions like some of the other companies did. Through the years, of the almost 100 men who served in Co. F during the war, only 17 different veterans of Co. F attended the reunions and there were never more than 7 present at any one time, that being the 2nd reunion in 1888.
Private John M. W. Smith never attended any of the reunions. In his case, as was the case of many of the veterans who headed west after the war, the great distance to be traveled and the difficulty in making that trip for a short reunion in the late 1800's and early 1900's played a great part in their not being able to attend. Private John M. W. Smith very active in the G.A.R., however. John was a member of the Zac Chandler G.A.R. Post #44 in Aurora, Nebraska, which was chartered on April 16, 1880. Private John M. W. Smith is found in several of the Nebraska Veterans Census' in Aurora, Nebraska including the 1890 veteran schedule where it refers to John M. W. Smith losing his left arm at Kennesaw Mountain.
1900 Federal Census, Aurora Twp.. Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 54, February 1846, IN KY IN, Farmer, Married 33 years
Eliza J. Smith, 49, November 1850, OH OH OH, 7 children/7 living
James M. Smith, 25, January 1875, NE IN OH
Norman H. Smith, 21, September 1878, NE IN OH
Maud Smith [as transcribed], 13, June 1886, NE IN OH
1910 Federal Census, Aurora Twp., Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 64, b. IN, Farmer
Louesa J. Smith, 60, OH, married 42 years, 7 children/6 living
Mack N. Smith (son), 30, Farmer
Private John M. W. Smith died on his 73rd birthday, February 12, 1919 in Aurora, Nebraska. His mortal remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska. The strange thing is, as you can see in the photographs on his other Find A Grave site, there is a government marker in the Maquon Cemetery, Knox County, Illinois that states very plainly Private John M. W. Smith, Co. F, 86th Ill. Inf. on it. It apparently has been dug out of the ground and just sits in the cemetery.
Kay Cynova, Find A Grave Contributor #47064119, searched through the Aurora are newspapers and came up with two obituaries for John M. W. Smith which follow;
From the The Aurora Republican Wednesday 19 Feb 1919 p.1:2
"Death of John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him. To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, December, 1901, Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury.
Mr. Smith was a veteran of the civil war, serving three years in Company F, 86th Illinois regiment of Volunteer infantry. He was wounded and lost an arm in service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death and endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
Funeral services were conducted from the United Brethren church by Rev. H. H. Heberly on Tuesday afternoon. Burial at Aurora cemetery."
From The Hamilton County Register Wednesday 21 Feb 1919 p.3:3
"John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him.
To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, Neb., December, 1901, and those living are Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury. He was a veteran of the Civil war, serving three years in Co. F, 86th Illinois regiment of volunteer infantry, being wounded and loosing an arm while in this service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death. He endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon in the United Brethren church in charge of Rev. H. H. Heberly. The male quartet of the church furnished the music and a guard of honor of the G. A. R. were pall bearers. Burial was at the Aurora cemetery."
Someone in the family ordered John M. W. Smith a government marker and placed it in the Maquon Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, where he served from. More recently, someone dug up this stone and now it just sits in the cemetery. See Find A Grave Memorial # 35548283 to see this stone.
Eliza J. (McHenry) Smith was granted a Widows Pension on March 10, 1919 in Nebraska. She collected this most likely until her death on Oct. 27, 1926 in Hamilton County, Nebraska. Her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska beside those of her husband of 51 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois and one of his great granddaughters, Barbara Baesler, whose email address is [email protected]
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Smith family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on John M. W. Smith and the Smith family. Baxter would also enjoy seeing copies of any photographs of Private John M. W. Smith that may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
John M. W. Smith was severely wounded later in the war, survived his wounding and lived well into the 20th century. During his life, John probably had his picture taken dozens of times, if not hundreds of times. I would dearly love to see a copy of that CDV added to his Find A Grave site for all with an interest to see. I would also be thrilled to see some more pictures of him added to his Find A Grave Memorial, even ones of him as an old man, perhaps some showing him missing an arm. Can anyone help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private JOHN MANLY WASHINGTON SMITH, Co. F, 86 Illinois
John M. W. Smith was born on February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana, near Cumberland, Indiana, which is a town of the boundary of Hancock and Marion Counties in Indiana. John was the son of Michael C. Smith and possibly Isabel (Craig) Smith. Michael C. Smith was born on August 31, 1820/21 at __________, Virginia. Isabel Smith was born on May 12, 1824 in __________, Indiana, the daughter of Thomas Craig and Sarah (Eastes) Craig. Michael and Isabel are believed to have been married on October 12, 1848 in Hancock County, Indiana. If this marriage did not occur until 1848, then it is possible Michael was married before this as his first son, John M. W. Smith is believed to have been born on February 12, 1846. So either this marriage occurred before 1848 or Michael was married once before his marriage with Isabel. These are the children known to have been born to Michael C. Smith;
