About the Author
James G. Birney was born on August 12, 1844 in New Haven, Connecticut. He was residing in Bay City, Michigan when he enlisted in the 7th Michigan Cavalry Company C on October 14, 1862 and was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant on October 15. He was mustered into service as a 19 year old 1st Sergeant on November 13. Birney was listed as being wounded and a prisoner of war on July 3, 1863 at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He escaped that same day. On August 1, Birney was promoted to 1st Lieutenant of Company A. He was promoted to Captain on March 18, 1864 and transferred to Company D on March 31. On September 17, 1865, he was transferred from the 7th Michigan Cavalry to the 1st Michigan Cavalry. James G. Birney was discharged from service on June 6, 1866 at Salt Lake City, Utah. Birney was mustered into service as a 1st Lieutenant of the 9th U.S. Army Cavalry on July 28, 1866. For his gallant and meritorious service during the Battle of Gettysburg, he was promoted to 1st Lieutenant by Brevet and Captain on March 2, 1867. He was later promoted to 1st Lieutenant on April 14 and was then promoted to Captain on December 1, 1869. Birney died on January 16, 1870.Documents for this Author: