Thomas James Churchill (1824-1905) - Find a Grave Memorial

Civil War Confederate Major General, Governor of Arkansas. This native of Louisville, Kentucky studied law before enlisting, as a lieutenant, in 1846 to fight in the Mexican War. He was held as a prisoner for much of this war being captured by a Mexican Calvary in 1847 After the war he settled in Little Rock Arkansas where hebecame a successful farmer. In 1857 President James Buchanan named him postmaster of his new hometown. At the start of the Civil War he formed the First Arkansas Mounted Riflemen. After his courageous service at the battles at Wilson’s Creek and Pea Ridge he was promoted to brigadier general. He was captured in 1863 and once again held as a prisoner of war, this time being held for three months at Camp Chase, Ohio. After his release, he was promoted to Major General and led troops into battles at Pleasant Hill and Jenkin’s Ferry. After the war he returned to Arkansas. In 1880 he was elected governor. While governor he was credited with implementing many policies that improved medical care for the citizens of Arkansas. However, a scandal involving missing state funds coupled with political factionalism led to him retiring as governor in 1883. He returned to private life and farming and received full military honors at his funeral.

Bio by: Bigwoo