Sullivan Ballou 1829 – 1861

Biography

Civil War Union Army Officer. He served as Major of the 2nd Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry. On July 14, 1861, Ballou wrote an eloquent letter to his wife predicting his death. He was wounded at the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21, and died from his injuries a week later. His sentiments in the letter became famous, and were quoted in Ken Burns’ “Civil War” documentary.  Family links:  Parents:  Hiram Ballou (1802 – 1833)  Emeline Frances Bowen Ballou (1806 – 1876)  Spouse:  Sarah Hart Shumway Ballou (1835 – 1917)*  Children:  Edgar Fowler Ballou (1856 – 1924)*  William Bowen Ballou (1859 – 1948)*  Siblings:  Hannah Frances Ballou Bogle (1826 – 1876)*  Sullivan Ballou (1829 – 1861)  Jeanette Ballou (1830 – 1833)** *Calculated relationship**Half-siblingCause of death: Casualty of war