Born in Germany. Enlisted in Company E, 4th Ohio Cavalry as a Private for three years and was appointed a Sergeant (date not given). Transferred to Company K on 20 Oct 1861 and mustered in as 1st Sergeant on 14 Nov 1861 at Camp Dennison, Ohio. Promoted to 1st Lieutenant on 1 Jan 1862 and Captain on 5 Sep 1862. Served with his Regiment through the campaigns in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama as the advance guard of General Mitchell's command. The 4th Ohio Cavalry were the first troops to reach Huntsville, Alabama. Participated in the battles and skirmishes at Bowling Green, Huntsville, Tuscumbia, Bridgeport, Stones River, Bradyville, Snow Hill, and Franklin; at latter engagement his horse was killed under him; was shot through the side at Elk River, Tennessee on 3 Jul 1863 while charging the rear of General Bragg's Army with his Company. Was sent home wounded, being disabled for further service resigned his commission on 9 Sep 1863. A member of Custer Post No. 6 of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington. Elected a Companion of the First Class in the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States (MOLLUS) through the Ohio Commandery on 5 Sep 1883. Transferred to the Washington Commandery on 3 Feb 1891. Transferred to the California Commandery on 1 Jan 1895. Died in Kings County, New York.