Horace Maynard Litton was born on February 9, 1876, in Scott County, Tennessee. He is the son of Findley Litton 1856-1890 and Lydia Smith Litton 1860-1938. His siblings are Richard Litton 1877-1951, Eldora "Dora" Litton 1880-1918, Francis Marion Litton 1883-1957, Wilse Isaac Litton 1886-1955, and Clayton "Clate: Litton 1889-1955. He is the step-son of John Hampsey 1866-1910. His half-siblings are Elizabeth "Lissie" Hampey, Anna Hampsey 1894-1973, Lawrence Michael Hampsey 1897-1963, Cora Mae Hampsey 1901-1921, and Roy Hampsey 1904-1946. He married Abigail C. Chambers on May 6, 1899, in Scott County, Tennessee. Their children are Galbraith Litton 1900-1906, Olive Margaret Litton 1902-1992, Gladolis "Alice" Litton 1905-2002, Florence Litton 1908-2002, Edna Litton 1909-1910, Anna Litton 1912-1912, Elmer Litton 1912-1912, Cleo Elizabeth Litton 1913-2001, and Horace Maynard Litton 1917-1959. He died on January 28, 1959, in Danville, Boyle County, Kentucky, at the age of 82 and was laid to rest in the Danville Memorial Gardens.
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The Advocate-Messenger, Danville, Kentucky, 28 Jan 1959, Wed • Page 2
HORACE M. LITTON Claimed By Death
Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky avenue, who retired 17 years ago after 30 years' service as an engineer for the Southern Railway System, died of pneumonia at 7:30 o'clock -this morning in Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital. Born in Oneida, Tennessee, he had lived here for 45 years was a member of First Church of God, a Veteran of the Spanish American War, and a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen & Engineers. Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters Mrs. D. Lexton, Mrs. J. W. Newby, and Mrs. Arnold Lay, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich., and Horace M Litton, Danville; one brother, L. M, Hampsey, West Frankfort,Ill.; a sister, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill; 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at the Church of God by the Rev. Marvin L. Forbes, the pastor. Military services will be held at the graveside in Memorial Gardens on the Stanford Road. Danville. The body is at. Stith Funeral Home.
*********
The Courier-Journal
Louisville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 27
H. M. Litton Dies
Special to the Courier-Journal Danville, Ky., Jan. 28.
Horace Maynard Litton, an engineer for the Southern Railway 30 years until his retirement 17 years ago, died Wednesday at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital.
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The Advocate-Messenger
Danville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 3
LITTON RITES FRIDAY
AT CHURCH OF GOD HERE
Funeral services Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky Avenue, retired Southern Railway System engineer who died Wednesday morning at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital, after a week's illness of pneumonia, will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at First Church of God, North Fourth Street. The Rev. Marvin L Forbes, pastor of that church, of which Mr. Litton was a Member, will officiate. Burial will be in Danville Memorial Gardens on the Stanford road, with Military services, at the graveside. Pallbearers will be Marshall, Hubert, and H. D. Preston, A. A. Parker, Russell McGuffey and Clyde Moore. A veteran of the Spanish-American War, Mr. Litton came here 45 years ago. He retired in 1942, after 30 years' service with the railroad. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters, Mrs. W.D. Laxton, Mrs. Arnold Lay, and Mrs. J. W. Newby, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, Horace Litton., Danville, and F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich.; a brother. L. M. Hampsey,West Frankfort, Ill.; two sisters, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill., and Mrs. A. B. Chambers, Dania, Fla; 20 grand children and 20 great-grandchildren. The body will remain at Stith funeral, home until time to leave for the church tomorrow afternoon.
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The Advocate-Messenger (Danville, Kentucky), 05 Jul 1998, Sun, Page 18
A Soldier in Spanish-American War
Litton joined the Rough Riders and went to Cuba in 1898
"Every good citizen makes his country's honor his own, and cherishes it not only as precious but as sacred. He is willing to risk his life in its defense and is conscious that he gains protection while he gives it." Andrew Jackson
By PEGGY S. GALLOWAY Contributing Writer
Horace Maynard Litton was one of the young men who considered his country's honor as precious and sacred. Little did Maynard Litton know, as a young boy in Oneida, Tenn., that he would be fighting under the leadership of Teddy Roosevelt in the Spanish-American War.
Litton, one of 11 children, was born Feb. 9, 1876, to Lydia Smith Litton and Finley Litton. His childhood was spent in the rolling hills and valleys of Scott County, Tenn. Then war was the furthest thing away in the mind of this young man. However, in 1895 the United States was watching with interest the continuing struggle between the tiny island of Cuba and the hardships of her Spanish rule. Spain refused to give Cuba its freedom and the Cuban people were ready to revolt. In fact, in the United States, the Republican Party announced in 1896: "We watch with deep and abiding interest the heroic battles of the Cuban patriots against cruelty and oppression. We believe that the government of the United States should try to restore peace and give independence to the island."
At this point the U.S. government began to believe the lives of Americans living in Cuba were in danger from the Spanish. As a result of all the unrest in Cuba, the American battleship Maine was sent into the harbor of Havana, Cuba, in January 1898. After three weeks, on Feb. 15, 1808, an unexpected explosion on the Maine killed 268 officers and men, and the ship sank to the bottom of the harbor. Because of this terrorist attack and because the United States felt Cuba should win her freedom from Spain, the American government declared war with Spain on April 25, 1898.
Congress had already, on April 22, 1898, passed the Volunteer Army Act, which called for the organization of a First Volunteer Cavalry that was called "Rough Riders." At that point President McKinley appointed Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt lieutenant colonel of the brigade. Hundreds of applications for the Rough Riders came from all over the country cowboys, college athletes, farm boys and adventurers. In fact, the young men who made up the Rough Riders is the only 100 percent volunteer army the world has ever known.
And Horace Maynard Litton was one of these volunteers.
It must have been an exciting time for Litton. Up to now he could only dream of "far off shores." Now he would be able to see a part of the world he had only heard about. Litton would also be able to help that country gain freedom of its own.
He enlisted May 7, 1898, and went for training in Chickamauga, Ga., and later Fort Riley, Kan. Litton was inducted at this time into Troop B, First Regiment of Cavalry, under Capt. J.G. Galbraith, commander. Litton must have respected his commander very much as he named one of his sons "Galbraith." After training, Litton's troop was sent to Cuba where he more than proved his courage and dedication.
Victory In battle
On June 24, 1898, Litton joined the other Rough Riders under Teddy Roosevelt to win the first land battle of the war at Las Guasimas, Cuba, according to Veterans Discharge Book 1, page 81, Boyle County, Ky. Litton and his comrades, under the leadership of Col. Roosevelt, again proved their courage as they took San Juan Hill in one of the most famous battles of the war. At this time the Rough Riders also took-command of Santiago, a seaport city in Cuba.
However, the American soldiers fought under serious handicaps in these last campaigns, according, to "This is America's Story" by Wilder, Ludham and Brown. When they left the United States, they wore heavy wool uniforms that were entirely unsuited to the terrible Cuban heat.
Suffered from disease
Also, there was no protection from diseases such as malaria and yellow fever that abound in this tropical climate. Many more men died from diseases then were killed on the battlefield. There were 5,462 American deaths in the war, only 379 of which were battle casualties. However, even with the diseases that crippled so many of the American soldiers, the United States and the Rough Riders were the victors over Spain.
On Aug. 12, 1898, the United States and Spain agreed fighting should cease and Cuba became a free nation. However, during this time, Litton was facing some personal battles of his own. He contracted malaria, according to his pension record No. 1132060, and a fracture of his right arm.
He was honorably discharged on Feb. 20, 1899, and went home to Oneida, Tenn. He married his sweetheart, Abigal Chambers, on May 6, 1899, at Helenwood, Tenn., according to the marriage bond, Huntsville Courthouse, Scott County, Tenn.
Litton and Abigal had nine children: Galbraith, Olive (Sjoberg), Gladious (Laxton), F.D. Litton, Edna (Newby), Cleo Elizabeth (Lay) and Horace Maynard Jr., and twins Annie and Elmer.
After the war, Litton worked in the coal mines at Stearns. Later, he decided to move his, family to Danville and the Boyle County area where he went to work for the railroad in 1913. He worked in Danville as a fireman and then became an engineer. He and his wife also owned and operated a boarding house for railroaders on Beatty Avenue (where a Centre College parking lot is now). Litton loved the railroad, according to his children, and worked 31 years-- 1913-1944-- on the railroad.
Keeping In touch
However, Litton Maynard never forgot the Rough Riders and his comrades. He kept two letters that he treasured (now in possession of his son, Horace Litton Jr.) from two friends in service. One of the letters, dated Dec. 21, 1929, was from Maj. Gen. C. McK. Saltzman. It reads in part: "Like you, I often think of those who served with us in the troops and wonder where they are all located. After leaving the troop in 1900, I never saw it again. I never happened to be stationed near it. I suppose you know that Col. Galbraith passed away some years ago. I want to thank you for remembering me."
The other letter, dated 1934, was from friend and comrade-in-arms Alfred Lindstrom and reads in part: "Remember that you and I with two other men that were unknown to me captured the most important Ridge at San Juan. The Ridge afterwards (was) held by Teddy (Roosevelt) and has Rough Riders and where Gattling Gun Parker put in his Gattler."
I can just see Litton reading these letters over and over again.
He was one of those truly patriotic Americans who believed he owed his country a debt.
