Montgomery Meigs: Lincoln's General and Master Builder of the Union Army

When we think of the American Civil War, we often envision battles, strategies, and iconic leaders like Abraham Lincoln and General Robert E. Lee. However, behind the scenes, there were crucial figures who played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the war. One such individual was Montgomery Meigs, the unsung hero and master builder of the Union Army.

The Early Years

Montgomery Cunningham Meigs was born on May 3, 1816, in Augusta, Georgia. His father, Charles Delucena Meigs, was a prominent obstetrician. Meigs graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1836, where he ranked first in his class.

After his graduation, Meigs served as a topographical engineer and military instructor, demonstrating his extraordinary talent for strategic planning and engineering. In 1852, he was appointed as a Superintendent of the United States Capitol building, a role that would lead to his incredible contributions during the Civil War.

The Quartermaster: Montgomery C. Meigs, Lincoln's General, Master Builder of the Union Army

by Bruce Gamble(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	321 pages

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The Architect of the Union

As the Civil War approached, President Lincoln recognized the importance of having a skilled engineer to plan and construct military infrastructure. This is where Montgomery Meigs stepped in. In March 1861, Lincoln appointed Meigs as the Quartermaster General of the United States Army.

Meigs' responsibilities were massive, overseeing the logistics, transportation, and supply chains of the Union Army. He played a crucial role in ensuring that troops were adequately equipped, supplied, and positioned strategically across various campaigns. Meigs’s meticulous planning increased the efficiency and effectiveness of the Union Army, ultimately contributing to their victory.

One of Meigs' most significant achievements was the construction of the Washington Aqueduct, completed in 1864. This engineering marvel provided a stable water supply to Washington D.C., ensuring that the capital had a vital resource even during times of war. Meigs' attention to detail and forward-thinking proved invaluable for the Union cause.

Fortress of Freedom: Arlington National Cemetery

Another enduring legacy of Montgomery Meigs is the establishment of Arlington National Cemetery. This hallowed ground, overlooking the nation's capital, holds the remains of countless American heroes. However, its origins are tied to a more personal story.

Before the outbreak of the Civil War, the land that is now Arlington National Cemetery belonged to Robert E. Lee, who had married into the prominent Custis family. When Lee chose to join the Confederacy, the U.S. government seized the property. In an act of retribution and to ensure that the land would forever serve as a reminder of the cost of war, Meigs authorized the establishment of a military cemetery there.

Meigs also buried the remains of fallen soldiers on the front yard of his own home, disrupting the tranquility of his property as a testament to the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers. His efforts have bestowed Arlington National Cemetery with a sacred purpose—a place of remembrance, honor, and gratitude for those who gave their lives in defense of freedom.

Recalling Meigs' Legacy

Montgomery Meigs retired from his position as Quartermaster General in 1882 after decades of dedicated service. He left an indelible mark on the Union Army and the nation as a whole. His visionary leadership, engineering prowess, and attention to detail played a pivotal role in the Union's victory during the Civil War.

To this day, Meigs' contributions are celebrated and recognized. The Washington Aqueduct continues to function, providing vital water supply to the nation's capital. Arlington National Cemetery stands as a testament to the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.

, it is essential to acknowledge the integral role played by individuals like Montgomery Meigs in shaping American history. While his name may not be as well-known as Lincoln or Lee, Meigs' contribution as the Union Army's master builder and his lasting legacies highlight his significance in the events that unfolded during the Civil War. Let us remember and honor the memory of this remarkable man.

The Quartermaster: Montgomery C. Meigs, Lincoln's General, Master Builder of the Union Army

by Bruce Gamble(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	321 pages

FREE

“The lively story of the Civil War’s most unlikely—and most uncelebrated—genius” (The Wall Street Journal)—General Montgomery C. Meigs, who built the Union Army and was judged by Abraham Lincoln, William Seward, and Edwin Stanton to be the indispensable architect of the Union victory.

Born to a well-to-do, connected family in 1816, Montgomery C. Meigs graduated from West Point as an engineer. He helped build America’s forts and served under Lt. Robert E. Lee to make navigation improvements on the Mississippi River. As a young man, he designed the Washington aqueducts in a city where people were dying from contaminated water. He built the spectacular wings and the massive dome of the brand new US Capitol.

Introduced to President Lincoln by Secretary of State William Seward, Meigs became Lincoln’s Quartermaster, in charge of supplies. It was during the Civil War that Meigs became a national hero. He commanded Ulysses S. Grant’s base of supplies that made Union victories, including Gettysburg, possible. He sustained Sherman’s army in Georgia, and the March to the Sea. After the war, Meigs built Arlington Cemetery (on land that had been Robert E. Lee’s home).

Civil War historian James McPherson calls Meigs “the unsung hero of northern victory,” and Robert O’Harrow Jr.’s biography of the victorious general who was never on the battlefield tells the full dramatic story of this fierce, strong, honest, loyal, forward-thinking figure. “An excellent biography…O’Harrow’s thorough, masterfully crafted, and impeccable researched biography is destined to become the authoritative volume on Meigs” (The Civil War Monitor).