James Robert Claiborne (1839-1911) - Find a Grave Memorial

Civil War Confederate Army Officer. Born in Franklin County, Virginia, he was the son of Congressman Nathaniel Claiborne. When the war for Southern independence began, he was working on a farm in Virginia. He enlisted as a Private in the 2nd Virginia Cavalry, Company "D" in 1861. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and commanded the battalion in 1864. He fought at the battles of Lewisburg, White Sulphur Springs, Rogersville, Knoxville, Lee Court House, New Market, Piedmont, Lynchburg, South Mountain, Frederick, Monocacy, White Ford and Cedar Creek. Upon hearing of General Robert E. Lee's surrender, he withdrew his men up the Shenandoah Valley to Lynchburg and disbanded the command. He was cited for bravery and gallant conduct at almost every engagement. He moved to St. Louis in 1866 and studied law under Judge Moodey. After being accepted to the Missouri Bar Association, he went into partnership with his brother Colonel Nathaniel Claiborne. The partnership lasted for over ten years until James was appointed prosecuting attorney for the Circuit Court. In 1892 he was elected Judge of the Court of Criminal Corrections in St. Louis and in 1876 he was elected to the Missouri State Senate. In addition to his political offices, he was active in the ex-Confederate Historical and Benevolent Association of Missouri and was elected president twice.

Bio by: Connie Nisinger