Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A resident of Oquawka, Henderson County, Illinois when he enlisted in the 16th Illinois Infantry for three years at Quincy, Adams County, Illinois. Mustered in as 1st Sergeant of Company F the same day he enlisted. On 1 Feb 1862 he enlisted for one year in the U.S. Navy as a Seaman. He served on the Gun Boat "Benton". Discharged on 19 Feb 1863. Re-enlisted in the 16th Illinois Infantry on 16 Feb 1864. Mustered in 19 Feb 1864 as a Private in Company F. Mustered out on 12 Jul 1865. On 4 May 1885 he became a member of George H. Thomas Post No. 5 of Olympia, Thurston County, Washington. He 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.