1. John M. W. Smith, born February 12, 1846 in Marion County, Indiana. See his biography below.
2. Robert Pinkney Smith, born c. 1851 in Indiana. Robert P. Smith was married to Sarah Shuck on December 23, 1875 in Knox County.
In the 1900 Federal Census, Robert, Sarah and two children are still residing in Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL.
3. Elijah Anderson Smith, born c. 1854 in Indiana. Elijah A. Smith was married to Amanda Howater on December 25, 1879 in Knox County.
4. Milton Erastus Smith, born c. 1856
5. Anna E. Smith, born c. 1861.
Carol Dorward found the Michael Smith family in Hancock County, Indiana in 1850 and in Knox County, Illinois in 1860. The family came west to Illinois sometime between 1856 and 1860.
1850 Federal Census, Sugar Creek, Hancock Co., Indiana
Michael C. Smith, 30, VA, Farmer
Isabel Smith, 29, IN
John M. W. Smith, 5, IN
Jacob Hook, 24, OH
[Family moved to IL after 1856, based on where children born in the next census.]
1860 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michail [as name spelled] Smith, 39, IN, Farmer
Isaboleth Smith, 36, IN
John M. Smith, 13, IN
Robert Pincky (or Pinkey) Smith, 9, IN
Elijah Anderson Smith, 6, IN [ancestry has it transcribed as Elizah, but child is a male and looks like a "j" rather than a "z" to me]
Milton E. Smith, 4, IN
Ann Craig, 17, IN
Isabel died on March 13, 1862 at _________, Illinois. Her earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, Illinois.
Michael C. Smith was married 2nd Mary Ann Ellsworth on November 30, 1862 in Knox County. At the time of the 1870 Federal Census, Michael and his family are found in Haw Creek, Knox County, Illinois;
Michael G. Smith, 47, Farmer, KY
Mary E. Smith, 47, OH
Robert P. Smith, 19, IN
Elijah A. Smith, 17, IN
Milton E. Smith, 15, IN
Anna E. Smith, 9, IL"
1880 Federal Census, Haw Creek, Knox Co., IL
Michael G. Smith, 58, KY
Mary Smith, 57, OH
Erastus M. [probably Milton], 24, IN
Anna E. Smith, 19, IL
Simon Hampton, 6, IN
[Immediately above this family is... Elijah A. Smith and wife Amanda.]"
Michael died on April 14, 1899. His earthly remains were laid in the Clark Chapel Cemetery near his first wife Isabel.
Now to continue with the biography of John Manly Washington Smith;
On August 5, 1862, John M. W. Smith volunteered at Maquon, Illinois to serve in a company which was being raised in the Maquon, Illinois area for service in the Union Army during the Civil War by a local well known Carpenter, Contractor and Businessman by the name of James L. Burkhalter. At the time he enlisted, John gave his place of residence as Maquon, Illinois.
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name SMITH, JOHN M W Rank PVT
Company F Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence MAQUON, KNOX CO, IL
Age 18 Height 5' 8 1/4 Hair BLACK Eyes BLACK
Complexion DARK Marital Status SINGLE
Occupation FARMER Nativity HANCOCK CO, IN
Service Record
Joined When AUG 5, 1862
Joined Where MAQUON, IL
Joined By Whom J L BURKHALTER
Period 3 YRS Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom _____ Muster Out _____
Muster Out Where _____ Muster Out By Whom _____
Remarks DISCHARGED AT QUINCY ILL ON ACCOUNT OF LEFT ARM AMPUTATED CAUSED BY SHELL FROM ENEMY
When Burkhalter had about 100 volunteers, he led the Maquon company into Peoria, where they went into camp at the old Peoria County fairgrounds, at that time being called Camp Lyon. It was located across Prospect from present day Glen Oak Park. There on August 27, 1862, Burkhalter and 93 of his volunteers, including now Private John M. W. Smith, were mustered in as Co. F of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of the gates of Camp Lyon, Capt. James L. Burkhalter leading Co. F, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, down to the railroad depot. There they were joined by the men of the 85th Illinois, who had been mustered into service at Camp Peoria. Together, at the depot, the men of the 85th & 86th Illinois boarded trains bound Camp Joe Holt in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 85th & 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade in Union General Buell's army, who were in pursuit of Confederate troops under the command of General Braxton Bragg. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more in the coming years. After the Union victory at Perryville, the Confederate Army withdrew from Kentucky and McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp.