Litton died Jan. 28, 1959, in Danville and is buried at Memorial Gardens on Stanford Road in Boyle County.
Litton is gone, but his spirit lives on.
Perhaps the following quotation best describes this soldier and patriot:
"The greatness of a nation may be manifested in many ways—in its courage, its moral responsibility, its cultural, scientific eminence, the tenor of its daily life. But ultimately the source of its greatness is in the individual who constitutes the living substance of a nation."
( Author Unknown)
Peggy Shelby Galloway is a Boyle County native and genealogist.
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The Advocate-Messenger, Danville, Kentucky, 28 Jan 1959, Wed • Page 2
HORACE M. LITTON Claimed By Death
Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky avenue, who retired 17 years ago after 30 years' service as an engineer for the Southern Railway System, died of pneumonia at 7:30 o'clock -this morning in Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital. Born in Oneida, Tennessee, he had lived here for 45 years was a member of First Church of God, a Veteran of the Spanish American War, and a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen & Engineers. Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters Mrs. D. Lexton, Mrs. J. W. Newby, and Mrs. Arnold Lay, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich., and Horace M Litton, Danville; one brother, L. M, Hampsey, West Frankfort,Ill.; a sister, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill; 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at the Church of God by the Rev. Marvin L. Forbes, the pastor. Military services will be held at the graveside in Memorial Gardens on the Stanford Road. Danville. The body is at. Stith Funeral Home.
*********
The Courier-Journal
Louisville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 27
H. M. Litton Dies
Special to the Courier-Journal Danville, Ky., Jan. 28.
Horace Maynard Litton, an engineer for the Southern Railway 30 years until his retirement 17 years ago, died Wednesday at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital.
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The Advocate-Messenger
Danville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 3
LITTON RITES FRIDAY
AT CHURCH OF GOD HERE
Funeral services Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky Avenue, retired Southern Railway System engineer who died Wednesday morning at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital, after a week's illness of pneumonia, will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at First Church of God, North Fourth Street. The Rev. Marvin L Forbes, pastor of that church, of which Mr. Litton was a Member, will officiate. Burial will be in Danville Memorial Gardens on the Stanford road, with Military services, at the graveside. Pallbearers will be Marshall, Hubert, and H. D. Preston, A. A. Parker, Russell McGuffey and Clyde Moore. A veteran of the Spanish-American War, Mr. Litton came here 45 years ago. He retired in 1942, after 30 years' service with the railroad. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters, Mrs. W.D. Laxton, Mrs. Arnold Lay, and Mrs. J. W. Newby, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, Horace Litton., Danville, and F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich.; a brother. L. M. Hampsey,West Frankfort, Ill.; two sisters, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill., and Mrs. A. B. Chambers, Dania, Fla; 20 grand children and 20 great-grandchildren. The body will remain at Stith funeral, home until time to leave for the church tomorrow afternoon.
**********
The Advocate-Messenger (Danville, Kentucky), 05 Jul 1998, Sun, Page 18
A Soldier in Spanish-American War
Litton joined the Rough Riders and went to Cuba in 1898
"Every good citizen makes his country's honor his own, and cherishes it not only as precious but as sacred. He is willing to risk his life in its defense and is conscious that he gains protection while he gives it." Andrew Jackson
By PEGGY S. GALLOWAY Contributing Writer
Horace Maynard Litton was one of the young men who considered his country's honor as precious and sacred. Little did Maynard Litton know, as a young boy in Oneida, Tenn., that he would be fighting under the leadership of Teddy Roosevelt in the Spanish-American War.
Litton, one of 11 children, was born Feb. 9, 1876, to Lydia Smith Litton and Finley Litton. His childhood was spent in the rolling hills and valleys of Scott County, Tenn. Then war was the furthest thing away in the mind of this young man. However, in 1895 the United States was watching with interest the continuing struggle between the tiny island of Cuba and the hardships of her Spanish rule. Spain refused to give Cuba its freedom and the Cuban people were ready to revolt. In fact, in the United States, the Republican Party announced in 1896: "We watch with deep and abiding interest the heroic battles of the Cuban patriots against cruelty and oppression. We believe that the government of the United States should try to restore peace and give independence to the island."
At this point the U.S. government began to believe the lives of Americans living in Cuba were in danger from the Spanish. As a result of all the unrest in Cuba, the American battleship Maine was sent into the harbor of Havana, Cuba, in January 1898. After three weeks, on Feb. 15, 1808, an unexpected explosion on the Maine killed 268 officers and men, and the ship sank to the bottom of the harbor. Because of this terrorist attack and because the United States felt Cuba should win her freedom from Spain, the American government declared war with Spain on April 25, 1898.
