Edward Black (soldier)
Edward Black (May 30, 1853 – June 30, 1872) is considered the youngest serving soldier of the American Civil War. He had a twin brother, Edwin, who died in 1854.
Edward Black | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | May 30, 1853 Indianapolis, Indiana? |
| Died | June 30, 1872 (aged 19) Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana? |
| Resting place | Crown Hill National Cemetery, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Drummer Boy, Soldier |
| Employer | U.S. Government |
| Known for | Considered the youngest serving soldier of the American Civil War |
| Family | Edwin Black (twin brother) |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ | |
| Years of service | July 24, 1861–January 1866 |
| Rank | Private 1st Class |
| Unit | 1st Indiana Heavy Artillery Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War: |
U.S. military service
Edward Black was recruited at the age of eight, on July 24, 1861, as a drummer boy for the 21st Indiana Infantry. He was told to return home later that year and did as told. He returned later that year and enlisted again, but this time with his father. He was captured at the Battle of Baton Rouge, but was freed when the city fell and discharged in September 1862. He re-enlisted in February 1863, and served with the 1st Indiana Heavy Artillery until January 1866. He died at age 19 in 1872 and was interred along with his twin brother Edwin in Crown Hill National Cemetery in Indianapolis. The drum Black used is now in the collection of the Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
Death
He died from the injuries and trauma he suffered in the war at age 18. He was buried along with his brother William Black.