During the next year and a half, the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. During this time, Private John M. W. Smith was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickmauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia and Rome, Georgia.
The spring and summer of 1864, found the men of McCook's Brigade part of the army under the command of General William T. Sherman and were involved in what would become known as the "Atlanta Campaign", the campaign to capture the important railroad hub of Atlanta, Georgia. By June of 1864, the men of General Sherman's army were closing in on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia, juts 30 miles north of Atlanta. In the History of the 86th, Kinnear wrote the following about this time period leading up to the main assault on June 27, 1864.
"On the morning of the 9th (of June), the entire army moved forward to Big Shanty, the next station on the railroad. Here, we found ourselves surrounded by scenery of peculiar and lofty beauty. To our left, and on the east of the railroad, were Sweet mountain and Black Jack, while to the westward, and nearly in front, rose the bold and striking Kenesaw. To the right was Pine mountain, and more distinctly to the right was Lost mountain. Here we found the rebel General Johnston, strongly fortified on the northern slopes of Pine, Kenesaw and Lost mountains. General Sherman says, in his official report: "The scene was enchanting; too beautiful to be disturbed by the harsh clamors of war; but the Chattahouchie lay beyond, and I had to reach it."
At this place, our division took a position at right angles with the railroad and a few miles south of Big Shanty, where it threw up substantial breastworks, and remained until the 14th, when the lines were advanced and another line of works thrown up. In front of these works there was a deal of skirmishing carried on, creating undue excitement in the lines of battle, for it was thought the Johnnies would make a trial on our strength and position. About this time there was an incessant roar of artillery on the extreme right of our lines, despite the heavy rains that fell, which afterwards proved to be the operations of Sherman's "flanking machine."
"On Saturday, the 18th, our lines were again moved forward and other works constructed, the boys working with a vengeance all night to find the Johnnies gone in the morning; being flanked and obliged to evacuate their position for another. They were followed up at early dawn on the morning of the 19th and chased to their next place of retreat. Their right was now found resting on the Marietta and Canton road, with their centre on Kenesaw mountain, and left, across the Lost mountain and Marietta road, behind Nose's creek, and covering the railroad back to the Chattahoochie. Our division under Davis, took its position directly in front of the Big Kenesaw and nearly up to its base. Several batteries of our artillery soon moved up in short range of the Kenesaw and opened a furious fire upon it, in order, if possible, to develop the whereabouts of the enemy's masked batteries. During this cannonade it seemed that the very heavens were in agitation and the earth in violent commotion, but no reply was received."
"The troops stood from behind their works in full view of the enemy, looking on in silent amazement, enjoying in their hearts the sublime grandeur of the scene. Finally, a locomotive was run up to the base of the mountain, when behold, a masked battery opened on it in all its fury, the engine immediately reversing its steam and running back. On the night of the 20th and 21st, the rebels constructed several strong forts on the summit of the Kenesaw, from whence they annoyed our position a great deal. On the 22nd and 23rd, interesting duels were fought between these batteries of the enemy and our own; and certainly there never was a more amusing and interesting scene portrayed than exhibited in these short, effective engagements. The scenes about Kenesaw will ever maintain a sacred spot on the tablets of our memory. During operations about this place it rained almost continually for three weeks, so that a general move was impossible."
During one of these "interesting" duels a fragment from one of the Confederate artillery shells struck Private John M. W. Smith's left arm, amputating it or at least mangling it so badly that doctors were forced to amputate it. After surviving his initial wounding and amputation, Private John W. M. Smith was sent north. He would spend the next four months in Union Army Hospitals in the north recovering from his wounds.
Five days after Private John M. W. Smith was wounded, the surviving members of McCook's Brigade took part in the assault on Cheatham's Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. During the 30 minute assault which was only partially successful, over 100 men from the 86th Illinois and approximately 500 men from the Brigade were killed, wounded or captured.
Private John M. W. Smith was discharged from the service from the U. S. Army General Hospital for Volunteers at Quincy, Illinois after recovering from his wounds. He is believed to have been discharged on October 29, 1864. Private John M. W. Smith was granted an Invalid Pension on February 10, 1865.