Congress had already, on April 22, 1898, passed the Volunteer Army Act, which called for the organization of a First Volunteer Cavalry that was called "Rough Riders." At that point President McKinley appointed Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt lieutenant colonel of the brigade. Hundreds of applications for the Rough Riders came from all over the country cowboys, college athletes, farm boys and adventurers. In fact, the young men who made up the Rough Riders is the only 100 percent volunteer army the world has ever known.
And Horace Maynard Litton was one of these volunteers.
It must have been an exciting time for Litton. Up to now he could only dream of "far off shores." Now he would be able to see a part of the world he had only heard about. Litton would also be able to help that country gain freedom of its own.
He enlisted May 7, 1898, and went for training in Chickamauga, Ga., and later Fort Riley, Kan. Litton was inducted at this time into Troop B, First Regiment of Cavalry, under Capt. J.G. Galbraith, commander. Litton must have respected his commander very much as he named one of his sons "Galbraith." After training, Litton's troop was sent to Cuba where he more than proved his courage and dedication.
Victory In battle
On June 24, 1898, Litton joined the other Rough Riders under Teddy Roosevelt to win the first land battle of the war at Las Guasimas, Cuba, according to Veterans Discharge Book 1, page 81, Boyle County, Ky. Litton and his comrades, under the leadership of Col. Roosevelt, again proved their courage as they took San Juan Hill in one of the most famous battles of the war. At this time the Rough Riders also took-command of Santiago, a seaport city in Cuba.
However, the American soldiers fought under serious handicaps in these last campaigns, according, to "This is America's Story" by Wilder, Ludham and Brown. When they left the United States, they wore heavy wool uniforms that were entirely unsuited to the terrible Cuban heat.
Suffered from disease
Also, there was no protection from diseases such as malaria and yellow fever that abound in this tropical climate. Many more men died from diseases then were killed on the battlefield. There were 5,462 American deaths in the war, only 379 of which were battle casualties. However, even with the diseases that crippled so many of the American soldiers, the United States and the Rough Riders were the victors over Spain.
On Aug. 12, 1898, the United States and Spain agreed fighting should cease and Cuba became a free nation. However, during this time, Litton was facing some personal battles of his own. He contracted malaria, according to his pension record No. 1132060, and a fracture of his right arm.
He was honorably discharged on Feb. 20, 1899, and went home to Oneida, Tenn. He married his sweetheart, Abigal Chambers, on May 6, 1899, at Helenwood, Tenn., according to the marriage bond, Huntsville Courthouse, Scott County, Tenn.
Litton and Abigal had nine children: Galbraith, Olive (Sjoberg), Gladious (Laxton), F.D. Litton, Edna (Newby), Cleo Elizabeth (Lay) and Horace Maynard Jr., and twins Annie and Elmer.
After the war, Litton worked in the coal mines at Stearns. Later, he decided to move his, family to Danville and the Boyle County area where he went to work for the railroad in 1913. He worked in Danville as a fireman and then became an engineer. He and his wife also owned and operated a boarding house for railroaders on Beatty Avenue (where a Centre College parking lot is now). Litton loved the railroad, according to his children, and worked 31 years-- 1913-1944-- on the railroad.
Keeping In touch
However, Litton Maynard never forgot the Rough Riders and his comrades. He kept two letters that he treasured (now in possession of his son, Horace Litton Jr.) from two friends in service. One of the letters, dated Dec. 21, 1929, was from Maj. Gen. C. McK. Saltzman. It reads in part: "Like you, I often think of those who served with us in the troops and wonder where they are all located. After leaving the troop in 1900, I never saw it again. I never happened to be stationed near it. I suppose you know that Col. Galbraith passed away some years ago. I want to thank you for remembering me."
The other letter, dated 1934, was from friend and comrade-in-arms Alfred Lindstrom and reads in part: "Remember that you and I with two other men that were unknown to me captured the most important Ridge at San Juan. The Ridge afterwards (was) held by Teddy (Roosevelt) and has Rough Riders and where Gattling Gun Parker put in his Gattler."
I can just see Litton reading these letters over and over again.
He was one of those truly patriotic Americans who believed he owed his country a debt.
Litton died Jan. 28, 1959, in Danville and is buried at Memorial Gardens on Stanford Road in Boyle County.
Litton is gone, but his spirit lives on.
Perhaps the following quotation best describes this soldier and patriot:
"The greatness of a nation may be manifested in many ways—in its courage, its moral responsibility, its cultural, scientific eminence, the tenor of its daily life. But ultimately the source of its greatness is in the individual who constitutes the living substance of a nation."
( Author Unknown)
Peggy Shelby Galloway is a Boyle County native and genealogist.
