myhamiltonfamily.com

On Friday 6/26/2026, Alex Hamilton, Greg Hazard and I spent time searching the Cherry Grove Cemetery in Mason County, Illinois for the grave of our Civil War hero uncle, James M. Hamilton (1834-1869). James was the twin brother of William McCord Hamilton and they enlisted together in the 85th Illinois Infantry at its formation in August 1862. William was elected 1st sergeant and James was elected 5th sergeant.

In a few months, William was honorably discharged due to service related health issues but James stayed in, moving up in rank from sergeant to 2nd, and then to 1st lieutenant. After his three year enlistment was up, he volunteered again signing up for the duration of the war.

James M. Hamilton was taken prisoner by the Confederates at the battle of Peach Tree Creek, Georgia and was later exchanged. He led charges and men in battle in engagements across the Western and Southern theatres. Notable battles and campaigns they fought in were:

Battle of Perryville (1862): James' first major combat experience, taking place just over a month after being mustered in.
Battle of Chickamauga & Chattanooga (1863): The 85th Illinois served as one of the last regiments to leave the field during the Union retreat at Chickamauga and later participated in the successful assault on Missionary Ridge.
The Atlanta Campaign (1864): The regiment saw heavy action at Resaca, Rome, Peach Tree Creek, and Jonesboro. During the Battle of Kenesaw Mountain, the 85th's skirmishers led a fierce charge at Cheatham Hill.
March to the Sea & The Carolinas (1864–1865): James and his company marched across Georgia with General Sherman, waded through freezing swamps in the Carolinas, and fought at the Battle of Bentonville.

At the end of the war uncle James M. Hamilton participated in the Grand Review of the Armies parade on May 24, 1865 in Washington, DC.

Searching for Uncle Lt. James M. Hamilton's grave

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