Born in Nova Scotia, Canada. A resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania when he enlisted in the 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry (89th Volunteers) for three years at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mustered in as a Private in Company D at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on 17 Sep 1861. A prisoner of war from 13 Sep 1862 to 4 Jan 1863. Re-enlisted as a Veteran Volunteer at Bealeton, Virginia on 31 Dec 1863. Promoted to Corporal on 1 Sep 1864. Promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant on 1 Jun 1865. Transferred to Company D, 16th Pennsylvania Cavalry (161st Volunteers) on 24 Jul 1865. Mustered out with his Company at Richmond, Virginia. A member of Custer Post No. 6 of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington. Died in Bluefield, Mercer County, West Virginia.