Horace Maynard Litton was born on February 9, 1876, in Scott County, Tennessee. He is the son of Findley Litton 1856-1890 and Lydia Smith Litton 1860-1938. His siblings are Richard Litton 1877-1951, Eldora "Dora" Litton 1880-1918, Francis Marion Litton 1883-1957, Wilse Isaac Litton 1886-1955, and Clayton "Clate: Litton 1889-1955. He is the step-son of John Hampsey 1866-1910. His half-siblings are Elizabeth "Lissie" Hampey, Anna Hampsey 1894-1973, Lawrence Michael Hampsey 1897-1963, Cora Mae Hampsey 1901-1921, and Roy Hampsey 1904-1946. He married Abigail C. Chambers on May 6, 1899, in Scott County, Tennessee. Their children are Galbraith Litton 1900-1906, Olive Margaret Litton 1902-1992, Gladolis "Alice" Litton 1905-2002, Florence Litton 1908-2002, Edna Litton 1909-1910, Anna Litton 1912-1912, Elmer Litton 1912-1912, Cleo Elizabeth Litton 1913-2001, and Horace Maynard Litton 1917-1959. He died on January 28, 1959, in Danville, Boyle County, Kentucky, at the age of 82 and was laid to rest in the Danville Memorial Gardens.
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The Advocate-Messenger, Danville, Kentucky, 28 Jan 1959, Wed • Page 2
HORACE M. LITTON Claimed By Death
Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky avenue, who retired 17 years ago after 30 years' service as an engineer for the Southern Railway System, died of pneumonia at 7:30 o'clock -this morning in Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital. Born in Oneida, Tennessee, he had lived here for 45 years was a member of First Church of God, a Veteran of the Spanish American War, and a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen & Engineers. Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters Mrs. D. Lexton, Mrs. J. W. Newby, and Mrs. Arnold Lay, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich., and Horace M Litton, Danville; one brother, L. M, Hampsey, West Frankfort,Ill.; a sister, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill; 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at the Church of God by the Rev. Marvin L. Forbes, the pastor. Military services will be held at the graveside in Memorial Gardens on the Stanford Road. Danville. The body is at. Stith Funeral Home.
*********
The Courier-Journal
Louisville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 27
H. M. Litton Dies
Special to the Courier-Journal Danville, Ky., Jan. 28.
Horace Maynard Litton, an engineer for the Southern Railway 30 years until his retirement 17 years ago, died Wednesday at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital.
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The Advocate-Messenger
Danville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 3
LITTON RITES FRIDAY
AT CHURCH OF GOD HERE
Funeral services Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky Avenue, retired Southern Railway System engineer who died Wednesday morning at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital, after a week's illness of pneumonia, will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at First Church of God, North Fourth Street. The Rev. Marvin L Forbes, pastor of that church, of which Mr. Litton was a Member, will officiate. Burial will be in Danville Memorial Gardens on the Stanford road, with Military services, at the graveside. Pallbearers will be Marshall, Hubert, and H. D. Preston, A. A. Parker, Russell McGuffey and Clyde Moore. A veteran of the Spanish-American War, Mr. Litton came here 45 years ago. He retired in 1942, after 30 years' service with the railroad. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters, Mrs. W.D. Laxton, Mrs. Arnold Lay, and Mrs. J. W. Newby, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, Horace Litton., Danville, and F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich.; a brother. L. M. Hampsey,West Frankfort, Ill.; two sisters, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill., and Mrs. A. B. Chambers, Dania, Fla; 20 grand children and 20 great-grandchildren. The body will remain at Stith funeral, home until time to leave for the church tomorrow afternoon.
**********
The Advocate-Messenger (Danville, Kentucky), 05 Jul 1998, Sun, Page 18
A Soldier in Spanish-American War
Litton joined the Rough Riders and went to Cuba in 1898
"Every good citizen makes his country's honor his own, and cherishes it not only as precious but as sacred. He is willing to risk his life in its defense and is conscious that he gains protection while he gives it." Andrew Jackson
By PEGGY S. GALLOWAY Contributing Writer
Horace Maynard Litton was one of the young men who considered his country's honor as precious and sacred. Little did Maynard Litton know, as a young boy in Oneida, Tenn., that he would be fighting under the leadership of Teddy Roosevelt in the Spanish-American War.
Litton, one of 11 children, was born Feb. 9, 1876, to Lydia Smith Litton and Finley Litton. His childhood was spent in the rolling hills and valleys of Scott County, Tenn. Then war was the furthest thing away in the mind of this young man. However, in 1895 the United States was watching with interest the continuing struggle between the tiny island of Cuba and the hardships of her Spanish rule. Spain refused to give Cuba its freedom and the Cuban people were ready to revolt. In fact, in the United States, the Republican Party announced in 1896: "We watch with deep and abiding interest the heroic battles of the Cuban patriots against cruelty and oppression. We believe that the government of the United States should try to restore peace and give independence to the island."
