James M Hamilton - Civil War photo and Tribute from the Mason City IOOF

April 23, 2006

James M. Hamilton was a son of John and Altha Hamilton and the twin brother of William McCord Hamilton. This document shows a copy of his Civil War photo as a Union soldier. It also shows the tribute published in the Mason City News by his Mason City IOOF lodge members. The text of the tributes confirms (by implication) that James left no wife or children. I assume that the brother they refer to is James' twin William McCord Hamilton. James M Hamilton served with distinction in the Civil War. This photo showing him in uniform must have been taken soon after induction as it shows James in his sergeant's chevrons. James was chosen as 5th Sergeant when Company C, 85 Illinios Infantry was formed in Mason City. James rose to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He was captured during the battle of Peach Tree Creek, Georgia on July 19, 1864.

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