Born in Trumbull County, Ohio. A resident of Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois when he enlisted in the 86th Illinois Infantry for three years at Peoria, Illinois. Mustered in as a Private in Company H at Peoria, Illinois on 27 Aug 1862. Transferred to Company G as a Musician (fifer) on 6 Sep 1862. Transferred to Company F, 8th Regiment, Veteran Reserve Corps on 18 Oct 1863. A member of Custer Post No. 6 of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington. On 19 Sep 1906 admitted to the Washington State Soldiers Home at Orting, Pierce County, Washington. Died at his home in Tacoma, Washington. He is buried in a G.A.R. section of the cemetery. He served under the name David L. Cain.