At this point the U.S. government began to believe the lives of Americans living in Cuba were in danger from the Spanish. As a result of all the unrest in Cuba, the American battleship Maine was sent into the harbor of Havana, Cuba, in January 1898. After three weeks, on Feb. 15, 1808, an unexpected explosion on the Maine killed 268 officers and men, and the ship sank to the bottom of the harbor. Because of this terrorist attack and because the United States felt Cuba should win her freedom from Spain, the American government declared war with Spain on April 25, 1898.
Congress had already, on April 22, 1898, passed the Volunteer Army Act, which called for the organization of a First Volunteer Cavalry that was called "Rough Riders." At that point President McKinley appointed Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt lieutenant colonel of the brigade. Hundreds of applications for the Rough Riders came from all over the country cowboys, college athletes, farm boys and adventurers. In fact, the young men who made up the Rough Riders is the only 100 percent volunteer army the world has ever known.
And Horace Maynard Litton was one of these volunteers.
It must have been an exciting time for Litton. Up to now he could only dream of "far off shores." Now he would be able to see a part of the world he had only heard about. Litton would also be able to help that country gain freedom of its own.
He enlisted May 7, 1898, and went for training in Chickamauga, Ga., and later Fort Riley, Kan. Litton was inducted at this time into Troop B, First Regiment of Cavalry, under Capt. J.G. Galbraith, commander. Litton must have respected his commander very much as he named one of his sons "Galbraith." After training, Litton's troop was sent to Cuba where he more than proved his courage and dedication.
Victory In battle
On June 24, 1898, Litton joined the other Rough Riders under Teddy Roosevelt to win the first land battle of the war at Las Guasimas, Cuba, according to Veterans Discharge Book 1, page 81, Boyle County, Ky. Litton and his comrades, under the leadership of Col. Roosevelt, again proved their courage as they took San Juan Hill in one of the most famous battles of the war. At this time the Rough Riders also took-command of Santiago, a seaport city in Cuba.
However, the American soldiers fought under serious handicaps in these last campaigns, according, to "This is America's Story" by Wilder, Ludham and Brown. When they left the United States, they wore heavy wool uniforms that were entirely unsuited to the terrible Cuban heat.
Suffered from disease
Also, there was no protection from diseases such as malaria and yellow fever that abound in this tropical climate. Many more men died from diseases then were killed on the battlefield. There were 5,462 American deaths in the war, only 379 of which were battle casualties. However, even with the diseases that crippled so many of the American soldiers, the United States and the Rough Riders were the victors over Spain.
On Aug. 12, 1898, the United States and Spain agreed fighting should cease and Cuba became a free nation. However, during this time, Litton was facing some personal battles of his own. He contracted malaria, according to his pension record No. 1132060, and a fracture of his right arm.
He was honorably discharged on Feb. 20, 1899, and went home to Oneida, Tenn. He married his sweetheart, Abigal Chambers, on May 6, 1899, at Helenwood, Tenn., according to the marriage bond, Huntsville Courthouse, Scott County, Tenn.
Litton and Abigal had nine children: Galbraith, Olive (Sjoberg), Gladious (Laxton), F.D. Litton, Edna (Newby), Cleo Elizabeth (Lay) and Horace Maynard Jr., and twins Annie and Elmer.
After the war, Litton worked in the coal mines at Stearns. Later, he decided to move his, family to Danville and the Boyle County area where he went to work for the railroad in 1913. He worked in Danville as a fireman and then became an engineer. He and his wife also owned and operated a boarding house for railroaders on Beatty Avenue (where a Centre College parking lot is now). Litton loved the railroad, according to his children, and worked 31 years-- 1913-1944-- on the railroad.
Keeping In touch
However, Litton Maynard never forgot the Rough Riders and his comrades. He kept two letters that he treasured (now in possession of his son, Horace Litton Jr.) from two friends in service. One of the letters, dated Dec. 21, 1929, was from Maj. Gen. C. McK. Saltzman. It reads in part: "Like you, I often think of those who served with us in the troops and wonder where they are all located. After leaving the troop in 1900, I never saw it again. I never happened to be stationed near it. I suppose you know that Col. Galbraith passed away some years ago. I want to thank you for remembering me."
The other letter, dated 1934, was from friend and comrade-in-arms Alfred Lindstrom and reads in part: "Remember that you and I with two other men that were unknown to me captured the most important Ridge at San Juan. The Ridge afterwards (was) held by Teddy (Roosevelt) and has Rough Riders and where Gattling Gun Parker put in his Gattler."
I can just see Litton reading these letters over and over again.
He was one of those truly patriotic Americans who believed he owed his country a debt.
Litton died Jan. 28, 1959, in Danville and is buried at Memorial Gardens on Stanford Road in Boyle County.
Litton is gone, but his spirit lives on.
