Born in Henderson County, Illinois. A resident of Biggsville, Henderson County, Illinois when he enlisted in the 84th Illinois Infantry for three years. Mustered in as a Private in Company K at Quincy, Adams County, Illinois on 1 Sep 1862. Transferred to Company B, 1st U.S. Veteran Volunteer Engineers on 29 Jul 1864. On 4 May 1904 joined George H. Thomas Post No. 5 of Olympia, Thurston County, Washington. Later transferred to Custer Post No. 6 of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington. Died in Tacoma, Washington. He is buried in a G.A.R. section of the cemetery.