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The Life of James Taylor Swank

James Taylor SWANK, citizen in Olathe for over 50 years, passed away Friday night, at the home place about 3 years after his wife. He was born on 1-13-1846 in Meskingum, Ohio. his father, Lamuel SWANK, was born on board ship. His parents were on their way to the states to make their home in this country. His father married Martha Honnold, a native to Virginia. She was related to Stonewall Jackson, the famous general.

At the age of 17, on 5-2-1863, the deceased enlisted ion Company E. 116th Ohio Infantry. He often referred to this experience. He went barefoot to enlist, shoes were a luxury in those days, and he wanted to save his, so he left them at home. Often, afterwards, when his army shoes were worn to shreds he wished for those he had left behind.

He was in the battle of Harper's Ferry, also of Martensburg, and a number of engagements in the Shenandoah Valley, Sheridan at Winchester and Cedar Creek. He saw "Little Phil" in action during the famous 20 mile ride. His regiment reached Antietam just at the close of the action in the siege of Petersburg.

He was wounded several times, was taken prisoner 3 times, each time managing to escape. He was mustered out of service at Zanesville, Ohio.

Following his army services he went back to work as a machinist. He was married in Zanesville, Ohio to Laura A. PILCHER and the children born to them are: C.A. SWANK, Mabel M. CASE, and Bessie M. SILVERS. When his family came on train to Kansas in 1868, Mr. SWANK made the trip in a covered wagon.

He did some special work as a master mechanic for the Red Rock quarries of Red Rock, Col and was superintendent of the Electric Power Plant in Manitou, Colo and in Olathe was an expert mechanist for the Electric Light and Power Company as well as Justice of the Peace.

The funeral will be held at the home conducted by Rev. J.V. BLOOM of the First Community Church. Burial in the Olathe Cemetery, the Odd Fellows Lodge conducting graveside service.

Reference: Olathe Mirror Obituary

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Military Service

War:
Civil War: Union
Branch:
Union Army
Rank:
Infantry
State:
OH
Regiment:
160th
Company:
E
Comments:
Pvt Ntl Grd