Perhaps the following quotation best describes this soldier and patriot:
"The greatness of a nation may be manifested in many ways—in its courage, its moral responsibility, its cultural, scientific eminence, the tenor of its daily life. But ultimately the source of its greatness is in the individual who constitutes the living substance of a nation."
( Author Unknown)
Peggy Shelby Galloway is a Boyle County native and genealogist.
************
The Advocate-Messenger, Danville, Kentucky, 28 Jan 1959, Wed • Page 2
HORACE M. LITTON Claimed By Death
Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky avenue, who retired 17 years ago after 30 years' service as an engineer for the Southern Railway System, died of pneumonia at 7:30 o'clock -this morning in Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital. Born in Oneida, Tennessee, he had lived here for 45 years was a member of First Church of God, a Veteran of the Spanish American War, and a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen & Engineers. Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters Mrs. D. Lexton, Mrs. J. W. Newby, and Mrs. Arnold Lay, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich., and Horace M Litton, Danville; one brother, L. M, Hampsey, West Frankfort,Ill.; a sister, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill; 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at the Church of God by the Rev. Marvin L. Forbes, the pastor. Military services will be held at the graveside in Memorial Gardens on the Stanford Road. Danville. The body is at. Stith Funeral Home.
*********
The Courier-Journal
Louisville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 27
H. M. Litton Dies
Special to the Courier-Journal Danville, Ky., Jan. 28.
Horace Maynard Litton, an engineer for the Southern Railway 30 years until his retirement 17 years ago, died Wednesday at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital.
*******************
The Advocate-Messenger
Danville, Kentucky
29 Jan 1959, Thu • Page 3
LITTON RITES FRIDAY
AT CHURCH OF GOD HERE
Funeral services Horace Maynard Litton of 459 Kentucky Avenue, retired Southern Railway System engineer who died Wednesday morning at Ephraim McDowell Memorial Hospital, after a week's illness of pneumonia, will be conducted at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon at First Church of God, North Fourth Street. The Rev. Marvin L Forbes, pastor of that church, of which Mr. Litton was a Member, will officiate. Burial will be in Danville Memorial Gardens on the Stanford road, with Military services, at the graveside. Pallbearers will be Marshall, Hubert, and H. D. Preston, A. A. Parker, Russell McGuffey and Clyde Moore. A veteran of the Spanish-American War, Mr. Litton came here 45 years ago. He retired in 1942, after 30 years' service with the railroad. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Abigail Chambers Litton; four daughters, Mrs. W.D. Laxton, Mrs. Arnold Lay, and Mrs. J. W. Newby, all of Danville, and Mrs. Earl Hale, West Palm Beach, Fla; two sons, Horace Litton., Danville, and F. D. Litton, Belleville, Mich.; a brother. L. M. Hampsey,West Frankfort, Ill.; two sisters, Mrs. Ed Hyden, Johnson City, Ill., and Mrs. A. B. Chambers, Dania, Fla; 20 grand children and 20 great-grandchildren. The body will remain at Stith funeral, home until time to leave for the church tomorrow afternoon.
**********
The Advocate-Messenger (Danville, Kentucky), 05 Jul 1998, Sun, Page 18
A Soldier in Spanish-American War
Litton joined the Rough Riders and went to Cuba in 1898
"Every good citizen makes his country's honor his own, and cherishes it not only as precious but as sacred. He is willing to risk his life in its defense and is conscious that he gains protection while he gives it." Andrew Jackson
By PEGGY S. GALLOWAY Contributing Writer
Horace Maynard Litton was one of the young men who considered his country's honor as precious and sacred. Little did Maynard Litton know, as a young boy in Oneida, Tenn., that he would be fighting under the leadership of Teddy Roosevelt in the Spanish-American War.
Litton, one of 11 children, was born Feb. 9, 1876, to Lydia Smith Litton and Finley Litton. His childhood was spent in the rolling hills and valleys of Scott County, Tenn. Then war was the furthest thing away in the mind of this young man. However, in 1895 the United States was watching with interest the continuing struggle between the tiny island of Cuba and the hardships of her Spanish rule. Spain refused to give Cuba its freedom and the Cuban people were ready to revolt. In fact, in the United States, the Republican Party announced in 1896: "We watch with deep and abiding interest the heroic battles of the Cuban patriots against cruelty and oppression. We believe that the government of the United States should try to restore peace and give independence to the island."
At this point the U.S. government began to believe the lives of Americans living in Cuba were in danger from the Spanish. As a result of all the unrest in Cuba, the American battleship Maine was sent into the harbor of Havana, Cuba, in January 1898. After three weeks, on Feb. 15, 1808, an unexpected explosion on the Maine killed 268 officers and men, and the ship sank to the bottom of the harbor. Because of this terrorist attack and because the United States felt Cuba should win her freedom from Spain, the American government declared war with Spain on April 25, 1898.
