Benjamin D. Dwinnell

Dwinnell was born in Charlestown, New Hampshire on September 14, 1834.[1] Dwinnell was educated in the local public schools, after his education he worked for a year in the printing operations[1] of the National Eagle in Claremont, New Hampshire[2] after which Dwinnell moved to Worcester, Massachusetts where he worked in the grocery trade[2] and in a hardware store.[1]

On December 19, 1861, Dwinnell married Nellie Shepard, Daughter of Russell Rice Shepard of Worcester, Massachusetts.[1]

In 1862 Dwinnell enlisted in the 51st Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. Dwinell served as a First Lieutenant and Quartermaster of the 51st Regiment.[1] In February 1864, after his enlistment in the 51st Regiment expired Dwinnell enlisted as a First Lieutenant and Quartermaster of the 2nd Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Heavy Artillery, serving with Augustus B. R. Sprague.[1] Dwinnell saw service with the 2nd Regiment in Virginia and North Carolina. Having reached the rank of Brevet Major; Dwinnell was mustered out on September 23, 1865.[1][2]

After the American Civil War, Dwinnell return to Worcester, Massachusetts|Worcester]] where he became the assistant Post Master under General Josiah Pickett.[1] In 1875 Dwinnell was appointed, by his former commanding officer Sheriff Augustus B. R. Sprague, as a Deputy Sheriff, and the Jailer and Master of the House of Correction at Fitchburg, Massachusetts.[1]