Charles Drew was one of four brothers from Burlingame, Kansas, who enlisted in the 11th Kansas Infantry on September 1, 1862; they were all mustered into Company I on September 15, 1862. Charles was promoted to corporal, and was wounded at the Battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, on December 7, 1862. In April 1863 the regiment was converted to the 11th Kansas Cavalry.

After battling General Sterling Price during his 1864 raid through Missouri, the 11th Kansas operated against Native Americans in the Dakota Territory. Charles Drew was mustered out with his company on September 26, 1865.

Carte-de-Visite/Tintype by Mansfield’s City Gallery, Mo.

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 32063