Thomas, George Henry
(31 July 1816–28 March 1870)
- Herman Hattaway
- and Michael D. Smith
Extract
Thomas, George Henry (31 July 1816–28 March 1870), Union general, was born in Southampton County, Virginia, the son of John Thomas and Elizabeth Rochelle, farmers. Although Thomas acquired a deep interest in botany during his school years, family hardship brought on by the death of his father in 1829 prevented Thomas from seriously pursuing the discipline. He completed his local schooling in 1835 and, out of necessity, took a position as clerk in the law office of an uncle. Thomas intended to study law as a profession, but his quiet, introverted personality did not well fit the practice of law. His uncle suggested instead that he might consider a military career. Gaining the endorsement of Congressman ...
