Roswell Ripley: Charleston's Gallant Defender - Courage, Leadership, and the American Civil War

Amidst the turmoil and strife of the American Civil War, one figure stands out as a beacon of courage and leadership: Brevet Brigadier General Roswell Ripley. A descendant of a Revolutionary War patriot, a soldier in the War of 1812, and the son of a U.S. congressman, Ripley's military career spanned decades and culminated in his pivotal role in the defense of Charleston during the Civil War.

Early Life and Career

Roswell Sabine Ripley was born on March 14, 1823, in Worthington, Ohio. His father, James W. Ripley, served as a U.S. congressman and later as the U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs. From a young age, Roswell displayed a keen interest in military affairs and pursued a military education.

Resolute Rebel: General Roswell S. Ripley, Charleston's Gallant Defender

by Gary Penley

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6191 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	430 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In 1840, Ripley entered the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1844, ranked 33rd out of 56 cadets. Upon graduation, he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the 2nd U.S. Artillery Regiment.

Ripley's early military career included service in the Mexican-American War, where he participated in the Battle of Buena Vista. He later served as an instructor at West Point and as the commandant of cadets.

Civil War Service

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Ripley resigned his commission in the U.S. Army and joined the Confederate Army. He was appointed colonel of the 4th South Carolina Artillery Regiment.

Ripley played a key role in the defense of Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces under the command of Brigadier General P.G.T. Beauregard opened fire on the Union garrison at Fort Sumter. The bombardment lasted for 34 hours, and Ripley commanded the Confederate artillery that bore the brunt of the Union fire.

After the fall of Fort Sumter, Ripley was promoted to brigadier general and assigned command of the First Military District of South Carolina. He oversaw the construction of fortifications around Charleston and commanded the Confederate forces that defended the city against Union attacks.

In September 1862, Ripley led his brigade at the Battle of Antietam. His troops fought valiantly, but the Confederate Army was ultimately defeated. Ripley was wounded in the battle and was forced to withdraw from the field.

Ripley returned to service in time for the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. He commanded a brigade in the Confederate III Corps under Lieutenant General A.P. Hill. Ripley's brigade fought in the fierce fighting on Culp's Hill on the second day of the battle. On the third day, Ripley was again wounded and was taken prisoner by Union forces.

Post-War Life

After the war, Ripley returned to Charleston. He worked as a railroad executive and later as the superintendent of the Charleston Water Works. He also served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Ripley died in Charleston on March 4, 1887, at the age of 64. He is buried in Magnolia Cemetery in Charleston.

Legacy

Roswell Ripley is remembered as a brave and dedicated soldier who served his country with honor. His defense of Charleston during the Civil War earned him the respect of both his fellow soldiers and his adversaries.

Ripley's legacy extends beyond his military service. He was a respected citizen of Charleston and played a vital role in the city's reconstruction after the war.

Roswell Ripley was a complex and multifaceted figure. He was a brave soldier, a skilled leader, and a dedicated public servant. His life and career offer a fascinating glimpse into the American Civil War and the challenges faced by those who lived through it.

Resolute Rebel: General Roswell S. Ripley, Charleston's Gallant Defender

by Gary Penley

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6191 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	430 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE