Isaac Stevens was born on March 25, 1818, in Massachusetts; he attended West Point and graduated first in his class in 1839. After graduation, he served a number of years with the Army Corps of Engineers, and participated in General Winfield Scott’s campaign to capture Mexico City in 1847. In 1853, he was appointed commissioner for Indian affairs in the new Washington Territory; his time as commissioner was controversial due to his use of intimidation and force to compel the Native Americans to sign treaties handing over most of their land and rights to the federal government.

When the Civil War started, Stevens assumed command of the 79th New York Volunteers, known as the “Cameron Highlanders.” Promoted to brigadier general of volunteers, Stevens commanded a division in South Carolina and Virginia. Promoted to major general, he fought at the Second Battle of Bull Run (Manassas). At the Battle of Chantilly, Virginia, on September 1, 1862, Stevens led his division in a charge during a driving rainstorm. As the attack faltered, Stevens grabbed the flag of the 79th New York in an attempt to rally his men. A bullet struck him in the head, killing him instantly.

Carte-de-Visite by E. Anthony

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 31609