Leander Baker was mustered into service on April 11, 1862, as surgeon of the 24th Missouri Infantry. The 24th was engaged in many battles, including Pea Ridge, Pleasant Hill, Tupelo, Franklin, and Nashville. The regiment lost a total of 264 men–43 to combat and 221 to disease.

Baker was mustered out of service on November 9, 1864, and died in Adams County, Illinois, on May 4, 1900.

Carte-de-Visite by Unknown Photographer

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 11658