It is recorded in State of Illinois records that John M. Smith was married to Eliza J. McHenry on December 11, 1867 in Knox County, Illinois. Eliza Jane McHenry was born on Nov. 4, 1849 in Wyandotte, Wyandotte County, Ohio, the daughter of __________ McHenry and __________ (__________) McHenry. Seven children were born to John and Eliza. They include;
They were the parents of seven children:
1. Frederic A. Smith, born May 24, 1868/69; died December 7, 1901 near Muller, Nebraska.
2. Arthur Lee Smith; born __________ __, 1870; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
3. India Blanche Smith; born November 2, 1871 in Gilson, Knox County, Illinois; Married Josiah Manuel Stevenson on February 20, 1896; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926; died on May 11, 1959.
4. James Michael Smith, born January 21, 1873 in Stockham, Hamilton County, Nebraska; residing in Hecla, Nebraska in 1926. James was married to Rachel ______________.
The children born to James and Rachael include;
A. Barbara A. Smith, born c. 1905/06 in Nebraska.
B. Maud H. Smith, born c. 1907/08 in Nebraska.
C. Marybelle D. Smith, born c. 1910/11 in Nebraska.
D. Margarie S. Smith, born c. 1912/13 in Nebraska.
E. John J. Smith, born c. 1914/15 in Nebraska.
F. Dorothy O. or I. Smith, born c. 1917/18 in Nebraska.
At the time of the 1920 census, James and his family are found in Hecla, Hooker County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 46 Nebraska
Rachael A Smith Wife F 36 Nebraska
Barbara A Smith Daughter F 14 Nebraska
Maud H Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
Mary B Smith Daughter F 9 Nebraska
Margarie S Smith Daughter F 7 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 5 Nebraska
Dorothy O Smith Daughter F 2 Nebraska
At the time of the 1930 census, James and his family are found in Roosevelt Township, Sioux County, Nebraska;
James M Smith Head M 54 Nebraska
Rachel A Smith Wife F 47 Nebraska
Marybelle D Smith Daughter F 20 Nebraska
John J Smith Son M 16 Nebraska
Dorothy I Smith Daughter F 12 Nebraska
James M. Smith died on December 13, 1960 in Ventura, Ventura County, California.
5. John Howard Smith; born ___________ __, 1876 in Nebraska; living near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
6. Norman H. "Mack" Smith; born September __, 1878 in Nebraska; residing near Aurora, Nebraska in 1926.
7. Maud Smith; born June __, 1886; married to __________ West; living in Ansley, Nebraska in 1926.
Carol Dorward found John M. W. Smith and his family at the time of the 1870 Federal Census are found in Haw Creek Township Knox County, Illinois;
"John M. W. Smith, 24
Eliza Smith, 21
Norman Smith, 1
Joseph Rivers, 13
[What is interesting, to me (Carol), is this can't be the same Norman as in the previous later records, so was this a child that died before the next census or is actually an eighth child? It is also interesting to note that the family who immediately precedes this family unit is a Michael Smith, b. abt 1823 KY) and Mary E. (b. abt1823 OH) Smith. This well could be the parents of the John M. W. Smith.]"
In 1871, John and Elia headed west with their family, settling for about a year in Seward, Nebraska. In 1872, the moved to Hamilton County, Nebraska. At the time of the 1880 census, the family is found in Aurora Township, Hamilton County, Nebraska;
John M. Smith, 34, Farmer, IN KY SC
Eliza J. Smith, 30, OH
Fredrick [without the 2nd e], 11, IL
India B. Smith, 10, IL
Arthur L. Smith, 8, NE/IL [apparently, couldn't remember which was his place of birth--indicates when move made from IL to NE??]
Jas. M. Smith, 7, NE
John Smith, 5, NE
Norman H. Smith, 2, NE
Alonzo McHenry, 18, TN (nephew)
Josiah Lowen, 18 (boarder)
In 1887, back in Central Illinois, several members of the old 86th organized a reunion for the old 86th, which was held in Peoria, Illinois during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of the mustering of the men of the 86th back in August of 1862. More than 130 veterans of the 86th attended this 1st reunion, which was such a success, that it was decided to hold another the next year. The reunion of 1888 was even better attended and the decision was made to continue them as long as veterans would attend. The last reunion was held in 1923, when it was finally, tearfully, decided by the 20 veterans who attended that reunion, that they were too old and too few to continue them any longer. For some unknown reason, the veterans of Co. F, never got into the reunions like some of the other companies did. Through the years, of the almost 100 men who served in Co. F during the war, only 17 different veterans of Co. F attended the reunions and there were never more than 7 present at any one time, that being the 2nd reunion in 1888.
Private John M. W. Smith never attended any of the reunions. In his case, as was the case of many of the veterans who headed west after the war, the great distance to be traveled and the difficulty in making that trip for a short reunion in the late 1800's and early 1900's played a great part in their not being able to attend. Private John M. W. Smith very active in the G.A.R., however. John was a member of the Zac Chandler G.A.R. Post #44 in Aurora, Nebraska, which was chartered on April 16, 1880. Private John M. W. Smith is found in several of the Nebraska Veterans Census' in Aurora, Nebraska including the 1890 veteran schedule where it refers to John M. W. Smith losing his left arm at Kennesaw Mountain.
1900 Federal Census, Aurora Twp.. Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 54, February 1846, IN KY IN, Farmer, Married 33 years
Eliza J. Smith, 49, November 1850, OH OH OH, 7 children/7 living
James M. Smith, 25, January 1875, NE IN OH
Norman H. Smith, 21, September 1878, NE IN OH
Maud Smith [as transcribed], 13, June 1886, NE IN OH
1910 Federal Census, Aurora Twp., Hamilton Co., NE
John M. Smith, 64, b. IN, Farmer
Louesa J. Smith, 60, OH, married 42 years, 7 children/6 living
Mack N. Smith (son), 30, Farmer
Private John M. W. Smith died on his 73rd birthday, February 12, 1919 in Aurora, Nebraska. His mortal remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska. The strange thing is, as you can see in the photographs on his other Find A Grave site, there is a government marker in the Maquon Cemetery, Knox County, Illinois that states very plainly Private John M. W. Smith, Co. F, 86th Ill. Inf. on it. It apparently has been dug out of the ground and just sits in the cemetery.
Kay Cynova, Find A Grave Contributor #47064119, searched through the Aurora are newspapers and came up with two obituaries for John M. W. Smith which follow;
From the The Aurora Republican Wednesday 19 Feb 1919 p.1:2
"Death of John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him. To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, December, 1901, Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury.
Mr. Smith was a veteran of the civil war, serving three years in Company F, 86th Illinois regiment of Volunteer infantry. He was wounded and lost an arm in service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death and endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
Funeral services were conducted from the United Brethren church by Rev. H. H. Heberly on Tuesday afternoon. Burial at Aurora cemetery."
From The Hamilton County Register Wednesday 21 Feb 1919 p.3:3
"John M. W. Smith
John M. W. Smith was born February 6, 1864, near Cumberland, Marion county, Indiana and died February 12, 1919, aged 73 years and 6 days. He was married to Eliza J. McHenry at Gilson, Ill., on December 11, 1867, who survives him.
To this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters: Frederick A., who died near Hecla, Neb., December, 1901, and those living are Arthur L., James M., John H., Norman H., Mrs. Blanche Stevenson and Mrs. Maude Wert, all residing in the vicinity of Aurora, with the exception of James, who lives in Fairbury. He was a veteran of the Civil war, serving three years in Co. F, 86th Illinois regiment of volunteer infantry, being wounded and loosing an arm while in this service. He was an early settler of Nebraska, locating at Seward in 1871, moving to Hamilton county one year later, where he lived until his death. He endured all the hardships common to the pioneer days. He was very energetic and industrious, a man of cheerful disposition, a kind husband and father and a good neighbor. He was respected by the entire community and leaves many warm friends.
The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon in the United Brethren church in charge of Rev. H. H. Heberly. The male quartet of the church furnished the music and a guard of honor of the G. A. R. were pall bearers. Burial was at the Aurora cemetery."
Someone in the family ordered John M. W. Smith a government marker and placed it in the Maquon Cemetery in Maquon, Knox County, where he served from. More recently, someone dug up this stone and now it just sits in the cemetery. See Find A Grave Memorial # 35548283 to see this stone.
Eliza J. (McHenry) Smith was granted a Widows Pension on March 10, 1919 in Nebraska. She collected this most likely until her death on Oct. 27, 1926 in Hamilton County, Nebraska. Her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Nebraska beside those of her husband of 51 years.
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois and one of his great granddaughters, Barbara Baesler, whose email address is [email protected]
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Smith family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on John M. W. Smith and the Smith family. Baxter would also enjoy seeing copies of any photographs of Private John M. W. Smith that may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
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