Joseph  B. Patrick

Greenwood, Eaton, Clark County, Wisconsin

Joseph was born in [Shahone?], NY, 1849 ca.  He fought with the 5^th US Cavalry during the Indian Wars but he is included in this book because he was buried among the G.A.R. veterans.  The 5th U.S. Cavalry began its service in the decade prior to the American Civil War and continues even today in a modified form.  Capt. Young enlisted Joseph with this unit 4 Nov 1871 in Chicago, IL for a period of 5 years.  This was less than a month after the Great Chicago Fire, 8 Oct 1871 that killed hundreds and left over 100.000 people homeless and the city lost a third of its valuation.  It is possible that the fire may have played a part in Joseph's decision to join the service.  Pvt. Patrick was a dark eyed 22 year-old farmer who stood 5’ 7½" tall.  His complexion and hair were both dark.  He was discharged 4 Nov 1876.  In 1900 he was once again in the Windy City, where he lived in company housing for Rail Road laborers.  By 1905 he was a widower and had moved to Clark Co., WI to work on the farm of Joseph L. and Mary M. Niman of Greenwood.  He passed away 26 Jun 1909 at the farm of John and Catherine Cornely where he was working as a hired man.

Word was received here recently of the sudden death of J. B. Patrick, former resident of this vicinity.  He died of kidney trouble at the home of J. Cornely, Clermont, Fayette Co., IA after an illness of 5 days.  He was buried by the G.A.R. at West Union, IA on June 26.  There were 4 old soldiers buried in the same cemetery that week, one the day before and one the day after Mr. Patrick.Greenwood Gleaner, 22 Jul 1909

Contributors

Marsha Hosfeld, Janet Schwarze & The Clark Co. History Buffs