Almon E. Larsh

Almon E. Larsh was an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War, recognized for his service with the 8th Illinois Cavalry Regiment at pivotal engagements including the Battle of Gettysburg. Following the war, he pursued a career in law and served as a special agent for the United States Department of the Treasury under President Ulysses S. Grant. His military service and subsequent government role are documented in official records from the War Department and the National Archives and Records Administration.

Early life and education

Almon E. Larsh was born around 1840, though specific details of his birthplace and early family life remain unclear in extant records. Prior to the outbreak of the American Civil War, he resided in Illinois and was engaged in the study of law. The political climate following the 1860 United States presidential election and the secession of Southern states prompted his enlistment. He joined the 8th Illinois Cavalry Regiment, a unit raised primarily from the Chicago area, which was mustered into federal service in the autumn of 1861 under the authority of the War Department.

Military career

Larsh was commissioned as a Second lieutenant upon the organization of the 8th Illinois Cavalry Regiment. The regiment, part of the Army of the Potomac, saw extensive service in the Eastern Theater of the American Civil War. He participated in numerous campaigns, including the Peninsula Campaign and the Maryland Campaign, which culminated in the Battle of Antietam. By the time of the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, Larsh had been promoted to First lieutenant. During that pivotal battle, his regiment was heavily engaged on the first day, fighting dismounted in the fields west of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and later performed critical screening and reconnaissance duties for the remainder of the engagement. He was promoted to Captain in 1864 and continued to serve with his unit through the conclusion of the war, including during the Appomattox Campaign that led to the surrender of General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia. His service was recognized with an honorary brevet promotion to Major for "gallant and meritorious services."

Post-military life and death

After the war, Larsh returned to Illinois and was admitted to the bar, establishing a legal practice. His association with former commanding officers and his service record led to a federal appointment. During the administration of President Ulysses S. Grant, he was appointed as a Special Agent for the United States Department of the Treasury, a position that involved investigating fraud and enforcing revenue laws. He later moved to Washington, D.C., where he continued his work with the Federal government of the United States. Almon E. Larsh died in 1912 and was interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, a resting place for many veterans of the Union Army and notable figures like General Philip Sheridan. His pension records and burial are documented by the Veterans Administration and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Category:1840s births Category:1912 deaths Category:Union Army officers Category:American Civil War veterans