Congress had already, on April 22, 1898, passed the Volunteer Army Act, which called for the organization of a First Volunteer Cavalry that was called "Rough Riders." At that point President McKinley appointed Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt lieutenant colonel of the brigade. Hundreds of applications for the Rough Riders came from all over the country cowboys, college athletes, farm boys and adventurers. In fact, the young men who made up the Rough Riders is the only 100 percent volunteer army the world has ever known.
And Horace Maynard Litton was one of these volunteers.
It must have been an exciting time for Litton. Up to now he could only dream of "far off shores." Now he would be able to see a part of the world he had only heard about. Litton would also be able to help that country gain freedom of its own.
He enlisted May 7, 1898, and went for training in Chickamauga, Ga., and later Fort Riley, Kan. Litton was inducted at this time into Troop B, First Regiment of Cavalry, under Capt. J.G. Galbraith, commander. Litton must have respected his commander very much as he named one of his sons "Galbraith." After training, Litton's troop was sent to Cuba where he more than proved his courage and dedication.
Victory In battle
On June 24, 1898, Litton joined the other Rough Riders under Teddy Roosevelt to win the first land battle of the war at Las Guasimas, Cuba, according to Veterans Discharge Book 1, page 81, Boyle County, Ky. Litton and his comrades, under the leadership of Col. Roosevelt, again proved their courage as they took San Juan Hill in one of the most famous battles of the war. At this time the Rough Riders also took-command of Santiago, a seaport city in Cuba.
However, the American soldiers fought under serious handicaps in these last campaigns, according, to "This is America's Story" by Wilder, Ludham and Brown. When they left the United States, they wore heavy wool uniforms that were entirely unsuited to the terrible Cuban heat.
Suffered from disease
Also, there was no protection from diseases such as malaria and yellow fever that abound in this tropical climate. Many more men died from diseases then were killed on the battlefield. There were 5,462 American deaths in the war, only 379 of which were battle casualties. However, even with the diseases that crippled so many of the American soldiers, the United States and the Rough Riders were the victors over Spain.
On Aug. 12, 1898, the United States and Spain agreed fighting should cease and Cuba became a free nation. However, during this time, Litton was facing some personal battles of his own. He contracted malaria, according to his pension record No. 1132060, and a fracture of his right arm.
He was honorably discharged on Feb. 20, 1899, and went home to Oneida, Tenn. He married his sweetheart, Abigal Chambers, on May 6, 1899, at Helenwood, Tenn., according to the marriage bond, Huntsville Courthouse, Scott County, Tenn.
Litton and Abigal had nine children: Galbraith, Olive (Sjoberg), Gladious (Laxton), F.D. Litton, Edna (Newby), Cleo Elizabeth (Lay) and Horace Maynard Jr., and twins Annie and Elmer.
After the war, Litton worked in the coal mines at Stearns. Later, he decided to move his, family to Danville and the Boyle County area where he went to work for the railroad in 1913. He worked in Danville as a fireman and then became an engineer. He and his wife also owned and operated a boarding house for railroaders on Beatty Avenue (where a Centre College parking lot is now). Litton loved the railroad, according to his children, and worked 31 years-- 1913-1944-- on the railroad.
Keeping In touch
However, Litton Maynard never forgot the Rough Riders and his comrades. He kept two letters that he treasured (now in possession of his son, Horace Litton Jr.) from two friends in service. One of the letters, dated Dec. 21, 1929, was from Maj. Gen. C. McK. Saltzman. It reads in part: "Like you, I often think of those who served with us in the troops and wonder where they are all located. After leaving the troop in 1900, I never saw it again. I never happened to be stationed near it. I suppose you know that Col. Galbraith passed away some years ago. I want to thank you for remembering me."
The other letter, dated 1934, was from friend and comrade-in-arms Alfred Lindstrom and reads in part: "Remember that you and I with two other men that were unknown to me captured the most important Ridge at San Juan. The Ridge afterwards (was) held by Teddy (Roosevelt) and has Rough Riders and where Gattling Gun Parker put in his Gattler."
I can just see Litton reading these letters over and over again.
He was one of those truly patriotic Americans who believed he owed his country a debt.
Litton died Jan. 28, 1959, in Danville and is buried at Memorial Gardens on Stanford Road in Boyle County.
Litton is gone, but his spirit lives on.
Perhaps the following quotation best describes this soldier and patriot:
"The greatness of a nation may be manifested in many ways—in its courage, its moral responsibility, its cultural, scientific eminence, the tenor of its daily life. But ultimately the source of its greatness is in the individual who constitutes the living substance of a nation."
( Author Unknown)
Peggy Shelby Galloway is a Boyle County native and genealogist.
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