Born in Saratoga, Saratoga County, New York. A resident of Memphis, Michigan when he enlisted in the 5th Michigan Cavalry for three years at Memphis, Michigan. Mustered in as 1st Corporal of Company E on 27 Aug 1862. Wounded in action (shot in arm) during the Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania on 3 Jul 1863. Promoted to Sergeant in Oct 1863. Honorably discharged on 12 Jun 1864 to accept promotion to 2nd Lieutenant in the 127th U.S. Colored Infantry. Commissioned for three years and mustered in as 2nd Lieutenant of Company K on 22 Aug 1864. Joined his Company at Chapin's Farm, Virginia on 26 Nov 1864. Resigned his commission on 2 Feb 1865 due to physical disability. Honorably discharged for physical disability on 5 Feb 1865. Joined Custer Post No. 6 of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington by reinstatement on 23 Sep 1911. Admitted to the Washington State Soldiers Home at Orting, Pierce County, Washington on 6 Jul 1921 and discharged at his own request on 18 Feb 1925. Died at his home in Spanaway, Pierce County, Washington.